Nepali Boxer Puran Rai Triumphs at Scotland Pro Boxing, Clinches Scotish UBA Title Belt

Posted on July 30, 2023July 31, 2023 by SAT News Desk

London — In an impressive display of skill and determination, Nepali boxer Puran Rai emerged victorious at the Scotland Pro Boxing event, securing the prestigious Scotish UBA title belt in the process. The event, held in Scotland, witnessed Puran Rai facing off against Ryan Kart in a thrilling match that culminated in a third-round technical knockout (TKO) in his favor.

The Nepali National International Player Association President, Siddharta Vikram Chhetri , proudly said Puran Rai’s triumph, commending his outstanding performance in the ring. The hard-fought victory not only showcased Rai’s boxing prowess but also highlighted the potential of Nepali boxers on the global stage.

In other matches involving Nepali contenders, Akash Dangi vied for the UBA and UBO title against Andy Bell but was unable to secure the win. Despite the defeat, Dangi’s participation marked a significant achievement for the Nepali boxing community, as they continue to make strides in the international boxing circuit.

Unfortunately, Max Basnet’s anticipated match was canceled due to unforeseen circumstances. Basnet expressed his disappointment, revealing that his opponent sustained an injury a few days prior to the event, leading to the unfortunate cancellation.

With Puran Rai’s victory, Nepali boxing has garnered further attention and recognition, elevating the sport’s popularity in Nepal. The achievement serves as an inspiration for aspiring boxers in the country, motivating them to push their boundaries and pursue excellence in the sport they are passionate about.

Unleashing Web 3.0: A Decentralized Revolution Empowering the Internet

Posted on July 30, 2023July 30, 2023 by SAT News Desk

By Abinash Gajurel

Step into a realm where decentralized networks and blockchaintechnology reign supreme. It’s time to bid farewell to the confines of Web 2.0 and embrace the revolutionary potential of Web 3.0. This new era promises a paradigm shift in how we interact, transact, and share information on the internet.

Brace yourself for a thrilling journey through the meaning, features, benefits, and even the challenges that await in this captivating landscape of Web 3.0. Get ready to explore the limitless possibilities and discover why Web 3.0 is set to redefine the very fabric of our digital existence.

Web 3, also known as the decentralized web or Web 3.0, is an evolving concept that represents a vision for the future of the internet. It aims to address some of the limitations and challenges of the current web infrastructure by leveraging blockchain technology and decentralized protocols.

It envisions a more decentralized, open, and user-centric internet ecosystem. Web 3 seeks to empower individuals, foster trust, enhance privacy, and enable peer-to-peer interactions. It is built on emerging technologies, such as blockchain, decentralized protocols, and cryptocurrencies.

Features of Web 3

• Decentralization: Web 3 emphasizes decentralization, which means that control and ownership of data and services are distributed among participants rather than being centralized in the hands of a few entities. Blockchain technology plays a significant role in achieving decentralization.

o Example: Ethereum is a blockchain platform that enables developers to create decentralized applications (DApps) using smart contracts. These DApps can operate without the need for intermediaries, providing users with more control over their data and interactions.

• Interoperability: Web 3 aims to enable seamless interoperability between different platforms, applications, and services, allowing data and value to flow freely across various systems. This helps create a more connected and efficient digital environment.

o Example: Polkadot is a multi-chain platform that facilitates interoperability between different blockchains. It allows independent blockchains to communicate and share information securely, enabling the exchange of assets and data across different networks.

• User empowerment: Web 3 focuses on giving users greater control over their online identities, data, and digital assets. It aims to provide individuals with increased privacy, security, and the ability to freely express themselves online.

o Example: Brave is a privacy-focused web browser that allows users to have more control over their online experience. It blocks intrusive ads and trackers, and it offers users the option to earn rewards by opting into privacy-respecting advertisements.

• Tokenization: Web 3 leverages cryptocurrencies and tokenization to enable new forms of value exchange, incentivize participation, and create decentralized economic systems. Tokens represent digital assets or utility within a particular network or ecosystem.

o Example: Uniswap is a decentralized exchange (DEX) built on Ethereum that allows users to trade cryptocurrencies directly from their wallets. It utilizes tokenized liquidity pools, where users can provide their funds and earn fees in return.

• Privacy and security: Web 3 focuses on enhancing user privacy and security by giving individuals more control over their personal data and reducing reliance on centralized entities that may be vulnerable to breaches.

o Example: Brave browser is a privacy-oriented browser that blocks ads and trackers, providing users with a more secure and private browsing experience.

• Smart contracts: Web 3 incorporates smart contract platforms like Ethereum, which allow for the execution of programmable, self-executing contracts, enabling automation and trustless interactions.

o Example: Ethereum’s blockchain supports smart contracts. One example is a decentralized crowdfunding platform called Kickstarter, where funds are released automatically to project creators if they reach their funding goal by a certain date.

• Self-sovereign identity: Web 3 emphasizes user ownership and control over their personal data and identity, enabling individuals to manage and authenticate their own digital identities without relying on centralized entities.

These are just a few of the features associated with Web 3. The concept of Web 3 is constantly evolving, and new innovations continue to emerge as the internet evolves towards a more decentralized and user-centric model.

Benefits of Web 3 over current Web 2

Web 3 presents several potential benefits compared to the current Web 2.0 model. Here are some key advantages of Web 3:

• Decentralization and user control: Web 3 promotes decentralization, giving users greater control over their data, digital assets, and online interactions. This reduces reliance on centralized authorities and fosters a more democratic internet environment.

o Example: With the Web 3.0 approach, users can have full ownership and control over their digital identities. Self-sovereign identity platforms like uPort allow individuals to manage their personal information securely and selectively share it with trusted parties,such as for verification purposes or access to services.

• Enhanced privacy and security: Web 3 emphasizes improved privacy and security measures, safeguarding user data and reducing the risks associated with centralized data storage. Strong encryption and cryptographic techniques ensure the protection of sensitive information.

o Example: The Brave browser, built on Web 3 principles, offers enhanced privacy features. It blocks intrusive ads and trackers, protecting users’ browsing habits from being monitored by third parties. Brave also includes a privacy-focused search engine called DuckDuckGo, which doesn’t track or profile users.

• Open and transparent systems: Web 3 fosters transparency by leveraging technologies like blockchain, which provides an immutable and publicly auditable record of transactions. This openness enhances trust and accountability within digital ecosystems.

o Example: Ethereum’s blockchain enables the development of decentralized applications (DApps) and smart contracts. These DApps can provide transparent and auditable processes, such as supply chain tracking, where every transaction is recorded on the blockchain, ensuring transparency and trust.

• Interoperability and cross-platform compatibility: Web 3 aims to establish interoperability between different platforms, allowing seamless data and value exchange across diverse networks. This enables the creation of connected and efficient digital ecosystems.

o Example: Polkadot, a multi-chain platform, facilitates interoperability between different blockchains. It enables projects on various chains to communicate and share information, fostering collaboration and expanding the possibilities of decentralized applications.

• Tokenization and incentive mechanisms: Web 3 utilizes tokens and cryptocurrencies to incentivize participation, reward users, and create decentralized economic systems. Tokenization unlocks new possibilities for value exchange and economic models.

o Example: The decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem on Ethereum showcases tokenization and incentive mechanisms. Projects like Compound and Aave allow users to lend and borrow cryptocurrencies, earning interest or fees as incentives. This enables individuals to access financial services without relying on traditional intermediaries.

• Innovation and empowerment: Web 3 encourages innovation by providing a fertile ground for developers and entrepreneurs to create and deploy decentralized applications. It empowers individuals by granting them greater agency and control over their online experiences.

o Example: The Web 3 space has seen the emergence of NFT platforms like OpenSea. Artists can tokenize their digital artwork as non-fungible tokens, enabling direct sales to collectors and retaining more control over their creative works.

These potential benefits of Web 3 showcase its potential to revolutionize the internet by prioritizing user control, privacy, security, transparency, and innovation. While these advantages are promising, the Web 3 ecosystem is still evolving, and practical implementations are subject to ongoing development and refinement.

Challenges of Web 3

While Web 3 holds many potential benefits, it also faces several drawbacks and challenges when compared to Web 2. Here are some of the key weaknesses or drawbacks of Web 3:

• Scalability: Web 3 technologies, particularly blockchain networks, face scalability limitations. The decentralized nature of these networks requires all participants to validate and store every transaction, leading to potential bottlenecks and slower transaction processing times. For example, Bitcoin’s blockchain has a limited transaction throughput, resulting in slower confirmation times and higher fees during periods of high network congestion.

• User experience: Web 3 applications often provide a different user experience compared to their Web 2 counterparts. Decentralized applications (DApps) can have a steeper learning curve and may lack the polished user interfaces seen in centralized applications. Interacting with blockchain networks typically involves additional steps, such as managing wallets and dealing with transaction fees, which can be unfamiliar and potentially confusing for non-technical users.

• Energy consumption: Many Web 3 blockchains, particularly those that rely on Proof of Work (PoW) consensus algorithms, consume significant amounts of energy. The computational power required for mining and securing the network can result in a high carbon footprint. For example, Bitcoin’s energy consumption has raised concerns about its environmental impact, prompting discussions about transitioning to more energy-efficient consensus mechanisms like Proof of Stake (PoS).

• Regulatory uncertainty: Web 3 operates in a regulatory landscape that is still evolving. The decentralized and global nature of these technologies poses challenges for traditional legal and regulatory frameworks. Governments and regulatory bodies are grappling with how to address issues such as taxation, data privacy, and illicit activities facilitated by decentralized systems. The lack of clear regulations can create uncertainty and limit mainstream adoption.

• Challenges of interoperability: While Web 3 aims to promote interoperability, achieving seamless communication and data sharing between different blockchain networks and protocols remains a challenge. Each blockchain often operates as a separate silo, and transferring assets or data between them can be complex. This fragmentation hinders the development of a truly interconnected decentralized ecosystem.

• Complexity and development challenges: Developing Web 3 applications requires specialized knowledge and skills. Building decentralized applications and smart contracts can be more complex than traditional web development, requiring expertise in blockchain programming languages and understanding of underlying protocols. The nascent state of Web 3 tooling and infrastructure also presents challenges for developers, limiting the ease and speed of application development.

• Adoption and network effects: Web 3 platforms face the challenge of achieving widespread adoption and network effects. While decentralized networks offer compelling features, the majority of internet users are still primarily using Web 2 applications. For Web 3 to gain traction, it needs to provide significant advantages and incentives that outweigh the familiarity and convenience of existing centralized alternatives.

It’s important to note that many of these weaknesses are actively being addressed by ongoing research, development, and innovation within the Web 3 ecosystem. As the technology matures and scalability, usability, and regulatory challenges are overcome, Web 3 has the potential to offer a more robust and user-centric internet experience.

As we bid farewell to the article and wrap up our journey into the extraordinary world of Web 3.0, one thing becomes abundantly clear: we stand at the cusp of a digital revolution unlike any other. The promises of decentralization, trust, and user empowerment beckon us towards a future where the internet truly belongs to the people. While Web 3.0 may still face hurdles and challenges along its path to widespread adoption, the potential it holds for reshaping industries, safeguarding privacy, and unlocking unimaginable innovation is undeniably captivating. So, fasten your seatbelts, for the era of Web 3.0 has dawned, and it’s time for us to seize the boundless opportunities that await in this brave new digital frontier.

References:

1. https://brave.com/

2. https://consensys.net/

3. https://cryptozombies.io/

4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Web3

5. https://ethereum.org/

6. https://filecoin.io/

7. https://ipfs.io/

8. https://permission.io/blog/web-3-0/

9. https://polkadot.network/

10. https://web3.foundation/

11. https://www.dapp.com/

12. https://www.simplilearn.com/tutorials/blockchain-tutorial/what-is-web-3-0

*Animation enthusiast Abinash Gajurel lives in Kathmandu and can be reached at: abinashgajurel3@gmail.com

Suicide Bombing at Political Rally in Pakistan Leaves 40 Dead and Over 130 Injured

Posted on July 30, 2023July 30, 2023 by SAT News Desk

Islamabad— At least 40 people were killed and more than 130 others were injured in a suicide bombing at a political rally in northwestern Pakistan. The incident occurred on the outskirts of Khar, the capital of Bajur district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The rally was organized by supporters of hardline cleric and political party leader, Maulana Fazlur Rehman.

The blast, which took place near the border with Afghanistan, caused widespread devastation and emergency services were immediately deployed to the scene. Some of the seriously injured were airlifted to a hospital in the provincial capital, Peshawar. Maulana Ziaullah, a local leader of Mr. Rehman’s Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam party, was among the dead.

Maulana Fazlur Rehman was not present at the rally during the time of the attack. His party is part of Pakistan’s coalition government and also leads the Pakistan Democratic Movement, a united front of opposition parties that successfully ousted then Prime Minister Imran Khan through a no-confidence vote last year.

The incident has cast a shadow of fear over political events in the lead-up to the general election later this year. Witnesses described the chaotic aftermath of the blast, with injured individuals being rushed to hospitals and the area cordoned off.

As of now, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. However, Pakistani journalist Zahir Shah Sherazi pointed out that Islamic State operates near the border in Afghanistan, and the bombing may have negative implications for upcoming political campaigns. Both Prime Minister Shabaz Sharif and President Arif Alvi have condemned the attack, while Mr. Rehman has called for an official inquiry.

Bajur, where the attack took place, was once a stronghold for Islamic militants, but recent military operations by Pakistan have worked to eliminate the threat. The incident has heightened security concerns and called for heightened vigilance in the region.

40 Dead and Over 130 Injured

At least 40 people were killed and more than 130 others were injured in a suicide bombing at a political rally in northwestern Pakistan. The incident occurred on the outskirts of Khar, the capital of Bajur district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The rally was organized by supporters of hardline cleric and political party leader, Maulana Fazlur Rehman.

UK’s First Permanent Gallery on South Asian Community Provides a Window into Rich Heritage and Culture

Posted on July 29, 2023August 2, 2023 by SAT News Desk

London — In a landmark initiative, the Manchester Museum unveiled its South Asia Gallery in February 2023, becoming the UK’s first permanent exhibition space dedicated to the South Asian community. Developed in collaboration with 30 co-curators, including contributions from the renowned British Museum, this groundbreaking gallery aims to foster cultural understanding and appreciation among people from diverse backgrounds.

The exhibition primarily focuses on the experiences and invaluable contributions of British South Asians. By showcasing themes like migration, climate, and music, the gallery provides visitors with a comprehensive view of the multifaceted South Asian heritage.

One of the remarkable aspects of the gallery is the active involvement of the curators, many of whom have generously donated personal family heirlooms and artifacts. Among them is Atiha Chaudry, whose family passports displayed their journey from India, through East Africa, to Manchester. Speaking about the significance of the gallery, Chaudry expressed her delight in being able to share her family’s stories and heritage, thus enabling everyone to connect with these rich histories.

The gallery also delves into contemporary issues through artworks like Samihah Mudabbir’s thought-provoking pieces on climate change. Mudabbir’s work sheds light on how South Asia, particularly Bangladesh, copes with the challenges of flooding by creating floating gardens. Through these exhibits, the gallery offers visitors a unique perspective on environmental issues from a South Asian lens.

A focal point of the gallery is the portrayal of the Mughal Dynasty’s history, particularly highlighting the role of Muslim women. Curator Yusuf Tai passionately shared that his motivation for being part of this project was to provide younger generations with a sense of comfort and confidence in their identities. His section on the Mughal Dynasty seeks to celebrate the rich history and accomplishments of Muslim women.

Music enthusiasts are also in for a treat as the gallery celebrates South Asian music and culture. Curator Aziz Ibrahim’s unreleased album, ‘Lahore to Longsight,’ is a remarkable find among the exhibits. Written decades ago, the album offers a glimpse into the artistic journey of British Asians and their determination to break barriers and pursue their passions.

Lead curator Nusrat Ahmed emphasized the importance of having a dedicated space for the South Asian community, allowing them to connect with their heritage and culture. For many of the curators, the gallery represents a dream come true and a space they wish they had access to during their formative years.

With its diverse range of exhibits, the South Asia Gallery at the Manchester Museum has quickly become a cultural hub that promotes understanding, appreciation, and celebration of South Asian heritage. It serves as an inspiration for other institutions to create inclusive spaces that resonate with people from all walks of life, bridging gaps, and building a stronger sense of belonging in the community.

Britain’s next election could be a climate change culture war

Posted on July 29, 2023July 29, 2023 by SAT News Desk

Ed Atkins, Senior Lecturer, School of Geographical Sciences, University of Bristol

A byelection in a London suburb has placed environmental policy at the centre of political debate in the UK, and could make it a key battleground in the next general election.

The Conservative party narrowly held former prime minister Boris Johnson’s seat in Uxbridge and South Ruislip, vacated after his resignation from parliament. The win has been cast as a victory driven by popular anger against climate policy, particularly London’s ultra-low emissions zone (Ulez) – an area where drivers of the highest-polluting vehicles must pay a fee.

The winning candidate positioned himself as the anti-Ulez choice, tapping into local anger at the policy. But as comments from media and politicians show, the Uxbridge story signals a new stage of national politics that demonises environmental policies. And my research suggests this could develop into an important new front in the culture war, with the power to help determine the next election.

The Ulez, created by Boris Johnson as mayor of London in 2015, is a restricted area covering central London, where vehicles must meet emissions standards or pay £12.50 to enter. Most petrol cars registered after 2005 and diesel cars registered after 2015 meet the standards. It’s primarily a public health policy, with the goal to reduce air pollution and encourage the use of low-emission vehicles.

It is due to expand into London’s outer boroughs in August 2023 – an area 18 times larger than the original zone. Legal battles and public protests have blamed London’s Labour mayor, Sadiq Khan, for the expansion of the policy.

The opposition to Ulez is highly partisan. Nationally, 59% of Conservatives oppose Ulez schemes compared to 23% of Labour voters. In London, 72% of those who voted Leave in the 2016 Brexit referendum opposed the Ulez expansion. Former Remain voters are evenly split, with 44% in support and 44% against the policy.

The Conservative prime minister, Rishi Sunak, has now distanced the government from green policies that could contribute to household expenses. Labour leader Keir Starmer acknowledged the role that Ulez played in the loss, saying that “policy matters” in elections. He also called on Khan to “reflect” on the Ulez expansion.

Climate change culture wars
My research shows net-zero policies are the next target of right-wing populism and culture wars in the UK. Narratives are emerging that tie complaints about climate policies being undemocratic or expensive to issues of Brexit, energy security and a “green elite”.

Last year, Nigel Farage called for a referendum on net-zero, policies that, in his words, had “been imposed upon people without any public discussion.”

This narrative is evident in the opposition to Ulez, despite evidence for the scheme. Air pollution has dropped dramatically one year into the Ulez expansion across inner London, and most cars in London’s outer boroughs fulfil the Ulez standards and would be unaffected by the expansion.

Yet videos of anti-Ulez protests show placards reading “Stop the toxic air lie”, a cardboard coffin with “democracy” written across it and protesters complaining about a lack of fairness and transparency in the policy.

Climate and public health measures are now linked in broader ideological battles about political and economic priorities. These policies have become fertile ground for anybody seeking to rally new supporters. Those supporters will come from groups whose day-to-day lives are impacted by these policies.

A photo of a green traffic sign reading Transport for london, Ultra low emission zone, ULEZ

Green policies
The Ulez is not the first environmental policy to face public opposition. In 2009, the UK saw a popular campaign against the replacement of incandescent lightbulbs with LEDs.

More recently, bollards that designate low-traffic neighbourhoods have been set on fire. Opposition to these schemes has also been co-opted by conspiracy theorists arguing that climate policies are an attempt to take away personal freedoms.

Read more: 15-minute cities: how to separate the reality from the conspiracy theory

We have seen the consequences of such debates before. A decade before Sunak, Conservative prime minister David Cameron stepped back from environmental policies, calling for ministers to “ditch the green crap”. This arguably led to a “lost decade” in climate policy, as well as the slowing of policies that would have reduced vulnerability in the recent energy crisis.

There is reason to hope that the coming election will be different. Public concern about the climate remains high: 67% of British people surveyed worried about climate breakdown.

And people are more likely to think that the government should do more, not less, in climate policy. New polling shows that climate concern is likely to pay off for Labour.

As I’ve argued, green policies can transform neighbourhoods. But governments must also recognise how such policies affect people’s everyday struggles, like cost of living, which are likely to dominate the next electoral cycle.

Policies must minimise impacts that disproportionately impact some groups over others. People living in London’s outer suburbs, without wide access to public transport, are more likely to own a car – driving local opposition to the Ulez in places like Uxbridge.

Ways to address this include paying people to scrap older vehicles. This is something Khan has put in place for Londoners, but has not had the government support to expand it to people living around London who would be affected when they drive into the capital.

Khan has spoken about opposition to the Ulez expansion as an “orchestrated campaign” that has moved beyond many Londoners’ “genuine concerns”. But concerns about Ulez aren’t limited to those engaging in conspiracy theories. They include residents worried about the getting to work, the school run, or caring for elderly relatives. These are problems that should be ironed out by comprehensive and sensitive policies that maximise the benefits of any change.

The coming election
The fact that a candidate can win on an anti-Ulez platform shows the effectiveness of simplifying climate action and its outcomes into what people can lose, and failing to emphasise the benefits.

The current debates miss a key point of climate action: it is never just about emissions. Opposition to the Ulez is not exclusively resistance to climate policy. It is dissent over who it impacts, and how.

The Labour party must decide whether to retreat from or double down on climate action. If the latter, the next general election will be fought as a climate change culture war.

On one side will be a group seeking to portray climate action as a costly, undemocratic and unfair exercise. On the other must be a call for climate policy that is about cleaner air, warmer homes and healthier neighbourhoods, without disproportionately impacting certain groups of people.

(From : The Conversation )

New Study Shows Isometric Exercises Effective for Lowering Blood Pressure

Posted on July 28, 2023July 28, 2023 by SAT News Desk

London — In a breakthrough discovery, researchers from Canterbury Christ Church University’s School of Psychology and Life Sciences in England have found that isometric exercises, also known as static exercises, may be the most effective way to lower blood pressure. The study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, challenges existing exercise guidelines that mainly focus on aerobic or cardio exercises for blood pressure management.

Isometric exercises involve engaging muscles without movement, such as wall squats and planks. During isometric muscle action, muscles contract without changing length, and the joints remain stable without movement. This type of exercise has been found to facilitate the prevention and treatment of hypertension or high blood pressure.

The researchers conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis of 270 trials with 15,827 participants, examining various exercise interventions lasting two or more weeks. The results showed that isometric exercise led to the greatest reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, surpassing other exercise types like aerobic exercise, dynamic resistance training, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and a combination of aerobic and dynamic resistance training.

Specifically, isometric exercises were found to lower systolic pressure by 8.24/4 mmHg and diastolic pressure by 2.50 mmHg. Wall squats, a type of isometric exercise, were particularly effective for reducing systolic pressure, while running, an aerobic exercise, was most beneficial for decreasing diastolic pressure.

Dr. Jamie O’Driscoll, co-author of the study, highlighted the significance of these findings in developing new exercise guidelines for hypertension prevention and treatment. The current guidelines, which primarily advocate aerobic exercises like running and cycling, do not consider the potential benefits of newer exercise protocols like high-intensity interval training and isometric training.

While the exact reasons why isometric exercises are more effective in lowering blood pressure remain to be explored, the World Health Organization guidelines suggest that people should engage in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, including two strength-based training sessions. Isometric training programs typically involve four two-minute contractions, separated by one- to four-minute rest intervals, performed three times a week.

Experts recommend that individuals with heart conditions should consult their doctors before starting any exercise regimen. Additionally, it’s essential to adopt other lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, following a balanced diet, reducing salt intake, limiting alcohol consumption, and adhering to prescribed medications to support blood pressure management.

As more research is conducted in this area, these findings could potentially shape future exercise guidelines and provide individuals with an effective and accessible way to prevent and manage high blood pressure.

UK-based Nepali Businessman Rabindra Jung Lamichhane Honored with International Award for Philanthropy and Contribution to Social Work

Posted on July 28, 2023July 28, 2023 by SAT News Desk

London – UK-based Nepali businessman and philanthropist, Rabindra Jung Lamichhane, has been awarded the prestigious “Fin International and Forbes Best of Africa” award in recognition of his exceptional philanthropic efforts. The award ceremony took place at the London Hilton Hotel last week, coinciding with the 25th year of the “House of Commons Memorial Book,” which commemorates the legacy of South African leader Nelson Mandela.

The “Leading Philanthropist of the Year 2023” award was presented to Mr. Lamichhane on Mandela Day by Sir Clive Hubert Lloyd ‘CBE AO,’ the former West Indies cricket captain and a prominent figure in the sports world.

Mr. Lamichhane’s recognition stems from his remarkable contributions to both the business sector and social causes. His relentless dedication to various philanthropic endeavors has significantly impacted communities in need.

The special ceremony honored a total of 40 personalities from diverse fields who have made significant contributions to society. Among the honorees were distinguished British ministers, Members of Parliament, celebrities, and Ritu Hinduja, daughter of Indian-origin British tycoon Gopi Hinduja.

An outstanding highlight of the event was when Rabindra Jung Lamichhane signed the ‘House of Commons Nelson Mandela Memorial Book.’ Notably, he became the first Nepali personality to sign the historic booklet, which bears the signatures of around 700 influential figures from across the globe.

The ‘House of Commons Nelson Mandela Memorial Book’ was established as a tribute to the iconic 20th-century leader on the initiative of British campaigner Nick Carram. Its pages carry heartfelt tribute messages from prominent personalities spanning politics, art, music, sports, and business. Among the signatories are former US President Barack Obama, former British Prime Ministers Tony Blair and David Cameron, football legend David Beckham, and former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, among others.

In response to being the first Nepali to pen a message in the booklet, Mr. Lamichhane expressed immense pride. He stated, “I am very proud to be invited to pay tribute to Mandela in a booklet signed by 700 world leaders and celebrities.” The philanthropist emphasized the significance of the opportunity to honor the legacy of Nelson Mandela alongside globally renowned figures.

Founder Nic Careem issued a press statement expressing his pride in Mr. Lamichhane’s inclusion in the historic booklet. He said, “I am proud that Rabindra Jung Lamichhane has become the latest signatory to the booklet dedicated to the 20th-century hero Mandela.”

Lamichhane was recently awarded by the President of Nepal on the recommendation of the government of Nepal for the honour of his social and philanthropic contribution to Nepal.

Three UK Girls Embark on a Philanthropic Journey to Nepal: Diary Chronicles their Transformative Volunteering Experience

Posted on July 28, 2023July 28, 2023 by SAT News Desk

London — In an inspiring tale of altruism and cultural immersion, three young girls hailing from the United Kingdom embarked on a life-changing journey to Nepal to partake in volunteering activities at a rural school. Their story is now being shared by South Asia Time, as their diary provides a heartfelt account of their experiences, offering insights into the profound impact of philanthropic learning activities on both the volunteers and the communities they serve.

The three courageous girls, whose names are yet to be revealed, ventured into the heart of Nepal with a mission to make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. Leaving behind the comforts of home, they braced themselves for an adventure that would test their resilience and broaden their horizons. Their decision to dedicate their time and efforts to a worthy cause reflects the growing interest among the youth in engaging with global communities and fostering mutual understanding.

South Asia Time recognizes the significance of such philanthropic journeys and has taken the initiative to publish the girls’ diary entries to share their unique experiences with a wider audience. By doing so, they aim to inspire and encourage the new generation to participate in similar charitable activities, fostering a spirit of empathy, compassion, and cross-cultural exchange.

Previous diary entries, chronicling the stories of other volunteers who undertook similar journeys, can be found on South Asia Time’s platform, acting as a repository of motivational narratives that can ignite the spark of service-oriented exploration in countless young hearts.

Stay tuned as South Asia Time releases the enthralling chapters of their diary, captivating readers with tales of compassion, resilience, and the beauty of human connection. The captivating narrative will undoubtedly kindle the desire to contribute to the betterment of the global community, inspiring a new generation of compassionate changemakers eager to embrace philanthropy as a way of life.

Diary 5:
The three of us awoken at 6:30 am. While Zein and I went down for breakfast, Ranya slept it in due to a common cold. After breakfast, we went to see if Ranya was awake. After planning for tomorrow’s lesson, all three of us made our way down to the kitchen for a snack meal before heading to school with the hostel adults. Zein and I went to the school to give introductions and help with the ground clean up but we somehow ended up teaching. In class 5 we taught some conversation starters which Laxman was in. We then went to the staff room where we had interesting conversations about sociology with Bala Ram sir. he then took us to class 10 where we introduced ourselves. Sir made them sing for us then we had to sing for them. After this we began to simply help the class with pronunciation of words such as rhododendron. After this it was the students break time so we walked back to the hostel with them where they ate and quickly went back to school. Now it was just us, yalina didi, ram-maya and suroj guru. Zein and i tried to teach didi and ram- maya a dance and after that she filmed us doing the dance. we then began to play uno on the grass with a beautiful view. Since the guru loves uno, he came back enthusiastically. While we were in our third game the students came back from school and some of them joined in as they love this game too. This game was cut short and 2 other senior taekwondo gurus were about to arrive. They were greeted by all of the children lining up and getting tikka and a phool mala. The kids who participate in taekwondo went to get their appropriate attire to train. They train every single morning so this was going to be their second session of the day. Ranya and i went to watch them train while zein played chess with one of the english teachers from the school. They scored a 2-2 and after the 4th round zein joined us to watch the kids train. This session must have lasted 2 hours and the kids were challenged. It was unbelievable seeing what they can do. once this ended we had dinner then got given the curriculum books with the content to teach the next day. We briefly went over it then headed to sleep.

Diary 6:
The three of us woke up to watch the kids do taekwondo, which was around 5:30 am. We found out that the kids wake at 5am everyday for a long run right before doing taekwondo. The levels of activity and fitness the kids endure are unreal, their dedication and aspiration to advance onto the next level is truly admirable. After watching the kids train we had breakfast where we had egg and roti which was a nice switch from the rice. We then went back up to our room and got ready for the day, on our way back down some of the boys asked Zein if she wanted to play cricket. Whilst Zein was being the pro athlete she is Reiya and I did some lesson planning and asked Dipak Sir what he wanted us to cover in the lesson. Talking to Dipak Sir really helped us compose ourselves and calm our nerves, he reassured us that if we needed any help he would be there to guide us and gave us some tips and tricks to help keep the children engaged and interested in the lesson. At around 10:30 we left the hostel to make our way to the school, our first lesson was with class 6 and as we were approaching the classroom I could feel the nerves building up, however, this feeling swiftly disappeared when the children got up and sang us a greeting to welcome us into the class. We started the lesson by introducing ourselves and asking them to do the same so that we could get to know them a little better before we started the lesson. This first lesson with class 6 consisted of us reading a story about monkeys fasting, we decided to approach the text in a slow and sensible manner where we would read a few words at a time and they would repeat it back to us so that they could work on their pronunciations, we managed to get through 3/4 of the story before the bell rang and we had to leave. Our next lesson was with class 8 which was a little more intimidating as they were a bigger class. Once again we started with introductions and then decided to play a game to break the ice and hopefully get them a little more excited for the lesson. Our game of choice was hangman which the kids really got into as they really didn’t want to get hangman, while we were playing I saw some of the boys brainstorm words in their books. We then had to move onto content where we read a text called ‘A visit to Mustang’. We tried getting them to read one sentence each but soon realised that was not the best idea so we asked the kids to read by themselves while I went over to the table with the students who were struggling with pronunciations the most and helped them, it took us the rest of the lesson to get through the text and asked them to highlight any difficult to understand words from the text as homework so that we can go over and define them tomorrow. This was not the end of the day as we then went back to class 6 to finish the text from before, one thing I noticed was that the kids in this class spoke with such confidence regardless of wether what they were saying was wrong or not. At the end of the text we asked the children to find any difficult worlds so that we could help them. Whilst Zein and I explained the vocabulary, Reiya translated the definitions into Nepali to help the children understand better. As we had extra time on our hands we started doing some of the activities which consisted of matching words to their meanings and organising sentences according to the order of occurrences in the text and asked them to finish whatever was left as homework. We then started walking back to the hostel with the children, the walk back was harder than the walk to the school but we pushed through and took a much needed rest as soon as we got back to the hostel. After lunch we ran up to our room to get the uno cards so that we could play with Suroj Guru and Yalina didi. Watching Suroj Guru play was so funny as he would have the best expressions. Soon later the kids got back and joined us before we left to go on a small evening walk. The walk was not too steep and quite enjoyable, we decided to stop on the side of the road where there were a few rocks to take pictures and talk, overall it was a pleasant and enjoyable walk and really helped us build up an appetite for dinner.

Diary 7
Yesterday Suroj Guru told us that we could join him in the morning to supervise the morning run for the taekwondo kids, however when we woke up at 5am to get ready it was pouring down rain and as we still have a little bit of a cold we decided to stay in and keep warm. At 7:30 we decided to go down and have breakfast after we finished getting ready, as it was still raining so much we decided to run back up to our room and stay there playing cards until we had to depart to walk to the school. The morning was so gloomy and dull because of the rain due to these conditions we all decided we had to gear up and change into our waterproof clothes to prevent our colds from getting worse. The rain made the walk seem so much longer but we eventually got to the school we went up to the office where Zein and I played a game of chess against Dipak Sir and Reiya sat patiently observing. It was then time for lesson and our first lesson was with class 8. We started by going over the homework which was to find difficult words from yesterdays text so that we could define them, this took a little while but we were able to finish it in time to start the next reading which was from Anne Frank’s Diary. We decided that we would ask the children to repeat after us like we did with class 6 yesterday just to make sure that they are confident in pronouncing words and can understand the text better at a slower text and once again asked them to make a list of difficult vocabulary for homework. Our next lesson was with class 6 where we moved onto a new text about computers and smart phones , we asked them to do a quick starter activity which was asking them to name all the objects pictured in the text and answering the question ‘do you think having mobile phones is important and why’. After reading the text we started to go through some vocabulary but weren’t able to finish so we took a picture so that we can finish it off tomorrow. before leaving the school we went to the office to ask Dipak Sir what he would like us to prepare for tomorrow lessons as we would be teaching classes 6, 7 and 8 and then walked back to the hostel where we had lunch and Reiya and Zein took a little nap while i planned the lessons for tomorrow. Once Reiya and Zein woke up we decided to go spend time with the children and watched them learn a cultural Nepali dance before going down to watch the kids play cricket and volleyball. Zein decided to participate in playing cricket, whilst Reiya and Zein were downstairs I decided to go on a little hike to find Yalina didi which was definitely worth it as the view from where she was, was amazing. We could see the entire hostel and even the children playing and enjoying themselves. I then made my way back down and found Reiya and Zein talking to some of the kids and helping them with pronunciation and doing little tricks with them. The bell then ran to let us know that dinner was ready so we made our way to the kitchen to get our food and eat and then made our way back to our room to get and early nights rest.

Scientists Warn of Imminent Collapse of Crucial Ocean Currents with Catastrophic Climate Consequences

Posted on July 27, 2023July 27, 2023 by SAT News Desk

Copenhagen — In a groundbreaking study, scientists have issued a stark warning that the vital system of ocean currents responsible for distributing heat across the North Atlantic is dangerously close to collapse. The Atlantic meridional overturning circulation, a crucial component of the Earth’s climate system, has been slowing down since the mid-1900s. However, the latest research indicates that this slowdown could rapidly escalate, leading to catastrophic consequences, including rising sea levels and intensified extreme weather events.

Researchers Peter and Susanne Ditlevsen from Denmark conducted an in-depth analysis of sea surface temperatures in the North Atlantic, spanning from 1870 to 2020. Their findings paint a worrying picture, suggesting that the collapse of these ocean currents could occur as early as 2025 in a worst-case scenario. Even under the current trajectory of greenhouse gas emissions, the tipping point for the collapse might be reached by 2095.

This prediction represents a significant departure from the 2021 estimate provided by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which had downplayed the likelihood of such a collapse occurring within this century.

Julio Friedmann, Chief Scientist at Carbon Direct, emphasized the urgent need for action to address this alarming possibility. Acknowledging that there are uncertainties in scientific studies, he stressed that the conclusion is clear: swift and profound actions are imperative to counter the substantial climate risks posed by this potential catastrophe.

Stefan Rahmstorf, a co-author of a 2018 study on the subject, echoed concerns about the conservative nature of the IPCC’s estimate. He expressed apprehension that the risk of collapse is far greater than the earlier assessment of just 10% during this century, adding, “rather worrying for the next few decades.”

The collapse of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation would have dire global repercussions. The Northern Hemisphere would experience a surge in frequency and severity of extreme weather events, while the East Coast of the United States could face rising sea levels. Prolonged droughts could impact millions of people in southern Africa, exacerbating already challenging climate conditions in the region.

The urgency to address climate change and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions cannot be overstated. As the world grapples with the potential consequences of the collapse of this critical ocean heat transport system, scientists and policymakers are sounding the alarm for immediate and comprehensive action to safeguard the future of our planet. The need to transition towards sustainable practices and curb emissions is more pressing than ever, as humanity faces the reality of an impending climatic crisis.

Norwegian Woman and Sherpa Guide Set World Record by Climbing K2 and All 14 Highest Peaks in Record Time

Posted on July 27, 2023July 27, 2023 by SAT News Desk

KATHMANDU – In a remarkable display of human endurance and mountaineering skill, a Norwegian woman and her Sherpa guide have achieved a historic feat by climbing K2, the world’s second-highest peak, in Pakistan. Moreover, they have successfully scaled all 14 peaks above 8,000 meters (26,246 feet) in just over three months, making them the world’s fastest climbers to accomplish this remarkable challenge. An official from their Nepali organizing company confirmed the achievement.

Kristin Harila, 37, and Nepal’s Tenjen (Lama) Sherpa, 35, along with a team of eight other guides, achieved the extraordinary feat of conquering K2, which stands tall at 8,611 meters (28,251 feet). The Seven Summit Treks (SST) company, which provided logistical support to the climbers, celebrated their success in Kathmandu.

Tashi Lakpa Sherpa, the managing director of SST, expressed his admiration for the duo, stating, “They have become the fastest to climb all 14 peaks,” as reported from the base camp. Climbing all 14 highest peaks in just a few months is a highly challenging feat that typically takes many climbers several years to achieve.

Notably, Kristin Harila and Tenjen Sherpa have outperformed Nirmal Purja from Nepal, who previously held the record for completing all 14 peaks in six months and one week in 2019. While their latest accomplishment has been verified by other climbers on the mountain, it is yet to be officially confirmed by the Guinness Book of World Records.

The awe-inspiring journey of Harila and Sherpa began with the conquest of Shishapangma in the Tibet region of China on April 26. From there, they went on to climb Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, Cho Oyu, Dhaulagiri, Manaslu, and Annapurna in Nepal, before embarking on the challenging terrain of Pakistan. In Pakistan, they successfully summited Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrum I, Gasherbrum II, and the Broad Peak, ultimately culminating their journey by conquering K2 and achieving their goal of completing all 14 peaks in an astonishing 92 days.

Garrett Madison, the leader of a different expedition from the U.S.-based Madison Mountaineering company, who was also present on K2 during this time, praised the duo’s incredible achievement. He mentioned that they took advantage of a narrow weather window to make their successful summit. Madison spoke highly of Kristin Harila’s mental and physical toughness, underscoring the immense challenges and risks involved in such a feat.

Furthermore, amidst this historic accomplishment, one of the Sherpas, 17-year-old Nima Rinjin Sherpa, also secured a place in history by becoming the youngest climber to conquer K2, a testament to the indomitable spirit and determination of the mountaineers.

The global mountaineering community is now eagerly waiting for the official confirmation of this extraordinary accomplishment from the Guinness Book of World Records, recognizing the indelible mark left by Kristin Harila and Tenjen Sherpa in the annals of mountaineering history.

Pakistan’s antinarcotics force seizes over 158 kg drugs, arrests 7 culprits

Posted on July 27, 2023July 27, 2023 by SAT News Desk

ISLAMABAD (Xinhua) — Pakistan’s Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) has seized over 158 kg drugs of different types in seven operations, said an official on Wednesday.

A spokesperson for the ANF said in a statement that the ANF conducted seven operations across the country, recovered 158 kg drugs, and arrested seven accused.

According to the official, the force detained a passenger with 98 heroin-filled capsules when he was trying to get a boarding pass for the United Arab Emirates at the Islamabad International Airport.

In another operation, an amount of 91.2 kg hashish and 28.9 kg opium was recovered from a vehicle near eastern Lahore. While conducting the operation, the ANF personnel apprehended two individuals who were present in the vehicle.

A total of 16.8 kg opium was recovered from a house in the eastern city of Multan and one accused was detained who were trying to supply the drug to clients.

The force also conducted operations in northwest Khyber district, southwest districts of Quetta and Qilla Abdullah and seized ice powder, hashish and other drugs.

Separate cases had been registered against all the accused and they had been shifted to investigation centers for further probe, added the official.

UK Government Commits $63 Million to Support Climate Resilience in South Asia through World Bank Partnership

Posted on July 26, 2023July 26, 2023 by SAT News Desk

London –In a significant step towards addressing climate change and its adverse impacts, the UK government has announced a funding pledge of up to $63 million (£50 million) over the next seven years. The funding aims to support research, build institutional capacity, and enhance climate resilience in South Asia. The program will be implemented by the World Bank, focusing initially on six countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, with plans to expand to parts of the wider Indo-Pacific region.

Jenny Bates, the Director General for Asia Pacific at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, emphasized that tackling global challenges like climate change and environmental damage is a top priority for the UK, as outlined in their Integrated Review Refresh. The UK’s collaboration with the World Bank, known as the Resilient Asia Program (RAP), is designed to improve natural resource management and foster climate resilience, benefiting millions of people across South Asia and beyond.

During the first year of implementation, the RAP will focus on critical areas such as air pollution, thermal comfort, and early warning systems. Collaborative efforts will be made to address air pollution and exchange knowledge on thermal comfort and cooling solutions to combat heat-related challenges. Additionally, the program will aim to enhance coordination on early warning systems, weather, and climate information among South Asian countries.

Martin Raiser, the World Bank Vice President for the South Asia Region, highlighted the urgency of the program. He mentioned that more than half of the population in South Asia has experienced the impacts of climate-related disasters in the past two decades, making the Resilient Asia Program a crucial initiative to address the climate crisis and work towards a resilient future.

One of the significant projects under the RAP includes supporting the governments of India and Bangladesh in building community resilience, sustainable livelihoods, and conserving the precious ecosystems of the Sundarbans region. This mangrove forest, the largest in the world, serves as a shared ecosystem between the two countries.

Furthermore, the program aims to foster cooperation in transboundary water management between Bangladesh, Bhutan, and India in the Brahmaputra-Jamuna River basin. With climate hazards not confined by national borders, Cecile Fruman, the World Bank’s Director for Regional Integration and Engagement in South Asia, stressed the importance of cross-country collaborations to strengthen climate resilience effectively and ensure a sustainable future for the people of South Asia.

The Resilient Asia Program is part of the UK government’s broader commitment of up to $348 million (£274 million) to enhance resilience against climate change impacts in the Indo-Pacific region under the Climate Action for a Resilient Asia (CARA) program. Other partners collaborating on CARA include the UK’s Met Office, the Asian Development Bank, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD).

With this substantial funding and partnership, South Asian countries are poised to strengthen their efforts to combat climate change, protect their natural resources, and secure a sustainable and resilient future for their people. The UK’s commitment stands as a testament to the global cooperation required to combat the shared challenges of climate change on a regional and international scale.

Controversial Sex Scene in Oppenheimer Sparks Outrage Among Hindu Right-Wing Groups in India

Posted on July 25, 2023July 25, 2023 by SAT News Desk

Mumbai, India – A sex scene in the recently released film Oppenheimer, featuring Cillian Murphy and Florence Pugh, has ignited a firestorm of controversy among Hindu right-wing groups in India. The contentious scene has been branded as a “disturbing attack on Hinduism” and has led to calls for a boycott of the movie.

During the controversial scene, Florence Pugh’s character, Jean Tatlock, interrupts intercourse and picks up a copy of the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred scripture in Hinduism. She asks Cillian Murphy’s character, Dr. J Robert Oppenheimer, to read from it while they continue their intimate act.

In the scene, Oppenheimer recites the famous line from the Bhagavad Gita, “Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds,” as he resumes his intimate encounter with Jean.

The Bhagavad Gita is a revered text believed to have been composed thousands of years ago as part of the Hindu epic Mahabharata. It contains teachings given by Lord Sri Krishna to Arjuna, one of the Pandava brothers in the Mahabharata.

The portrayal of the sacred scripture in a sexual context has sparked outrage among Hindu right-wing groups, with a politician from India’s Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) denouncing the film as an attack on Hinduism. He claimed that it was part of a larger conspiracy by anti-Hindu forces.

India’s Information Commissioner, Uday Mahurkar, issued a statement expressing his concern over the scene, labeling it a “direct assault on religious beliefs of a billion tolerant Hindus.” He likened the scene to “waging a war on the Hindu community” and urged the filmmakers to remove it to avoid further controversy.

The federal minister of information and broadcasting, Anurag Thakur, also expressed displeasure over the portrayal of the sacred text in the film.

In response to the growing controversy, many right-wing supporters have called for a boycott of Oppenheimer in India.

The film, directed by Christopher Nolan, has been released with a U/A certification by India’s Central Board of Film Certification, indicating that it contains moderate adult themes and can be watched by children below 12 years of age with parental guidance. However, in other countries, Oppenheimer has been released under the R-rated category.

As the controversy continues to gain momentum, the filmmakers and producers of Oppenheimer may face pressure to address the concerns raised by Hindu right-wing groups in India.

For now, the controversy surrounding the sex scene in Oppenheimer remains a contentious issue, dividing opinions and sparking debates over artistic expression, religious sensitivity, and cultural representation in cinema.

Sri Lanka repairs 175 discarded passenger buses for reuse

Posted on July 25, 2023July 25, 2023 by SAT News Desk

COLOMBO (Xinhua) — Sri Lanka has repaired 175 buses belonging to the state-run Sri Lanka Transport Board for reuse, a statement from the President’s Media Division (PMD) said on Tuesday.

The PMD said these buses had been taken out of service due to the lack of spare parts as a result of the country’s import restrictions.

According to the PMD, the 175 buses were restored to operation at a cost of nearly 300 million Sri Lankan rupees (912,000 U.S. dollars).

Out of the 175 buses, 15 will be allocated for the transportation of school children, with the remaining buses to be handed over to respective bus depots to fulfill passenger transportation needs.

South Asian Countries’ Passport Rankings Highlighted in Henley Passport Index

Posted on July 24, 2023July 24, 2023 by SAT News Desk

London — South Asian countries’ passport rankings have once again come under scrutiny in this year’s Henley Passport Index, revealing varying levels of visa-free access for their holders. The index, which ranks the world’s 199 passports based on the number of destinations their owners can access without a prior visa, sheds light on the mobility potential of different passports.

Indian Passport Climbs Seven Places, Nepal Ranked 98th:

The Indian passport showed significant improvement, climbing seven places to secure the 80th rank in the Henley Passport Index, up from 87th in the previous year. Indian passport holders now enjoy visa-free access to 57 countries, offering enhanced travel opportunities for its citizens.

In contrast, Nepal’s passport was ranked 98th out of 103 countries in the index, placing it in the lower tier of passport rankings. The Nepali passport holders receive an on-arrival visa in only 38 countries, highlighting limited ease of international travel compared to other countries.

Pakistani Passport Ranked Fourth Worst for Third Consecutive Year:

The Pakistani passport faced a recurring challenge, ranking as the “fourth worst” passport for the third consecutive year in the Henley Passport Index. Passport holders have access to a limited number of destinations without a prior visa, reflecting a need for further improvement in visa arrangements for Pakistani citizens.

Passport Rankings and Global Mobility:

The Henley Passport Index ranks passports based on the highest number of on-arrival visas granted by countries to passport holders. The index provides valuable insights into the global mobility potential and accessibility of different passports, impacting international travel and business opportunities for citizens of various nations.

Afghanistan holds the weakest passport in the survey, securing the 103rd position, with visa-on-arrival privileges in only 27 countries. Similarly, other South Asian countries such as Iraq, Syria, Yemen, and Somalia face challenges in terms of passport rankings, offering visa-on-arrival access in a limited number of countries.

In contrast, Singapore tops the list with the most powerful passport, granting visa-free access to passport holders in 192 countries. Germany, Italy, and Spain closely follow, providing visa-on-arrival privileges in 190 countries each.

Methodology of the Study:

The Henley Passport Index bases its rankings on special data from the International Air Transport Authority (IATA). The study includes 199 passports and 227 travel destinations, offering a comprehensive view of passport power and global mobility for citizens around the world.

As countries continue to assess and improve their visa policies, passport rankings play a crucial role in shaping international travel and diplomatic relations. These rankings provide valuable insights for policymakers and travelers, underscoring the importance of fostering stronger international relations to enhance global mobility and opportunities for citizens of South Asian countries.

Innovative Initiatives Boost Childhood Vaccination Rates in South Asia Amidst Challenges

Posted on July 24, 2023July 24, 2023 by SAT News Desk

Kathmandu– In the face of numerous challenges in South Asia, the health and well-being of children have remained a top priority. Over the last few years, the region has witnessed remarkable innovations in childhood vaccinations, bringing hope for a healthier future for millions of children and their families.

The COVID-19 pandemic, while posing immense obstacles to healthcare services, dealt a severe blow to childhood immunization efforts. More than 5 million children in South Asia missed out on essential vaccines, threatening their health and lives. However, thanks to the collective efforts of health worker heroes, dedicated governments, scientific advancements, innovative solutions, and community engagement, childhood vaccination rates have now rebounded to pre-pandemic levels in countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, and the Maldives, UNICEF has reported.

Recent data shows that approximately 2 million more children received the vaccines they urgently needed in 2022, compared to the previous year. This encouraging progress, however, does not negate the concern for the 1.9 million children who still haven’t received a single dose of life-saving vaccines since birth. There is a pressing need to bridge this gap and extend protection to every child in the region.

Despite the challenges that lie ahead, there is renewed hope for the future. The South Asian countries have witnessed the emergence of several innovative initiatives aimed at enhancing child healthcare and immunization efforts. Some of the standout initiatives include:

1. Solar-Powered Vaccine Delivery in Remote Areas of Nepal: In Nepal, solar power has been harnessed to ensure the safe and timely delivery of vaccines to children residing in the most remote and inaccessible regions. This innovation has overcome logistical hurdles and empowered health workers to reach even the farthest corners of the country.

2. Mobile Applications for Immunization in Bangladesh: New mobile applications have been introduced in Bangladesh, empowering health workers to protect over 36 million children against diseases like Measles and Rubella. These digital tools have streamlined healthcare efforts and enhanced the efficiency of vaccination drives.

3. Extending Healthcare to Struggling Families in Sri Lanka: Health workers in Sri Lanka have gone above and beyond to provide healthcare services to families facing challenges. Their dedication has ensured that children receive the care they need, even in difficult circumstances.

4. Comprehensive Healthcare Centers for Vulnerable Children in Pakistan: In Pakistan, dedicated places have been established to cater to the health needs of vulnerable children. These centers serve as a one-stop solution, providing essential healthcare services to safeguard children’s well-being.

5. Building Trust to Reach Zero-Dose Children in India: India has seen remarkable efforts in building trust and rapport with communities to reach children who have not received any vaccines since birth. This outreach program aims to bridge the vaccination gap and protect every child.

While the road ahead may still be challenging, these innovative initiatives instill hope and optimism. They prove that with dedication, collaboration, and inventive solutions, it is possible to overcome hurdles and improve the health and happiness of children in South Asia. As the region continues to face evolving circumstances, these innovations stand as powerful tools that can be harnessed to protect the most vulnerable members of society, whatever the future may bring.