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Guinness World Records awarded four awards to Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja MBE

Posted on by SAT News Desk

London —- The Guinness Book of World Records has awarded four different awards to the veteran Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja MBE.

Guinness welcomed Mr. Purja  in London for an interview and certificate presentation.

Ex-British Gurkha Nims is also the star of the hit Netflix documentary ’14 Peaks: Nothing Is Impossible’ and a World Goodwill Ambassador for Nepal’s Tourism.

He now holds the record for the fastest ascent of all mountains over 8,000 meters in 189 days and the fastest time to climb the top five 8,000ers and the fastest time to climb 8,000ers without bottled oxygen in 70 days and the fastest triple-header of the Higher 8,000ers in 5 days, three hours, and 35 minutes.

Earlier this week Mr Purja was accorded high honors by the Eastleigh Borough Council of the United Kingdom.

Documentary 14 peaks – nothing is impossible on Netflix

After the release of the documentary 14 peaks – nothing is impossible on Netflix, Nirmal Purja aka Nims Dai has become the source of inspiration to many youths. Indeed he has created a new history by climbing 14 eight -thousander deadly peaks within seven months. If you want to know in detail about Nims Dai, then keep reading.

Who is Nirmal Purja aka Nims Dai?
Nirmal Purja is an ex-British army and a passionate mountain climber who broke different world records on Mountain climbing. Back to back, he held Guinness World records by climbing 14 death peaks just in 6 months six days by breaking the previous record of 8 years. Besides, he was the only Nepalese to join the special British Royal Navy.

Purja was born in a small village of Myagdi districts Nepal on July 25 1983. When he was four years old, his family moved to the Chitwan district, where he spent the rest of his childhood. He was a very energetic and hard-working kid who always followed his passion.

As his parents were of different castes, his family was abandoned by society. His father was a Gurkha soldier. Therefore, he was very clear about what he wanted to become in life. To pursue his aim to become a British army, he worked hard even in his school life.

Besides studies, he was good at kickboxing during his school.

Nirmal Purja – Career and achievements

Nirmal joined the Gurkha army when he was 20 years in 2003. After serving six years, he applied for the Royal Navy force; which is the most prestigious and elite British unit, in 2009 .Where Nims served as a cold-weather warfare specialist.

Despite his incredible career, he resigned from the special air service (SAS) unit to focus on his passion for mountain climbing. Moreover, he didn’t care for the huge pension he could get if he had served six years more to the air force. Similarly, his Family’s income was the sole earning, but he chose to be a mountaineer.

While serving in the army, he got an opportunity to climb Mount Everest in 2012. Since then, he developed his interest in mountain climbing.

After resigning from special force, Nirmal’s mission was to show the world you can achieve anything if you have willpower and strong determination. So, he comes up with the project possible to climb 14 death peaks of the world in just seven months due to his love and passion for mountain climbing.

Along with his team, Nirmal Purja finished his first eight-thousander (death peak) summit on 2019 April 23. Moreover, he completed Nepal’s six death peaks (Mount Everest, Lhotse, Makalu, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Kanchenjunga) summit just in a month.  

Further, he completed all 14 eight-thousander peaks before the targeted date, i.e. in 6 months six days. Thus, he was able to break the previous record of 8 years to climb the 14 summits.

Political stance on Migrants voting in Nepal

Posted on by SAT News Desk

Kathmandu: Leaders from all major parties have strongly supported the implementation of granting voting rights to Nepali citizens living abroad. While there are still administrative, logistic, and legislative procedures to follow, leaders are confident that this can be implemented soon.

As part of an ongoing series of policy dialogues organized by the Nepal Policy Institute (NPI), on March 19 a panel discussion was organized on the topic of “Migrant Nepali Workers, National Economy, and State Policies.” The panel was joined by Hon. Mr. Pradeep Kumar Gyawali, CPN (UML); Hon. Dr. Prakash Sharan Mahat, NC; Hon. Dr. Upendra Yadav, JSP Nepal; and Hon. Ms. Pampha Bhusal, CPN (Maoist Center).

Presenting the main findings of some research work carried out by NPI on the matter of voting rights of migrants, Mr. Khagendra Dhakal (Chair of the NPI Board of Directors) referred to international good practices on this subject and also highlighted the stances of major political parties in Nepal to the extent that they may or may not have broached the subject with any degree of specificity.

In the ensuing discussion on granting voting rights to Nepali migrants abroad, all panelists spoke on behalf of their political parties and clarified their stances on the issue. Relying on Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Hon. Dr. Upendra Yadav emphasized that “everyone has the right to take part in the government of their country, hence all Nepali citizens irrespective of their location must be able to vote.” This was a common refrain shared by all speakers in the panel.

Each speaker strongly asserted their commitment to implementing the Supreme Court judgment on this matter. However, they emphasized the importance of due process and the need for resolute considerations. Ensuring free and fair elections is equally important. Hon. Dr. Prakash Sharan Mahat, while exploring the possible ways to implement external voting, outlined the risks of voter fraud using examples of the recent US Presidential Election. This concern was also shared by Hon. Pampha Bhusal while recounting the incidents of the NRNA elections. However, both recognized that voting fraud can happen within Nepal as well. Thus, the focus has to be on minimizing the risk factors.

In consideration of all the risk factors, Hon. Pampha Bhusal stated, “the Government of Nepal is in the process of making a law to ensure voting rights for Nepalis living abroad.” In this regard, Hon. Pradeep Kumar Gyawali distinctly outlined the administrative and parliamentary procedure in implementing this mandate.

Hon. Gyawali illustrated that “as the primary stakeholder, the Election Commission has the responsibility to draft the election manifesto for external voting. This manifesto must take the logistics, safety, and financial commitments into consideration. Then this manifesto can be sent to Parliament, followed by the Council of Ministers for final approval before implementation.” As provisional elections have already started in Nepal, implementing external voting for this election does not seem possible. “Hence, after the election, all political parties must come together to ensure speedy implementation of external voting. This should be a reality in five years” said Hon. Dr. Prakash Sharan Mahat.

In this discussion, NPI proposed the use of i-voting (internet voting) based on the release of their policy brief on “External Voting Rights for Nepalis Abroad: Reflections from International Practices.” In presenting the Brief, NPI Chairperson Khagendra Dhakal highlighted evidence from more than 150 countries around the world having a legal framework for external voting. This includes many countries that are just as, or even more, constrained and capacity challenged as Nepal.

Member of the NPI Board of Directors, Ms. Sharu Joshi, moderated the webinar event, and in her own remarks exhorted the political parties to take up this subject matter expeditiously. Giving the closing remarks Dr. Ambika Adhikari, member of the NPI Board of Directors, stated that NPI will produce a Policy Brief on this subject to better inform relevant policymakers.

Migrant workers from Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Qatar, and India, on behalf of the organizations directly concerned with immigration, suggested that the government should prioritize formulating necessary policies to implement the decision of the Supreme Court. In this regard, Hon. Pampha Bhusal committed to raise this issue at Sunday’s cabinet meeting.

Sadhguru appeals to save soil in a program organised at the U.K. House of Parliament

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London – The world-renowned Yogi, Visionary and climate change campaigner, Sadhguru, has appealed the world leaders to take urgent action to save soil.

Addressing a program organised in his honour at the British Houses of Parliament, Sadhguru quoted scientists and UN agencies as predicting that the planet has cultivable soil for only up to 55 years and have warned of catastrophic food shortages that could plunge the world into brutal civil strife. In a strong, emotional appeal to the audience to join the movement, Sadhguru said, “Soil is the only magic where if you bury death, it sprouts life. We have come from this soil, we eat of this soil and when we die, we get back to the soil.”

Spiritual leader Sadhguru has been working on a much-required cause to save the soil for the past 24 years. This year, he has ventured out on a 100-day journey across 27 nations to engage with global leaders and urge them to initiate a soil saving movement in their countries.

As founder of Isha Foundation, he has inspired thousands of volunteers and residents of the Isha Yoga Centre to take his vision ahead around many places of the world .

Beginning on 21st March, Sadhguru is embarking on a 100-day 30,000 km journey on a motorbike from London to southern India. His odyssey across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East aims to activate citizen support and global government policy action to revitalise soil.

The program was hosted by Baroness Verma who is the chair of UN women’s National committee, former under secretary of State of international development. It was organised and sponsored by Rabindra Jung Lamichhane (Ravi), an entrepreneur, philanthropist and  Vice chair of U.K. Nepal Trade and Investment Forum.

“It’s my pleasure to support the “Save Soil” campaign launched by respected Sadhguru. It is the duty of we all human beings to help save lives of creatures including humans by saving the soil which is degrading day by day,” he added.

Many MPs from both of the House form the U.K. , diplomats including  India , Nepal, security officials, policy makers , influencers and journalists attended the program.

Nepali embassy in London also hosted an event to welcome Sadhguru on the same day. Nepali community leaders and businessmen took part in the programme.

Get colourful and creative this Holi, by turning spices into your DIY colour pallet

Posted on by SAT News Desk

London — Millions of Hindus around the world are preparing to celebrate Holi, also known as the festival of colours.  The festival marks the beginning of the spring season in South Asian countries.  But these dates change on an annual basis, to be in sync with the full moon. Due to the nature of the festival, it has been celebrated by the majority of people from all religions, races, and geographical area across South Asia as a cultural festival rather than a religious festival.  the festival is very inclusive, as one of the main themes of the festival is unity. So, while the Holi Festival is rooted in Hindu tradition, it is a celebration that happens all over the world.

When is Holi celebrated?

Holi is celebrated in Phagun, the 12th month of the Hindu calendar, which corresponds to February or March in the Gregorian calendar. This year, the festival will be celebrated on March 18, though the festivities tend to run longer in some places.

This year celebrations with take place on Friday (March 18) .  The fectival brings together new and old friends, family, and acquaintances to celebrate the arrival of spring. With themes of positive change, new beginnings, love and compassion, common activities include throwing coloured powders and reuniting over delicious food.

What’s the story behind Holi?

Holi celebrates the triumph of good over evil and there are various stories about its origin.

The most popular legend in Hindu mythology says the festival marks Lord Vishnu’s triumph over King Hiranyakashyapu, who killed anyone who disobeyed him or worshipped other gods.

The king had a son called Prahlad who never worshipped his father and worshipped Vishnu instead. Hiranyakashyapu was so displeased that he conspired with his sister Holika to kill his son.

Holika agreed to kill her nephew, luring Prahlad into a pyre and trying to burn him. However, Vishnu came to Prahlad’s rescue and Holika ended up burning in the pyre.

To this day, Hindu devotees celebrate Holika Dahan on the eve of Holi to mark the event by making bonfires in their neighborhoods.

So grab your 5 cupboard staples and get spice painting for some zero-waste fun during the festive period!

What you’ll need:

  • A few ground spices including turmeric, chilli powder, cinnamon, cumin and coriander
  • A binding agent like water, non-toxic glue or poster paint
  • Basic art supplies like paint brushes, cotton balls, paper

To take things further, why not try your paint on various fabrics and materials, or grab cardamom seeds, dried flowers and chilli flakes?

Tip: Some spices like turmeric can be messy so watch out for stains! Be prepared with a table covering, apron or gloves to avoid the mess.

Recipe: 4-Ingredient Coconut Ladoos

Whilst your paint dries, or as a sweet midday snack – East End Food has provided 4-ingredient coconut ladoos?

Ingredients:

  1. 2 cups of East End Foods desiccated coconut + ¼ for rolling
  2. ¾ cups of condensed milk or coconut cream
  3. 2 East End Foods cardamom pods, powdered
  4. 12 East End Foods pistachios or other nuts for garnish

Method:

  1. In a pan on a low flame, add the condensed milk/coconut cream and desiccated coconut.
  2. Mix well and cook for 4-5 minutes. Ensure the mixture gets slightly thick and comes together.
  3. Check for the sweetness and adjust as necessary (option to add honey, agave or sugar).
  4. Mix the crushed cardamom and turn off the hob.
  5. Let the mixture cool slightly and make round balls. You should get about 11-12 ladoos.
  6. Roll the ladoo in the remaining desiccated coconut and garnish each with a pistachio or chosen nut.

Ex-Gurkha’s daughter, Sapima Gurung, shortlisted for Miss Universe Great Britain 2022 finalists

Posted on by SAT News Desk

London – The daughter of a former British Gurkha, Sapima Gurung, has reached the final stage of Miss Universe Great Britain 2022.

Sapima, 22,  from West Yorkshire, Leeds announced about her achievement  on the occasion of  International Women’s Day through social media stating  that she was happy to be shortlisted for the Miss Universe Great Britain 2022 finalist

The grand finale of Miss Universe Great Britain will take place on July 9 at Riverfront in Newport Wales.

Sapima has appealed to everyone for financial and emotional support during her Miss Universe trip.

Sapima, who is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Precision Medicine, said she would advocate for children’s education through the Miss Universe GB platform.

After making it to the Miss Universe Great Britain finalists, she said, “I cannot express my excitement as I say that I am a finalist for Miss Universe Great Britain 2022, giving me an opportunity to represent Great Britain on the global Miss Universe stage. Please help and support me throughout this journey with the upcoming fundraising and also voting for me.”

 

The grand finale of the MUGB will be held on 9th of July 2022 at the Riverfront in Newport, Wales.

 

“Being a first-generation immigrant and a university graduate has made me value my dreams and feel empowered,2 Sapima told Southasiatime.

“Coming from a Gurkha British army background, self-belief, confidence, ambition, and above all the idea of service before self comes naturally,” she added.

 

Gurung is  pursuing a Masters in Precision Medicine: Genomics and Analytics with the intention to continue to pursue her passion for women’s rights and education.

 

“My goal is to be able to win the Miss Universe Great Britain 2022 title and represent Great Britain whilst keeping my cultural heritage alive. And on the MUGB platform, my advocacy is children’s education for the betterment of the whole nation as they are the future leaders of tomorrow,” Sapima said.

 

Sharing about her journey to Miss Universe Great Britain, Sapima said that she had to pass many hurdles before being selected as the finalist for MUGB 2022. Among the 3 key steps to qualify as a finalist from submitting   a bio , a headshot photo & a full body photo, to be lucky enough to be selected for an interview process .

 

Sapima mentioned that she is in need of sponsors, evening gown sponsor, fundraising and public votesto help to translate her dream into success.

She has urged all her supporters and sponsors to reach out to her via sapimagrg@hotmail.co.uk

Talks have started to resolve the Gurkha problem: Envoy Acharya

Posted on by SAT News Desk

Jagan Karki, London — Newly appointed Ambassador of Nepal to the UK, Gyan Chandra Acharya, said that preliminary talks have started with the British authorities to resolve the problems of former Gurkhas.

Acharya was recently appointed Coordinator of the negotiating team on behalf of the Government of Nepal.

Talking to media organisations and a group of journalists representing 14 media houses based in the UK, Ambassador Acharya said expressed hope that the long-standing grievances will be resolved soon through talks between the two governments as well as reprsentatives of the Gurkha organisations.

Ambassador Acharya thanked the British government for their generous support to Nepal to combat the Corona epidemic, he planned to work with the UK on various issues including climate financing,  trade, tourism, renewal energy, e-commerce, culture, and arts during his tenure. Spokesperson of the Embassy Mrs. Roshan Khanal as well as other officials of the Embassy also attended the programme.

President of Federation of Nepali Journalists U.K and Nepal Press Union UK, Bipin Niraula, said that Nepali diaspora in the UK was one of the fastest growing immigrant communities in the UK and that Nepali journalists were working largely voluntarily to inform and educate the Nepali communities including Gurkhas. He also noted that Nepali journalists in the UK were working closely with the embassy.

Former BBC journalist Suman Kharel, Bal Mukund Joshi and advocate Govind Belbase spoke about the history of Nepali journalistm in the UK and future challenges.

Director of LondonNepalNews.com, Rajkumar Tripathi, spoke about the problems being faced by online media in the UK. Senior journalist, Manish Shrestha, shared his experience with Nepali film journalism in the program.

Journalist and social activist, Sangita Marhattha, stressed the need to increase the role of women in media and communication.

Khushi Limbu, a senior member of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) gave a welcome address at the program conducted by Sanjay Bhakta Kandel, Senior Vice President of the FNJ UK.  Advisor of the FNJ UK, Dr. Jagan Karki, expressed his views on the challenges of journalism and the work to be done.

Editors, reporters, and operators of Nepali and English language online news portals based in the UK  including Britishkhabar.com, Nepalmamila.com,Diasporanepal.com, Darpansansar.com, Nepalsansar.com, Globalnepalese.com,Globaldainik.com, Globalnepalipatra.com, Southasiatime.com, Shitalpatinews.com, Silautitimes, Kathmandu.com, among others, attended the meeting.

UN Adopts Resolution Promoting Bicycles To Combat Climate Change

Posted on by SAT News Desk
United Nations, United States:

The 193 members of the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution Tuesday supporting bicycles as a tool for combatting climate change.

The resolution, proposed by Turkmenistan, was passed unanimously and like all General Assembly resolutions is non-binding.

It calls on member states to “integrate the bicycle into public transportation, in urban and rural settings in developing and developed countries.”

Increasing cycling through improved road safety and the promotion of bike-riding will help achieve “sustainable development, including the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions,” according to the resolution.

COVID-19 pandemic pushes 4.7 mln more people in Southeast Asia into extreme poverty: ADB report

Posted on by SAT News Desk

Manila — The COVID-19 pandemic pushed 4.7 million people in Southeast Asia into extreme poverty in 2021, as 9.3 million jobs disappeared, compared with a baseline no-COVID scenario, said an Asian Development Bank (ADB) report released on Wednesday.

According to the Manila-based bank, the region is beginning to recover from the two-year pandemic, forecast to pick up to 5.1 percent this year as almost 60 percent of its population become fully vaccinated, enabling many economies to reopen.

Despite more favorable prognoses for 2022, the report said that the economic situation in the region remains fragile, and many households continue to experience huge income losses.

“The pandemic has led to widespread unemployment, worsening inequality, and rising poverty levels, especially among women, younger workers, and the elderly in Southeast Asia,” ADB President Masatsugu Asakawa said.

Among the most affected are unskilled workers and those working in retail and the informal economy, as well as small businesses without a digital presence. Asakawa encouraged governments in the region to invest in innovative, green infrastructure and adopt technological innovations to reinvigorate economic growth.

The report called governments to allocate more resources to help health systems deliver care, improve disease surveillance, and respond to future pandemics, noting that economic growth could rise by 1.5 percentage points if health spending in the region reaches about 5 percent of GDP.

It also recommended that countries pursue structural reforms to boost competitiveness and productivity, such as simplifying business procedures, reducing trade barriers, and encouraging small enterprises to adopt new technologies.

It added that governments should maintain fiscal prudence to reduce public deficits and debts, and modernize tax administration to enhance efficiency and broaden the tax base.

Meanwhile, the reported warns of multiple challenges in the region, namely emerging COVID-19 variants, tightening global interest rates, supply chain disruptions, and higher commodity prices and inflation.

  • Xinhua

Why are South Asians more likely to be diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes?

Posted on by SAT News Desk

By 

Growing up as a member of the South Asian community, hearing about my family members’ diagnoses of Type 2 diabetes was unfortunately a common occurrence. Type 2 is the strain of diabetes where insulin production is reduced and a lack of cell response leads to increased blood sugar levels.

South Asia — especially India — has become a global hotspot for diabetes. Indians who migrate to other regions of the globe also show higher rates of diabetes compared to other ethnic groups. A great deal of research has been performed to investigate this occurrence, mostly looking at biological factors; however, emerging research into lifestyle and social determinants of health has begun to provide more insight.

Biological factors

The South Asian community faces a greater risk of insulin resistance, which is when the cells of your muscles, liver, and fat do not respond correctly to insulin, meaning you have to produce more of it. On a large scale, healthy and young Indian adults have a greater prevalence of insulin resistance than other ethnic groups. It should be noted that insulin resistance is associated with other risk factors such as high blood pressure, greater body fat percentage, and high triglycerides.

Body composition also affects the risk of developing diabetes. South Asians tend to have higher amounts of body fat — in particular, subcutaneous and visceral fat. Visceral fat is especially bad since it produces inflammatory cytokines — molecules that play a role in immune responses — an overabundance of which can cause a risk of cardiovascular diseases and indirectly lead to higher blood pressure.

Social, environmental, and lifestyle factors 

Science has evolved over time, and it is clear now that underlying determinants of health play a role in how diabetes develops in South Asian communities.

Urbanization and migration especially have factored into the skyrocketing rates of diabetes within South Asian populations. For example, the populations of urban regions of India have a greater prevalence of diabetes compared to rural regions, with rates in Southern India being almost double in urban centres compared to villages. However, as time has progressed, even villages have shown increased rates of diabetes. More widespread adoption of sedentary lifestyles in urban environments is likely the leading cause.

In an interview with The Varsity, Ananya Tina Banerjee, an assistant professor at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health and the Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education, spoke about the effects of migration on the rates of diabetes in South Asians. Banerjee affirmed the notion that migration has been a potential risk factor for diabetes, explaining that it was because “certain South Asian subgroups undergo significant higher stress — attributable in part, to the social, economic and political marginalization of immigrants and refugees.” 

She added that this higher stress load leads to greater food insecurity, less access to physical activity opportunities. The experiences of systemic racism and low social support in South Asian migrant communities also contribute to this stress — and all together, these factors can partially explain the greater risk of diabetes in South Asians.

When asked about the role that colonialism may have played in the emergence of a diabetes epidemic in South Asians, Banerjee said that “colonialism as a structural risk factor for the diabetes epidemic in South Asia has not been largely explored.”

“There is [a] need to understand how Eurocentric diets, illnesses and economic practices [that] were imposed by the British in South Asia during the colonial era disrupted lifestyles, traditions, and even languages,” said Banerjee. “These colonial practices are likely to continue to detrimentally affect communities living in South Asia.”

The Varsity also spoke to Leanne De Souza-Kenney, an assistant professor in the teaching stream at the Department of Human Biology and the Health Studies program at University College. De Souza-Kenney noted that dietary choices and physical activity both play a significant role in the development of diabetes in many communities, including the South Asian community. 

“While there is a genetic predisposition to certain conditions like diabetes, this can be addressed by reducing environmental exposures and risk factors for diabetes. Understanding the social determinants of health and the exposures to risk factors for disease states is critical for populations to learn about.” De Souza-Kenney added.

How can we intervene?

Both De Souza-Kenney and Banerjee offered their opinions on potential interventions that could begin tackling the diabetes problem in South Asian communities.

“We need a diverse array of effective changes in policies and the environments in which South [Asians] live, work, and play,” Banerjee said. Doing so, she believes, would be a good start to mitigating the diabetes epidemic, since it would tackle the root causes of inequities in health. Banerjee believes that these changes can be reached through improving access to resources and preventative services within communities, as well as promoting policies that improve the care and management of diabetes.

De Souza-Kenney added that health literacy and patient education are places to start, and that we should start by creating a safe environment for discussion. “The conversation should be just that — an exchange that invites people to play an active role in their health outcomes, rather than a one-directional listing or reprimanding, or dictating incongruent recommendations to how people live their lives,” she said.

Education is a big part of promoting access to health care, according to De Souza-Kenney. “Education includes helping affected or vulnerable populations to learn what to look for and when to seek help, as well as [the value] of tests and opportunities like screening measures.” She believes that those who are at risk for Type 2 diabetes mellitus due to factors such as family history and environmental exposures should feel supported and should have the opportunity to educate themselves on the importance of screening tests and self-monitoring blood glucose.

From : Varsity

Jaishankar says 147 foreign nationals from 18 countries evacuated from conflict situation in Ukraine, brought to India

Posted on by SAT News Desk

New Delhi  — External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said 147 foreign nationals hailing from 18 countries were evacuated from the conflict situation in Ukraine as part of Operation Ganga and brought to India.
“In line with India’s principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, foreign nationals were
also evacuated from conflict zones and brought to India. They included 147
citizens of 18 countries. Many Ukrainian nationals that are family members
of Indian nationals have also been evacuated,” Jaishankar said in a statement in
the two Houses of Parliament on ‘Situation in Ukraine’.

He also said that as tensions increased, the Indian Embassy in Ukraine started a
registration drive for Indians in January 2022 and as a result, around
20,000 Indians registered.”Most Indian nationals were students pursuing medical
studies in Ukrainian universities dispersed throughout the country,” he said.
Jaishankar noted that more than half the students were in universities in
eastern Ukraine that borders Russia and has been the epicentre of the conflict so
far. “Students hail from 35 states/UTs of India with over 1,000 students each from
Kerala, UP, Haryana, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Bihar and Rajasthan,” he
added.

Jaishankar highlighted the advisories issued to Indian citizens in Ukraine to
leave Ukraine in view of ongoing tension between Moscow and Kyiv.
“In view of the continued buildup of tensions in February, the Embassy issued an
advisory on February 15, advising Indians in Ukraine whose stay isn’t essential, to
leave the country temporarily. It also advised Indians not to travel to Ukraine or
undertake non-essential movements within Ukraine,” he said.
“Further advisories were also given on February 20 and 22. Air bubble instructions
then imposed were immediately lifted in consultation with the Ukrainian side to
increase the number of direct flights. Around 4,000 Indians departed
from Ukraine by direct/indirect flights till February 23,” he added.
He said despite the government efforts, a large majority of students elected to
continue staying in Ukraine.
“Despite our efforts, however, a large majority of students elected to continue
staying in Ukraine. We must understand their predicament in this regard. There
was a natural reluctance to leave educational institutions and affect their studies.
Some universities actively discouraged and showed reluctance to offer online
courses,” the minister said.
“Many of them received conflicting advice regarding safety. The challenges of

travel back may have also been a factor. In the period leading to February 24, the
political signals were confusing as well. Public urgings not to be taken in by
alarmism and reports of force withdrawals created a confusing picture. The net
result was that about 18000 Indian citizens were caught in the midst of conflict
when it began,” he said. (ANI)

Nepal’s transgender activist Bhumika Shrestha receives international recognition

Posted on by SAT News Desk

Kathmandu — The US Embassy in Nepal has announced that transgender rights activist Bhumika Shrestha will be awarded the US Department of States’ prestigious International Women of Courage Award, 2022 for her dedication to improving the lives of the LGBTQI+ community.

This is the second year in a row that a Nepali has won the award. Last year, Muskan Khatun won the accolade for her work against acid attacks. US Secretary of State Antony J Blinken will host the annual IWOC Awards in a virtual ceremony.”The First Lady of the United States, Jill Biden, will deliver remarks during the event, which will be livestreamed on www.state.gov on March 14,” said the embassy.

Now in its 16th year, the Secretary of State’s IWOC Award recognises women from across the globe who have demonstrated exceptional courage, strength, and leadership in advocating peace, justice, human rights, gender equity and equality, and the empowerment of women and girls, in all their diversity often at the cost of great personal risk and sacrifice.

Bhumika Shrestha is an LGBTQ+ activist from Nepal who received the 2022 International Women of Courage (IWOC) Award from the US government. The award is given to women around the world who promote women’s rights and have shown leadership, courage, and willingness to sacrifice for others. For the last fifteen years, Shrestha has been working to address the challenges of the transgender community of Nepal. Whether it’s leading a conversation about queer citizenship rights with the government or fighting for dignity and rights, Bhumika Shrestha has been stepping forward as a change agent since 2007. (Agencies)

Nepal and Saudi Arabia signed an agreement to enhance mutual cooperation

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Kathmandu —  Nepal and Saudi Arabia have signed an agreement to enhance mutual cooperation between the two countries.

The agreement was signed at a meeting between the Foreign Ministers of Nepal and Saudi Arabia at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Singha Durbar on Tuesday.

On behalf of Nepal, Foreign Minister Dr. Narayan Khadka and  on behalf of Saudi Arabia, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud signed the agreement.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal arrived in Kathmandu on Monday for a two-day visit to Nepal.

China Provides Humanitarian Aid Supplies For Ukraine

Posted on by SAT News Desk

Beijing  — At the request of the Ukrainian side, the Red Cross Society of China will provide humanitarian aid supplies to the Ukrainian Red Cross Society, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Wednesday.

Spokesperson Zhao Lijian said at a daily press briefing that the supplies worth 5 million yuan (about 791,000 U.S. dollars) include food and daily necessities.

“The first batch of supplies was shipped from Beijing on Wednesday,” said Zhao, adding that the rest will be delivered to the Ukrainian Red Cross Society as soon as possible by appropriate means.

(Xinhua)

India’s central bank rolls out unified payment platform for feature phones

Posted on by SAT News Desk

Mumbai — India’s central bank has launched Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for feature phones, a digital payment platform which was so far restricted to smartphones.

Governor of the Reserve Bank of India Shaktikanta Das said the move will further deepen the digital ecosystem and financial inclusion, and that the central bank was committed to providing an enabling environment for this initiative.

Customers have to link their bank account with feature phones to use this UPI 123Pay facility for their transactions without the need of an internet connection.

“This current decade will witness a transformative shift in the digital payments ecosystem in the country,” Das said.

Around 400 million Indians who cannot afford a smartphone will now be able to undertake UPI transaction using their relatively low-cost feature phone.

UPI, which was introduced in India in 2016, saw 38.74 billion transactions in 2021 with a value of 928 billion U.S. dollars, up 105 percent and 130 percent from the previous year, respectively.

The central bank governor also launched a helpline to address the queries of digital payment users across products. (Xinhua)

Professor Surya P. Subedi’s Memoir Published in London and New York

Posted on by SAT News Desk

London —  The memoir by Professor Surya P. Subedi has been published by the major British publishing house, Routledge, in London and New York.

“The Workings of Human Rights, Law and Justice: A Journey from Nepal to Nobel Nominee” is an intriguing account of the personal experience and insight of Professor Subedi, a leading international jurist.

The memoir traces the author’s remarkable journey from a simple village in Nepal to become an international jurist acclaimed for his innovative academic and influential practical legal work at senior level positions in the UN and in various governments, leading to his nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize.

It offers insights into the powers bearing on international policymaking, the dynamics of human rights negotiations with governments and the effects of their outcomes on the lives of their citizens. It is an empowering narrative offering a story of complex experiences and perspectives where individual commitment and advocacy make a real difference to our world.

Drawing on the author’s lifetime of experience in international law and human rights, this book provides rare glimpses of a personal journey in the pursuit of justice through the development and practice of international law. It offers an insight into the workings of international law and international institutions through the eyes of someone who has navigated the system and has been able to achieve meaningful and impactful outcomes.

While much has been written on international human rights law, this inspirational memoir casts a new light on the working of human rights, law, and justice through the eyes of a leading actor.

The book presents an accessible source for current debates around the rules of international law, democracy, and human rights. It gives hope and inspiration for future generations that individual action is meaningful despite the trials and tribulations inherent in life. It is thus a valuable contribution to the study of justice and human rights and the importance of individual action.

Professor Subedi is Professor of International Law at the University of Leeds, a member of the Institut de Droit International, and a Barrister in London.

He also is a visiting professor in the international human rights law program of the University of Oxford. He served as the United Nations special rapporteur for human rights in Cambodia for six years (2009-2015) and as a member of the advisory group on human rights to the British Foreign Secretary for five (2010-2015). In 2021, he was appointed legal procedural advisor to the World Conservation Congress of the International Union for Conservation of Nature held in Marseille, France.

He has acted as a counsel in a number of cases before the international courts and tribunals, including the International Court of Justice.

The book is available to order from https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9781003271543/workings-human-rights- law-justice-surya-subedi

It also is available on Amazon and many other outlets.

Opposition submits no-confidence motion against PM Imran Khan

Posted on by SAT News Desk

ISLAMABAD – The Opposition on Tuesday submitted the no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Imran Khan in the National Assembly Secretariat.

PML-N spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb confirmed the move. A delegation of opposition lawmakers, including Rana Sanaullah, Ayaz Sadiq, Shazia Marri and Marriyum Aurangzeb reached the Parliament House and submitted the motion.

Aurangzeb said National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser was not present in his office which is why the document was submitted with the secretariat, dialypakistan writes.

“Through this resolution under clause (1) of Article 95 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, this House resolves that it has no confidence in the Prime Minister, Mr. Imran Khan, and consequently he shall cease to hold office under clause (4) ibid,” the no-trust motion cited.

Reports in the media claimed that more than 140 MPs have signed the motion. Opposition parties’ alliance submitted three documents with the NA secretariat including a requisition for the NA session, the no-trust motion, and a notice of the no-trust motion.

Meanwhile, former President Asif Ali Zardari, Leader of the opposition in NA Shehbaz Sharif, and Maulana Fazlur Rehman will address a presser shortly. Parties also instructed all their parliamentarians to be in the country’s federal capital.

The development comes as PPP co-chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari enters Islamabad leading an Awami March while a high-level delegation of PML-N will be joining them at D-Chowk.

On the other hand, Prime Minister Imran Khan earlier dared to file a trust motion saying he was ready for anything. Addressing an event, he called them pack of thieves.