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Common heart medication less effective in south Asian people – new research

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Emma Forton Magavern, Queen Mary University of London
People who have recently had a heart attack are often prescribed clopidogrel, a medication that decreases the risk of having another heart attack. While the drug is very effective at preventing subsequent heart attacks, it can only work if it’s activated by the body’s CYP2C19 enzyme. Certain genetic variations mean the body can’t activate clopidogrel, because it can’t make this enzyme.

An inability to activate clopidogrel is actually very common. An estimated one in three people of European ancestry has one of these genetic variants – and they are even more common in some ethnic groups.

For example, more than nine in every ten Indigenous people of the Pacific islands have one of these genetic variants. So, they probably have a greater risk of subsequent heart attack if prescribed clopidogrel. However, studies linking the genetic variants with real-world health data have not been done in many non-European populations.

Our new study has also shown that clopidogrel may not be effective for many British south Asians. This is significant, as south Asian people suffer from high rates of cardiovascular disease in the UK.

Genetic variants

We began our study by analysing data from 44,396 participants who’d participated in Genes & Health – a study of British-Pakistani and British-Bangladeshi people, which has linked genetic data with national records of health problems and prescriptions.

We found that nearly six in every ten people (57%) had a genetic marker that meant they would not be able to activate clopidogrel well – much higher than the 30-35% seen in people of European ancestry. Some 13% of the British-Pakistani and British-Bangladeshi people in the study had two of these genetic markers – one from each parent.

From the 44,396 participants in the study, we identified 1,006 people who had experienced a heart attack. Of these, around 69% (697 people) were prescribed clopidogrel by their GP. The majority of these participants were male.

We then sub-stratified this group by CYP2C19 genotype, and looked at participants who’d suffered recurrent heart attacks. We found that participants with recurrent heart attacks were more than three times more likely to have two clopidogrel-resistance genes as compared with none.

Genetic testing

Our study isn’t the first to suggest that clopidogrel may not be as effective for people from different ethnic groups – but it is the first to link genetic risk for decreased clopidogrel efficacy with recurrent heart attacks in a western south Asian population.

These results reiterate the importance of testing drugs on people from many different ethnic backgrounds. During its development, clopidogrel was mainly tested using people of European ancestry. This gave a skewed view of its effectiveness, especially for certain ethnic groups.

Our study also highlights the role that genetic testing can play when it comes to prescribing. Knowing what genetic variants a person has will help ensure they’re prescribed a drug that is not only effective for them, but that has minimal risk of side-effects.

Genetic testing is already available on the NHS by referral, but it is typically only done to determine a person’s risk of certain health conditions. While there are plans to offer genetic testing to stroke patients to determine if clopidogrel will work for them (the drug is also used to prevent recurrent strokes), our study suggests that expanding this genetic testing to heart attack patients would also be beneficial.

Although people in certain groups have a higher chance of having these genetic variants, it’s important to take your medication as prescribed. Clopidogrel use is still well supported by clinical evidence to prevent further heart attacks – and genetic variations are only one of many factors that affect the risks and benefits of a medication. ( From : The Conversation)

Thousands of Nepalis in the UK Gather for Spectacular Fourteenth Edition of Nepali Fair

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LONDON – The spirit of Nepali culture, pride, and identity was vividly displayed as thousands of Nepalis in the UK gathered for the fourteenth edition of the annual Nepali Fair held in Britain. The event, organized by Tamudhin UK in collaboration with the Nepali Embassy London, attracted approximately seven thousand enthusiastic spectators at the Kempton Park Racecourse in London on Sunday.

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, this year’s fair marked a remarkable return to normalcy, drawing in a significantly large audience compared to previous years. The event bore the theme “Our Culture, Our Pride, Our Identity,” echoing the collective sentiment of the Nepali diaspora.

Photo : Milan Tamu
The fair featured an array of captivating cultural tableaus and dances presented by over two dozen Nepali organizations and communities in the UK. Each performance was a celebration of Nepal’s rich culture, art, and traditions, creating a vibrant tapestry of the nation’s heritage on British soil.

Attendees were treated to a diverse array of more than three dozen stalls offering Nepali food, clothing, jewelry, and a variety of trades and charitable endeavors, adding to the festive atmosphere of the fair.

The sight of thousands of Nepalis, adorned in national, ethnic, and cultural attire, created a breathtaking scene that evoked a sense of Nepal within the heart of Britain. As participants joyfully danced to the beats of traditional tunes, the fair truly embodied the spirit of Nepal on foreign shores.

Nepali Ambassador to the UK, Gyan Chandra Acharya, who presided over the event as the chief guest, underscored the fair’s message that Nepalis abroad remain deeply connected to their identity, culture, and traditions. He praised the fair’s contribution to enhancing mutual harmony and brotherhood among the diaspora through the promotion of Nepali culture.

Kul Acharya, NRNA Central President, expressed gratitude to the organizers, recognizing the British Nepali Fair as a means of showcasing Nepal’s essence beyond its borders.

Hari Gurung, President of Tamudhin UK, emphasized that the fair’s primary objective is to foster unity among Nepalis in the UK while bridging the new generation with their cultural roots.

The event saw Kirat Rai Yayokhya UK clinch the Ambassador’s Cup, awarded for the best cultural tableau and dance performance, receiving 1100 pounds in cash. Ghandruk Samaj UK and Pasa Puch: Guthi UK secured the second and third positions, each earning cash prizes of 700 and 500 pounds, respectively.

Through this vibrant cultural gathering, the Nepali diaspora in the UK reaffirmed their strong bonds with their homeland, showcased their cultural richness, and embraced their collective identity with unwavering pride.

Foreign Ministers of SAARC Nations to Hold Informal Meeting at UN General Assembly, Says Minister

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Kathmandu — In a session at the International Relations and Tourism Committee of the House of Representatives, Nepal FM Minister NP Saud revealed plans for an informal meeting of foreign ministers from SAARC countries. The meeting aims to foster mobility within the SAARC region and invigorate the organization. Minister Saud disclosed that discussions on the dynamics and revival of SAARC would take place during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly.

Addressing another significant aspect, the minister emphasized the government’s stance on resolving border disputes through mutual dialogue and discussion with neighboring countries. This approach underscores a commitment to diplomatic solutions for contentious issues.

Minister Saud articulated his belief that foreign policy should remain consistent across political parties, advocating for uniformity in this critical arena.

During the meeting, Chairperson of CPN-UML and former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli highlighted a perceived lack of alignment between the government’s policy and its actions. Oli noted that concerns about ambiguity had arisen within both the Parliament and society.

Additionally, Chair of CPN (Unified Socialist) and former Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal stressed the importance of nurturing smooth and harmonious relations with neighboring countries. He underscored the significance of mutual interest and respect as foundational principles. Nepal also called for prioritizing the construction of the Nijgadh International Airport, deeming it a matter of high importance.

As these discussions transpired within the committee, they shed light on the nation’s diplomatic initiatives, internal coherence, and international engagement strategies. The upcoming informal meeting of SAARC foreign ministers at the UN General Assembly stands as a testament to Nepal’s commitment to regional collaboration and development.

Asia Cup 2023 Begins with Anticipated Nepal-Pakistan Clash

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KATHMANDU: Cricket enthusiasts around the world are gearing up for an exciting showdown as the Asia Cup 2023 kicks off today with a highly anticipated match between Nepal and Pakistan. The tournament opener is set to take place at the iconic Multan Cricket Stadium in Pakistan.

In what promises to be a riveting encounter, the host nation, Pakistan, will square off against the debutant team, Nepal. Both teams find themselves in Group A, alongside cricket powerhouse India, setting the stage for intense competition right from the beginning.

All eyes are on the respective team captains, with Babar Azam leading the charge for Pakistan and Rohit Paudel at the helm for Nepal. Azam’s experienced leadership and Paudel’s dynamic approach will play a pivotal role in shaping their team’s performance throughout the tournament.

As fans eagerly await the match, cricket enthusiasts and experts alike are predicting an exhilarating contest between these two cricketing nations. The clash between Nepal and Pakistan is expected to set the tone for the Asia Cup 2023, with fans from all corners of the globe eagerly following the action on the field.

With the backdrop of the Multan Cricket Stadium, renowned for its history and ambiance, the Asia Cup 2023 is poised to deliver thrilling moments and showcase the talent and determination of cricketing teams from across Asia. As the first ball is bowled, the journey towards crowning the champion of the Asia Cup 2023 officially begins, and fans can look forward to a month-long celebration of cricketing excellence.

UNESCO Convenes South Asian Experts to Counter Rising Tide of Hate Speech

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Kathmandu, Nepal – Hate speech is on the rise in South Asia, fueled by misinformation, political divisions, social inequalities, and lack of justice, posing a serious threat to social cohesion and individual well-being. In response to this growing concern, UNESCO convened a diverse group of experts, policymakers, educators, activists, and digital platform representatives in Kathmandu, Nepal, in June 2023, to deliberate on effective strategies to combat the escalating challenge.

Hate Speech’s Far-Reaching Impact

Instances of hate speech have surged, with individuals from various walks of life experiencing derogatory comments, harmful stereotypes, and even explicit calls for violence based on their identities, such as religion, ethnicity, gender, and nationality. This hostile environment creates psychological harm, reinforces divisions, and can lead to physical violence.

One anonymous international relations student from Tribhuvan University, Nepal, shared their experience of being labeled a “terrorist” and being instructed to return to their “place of origin.” As a member of a Muslim minority, they grapple with feeling out of place in their own country. Their story echoes the experiences of many others who are targeted based on who they are.

Comprehensive Solutions

The symposium emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue through multi-pronged approaches:

Legal Measures: While protecting freedom of expression is crucial, finding a balance with curbing hate speech remains challenging. Defining hate speech is complex, often divisive and disputed. Legal measures need to align with international human rights standards.

Education: The education sector plays a pivotal role in shaping attitudes and behaviors. However, narratives that perpetuate hate speech can infiltrate educational materials and curricula. A comprehensive review of education is essential to identify problematic narratives, promote respect, and equip students with the skills to engage ethically.

Political Commitment: Policymakers have a critical role in shaping the content and context of learning. Their support is essential to implement changes in education that counter hate speech. High-level policy support was emphasized by representatives from Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.

Youth Engagement: Involving young people in addressing hate speech was highlighted as important. Understanding cultural context and treating learners as co-creators rather than subjects of education was stressed. Youth should have agency in shaping solutions.

Dialogue with Digital Platforms: The expansion of the internet and social media has amplified the virulence of hate speech. Collaboration with digital platforms, transparency in content moderation, and improved policies are essential to curb its spread.

Partnerships: Collaborations among various stakeholders – digital platforms, civil society, educators, and policymakers – are crucial. Examples of successful partnerships, like the Damai Coalition, were shared as models of practical measures against hate speech.

UNESCO’s Action Plan

UNESCO’s commitment to addressing hate speech continues with a series of regional consultations in 2023 and 2024, aiming to mobilize political support and implement the UN Strategy and Plan of Action for Hate Speech. This regional approach acknowledges the specific challenges and contexts of South Asia while fostering inclusivity and promoting respect among diverse communities.

Heat Stress Poses Dire Threat to Over One Billion Cows Worldwide, Warns New Study

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Paris, France – A stark new research study published on Thursday projects that over one billion cows globally could face severe heat stress by the end of the century if climate change continues unabated. The repercussions of such stress could jeopardize the fertility, milk production, and overall well-being of these animals.

Currently, nearly 8 out of 10 cows worldwide are already grappling with excessive body temperatures, labored breathing, bowed heads, and open-mouthed panting – clear indicators of severe heat stress, as per the comprehensive study. In tropical regions, this condition affects a significant 20 percent of cattle throughout the year.

Projections show that these alarming numbers could escalate further if cattle farming expands in climate-sensitive regions such as the Amazon and Congo basins, which are anticipated to experience faster temperature increases compared to the global average.

Should greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise unchecked, the research anticipates that by 2100, heat stress will become a persistent problem in regions including Brazil, southern Africa, northern India, northern Australia, and central America.

Lead author Michelle North, affiliated with the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, emphasized, “Decisions about land-use change play a pivotal role in determining the extent of heat exposure among cows. Deforestation for livestock expansion aggravates climate change and exposes millions more cattle to severe heat stress.”

The study, featured in Environmental Research Letters, presents a troubling worst-case scenario – a doubling of cattle husbandry in Asia, an over fourfold increase in Africa, and substantial growth in Latin America.

However, the research also offers hope. With significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, including measures to curb the expansion of cattle farming, the number of affected cows could potentially be halved in Asia and reduced by four-fifths in Africa.

Commercial cattle ranchers are already experiencing financial losses attributed to heat stress, amounting to an annual cost of up to $1.7 billion in the United States alone. Yet, these ranchers often have access to insurance, favorable relationships with banks, and loan facilities to counteract heat-related losses.

In contrast, the consequences are dire for small-scale farmers when climate-related disasters strike. Michelle North pointed out that even seemingly “negligible” losses can lead to the loss of livelihoods for these farmers.

The study’s findings also underscore the potential impact on global milk supplies. Under high greenhouse gas emission scenarios, milk supplies could decrease by 11 million tonnes annually by 2050. Even under aggressive emission reduction efforts, a substantial portion of this loss, mostly in Asia and Africa, would still persist, compounding existing challenges faced by dairy farmers in these regions.

While the prospects may seem daunting, immediate interventions offer some respite. Overheated cows can be aided by providing access to shade, installing fans, and adjusting feeding schedules to cooler parts of the day. However, the study underlines that these measures provide temporary relief and cannot address the overarching issue of escalating global temperatures.

The Seed NanoTech organising ICAPMOT in Canada next year

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London : TheSeed NanoTech, a Canada-based tech company, is organising the International Conference on Advancements in Business, Management, Entrepreneurship, and Nanotechnology (ICAPMOT) in May next year in Canada.

Bringing together luminaries, researchers, and professionals across diverse domains, the event promises to be a hub of transformative ideas and collaborative opportunities, the organizer said.

Scheduled to take place from May 18 to 19, 2024, in Brampton, Canada, at the Courtyard Marriott Hotel, ICAPMOT 2024 aims to foster a dynamic platform for the cross-fertilization of concepts, allowing attendees to delve into the intricate interplay between business strategies, management methodologies, entrepreneurial pursuits, and cutting-edge nanotechnology breakthroughs, the organisers said.

“ICAPMOT 2024 is not just another conference; it’s an unparalleled venture that invites participants to explore the captivating crossroads of business, entrepreneurship, technology, and nanoscience. The agenda seeks to address emerging prospects and challenges at the nexus of these domains, promising insights that could potentially reshape industries and usher in unprecedented innovations. Attendees will have a golden chance to network, exchange knowledge, and partake in industry visits, followed by an illuminating half-day city tour,” said Dr Conrad Rizal, chair of the conference organising committee.

The organisers have invited participants to submit their abstracts and register promptly through the official conference website: https://icapmot.seed-nanotech.com. By doing so, participants can also seize the opportunity to become a conference member, unlocking additional benefits for engagement and participation.

One of the defining features of ICAPMOT 2024 is its lineup of plenary and invited keynote speakers who are stalwarts in the fields of business, management, entrepreneurship, and nanotechnology. These visionaries will share their insights, experiences, and visions, catalyzing cross-disciplinary dialogues.

The organisers are expecting participation from Canada, the United States, and beyond. With representation from academia, industry, research institutions, and entrepreneurial ventures, ICAPMOT 2024 is poised to be a melting pot of perspectives, fostering the exchange of ideas and the formation of novel partnerships, Dr Rizal said. Also, young researchers and emerging talents will have the opportunity to showcase their work through interactive poster sessions, infusing fresh insights into the overarching conference discussions, he added.

Rising Costs and Pandemic Plunge 70 Million More into Extreme Poverty in Developing Asia: Asian Development Bank Report

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Manila, Philippines – The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has released a disconcerting report revealing that the combined forces of escalating food and fuel prices along with the lingering impacts of the coronavirus pandemic have propelled nearly 70 million additional people in developing Asia into extreme poverty during the past year.

The report, released on Thursday from the bank’s headquarters in Manila, underscores that extreme poverty, defined as subsisting on less than $2.15 a day, inflation-adjusted to 2017 prices, has surged due to these factors. “Asia and the Pacific is steadily recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic, but the increased cost-of-living crisis is undermining progress toward eliminating poverty,” warned ADB chief economist Albert Park in a statement accompanying the release.

The disconcerting figures suggest that an estimated 155.2 million individuals, accounting for 3.9 percent of the region’s population, were living in extreme poverty during 2022. This represents a staggering increase of 67.8 million individuals compared to a scenario without the pandemic and rising living expenses.

The term “developing Asia” in the context of this report encompasses the ADB’s 46 member economies, ranging from Kazakhstan in Central Asia to the Cook Islands in the Pacific.

The report emphasizes that the brunt of higher inflation has disproportionately impacted the economically vulnerable segments of society. As prices for essentials have soared, the ability of those living in poverty to afford necessary items has diminished, leading to challenges in saving money, accessing healthcare, and investing in education.

Notably, the ADB estimated that the pandemic alone drove an additional 75-80 million people into extreme poverty in 2020, in stark contrast to pre-pandemic projections.

While the report does offer a glimmer of hope in predicting a gradual easing of inflation to 3.6 percent this year (compared to 4.4 percent in 2022), attributed to softer food and fuel prices, it also highlights a lingering concern. Developing Asian economies, while expected to continue making strides against poverty, are projected to still have around 1.26 billion individuals (approximately 30 percent of the anticipated population by 2030) classified as “economically vulnerable.” This classification pertains to those subsisting on $3.65 to $6.85 a day based on 2017 prices.

As governments and organizations grapple with the urgent need to address the deepening crisis of poverty in the region, this report serves as a stark reminder of the complex interplay between economic challenges, public health, and the pursuit of sustainable development goals.

Pakistani rupee drops to record low of 300 against USD

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ISLAMABAD — Pakistani rupee dropped to an all-time low against the U.S. dollar, crossing the barrier of 300 rupees against the greenback on Thursday, the State Bank of Pakistan said.

The closing exchange rate of the Pakistani currency in the interbank market was recorded at 300.22, a decrease of 0.58 rupee or 0.19 percent from Wednesday, the central bank said in a statement.

Local trade analysts say that the ongoing depreciation observed in the rupee’s value is because of the International Monetary Fund’s requirement that restricts the government from interfering in the market to influence the exchange rate.

Earlier on Wednesday, Deputy Governor of the SBP Inayat Hussain briefed the Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue that the devaluation of the rupee is primarily being driven by an increasing demand for dollars among the public and the removal of import restrictions.

Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, the chairman of the committee, suggested that the SBP should implement preventive actions to stabilize the dollar’s value and discourage unnecessary purchasing of dollars by Pakistanis. (Xinhua)

Positive Attitudes towards Dual-Identified Individuals Foster Improved Intergroup Relations, New Study Reveals

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In a groundbreaking study shedding light on the dynamics of intergroup attitudes, researchers from Columbia University and Yale University in the US have discovered that the attitudes of non-Muslim American participants towards Muslim Americans who strongly identified with both their dual identity—Muslim and American—were equally positive as their attitudes towards Muslim Americans who solely identified as American. The same pattern emerged in the American-Mexican context. The findings were published in the open-access journal PLOS ONE on August 16, 2023.

Traditionally, studies have shown that people exhibit positive attitudes towards individuals within their social ingroup, while holding less favorable attitudes towards members of outgroups. However, as society evolves, more individuals are embracing dual or multiple social identities. The researchers, led by Aharon Levy, delved into this phenomenon by conducting a series of survey-based analyses involving hundreds of American participants.

The researchers examined the attitudes of non-Muslim American participants towards Muslim Americans who identified more strongly as Americans (ingroup), Muslims (outgroup), or equally as both. A similar analysis was conducted within the Mexican American context.

The results demonstrated that participants’ attitudes towards individuals who equally identified with both their ingroup and outgroup aspects of their identity (dual-identified) were just as positive as those towards individuals who primarily identified with the ingroup. Moreover, a significant finding emerged—the “gateway group effect.” Exposure to strongly dual-identified individuals was linked to more positive attitudes towards the relevant outgroup (e.g., non-American Muslims or non-American Mexicans).

However, when individuals with dual identities leaned more towards identifying with the outgroup part of their identity (Muslim or Mexican), the gateway effect diminished, and attitudes towards the outgroup occasionally became more negative.

While the study acknowledges certain limitations, it paves the way for future research to deepen our understanding of these complex dynamics. Nonetheless, the findings have the potential to contribute significantly to improving intergroup relations.

The authors highlighted the implications of their study by stating, “Our findings suggest that, in terms of intergroup attitudes, explicitly embracing both identities can be as beneficial as fully assimilating only to the majority identity.” They further noted that minorities need not sacrifice any part of their identity as long as they also align themselves with the majority group identity. Interestingly, the positive influence of dual identification extended to the corresponding outgroup, establishing the dual-identity group as a gateway to more favorable intergroup attitudes.

This study sheds light on the intricate interplay between dual identities and intergroup relations, emphasizing the potential for improved understanding and collaboration across diverse groups. The full study can be accessed in the PLOS ONE journal (DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287631)

Himalaya Jet’s Executive Director Meets British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak

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Kathmandu — Dipendra Gurung, the Executive Director of Himalaya Jet, recently had the honor of meeting British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at a luncheon arranged by British Member of Parliament for Cities of London and Westminster, Nickie Aiken, in London.

The luncheon, hosted by Aiken from the Conservative Party, provided an opportunity for Gurung to engage with Prime Minister Sunak and discuss various matters. During their conversation, Gurung extended an invitation to Prime Minister Sunak to visit Nepal.

The interaction allowed Prime Minister Sunak to inquire about Gurung’s international airline startup, Himalaya Jet, and its flight operations. Gurung shared insights about the airline’s future plans and its scheduled operations.

Gurung revealed that Himalaya Jet, a long-haul carrier, has laid out plans to commence regular commercial flights to destinations like Monte Carlo, Macau, and Las Vegas by 2025. Furthermore, the airline is set to operate flights to 33 major cities around the world, including direct charter flights to Nepal later this year.

In addition to discussing aviation endeavors, Gurung also took the opportunity to propose that Prime Minister Sunak consider visiting Pashupatinath and exploring the Himalayan region for a vacation. In response, Prime Minister Sunak expressed his plans to visit India in September.

Amid the conversation, Gurung unveiled his plans to organize the Miss World contest in India, scheduled for December. Himalaya Jet, a UK-registered airline under the ownership of the Gurung Family Conglomerate, is poised to begin operations from London. The airline will soon initiate direct flights connecting Nepal with London, Paris, and Frankfurt, starting from September.

The meeting with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak marks a significant step in Himalaya Jet’s journey, as it seeks to foster global connectivity while also fostering cultural and diplomatic exchanges between Nepal and the United Kingdom.

India Approves $7 Billion Scheme to Deploy 10,000 Electric Buses Across Cities

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New Delhi – India has greenlit an ambitious plan worth nearly 580 billion rupees ($7 billion) aimed at introducing 10,000 electric buses in 169 cities over a ten-year period. The comprehensive scheme encompasses the deployment of electric buses, establishment of charging infrastructure, and associated facilities.

Under this initiative, the federal government will provide 200 billion rupees of the scheme’s cost, utilizing a public-private partnership model, as elucidated by Information Minister Anurag Thakur during a press briefing. However, the source of the remaining funds—whether from state governments or private enterprises—remains to be determined.

News of the approval prompted a surge in the shares of companies anticipated to gain from the plan. Electric bus manufacturers Olectra Greentech and JBM Auto recorded significant increases of 8.8% and 10.1%, respectively. Tata Motors saw a rise of 1.9%, while Ashok Leyland, which possesses a subsidiary dedicated to electric bus production, experienced a 0.9% gain after initially rising by 2.5%.

This strategic move by the government aligns with its efforts to curb emissions and decrease reliance on fuel imports. To stimulate local manufacturing, the government offers incentives for companies to produce vehicles and parts within the country.

In pursuit of a broader goal to introduce a total of 50,000 electric buses nationwide—an estimated endeavor costing $12 billion—the government has been aggregating demand from state governments and issuing contracts or tenders to invite bids from interested companies.

This funding commitment from New Delhi arrives at a crucial juncture when concerns have been raised by bus manufacturers regarding delayed payments from state transport corporations for conventional buses. The dedicated fund will offer manufacturers a level of security, allowing them to actively participate in government contracts without apprehension.

In parallel to this groundbreaking decision, the cabinet also gave the green light to seven railway tracking projects amounting to 325 billion rupees. These projects aim to enhance connectivity and mobility across nine states, further bolstering India’s transportation infrastructure.

China Invites South Asian Countries to Share in Economic Growth at China-South Asia Expo

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Beijing, China – August 18, 2023

China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, has extended an invitation to South Asian nations to join its “express train” of economic growth and partake in the benefits of its expanding prosperity. Wang made this call during his address at the opening ceremony of the 7th China-South Asia Expo, held in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province.

The expo holds special significance as it marks the 10th anniversary of both the event itself and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), as well as the neighborhood diplomacy principles proposed by President Xi Jinping. Wang Yi, Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs and a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized the decade of consolidated solidarity, cooperation, and Belt and Road advancement between China and South Asian countries.

“China welcomes South Asian countries to get on board the express train of China’s development and share in the dividends of China’s development,” Wang Yi stated, as relayed by Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin.

China’s GDP reached 59.3 trillion yuan (approximately USD 8.3 trillion) in the first half of 2023, experiencing a 5.5 percent year-on-year increase, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics.

Wang Yi expressed China’s readiness to collaborate with South Asian countries to seize historic opportunities, enhance solidarity and coordination, stimulate new development momentum, and contribute to lasting regional peace, stability, and prosperity.

The expo’s opening ceremony saw the participation of esteemed figures such as Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Lao Vice President Pany Yathotou, Nepalese Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav, and Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang. This five-day event, themed “Solidarity and Coordination for Common Development,” drew representatives from 85 countries, regions, and international organizations, along with over 30,000 exhibitors both online and offline. Notably, it encompassed South Asian and Southeast Asian countries and members of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

Since its inauguration in 2013, the China-South Asia Expo has catalyzed cross-border business connections and propelled overall trade momentum between China and South Asia. This partnership has resulted in a substantial surge in trade volume, with last year’s aggregate trade reaching nearly USD 200 billion, displaying an average annual growth rate of over 8 percent. This significant progress marks a remarkable trajectory from the expo’s inception, underscoring the pivotal role it plays in fostering economic ties and mutual benefits.

Wang Yi concluded his address by outlining four areas of cooperation: deepening strategic mutual trust, enhancing connectivity, fostering economic and trade collaboration, and strengthening people-to-people exchanges. With this, the 7th China-South Asia Expo stands as a shining beacon of exchanges and cooperation, connecting nations and paving the way for shared growth and prosperity.

China-South Asia Expo Strengthens Economic Ties Amidst Global Participation

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Kunming — The ongoing seventh China-South Asia Expo has emerged as a significant platform for fostering economic cooperation and development among nations, with more than 30,000 participants from 85 countries and regions coming together online and offline. Themed “Solidarity and Coordination for Common Development,” the five-day event has been marked by its 15 exhibition pavilions and an array of events including a cooperation forum and a business forum.

Over the past decade, the expo has witnessed the deepening of ties between China and South Asian countries, with trade volume between them doubling. From an initial trade volume of less than $100 billion USD in 2013, the figure surged to $197.4 billion USD last year, demonstrating an average annual growth rate of 8.3 percent.

The expo has been instrumental in nurturing bilateral relations. Gem dealer Mohamed Rikas from Sri Lanka, who seized business opportunities at the first expo in 2013, has remained a consistent presence at subsequent editions. Rikas values China’s expansive market and the purchasing power of its citizens. This sentiment is shared by others from his region, as more gem dealers from Sri Lanka actively participate in the event.

Liu Ruini, who has been interpreting for Rikas’ booth since 2018, highlights the personal connections fostered through the expo. Despite a three-year gap due to the pandemic, Liu and Rikas have maintained their friendship. This year, Liu interpreted for Rikas and additionally provided interpretation services for four other booths.

The comprehensive expo, spanning trade, investment, tourism cooperation, and cultural exchanges, has transformed into a hallmark of collaboration between China, South Asian countries, and beyond. The China-Laos Railway, operational since April, has become a vital transport link for attendees. Muhammad Fazle Rabby from Bangladesh, who used the train to reach the expo, believes that the railway will further strengthen connections between China and Laos.

Since the inception of China’s Belt and Road Initiative in 2013, interconnectivity between China and South Asia has flourished. Notable strides include the Yunnan airport group launching over 10 cargo air routes covering destinations in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal. This enhanced connectivity has driven investment as well, with China’s cumulative investment in South Asia reaching nearly $15 billion USD, and the turnover of completed contracted projects surpassing $200 billion USD.

Wang Liping from the Ministry of Commerce underscored the significance of the China-South Asia region, accounting for a fifth of the global economy. Wang emphasized that robust trade, investment, and cooperative potential have led to the establishment of an interconnected industrial and supply chain system in the region. With these developments, the expo serves as a testament to the growing bonds and mutual benefits between China and South Asian countries.

Floods inundate 114 villages in India’s Punjab, 2 children dead

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NEW DELHI — Floods have inundated 114 villages in the northern Indian state of Punjab and two children drowned in flood water, the state media reported Thursday.

India’s state-run broadcaster – All India Radio (AIR) on Thursday said two children drowned in flood water in Dhirowal village of Shri Hargobindpur area of Gurdaspur district.

The flood-affected districts in the state are Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Rupnagar and Kapurthala.

The broadcaster said floodwaters have affected crops on thousands of acres of land and people are forced to leave their homes.

Authorities in these flood-hit districts have deployed several teams of the National Disaster Response Force, army and border guards to carry out rescue operations.

Officials said vast swathes of Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur and Rupnagar have been inundated following the release of excess water from the Bhakra and the Pong dams in Himachal Pradesh.

These districts are bordering Himachal Pradesh which has been hit by heavy rains over the past few days. The incessant downpour in the hilly state triggered cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides that so far claimed 71 lives.

“Yesterday, 45 villages were inundated and today water entered 69 others,” a local government official of Punjab said. “There is fear the situation would turn grim here if more rains hit Himachal Pradesh.”

Officials said 5,000 people living in low-lying areas were moved to safer places. People have also been urged to move to safer locations.

The administration in the flood-hit villages has ordered the closure of government and private schools, besides social welfare centers meant for children, until further orders. (Xinhua)

India’s Independence Day: PM Modi addresses countrymen as ‘parivarjan’

Posted on by SAT News Desk

NEW DELHI: India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed fellow countrymen as ‘parivarjan’ (family members) on the 77th Independence Day.

For his 10th Independence Day address from the ramparts of the iconic Red Fort, PM Modi carried forward a custom — of wearing colourful turbans — that has become his style statement on this day.

Continuing with his tradition from 2014, PM Modi donned a multicolour Rajasthani bandhani print turban with an off-white kurta and churidar for the Independence Day celebrations.

PM Modi was received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other dignitaries as he arrived at the Red Fort and began his customary address to the nation after raising the tricolour at the iconic monument.

This year’s Independence Day will culminate the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations, which were launched by the Prime Minister from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on March 12, 2021, and will usher the country into the ‘Amrit Kaal’ (golden era).

PM Modi had previously outlined the Centre’s commitment to make India a developed country by 2047, which will be the centenary year of the country’s independence.

(ANI)