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Lord Buddha’s birth anniversary observed in London amid much fanfare

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London – The birth anniversary of Lord Gautam Buddha was observed in London amid much fanfare.

The Buddha Foundation UK organised the 2568th birthday of Lord Buddha at General Gordon Square  at Woolwich, South East London, on Sunday.

Hundreds of members of Nepali diaspora, many of them in their ethnic costumes, took part in the programme organised by the Foundation in cooperation with the Nepali Embassy, London, Nepal Tourism Board and other local organisations.

Cultural programme and children’s activities were organised as part of the festival.

Addressing the event, Nepal’s envoy to the UK, Gyan Chandra Acharya, said Gautam Buddha’s message was still relevant amid conflict and environmental destruction in the world. He called upon all to preserve and protect Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. He thanked the organisers for their tireless efforts to protect and promote Nepali culture in the UK.

Newly elected Mayor of London Borough of Greenwich, Councillor Jit Ranabhat, said Greenwich was proud to host diverse communities living in harmony with each other. He thanked the Nepali community in the Borough for their active participation and contribution to local community. He assured full cooperation from the Borough to support local community activities.

During the event, Buddhist monk Khenpo Karma Thultrim and 11-year-old girl, Arya Shrestha, spoke about the message of Lord Buddha.  A three-and-half-feet tall Buddha statue brought from Nepal and a canvas prepared by former Vice Chancellor of Lumbini University Hriday Ratna Bajrachayra and Prof Karna Maharjan depicting Gautam Buddha’s life were main attractions of the event. 

The venue was decorated with Buddhist prayer flags. 

President of the Buddha Foundation UK, Deepak Shrestha, said the Foundation was organising the event, in cooperation with other organisations, to spread the message that Lord Buddha was born in Lumbini, Nepal. He thanked all for their participation and support to make the event a grand success.

Programme coordinator and Vice President of the Foundation, Ms Prasuna Kadel, conducted the event.


Members of Pasa Puchah UK performed Lakhe dance and Dhime music while artistes including Suresh Lama, Anu Chaudhary, Sharmila Bardewa and Deepak Thapa also performed at the ceremony.

All guests as well as participants at the event lit lamps at the end of the programme praying for world peace and harmony.  

(All pics: Shiba Bhandari/London)

Exit Polls Predict Another Term for NDA in 2024 Lok Sabha Elections

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NEW DELHI: Exit polls following the final phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in India signal a continued reign for the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA), projecting a potential third consecutive term. The NDA is expected to secure approximately 360 seats, with the opposition INDIA bloc forecasted to win around 150 seats.

The remaining seats are likely to be distributed among neutral parties, including the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and the Trinamool Congress (TMC). These projections will be confirmed once the official results are released on June 4.

Initial analyses indicate that the NDA is maintaining its dominance in the northern and western regions of India, while also gaining significant ground in the east and making notable inroads in the southern states. Noteworthy is the forecast that the NDA may surpass the TMC in West Bengal and outdo the BJD in Odisha.

In Bihar, the ruling coalition and its allies are predicted to exceed the 30-seat mark out of a total of 40 seats. Despite these gains, the NDA faces minor setbacks in Maharashtra compared to its 2019 performance. The split between the Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has potentially strengthened the INDIA bloc’s presence in the state, though the extent varies among different pollsters.

As the country awaits the official election results, these exit poll projections suggest a continued period of stability and governance under the NDA, with their influence expanding across various regions of India.

Voting underway in 57 constituencies in 8 states of India

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PTI, NEW DELHI, June 1: In the seventh and final phase of the general election on Saturday, polling is being held for 57 constituencies spread across seven states and the Union Territory of Chandigarh, including Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term in the Lok Sabha.

The voting is being held in all 13 seats of Punjab and four of Himachal Pradesh, 13 constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, nine in West Bengal, eight in Bihar, six in Odisha and three in Jharkhand, besides Chandigarh. Polling for the remaining 42 Assembly constituencies in Odisha and by-polls to six Assembly seats in Himachal Pradesh are also taking place simultaneously.

The voting began at 7 am. Voters were seen standing in queues in front of polling booths since early in the morning during severe heatwave conditions in several parts of the country.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to people to exercise their franchise. “Together, let’s make our democracy more vibrant and participative,” the prime minister said on X.

“Today is the final phase of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. As 57 seats across 8 states and UTs go to the polls, calling upon the voters to turn out in large numbers and vote. I hope young and women voters exercise their franchise in record numbers,” he added.

Other prominent candidates among the 904 in the fray are Union minister Anurag Thakur, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s nephew Abhishek Banerjee, RJD supremo Lalu Prasad’s daughter Misa Bharti and actor Kangana Ranaut.

More than 10.06 crore citizens, including nearly 5.24 crore men, 4.82 crore women and 3,574 third-gender electors, are eligible to vote in this phase.

Saturday’s voting will mark the end of the marathon polling process that began on April 19. The assemblies of Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim also went to polls. The counting of votes will be taken up on June 4. In Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim, the counting for the Assembly polls will be held on June 2.

According to the Election Commission’s (EC) guidelines, television channels and news outlets will be able to run exit poll data and its results after 6:30 pm.

The poll panel has called upon voters to turn out in greater numbers and vote with responsibility and pride. The turnout in the first six phases of the general election was 66.14 per cent, 66.71 per cent, 65.68 per cent, 69.16 per cent, 62.2 per cent and 63.36 per cent respectively.

The campaigning for the last phase, which ended on Thursday evening, saw ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, led by Modi, accusing the Congress and the INDIA opposition bloc of being corrupt, anti-Hindu and engaging in loot, appeasement and dynastic politics.

The opposition parties have been claiming that the BJP is anti-farmer, anti-youth and will change and scrap the Constitution if it wins the election.

Polling is being held in eight Lok Sabha constituencies of Bihar, along with the bypoll to the Agiaon Assembly seat. Union minister R K Singh and former Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad are among the contestants in the fray.

The Dumka, Rajmahal and Godda seats in Jharkhand are going to polls in this phase. All eyes are on Dumka, where the BJP’s Sita Soren, the sister-in-law of jailed former Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren, is contesting against the INDIA bloc’s Nalin Soren. Sita Soren, a three-term former Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) legislator, joined the BJP just ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.

Polling has commenced for six Lok Sabha and 42 Assembly seats in Odisha.

Assembly Speaker Pramila Mallik, the government’s chief whip Prashant Muduli, Odisha BJP chief Manmohan Samal and BJP national vice-president Baijayant Panda are among the candidates in the fray.

Voting is also being held for the Dum Dum, Barasat, Basirhat, Jaynagar, Mathurapur, Diamond Harbour, Jadavpur, Kolkata Dakshin and Kolkata Uttar seats in West Bengal.

Several heavyweight candidates, including incumbent Trinamool Congress (TMC) MPs Sudip Bandyopadhyay, Sougata Roy and Mala Roy, former Union minister Debasree Chaudhuri of the BJP and senior CPI(M) leader Sujan Chakraborty, are in the fray.

Voting is underway in 13 constituencies of Uttar Pradesh, which sends the highest number of 80 members to the Lok Sabha among all the states.

In Punjab, INDIA bloc allies — the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) — are contesting the election separately, while the BJP and the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) are fighting the polls on their own for the first time since 1996.

The Sukhbir Badal-led SAD walked out of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in 2020 over the now-repealed three farm laws.

Polling is being held for four Lok Sabha seats — Hamirpur, Mandi, Kangra and Shimla — and six Assembly constituencies of Sujanpur, Dharamshala, Lahaul and Spiti, Barsar, Gagret and Kutlehar in Himachal Pradesh. All eyes are on Mandi, where Ranaut of the BJP has locked horns with the Congress’s Vikramaditya Singh.

The voting is scheduled to conclude at 6 pm, barring in Jharkhand, where it is scheduled to conclude at 5 pm.

British Electoral Irony

Posted on by SAT News Desk

Bhabani Shankar Nayak

University of Glasgow, UK

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, currently considered one of the most unpopular political figures in the UK, has announced that the next general election will be held on July 4, 2024. According to a YouGov Westminster Voting Intention survey conducted on May 30, the Labour Party holds a 25% lead over the Conservative Party. Should these percentages translate into actual votes on July 4, the unpopular Prime Minister is likely to be replaced by the most unpopular opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer. Both Sunak and Starmer are representatives of two sides of the same ideological spectrum, which prioritises the interests of the wealthy, large corporations, and both British and international elites, often at the expense of the working class. This has led to significant disillusionment among voters, who feel that neither party genuinely addresses their concerns and needs.

The dominance of these two parties in British politics has undermined the conditions necessary for the deepening of democracy and the implementation of robust welfare policies. Leadership within both the Conservative and Labour parties is committed to policies that ultimately weaken the working masses, exacerbating exploitative working conditions and socio-economic inequalities. It often appears as though these two parties are in a contest to see who can be more ruthless in their treatment of the populace.

Once upon a time, the Labour Party played a historic role in shaping progressive welfare policies, institutions, and laws such as the Equal Pay Act, the Minimum Wage, and key health and education policies, including the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS). These contributions significantly advanced social justice and improved the lives of countless individuals. However, the current Labour Party seems to be undermining its own legacy. By adopting policies and stances that echo those of the Conservative Party (the Tories), it risks dismantling the very achievements that once defined it. This shift raises concerns among supporters who believe the party is straying from its foundational principles of equality, fairness, and social welfare. The current trajectory of the Labour Party under Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership has raised significant concerns about its adherence to traditional Labour values.

Ideologically, the Labour Party has traditionally been a broad church, encompassing a wide range of perspectives and beliefs. This diversity has included social democrats, democratic socialists, leftists, trade unionists, more centrist members and liberals who advocate for market-friendly policies within a minimalist framework of social justice. This ideological plurality has been both a strength and a challenge for the party, allowing it to appeal to a broad spectrum of voters while also navigating internal tensions. However, Sir Keir Starmer led Labour Party is moving into a reactionary political landscape sans labour values. From day one of his leadership, he has been busy suspending progressive, left-wing, trade unionist, and democratic leaders within the party, as if he is on a mission to cleanse the Labour Party of its progressive character.

Similarly, the Conservative Party is dedicated to maintaining its political tradition, which prioritizes the interests of British elites, large corporations, and businesses. The political ethos within the Conservative Party extends support to the ideology of white supremacists under the guise of national interests and conservative British cultural values, thereby perpetuating a system of political patronage. This alignment with white supremacist ideals not only undermines the principles of equality and inclusivity but also exacerbates societal divisions and tensions in 21st century Britain.

These two parties in British politics bear striking similarities in their policies, ideological commitments, and interactions with the populace. Both the Conservative Party and the Labour Party share commonalities in their approaches to governance, often aligning on key issues such as economic strategy, social welfare, and foreign policy. Their ideological foundations, while distinct in certain aspects, frequently converge on matters of corporate interests branded as national importance.

The electoral rituals of democracy, orchestrated by these two parties, fail to provide a genuine alternative for the common people. The forthcoming general election on July 4 merely perpetuates a cycle wherein an unpopular ruling party and its leadership are replaced by an equally unpopular opposition party and its leadership. This recurring pattern underscores the disillusionment felt by many citizens who perceive little substantive difference between the policies and priorities of the incumbent government and the opposition. Despite the democratic façade of electoral choice, the fundamental interests of ordinary people often remain marginalised amidst the political theatre enacted by these parties in Britain.

The mere act of alternating power between two unpopular entities does little to address the systemic issues and challenges facing society. Instead, it reinforces a sense of political inertia and cynicism, eroding trust in the democratic process itself. In such a climate, the need for genuine alternatives and transformative leadership becomes increasingly evident. Citizens deserve more than a superficial exchange of power; they deserve meaningful representation and policies that genuinely reflect their interests and aspirations. Until such alternatives emerge, the electoral rituals orchestrated by the dominant parties will continue to ring hollow for many disenfranchised voters. However, the result of the forthcoming general election is crucial as it will determine the direction of the UK’s political landscape amidst ongoing economic, political challenges and social issues. Many are calling for a shift towards policies that more directly benefit the broader population, rather than maintaining the status quo that favours the elites.

Will the British electoral irony offer any alternatives?

The British electoral irony, characterised by the cyclic exchange of power between unpopular parties, may indeed present opportunities for alternative voices to emerge. While the dominant parties may seem entrenched in their positions of influence, historical precedents demonstrate that shifts in political landscapes can occur, often catalysed by grassroots movements, new political parties, or charismatic leaders. In recent years, people have witnessed the rise of smaller progressive parties, green politics and independent candidates challenging the status quo, offering alternative visions and policies that resonate with disenchanted voters. These movements, although initially marginalised, can gradually gain momentum, reshaping the political discourse and forcing established parties to adapt or risk irrelevance.

Moreover, societal changes and evolving public attitudes can create fertile ground for new ideas and progressive ideologies to take root in the expansion of working-class politics. Issues such as climate change, social inequality, and technological innovation have the potential to galvanise diverse coalitions and mobilise support for unconventional political platforms.Ultimately, the British electoral system, despite its limitations and paradoxes, remains dynamic and responsive to changing realities. While entrenched interests may resist change, the inherent unpredictability of politics means that genuine alternatives can emerge from unexpected quarters, offering hope for a more inclusive and representative democracydespite its current irony.

Professor Subedi elected Council Member of the Royal Asiatic Society

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Professor Surya P. Subedi, OBE, KC, of the School of Law has been elected a Council Member of the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland for a term of four years by the Anniversary General Meeting of the Royal Society held in London recently.

Professor Subedi is the author of several books on international legal aspects of Asian affairs and has served as the Chief Editor of the Asian Journal of International Law which is published by Cambridge University Press. One of his books ‘Human Rights in Eastern Civilizations’ was published by Edward Elgar Publishing in 2021. He has been a Fellow of the Royal Society since 2022.

The Royal Society was founded in 1923 and received its Royal Charter from King George IV in 1924 for the investigation of subjects connected with and for the encouragement of science, literature and the arts in relation to Asia.  King Charles III is the Patron of the Society.

Professor Subedi said that he was honoured by his election to the Council of the Royal Society and looked forward to contributing to its important work in the years to come.

Nepal Celebrates 17th Republic Day Amidst Political and Economic Challenges

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Kathmandu, Nepal, May 28 — Nepal is celebrating its 17th Republic Day with a grand ceremony held at the Nepal Army Pavilion in Tundikhel, Kathmandu. The event, organized by the Republic Main Ceremony Committee, saw President Ram Chandra Paudel as the chief guest.

The special ceremony featured a march past by the Nepali Army, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force. A joint team of the Nepal Army and Armed Police Force also performed patriotic songs and lyrics reflecting the spirit of national pride and unity.

The event was attended by an array of dignitaries, including ministers, chiefs of constitutional bodies, high-ranking government officials, security body chiefs, and representatives from diplomatic missions, alongside other notable personalities.

Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the Republic Day also brings to light significant challenges that Nepal has faced since becoming a republic. The political instability is evident, with 13 different governments having taken office in the 16 years of the republic’s existence. The federal system has also struggled, exemplified by Gandaki Province, which has seen seven government changes in just six and a half years—a situation mirrored in other provinces.

Economic challenges are profound. Daily, approximately 2,000 youths leave the country seeking employment abroad due to a lack of job opportunities and an underdeveloped economic system that fails to support business and entrepreneurship. Systemic corruption further hampers progress, with scandals such as the cooperative cheating scandal, Giribandhu tea scandal, fake Bhutanese refugee scandal, and the Baluwatar government land-selling scandal being shaded through political power.

Leadership in Nepal continues to be dominated by figures whose tenures have previously been tested. Sher Bahadur Deuba, KP Sharma Oli, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, and Madhav Kumar Nepal are among the leaders who have repeatedly held power, raising concerns about the lack of qualitative change in governance.

The persistence of corruption and the re-election of the same leaders despite their tainted records remain significant challenges. Calls for a qualitative change in the federal republic system and a shift in voter behavior towards nominating more accountable and honest leaders are growing louder.

As Nepal celebrates its 17th Republic Day, the juxtaposition of patriotic pride with political and economic realities highlights the need for substantial reforms to achieve sustainable progress and stability.

Cyclone Remal Hits Bangladesh and Eastern India: Seven Dead, Hundreds of Thousands Without Power

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Dhaka, Bangladesh, May 28 — Cyclone Remal wreaked havoc on southern Bangladesh and eastern India on Monday, flooding coastal villages, destroying homes, and leaving hundreds of thousands without power. Initial reports indicate that at least seven people have died.

In Bangladesh, dozens of villages were inundated as flood protection embankments were either washed away or damaged by the storm surge. Approximately 800,000 people were evacuated from vulnerable areas on Sunday, according to local authorities.

Somoy TV, a Dhaka-based television station, reported that at least seven individuals lost their lives due to the cyclone, and two more are missing following a boat capsizing incident.

In India’s West Bengal state, the cyclone caused significant damage, blowing away thatched roofs and uprooting electric poles and trees in several coastal districts. While there were no immediate reports of fatalities, heavy rains flooded streets and homes in Kolkata’s low-lying areas.

Cyclone Remal made landfall in Bangladesh’s Patuakhali district early Monday with winds sustaining at 111 kph (69 mph). The Bangladesh Meteorological Department reported that the winds have since decreased to 90 kph (56 mph), with gusts reaching 120 kph (75 mph).

The India Meteorological Department forecasted that Remal would continue to weaken throughout the day but warned of heavy rainfall over Assam and other northeastern states for the next two days.

As a precaution, the Kolkata airport, which had been closed on Sunday, reopened, while Bangladesh shut down Chattogram airport and cancelled all domestic flights to and from Cox’s Bazar. Operations at the Chittagong seaport were also halted, with over a dozen ships moved to the deep sea for safety.

Volunteers in Bangladesh assisted hundreds of thousands of evacuees to reach up to 9,000 cyclone shelters. Authorities have closed all schools in the affected regions until further notice.

Remal is the first cyclone of this year’s Bay of Bengal cyclone season, which precedes the monsoon season running from June to September. The increasing intensity of cyclones due to changing climate patterns has heightened the urgency of disaster preparedness along India’s coasts.

As recovery efforts begin, the full impact of Cyclone Remal on both human lives and infrastructure will become clearer in the coming days.

Virendra Sharma, Member of Parliament for Ealing Southall, announces he will not be standing for re-election

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This afternoon at 6pm Virendra Sharma MP wrote to members of his Ealing Southall constituency confirming that he would not be seeking re-election at this General Election.

Following his by-election victory in 2007 Virendra has been re-elected in 2010, 2015, 2017 and 2019.

Writing to members, Virendra Sharma MP said, “It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve as the Member of Parliament for Ealing Southall. Across five elections I have been honoured to be re-elected each time, and to have had the support of the Labour Party to stand again now. It has been a pleasure to work for and with the many people of Ealing Southall, in Greenford, West Ealing, Hanwell, Northfields and Southall. I am proud of what we have achieved, the vibrancy of our community and its unity.

It is clear to me that the country is crying out for change, and that Keir, Angela and the whole Labour Party represent the change this country needs. I was proud to nominate Keir for leader in 2020, and the promises he made then to rebuild this party have put us on the path to power and made me proud to serve as a Labour MP. We swept antisemitism from the Labour Party and we have gone from our worst result in a century, to the edge of Government.

As a British-Indian and as a Hindu, as a Labour Member, Councillor and MP I have never struggled to reconcile those different, but complimentary, identities. Over nearly 50 years I have served the party in one form or another. Now I believe the time has come for another chapter to begin.

I want to let you know that I will not be standing at the next election. From surgeries, community forums, charity fairs and street stalls, I am proud of the work we have done standing up to the Tories and for the people of Ealing Southall. I am sure my successor will do the same and wish whoever they are the best of luck in the most amazing job they will ever have.

This does not dim my desire for Labour to win, and win I am sure we will. I will continue to support Labour, and I hope to continue to be part of the Labour project, but not from inside the House of Commons. The help and backing of so many friends and family over the last fifty years made this possible, but especially the constant unstinting support of Nirmala my wife.

I want to wish you the best of luck for the election campaign, I will still be there pounding the streets, and look forward to celebrating Labour’s entry into Downing Street with all of you.”

Brigade Boys Club Triumphs at 22nd Gorkha Cup Before Record Crowd over 14,000

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London – The Brigade Boys Club (BBC) clinched the title of the 22nd Gorkha Cup, a prestigious event organized by the Nepalese British community group, Tamu Dheen UK. Over 18,000 spectators gathered at the Queen’s Avenue football ground in Aldershot on Sunday to witness the thrilling competition.

BBC emerged victorious in the main competition, defeating Watermelon FC to secure the championship. The triumphant team was awarded £3,000, a trophy, and a certificate. Watermelon FC, the runner-up, received £1,800, a trophy, and a cheque. Certificates were presented to the winners and runners-up by Hari Gurung, President of Tamu Dheen UK, with trophies handed out by esteemed guests and cheques provided by sponsors.

In the Veteran category, BBC continued their winning streak, taking the title over Dharan 11 FC. BBC was awarded £1,500, while Dharan 11 FC received £1,000, along with certificates and trophies.

The women’s category saw Thunderbolts FC emerge as winners, with MK Ladies FC as the runners-up. With only two teams participating, Thunderbolts FC received £600 and MK Ladies FC received £400, both accompanied by certificates and trophies.

This year’s competition featured a total of 50 teams: 32 in the main category, 16 in the Veteran category, and 2 in the women’s category. The event, renowned among the Nepalese community in the UK, was coordinated by media representative SK Gurung.

President Hari Gurung expressed gratitude to all sponsors, supporters, volunteers, and spectators for their contributions to the success of the event, emphasizing the collective effort that made the 22nd Gorkha Cup a memorable occasion.
(Photo: Milan Tamu)

Nepal Launches Project to Combat Gender-Based Violence

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Kathmandu, May 26, 2024—Today marks the official launch of the “Institutionalizing Gender-Based Violence Response in Federal Nepal Project,” a collaborative initiative spearheaded by the Honorable Minister of Women, Children, and Senior Citizens, Ms. Bhagbati Chaudhary, and the World Bank Country Director for Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, Mr. Faris Hadad-Zervos.

This three-year project aims to significantly enhance access to essential gender-based violence (GBV) response services for women and girls across six municipalities in the Koshi and Lumbini provinces. The comprehensive support will include legal aid, psychosocial counseling, and medical services, aiming to assist approximately 49,000 women and girls who have experienced violence.

Minister Chaudhary emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing GBV, stating, “Addressing gender-based violence is a priority for the government of Nepal. This project will help establish a functioning coordination system to link GBV response mechanisms at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels.”

Funded by a $4.6 million grant from the State and Peacebuilding Trust Fund, the project will be managed by the Ministry of Women, Children, and Senior Citizens. Key components of the initiative include strengthening institutional frameworks, enhancing capacity, piloting innovative service models to improve coverage and quality, and fostering behavior change among first responders and local stakeholders.

Mr. Hadad-Zervos highlighted the broader impacts of the project, noting, “This project will help empower women and girls to readily access GBV services, report violence, and seek help, especially in the most remote and hard-to-reach areas. This is key to supporting Nepal’s development that is green, resilient, and inclusive.”

The project’s launch follows the signing of the financing agreements by the Government of Nepal and the World Bank on April 24, 2024. This collaboration underscores a significant step forward in addressing GBV and promoting sustainable development in Nepal.

UN Secretary General Calls for Immediate Action to Recover Biodiversity

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Kathmandu, May 26: United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has issued a stern reminder to global governments about the urgent need to act for the recovery of biodiversity. In his message marking the International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22, Guterres emphasized the critical state of the world’s biodiversity, stating, “The world’s complex web of biological diversity sustains all life on earth. Yet it is unravelling at alarming speed – and humanity is to blame.”

The Secretary General highlighted the severe pollution of land, oceans, and freshwater systems, which has led to widespread damage to landscapes and ecosystems. He also pointed out the destructive impact of greenhouse gas emissions on the climate. According to Guterres, the ongoing loss of biodiversity poses a direct threat to sustainable development, leading to increased uncertainty for humanity’s future.

Guterres underscored the potential of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework as a roadmap to reversing biodiversity loss. This framework, adopted in 2022, aims to restore biodiversity, create jobs, build resilience, and promote sustainable development. He reiterated the importance of this year’s International Day for Biological Diversity slogan, ‘Part of the Plan,’ which calls on everyone to contribute to biodiversity conservation efforts.

The Secretary General appealed to a wide range of stakeholders, including Indigenous Peoples, businesses, financial institutions, local and regional authorities, civil society, women, young people, and academia, to collaborate in valuing, protecting, and restoring biodiversity for the benefit of all. He stressed the need for a collective commitment to the plan to save the planet and ensure a sustainable future.

The UN Environment Programme echoed Guterres’ call to action, emphasizing the theme ‘Be part of the Plan’ for this year’s International Day for Biological Diversity. This theme urges all stakeholders to actively support the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework to halt and reverse biodiversity loss.

As the world faces unprecedented environmental challenges, the message from the UN Secretary General serves as a critical reminder of the urgent need for unified global action to protect and restore the planet’s biodiversity.

UNICEF Issues Urgent Warning Amid Extreme Heatwave Threatening Children in South Asia

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NEW DELHI/KATHMANDU, 25 May 2024 – UNICEF has expressed deep concern over the health and safety of babies and young children as a severe heatwave engulfs several countries across South Asia.

In many northern states of India, including Delhi, temperatures soared to an unprecedented 43-47°C on Sunday, according to a five-day heatwave warning issued by the Indian Meteorological Department on 20 May. Concurrently, Pakistan’s Meteorological Department has forecasted a severe heatwave from 23 to 27 May, prompting the Government of Punjab to close schools from 25 to 31 May.

“The soaring temperatures across South Asia pose a significant threat to millions of children’s health if they are not adequately protected or hydrated,” UNICEF stated. “Children are more vulnerable to temperature changes than adults and cannot efficiently remove excess heat from their bodies, leading to severe health complications.”

Among the risks highlighted are dehydration, heat strokes, diarrhoea, and an increased likelihood of chronic respiratory conditions and organ dysfunction, including kidney failure. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can also disrupt brain development in children, potentially impacting their learning, memory, and concentration.

For pregnant women, who are particularly susceptible to heat, the risks are severe. These include early contractions, preterm births, and stillbirths. Premature babies are at heightened risk of mortality.

UNICEF advises parents and caregivers to be extra vigilant in keeping their children hydrated and protected from heat-related illnesses. Key signs to watch for include thirst, sweating, feeling hot, vomiting, a dry and sticky mouth, and headaches. Loose clothing, the use of ice packs, fans, or misting with water can help lower body temperature in young children, while cold water immersion can be effective for older children. Immediate medical attention is urged if a child shows signs of severe heat stress, such as high fever, dizziness, or rapid breathing.

According to a UNICEF analysis of 2020 data, South Asia had the highest percentage of children exposed to extreme high temperatures compared to other regions. An estimated 76 per cent of children under 18 in South Asia—about 460 million—experienced extreme high temperatures, with 83 or more days per year exceeding 35°C. Additionally, 28 per cent of children in the region were exposed to 4.5 or more heatwaves annually, compared to 24 per cent globally.

UNICEF urges health workers to quickly recognize and treat symptoms of heat stress in pregnant women and children. The organization has launched the “B.E.A.T. the Heat” initiative, encouraging awareness and immediate action to combat heat stress:

Be Aware: Understand heat stress and protective measures.
Easily Identify: Recognize symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
Act Immediately: Apply first-aid measures to rebalance body heat.
Take to a Health Facility: Seek medical help for severe symptoms, especially heat stroke.
Earlier this year, UNICEF highlighted the impact of extreme heat on children during a heatwave in Bangladesh in April, which led to the closure of government primary schools for several weeks, affecting 30 million children. The Directorate General of Health Services, with UNICEF’s support, issued guidelines to address heat-related risks in young children.

UNICEF’s 2021 Children’s Climate Risk Index (CCRI) identifies children in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan as being at ‘extremely high risk’ from climate change impacts. UNICEF calls for immediate and concerted action to protect the most vulnerable populations from the escalating climate crisis.

“We must do more to safeguard our children from the relentless impacts of climate change,” UNICEF urged, emphasizing the critical need for awareness, preparedness, and swift response to protect children’s health and future.

PM Rishi Sunak announces General Election in the UK on 4th July

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London – In a surprise announcement, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called a general election on July 4 claiming that he has a plan for economic stability for the country.

Standing outside his Downing Street office in pouring rain on Wednesday afternoon, Mr Sunak said, “Now is the moment for Britain to choose its future and decide whether it wants to build on the progress we have made or risk going back to square one with no certainty,” he said.

Mr Sunak’s announcement came within hours of official figures showing that UK inflation slowed to 2.3%in the year to April, down from 3.2% in March. It marks its lowest level in nearly three years, largely driven by a downfall in the world energy prices. “The bright days are ahead,” declared Mr Sunak.

“I will prove to you a Conservative government led by me will not put our economic stability at risk,” he said.

The first British Prime Minister of South Asian origin, Mr Sunak said that early on Wednesday he had asked King Charles to dissolve Parliament on 30 May and he agreed.

Mr Sunak said there were uncertain times ahead and claimed that he and his government had a clear plan. In what looked like a US-style election, he also called upon the British voters  to choose between him and Keir Starmer, the labour leader.

Leader of the main opposition, Labour party,  Sir Starmer, called for change after 14 years of the Tory governments.  The “opportunity for change” is what the general election is about, he said.

“Labour wants to return Britain to the  service of working people,” he said. “Labour would put the country first and party second.”

“On July 4 you (voters) have the choice and together we can stop the chaos, we can turn the page, we can start to rebuild Britain and change our country,” said Starmer, the former head of the Crown Prosecution Service.

 Analysts say Prime Minister Sunak has gambled calling for elections in July as opinion polls show Labour party running about 20 percentage points ahead of the Conservatives. Many had anticipated general elections to be held in October-November 2024.

They, however, say the PM and his team may have thought it to be the most opportune moment to seek fresh mandate from the voters.

British Prime Minister’s Office Hosts Ceremony Celebrating 100 Years of Nepal-UK Treaty of Friendship

Posted on by SAT News Desk

London, May 20, 2024 – A special ceremony was held today at the British Prime Minister’s Office, 10 Downing Street, marking the centenary of the Treaty of Friendship between Nepal and the United Kingdom, signed in 1923.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised the enduring contributions of the British Gurkhas to the strong bilateral ties between the two nations. Highlighting various dimensions of this historic relationship, he reminisced about British King Charles’ visit to Nepal and expressed admiration for the accomplishments of the Nepali diaspora in Britain. Sunak emphasized the potential for enhanced cooperation in trade, investment, and climate change between Britain and Nepal in the future.

Nepal’s Ambassador to the UK, Gyan Chandra Acharya, conveyed best wishes on behalf of Nepal’s Prime Minister. He underscored the significance of the 1923 treaty, noting its pivotal role in establishing Nepal’s international presence and fostering global relations. Acharya highlighted Nepal’s social and political progress and expressed gratitude for the UK’s ongoing support in Nepal’s development. He voiced optimism for the expansion and strengthening of bilateral relations over the next century.

UK Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ann Marie Trevelyan, reaffirmed the close ties between the two countries. She pledged the UK’s continued support for Nepal’s development goals, particularly in helping Nepal achieve middle-income status through expanded economic cooperation.

Organised through collaboration between the Nepali Embassy and the British Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this ceremony commemorated the centennial of the Treaty of Friendship, British Nepali entrepreneur & philanthropist Mr Rabindra Jung Lamichhane stated. He also facilitated and played a crucial role to organise the event.

A similar program was held in Nepal’s Prime Minister’s Office on December 21, 2023, the exact date of the treaty’s signing.

The centenary celebration underscores the enduring and evolving partnership between Nepal and the United Kingdom, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering deeper bilateral relations and mutual prosperity, philanthropist Mr Prashant Kunwar stated. The event was attended by members of the Nepalese community, popular Bollywood Nepali actress Manisha Koirala, Everest record holder double amputee ex-Gurkha Mr. Hari Budha Magar, other various former Gurkhas, British MPs, high-ranking officials, and British friends of Nepal engaged in various professions and businesses.

22nd Gurkha Cup Kicks Off in Aldershot on May 26

Posted on by SAT News Desk

London  —  Tamu Dhee UK is gearing up for its biggest annual event, the 22nd edition of the Gurkha Cup, set to take place on May 26 at Queens Avenue Sports Field, Military Garrison, Aldershot, Hampshire, GU11 2BS. Organized by Tamu Dhee UK, one of the largest  community organizations for British Nepalese, the event promises a day filled with sports, culture, and community spirit.

The Gurkha Cup will feature approximately 10k spectators and 300 volunteers supporting a robust program that includes 32 main categories of competitions. Highlighting the event are 16 veteran teams and two ladies’ teams, with the competition also featuring an international team. The main prize for the tournament is a substantial £3000, with an entry fee of £300 per team.

President Hari Gurung of Tamu Dhee UK expressed excitement about this year’s event, emphasizing the community’s dedication and the extensive volunteer support that makes the Gurkha Cup possible.

Attendees will find a variety of stalls catering to different interests:

Food: 18 restaurant stalls offering diverse culinary delights.

Fashion: 26 stalls selling clothing.

Crafts: 10 stalls featuring Nepali handicrafts.

Charity: Stalls for charitable organizations are also welcome.

In line with promoting a family-friendly environment, the event will have a strict no-alcohol policy.

For convenience, there will be two entry gates located at Queen Avenue and Farnborough Road, A325, ensuring smooth access for the expected large number of attendees.

The Gurkha Cup not only serves as a sporting event but also as a celebration of Nepalese culture and heritage, fostering community ties and providing an opportunity for networking and collaboration among the British Nepalese diaspora.

Flying Car Makes Its Maiden Flight in Tokyo

Posted on by SAT News Desk

Tokyo, May 18 (Kyodo) — A groundbreaking “flying car” made its debut flight in Tokyo on Friday, captivating an audience of about 500 spectators during an international event showcasing the latest advancements in technology.

The vehicle, known as the Hexa, hovered approximately 10 meters above the ground in a parking lot outside the Tokyo Big Sight convention center in Koto Ward. This demonstration was a highlight of SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024, an event dedicated to cutting-edge innovations.

Flying vehicles like the Hexa are anticipated to revolutionize human transportation by alleviating traffic congestion and aiding in disaster response by delivering supplies to affected areas, according to statements from the Tokyo metropolitan government and other event organizers.

Manufactured by U.S. company Lift Aircraft Inc., the Hexa is a single-seat vehicle equipped with 18 propellers atop its passenger cabin. The aircraft measures 4.5 meters in width, stands 2.6 meters tall, and weighs around 196 kilograms.

Following the successful flight, the Hexa is scheduled to perform additional demonstrations twice daily, each lasting about 15 minutes, on Saturday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Admission to view these demonstrations is free, offering more people the opportunity to witness this innovative technology firsthand.

“I want more people to experience this cutting-edge technology,” Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike remarked at the ceremony celebrating the Hexa’s maiden flight. “I look forward to flying cars becoming a normal means of transportation.”

As the Hexa takes to the skies, it marks a significant step toward the integration of flying vehicles into everyday life, paving the way for a future where traffic jams and inaccessible disaster areas might become issues of the past.