Category Archives: International

Maldivian President Mohammed Muijju Visits India, Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthen Ties

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 7, 2024, New Delhi: In a move signaling renewed friendship between Maldives and India, President Mohammed Muijju of the Maldives has officially arrived in India, emphasizing his country’s commitment to maintaining security and stability in the region. During his four-day visit, President Muijju stated, “Maldives will not take any action that would disturb India’s security,” reinforcing a message of cooperation and mutual respect.

Addressing reporters, he underscored the importance of the Maldives-India relationship, which he described as rooted in “mutual respect and interest.” He highlighted India as a key partner in trade, development, and defense, asserting, “It is in our DNA to respect our neighbors and friends.” In an invitation aimed at fostering goodwill, Muijju encouraged Indian tourists to visit the Maldives, a nation known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.

This visit comes in the wake of diplomatic tensions that have arisen since Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s trip to Lakshadweep in January 2024. Recent comments from Maldivian officials had sparked controversy, leading to a social media campaign in India advocating a boycott of Maldives. The escalating situation had put pressure on the Maldivian government and strained bilateral relations.

President Muijju’s visit is seen as a strategic effort to mend these ties and restore amicable relations with India. Notably, he had attended Prime Minister Modi’s swearing-in ceremony just four months ago, highlighting the significance of ongoing diplomatic engagement.

As part of his itinerary, President Muijju visited Rajghat on Monday morning, paying his respects at the memorial of Mahatma Gandhi, a symbol of peace and non-violence. He is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Modi later in the day to discuss ways to strengthen the partnership between the two nations.

This diplomatic engagement marks a crucial step towards rebuilding trust and collaboration, with both countries looking to reinforce their historical bonds for mutual benefit in the future.

Unique Protest on the Hudson River Calls for Global Action Against Genocide of Hindus in Bangladesh

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 4, 2024, New York: A novel and impactful protest took place on the Hudson River in New York, aiming to rally the global Hindu community to take action against the ongoing genocide of Hindus in Bangladesh. Activists gathered to draw attention to the alarming decline of the Hindu population in the country and to commemorate the atrocities committed during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971.


During the war, an estimated 2.8 million people were killed, with the Hindu community bearing a significant brunt of the violence. Reports indicate that over 200,000 women were subjected to sexual assault, reflecting the brutal realities of that era. At the time, Hindus comprised approximately 20% of Bangladesh’s population; however, this figure has since plummeted to just 9%. Ongoing issues such as riots, kidnappings, and forced resignations continue to threaten the safety and rights of Hindus in the region. Activists report that there have been 250 attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh since August of this year alone.

The protesters, led by activists Pankaj Mehta and Sitangshu Guha, emphasized the urgent need for the international community to recognize the 1971 genocide as one of the largest genocides since World War II. They called on the United Nations to formally classify the events of that period as genocide, asserting that recognition is a crucial step toward justice and accountability.

Participants of the protest carried banners and placards urging global leaders to take a stand against the ongoing violence and to support the rights of the Hindu community in Bangladesh. The event served as a reminder of the historical atrocities faced by Hindus and called for solidarity among Hindus worldwide to ensure that such atrocities are not forgotten.

As the situation continues to develop in Bangladesh, the protesters hope that their actions on the Hudson River will inspire broader awareness and mobilization among the global Hindu community and prompt international organizations to take meaningful action against the violence and discrimination faced by minorities in Bangladesh.

Indian Army Chief Warns of Israeli Tactics Amid Rising Tensions with Hezbollah

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, October 1, 2024, New Delhi: In a critical statement, Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi urged caution regarding Israel’s strategic maneuvers, particularly in the realm of technology imports. Speaking at a recent conference, General Dwivedi highlighted Israel’s “master plan” aimed at dismantling Hezbollah, following a recent explosion that underscored the volatility of the region.


The explosion, linked to Hezbollah’s communication network, resulted in the deaths of 40 individuals and significantly disrupted the group’s operations. Reports suggest that the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad developed a covert shell company to engineer explosive devices concealed within the walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah operatives. This operation has drawn attention from military strategists, including General Dwivedi, who has previously commended Israel’s innovative tactics.

Following the explosion, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah ordered a shift to mobile phones in an attempt to evade Israeli surveillance, believing it would obscure the group’s movements from Mossad. However, this move prompted a swift counterstrategy from Israel. According to the New York Times, the shell company was established prior to Nasrallah’s directive, allowing Mossad to swiftly create specialized pagers tailored for Hezbollah. These devices, equipped with a mere three grams of explosive, were engineered to exploit vulnerabilities in the group’s communication protocols.

General Dwivedi’s remarks serve as a stark reminder for India to remain vigilant about the implications of Israel’s technological advancements and intelligence operations. As regional tensions escalate, the need for strategic awareness and preparedness has never been more critical for Indian defense operations. The Indian military community continues to monitor these developments closely, recognizing the potential impact on national security and regional stability.

Kalimpong to Celebrate World Tourism Day with Exciting Events

KalimNews, September 24, 2024,  Kalimpong  : As the world gears up to celebrate World Tourism Day on September 27, 2024, under the theme “Tourism and Peace,” the Kalimpong District Tourism Welfare Society (KDTWS) is set to mark this occasion for the first time in Kalimpong. The celebration will take place at the Industrial Park (IP) of Kalimpong Town, bringing together the community and tourists alike.


During a press conference, Dr. Norden M Lepcha, General Secretary of the KDTWS, announced that the festivities will kick off with a vibrant cycle rally starting from the Ramkrishna Rangamanch (Town Hall). The rally will be flagged off by Balasubramanian T, the District Magistrate of Kalimpong, and will be facilitated by the Cyclist Association, with the esteemed support of the Winners of Kalimpong Police providing an escort. This rally aims to raise awareness about World Tourism Day and its significance.

At the Industrial Park, attendees can explore a variety of stalls featuring local arts and crafts. The Green Arts Society will showcase and sell unique artworks and paintings, while the Horticulturist and Floriculturist Association will present a stunning display of local and exotic flowers and plants. Additionally, local entrepreneurs and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) will offer bamboo handicrafts and jute bags, promoting sustainable practices within the community.

In recognition of the efforts to enhance tourism in the area, the KDTWS will also honor several organizations during the event. Kalimpong Municipality will be acknowledged for its initiative in establishing the Industrial Park as a recreational tourism project. The Muhaan will receive accolades for their annual Kholey Dai tourism festival in Parentar, which actively promotes local tourism. Furthermore, the Ghumau Kalimpong Team will be celebrated for their remarkable work in empowering youth through tourism and exploring the remote, unexplored rural areas of the region.

The KDTWS is optimistic about the increasing tourist footfall in Kalimpong’s villages over the past five years, indicating a promising future for rural tourism. By organizing events like World Tourism Day, they aim to further enhance the region’s appeal as a tourist destination.

This inaugural celebration promises to be a significant step towards promoting tourism in Kalimpong, fostering a sense of community, and highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the region. Everyone is invited to join the festivities and embrace the spirit of tourism and peac

Congress Accused of Harassing India Today Journalist in America

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 14, 2024 — An India Today journalist has faced allegations of harassment in the United States, with Congress workers implicated in the incident. This controversy has prompted a strong response from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has criticized the Congress party in a recent speech.


During an election rally in Doda, Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister Modi condemned the Congress, accusing it of hypocrisy and brutality. He described the party’s professed commitment to love and harmony as a façade, stating, “Congress has always indulged in brutality.” He further criticized Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, labeling his “Mohabbat Ki Dukan” as merely a cover for the party’s true nature.

The allegations stem from an incident involving India Today journalist Rohit Sharma, who was reportedly harassed by Congress workers while conducting an interview with Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda in Dallas. The harassment occurred in the context of Sharma’s questions about attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh. Congress activists are said to have not only objected to the questioning but also confiscated Sharma’s phone and deleted a 30-minute video of the interview.

In response, Indian Overseas Congress chief Sam Pitroda has publicly disassociated himself from the incident, stating that the party does not support such actions. The incident has sparked a broader debate about freedom of the press and the conduct of political parties in the US and India.

Reports stated that a journalist from India Today, Rohit Sharma, was assaulted by Congress workers last week in Dallas, Texas, during Rahul Gandhi’s visit to the US. Sharma had traveled to cover the visit and was attacked after raising a question about the killing of Hindus in Bangladesh following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government.

Sharma was interviewing Indian Overseas Congress Chairman Sam Pitroda at the DFW International Airport when he asked if Rahul Gandhi would address the issue of Hindus being killed in Bangladesh during his meetings with US lawmakers. The question triggered a hostile reaction from 20-30 Congress supporters present at the scene.

The supporters created chaos, assaulted Sharma, seized his phone, and deleted the video of the interview. Despite Pitroda’s attempt to downplay the situation by stating it was up to Gandhi and the lawmakers to decide on relevant issues, the Congress workers forcibly stopped the recording and deleted the footage.

Sharma recounted the ordeal, describing how the workers, who checked his phone and iCloud, made desperate efforts to erase any trace of the interview. He initially resisted but was ultimately forced to delete the interview. Despite considering involving the police, Sharma opted to notify Pitroda, who suggested rescheduling the interview, though it never materialized.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions and issues related to press freedom, especially regarding sensitive topics. The attack on Sharma, who was performing his journalistic duties, has drawn criticism and raised concerns about the treatment of journalists covering political events.

Lee, Plays His First Test Match Fifteen Years After Being Declared Dead

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 12, 2024, Kolkata: In 1915, while World War I raged across Europe, the Germans launched a heavy assault on Great Britain, leading to a rising death toll. Young men who had joined the military were dying in various regiments. Among them was Harry Lee, a cricketer from Middlesex, who served with the 13th Battalion of the London Regiment. From May 9, 1915, he fought at Auber’s Ridge, where he was presumed to have died in battle. His parents even held a funeral and memorial service for him. Yet, fifteen years after his presumed death, Lee played his first Test match against South Africa at Johannesburg on February 13, 1931.


Harry Lee was initially reported dead, but his story took a miraculous turn. During the war, his father was injured by a bullet and taken by German soldiers to a hospital in Valenciennes, France. After six weeks of treatment, he was handed over to the German Red Cross Society and later allowed to return to England in October. Harry Lee, too, managed to survive and returned home. He was discharged from military service in December and was awarded the British War Medal 1914-15, the Silver War Badge, and the Victory Medal.

While in the military, Lee sustained leg injuries that left his legs uneven in length, a disability he lived with for the rest of his life. Despite this, he continued to play cricket, scoring a century against Lancing College for the Royal Army Service Corps. After the war, Lee decided to move to India, where he became a cricket and football coach under the Maharaja of Cooch Behar.

In March 1918, Lee began playing first-class cricket in India for the Maharaja’s XI of Cooch Behar. In his first game, he took five wickets in the first innings and three in the second, although his team lost by one wicket. He continued to play cricket in India for several years, and India’s first Test cricket captain, CK Naidu, described him as “a very nice batsman.”

After the war ended in 1919, county cricket resumed in England, and Lee returned to play for Middlesex. He had a successful season, scoring 1,223 runs in 19 matches in 1919. The following season, he scored 1,518 runs in 23 matches at an average of 43.37. Over his career, he scored more than a thousand runs in 16 seasons of first-class cricket.

By 1931, Harry Lee was working at St. Andrews College in South Africa and Rhodes University in Grahamstown. At that time, several players of the Percy Chapman-led England team were injured. Lee, remarkably, was called up to play for England in the third Test. On February 13, 1931, Harry Lee made his Test debut against South Africa, 15 years after he had been declared dead.

Lee’s life is a testament to resilience and the unpredictable turns of fate, making his journey from the presumed dead in war to a Test cricketer an extraordinary tale in cricket history.

Speculations Surround Ajit Doval’s Upcoming Visit to Russia

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, September 8, 2024, Calcutta – Speculation is mounting regarding the purpose of India’s National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval’s, imminent visit to Russia. This visit comes on the heels of recent diplomatic activities aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

India has actively sought to mediate in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Ukraine marking a significant diplomatic move. During his visit, Modi conveyed a strong message advocating for peace and emphasized that war is not a viable solution to international disputes. Following this, India has consistently called for a resolution to the conflict and has emerged as a potential mediator on the global stage.

Ajit Doval’s visit to Russia is expected to include participation in the upcoming BRICS National Security Advisers (NSA) meeting. However, sources suggest that his presence might also be linked to behind-the-scenes negotiations or strategic discussions beyond the official BRICS agenda. The speculation is further fueled by recent high-level diplomatic exchanges, including a phone conversation between Prime Minister Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin last month.

As India continues its diplomatic efforts, Doval’s visit could play a crucial role in shaping the future dynamics of the conflict and India’s position as a mediator. The exact details of his mission remain under wraps, but the visit is anticipated to have significant implications for international relations and the ongoing peace efforts.

Young Uruguayan Footballer Dies of Heart Attack on the Field

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, August 30, 2024, Kolkata: In a tragic incident, 27-year-old Uruguayan footballer Juan Izquierdo, playing for Brazil’s National Club, died of a heart attack on the field during a Copa Libertadores match against São Paulo FC 

at the Brazilian city’s Morumbi Stadium. The Copa Libertadores is one of the most prestigious football competitions in Latin America, showcasing top clubs from across the continent.

The heartbreaking incident occurred in the 84th minute of the game when Juan suddenly collapsed on the field, clutching his chest. Medical personnel quickly rushed to his aid, and he was immediately transferred by ambulance to Albert Einstein Hospital in São Paulo. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, Juan was declared dead soon after his arrival. According to doctors, Juan was suffering from arrhythmia, an irregular heartbeat condition that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest.

The club confirmed the tragic news on its social media platforms with a black-and-white photo of Juan, stating, “It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Juan Izquierdo.” The post has drawn an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans, fellow players, and football clubs worldwide.

The news comes just a week after Juan and his wife, Selena, welcomed their second child, making the loss even more devastating for his family. The football community has rallied around his family, offering support and condolences during this difficult time.

The National Sports Secretariat, Sebastian Bauza, revealed that Juan had been diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat during a fitness test with a youth team several years ago. However, Club President Alejandra Balbi clarified that Juan’s physical examination prior to joining the Brazilian National Club in January this year showed no signs of heart disease, raising questions about the adequacy of current fitness screening methods in professional sports.

Born in Montevideo in 1997, Juan Izquierdo began his professional football career in 2017. Over the years, he played for various first-division clubs in Uruguay, making a name for himself as a talented and dedicated defender. He also played for the Mexican club Atlético San Luis, where he was known for his strong defensive skills and commitment on the field.

Juan’s untimely death has once again highlighted the issue of cardiac health in sports, particularly in young athletes. Recent studies have shown that sudden cardiac arrest is one of the leading causes of death among athletes. This tragic incident has reignited discussions on the need for more rigorous health screenings and better awareness of heart conditions among athletes, both at the professional and amateur levels.

The football world mourns the loss of a young talent taken too soon. Clubs across Latin America and beyond have expressed their condolences, and moments of silence were observed at various football matches as a tribute to Juan Izquierdo. The National Club has announced that they will hold a special memorial service to honor Juan’s memory and support his grieving family.

Taliban Government Bans Mixed Martial Arts in Afghanistan

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, August 30, 2024: The Taliban government in Afghanistan has announced a ban on mixed martial arts (MMA), citing the sport as being “against Islam.” The decision was announced yesterday by Afghanistan’s sports organization, which stated that MMA violates Islamic law, or Sharia.

The Taliban government’s sports department told AFP, “This sport is against Sharia rules and the teachings of Islam. It is in this context that it has been decided to ban this sport in Afghanistan.” An official from the sports department further explained to local media that MMA was banned due to its potential for causing serious injury or even death.

Since forming a government in 2021, the Taliban has implemented some relaxations of its strict Islamic laws, such as the ban on wearing “human clothing” (with specific mention of men’s pants above the knee). However, they continue to enforce conservative regulations on various aspects of Afghan society, including sports.

Martial arts is a popular sport in Afghanistan. At the Paris Olympics, four out of the eleven Afghans who competed, either representing the Afghanistan national team or the Refugee Olympic Team, were martial arts athletes. Despite its popularity, MMA is not recognized as an Olympic sport due to safety concerns.

पावेल डुरोभ टेलिग्रामका संस्थापक फ्रान्समा पक्राउ, इलोन मस्कको कडा आपत्ति

एजेन्सिज, २६ अगस्त २०२४ : म्यासेजिङ एप टेलिग्रामका अर्बपति संस्थापक र सीईओ पावेल डुरोभलाई शनिबार फ्रान्समा पक्राउ गरिएको छ। पेरिसबाहिर बर्गेट विमानस्थलबाट ३९ वर्षीय डुरोभलाई पक्राउ गरिएको बताइएको छ।

यो पक्राउ टेलिग्राममा मोडरेटरको कमीलाई लिएर गरिएको जानकारी आएको छ, तर टेलिग्रामले यसबारे कुनै औपचारिक बयान जारी गरेको छैन। प्रहरीले टेलिग्राममा मोडरेटरको समस्याका कारण म्यासेजिङ एपमार्फत आपराधिक गतिविधि सञ्चालन भइरहेको आरोप लगाएको छ।

फ्रान्सेली गृह मन्त्रालय र पुलिसले पनि औपचारिक धारणा सार्वजनिक गरेका छैनन्। रूसको विदेश मन्त्रालयले यो प्रकरणबारे आवश्यक कदम चालिएको जनाएको छ, र पश्चिमी गैर-सरकारी संगठनहरूले डुरोभको रिहाइको लागि आवाज उठाउन सक्ने सम्भावना रहेको छ।

सन् २०२२ मा रूसको युक्रेनमाथिको आक्रमणको क्रममा, टेलिग्रामले युद्धसँग सम्बन्धित सामग्रीहरू जाँच नगरी राख्नाले ठूलो विवाद उठाएको थियो। युक्रेनका राष्ट्रपति भ्लोदिमीर जेलेन्स्की र अन्य अधिकारीहरूले यस एपलाई संचारको महत्वपूर्ण माध्यमको रूपमा प्रयोग गर्छन् भने, रुसी सरकार पनि यसलाई प्रयोग गर्दै आएको छ।

टेलिग्राम विश्वभरका सबैभन्दा लोकप्रिय म्यासेजिङ एपमध्ये एक हो, जसलाई पावेल डुरोभले २०१३ मा स्थापना गरेका थिए। यस एपका करिब ९०० मिलियन सक्रिय प्रयोगकर्ता छन्, र डुरोभको सम्पत्ति १५.५ बिलियन डलर रहेको ‘फोर्ब्स’को रिपोर्ट छ। डुरोभको गिरफ्तारीपछि रूसी ब्लगरहरूले फ्रान्सको दूतावासमा विरोध प्रदर्शन गरेका छन्।

यसअघि, २०१८ मा सूचना नदिएको आरोपमा रुसी सरकारले टेलिग्रामलाई बन्द गरिदिएको थियो। अहिले टेलिग्राम यूएईबाट सञ्चालित छ, र डुरोभले हालसालै अमेरिका र रूस दुवैबाट सुरक्षा चुनौतीहरूको सामना गरिरहेको बताएका थिए।

डुरोभको गिरफ्तारीपछि, ट्विटरका मालिक इलोन मस्कले कडा आपत्ति जनाएका छन्। उनले युरोपमा अहिले ‘२०३०’ चलिरहेको टिप्पणी गर्दै, एक मिमलाई मन पराउने आधारमा फाँसी दिन थालेको भन्दै कटाक्ष गरेका छन्।

अरेस्ट फ्रान्समा एक अद्वितीय वारंटको पछाडि आएको हो। दुरोव, जो मूलतः रूसका हुन् तर दुबईमा बसोबास गर्दैछन् र फ्रान्स र संयुक्त अरब अमीरातका दोहोरो नागरिकता राख्छन्, को अनुमानित सम्पत्ति १५.५ बिलियन डलर छ, फोर्ब्सका अनुसार।

दुरोव र उनका भाई निकोलाईले २०१३ मा टेलिग्राम सुरु गरेका थिए। यो प्लेटफर्म यसको अन्त-देखि-अन्त इन्क्रिप्टेड सन्देश र जानकारी प्रसारणको लागि “च्यानलहरू” का लागि प्रसिद्ध छ, र यसमा लगभग ९०० मिलियन सक्रिय प्रयोगकर्ता छन्। यो एप यसको गोपनीयता सुविधाका कारण लोकप्रिय भएको छ र विश्वव्यापी विभिन्न राजनीतिक र सामाजिक आन्दोलनहरूले प्रयोग गरेको छ।

२०१४ मा, दुरोवले आफ्नो अघिल्लो सामाजिक मिडिया प्लेटफर्म, VKontakte, जसलाई उनले बेचेका थिए, मा विपक्षी समुदायहरू बन्द गर्न सरकारका मागहरूको पालना नगरेपछि रूस छोडेका थिए। त्यसपछि, उनले दुबईमा बस्न थालेका छन्, जहाँ टेलिग्राम आधारित छ।

उनको अरेस्टपछि, रूसको दूतावास फ्रान्समा स्थिति बुझ्न र समाधान गर्न सक्रिय रूपमा काम गरिरहेको छ। जबकि टेलिग्रामले अझै पक्राउको प्रतिक्रिया दिएका छैनन्, फ्रान्सका अधिकारीहरूले आरोपहरू वा वारंटको प्रकृति बारे थप विवरणहरू खुलासा गरेका छैनन्।

दुरोवको पक्राउले उनको उच्च प्रोफाइल र टेलिग्रामको वैश्विक प्रभावका कारण महत्वपूर्ण ध्यान आकर्षित गरेको छ, जसले डिजिटल सञ्चारको विश्वमा ठूलो भूमिका खेलिरहेको छ।

हिमतालको सम्भावित विस्फोटपछि थमे गाउँमा ठूलो बाढीको असर

पीटीआई, काठमाडौं, १६ अगस्ट २०२४: नेपालको एभरेस्ट क्षेत्रमा भएको सम्भावित हिमतालको विस्फोटको कारणले प्रसिद्ध शेर्पा गाउँ थमेमा ठूलो बाढी आएको छ, जसले यसका आधा भन्दा बढी घरहरूमा ठूलो नोक्सान पुर्याएको छ र घरहरूलाई लेदो र मलमूत्रले ढाकेको छ, मिडिया रिपोर्टअनुसार।

तीन घर र एउटा होटेल नष्ट भएका छन्, र पाँच थप घरहरू जोखिममा छन्, स्थानीय मिडियाले जिल्ला प्रहरी कार्यालय, सोलुखुम्बुका उप-प्रहरी प्रमुख (डीएसपी) द्वारिका प्रसाद घिमिरेको उद्धरण गर्दै जनाएको छ।

यो क्षति थमेको खोला, जो दुधकोशी नदीका उपनदिहरूमध्ये एक हो, बाट भएको हो।

अधिकारीहरूले तलको क्षेत्रमा बाढीको चेतावनी दिएका छन्।

हिमालयन टाइम्स पत्रिकाले थमेचो क्युडुगका मिंगमा शेर्पालाई उद्धृत गर्दै भन्यो: “थेंगो ग्लेशियरको तलका तालहरूले आज अपराह्नमा ठूलो विस्फोट गरेको छ, जसले विशाल बाढी र भूस्खलनको कारण बनेको छ। थमे गाउँको आधा भन्दा बढी प्रभावित भएको छ।”

थेंगो तालको विस्फोटले टाशी लाप्चा पास नजिकको गाउँलाई असर पुर्याएको छ, जुन प्रसिद्ध शेर्पा तेनजिङ नोरगेको जन्मस्थल हो, जसले न्युजील्यान्डका एडमण्ड हिल्लरीसंग मिलेर १९५३ मा संसारको सबैभन्दा अग्लो पर्वत माउण्ट एभरेस्टको शिखरमा पुगेका थिए।

यद्यपि काठमाडौं पोस्टले प्रमुख जिल्ला अधिकारी देवी पाण्डेले भनिन्, “हिमतालको विस्फोटको कारण यो भएको जुन अफवाह छ, त्यो अझै पुष्टि भएको छैन।”

उनले थपिन् कि प्रभावित क्षेत्रमा वर्षा भइरहेको छ, जुन बाढीको कारण हुन सक्दछ। उनले पूर्ण क्षतिको मूल्यांकन अझै गरिँदै रहेको बताइन्।

खुम्बु उपत्यकामा, नाम्चे बजार नजिक, समुद्र सतहबाट लगभग १२,५०० फिटको उचाइमा अवस्थित यो गाउँ विश्व प्रसिद्ध एभरेस्ट आरोहीहरू जस्तै आपा शेर्पा, कामी रिता शेर्पा, र लक्ष्मी रिता शेर्पा आदिको बासस्थल हो।

दुधकोशी नदी नजिकका तलका गाउँहरूलाई सचेत गराइएको छ, उनले थपे।

“सम्भवत: ग्लेशियर पग्लिनुको कारणले नेपालको प्रसिद्ध पर्वतारोहणको थमेको गाउँ बाढी र भूस्खलनले चपेटमा परेको छ। अहिलेको स्थितिमा, यस एभरेस्ट क्षेत्रको पूर्वी नेपालमा कुनै मानव क्षति रिपोर्ट गरिएको छैन,” यात्रा लेखक विराट अनूपमले X मा पोष्ट गरे।

आठ हिमालयन राष्ट्रहरूको क्षेत्रीय अन्तरसरकारी संगठन अन्तर्राष्ट्रिय एकीकृत पर्वतीय विकास केन्द्र (ICIMOD) अनुसार हिमतालको विस्फोट बाढी, वा जीएलओएफ, भनेको ग्लेशियर पग्लनबाट बनेको तालबाट पानीको अचानक छिराई हो, जुन ग्लेशियरको छेऊ, अघि, भित्र, तल, वा सतहबाट  भएको हो।

विशेषज्ञहरूले चेतावनी दिएका छन् कि विश्व तातिने समस्याले ग्लेशियर तालहरू र त्यसका परिणामस्वरूप  ग्लोफहरूलाई ठूलो खतरा पुर्याउन सक्छ।

यस्तो अवस्थामा, गृह मन्त्रालयले रक्षा मन्त्रालयको समन्वयमा, नेपाल सेना, सशस्त्र प्रहरी बल, र नेपाल प्रहरीलाई खोजी, उद्धार र विपत्ति व्यवस्थापनका लागि निर्देशन दिएको काठमाडौं पोस्टले जनाएको छ।

शताब्दीको अन्त्यसम्ममा विश्वका आधा हिमनदी लोप हुने वैज्ञानिकहरूको चेतावनी
नेपाल, पाकिस्तान, कजाकस्तानसहित एशियाका उच्च हिमाली क्षेत्रमा हिमताल फुट्ने जोखिम बढेको र हिमताल फुट्दा यस क्षेत्रका मानिस प्रत्यक्ष जोखिममा पर्ने भन्दै सतर्कता अपनाउन सुझाव दिइएको छ।

सम्बन्धित समाचार: 

शताब्दीको अन्त्यसम्ममा विश्वका आधा हिमनदी लोप हुने वैज्ञानिकहरूको चेतावनी तस्वीर 

उकालो, २०७९ माघ २५, बुधबार : : सीएनएन
जलवायु परिवर्तनका कारण पृथ्वीको तापक्रम बढ्दै जाँदा हिमाल पग्लने तीव्र हुँदा हिमताल फुट्ने जोखिम बढेको छ। हिमताल फुट्दा विश्वका १ करोड ५० लाख मानिस प्रत्यक्ष जोखिममा पर्ने एक अध्ययनले देखाएको छ। चीन, भारत, पेरू र पाकिस्तानमा मात्रै ७५ लाखभन्दा बढी मानिस जोखिममा रहेको अध्ययनले देखाएको हो।

नेचर जर्नलमा मंगलबार प्रकाशित एक अध्ययन प्रतिवेदनअनुसार विश्वका डेढ करोड मानिस हिमतालको ३० माइल आसपास बसोबास गर्छन् र हिमताल फुट्दा उनीहरू सबैभन्दा जोखिममा पर्ने छन्।

अध्ययनअनुसार विशेषगरि नेपाल, पाकिस्तान, कजाकस्तानसहित एशियाका उच्च हिमाली क्षेत्रमा हिमताल फुट्ने जोखिम धेरै छ। यस क्षेत्रका प्रत्येक मानिस औसतमा हिमतालको करिब ६ माइल आसपास बस्ने गरेको वैज्ञानिकहरू बताउँछन्। नेपालमा पनि पछिल्लो समय हिमपहिरो जाने, हिमाल पग्लने क्रम तीव्र बनिरहेको छ।

हिमाल पग्लनु भनेको जलवायु संकटको सबैभन्दा स्पष्ट र देखिने संकेत हो। तर, विश्वले जीवाश्म इन्धन र जलवायुसम्बन्धी अन्य महत्त्वाकांक्षी लक्ष्य हासिल गरे पनि यस शताब्दीको अन्त्यसम्ममा विश्वका कूलमध्ये आधाभन्दा बढी हिमनदी नष्ट हुने यस अध्ययनले डरलाग्दो प्रक्षेपण गरेको छ।

हिमताल फुट्दा हुने सम्भावित जोखिमबारे गरिएको यो नै पहिलो अध्ययन भएको सीएनएनले उल्लेख गरेको छ। न्युजिल्यान्डको क्यान्टरबरी विश्वविद्यालयका प्राध्यापक तथा यस अध्ययनका सहायक लेखक टम रबिन्सन भन्छन्, हिमताल फुट्नु ‘जमिनभित्र सुनामी’ आउनुजस्तै हो। हिमताल फुट्नुलाई उनले अकस्मात् बाँध (ड्याम) भत्किनुसँग तुलना गरेका छन्।

उदाहरण दिँदै उनी भन्छन्, “यी हिम बाँधहरू मानव निर्मित बाँधभन्दा फरक हुँदैनन्। अमेरिकाको होभर (ड्याम)मा विशाल ताल छ। यदि होभर बाँध एक्कासि हटाइदिने हो भने त्यहाँको पानी कतै बग्नैपर्छ। यसो हुँदा तालको पानी भीषण बाढीसहित उपत्यकाको तलैतल बग्छ।”

उनका अनुसार यस्तो बाढी सामान्य चेतावनी र कुनै चेतावनीबिना नै आउनसक्छ। यसअघि पनि हिमतालहरू फुटेर हजारौँ मानिसले ज्यान गुमाइसकेका छन्। कैयौँ संरचना र सम्पत्ति नाश भएको छ। पेरूको कोर्डिलेरा ब्लांका यस्तै डरलाग्दो प्रक्रियाका लागि परिचित छ।

त्यहाँ सन् १९४१ यता हिमपहिरो र हिमताल फुट्नेजस्ता ३० भन्दा बढी प्राकृतिक प्रकोपका घटनामा १५ हजारभन्दा बढीले ज्यान गुमाइसकेको अनुसन्धानकर्ताहरूको भनाइ छ। पाकिस्तानमा पनि हिमपहिरो, हिमताल फुट्नेसहित विभिन्न विपत्तिले हरेक वर्ष धेरै मानिस प्रभावित हुने गर्छन्।

यद्यपि, पाकिस्तानमा गत वर्षको विनाशकारी बाढी र हिमनदी पग्लिनुसँग सम्बन्ध रहे/नरहेको पुष्टि हुन सकेको छैन। ध्रुवीय क्षेत्र बाहिर सबैभन्दा बढी हिमनदी रहेको देश पनि हो पाकिस्तान।

सन् २०२२ मा पाकिस्तानमा कम्तिमा १६ वटा हिमताल विस्फोट भएका थिए। गत वर्ष मात्रै पाकिस्तानको उत्तरी गिलगीत–बाल्टिस्तान क्षेत्रमा ५ भन्दा बढी प्राकृतिक प्रकोप आएको वैज्ञानिकहरूको भनाइ छ।

तर, केही अनुसन्धानकर्ता पेरू र बोलिभिया सहितका आन्देस क्षेत्रमा सबैभन्दा बढी चासो दिनुपर्नेमा जोड दिन्छन्। यस क्षेत्रमा कम अनुसन्धान भएको उनीहरूको भनाइ छ। जलवायु संकटका कारण पछिल्लो दुई दशकयता आन्देस क्षेत्रमा तीव्र गतिमा हिमाल पग्लिरहेको, विशाल हिमतालहरू बनिरहेको र हिमताल विस्फोटको जोखिम बढेको पाइएको छ।

यस्तै, उत्तर अमेरिकी र युरोपेली क्षेत्रका हिमाल आसपासमा पातलो मानवीय बस्ती रहेकाले यी हिमाल उच्च जोखिममा पर्दैनन्। प्राकृतिक प्रकोपका घटना यी क्षेत्रमा निरन्तर भइरहन्छ। यद्यपि, जनसंख्या कम भएका कारण यस क्षेत्रलाई कम जोखिमयुक्त मानिएको छ।

अमेरिकाको कार्नगी मेलन विश्वविद्यालयका हिमनदी विज्ञ डेभिड रोउन्सले यस अध्ययनलाई ‘शक्तिशाली अध्ययन’ भनेका छन्। तुलनात्मक अध्ययन भएकाले कसरी हिमताल विस्फोटको जोखिम छ भन्ने विषयका साथै, समयसँगै हुने आकस्मिक व्यवस्थापन रणनीतिबारे थाहा पाउन यो अध्ययन प्रभावकारी हुने उनले बताए।

विशेषगरि भारत, पाकिस्तान, पेरू र चीनजस्ता जोखिमयुक्त देशमा हिमाली क्षेत्रमा प्रकोप रोकथामका क्षेत्रमा लगानी गरी हिमताल फुट्ने स्थानका धेरै मानिसलाई बचाउन सकिने अनुसन्धानकर्ताहरूको भनाइ छ।

Empty churches turn into malls: Decline in visitors result to prevailing emptiness

The closings stem largely from a drop in church attendance during the Covid pandemic, and fewer people, especially younger adults, affiliated with religious organisations than in the past
Ellen Rosen, NYTS,  New York, 05.08.24  : A polling station at South Phoenix Missionary Baptist Church during the Arizona state primary election in Phoenix on July 30

Lisa Tofano was baptised, confirmed and married at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church on Lake Opeka in Des Plaines, Illinois. When she and her husband, John, visited the church last fall, however, it wasn’t to worship but rather to celebrate their 34th wedding anniversary at what the church had become: the Foxtail on the Lake, a restaurant.

The transformation was not easy: The shuttered church needed an 18-month, $6 million gut renovation, and a new 3,000sqft kitchen, before it could start offering items like paella and beef shawarma, said David Villegas, a managing partner of Foxtail, who said he had been “a bit nervous” before the restaurant’s opening in November about the reaction of former parishioners. For Tofano, though, “a church is more about the people than the building”, she said.
Across the country, the number of empty churches and other houses of worship is sharply rising, and these structures, often unique architectural gems, have become huge draws for business owners.

Eileen Lindner, a sociologist and Presbyterian minister who is a former editor of the Yearbook of American & Canadian Churches, which analyses census data on religious organisations and houses of worship, said that she expected as many as 100,000 Protestant church properties to close by 2030. That figure, which may come close to 20 per cent of all existing Protestant churches, is a significant increase over the past decade, Lindner said.

The closings stem largely from a drop in church attendance during the Covid pandemic, and fewer people, especially younger adults, affiliated with religious organisations than in the past. The decline has been happening for decades. In the late
1940s, 76 per cent of Americans said they belonged to a church, synagogue or mosque, but by 2020 that number had dropped to 47 per cent, Gallup polling found.

The result is that congregations are closing or merging with others, leaving some capacious sanctuaries and outlying buildings underused or unused altogether. Many religious organisations are having to rethink how to make the best use of their largest assets — the buildings as well as the underlying land — and give them a second life.

Madeline Johnson, who oversees research at the University of Notre Dame on properties owned by the Catholic church as well as other religious organisations, said not much is off limits for what a church could become. Of the many denominations, the Catholic church might have the most stringent restrictions, Johnson said. The church stipulates that new uses “may be profane but not sordid”. But even that limitation affords a lot of leeway.

With their vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows, the architectural forms of churches have long attracted business owners, despite structural problems that
can add significantly to renovation costs.

When a product design consulting firm, argodesign, outgrew its offices in Austin, Texas, its founders were deliberate in their search for a new space. They saw potential in an abandoned 1930s-era church with a “rose window”, a round shape often found in churches, near the city’s bustling downtown South Congress area. The structure could accommodate up to 70 employees and had a parking space for a car the team had constructed together, said Sonia Prusaitis, the general manager of the office. The firm moved into the property in 2022.

Around the world, houses of worship have been converted to restaurants, breweries, hotels, art centres, theatres and even sports complexes. Some abandoned churches have been transformed into mixed-use developments, blending retail and residential space, and affordable housing.

In 1983, the Gothic revival Episcopal Church of the Holy Communion in New York City was converted into a disco called the Limelight, known for its sometimes drug-fuelled party scene. The structure has since gone through several iterations, including a shopping mall, a gym and a market. In St. Louis, an abandoned church became an indoor skatepark called Sk8 Liborius. (It burned down last year.) And a branch of the Black Art Library in Detroit opened this year in a repurposed church.

The process of transforming something old into something new can hit a number of bumps along the way. New structures may need zoning changes, such as when a church is in a residential neighbourhood that doesn’t otherwise permit commercial uses. For instance, Foxtail, the restaurant in Des Plaines, Ill., needed a zoning variance to sell alcohol.

A new business sometimes needs city, state or federal approval before alterations can take place if the church is a landmark structure or in a historic neighbourhood. Churches are often deconsecrated before the buildings even hit the market.

“One of the great difficulties in repurposing a church is that it’s a pretty specific type of space,” said Ari S. Heckman, a co-founder and the chief executive of the Ash hotel group, which turned a once grand old church in New Orleans into the Hotel Peter and Paul. The space has an eclectic style that merges religious vestiges with modern amenities.

“It’s hard to subdivide in a way that makes sense for a lot of uses, which may be why the original developer couldn’t make it work,” he said.

New York Times News Service

Bangladeshi nationals held for illegally entering India

MP, 30 June 2024: Siliguri: The Special Task Force (STF) Siliguri, apprehended two Bangladeshi nationals from the India-Bangladesh border for illegally entering India from Bangladesh on Saturday night. 

The accused have been identified as Junait Minia (21 years) and Kabir Hossain (22 years), residents of Bangladesh. 
Police sources said that based on secret information, a special team of STF raided the India-Bangladesh border in Fulbari on Saturday night, where they arrested the accused as they illegally crossed the border without any valid document. 
During the preliminary interrogation, those arrested said that they had come to India from Bangladesh in search of work. 
The accused were produced at Jalpaiguri District Court on Sunday. Meanwhile, the STF West Bengal arrested one more Bangladeshi National named Sarif Mondal (64 years) of Dhaka, Bangladesh from Cooch Behar. 
Sources said, he had entered the North East states of India illegally from Bangladesh and later came to Cooch Behar for some illegal activity. 
Courtesy & source- Millennium Post
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/bangladeshi-nationals-held-570012

One more arrest in SIM box case with Bangladesh connection

MP, 28 June 2024, Siliguri: One more person was arrested in the SIM box recovery case in Fulbari. On Thursday night, the Detective department arrested a man named Abdul Kader from the Berubari area. While interrogating him, police came to know that he used to exchange SIM cards between India and Bangladesh.


Sabbir Ali, the prime accused of the case was arrested on May 16, leading to the recovery of the SIM boxes by the Special Operation Group (SOG), Detective Department (DD) and Police of New Jalpaiguri Police Station at a store in Jatiyakali near the India-Bangladesh border. There, they seized three SIM boxes with numerous slots, 93 SIM cards, technical gadgets, counterfeit voter and Aadhaar cards, licenses and other documents. Police have confirmed that the owner of the store, Sabbir Ali, was running an illegal telephone exchange racket by using these SIM box machines, causing a loss of revenue to the department of Telecom. Later, two more people were arrested in the case. With Abdul’s arrest a total of four persons have been arrested in the case so far. The accused was produced at Jalpaiguri court on Friday.
Courtesy & source- Millennium Post
https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/mamata-welcomes-jkhands-former-cm-sorens-bail-569890?infinitescroll=1 

बाल यौन दुरूपयोग मुद्दामा रामबहादुर बमजन दोषी ठहर: सजाय निर्धारण असार १७ गते

सेतोपाटी संवाददाता, काठमाडौं, असार १० : सर्लाही जिल्ला अदालतले बाल यौन दुरूपयोग मुद्दामा रामबहादुर बमजनलाई दोषी ठहर गरेको छ।


सोमबार न्यायाधीश जीवनकुमार भण्डारीको इजलासले दोषी ठहर गरेको स्रेस्तेदार सदन अधिकारीले जानकारी दिए। सजाय निर्धारण भने असार १७ गतेलाई तोकिएको उनले बताए।

उनका अनुसार अन्य दुई प्रतिवादी ज्ञानबहादुर र डिगबाहदुर सफाइ पाएका छन्।

रौतहटकी गंगामाया तामाङले आफू आश्रममा बस्दा बलात्कार गरेको आरोप लगाउँदै बमजनविरूद्ध जाहेरी दिएकी थिइन्।

बालबालिका सम्बन्धी ऐनको हद म्याद अनुसार उनीविरूद्ध मुद्दा दायर गरिएको थियो। आफू बालिका हुँदा भएको यौनशोषण तथा बलात्कारविरूद्ध १८ वर्ष पुगेपछि उजुरी दिन पाइने कानुनी व्यवस्था छ। गंगामायाले यही कानुनी व्यवस्था अनुसार १८ वर्षपुगेपछि जाहेरी दिएकी थिइन्।  बमजनले २०७३ साल साउन २० गते आफूमाथि  बलात्कार गरेको उनको आरोप थियो। उक्त जाहेरी परेपछि प्रहरीले अनुसन्धान अघि बढाएको थियो। प्रहरी अनुसन्धानप्रतिवेदनका आधारमा जिल्ला सरकारी वकिल कार्यालयले बमजनविरूद्ध १२ देखि १४ वर्षसम्म कैद सजाय र मनासिव क्षतिपूर्तिको माग गर्दै मुद्दा दायर गरेको थियो।

१४ वर्षदेखि १६ वर्षसम्मका बालिकालाई बलात्कार गरे १२ देखि १४ वर्षसम्मको कैद सजाय हुने कानुनी व्यवस्था छ।

गंगामायाले पहिलोपटक झण्डै ६ वर्षअघि काठमाडौंमा पत्रकार सम्मेलन गर्दै आफूमाथि बमजनले बलात्कार गरेको आरोप लगाएकी थिइन्। त्यसपछि सेतोपाटीले तीन महिना लामो अनुसन्धानपछि २०७५ साल पुस ११ गते बमजनका कर्तुतको फेहरिस्त तयार पारेर एकैसाथ चार स्टोरी प्रकाशित गरेको थियो।

सेतोपाटीमा समाचार प्रकाशन भएपछि आफ्ना छोरी, छोरा र बावु बेपत्ता पारेको भन्दै पाँचपरिवारले त्यतिवेलै प्रहरीमा उजुरी दिएका थिए।  बमजन विरूद्ध विभिन्न प्रहरी कार्यालयमा आफ्नो आश्रममा बस्ने पाँच अनुयायीलाई बेपत्ता पारेको, तीमध्ये कम्तीमा एक जनाको हत्या गरेको लगायतका आरोप छन्। 

उनलाई प्रहरीले गत पुस २४ गते बूढानीलकण्ठबाट पक्राउ गरेको थियो। पक्राउ परेका बमजनमाथि प्रहरीको केन्द्रीय अनुसन्धान व्यूरोले विभिन्न कसुरमा छानबिन गरिरहेको छ।

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https://kalimpongonlinenews.blogspot.com/2024/01/buddha-boy-bomjan-to-face-rape-trial-at.html


रामबहादुर बमजनको बयान लिएपछि पुर्पक्षका लागि थुनामा पठाउने

https://kalimpongonlinenews.blogspot.com/2024/01/blog-post_14.html


पक्राउ परेका बमजनले आफ्ना आश्रममा चलाएको हत्या, हिंसा र


प्रहरीद्वारा रामबहादुर बमजन पक्राउ

Buzz: Indian drones and ammunition used by Israel in Gaza arsenal

 ‘Indians always remind us that Israel was there for them during the Kargil War. Israel was one of the few countries that stood by them and provided them with weapons’
An Israeli soldier on a tank near the Israel-Gaza border on Monday. There is no suggestion that the tank was provided by India.: Reuters picture

Anita Joshua, TT, New Delhi , 26.06.24 : A former Israeli ambassador to India has said speculation in the international media about Indian drones and ammunition being used by Israel in Gaza may well be true considering the gratitude New Delhi feels towards Tel Aviv for its assistance during the Kargil War 25 years ago.

“Indians always remind us that Israel was there for them during the Kargil War. Israel was one of the few countries that stood by them and provided them with weapons. The Indians don’t forget this and might now be returning the favour,” Daniel Carmon told Israeli news network Ynetnews.

Iran was quick to pick on this and the official news agency, IRNA, flashed it on Sunday as “India sent great deal of arms to Israeli regime: Zionist media”.

While there has been some chatter about India sending weapons to Israel for a while now, the decision of Spain to prevent a cargo ship originating from Chennai from docking at one of its ports en route Israel in May has added fuel to the fire.

“The ship, originating from the city of Madras in India, was carrying 27 tonnes of munitions destined for the IDF (Israel Defence Forces), against the backdrop of the war with Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah on the Lebanon border. The incident highlights the fact that India has been providing significant military assistance to Israel since October 7,” the Ynetnews report said.

Before this report, the South China Morning Post had quoted analysts as saying that the shipment on the Danish-flagged ship, the Marianne Danica, which had sought permission to dock at Cartegana, Spain, was most likely from a “third-party vendor”.

In February, Shephard News, which specialises in global defence news, had reported that “the first private UAV manufacturing facility in India has delivered more than 20 Hermes 900 medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) UAVs to Israel”.

“Hyderabad-based Adani-Elbit Advanced Systems India Ltd, a joint venture company between India’s Adani Defence and Aerospace and Israel’s Elbit Systems, became the first entity to manufacture the UAVs outside of Israel,” it added.

Ynetnews, quoting an Indian news report, said India was supplying Israel with advanced Hermes 900 drones manufactured in Hyderabad. “The report said the factory, established by Israel to supply these drones to the Indian military, converted 20 of them specifically for the IDF due to the shortage created during the war.”

In both these instances there was no official confirmation or comment from India and Israel.

In March, Israeli newspaper Haaretz had reported that the IDF used 70-year-old munitions and shells intended for training in India in Gaza. Faced with weapons shortages, the IDF, according to the report, has been using munitions dating back to the 1950s.

“Then there was the case of ‘the Indian munitions’. No one is sure why they earned this moniker. Legend has it that these were American munitions that came from emergency storehouses in India. Some of these left the factory in 1953, a decade before the first M109. Whatever their source, ultimately the soldiers had to try to accurately fire 70-year-old munitions. According to the US army, the maximal shelf life for such explosives is 40 years in optimal storage conditions of up to 30 degrees Celsius,” Haaretz reported.

India’s role in G7 Summit: An Overview

Annwesha Chhetri, EOI, 17 June 2024 : The Group of 7 (G7) Summit, held in the picturesque town of Fasano, Italy, concluded on June 15, leaving a significant impact on global policy and international relations. Hosted by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, this summit focused on the two major geopolitical conflicts weighing on the international community: the war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Apart from the member countries, many other countries, including India, were invited to the Outreach Session. This was India’s 11th and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 5th consecutive participation at the G7 Summit. Traditionally, this group of seven countries has been a forum for some of the world’s most advanced economies to discuss and coordinate on economic policies, trade, security, and other global issues. India’s repeated invitations signal a recognition of its rise in economy, strategic importance, and leadership potential in tackling global challenges. PM Modi’s presence at the summit reflects India’s pivotal role in shaping global discourse. Therefore, India is getting a platform once again to address critical global issues, strengthen bilateral ties, and assert its role as a major player in international affairs. This year’s summit focused on themes such as economic resilience, climate change, health, security, and technological innovation—all the areas where India has a valuable contribution to make.
During the summit, PM Modi shed light on India’s economic reforms and investments like “Make in India” and “Digital India.” These initiatives aim to transform our country into a global manufacturing hub and a leader in digital innovation. With the global economy recovering from the impacts of the COVID- 19 pandemic, India’s robust growth trajectory presents an attractive proposition for foreign investment and trade partnerships. A major highlight of this summit was the launch of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP). Coal accounts for nearly 70% of India’s electricity. This initiative aims to help India transition from a coal-based energy system to more sustainable and low-emission technologies. Hence, JETP is designed to provide financial support, technology, and expertise to facilitate this transition, which is expected to address both environmental concerns and economic dependencies related to coal. PM Modi also reiterated India’s ambitious climate targets, including achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and increasing the share of renewable energy in its energy mix. He also elaborated on the “Ek Ped Maa ke Naam” campaign and urged the leaders to take part in India’s Mission LiFE initiative. Therefore, by collaborating with G7 countries, India will not only contribute to global climate goals but also support its own sustainable development agenda.
“Pharmacy of the World,” India has been a key supplier of affordable vaccines and medicines to developing countries during the pandemic. PM Modi called for strengthening global health infrastructure by ensuring equitable access to vaccines and enhancing research and development capabilities. 
India becomes a key player in the Indo-Pacific strategy, ensuring stability and security and countering China’s expanding influence. The European Union says that Beijing’s large subsidies, especially in green energy and technology, lead to very cheap products that flood the global market, making it difficult for the West to compete. “G7 countries agree on how to handle China,” a Japanese government source told AFP.
PM Modi said that India will collaborate with all countries to make artificial intelligence (AI) transparent, fair, secure, accessible, and responsible. As a founding member and lead chair of the Global Partnership for AI, India is leading the launch of the “AI Mission” with the mantra “AI for All.”
Therefore, this G7 Summit provided India with a platform to advance its economic, environmental, health, technological, and geopolitical agendas. By engaging with the world’s leading economies, India is not only strengthening its international standing but also paving the way for sustainable development and inclusive growth. 
As the world navigates through complex challenges, India’s role in shaping a resilient and cooperative global order is becoming more crucial than ever. On the sidelines of the G7 Summit, PM Modi held bilateral meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron, UK PM Rishi Sunak, Japanese PM Fumio Kishida, and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He also interacted with US President Joe Biden, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Canada PM Justin Trudeau, and Pope Francis. After concluding the visit, PM Modi thanked the people and government of Italy for their “war m hospitality” and said, “Had a very productive day at the G7 Summit in Apulia. I interacted with the world’s leaders and discussed various subjects. Together, we aim to create impactful solutions that benefit the global community and create a better world for future generations,” in a post on X. 
(The views of the author are personal)