We want to draw your attention to an individual known as Saud a PayPal service provider, his Facebook page address is https://www.facebook.com/WebstaWeb, and his contact number is 03141443080, 304 0147828, who has been involved in various deceptive activities designed to defraud innocent people. Saud operates by posing as a PayPal account provider and business Registration provider in Pakistan, and their primary goal is to trick individuals into giving up their money in advance and not to provide them a service using delayed tricks.
Saud Faheem has been scammed two times by me, the First time was one year ago, and got 15000 PKR from me in advance, he delivered me after a month a PayPal account but the account not working, and Mr. Saud Faheem asked that this is technical problem from PayPal, and I leave him. Now 2 weeks ago he again contacted me for the same service and asked this time I would provide you with the service and there is no chance of such an incident. I trusted him again and sent him $50 in advance but after receiving the money he started the same problem, not replying, doing, will, tomorrow, finally after 8 days I decided to dispute him, and I filed a dispute against PayPal. Now he is not replying on PayPal and also not replying on WhatsApp. Now I have decided to post all the conversations for the current order which is to post on different websites and social media to protect others, it’s crucial to stay informed and cautious when encountering any offers or requests from this individual. Always verify the legitimacy of such communications and refrain from sharing personal information or sending money to unverified sources.
By sharing this information, we aim to help you and your community stay safe and informed about potential scams. Your vigilance can make a significant difference in preventing others from becoming victims of scams. Following is my conversation with that scammer, how I am insisting him for providing my service what is his response, especially checking the timing:-
Muslim A motion at the United Nations Human Rights Council calls for action in response to Quran burning incidents in Sweden, which Pakistan claims incited “religious hatred.”
Muslim countries such as Iran and Pakistan have said that desecration of the holy Quran constitutes incitement to violence and have demanded accountability after a series of stunts in Sweden sparked global outrage.
In response to the latest incident last month, a motion filed at the United Nations human rights body on Tuesday calls on countries to review their laws and close gaps that may “impede the prevention and prosecution of acts and advocacy of religious hatred.”
The debate has revealed schisms in the UN Human Rights Council between the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and Western members concerned about the motion’s implications for free speech as well as challenges to long-held rights-protection practices.
Last month, during the Eid al-Adha holiday, an Iraqi immigrant in Sweden ripped, burned, and stomped on the Quran outside a Stockholm mosque, causing outrage across the Muslim world and angry protests in several Pakistani cities.
“We must see this clearly for what it is: incitement to religious hatred, discrimination, and attempts to incite violence,” Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said via video to the Geneva-based council. He went on to say that such crimes were committed with “government sanction and a sense of impunity.”
‘Irresponsible and wrong’
Bhutto Zardari’s remarks were echoed by ministers from Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Indonesia, the latter of whom filed a complaint with the UN calling the Quran burning an act of “Islamophobia.”
“Stop abusing freedom of expression,” said Retno Marsudi, Indonesia’s Foreign Minister. “Silence indicates complicity.”
Members of a Danish far-right group burned a copy of the Quran in Stockholm in 2020, just days after a similar incident in Malmo, Sweden’s southernmost city.
Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, Iran’s Foreign Minister, urged Sweden and European nations to take “urgent and effective measures” to combat such incidents.
Qatar’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, Lolwah Rashid Al-Khater, reiterated the gulf state’s condemnation and blamed agendas that “plant hatred and fuel seditions among Muslims and their communities’ people, in addition to provoking the belief of billions of people worldwide.”
Some Western countries condemned the stunts while also defending “free speech.”
The acts in Sweden were described as a “dreadful provocation” by Germany’s UN Ambassador Katharina Stasch, who added that “freedom of speech sometimes also means bearing opinions that may seem almost unbearable.”
Human rights, according to France’s UN envoy, are about protecting people, not religions and their symbols.
Volker Turk, the UN human rights chief, told the council that inflammatory acts against Muslims and other religions or minorities are “offensive, irresponsible, and wrong.”
Muslim Taliban targets ‘Sweden’
The Taliban administration said in a statement that Sweden had ceased all activities in Afghanistan “after insulting the holy Quran and granting permission for insulting Muslim beliefs.”
It did not specify which organizations would be affected by the ban.
Since the Taliban took over in Afghanistan in 2021, Sweden has had no embassy there.
According to the Swedish Committee for Afghanistan (SCA), the aid organization is seeking clarification from authorities.
“SCA is not a government agency in Sweden.” “The SCA is independent and impartial in its dealings with all political stakeholders and states, and it strongly condemns all desecration of the holy Quran,” the NGO stated in a statement.
“For over 40 years, SCA has worked in close collaboration with the rural population in Afghanistan, with deep respect for both Islam and local traditions.”
Thousands of Afghans work for the organization in health, education, and rural development across the country. Last year, SCA’s health clinics served 2.5 million patients.
About two years have passed since the Taliban seized control of Kabul. I, like a lot of other Afghans who tried so hard to get a good education, am having a tough time. It appears that both knowledge and books are losing their once-high worth.
Many of my friends tried to leave the nation immediately after the arrival of Taliban forces in the Afghan capital in August 2021. They saw no future for themselves in Afghans soil. There was a serious brain drain.
Many people of high intelligence and education left, including professors, teachers, physicians, scientists, engineers, poets, and artists. My journalist coworker Alireza Ahmadi was also among those waiting in queue outside the terminal.
He reported on Facebook that he had sold 60 of his books on various topics for 50 Afghanis (less than $1) before leaving the country. He was slain when an Islamic State group in Khorasan Province bombed the airport where he was supposed to depart the country.
The international law, human rights, women’s rights, and the English language books that I had amassed over the years inspired me to do the same. As I was living in a country ruled by the Taliban, I figured there was no point in keeping them and instead gave them to public libraries.
I looked into possible exit routes from the nation. Since I could not leave Afghanistan, I decided to seek refuge in Iran along with millions of other Afghans. Unfortunately, I encountered rejection and scorn along with the rest of my countrymen and women. The idea that I could make a life in Iran quickly faded from my mind. Yet I did find something that kept me going – my old love for books.
I couldn’t stop myself from approaching the bookstores on Enqelab Plaza in Tehran one day. I ended up spending most of my meager funds on books about human rights and women’s rights that I had never seen before in Afghanistan. Equipped with these books, I resolved to return home and resume my previous way of life – surrounded by books and involved in intellectual pursuits.
After I returned, I began working on a book about women’s political rights in the international legal system and in Islam, which I finished in about a year. I sent my book to several publishers, but they all rejected it because they thought the issue was too sensitive and that getting permission to publish it would be impossible.
Ultimately, Mother Press’s Ali Kohistani consented to publish the book. He gathered the necessary papers and submitted the book to the Taliban Ministry of Information and Culture for formal publication clearance. Soon after, the book review committee sent me a long list of questions and criticisms that I had to address.
I updated the book based on their criticism, but it wasn’t enough to receive authorization. We’ve been waiting for a final response for five months now, and my sadness is growing by the day.
Kohistani has gone to the ministry several times to inquire about the document but has received no response. He has told me that he wants to publish five more books this year, but none of them have been approved by the ministry.
Other publishers are also affected by the commission’s arbitrary rulings and lengthy delays. They claim that books that the Taliban wishes to print and that adhere to its ideology do not meet the same obstacles. They regard this tumultuous process as an attempt to repress any thought that differs from the Taliban’s.
Publication authorization delays and censorship are far from the only issues confronting Afghans book business.
Hundreds of bookstores and publishing houses have closed their doors in the last two years. The bulk of bookstores has closed in the Pul-e-Surkh neighborhood of Kabul, which I used to frequent before the Taliban took over.
Because the Taliban decide to prohibit girls and women from entering high school and university, they are no longer purchasing as many books. Boys and young men have also dropped out of school and universities, dissatisfied with the prospect of pursuing an education that will not guarantee them a job. This has significantly reduced bookshops’ consumer base.
Furthermore, the Taliban government has placed heavy taxes on book sales, severely reducing the income of bookstore owners and publishers.
Libraries around the country have also lost readers as fewer people visit to study or borrow books. Other book clubs, literary organizations, and reading programs have also ceased operations. Owning, reading, or writing books is no longer considered valuable.
Afghan book publishing has gone from a thriving sector – possibly the most successful native industry – to a struggling and dangerous commercial enterprise overnight. Afghans have gone from being voracious readers to being unable to purchase books. I’ve gone from being a proud author and book owner to a despondent man trying and failing to maintain an intellectual life in Afghanistan.
It is heartbreaking to witness the current condition of events in Afghans soil, a country with a great literary history and heritage. Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Balkhi (commonly known as Rumi), Ibn Sina Balkhi (also known as Avicenna), and Hakim Sanai Ghaznavi were all born in this country (also known as Sanai).
Reading, writing, and spreading knowledge were always valued in my country. Afghan monarchs of various dynasties have fostered learning and knowledge production while respecting freedom of opinion. Censorship, education restrictions, and the devaluation of literature were never part of Afghan heritage or culture.
While the people of Bali are known for their tolerance and hospitality, a foreign policy impasse dating back to the 1940s threatens to derail a little-known but symbolically significant Olympic-recognized competition on the island. The second edition of the World Beach Games, a multi-sports event for beach and water sports, is set to take place on the Indonesian island from August 5 to August 12. Athletes will compete in 14 disciplines, such as surfing and beach volleyball, that appeal to a young demographic.
The inaugural World Beach Games were held in Qatar in 2019, but subsequent events were canceled due to COVID.
With a tourism-dependent economy crippled by the pandemic, Bali’s winning bid to host the event last July signaled to the world that the island was back in business. However, Bali’s hosting rights for the event are precarious.
The Indonesian Olympic Committee promised last year that qualifying athletes from all countries would be accepted. However, Bali Governor Wayan Koster has stated that Israeli athletes are not welcome, citing a preamble to the Indonesian Constitution that calls for the abolition of colonialism and the country’s unwavering support for Palestinian statehood.
“I remain steadfast in my refusal to allow the Israeli team to compete in the 2023 World Beach Games in Bali,” he told The Jakarta Post in April.
Since the Jewish state declared independence in 1948, the preamble has barred Israeli passport holders from visiting Indonesia, even if they are Palestinians.
However, a few Israeli athletes have managed to get around the ban. Misha Zilberman, who obtained a visa to compete in the Olympic-recognized Badminton World Championships in 2015, is one of them, as are four Israeli cyclists who competed in the World Cycling Championships in Jakarta in February.
Since the Jewish state declared independence in 1948, the preamble has barred Israeli passport holders from visiting Indonesia, even if they are Palestinians.
However, a few Israeli athletes have managed to get around the ban. Misha Zilberman, who obtained a visa to compete in the Olympic-recognized Badminton World Championships in 2015, is one of them, as are four Israeli cyclists who competed in the World Cycling Championships in Jakarta in February.
On May 20, less than a month before Bali and two other Indonesian islands were set to host the 2023 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, he rejected the presence of the Israeli football team and accused FIFA of double standards for blacklisting Russia over its invasion of Ukraine while turning a blind eye to Israel’s actions.
“I invite the people of Bali to pray together so that FIFA is moved to act fairly by eliminating the Israeli team from the FIFA U-20 World Championship, just as it did with the Russian team from the 2022 FIFA World Championship in Qatar,” Koster said.
FIFA was dissatisfied. It revoked Indonesia’s hosting rights for the U-20 World Cup, expelled the Indonesian team from the competition, which was held in Argentina, and limited funding to the Indonesian Football Association.
Many have questioned why the leader of a Hindu-majority island is taking such a strong stance on Israel-Palestine.
“It’s not just my attitude; it’s the government’s attitude,” Koster said after leaving a high-level government meeting in Jakarta in March.
Former Indonesian President Megawati Sukarnoputri, now chair of the ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle, of which Koster is a representative, later ordered him to ban Israeli athletes for the party to score points ahead of next year’s general elections, according to the Indonesian news magazine Tempo.
Support for Palestinian statehood is almost universal in the world’s most populous Muslim nation, and a tough stance on Israel often appeals to conservative Muslim voters – the most important bloc in any national election.
The Ulema Council, Indonesia’s top Islamic scholars’ body, as well as the powerful Islamic Defenders Front, a hardline Islamist organization and pressure group with a prominent social media presence, and other Muslim groups that held protests in Jakarta in March in which Israeli flags were burned. Banners proclaiming “Israel is the enemy of Islam” were displayed, supporting the move to ban Israeli athletes from sporting events in Indonesia.
The central government has not publicly commented on the decision to bar Israel from competing in the World Beach Games. However, public reaction in the 280 million-strong nation to the loss of the U-20 World Cup was mixed, with thousands of netizens criticizing the government on social media for mixing politics and religion with sport.
Bali’s tourism operators have also expressed concern about lost tourism receipts, which Indonesia’s Minister of Tourism and the Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno, has estimated to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars.
Meanwhile, the Israeli Olympic Committee is demanding that its athletes be allowed to compete in the World Beach Games. Israel also opposes subjecting its athletes to special conditions proposed by Indonesian Minister of Youth and Sports Dito Ariotedjo in a last-minute bid to save the World Cup, such as playing in empty stadiums, not flying the Israeli flag, and not playing the Israeli national anthem – all of which are prohibited in Indonesia.
Based in Dubai, the Olympic Council of Asia has officially signaled its support for Israel, stating that the council “strongly believes in the power of sport to promote inclusion.”
However, with less than two months until the start of the World Beach Games, the organizing body, the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC), refuses to say whether Bali will lose its hosting rights if Israeli athletes are not allowed to compete, and has dismissed such questions as hypothetical.
“We have received assurances from the Indonesian Olympic Committee that all delegates and representatives will have undivided and equal rights to qualify, register, and enter the Republic of Indonesia and the island of Bali,” an ANOC spokesperson told Al Jazeera, adding that “discrimination will not be tolerated.”
According to Richard Baka, co-director of the Olympic Research Network at Victoria University in Australia, the World Beach Games in Bali will be canceled if Israel is not allowed to participate.
“I am fairly certain that the United States and other countries would support Israel,” he said.
Susan Brownell, an internationally recognized expert on Olympic games at the University of Missouri in St Louis, agrees but suspects the International Olympic Committee (IOC) will intervene.
“The ANOC, being led by the Sheikh, would probably be happy to exclude Israel,” she said, referring to The Olympic Council Of Asia president Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah, a powerful Kuwaiti Olympic powerbroker.
Brownell added that the IOC could sanction Indonesia for violating the Olympic Charter.
“It happened when host Indonesia barred Taiwan and Israel from competing in the 1962 Asian Games.” “The IOC barred Indonesia from competing in the 1964 Olympic Games, as well as any athletes who had competed there, from competing in subsequent competitions,” she explained.
Heather Dichter, an associate professor of sports history at De Montfort University in the United Kingdom, believes history will repeat itself.
“The 1962 ban, and more recently, when the Indonesians were denied the U-20 World Cup, give us a way to predict the future,” Dichter said.
“The ANOC, being led by the Sheikh, would probably be happy to exclude Israel,” she said, referring to The Olympic Council Of Asia president Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah, a powerful Kuwaiti Olympic powerbroker.
Brownell added that the IOC could sanction Indonesia for violating the Olympic Charter.
“It happened when host Indonesia barred Taiwan and Israel from competing in the 1962 Asian Games.” “The IOC barred Indonesia from competing in the 1964 Olympic Games, as well as any athletes who had competed there, from competing in subsequent competitions,” she explained.
Heather Dichter, an associate professor of sports history at De Montfort University in the United Kingdom, believes history will repeat itself.
“The 1962 ban, and more recently, when the Indonesians were denied the U-20 World Cup, give us a way to predict the future,” Dichter said.
If the World Beach Games follow suit, “the options don’t look great” for the ANOC. She explained that football tournaments are easier to relocate because many countries have football stadiums but lack the infrastructure for multi-event competitions such as the World Beach Games.
Former Western Australian Government Commissioner to Indonesia and founder of the Indonesian Institute, Ross Taylor, told Al Jazeera that the World Beach Games dispute is “all about” the elections but that the country and outgoing President Joko Widodo – known as Jokowi – will suffer if the games are canceled.
“It will harm Indonesia’s standing, particularly Jokowi’s legacy,” he said.
The cryptocurrency world is abuzz with talk about the Indian government’s possible decision to levy tax deductions at source (TDS) and tax collected at source (TCS) on trading digital assets. This development has sparked intense debates and concerns among cryptocurrency enthusiasts. This article delves into the details of the potential tax implications of TDS and TCS on cryptocurrency trading and how it might affect those who invest in digital currencies.
Introduction to Crypto Currency
Cryptocurrency refers to a type of digital or virtual currency that operates without the need for a central bank and relies on encryption techniques for security. Transactions in cryptocurrency are recorded and managed using a decentralized technology called blockchain. Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Ripple, and other similar currencies are some of the most well-known examples of cryptocurrencies in circulation.
How does the functioning of cryptocurrencies operate?
Cryptocurrencies operate on a decentralized technology called blockchain, which manages and records transactions. When someone initiates a transaction with a cryptocurrency, the transaction is broadcast to a network of computers, which validate the transaction using complex algorithms. Once validated, the transaction is added to a block of transactions, which is added to the blockchain. The blockchain acts as a public ledger, meaning everyone on the network can view the transaction history of a particular cryptocurrency.
Cryptocurrencies are secured through cryptography, making them very difficult to counterfeit or double-spend. Each cryptocurrency transaction is protected by a unique digital signature that verifies the transaction’s authenticity and prevents anyone from altering the transaction. This makes cryptocurrencies highly secure and resistant to hacking and fraud.
Unlike traditional currencies, cryptocurrencies are not issued by central banks. Instead, they are created through mining, in which powerful computers solve complex mathematical problems to verify transactions and add them to the blockchain. Miners receive a small amount of cryptocurrency as a reward for their efforts.
How Could Cryptocurrency Impact Us? A Look into the Possible Implications
If the government decides to impose TDS and TCS on cryptocurrency trading, it could have significant implications for buyers and sellers. These tax laws would require TDS and TCS to be charged in cryptocurrency during transactions, allowing the government to collect taxes on cryptocurrency from everyone and eliminating the possibility of tax evasion. The government will likely introduce new schemes to ensure that cryptocurrency trading is done in compliance with these regulations. These developments have sparked discussions and raised concerns within the cryptocurrency community.
Understanding the Taxation Process for Cryptocurrency Trading in India
Understanding the Taxation Process for Cryptocurrency Trading in India refers to how the Indian government plans to tax cryptocurrency trading. With the increase in the popularity of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, the Indian government has been trying to establish clear regulations on the management and taxation of cryptocurrency. Recently, there have been reports that the government may consider levying TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) and TCS (Tax Collected at Source) on cryptocurrency transactions. To avoid any legal costs or fines, it is crucial for taxpayers to accurately complete their tax returns and follow all applicable TDS and TCS requirements.
Has the Government Announced the Implementation of TDS and TCS for Cryptocurrency Trading?
Cryptocurrency trading in India has been shrouded in uncertainty due to the lack of clear regulations from the government on managing and taxing cryptocurrencies. While the Indian Supreme Court circular in March 2020 authorized cryptocurrency trading, it also barred banks from offering services to cryptocurrency businesses.
To date, the government has not established clear laws and fees that should be charged for cryptocurrency trading. The recent news of a possible TDS and TCS levy has only added to the confusion and speculation in the cryptocurrency community, leaving many traders and investors uncertain about the future of cryptocurrency in India.
In what manner will the tax be levied on cryptocurrency
RajkotUpdates.News: Government May Consider Levying TDS TCS on Cryptocurrency Trading. If the Indian government imposes taxes on cryptocurrency trading, TDS and TCS taxes will be levied on regular profits and capital gains. The following rules will govern taxation on cryptocurrency transactions:
TDS: If TDS is applicable to cryptocurrency transactions, the payer will withhold tax while initiating the transaction. The buyer would deduct TDS from the seller’s payment and deposit it with the government. The seller can claim a credit for the tax paid in the form of a TDS amount deducted while filing their tax returns.
TCS: The seller must collect TCS at the point of sale if it is applicable. If TCS applies to cryptocurrency transactions, the cryptocurrency seller would collect it from the buyer and deposit it with the government after the transaction. The buyer may claim a credit for the TCS amount paid when filing their taxes. The government’s ultimate decision would determine both scenarios’ TDS and TCS rates.
Taxpayers must follow all applicable TDS and TCS requirements and accurately complete their tax returns to avoid fines or other legal costs.
It’s important to note that taxpayers must report their cryptocurrency transactions and any applicable taxes they owe, such as capital gains tax, on the money they earn from trading cryptocurrencies. Failure to pay the imposed taxes can result in fines and legal consequences.
Importance of Accurately Reporting Cryptocurrency Transactions and Taxes
Accurately reporting cryptocurrency transactions and taxes is crucial for taxpayers to avoid legal consequences. Cryptocurrency transactions are taxable, and taxpayers must report their cryptocurrency income and capital gains in their tax returns.
Taxpayers who fail to report their cryptocurrency transactions or provide incorrect information could be subject to penalties, interest, and even criminal prosecution. The penalties for non-compliance could range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the situation.
Therefore, it’s essential to keep accurate records of all cryptocurrency transactions and consult with a tax professional to understand the applicable tax laws and reporting requirements. By doing so, taxpayers can ensure they comply with the regulations and avoid legal issues.
How are members of the cryptocurrency market responding to these developments and uncertainties?
Within the trading community, there has been a lot of discussion surrounding the possibility of the Indian government introducing TDS and TCS taxes on cryptocurrency trading. Some members have expressed their worries about the lack of clear regulations and laws regarding cryptocurrency taxes, which they believe may hinder the growth of the Indian cryptocurrency market.
On the other hand, some traders welcome this news as they believe it will clarify the taxation of cryptocurrency trading. Furthermore, this move may lead to greater legitimacy and investor trust in the cryptocurrency market.
Nature-Based Solutions Offered as a Cure-All for Climate Change and Community Resilience Number and scale of projects utilising nature and natural processes to mitigate the effects of climate change and harmful human activity on the rise.
Mangrove Forests Expanded in the Philippines and India to Boost Coastal Protection Against Storms and Flooding Wetlands in South Africa are being restored to replenish groundwater and safeguard water-insecure cities, such as Cape Town.
Global Communities Urged to Integrate Nature-Based Solutions into Modern Infrastructure International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) published a report in 2021 stating that implementing such an approach could potentially save the world $248bn annually in construction costs for expanding infrastructure.
Governments worldwide are investing their money into researching and developing nature-based solutions. At the same time, global financial institutions like the World Bank are providing funding for projects that use these approaches.
Urban planning scholars researching water, urbanisation, and climate justice in small and medium-sized South Asian cities concur that nature-based solutions show potential. Caution is advised, we suggest. Integrating nature-based solutions can lead to complicated outcomes that help some communities while harming others, as evidenced by our work in Khulna, a region in southern Bangladesh facing multiple ecological crises.
“Nature-Based Solution” Implemented in Khulna City
Khulna, the third-largest city in Bangladesh, was plagued by a severe water shortage in 2011. Rising Saltwater Intrusion Threatens Freshwater Sources Alongside Declining Groundwater and Pollution. Local Government Considers Multiple Options to Tackle Crisis
A desalination Plant Could Be Built to Treat Water from Nearby Rivers. Ecological Harm of Such Installations Well-Known, Experts Say. According to a report by the Institute for Water, Environment, and Health based in Canada, desalination plants release 142 million cubic metres of hypersaline brine into the environment on a daily basis worldwide. Enough brine to cover the entire state of Florida under 30cm (12 inches) has been produced, posing a threat to marine life due to its toxic nature.
Local Government Considers Tougher Water Controls on Residents and Businesses Residents may be asked to conserve water while industries may be urged to abandon water-intensive practices and instead invest in rainwater harvesting systems. Water conservation policies can be challenging and may not be well-received politically.
Local Government Constructs “Climate-Proof” Water Supply System with Foreign Funding
A new water supply system has been planned to extract water from the Madhumati River in the village of Mollahat, located 40km (25 miles) northeast of Khulna. The purpose of this system is to bring water to the city. Water treatment plant processes and provides water directly to consumers during the rainy season. Madhumati River’s high salinity during the dry season poses a challenge for water treatment plants. To combat this, a reservoir is utilised to collect low-salt water during the rainy season. This water is then mixed with the high-salt water from the river to decrease its salt concentration before being sent to the treatment plant.
Policymakers have implemented a “nature-based solution” in Khulna to combat the increasing salinity levels in the water caused by rising sea levels. The solution involves mixing water in the hopes of addressing future problems. Local Government Justifies Expensive Water Infrastructure Project as Climate- and Nature-Friendly
Khulna Residents Reap Benefits from New Water Infrastructure Completed in 2019 Piped Water Access Expanded to 65% of Households, Including Informal Settlements.
The Solution’s Problem
Khulna’s new water system gains popularity among residents, according to interviews conducted. Women can now access water from taps at designated times, according to reports. This is a significant improvement from the previous practise of waiting in long queues for hours to collect water from tube wells.
Contrary to expectations, the reports emanating from Mollahat presented a starkly contrasting picture. Local Resident, Mohammad Liton, reported to one of our team members during fieldwork in 2018 that he had experienced a year of sleepless nights. Madhumati River’s rising salinity and low water levels have started to impact the livelihood of Liton, who is now overwhelmed with worry. According to Liton, the Khulna water project has resulted in a decrease in water availability for fishing and rice cultivation in the Mollahat region.
Residents of Mollahat, including Liton, staged a protest against a project in January 2017. The project was affecting the livelihoods of thousands of farmers and fisherfolk in the village. Despite their concerns, the authorities did not take action.
Environmental Impact Statement for Project Completed in 2011 The government of Bangladesh and foreign donors required an environmental impact statement for a project, which was completed in 2011. The statement focused solely on the water site and considered construction as the only impact on Mollahat.
Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association (BELA) representatives have claimed that the assessment scale inaccurately portrayed the Madhumati River watershed as existing solely in Bangladesh, as per our interview with them. River in Complex Ganges System Receives Flows from Neighbouring India
Controversial Farakka Dam in India’s West Bengal State Diverts Waters of Madhumati River Dam’s impact on river resources felt by Mollahat and other communities The construction of a dam has had a significant impact on the river watershed, making it more sensitive both ecologically and temporally. As a result, the additional burden of drawing water for the Khulna project has put a strain on the river resources, affecting not only Mollahat but also other communities along its basin.
Nature-Based Solutions: Proceeding with Caution
Khulna’s Water Project Serves as a Cautionary Tale for Policymakers The water project in Khulna, Bangladesh, is a prime example of the lessons that policymakers can learn when implementing nature-based solutions. This cautionary tale highlights what should and should not be done in such projects.
Residents of Mollahat bear costs while Khulna industries and households reap benefits from projects. Local Authorities Could Have Prevented This Situation by Consulting with Village Dwellers During Project Evaluation User feedback could have been utilised for implementation adjustments.
Local Authorities Should Aim for Equal Distribution of Benefits Among City and Rural Communities Industries urged to conserve water to reduce strain on Madhumati River and lessen impact on Mollahat community.
Local Authorities Must Ensure No Harm to Adjacent Communities When Combining Green Approaches with Infrastructure City’s Water Solution Shouldn’t Devastate Rural Communities, Says Concerned Citizen.
Caution Urged as Nature-Based Solutions are Scaled Up: Policymakers, Donors, and Communities Called Upon Infrastructure Projects Must Minimise Harmful Impacts and Tackle Inequalities, Experts Say
Nation’s Economy on the Brink as Terrorist Attacks Increase and Inflation Soars, Leaving Millions Struggling to Recover from Devastating Floods and Feed Their Families Amidst Political Polarisation.
Power Struggle Erupts Over Pakistan’s Leadership As the nation continues to face hardship, a fierce battle for control has erupted among political figures and institutions vying for the leadership of Pakistan.
Pakistan remains at a standstill in its quest to answer a pressing question, despite the countless hours of air time, fervent ultimatums, and tense street stand-offs that have taken place over the past year.
According to Michael Kugelman, the director of the South Asia Institute at the Wilson Center, the current situation is unprecedented due to other serious crises.
Pakistan Cannot Afford to Dismiss Political Crisis as a Distraction, Says Expert
Pakistan’s Economy Struggles Foreign reserves, responsible for financing imports such as fuel, have dropped to some of the lowest levels in decades. $1.1bn in crucial funds remains locked as meetings with the International Monetary Fund earlier this year have failed to yield a deal.
Militants persist in launching attacks, frequently focusing on security forces. Pakistan’s armed forces have reported a total of 436 terrorist attacks thus far in 2023. Militant Groups Regularly Release Infographics Showing Their Kill and Seize Count Across the Country
Pakistan Faces Tough Questions as Food Inflation Continues to Rise and Flood Recovery Efforts Persist
According to political analyst Mehmal Sarfraz, the entire system faces increased difficulty due to political uncertainty. Pakistan’s System Collapsing, Reports Say. Possible newspaper rewrites: In the event of such an outcome, no one stands to gain – neither the political factions nor the citizens of Pakistan.
Politics Deadlocked: An Analysis of the Current Situation
Imran Khan’s removal from the prime minister’s post in April 2022 through a vote of no confidence has been identified by analysts as the trigger for the current situation.
According to Mr. Kugelman, Khan declined to accept it. Government Takes Notice of Khan’s Activism and Agitation
Mr. Khan’s response included a string of rallies nationwide and a lengthy march towards Islamabad’s capital.
Over 100 court cases have been filed against him, according to his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. The charges against him include terrorism, corruption, and contempt of court. Former Prime Minister Makes “Law of the Jungle” Accusation Against Government as Part of Campaign
Mr. Khan Accused of Ego and Narcissism by Government Ministers
Islamabad Police Make Two Attempts to Arrest Lahore Resident for Court No-Show
The government was dragged to court by Mr. Khan. Party Dissolves Two Provincial Assemblies in Attempt to Trigger National Election. Supreme Court is still considering an appeal after the initial failure.
Ongoing court battles divide the judiciary. Government Accuses Judges of Bias in Favor of Imran Khan, Raising Fears of Constitutional Crisis
“Khan Won’t Let Government Rest,” Claims Political Analyst and Founder President at Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development And Transparency Government’s Sole Focus is Self-Preservation
According to Mr. Bilal, the stand-off is linked to Mr. Khan’s personality.
Mr. Bilal says, “He is not prepared to make a sincere compromise.” Critics suggest that Mr. Khan’s failure to achieve this could be detrimental to his success in the future. One individual argues that it is counterproductive.
Pakistan’s institutions are under scrutiny as deadlock persists, say some. No Mediating Group was Found. “Ms. Sarfraz claims that the establishment lacks credibility,” reports state.
Pakistan’s military and intelligence services are called “the establishment.” Military coups and behind-the-scenes maneuvering have made the army a significant political player.
Analysts speculate that the military played a role in Mr. Khan’s 2018 election victory. One of the most vocal critics of the opposition, he is now in it, and according to analysts, the army’s popularity has decreased.
According to Mr. Kugelman, there are evident signs of disagreement within the army regarding the appropriate course of action.
Senior Army Officials Prefer Khan to Stay Out of Politics, While Lower Ranks Show Support Khan’s Polarizing Impact on Politics, Public, and Army
What’s Next?
Upcoming General Elections at Risk of Delay Due to Insufficient Funds and Security Concerns “Bilal warns of potential damage,” says the source.
Possible newspaper rewrite Concerns raised over potential damage to Pakistan’s democratic process. A recent development has sparked fears that the democratic process in Pakistan could suffer irreparable harm. Some observers warn that the consequences could be unfortunate if the situation is not addressed promptly. “I think it would be very unfortunate and will probably damage the democratic process in Pakistan, maybe in an unrepairable manner,” said a concerned citizen who preferred to remain anonymous. The nature of the development was not specified, but sources suggest that it may be related to recent political events or decisions. The potential impact on Pakistan’s stability and governance has yet to be fully assessed. Experts urge the authorities to take action to prevent further damage to the democratic process and restore public trust in the system. Local and international observers are closely monitoring the situation. Elections Postponed? Unprecedented, Say Citizens.
Government officials and representatives from Mr. Khan’s PTI party have discussed the upcoming elections. National and Provincial Elections’ Synchronization Still Uncertain Despite a widespread consensus that national and provincial elections should be held simultaneously, the timing of such an event remains a point of contention.
President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, has refuted allegations that his country was responsible for a drone attack on the Kremlin. Russia claims that the attack was an assassination attempt on President Vladimir Putin.
No attacks on Putin or Moscow. On our territory, we engage in combat. During a visit to Finland, he stated, “We are defending our villages and cities.”
Two drones were reportedly downed overnight, according to a statement from the office of the Russian president.
Threats of retaliation loom as it vows to strike back at its discretion.
Smoke was seen rising over the Kremlin, a significant government complex in central Moscow, in unverified footage circulating online since early Wednesday. Small Explosion and Climbing Men Caught on Video at Senate Building Site
Russian presidency alleges Ukraine attempted a strike on President Putin’s Kremlin residence, calling it a “planned terrorist act and an assassination attempt on the president.”
According to officials, electronic radar assets were used to disable two drones targeting a complex. They also stated that President Putin was not present during the alleged attack.
Ukraine Dismisses Russian Accusations as Pretext for Attacks, and US Exercises Caution
Putin: One of the Most Closely-Guarded Leaders in the World BBC journalists attending Putin’s events in Moscow have reported extremely tight security measures. These measures include extensive checks, long convoys of vehicles, and closed airspace with halted traffic.
Possible newspaper-style rewrite: The Kremlin’s claim, if accurate, could cast doubt on the level of protection afforded to the president.
Effectiveness of Russian Air Defences to be Scrutinised Anti-aircraft systems have been reportedly sighted on Moscow rooftops near important structures in the past few months.
Kremlin Places Troops to Prevent Aerial Attacks on High-Value Targets by Ukraine or Sympathisers
Russia’s response remains uncertain following the events of Wednesday morning. Calls for Tough Action Made by Officials. Russian Generals Issue Warnings of Severe Retaliation to Strikes on Russian Soil.
It remains uncertain whether Russia possesses the capability to execute retaliatory strikes that would have a substantial impact or if this occurrence will result in a noteworthy escalation on the Ukrainian battlefield.
Ukrainian Presidential Adviser Warns of Possible Large-Scale Terrorist Provocation by Russia
According to Mykhailo Podolyak, launching an attack on Moscow would be illogical for Ukraine, but it could potentially provide Russia with a pretext to carry out assaults on non-military sites.
Twenty-one people were killed in the southern Kherson region of Ukraine on Wednesday due to Russian strikes. Zelensky Reports Shelling of Multiple Locations in the Area, Including Railway Station, House, and Supermarket According to officials, the victims of the incident included both supermarket customers and employees of an energy company who were carrying out repairs.
According to Mr. Podolyak, drones spotted flying over areas in Russia result from the “guerrilla activities of local resistance forces.”
According to Mr. Podolyak, an event is occurring in the Russian Federation, but, certainly, Ukraine’s drones are not involved in any way over the Kremlin.
Antony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, has cast doubt on Russia’s claim that Ukraine attempted to assassinate President Putin. Blinken stated that he would approach any statements made by the Russian presidency with skepticism.
Former US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defence and CIA Officer Mick Mulroy has informed the BBC that if the incident reports are accurate, it is “unlikely” to be an assassination attempt. Ukraine closely monitors President Putin’s movements, and he was not in Moscow then.
According to the source, the recent attack could be a message to the Russian people that they are vulnerable to strikes anywhere and that the conflict initiated by Russia in Ukraine could potentially have repercussions within their own borders, including the capital.
According to Mr. Mulroy, if the reports are not accurate, Russia could use them as a pretext to target President Zelensky, which they have attempted to do in the past.
Alleged Drone Incident Occurs Before Russia’s Victory Day Parade in Moscow Russia has acknowledged an alleged drone incident shortly before the country’s Victory Day parade in Moscow, which was set to be attended by foreign dignitaries.
Russian Officials Confirm Parade Will Proceed as Scheduled.
Unauthorized drone flights over Moscow have been banned, according to an announcement made by the city’s mayor on Wednesday.
Victory Day celebrations scaled back in several Russian cities.
According to authorities, changes in Russia have been attributed to security concerns and attacks from pro-Ukrainian forces. Russia has experienced a series of explosions and fires in the past few weeks.
Cash-strapped Go First, an Indian airline, has filed for bankruptcy proceedings on Tuesday, citing “faulty” Pratt & Whitney engines as the reason for grounding nearly half of its fleet.
India witnesses its first significant airline collapse since Jet Airways’ bankruptcy in 2019. The development highlights the intense competition in the aviation industry, which is majorly dominated by IndiGo and the recent merger of Air India and Vistara under the Tata conglomerate.
According to a bankruptcy filing viewed by Reuters, First’s overall debt to financial creditors stands at 65.21 billion rupees ($797m) as of April 28.
According to a recent filing, the company has not defaulted on its dues as of April 30. However, it has failed to make payments to its operational creditors, including vendors and aircraft lessors, amounting to 12.02 billion rupees ($146.9m) and 26.60 billion rupees ($325m), respectively.
In a recent statement, Go First has announced its filing with the National Company Law Tribunal. The move comes after Pratt & Whitney, the sole engine supplier for the airline’s Airbus A320neo aircraft fleet, declined to adhere to an arbitration order. The order required the release of spare leased engines to the airline, which would have enabled it to resume full operations.
Reuters’ attempts to reach Pratt & Whitney for comment were unsuccessful at the time of publishing. Raytheon Technologies’ parent company was unavailable for comment at the time of publication.
Indian Airlines Plagued by Pratt & Whitney Engine Issue Warned by Safety Authorities
Pratt & Whitney, a leading aircraft engine manufacturer, has reportedly acknowledged being impacted by the prevailing supply chain challenges in the industry. However, the company has expressed optimism that the situation is likely to improve in the latter half of this year, which would enable it to ramp up production of both new and refurbished engines. These comments were made in response to queries from Indian media outlets.
According to analysts, IndiGo, a bigger competitor, has been able to weather the impact more effectively due to its larger fleet and deeper pockets.
Go First, previously known as GoAir and owned by the Wadia Group, has announced the cancellation of flights from May 3 to May 5 due to operational reasons, according to a statement on its website.
India’s Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia stated that the government of India has been providing all possible assistance to the airline. The stakeholders involved have also been engaged in the matter.
Airline Collapse Could Benefit Rival Companies Amid Post-Pandemic Travel Surge
Sudden Disruption Causes Chaos and Uncertainty
According to Jinesh Joshi, a research analyst with Prabhudas Lilladher, the unexpected disturbance in operations is expected to have a positive impact on other players and lead to a rise in airfares due to supply constraints.
Go First’s lenders were reportedly caught off guard by the move, according to two bankers familiar with the situation who spoke to Reuters.
According to a banker, Go First’s management recently met with lenders, but no notification was provided. According to sources, lenders are set to convene a meeting in the near future to evaluate the current circumstances and determine the next steps to be taken.
According to a report by Acuite Ratings in January, Go First holds rated Indian bank debt worth 56 billion rupees ($685m). Central Bank of India and Bank of Baroda hold the biggest share.
Aviation Consulting Firm CEO Surprised by Bankruptcy Filing Go First’s future remains uncertain, according to sources. New leadership sought for vehicle of change.
Go First, an Indian airline, has reported a significant increase in the number of grounded aircraft due to issues with Pratt & Whitney’s engines. The airline stated that the percentage of grounded aircraft rose from 7% in December 2019 to 50% in December 2022. This has resulted in a loss of 108 billion rupees ($1.32bn) in revenue and additional expenses for the company.
Go First, an Indian airline, has experienced a decline in its market share from 8.4 percent in January to 6.9 percent in March, according to the latest data from the Indian aviation regulator. This decline comes as a result of problems that caused the airline to postpone its intended $440m IPO in 2021.
Airline Seeks Funds, Wadia Group in Talks to Sell Majority Stake or Exit Shareholding. Wadia Group remained silent when contacted by Reuters for comment via email.
Groundings Prompt Aircraft Repossessions and Lease Withdrawals, Says Go First
Local media sources reported that employees were caught off guard upon learning about the cessation of daily operations, as per three anonymous pilots. Pilots have reported experiencing salary delays for the past few months.
Go First, an airline company, expressed their empathy towards their employees in an email viewed by Reuters. The company acknowledged that the news may cause distress and assured their commitment to providing support during this challenging period.
National Assembly (NA) Speaker Asad Qaisar has tested positive for coronavirus. after which he quarantined himself at home.
According to the details, the Speaker of the National Assembly Asad Qaiser said in his message on Twitter that he tested positive for Corona virus after which he has taken quarantine at his home.
“I urge the entire nation to pray and at the same time to be careful,” he added.
After Asad Qaiser contracted the corona virus, other family members tested positive for the corona virus in his son and daughter.
I tested positive for corona virus. I have quarantined myself in my house. I urge the whole nation to be careful.
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