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India votes in favor of UNGA resolution supporting Palestine’s bid for full UN membership

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

The resolution got 143 votes in favour, including by India, nine against and 25 abstentions.

India on Friday voted in favor of a draft UN General Assembly resolution which stated that Palestine is qualified and should be admitted as a full member of the United Nations, and recommended the Security Council to reconsider the matter favorably.

The resolution got 143 votes in favour, including by India, nine against and 25 abstentions. The UNGA hall broke into an applause after the vote was cast. The resolution asserted that Palestine meets the criteria for UN membership according to Article 4 of the UN Charter and should therefore be admitted as a member. It also urged the Security Council to reassess the matter in light of this determination.

The 193-member General Assembly met in the morning for an emergency special session where the Arab Group resolution Admission of new Members to the United Nations’, in support of the State of Palestine’s full membership in the UN, was presented by the United Arab Emirates, as Chair of the Arab Group in May.

India was the first non-Arab State to recognise the Palestine Liberation Organisation as the sole and legitimate representative of the Palestinian people in 1974. India was also one of the first countries to recognise the State of Palestine in 1988 and in 1996, Delhi opened its Representative Office to the Palestine Authority in Gaza, which was later shifted to Ramallah in 2003.

Earlier this month, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj had said that while Palestine’s application for membership at the UN was not approved by the Security Council because of the veto in the UNSC, I would like to state here at the very outset that in keeping with India’s long-standing position, we hope that this would be reconsidered in due course and that Palestine’s endeavour to become a member of the United Nations will get endorsed”. An annex to the resolution said that the additional rights and privileges of participation of the State of Palestine will be effective as of the 79th session of the General Assembly that begins in September this year.

These include the right to be seated among member states in alphabetical order; the right to make statements on behalf of a group, including among representatives of major groups; the right of members of the delegation of the State of Palestine to be elected as officers in the plenary and the Main Committees of the General Assembly and the right to full and effective participation in UN conferences and international conferences and meetings convened under the auspices of the General Assembly. Palestine, in its capacity as an observer state, does not have the right to vote in the General Assembly or to put forward its candidature to UN organs.

In April, Palestine had sent a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres requesting that its application for full UN membership be considered again. For a state to be granted full UN membership, its application must be approved both by the Security Council and the General Assembly, where a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting is required for the state to be admitted as a full member. Last month, the US had vetoed a resolution in the Security Council on the Palestinian bid to be granted full membership of the United Nations. The 15-nation Council had voted on a draft resolution that would have recommended to the 193-member UN General Assembly that the State of Palestine be admitted to membership in the United Nations.

The resolution got 12 votes in its favour, with Switzerland and the UK abstaining and the US casting its veto. To be adopted, the draft resolution required at least nine Council members voting in its favour, with no vetoes by any of its five permanent members China, France, Russia, United Kingdom and United States. Currently, Palestine is a non-member observer state at the UN, a status granted to it by the General Assembly in 2012. This status allows Palestine to participate in proceedings of the world body but it cannot vote on resolutions. The only other non-member observer state at the UN is the Holy See, representing the Vatican.

With inputs from PTI

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sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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India launches database to record crimes against UN peacekeepers

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

The database is designed to serve as an online repository, empowering the Secretariat, Missions, and member states to monitor and address cases of malicious acts against peacekeepers, a press release by the Permanent Mission of India to the UN said.

India has launched a new database designed to record crimes against UN peacekeepers and monitor progress in holding perpetrators accountable, India’s UN envoy Ruchira Kamboj said on Thursday, asserting that New Delhi is at the forefront of advocating for accountability. The launch of the database was announced at a high-level meeting of the India-led ’Group of Friends’ (GOF) on Tuesday.

“Delighted to announce the launch of a new database designed to record crimes against Peacekeepers & monitor progress in holding perpetrators accountable. India is at the forefront of advocating for accountability, leading the Group of Friends dedicated to this cause,” India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Kamboj, said in a post on X.

The database is designed to serve as an online repository, empowering the Secretariat, Missions, and member states to monitor and address cases of malicious acts against peacekeepers, a press release by the Permanent Mission of India to the UN said.

“This database, sponsored by India, is hosted on the Unite Aware platform and is poised to facilitate comprehensive analysis and drive effective strategies for promoting accountability,” it said. During the meeting, Kamboj highlighted the GOF’s progress over the past year, emphasising the insights gained into challenges surrounding accountability, particularly in strengthening the rule of law within Mission areas.

She expressed confidence in leveraging these insights to enact impactful measures advancing accountability for crimes against peacekeepers. The GOF was launched by India in 2022 to promote accountability for crimes against the Blue Helmets during its presidency of the UN Security Council.

India, Bangladesh, Egypt, France, Morocco and Nepal are co-chairs of the GOF, which comprises 40 member states. The GOF’s second meeting on Tuesday was focused on strategies to strengthen legal frameworks against perpetrators of malicious acts targeting peacekeepers, focusing on supporting measures for ensuring accountability.

The meeting’s agenda also featured a substantive discussion on providing legal frameworks to support the concept of accountability for crimes against peacekeepers. Professor Bimal Patel, a distinguished member of the International Law Commission and Vice Chancellor of the Rashtriya Raksha University, shared expert insights on the topic.

Member states engaged in fruitful deliberations on practical approaches to assist host state rule of law institutions in prosecuting perpetrators, ensuring justice for peacekeepers. “The high-level meeting of the GOF serves as a testament to the unwavering commitment of member states, spearheaded by India, towards promoting accountability and upholding the safety and dignity of peacekeepers worldwide,” the press release said.

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nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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World Contraception Day: History, significance and contraception methods available

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

World Contraception Day was first observed in 2007. The day promotes gender equality and universal access to reproductive healthcare options.

World Contraception Day (WCD) is observed every year on September 26 to raise awareness about the myriad contraceptive methods. The day is an occasion to empower women to make informed decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive health.

Contraceptive Methods Available

When it comes to contraception, a wide range of methods exists, each catering to specific needs and preferences. These methods are chosen based on factors such as safety, effectiveness, affordability and accessibility. Some of the prominent contraceptive methods are:

  1. Intrauterine Contraception: Options like the Levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG IUD) and Copper T intrauterine device (IUD) provide protection for a longer period.
  2. Hormonal Methods: These include implants, injections, oral contraceptives, progestin-only pills, patches and hormonal vaginal contraceptive rings.
  3. Barrier Methods: Diaphragms, cervical caps, sponges, male and female condoms as well and spermicides offer physical barriers to prevent pregnancy.
  4. Emergency Contraception: Copper IUDs and emergency contraceptive pills provide a last-minute safeguard against unintended pregnancy.
  5. Permanent Methods of Birth Control: Female sterilisation through tubal ligation and male sterilisation via vasectomy offer irreversible options.

History

The origins of World Contraception Day date back to 2007 when ten global family planning agencies joined hands to highlight the importance of contraception as a conscious choice in family planning. Today, over 15 international NGOs, medical and scientific communities, and governmental organisations support this day to ensure the dissemination of accurate sexual and reproductive health information. The United Nations (UN) has played a pivotal role in endorsing World Contraception Day, aligning with its goal of universal access to sexual and reproductive healthcare.

Significance

World Contraception Day holds immense significance. It serves as a platform to:

– Promote awareness about contraception.

– Improve the overall health and well-being of individuals, irrespective of gender.

– Foster open dialogues on the importance of contraceptives.

– Advocate for women’s rights and gender equality on a global scale.

World Contraception Day 2023: Theme

This year’s World Contraception Day theme, ‘The Power of Options’, underscores the crucial role contraceptive choices play in enabling individuals to take control of their reproductive health. This theme extends beyond contraception itself, promoting autonomy, informed decision-making and international efforts in reproductive health and family planning.

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sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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Climate crisis ‘spinning out of control’ — UN chief tells G20 to take immediate action

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

G20 summit: In his rousing speech in New Delhi on Friday, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also called on G20 leaders to overhaul outdated systems and allocate at least $500 billion per year towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In a powerful address ahead of the G20 summit in New Delhi on Friday (September 8), United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called upon G20 leaders to take immediate action to combat the worsening climate crisis and advocated for a fundamental overhaul of outdated international financial and political structures.

Guterres began his speech by emphasising the urgency of the climate crisis, which he described as “spinning out of control.” He implored G20 nations to lead the way in addressing this critical issue, highlighting that they are collectively responsible for a staggering 80 percent of global emissions.

The UN secretary-general urged the G20 to commit to the “1.5 degree goal” laid out in the 2015 Paris Agreement, aiming to limit the global average temperature rise to well below 2 degree Celsius above pre-industrial levels. He proposed a Climate Solidarity Pact, which calls for developed countries to reach net-zero emissions by 2040 and emerging economies by 2050, with a phased coal phaseout by 2030 in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries and 2040 elsewhere.

Guterres stressed that “half-measures will not prevent full climate breakdown” and urged G20 nations to take substantial and immediate action. He also emphasised the need for financial support, asking wealthier nations to assist emerging economies in achieving these ambitious climate goals.

Additionally, Guterres called on G20 leaders to allocate at least $500 billion per year towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He emphasised the need for an effective debt relief mechanism for poorer countries, which would include payment suspensions, extended lending terms, and lower interest rates on fairer terms.

Highlighting the global financial system’s inadequacies, Guterres urged deep structural reforms and called for the United Nations Security Council to undergo similar changes to adapt to the 21st century reality.

During the Q&A session, Guterres responded to questions regarding the absence of leaders from powerful countries, such as Russia and China, at the summit. He stressed that the responsibility lies with the member states, and regardless of who represents them, they must assume their responsibilities to address global challenges.

When asked about India’s potential to become a voice for developing nations during its G20 presidency, Guterres praised India’s commitment to representing the interests of the Global South and prioritising the development agenda.

On the issue of Ukraine, Guterres expressed scepticism about an immediate peace solution, citing the willingness of the involved parties to continue the conflict. He called for international mediation efforts and highlighted the need for global cooperation to address crises like the Ukraine conflict.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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Why International Friendship Day is celebrated on July 30 and what is the theme this year

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Summary

In 2011, the United Nations General Assembly declared the International Day of Goodwill with the goal of encouraging goodwill among people, nations and cultures.

World Friendship Day, also known as the International Day of Friendship, is observed annually on July 30. While most nations commemorate this unique day on July 30, a few others, like India, Malaysia, the United States, and Bangladesh, chose to celebrate it on the first Sunday of August, which this year falls on August 6.

In 2011, the United Nations General Assembly declared the International Day of Goodwill with the goal of encouraging goodwill among people, nations and cultures. Through the power of friendship, it seeks to motivate peace initiatives and break walls between individuals.

The theme for International Friendship Day 2023 is ‘Sharing the human spirit through friendship.’ It emphasises the significance of incorporating youths as potential leaders in social endeavours that foster international understanding and tolerance for different cultural backgrounds.

Friendship Day’s origins may be traced back to 1920, but its public introduction occurred in 1930, owing to Joyce Hall, the inventor of Hallmark Cards. Earlier attempts to popularise the notion, such as one by the Greeting Card National Association in 1920, were unsuccessful because consumers saw through the marketing deception. Subsequent initiatives by the World Friendship Crusade in 1958 likewise failed. It wasn’t until 2011 that the United Nations formally recognised July 30 as World Friendship Day. Different nations have embraced the celebration over the years, resulting in differences in the dates on which Friendship Day is celebrated.

To mark the International Day of Friendship, the United Nations invites countries, international organisations, and civil society to host events and activities that promote conversation across cultures, unity, cooperation, and peace.

The International Day of Friendship is part of UNESCO’s Culture of Peace effort, which defines peace as a collection of beliefs, values and behaviours that reject violence and aim to avoid conflicts by addressing the root causes. This proposal was accepted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1997, emphasising the significance of promoting peace through friendship and understanding.

The beauty of International Friendship Day is that there are no fixed norms on how people should celebrate it. Whether a friendship has been around for a while or is only now starting to flourish, each one is unique on its own.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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UN says it’s forced to cut food aid to millions globally because of a funding crisis

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

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Carl Skau, deputy executive director of the World Food Program (WFP), told a news conference that at least 38 of the 86 countries where WFP operates have already seen cuts or plan to cut assistance soon.

The United Nations has been forced to cut food, cash payments and assistance to millions of people in many countries because of “a crippling funding crisis” that has seen its donations plummet by about half as acute hunger is hitting record levels, a top official said on Friday.

Carl Skau, deputy executive director of the World Food Program (WFP), told a news conference that at least 38 of the 86 countries where WFP operates have already seen cuts or plan to cut assistance soon — including Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen and West Africa.

He said WFP’s operating requirement is $20 billion to deliver aid to everyone in need, but it was aiming for between $10 billion and $14 billion, which was what the agency had received in the past few years.

“We’re still aiming at that, but we have only so far this year gotten to about half of that, around $5 billion,” Skau said.

He said humanitarian needs were “going through the roof” in 2021 and 2022 because of the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine and its global implications. “Those needs continue to grow, those drivers are still there,” he said, “but the funding is drying up. So, we’re looking at 2024 (being) even more dire.”

“The largest food and nutrition crisis in history today persists,” Skau said. “This year, 345 million people continue to be acutely food insecure while hundreds of millions of people are at risk of worsening hunger.”

Skau said conflict and insecurity remain the primary drivers of acute hunger around the world, along with climate change, unrelenting disasters, persistent food price inflation and mounting debt stress — all during a slowdown in the global economy.

WFP is looking to diversify its funding base, but he also urged the agency’s traditional donors to “step up and support us through this very difficult time.”

Asked why funding was drying up, Skau said to ask the donors.

“But it’s clear that aid budgets, humanitarian budgets, both in Europe and the United States, (are) not where they were in 2021-2022,” he said.

Skau said that in March, WFP was forced to cut rations from 75% to 50% for communities in Afghanistan facing emergency levels of hunger, and in May it was forced to cut food for 8 million people — 66% of the people it was assisting. Now, it is helping just 5 million people, he said. In Syria, 5.5 million people who relied on WFP for food were already on 50% rations, Skau said, and in July the agency cut all rations to 2.5 million of them. In the Palestinian territories, WFP cut its cash assistance by 20% in May and in June. It cut its caseload by 60% or 200,000 people. And in Yemen, he said, a huge funding gap will force WFP to cut aid to 7 million people as early as August.

In West Africa, where acute hunger is on the rise, Skau said, most countries are facing extensive ration cuts, particularly WFP’s seven largest crisis operations: Burkina Faso, Mali, Chad, Central African Republic, Nigeria, Niger and Cameroon.

He said cutting aid to people who are only at the hunger level of crisis to help save those starving or in the category of catastrophic hunger means that those dropped will rapidly fall into the emergency and catastrophe categories, “and so we will have an additional humanitarian emergency on our hands down the road.”

“Ration cuts are clearly not the way to go forward,” Skau said.

He urged world leaders to prioritize humanitarian funding and invest in long-term solutions to conflicts, poverty, development and other root causes of the current crisis.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

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nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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At the current rate of global progress 575 million people will still be living in extreme poverty in 2030: UN

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

 Listen to the Article (6 Minutes)

Summary

As per the report, In 2021, the number of people suffering from hunger was close to 800 million, far above pre-pandemic levels, and in 2022 an estimated 45 million children under the age of 5 suffered from wasting and 148 million had stunted growth while 37 million were overweight. As for education, the report said years of underinvestment and learning losses mean that without a major effort not only will an estimated 84 million children be out of school in 2030 but approximately 300 million students will lack basic literacy and math skills for success in life — and only one in six countries will achieve the target of universal secondary school completion.

In a grim report, the U.N. warned Monday that at the current rate of global progress 575 million people will still be living in extreme poverty and 84 million children won’t be going to school in 2030 – and it will take 286 years to reach equality between men and women.

The report on progress in achieving 17 wide-ranging U.N. goals adopted by world leaders in 2015 to improve life for the world’s more than 7 billion people said that only 15 percent of some 140 specific targets that experts evaluated are on track to be reached by the end of the decade.

Close to half the targets are moderately or severely off track, it said, and of those 30 percent have either seen no movement at all or regressed including key targets on poverty, hunger and climate.

The ambitious goals for 2030 include ensuring that hunger is eradicated and nobody lives on less than $2.15 a day which is the extreme poverty line, providing every child with a quality primary and secondary school education, achieving gender equality, ensuring all people have clean water, sanitation and access to affordable energy, reducing inequalities, and taking urgent action to combat climate change.

“Unless we act now, the 2030 agenda could become an epitaph for a world that might have been,” U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a foreword to the report. “Failure to make progress means inequalities will continue to deepen, increasing the risk of a fragmented, two-speed world.”

The report was released ahead of a summit that Guterres has called during the annual gathering of world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly in September, which he said will be “a moment of truth and reckoning.”

Undersecretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs Li Junhua said conflicts including the war in Ukraine, climate change, the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic especially its devastating financial impact on developing countries, and geopolitical tensions are all “threatening to derail hard-earned progress” toward achieving the goals.

He said in a foreword that the pandemic saw the largest decline in childhood vaccinations in three decades, an increase in tuberculosis and malaria deaths, and learning losses in 80 percent of the 104 countries studied. It also interrupted three decades of progress in reducing poverty, and produced the largest rise in inequality between countries in three decades, he said.

“By May 2023, the devastating consequences of war, conflict and human rights violations had displaced a staggering 110 million people of which 35 million were refugees – the highest figure ever recorded,” the ECOSOC chief said.

Li told a news conference launching the report that at the September summit, the U.N. would like political leaders to come up with “a new roadmap” to accelerate action at the global, regional and national level to achieve the goals by 2030.

With seven years left, the report said achieving the goals is “in deep trouble” and “it is time to sound the alarm.”

At current rates, it said not only will 575 million people still be living in extreme poverty in 2030 but only about one-third of countries will meet the target to reduce national poverty levels by half.

“Shockingly, the world is back at hunger levels not seen since 2005, and food prices remain higher in more countries than in the period 2015-2019,” the report said.

In 2021, the number of people suffering from hunger was close to 800 million, far above pre-pandemic levels, and in 2022 an estimated 45 million children under the age of 5 suffered from wasting and 148 million had stunted growth while 37 million were overweight, it said.

As for education, the report said years of underinvestment and learning losses mean that without a major effort not only will an estimated 84 million children be out of school in 2030 but approximately 300 million students will lack basic literacy and math skills for success in life — and only one in six countries will achieve the target of universal secondary school completion.

On tackling global warming, the report said, “If ever there was an illumination of the short-sightedness of our prevailing economic and political systems, it is the ratcheting up of the war on nature.”

The small window of opportunity to keep temperatures from rising beyond the internationally agreed threshold of 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) to prevent the worst impacts of the climate crisis is fast closing, the report said, and the critical 1.5 degree tipping point is likely to be reached or surpassed by 2035.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

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Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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International Women’s Health Day puts the spotlight on gender equality in the healthcare system

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

 Listen to the Article (6 Minutes)

Summary

On the International Day of Action for Women’s Health, SRHR activists and allies take action, mobilise, and amplify calls for gender equality in the healthcare system, and ensure access to comprehensive healthcare services.

International Women’s Health Day, also known as the International Day of Action, is observed on May 28. It is dedicated to creating awareness about women’s right to health. This day underscores the gaps that governments and health organisations must fill in order to secure women’s right to health.

Theme

On the International Day of Action for Women’s Health, SRHR activists and allies take action, mobilise, and amplify calls for gender equality in the healthcare system, and ensure access to comprehensive healthcare services.

The UN theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is “DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for gender equality”.

History

International Women’s Health Day was first observed in 1987, with formal recognition from the South African government. It led to educating and raising awareness about women’s rights, sexual and reproductive health, and gender-based violence against women and their well-being. Since then, the International Day of Action for Women’s Health has been observed annually on May 28 throughout the world, establishing a unified voice for women’s health empowerment.

ALSO READ | Why is May 28 observed as World Menstrual Health and Hygiene Day

Significance

For a number of compelling reasons, the International Day of Action for Women’s Health is of utmost importance. It brings to attention the widespread health disparities that women experience on a global level. Its ultimate goal is to remove gender-based discrimination in healthcare systems and establish a society in which women receive fair and unbiased medical care.

This day raises awareness of women’s health challenges and the pressing need for laws and practices that put women’s welfare first. To ensure that women are aware, empowered, and prepared to make decisions about their health, it aims to eradicate the barriers. The International Day of Action for Women’s Health also acts as a crucial reminder to authorities, medical professionals, and society at large to recognise and respond to the particular health needs of women.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

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KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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International Day of Living Together in Peace 2023: History and significance

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

 Listen to the Article (6 Minutes)

Summary

The significance of this day lies in its call to embrace diversity, promote dialogue, and build bridges between different cultures, religions, and ethnicities.

International Day of Living Together in Peace is observed on May 16 every year to promote peace, tolerance, inclusion, understanding, and solidarity among individuals and communities worldwide. This day aims to highlight the importance of fostering peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and harmony among people from diverse backgrounds.

History

After World War II, the United Nations recognised the importance of preventing future generations from enduring the devastating consequences of war. To achieve global peace and address inequality, the UN embarked on initiatives such as the International Year for the Culture of Peace in 2000 and the International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for Children of the World from 2001 to 2010. The adoption of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace in 1999 further emphasised the need for sustained peace and non-violence. In 2017, the UN General Assembly solidified its commitment by establishing May 16 as the International Day of Living Together in Peace, promoting inclusion, tolerance, solidarity, and peace among diverse communities worldwide.

ALSO READ |  Earth Day 2023: History, significance and theme this year

Significance

The significance of this day lies in its call to embrace diversity, promote dialogue, and build bridges between different cultures, religions, and ethnicities. It emphasises the need to reject violence, discrimination, and exclusion, and to foster a culture of peace and understanding. The International Day of Living Together in Peace serves as a reminder that peaceful coexistence is crucial for creating a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world.

This observance provides an opportunity for governments, organisations, and individuals to engage in activities that promote living together in peace. These activities can include interfaith dialogues, cultural exchanges, peace education programs, community-building initiatives, and campaigns to combat prejudice and discrimination. It is a day to reflect on the importance of unity, empathy, and compassion in building peaceful and resilient societies.

ALSO READ | International Women’s Day 2023: History, significance and theme

The International Day of Living Together in Peace is aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 16, which focuses on promoting peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development. It emphasises the critical role of peaceful coexistence in achieving social justice, reducing inequality, and fostering economic prosperity.

As the world faces various challenges such as conflicts, social tensions, and inequality, the observance of the International Day of Living Together in Peace reminds us of our collective responsibility to promote peace, harmony, and understanding. It encourages individuals to embrace diversity, bridge differences, and work together towards a more peaceful and equitable world for present and future generations.

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

 Daily Newsletter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
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100th episode of PM Narendra Modi’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ to be broadcast live in United Nations headquarters

KV Prasad Jun 13, 2022, 06:35 AM IST (Published)

 Listen to the Article (6 Minutes)

Summary

In a historic moment, the 100th episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’ will be broadcast live in the United Nations headquarters in New York.

In a historic moment, the 100th episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’ will be broadcast live in the United Nations headquarters in New York.

“Get ready for a historic moment as the 100th episode of PM Modi’s “Mann Ki Baat” is set to go live on April 30th in Trusteeship Council Chamber at @UN HQ!” the Permanent Mission of India to the UN said in a tweet.

The 100th episode of Modi’s monthly radio address will air at 11 am IST on April 30, which will be 1:30 am Sunday in New York. The live broadcast of the programme in the early hours of Sunday in the UN headquarters will be historic and unprecedented. It will be aired in the UN’s Trusteeship Council Chamber.

“#MannKiBaat has become a monthly national tradition, inspiring millions to participate in India’s developmental journey,” the Permanent Mission said.

The Consulate General of India in New York, along with community organisations, is also hosting the broadcast of the 100th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ for members of the Indian-American and diaspora community in New Jersey during a special event at 1:30 am Sunday.

“Don’t miss #MannKiBaatAt100 at 0130 hrs EST on April 30th, 2023! Let us celebrate the landmark 100th episode of #MannKiBaat as Hon’ble @PMOIndia connects with Indians, Indian diaspora and listeners across the world,” the Consulate said in a tweet.

In the ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio broadcast hosted by Prime Minister Modi, he addresses the people of the country on different issues. It was first aired on October 3, 2014, and is broadcast on the last Sunday of every month at 11 am on the entire All India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan (DD) network. The 100th episode of the 30-minute programme will be aired on April 30.

Also Read: Mann Ki Baat — here’s how it became the ideal platform to discuss key healthcare issues and solutions in India

Elon Musk forms several ‘X Holdings’ companies to fund potential Twitter buyout

3 Mins Read

Thursday’s filing dispelled some doubts, though Musk still has work to do. He and his advisers will spend the coming days vetting potential investors for the equity portion of his offer, according to people familiar with the matter

 Daily Newsletter

KV Prasad Journo follow politics, process in Parliament and US Congress. Former Congressional APSA-Fulbright Fellow

Previous Article

Oil Fluctuates as Traders Assess China’s Vow, Unrest in Libya

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index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -72.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +28.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +30.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -14.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95
index Price Change
nifty 50 ₹16,986.00 -7.15
sensex ₹1,882.60 +8.30
nifty IT ₹2,206.80 +3.85
nifty bank ₹1,318.95 -1.95

Currency

Company Price Chng %Chng
Dollar-Rupee 73.3500 0.0000 0.00
Euro-Rupee 89.0980 0.0100 0.01
Pound-Rupee 103.6360 -0.0750 -0.07
Rupee-100 Yen 0.6734 -0.0003 -0.05
Quiz
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Question 1 of 5

What coins do you think will be valuable over next 3 years?

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Should Elon Musk be able to buy Twitter?