South Asian News Network

In a groundbreaking development, scientists have introduced a pioneering organocatalyst that can efficiently break down mixed plastics into their monomers. These monomers, the building blocks of plastic, can be reused to create new, commercial-grade plastic items. This innovative catalyst works on a variety of polymers, representing over 30% of the world's plastic production. The environmental impact is remarkable, with potential energy savings, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and minimal chemical usage. This eco-friendly process takes just two hours and can be reused multiple times. A giant leap toward a sustainable, eco-friendly future.

A spokesperson for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Hamas’s armed wing released a mother and daughter, both American citizens, into Israeli custody on 20 October. President Biden said he was “overjoyed” about the return of the two hostages in a statement following their release. Earlier in the day, United Nations Secretary General António Guterres visited the Rafah crossing between Egypt and the Gaza Strip. Standing by aid trucks, he said, these were still blocked from reaching Palestinians who have “no food, no medicine, no fuel.” He described the trucks as a “lifeline” for nearly 2 million people in Gaza under siege and Israeli strikes, adding that “we need to make them move.”, reported the Washington Post.

In a surprising turn of events, Palestinian group Hamas initiated a massive attack on Israel today, resulting in the deaths of at least 600 Israelis and the abduction of dozens of security forces. More than 2000 Israelis have been reportedly injured. Israel has responded with air and ground strikes, leading to the loss of nearly 370 Palestinian lives and injuring thousands in the Gaza Strip. The surprise attack began early in the morning with thousands of rockets fired from Gaza, some bypassing Israel's Iron Dome defense system. Hamas fighters used various means, including vehicles, boats, and motorized paragliders, to breach Gaza's security barrier and attack Israeli towns and military posts. This marks one of the most significant escalations of violence between Israel and Hamas in recent years, with the situation rapidly evolving.

Jimmy Carter, the longest-living former US President, marked his 99th birthday on October 1st, with celebrations commencing a day in advance by devoted fans. President Joe Biden extended warm birthday wishes to Carter through a video message shared on X, formerly Twitter, saying, "President Jimmy Carter, you continue to embody the spirit and heart of the American people." One of Carter's most significant achievements was brokering the Camp David Accords in 1978. This peace agreement between Israel and Egypt marked a historic step toward resolving the longstanding conflict in the Middle East. It's important to note that Carter's presidency faced challenges, including economic difficulties and the Iranian Revolution, which overshadowed some of his accomplishments.

Maldives on 30 September elected opposition leader Mohamed Muizzu as the country’s president, giving him 54 percent of the votes, according to preliminary results. Muizzu, candidate for the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), roundly defeated incumbent President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih of the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and is set to be sworn in on November 17. There were more than 282,000 eligible voters and turnout was 85 percent

The Supreme Court of Pakistan, in a 2-1 verdict, has reinstated corruption cases against public office holders that were previously withdrawn due to amendments to the country's accountability laws. The three-member bench, including Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, declared Imran Khan's petition challenging the amendments as maintainable. The court also ruled some amendments unconstitutional, including limiting the National Accountability Bureau's jurisdiction to cases involving over Rupees 500 million and allowing acquitted accused to claim plea bargain amounts. Cases withdrawn due to these changes are now to be heard in accountability courts. Chief Justice Bandial bid farewell, emphasizing the importance of constructive criticism and gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

Leaders from the world's 20 major economies reached a consensus document despite deep divisions over the Ukraine conflict, highlighting the suffering in Ukraine without directly condemning Russia. The G20 formally admitted the African Union (AU) as a permanent member, making the group more representative and giving greater voice to the Global South within the G20. India, along with Brazil, Indonesia, and South Africa, played a crucial role in preventing a split within the G20 over the Ukraine conflict, showcasing the influence of Global South developing nations. Leaders of the United States, India and Saudi Arabia among others announced plans to set up rail and ports links between the Middle East and South Asia and eventually to Europe which U.S. President Joe Biden said was a "real big deal." The Biden administration is seeking to counter China's Belt and Road push on global infrastructure by pitching Washington as an alternative partner and investor for developing countries at the G20 grouping. However, there were no details about financing or a time frame for the project that involved laying down railway lines in the Middle East and then connecting them to India by port. The G20 leaders agreed to triple global renewable energy capacity by 2030 and acknowledged the need to phase out unabated coal power. However, no major climate goals or financing plans were specified. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the G20 presidency to showcase India's diplomatic and economic influence, enhancing his standing at home as he sought re-election. Overall, the G20 summit in 2023 addressed various global issues, including conflict resolution, representation, infrastructure development, climate action, and diplomatic influence.

Next week, Pakistan will enter an unprecedented chapter in its history as it transitions to an interim presidential and prime ministerial leadership. This milestone comes into effect as President Arif Alvi's term concludes, ushering him into the role of interim president, albeit with potential limitations on his involvement in crucial national matters. As per the constitutional provisions, a president can maintain his position until the election of a new president occurs. In Pakistan's unique circumstances, President Arif Alvi will continue beyond his constitutional term because the absence of provincial assemblies prevents the election of a new president at this time. Moreover, the absence of the National Assembly precludes the approval of a motion of impeachment against the president.

A Finance Ministry report has painted a dismal economic picture, showing total public debt gone up from Rs23.02 trillion in 2017-18 to Rs54.39 trillion till March 2023. Similarly, external debt and liabilities have gone up from $95 billion in 2017-18 to $126.1 billion till end of March 2023. The Fiscal Risk Statement (FRS) for 2023-24 identified 10 key sources of fiscal risks, including macroeconomic instability, rising debt, loss-making state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and others that might lead to potential threats and uncertainty. “The inflation outlook has deteriorated, and there is heightened risk to external stability,” the Fiscal Risk Statement for 2023-24, released by the Finance Ministry, disclosed. It added that Pakistan’s external debt constitutes 40.8 per cent of total public debt, which may make the government’s fiscal position vulnerable in the face of high current account deficits, low foreign exchange reserves and a weakening exchange rate.

World-leading car manufacturer Toyota has put a sudden stop to its production lines in Japan, citing a technical glitch in its operational system. The disruption has affected all 14 of Toyota’s assembly facilities in Japan, leaving a significant chunk of the company’s global production dormant. Initially, the company had suspended activities in 12 out of its 14 plants in Japan, but later decided to expand the pause to include all of them. The issue has prevented Toyota from placing orders for essential automotive parts, which has compelled the halt in manufacturing. Toyota hasn’t released a timeline for when the plants will be back in operation. These plants are responsible for roughly one-third of Toyota’s global car production, indicating a substantial impact.

Pakistan’s premier javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem created history when he became the first Pakistani athlete to claim a silver medal in the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungry on August 27, 2023. He achieved this milestone when he lifted silver medal with super throw of 87.82 metre in men’s javelin throw final. Olympic Champion Neeraj Chopra of India became the greatest athlete in the Indian sports history as after snaring gold in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, he also clinched a gold at the biggest stage in Budapest with a throw of 88.17 metre. Jakub Vadlejch of Czech Republic with a throw of 86.67 metre claimed bronze in the most enthralling event.

Yevgeniy Prigozhin, the Wagner Group mercenary chief who led a short-lived mutiny against the Kremlin in June, was listed as a passenger on a plane that crashed in Russia on 23 August, killing all 10 people on board, including three pilots and seven passengers, according to Russian state news agency Tass, which cites the press service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations. Russia’s emergency services did not immediately confirm whether Prigozhin had been on board and died.

India has become the first country to successfully land a spacecraft near the south pole of the moon, in a historic moment that drew cheers at watching parties around the country. The Chandrayaan-3, which means “mooncraft” in Sanskrit, put down its Vikram lander shortly after 6pm (1230 GMT) near the little-explored lunar south pole in a world first for any space programme. For India, the successful landing marks its emergence as a space power as the government looks to spur investment in private space launches and related satellite-based businesses.

President of Pakistan Dr Arif Alvi dissolved the National Assembly (NA) at midnight on Wednesday at outgoing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s advice, marking an end to the current government’s tenure. The notification for the dissolution of the assembly was issued by the President House, which said the NA was dissolved under Article 58 of the Constitution. Meanwhile, PM Shehbaz and Leader of the Opposition in NA now have three days as per the Constitution to finalise a name for the caretaker prime minister.

Marc Tessier-Lavigne, who has been president of Stanford University for seven years, has resigned after proof that he digitally altered and falsified images in his research papers was revealed by a student journalist. 12 papers authored by Tessier-Lavigne were, reportedly, found to have falsified information including lab panels that had been digitally stitched together, panel backgrounds that were digitally altered, and blot results that were taken from other research papers. “The allegations revolved around the idea that images that were published in his papers had been manipulated and Photoshopped to show results that they did not actually represent,” 18-year-old student journalist Theo Baker told ABC 7 News Bay Area.

US President Biden has chosen a female admiral to lead the US Navy - the first time a woman has been nominated to head a Pentagon military service branch. Lisa Franchetti is a former head of the US 6th Fleet and US naval forces in South Korea and has also served as an aircraft carrier strike commander. If confirmed as Chief of Naval Operations she will be the first woman to become a member of the elite group of senior military officers who make up the Joint Chiefs of Staff. A 38-year veteran, she was only the second woman to achieve the rank of four-star admiral.

This realization has profound implications for our mental well-being. Mistaking the illusory self as real can lead to unnecessary suffering, causing us to become entangled in worries, anxieties, and conflicts. Imagine for a moment if we could detach ourselves from this concept of self. What would happen to our problems and concerns if we removed the "self" from the equation? Eastern wisdom has long taught that liberation from suffering comes from recognizing the illusory nature of the self. Now, science seems to be catching up, shedding light on the mind's role in constructing this fictional sense of self. So, as we continue our journey of self-discovery, let us ponder the profound question: Who are we truly? Perhaps by letting go of the illusion of self, we can find a deeper understanding and peace within ourselves.

Stimulants like amphetamines and cocaine can have severe repercussions on our health, leading to seizures, elevated blood pressure, and toxic psychosis. Similarly, opiates such as heroin, while inducing euphoria, come with a high dependence liability and can result in seizures, respiratory depression, and even death in cases of overdose. This video sheds light on the dangers associated with these substances and explores the alarming abuse of heroin in Pakistan. We also discuss the importance of prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation in addressing drug addiction and its widespread impact on individuals, families, communities, and society as a whole. Join us on this International Day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking to raise awareness, fight stigma, and prioritize the well-being of those affected by drug abuse. Together, we can make a difference in building a healthier, drug-free future.

Toronto's mayoral race has taken an unexpected turn with the inclusion of Molly, a six-year-old wolf-husky, as one of the 102 candidates vying for the city's top office. Molly's owner, Toby Heaps, aims to champion animal welfare and address the excessive use of salt on city roads during winter as part of their campaign platform. This historic by-election follows the resignation of long-time mayor John Tory, who stepped down due to a scandal involving an extramarital affair. While considered an unconventional contender, Heaps envisions designating Molly as the city's honorary dog mayor if they emerge victorious. He believes that having an animal representative in decision-making processes could lead to better choices for Toronto. As Toronto approaches the election, Molly the dog's candidacy adds an unexpected element to the race. The city's residents eagerly await the results, which could shape the future of Toronto and its approach to governance.

Tragedy struck in the waters off Greece as a fishing boat carrying refugees and migrants capsized and sank, resulting in the death of around 100 people. Bodies of 79 individuals have been reportedly recovered. The incident occurred in international waters in the Ionian Sea, close to the Peloponnese coast.More than 500 migrants are believed to have been on board a boat which sunk off. The Greek coastguard successfully rescued 104 passengers of various nationalities, including Egyptians, Syrians, Pakistanis, Afghans, and Palestinians, while the search for more survivors continued. The sinking is believed to be one of the deadliest incidents on the central Mediterranean migration route, highlighting the dangers faced by those attempting to reach Europe. The incident underscores concerns about the European Union's migration policies and the need for improved safety measures.

UK Army Chief of General Staff, Gen Sir Nicholas Patrick Carter, met with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. The meeting highlighted the UK Army Chief's acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by the Pakistan Army in the fight against terrorism. Regional security issues and matters of mutual interest were discussed during the engagement. Additionally, Gen Sir Carter paid homage to the martyrs at the Yadgar-e-Shuhada and met with Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza. The visit also aimed to strengthen bilateral military cooperation, especially in response to climate change-related crises.

BMC Women's Health recently conducted a comprehensive survey that sheds light on global cousin marriage rates, revealing some significant figures. Pakistan takes the lead with a staggering 65% rate of cousin marriages, followed closely by India at 55%, Saudi Arabia at 50%, Afghanistan at 40%, and Iran at 30%. Egypt and Turkey also register a considerable rate at 20%. Pakistan has consistently held the highest rate of consanguinity, reflecting the enduring prevalence of cousin marriages within the country. This cultural practice persists due to social, cultural, ethnic, and religious norms, as well as perceived financial benefits. However, the disadvantages of such unions cannot be overlooked. The survey findings indicate that consanguinity significantly impacts women's reproductive health and fertility behaviours. The increased risk of genetic disorders and inherited diseases in offspring born from cousin marriages is a concerning consequence. Unfortunately, Pakistani society and its government(s) have made no significant efforts to educate the population about these risks and promote awareness regarding the potential adverse outcomes associated with such unions. Efforts should be undertaken by both the government and societal institutions to address this issue. Raising awareness about the health risks and promoting alternative marriage options can help mitigate the adverse effects of cousin marriages on individuals and their families. By prioritizing education and providing support, steps can be taken to safeguard the well-being and reproductive health of future generations.

#henrykissinger #globalpeace #diplomacymatters In this eye-opening video, you will gain exclusive insights from renowned diplomat and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Henry Kissinger, on how to avoid World War III. Kissinger's wisdom, shared in a recent article published in The Economist, sheds light on the importance of fostering stability, cooperation, and diplomacy among major powers. Discover the keys to preventing a catastrophic global conflict and learn how to navigate the challenges of our world collectively. Join us as we explore Kissinger's vision for a better future and strive to build a world of peace and harmony.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla have been crowned in a historic ceremony at Westminster Abbey, with Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, anointing and crowning the king as part of a two-hour service. The event was attended by about 100 world leaders, including politicians and celebrities, and watched by a television audience of millions. Charles automatically succeeded his mother as king on her death last September, but the coronation is seen as a way to legitimise his reign in a public way. The ceremony was a mix of traditional and modern elements and was intended to present a forward-looking monarchy.

Thucydides' Trap is a concept that explains how the rise of a new power can lead to conflict with an established power. In this video, the topic is explored in the context of modern-day international relations between the United States and China. Harvard professor Graham Allison's book "Destined for War: Can America and China Escape Thucydides's Trap?" is discussed, along with historical examples of the concept, such as the rivalry between Britain and Germany leading up to World War I, and the Cold War between the US and the Soviet Union. The video also explores the viewpoints of scholars who argue that Thucydides' Trap is not a law of history but rather a useful framework for analyzing complex dynamics, and those who argue that diplomacy and cooperation can prevent conflict. The video concludes by highlighting the importance of understanding the dynamics at play and working towards diplomatic solutions to prevent conflict