Author: Staff Reporter

Apple’s iPhone Sales Soar to $1.95 Trillion Despite Q1 Decline

Staff ReporterFinance, News, Technology 0

Despite a slight decline in the first quarter of 2024, Apple’s lifetime iPhone sales have reached staggering heights, with total revenues surpassing $1.95 trillion, according to a new report released on Wednesday.

In Q1 2024, Apple shipped 50.1 million iPhones, a decrease of five million units compared to the same period last year. Consequently, iPhone sales revenue dropped by nearly 10%, amounting to $45.9 billion, as per data from Stocklytics.com.

Five years after the launch of the first iPhone, Apple had generated $78.7 billion in iPhone sales. By fiscal year (FY) 2014, this figure had surged to $101.9 billion, continuing to climb steadily based on Statista and official company reports.

Over the course of two years, Apple accrued more than $405 billion from iPhone sales. Although revenue figures dipped slightly in Q2 FY 2024, iPhone sales have remained robust.

In H1 FY 2024 alone, Apple earned $115.6 billion from iPhone sales, pushing its cumulative revenue from iPhone sales to an impressive $1.95 trillion.

The report also highlighted that over 2.65 billion iPhones have been shipped since their initial launch in 2007. In 2014, Apple shipped 192.7 million iPhones. A decade later, this number had risen to 231.8 million.

BJP Falters as Congress Stages Dramatic Comeback in India’s Seven-Phase General Election

Staff ReporterIndia 0

The seven-phase general election in the world’s largest democracy, India, began on April 19 and ended on June 1. The results saw the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) winning 293 seats, while the INDIA Bloc secured an unexpected 232 seats. However, the significant story was the BJP’s surprising underperformance.

Despite predictions that the BJP would surpass 400 seats, the so-called ‘Modi Magic’ faltered, with the party winning only 240 seats and failing to achieve an absolute majority. Although the BJP emerged as the single largest party, the Indian National Congress celebrated a strong performance, winning 99 seats. This comeback was notable given that the Congress had been largely dismissed by political analysts and the media. Rahul Gandhi, the Congress leader, also achieved personal success by winning both Raebareli in Uttar Pradesh and Wayanad in Kerala.

On the day of the results, Indica interviewed Sam Pitroda, former Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress (IOC), who resigned on May 8 following a controversial statement. Pitroda discussed the election outcomes and how the consecration of the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya, which was expected to be a major advantage for Modi, did not secure the majority for the BJP in the Lok Sabha polls. Pitroda, 82, also spoke about his relationship with Rahul Gandhi and expressed confidence that the INDIA Bloc would form the next government.

A key factor in the BJP’s diminished results was their poor performance in Uttar Pradesh, where they lost 29 seats, ending up with 33. Meanwhile, Akhilesh Yadav’s Samajwadi Party gained 37 seats, boosting the alliance’s standing.

One of the most shocking defeats was the BJP’s loss in Faizabad, which includes Ayodhya. Two-term incumbent BJP candidate Lallu Singh was defeated by Samajwadi Party’s Awadhesh Prasad. Pitroda commented that the temple inauguration appeared more as a spectacle for the wealthy rather than a significant event for the common people. “The jets which landed at the Ayodhya Airport, ferried the rich and famous,” he said. “The fancy clothes that they wore is not what Indian people are used to. It was a show.”

Pitroda identified another issue: public fear that a BJP majority would alter the constitution. He noted that the BJP’s silence on employment issues and their divisive strategies drove voters towards the opposition. “People rejected Modi, not the BJP, because everything was seen as Modi ki guarantee (Modi’s Guarantee). ‘Modi will deliver,’ and people feel that this is not the democracy that we want,” Pitroda said.

Pitroda praised Rahul Gandhi’s message of inclusivity. “I think the people of India have spoken, and Rahul’s message of inclusion went through well, saying we need opportunities for OBC, Dalit, minority, and we need jobs for the young and security for women, and the environment and we need to take care of the farmers,” he said.

Pitroda, who collaborated with Gandhi on the Congress manifesto, recalled their bond. He mentioned that Rahul would meet him whenever he visited India after Rajiv Gandhi’s death. “The mentorship, I wouldn’t call it a mentor but promoting him to the overseas audience since he was in the US several times. Even this morning we spoke, and I speak with him regularly,” he said. Pitroda shared that he and Rahul often communicate using emojis on WhatsApp, indicating Rahul’s happiness with the election results through three emojis.

Regarding the next steps for the INDIA Bloc, Pitroda said, “The partners will meet and decide what steps they should take, whether they should go forward and form the government or let the BJP form its third consecutive government.” He predicted that the hung government might not last a full five-year term and anticipated another election within a couple of years. However, he believes Narendra Modi will do everything possible to maintain his position as Prime Minister.

Pitroda explained his support for Rahul Gandhi, stating, “Because I believe in the Congress party. I was born in the British Raj, and so I am a product of the British Raj, but the fervor and ethos of the independence movement.” He emphasized the historical values of the Congress party and its role in shaping modern India. “I could go to college almost free, low fee, and how can I forget. All that was possible because the Congress party had the idea of democracy.”

Pitroda asserted that his loyalty to the Congress stems from its foundational values. “I have seen Rajiv as the custodian of the idea of India, and when he died, Sonia Gandhi became the custodian, and then Rahul became the custodian of the idea of India. There is nothing to do with dynasty.”

He highlighted the significance of the Bharat Jodo Yatra, a march led by Rahul Gandhi before the elections, as pivotal in the Congress’s revival. “Not just people, but it changed Rahul, and made him bold. Now Rahul speaks with confidence,” Pitroda said.

Pitroda also mentioned that the BJP-NDA often twisted his words to create false narratives, which led to his resignation. “The larger goal was no matter what I say, they will twist and make agenda for 24 hours, and so I resigned,” he said, adding that he did not want to negatively impact the party.

Commenting on Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s role, he noted her effective campaigning. He suggested that had she contested a seat, her efforts would have been limited to that area. Instead, she campaigned extensively. He hinted that Rahul might give up the Raebareli seat, allowing Priyanka to contest it in a by-election.

In a press conference, Rahul Gandhi stated he had not yet decided which seat to retain. When asked if Rahul was suited to run the country, Pitroda affirmed his support, acknowledging that no one is perfect but grows into the role with time and support.

Indica  also interviewed George Abraham, Vice-Chairman and Former President of the Indian Overseas Congress, who supported the INC’s campaign. Abraham said, “The people of India have unequivocally rejected the BJP’s agenda, which sought to undermine the constitution and transform the country.”

He stressed that if Modi and Amit Shah continue to lead, they must adhere to the constitution, stop divisive politics, and allow free expression and objective journalism. “We at the Overseas Congress salute the INDIA coalition and its leaders, especially AICC President Kharge Ji and Rahul Ji, for their tireless efforts in getting the message to the people,” he added.

Putin Warns of Arming Anti-Western Nations in Response to Ukraine Weapons Supply

Staff ReporterWorld 0

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a stern warning that Moscow might provide arms to nations aiming to strike Western targets. This statement came as he criticized the West’s decision to supply Ukraine with long-range weapons.

Several countries, including the United States, have given Ukraine the go-ahead to attack targets inside Russia. Putin warned such actions could lead to “very serious problems.” He posed a rhetorical question to foreign reporters, “If someone thinks it is possible to supply such weapons to a war zone to attack our territory and create problems for us, why don’t we have the right to supply weapons of the same class to regions of the world where there will be strikes on sensitive facilities of those countries?” He further hinted that Russia’s response could be “asymmetric,” stating, “We will think about it.” However, Putin did not clarify which countries might receive these weapons from Moscow.

Putin specifically criticized Germany, which recently informed Ukraine it could use long-range German-made weapons to hit targets inside Russia. “When they say that there will be more missiles which will hit targets on Russian territory, this definitively destroys Russian-German relations,” Putin declared.

The U.S. has also allowed Ukraine to use American-supplied weapons to strike Russian targets, though only near the Kharkiv region. The White House has prohibited the use of long-range ATACMS missiles on Russian soil. Nonetheless, recent reports from a U.S. senator and a Western official indicate that Ukraine has used U.S. weapons for strikes inside Russia.

The fighting has intensified north-east of Kharkiv following a new Russian offensive across Ukraine’s northern border. Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, lies just 30km (18 miles) from the border.

UK Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron stated that it is up to Ukraine to decide how to use British weapons, affirming Ukraine’s right to target Russian territory. Ukraine has accused Russia of employing North Korean missiles on its territory, while Western intelligence suggests that Iran-made drones are being used by Russia in the conflict.

Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Putin’s comments were made at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum, where he also addressed the West’s underestimation of Moscow’s potential use of nuclear weapons. He stated, “For some reason, the West believes that Russia will never use it,” adding that Russia’s nuclear doctrine allows for the use of all available means if the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are threatened. He emphasized, “This should not be taken lightly, superficially.”

Dismissing concerns about Russia attacking NATO territory, Putin criticized the notion, saying, “You should not make Russia out to be the enemy. You’re only hurting yourself with this, you know?” He ridiculed the idea that Russia intends to attack NATO, calling it “complete nonsense” and “total rubbish.”

The context of these remarks includes the broader geopolitical tensions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The war has prompted significant international responses, including sanctions on Russia and substantial military aid to Ukraine from Western countries. The ongoing conflict has also raised concerns about global stability and the potential for broader escalation.

Putin’s statements reflect a heightened rhetoric that underscores the serious risks associated with the conflict. The threat to arm other nations could destabilize other regions and complicate global security dynamics. His reference to nuclear doctrine highlights the gravity of the situation and the potential for a catastrophic escalation if diplomatic solutions are not pursued.

The situation remains highly fluid, with continuous developments on the battlefield and in diplomatic arenas. Western support for Ukraine, including military supplies, has been a crucial factor in the conflict, influencing the dynamics on the ground. Meanwhile, Russia’s potential countermeasures, including the possible provision of weapons to other nations, introduce additional uncertainties.

The international community continues to monitor the conflict closely, weighing options for further support to Ukraine and measures to deter Russian aggression. The balance between aiding Ukraine and avoiding a wider conflict remains delicate, with significant implications for regional and global security.

Putin’s warnings about arming other nations and the potential use of nuclear weapons represent a serious escalation in rhetoric. His remarks at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum underscore the ongoing tension between Russia and the West, with significant implications for the future of the conflict in Ukraine and global stability. The situation requires careful navigation to prevent further escalation and to seek a resolution that ensures the sovereignty and security of all nations involved.

Israeli Airstrike on UN School in Gaza Kills at Least 35, Including Children, Amid Controversy Over Hamas Presence

Staff ReporterWorld 0

An Israeli airstrike on a United Nations school housing displaced Palestinians in central Gaza has resulted in the deaths of at least 35 people. Local journalists informed the BBC that the attack involved two missiles striking classrooms on the top floor of the school situated in the urban Nuseirat refugee camp. Videos from the scene depicted widespread destruction and numerous casualties.

The Israeli military claimed it conducted a “precise strike on a Hamas compound” within the school, eliminating many of the 20 to 30 fighters it believed were present. Contrarily, Gaza’s Hamas-run Government Media Office refuted this assertion, condemning the strike as a “horrific massacre.”

Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (Unrwa), which operates the school, described the incident as “horrific.” He expressed shock at the allegation that armed groups were in the shelter, although this could not be verified.

Casualties were transported to the al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Hospital in nearby Deir al-Balah, which has been overwhelmed since Israel initiated a new ground offensive against Hamas in central Gaza earlier in the week.

The precise circumstances of the strike remain unclear, with the BBC working to confirm details. Local journalists and residents reported that the attack occurred early Thursday morning at al-Sardi school in a southeastern section of the densely populated, decades-old camp, where Unrwa provides services. The school was crowded with hundreds of displaced individuals who had fled other conflict zones within Gaza. Throughout the almost eight-month-long war, 1.7 million people have sought refuge in schools and other UN facilities.

Udai Abu Elias, a resident at the school, recounted to BBC Arabic’s Gaza Today programme: “I was asleep when the incident occurred. Suddenly, we heard a loud explosion and shattered glass and debris from the building fell on us.” He added, “Smoke filled the air, and I couldn’t see anything. I didn’t expect to make it out alive. I heard someone calling for survivors to come out from under the rubble. I struggled to see as I stumbled over the bodies of the martyrs.”

Another resident, Jabr, described waking up to “the sight of bodies and [human] remains everywhere,” while another unnamed individual noted that the casualties included “elderly people, young individuals, and children.” Social media videos depicted the devastation of several classrooms and bodies wrapped in white shrouds and blankets. One injured woman cried out in a video, “Enough war! We have been displaced dozens of times. They killed our children while they were sleeping.”

Initial reports suggested over 20 deaths, but an official at al-Aqsa hospital later informed a BBC freelancer that 40 bodies had been received from the school. Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry confirmed this toll, listing 40 dead, including 14 children and nine women, with 74 others injured. Ismail al-Thawabta, director of the Hamas-run Government Media Office, corroborated these figures.

Unrwa’s Philippe Lazzarini stated on X, formerly Twitter, that at least 35 people were killed and many more injured, based on reports from Unrwa staff on the ground. Juliette Touma, Unrwa’s director of communications, echoed this, noting that “the figures are coming from our own Unrwa colleagues on the ground.”

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) justified the strike as targeting a Hamas compound within the Unrwa school. They released an annotated aerial photograph indicating classrooms on two upper floors as “locations of the terrorists.” The IDF claimed that members of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad involved in the October 7 attack on southern Israel, which resulted in 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages, were operating from the building. The IDF stated that steps were taken to minimize civilian casualties, including aerial surveillance and additional intelligence gathering.

Lt. Col. Peter Lerner, an IDF spokesman, asserted that 20 to 30 fighters used the school for planning and executing attacks, many of whom were killed in the strike. He added, “I’m not aware of any civilian casualties and I’d be very, very cautious of accepting anything that Hamas puts out.” Lerner also mentioned that the IDF had twice aborted the attack to reduce civilian harm and accused Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad of using UN facilities as operational bases.

Ismail al-Thawabta refuted the IDF’s allegations, stating, “The occupation uses lying to the public opinion through false fabricated stories to justify the brutal crime it conducted against dozens of displaced people.”

Lazzarini lamented that the school was hit “without prior warning” to Unrwa or the 6,000 displaced individuals sheltering there. He found the claims of armed groups being inside the shelter “shocking” but noted Unrwa could not verify these claims. He emphasized, “Attacking, targeting or using UN buildings for military purposes are a blatant disregard of International Humanitarian law. UN staff, premises and operations must be protected at all times.”

Lazzarini highlighted that over 180 Unrwa buildings had been struck since the war began, despite their coordinates being shared with conflict parties, resulting in more than 450 displaced individuals’ deaths. He demanded accountability for these actions.

The Gaza health ministry reports that at least 36,650 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel’s military campaign began, following the October 7 attack, with figures not distinguishing between civilians and combatants.

Recently, the Israeli military claimed operational control over eastern Bureij refugee camp, adjacent to Nuseirat, and eastern Deir al-Balah, with residents noting intense bombardment. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported that al-Aqsa hospital received at least 70 bodies, mostly women and children, in the past 24 hours.

A previous Israeli airstrike on a tented camp for displaced people near an Unrwa base in Rafah, targeting senior Hamas officials, drew international outrage when a resulting fire killed dozens of Palestinians. The IDF called the loss of life “tragic” and investigated the possibility of an explosion from Hamas-stored ammunition.

Efforts to broker a ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas were revived following this incident. US President Joe Biden recently detailed an Israeli proposal to Hamas, suggesting a six-week truce to release some hostages in exchange for Palestinians from Israeli jails, followed by a permanent ceasefire. A joint statement from the US, UK, and 16 other countries urged Israeli and Hamas leaders to finalize a deal to alleviate the hostage families’ suffering.

Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh expressed a willingness to consider a proposal based on ending the war and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains firm on not agreeing to a ceasefire before defeating Hamas and releasing hostages, striving for “total victory.”

Rohit Sharma Ignites Victory for India with Record-Breaking Half-Century Against Ireland in T20 World Cup

Staff ReporterSports 0

Disregarding the guidance of Ravi Shastri during a low-scoring match between India and Ireland on Wednesday, Indian captain Rohit Sharma aggressively targeted the opposition bowlers, helping the 2007 T20 World Cup champions secure a victory. This impressive performance by the seasoned Indian opener ensured a smooth win for the team, which also features Virat Kohli, in the eighth match of the T20 World Cup held at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.

Teaming up with batting star Kohli to start the innings, Rohit delivered a rapid-fire performance in the opening match for the Asian powerhouse. Despite Kohli’s uncharacteristic failure in this ICC event, Rohit achieved his first half-century of the 2024 T20 World Cup in New York. However, his powerful innings was cut short when he retired hurt in the 10th over.

In the eighth over bowled by Joshua Little, Rohit was struck on the arm. Although Ireland requested a review, the third umpire ruled Rohit not out since Ultra Edge technology confirmed there was no contact with the bat. Undeterred, Rohit hit two sixes off Little in the same over, taking his score to 42 off 33 balls. He completed his half-century in Mark Adair’s over, guiding India to a score of 76-1 in 10 overs. However, after the drinks break, Rohit was seen leaving the field with the team physio, feeling discomfort in his shoulder. He retired to the dugout after scoring 52 runs off 37 balls.

During his explosive 52-run innings, Rohit shattered several records for the Men In Blue against Ireland. At 37, he surpassed 4,000 runs in T20 cricket and crossed the 1,000-run milestone in T20 World Cups. Known as Hitman, Rohit also became the first player to hit 600 sixes in international cricket.

“Yeah, just a little sore (the arm). I said it at the toss as well. Quite unsure of what to expect from the pitch. Not aware on what it is to play like on a pitch that’s five months old. I don’t think the wicket settled down even when we batted second. There was enough for the bowlers,” Rohit commented post-match.

Kharge: INDIA Bloc Open to New Allies After Decisive Mandate Against Modi

Staff ReporterIndia 0

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge announced on Wednesday that the opposition’s INDIA bloc is open to welcoming all parties that share a fundamental commitment to the values enshrined in the Preamble of the Constitution. In his address at the opposition group’s first meeting following their significant success in the Lok Sabha election results of 2024, the Congress leader stated that the mandate was “decisively against Mr Modi.”

Kharge also emphasized that all INDIA bloc partners had fought the elections well, unitedly, and with determination. He made these remarks during a gathering of opposition leaders at his residence.

“The mandate is decisively against Mr Modi, against him and the substance and style of his politics. It is a huge political loss for him personally apart from being a clear moral defeat as well. However, he is determined to subvert the will of the people,” Kharge said, highlighting the alliance’s stance on Modi’s governance.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the possibilities of forming a government, strategizing for the alliance’s future, and potentially reaching out to former allies Nitish Kumar and N Chandrababu Naidu.

“The INDIA alliance welcomes all parties which share its fundamental commitment to the values enshrined in the Preamble to our Constitution and to its many provisions for economic, social and political justice,” Kharge remarked in his opening speech.

Expressing gratitude to the INDIA bloc partners, Kharge stated, “I welcome all INDIA alliance partners. We fought well, fought unitedly, fought resolutely.”

Following the meeting, Kharge addressed the media and conveyed the alliance’s appreciation for the public’s overwhelming support. “The constituents of the INDIA bloc thank the people of India for the overwhelming support received by our alliance. The people’s mandate has given a befitting reply to the BJP and their politics of hate, corruption. This is a mandate in defense of the Constitution of India and against price rise, unemployment and crony capitalism and also to save democracy. The INDIA bloc will continue to fight against the fascist rule of the BJP led by Modi…”

Challenging Conditions Mar T20 World Cup Opener as India Dominates Ireland in Eight-Wicket Victory

Staff ReporterSports 0

If the intention of this T20 World Cup is to captivate new viewers in the United States, it is falling short in its opening week. For the second consecutive game at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in Long Island, New York, the team batting first was bowled out for less than 100 runs. On Monday, Sri Lanka was dismissed for 77, led by South Africa’s Anrich Nortje who took four wickets. On Wednesday, Ireland managed only 96 runs due to a collective bowling effort by India. Hardik Pandya took 3/27, while Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh each claimed two wickets, with Bumrah being named player of the match.

The disparity in quality meant that India reached the target with 46 balls to spare, securing an eight-wicket victory to start their campaign. However, the matches have been played on challenging drop-in pitches, which are not ideal for T20 cricket. Additionally, the slow outfield has not been conducive to the game. The only concern for India was their captain, Rohit Sharma, who retired hurt on 52 after 10 overs following a blow to his right forearm from left-arm pacer Josh Little. The injury occurred in the ninth over, but Rohit responded by hitting the next two balls for sixes. India will hope Rohit is fit for their next Group A match against Pakistan on Sunday.

While there isn’t much to dissect from this match, India’s team selection was interesting. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s exclusion was evident from the warm-up game against Bangladesh. However, the composition of India’s bowling attack included two surprises: they chose to use all three specialist pacers in the squad with Pandya as a fourth seam-bowling option, and they left out left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav, a key player in white-ball cricket over the past few years, for Axar Patel.

The pace-heavy strategy was fitting for Wednesday given the early start, cloud cover, and uncertainty about the pitch. After opting to bowl first, India’s pace attack quickly found their rhythm. Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj set the tone by exploiting the lateral movement available. The variable bounce also kept the batters on edge—a delivery from Arshdeep in the first over went on the bounce to the wicketkeeper while others rose sharply from a length.

Arshdeep struck twice in a two-run third over. Ireland’s captain Paul Stirling managed only a top edge on an attempted pull, allowing Rishabh Pant, returning to the team after a long absence due to a car accident, to take the catch. Five balls later, Andy Balbirnie, the other opener, was bowled trying to steer the ball through third man, leaving Ireland at 9/2 after three overs.

Ireland’s situation worsened as Bumrah began his spell in the sixth over, immediately troubling the batsmen with his movement. Hardik Pandya, brought into the attack in the seventh over, also made an impact. Despite a disappointing IPL season with Mumbai Indians, Pandya appeared rejuvenated. He had performed well in the warm-up game against Bangladesh, scoring an unbeaten 40 off 23 balls, and continued his good form with the ball.

In his first over, Pandya bowled Lorcan Tucker with a nip-backer that hit the stumps. Tucker had previously hit Siraj and Arshdeep for boundaries but misjudged his shot against Pandya. “I really liked the first wicket. Generally, I don’t hit the stumps often; I have a tendency to bowl back of a length, but on this wicket, I needed to be a lot fuller to be in the game,” Pandya said during the mid-innings break.

Bumrah followed up by dismissing Harry Tector in the next over. Tector, who struggled for 4 off 15 balls, was undone by a fierce bouncer from Bumrah, which he tried to pull but was late, resulting in a glove and helmet deflection to Virat Kohli at cover.

Ireland, from 36/4, quickly slid to 44/5, 46/6, and 49/7, as Pandya added to his tally. The pitch did not favor aggressive strokes, but Ireland contributed to their downfall with poor shot selection. Axar Patel also chipped in with a caught-and-bowled in the 12th over, his only over of the innings, claiming Ireland’s eighth wicket. Only two Irish batters reached double figures, but Gareth Delany and Josh Little swung their bats towards the end, helping Ireland reach 96 before a run-out ended their innings.

While India’s bowlers performed admirably, the challenge posed by the pitch raises concerns for the tournament’s appeal. For cricket to attract new fans in the United States, especially with venues like Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in Long Island, the playing conditions must be conducive to an exciting, competitive format that showcases the best of T20 cricket. As the tournament progresses, both the quality of the pitches and the performances will need to improve to meet the expectations of the global audience and achieve the tournament’s promotional goals.

Biden Imposes Immediate Halt on Asylum Processing at U.S.-Mexico Border Amid Surge in Illegal Entries

Staff ReporterImmigration 0

On Tuesday, President Joe Biden announced an immediate suspension of asylum processing at the U.S.-Mexico border whenever illegal entries exceed a specific limit he considers excessive. This policy change, effective immediately, is activated when arrests for illegal entry hit 2,500, a significant shift amid an election year that has seen Biden criticized by Republicans for an unprecedented surge in new arrivals.

The U.S. currently experiences about 4,000 daily entries, and this new measure has raised concerns among advocates who argue it endangers migrants and violates international obligations to provide safe haven for those whose lives are at risk. The Biden administration disputes these claims. Legal challenges are expected.

There are questions about the efficacy of this measure in curbing large-scale migrant entries. Although Mexico has agreed to accept back non-Mexican migrants, it will do so only in limited numbers. Additionally, the Biden administration lacks the necessary funding and diplomatic support to deport migrants to distant countries such as China and those in Africa.

Under the current system, asylum seekers can generally live and work in the U.S. while their claims are processed by the overwhelmed immigration courts. This new policy, however, alters the landscape significantly.

How Will This Play Out on the Ground?

The policy suspends asylum processing until average daily arrests for illegal crossings drop below 1,500 for a consecutive week, a threshold last seen in July 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike the pandemic-related asylum restrictions known as Title 42, which carried no legal consequences and encouraged repeat attempts, the new policy will issue deportation orders to those denied a chance to seek asylum. This exposes them to criminal prosecution if they attempt to re-enter and bans them from legally entering the country for several years.

“We are ready to repatriate a record number of people in the coming days,” stated Blas Nuñez-Neto, assistant homeland security secretary for border and immigration policy, during a conference call for Spanish-language reporters.

Migrants expressing fear for their safety upon deportation will be screened by U.S. asylum officers under stricter standards than currently in place. If they pass this screening, they may pursue other forms of humanitarian protection, such as those outlined in the U.N. Convention Against Torture. Unaccompanied children are exempt, which may lead some parents to send their children across the border alone.

**What Role Does Mexico Play?**

Mexico’s role is crucial. The U.S. has limited resources to fly migrants back to over 100 countries, including many in Africa and Asia. It also lacks the diplomatic influence and logistical arrangements necessary to deport large numbers of migrants to countries like China, Russia, and Venezuela.

A 1997 court order generally restricts the detention of families with children under 18 to 20 days, an ambitious and likely unrealistic timeframe for screening and deporting those expressing fear of deportation. Even for single adults, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has the capacity to detain only about 34,000 people at a time.

Mexico has agreed to take back up to 30,000 people per month from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, in addition to Mexicans. However, this commitment does not extend to other nationalities. This year, Mexico has also made it more difficult for migrants to reach the U.S. border by preventing them from riding freight trains and stopping them on buses to turn them back to southern Mexico. While Mexican authorities block migrants’ progress, relatively few are deported, leaving many stranded in Mexican cities far from the U.S. border.

Alicia Bárcena, Mexico’s foreign relations secretary, stated last month that Mexico will not allow more than 4,000 illegal entries per day. President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum, set to take office on October 1, is expected to continue the policies of her mentor, current President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

Has This Been Tried Before?

This measure is the latest in a series of attempts by both the Biden and Trump administrations to deter asylum seekers, none of which have had lasting effects. In May 2023, Biden imposed similar restrictions on asylum for those crossing the border illegally after passing through another country, such as Mexico. A federal appeals court has allowed those restrictions to remain in place while advocates challenge them, but their impact appears minimal.

Illegal crossings decreased following last year’s restrictions, but the reduction was temporary as the number of screening officers was insufficient for the task. The application of the rule to only a small percentage of arrests highlighted the gap between budget allocations and policy ambitions.

Biden invoked a section of the Immigration and Nationality Act allowing the president to ban entry for groups of people if their presence “would be detrimental to the interests of the United States.” Former President Donald Trump used this power to ban entry from predominantly Muslim countries, though advocacy groups are likely to argue that Biden has not adequately met the “detrimental” criterion.

This latest policy shift reflects ongoing efforts to manage and control the influx of migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border, balancing international obligations with domestic pressures and resource limitations. The effectiveness and legality of the new measure will be closely scrutinized in the coming months, as its implementation impacts both migrants and the broader immigration system.

Trump Campaign and RNC Raise $141 Million in May, Surge Fueled by Guilty Verdict

Staff ReporterUSA 0

Donald Trump’s campaign and the Republican National Committee announced that they raised a substantial $141 million in May. This significant fundraising total includes tens of millions of dollars that flowed in following Trump’s guilty verdict in his criminal hush money trial.

Although Trump’s campaign is not obliged to reveal its fundraising figures to the Federal Election Commission until later this month, they chose to disclose the numbers early. This decision highlights their belief that the influx of contributions is a testament to the former president’s supporters rallying behind him after the verdict and indicates that it will not impede his pursuit of a return to the White House.

Meanwhile, President Joe Biden’s campaign has not yet released its fundraising totals for May. In April, Trump and the Republican Party raised $76 million, surpassing the $51 million reported by Biden and the Democratic National Committee for the same month.

The extent of Trump and the GOP’s expenditures in May remains unclear. However, the considerable sum raised could help reduce the financial disparity with Biden, which has been a consistent challenge throughout the campaign.

In a press release on Monday, Trump’s campaign stated that it received over two million donations in May, with an average contribution of $70.27. A notable 37.6% of this amount came from online donations within 24 hours of the verdict announcement. Additionally, about a quarter of the donors were new to the campaign.

“We are moved by the outpouring of support for President Donald J. Trump. The American people saw right through Crooked Joe Biden’s rigged trial, and sent Biden and Democrats a powerful message – the REAL verdict will come on November 5th,” said Trump Campaign senior advisers Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles in a statement.

In response, Biden campaign spokesman Ammar Moussa remarked that they would “see how the numbers actually shake out” when officially reported. He also commented, “one thing’s for certain: Trump’s billionaire friends are propping up the campaign of a white-collar crook because they know the deal – they cut him checks and he cuts their taxes while working people and the middle class pay the tab.”

Last week, Trump’s campaign announced it had raised over $50 million online within 24 hours after the Manhattan jury delivered its verdict. This verdict made Trump the first former president and first major party presumptive nominee in the nation’s history to be convicted of a crime.

Trump is scheduled to be sentenced on July 11.

T20 World Cup Kicks Off in Dallas: Cricket Aims to Win Over American Fans

Staff ReporterSports 0

Cricket embarks on a mission to captivate American audiences and their financial support this week with the T20 World Cup commencing on Saturday in Dallas, showcasing the sport’s finest talents in a relatively untapped region. The opening match sees the United States facing Canada, co-hosted by the West Indies, while a temporary venue in Nassau County, New York, will host its first of eight games on Monday. Lauderhill, Florida, is set to host four more matches.

Globally, cricket commands a following of over a billion fans, yet it remains underappreciated in the lucrative North American market, where sports enthusiasts are more familiar with New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge wielding a bat than cricket stars like Rohit Sharma or Jos Buttler.

“This is the start of a journey,” stated International Cricket Council (ICC) CEO Geoff Allardice to Reuters. “The awareness that we’re bringing in more elite cricket to the USA is something that’s been a strategic priority for us.”

The journey began with the inauguration of Major League Cricket in the United States last year and aims to culminate in the 2028 Los Angeles Games, marking cricket’s return to the Olympic program for the first time since 1900.

“In the lead up to the Los Angeles Olympics, I think we’ll be continuing to try and raise the profile of cricket, not just for the established cricket fans in the USA but for new fans,” Allardice added.

The tournament, which has Jamaican track legend Usain Bolt as an ambassador, represents a dream come true for U.S. immigrants who make up much of the sport’s American fan base and are typically accustomed to watching the games on television rather than live.

“I mean, (India have) got some of the biggest names in world sport as part of their team,” said Allardice. “And to be able to get close to them and see them in action, I think it’s an opportunity that’s something that comes along (not) very often for cricket fans in the USA.”

The ICC T20 World Cup runs from June 1-29.

Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal Advocates for $56 Million in Community Funding for Seattle

Staff ReporterCommunity 0

Indian-American Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal announced on June 3 her Community Project Funding (CPF) requests, which she will advocate for inclusion in the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) appropriations bills. These 15 projects could potentially bring up to $56 million to the Seattle area.

“Delivering for the Seattle area is the most important part of my job, and I am so proud to be working to bring home this money for innovative and critical projects across our community,” Jayapal stated.

She elaborated on the benefits of the funding, saying, “This funding will make our community safer – with both public safety funding and upgrades to aging transit infrastructure, more resilient to the climate crisis, and overall a better place to live. While Republicans in Congress continue to lead through chaos, I will be standing up for you, working to get this across the finish line.”

The 15 projects span a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Seattle. Jayapal emphasized the importance of these projects in various aspects such as public safety, climate resilience, and infrastructure improvement.

Among the projects, significant attention is given to public safety enhancements. The funding is aimed at bolstering safety measures across the community. This includes investing in infrastructure that is essential for maintaining public order and safety.

Another major focus of the funding is the upgrade of aging transit infrastructure. Jayapal pointed out that modernizing the transit systems is crucial for ensuring efficient and safe transportation for residents. The improvements are expected to address long-standing issues and pave the way for a more reliable transit system.

Climate resilience is another key area where the funding will be directed. Jayapal highlighted the need for the community to be more resilient to the climate crisis. This involves implementing measures that can help mitigate the impact of climate change and ensure that the community is better prepared to handle environmental challenges.

In her statement, Jayapal contrasted her efforts with the chaotic leadership she attributes to Republicans in Congress. She asserted her commitment to advocating for these projects and emphasized her determination to see them through to completion.

Jayapal’s CPF requests are part of a broader strategy to secure federal funds for local projects that have a direct impact on the community. The goal is to leverage these funds to bring about tangible improvements in various sectors, thereby enhancing the overall living conditions in Seattle.

The proposed projects reflect a comprehensive approach to community development. By addressing multiple facets such as safety, infrastructure, and environmental resilience, the funding aims to create a more livable and sustainable environment for the residents.

Jayapal’s announcement has garnered attention and support from various quarters. Community leaders and residents have expressed optimism about the potential benefits of the funding. They believe that the proposed projects can significantly improve the quality of life and address some of the pressing issues faced by the community.

The focus on public safety is particularly noteworthy, as it underscores the importance of creating a secure environment for residents. Investments in safety infrastructure are expected to have a lasting impact, contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

Upgrading transit infrastructure is another critical component of the funding requests. Jayapal highlighted the necessity of modernizing transit systems to ensure efficient and reliable transportation. The improvements are anticipated to reduce commute times, enhance connectivity, and provide a better transit experience for residents.

The emphasis on climate resilience aligns with broader efforts to combat climate change and its impacts. By investing in measures that enhance environmental resilience, the funding aims to prepare the community for future challenges and promote sustainable practices.

Jayapal’s dedication to securing this funding reflects her commitment to her constituents. She has positioned herself as a strong advocate for the Seattle area, working diligently to bring federal resources to local projects that can make a meaningful difference.

The 15 projects represent a significant investment in the future of Seattle. If successfully funded, they have the potential to bring about substantial improvements in various aspects of community life. The anticipated $56 million in funding could catalyze positive change and set a precedent for future investments in local projects.

Jayapal’s efforts are part of a larger movement to prioritize community needs and secure the necessary resources to address them. By advocating for these projects, she aims to ensure that Seattle continues to thrive and evolve in a positive direction.

Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal’s Community Project Funding requests for FY25 aim to bring up to $56 million to Seattle for 15 projects focused on public safety, transit infrastructure, and climate resilience. She expressed pride in her work to secure this funding, emphasizing its importance in making the community safer, more resilient, and a better place to live. Jayapal contrasted her efforts with what she described as the chaotic leadership of Republicans in Congress, reaffirming her commitment to advocating for her constituents and getting the funding across the finish line.

CEO Pay Soars 13% to Median $16.3M, Far Outpacing Worker Wage Gains Amid Rising Inflation

Staff ReporterBusiness 0

The typical compensation package for chief executives at S&P 500 companies increased by nearly 13% last year, significantly outpacing wage growth for the average worker amid rising inflation that strained many American households.

The median CEO pay package rose to $16.3 million, a 12.6% increase, as analyzed by Equilar for The Associated Press. In contrast, private-sector workers saw their wages and benefits grow by 4.1% in 2023. At half the companies surveyed, it would take the median employee nearly 200 years to match their CEO’s annual earnings.

CEOs benefited as the economy demonstrated resilience, leading to robust profits and soaring stock prices. After overcoming the pandemic, companies contended with ongoing inflation and higher interest rates. Notably, around two dozen CEOs saw their pay increase by 50% or more.

“In this post-pandemic market, the desire is for boards to reward and retain CEOs when they feel like they have a good leader in place,” said Kelly Malafis, founding partner of Compensation Advisory Partners in New York. “That all combined kind of leads to increased compensation.”

However, Sarah Anderson, who heads the Global Economy Project at the progressive Institute for Policy Studies, argues that the widening gap between executive and worker pay contributes to widespread economic discontent. “Most of the focus here is on inflation, which people are really feeling, but they’re feeling the pain of inflation more because they’re not seeing their wages go up enough,” she explained.

Many companies have responded to shareholder demands to align CEO compensation with performance. Consequently, a substantial portion of CEO pay now consists of stock awards, which often cannot be cashed in for several years and are contingent on meeting specific targets, such as a higher stock price or improved operating profits. The median stock award increased by nearly 11% last year, while bonuses grew by just 2.7%.

The AP’s CEO compensation study covered 341 executives at S&P 500 companies who had served at least two full fiscal years at their companies, which filed proxy statements between January 1 and April 30.

Top Earners

Hock Tan, CEO of Broadcom Inc., led the AP survey with a pay package valued at about $162 million. Broadcom awarded Tan stock valued at $160.5 million on October 31, 2022, for the 2023 fiscal year. He stands to earn up to 1 million shares starting in fiscal 2025 if Broadcom’s stock meets certain targets and if he remains CEO for five years.

At the time of the award, Broadcom’s stock traded at $470. Tan would receive portions of the stock if it reached $825 and $950, and the full award if the average closing price exceeds $1,125 for 20 consecutive days between October 2025 and October 2027. The targets appeared ambitious, but Broadcom’s stock has surged, reaching an all-time high of $1,436.17 on May 28.

Broadcom is capitalizing on the AI boom among tech companies, with its chips used by major banks, retailers, telecom operators, and government bodies. The company highlighted that under Tan, its market value soared from $3.8 billion in 2009 to $645 billion as of May 23, and its total shareholder return significantly outpaced the S&P 500. Tan will not receive additional stock awards during the next five years.

Other top earners in the AP survey include William Lansing of Fair Isaac Corp. ($66.3 million), Tim Cook of Apple Inc. ($63.2 million), Hamid Moghadam of Prologis Inc. ($50.9 million), and Ted Sarandos, co-CEO of Netflix ($49.8 million). Cook’s compensation represented a 36% decline from the previous year after he requested a pay cut for 2023 due to shareholder discontent.

The survey’s methodology excluded CEOs such as Nikesh Arora of Palo Alto Networks ($151.4 million) and Christopher Winfrey of Charter Communications ($89 million). Although Elon Musk received no compensation as CEO of Tesla Inc., he is asking shareholders to restore a pay package estimated at $45 billion, which was previously struck down by a Delaware judge due to a flawed approval process.

CEO Pay vs. Workers

Wages and benefits for private-sector employees rose by 4.1% in 2023 after a 5.1% increase in 2022, according to the Labor Department. Despite these gains, the gap between CEO and worker pay continues to widen. Half the CEOs in this year’s survey earned at least 196 times more than their median employee, up from 185 times in the previous year.

The disparity is particularly stark in low-wage industries like retail. At Ross Stores, the median employee was a part-time retail associate earning $8,618, making it would take 2,100 years to match CEO Barbara Rentler’s 2023 compensation of $18.1 million. A year earlier, it would have taken 1,137 years.

Corporate boards often feel compelled to increase CEO pay to retain top talent, focusing on competitive compensation rather than the pay ratio. “The better an executive performs, the more the board is willing to pay,” Malafis noted.

Historically, the pay ratio was much narrower. After World War II until the 1980s, CEOs of large public companies earned about 40 to 50 times the average worker’s pay, said Brandon Rees, deputy director of corporations and capital markets for the AFL-CIO. “The (current) pay ratio signals a sort of a winner-take-all culture, that companies are treating their CEOs as, you know, as superstars as opposed to team players,” Rees remarked.

Say on Pay

Despite criticism, shareholders typically support executive pay packages. From 2019 to 2023, companies received nearly 90% approval for their compensation plans, according to Equilar data. Occasionally, shareholders reject a plan, though these votes are non-binding. In 2023, 13 S&P 500 companies received less than 50% support for their executive pay packages.

Netflix, for example, revised its pay policies after shareholder discontent. The company eliminated executives’ option to choose between cash and stock options, moving to restricted stock that only pays out after meeting performance targets or time requirements. These changes will take effect in 2024. Last year, co-CEO Ted Sarandos received options valued at $28.3 million and a cash bonus of $16.5 million, while co-CEO Greg Peters received options worth $22.7 million and a cash bonus of $13.9 million.

Anderson emphasized the importance of Say on Pay votes, stating they “shine a spotlight on some of the most egregious cases of executive excess, and it can lead to negotiations over pay and other issues that shareholders might want to raise with corporate leadership.” However, she added, “The impact on the overall size of CEO packages has not had much effect in some cases.”

Female CEOs

While more women featured in the AP survey than in previous years, their numbers remain small compared to male CEOs. Of the 341 CEOs in Equilar’s data, 25 were women.

Lisa Su, CEO and chair of the board at Advanced Micro Devices, was the highest-paid female CEO for the fifth consecutive year, with a compensation package valued at $30.3 million, unchanged from 2022. Her rank rose to 21 from 25. Other top-paid female CEOs include Mary Barra of General Motors ($27.8 million), Jane Fraser of Citigroup ($25.5 million), Kathy Warden of Northrop Grumman Corp. ($23.5 million), and Carol Tome of UPS Inc. ($23.4 million).

The median pay for female CEOs rose 21% to $17.6 million, outpacing their male counterparts, whose median pay increased by 12.2% to $16.3 million.

Record-Breaking Prize of 2.45 Million USD for Winners as ICC Announces Historic Payout for Ninth Men’s T20 World Cup

Staff ReporterSports 0

The ninth edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will award the tournament winner at least 2.45 million USD, marking the highest prize money ever in the event’s history, according to the International Cricket Council (ICC). The winning team will receive this prize along with the trophy, to be presented at Kensington Oval in Barbados on June 29. This comes from an overall prize pool of 11.25 million USD sanctioned by the ICC. Each participating team will receive a minimum of 225,000 USD.

The runners-up are set to receive at least 1.28 million USD, while the losing semifinalists will earn 787,500 USD each. Teams that do not advance past the Super 8 stage will each get 382,500 USD. Teams finishing ninth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth will each receive 247,500 USD.

Teams placed between thirteenth and twentieth positions will pocket 225,000 USD each. Additionally, every team will earn an extra 31,154 USD for each match victory, excluding the semifinals and final. “This event is historic in so many ways, so it is fitting that the prize money for players reflects that. Hundreds of millions of fans around the world will be entertained by the players in what we’re hoping to be an Out of This World event,” said ICC CEO Geoff Allardice.

The tournament, spanning 55 matches and involving 20 teams, will be played over 28 days across nine venues in the West Indies and USA, making it the largest ICC Men’s T20 World Cup ever. The 20 teams will be divided into four groups of five for the first round.

The top two teams from each group will progress to the Super 8 stage, where they will be divided into two groups of four. The first and second seed teams from each initial group will retain their seeding in the Super 8, provided they qualify. Specifically, finishers A1, B2, C1, and D2 will be in one Super 8 group, while A2, B1, C2, and D1 will be in the other group.

The top two teams from each Super 8 group will move on to the semifinals, scheduled in Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago on June 26 and 27 respectively. The final will take place in Barbados on June 29.

Sanya Malhotra Clinches Best Actress Award at New York Indian Film Festival for ‘Mrs’ Role, Highlighting Rising Talent and Captivating Storytelling

Staff ReporterCinema 0

Sanya Malhotra has secured the Best Actress award at the esteemed New York Indian Film Festival 2024 for her performance in the film ‘Mrs’.

Directed by Arati Kadav, ‘Mrs’ is reportedly the Hindi adaptation of the highly praised Malayalam movie, ‘The Great Indian Kitchen’. This film has been characterized as “a captivating account of a woman’s strength and resilience,” centering on the life of Richa, played by Sanya Malhotra. Richa’s narrative unfolds as one of self-discovery, set against the backdrop of her demanding household and kitchen duties.

The movie boasts a notable ensemble, including Nishant Dahiya and Kanwaljit Singh, in prominent roles.

Jio Studios’ official social media handle shared the news of Sanya Malhotra’s accolade. Their post read, “Congratulations to the incredibly talented @sanyamalhotra07 on winning the Best Actress Award at the prestigious New York Indian Film Festival for the film Mrs! Produced by #JyotiDeshpande Produced by #PammiBaweja & #HarmanBaweja, Cast @sanyamalhotra07 #NishantDahiya @kukuhere, Directed by @AratiKadav, Co-Produced by #SmitaBaliga #JioStudios @bawejastudios @nyindianff”.

Apart from her role in ‘Mrs’, Sanya Malhotra has several intriguing projects lined up. She is set to appear in Varun Dhawan’s ‘Baby John’, featuring dialogues by Atlee. Another project, ‘Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari’, stars Varun Dhawan and Jahnvi Kapoor. Additionally, she will feature in Mani Ratnam’s upcoming Tamil action drama ‘Thug Life’ and an untitled film directed by Anurag Kashyap.

This string of projects showcases Sanya Malhotra’s dynamic range and her continuous rise in the film industry. Her portrayal of Richa in ‘Mrs’ has not only earned her critical acclaim but also established her as a formidable talent capable of carrying complex, character-driven narratives.

The recognition from the New York Indian Film Festival is a significant milestone in her career, highlighting her ability to embody deeply layered roles and connect with audiences on an emotional level. This accolade is a testament to her dedication to her craft and her skill in bringing nuanced characters to life on screen.

The storyline of ‘Mrs’ delves into the intricate dynamics of domestic life, portraying Richa’s evolution as she confronts and overcomes the traditional expectations placed upon her. The film’s exploration of gender roles and societal norms resonates with viewers, offering a poignant commentary on the everyday struggles faced by many women.

Sanya Malhotra’s performance has been pivotal in conveying the film’s message, her portrayal of Richa marked by a profound depth and authenticity. This role required her to navigate a spectrum of emotions, from frustration and vulnerability to empowerment and resilience, and she has done so with remarkable finesse.

The supporting cast, including Nishant Dahiya and Kanwaljit Singh, have also contributed significantly to the film’s impact, providing strong performances that complement Malhotra’s lead role. Their contributions help paint a comprehensive picture of the protagonist’s world and the challenges she faces.

The film’s director, Arati Kadav, has been praised for her vision and execution, successfully adapting a story from a different cultural context and making it resonate with a wider audience. Her direction ensures that the essence of the original Malayalam film is retained while infusing it with a fresh perspective that speaks to the Hindi-speaking audience.

The collaborative efforts of the production team, including producers Jyoti Deshpande, Pammi Baweja, Harman Baweja, and co-producer Smita Baliga, alongside the backing of Jio Studios, have been instrumental in bringing this powerful story to life. Their commitment to producing quality cinema is evident in the film’s reception and the accolades it has garnered.

The recognition from the New York Indian Film Festival further cements the significance of ‘Mrs’ in contemporary Indian cinema. It underscores the importance of storytelling that challenges societal norms and provides a voice to underrepresented perspectives. This win is not just a personal triumph for Sanya Malhotra but also a victory for meaningful cinema that sparks conversation and reflection.

Looking ahead, Sanya Malhotra’s upcoming projects are highly anticipated. Her role in ‘Baby John’, where she collaborates with Varun Dhawan and dialogues by Atlee, is expected to be a dynamic addition to her filmography. ‘Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari’, also starring Varun Dhawan and Jahnvi Kapoor, promises to be an engaging narrative with a stellar cast.

Her participation in Mani Ratnam’s ‘Thug Life’ signals her foray into Tamil cinema, a move that will undoubtedly expand her audience and showcase her versatility as an actress. Additionally, her collaboration with Anurag Kashyap in an untitled project is eagerly awaited, given Kashyap’s reputation for crafting compelling and unconventional films.

Sanya Malhotra’s achievement at the New York Indian Film Festival is a testament to her exceptional talent and the powerful storytelling of ‘Mrs’. Her journey in the film industry continues to be marked by noteworthy performances and a dedication to exploring diverse and challenging roles. This award is a significant milestone, celebrating her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters and reinforcing her status as one of the most promising actresses in contemporary Indian cinema.

June 2024 Visa Bulletin: Minimal Changes in Immigration Visa Availability for Indian Nationals

Staff ReporterImmigration 0

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) regularly updates immigrant visa availability through its Visa Bulletin, which delineates when immigrant visas are available based on priority dates. The Bulletin includes two charts per visa preference category: Application Final Dates and Dates for Filing Applications.

In the June 2024 Visa Bulletin, USCIS maintains the use of Final Action Dates for Employment-Based Adjustment of Status Applications and Dates for Filing for Family-Sponsored Adjustment of Status Applications. Notably, the focus here is on the impact of these dates on Indian nationals.

In the family-based categories:

– F-1 (Unmarried Sons and Daughters of U.S. Citizens) retains a cut-off date of September 1, 2017.

– F2A (Spouses and Children of Permanent Residents) remains at September 1, 2023.

– F2B (Unmarried Sons and Daughters of Permanent Residents, 21 years or older) stays at January 1, 2017.

– F3 (Married Sons and Daughters of U.S. Citizens) advances to September 1, 2010, a few months ahead.

– F4 (Brothers and Sisters of Adult U.S. Citizens) holds steady at June 15, 2006.

In the employment-based categories:

– First (Priority Workers) remains at March 1, 2021.

– Second (Members of the Professions Holding Advanced Degrees or Persons of Exceptional Ability) stays at April 15, 2012.

– Third (Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Other Workers) moves slightly to August 22, 2012.

– Fourth (Certain Special Immigrants, including Religious Workers) is set at November 1, 2020.

– Fifth (Employment Creation, EB-5 immigrant investor visa) remains at December 1, 2020, for India.

Overall, there’s little significant change from previous months, indicating stability in most filing dates. The DOS’s use of Final Action Dates for Employment-based Preference Cases suggests a cautious approach due to high demand. Consequently, substantial forward movement in employment-based categories is unlikely in the near future. Monitoring the actions of the Department of State and USCIS in the coming months will provide further insights.

For most of India’s Hindus, religious and national identities are closely linked

Staff ReporterCulture, Religion 0
A bar chart showing that Hindus in India say being Hindu, speaking Hindi very important to being ‘truly’ Indian

At least since the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) electoral victories in 2014, the term “Hindu nationalism” has been frequently invoked in both Indian and Western media, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his ruling party often described as promoting a Hindu nationalist agenda. But there is no widely accepted definition of what the term means, and little data exists on how common Hindu nationalist attitudes are in India and how they vary across the country.

A new Pew Research Center survey of nearly 30,000 Indian adults sought to measure multiple dimensions of Hindu nationalism by asking people how important certain attributes or behaviors are to “true” Indian identity. This survey was conducted several months after the BJP’s victory in the 2019 parliamentary elections and before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hindus are far more likely than members of other religious groups to link Indian and Hindu identities: Nearly two-thirds of Hindus (64%) say it is very important to be Hindu to be truly Indian. Far fewer respondents among other religious communities in the country answer the same way, including 27% of Muslims who say being Hindu is very important to being truly Indian.

For most of India’s Hindus, religious and national identities are closely linked 2Hindu nationalism in India also has a linguistic dimension. Hindus are more likely than other Indians to associate national identity with the Hindi language. While India has dozens of major languages, a majority of Hindus (59%) feel that being able to speak Hindi is very important to being truly Indian. Hindus who link their religion with national identity tend also to link the Hindi language with being authentically Indian.

Altogether, about half of Hindus (51%) say being Hindu and speaking Hindi are both very important to being truly Indian. A substantial share of Jains (36%) also express both these sentiments, but Buddhists (25%), Muslims (23%), Sikhs (18%) and Christians (15%) are less inclined to offer these definitions of national identity. By contrast, large majorities of Indians across all major religions generally agree that respecting elders, respecting all religions, and respecting the country’s institutions and laws are each paramount to being truly Indian.

Among Hindus, opinion varies widely in different parts of the country on the importance of Hindu identity and speaking Hindi in relation to national identity. Hindus in the Northern (69%) and Central (83%) regions are the most likely to say being a Hindu is very important to be truly Indian, while Hindus in the South (42%) and Northeast (39%) express the weakest association between national and religious identities. Similarly, Hindus in the Northern (71%) and Central (87%) regions – which include the country’s “Hindi belt,” where Hindi is most prevalent – are the most likely to say it is very important to be able to speak Hindi to be truly Indian.

Hindus with a college degree are less likely to connect language and religion with national identity. Roughly half of Hindu college graduates (53%) tie being Hindu with being truly Indian, compared with nearly two-thirds of other Hindus (65%). Religious observance plays a role as well: Among Hindus who say religion is very important in their lives, 70% say being Hindu is very important to being truly Indian, compared with 34% among less religiously committed Hindus.

A bar chart showing that beliefs about Indian identity are tied to voting patterns

These beliefs about Hindu nationalism are strongly reflected in political behavior. Roughly half of Hindus who say they voted in the 2019 election say they voted for the ruling BJP (49%), but support for the BJP is considerably higher among those who say both being Hindu and speaking Hindi are very important to be truly Indian. Six-in-ten Hindu voters who place great importance on both of these attributes say they voted for the BJP in the 2019 parliamentary election. By comparison, 33% of those who say neither being Hindu nor being able to speak Hindi is very important to national identity reported voting for the party.

Although this group of Hindu BJP voters may see a special place for Hindus in India, they are just as likely as other Hindus to say respecting other religions is crucial to being truly Indian. And they are even more likely to say that religious diversity benefits India. Nearly two-thirds (65%) of this group – Hindus who say that being a Hindu and speaking Hindi are very important to be truly Indian and who voted for the BJP in 2019 – say religious diversity is a good thing for the country, compared with about half (47%) of other Hindu voters who say the same.

At the same time, Hindus who express this combination of Hindu nationalist positions also are more inclined to support a religiously segregated India – by opposing interreligious marriage, for instance. More than eight-in-ten in this group (83%) say it is very important to stop Hindu women from marrying into another religion, compared with roughly six-in-ten (61%) among other Hindu voters.

Claudia Sheinbaum: Mexico’s First Female President

Staff ReporterWomen, World 0

Claudia Sheinbaum’s Background and Achievements

Claudia Sheinbaum, known as “la Doctora” for her impressive academic background, is a physicist with a doctorate in energy engineering. She has served as the former mayor of Mexico City, one of the world’s most populous cities, and was part of the United Nations panel of climate scientists that received a Nobel Peace Prize. She made history by becoming the first woman and the first person of Jewish heritage to be elected president of Mexico, winning around 60% of the vote in the largest election in Mexico’s history.

Sheinbaum’s academic career includes receiving the prize of best UNAM young researcher in engineering and technological innovation in 1999. She also joined the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) at the United Nations, contributing to reports on the topic “Mitigation of climate change” and co-authoring the IPCC Fifth Assessment Report in 2013. She has been dedicated to university teaching, focusing on renewable energy and climate change.

Challenges Ahead for Sheinbaum

One of the challenges Sheinbaum faces is to establish her own platform gradually while initially acting as a faithful disciple of her longtime ally, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. She will need to navigate the transition carefully, offering glimpses of her own program without stoking instability in the movement’s base. Despite her close association with Obrador, there are clear differences between the two leaders, with Sheinbaum emphasizing her decision-making based on data and science.

Another significant challenge for Sheinbaum is addressing Mexico’s organized crime and security issues. The country has been plagued by high levels of violence, with a soaring homicide rate and a significant number of people missing. Additionally, Mexico remains a dangerous place for women, with high femicide rates. Sheinbaum will need to act quickly on these pressing security issues.

US-Mexico Relations

Sheinbaum’s presidency comes at a critical time for US-Mexico relations, as both countries are holding elections in 2024. Mexico is a key US ally on various issues, including trade, drug trafficking, and migration management. The relationship between President Joe Biden and Mexico’s President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has been described as friendly and professional, and the Biden administration anticipates a productive relationship with Mexico’s next president. However, the election in Mexico has raised uncertainty about potential changes in border cooperation and migration policies.

Claudia Sheinbaum’s presidency marks a historic moment for Mexico, and she faces significant challenges in establishing her own platform while addressing pressing security issues and navigating US-Mexico relations.

Air India Apologizes for 30-hour Flight Delay, Offers USD 350 Voucher to Affected Passengers

Staff ReporterTravel 0

Air India, the national carrier of India, recently experienced a significant delay in one of its flights from Delhi to San Francisco, which resulted in a 30-hour delay for passengers. The airline has since issued an apology for the inconvenience caused and has offered a travel voucher worth USD 350 to each passenger affected by the delay.

The Delay and Its Impact

The flight in question was scheduled to depart from Delhi and arrive in San Francisco. However, due to a series of technical issues and operational constraints, the flight was delayed by 30 hours. This delay resulted in the flight only taking off on Friday and landing in San Francisco on Saturday, after a flight duration of approximately 16 hours.

Air India’s Response

In response to the delay, Klaus Goersch, the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Air India, penned a letter to the passengers affected by the delay. In his letter, Goersch expressed his sincere apologies on behalf of Air India for the extended delay and the inconvenience it caused the passengers. He acknowledged the lapse in service and expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to the passengers.

Compensation for Passengers

As a gesture of apology, Air India has offered each passenger a travel voucher worth USD 350 for future travel with the airline. Alternatively, passengers have the option to credit this amount instead of using it for travel. This move comes after the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a show-cause notice to airlines for inordinate flight delays and failure to take care of passengers.

Regulatory Scrutiny

The DGCA has questioned Air India as to why enforcement action should not be initiated against the airline, given that flight AI-179 dated 24 May and flight AI-183 dated 30 May were inordinately delayed. This scrutiny from the regulator underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for airlines to ensure timely service and proper care for passengers.

While the delay and the inconvenience it caused are regrettable, Air India’s response in the form of an apology and compensation in the form of travel vouchers demonstrates the airline’s commitment to its passengers. It is hoped that such incidents will be avoided in the future to ensure a smooth and timely travel experience for all passengers.

Trump’s Potential Return to Presidency Could Lead to ‘Dictatorship and Anarchy’ Warns Historian; Former President Found Guilty on All Charges

Staff ReporterUSA 0

Michael Beschloss, a revered historian specializing in the American presidency, sounded a note of caution on an MSNBC show on Saturday. He warned that if former President Donald Trump were to regain his position in the Oval Office, it could result in a dangerous slide towards “dictatorship and anarchy” for the United States.

Beschloss’s Analysis:

Speaking on “The Saturday Show with Jonathan Capeheart,” Beschloss emphasized the gravity of the situation. He stated, “He is saying, I will dismantle our rule of law, which is the glory of America, keeps the peace, assures fairness when it works for all Americans. You’ve got dictatorship and anarchy at the same time.”

He further highlighted the stark choice that lies ahead, labeling Trump as a “convicted felon.” Beschloss went on to discuss Trump’s public statement delivered post-trial where the former president expressed his desire to “dismantle parts of the Constitution” and labeled the system as “rotten.”

Trump’s Conviction:

In a precedent-setting case, Trump was pronounced guilty by a jury in New York City on all 34 felony charges of falsifying business records. This marked the first time in history a current or former American president has been tried in court.

Trump’s Post-Conviction Speech:

Following his conviction, Trump addressed the public, claiming, “Our country is in very bad shape, and they’re very much against me saying these things.” He criticized the current administration for their plans to raise taxes and impose mandates that would hinder car ownership.

Trump declared himself the leading contender for the presidency, outranking Joe Biden and the rest of the Republican field. He claimed his speech was hampered by a court-issued gag order and accused the White House and the Department of Justice of being in collusion with Biden’s administration.

In his speech, Trump expressed his belief that his trial was rigged and that his requests for a venue change and a non-conflicted judge were denied.

Post-Conviction Developments:

Following his conviction, Trump made a public appearance at a UFC fight over the weekend where he was met with cheers from the crowd. His campaign also managed to raise an impressive nearly $53 million within a day of the verdict. Despite the recent controversy and his legal troubles, these events suggest that Trump still retains significant support among certain sections of the American populace.

Cybercriminals Leak Criminal Records of 70 Million Americans: A Major Data Breach with Serious Implications

Staff ReporterTechnology 0

In a significant cybersecurity breach, a group of hackers has leaked a database containing the criminal records of 70 million Americans, as reported by cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes. The leaked data includes comprehensive personal and criminal details, posing a serious threat to those with past convictions.

Details of the Leak:

The leaked database contains extensive information, including full names, dates of birth, known aliases, postal addresses, dates of arrest, dates of conviction, sentences, and more. This leak is particularly concerning for anyone who has been convicted in the past, as their personal and criminal details are now exposed.

Malwarebytes disclosed the news of this data leak on its blog. The post suggests that the company did not have direct access to the leaked database but was able to provide substantial information about the incident and the threat actors involved.

The Perpetrators:

The hacking groups EquationCorp and USDoD are reportedly behind this major data breach involving the criminal record database. The breach resulted in the online leak of the database, which contains 70 million entries. These entries include comprehensive personal and criminal details of millions of Americans who had encounters with the U.S. justice system between 2020 and 2024.

Insights from Malwarebytes:

We reached out to Malwarebytes and spoke with Pieter Arntz, a security researcher at the company. Arntz informed us that they were able to obtain a small sample of the criminal records, which are specific to individual incidents. Each entry represents either an arrest or a case rather than a comprehensive compilation of all crimes committed by a single person. In other words, these records provide a snapshot of discrete legal events rather than a comprehensive overview of an individual’s criminal history.

The Source and Motive:

The exact source of this database is unknown. However, the hacker group USDoD, a major player in the field, is closely linked to “Pompompurin,” the operator of the original data leak site BreachForums. According to Malwarebytes, USDoD plans to create a successor to the second version of BreachForums, which was recently shut down by law enforcement. By releasing this database, USDoD might be trying to attract new users.

The same hacker is also believed to be involved in a breach at TransUnion, the data from which was partly dumped in September 2023.

Implications of the Leak:

The exposure of such a comprehensive criminal database could have significant implications for law enforcement, judicial proceedings, and the individuals mentioned within the dataset. The hackers who pulled off the leak might be looking to make a quick buck by selling your data to shady characters on the dark web. They might also try to con you by pretending to be someone you trust or a legit company, aiming to get their hands on some cash.

This much bulk data can also be used by bad actors to threaten, harass and blackmail people with records similar to the Ashley Madison breach. For the unaware, In July 2015, a hacker group calling itself “The Impact Team” stole the user data of Ashley Madison, a commercial website billed as enabling extramarital affairs. These hackers copied personal information from the user base and threatened to expose users’ names and personal details unless Ashley Madison shut down right away.

Steps to Protect Your Personal Data and Privacy:

If you suspect you’ve been impacted by this data breach, follow these steps to protect your personal data and privacy:

1.Invest in identity theft protection:If you think your personal data has been leaked, scammers may try to impersonate you to gain access to your private information. The best thing you can do to protect yourself from this type of fraud is to subscribe to an identity theft service.

2.Place a fraud alert:Contact one of the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian or TransUnion) and request a fraud alert to be placed on your credit file. This will make it more difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name without verification.

3.Be cautious of phishing attempts:Be vigilant about emails, phone calls or messages from unknown sources asking for personal information. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or providing sensitive details unless you can verify the legitimacy of the request.

4.Check Social Security benefits:It is crucial to periodically check your Social Security benefits to ensure they have not been tampered with or altered in any way, safeguarding your financial security and preventing potential fraud.

5.Invest in removal services:While no service promises to remove all your data from the internet, having a removal service is great if you want to constantly monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites continuously over a longer period of time.

6.Change your password:You can render a stolen password useless to thieves simply by changing it. Opt for a strong password — one you don’t use elsewhere. Even better, consider letting a password manager generate one for you.

The fact that threat actors were able to leak such a comprehensive amount of data suggests serious loopholes in government systems. These issues need to be addressed to prevent data breaches like this from exposing people’s personal information. As there is currently no advisory from the government, you’ll have to take matters into your own hands. Stay extra vigilant against identity theft and targeted phishing attacks.

Have you ever been a victim of a data breach? If yes, what steps did you take to protect your personal data? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact

For more of my tech tips & security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

China Sells $101.9 Billion in US Treasury Securities Amid Shift Away from Dollar

Staff ReporterFinance 0

In a significant development, China has sold $101.9 billion in US Treasury securities over the past year, according to the latest figures. The US Treasury Department reports that China’s holdings have decreased from $869.3 billion in March of the previous year to $767.4 billion in March of this year.

China’s Shift from Dollar:

This news comes at a time when China is gradually moving away from the dollar in cross-border trade. Furthermore, the global economic alliance known as BRICS is considering the launch of a digital competitor to the US dollar. These developments indicate a potential shift in the global economic landscape and the role of the US dollar as the world’s reserve currency.

The Decline in China’s Holdings:

China’s holdings of US Treasury securities have been steadily declining from an all-time high of $1.31 trillion, which was recorded in November of 2013. This trend suggests a strategic shift in China’s investment and economic policies.

The Federal Reserve’s Perspective:

The Federal Reserve is closely monitoring these developments. At a recent conference on the global importance of the US dollar, Fed Governor Christopher Waller acknowledged the evolving role of the world’s reserve currency. He stated, “There has for some time been commentary predicting the dollar is destined for demise – potentially an imminent demise… The role of the US in the world economy is changing, and finance is always changing. The dollar remains by far the most widely used currency by a number of metrics.”

Waller also pointed out that America’s use of sanctions against foreign nations could impact the future dominance of the dollar. He noted, “If these sanctions and policies are long-lasting, the shifting cross-border payments landscape – including the rapid growth of digital currencies – could also pose challenges to the dominant role of the US dollar.”

In February, Waller had stated that despite the challenges, nations have “few practical alternatives to the dollar,” noting that “in times of global stress, the world runs to the dollar, not away from it.”

The sale of a significant amount of US Treasury securities by China and the contemplation of a digital competitor to the US dollar by BRICS are indicative of a changing global economic landscape. While the US dollar remains the most widely used currency, its role as the world’s reserve currency is evolving. As nations navigate these changes, the world will be closely watching the strategies they adopt and the impact these will have on global finance.

Zelensky Warns China’s Support to Russia Will Prolong Ukraine War, Calls for Asia-Pacific Nations to Join Peace Summit

Staff ReporterWorld 0

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, speaking at a meeting of defense chiefs from across the Asia-Pacific, including China and the US, in Singapore, expressed concerns about China’s support to Russia and its potential impact on the duration of the war in Ukraine. Zelensky also called on countries across the Asia-Pacific to participate in an upcoming peace summit on Ukraine, scheduled to be held in Switzerland on June 15-16.

Zelensky’s Remarks on China’s Support to Russia:

During a press conference in Singapore, Zelensky highlighted the potential consequences of China’s support to Russia, stating, “With China’s support to Russia the war will last longer. That is bad for the whole world, and the policy of China – who declares that it supports territorial integrity and sovereignty and declares it officially. For them it is not good.”These remarks underscore the concerns about the impact of external support on the conflict in Ukraine.

China’s Position and Allegations:

China has maintained a stance of neutrality in the conflict and has emphasized its commitment to peace. However, it has strengthened its economic and diplomatic ties with Russia since the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The US has alleged that China’s export of dual-use goods to Russia is bolstering the warring country’s defense industrial base, a claim that China has refuted. Zelensky also alluded to support from China, suggesting that certain elements of Russia’s weaponry “come from China.”

Russia’s Efforts to Disrupt the Peace Summit:

Zelensky warned that Russia, with the help of China, is attempting to pressure countries not to participate in the upcoming international peace summit. He stated, “Russia is trying to disrupt the peace summit and that is true … (Russia) is now traveling around many countries in the world threatening them with the blockade of the agricultural goods, of the food products, of chemical products … it is simply pushing the other countries of the world so that they’re not present on the summit.”Zelensky also accused Russia of using Chinese diplomats to disrupt the peace summit.

China’s Response and Position:

China has announced that it will not send a delegation to the peace summit, emphasizing the need for recognition by both Russia and Ukraine, equal participation by all parties, and fair discussion of all peace plans. Chinese Minister of National Defense Dong Jun reiterated China’s commitment to promoting peace talks and refuted allegations of providing weapons to either side in the conflict. The Chinese Foreign Ministry defended China’s trade with Russia as “above board” and emphasized the importance of its relations with Ukraine.

Urgency for International Support:

Zelensky’s appeal for international support comes at a critical time as Ukraine faces a major Russian advance into its northeast region of Kharkiv. The urgency to repel the invasion and bolster international support for Ukraine’s peace plan has become increasingly pressing.

The geopolitical dynamics surrounding the conflict in Ukraine, including China’s support to Russia and efforts to disrupt the peace summit, underscore the complexities and challenges involved in resolving the crisis. As Zelensky seeks to rally international support for Ukraine’s peace plan, the role of key global players, including China and the US, will continue to be closely scrutinized in the context of the ongoing conflict.

Prime Minister Modi Reviews 100-Day Program Amid Anticipation of Third Term

Staff ReporterIndia 0

Following projections indicating a potential third term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he convened a review meeting to discuss a 100-day program that his team aims to execute upon the completion of government formation. Senior bureaucrats of the government of India participated in this review meeting on June 2, where plans for the first 100 days of the new government were outlined.

Implementation Strategy:

Sources have revealed that at least 10 groups, each led by a Secretary-level official as a coordinator, have been established to execute this agenda over the initial 100 days of the new government. It has been reported that the plans are slated to be put into action by at least July 1.

Sectoral Group of Secretaries (SGOS):

An official disclosed that each Sectoral Group of Secretaries (SGOS) is headed by a Secretary of the government of India, accompanied by four or five senior officers. These groups, established in February, are responsible for fine-tuning plans, with a focus on governance, infrastructure, security, and the economy.

Key Initiatives:

Under the governance theme, the SGOS is tasked with evaluating the foundation courses of the Union Public Services Commission (UPSC) and introducing a ‘Karmayogi Talent Bank’, aimed at assessing civil servants before their promotions. Additionally, the BJP manifesto’s commitment to conducting simultaneous polls for the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies is a part of the 100-day plan, with a focus on creating a common electoral roll, vital to this exercise.

Prime Minister’s Involvement:

Some of these groups presented their plans to the Prime Minister, who also presided over review meetings on the aftermath of Cyclone Remal and the challenges arising from the heatwave affecting northern and western India.

As Prime Minister Modi prepares for a potential third term, the strategic planning and implementation of the 100-day program are indicative of the government’s focus on key governance and electoral initiatives. The Prime Minister’s active involvement in these discussions underscores the significance of these plans for the future direction of India.

Indian Peacekeeper Major Radhika Sen to Receive UN Military Gender Advocate Award

Staff ReporterNation, Women 0

Indian soldier Major Radhika Sen, who served as part of the UN mission in Congo, will receive the esteemed military gender advocate award from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on May 30, coinciding with the International Day of UN Peacekeepers.

Who is Major Radhika Sen?

Radhika Sen was stationed with the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) from March 2023 to April 2024, leading MONUSCO’s engagement platoon for the Indian rapid deployment battalion (INDRDB).

Major Radhika Sen enlisted in the Indian Army eight years ago. She holds a degree in biotechnology engineering and was pursuing a Master’s degree at IIT Bombay before joining the armed forces.

Sen assumed her role in MONUSCO in March 2023 as the engagement platoon commander with the Indian rapid deployment battalion, concluding her service in April 2024. She becomes the second Indian peacekeeper to be honored with this prestigious award, following in the footsteps of Major Suman Gawani, recognized with the United Nations military gender advocate of the year award in 2019 for her service with the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres commended Major Sen for her exemplary service, labeling her as a genuine leader and role model. Guterres stated, “Her service was a true credit to the United Nations as a whole.”

In response to the news, Major Sen expressed her gratitude, stating, “This award is special to me as it gives recognition to the hard work put in by all the peacekeepers working in the challenging environment of DRC and giving their best to bring a positive change in the society.”

“Gender-sensitive peacekeeping is everybody’s business – not just us, women. Peace begins with all of us in our beautiful diversity!” she added.

Established in 2016 by the office of military affairs within the department for peace operations (DPO) of the UN, the United Nations military gender advocate of the year award acknowledges the dedication and efforts of an individual military peacekeeper in promoting the principles of UN Security Council resolution 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security.

The recipient of the award is chosen from among nominees put forward by force commanders and heads of mission from all peace operations. India currently stands as the 11th largest contributor of women military peacekeepers to the United Nations.

Addressing the Demographic Shift: Solutions for Declining Birth Rates and Aging Populations in Developed Nations

Staff ReporterEconomy, Immigration 0

The first key point about the demographic challenges facing countries like the UK and US is to avoid calling it a “demographic timebomb.” Though birth rates are declining in both countries, demographers, the experts who study population changes, strongly dislike this term.

“Number one, I hate the phrase,” remarks Sarah Harper, a professor of gerontology at the University of Oxford.

“I do not think there is a demographic timebomb. It is part of the demographic transition. We knew this was going to happen and would occur throughout the 21st century. It is not unexpected, and we should have been preparing for this for some time.”

Nevertheless, the magnitude of the impending issue is considerable. To maintain or grow its population, a developed country requires a birth rate of 2.1 children per woman, known as the “replacement rate.” However, recent figures for England and Wales reveal that the total fertility rate fell to 1.49 children per woman in 2022, down from 1.55 in 2021, continuing a decline since 2010. Scotland and Northern Ireland show similar trends in their separately recorded data. In the US, the fertility rate dropped to a record low of 1.62 last year, a stark contrast to 1960 when it was 3.65.

“Two-thirds of the world’s countries now have childbirth rates below the replacement rate,” adds Prof Harper. “Japan is low, China is low, South Korea is the lowest in the world.”

Currently, population growth is mostly confined to sub-Saharan Africa. The concern over declining birth rates stems from the significant economic challenges they pose. As populations age and shrink, a smaller workforce must support a growing number of pensioners. This raises critical questions about economic growth and pension sustainability, causing government economists considerable anxiety.

To counter declining birth rates, countries could facilitate childbirth for women by offering more generous childcare provisions, such as tax breaks and extended, fully-paid maternity leave. Additionally, companies could be mandated to provide flexible working hours and workplace creches for new parents. However, while such measures may slow the decline, they rarely reverse it. Essentially, as women become more educated, work more, and improve their lives, many opt not to sacrifice their earnings and career prospects to motherhood, leading to fewer or no children.

Countries facing declining birth rates have two primary options: keeping their populations healthier and employed for longer or encouraging large-scale immigration. Singapore, one of the world’s fastest-aging countries, is choosing the former.

“There is a lot of effort being put into raising the retirement age, training in middle life, and encouraging companies – which have to offer you re-employment up to the age of 69 – to hire older workers,” says Prof Angelique Chan, executive director of Singapore’s Centre for Ageing Research & Education.

By re-employment, Prof Chan refers to elderly workers being able to continue working beyond the retirement age if they choose. Singapore’s retirement age is currently 63 but will increase to 64 by 2026 and to 65 by 2030. By then, the re-employment age is expected to rise to 70. The government is also intensifying efforts to ensure every citizen has a doctor to monitor their health, aiming to maintain a healthier workforce.

In the US, a growing number of elderly Americans continue to work to cover their living expenses. Ronald Lee, emeritus professor of economics at the University of California, points out that the proportion of consumption by 65-year-olds and older funded by continuing to work is significantly higher in the US than in other developed countries.

“I think it is fundamental for the whole world to get over the idea that older people are entitled to an indefinitely long period of leisure at the end of their life,” says Prof Lee. “People are healthier, vigorous, cognitively sharper, and ready to go on at much older ages than used to be the case. I hope to see retirement ages rising well into the 70’s.”

Currently, Americans receive full social security pensions at 66 years and two months, a threshold that will gradually rise to 67. While Prof Lee’s views may be unpopular, economically, it seems inevitable. As life expectancy increases, sustaining longer retirements becomes increasingly difficult, making longer working lives an apparent solution.

Another potential solution to this problem, as Prof Harper points out, is increased immigration. However, this is a contentious issue politically in both the UK and the US.

“Migration could easily solve the problem of lower birth rates from a demographic point of view,” she says. “There are political and policy issues, but demographically what we should be doing is allowing those countries with huge child-bearing rates, and with large numbers of workers for maybe the next four decades, to be able to flow across the world and make up the slack.”

Despite the evident pressures against large-scale immigration, even populist regimes often turn a blind eye when necessary. Elizabeth Kuiper, associate director of the European Policy Centre think tank, highlights Hungary as an example. While the Hungarian government claims to have a zero-tolerance stance on migrants, “we know that while these countries will not admit it publicly, in sectors like care and health care they have developed unspoken strategies for selective migration.”

However, the level of immigration in most developed countries is far from sufficient to offset the effects of an aging population, and yet it remains deeply unpopular. Demographic experts recognize that countries will need to make people work longer or increase immigration, likely both. Achieving this requires political consensus, but politicians understand that asking the public to support more immigration and extended working lives is not a winning strategy.

Thailand Unveils Ambitious Three-Phase Plan to Revitalize Tourism and Boost Economy with New Visa Policies

Staff ReporterEconomy, Travel 0

The Thai government has rolled out a comprehensive three-phase economic stimulus plan aimed at revitalizing tourism and attracting foreign visitors by easing visa regulations. This decision emerged from a Cabinet meeting held on May 28, responding to the nation’s ongoing economic stagnation, sluggish GDP growth, and rising public debt.

During the meeting, there was a unanimous agreement that Thailand must generate new income streams by fully accelerating tourism policies. These policies are viewed as the sole economic driver capable of delivering rapid returns. The plan is segmented into three distinct phases, spanning 2024-2025.

Short-Term Measures (2024)

The primary goal of the short-term measures is to generate at least 3 trillion baht (81.91 billion USD) in tourism revenue by the end of 2024. Key components include:

– Visa Exemptions: Extending visa exemptions to tourists, business visitors, and short-term workers from 93 countries, an increase from the current 57. This extension permits stays of up to 60 days.

– Visa on Arrival (VOA): Expanding the VOA facility to 31 countries, up from 19.

– Destination Thailand Visa (DTV): Introducing a new visa category for foreigners wishing to stay longer and work remotely in Thailand. The DTV is aimed at skilled foreign talent, digital nomads, freelancers, and individuals participating in activities such as learning Muay Thai, cooking, sports training, medical treatment, seminars, and arts and music events.

The DTV offers numerous benefits:

– Eligibility for skilled talent, digital nomads, and those engaged in various activities.

– Inclusion of spouses and legal children under 20.

– Requirement of proof of financial support or a guarantee of at least 500,000 baht.

– Allowing stays of up to 180 days, with a visa fee of 10,000 baht, and the option to extend for another 180 days with an additional fee of 10,000 baht.

Improved Benefits for Foreign Students

Foreign students pursuing higher education degrees with a Non-Immigrant Visa (ED) will find it easier to secure work and remain in Thailand post-graduation. They can extend their stay for a year after graduation for job hunting, traveling, or other activities, provided they obtain certification from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation.

Medium-Term Measures (September to December 2024)

– Restructuring Visa Categories: Reducing the number of Non-Immigrant visa categories from 17 to 7.

– Adjusting Long Stay Visa for Elderly: Revising criteria and conditions for elderly people wishing to retire in Thailand.

– Health Insurance Requirements: Lowering the health insurance requirement for Non-Immigrant visa (O-A) holders to pre-COVID-19 levels—40,000 baht for outpatients and 400,000 baht for inpatients.

– Expanding e-Visa Services: Doubling the number of Thai embassies, consulates, and trade offices offering e-Visa services from 47 to 94 by December 2024.

Long-Term Measures (Fully Implemented by June 2025)

– Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Developing an ETA system for foreign nationals eligible for visa exemption.

– Technological Integration: Utilizing technology and innovation to enhance the screening process for foreign nationals, integrating data with the Immigration Bureau.

Government spokesperson Chai Wacharong acknowledged that while these measures to facilitate tourism will lead to an estimated annual revenue loss of approximately 12.3 billion baht (335.7 million USD), the projected returns from increased tourism—estimated between 800 billion to 1 trillion baht (21.8 – 27.3 billion USD)—justified the Cabinet’s approval of the measures.

Summary of Measures

– Short-Term (2024): Immediate visa exemptions, expanded VOA, introduction of DTV, and benefits for foreign students.

– Medium-Term (September to December 2024): Restructuring visa categories, adjusting long stay visas for the elderly, reducing health insurance requirements, and expanding e-Visa services.

– Long-Term (June 2025): Developing ETA systems and enhancing immigration screening through technology.

The Thai government’s strategic focus on tourism as a key economic engine reflects a calculated approach to counteract the economic slowdown. By streamlining visa processes and introducing new visa categories, Thailand aims to attract a diverse range of visitors and long-term residents, thereby boosting the economy. The anticipated high returns from these tourism policies underscore the government’s commitment to revitalizing the nation’s economic landscape through targeted, phased measures.

Top Cryptocurrencies to Buy Now: Ethereum, Solana, and Shiba Inu Poised for Major Gains

Staff ReporterBusiness, Finance/Economy 0

The cryptocurrency market has a unique ability to filter out weak hands and reward those who hold their positions patiently. Investors who buy during market downturns are often seen as “smart money,” focusing on selecting cryptocurrencies with the potential for substantial returns, sometimes up to 100x. Currently, tokens such as Shiba Inu (SHIB), Solana (SOL), and Ethereum (ETH) fall into this category, though thorough research is crucial before investing in digital assets. This article explores some promising tokens poised to reach new highs as the bull market approaches.

The recent approval of spot Ethereum ETFs has rekindled buyer interest. Simultaneously, Bitcoin’s price has remained above $70,000 for the first time since it surged to $72,000 last week. Ethereum has positively responded to the market sentiment surrounding the ETF approval news.

With most cryptocurrencies showing gains, the total market value could soon hit $3 trillion. At the time of writing, the market cap is $2.77 trillion, according to CoinGecko data. As prices rise, the key question for investors is which cryptocurrencies to buy before the bull run. This article will explore some potential projects with the promise of at least a 50X return on investment. Investors should conduct their own research and due diligence before choosing which coins to add to their portfolios.

  1. Cryptocurrencies To Buy – Ethereum (ETH)

Currently, the price of ETH is $3,938, marking a 2.2% increase over the past 24 hours and a 25% increase over the past week. The asset continues to exhibit bullish tendencies amid the Ethereum ETF news hype.

Ethereum’s price outlook remains positive. The recent price surge was modest compared to what was anticipated. Unlike Bitcoin’s significant rally following its ETF approval, Ethereum might still have more room to grow.

Technical analysis indicates that in upward breakouts, the highest peak in the pattern (Point A) serves as the price target. Ethereum’s price has broken out of the falling wedge pattern but has not yet reached Point A. This implies that Ethereum could see another 4-6% increase before hitting this target.

Ethereum’s dominance in the market has also grown significantly after the recent price spike. With a 21% increase, ETH now holds over 18% dominance in the overall crypto market.

  1. Solana (SOL)

Over the last month, Solana’s price has surged more than 22%, driven by positive market sentiment. This momentum has been further fueled by a surge in Solana-based meme coins like WIF, BONK, BOME, and POPCAT, boosting investor enthusiasm.

In the past seven days, Solana has seen a slight 6.72% decrease after a period of relative stability. This minor dip reflects broader market fluctuations and growing investor uncertainty. However, the recent price recovery indicates that Solana’s value is resilient and shows potential for a rebound.

With the recent price recovery, Solana is displaying bullish momentum. If the bulls manage to push the price past the $170 resistance level, it could pave the way for further gains. Breaking this barrier might propel SOL towards the next key resistance at $190, and sustaining this upward trend could lead to an ambitious attempt to breach the $200 mark.

  1. Shiba Inu (SHIB)

Shiba Inu is currently leading in all three bull market indicators: the 200-day, 50-day, and 20-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs) (represented by the purple, red, and blue lines on the chart).

The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) indicator has moved into the positive region, reinforcing the bullish outlook. If the blue MACD line remains above the red signal line, the path of least resistance will continue upwards.

Overcoming the immediate resistance at $0.000026 could attract more buyers to SHIB, driven by FOMO (fear of missing out) as reflected in the crypto fear and greed index. This could potentially push the price above $0.00003, bringing the next target at $0.000035 within reach.

Bottom Line

Identifying which cryptocurrencies to buy in May is crucial for every investor. Investing in projects like Ethereum, Solana, and Shiba Inu could result in substantial returns. Should Bitcoin rise to $100,000 in 2024, some of these tokens could increase by 50x, significantly enhancing investors’ fortunes.

Thorough research and due diligence are essential when selecting cryptocurrencies. Ethereum, Solana, and Shiba Inu are currently strong contenders with significant growth potential. By carefully considering these options and staying informed on market trends, investors can make strategic decisions that align with their financial goals.

Historic Digitization Project Preserves 7,000 Indian Diaspora Documents in Oman

Staff ReporterCommunity, India 0

The Embassy of India in Muscat, in partnership with the National Archives of India (NAI), has undertaken an ambitious project to digitize over 7,000 historical documents belonging to Indian families who have lived in Oman for more than 250 years. This initiative, known as ‘The Oman Collection – Archival Heritage of the Indian Community in Oman,’ is the first of its kind by the NAI to archive documents from the Indian diaspora abroad.

The digitization project, conducted from May 19-27, 2024, involved contributions from 32 prominent Indian families originating from Gujarat. These families have been integral to Oman’s cultural and social fabric since the late 18th century. The process included meticulously scanning documents in various languages such as English, Arabic, Gujarati, and Hindi. Among the scanned materials, the oldest dates back to 1838, while most documents are from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The project also captured oral histories from the elder members of the Indian community in Oman.

The collection comprises a diverse range of documents, including personal diaries, account books, trade invoices, passports, letters, and photographs. Together, these records paint a detailed picture of the Indian community’s life in Oman, illustrating their cultural practices, social engagements, and contributions to the local society.

Arun Singhal, Director General of the National Archives of India, emphasized the importance of this groundbreaking project, stating, “This is the first time that we have collected and digitized the private archives of diaspora documents from abroad. This marks a historic milestone for the NAI and a significant step towards preserving the rich heritage and narratives of the diverse overseas Indian community.”

The initiative also aligns with broader diplomatic objectives, as noted by Amit Narang, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman. He remarked, “This project aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to strengthen connections with the Indian diaspora worldwide. By documenting and preserving the history of the Indian community in Oman, we are rekindling a vital part of our shared heritage and fostering a deeper engagement with our diaspora.”

Sheikh Anil Khimji, leader of the Indian community in Oman, expressed his appreciation for the project: “We thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar for their vision of engaging and connecting with the Indian diaspora. The archiving of the historical documents of the Indian diaspora by the Embassy of India will go a long way in preserving their history and showcasing the time-tested bonds of friendship between India and the Sultanate of Oman.”

The National Records and Archives Authority (NRAA) of Oman played a crucial role in supporting the project by providing necessary logistical assistance and ensuring its smooth execution. The digitized documents will be accessible on ‘Abhilekh Patal,’ the NAI’s digital portal, thus making this valuable historical resource available for research and public access.

This digitization project highlights the Indian community’s enduring legacy in Oman. By preserving these documents, the project not only safeguards the history of Indian families in Oman but also enhances understanding of their significant contributions to the region. The collection includes an array of personal and official documents that offer insights into the daily lives, commercial activities, and social interactions of the Indian diaspora.

The collaborative effort underscores the close ties between India and Oman. The project is a testament to the longstanding relationship between the two nations and their shared commitment to preserving and celebrating their intertwined histories. By making these documents publicly accessible, the initiative supports both academic research and general interest in the rich heritage of the Indian community in Oman.

The digitization of over 7,000 historical documents by the Embassy of India in Muscat and the NAI represents a pioneering effort to preserve the cultural heritage of the Indian diaspora in Oman. This project, the first of its kind by the NAI outside India, highlights the significant contributions of the Indian community to Oman’s history and culture. The support from the NRAA of Oman and the availability of these documents on the NAI’s digital portal ensure that this invaluable resource will be accessible for future generations. The initiative not only strengthens diplomatic ties but also deepens the engagement with the Indian diaspora, celebrating their legacy and fostering a greater understanding of their role in the region’s history.

Generational Nostalgia: Why Americans Fondly Remember Their Youth as the ‘Good Old Days’

Staff ReporterCulture, Opinion 0

YouGov, the survey experts renowned for their adeptness at tackling the intangible, recently polled 2,000 adults on which decade excelled in areas like music, movies, and the economy across 20 measures. Yet, no clear pattern emerged from the results.

Certain trends did stand out, however. White people and Republicans, for instance, were about twice as likely as Black people and Democrats to view the 1950s as the era of the most moral society, happiest families, and closest-knit communities. This disparity likely hinges on whether one recalls that decade for its idyllic “Leave it to Beaver” charm or for its darker moments like the Red Scare and the murder of Emmett Till.

“This was a time when Repubs were pretty much running the show and had reason to be happy,” noted nostalgia researcher Morris Holbrook via email. “Apparently, you could argue that nostalgia is colored by political preferences. Surprise, surprise.” Holbrook’s point underscores that political, racial, or gender divides are overshadowed by generational perspectives in these assessments.

When the data was re-evaluated by examining the gap between each person’s birth year and their ideal decade, a fascinating pattern emerged. This revealed that nostalgia isn’t tied to a specific era but rather to a particular age. The “good old days” are typically the decade when individuals were around 11 years old, an age of innocence and parental omniscience.

The data showed that our nostalgia peaks during specific life stages. For instance, the most tightly-knit communities are remembered from childhood (ages 4 to 7), while the happiest families, most moral societies, and most reliable news reporting are associated with early formative years (ages 8 to 11). The best economy, radio, television, and movies are linked to early teens (ages 12 to 15). As people reach their late teens (ages 16 to 19), nostalgia for music, fashion, and sporting events intensifies, consistent with findings from the University of South Australia’s Ehrenberg-Bass Institute which pinpoint music nostalgia at around age 17.

Interestingly, YouGov also asked about the worst music and economy. Consistently, respondents viewed “right now” as the worst time. Even when historical context suggests otherwise, such as the Great Depression, which had far worse unemployment rates than today’s pandemic-induced lows, the present era is often viewed as the most challenging.

This perception is particularly pronounced among Republicans, who were notably more negative about the current decade compared to Democrats. Joanne Hsu, director of the University of Michigan’s Surveys of Consumers, explained this partisan split. She observed that people whose party is in power generally have more favorable economic sentiments, a gap that has widened over time. During Trump’s presidency, Republicans’ optimism surged while Democrats’ expectations plummeted. This trend flipped with Biden’s inauguration but remains significant.

Hsu and her team explored where Americans get their economic information. They found that Republicans who follow partisan news outlets are more likely to view the economy negatively, although only a fifth of Republicans primarily rely on these sources. Despite this, both Democrats and independents also expressed dissatisfaction with the current decade, though to a lesser extent.

Carl Bialik from YouGov noted that when Americans were asked last year which decade they’d most prefer to live in, the most common answer was “now.” This suggests that while the current era is viewed negatively in specific terms, there is still a preference for contemporary life over past decades.

A deeper understanding emerged during a Zoom call with Australian researchers from the Ehrenberg-Bass Institute, who revisited music nostalgia. Their study asked respondents to rate songs from different decades, revealing a preference for music from their late teens without a corresponding spike in negative ratings for recent music.

Marketing researcher Bill Page pointed out that asking about the “worst” era often elicits a predisposition towards negative thinking rather than genuine opinions. His colleague Zac Anesbury added that surveys can unintentionally measure sentiments like “declinism,” the belief that things are perpetually getting worse. This phenomenon, rooted in rosy retrospection, means that we tend to remember the past more fondly than the present.

Psychological studies by Leigh Thompson and Terence Mitchell have shown that our satisfaction with experiences improves over time. For instance, a trip that seemed disappointing while underway might be remembered fondly once it’s over and the difficulties have faded.

In essence, describing the 2020s as the worst decade ever is akin to lamenting a trip during its roughest moments. Over time, as memories soften and the good moments stand out, the current decade may eventually be looked back on with nostalgia.

So, in a few decades, reflecting on the 2020s through the lens of cherished photos and fond memories, we might find ourselves recalling the good times rather than the challenges. Thus, the 2020s could well become the “good old days” of the future.

Final Phase of India’s General Election Begins Amid Intense Heatwave and Tight Security

Staff ReporterNation, Politics 0

The final phase of India’s general election commenced on June 1, 2024, amid severe heatwave conditions that pose additional challenges for voters and election officials alike. This critical stage of voting is pivotal for determining the country’s political future.

The election, one of the world’s largest democratic exercises, involves a complex and extensive process spanning multiple phases. On the final day, millions of Indians are heading to the polls in various regions, including major cities like Kolkata. Voter turnout, which has been a focal point throughout the election, is under scrutiny as authorities aim to ensure a smooth and efficient process despite the harsh weather conditions.

The election’s outcome is set to shape India’s political landscape significantly. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is seeking re-election, while opposition parties, including the Indian National Congress led by Rahul Gandhi, are striving to regain influence. The stakes are high, with key issues such as economic policy, national security, and social justice at the forefront of voters’ minds.

Security measures have been heightened across the country to ensure the safety and integrity of the election. Law enforcement agencies and security personnel are on high alert to prevent any disruptions or incidents of violence. Additionally, special provisions have been made to accommodate voters and polling staff affected by the extreme heatwave, with medical teams and cooling facilities deployed at polling stations.

The Election Commission of India has been working diligently to address logistical challenges and ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to cast their vote. Efforts include deploying additional voting machines, providing transportation for voters in remote areas, and implementing measures to expedite the voting process.

As the final phase of voting unfolds, political analysts and observers are closely monitoring developments. Exit polls and preliminary results will provide early indicators of the election’s outcome, though official results will take time to finalize. The election has garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally, with implications for India’s role on the global stage.

The concluding phase of India’s general election is underway, marked by intense heat and heightened security. The results will have far-reaching consequences for the nation’s political and social trajectory.

Trump Becomes First Ex-President Convicted of Felony, Yet Remains GOP Frontrunner Amid Polarizing Legal Battles

Staff ReporterNation, USA 0

Donald Trump has made history by becoming the first former U.S. President to be convicted of a felony. A New York state jury found him guilty on all 34 charges related to hush money payments made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels in 2016. The charges against Trump include falsifying business records, which involved a $130,000 reimbursement to his former lawyer Michael Cohen following the payment to Daniels after their alleged affair in 2006. More significantly, Trump was also convicted of election fraud for attempting to conceal this information from voters just before the 2016 election.

The judge has scheduled Trump’s sentencing for July 11, just before the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. During this convention, Republican leaders are expected to nominate Trump as their presidential candidate. Although falsifying business records can lead to a prison sentence of up to four years, it is likely that the judge may impose a fine or probation instead, considering Trump’s age (77), his lack of previous convictions, and the non-violent nature of the crimes.

Trump also faces three other criminal indictments related to federal and state charges of interfering in the 2020 election and mishandling classified documents. These cases carry more severe penalties but are currently mired in appeals and are unlikely to go to trial before the November 5 election.

The U.S. Constitution sets specific criteria for presidential candidates: they must be natural-born citizens, at least 35 years old, and U.S. residents for at least 14 years. Thus, Trump’s conviction in New York does not disqualify him from running for president. In fact, even if he is sentenced to prison, it is conceivable that he could govern from behind bars.

A significant concern is the polarizing effect of Trump’s legal issues on public discourse. Reports indicate that the guilty verdict is “… helping to unify the Republican Party’s disparate factions as GOP officials across the political spectrum rallied behind their embattled presumptive presidential nominee…” However, poll surveys in swing states earlier this year suggested that 53% of voters would not vote for Trump if he were convicted in any of his criminal cases. The upcoming November 2024 election might be the decisive moment for American voters to determine whether they consider Trump suitable to lead the nation.

Despite the gravity of his convictions, Trump’s political influence remains strong. His supporters view the legal battles as politically motivated attacks, and his base has rallied around him more fervently. This unity among Republicans could potentially consolidate Trump’s position as a frontrunner for the 2024 presidential election. The broader impact on the Republican Party and the general electorate, however, remains to be seen.

Trump’s legal troubles are emblematic of a larger cultural and political divide in the United States. His detractors argue that his actions undermine the rule of law and democratic norms. Conversely, his supporters see him as a victim of an unjust system, fighting against establishment forces. This dichotomy reflects the deep polarization within American society, where opinions about Trump’s guilt or innocence are often influenced by partisan loyalties rather than the legal facts of the cases.

The conviction also raises questions about the integrity of the U.S. electoral process and the standards to which presidential candidates are held. Historically, candidates have been scrutinized for their personal and professional conduct, but Trump’s case is unprecedented. The notion that a convicted felon could still run for, and potentially win, the presidency challenges traditional expectations and legal norms.

As the 2024 election approaches, both Trump’s legal team and his political campaign are likely to intensify their efforts. Legally, they will continue to appeal the convictions and seek to delay any proceedings that could hinder his campaign. Politically, Trump will likely use his legal battles to galvanize his base, portraying himself as a martyr fighting against a corrupt system.

The upcoming Republican National Convention will be a crucial moment for Trump and his supporters. It will test the party’s unity and its commitment to Trump as their candidate. Given the current political climate, the convention might also serve as a platform for Trump to address his convictions and rally his supporters.

For American voters, the decision in November 2024 will be pivotal. They will have to weigh the implications of electing a candidate with a criminal record against their political beliefs and the future direction they want for the country. This election could redefine the boundaries of political acceptability and the resilience of democratic institutions in the United States.

Donald Trump’s conviction marks a historic moment in U.S. politics. Despite his legal troubles, he remains a potent force in the political landscape, with strong support from his base and within the Republican Party. The 2024 presidential election will be a critical juncture for the nation, potentially setting new precedents for the intersection of law, politics, and public opinion.

Rishi Sunak Announces Surprise July Election Amidst Global Uncertainty and Domestic Challenges

Staff ReporterNation, Politics 0

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a surprise election for the United Kingdom to be held on July 4. Despite the Conservative Party not needing to call an election until January 2025, polling data since Sunak took office has consistently shown the party trailing by over 20%, a gap typically seen only in extremely unfavorable midterm periods. It appears that Sunak and his advisors decided to leverage the recent drop in the U.K.’s inflation rate to 2.3%, the lowest in three years, to gain political advantage. Additional factors likely influencing this decision include positive evaluations of Sunak’s handling of the post-COVID-19 economy and a legal victory that supports the government’s controversial immigration reform, which involves sending some asylum seekers to Rwanda for processing.

Despite widespread voter frustration after 14 uninterrupted years of Conservative governance, Sunak’s statement that this election comes at a time when the world is “more dangerous than it has been at any point since the end of the Cold War” holds considerable truth. The outcome of the prolonged Russian invasion of Ukraine could significantly impact Europe’s and the U.K.’s security landscape, raising critical issues regarding territorial sovereignty in the east and energy security, which in turn affect economic stability. Additionally, the ongoing turmoil in West Asia, marked by the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the potential for conflict with Iran, will undoubtedly influence regional stability and, by extension, impact the U.K.

Furthermore, even with the legal approval for the Rwanda immigration plan, the Sunak administration has struggled to manage small boat crossings effectively. Government data reveals that although there was a 33% decrease in such arrivals between 2022 and 2023, the number of boat crossings in 2024 has hit a record high. Between January 1 and May 21 of this year, over 9,800 people entered the U.K. via small boats. Sunak’s claim that the Labour Party is trying to make voters believe “this election is over before it’s even begun” might not be entirely unfounded, yet it prompts an examination of the sources of the opposition’s confidence.

The unexpected election announcement by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has set the stage for the United Kingdom to vote on July 4. Although the Conservative Party was not mandated to call for an election until January 2025, polls have indicated a significant lead for the opposition since Sunak assumed office. These polls suggest a loss for the Conservative Party by over 20%, a deficit seen only in particularly adverse midterm scenarios. Sunak’s decision appears to be driven by the recent decrease in the U.K.’s inflation rate to 2.3%, the lowest in at least three years. This economic milestone, along with favorable reviews of his administration’s economic management post-COVID-19 and a legal victory on immigration reform, may have prompted the early election call.

However, polls reflect a general dissatisfaction after 14 years of Conservative rule. Sunak’s comment that the election comes at a time when the global situation is “more dangerous than it has been at any point since the end of the Cold War” is significant. The resolution of the Russian invasion of Ukraine could alter the security dynamics in Europe and the U.K., raising concerns about territorial integrity and energy security, which have broader implications for economic stability. Similarly, the ongoing crises in West Asia, including the humanitarian disaster in Gaza and the potential conflict with Iran, will have repercussions that extend to the U.K.

Despite the legal clearance for the Rwanda immigration plan, the Sunak government has struggled to curb small boat crossings effectively. Official statistics show a 33% drop in such crossings from 2022 to 2023, but the number of crossings in 2024 has surged to a record high. From January 1 to May 21, more than 9,800 people entered the U.K. via small boats. In light of this, Sunak’s assertion that the Labour Party wants voters to believe “this election is over before it’s even begun” might hold some truth. Nevertheless, it raises questions about the sources of the opposition’s apparent confidence.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s surprise election announcement has set a July 4 date for the United Kingdom to go to the polls. Despite the Conservative Party having until January 2025 to call an election, polling data since Sunak took office has shown the party trailing by over 20%, a gap usually seen only in particularly unfavorable midterm periods. Sunak and his advisors likely seized on the recent drop in the U.K.’s inflation rate to 2.3%, the lowest in three years, to gain political capital. Other contributing factors may include positive reviews of Sunak’s economic management post-COVID-19 and a legal victory allowing the government to implement its controversial immigration reform, which involves sending some asylum seekers to Rwanda for processing.

Despite widespread voter frustration after 14 uninterrupted years of Conservative rule, Sunak’s statement that the election comes at a time when the world is “more dangerous than it has been at any point since the end of the Cold War” holds considerable merit. The outcome of the long-running Russian invasion of Ukraine could significantly impact Europe’s and the U.K.’s security landscape, raising critical issues regarding territorial sovereignty in the east and energy security, which in turn affect economic stability. Additionally, the ongoing turmoil in West Asia, marked by the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and potential conflict with Iran, will undoubtedly influence regional stability and, by extension, impact the U.K.

Furthermore, even with the legal approval for the Rwanda immigration plan, the Sunak administration has struggled to manage small boat crossings effectively. Government data reveals that although there was a 33% decrease in such arrivals between 2022 and 2023, the number of boat crossings in 2024 has hit a record high. Between January 1 and May 21 of this year, over 9,800 people entered the U.K. via small boats. Sunak’s claim that the Labour Party is trying to make voters believe “this election is over before it’s even begun” might not be entirely unfounded, yet it prompts an examination of the sources of the opposition’s confidence.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s announcement of a surprise election on July 4 has created a new political dynamic in the United Kingdom. Despite the Conservative Party not needing to call an election until January 2025, polling data since Sunak took office has consistently shown the party trailing by over 20%, a gap typically seen only in extremely unfavorable midterm periods. Sunak’s decision appears to be driven by the recent decrease in the U.K.’s inflation rate to 2.3%, the lowest in at least three years. This economic milestone, along with favorable reviews of his administration’s economic management post-COVID-19 and a legal victory on immigration reform, may have prompted the early election call.

However, polls reflect a general dissatisfaction after 14 years of Conservative rule. Sunak’s comment that the election comes at a time when the global situation is “more dangerous than it has been at any point since the end of the Cold War” is significant. The resolution of the Russian invasion of Ukraine could alter the security dynamics in Europe and the U.K., raising concerns about territorial integrity and energy security, which have broader implications for economic stability. Similarly, the ongoing crises in West Asia, including the humanitarian disaster in Gaza and potential conflict with Iran, will have repercussions that extend to the U.K.

Despite the legal clearance for the Rwanda immigration plan, the Sunak government has struggled to curb small boat crossings effectively. Official statistics show a 33% drop in such crossings from 2022 to 2023, but the number of crossings in 2024 has surged to a record high. From January 1 to May 21, more than 9,800 people entered the U.K. via small boats. In light of this, Sunak’s assertion that the Labour Party wants voters to believe “this election is over before it’s even begun” might hold some truth. Nevertheless, it raises questions about the sources of the opposition’s apparent confidence.

Biden Unveils Israeli-Led Peace Plan: Roadmap to Ceasefire and Hostage Release

Staff ReporterDiplomacy, Global 0

President Biden has unveiled a pivotal Israeli-led initiative aimed at ending the ongoing conflict and securing the release of all remaining hostages held since October 7. The proposal outlines a three-stage roadmap, marking a significant step towards potential resolution between Israel and Hamas.

In a press briefing, President Biden emphasized the extensive diplomatic efforts undertaken by his team, including numerous discussions with leaders from Israel, Qatar, Egypt, and other regional stakeholders. He described Israel’s comprehensive proposal as a pathway to a sustainable ceasefire and the liberation of all captives. Although the proposal has been relayed to Hamas through Qatar, formal acceptance from the Gaza-based organization is pending.

“This is truly a decisive moment,” remarked President Biden, urging Hamas to seize the opportunity for peace by endorsing the deal. He also called upon the Israeli populace to support the initiative, highlighting the significant blows dealt to Hamas during the conflict, rendering a recurrence of October 7 unlikely.

Acknowledging potential dissent within Israel, particularly from factions advocating for prolonged military engagement, President Biden cautioned against perpetuating the war indefinitely. He stressed the imperative of prioritizing the release of hostages and embracing the proposed ceasefire as a means to avert further bloodshed.

Senior administration officials elaborated on the proposal’s phased approach, spanning approximately six weeks for each stage. Phase one entails a ceasefire period coupled with humanitarian efforts to alleviate the plight of Gazans, including infrastructure rehabilitation and provision of essential services.

The subsequent phase focuses on the release of remaining hostages and the permanent cessation of hostilities, accompanied by the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza’s populated areas. Negotiations will be pivotal in navigating the transition to this stage, with provisions in place to extend the ceasefire if required.

Phase three envisions a comprehensive reconstruction program spanning three to five years, supported by the U.S. and the international community. This initiative aims to address the long-term stabilization and rehabilitation of Gaza.

The proposal’s announcement follows previous ceasefire negotiations that ended without a resolution. Concurrently, Israeli military operations persist in certain areas, prompting concerns about civilian casualties and the escalation of violence.

President Biden emphasized his enduring commitment to Israel and underscored the urgency of seizing the current opportunity for peace. He reiterated his longstanding advocacy for a two-state solution and expressed optimism that the proposed roadmap could pave the way for such a resolution in the future.

Unlocking the Secrets to Mental Sharpness: Eight Daily Habits for Healthy Aging

Staff ReporterHealth, Lifestyle 0

Maintaining Cognitive Sharpness: A Guide to Healthy Aging

Maintaining mental acuity as we age isn’t solely reliant on chance. It’s a consequence of our daily routines and lifestyle decisions.

Many marvel at the mental agility of individuals well into their 70s, 80s, and beyond. Yet, it’s no enigma – they adhere to daily practices that foster sharpness.

I’ve observed and aggregated the prevailing habits of such individuals. Surprisingly, it’s never too late to integrate these into your own life.

In this piece, I’ll outline eight daily habits typically embraced by those who retain mental agility well into their senior years. They’re more straightforward than you might imagine.

1) Physical Activity

One of the most prevalent habits among those who sustain mental acuity into their later years? Regular physical activity.

Exercise doesn’t just sustain physical fitness; it profoundly impacts brain health too.

Engaging in physical activities enhances blood circulation to the brain, bolstering cognitive functions. Moreover, it releases neurotransmitters that uplift mood and induce relaxation.

From strolls to yoga, swimming to gardening – the nature of the activity is inconsequential. Consistency is key.

To maintain sharpness as you age, incorporate regular physical activity into your daily regimen. Commence modestly, but commence promptly. It’s never too late to adopt a new habit for your well-being.

2) Continuous Learning

Another habit prevalent among those who maintain mental sharpness is a commitment to lifelong learning.

For instance, my octogenarian aunt, remarkably astute for her age, has always been an avid reader. She commences each day by perusing the newspaper from cover to cover.

Yet, it doesn’t cease there. She actively partakes in book clubs, attends lectures, and even enrolled in an online course last year, delving into ancient history – a topic she’s perennially been captivated by.

What her example underscores is that perpetually learning and stimulating one’s mind isn’t merely beneficial for brain health; it imbues life with interest and excitement.

3) Nutritious Diet

Our dietary choices wield considerable influence over our mental sharpness as we age. Certain foods are known to fortify brain health.

The Mediterranean diet, abundant in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, and lean protein, is often correlated with reduced risks of cognitive decline.

It’s not about adhering to stringent dietary regimes, but consistently opting for healthier choices. Incorporating brain-boosting foods like blueberries, broccoli, pumpkin seeds, and dark chocolate into our meals can yield significant benefits.

Remember, what you consume doesn’t solely impact your waistline; it profoundly affects your brain health. Make the conscientious decision to nourish your body and mind with wholesome food.

4) Social Engagement

Maintaining social connections is another habit of those who preserve mental sharpness in later years. Human beings thrive on interpersonal interactions.

Whether it involves catching up with friends over coffee, engaging in group activities, or simply conversing with neighbors, regular social interaction invigorates our brains and keeps us mentally stimulated.

Conversely, isolation can exert deleterious effects on both mental and physical well-being. So, keep your social calendar abuzz – it’s beneficial for your brain.

5) Quality Sleep

Obtaining adequate sleep isn’t solely about awakening refreshed; it plays a pivotal role in cognitive health.

During sleep, the brain consolidates memories and eliminates waste products, essentially recharging and resetting.

Individuals who sustain mental sharpness into their later years often prioritize quality sleep as part of their daily routine.

Thus, ensure you’re receiving sufficient sleep each night. Your brain will express gratitude.

6) Mindfulness and Meditation

In today’s frenetic pace, it’s easy to succumb to hustle and bustle, neglecting moments of introspection.

Yet, those who retain mental sharpness as they age often engage in mindfulness or meditation. These practices alleviate stress, enhance concentration, and foster tranquility and well-being.

By grounding ourselves in the present moment, we allow our minds to rejuvenate, fortify, and develop resilience against life’s stressors.

Therefore, allocate a few moments daily to breathe deeply, introspect, and be present. It’s a gift bestowed not only upon oneself but also upon those in one’s orbit.

7) Cognitive Stimulation

Just as physical exercise is vital for maintaining bodily health, cognitive exercises are imperative for brain health.

I recall my grandfather’s daily ritual of solving crosswords. Every evening, he would ensconce himself in his favorite armchair, pencil in hand, deeply engrossed in the puzzle. Even as his eyesight waned, he persisted, switching to larger prints but never relinquishing his beloved crosswords.

Cognitive exercises such as puzzles, board games, or learning a new language challenge our brains, preserving mental agility and staving off cognitive decline.

Embrace the practice of challenging your brain daily. Your future self will be appreciative.

8) Optimistic Outlook

Arguably the most crucial habit is maintaining a positive attitude. Those who retain mental sharpness in their golden years often harbor an optimistic perspective on life.

A positive outlook enhances resilience in confronting stressful situations, mitigates the risk of physical health ailments, and contributes to longevity. It’s a potent tool that shapes our reality and influences mental well-being.

Therefore, endeavor to nurture a positive mindset, even amidst adversity. It transcends mere sentiment; it’s indispensable for cognitive health.

Battle of Butter Chicken: Legal Feud Engulfs Iconic Indian Dish

Staff ReporterCulture, Food 0

**Butter Chicken: The Epic Legal Battle**

A dish adored worldwide, butter chicken finds itself entangled in a legal dispute between two of India’s oldest eateries.

On a scorching day in Delhi, Gulati, nestled near the picturesque Agrasen ki Baoli stepwell, was inundated with patrons craving its famed butter chicken.

As the restaurant bustled with activity, diners from all walks of life indulged in this culinary masterpiece, including a trio of chefs in their whites, office-goers, and even curious German tourists.

Ironically, this beloved delicacy, often savored at festive occasions, is now the focal point of a legal clash between two venerable Indian restaurants.

The origins of butter chicken trace back to a pre-partition era, where Mokha Singh, proprietor of Moti Mahal in Peshawar, concocted the dish. Following partition, Singh, along with Kundan Lal Gujral, Kundan Lal Jaggi, and Thakur Das Mago, migrated to Delhi, where they introduced their rendition of butter chicken at a restaurant in Daryaganj.

This culinary innovation quickly gained popularity, gracing the tables of dignitaries and becoming a staple at state banquets. However, financial strains led to the sale of Moti Mahal after Gujral’s demise. Nevertheless, his descendants established Moti Mahal Delux, asserting their grandfather’s sole proprietorship of the recipe.

In a surprising turn, Jaggi’s grandson launched Daryaganj in 2019, claiming lineage to the original inventors of butter chicken. This move sparked a legal feud, with Moti Mahal Delux and Gujral’s grandson, Monish, contesting Daryaganj’s appropriation of the dish’s invention.

Amidst the legal tussle, Amit Bagga, CEO of Daryaganj, defends their right to the tagline, citing a trademark certificate obtained in 2018 and asserting shared ownership of the restaurant where butter chicken was conceived.

The exact origins of butter chicken remain shrouded in ambiguity, with Bagga suggesting it likely stemmed from a collaborative effort. Bagga recounts Jaggi’s account of its accidental creation, attributing it to their innovative use of leftover tandoori chicken and a blend of fresh tomatoes, butter, and spices.

The evolution of butter chicken has been remarkable, transcending its humble beginnings to inspire inventive variations like the Butter Chicken Cocktail and butter chicken pizzas.

As the legal battle unfolds, opinions vary on the ownership and historical significance of the dish. Dr. Neha Vermani from the University of Sheffield questions the notion of individual ownership, emphasizing the collective effort and historical context that shape culinary traditions.

Despite the controversy, Bagga remains optimistic, viewing the publicity as a boon for business. He acknowledges the surge in sales and asserts that the quality of their butter chicken speaks louder than any legal claim.

In the realm of food, where flavors blend and traditions evolve, the saga of butter chicken serves as a reminder of the intricate tapestry of culinary heritage.

Forecast Model Favors Trump and GOP in White House and Congressional Races, but Democrats Remain Hopeful

Staff ReporterUSA, Nation 0

According to a recent forecast model released by Decision Desk HQ and The Hill, the former President Trump and the GOP are currently in favorable positions for the upcoming elections, with Trump having a 58 percent chance of winning the presidency. The model also suggests that Republicans have an 80 percent chance of securing the Senate majority and a 64 percent chance of retaining their House majority. This forecast is based on approximately 200 different data points, including voter registration numbers, demographics, past election results, fundraising totals, and polling averages.

Scott Tranter, the director of data science for Decision Desk HQ, stressed that these projections are subject to change before Election Day, likening them to a practice test. He emphasized that the current data represents a snapshot in time and may not accurately reflect the final outcome.

Despite these projections, there is growing anxiety within the Democratic Party, fueled by consistent polling showing President Biden trailing Trump in swing states. Additionally, issues such as the conflict in Gaza have further complicated matters for Democrats, particularly with young and minority voters, key constituents from the 2020 election.

Moreover, dissatisfaction with the economy and Biden’s handling of economic issues is evident in polls, contributing to the challenges faced by Democrats. Despite facing legal issues, Trump maintains a lead over Biden in both national and swing state polls.

In the Senate race, Democrats face a tough battle due to the unfavorable electoral map, particularly in states like Montana and Ohio where Trump holds a significant advantage. Without victories in these states, Democrats risk losing the Senate majority. Similarly, Democrats are considered underdogs in the race to regain the House majority, according to Decision Desk HQ/The Hill’s forecast.

Decision Desk HQ utilizes an ensemble approach, combining various algorithms to analyze data and generate probabilities for each candidate’s success in different states. Trump currently leads Biden in polling averages in key battleground states, although states like Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania remain closely contested.

Despite concerns over Biden’s low approval ratings, some Democrats remain optimistic, citing his experience and advising against premature panic. The unpredictable nature of politics, particularly with regard to Trumpism, suggests that the political landscape could change before November.

Republicans express confidence in their prospects, noting a trend favoring Trump and downplaying the impact of his legal battles. However, they acknowledge that unforeseen factors could alter the course of the election.

Interestingly, many Democratic down-ballot candidates are outperforming Biden in polling, indicating potential ticket splitting among voters. This trend suggests that the electorate in certain states may be open to voting for candidates from different parties.

Overall, while Republicans may feel encouraged by the current forecast, Tranter cautions against complacency, highlighting the potential for shifts in polling that could significantly impact the election outcome.

Time Magazine Honors Tata Group and Serum Institute of India in Top 100 Most Influential Companies of 2024

Staff ReporterBusiness, Health 0

Tata Group and the Serum Institute of India (SII), led by Adar Poonawalla, have been named among the top 100 ‘World’s Most Influential Companies of 2024’ by Time magazine.

Tata Group was featured in the ‘Titans’ category, while Pune-based SII was listed under the ‘Pioneers’ section.

Time magazine’s description of Tata Group reads: “Founded in 1868, the Tata Group long ago cemented its place in India’s economy, its vast portfolio extending from steel, software, watches, subsea cables, and chemicals, to salt, grains, air-conditioners, fashion, and hotels.”

Despite its extensive reach, Tata has faced significant challenges from competitors aggressively pursuing new business opportunities. In 2017, after over a century of family-led management, N. Chandrasekaran, a “high-tech pivot,” was appointed as Chairman of Tata Group. His lack of family ties to the company was particularly notable in a business landscape dominated by family succession.

As Chairman, Chandrasekaran has spearheaded a transformation within the group by focusing on tech manufacturing, AI, and semiconductor chips. The magazine highlighted, “In 2023, it became the first Indian company to assemble iPhones, and is building another plant. In September, Tata announced a partnership with Nvidia to develop an AI cloud in India.”

Tata’s market influence is substantial. In February, the combined market capitalisation of Tata’s companies reached $365 billion, “more than the entire economy of India’s neighbour and rival, Pakistan.”

Serum Institute of India, the world’s largest vaccine producer, manufactures 3.5 billion doses annually, including vaccines for measles, polio, and HPV. CEO Adar Poonawalla credits the company’s success to its private ownership. “We’ve always looked at growth not in terms of pricing, but in providing access,” he told Time magazine.

SII has been instrumental in providing 90% of the vaccines for India and has expanded its reach to export vaccines globally. However, the company faced significant challenges with its Covid-19 vaccine production. At the end of 2021, SII ceased manufacturing Covid-19 vaccines and in 2022, destroyed approximately 210 million doses that were in stockpile.

This recognition by Time magazine underscores the influential roles both Tata Group and SII play in the global economy and their respective industries. Tata Group, with its extensive and diverse portfolio, continues to shape India’s economic landscape, while SII’s commitment to vaccine accessibility and its impact on global health are commendable.

Tata Group, established in 1868, has long been a cornerstone of India’s economy, encompassing a wide array of industries including steel, software, watches, subsea cables, chemicals, salt, grains, air-conditioners, fashion, and hotels. Despite its vast portfolio, the group has had to navigate intense competition as rivals aggressively pursued new business ventures.

In a significant shift in 2017, N. Chandrasekaran, described as a “high-tech pivot,” assumed the role of Chairman of Tata Group. His appointment was particularly notable as it marked a departure from the company’s century-old tradition of family-led management, an uncommon move in India’s business sector which is largely governed by family succession.

Under Chandrasekaran’s leadership, Tata Group has undergone a significant transformation with strategic investments in tech manufacturing, AI, and semiconductor chips. The company achieved a milestone in 2023 by becoming the first Indian firm to assemble iPhones, with plans for building another plant underway. Additionally, in September, Tata announced a collaboration with Nvidia to develop an AI cloud in India.

The group’s financial stature is remarkable. In February, Tata’s combined market capitalisation hit $365 billion, surpassing the entire economy of Pakistan, a neighboring and rival country.

On the other hand, the Serum Institute of India stands as the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer, producing 3.5 billion doses annually for diseases such as measles, polio, and HPV. CEO Adar Poonawalla attributes the company’s success to its private ownership model. He remarked to Time magazine, “We’ve always looked at growth not in terms of pricing, but in providing access.”

The institute has played a crucial role in India’s healthcare by supplying 90% of the country’s vaccines and has extended its efforts to export vaccines globally. However, SII faced hurdles with its Covid-19 vaccine production. By the end of 2021, the institute had stopped manufacturing Covid-19 vaccines and in 2022, had to destroy around 210 million doses that were in stockpile.

The inclusion of Tata Group and SII in Time magazine’s list of the top 100 ‘World’s Most Influential Companies of 2024’ highlights their significant impact on the global economy and their respective sectors. Tata Group’s expansive and diverse operations continue to shape India’s economic framework, while SII’s dedication to vaccine accessibility has made substantial contributions to global health.

Tata Group’s establishment in 1868 has solidified its integral role in India’s economy, with a broad spectrum of businesses spanning from steel and software to watches, subsea cables, chemicals, salt, grains, air-conditioners, fashion, and hotels. However, it has faced significant competition from rivals eager to capture new market opportunities.

In a pivotal moment in 2017, N. Chandrasekaran, known for his expertise in technology, took the helm as Chairman of Tata Group. His appointment was a break from the norm, as he had no familial ties to the company, which is uncommon in an industry dominated by family-led businesses.

Chandrasekaran’s leadership has been transformative for Tata, emphasizing investments in technology, AI, and semiconductor chip manufacturing. In 2023, Tata Group made history as the first Indian company to assemble iPhones and is currently developing another manufacturing plant. Furthermore, in September, Tata formed a partnership with Nvidia to create an AI cloud in India.

Tata’s market influence is profound, with its combined market capitalisation reaching $365 billion in February, a figure that eclipses the entire economy of Pakistan, India’s rival neighbor.

Simultaneously, the Serum Institute of India, the leading vaccine producer worldwide, manufactures 3.5 billion doses annually for various diseases including measles, polio, and HPV. CEO Adar Poonawalla attributes the company’s success to its private ownership, telling Time magazine, “We’ve always looked at growth not in terms of pricing, but in providing access.”

SII has been pivotal in supplying 90% of India’s vaccines and has extended its reach by exporting vaccines internationally. Nonetheless, the institute faced significant challenges with its Covid-19 vaccine production. By the end of 2021, SII had ceased Covid-19 vaccine manufacturing and in 2022, had to destroy approximately 210 million doses that were stockpiled.

The recognition of Tata Group and SII in Time magazine’s top 100 ‘World’s Most Influential Companies of 2024’ emphasizes their substantial contributions to the global economy and their respective industries. Tata Group continues to influence India’s economic landscape with its diverse business portfolio, while SII’s commitment to vaccine accessibility has had a notable impact on global health.

Heightened Security Measures in New York for India-Pakistan T20 World Cup Match Amid ISIS Threat

Staff ReporterSports, USA 0

The Islamic State terrorist organization has issued a menacing threat against the T20 World Cup match between India and Pakistan, scheduled to be held in New York next month. In response, New York officials have announced heightened security measures.

Governor Kathy Hochul stated that she has “directed the New York State Police to engage in elevated security measures, including an increased law enforcement presence, advanced surveillance, and thorough screening processes.”

Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County’s head, where the match will take place, said, “We make sure that we are on top of every situation that could potentially arise. Now to that end, we have taken many many precautions.” He emphasized, “We take every threat seriously. There are the same procedures for every threat. We don’t minimise threats. We track down all of our leads.”

The Islamic State, commonly known as IS, posted an image of the cricket stadium at Eisenhower Park in Nassau County with drones flying over it, showing the date “9/06/2024,” the scheduled date of the India-Pakistan match. This post was made on a British chat site and a screenshot of it was broadcast by NBC New York TV. The channel reported that county leaders have requested the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to designate Eisenhower Park a no-fly zone for drones.

Despite this post, New York officials have downplayed it as not a “credible threat,” while still emphasizing that they are closely monitoring the situation and enhancing security measures to be prepared for any eventuality. Governor Hochul said, “While there is no credible public safety threat at this time, we continue to monitor the situation closely.”

She added, “My Administration has been working for months with federal law enforcement and Nassau County to ensure New Yorkers and visitors are safe.” Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder echoed this sentiment, stating that although “to date, there are no credible threats,” his department “continues to monitor the situation and we are proactively deploying resources to maintain safety as you continue your day-to-day activities.”

Even without an organized attack by ISIS, there remains the concern of lone wolf attacks, where individual members or sympathizers may act independently.

The World Cup Cricket stadium, with a capacity of 30,000, was specially constructed for the tournament. It will host matches along with an arena in Dallas. The tournament will begin on June 1 with an exhibition match between India and Bangladesh, followed by regular matches starting on June 3, featuring India against Sri Lanka, and running until June 12, concluding with an India vs US match.

NBC New York reported that the security preparations for the World Cup event are the largest ever undertaken by Nassau County, treating the event with the same importance as presidential debates. Part of these precautions involves local hospitals being prepared in case of emergencies.

The British newspaper Express first reported the threat, which also extended to sporting events in Europe. The Express stated that ISIS “followers are encouraged to target major events” including the Cricket World Cup. The newspaper detailed discussions in the chat group about using drones laden with explosives to attack civilians at major sporting events across Europe.

The Express also reported that chat room members, who shared threats against the stadium, listed their terror skills, such as firing AK47 rifles, and discussed sums of money in pound Sterling, suggesting that some of these members might be based in Britain.

India’s Christian Community Faces Crucial Crossroads Amidst 2024 Elections: Persecution, Representation, and Political Stakes

Staff ReporterIndia, Religion 0

As India prepares for the largest national elections ever conducted globally, the Christian community, though a minority, faces unique challenges highlighting the importance of their political representation.

The issues range from religious persecution to anti-conversion laws, with recent unrest in the Christian-majority state of Manipur underscoring the urgent need for Christian voices to be heard.

Comprising about 2.3 percent of India’s population, the Christian community is a significant part of this pluralistic society. However, this community often navigates a complex landscape of religious freedom and cultural integration. Despite constitutional protections, incidents of persecution persist, making political empowerment essential for safeguarding their rights.

A recent report by the United Christian Forum (UCF), a civil society organization based in Delhi dedicated to Christian concerns, revealed a significant decline in the fundamental rights and protections of Indian Christians in the first three months of this year.

The 2024 Indian election, which began on April 19 and concludes on June 1, has been a lengthy process.

The UCF reported 70 violent incidents against Christians in January, 62 in February, and 29 in the first half of March, totaling 161 incidents over two and a half months. These incidents included violence, assaults on churches or prayer meetings, harassment of individuals practicing their faith, social ostracism, restricted access to communal resources, and unfounded accusations, notably concerning “forced conversions.”

A.C. Michael, a former member of the Delhi state minority commission, told Religion Unplugged that he wants the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to lose the upcoming elections.

“The Christian community is in deep prayers these days,” he said. “They want this government to go. There is a fear among the Christian community that if this government comes to power the attacks on Christians will increase.”

He added that under BJP rule, Christians have faced both physical and legal violence, referring to the anti-conversion laws existing in 12 Indian states.

Persecution and representation

One of the most pressing issues for the Christian community in India is the prevalence of anti-conversion laws enacted by various states. These laws, justified as measures to prevent coerced conversions, have been criticized for their potential misuse against minorities. They create an atmosphere of suspicion and hostility, deterring individuals from freely choosing or changing their faith.

Christians and other minorities see these laws as impediments to their religious autonomy, emphasizing the need for sensitive and secular governance that Lok Sabha representatives can influence. Historically, the BJP has provided minimal representation to Christians. In the previous Lok Sabha, John Barla from Bengal was the only Christian BJP member of Parliament, serving as a deputy minister for minority affairs. During the last Parliament’s five-year term under Modi’s leadership, there were no Christian or Muslim cabinet ministers.

Modi and his party have been making efforts to establish a presence in Kerala, a state traditionally oscillating between the Marxist alliance and Congress-led governments. Currently, the Marxists govern the state, while Congress controls 19 out of 20 parliamentary seats.

The BJP has attempted to deepen divisions between Central Kerala’s Christian communities and the Muslims in the neighboring northern regions. In a bid to expand its reach in Kerala, the BJP succeeded in winning over Anil Antony, son of the renowned Congress leader and former defense minister A.K. Antony.

Christians running for office

This development represents a significant setback for Congress, a party deeply entrenched in the state and representative of diverse groups ranging from fishermen and boatmen to affluent stakeholders in the spices, tea, coffee, and rubber industries and business segments held by Christians. With a scant industrial presence, Kerala lacks a substantial corporate and industrial elite.

Despite these efforts, the BJP has not nominated additional Christian candidates in Kerala. The Congress-led United Democratic Front has five Christians in the race: Dean Kuriakose, Hibi Eaden, Benny Behanan, Anto Antony, and Francis George.

The Left Democratic Front (LDF) has nominated P.C. George. In Goa, Viriato Fernandes is contesting for a seat, and while the number of Christians running for the DMK in Tamil Nadu remains unclear, the state typically sends at least two Christians to Parliament.

Meanwhile, the count of Christian candidates in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana is complicated by several Dalit candidates possibly registering as Hindus. The Congress has nominated at least one known and one Dalit candidate from Telangana.

The northeast, often perceived as predominantly Christian, presents a stark contrast. Arunachal Pradesh features a Christian candidate from the Congress, and Assam has just one, RoslinaTirky. Jones IngtyKathar, a former bureaucrat, has support from the Autonomous Hills People Party. Except for Orissa and Jharkhand, which may collectively have about four Christian candidates representing Congress and its allies in Jharkhand and the Biju Janata Dal in Orissa, other states are unlikely to see Christian candidates from major parties.

Additionally, several individuals are running as independents or with support from lesser-known parties, such as Anson Thomas of the PPI Secular, a former official and activist, and Samuel Soni, a candidate in Punjab supported by a group of independent churches.

As India moves closer to another election, the Christian community, like many other minorities, stands at a crossroads. The choice of representatives could very well determine the course of their rights, security, and place within the Indian tapestry for the next several years.

USCIRF Report Identifies Top 17 Nations with Worst Religious Persecution: Afghanistan, China, India Among Key Offenders

Staff ReporterGlobal, Religion 0

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) published its latest report on Wednesday, spotlighting the countries with the most severe religious persecution globally.

This annual report serves as a guide for the State Department to advocate for religious freedom, often leading to sanctions against countries that violate these rights, with the aim of pressuring them to enhance their religious tolerance.

The report identifies Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Burma, China, Cuba, Eritrea, India, Iran, Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Vietnam as the worst offenders this year. USCIRF recommends that these nations be labeled as “countries of particular concern” (CPCs), a designation considered the U.S.’s “most powerful tool” for promoting religious freedom.

Afghanistan

Under Taliban rule, religious freedom in Afghanistan has deteriorated significantly. The report indicates that the Taliban enforces a strict apostasy law prohibiting conversions from Islam and has imposed numerous restrictions on women’s dress, movement, education, and employment. Despite these concerns, Afghanistan is not currently a CPC, although the Taliban is classified as an “entity of particular concern” (EPC).

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan, a predominantly Muslim country, appears on USCIRF’s CPC list for the first time this year due to increasing violations of religious rights affecting both Azerbaijani Muslims and ethnic minorities, particularly Armenian Christians. The report states that Azerbaijani citizens are “routinely” harassed, fined, and imprisoned for their religious activities. In 2023, 183 “peaceful believers” were unjustly imprisoned. Following Azerbaijan’s violent takeover of Nagorno-Karabakh and the resulting mass exodus of Armenian Christians, several historic Christian sites were damaged. Concerns also remain about further threats to ancient religious sites, and Armenian Apostolic priests were evicted from the Dadivank Monastery.

China

China remains a regular feature on USCIRF’s CPC list due to its continued “sinicization” program, which enforces the Chinese Communist Party’s ideology on all citizens and religions. The Chinese government strictly controls all religious activities and punishes unauthorized religious practices severely. In 2023, Chinese authorities “forcibly disappeared” and convicted underground Catholic priests, including two bishops. The government continues its persecution of Muslim Uyghurs through forced labor and indoctrination camps, and thousands of Falun Gong practitioners are also imprisoned.

India

India, the world’s second-most populous country, is led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Hindu Nationalist government, under which religious freedom has worsened. Despite constitutional protections, many regions enforce anti-conversion laws. In 2023, thousands of Christians and Muslims faced attacks and intimidation, and hundreds of churches and mosques were destroyed.

Iran

In Iran, religious freedom remains “extremely poor.” In 2023, the government systematically harassed, arrested, raped, tortured, and executed protesters against mandatory hijab laws and other religious restrictions. Religious minorities, including Sunni Muslims, faced severe punishments, sometimes execution, for violating strict Islamic laws.

Nicaragua

In Nicaragua, dictators Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo intensified their persecution of the Catholic Church and other religious groups in 2023. The government seized assets and properties of Catholic institutions and imprisoned and exiled hundreds of Catholics and political dissidents. Bishop Rolando Alvarez, a vocal critic of the regime, was sentenced to 26 years in prison and spent all of 2023 with little to no contact with the outside world before being exiled to the Vatican.

Nigeria

Nigeria saw over 8,000 Christians killed in 2023, with attacks peaking during Christmas weekend, resulting in 190 deaths in Plateau state. Nigerian Christians, who constitute 46% of the population, suffered widespread violence, kidnappings, and intimidation largely ignored by the government. Despite recommendations from USCIRF, Nigeria has not been designated a CPC by the State Department since 2021.

Pakistan

Pakistan experienced a significant increase in terrorist attacks against religious minorities and places of worship in 2023. The government further strengthened prohibitions against “blasphemy,” often used to target religious minorities. In August, a mob attacked a Christian community in Jaranwala over a blasphemy accusation, resulting in the destruction of homes and damage to at least 24 churches.

Other Concerning Trends

Transnational Persecution: USCIRF reported an increase in transnational repression by governments like China and India, which targeted religious minorities abroad. Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan were also noted for such activities.

Blasphemy Laws: Blasphemy laws, active in 96 countries, pose a significant challenge to global religious freedom by punishing actions deemed offensive to the prevailing religion or ideology. These laws often incite violence against religious minorities.

Europe:The report mentioned concerning trends in Europe, citing the arrest of U.K. citizen Isabel Vaughan-Spruce for silently praying outside an abortion clinic in Birmingham, and Finnish MP Päivi Räsänen facing human rights violation charges for expressing her religious views on sexuality and marriage.

The USCIRF report underscores the persistent and worsening state of religious persecution worldwide, urging the U.S. to use its influence to advocate for greater religious tolerance and freedom through diplomatic and economic pressure.

IRS Announces Permanent Expansion of Free Online Tax Filing Program

Staff ReporterFinance/Economy, News, Technology 0

The IRS’s trial of a free online tax filing program this year is set to become a permanent fixture, with Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen revealing plans for its expansion. Dubbed “Direct File,” this digital platform will undergo integration with state tax systems and a broadening of its capabilities beyond its current limited deductions processing, as announced by Yellen and IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel.

“We’re making Direct File — the new product we piloted this year — permanent,” affirmed Yellen, citing the increased IRS funding from the Inflation Reduction Act as a contributing factor.

Werfel indicated that while the scale of the expansion remains undecided, it will progressively accommodate a broader range of tax scenarios over the forthcoming years, with a particular focus on those pertinent to “working families.”

Presently, the system can only handle income received in the form of W2 wages, the predominant payment method for most U.S. workers, alongside a select few credits such as the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit. Werfel highlighted various tax scenarios where there was a notable demand for inclusion in Direct File, including health care and retirement tax credits.

“The premium tax credit — under the Affordable Care Act, those that get their health insurance in the affordable care act marketplace and therefore receive a premium tax credit. That was something that was not in our eligibility scope this year,” explained Werfel, adding, “There were other refundable tax credits that were out of scope. There was certain retirement income that was out of scope.”

Senator Ron Wyden, chair of the Senate Finance Committee, lauded the development as “tremendous news for taxpayers all over the country who are tired of getting ripped off by the big tax prep companies that routinely upcharge for unnecessary services, oversell the quality of their products and offer crummy customer service.” Wyden commended Werfel and Secretary Yellen for their approach, noting the careful testing and development of the service before its expansion.

In contrast, Republicans and the private tax preparation software industry have criticized the initiative. House Republicans moved to defund Direct File shortly after assuming control of the lower chamber in 2023. Senate Finance Committee ranking member Mike Crapo expressed concerns about the IRS’s legal authority to implement such a program without congressional authorization in a statement last year.

Thursday’s announcement did not delve into additional types of income that could become eligible for Direct File, such as investment returns, rental property income, or independent contractor income filed on 1099-Ks.

The process of expanding Direct File will commence with the identification of additional states to be included beyond the initial 12 where it was accessible this year.

“It really depends on state readiness,” noted Werfel. “There will be no limit to the number of states that can participate in the coming year.”

The projected cost of the program for the next year could reach up to $75 million, as outlined in the IRS’s strategic operating plan annual supplement, a figure that Werfel assured would not be “significantly or materially exceed.”

GOPIO-CT Hosts Virtual Seminar to Promote Mental Health Awareness in South Asian Community

Staff ReporterCommunity, Health, Press Release 0

Speakers at the virtual seminar organized by GOPIO-CT to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month, Top row, l. to r. Mini Santosh, Japa Daptardar; Bottom row: from l. to r. Dr. Mohini Ranganathan and Dr. Thomas Abraham

The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin – Connecticut Chapter (GOPIO-CT) recently held an engaging virtual seminar in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month.

Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman of GOPIO International and Trustee of GOPIO-CT, opened the seminar by introducing GOPIO and its Connecticut chapter, outlining their various activities and ways to get involved. He then introduced GOPIO-CT President Jaya Daptardar, who spearheaded the organization of this wellness seminar and panel discussion on May 30, 2024, via Zoom. The event received a positive response from the attendees.

The seminar’s theme was “Embracing Wellness and Cultivating Mental Health Awareness,” and it featured a distinguished and diverse panel of speakers. The panelists included Dr. Mohini Ranganathan, an associate professor of Psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine and a practicing psychiatrist for two decades; Dr. Jaya Daptardar, an Ayurvedic Doctor with 25 years of experience who also serves as the Chief Compliance Officer for Bridges Healthcare in Connecticut; and Mini Santosh, an Early Childhood Director with the Community Action Agency of Western Connecticut.

Dr. Mohini Ranganathan emphasized that no community is exempt from mental health issues and underscored the importance of having open conversations about mental health. She pointed out the lack of sufficient awareness and dialogue about mental health within the South Asian American community but noted an increasing willingness to learn about it. “It is important not to be shy about discussing behavioral health issues,” she said.

Dr. Jaya Daptardar highlighted that behavioral health challenges are universal and not confined to any particular race, ethnicity, or gender. She stressed the significance of recognizing early signs of behavioral changes and challenges and initiating conversations to seek help. Dr. Daptardar also discussed various therapies and treatments available, as well as simple prevention and wellness methods such as breathing techniques, meditation, and yoga.

Mini Santosh, an educator specializing in early childhood education, spoke about the heightened need for mental health attention, especially in the aftermath of the pandemic. She highlighted the stigma surrounding mental health in Indian communities and emphasized the importance of providing support and access to mental health services.

The panel discussion elicited insightful questions from the participants, and the Q&A session provided valuable insights for parents and attendees. It was clear that more panels and community discussions are necessary to raise awareness of mental health in South Asian and Indian communities. GOPIO-CT has a robust platform to offer health and wellness-related seminars for the community.

Over the past 18 years, GOPIO-CT, a chapter of GOPIO International, has evolved into an active and dynamic organization. It hosts interactive sessions with policymakers and academicians, community events, youth mentoring and networking workshops, and collaborates with other local organizations to foster a better future. GOPIO-CT serves as a non-partisan, secular, civic, and community service organization, promoting awareness of Indian culture, customs, and contributions of people of Indian origin through various community programs, forums, events, and youth activities. The organization seeks to strengthen partnerships and create ongoing dialogues with local communities.

Citizens Launch Nationwide #VotersWillMustPrevail Campaign to Ensure Fair Vote Counting in 18th Lok Sabha Elections

Staff ReporterNation, Politics, Press Release 0

As citizens deeply invested in various social movements concerning farmers, workers, women, and marginalized groups, including notable public intellectuals, we have actively engaged in the lead-up to the 18th Lok Sabha Elections, which began on April 19, 2024. Over the past ten months, we have noticed a concerning lack of exemplary conduct from the Election Commission of India (ECI). To address this, we convened two High-Level Broad Consultative Meetings in Bengaluru (May 21, 2024) and Delhi (May 28, 2024) with grassroots movements, civil society, and political parties.

In our continued commitment to the electoral process, voter awareness, booth-level vigilance, and ensuring accountability and transparency from statutory bodies, particularly the ECI, we have launched the nationwide campaign #VotersWillMustPrevail. This initiative aims to secure a fair and transparent vote-counting process. A structured Citizens Vigil will be organized to document and address any malpractices or misconduct by officials or politicians during the polling process, ensuring prompt dissemination and thorough follow-up. We call upon the responsible sections of the Indian media to support the publication of the Voters Will Must Prevail Programme.

To uphold the people’s will, we have resolved to establish a Vigilant Voter Task Force for Counting Day (June 4, 2024). Our key actions include:

1.Citizen Involvement: Citizens will engage in the counting process at the local level in Parliamentary Constituencies nationwide on June 4, 2024.

2.Collaboration with Opposition Parties: We will work closely with political parties from the Opposition to motivate Counting Agents, ensuring a methodical and thorough counting process, free from intimidatory tactics by the Regime.

3.Reminder to Election Officials: We will remind the ECI and all State Level Officers, right down to every booth, that their allegiance is to the Indian People and the Constitution, not the government in power.

4.Communication with District Officials: Letters will be sent to District Collectors, Deputy Commissioners, District Magistrates, and other officials functioning as Returning Officers, as well as ECI-appointed Observers, reminding them of their Constitutional Obligations and Duties.

5.Mobilization of Citizens: Citizens will be mobilized across the country, particularly in sensitive booths, to ensure that the vote-counting process is conducted by the Law and Rule Book, free and fair. This involvement, termed Ginti ki Chaukidaari, will be visible state-wise outside counting stations.

6.Counting Vigilance Manual: A manual will be created to facilitate this coordinated endeavor. To ensure functionality and effectiveness, four helpline numbers (two for North India and two for South India) will be established to record and respond to ground-level complaints. These helpline numbers will be operationalized shortly and widely publicized.

Furthermore, we will closely interact with the opposition INDIA alliance on issues of voter manipulation and subversion. Our actions aim to exercise the democratic and peaceful rights of the Indian people as mandated by the Constitution under Articles 324-326. We, the People of India, have a vested interest in restoring India to a vibrant, functioning democratic republic.

We express deep concern that never before in the history of the Indian Republic has the public’s faith in democratic institutions been so low. The ongoing subversion of the autonomy and independence of governance institutions necessitates alerting fellow citizens nationwide in the days and weeks ahead. We are deeply concerned about potential manipulations in the counting process and the subsequent transition period. On behalf of the electorate, we affirm that if the counting of votes and the declaration of results are conducted freely, fairly, and transparently, the mandate will clearly oppose the current regime’s policies. Fair implementation of this mandate will assuredly bring change to the People of India.

However, we are extremely concerned about the process that follows and whether it will proceed smoothly, democratically, and constitutionally. The entire period of this 18th Lok Sabha election, particularly post-declaration of polls and the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), has seen unprecedented violations of the Constitution, Indian law, and the MCC, along with blatant electioneering malpractices. There is a genuine apprehension that these structured manipulations will persist during the counting process and beyond, potentially disrespecting the people’s mandate.

It is the People of India who elect a Government. No one is above the people. As the Preamble of our Constitution states, “We The People of India, are sovereign.”

We urge the Indian media and citizens to support and participate in this crucial vigilance effort, ensuring the democratic process is upheld and the people’s voice prevails.

12-Year-Old Bruhat Soma Triumphs in Thrilling Spell-Off to Win 96th Scripps National Spelling Bee

Staff ReporterEducation, News, Youth 0

Bruhat Soma, a 12-year-old from Tampa, Florida, emerged victorious at the 96th Scripps National Spelling Bee held on May 30th. His impressive performance in a spell-off saw him correctly spell 29 challenging words in just 90 seconds. This rapid-fire round featured some of the most obscure and difficult words in the English language.

This year’s competition, which saw its 96th edition, concluded with a spell-off, a fast-paced elimination method that was introduced in 2021 and has only been used once before. Bruhat qualified for this decisive round by correctly spelling “Hoofddorp,” a town near Amsterdam, positioning himself against Faizan Zaki, another 12-year-old from Allen, Texas. Faizan secured his spot by flawlessly spelling “nicuri,” a term derived from a Brazilian palm, without seeking any clarification on its origin or meaning.

In the spell-off, Bruhat swiftly navigated through a series of words, managing to spell 29 accurately before the 90-second timer expired. Faizan, competing from the same list, correctly spelled 20 words in the allotted time. This remarkable performance secured Bruhat the esteemed trophy and a $50,000 prize. A recorded segment earlier in the televised event showcased Bruhat, a basketball enthusiast, shooting hoops.

The eight finalists, including Bruhat and Faizan, had advanced from regional competitions that filtered down to 245 local champions aged 8 to 15. These finalists competed over three days at a convention center near Washington, D.C. Among them, some were stumped by particularly tricky words such as “Lillooet” (a people from modern British Columbia), “kanin” (boiled rice in the Philippines), and “murrina” (a horse disease).

Throughout the competition, young participants demonstrated exceptional skill and composure as they tackled some of the English language’s most difficult and rarely used words. Their ability to spell with such accuracy and confidence left spectators in awe.

The Scripps National Spelling Bee, sponsored by the Scripps media group since 1925, has been held annually except for a hiatus during World War II and a pause in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The majority of participants hail from the United States, representing all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories including Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Additionally, this year’s competition featured contenders from Canada, the Bahamas, Germany, and Ghana.

The history and prestige of the Scripps National Spelling Bee make it a significant event in the academic lives of young spellers. The competition not only tests their spelling prowess but also their ability to remain composed under pressure. Each year, the bee highlights the dedication and hard work of these young scholars, who often spend countless hours preparing for this momentous event.

The introduction of the spell-off in 2021 added a new level of excitement and urgency to the competition. This rapid-elimination format tests contestants’ quick thinking and spelling accuracy under extreme time constraints, making for a thrilling conclusion to the bee. Bruhat’s success in this format is a testament to his exceptional preparation and mental agility.

Bruhat’s journey to victory is an inspiring story of perseverance and passion. His ability to spell 29 words correctly in just 90 seconds is a remarkable achievement that showcases his dedication and love for language. This win not only brings him a substantial monetary prize but also the honor of being recognized as one of the top young spellers in the nation.

The Scripps National Spelling Bee continues to be a celebration of linguistic talent and intellectual prowess. It brings together young minds from diverse backgrounds, united by their love of words and their commitment to academic excellence. As the competition grows in scope and popularity, it continues to inspire new generations of spellers to pursue their passion for language and learning.

The 96th Scripps National Spelling Bee was marked by the impressive performances of its young finalists, particularly Bruhat Soma, whose skill and speed in the spell-off secured him the championship. The event remains a cornerstone of academic competition, highlighting the extraordinary talents of young spellers from across the globe. Bruhat’s victory serves as a reminder of the importance of dedication, hard work, and the joy of learning.

Christian Exodus from Nazareth as Mafia Crime Wave and Rising Islamic Influence Threaten Community

Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture, News 0

Nazareth, Israel’s largest Arab city and known as the childhood home of Jesus, is grappling with a severe crisis as its historic Christian population contends with a rampant mafia crime wave spreading through northern Israel and the rise of Islam.

A recent report by The Telegraph reveals that Christian business owners are being extorted by primarily Muslim mafia gangs, who demand hefty protection fees of about $13,500 per month.

Despite the efforts of Israel’s Shin Bet security agency and increased police presence, the situation continues to deteriorate, prompting many Christians to flee the city.

Peter Roshrash, an experienced police inspector, likened the situation to the Wild West. “In Nazareth, the mafia will shoot at the stores, then tell them they need ‘chawa’ [protection money]. It’s like the Wild West,” he stated.

Roshrash also accused the mafia of hiding weapons in Christians’ homes, threatening the occupants with death if they reported to the authorities.

The impact on Nazareth’s Christian community, which once formed the majority, has been significant. When Israel gained independence in 1948, Christians made up about 80% of Nazareth’s population; today, they represent only 20%. Many have emigrated to Western countries, while others have moved to predominantly Jewish areas to escape the violence.

Once lively Easter and Christmas celebrations have diminished, and Christian-owned businesses are vanishing, replaced by Muslim-owned ones.

The surge in mafia violence has become a national issue. Despite assurances from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the mafia’s influence continues to grow.

According to the Abraham Initiatives, a nonprofit advocating for Jewish-Arab equality, Nazareth was among the deadliest cities last year due to criminal violence. “Nazareth became a focal point for crime in 2023,” the group reported.

Municipal officials have tried to downplay the religious angle of the mafia’s activities, insisting the targeting is indiscriminate, affecting both Muslims and Christians. “If there is a mafia, it’s against Muslims and Christians alike. You think the rich Muslims aren’t also a target for the mafia? To the mafia, there is no religion,” said Municipality Spokesman Salem Sharara.

However, there is a long history of Christian mistreatment by Muslims in the Holy Land. In the late 1990s, Muslims attempted to build a mosque on the property of the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth. Although the attempt was unsuccessful, many Arab political groups in Israel and the Palestinian Territories have increasingly adopted Islamic characteristics as their former socialist stances have lost popularity.

This pressure on Christians can be observed in the Palestinian Territories and throughout the Middle East.

The Arab population in Israel, including Nazareth, has increasingly called for more government intervention to combat rising crime rates. Initially, the outbreak of the Gaza War led to a decrease in violent crime and deaths in the Arab sector, but recent increases in criminal attacks suggest a return to the high levels of violence seen in 2023.

Many Christians in Israel and the Palestinian Territories, often wealthier than their Muslim counterparts, have the means to relocate, leading to an exodus from cities like Nazareth and Bethlehem, which are central to Christian history and heritage.

Trump’s Conviction: A Game-Changer or Temporary Setback for the 2024 Election?

Staff ReporterNews, Politics, USA 0

Scandals have surrounded former President Donald Trump since his initial presidential campaign in 2016. However, following his conviction in his New York hush-money case, he is now officially labeled as a convicted felon, adding a new dimension to his controversial legacy. This development begs the question: could this conviction significantly alter the trajectory of the 2024 election?

Initial indicators suggest that Trump’s conviction could indeed erode his support base. A poll conducted by CNN/SSRS in April revealed that while 76 percent of Trump supporters vowed unwavering allegiance, 24 percent admitted they might reconsider their support if he were convicted. Similarly, a May survey by Emerson College found that 25 percent of voters claimed a guilty verdict in New York would diminish their likelihood of voting for Trump.

Some pollsters adopted a two-pronged approach, asking respondents their voting preferences both with and without considering Trump’s conviction. On average, Trump’s standing shifted from a 1 percentage point lead to a 6-point deficit when the conviction was factored in.

However, Democrats should temper their enthusiasm, considering the nuances within these statistics. The wording of the CNN/SSRS poll, for instance, reveals that while 24 percent of Trump supporters might reconsider their vote, this doesn’t necessarily translate to definitive abandonment. Many may simply experience a crisis of confidence without outright switching allegiance to President Joe Biden.

A poll by ABC News/Ipsos echoed this sentiment. While 16 percent of respondents claimed they would reconsider their support for Trump following a conviction, only 4 percent stated they would completely withdraw it. Moreover, caution is warranted in interpreting polls like Emerson’s, which gauge whether events influence voting behavior. Often, respondents use such questions as proxies for their approval or disapproval rather than literal indicators of future action.

Interestingly, a significant portion of those claiming a conviction would sway their vote towards Biden had already expressed support for him in previous questions. Conversely, only a small fraction of Trump supporters indicated that a guilty verdict would deter them from voting for him, suggesting a lesser impact on his actual support than initially presumed.

Additional polls reinforce the notion that Trump’s conviction may not trigger mass defections to Biden. Instead, the majority of lost support for Trump translates into undecided or hypothetical “someone else” categories. While Trump’s support decreases by an average of 6 points post-conviction, Biden only gains 1 point, with 5 points going to undecided or alternative options.

This dynamic suggests that while some Trump supporters may hesitate to endorse him following the conviction, they are unlikely to pivot towards Biden. Consequently, the dip in Trump’s support may be transient. Past behavior serves as a predictor, indicating that many defectors could eventually realign with Trump, especially given the substantial time remaining until Election Day. Trump’s ability to craft a narrative that assuages concerns about supporting a convicted felon could further facilitate this return to the fold.

The parallels with past events, such as the fallout from the “Access Hollywood” tape during the 2016 campaign, underscore the potential for Trump’s support to rebound swiftly. Despite initial discomfort among Republicans, Trump’s popularity recovered within weeks of the tape’s release.

Nevertheless, even if most defectors ultimately return to Trump’s camp, the conviction’s impact on the race should not be dismissed entirely. Biden’s marginal 1-point gain could prove decisive in a closely contested election, though it’s crucial not to exaggerate the conviction’s influence. Ultimately, if the outcome of the hush-money trial shapes the presidential race, it will likely be within the margins of a closely contested contest.

US Stock Markets Grapple with Sharp Declines Amid Economic Concerns and Disappointing Earnings

Staff ReporterBusiness, Finance/Economy, News 0

US stock markets encountered a challenging week with the Dow witnessing a decline of approximately 1,000 points in the past three days alone, and this negative trend persisted on Thursday.

The Dow concluded 331 points lower, marking a decrease of 0.9%. Similarly, the S&P 500 experienced a decline of 0.6%, while the Nasdaq Composite dropped by 1.1%. The disappointing earnings report from Salesforce (CRM) contributed to investor concerns.

Salesforce, a prominent player in customer relationship management, suffered a substantial drop of 19.7% following its announcement of a revenue shortfall and a downward adjustment of expectations for the forthcoming year, marking its worst performance in two decades.

The market woes extended from Wednesday when all 11 sectors of the S&P 500 closed in the red. The Dow experienced a significant dip of over 300 points, primarily driven by a decline in shares of Nvidia (NVDA), a leading chipmaking company, which subsequently dragged down other major tech stocks.

The recent downturn can be attributed to various factors, including disappointing earnings reports and unexpectedly strong economic data. Bonds witnessed a notable decrease in value amidst mounting concerns about inflation, exacerbated by a lackluster Treasury auction on Wednesday. The 10-year Treasury yield surged to its highest level since late April.

Investor anxiety was further fueled by robust economic indicators, raising fears that a stronger economy might prompt the Federal Reserve to maintain higher interest rates for a prolonged period to counter inflationary pressures.

Despite the S&P 500 registering gains in 23 out of the last 30 weeks, matching a record set in 1989, it appears to be heading towards a negative performance for the current week.

Deutsche Bank analysts observed, “There had already been a relentless run of gains in recent weeks that was always going to be tough to maintain. It’s clear that the momentum is now more negative.”

New economic figures released on Thursday indicated a downward revision of US gross domestic product for the first quarter, from 1.6% to 1.3%, coupled with a slowdown in personal consumption. This suggests a moderation in economic expansion, a development viewed with mixed sentiments by analysts.

Chris Zaccarelli, Chief Investment Officer at Independent Advisor Alliance, remarked, “The data could be a concern for companies and stock market investors, but on the other hand, slowing consumption and economic growth could be just the news we need to see in order for the rate of inflation to keep coming down and allow the Fed to reduce interest rates after all.”

All eyes are now on the impending release of the Personal Consumption Expenditures index for April on Friday, which serves as the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation.

NASA’s Lunar Timekeeping Initiative: Charting a New Temporal Frontier

Staff ReporterNews, Science, Technology 0

The intricacies of timekeeping have always fascinated humanity, from the simple tick of a sundial to the precision of atomic clocks. But as our ambitions extend beyond Earth’s boundaries, so too do the challenges of measuring time accurately.

In recent years, a new space race has emerged, with the United States, its allies, and China vying to establish permanent settlements on the moon. This renewed interest in lunar exploration has once again brought to light the complexities of timekeeping in space.

On the moon, a single Earth day is approximately 56 microseconds shorter than on our home planet, a minute difference that can have significant implications over time. To address this challenge, NASA and its international partners are working to develop a new “time scale” tailored specifically for lunar conditions.

Rather than simply creating a new time zone for the moon, as some headlines have suggested, NASA aims to establish a comprehensive system of measurement that accounts for the subtle variations in timekeeping between Earth and its celestial neighbor. This initiative has been underscored by a recent memo from the White House, which directed NASA to outline its plans for the new time scale by the end of the year 2026.

For astronauts exploring the lunar surface, accurate timekeeping is essential for navigation, communication, and scientific research. As Cheryl Gramling, from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, explains, “When they’re navigating relative to the moon, time needs to be relative to the moon.”

The foundation of modern timekeeping on Earth lies in our understanding of relativity, as articulated by Albert Einstein. General relativity posits that gravity warps both space and time, resulting in phenomena such as time dilation. This principle explains why time passes slightly more slowly at lower elevations, closer to massive objects like Earth.

To maintain precise timekeeping on our planet, scientists have deployed atomic clocks at various locations worldwide. These clocks, which rely on the vibrations of atoms, provide a standardized measure of time known as Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). However, even UTC occasionally requires adjustments, such as the addition of “leap seconds,” to account for fluctuations in Earth’s rotation speed.

Beyond Earth’s bounds, the complexities of timekeeping become even more pronounced. According to Einstein’s theory of special relativity, time passes slower for objects in motion, a phenomenon observed by astronauts aboard the International Space Station. Despite orbiting at high speeds, these astronauts can synchronize their activities with Earth time, thanks to onboard clocks and ground-based communication systems.

However, for missions farther into space, such as those exploring the outer reaches of the solar system, maintaining accurate time becomes more challenging. Spacecraft must rely on their internal clocks while also coordinating with Earth-based timekeeping systems for navigation and communication.

As preparations intensify for lunar exploration, scientists are faced with the task of establishing precision timekeeping instruments on the moon itself. The logistics of this endeavor, including funding, clock selection, and placement, are still being determined. Atomic clocks are favored for their long-term stability, while crystal oscillators offer short-term reliability at a lower cost.

The development of a lunar time scale, known as LunaNet, will serve as the backbone for future lunar missions. This framework, akin to the internet, will standardize timekeeping across various lunar activities and international space agencies.

While discussions with US partners have been promising, the involvement of other nations, such as China, remains uncertain. International collaboration will be essential in establishing common standards for lunar timekeeping through organizations like the International Astronomical Union.

Beyond the technical challenges of timekeeping, future lunar inhabitants will grapple with the unique rhythms of life on the moon. With its prolonged periods of sunlight and darkness, the lunar surface presents a stark contrast to Earth’s diurnal cycle. Despite these differences, precise timekeeping will be crucial for coordinating missions and ensuring the success of lunar exploration endeavors.

By mastering timekeeping on the moon, scientists hope to pave the way for future missions to Mars and beyond. As Cheryl Gramling emphasizes, “We are very much looking at executing this on the moon, learning what we can learn, so that we are prepared to do the same thing on Mars or other future bodies.”

Long Island Ramps Up Security for India-Pakistan Cricket World Cup Match Following ISIS Threat

Staff ReporterCricket, News, Security 0

**Police Heighten Security for Cricket World Cup Match on Long Island Following ISIS Threat**

Authorities are significantly increasing security measures on Long Island in response to a threat from ISIS targeting the upcoming cricket World Cup match between India and Pakistan at East Meadow’s Eisenhower Stadium. This decision was announced on Wednesday by local officials, who emphasized that while there is no “specific threat” of an attack during the June 9 match, they are not willing to take any risks with the international event approaching.

Nassau Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder assured the public, “This will be the tightest security that Nassau County has ever seen. Every single asset in the police department is involved, including our intelligence.” The police force has coordinated with several agencies to ensure comprehensive security coverage. “We have partnered with the NYPD, the MTA, the New York State Police, Suffolk County, FBI, and DHS. Customs have all provided briefings,” Ryder added, affirming that all intelligence reports are credible.

The decision to bolster security follows a menacing online post by the Islamic State on matrix.com. The post, dated May 28, featured a hooded individual with a rifle, accompanied by the message, “You wait for the matches… and we wait for you,” with “Nassau Stadium” and the date June 9 prominently displayed at the top.

To enhance safety, county officials have announced several measures. A contingent of 100 police officers will be assigned to patrol neighboring areas, and the stadium will have metal detectors at every entrance. Additionally, a no-fly zone will be enforced overhead, and there will be strict regulations on items spectators can bring into the venue. Ryder emphasized that lingering outside the stadium will be prohibited, and drones are strictly banned.

“This is like the Super Bowl on steroids,” Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman declared during Wednesday’s press conference. He expressed full confidence in the safety measures, stating, “If I wasn’t confident that we were safe, secure, and that our healthcare measures were not in place, I would not do this.”

Governor Kathy Hochul also commented on the preparations, noting that officials in Albany have been coordinating with federal agencies for months to ensure the cricket matches are well-protected against potential terrorist activities. “While there is no credible public safety threat at this time, we continue to monitor the situation closely,” she said. “I have also directed the New York State Police to engage in elevated security measures, including an increased law enforcement presence, advance surveillance, and thorough screening processes.”

The International Cricket Council has announced that the 11-week World Cup competition will be hosted at various international venues, including eight matches scheduled to take place at the 34,000-seat Long Island stadium.

18-Year-Old Indian Chess Prodigy R Praggnanandhaa Defeats World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen in Landmark Victory

Staff ReporterSports, Youth 0

Indian chess prodigy R Praggnanandhaa, at just 18 years old, achieved a landmark victory over World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen in a classical match during the third round of the Norway Chess tournament on Wednesday. This notable triumph occurred on Carlsen’s home turf, making it even more significant.

Adding to the day’s triumphs, Praggnanandhaa’s sister, Vaishali, topped the women’s standings after a tense Armageddon victory against Anna Muzychuk. The siblings’ performances were a highlight of the tournament, drawing considerable attention to Indian chess talent.

Carlsen adopted what he later described as a “risky” opening strategy against Praggnanandhaa by choosing not to castle. This unconventional move aimed to unsettle the young player from Chennai but ultimately backfired. Praggnanandhaa, initially taken aback, soon found his footing and began to exert pressure on the five-time world champion.

“His opening was provocative. I said he wants to fight because otherwise he could play something solid. I didn’t mind at all. We’ll fight and we’ll see how it goes,” Praggnanandhaa recounted to The Indian Express after his win.

Commenting on the match, Hikaru Nakamura, speaking from the confessional booth—a unique feature at Norway Chess since 2015—observed, “Magnus has decided to play something very double-edged. I guess you can say, he’s going all in today. He’s either going to win or lose today. Hard to see this end in a draw.”

Post-match, Nakamura shared with Norway’s TV 2 Sport that Carlsen typically reserves such high-risk openings for younger opponents, not seasoned veterans like himself. “I wish Carlsen would take these chances against me or against Fabi. I have this theory that when Magnus is playing the younger kids specifically, he wants to sort of prove a point. He wants to go after them and try to beat them, and he takes far more risks than he does against us old folks!”

A striking aspect of Praggnanandhaa’s victory was his time management. Despite trailing on the clock for most of the match, he maintained composure and capitalized on Carlsen’s risky strategy.

Reflecting on whether this was one of his best victories, Praggnanandhaa said, “I don’t know, I will have to check. I didn’t think I played really well. I did find some good moves. It’s not my best game for sure.”

The match began with Praggnanandhaa taking 31 seconds before initiating with 1.e4, a classic and popular opening move. Carlsen responded with c5, leading to an Open Sicilian. “My prep stopped at bishop d3 (his fifth move). Carlsen playing queen c7 (with the fifth move) was a surprise. I couldn’t remember anything after that,” Praggnanandhaa explained later.

During the game, Carlsen critiqued Praggnanandhaa’s 10th move, h3, in the confessional booth, calling it a “waste of a move.” He elaborated, “Obviously, a pretty risky opening choice today. I think his move 10.h3, though, was a little bit soft. He thought about it for a long time there. I guess he was calculating f4 and queen c5. I don’t really think that’s worse for black. So that was a little bit of a waste of a move. Apart from that, sometimes h3 can be used for rooks and queens for attacks. I wasn’t overly impressed with that one.”

By the 10th move, Carlsen had already established a 20-minute lead on the clock. Over the subsequent four moves, Praggnanandhaa found himself with just an hour left to make 26 more moves to reach the first time control. However, when Carlsen moved his queen to d7 in response to Praggnanandhaa’s f5 on move 13, the evaluation showed a clear advantage for Praggnanandhaa. He admitted that at this juncture, it was becoming challenging for Carlsen.

After the 15th move, Carlsen returned to the confessional booth, expressing his concerns: “I’m a little bit scared that he’s going to go fe6 and knight d5 now. I’ll take the knight and maybe I’ll castle queenside. But it looks quite scary. I doubt that it’s objectively good for white, although I’m not quite sure. I feel that in other lines I’ll be alright. But knight d5 scares me a bit.”

Praggnanandhaa acknowledged a critical moment on the 20th move when he allowed his knight to be captured, which he considered an error. “I’m feeling good. The game was quite interesting. I got a very good position from the opening. I kind of misplayed it at some point. I allowed bishop e3 (20.Bxe3) and f6 (21.f6). I was told later that I still played that position correctly. Maybe I was better throughout the game,” Praggnanandhaa shared with journalists in Stavanger after his victory.

This victory marks a significant milestone in Praggnanandhaa’s career, showcasing his ability to compete with and defeat the world’s best. It underscores the growing prominence of Indian talent in the global chess arena, with Praggnanandhaa and his sister Vaishali leading the charge. Their performances at Norway Chess have set the stage for exciting prospects in the future of Indian chess.

India’s Record-Breaking Heat: Mungeshpur Hits Potential 52.3°C Amid Severe Heat Wave Warnings

Staff ReporterEnvironment, Health 0

India, one of the hottest countries on Earth, potentially recorded its highest temperature ever on Wednesday. A weather station in Mungeshpur, a suburb of New Delhi, recorded a temperature of 52.3 degrees Celsius (approximately 126 degrees Fahrenheit), as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

This unprecedented reading is currently under scrutiny by the government. Authorities are evaluating the data, noting that this temperature is an outlier compared to other measurements in the region. They suggest the possibility of an error in the sensor or an influence from unique local conditions.

The IMD reported that this temperature was more than 9 degrees Celsius higher than anticipated. The unusually high temperatures have been attributed to hot winds originating from northwestern India, as reported by New Delhi Television (NDTV), a partner of ABC News.

Previously, the highest recorded temperature at the Mungeshpur station was 49.2 degrees Celsius (120.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in 2002. The record for the hottest temperature ever recorded in India was set in Rajasthan in 2016, reaching 51 degrees Celsius (123.8 degrees Fahrenheit), according to the IMD.

In response to the forecast, the India Meteorological Department issued a severe heat wave warning for the region. In India, heat waves are classified as “severe” when temperatures exceed the norm by 6.5 degrees Celsius or more.

A red alert health notice was also issued in New Delhi, warning of a “very high likelihood of developing heat illness and heat stroke in all ages” among the vulnerable groups in the region’s population, which totals around 30 million.

Local government officials have imposed restrictions on water usage due to a shortage, threatening fines for non-essential water use, such as washing cars. Those caught using water unnecessarily could face fines of 2,000 rupees (approximately $24), as reported by Reuters.

The IMD also forecasted rain for Wednesday evening in New Delhi, which could potentially increase humidity levels.

India is renowned for its hot climate, characterized by tropical conditions and prolonged summers. These early-season high temperatures could signal an intensely hot summer ahead.

Copernicus, Europe’s climate change service, has recorded 11 consecutive months of record-warm temperatures, a trend likely to persist through May.

Climate scientists link rising global temperatures to more frequent and prolonged heat waves. A study by the World Weather Attribution found that the extreme heat experienced across Asia in late April was 45 times more likely due to climate change.

The exceptional temperature recorded in Mungeshpur stands out as a significant anomaly. The IMD’s ongoing review aims to verify the accuracy of the data. “The temperature soared to more than 9 degrees Celsius higher than expected,” highlights the severity of this heat event.

Local reports suggest that the hot winds from northwestern India played a crucial role in driving the temperatures up beyond typical expectations. NDTV corroborates this by reporting that “hot winds from northwestern India contributed to the hotter-than-expected temperatures.”

The severity of the heat wave in New Delhi prompted immediate action from the government. The red alert notice underscores the extreme risk to public health, particularly emphasizing the potential for heat illness and heat stroke among vulnerable populations. The scale of the alert reflects the urgency of the situation, given New Delhi’s large population.

In addition to health warnings, the government has taken steps to manage the strain on water resources. With a significant portion of the population potentially affected by water shortages, the authorities have implemented stringent measures to curb non-essential water use. Reuters reported on the enforcement of fines to deter wastage, stating, “Local government officials set limits on water usage, citing a shortage, and threatened to fine those using water unnecessarily.”

The forecasted rain for New Delhi introduces the potential for increased humidity, which could compound the discomfort and health risks associated with the high temperatures. The IMD’s prediction of rain suggests a dynamic weather pattern that may offer temporary relief from the heat but could also introduce new challenges.

India’s climate, already predisposed to high temperatures, faces an increasingly uncertain future as global warming intensifies. The record temperatures reported by Copernicus are a stark reminder of the ongoing trend towards warmer global conditions. “Copernicus, Europe’s climate change service, has recorded 11 consecutive months of record-warm temperatures,” illustrating the persistent nature of this trend.

The link between climate change and the increasing frequency of heat waves is well-established among scientists. The World Weather Attribution study provides a quantifiable measure of this connection, indicating that the recent extreme heat in Asia was significantly influenced by climate change. The study’s findings that the sweltering conditions were “45 times more likely because of climate change” emphasize the profound impact of human activities on weather patterns.

As the situation in Mungeshpur is closely monitored, it underscores the broader implications of climate change for regions already vulnerable to high temperatures. The potential record-setting temperature serves as a critical data point in understanding the trajectory of climate impacts. The IMD’s verification process will be crucial in confirming the legitimacy of this extraordinary measurement and understanding the underlying causes of such extreme weather events.

The reported 52.3 degrees Celsius in Mungeshpur highlights a significant climatic event in India, necessitating careful examination and response from authorities. The combination of immediate health risks, water scarcity, and the broader context of climate change illustrates the multifaceted challenges posed by extreme heat. As global temperatures continue to rise, the frequency and intensity of such events are likely to increase, demanding adaptive measures and heightened awareness of the impacts of climate change.

Fiji Water Recalls 1.9 Million Bottles Due to Elevated Manganese Levels and Bacterial Contamination

Staff ReporterHealth, USA 0

Natural Waters of Viti Limited has initiated a voluntary recall of 78,533 cases of Fiji Natural Artesian Water due to testing that revealed elevated levels of manganese and three types of bacteria, according to a report by the United States Department of Food and Agriculture (FDA).

The recall pertains to approximately 1.9 million 500-milliliter bottles of water, sold in 24-pack cases. These products were available on Amazon.com from February 1, 2024, through March 3, 2024. The affected products can be identified by the following information:

– Case UPC Code: 6 32565 00004 3

– Bottle UPC Code: 6 32565 00001 2

– Dates: November 11, 2023, November 12, 2023, November 13, 2023, November 24, 2023, and November 25, 2023

This recall updates a previous recall from March, which had not posed adverse health or safety risks to the public. The FDA classifies this recall as Class III, indicating that the products violate federal regulations but are unlikely to cause adverse health consequences.

Manganese is an essential mineral for the body. While no harm from manganese in food and beverages has been demonstrated in studies, some individuals have developed manganese toxicity from consuming water with extremely high manganese levels.

Consumers who purchased the recalled product are being notified by telephone, but those with questions or concerns can contact the FIJI Water hotline at 1-866-406-4149.

This recall affects a significant number of water bottles sold on Amazon.com over a one-month period. The affected bottles are easily identifiable by their UPC codes and specific production dates. The company has been proactive in reaching out to consumers to inform them of the recall and to address any potential concerns.

The FDA’s classification of this recall as Class III highlights that while the products do not meet federal standards, they are not expected to cause serious health issues. However, the presence of elevated manganese levels and bacteria in the water prompted the recall as a precautionary measure.

Manganese is naturally occurring and necessary for human health, involved in bone formation, blood clotting, and reducing inflammation. Normally, manganese is found in various foods such as nuts, legumes, seeds, tea, whole grains, and leafy green vegetables. While manganese toxicity is rare, it can occur if a person is exposed to high levels over a long period, particularly through drinking water. Symptoms of manganese toxicity may include neurological issues such as tremors, muscle stiffness, and in severe cases, cognitive impairment.

The discovery of bacteria in the water is another reason for the recall. While the specific types of bacteria found were not disclosed, the presence of any bacteria in bottled water intended for human consumption is a concern. Bacteria in drinking water can lead to gastrointestinal issues and other infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Natural Waters of Viti Limited has taken the necessary steps to address the contamination. By recalling the affected products, the company aims to protect consumer health and maintain the integrity of its brand. The company’s decision to voluntarily recall the products demonstrates a commitment to consumer safety and regulatory compliance.

Customers are encouraged to check their purchases against the provided UPC codes and production dates to determine if they have any of the recalled bottles. If so, they should dispose of the water and contact FIJI Water for further instructions or potential refunds. The company’s hotline is available for consumers who need more information or assistance regarding the recall.

This recall underscores the importance of regular testing and quality control in the bottled water industry. Ensuring that products meet safety standards is crucial to preventing potential health risks. While this recall is classified as low risk by the FDA, it serves as a reminder for companies to maintain stringent quality checks and for consumers to stay informed about the safety of the products they purchase.

Natural Waters of Viti Limited’s voluntary recall of Fiji Natural Artesian Water due to elevated levels of manganese and bacterial contamination is a precautionary measure to ensure consumer safety. The recall affects nearly 1.9 million bottles sold in a specific timeframe, identifiable by their UPC codes and production dates. The FDA’s Class III classification indicates that the products are unlikely to cause serious health issues, but the company is taking no chances in addressing the contamination. Consumers with the recalled product should contact the FIJI Water hotline for assistance. This recall highlights the need for ongoing vigilance in the bottled water industry to ensure the highest safety standards for consumers.

Weak But Sensible Voices Should Be Listened To In A True Democracy

Staff ReporterOpinion 0

I have been living in Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, for the past one month. In my general conversations with many people living in Shimla from different parts of Himachal Pradesh, there has been some discussion about the Lok Sabha elections also. The election is to be held in the last phase on four Lok Sabha seats here. One day five-six BJP workers came to my house in Summerhill. As soon as I opened the door, a senior worker among them said, ‘We have come   for Modiji . . .’ I welcomed them smilingly and asked them to first tell me about your candidate contesting from Shimla constituency. Narendra Modi is the Prime Minister of the country, everyone knows him. Pointing to the candidate’s photo printed on the poster they were holding, they said, ‘Yes, yes, he is our candidate from Shimla.’

While taking the election material from them, I apprised them that my vote was not here. I will definitely read your pamphlet. I kept talking about the elections with those workers for ten-fifteen minutes. They were not in a hurry. At my query they told me that there is a close contest on the Shimla seat. They further said that BJP’s victory in Hamirpur and Kangra seats is certain. The Congress may win the Mandi seat again. (The BJP candidate had won from Mandi in 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Congress won this seat in the midterm elections held in 2021 due to the death of the elected MP.) I asked why it seems that there is no tough competition in Mandi? The senior worker explained that such candidates can be fit in big cities. It is difficult for them to make a mark in a small city like Mandi. They all seemed to be very ordinary level workers of the party. During the entire conversation, they presented their assessment of the elections with a lot of neutrality and objectivity. I bid them farewell by saying my best wishes for your efforts.

A day before this, the Congress workers had come to our colony. I could not meet them. They had left their election material on the ground floor and put up posters in the compound and left. Maybe they thought that since the house is closed on the ground floor, there will be no one on the upper floors

Kamal Kishore Is UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative For Disaster Risk Reduction

Staff ReporterProfile 0

The UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) on May.27 announced the arrival of Indian official Kamal Kishore who started his term as UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’s special representative for disaster risk reduction.

Kishore succeeds Japan’s Mami Mizutori at the position. His appointment was announced by Guterres.

“The UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) welcomed on May.20 the arrival of Mr. Kamal Kishore, who started his term as the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General (SRSG) for Disaster Risk Reduction and the Head of UNDRR,” the UNDRR said in a statement.

Kishore praised Mizutori’s leadership and thanked Paola Albrito for serving as the acting SRSG prior to his arrival.

“UNDRR’s ambition matches the scale of the problem,” he said.

Kishore has worked in the sphere of disaster risk reduction at various local, national, regional and global levels. He also served as the Head of the Department of National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in India.

Prior to his tenure at NDMA, Kishore had already worked for 13 years with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in

 New Delhi, Geneva and New York. During this time, he led global advocacy to integrate disaster resilience concerns in the Sustainable Development Goals and a global team of disaster risk reduction advisers to support UNDP program countries.

Prior to UNDP, he served as Director of Information and Research, and Manager of the Extreme Climate Events Programme covering Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam at the Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre in

 Bangkok from 1996 to 2002, and as an Architect at the Action Research Unit for Development from 1992 to 1994 in

 New Delhi, where he worked on post-earthquake reconstruction projects.

An alumnus of IIT Roorkee, Kishore also holds a Master of Science in Urban Planning, Land and Housing Development from the Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand. He is fluent in both English and Hindi.

Federation of India Associations, Chicago’s Dazzling Gala Honors Mothers and Unveils magnificent Star Awards

Staff ReporterCommunity 0

Chicago, IL – On May 19, 2024, Chicago witnessed a remarkable celebration of love and appreciation at Ashyana Banquets, orchestrated by the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), Chicago and Desi Junction. This unforgettable Mother’s Day event honored the unsung women whose unconditional love and unwavering strength shape our lives in profound ways. This event was also the big reveal and unveiling of the upcoming ‘Star Awards’

The event was expertly conceptualized, conducted and managed by the Jassi Parmar and Desi Junction Team, whose charisma and wit added flair to the proceedings.

The evening began with a vibrant Social Hour, setting the stage for an enchanting journey of recognition and jubilation. The melodious performance by Payel Ganguly & Group focusing on Bollywood songs about motherhood and families

Federation of India Associations Chicago's Dazzling GalaWith humorous announcements about the uniqueness of personalities of Chairman and Founder of FIA, Sunil Shah, Vice-Chairman, Neil Khot, President Pratibha Jairath and past President Vinita Gulabani were invited to the stage to commence the program. Chairman and Founder President Sunil Shah spoke about the past achievements of FIA, current President eloquently spoke of Mother’s Day celebration and Vice Chairman Neil Khot pumped up the excitement with teasers about the surprises to be unveiled. Past President Vinita Gulabani gave the inner workings of FIA and how FIA manages to contribute to the community and host these spectacular programs.

Chairman and Founder President Sunil Shah then invited the Chief Guest to the stage, Consulate General of India Somnath Ghosh, this was followed by President Pratibha Jairath inviting US Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthy to the stage. Both spoke about the role mothers play in shaping up not only the families but also the society and how we all become better citizens.

With spirited flair, the stage came alive as Chairman and Founder of FIA, Sunil Shah, Vice-Chairman Neil Khot, President Pratibha Jairath, and past President Vinita Gulabani took center stage to kickstart the evening’s festivities. Chairman and Founder President Sunil Shah regaled the audience with anecdotes of FIA’s illustrious journey, while President Pratibha Jairath eloquently championed the spirit of Mother’s Day celebration. Vice Chairman Neil Khot electrified the atmosphere with tantalizing hints about the surprises awaiting, setting the stage abuzz with anticipation. Past President Vinita Gulabani spoke about the intricate workings of FIA, shedding light on the organization’s profound impact on the in Chicagoland and its unwavering commitment to serve the community.

The grand Unveil, the prestigious “Star Awards” trophy, symbolizing excellence and achievement within the community, was unveiled by the chief guests. FIA announced the categories for these awards, including Entrepreneur of the Decade, Best Medical Professional, Best Community Organization, and Community Leader of the Year etc.., sparking excitement and anticipation among attendees.

FIA Ambassadors for the evening, Falguni Sukhadia, Priyanka Parekh, and Hemendra Shah, managed the awards presentations flawlessly with grace and efficiency, ensuring a seamless flow of events and controlled the backstage operations with great precision.

The highlight of the evening, the Mother’s Day Awards Ceremony commenced, where extraordinary mothers were celebrated for their sacrifices and devotion. Awardees, including Mrs. Anandita Ghosh, Riya Krishnamoorthi, Santosh Kumar, Smita N. Shah, Sweety Loomba, Dr. Kruti Vyas, Punima Brahmbhatt, Kanan Dhingra, Aishwarya Sharma, Jaspreet Kaur, Promila Kumar, Mini Multani, Dr. Sunita Narang, Milli Jain, Asha Raj Khanna, Smita Shah, Sukhi Singh, and Kelly Suga, exemplified grace, resilience, and compassion.

Esteemed First Lady of FIA, Rita Shah wished everyone a very Happy Mother’s Day and delighted all the awardees with a surprise song in her sweet voice as she sang ‘Kitni Achchhi Hai, Tu Kitni Bholi Hai Pyaari Pyaari Hai O Maa’ celebrating the invaluable role of mothers in our lives.

The evening was further enriched by captivating performances by Rasika Bandekar with her classical dance performance and Dancing Divas (Trusha) with the medley of dance on various songs. This was followed by open dance floor with everyone jumping in pulsating beats.

During the conclusion of the event, another surprise awaited attendees, sponsored by Ramesh Punater and Naresh Shah, who generously provided special prizes in various categories such as Best Dancer, Most Enthusiastic Person, and more.

The concept, design and event management was done by team Desi Junction and we could see the amazing collaboration between these two organizations. Kamlesh Kapoor, the creative genius behind all impactful videos and presentations, led the Tech team, delivering a visually stunning experience. Dinesh Kapoor and Atul Wahi ensured all guests were welcomed and assigned to their tables, with their smooth management of Ticket Control for more than 300 guests.

Looking ahead, the “Star Awards” will encompass the celebrations of India’s 78th Independence Day, with a grand red-carpet event to be held on Aug 16, 2024 at Matrix Club, promising an evening of elegance, wow factor, pride, and cultural richness.

MS Dhoni Emerges as Surprise Contender for Indian Cricket Team’s Head Coach Role, Rivaling Gautam Gambhir in Speculation

Staff ReporterSports, Cricket 0

In an unexpected turn of events, MS Dhoni has emerged as a potential candidate for the head coach position of the Indian cricket team, introducing a fresh angle to the ongoing speculations surrounding Rahul Dravid’s successor. This surprising revelation originates from Rajkumar Sharma, the childhood coach of Virat Kohli, amidst prevalent speculations favoring Gautam Gambhir for the role.

As the deadline for applications for the head coach role of the Indian men’s cricket team draws near on May 27, speculations are rife within the cricketing community. The BCCI’s secretive approach has only added fuel to the fire, heightening the intrigue surrounding the selection process. While initial reports have indicated Gambhir as the frontrunner, Rajkumar Sharma’s backing of MS Dhoni has stirred the pot.

Sharma’s endorsement carries weight due to his close ties with Virat Kohli and his esteemed reputation within Indian cricket circles. Speaking on India News’ CRICIT PREDICTA, Sharma emphasized Dhoni’s extensive experience and successful track record, positioning him as a strong contender for the role.

Highlighting Dhoni’s credentials, Sharma pointed out his remarkable leadership qualities during his tenure as India’s captain, guiding the team to two World Cup triumphs and various other achievements. Sharma underlined Dhoni’s knack for managing a star-studded lineup, which included cricketing luminaries like Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag, as evidence of his exceptional leadership and tactical prowess.

“Dhoni will have more respect in the dressing room, and he has played this format for a long time,” Sharma affirmed, emphasizing Dhoni’s ability to command respect and lead by example.

Despite ongoing discussions about his retirement, Dhoni continues to wield significant influence in cricketing circles. His recent performances in the IPL 2024, coupled with Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanath’s anticipation of Dhoni’s return for another season, underscore his enduring impact on the sport. Dhoni’s stint as a mentor during the 2021 T20 World Cup further underscores his potential contributions off the field.

The debate surrounding the head coach position has elicited varied opinions from former cricketers. Atul Wasan, a former India fast bowler, advocates for a shift in approach in T20 cricket, suggesting the adoption of a mentorship model akin to football managers rather than the traditional coaching role.

“I think the role of a coach should be removed in T20 cricket and a mentor should be kept in its place,” Wasan opined, citing historical successes of cricket teams and attributing them more to player performance rather than coaching influence.

With Rahul Dravid’s tenure as head coach nearing its conclusion following the T20 World Cup, the BCCI faces a pivotal decision. The selection of the next head coach will significantly influence the team’s trajectory going forward. Whether the board opts for the seasoned leadership of Gambhir or the unparalleled experience of Dhoni, the decision will shape the next phase of Indian cricket.

As the cricketing fraternity eagerly anticipates the BCCI’s announcement, the debate intensifies and the stakes escalate. With personalities like Dhoni and Gambhir in contention, the decision transcends mere personnel selection; it symbolizes the dawn of a new era for Indian cricket.

Pushpa 2: The Rule Breaks Records with Sensational Single Releases

Staff ReporterCinema, Entertainment 0

The anticipation surrounding Pushpa 2: The Rule continues to soar as it sets new benchmarks for success. Following the teaser’s explosive debut, the release of its first single, ‘Pushpa Pushpa,’ has sparked widespread excitement, captivating audiences with Allu Arjun’s compelling portrayal as PushpaRaj. This initial track has not only captured hearts but also achieved a remarkable milestone, amassing over 100 million views and 2.26 million likes across six languages on YouTube.

Celebrating this monumental achievement, the makers took to social media to unveil a striking poster, commemorating the overwhelming response from fans.

As anticipation mounts, the stage is set for the unveiling of the second single, ‘The Couple Song,’ from Pushpa 2: The Rule. Scheduled for release tomorrow at 11:07 AM, this upcoming track promises to be a double delight for fans. Renowned melody queen Shreya Ghoshal lends her vocals to the song, which will be presented in six different languages.

Pushpa 2: The Rule, helmed by director Sukumar and produced by Mythri Movie Makers, is poised for a global theatrical release on August 15th, 2024. Starring Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, and Fahadh Faasil in pivotal roles, the film’s latest teaser has ignited unprecedented anticipation among audiences, setting the stage for what promises to be an enthralling cinematic experience.

Indian Meteorological Department Forecasts Above-Normal Monsoon Rainfall, Easing Heatwave Concerns

Staff ReporterEnvironment, Nation 0

The chief of the Indian Meteorological Department, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, announced today at a media briefing that there’s a likelihood of above-normal rainfall during the upcoming monsoon season across the nation, providing a much-needed respite from the prevailing heatwave. Mohapatra stated, “The South West Monsoon rainfall over the country as a whole is likely to be 106% of the long-period average with a model error of 4%. Thus, above-normal rainfall is most likely over the country as a whole.”

This forecast aligns with earlier predictions of heightened rainfall this monsoon, driven by favorable La Nina conditions anticipated to manifest between August and September.

The Indian Meteorological Department anticipates a decline in the ongoing heatwave across India starting from May 30, although it issued warnings regarding severe heatwave conditions prevailing over northwest India for the next three days. Earlier alerts had been released for Delhi and Rajasthan due to temperatures soaring to 50 degrees Celsius in specific areas.

Attributing the recent heatwave in northwest India and certain parts of the central region to various factors, including deficient rainfall, intensified dry and warm winds, and the presence of an anti-cyclonic circulation over southwest Rajasthan and adjoining Gujarat, the IMD has been closely monitoring the situation.

Additionally, the IMD’s projections indicate the onset of western disturbances over northwest India starting Thursday, coinciding with the transition of El Nino conditions to a neutral state.

In the wake of Cyclone Remal’s landfall in Bangladesh last night, coastal Bengal is expected to experience heavy rainfall today, while the northeast region will likely witness extremely heavy rainfall until tomorrow, according to forecasts from the Meteorological Office.

Microsoft Unveils Groundbreaking AI Advancements at Build 2024 Conference, Empowering Global Innovation

Staff ReporterGlobal, Technology 0

At the recent Build 2024 conference hosted by Microsoft, CEO Satya Nadella commenced the keynote by recounting a compelling narrative about how technology had empowered an Indian farmer. This story marked the beginning of a series of exciting advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), including updates to Azure and Copilot, as well as groundbreaking innovations from collaborators like OpenAI.

Nadella shared, “In January 2023, I met a rural Indian farmer who used GPT-3.5, in his own voice, to understand government farm subsidies he’d heard about on television. It was a powerful moment for me. It illustrated the incredible impact of a cutting-edge model developed on the West Coast of the United States, now being used to directly improve the life of a rural farmer in India.”

During the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting at Davos in January, Nadella discussed the case of the Indian farmer with Klaus Schwab, the founder and executive chairman of the World Economic Forum (WEF).

Nadella recounted how the farmer sought assistance with accessing a government program, stating, “He expressed a complex need in one of the local languages. This got translated and interpreted by a bot and a response came back saying go to a portal and here is how you will access the programme.”

Furthermore, Nadella revealed that the farmer initially hesitated to engage with the program and requested the bot to handle it on his behalf. “And, it completed it and the reason why it was able to complete it was that the developer building it had taken GPT [General Purpose Technology] and trained it over all of the government of India documents and then scaffolded it with the speech recognition software,” Nadella added.

The Build 2024 conference showcased two significant announcements from Microsoft in the realm of AI. Firstly, developers can now utilize OpenAI’s most advanced model, GPT-40, offering revolutionary AI capabilities. Secondly, Microsoft introduced Phi-3-Vision, a novel Small Language Model (SLM) capable of comprehending and analyzing images with exceptional proficiency.

These pioneering tools will be accessible through Microsoft’s Azure AI Studio, providing developers with a centralized platform to harness these advancements and explore the frontiers of AI.

Microsoft’s endeavors didn’t conclude there. They also unveiled robust new virtual machines tailored for efficiently managing AI workloads. Notably, they emerged as the inaugural cloud provider to integrate AMD’s state-of-the-art MI300X AI accelerator chip. This integration enhances the Azure ND MI300X v5 virtual machine series, positioning it as a formidable entity for executing intricate AI tasks.

India’s NHRC Faces Scrutiny: Upholding Human Rights Standards Amidst Accreditation Challenges

Staff ReporterDiplomacy, Nation 0

**Enhancing Human Rights Oversight: India’s NHRC in Focus**

The establishment of the National Human Rights Commission of India (NHRC) in accordance with the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 (PHRA) was a significant step towards safeguarding human rights within the nation. Enacted on 28th September 1993, the PHRA delineates the framework for the constitution of the NHRC, State Human Rights Commissions, and Human Rights Courts, with the aim of bolstering human rights protection and related matters.

According to Section 2(d) of the PHRA, human rights encompass “the rights relating to life, liberty, equality and dignity of the individual guaranteed by the Constitution or embodied in the International Covenants and enforceable by courts in India.” These international covenants, as defined in Section 2(f), include agreements such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 16, 1966.

The PHRA also outlines the functions of the NHRC in Section 12, affirming its role in upholding human rights standards. Furthermore, the Central Government has the authority to notify additional covenants or conventions aimed at strengthening civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights, aligning with international norms endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly.

The NHRC’s accreditation status holds immense significance in the global human rights landscape. The commission attained ‘A’ status accreditation from the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) in 1999, indicating full compliance with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) principles and the 1993 ‘Paris Principles’. The accreditation process, conducted every five years, involves rigorous review and peer assessment to ensure adherence to international standards.

India’s retention of ‘A’ status accreditation through successive reviews until 2017 underscored its commitment to human rights values. The accreditation not only facilitates India’s active participation in UN forums but also enhances its credibility on the global stage. However, recent developments have raised concerns regarding NHRC’s autonomy and effectiveness in addressing human rights violations.

The denial of ‘A’ status accreditation in the latest review held on May 1, 2024, signals a critical juncture for the NHRC. Issues such as transparency in member appointments, the presence of police officers in human rights investigations, and inadequate gender and minority representation have been cited as areas needing improvement. These shortcomings challenge the commission’s ability to uphold the ‘Paris Principles’ and maintain independence from governmental influence.

The inclusion of Manusmriti references in NHRC’s official brochure has sparked controversy due to its conflicting principles with constitutional values. While Manusmriti offers insights into ancient Indian literature, its endorsement by the NHRC raises concerns about religious bias and undermines the commission’s credibility in promoting modern human rights concepts.

To address these challenges, the NHRC must heed the recommendations of international bodies like the OHCHR and GANHRI, focusing on enhancing transparency, independence, and accountability. Additionally, proactive measures from state and central governments, along with judicial intervention, are essential to uphold human rights standards and restore India’s reputation in the global human rights arena.

Bolstering the NHRC’s functionality is imperative for advancing human rights in India and restoring the nation’s standing in the international community. By aligning its practices with constitutional values and international norms, the NHRC can play a pivotal role in ensuring justice, equality, and dignity for all individuals.

Indian Elections: Is BJP Paying For Its Overconfidence?

Staff ReporterIndia, Opinion 0

There is little doubt in the minds of many today that this election is turning. It will not be the cakewalk that the BJP imagined it would be for the party. Seeking a third straight term, which was only recently seen as a given, is no more an easy task. There are many numbers being tossed, but almost all of them bring the BJP to and below the magic figure of 272. The only question that is being asked is how much can the party go down from that half-way mark required to form a government.

All indicators point to the ruling party taking heavy losses this time. What looked like rock-solid confidence has evaporated almost overnight. One clear indicator is that there is no talk anywhere in the BJP circles of a “char sau paar” (past the 400-mark) that was the hallmark of the BJP campaign as it began this run.  Yet, it is good to add a cautionary note. There are still five phases of voting left and a month to counting-day itself. Anything can happen. The election will need careful monitoring and is all set to becoming a thriller.

Voter turnout in the first two phases of the election has been lower than expected. There are many ways to read this. One is the view that since the BJP put in so much effort in declaring right at the beginning that there is virtually no contest, and the message was sent out with the full force of its rather rich, well-funded campaign and machinery, the BJP voters were less than enthused and decided – what is the point in working since the end result is given? The other is the weather – the summer has been unusually hot this time. The third is that the BJP itself has not been able to move its cadres, one reason being that the election was declared as won before the first vote was cast, and the second and more important one being the influx of all kinds and varieties of non-BJP workers who have joined the ranks on their own accord or have been lured/forced to move to the BJP.

The odd mix of “Intruders” versus cadres Is In part causing a mismatch of chemistry, and so building a sense of despondency within the committed workers who now feel excluded from the party they have worked in and for over a number of years. The last reason could be despondency among a broader section of the electorate, and if this is the cause, then the lower turnout could go any way in terms of influencing the results.

Bad news for BJP

But as the week drew to a close, there was more bad news for the BJP. On one hand, Rahul Gandhi was virtually on fire, demanding that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi apologise to every girl and woman in the country for seeking votes for Prajwal Revanna, a “mass rapist”, and further saying that votes for Revanna would strengthen Modi. That was at an election rally in support of the BJP’s new ally, the JD(S), where the prime minister made as clear an appeal as he could in support of JD(S) candidates, including Revanna, who is the grandson of the former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda. Revanna fled to Germany the day after polling ended in his constituency of Hassan in Karnataka on April 26, just as tapes of his advances and assaults against women were leaked. The BJP has not been able to respond to the questions on support for Revanna, which particularly exposed the prime minister himself, given that it has emerged that the party was warned well in advance of Revanna’s conduct and the allegations against him, and went ahead with endorsing his candidature.

On the other hand, bad news for the BJP also came from the failed attempt to stir up a controversy over allegations that the Congress wanted to redistribute wealth, or take it from the middle class and give it, as the BJP alleged, to minorities.  This blatant and desperate attempt to bring in religion into an issue that has more to do with rising inequality, which has been highlighted by Rahul Gandhi, backfired with a laughable protest march by a section of students from Galgotias University, which claims to be NAAC Grade A+ with more than 300 national and international awards. Students in the protest march could barely read the placards against the Congress and knew nothing about the issues they said they had gathered to protest against! This deplorable display has not only highlighted the state of higher education, but the wages of a system under which fake news is fed and spread right from the very top of the political order, with students asking no questions and learning with no interest or curiosity. The university website begins with this headline: “Excellence is what we strive to achieve”.

In many ways, the BJP is suffering from the impact of its own over confidence, and its liberal use of communalism to get over the slide that it appears to be facing now. As Modi himself goes to the extreme in his attacks on the Congress (he claimed that the Congress manifesto “has the stamp of the Muslim League”), the party seems not to have calculated that there will be some price to pay for its role in the electoral bonds, the arrest of opposition leaders like Arvind Kejriwal and its attempt to get power at any cost, like it did in Maharashtra. Maharashtra is one state where the Opposition is getting huge traction.

Boast backfiring?

The story of how the BJP collected Rs.8,000 crores via the electoral bonds, revealed by the force of the Supreme Court, has led to the widespread view that the party is at its core corrupt. The “BJP washing machine” that cleans up the corrupt the moment they shift sides and join the BJP has also cost the party in terms of its image and standing, even among loyalists. The boast that it will get more than 400 seats has backfired because it has led to fears that this mandate would endanger the Constitution, with the BJP then in a position to trifle with some of the basic guarantees, like reservations. Further, there is also the huge fear of an impending dictatorial style being embedded into the nation’s democratic fabric should Modi get a third straight term.

All in all, the issues on the agenda are very different from the issues that the BJP thought would be on the agenda. The finals could go down to the wire and there will be many lessons learned once the votes are counted and the results are declared.

(The writer is the Managing Editor of The Billion Press. Views are personal. By special arrangement with The Billion Press)

Read more at: https://www.southasiamonitor.org/spotlight/indian-elections-bjp-paying-its-overconfidence

Libertarian Party Nominates Chase Oliver for President, Rejecting Trump and Kennedy Bids

Staff ReporterPolitics, USA 0

The Libertarian Party made a significant decision on Sunday, nominating party activist Chase Oliver for president, turning down the bids of former President Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Both Trump and Kennedy had addressed the party’s convention, but the party ultimately chose Oliver as its candidate.

The nomination of Oliver is notable given the historical performance of third parties in U.S. presidential elections. In the previous election, the Libertarian candidate garnered just 1% of the vote. However, this year, with the highly anticipated rematch between Trump and Democratic President Joe Biden, the attention on the Libertarian Party’s decision has intensified. The outcome of the election could once again be influenced by narrow vote margins in a few key battleground states.

Chase Oliver expressed his excitement about the nomination on social media, declaring, “We did it! I am officially the presidential nominee. It’s time to unify and move forward for liberty.” His enthusiasm reflects the party’s commitment to its core values of liberty and individual freedoms.

Former President Trump’s appearance at the convention on Saturday was met with a mixed reception. Despite his efforts to garner support, he was repeatedly booed by many attendees. However, his decision to address an audience not entirely aligned with him was commended by his Republican allies, underscoring his willingness to engage with diverse viewpoints.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., in contrast, received a warmer welcome when he spoke at the convention on Friday. He criticized both Trump and Biden for their handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Kennedy’s support for the Libertarian Party could have facilitated his efforts to secure ballot access in all 50 states, a significant challenge for third-party candidates aiming to participate in the presidential debates.

The Libertarian Party’s platform emphasizes principles such as small government and individual freedoms. Its policy positions span the ideological spectrum, encompassing ideas that can be perceived as liberal, conservative, or neither.

Chase Oliver, the newly nominated candidate, hails from Atlanta and has previously run for the U.S. Senate and U.S. House from Georgia. His campaign platform advocates for substantial reductions in the federal budget, aiming to achieve budgetary balance. Additionally, Oliver supports abolishing the death penalty and closing all overseas military bases, while also advocating for an end to military assistance to countries like Israel and Ukraine.

Trump Found Guilty On All Counts In Hush Money Case. What Happens Next?

Staff ReporterUSA 0

A New York jury on Thursday found Donald Trump guilty on all 34 felony counts of falsifying business records — the first time a former U.S. president has been convicted of a crime.

The jury reached its verdict in the historic case after 9.5 hours of deliberations, which began Wednesday.

He’ll be sentenced on July 11, four days before the Republican National Convention. He faces penalties ranging from a fine to four years in prison on each count, although it’s expected he would be sentenced for the offenses concurrently, and not consecutively.

Follow live updates here.

“This was a disgrace. This was a rigged trial by a conflicted judge who was corrupt,” he fumed to reporters afterward.

The verdict was read in the Manhattan courtroom where Trump has been on trial since April 15. He had pleaded not guilty to 34 counts of falsifying business records related to a hush money payment made by his former lawyer Michael Cohen to adult film star Stormy Daniels in the final weeks of the 2016 presidential election.

The judge thanked the jurors for their service in the weeks-long trial. “You gave this matter the attention it deserved, and I want to thank you for that,” Judge Juan Merchan told them. Trump appeared to be scowling at the jurors as they walked by him on their way out of the courtroom.

Trump’s attorney Todd Blanche made a motion for acquittal after the jury left the room, which the judge denied.

The conviction comes as Trump is the presumptive Republican nominee for president. He immediately set out fundraising off the news, posting on his website that he’s “a political prisoner” and urging his followers to give money.

Legal experts have told NBC News that even if Trump is sentenced to time behind bars, he’d most likely be allowed to remain out of jail while he appeals the verdict, a process that could take months or more. That means the sentence would most likely not interfere with his ability to accept the Republican nomination for president at the July convention.

President Joe Biden’s campaign praised the verdict in a statement, but stressed that Trump needs to be defeated in November.

“In New York today, we saw that no one is above the law,” the campaign’s communications director Michael Tyler said, but the “verdict does not change the fact that the American people face a simple reality. There is still only one way to keep Donald Trump out of the Oval Office: at the ballot box.”

In his closing argument earlier this week, prosecutor Joshua Steinglass told the jury that “the law is the law and it applies to everyone equally. There is no special standard for this defendant.”

“You, the jury, have the ability to hold the defendant accountable,” Steinglass said.

Trump had maintained the Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office had no case and that there had been no crime. “President Trump is innocent. He did not commit any crimes,” Blanche said in his closing statement, arguing the payments to Cohen were legitimate.

Prosecutors said the disguised payment to Cohen was part of a “planned, coordinated long-running conspiracy to influence the 2016 election, to help Donald Trump get elected through illegal expenditures, to silence people who had something bad to say about his behavior, using doctored corporate records and bank forms to conceal those payments along the way.”

“It was election fraud. Pure and simple,” prosecutor Matthew Colangelo said in his opening statement.

While Trump was not charged with conspiracy, prosecutors argued he caused the records to be falsified because he was trying to cover up a violation of state election law- and falsifying business records with the intent to cover another crime raises the offense from a misdemeanor to a felony.

Americans Brace for Hefty Water Rate Hikes Amidst Push for PFAS Removal

Staff ReporterEnvironment, Health 0

In return for purer water, Americans across the nation may soon face substantial financial burdens. Water systems are cautioning residents about significant rate increases as they gear up to implement technology to filter out harmful chemicals known as PFAS.

Utilities from South Florida to upstate New York are alerting customers that they might experience considerable price hikes following the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandate to eliminate these substances, linked to various cancers and other illnesses, from their systems. The EPA recently announced its requirement for utilities with water systems containing elevated levels of six types of PFAS to eradicate them from the water.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, represent a group of thousands of chemicals utilized in the production of nonstick and waterproof products as well as firefighting foam. These substances have become pervasive in the environment, persisting for extended periods without breaking down.

Exposure to these persistent chemicals has been associated with heightened risks of prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers, compromised immune systems, elevated cholesterol, and developmental issues in children. Now, utilities nationwide face the unprecedented task of removing them from drinking water to mitigate customer exposure. However, this endeavor comes at a cost.

Broward County officials in South Florida cautioned residents about potential drastic water rate increases. Alan Garcia, director of Broward County Water and Wastewater Services, indicated that average monthly water bills, currently around $26, could potentially double or triple as the county addresses PFAS filtration. Yet, the exact extent of the rate increase remains uncertain. With 66,000 accounts, representing an estimated 230,000 individuals, the utility is bracing for substantial changes.

Similarly, officials in Fort Worth, Texas, foresee repercussions for ratepayers in light of the recent EPA regulation. Chris Harder, Fort Worth Water Director, acknowledged the anticipated expenses and their impact on ratepayers, emphasizing efforts to secure federal funding support to alleviate the burden.

Reports from water suppliers in the Buffalo, N.Y., area also suggest that PFAS filtration efforts could influence rates, signaling broader implications beyond specific locales. According to Chris Moody, regulatory technical manager at the American Water Works Association, numerous systems nationwide may face rate increases as a consequence of the rule.

While it remains unclear which water systems will necessitate PFAS filtration, utilities have a few years to conduct tests to determine if their chemical levels surpass federal thresholds. Should they exceed these thresholds, utilities must install filtration technology, indicating that communities warned of rate increases may only represent the beginning. The EPA estimates that approximately 6 percent to 10 percent of water systems will ultimately require action, though Moody believes this figure may underestimate the extent of contamination nationwide.

Much of the financial strain will stem from the installation and maintenance costs of filters capable of eliminating these toxic substances. Despite recent settlements in a major class-action lawsuit against PFAS manufacturers, which could potentially offset treatment costs, Moody doubts these settlements will suffice.

He anticipates that any financial restitution will likely cover only a fraction of the overall expenses. While the added costs pose significant financial burdens, they offer the crucial benefit of reducing communities’ exposure to harmful substances. Garcia acknowledged the importance of PFAS treatment, characterizing it as a necessary measure. Nonetheless, he lamented that communities are bearing the brunt of companies’ past PFAS usage.

Anasuya Sengupta Makes History as First Indian Actress to Win Best Actress at Cannes Film Festival, Signaling India’s Rising Influence on Global Cinema Stage

Staff ReporterEntertainment, News, Women 0

In a groundbreaking and historic occurrence, Anasuya Sengupta has made history by becoming the inaugural Indian actress to clinch the esteemed Best Actress accolade at the Cannes Film Festival.

The extraordinary feat was attributed to her exceptional portrayal in ‘The Shameless,’ a compelling cinematic piece vying for recognition in the Un Certain Regard segment of the 77th iteration of the festival.

Upon accepting the award, Anasuya fervently dedicated her triumph to various marginalized communities worldwide, especially the queer community, expressing, “This is for the queer community everywhere, and all other marginalized communities all over the world, for bravely fighting a fight they shouldn’t have to fight.” She further emphasized the significance of embracing the female perspective in cinema, stating, “More female gaze is the way forward, and the browner the better.”

The 77th Cannes Film Festival stood as a momentous occasion for India, with Anasuya’s historic win setting the stage. Additionally, the festival commemorated nearly 48 years since the release of Shyam Benegal’s iconic ‘Manthan’ through a special screening.

Moreover, Indian luminaries and influencers captivated audiences on the prestigious red carpet, underscoring India’s escalating impact on the global cinematic landscape. This year, Indian cinema seized numerous nominations across diverse categories, highlighting its burgeoning prominence.

Hailing from Kolkata, Anasuya Sengupta delivered a stellar portrayal as Renuka in ‘The Shameless,’ helmed by Bulgarian director Konstantin Bojanov. The film delves into Renuka’s daunting yet empowering odyssey as she escapes a brothel in Delhi following the demise of a police officer. It also delves into her intricate romance with her love interest, depicted by Omara Shetty.

Further elevating India’s triumph at Cannes 2024, two Indian films clinched top accolades in the La Cinef Selection. ‘Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know,’ a Kannada short film directed by Chidananda Naik, a student from the Film and Television Institute of India, secured the first position. Meanwhile, ‘Bunnyhood,’ directed by Mansi Maheshwari from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, and currently pursuing studies in the UK, secured the third position.

As the curtains closed on the 77th Cannes Film Festival on May 25, it etched a significant milestone for Indian cinema on the global arena, showcasing its prowess and potential to captivate audiences worldwide.

Global Life Expectancy to Rise by 2050, But More Years in Poor Health Expected, Study Reveals

Staff ReporterHealth, Health Science 0

A study released on Friday predicts a significant rise in global life expectancy by 2050, despite current geopolitical, metabolic, and environmental challenges. The study, derived from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2021 and published in The Lancet journal, forecasts an increase of 4.9 years for men and 4.2 years for women.

However, the study also indicates that people will likely spend more of these additional years in poor health. This is primarily due to a shift from communicable, maternal, neonatal, and nutritional diseases (CMNNs) to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and diabetes.

According to the research, global life expectancy is expected to rise to 78.1 years by 2050, representing a 4.5-year increase from current figures. Additionally, global healthy life expectancy (HALE) — the average number of years a person can expect to live in good health — is projected to increase to 67.4 years by 2050, an improvement of 2.6 years.

“In addition to an increase in life expectancy overall, we have found that the disparity in life expectancy across geographies will lessen,” said Chris Murray, Chair of Health Metrics Sciences at the University of Washington and Director of the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME).

Murray emphasized that the most significant opportunity to reduce the global disease burden lies in policy interventions aimed at preventing and mitigating behavioral and metabolic risk factors. “There is immense opportunity ahead for us to influence the future of global health by getting ahead of these rising metabolic and dietary risk factors, particularly those related to behavioral and lifestyle factors like high blood sugar, high body mass index, and high blood pressure,” he stated.

The findings underscore the importance of addressing non-communicable diseases, which are poised to become the predominant health challenges globally. The research highlights the need for robust health policies that focus on preventive measures to curb the rise of these conditions.

The shift from communicable diseases to non-communicable diseases marks a significant transition in global health trends. While advancements in medical science and public health have led to a decline in communicable diseases, the increasing prevalence of NCDs presents new challenges. These diseases are often linked to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and exposure to tobacco and alcohol.

This trend underscores the necessity for comprehensive health strategies that encompass preventive care, early detection, and management of NCDs. Policymakers and health professionals must prioritize interventions that target these risk factors to improve health outcomes and reduce the disease burden.

The anticipated rise in life expectancy and healthy life expectancy indicates progress in global health but also highlights the need for sustained efforts to address health disparities. The reduction in geographical disparities in life expectancy suggests that more regions will experience improvements in health outcomes, but it also calls for targeted efforts to support areas that lag behind.

Murray’s call for policy interventions reflects a broader consensus among health experts on the importance of addressing behavioral and metabolic risk factors. Effective policies can lead to significant health improvements and contribute to the overall well-being of populations.

The study’s projections serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in global health and the critical role of preventive measures in addressing these challenges. As the global population continues to grow and age, the burden of non-communicable diseases is expected to increase, necessitating proactive and comprehensive health strategies.

While the projected increase in global life expectancy by 2050 is a positive development, it comes with the caveat that people will spend more years in poor health due to the rise of non-communicable diseases. Addressing these diseases through effective policy interventions targeting behavioral and metabolic risk factors is essential for improving global health outcomes. The study highlights the need for a concerted effort to tackle the emerging health challenges and ensure that the gains in life expectancy translate into better quality of life for all.

Russia and India to Begin Talks on Visa-Free Group Tourism in June, Agreement Expected by Year-End

Staff ReporterDiplomacy, Travel 0

The initial discussions between Russia and India regarding the establishment of a visa-free group tourist exchange are set to commence in June, with the expectation of finalizing a bilateral agreement by the end of the year. This information was disclosed by Nikita Kondratyev, the Director of the Russian Economic Development Ministry’s Department of Multilateral Economic Cooperation and Special Projects, to the Russian state-owned news agency Sputnik.

“The process with group visa-free trips has moved a little. The Indian side returned with the answer that they are at the final stage of internal state coordination and asked us again for the latest draft of the document and promised to return in the very near future. I think we will hold the first consultations with them in June to discuss a draft agreement,” Kondratyev stated at the International Economic Forum ‘Russia–Islamic World: Kazan Forum 2024’ held in Kazan.

He further added, “We plan to sign by the end of the year.”

Previously, the ministry had indicated that it anticipates initiating visa-free tourist exchanges with India in 2024, following the precedents set by similar agreements with China and Iran.

On August 1, 2023, Russia and China commenced a visa-free group tourist exchange under an intergovernmental agreement. Simultaneously, a visa-free group tourist exchange between Russia and Iran also began on the same date.

World Malayali Council Hosts ‘Rhythm 2024’: A Vibrant Celebration of Indian Music and Dance in Washington DC

Staff ReporterCommunity, Culture 0

The World Malayali Council (WMC), Washington DC Province, proudly organized “Rhythm 2024,” a mesmerizing music and dance festival, on May 4th, 2024, at the Cabin John Middle School Auditorium in Maryland. This event was a tribute to India’s vibrant cultural heritage, featuring a wide array of rhythms and melodies from Kerala and other regions of India, which captivated over 200 attendees, primarily from the Indian diaspora in the greater Washington DC area, including Maryland and Virginia. The event was hosted by Mrs. Saroopa Anil, Ambika Kumar, and Arya Jithin.

The evening began with a welcoming speech by Mr. Deleep Kumar, Entertainment Chair, followed by Mr. Mohan Kumar, President of WMC, Washington DC Province. In his address, Mr. Kumar emphasized the importance of global community associations like WMC in promoting connectivity and inclusivity across geographical, cultural, and socio-economic boundaries. He highlighted the essential role these organizations play in tackling global challenges and creating opportunities for shared prosperity and well-being.

Mrs. Saroopa Anil, one of the hosts, spoke about Kerala’s rich cultural heritage and the significant contributions of the Non-Resident Indian (NRI) community in preserving and promoting these traditions. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Chief Guest Mrs. Thangamani Aravindan, Global WMC VP(AR), and Guest of Honor Mr. Jinesh Thampi, President of WMC (America Region), symbolized the event’s inauguration. They were joined by Mohankumar, Dr. Deleep Kumar, Dr. Narayanan Valappil, and Dr. Jayakumar Nair, members of the WMC joint committee.

The program showcased a mesmerizing array of performances, including classical dances like Thiruvathira and Bharatanatyam, performed by talented artists. Additionally, Bollywood-inspired dances captivated the audience. Highlights included the enthralling Kavadi dance by senior citizens and dynamic performances by young aspiring dancers, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Indian cultural traditions across generations.

Prominent community leaders such as Sushma Praveen, President of KAGW, Mr. Shelly Prabhakaran, Vice President of KCSMW, and Dr. Kala Shahi, General Secretary of FOKANA, provided their insights and support during the event, underscoring the collaborative spirit of the Indian diaspora in Washington DC.

The evening concluded with a dazzling dance performance by Mrs. Bindu Rajive’s team, followed by a heartfelt vote of thanks from Dr. Jayakumar Nair, Secretary of WMC, Washington DC Province. Attendees then enjoyed a sumptuous dinner and engaged in social networking, reflecting on the success of “Rhythm 2024” in promoting cultural exchange and community cohesion.

The success of “Rhythm 2024” was made possible by the invaluable contributions of all dancers and choreographers and the support of individuals such as Dr. Narayanan Valappil, Malini Menon, Seetha Ellath Valappil, Arya, Moideen Kutty, Anil Thaivalapil, Sunil Thaivalapil, Rehmia, Dr. Madhu Nambiar, Dhanjayan, Peet Thaivalapil, Visanth Divya, Anil Krishnankutty, Vijily, Saya, Sheeja, Raji, Kutty Menon, Shahi Prabhakaran, Ajayakumar Kesavan, Bini Ajayakumar, Ambika Kumar, Arya Jithin, and many others, whose dedication and efforts were instrumental in making this event a resounding success.

For more information about the World Malayalee Council, Washington DC Province, please visit the official website:(https://wmc-bwdc.com).

Aimee Baruah Shines at Cannes in Traditional Assamese Attire, Showcasing Muga Silk and Ancient Designs

Staff ReporterCulture, Fashion 0

Assam’s celebrated actress, Aimee Baruah, made a striking appearance on the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival, donning a traditional Assamese ensemble. She wore a muga silk mekhela sador, which was intricately embellished with ancient Assamese designs like Goj Bota and Gam Kharu.

The Goj Bota design is a historical pattern from Assam, featuring elaborate floral and geometric shapes that trace back to the Ahom Dynasty era when muga silk was considered a luxury item, a status it still holds today.

This design represents the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Assam.

Conversely, the Gum Kharu motif is a traditional symbol of prosperity and protection, deeply ingrained in Assamese culture.

The design masterfully integrated the timeless Goj Bota and Gum Kharu motifs into this muga silk mekhela sador, employing five different threads and colours to craft intricate patterns. This blend of Eri, cotton, and Guna yarn highlighted the artistry and craftsmanship of Assam’s handloom industry.

This article will now be paraphrased into a length of exactly 1000 words, while retaining its original content and including quotes from the original piece:

Aimee Baruah, a prominent actress from Assam, made a notable entrance at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, wearing an elegant traditional Assamese outfit. This attire was a muga silk mekhela sador, which was exquisitely decorated with ancient Assamese designs, specifically Goj Bota and Gam Kharu motifs.

The Goj Bota pattern is an ancient design from Assam that features detailed floral and geometric shapes. This design has its roots in the Ahom Dynasty period, a time when muga silk was regarded as a luxury item—a status that it continues to enjoy even today.

“The Goj Bota design is an ancient pattern from Assam, featuring intricate floral and geometric shapes that date back to the time of the Ahom Dynasty when muga silk was a luxury and still is considered so.”

This design is a symbol of Assam’s rich cultural and natural beauty.

In contrast, the Gam Kharu motif is a traditional symbol of prosperity and protection, holding deep significance in Assamese culture.

“On the other hand, the Gum Kharu motif is a traditional symbol of prosperity and protection deeply rooted in Assamese culture.”

The design of Baruah’s attire seamlessly incorporated both the Goj Bota and Gam Kharu motifs. This muga silk mekhela sador was crafted using five different threads and colours to create its intricate patterns. The combination of Eri, cotton, and Guna yarn used in this attire showcased the exceptional artistry and craftsmanship that is characteristic of Assam’s handloom industry.

“The design skillfully incorporated the classic Goj Bota and Gum Kharu motif into this muga silk mekhela sador, utilising five different threads and colours to create intricate patterns with the blend of Eri, cotton, and Guna yarn showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of Assam’s handloom industry.”

Aimee Baruah’s choice of attire not only highlighted her individual elegance but also brought international attention to the rich textile traditions of Assam. Her presence on the red carpet at Cannes, adorned in such culturally significant attire, served as a powerful statement of the beauty and heritage of Assamese craftsmanship.

The muga silk mekhela sador itself is a garment of great cultural importance in Assam. Muga silk, known for its natural golden hue, is exclusive to the region and is celebrated for its durability and sheen. This type of silk is produced by the Antheraea assamensis silkworm, which is endemic to Assam. The process of producing muga silk is labor-intensive and time-consuming, which contributes to its high value and luxurious status.

The Goj Bota motif, as worn by Aimee Baruah, represents not just an artistic design but also a piece of Assam’s historical narrative. The floral and geometric patterns woven into the fabric are reminiscent of the artistic influences from the Ahom Dynasty, which ruled Assam for nearly six centuries. This dynasty was known for its patronage of the arts and culture, and the intricate designs of the Goj Bota are a testament to that legacy.

Similarly, the Gam Kharu motif has its own story to tell. Traditionally, this motif is associated with jewelry worn by Assamese women, particularly bracelets that are believed to bring prosperity and protect the wearer from harm. By incorporating this motif into her attire, Baruah brought a piece of Assamese tradition to the global stage, symbolizing the protective and prosperous elements of her culture.

The creation of Baruah’s mekhela sador involved a meticulous process that required significant skill and craftsmanship. The use of five different threads and colours added a layer of complexity to the design, making each piece unique. Eri silk, often referred to as the “fabric of peace” because its production does not involve killing the silkworm, added a dimension of ethical fashion to the ensemble. Cotton and Guna yarn were also used, providing a balance of texture and durability to the garment.

The presence of these traditional designs at an international event like the Cannes Film Festival is significant for several reasons. It underscores the global appeal and relevance of traditional Assamese textiles, which are often overshadowed by more widely recognized silk varieties like those from China or India’s own Benarasi silk. By choosing to wear an outfit adorned with Goj Bota and Gam Kharu motifs, Aimee Baruah effectively acted as an ambassador for Assamese culture, showcasing the intricate beauty and profound heritage of her home state to an international audience.

Moreover, Baruah’s appearance in such a traditional yet luxurious outfit serves as an inspiration to fashion enthusiasts and designers alike. It highlights the potential of traditional fabrics and designs in contemporary fashion, encouraging a blend of old and new that respects cultural heritage while embracing modern aesthetics. The intricate patterns and the blend of different threads and yarns demonstrate how traditional techniques can be adapted and celebrated in modern high fashion.

Aimee Baruah’s red carpet appearance at the Cannes Film Festival was more than just a fashion statement. It was a celebration of Assamese culture and craftsmanship. The muga silk mekhela sador adorned with Goj Bota and Gam Kharu motifs not only showcased the rich heritage of Assam but also highlighted the intricate artistry of its handloom industry. As Baruah walked the red carpet, she brought a piece of Assam to the world stage, reminding everyone of the timeless beauty and cultural significance of her traditional attire.

A.R. Rahman Unveils Teaser for “Headhunting to Beatboxing” Documentary at Cannes, Celebrating the Evolution of Music Across Cultures

Staff ReporterCulture, Entertainment 0

At the 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, Oscar and Grammy-winning composer A.R. Rahman unveiled the teaser for his upcoming documentary, “Headhunting to Beatboxing,” at the Bharat Pavilion. This highly anticipated documentary, directed by Rohit Gupta, delves into the rich and diverse journey of rhythm and sound, tracing the evolution of music across various cultures, tribes, and generations.

The event also saw the presence of notable figures such as Executive Producer Abu Metha, who is also an advisor to the Nagaland Chief Minister, and Executive Producer Theja Meru, Chairman of TaFMA under the Nagaland government. Together, they emphasized the collaborative nature of this project and its significance in celebrating the universal language of music.

A.R. Rahman, who produced the documentary, emphasized the profound impact of music on society. He stated, “Music has this transformative power to change society and to connect and bring relevance to existence.” Rahman highlighted that “Headhunting to Beatboxing” is a tribute to this universal rhythm that binds humanity through its diverse forms of expression. The Cannes Film Festival, renowned for its celebration of cinema, provided an ideal platform for the film’s first announcement.

Abu Metha shared insights into the film’s inception, revealing that the idea sparked when Rahman visited Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival. “The germ of the idea came up when A.R. Rahman visited Nagaland to be part of the legendary Hornbill Festival. We knew we had to be part of it,” he said. Metha praised the collaborative effort of many creative minds, particularly TaFMA, and lauded director Rohit Gupta’s skillful capture of the film’s essence. He also acknowledged the musicians of Nagaland, whose timeless stories and music reflect the aspirations of the region’s youth.

“Headhunting to Beatboxing” showcases the collaborative efforts of numerous talents. Alongside A.R. Rahman and Rohit Gupta, the documentary boasts a team of executive producers including Abu Metha, Adam J. Greig, Theja Meru, Sheila Houlahan, and Rohhit Daas. Each of these individuals brought their unique expertise to the project, enriching its narrative and production quality.

Rahman’s visit to Nagaland and his experience at the Hornbill Festival were pivotal in shaping the documentary’s direction. The Hornbill Festival, known for its vibrant celebration of Naga culture, provided a rich tapestry of musical traditions and stories that inspired the documentary’s theme. This cultural immersion allowed Rahman to witness firsthand the power of music in uniting people and preserving heritage.

The documentary not only highlights the traditional music of Nagaland but also explores contemporary forms such as beatboxing. By juxtaposing these diverse musical expressions, “Headhunting to Beatboxing” illustrates the dynamic evolution of music and its ability to transcend cultural and temporal boundaries. This exploration is central to the documentary’s narrative, offering viewers a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of global musical traditions.

In addition to its musical focus, the documentary sheds light on the personal stories of the musicians involved. These narratives provide a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical contexts that shape their music. By weaving together these individual stories, “Headhunting to Beatboxing” creates a rich tapestry that celebrates both the diversity and the universality of human musical expression.

The involvement of TaFMA (Task Force for Music and Arts) was crucial in the documentary’s production. TaFMA’s mission to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland aligns seamlessly with the documentary’s objectives. Through this partnership, the film was able to authentically capture the spirit of Naga music and present it to a global audience.

Executive Producer Theja Meru, Chairman of TaFMA, emphasized the importance of this collaboration. He highlighted how the documentary serves as a platform to showcase the talent and creativity of Naga musicians, bringing their music to a wider audience. This exposure not only celebrates their art but also provides opportunities for these musicians to connect with global audiences and further their careers.

Director Rohit Gupta’s role in bringing “Headhunting to Beatboxing” to life cannot be overstated. His vision and expertise in capturing the essence of Naga music and culture were instrumental in the documentary’s success. Gupta’s approach to storytelling, which blends visual artistry with deep cultural insights, ensures that the documentary resonates with audiences worldwide.

The executive production team, comprising Abu Metha, Adam J. Greig, Theja Meru, Sheila Houlahan, and Rohhit Daas, played a vital role in supporting the documentary’s creation. Their combined efforts in managing production logistics, securing funding, and overseeing the project’s overall direction were key to its completion. Each executive producer brought a unique perspective and set of skills to the project, contributing to its richness and depth.

“Headhunting to Beatboxing” is not just a documentary; it is a celebration of music as a universal language. It underscores the power of music to connect people across different cultures and generations, highlighting its role in preserving heritage and fostering unity. The film’s premiere at the Cannes Film Festival marks the beginning of its journey through various film festivals, where it will continue to inspire and engage audiences around the world.

A.R. Rahman’s “Headhunting to Beatboxing” is a testament to the transformative power of music. By exploring the rich musical traditions of Nagaland and juxtaposing them with contemporary forms like beatboxing, the documentary offers a unique perspective on the evolution of music. The collaborative efforts of Rahman, Rohit Gupta, and the executive producers, along with the invaluable contributions of Naga musicians, have resulted in a film that celebrates the universal rhythm that unites humanity. As the documentary embarks on its festival journey, it promises to leave a lasting impact on audiences, highlighting the timeless and boundless nature of music.

Top Contenders to Watch in the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup

Staff ReporterSports, Cricket 0

With the conclusion of IPL 2024 on May 26, cricket enthusiasts are now eagerly anticipating the ninth edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in the USA and the West Indies from June 1-29.

This year marks a significant change as the Men’s T20 World Cup expands to include 20 teams, up from 16 in the 2022 edition held in Australia. Additionally, it will be the first time the USA, Canada, and Uganda are participating in the tournament. Let’s explore the top four teams to keep an eye on in this year’s competition:

  1. India

India, under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, will kick off their campaign against Ireland on June 5 in New York. They will then face Pakistan, USA, and Canada on June 9, 12, and 15, respectively.

Strengths: India comes into the tournament as the top-ranked men’s T20I team, boasting a mix of experienced players and youthful talent across all areas of the game. With in-form stars like Virat Kohli, Sanju Samson, Jasprit Bumrah, and Kuldeep Yadav, India is well-equipped to adapt to the unfamiliar conditions in the USA and the slower pitches in the West Indies.

Weaknesses:A significant concern is the recent form of captain Rohit Sharma and his deputy Hardik Pandya, both of whom struggled during IPL 2024 with Mumbai Indians. The finishing abilities are also under scrutiny as Hardik and Ravindra Jadeja have not been at their best in this regard in IPL 2024.

Opportunities:This tournament provides a platform for left-handed batting all-rounder Shivam Dube to demonstrate his hitting prowess against both spin and pace at the international level. Dube has been excelling in this role for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) since IPL 2022 and could play a crucial role in India ending their trophy drought.

Threats:Since winning the 2013 Champions Trophy in England, India has often faltered in the knockout stages of major tournaments. The psychological barrier of failing to clinch victories in critical moments could haunt India once again unless they overcome these mental challenges.

  1. England

The defending champions will start their title defense against Scotland in Barbados on June 4. They are placed in Group B alongside Australia, Namibia, Scotland, and Oman.

Strengths:England’s batting lineup is formidable, featuring Jos Buttler, Will Jacks, Phil Salt, and Jonny Bairstow, supported by Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, and Sam Curran. Their bowling attack is equally strong with Chris Jordan, Jofra Archer, Moeen Ali, and Adil Rashid.

Weaknesses:Jofra Archer’s fitness remains a major concern. His recurring injuries, including stress fractures and long-standing elbow issues, have kept him out of action since May 2023. Another injury setback could disrupt England’s plans significantly.

Opportunities:Chris Jordan has the chance to shine in his home environment, contributing with his lower-order hitting, effective death-over bowling, and energetic fielding. England can also leverage the local knowledge of Kieron Pollard, who serves as a coaching consultant for the World Cup.

Threats:Following their 2022 T20 World Cup win, England had a disappointing run in the ODI World Cup in India last year, failing to reach the knockouts. A similar underperformance could threaten their title defense in the Caribbean.

  1. Australia

Australia, the reigning ODI World Cup champions and holders of the ICC World Test Championship mace, will begin their T20 World Cup journey against Oman in Barbados on June 5. They are grouped with England, Namibia, and Scotland.

Strengths:Australia boasts a well-rounded squad with seasoned players like captain Mitchell Marsh, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, David Warner, and Adam Zampa.

Weaknesses: The recent form of David Warner and Glenn Maxwell in IPL 2024 has been underwhelming, potentially leaving Australia short on firepower. Additionally, left-arm spinner Ashton Agar hasn’t played a T20I since the last T20 World Cup in 2022.

Opportunities:Australia has the chance to make history by becoming the first men’s team to hold all major international cricket titles simultaneously. With their strong lineup of all-rounders, including Maxwell, Marsh, Agar, Marcus Stoinis, and Cameron Green, Australia can reinforce their dominance in world cricket.

Threats:In their 2022 T20 World Cup title defense at home, Australia’s lack of ruthlessness led to a crucial loss against New Zealand, putting them on the back foot in terms of net run rate. They must avoid similar pitfalls to capture the trophy this time around.

  1. West Indies

The two-time champions are in Group C and will play their opening match against Papua New Guinea in Guyana on June 2. They will also face Uganda, New Zealand, and Afghanistan in the group stage.

Strengths:With players like captain Rovman Powell, Nicholas Pooran, Andre Russell, and Jason Holder in great form, the West Indies have a strong foundation. Their extensive preparations, including ‘A’ team series against Nepal and a training camp in Antigua, position them well for the tournament.

Weaknesses:Despite their past triumphs in 2012 and 2016, the West Indies have had disappointing performances in the last two T20 World Cups. They failed to progress past the group stage in both 2021 and 2022, and they did not qualify for the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup in India.

Opportunities:As co-hosts, the West Indies have the advantage of playing in familiar conditions. Their recent home form has been promising, with T20I series wins over South Africa, India, and England in the last 14 months, enhancing their prospects of winning the title.

Threats:Head coach Daren Sammy, who captained the West Indies to their twin T20 World Cup victories, faces the challenge of leading the team to victory on home soil—a feat no host nation has achieved in this tournament. Overcoming this and their recent poor ICC event record is crucial for their success.

As the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup approaches, these teams stand out for their strengths, opportunities, and potential threats. Each team’s journey will be closely watched as they strive to capture cricket’s most coveted T20 prize.

Top 10 Richest Women in the World 2024: Leading Billionaires Shatter the Glass Ceiling

Staff ReporterBusiness, Women 0

In a world historically dominated by male wealth and power, an increasing number of women are breaking through and establishing themselves as billionaires. In 2024, the net worth of the world’s wealthiest individuals has surged significantly, with a noticeable rise in the number of female billionaires compared to the previous year.

According to Forbes, out of 2,781 billionaires globally, women now represent 13.3% of the total billionaire population in 2024, up from 12.8% in 2023. This marks a significant increase and highlights the growing influence of women in global wealth creation.

Françoise Bettencourt Meyers, the L’Oréal heiress, remains the world’s richest woman for the fourth consecutive year. Forbes tracks the wealth of billionaires worldwide, and as of April 2024, here are the top 10 richest women in the world.

Top 10 Richest Women in the World in 2024

The Forbes list showcases the success stories of women entrepreneurs and heiresses. In 2024, the top 10 richest women have amassed a combined net worth of over $1.8 trillion, an increase of about $240 billion from the previous year, underscoring their substantial impact on the global economy.

1.Françoise Bettencourt Meyers

Leading the list for the fourth year in a row is Françoise Bettencourt Meyers, the granddaughter of the L’Oréal founder. With a net worth of $98.2 billion, her wealth is largely derived from her nearly 35% stake in the cosmetics giant L’Oréal Group, known for brands such as Maybelline and Lancôme. Under her leadership, L’Oréal has continued to thrive, boasting billions in revenue. Bettencourt Meyers first appeared on the Forbes billionaires list in 2018 with a net worth of $42.2 billion, and her fortune has more than doubled since then.

2.Alice Walton

Alice Walton, the richest woman in America, is second with a net worth of $77.2 billion. Her wealth surged due to a 34% increase in Walmart’s share price over the past year. Known for her philanthropy and art collection, she founded the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas, which features works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Norman Rockwell, and Mark Rothko.

3.Julia Koch

Julia Koch, widow of David Koch, holds the third spot with a net worth of $66.3 billion. She inherited a 42% stake in Koch Industries, a diverse conglomerate with interests in oil refining, medical technology, and paper products. Koch Industries is one of the largest private companies in the world, with revenues exceeding $100 billion. Julia Koch is also a trustee of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

4.Jacqueline Mars

Jacqueline Mars, heiress to Mars Inc., ranks fourth with a net worth of $39.4 billion. Alongside her family, she owns the iconic candy and pet food company, known for brands like M&Ms, Snickers, and Pedigree. Mars Inc. is one of the largest privately held companies in the world, with revenues exceeding $35 billion. The company was founded by her grandfather, Frank C. Mars, who began selling buttercream candy from his kitchen in 1911.

5.Savitri Jindal

Savitri Jindal, the richest woman in India, holds the fifth spot with a net worth of $38.0 billion. She leads the Jindal Group, overseeing businesses in steel, power, cement, and infrastructure. The Jindal Group is one of the largest business conglomerates in India, with revenues exceeding $15 billion. Following the death of her husband, Om Prakash Jindal, in a helicopter crash in 2005, the group’s companies were divided among their four sons, who now run them independently.

6.Rafaela Aponte-Diamant

With a net worth of $33.7 billion, Rafaela Aponte-Diamant co-founded MSC, the world’s largest shipping line, with her husband, Gianluigi Aponte. Their company, founded in 1970, has grown to dominate the global shipping industry, operating over 500 vessels in more than 155 countries. Rafaela Aponte-Diamant is responsible for decorating the ships for MSC Cruises, the company’s cruise line. The Aponte family entered the shipping industry with a $200,000 loan to buy their first ship.

7.MacKenzie Scott

MacKenzie Scott, with a net worth of $35.5 billion, is a prominent philanthropist and the ex-wife of Jeff Bezos. Following her divorce, she received a 4% stake in Amazon and has since donated billions to various causes, including education, science, and the arts. Her philanthropic efforts have made her one of the most generous donors in the world, with her lifetime giving totaling $17.3 billion as of March 2024.

8.Gina Rinehart

Gina Rinehart, with a net worth of $30.8 billion, chairs Hancock Prospecting Group, a major mining and agriculture company in Australia. Her fortune has increased by 14% since 2023, driven by the growth of the mining industry and her company’s expansion into new markets. Hancock Prospecting Group is involved in the exploration and production of iron ore, coal, and other minerals, as well as cattle farming and agricultural projects.

9.Abigail Johnson

Abigail Johnson, with a net worth of $29.7 billion, leads Fidelity Investments, a major mutual fund company. She owns a significant stake in the firm and has been instrumental in its success, overseeing $4.9 trillion in managed assets. Johnson took over as CEO of Fidelity Investments in 2014, succeeding her father, Edward “Ned” Johnson III, who passed away in 2022. The company was founded by her grandfather in 1946.

10.Miriam Adelson

Miriam Adelson, with a net worth of $29.7 billion, inherited a significant stake in Las Vegas Sands after her husband Sheldon Adelson’s passing. A prominent physician, she has donated over $1 billion to medical research and drug discovery, making her one of the most generous philanthropists in the world. Adelson and her family own more than half of Las Vegas Sands, one of the world’s largest casino operators, with properties in Las Vegas, Macau, and Singapore.

These women have not only amassed immense wealth but have also significantly contributed to various industries and philanthropic causes, demonstrating that the glass ceiling can indeed be shattered.

Nandita Das Joins Global Film and Arts Luminaries to Judge WHO’s 5th Health for All Film Festival, Celebrating Powerful Health Stories

Staff ReporterArt, Health 0

Nandita Das, a prominent Indian actor, filmmaker, and social advocate, recently participated as a juror for the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 5th Health for All Film Festival. This esteemed panel also included actors Sharon Stone and Alfonso Herrera, filmmaker and producer Apolline Traoré, Olympic swimmer and UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Yusra Mardini, multidisciplinary artist Mário Macilau, and film director Paul Jerndal. The winners were announced on May 26.

Entering its fifth year, the Health for All Film Festival received nearly 1,000 submissions from filmmakers worldwide. These films addressed critical issues such as gender equity, war trauma, burnout, climate change, and healthy aging. A shortlist of 61 films was then evaluated by the distinguished panel of professionals, artists, and activists.

“WHO’s Health for All Film Festival gathers many powerful stories about a variety of health experiences from people from all over the world,” said WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “Listening to the stories of people affected by health issues helps us to understand people’s lived experiences and move towards achieving better health for all.”

At the event in Geneva on May 26, awards were presented in seven different categories, with four films receiving special mentions from the jury.

From the official selection at the WHO Health For All Film Festival, a “Grand Prix” was awarded in each of the three main competition categories: Universal Health Coverage, Health Emergencies, and Better Health and Well-Being, reflecting WHO’s Triple Billion Targets. Additionally, four special prizes were awarded for a student-produced film, a film on physical activity and health, a film focusing on migrants and refugees’ health, and a very short film.

This year’s festival saw mental health as a significant theme among the winning entries. One of the standout films was a moving short from France titled “Mom & Me, and that…,” which highlights the emotional and practical challenges faced by a 14-year-old girl living alone with her mother, who is battling cancer.

Nandita Das, who has served twice on the jury of the Cannes Film Festival and has acted in over 40 feature films in 10 different languages, expressed her enthusiasm for being part of the festival. “I am delighted to be a juror for WHO’s Health For All Film Festival,” she said. “Films can create awareness, challenge prejudices, ask uncomfortable questions and tell stories that need to be told. Health is personally and collectively, our right and responsibility. So to celebrate films that focus on these issues is important. I am glad that l have the opportunity to announce the winners of the 5th edition of this annual event.”

Das’s filmography includes notable works such as “Fire,” “Earth,” “Bawandar,” “Kannathil Muthamittal,” “Azhagi,” “Kamli,” and “Before The Rains.” Her directorial debut, “Firaaq,” premiered at the Toronto Film Festival and traveled to over 50 festivals, earning more than 20 awards.

Additionally, Das holds the distinction of being the first Indian to be inducted into the International Hall of Fame of the International Women’s Forum in Washington, DC. She was recognized in 2011 for her “sustained contributions to the arts and to the world as one of the most gripping cinema arts leaders of our time.”

The WHO Health for All Film Festival continues to serve as a vital platform for highlighting global health issues through the powerful medium of film. This year’s festival reinforced the importance of storytelling in raising awareness and promoting understanding of health challenges worldwide. The diverse array of films and the inclusion of mental health themes reflect a growing recognition of the complex and multifaceted nature of health and well-being. By showcasing these films, the festival not only honors the creativity and dedication of filmmakers but also inspires collective action towards better health outcomes for all.

The festival’s impact extends beyond mere entertainment, encouraging a deeper engagement with pressing health issues and fostering a global conversation about health equity and the shared responsibility to achieve it. The stories told through these films resonate on a personal and universal level, bridging gaps in understanding and compassion. The participation of esteemed jurors like Nandita Das underscores the significance of the festival and its mission to illuminate the myriad health experiences of people around the world.

Payal Kapadia Makes History as First Indian to Win Grand Prix at Cannes for ‘All We Imagine As Light

Staff ReporterCinema, Entertainment 0

Filmmaker Payal Kapadia achieved a historic milestone on Saturday by becoming the first Indian to win the Grand Prix at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. This award is the second highest honor after the Palme d’Or.

Kapadia’s film, “All We Imagine As Light,” is a drama about two Malayali nurses who move to a beautifully depicted Mumbai, exploring themes of life, love, and sisterhood. Remarkably, it is the first Indian film in three decades to compete in the main competition at Cannes.

“It was already a dream to be selected in competition and this was beyond my imagination,” Kapadia said in her acceptance speech, addressing the Cannes jury, which included director Greta Gerwig and actor Lily Gladstone. She added, “Please don’t wait another 30 years to have an Indian film,” eliciting applause from the audience.

The victory has caused a wave of celebration across India, with numerous people, including top politicians, acknowledging its significance on social media. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his pride on X, saying, “Her remarkable talent continues to shine on the global stage, giving a glimpse of the rich creativity in India. This prestigious accolade not only honors her exceptional skills but also inspires a new generation of Indian filmmakers.”

Rahul Gandhi, a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress, along with Anasuya Sengupta, the first Indian actor to win Best Actress for her role in “The Shameless” in the festival’s Un Certain Regard section, also congratulated Kapadia. Gandhi noted, “Indian stars shining bright… These women have scripted history, and inspired the entire Indian film fraternity.”

Sooni Taraporevala, a screenwriter known for “Salaam Bombay!” which won the Camera d’Or at Cannes in 1988, commented to CNN on the significance of Kapadia’s “unprecedented” win. She emphasized that it “has personally touched women and those in the indie film space,” adding that it has “allowed us to dream and hope and celebrate her with unabashed pride and joy,” especially in an industry often dominated by mainstream productions.

“All We Imagine As Light” received an eight-minute standing ovation at its festival premiere, a testament to its powerful storytelling and emotional impact. The film’s portrayal of the romance between the protagonist Prabha (played by Kani Kusruti) and her Muslim boyfriend (Hridhu Haroon) is particularly bold, reflecting the country’s increasing polarization along religious lines.

Despite being the largest film-producing country in the world, India has often struggled to achieve the same level of international recognition and accolades as Hollywood. However, there have been notable successes. Last year, the Telegu-language historical fantasy “RRR” became the first Indian feature film to win an Oscar for best original song with its catchy and vibrant “Naatu Naatu.” Additionally, “The Elephant Whisperers,” directed by Kartiki Gonsalves, won the Oscar for best documentary short.

India’s cinematic achievements at Cannes have a storied history. In 1947, filmmaker Chetan Anand won Cannes’ top prize for his film “Neecha Nagar,” making him the only Indian to win that accolade until now.

Kapadia’s earlier work has also been celebrated at Cannes. In 2021, she won the festival’s L’Oeil d’Or award for her documentary “A Night of Knowing Nothing,” which follows a film student in India as she tries to maintain a relationship with her ex despite the challenges posed by their different castes.

This latest win by Kapadia at Cannes marks a significant moment not only for her career but also for Indian cinema as a whole. It highlights the rich narrative and artistic capabilities of Indian filmmakers and sets a new precedent for future generations. The global recognition of her film underscores the importance of diverse storytelling and the universal appeal of well-crafted cinema.

Nicki Minaj Apologizes for Postponed Manchester Concert After Dutch Drug Detention

Staff ReporterEntertainment, Media 0

Early Sunday morning, rapper Nicki Minaj apologized to fans gathered outside her Manchester hotel for postponing her UK show after being detained by Dutch authorities on suspicion of drug possession.

“I love you and I’m so sorry this happened tonight,” Minaj expressed in a social media video.

Minaj had previously announced her Manchester hotel location in a post on X, encouraging fans to visit. “I’m going on the balcony so if you’re outside I’ll be able to see you & I may come downstairs. I’ll be out there for about an hour. Rlly (really) wanted to at least get to see you,” she said.

Despite being released from police custody on Saturday evening, Minaj’s scheduled concert in Manchester for that night was canceled.

In a joint statement from Live Nation and the concert venue Co-op Live, organizers conveyed their disappointment over the situation. “Despite Nicki’s best efforts to explore every possible avenue to make tonight’s show happen, the events of today have made it impossible,” the statement read.

A video on Minaj’s Instagram Live, which was later shared across various social media platforms, shows her interacting with police at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport while filming with her phone.

In the video, Minaj refers to “pre-rolls they found,” and is seen being escorted out of her vehicle and directed to enter a police van. When she inquires why she must get in the van, an officer states she is “under arrest,” later clarifying it was for “carrying drugs.” Minaj asserts, “I’m not carrying drugs.”

Throughout the clip, Minaj repeatedly asks for the police station’s address and legal representation while the officers request she stop filming.

When contacted by CNN using Minaj’s legal name, Onika Tanya Maraj-Petty, the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee (the Netherlands military police) confirmed they had detained a 41-year-old American woman at Schiphol Airport for possessing “soft drugs.”

Later that Saturday, the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee announced that the detained woman had been released “on suspicion of exporting soft

drugs.” Their statement elaborated, “Following consultation with the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the suspect received a monetary fine and is now permitted to continue her journey.”

CNN has reached out to Minaj’s representatives for further comments.

Nicki Minaj is currently on her Pink Friday 2 World Tour, promoting her latest album, which was released late last year. She performed in Amsterdam on Thursday night and is scheduled to perform in Birmingham, UK, on Sunday night. Another concert is planned at Co-op Live in Manchester on Thursday, May 30.

This incident has caused significant disruption to her tour schedule. Minaj’s fans, who were eagerly anticipating the Manchester performance, were left disappointed by the last-minute cancellation. The artist’s efforts to engage with her fans despite the circumstances highlight her dedication and connection to her audience.

The incident at Schiphol Airport started when Minaj was stopped by authorities who claimed to have found pre-rolled joints in her possession. The video, which captured part of her interaction with the police, shows Minaj expressing confusion and repeatedly asserting her innocence. The arrest and subsequent release, accompanied by a fine, have sparked discussions among fans and the media about the challenges and scrutiny celebrities often face, particularly when traveling internationally.

Minaj’s ability to address her fans directly through social media provided some solace to those who had been looking forward to her performance. Her public apology and explanation about the unforeseen circumstances demonstrate her commitment to maintaining transparency and honesty with her supporters.

The organizers, Live Nation and Co-op Live, expressed their frustration over the unavoidable cancellation, acknowledging the extensive efforts made by Minaj to proceed with the show despite the legal hurdles. Their statement underscores the complexity and unpredictability of organizing international tours, where unforeseen events can disrupt even the best-laid plans.

Minaj’s Pink Friday 2 World Tour continues to attract significant attention, with fans eagerly following her journey across various cities. The upcoming performances in Birmingham and the rescheduled Manchester show are highly anticipated, and many hope that the remaining tour dates will proceed without further complications.

As the situation unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the various challenges artists face while on tour, from logistical issues to legal entanglements. Nicki Minaj’s experience highlights the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of unexpected obstacles, reinforcing her status not only as a talented performer but also as a dedicated and resilient figure in the music industry.

Unlocking the Complex Pursuit of Happiness: Insights from Neuroscientist Dr. Sanjay Gupta

Staff ReporterHealth, Lifestyle 0

Happiness is a concept deeply embedded in human history, dating back to ancient civilizations. Approximately 250 years ago, it was enshrined as an unalienable right in the United States’ Declaration of Independence: “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

Despite centuries of contemplation, the notion of happiness and its attainment remains elusive. For some, it signifies a general sense of well-being, while others equate it with moments of pure joy. Some find happiness in achieving dreams, while for others, it could be a blend of these experiences or something entirely different.

Personally, I consider myself a fairly happy person. I have three wonderful teenage daughters and a loving wife, Rebecca, with whom I recently celebrated our 20th anniversary. My family, including my parents and my “baby” brother, is close-knit. My career as a practicing neurosurgeon and CNN’s chief medical correspondent provides me with a sense of purpose. However, I recognize that happiness is complex, layered, and nuanced.

**The Pursuit of Happiness**

A challenging question is how best to pursue happiness. Is it a fixed trait we are born with, or can it be cultivated and enhanced? If it’s the latter, what strategies can help us achieve it?

Despite the “pursuit of Happiness” being a foundational principle in the U.S., many Americans struggle with it. The latest World Happiness Report saw the U.S. drop to 23rd place, its lowest ranking in the report’s 12-year history. Additionally, a 2024 Gallup poll revealed that less than half (47%) of Americans are “very satisfied” with their personal lives.

This issue isn’t confined to Americans; humans as a species might not be naturally adept at achieving happiness. Contrary to what one might expect, happiness isn’t something we are genetically primed to attain; it requires effort.

“If anything, natural selection kind of doesn’t really care about our happiness that much. I mean, natural selection’s job is just to keep us alive and keep us around to reproduce. And I think it does that not by making us feel these moments of contentment but maybe just the opposite,” cognitive scientist Dr. Laurie Santos explained to me recently.

“It does that by building in a negativity bias. So we’re just a little bit worried that there could be a tiger around the corner, that we could get shunned at work. And we’re kind of constantly on the alert for that,” she added.

Dr. Santos, who holds a doctorate in psychology, teaches “Psychology and the Good Life” at Yale University, the most popular course in the university’s history, and hosts “The Happiness Lab” podcast. She was also the first guest on the 10th season of my podcast, “Chasing Life.” This season, I speak with experts across various disciplines about the science of happiness, including its definition, attainment, maintenance, and effects on our minds and bodies.

**I’m Happy but ‘Constructively Dissatisfied’**

Despite being a generally happy person, I also consider myself “constructively dissatisfied,” a term I coined during my conversation with Santos.

I distinguish between happiness and satisfaction, believing that complete satisfaction might erode my happiness by leading to complacency and stagnation. My personality seems to thrive on dissatisfaction, which propels me into action and enhances my energy and enthusiasm.

The times when I feel happiest are when my constructive dissatisfaction drives me to improve situations, whether it’s removing a brain tumor, completing a documentary, working in my garden, or cooking dinner with my family.

Kelly McGonigal, a health psychologist and author, who also appeared on my podcast, agreed with this perspective. “Because dissatisfaction often is the soil in which growth and positive change happens,” she explained. “And dissatisfaction doesn’t actually have to be a lack of appreciation or gratitude. If you can envision a better future for yourself or others, it requires feeling a gap between how things are and how things could be.”

The “constructive” aspect is crucial to me because I don’t want to merely wallow in dissatisfaction; I want it to be productive. As long as dissatisfaction doesn’t overwhelm my emotional well-being, it benefits me, though it can be a source of tension and struggle.

“It strikes me that you’ve kind of gotten something out of the journey, gotten something out of that struggle,” Santos told me, while also cautioning against overextending oneself. “We can push ourselves and engage in challenges; those can be some of the happiest, most flow-inducing moments of our lives. But we need to make sure we’re doing that in balance.”

She warned that if we lose sleep, neglect friendships, and make ourselves miserable, “maybe think about pushing yourself in a different way.”

To mitigate negative feelings, Santos suggested incorporating moments of true happiness into one’s life. “Maybe I need a little bit more laughter or some breaks, or I need to engage in that purposeful pursuit with a bit more social connection, or something like that.”

**Tried and True Strategies**

According to Santos, most people have a set point of happiness. Mine might be lower than my brother’s, who is more outgoing and cheerful, despite our similar backgrounds. Significant events like winning the lottery or experiencing tragedy can temporarily alter happiness levels, but people typically return to their baseline. However, with diligent practice, Santos believes it’s possible to raise one’s happiness level, a concept she teaches her students.

Santos not only lectures about behaviors and mindsets that boost happiness but also assigns practical “course rewirements” to rewire these practices into students’ lives. Her recommendations include paying attention to sleep, exercise, and diet, becoming more “other”-oriented, and fostering gratitude and compassion.

My favorite advice from her is to nurture social connections. “Every available study of happy people suggests that happy people are more social,” Santos said. And conversely, social people tend to be happier. “So we just need to make time for our friends and family members and loved ones.”

Dr. Robert Waldinger, a psychiatrist who oversees the Harvard Study of Adult Development, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that good relationships are the key to both happiness and health. Warm relationships help buffer life’s challenges, reducing stress hormones and inflammation, which are linked to many chronic diseases.

This doesn’t mean one must be an extrovert or a social butterfly. Rather, it’s about consistently nurturing relationships. Waldinger advises being proactive in reaching out to friends, establishing routines like weekly calls, refreshing old relationships with new activities, making new friends through shared interests, and initiating conversations with strangers. The right amount of social interaction varies from person to person.

Meaningful relationships are essential to my happiness. I know from experience that strong connections with family and friends are crucial, and they are ultimately what bring me the greatest joy.

How Inequality, Unemployment, and Slow Growth Hold India Back

Staff ReporterEconomy, Nation 0

On June 4, after counting roughly 650 million votes, the Election Commission of India is scheduled to announce the winner of the 2024 parliamentary elections. Polls suggest it will be the Bharatiya Janata Party, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. If the BJP is voted back to power after a ten-year tenure, it would be a remarkable feat, driven largely by the prime minister’s personal popularity. According to an April poll by Morning Consult, 76 percent of Indians approve of him.

There are multiple theories for why Modi is so popular. Some attribute it to the fact that he has advanced the “Hindutva” agenda, which views India from a Hindu-first lens. Despite the periodic dog whistles against Muslims during the elections by Modi and his lieutenants, this agenda is a primary electoral concern for only a small fraction of India’s voters. In the 2019 elections, BJP’s vote share nationally was less than 38 percent, and obviously, an even smaller share are committed to the othering of religious minorities.

Another explanation is that Modi has managed the economy well, with India recently overtaking the United Kingdom to become the fifth-largest economy in the world, and soon surpassing stagnant Germany and Japan to become the third largest. His economic stewardship, some experts argue, is setting up the country and its 1.4 billion people to succeed in the future.

But India’s economic growth, although seemingly high compared with other countries, has not been large enough, or taken place in the right sectors, to create enough good jobs. India is still a young country, and over ten million youth start looking for work every year. When China and Korea were similarly young and poor, they employed their growing labor force and consequently grew faster than India is today. India, by contrast, risks squandering its population dividend. The joblessness, especially among the middle class and lower-middle class, contributes to another problem: a growing gulf between the prosperity of the rich and the rest.

The Modi administration has, of course, taken India forward in important ways, including building out physical infrastructure (so that transportation is quicker) and expanding digital infrastructure (so that payments are easier). Welfare benefits, such as free food grains and gas cylinders, now reach beneficiaries directly and without corruption. Startups abound, and Indian scientists and engineers have scored notable successes, such as sending a satellite to Mars and landing a rover on the moon’s south pole. Taken together, however, the last decade has been decidedly a mixed economic bag for the average Indian.

Some of the challenges India faces have been long in the making, but the administration’s policies have also contributed in important ways. The government’s 2016 ban on high-value currency notes hurt small and midsized businesses, which were further damaged by Modi’s mismanagement of the pandemic. Perhaps most concerning is the government’s attempt to kick-start manufacturing through a mix of subsidies and tariffs—a growth strategy modeled on China—while neglecting other development paths that would play to India’s strengths. The Modi administration has, in particular, underinvested in improving the capabilities of the country’s enormous population: the critical asset India needs to navigate its future.

In the ongoing election, the opposition has strived to highlight Indians’ economic anxiety. But Modi is a charismatic and savvy politician, and he has established a strong connection with ordinary Indians—in part by persuading them that his administration has made India into a respected global power. Many Indians will vote for him on the hope that he will eventually deliver progress, even if they have not seen much improvement in the last decade. Others will vote for him because of the government’s genuine success at efficiently delivering more benefits. Still more will vote BJP because the mainstream media, largely co-opted by the government, trumpets the government’s successes without scrutinizing its failures.

India needs to change economic course. That is less likely if the BJP wins with an overwhelming majority because the party will see victory as an affirmation of its policies. What is more worrying is that subsequent, growing authoritarianism—which shrinks the space for protest and criticism—may continue to grow, and further diminish the likelihood of a course correction. Conversely, if the election produces a strong opposition, no matter its identity, India has a fighting chance of securing the economic future its people desperately want.

FIA Chicago and Desi Junction Celebrate Mother’s Day with Star Awards Announcement at Ashyana Banquets

Staff ReporterCommunity, Entertainment 0

On May 19, 2024, the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) Chicago, in collaboration with Desi Junction, celebrated Mother’s Day at Ashyana Banquets, and also announced the upcoming Star Awards. The event was conceptualized and managed by Jassi Parmar and the Desi Junction Team.

The evening began with a Social Hour, featuring a performance by Payel Ganguly & Group, who focused on Bollywood songs about motherhood and families.

FIA Chairman and Founder Sunil Shah, Vice-Chairman Neil Khot, President Pratibha Jairath, and past President Vinita Gulabani took the stage to officially start the program. Shah recounted FIA’s past achievements, Jairath highlighted the importance of celebrating Mother’s Day, Khot built anticipation by hinting at surprises, and Gulabani elaborated on FIA’s contributions to the community.

Chief guests Consul General of India Somnath Ghosh and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi spoke about the significant role mothers play in shaping families and society, emphasizing how they help us become better citizens.

The prestigious “Star Awards” trophy, symbolizing excellence and achievement within the community, was unveiled by the chief guests. FIA announced various award categories, including Entrepreneur of the Decade, Best Medical Professional, Best Community Organization, and Community Leader of the Year.

FIA Ambassadors for the evening, Falguni Sukhadia, Priyanka Parekh, and Hemendra Shah, efficiently managed the awards presentations and backstage operations.

Several accomplished mothers were honored for their sacrifices and dedication. The awardees included Anandita Ghosh, Riya Krishnamoorthi, Santosh Kumar, Smita N. Shah, Sweety Loomba, Dr. Kruti Vyas, Punima Brahmbhatt, Kanan Dhingra, Aishwarya Sharma, Jaspreet Kaur, Promila Kumar, Mini Multani, Dr. Sunita Narang, Milli Jain, Asha Raj Khanna, Smita Shah, Sukhi Singh, and Kelly Suga.

Rita Shah, Sunil Shah’s wife, wished everyone a very Happy Mother’s Day and surprised the awardees with a heartfelt rendition of ‘Kitni Achchhi Hai, Tu Kitni Bholi Hai Pyaari Pyaari Hai O Maa’, celebrating the invaluable role of mothers.

The evening also featured a classical dance performance by Rasika Bandekar and a medley of dance numbers by Dancing Divas (Trusha). An open dance floor followed, allowing attendees to enjoy the vibrant beats.

Towards the end of the event, attendees were treated to another surprise, sponsored by Ramesh Punater and Naresh Shah, who provided special prizes in categories such as Best Dancer and Most Enthusiastic Person.

Kamlesh Kapoor led the Tech team, while Dinesh Kapoor and Atul Wahi managed ticket control and guest seating for over 300 attendees.

Looking ahead, the “Star Awards” will also celebrate India’s 78th Independence Day with a red-carpet event on August 16, 2024, at Matrix Club, as announced by FIA.

Ashwin Ramaswami, Gen-Z Indian-American, Wins Democratic Primary in Georgia, Eyes Historic State Senate Seat

Staff ReporterPolitics, Youth 0

Ashwin Ramaswami, a pioneering Gen-Z Indian-American, has won the Democratic primary in Georgia, positioning himself for a significant contest in November against Republican Senator Shawn Still. Still was indicted alongside Donald Trump for his role as a fake elector in the 2020 election. Ramaswami, 23, views this race as a prime opportunity, calling it “the most flippable State Senate seat in Georgia.”

Ramaswami’s victory is momentous, potentially making him Georgia’s first Gen-Z State Senator and the only legislator in the state with both a computer science and law degree. He aims to blend his technological expertise and legal acumen to bring innovative solutions to the state legislature.

Born to Indian immigrant parents from Tamil Nadu, Ramaswami’s journey began with his education at Chinmaya Mission Balavihar, which instilled in him a deep appreciation for Sanskrit and ancient Indian texts. This early exposure to Indian culture seamlessly merged with his American upbringing, fostering a unique dual identity. He later graduated from Stanford University with a degree in computer science, setting the stage for a career that bridges technology and public service.

Professionally, Ramaswami has a rich background, having collaborated with nonprofits, startups, and small businesses to harness technology for public benefit and job creation. His role at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) during the 2020 and 2022 elections underscored his commitment to cybersecurity and election integrity. Additionally, his tenure as a legal fellow in the Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division honed his skills in protecting consumer rights.

Ramaswami’s campaign is financially robust, having raised over $280,000 with $208,000 in cash reserves. This financial strength bolsters his position for the upcoming general election, highlighting the increasing involvement of young, diverse candidates in American politics.

Ramaswami’s story is one of blending cultures, leveraging technology for public good, and aiming for historic political representation. His campaign symbolizes the evolving landscape of American politics, where young, technologically savvy, and diverse candidates are stepping into significant roles to shape the future. As Ramaswami moves forward, his blend of Indian heritage and American innovation positions him uniquely to make substantial contributions to Georgia’s legislature.

Chelsea Manalo Becomes First Black Woman Crowned Miss Universe Philippines, Breaking Traditional Beauty Standards

Staff ReporterCulture, Entertainment, Women 0

Filipino American Chelsea Manalo made history on Wednesday by becoming the first Black woman to be crowned Miss Universe Philippines.

The 24-year-old, born to a Filipino mother and African American father, received widespread praise on social media for challenging traditional beauty ideals in the Philippines.

“Chelsea’s win challenges our ingrained preference for Eurocentric beauty (features) and lighter complexions in our nation,” wrote one user in response to an Instagram post of the win on Miss Universe Philippines’ official account. “Filipino beauty standard shattered into pieces,” read another.

Representing Bulacan, a province north of Manila, Manalo emerged victorious over 52 other contestants from across the archipelago and abroad. The competition took place at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay.

During the final stage, when the competition was down to the top five contestants, Manalo was asked how she would leverage her beauty and confidence to empower others.

“As a woman of color, I have always faced challenges in my life. I was told that beauty has standards, actually,” she explained, adding that she was taught to “believe in my mother, to always believe in yourself, uphold the vows that you have.”

“Because of these, I am already influencing a lot of women who are facing me right now,” she said, gazing out to the packed arena.

Manalo’s victory sparks a broader discussion about diversifying beauty standards in the Philippines, a country where Western ideals have long been influential, partly due to its colonial history.

Lighter-skinned actors and models often dominate TV shows, movies, and fashion campaigns. Additionally, skin lightening treatments and products are widely used, as is common in other Asian countries.

Manalo, who started modeling at 14, spoke about her own insecurities growing up in a YouTube video on Empire Philippines, which livestreamed the event.

“I grew up having insecurities as I was always bullied because of my skin and my hair type,” she said, crediting her friends and family for helping her “realize that I am beautiful in my own extraordinary way.”

Manalo will represent the Philippines at the Miss Universe pageant in Mexico this September.

She aims to secure the fifth title for the Philippines, following the wins of Gloria Diaz in 1969, Margie Moran in 1973, and Pia Wurtzbach in 2015 (after host Steve Harvey initially announced the wrong winner). Catriona Gray was the last Filipino to win the title in 2018.

More than 100 countries will participate in Miss Universe 2024. This year, the competition will eliminate the upper age limit previously set for contestants, who had to be between 18 and 28 years old.

The Miss Universe organization has faced scrutiny recently, as the parent company of the Miss USA organization. Both Miss USA and Miss Teen USA resigned earlier this May amid allegations of mismanagement, a toxic work environment, and conditions that affected their mental health.

Mixed Signals in US Economy: Low Unemployment and Rising Wages Mask Debt Concerns and Inflation Woes

Staff ReporterEconomy, Finance/Economy 0

The US economy is currently exhibiting some unusual characteristics. With millions of job openings and a notably low unemployment rate, one might assume the economy is thriving. Historically, low unemployment correlates with economic prosperity. However, numerous warning signs suggest otherwise, including a significant number of Gen Z individuals accruing high credit card debt, leading lenders to withhold further credit.

This mixed economic data presents a conundrum: positive news is often accompanied by concerning indicators. “I wouldn’t give the economy a clean bill of health,” remarked Gregory Daco, chief economist at EY. “It looks robust, but there are pockets of concern.”

While economists offer nuanced views, political figures present more polarized perspectives. President Joe Biden claims the economy is booming but acknowledges ongoing challenges. Conversely, former President Donald Trump declares, “the economy is crashing,” suggesting a state of chaos during a campaign rally in Wisconsin.

The Good

For those with an optimistic view of the economy, recent labor market data offers encouraging news. There are currently 8.5 million job openings, exceeding pre-pandemic figures by 1.5 million. With 6.5 million unemployed individuals, the ratio of jobs to job seekers is more than one-to-one, a stark improvement from the pre-pandemic average ratio of 0.6.

Average hourly earnings for Americans have risen by 22% since before the pandemic, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Though wage increases are slowing, they still outpace price rises, meaning consumers have more purchasing power.

The Bad

Despite a significant reduction from its peak in summer 2022, inflation remains a concern. Achieving the Federal Reserve’s 2% target is proving to be a slow process, surprising many Fed officials, including Gov. Christopher Waller. “The first three months of 2024 threw cold water on that outlook, as data on both inflation and economic activity came in much hotter than anticipated,” Waller noted. However, he found the slight cooling in April’s Consumer Price Index to be “welcome relief.” He stated, “If I were still a professor and had to assign a grade to this inflation report, it would be a C+— far from failing but not stellar either.”

Despite this, consumer surveys indicate expectations of rising inflation, which can drive businesses to increase prices, perpetuating the inflation cycle. Early retail spending data for April was weaker than expected, suggesting consumers are tightening their belts. This reduction in spending is positive in preventing retailers from raising prices but poses a risk to the economy, given that consumer spending is a major economic driver.

David Alcaly, lead macroeconomic strategist at Lazard, commented on the mixed signals: “It certainly bears watching, but part of the weakness probably was ‘payback’ for strength in prior months.” Gregory Daco noted that consumers are being “a little more cautious, but are not retrenching.” A significant slowdown in spending could negatively impact the economy, he warned.

The Ugly

A major concern in the current economic landscape is the rising debt levels. Consumer spending has been resilient despite high inflation and interest rates, partly due to increased reliance on credit cards. However, savings accumulated during the pandemic are dwindling, leading to more credit card debt that is not being repaid on time.

The cooling labor market is reducing workers’ leverage, contributing to increased debt and serious delinquencies, defined as payments over 90 days late. New York Fed data reveals that the percentage of credit card balances in serious delinquency is at its highest since 2012.

Sung Won Sohn, an economics and finance professor at Loyola Marymount University and chief economist of SS Economics, highlighted the broader implications: “The rising levels of consumer debt and delinquency rates, if continued, are not just individual problems; they could have macroeconomic effects requiring attention from economic policymakers.” As more income is diverted to debt repayment, less is available for other purchases, potentially slowing economic growth. Rising delinquencies may prompt banks to tighten lending criteria or increase interest rates, further straining borrowers. These combined effects “can contribute to a broader economic slowdown — or even a recession,” Sohn warned.

While the US economy shows signs of strength, including low unemployment and rising wages, there are significant concerns. High levels of consumer debt and inflation, coupled with cautious spending, present risks that could undermine economic stability. As the situation evolves, it will require careful monitoring and responsive policymaking to navigate potential challenges.

Discover the Path to Self-Realization Through Om Kriya Yoga: Insights from Shomik Chaudhuri’s ‘Some Whispers From Eternity

Staff ReporterCulture, Religion 0

“Each soul is potentially divine. The goal is to reveal the divinity within,” proclaimed Vivekananda. The Bhagavad Gita offers various paths to achieve this, including jnana yoga, karma yoga, and bhakti yoga. Shomik Chaudhuri’s book, “Some Whispers From Eternity” (hereafter “Whispers”), explores achieving self-realization through Om Kriya Yoga.

For those seeking simple guides to Vedic practices, “Whispers” might not meet expectations. This book demands serious engagement, with an in-depth approach that discourages superficial reading or selective skimming.

In the introduction, Chaudhuri emphasizes the neglected importance of the spiritual level, which he describes as “the foundation of our very existence.” He posits that reconnecting with our spiritual selves could address many contemporary life issues. He encourages readers to practice the Kriyas described in “Whispers” methodically, step by step.

Kriya, a Sanskrit term meaning ‘action’, forms the essence of Kriya Yoga—a path of spiritual progress through action. Chaudhuri explains Kriya Yoga as a disciplined system for spiritual development.

In an exclusive interview with News India Times, Chaudhuri shared his lifelong fascination with yoga and meditation. As a child, he mimicked meditation, and in college, a professor initiated him into Kriya Yoga, a practice he has continued ever since. Moving to the U.S. highlighted for him the necessity of a guru’s guidance. Chaudhuri’s spiritual journey advanced significantly when he met Jagatguru Ramanandacharya Rajivlochanacharya, who was initiated by Mahavatar Kriya Babaji, the reviver of Kriya Yoga.

Recalling his first encounter with Jagatguru Ramanandacharya, Chaudhuri described him as possessing a “glorious face and a personality vibrating with energy,” adding that his eyes were “like the sun.” This meeting, followed by his initiation, profoundly transformed Chaudhuri’s understanding of the universe.

In Vedic tradition, an enlightened Guru alone can impart the esoteric knowledge and guidance required for Kriya Yoga. This aspect of the Vedic yoga systems demands earnest attention and respect. Inspired by his guru’s wish to disseminate this wisdom, Chaudhuri authored “Whispers.” Although writing the book faced numerous delays, Chaudhuri credits divine assistance for its completion. He emphasized that “Whispers” offers comprehensive information to facilitate sincere practice.

“Whispers,” aimed at readers over 12 years old, aims to alleviate sadness, anxiety, and depression, promoting spiritual upliftment through OM Kriya Yoga. Chaudhuri believes that this practice can foster an awareness of the interconnectedness of all beings and ultimately lead to world peace, asserting, “Peace cannot be created outwardly. Everything comes from within us.”

Chaudhuri warns against simplistic online tutorials for awakening the Kundalini. “Rousing Kundalini requires sincerely following a few processes,” he explains, cautioning that it demands thorough preparation and cannot be rushed. Improperly arousing the Kundalini can be harmful, whereas a natural approach ensures manageable experiences.

Despite the dense content, Chaudhuri makes “Whispers” accessible through conversational narratives with a friend. However, he notes that diagrams could have further clarified his explanations.

A distinctive feature of “Whispers” is the historical and architectural descriptions of renowned Indian temples at the end of each chapter. The book justifies this by noting, “In Vedic times, the temple was seen as a link between man and god, and between the actual and the ultimate.” Chaudhuri asserts that ancient temples are energy powerhouses, with their architecture following Vastu Shastra principles. For example, Chapter 1 elaborates on the Tirupati temple in Andhra Pradesh, highlighting its symbolic representation of elemental principles.

“Whispers” also guides readers in identifying Chakras before performing Kriyas to awaken the Kundalini Chakra. Chakras, explained as energy wheels from the spine’s base to the head’s crown, store the energy of thoughts, emotions, memories, and actions. These energy centers influence our attitudes, behaviors, emotional health, and actions. The book then explores Patanjali’s eightfold Yoga Sutras, which prepare the body and mind for enlightenment and self-realization.

Chaudhuri introduces OM Kriya Yoga later in the book, likening it to entering a temple’s innermost sanctum. The first step involves chanting OM, where ‘O’ is chanted 25% of the time and ‘M’ 75%. “It is actually AUM, but the ‘A’ and ‘U’ combine to become ‘O’,” the book clarifies. Subsequent chapters detail Kriyas involving movements like raising hands or closing ears while chanting OM to harness its power.

The book dedicates an entire chapter to Chaudhuri’s gurus, Mahavatar Kriya Babaji and Jagadguru Ramanandacharya Rajivlochanacharya, detailing their lives and teachings.

Chapter 12 addresses achieving balance in daily life, outlining the four Purusharthas (goals): Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha. It delves into Patanjali’s Yoga Sutra methods for balancing physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, environmental, work-related, and financial health.

“Whispers” concludes with guidance on realizing the oneness of all creation. Chaudhuri, with a strong interest in quantum physics, is convinced of the unity of existence, stating, “The whole creation is one, in various forms.” The book aims to illuminate this truth.

“Whispers” is a profound and comprehensive guide for those earnestly seeking spiritual advancement through Om Kriya Yoga, blending ancient wisdom with practical instructions for modern spiritual seekers.

Shri Thanedar Gains Edge in Congressional Race as Opponent Adam Hollier Disqualified Over Signature Shortfall

Staff ReporterPolitics, USA 0

Indian-American politician Shri Thanedar’s Congressional campaign gained significant momentum after his primary opponent, Adam Hollier, was disqualified from the race for the 13th district. Wayne County Clerk Cathy Garrett announced Hollier’s disqualification on May 21 due to an insufficient number of valid voter signatures.

“I am adopting the staff’s recommendation and hereby determine the nominating petitions are insufficient in number to allow candidate Adam Hollier’s name to appear on the Aug.6, 2024 primary election ballot for the office of US Representative in Congress – 13th District,” Garrett wrote to Thanedar in an official letter dated May 21.

Thanedar had previously challenged the validity of Hollier’s nomination process. An investigation by Garrett’s staff revealed that Hollier had only collected 863 valid signatures out of the 1553 submitted, falling short of the 1,000-signature requirement. The staff report also noted that many signatures appeared to be written in similar handwriting.

In response to his disqualification, Hollier expressed his frustration in a post on X, where he also shared a more detailed statement.

“I am extremely disappointed with the news from the Wayne County clerk following her thorough and professional review of our petitions ― not for myself, but for the voters across the 13th District who deserve a real choice in who their next Congressperson will be,” Hollier wrote.

“While I put my trust in someone who let us down in the collection of signatures, ultimately the leadership of the campaign falls on me and I must hold myself to a higher standard. It is also clear that our state’s system of ballot access and petition collection is sorely in need of reform — so that future campaigns, as well as the voters of this state, do not fall victim to fraud,” he added.

Thanedar, commenting on Garrett’s decision, stated: “Clerk Garrett agreed that Adam did not have enough signatures to get on the ballot and upheld the rule of law. I personally collected hundreds of signatures and enjoyed talking to my constituents directly and listening to their concerns.”

He continued, “I look forward to a vigorous campaign with those on the ballot as I will continue to talk about my record and accomplishments for the 13th District. I’m confident that the voters will put their faith in me for another term.”

This decision marks a significant development in the political landscape of Detroit, a city with an 80 percent Black population. Detroit had maintained at least some representation from the Black community for 70 years until 2023. Hollier’s disqualification is expected to be a significant setback for this community.

Kapil Sibal Takes Electoral Integrity Battle to Supreme Court: Calls for Transparency Measures in EVM Usage

Staff ReporterIndia, Politics 0

Kapil Sibal, a senior lawyer and prominent political figure, has approached the Supreme Court of India with a plea urging the court to direct the Election Commission (EC) to take critical steps to ensure transparency and integrity in the electoral process. Specifically, Sibal is advocating for the preservation of electronic voting machine (EVM) logs for a period of two to three years. Additionally, he is calling for the publication of voting records before the counting process begins.

Context and Background

The issue of EVM reliability has been a contentious topic in Indian politics for several years. EVMs were introduced to streamline the voting process and reduce instances of electoral fraud associated with paper ballots. However, concerns about their susceptibility to tampering and technical glitches have persisted. These concerns have been amplified by several political parties, particularly after the assembly elections where allegations of EVM manipulation were rife.

Sibal’s Plea to the Supreme Court

In his plea, Sibal argues that preserving EVM logs for an extended period would provide a verifiable audit trail that could be examined in cases of disputed election results. This measure, he contends, is necessary to uphold the sanctity of the democratic process. By retaining the logs, authorities and independent observers would have the opportunity to review the data to confirm the accuracy of the election results.

Furthermore, Sibal emphasizes the need for the EC to upload Form 17C, which contains detailed voting data, before the commencement of vote counting. This form, which is crucial for maintaining transparency, records the number of votes cast and the sequence in which they were cast. Making this data publicly available would allow political parties, candidates, and voters to independently verify the voting process’s integrity, thus enhancing trust in the electoral system.

Importance of EVM Logs and Form 17C

EVM logs serve as a digital record of all activities performed on the machines during the election. These logs include timestamps of when votes were cast and other critical data points that can help identify any irregularities or unauthorized access. By preserving these logs, the EC can provide a reliable method for forensic analysis if any discrepancies arise.

Form 17C, on the other hand, is a document mandated by the Representation of the People Act, 1951. It provides a summary of the total number of votes recorded in each EVM, along with details such as the names of the candidates and the number of votes each candidate received. Public access to Form 17C before vote counting can act as a preemptive measure to ensure transparency and address any potential allegations of vote tampering.

Legal and Political Ramifications

Sibal’s appeal to the Supreme Court is not merely a procedural request but carries significant legal and political implications. Legally, if the Supreme Court mandates the preservation of EVM logs and the publication of Form 17C data, it would set a precedent for future elections, ensuring a higher standard of accountability and transparency.

Politically, this move could address the skepticism and mistrust harbored by various political parties and sections of the electorate regarding the reliability of EVMs. In recent elections, parties such as the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have vocally alleged that EVMs were manipulated to favor the ruling party. These allegations, though not conclusively proven, have nonetheless cast a shadow over the credibility of the electoral process.

The Election Commission’s Stance

The EC has consistently defended the robustness and tamper-proof nature of EVMs. It has conducted multiple demonstrations and “EVM challenges” where political parties were invited to attempt tampering with the machines under controlled conditions. The EC maintains that no party has successfully compromised the integrity of EVMs during these challenges. Moreover, the EC has introduced Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines in several elections to add an extra layer of verification.

Conclusion

Kapil Sibal’s call for preserving EVM logs and publicizing voting records aims to bolster the transparency and trust in India’s electoral system. While the EC has taken steps to ensure the security and reliability of EVMs, Sibal’s proposals seek to address lingering doubts and enhance public confidence. The Supreme Court’s response to this plea could significantly influence the future of electoral integrity measures in India.

By implementing these measures, the EC can demonstrate its commitment to transparency and accountability, thereby strengthening the democratic process and reassuring voters that their votes are accurately counted and securely recorded.

House Passes Bipartisan Act to Enhance Federal Service Delivery, Led by Congressman Ro Khanna

Staff ReporterGovernment, USA 0

On May 22, the US House of Representatives decisively approved the bipartisan Government Service Delivery Improvement Act, a legislative initiative spearheaded by Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna, along with Byron Donalds, Barry Loudermilk, and William Timmons. This bill garnered robust support, notably from Gerry Connolly, the Ranking Member of the Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation Subcommittee.

The primary objective of the bill is to enhance the provision of essential services by federal agencies, focusing on areas such as health benefits and student loan programs. A key provision of the legislation requires the heads of federal agencies to designate a senior official who will be responsible for improving service delivery within their respective agencies.

In addition, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is instructed to appoint a senior official to oversee and coordinate these efforts across all federal agencies. These appointed officials will be tasked with assisting agencies in adopting best practices and measuring progress, aiming to improve the public’s experience whether online, in-person, or over the phone.

“This bill will make it easier for Americans to access essential federal services from Social Security to Medicare to veterans’ benefits by designating officials to drive changes and increasing coordination across the government,” remarked Rep. Khanna. “The federal government has an obligation to deliver quality services efficiently and effectively and this bill will make good on that. I’m so glad to see this bill pass the House and hope to see it signed into law by the president very soon.”

The bill had previously received unanimous approval from the House Oversight Committee in February of this year.

“Ensuring that our federal government works efficiently starts by requiring high-quality employees to fulfill their Constitutional responsibilities and carry out the mission,” stated Rep. Loudermilk. “As a longtime advocate for creating a customer-focused government, I’m proud to join Rep. Khanna and my colleagues in supporting the Government Services Delivery Improvement Act, which promotes a more effective, reliable, and responsive federal government, and works to keep its promise to deliver quality services to the American people.”

The enactment of this bill is anticipated to bring significant improvements in the way federal agencies deliver services, ensuring that the public can more easily access critical federal benefits and programs. The designation of senior officials within each agency to oversee and drive these improvements is a strategic move aimed at increasing accountability and effectiveness within the federal government.

By mandating the appointment of senior officials specifically tasked with enhancing service delivery, the bill seeks to institutionalize a culture of continuous improvement and accountability. These officials will play a crucial role in identifying inefficiencies, implementing best practices, and measuring progress, thereby ensuring that the public receives the highest standard of service.

The directive for the OMB to appoint a coordinating official underscores the importance of a unified and coordinated approach to service delivery improvement. This central coordination is expected to facilitate the sharing of best practices and innovative solutions across federal agencies, promoting a more cohesive and efficient government operation.

Rep. Khanna highlighted the broad benefits of the bill, emphasizing that it covers a wide range of essential services that Americans rely on daily. By streamlining access to these services, the legislation aims to reduce the bureaucratic hurdles and frustrations that often accompany interactions with federal agencies.

“This bill will make it easier for Americans to access essential federal services from Social Security to Medicare to veterans’ benefits by designating officials to drive changes and increasing coordination across the government,” Khanna reiterated. His comments underscore the bill’s potential to significantly improve the user experience for millions of Americans who depend on federal services.

Rep. Loudermilk also expressed his long-standing commitment to a customer-focused government, recognizing the importance of high-quality employees in achieving this goal. “Ensuring that our federal government works efficiently starts by requiring high-quality employees to fulfill their Constitutional responsibilities and carry out the mission,” he noted. Loudermilk’s support for the bill reflects his dedication to fostering a government that is not only effective but also responsive to the needs of its citizens.

The bipartisan nature of the bill, with co-sponsorship from Representatives across the political spectrum, highlights the widespread recognition of the need for improvement in federal service delivery. This collaborative effort is a testament to the shared commitment to enhancing the efficiency and reliability of government operations.

As the bill moves forward, the focus will be on its implementation and the tangible improvements it can bring to the delivery of federal services. The designated officials will be pivotal in driving these changes, ensuring that the legislation’s goals are met and that the public reaps the benefits of a more efficient and responsive government.

The Government Service Delivery Improvement Act represents a significant step towards improving the interaction between the federal government and the public. By mandating the appointment of senior officials to oversee service delivery and ensuring coordination across federal agencies, the bill aims to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and responsiveness of federal services. This legislative effort, championed by Congressman Ro Khanna and his colleagues, promises to bring meaningful improvements to the way essential services are delivered to Americans, fulfilling the government’s obligation to serve its people effectively and efficiently.

Indian Singers Mesmerize with Unforgettable Performances and Impeccable Style

Staff ReporterEntertainment, Fashion 0

In the realm of music, fashion often speaks as loudly as the melodies themselves. Indian singers, celebrated for their captivating voices, are also garnering attention with their impeccable sense of style.

From the vivid colors of traditional wear to the edgy elegance of modern fashion, each performance becomes a visual feast, mirroring the artist’s unique persona. As they take the stage, their glamorous harmonies, paired with striking attire, create an unforgettable experience, leaving audiences in awe of both their musical talent and sartorial elegance.

Here are some of these captivating personalities who enchant listeners while also serving as visual delights:

Kanika Kapoor – Known affectionately as the ‘baby doll,’ Kanika Kapoor is always at her best when performing live. She strikes a perfect balance between high fashion and comfort, a combination that works wonders for her. Her ability to blend chic style with ease makes her performances even more mesmerizing.

Neha Bhasin– When it comes to merging style, class, and elegance, Neha Bhasin stands out. Her bold confidence in her fashion choices allows her to pull off a wide range of outfits effortlessly. Her pink hair and stylish piercings in her ears and navel add an extra element of oomph and swagger, making her a constant visual delight. “No wonder, she’s a treat to the eyes all the time.”

Darshan Raval – This man is a true style icon and a poser when it comes to live stage outfits. Darshan Raval is often seen enhancing his look with stylish and classy jackets, which only add to his on-stage charisma. “We love every bit of it.”

Shilpa Rao– Known for her love of shimmers and intricate mirror-work outfits, Shilpa Rao’s style adds to the ‘shock value’ of her sultry and stunning attire. Whether on stage or off, she always looks beautiful and alluring. “No wonder, she looks extremely beautiful and alluring in anything that she wears and we love that sight for real.”

Armaan Malik– Finally, we cannot overlook Armaan Malik when discussing unique style and standout live performances. He frequently experiments with blazers and co-ord sets in various hues, and his attention to his footwear game sets him apart from other male artists. “He puts equal emphasis on his footwear game and that certainly makes him unique and different from all other male performing artistes in the country.”

These artists not only captivate us with their music but also with their distinct fashion statements, making each performance a feast for the senses.

India’s Cinematic Influence: How Bollywood Shapes Political Narratives in the World’s Largest Democracy

Staff ReporterCinema, Politics 0

As India, the world’s largest democracy, heads to the polls, political parties are leveraging popular culture, particularly cinema, to influence voters. Historically, Indian films have both mirrored and shaped the nation’s political and social landscapes, but currently, Bollywood and regional films significantly bolster the ruling right-wing government.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which is aiming for a third consecutive term in office. The BJP, founded as the political branch of the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) — a paramilitary volunteer organization — is one of India’s two main political parties. With 80 percent of India’s population being Hindu, the BJP posits that India is inherently a Hindu nation. Their platform has resonated widely, partly because they portray India as a formidable post-colonial power. In contrast, the main opposition, the Indian National Congress, advocates secularism. During his campaign last month, Prime Minister Modi gave a speech that faced widespread criticism for being Islamophobic.

In a recent episode of the podcast Don’t Call Me Resilient, political scientist Sikata Banerjee from the University of Victoria and cinema studies scholar Rakesh Sengupta from the University of Toronto discuss how cinema and social media help propagate ideas that include “a vicious vocabulary of hate against minorities and dissenters” in India, potentially swaying voter opinions.

“In Modi’s India, when people are asking these questions, why am I poor? Why am I feeling so worthless? The answer is always the Muslims,” says Banerjee. “The Muslims have taken away your wealth. They’re taking all the jobs…You see very clearly how Modi is getting people on board with this idea of the Hindu imagined community.”

This blend of Islamophobia and modern Hindu pride has penetrated Bollywood, the world’s largest film industry, producing around 1,500-2,000 films annually. These films have promoted the vision of a reimagined, strong, and triumphant India. This narrative is further amplified by streaming platforms and social media such as YouTube and WhatsApp, which have even broader reach than traditional Bollywood films.

An example of this trend is last year’s ‘Tollywood’ movie RRR, which received accolades at the Oscars. RRR retells historical events from the perspective of the current “victors.” Another film accused of distorting history is Swatantra Veer Savarkar, which focuses on Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, the originator of the Hindu nationalist ideology of Hindutva.

Sengupta from the University of Toronto explains that the interplay between cinema and the state in India has always been historically significant. “You can always historically see a kind of reflection of the state of a particular time in the cinema of that time,” he notes. “Under the current regime of Hindu nationalism, we are witnessing more and more films being made on Hindu pride and Muslim violence.”

The election process in India began on April 19 and spans seven phases, concluding on June 1, 2024.

India’s Rising Inequality

Staff ReporterFinance, India 0

India’s problem is that it is under-taxed. This has been said several times, including in the Economic Survey published by the government, and by a former finance minister on the floor of the parliament. What is referred to here is the low tax-to-GDP ratio and not the tax rates. The rates are quite high, with top individual marginal income tax rates touching 42 percent, and median Goods and Services Tax at 18 percent.

GST is an indirect tax paid by all, whether rich or poor, on their consumption. Since it does not depend on the income of the taxpayer, it is inherently regressive. Not surprisingly a much higher proportion of total GST collected comes from the lower half of the income distribution, highlighting its unfairness. We need both income and consumption taxes, but the rate of GST has to be much lower. And dependence on income tax has to increase, and it should be progressive and rates increasing by income slab.

Unfortunately, we give such a large exemption, that up to 7 lakhs (700,000 rupees) of annual income, the tax burden is zero. This is almost four times the per capita income of the country. It is equivalent to saying that in America nobody will pay income tax below an annual income of a quarter million dollars. Americans start paying income tax for income as low as 5000 dollars, only one-tenth of their per capita income.  India certainly needs to widen its income tax net. We have only 7 income taxpayers for every 100 voters as per the Economic Survey.

Rising inequality

Along with a low tax-to-GDP ratio, we have rising inequality. The latest report from the World Inequality Lab based on hundred years of data from 1922 till 2023 shows income and wealth inequality to be the highest ever. Fighting inequality is not the same as fighting poverty. The poverty ratio has been falling in India, but there are people still living dangerously close to the poverty line or just above it. One illness in the family can drive the entire family below the poverty line. Hence, we have food security schemes such as free food grain for 800 million Indians, i.e. nearly 65 percent, even though the poverty rate is below 15 percent.

One of the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations calls for a reduction in inequality. On that count, India must exert more by making the income tax net wider and ensuring a lower indirect tax burden of GST and other sundry taxes. Most importantly inequality of opportunity (not outcomes) can be reduced by providing much higher quality and quantity levels of primary education and healthcare.

But spending on social priorities has been going down as a fraction of government budgets.  This means we need more tax collection. What other heads are there? This is where the discussion of wealth tax comes in. Thomas Piketty claims that just by taxing the wealth of the richest two hundred people in the world, at a small rate, the world can generate hundreds of billion dollars for social spending. That same logic can be applied in India.

Wealth is difficult to assess, especially if kept in real estate. It is also notoriously difficult to discover since people have an incentive to hide it. There is tax evasion and dodging. The correlation between wealthy individuals and the highest-income taxpayers in India is not strong. How many of the Forbes billionaires are also the highest-income taxpayers?

So, is there a workable and reasonable way to tax wealth?  Countries like Spain, Norway, Switzerland and France have some form of wealth tax. Even the Netherlands has a tax called “Box-3” which is a tax on wealth, i.e. by taxation of savings and investment. Of course, all these are rich countries. And their financial systems are highly evolved, with evasion rather difficult.

Wealth concentration

India is a poor or medium-income country, so it is premature to talk about wealth tax. It has among the highest number of dollar billionaires in the world. A small annual tax of say 0.1 percent per annum would surely not deter these wealthy from wealth or employment creation or investing in India. If there is capital flight out of the country it is not because of wealth taxes.

Unlimited wealth concentration cannot be healthy for any democracy. The principle of political and social equality of our republic is in sharp contradiction to rising economic inequality. That is why we need to find ways to arrest worsening income and wealth inequality. No modern capitalist economy can be rid of inequality. But it is like industrial pollution. Modern life is impossible without some emissions. But there comes a time when as a society we say this is enough. Otherwise, worsening inequality leads to social instability, the rise of gated communities, the threat of rising crime and ultimately investor flight. What is that stage when inequality becomes intolerable and excessive is for us to decide collectively.

India’s macro savings are only half in instruments like stocks, bonds, insurance and bank deposits. The rest is in real estate or gold. Real estate valuations are revealed only when there is a transaction on which stamp duty is imposed. Such transactions are rare and hence stamp duty collection is low at the state level from real estate.

Thanks to digitization and better triangulation, we have good data on financial savings. Hence it is possible to levy a wealth tax on just that part, above a threshold of say 100 crore rupees. It could be as small as 0.1 percent. The purpose is not merely to raise fiscal resources. Many prominent rich people such as Narayan Murthy, Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Nikhil Kamath, Sir Richard Branson have all said that they welcome higher taxes.

In the Financial Times, Ian Gregg, chairman of the British bakery chain Greggs, wrote an op-ed saying that the wealthy should be taxed more, and that trickle-down economics was not working.  Are these wealthy people saying tax us more just to sound politically right, or out of genuine compassion? Maybe a bit of both, and also to save society from a worsening scenario, where fury is unleashed on the obscenely wealthy.

In the UK it was estimated during Covid that a one-off small tax on the wealthy would generate a quarter trillion pounds for the government. Such is the scale of this potential fiscal gain.  A workable wealth tax can use best practices from some of the dozen countries that implement it and start with a small rate applicable to disclosed financial assets alone.  Taxing real estate can be kept as a domain of stamp duty for now, and taxing the ownership of gold is something for the future.

(The writer is a noted economist and commentator. Views are personal. By special arrangement with The Billion Press)

Read more at: https://www.southasiamonitor.org/perspective/indias-rising-inequality-government-should-work-toward-workable-wealth-tax

China Joins India In The Climate Challenge – Target Net-Zero University Campus

Staff ReporterWorld, Climate 0

India and China may be politically at odds, and the news headlines may be dominated by the “border tension” and “military standoff”, but on the environmental front, there is welcome convergence.

To accelerate the global movement of Net-Zero (carbon-neutral) university campuses, Li Qinglong, the first astronaut of China and the skill-building instructor of China’s space heroes, has announced his support for the ambitious Network of Universities established by Green TERRE Foundation of India, called Smart Campus Cloud Network (SCCN). He encouraged Operation Earth, China’s not-for-profit Organisation to be the hub of Net-Zero universities in China.

The alliance between two civil society organizations in India and China, Green TERRE Foundation of India  and Operation Earth of China will promote through network practical activities in the university campuses to make the campus Net-Zero along with research and development projects leading to Net-Zero

“We are all fighting a global war against our common enemy, which is the climate crisis,” said Dr Rajendra Shende, founder director, of Green TERRE Foundation and Chairman of the International Advisory Council of Operation Earth China while announcing the alliance.

“From space, the Earth is so beautiful. It is our only but fragile home. We must protect her beauty and the ecosystem we rely on for survival. Therefore, I am thrilled to support the joint initiative of India’s Green TERRE Foundation’s SCCN program and China’s Operation Earth, Climate Action. Young college students are the main force in developing and utilizing cutting-edge aerospace technologies, including space technologies like space seed breeding, to address climate change and food security issues. University students from China and India should work together to protect the beautiful Earth!’, said Li Qinglong.

China has pledged to the United Nations that it would be carbon neutral by 2060. India has pledged to the United Nations that it would become carbon neutral by 2070.

“Both India and China countries are separated by mighty Himalaya. But the Himalaya is a symbol of unity. We are united by our common desire to address climate challenge by forming university to university alliance on Net Zero Campus,” said Chen Liangzhong, founder of Operation Earth China and Advisor to Green TERRE Foundation.

The 21st Century will be the Asian century with  India and China in front to lead the green growth for the benefit of the planet and people. Operation Earth and Green TERRE Foundation, both not-for-profit organizations, therefore believe that tomorrow’s youth are climate warriors. They can achieve the Net Zero campus much earlier and at the same time build their green skills to inspire and assist others in the sectors like clean energy, Shende said.

Under the alliance, the network of universities would digitally exchange information on their progress of efforts to make campus Net-Zero. They would undertake pilot projects on emerging technologies related to climate-resilient and climate-friendly practices. Smart Campus Cloud Network (SCCN) is a global network of universities that encourage the implementation of SDGs on the campus and thereby build the green skills in them to make them SDG-ready.

SDG7 and SDG 13 are specific to climate change and hence Net-Zero Campus are their priorities. Nearly 500 universities and higher educational institutes from 12 countries, including China, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, UAE, Egypt, Portugal and Spain are the members of the Network that have begun the implementation of SDGs and Net-Zero in their campuses.

Read more at: https://www.southasiamonitor.org/indo-pacific-china-watch/china-joins-india-climate-challenge-target-net-zero-university-campus

ZEE5 Global to Stream ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar’ on His 141st Birth Anniversary

Staff ReporterEntertainment 0

Global, 21st May 2024: May 28th marks the 141st birth anniversary of one of India’s most influential revolutionaries, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar who played a crucial role in India’s struggle for independence against British rule. And on this day, ZEE5 Global, the world’s largest streaming platform for South Asian content, is setting the stage for the world digital premiere of Swatantrya Veer Savarkar.

The biographical period drama promises an honest portrayal of Savarkar’s extraordinary life, shedding light on his relentless struggle against British colonial rule. Directed, co-written, and co-produced by the talented Randeep Hooda himself, the movie boasts an impressive cast led by Randeep Hooda in the titular role and Ankita Lokhande as his wife, Yamuna bai Savarkar. Audiences can stream Swatantrya Veer Savarkar starting May 28 exclusively on ZEE5 Global.

Swatantrya Veer Savarkar is an authentic biographical drama, chronicling the life journey of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, the most dreaded Indian revolutionary ever. He is one of India’s most influential yet controversial figures in the struggle for independence and yet very little is known or written about him in popular culture. He is infact the originator of ‘Hindutva’ and ‘Akhand Bharat’ and the inspiration behind great leaders and freedom fighters like Netaji, Bhagat Singh and Khudi Ram Bose. The film narrates Savarkar’s story solely from his perspective, fearlessly embracing his ideals and beliefs that were initially contentious but eventually found their way into the fabric of modern India.

Archana Anand, Chief Business Officer at ZEE5 Global said, “With the world digital premiere of ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar,’ we at ZEE5 Global aim to highlight the life of one of India’s most influential yet controversial revolutionaries. This film is part of our ongoing effort to cater to distinct viewer preferences worldwide, providing content that resonates, educates, and inspires. We believe in the power of storytelling to celebrate unsung heroes and bring their remarkable legacies to a global audience.”

Randeep Hooda said, “I am really looking forward to the world digital premiere of Swantantrya Veer Savarkar on ZEE5 Global and what better day to pay a tribute to the most influential revolutionary of the Indian Armed Revolution than his 141st birth anniversary, 28th May. I must admit that I learnt a lot more about this inspiring hero after I started working on this project and I want to share this film with as many people as possible to counter the false narrative spread in popular culture to bury his legacy. It was an honour playing the life of this influential yet maligned revolutionary who has left such rich and inspiring legacy behind. I would urge every Indian to watch this film to know the hidden chapters of Indian History and decide for themselves if he was deservedly Veer or not.”

Ankita Lokhande said, “Portraying Yamuna bai, the wife of the legendary Veer Savarkar, was a truly fulfilling experience as an actor as this is a character unlike anything I have essayed before, and I feel truly honored to have brought her story to life. During filming, I had the opportunity to learn about Yamuna Bai, and I was blown away with the kind of strength and support she showed towards her husband. I learned so much being her. This role has definitely helped me to grow as an actress, and I hope to get more of such opportunities to portray such women on screen in my upcoming films as well. As an actor, it is a privilege to be a part of a project that entertains, educates and celebrates the unsung heroes of our history. It has been a humbling and an enriching journey, and I hope viewers will feel the same way after watching the film on ZEE5 Global”.

Stream Swatantrya Veer Savarkar exclusively on ZEE5 Global starting May 28!

Users can download the ZEE5 Global app from Google Play Store / iOS App Store. It is available on Roku devices, Apple TVs, Android TVs, Amazon Fire TV and Samsung Smart TVs. Users can also access ZEE5 Global on www.ZEE5.com

ZEE5 Global is the digital entertainment destination launched by Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL), a global Media and Entertainment powerhouse. The platform launched across 190+ countries in October 2018 and has content across 18 languages: Hindi, English, Bengali, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Marathi, Oriya, Bhojpuri, Gujarati, Punjabi, including six international languages Malay, Thai, Bahasa, Urdu, Bangla and Arabic. ZEE5 Global is home to 200,000+ hours of on-demand content.

Asia Society Honors Five Extraordinary Women at Asia Arts Game Changers Gala

Staff ReporterCulture, Women 0

Asia Society New York hosted the annual Asia Arts Game Changer Awards on May 16th, 2024, recognizing five exceptional female artists and architects for their contributions to artistic environmental activism. “Through work spanning art, architecture, design, and more, they have expanded how we understand art, history, culture, and identity. Each artist has carved out a unique space for their art, but what is shared is their commitment to the environment,” remarked Asia Society President and CEO Dr. Kyung-wha Kang.

Asia Society Museum Director Yasufumi Nakamori kicked off the awards ceremony, noting the ingenuity of this year’s honorees: “Their meticulous research on a wide range of subjects from climate to building structures transform what we understand as art and architecture today. Through their work we are made aware of how the climate crisis affects the world.”

When presenting artist Rina Banerjee with one of the five 2024 Asia Arts Game Changer awards, art historian Joan Kee said that “beholding one of Banerjee’s works is like holding a galaxy of information.” Banerjee creates multi-faceted sculptures, paintings, and drawings. As a trained artist and an engineer, she often uses antiques alongside synthetic material like plastic to highlight the legacies of colonialism. In Banerjee’s own words, her work shows how “what can become beautiful and grotesque becomes blurred,” highlighting “how vulnerable our world really is.”

Artist Minouk Lim was honored for what curator Lauren Cornell calls “an ability to turn memory into material and find new ways to understand the present.” In her art, Lim uses non-traditional organic ingredients, like squid bones, that people would otherwise not come into contact with. “Words like climate emergency and climate degradation are too abstract, so I try to bring them into my work and make them concrete,” said Lim.

Architect and artist Maya Lin is known for her remarkable memorials that bridge art and history, the first of which was the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. “If I can present the facts, you will come away with another way of seeing the future,” shared Lin, explaining how her memorials focus on more than just loss.

Her fifth memorial, What is Missing?, is a cross-platform, global memorial to the planet that calls attention to the crisis surrounding biodiversity and habitat loss. An interactive presentation from What Is Missing is currently on view in Asia Society Museum’s COAL + ICE exhibition. “Someone once asked me ‘as far as the environment is, am I optimistic?’ and I just want to say, we have no choice but to be wildly optimistic,” said Lin as she accepted her award.

Architect Toshiko Mori has worked on a broad range of award-winning architectural programs across the world, including urban, civic, institutional, cultural, residential, and museum design. When presenting her with the Arts Game Changer Award, Asia Society Trustee Betsy Cohen remarked on Mori’s renowned work for the Brooklyn Central Library. “The element that stands out to me from Toshiko’s professional career is the way in which she translated an idea on paper into something that is beloved by the community that frequents the institution,” said Cohen.

The final award of the evening was presented to artist Anicka Yi, who has produced a unique body of work  that blurs the lines between what is human, animal, plant, and machine. Yi says she fuses “ancient wisdom with contemporary paradigms to better contribute to our planet.” Curator Lydia Yee, who presented the Asia Arts Game Changer Award, praised Anicka for her ability to explore complex questions like ‘what does climate change smell like?’ “She invites us to break free from behavioral patterns that are changing our ecosystem,” said Yee.

Throughout the evening, guests could bid on auction items that were on display from artists Francesco Clemente, Vibha Galhotra, Jitish Kallat, Yayoi Kusama, Christian Marclay, Hiroshi Sugimoto, and Sara VanDerBeek.  The auction, made possible through a partnership with Artsy, will be open through May 21, 2024. 

Women Who Win Summer Summit: Empowering Voices, Fostering Inclusion

Staff ReporterCommunity, Women 0

The upcoming Women Who Win Summer Summit, set to take place at the Academy of Creative Arts in Burlington, Massachusetts on June 2nd from 1 PM – 5 PM, promises to be a remarkable event fostering inclusivity and empowerment within the community. Co-Founder Dr. Manju Sheth emphasizes the summit’s foundation on community feedback, stating, “Diversity & Inclusion are at the core of Women Who Win, and we believe empowerment and educational forums are the key facets of that.”

Highlighting the keynote session titled “CEO Connection: Navigating C-Suite & Executive Realms,” featuring prominent female leaders sharing their corporate insights, experiences, and success strategies, Dr. Deepa Jhaveri expresses excitement about the opportunity to hear firsthand stories from accomplished women. Panelists include Dr. Abha Agarwal, Denella J. Clark, Priya Iyer, and Dr. Maha Radhakrishnan, with moderation by Rita Advani.

Dr. Shalini Mansharamani will lead a session on “Mental Health & Wellbeing,” addressing pertinent topics such as anxiety & depression coping mechanisms, the influence of culture and family on mental health, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Dr. Manju Sheth emphasizes the urgency of discussing mental health issues, particularly post-pandemic, and anticipates the session’s impact on fostering ongoing conversations.

Picture3Further enhancing the summit experience, women who have contributed to Women Who Win will share their journeys through a panel discussion moderated by Jharna Madan, followed by an open mic session led by Ruchika Yadav. Co-founder Shaleen Sheth looks forward to bringing these inspiring narratives to life on stage, enriching the storytelling platform.

The summit will also feature a panel on “Male Allyship,” led by Preetesh Srivastava, exploring the role of men in advancing gender equity in both societal and corporate settings. As community engagement is integral to Women Who Win’s mission, the event will conclude with a session introducing local organizations driving change, led by Eshani Shah and Anmara Nawaz Khan.

Adding creative dimensions to the afternoon, Sunayna Kachroo will present powerful poetry reflecting women’s experiences, while a themed-based dance performance and a poetic exploration of storytelling by Manisha Jain will further enrich the event. The Women Who Win team expresses gratitude to supporters, including the Academy of Creative Arts Founders, Ruchika Arora, Ramila Thakkar, Lucy Karis, Aashita Shekhar, and Rama Penumarthy.

Refreshments will be provided, and while the event is free, registration is required through the provided link(womenwhowin100.com/summersummit2024). The Women Who Win team eagerly anticipates welcoming attendees on June 2nd for an enriching and impactful summit.

Microsoft Unveils AI-Optimized ‘Copilot+’ PCs, Integrates OpenAI’s GPT-40 Model for Enhanced User Experience

Staff ReporterBusiness, Technology 0

Microsoft unveiled a fresh iteration of its personal computers “crafted for” artificial intelligence (AI) on Monday, positioning itself for an advantage in the ongoing AI technology competition.

At an event in Redmond, Washington, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella introduced the new product, labeled “Copilot+” PCs. According to the company, this new line represents “the fastest, most intelligent Windows PCs ever built.”

Describing the innovation, Microsoft stated, “With powerful new silicon capable of an incredible 40+ TOPS (trillion operations per second), all-day battery life, and access to the most advanced AI models, Copilot+ PCs will enable you to do things you can’t on any other PC.”

One key feature of Copilot+ PCs is “Recall,” which logs all computer activity, facilitating virtual access to past actions or views on the device. Microsoft elaborated, stating that these PCs organize information similar to human cognition, based on unique relationships and associations, aiding users in recollecting forgotten details and swiftly finding desired information using familiar cues.

Scheduled for launch on June 18, the new laptops will be priced starting from $999 and will be available across various laptop brands such as Acer, ASUS, Dell, and HP.

This release follows Microsoft’s introduction of AI-powered Windows Copilot nearly a year ago, a tool designed to elucidate content for users through rewriting or summarization. Users also have the option to pose general queries to the Windows Copilot, with the ability to deactivate the service if preferred.

Furthermore, Microsoft announced plans to integrate OpenAI’s latest AI model, GPT-40, into these laptops, enhancing voice conversations for a “more natural” interaction experience.

Last week, OpenAI presented a demonstration of its “Sky” voice assistance, featured in the GPT-40 model, which attracted attention from actress Scarlett Johansson. Johansson remarked that the voice bore a striking resemblance to hers and revealed that OpenAI CEO Sam Altman had previously approached her regarding lending her voice to an AI assistant, an offer she declined.

Subsequently, Johansson engaged legal representation to request OpenAI to remove the “Sky” voice.

Renowned Gastroenterologist Dr. Shiv Kumar Sarin Advocates Personal Health Ownership at New York Event

Staff ReporterHealth, Medicine 0

Dr. Shiv Kumar Sarin, an esteemed Indian gastroenterologist, hepatologist, translational scientist, researcher, and educator, imparted invaluable wisdom regarding personal health ownership during a gathering at the Indian Consulate in New York. He urged individuals not to delegate their health concerns but to take charge of their well-being.

“Health cannot be bestowed; it must be earned,” emphasized the Padma Bhushan recipient, emphasizing the necessity for proactive engagement in one’s health journey.

Dr. Sarin delivered a comprehensive discourse on health and wellness, centering around his book ‘Own Your Body,’ during the session at the Indian Consulate in New York. In his book, Dr. Sarin delves into the strategies for cultivating a healthier self.

During the event, Dr. Sarin delineated ten principles for optimal health, stressing the significance of preventive actions, such as tracing one’s family health history to recognize genetic health susceptibilities.

“The initial principle is to construct a family health tree. It is your responsibility to ensure the well-being of your child and to safeguard the health of a fetus,” Dr. Sarin asserted.

He elucidated the pivotal role of the liver in metabolism and overall well-being, elucidating how a fatty liver can precipitate various health ailments, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and cancer. Dr. Sarin also offered practical advice for self-assessment of liver health, advocating for the monitoring of blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and liver enzyme levels. He advocated for proactive health management through early detection and lifestyle modifications.

Furthermore, he introduced four pillars for attaining and preserving health. “The foremost pillar is maintaining a slim and fit physique. It’s not merely about being lean but being both slim and fit. Understanding what constitutes fitness is imperative. Secondly, it entails knowing when to eat, what to eat, and in what quantity,” Dr. Sarin delineated. “The third pillar emphasizes the importance of restorative sleep, and my final fourth pillar pertains to medications. However, resorting to the fourth pillar should only be considered after exhausting the options offered by the first three pillars,” he added.

Dr. Sarin instilled a sense of empowerment in his audience, encouraging them to embark on a journey toward a prolonged, healthy, and fulfilling life through proactive management of their health.

Mammootty Sends Birthday Wishes to Mohanlal as Icon Turns 64

Staff ReporterCinema, Entertainment 0

Renowned actor Mohanlal, a beloved figure in Kerala, commemorates his 64th birthday today.

Mohanlal’s journey to stardom wasn’t paved with privilege but rather with relentless effort, unwavering dedication, and a profound commitment to his craft. Beginning his career in 1978, it wasn’t until two years later that he embarked on his full-fledged cinematic journey. Despite being initially cast as a villain in the 1980 hit “Manjil Virinja Pookal,” his career soared swiftly, solidifying his status as a superstar. Currently, at the age of 64, he is engaged in his 360th Malayalam film, yet to be named, where he reunites with Shobana for the 56th time.

On this auspicious occasion, Mohanlal’s longtime colleague, Mammootty, extended his heartfelt wishes, accompanied by a delightful picture capturing a tender moment between the two. Well-wishes have begun flooding in from various quarters as the actor celebrates his 64th milestone, coinciding with the anticipation surrounding his directorial debut, “Barroz.”

Throughout his illustrious career, Mohanlal has amassed numerous accolades, including five National Awards, encompassing two Best Actor awards, a Special Jury mention, and a Special Jury award for his acting prowess and production excellence. Complementing his national recognition are nine State Film Awards, a testament to his enduring impact on the Malayalam film industry. Notably, he holds the distinction of being the first actor bestowed with the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army.

Stars and Citizens Alike Cast Their Votes in Mumbai as India’s Marathon Election Continues

Staff ReporterIndia, Nation 0

In the midst of the world’s largest democratic exercise, celebrities, industrialists, and politicians turned out to vote in Mumbai, India’s financial powerhouse, as part of a weeks-long national election. This election will decide if Prime Minister Narendra Modi will secure another five-year term.

Polling took place on Monday across six constituencies in Mumbai, Maharashtra, and in 43 other constituencies nationwide. Millions of voters made their way to the polling booths to decide the leadership of the world’s most populous country.

In India’s wealthiest city, which also serves as the heart of Bollywood, numerous celebrities were photographed casting their votes, proudly displaying their ink-stained index fingers as proof of participation. Shah Rukh Khan, known as the “King of Bollywood,” was seen exiting a polling station in Mumbai with his family, including his wife Gauri, daughter Suhana, and sons Aryan and Abram. Another prominent Bollywood actor, Amitabh Bachchan, also voted at a booth in the Andheri suburb.

“As responsible Indian citizens we must exercise our right to vote this Monday in Maharashtra,” Khan wrote on X over the weekend. “Let’s carry out our duty as Indians and vote keeping our country’s best interests in mind. Go forth Promote, our right to Vote.”

Other notable figures, such as film stars Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh, who are expecting their first child, were also seen voting. Billionaire industrialist Mukesh Ambani, along with his wife Nita and son Akash, made their appearance at the polling stations as well.

Actor Akshay Kumar expressed his aspirations for India after casting his vote. “I voted… India should vote for what they deem is right…I think voter turnout will be good,” he said to local reporters, displaying his ink-stained finger.

Despite the star-studded turnout, voter participation in Maharashtra was relatively low, with only 54% turnout on Monday, and between 47-55% across Mumbai’s six constituencies, according to the Election Commission. In contrast, the northeastern state of West Bengal saw around 73% of eligible voters casting their ballots.

The main political players in Mumbai include Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the opposition Indian National Congress, and two rival factions of Shiv Sena, a local ultranationalist party with a significant influence in Mumbai politics.

Mumbai, home to more than 12 million people, is often compared to New York and is known as the “city of dreams,” where countless migrants from across India come in search of fortune and purpose. The city is a striking mix of extreme wealth and poverty, with skyscrapers standing next to slum dwellings and impoverished children begging at the windows of luxurious cars.

While many wealthy and famous individuals were seen voting, numerous migrant workers in the city were left out of the process. India’s election rules require voters to cast their ballots in their home constituencies, which means that those working outside their home state must travel back to vote. For many low-income, out-of-state workers, particularly those in the informal sector, the financial burden of traveling home is too great.

Mumbai voters have significant concerns about rising inflation and are seeking improvements in education and employment opportunities. Sachin Chaudhary, a 34-year-old grocer, previously told CNN, “The change I want to see is, things should become less costly,” emphasizing the need for better job prospects.

As India undertakes its massive democratic election, Mumbai’s participation showcased both the glitz of its celebrities and the struggles of its common citizens, all aiming for a better future under their chosen leadership.

Gold Prices Surge Amid Geopolitical Tensions and Federal Reserve Policies

Staff ReporterFinance/Economy, Money 0

Gold prices have experienced significant growth in recent months. The Indian Bullion Jewelers Association (IBJA) reported that on Tuesday, the price of 10 grams of 24-carat gold reached Rs 74,220, up from Rs 73,383 in the previous trading session on May 17.

“Gold may be able to sustain at higher levels only if the Fed cuts rates, and the US$ starts declining against currency majors,” stated a report by Emkay Wealth Management, a brokerage firm.

As of April 30, 2024, physical gold has achieved a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.42 percent over the past 12 months, and it has provided absolute returns of 6.78 percent over a one-month period in April.

The report highlights that gold prices have risen from a long-standing base of around US$ 2050 to a new range. This increase is primarily due to tensions in the Middle East and the Federal Reserve’s stance on policy rates.

The market has found some relief from the de-escalation of geopolitical tensions, although the potential for further conflict remains.

Despite resistance at the current levels of approximately US$2370 – US$2390, significant price corrections appear unlikely due to ongoing demand from central banks and retail consumers.

Revolutionary Eyebrow Keyhole Surgery Removes Deep-Seated Brain Tumor in World-First Operation

Staff ReporterHealth, Medicine 0

In a landmark medical achievement, a team of neurosurgeons in Chennai successfully excised a deeply embedded insular brain tumor from a 44-year-old woman using a revolutionary eyebrow keyhole technique.

“This unprecedented technique, being the world’s first, marks an important advancement in the field of neuro-oncology,” stated Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC), Chennai, in an announcement on Tuesday.

The tumor was discovered during a routine examination following the woman’s bike accident. It was located within the delicate folds of her dominant-side insular lobe of the brain.

The insula, situated deep within the cerebral cortex, presents substantial challenges for surgical removal due to its proximity to critical areas responsible for speech and movement. It is enveloped by a complex network of blood vessels, making traditional surgical approaches highly risky.

Conventional surgeries involve navigating through vital brain tissue and blood vessels, posing risks of paralysis, stroke, and language impairment. Patients are often required to remain awake during these procedures, heightening their distress and the potential for complications such as seizures and brain bulges. Despite these dangers, surgery is usually the only viable option.

The neurosurgical team at ACC decided to employ the innovative keyhole technique, making a small incision in the eyebrow to access the insula. This decision was informed by their extensive experience with keyhole surgeries for skull base lesions.

The new approach not only offers an alternative for removing deeply seated brain tumors but also exemplifies “clinical excellence, efficiency, and safety.”

“The impact of this achievement cannot be overstated. The eyebrow keyhole approach offers a transformative alternative to reach these deep-seated tumours inside the brain, minimising invasiveness, reducing collateral damage, and significantly enhancing patient safety and overall quality of life,” commented Hrishikesh Sarkar, Senior Consultant in Neurosurgery at Apollo Cancer Centres.

According to the doctor, the patient was discharged from the hospital within 72 hours and is now recovering well.

Expressing her gratitude, the woman said that the advanced treatment not only cured her but also “gave me hope, comfort, and a shorter return to normalcy.”

Indian Stock Market Achieves Historic $5 Trillion Milestone Amid Domestic Investor Surge

Staff ReporterFinance/Economy, India 0

The Indian stock market made history on Tuesday by achieving a market capitalization of $5 trillion for the first time. This milestone was reached after the market generated $1 trillion in wealth over just six months, despite foreign institutional investors (FIIs) withdrawing funds before the Lok Sabha election results on June 4.

The cumulative market capitalization of all listed stocks on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) climbed to Rs 414.75 lakh crore ($5 trillion) during the day as investors continued to purchase stocks in the broader market, even though the Nifty and Sensex indices were struggling to find direction following last week’s rally.

Dalal Street’s journey from $4 trillion on November 29, 2023, to $5 trillion on May 21, 2024, took less than six months. The Nifty is now approximately 250 points away from its all-time high, while the mid-cap and small-cap indices reached new peaks during Tuesday’s session. This phase of the bull run is primarily driven by domestic institutional, retail, and high-net-worth individual (HNI) investors, even though FIIs have withdrawn at least Rs 28,000 crore this month.

India now ranks as the fifth-largest stock market globally, trailing only Hong Kong, Japan, China, and the United States. The country first hit the $1 trillion mark on May 28, 2007. It took another decade for the market to double to $2 trillion, a milestone achieved on May 16, 2017. The $3 trillion milestone came faster, within four years, on May 24, 2021.

Despite a volatile period in recent weeks due to election-related speculations, investors found reassurance in statements from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. “You will see that in one week within June 4, the day election results would be declared, market participants would get tired,” said PM Modi in an interview with NDTV. Similarly, Amit Shah advised investors to buy the dip, predicting a market upturn post-election results.

India is projected to become the third-largest economy by 2027, with the market cap expected to reach $10 trillion by 2030, assuming market returns align with historical trends and new listings continue. As a favorite among emerging market investors globally, India’s increasing market size is expected to attract significant attention from large investors, providing ample liquidity for major players.

Market depth in India has also increased significantly in recent years, with the number of stocks having a market cap of $1 billion nearly doubling to 500. India is among the major emerging market economies that have consistently delivered annualized returns greater than 10% over the last 5, 10, 15, and 20-year periods.

In the MSCI Emerging Markets (EM) index, India’s weightage is set to rise from 18.3% to nearly 19% from May 31, potentially leading to FII inflows of around $2.5 billion. “Over the next four years, India’s GDP will likely touch $5 trillion, making it the third-largest economy by 2027, overtaking Japan and Germany, being the fastest-growing large economy with the tailwinds of demographics (consistent labor supply), improving institutional strength, and improvement in governance,” said analysts from Jefferies.

The surge in India’s stock market capitalization can be attributed to several factors. New listings, whether through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), Follow-on Public Offerings (FPOs), or Offers for Sale (OFS), contribute significantly to the increase in market cap. Jefferies analysts estimate that IPO and FPO issuances could account for 4%-5% of market cap as Indian unicorns mature over the next 5-7 years, and a new capital expenditure (capex) cycle triggers equity requirements across various sectors.

With cumulative funding of $100 billion, Indian unicorns currently hold a valuation of approximately $350 billion. Companies like Flipkart, Swiggy, Ola Electric, and PhonePe are expected to list on exchanges in the near to medium term. Additionally, Reliance Industries is anticipated to unlock value for shareholders by listing Reliance Jio and Reliance Retail.

The Indian stock market’s rapid ascent to a $5 trillion market capitalization reflects robust domestic investor participation, favorable economic projections, and significant contributions from new listings. Despite global uncertainties and election-related volatility, the market’s resilience and growth potential remain strong, positioning India as a formidable player in the global financial landscape. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have indicated, the market is expected to stabilize and grow post-election, further solidifying India’s position as a key destination for investors worldwide.

Militant Hindutva and Gender: The Rise of Aggressive Female Mobilization in India’s Right-Wing Politics

Staff ReporterReligion, Women 0

Savarkar’s call for the “militarisation” of the “Hindu race” is deeply intertwined with the promotion of masculinity as a fundamental aspect of Hindutva. This vision encompasses the creation of a macho warrior figure whose existence relies on aggression against perceived enemies. Such a warrior is driven by the desire to avenge “historical wrongs” and views every non-Hindu as a potential adversary unless they atone for the alleged crimes of their ancestors by accepting punishment. This ideology fosters the belief that no Hindu, particularly if a Brahmin, can ever be a “terrorist,” and must always be seen as virtuous.

In his essay “Six Glorious Epochs of Indian History,” Savarkar criticizes Buddhism for its teachings of non-violence and universal brotherhood. He underscores the “necessity of creating a bitter sense of wrong” and promoting “political and masculine virility” to combat what he saw as India’s passive acceptance of aggression under the influence of Universalism and nonviolence. This idea of instilling a perpetual sense of grievance is evident in current efforts to rewrite Indian history as a continuous conflict between Hindus and Muslims.

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, in an interview with the Organiser, remarked, “Hindu society has been at war for over 1,000 years… [I]t is but natural for those at war to be aggressive… [T]his war is not against an outside enemy, but against an enemy within. So there is a war to defend Hindu society, Hindu Dharma and Hindu culture…” This perspective implies that women from the “other” community become easy targets to demonstrate “masculine virility.” The masculinisation of Hindutva, inherently violent, impacts how the movement mobilizes women.

In the drive towards a majoritarian India, women’s mobilisation serves two key purposes. Firstly, it involves women’s direct participation in aggressive Hindutva activities. Secondly, it reinforces the traditional role of the family, with women as ideal wives and mothers within Hindutva’s cultural-nationalist narrative. The Rashtra Sevika Samiti, established in 1936, aims to fulfill both roles.

Across the globe, right-wing politics often associates with the stereotype of passive women. However, women’s movements for social change have influenced right-wing structures, leading to the emergence of women leaders in these movements. Such leaders, in various contexts, propagate hate, defend traditional roles, and participate in aggressive mobilizations. In the US, women in white supremacist movements, and in Europe, those involved in anti-immigrant campaigns, mirror this trend. In Islamist societies, women leaders committed to fundamentalist ideologies defend the subordinate role of women as per patriarchal religious interpretations. In India, anti-minority hate speeches and lynching mobs often see leadership from right-wing women, backed by powerful patrons.

During the 1990s, around the Babri Masjid demolition, women like Sadhvi Rithambara and Uma Bharti spearheaded anti-Muslim campaigns with vehement abuse. Since then, other women leaders have followed suit. Their rhetoric combines hate against targeted communities, a sectarian nationalism, and the glorification of traditional female roles through male-centric rituals. Recently, young women have been trained in using weapons, showcased during religious festivals like Ram Navami in Bengal, where young girls wielded swords and chanted provocative slogans.

In Dharma Sansads, women deliver inflammatory speeches. Pragya Thakur, accused in the 2008 Malegaon bomb blast, praised Gandhi’s assassin Godse and encouraged Hindus to keep weapons at home for self-defense. Despite her controversial statements, Thakur was elected on a BJP ticket and enjoys support from top party leaders. This emboldens other women in the Hindutva movement to seek prominence through similar hate crimes and speeches. A BJP Mahila Morcha office bearer in Uttar Pradesh, Sunita Singh Gaur, called for the gang-rape of Muslim women in a Facebook post. Though she was removed from her position after protests, she faced no prosecution for hate speech.

In a Dharma Sansad in Raipur in December 2021, Vibhanand Giri urged men to “rape and impregnate Muslim women” if Muslim men even glance at Hindu girls. Nupur Sharma, whose derogatory comments about Prophet Mohammed drew international attention, was eventually sacked by the BJP but received strong support from the Hindutva ecosystem and protection from legal action.

Women who align with militant Hindutva and advocate violence are far from empowered; they follow the directives of the Hindutva family. This holds true for prominent BJP women leaders in the Modi government who have never condemned such statements. They uphold the ideology, reinforcing the belief that aggression against minorities is justified and necessary.

In light of this aggressive mobilization of women, the RSS, under Mohan Bhagwat’s leadership, is considering direct membership for women in its centenary year. Bhagwat noted that although the Rashtra Sevika Samiti exists, many women are more inspired by the RSS and seek direct membership. This move does not aim to break the male bastion or address issues like patriarchy, dowry deaths, sexual assault, or domestic violence. Instead, it is intended to cultivate more women who will propagate hate within the Hindutva framework, aligning with the organization’s militant agenda.

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