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Having been declared a global health emergency by <keyword id="6366244" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="who" source="Orion">WHO</keyword> just a few weeks ago, the dreaded <keyword id="20965747" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mpox" source="keywords">Mpox</keyword> (formerly <keyword id="7616951" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="monkeypox" source="Orion">monkeypox</keyword>) has slowly been closing in on India. And now, days after our neighbour <keyword id="19899252" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="pakistan" source="keywords">Pakistan</keyword> confirmed its second Mpox case this month, India has also reported its first one this season. While feeling uncertain is understandable, the situation is far from dire just yet. On Monday, September 9, 2024, the <keyword id="19896140" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="health-ministry" source="keywords">Health Ministry</keyword> confirmed that a previously suspected case of Mpox was a travel-related infection. The patient, a young male, recently returned from a country experiencing ongoing Mpox transmission. Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the West African clade 2 of the Mpox virus, which is distinct from the more dangerous clade 1 currently under a public health emergency. In its statement, the Ministry emphasised that this case is isolated and in line with the 30 previous Mpox cases reported in India since July 2022. The Ministry clarified that this case does not contribute to the WHO-declared public health emergency associated with clade 1 of Mpox, which has spread primarily in parts of <keyword id="19924003" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="africa" source="keywords">Africa</keyword>. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112542249" title="WHO has declared mpox a global health emergency. What happens next?" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div> <h2>Patient condition and response measures </h2>The infected individual is isolated at a designated tertiary care isolation facility. The Ministry reports that the patient is clinically stable, with no systemic illness or pre-existing conditions. Public health authorities have initiated contact tracing and monitoring to ensure the infection remains contained, stating that no widespread public health risk exists at this time. <h2>Mode of transmission and symptoms </h2>The global Mpox outbreak has primarily affected young males, with a median age of 34. The main mode of transmission has been sexual contact, followed by non-sexual person-to-person contact. The most commonly reported symptom is a rash, which can manifest either systemically or in the genital region, followed by fever. WHO data shared by the Ministry indicates that approximately 51.9% of Mpox cases involve individuals living with HIV. This underscores the need for targeted healthcare and awareness, especially in high-risk populations. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112561654" title="WHO calls for increased surveillance, sharing of data, vaccines to combat monkeypox outbreak" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div> <h2>Increased vigilance and preparedness </h2>Following the confirmation of this case, the Health Ministry has issued directives to all states and union territories, urging healthcare workers, particularly those in skin/STD clinics and NACO (<keyword id="20887701" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="national-aids-control-organisation" source="keywords">National AIDS Control Organisation</keyword>) clinics, to stay alert to the signs and symptoms of Mpox. These clinics must be prepared for immediate isolation, clinical management, and treatment of complications, adhering to established protocols. The Ministry has also advised enhanced screening and testing of suspected Mpox cases, especially at airports and other points of entry, to prevent further transmission. <h2>Awareness and risk communication </h2>The Ministry has issued guidelines to state AIDS control societies, urging them to be vigilant in identifying suspect cases, especially among vulnerable populations such as female sex workers (FSW) and men who have sex with men (MSM). Communities must be made aware of the disease’s transmission and symptoms, as well as the importance of timely reporting. Clear risk communication, particularly to healthcare workers and intervention sites such as skin and paediatric clinics, is crucial to prevent the spread of the virus. While the Ministry advocates for robust preventive measures, it also stresses the importance of avoiding undue panic among the general public. For now, the Ministry’s actions aim to ensure that India remains well-prepared to handle isolated Mpox cases, while working to prevent any major outbreak in the country. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="112550492" title="Danish monkeypox-vaccine maker surges 17% after global health emergency declared" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>

Mpox has finally infiltrated India, but how worried should we be about the viral disease?

According to a new analysis, <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword> contributed $1.28 billion in <keyword id="20000757" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-finance" source="keywords">climate finance</keyword> through <keyword id="20401772" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="multilateral-development-banks" source="keywords">multilateral development banks</keyword> (MDBs) in 2022, surpassing the contributions of many developed countries. The study, conducted by the UK-based think tank ODI and the <keyword id="23038658" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Zurich-Climate-Resilience-Alliance" source="Orion">Zurich Climate Resilience Alliance</keyword>, comes amid a renewed push by some developed countries to broaden the donor base for climate finance to include developing countries like China and <keyword id="50996" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Saudi-Arabia" source="Orion">Saudi Arabia</keyword>. The report reveals that only 12 developed countries provided their fair share of international climate finance in 2022. These countries are -- Norway, France, Luxembourg, Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, Japan, the Netherlands, Austria, Belgium and Finland. Researchers noted that the significant gap in climate finance is largely due to the United States failing to contribute its fair share. Australia, Spain, Canada and the United Kingdom also performed relatively poorly in this regard. The analysis has identified the top 30 non-Annex II countries that provided substantial climate finance to developing countries in 2022 through multilateral contributions to development banks and climate funds. This group includes former economies in transition like Poland and Russia, countries that have achieved high-income status since 1992, such as Chile, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and South Korea, and middle-income countries with large populations, including Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Nigeria, the Philippines and Pakistan. India provided $1.287 billion in climate finance to other developing countries through MDBs in 2022, a sum larger than what was contributed by some developed countries like Greece ($0.23 billion), Portugal ($0.23 billion), Ireland ($0.3 billion) and New Zealand ($0.27 billion). China provided $ 2.52 billion in climate finance through MDBs in 2022, Brazil gave $ 1.135 billion, South Korea gave $1.13 billion and Argentina gave $1.01 billion. According to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (<keyword id="21931277" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="UNFCCC" source="keywords">UNFCCC</keyword>), adopted in 1992, high-income, industrialised countries (referred to as Annex-II countries) are responsible for providing finance and technology to help developing countries combat and adapt to climate change. These countries, including the US, Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and European Union (EU) member states, such as Germany, France and the UK, have historically benefitted from industrialisation and contributed the most to greenhouse gas emissions. At COP15 in Copenhagen in 2009, these developed countries pledged to jointly provide $100 billion each year by 2020 to help developing countries mitigate and adapt to climate change. However, this target has not been fully met, leading to a significant finance gap. This shortfall has eroded trust and hindered climate action in developing countries. In May, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (<keyword id="19916574" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="OECD" source="keywords">OECD</keyword>) claimed that developed countries had met the long-standing $ 100 billion-a-year promise by providing nearly $ 116 billion in climate finance to developing countries in 2022, with nearly 70 % of the money given in the form of loans. The ODI researchers pointed out that many developed countries, despite performing well in terms of climate-finance contributions, would make "markedly less progress towards meeting their fair share if the finance provided was accounted for on grant-equivalence terms" -- in other words, if it reflected their real fiscal effort. The report calls for the inclusion of a "burden-sharing mechanism" in the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) to provide clarity on each country's obligations and hold countries accountable. The NCQG refers to the new, larger amount that developed nations must mobilise annually, starting 2025, to support climate action in developing countries. Countries are expected to finalise the NCQG at this year's UN climate conference -- <keyword id="20082972" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="COP29" source="keywords">COP29</keyword> -- in Baku, Azerbaijan in November. The current $100 billion annual climate-finance goal is a collective commitment by developed countries. Its collective nature has meant that individual developed countries are not accountable for specific sums of money, potentially reducing the overall amount of climate finance provided due to the lack of individual scrutiny. The inclusion of a burden-sharing arrangement among developed countries could potentially strengthen the NCQG by fostering greater accountability and trust among parties, according to the ODI researchers. Many developing countries, including India, have recently advocated for such an arrangement to enhance accountability among developed countries.

India provided more climate finance in 2022 than many rich nations, noted recent report

The <keyword id="20412710" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="ICC-T20-World-Cup" source="keywords">ICC T20 world cup</keyword> has all of us hooked undoubtedly. From low-scoring thrillers to surprise upsets to high-scoring, high-voltage chases that have gone down to the wire, the ongoing world cup has had us on the edge of our seats! Post the high octane, much anticipated <keyword id="63471" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India-vs-Australia" source="Orion">India vs Australia</keyword> clash that took place yesterday, where India silenced the kangaroos, India is set to meet England in the semi-final clash tomorrow. As for the resilient Afghans, who first defeated Australia and then Bangladesh, the next stop is against the Proteas, who have been unbeaten in this tournament so far! But before these epic clashes, take a good, long, hard look at your financial fitness. And if you are unable to win at managing your finances in life, here are some insights you can take from these matches! <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Never write off the underdog" comment="subhead" text="Never write off the underdog">Never write off the underdog </cmsannotation>Remember how USA, an associate nation and <keyword id="19919646" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="cricket" source="keywords">cricket</keyword>ing minnow, managed to thrash Pakistan by first taking their match to a super over, and then beating them by 5 runs? USA stunned cricket fans all over the world, while promptly announcing itself on the global cricket scene! Shortly after, Afghanistan won over Australia, a certified cricketing giant, by 21 runs. As unexpected as it was, it tells us to never completely write off the underdog, in cricket and in markets. Consider this. The BSE smallcap index has jumped up by 61.79% over the past year. In contrast, the BSE largecap index has only risen by 31.78% in this time. While large caps like Australia certainly offer stability, it is in these smallcaps like Afghanistan where immense growth potential lies. Which is why there is immense merit in allocating some portion of your portfolio to <keyword id="425061" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="small-cap-stocks" source="Orion">small-cap stocks</keyword>. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Have an emergency fund" comment="subhead" text="Have an emergency fund">Have an <keyword id="20747810" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="emergency-fund" source="keywords">emergency fund</keyword></cmsannotation> Stunned by both Afghanistan and India, in the end, Australia had to hope that Bangladesh wins over Afghanistan in more than 12.1 overs, so that they could make it through to the Super 8. Similarly, earlier on, Pakistan had to rely on India thrashing USA by a big margin,and then on USA to lose their last league match, so that they could qualify ahead. The lesson? Have an emergency fund handy, so that you don’t have to rely on others to battle any emergencies. Relying simply on friends and family to tide you through financially difficult times can come back to bite you! Experts suggest that your emergency fund should have at least 3-6 months of your essential expenses. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Markets don't stay the same" comment="subhead" text="Markets don't stay the same">Markets don't stay the same </cmsannotation>Die-hard cricket fans would know of Indian skipper Rohit Sharma’s struggles against left arm pacers. Before India’s match with Australia, Rohit had been dismissed by 3 of them in this tournament-Shaheen Shah, Saurabh Netravalkar and Fazal Haq Farooqi. So naturally, fans were concerned about how Sharma would battle Mitchell Starc, Australia’s most dangerous left-arm spinner, who was coming off a splendid performance in IPL 2024 as well. But Rohit Sharma’s swashbuckling 92 off 41 runs turned the tables. Infact, Starc’s over against Sharma went for 29 runs, the most expensive Starc had ever bowled in T20Is. So, if you think you can time the market, you’re mistaken. Investing in stock markets is not a matter of timing them, but staying invested over-time. The best time to conquer your demons, and to start investing is right now! <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Diversify" comment="subhead" text="Diversify">Diversify </cmsannotation>India’s star batter Virat Kohli has been going through a lull, when it comes to runs. Dismissed for ducks against USA and Australia, his highest individual score is 37 off 28 balls against Bangladesh. And yet, India has continued its unbeaten streak throughout the world cup. That's because other players like Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya stepped up. The idea is to diversify, and not put all your eggs in one basket. Have more than one asset class in your portfolio apart from equity, like debt, gold and others, so that you are able to hedge your risks. If one asset dips, you have the cushion of others to safeguard you from losses. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="You don't need a lot to start" comment="subhead" text="You don't need a lot to start">You don't need a lot to start </cmsannotation>This world cup has largely been about Afghanistan’s dream run, and how they managed to qualify for semifinals for the first time ever. This, despite not having a proper home ground, or any cricketing facilities in their country. Afghani players are a prime example of how discipline and consistent effort is all one needs to win. So, stop waiting for when you’ll start earning more to start saving and investing. Begin with that Rs 500 SIP right away, and increase it as you go. Starting off and staying at it is more important than waiting for the right time!

Five financial lessons to take away from the ICC T20 World Cup

After the Supreme Court ruled on June 10 that a <keyword id="20100511" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Muslim-woman" source="keywords">Muslim woman</keyword> is entitled to claim <keyword id="22407616" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="maintenance-after-divorce" source="keywords">maintenance after divorce</keyword>, <keyword id="20066703" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="National-Commission-for-Women" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="National Commission for Women" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="National Commission for Women">National Commission for Women</keyword> (NCW) Chairperson Rekha Sharma welcomed the decision and stated that all <keyword id="20013419" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="personal-laws" source="keywords">personal laws</keyword> related to women should be equal across all religions. Speaking to ANI, Rekha Sharma said, "I always say that <keyword id="19927138" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="womens-rights" source="keywords">women's rights</keyword> should be universal and not determined based on <keyword id="19969367" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="religion" source="keywords">religion</keyword>. All personal laws related to women should be equal across all religions. Under the Hindu Marriage Act, you get alimony after divorce, so why should a Muslim woman not get it? I welcome what the Supreme Court has said." The Supreme Court on June 10 ruled that a divorced Muslim woman is entitled to seek maintenance from her husband under Section 125 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), asserting that any discrimination against Muslim women in matters of alimony under the secular laws of the country would be regressive and against <keyword id="20809677" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="gender-justice" source="keywords">gender justice</keyword> and equality. Earlier, the <keyword id="20066702" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="NCW-chief" source="keywords">NCW chief</keyword> wholeheartedly welcomed the Supreme Court's landmark ruling, stating that the decision is a significant step towards ensuring <keyword id="20250318" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="gender-equality" source="keywords">gender equality</keyword> and justice for all women, regardless of their religion. The NCW Chairperson emphasised that the decision reinforces the principle that no woman should be left without support and protection under the law. The NCW remains committed to advocating for women's rights and ensuring that justice prevails for every woman in India, she emphasised. Rekha Sharma also addressed the "lewd" comment incident that occurred earlier regarding a picture of the widow of Kirti Chakra recipient Captain Anshuman Singh. NCW chief Rekha Sharma said, "It was a very derogatory comment that we saw on social media, and we immediately took suo motu cognizance of it. The police have filed an FIR against this person. However, the individual is most likely from Pakistan." "Many such comments are being made, and we are taking those comments very seriously and urging the police to file FIRs in those cases as well," she added. Delhi Police acknowledged the National Commission for Women's (NCW) letter to the Delhi Commissioner of Police, demanding the arrest of the man and submission of a detailed report to the panel within three days. The police said a complaint was received from the National Commission for Women, alleging that a social media user had made an extremely lewd and derogatory comment on a picture of the widow of a late soldier. Taking cognizance of the complaint and after a preliminary examination of its contents, a case FIR under Sections 79, BNS-2023, and Section 67 of the IT Act 2000 has been registered at the Police Station Special Cell, and an investigation is underway. Captain Anshuman Singh, a doctor, was posted with the 26 Punjab as a medical officer in the Siachen Glacier area. On the night of July 19, 2023, there was a fire incident at an Indian Army ammunition dump at the camp where he was posted. Captain Singh saw a fibreglass hut engulfed in fire and immediately acted to rescue four to five individuals trapped inside. He went inside the medical investigation room, which was also on fire, to retrieve the critical medical aid box but could not make it out due to heavy fire amid strong winds. He was awarded the Kirti Chakra posthumously. Captain Singh's wife, Smriti, and his mother received the award from President Droupadi Murmu.

All personal laws related to women should be equal across all religions: NCW chief Rekha Sharma

<keyword id="21333142" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Indias-population" source="keywords">India's population</keyword> is projected to peak in the early 2060s at about <keyword id="22386427" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="1-7-billion" source="keywords">1.7 billion</keyword> and then decline by 12%, but the country will remain the world's most populous throughout the century, the <keyword id="19896118" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="United-Nations" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="United Nations" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="United Nations">United Nations</keyword> has said. The World Population Prospects 2024 report, released on Thursday, said that the world's population is expected to continue growing over the coming 50-60 years, reaching a peak of around 10.3 billion people in the mid-2080s, significantly up from 8.2 billion in 2024. After peaking, the global population is projected to start declining gradually, falling to 10.2 billion people by the end of the century. India, which surpassed <keyword id="19894886" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="China" source="keywords">China</keyword> as the world's most populous nation last year, will continue to hold that position through 2100. "The population of India, which is expected to remain the world's largest throughout the century, will likely decline by 12% after reaching its peak in the early 2060s at about 1.7 billion," the <keyword id="19898339" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="UN" source="keywords">UN</keyword> report published by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), <keyword id="271075" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="population-division" source="Orion">Population Division</keyword> said. According to the report, India's population in 2024 is projected at 1.45 billion and this will peak to 1.69 billion in 2054. After this, India's population is projected to decline to 1.5 billion by the end of the century in 2100, but the country will still remain the most populous nation on Earth. Responding to a question by PTI on population projections for India, Senior Population Affairs Officer, Population Division, <keyword id="6355835" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="un" source="Orion">UN</keyword> DESA Clare Menozzi said at a press conference that "India is currently the largest country in the world in terms of population, and it is projected to stay so throughout the century. The population is currently estimated at 1.45 billion, and it's supposed to increase further to 1.69 billion. "It's supposed to peak around the 2060s in size and then it starts to slightly decline. So by the end of the century, India is projected to be around 1.5 billion, but will still the largest country in the world by a large margin." The report said that China's population, currently 1.41 billion in 2024, will fall to 1.21 billion in 2054 and further decline to 633 million by 2100. "It is anticipated that China, the country currently with the world's second-largest population, will likely experience the largest absolute population loss between 2024 and 2054 (204 million)," followed by <keyword id="6355311" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Japan" source="Orion">Japan</keyword> (21 million) and <keyword id="6358826" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Russia" source="Orion">Russia</keyword> (10 million). "Longer-range population projections are more uncertain" for China, it said. "However, due to its large size and sustained low level of fertility, China is also likely to record the largest population decline of any country through the end of the century (786 million people). By 2100, China is projected to have lost more than a half of its current population and to have returned to a population size comparable to that recorded in the late 1950s (50% probability)." Responding to a question on the significantly low population projection for China, Director of the Population Division at UN DESA John Wilmoth said that "it really relates to the level of fertility that's observed currently in China. The current number is right around one birth per woman on average over a lifetime." "Given that you need 2.1 births to maintain the current population without migration, if fertility levels remain at such a low level, even if they come up slightly, any fertility level if it's below two, or especially below 1.8 or below 1.5, you're really getting into low levels of fertility and it produces a long run decline that's quite significant. And that's true for China. It's true for some other countries in this analysis," Wilmoth said. Currently, nearly one-fifth of all countries and areas, including China, Italy, the Republic of Korea and Spain, are experiencing what is sometimes referred to as "ultra-low" fertility, with fewer than 1.4 live births per woman over a lifetime. The report added that the global fertility rate currently stands at 2.25 live births per woman, down from 3.31 births in 1990. "More than half of all countries and areas globally have fertility below the replacement level of 2.1 live births per woman. This is the level required for a population to maintain a constant size in the long run (without migration), with each generation being followed by another of roughly equal size," it said. Pakistan is projected to overtake the US as the third-largest country in the world, with a population of 389 million in 2054. Currently, the US is the third largest country in the world with a population of 345 million and in 2054, it will be the fourth largest with 384 million people. Pakistan will remain the third largest country in the world, with a population of 511 million people in 2100. The report said that the estimated likelihood that the world's population will peak within the current century is very high, with a probability of 80%, a major change in UN projections from a decade ago, when this probability was around 30%. The size of the world's population in 2100 is now expected to be 6%smaller - or about 700 million people fewer - than anticipated a decade ago. In about 126 countries and areas, the population is likely to continue growing through 2054, potentially reaching a peak later in the century or beyond 2100. This group includes several of the world's most populous countries: India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Pakistan and the United States of America. In 2023, the global number of deaths among children under age 5 fell below 5 million for the first time in recent history. However, 95% of such deaths took place in the 126 countries with populations that are still growing, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, India, Nigeria and Pakistan. The report added that globally, life expectancy at birth reached 73.3 years in 2024, an increase of 8.4 years since 1995. Further reductions in mortality are projected to result in an average longevity of around 77.4 years globally in 2054. Since 2022, life expectancy has returned to levels observed before the emergence of the coronavirus disease in nearly all countries and areas. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic during 2020 and 2021, global life expectancy at birth fell to 70.9 years, down from 72.6 in 2019. The report said that by 2080, persons aged 65 or older will outnumber children under 18. "By the late 2070s, the number of persons at ages 65 years and higher globally is projected to reach 2.2 billion, surpassing the number of children (under age 18). By the mid-2030s, it is projected that there will be 265 million persons aged 80 years or older, more than the number of infants (1 year of age or less)," it said.

India's population to peak in early 2060s to 1.7 billion before declining: UN

Most <keyword id="21473307" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="BJP-allies" source="keywords">BJP allies</keyword> have kept their cards close to chest on the issue of <keyword id="19934070" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Uniform-Civil-Code" source="keywords">Uniform Civil Code</keyword>, which Prime Minister <keyword id="19895781" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Narendra-Modi" source="keywords">Narendra Modi</keyword> strongly backed in his Independence Day speech, with the party's largest partner <keyword id="19910625" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Telugu-Desam-Party" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Telugu Desam Party" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="Telugu Desam Party">Telugu Desam Party</keyword> (TDP) saying that it will wait for details to emerge before finalising its stand. The JD(U), the BJP's second biggest ally, said the party supports any such reform but its spokesperson K C Tyagi added that it must be pushed only after evolving a consensus by speaking to all stake-holders, including religious groups and states. Lavu Srikrishna Devarayalu, the head of TDP Parliamentary Party, told PTI that his party will wait for the details of any proposal related to the UCC before finalising its stand. Another party ally <keyword id="20280818" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Lok-Janshakti-Party" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Lok Janshakti Party" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="Lok Janshakti Party">Lok Janshakti Party</keyword> (<keyword id="20354493" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ram-Vilas" source="keywords">Ram Vilas</keyword>) has also been non-committal, with its president and Union Minister Chirag Paswan recently highlighting cultural, linguistic and regional diversities across the country to wonder how everyone can be brought under one umbrella. Last month, he said that his party will wait for a draft on the UCC before taking a stand. Tyagi cited JD(U) president and Bihar Chief Minister <keyword id="19907431" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nitish-Kumar" source="keywords">Nitish Kumar</keyword>'s submission in 2017 to the Law Commission to make his point. Kumar had said, "Any attempt to impose a UCC without obtaining through substantive consultations the concurrence of various religious groups, especially the minorities, could lead to social friction and an erosion of faith in the constitutional guarantee of freedom of religion." However, the proposal for simultaneous elections, which was also staunchly advocated by Modi on Thursday, generally enjoys support among the BJP's allies. Tyagi said his party is in complete agreement with the BJP on the issue. Both JD(U) and the LJP(Ram Vilas) had extended their support to the concept 'one nation one election' in their submission to the high-level committee headed by former president Ram Nath Kovind. Another important BJP ally <keyword id="19905334" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Shiv-Sena" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Shiv Sena" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="Shiv Sena">Shiv Sena</keyword>, which is headed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has been supportive of both UCC and simultaneous elections. Modi had on Thursday made an unequivocal pitch for a uniform civil code in the country, asserting that a "secular civil code" in place of the existing "communal" one is the need of the hour. He also pushed forcefully for 'one nation one election'. Frequent elections are an "obstacle" in the country's growth, and every scheme is seen as a consequence of one poll or another happening every few months, he said in his speech on India's 78th Independence Day. The UCC has been a key ideological plank of the BJP, while the party has also taken a strong stand in favour of <keyword id="20033454" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="simultaneous-polls" source="keywords">simultaneous polls</keyword>, promising both measures on its successive manifestos.

Most BJP allies keep away from supporting Uniform Civil Code, positive to idea of simultaneous polls

<keyword id="55091" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Iceland" source="Orion">Iceland</keyword>, known as the land of fire and ice, is a captivating destination with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique culture. In 2024, this Nordic island nation continues to enchant travellers worldwide. Here are some of the top <keyword id="8629575" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="places-to-visit-in-Iceland" source="Orion">places to visit in Iceland</keyword> this year: <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Best places to visit in Iceland" comment="subhead" text="Best places to visit in Iceland"><keyword id="21854319" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Best-places-to-visit-in-Iceland" source="Orion">Best places to visit in Iceland</keyword></cmsannotation> The Blue Lagoon Golden Circle <keyword id="122840" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Reykjavik" source="Orion">Reykjavik</keyword> The Northern Lights Vatnajökull National Park Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Snaefellsnes Peninsula Landmannalaugar The Westfjords Whale Watching <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="The Blue Lagoon" comment="subhead" text="The Blue Lagoon">The Blue Lagoon</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="1" msid="110532410" hostid="261" sizebytes="2223380" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the iconic Blue Lagoon.&amp;lt;br&amp;gt;&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Starting our journey with relaxation, the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa located in a lava field near Grindavík. The warm, mineral-rich waters are renowned for their healing properties and milky blue hue. Visitors can soak in the rejuvenating waters while surrounded by Iceland's breathtaking natural beauty, The blue lagoon is one of the places to see in Iceland. Best time to visit: The Blue Lagoon can be enjoyed year-round due to its geothermal nature. However, it's particularly magical during the winter months when you can soak in the warm waters while surrounded by snow-covered landscapes. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Golden Circle" comment="subhead" text="Golden Circle">Golden Circle</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="2" msid="110532454" hostid="261" sizebytes="1624515" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Explore the geological wonders of Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss on the Golden Circle route.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>A must-see for any visitor to Iceland, the Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that covers three iconic attractions: Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. Explore the historic site of Thingvellir, marvel at the erupting geysers of Geysir, and witness the powerful cascade of Gullfoss. Best time to visit: The Golden Circle attractions are accessible throughout the year. However, the summer months (June to August) offer the most daylight hours for exploration. If you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) or autumn (September to October). <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Reykjavik" comment="subhead" text="Reykjavik">Reykjavik</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="3" msid="110532475" hostid="261" sizebytes="1721656" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Discover the colorful streets and cultural landmarks of Iceland&amp;#39;s vibrant capital, Reykjavik.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Iceland's vibrant capital city, Reykjavik, offers a blend of modern amenities and Icelandic charm. Take a stroll through the colourful streets lined with quaint shops, cafes, and art galleries. Don't miss landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja Church and the Harpa Concert Hall. And be sure to sample Icelandic cuisine at one of Reykjavik's many restaurants. Best time to visit: Reykjavik is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique charm. Summer (June to August) brings long daylight hours and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities. Winter (December to February) offers the chance to see the Northern Lights and enjoy cosy cafes and cultural events. Read - <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/international/webstories/top-10-must-do-activities-in-iceland/slidelist/110520458.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink">Top 10 must-do activities in Iceland</a> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="The Northern Lights" comment="subhead" text="The Northern Lights">The Northern Lights</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="4" msid="110532533" hostid="261" sizebytes="1121406" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Witness the magical display of the Northern Lights dancing across Iceland&amp;#39;s night sky.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Iceland is one of the best places in the world to witness the mesmerising Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. Head away from city lights to dark, remote locations for the best chance of seeing this natural wonder illuminate the night sky with swirling ribbons of green, blue, and purple. Best time to experience: The best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is during the winter months, from late September to early April. The long, dark nights provide optimal viewing conditions, especially during periods of high solar activity. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Vatnajökull National Park" comment="subhead" text="Vatnajökull National Park">Vatnajökull National Park</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="5" msid="110532545" hostid="261" sizebytes="2235960" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt; Experience the vast glacial landscapes and ice caves of Vatnajökull National Park.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Explore the largest national park in Iceland, home to Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier. Discover dramatic ice caves, rugged mountain landscapes, and powerful glacial rivers. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, glacier climbing, and ice cave exploration amidst this breathtaking wilderness. Best time to visit: Vatnajökull National Park is best visited during the summer months (June to August) when hiking trails are accessible and weather conditions are most favourable. However, guided glacier tours and ice cave exploration are available in the winter months as well. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon" comment="subhead" text="Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon">Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="6" msid="110532569" hostid="261" sizebytes="1170082" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Marvel at the floating icebergs in the serene Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Marvel at the otherworldly beauty of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where shimmering icebergs float serenely against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Take a boat tour to get up close to the icebergs or soak in the tranquillity of this stunning natural wonder. Best time to visit: Like Vatnajökull National Park, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is accessible year-round. Summer offers the chance to see icebergs under the midnight sun, while winter provides a magical backdrop of snow and ice. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Snaefellsnes Peninsula" comment="subhead" text="Snaefellsnes Peninsula">Snaefellsnes Peninsula</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="7" msid="110532595" hostid="261" sizebytes="832679" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Explore the diverse landscapes and iconic Kirkjufell mountain on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Often referred to as "Iceland in miniature," the Snaefellsnes Peninsula offers a diverse range of landscapes, from volcanic craters to black sand beaches. Visit the iconic Kirkjufell mountain, explore lava fields, and keep an eye out for wildlife such as seals and seabirds along the coastline. Best time to visit: The Snaefellsnes Peninsula can be visited year-round, but summer (June to August) is ideal for hiking and exploring the diverse landscapes. Spring and autumn offer quieter conditions and the chance to see migrating birds. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Landmannalaugar" comment="subhead" text="Landmannalaugar">Landmannalaugar</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="8" msid="110532616" hostid="261" sizebytes="2101333" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Hike through the colorful rhyolite mountains and geothermal springs of Landmannalaugar.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>A paradise for hikers and nature lovers, Landmannalaugar is a remote highland region famous for its colourful rhyolite mountains, hot springs, and epic hiking trails. Trek through surreal landscapes of lava fields, geothermal vents, and steaming hot springs for an unforgettable adventure. Best time to visit: Landmannalaugar is only accessible by road during the summer months (late June to early September) when the Highland roads are open. This is the best time for hiking and camping in the area. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="The Westfjords" comment="subhead" text="The Westfjords">The Westfjords</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="9" msid="110532629" hostid="261" sizebytes="2100409" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Discover the dramatic cliffs and remote beauty of Iceland&amp;#39;s Westfjords region.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Escape the crowds and discover the raw beauty of Iceland's Westfjords region. With its dramatic cliffs, fjords, and remote fishing villages, this rugged area offers a glimpse into Iceland's untamed wilderness. Hike along coastal trails, visit bird cliffs teeming with seabirds and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature. Best time to visit: The Westfjords are best visited during the summer months (June to August) when roads are clear of snow and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, if you're seeking solitude and dramatic winter landscapes, the region can be visited in the offseason as well. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Whale Watching" comment="subhead" text="Whale Watching">Whale Watching</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="10" msid="110532837" hostid="261" sizebytes="983803" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Go on a whale watching tour to see majestic marine life in Iceland&amp;#39;s waters.&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Go on a whale-watching excursion from ports such as Reykjavik or Husavik for the chance to encounter majestic marine life such as humpback whales, minke whales, and orcas. Experienced guides will take you out to sea for an unforgettable wildlife encounter. Best time to see: Whale-watching tours operate year-round from ports such as Reykjavik and Husavik. The summer months (June to August) offer the best chance to see a variety of whale species, including humpback whales and minke whales. However, some species, like orcas, can be seen during the winter months as well. Iceland is a land of unparalleled natural beauty and adventure, offering a wealth of experiences for travellers in 2024. Whether you're soaking in geothermal spas, exploring volcanic landscapes, or marvelling at the Northern Lights, Iceland is sure to captivate your imagination and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently asked questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently asked questions">Frequently asked questions</cmsannotation> 1. When is the best time to visit Iceland? The best time to visit Iceland depends on your preferences. Summer (June to August) offers long daylight hours, mild temperatures, and access to highland areas. Winter (December to February) is ideal for seeing the Northern Lights and enjoying winter activities like ice cave exploration and snowmobiling. 2. Do I need a visa to visit Iceland? Iceland is a part of the Schengen Area, which allows travellers from many countries to enter without a visa for short stays (typically up to 90 days within a 180-day period). However, visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, so it's essential to check the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration's website or consult with your local embassy or consulate. 3. What should I pack for a trip to Iceland? Packing essentials for Iceland include warm clothing (especially waterproof outer layers), sturdy hiking boots, swimsuits for hot springs and geothermal pools, sunglasses and sunscreen (for summer), and a good camera for capturing stunning landscapes. It's also wise to pack layers to accommodate Iceland's ever-changing weather. 4. Are there any safety concerns for travellers in Iceland? Iceland is generally considered a safe destination for travellers. However, it's essential to be aware of natural hazards such as sudden changes in weather, rough terrain, and potentially dangerous wildlife (e.g., Icelandic horses and Arctic terns). Travelers should also exercise caution when driving, especially in rural areas with gravel roads and unpredictable weather conditions. 5. What currency is used in Iceland, and can I use credit cards? The currency used in Iceland is the Icelandic króna (ISK). While credit cards are widely accepted in Iceland, especially in urban areas and tourist attractions, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and transactions in more remote areas. ATMs are readily available in towns and cities for withdrawing local currency.

The most scenic and amazing places to visit in Iceland in 2024

London: Universities and student groups on Tuesday urgently lobbied British Prime Minister <keyword id="19906889" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rishi-Sunak" source="keywords">Rishi Sunak</keyword> to safeguard the country's <keyword id="21659184" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="post-study-visa" source="keywords">post-study visa</keyword> offer, which has been dominated by Indians to gain work experience for around two years at the end of their university degree. Amid reports that Sunak is considering either restricting or ending the <keyword id="20616105" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Graduate-Route" source="keywords">Graduate Route</keyword> to curtail soaring migration statistics ahead of a general election, a group of nearly 30 university vice-chancellors and the <keyword id="21760521" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="national-indian-students-and-alumni-association" source="keywords">National Indian Students and Alumni Association</keyword> (NISAU) UK have issued detailed letters of appeal to 10 Downing Street. They list a series of factors in favour of keeping the Graduate visa scheme unchanged, including the benefits that international students bring to the UK economy in a competitive global higher education marketplace. "Modelling by consultancy London Economics shows that a single cohort has a net economic benefit of GBP 37 billion to the UK economy; as well as through the soft power that Britain's international graduates generate for the country over time, including through furthering ties of trade and diplomacy," reads the NISAU UK letter addressed to Sunak. "Indeed, 70 per cent of <keyword id="19971660" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-students" source="keywords">Indian students</keyword> have told us that the ability to gain meaningful work experience is a critical element in their decision to choose between competing international destinations, of which the UK is one... the Graduate Route allows the opportunity to gain this work experience for a temporary period. It is non-extendable and does not count towards permanent settlement. This means that neither students nor Graduate visa holders should be considered 'immigrants' in the context of the long-term picture of migration," it notes. Their appeal comes a week after the influential <keyword id="20609895" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Migration-Advisory-Committee" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Migration Advisory Committee" meta.hostid="83" meta.entityid="Migration Advisory Committee">Migration Advisory Committee</keyword> (MAC) advised the government to let the scheme continue as it found no abuse of this post-study work offer. It also confirmed that Indians topped its tally, accounting for 89,200 visas between 2021 and 2023, or 42 per cent of the overall grants, and were likely to be "most affected by any restriction on the Graduate Route". In their letter to Sunak, universities in the north of England — from Sunderland to Sheffield, Leeds to Lancaster, Liverpool to Teesside, Bradford to Huddersfield, and York to Newcastle — said they will all be harmed by the removal or reduction of this visa as it is an "intrinsic part of the educational offer that has made the UK so attractive to brilliant students from all around the world". "The Graduate Visa Route is regarded by students in key markets like India as an integral part of their educational experience. The MAC review made clear that the removal of this route would make the UK less attractive and thus would cause considerable financial detriment to universities around the country," reads their joint letter. "International student tuition fee income has long cross-subsidised underfunded research and has increasingly become critical to cross-subsidise the teaching of UK undergraduate students because of the frozen tuition fee. Universities cannot continue to absorb the costs of teaching UK undergraduates without some form of alternative funding source," they caution. On top of their visa fees, international students who find work and start businesses contribute billions of pounds in income tax, national insurance and VAT annually. The university chiefs point out that they are also usually net contributors to the National Health Service (NHS) through the NHS surcharge. The Russell Group of the UK's leading universities issued its appeal over the weekend, with CEO Tim Bradshaw warning that there has already been a 10 per cent decline in international applications for post-graduate courses starting this September in the wake of the clampdown on students being able to bring dependant family members. "A further restriction on international students would not only be unnecessary — as numbers are already falling — but also damaging, resulting in less spending in local communities, fewer opportunities for domestic students and less UK research," he noted in a letter to Sunak. Members of his own Cabinet are believed to be opposed to any changes to the Graduate scheme, but the British Prime Minister is having to balance pressures from the right of the governing Conservatives who are single-minded in their demands to curb all forms of legal as well as illegal migration levels ahead of an election later this year.

Universities, student groups lobby PM Sunak to keep UK's post-study visa scheme unchanged

A <keyword id="22223243" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="player-survey" source="keywords">player survey</keyword> has revealed that the <keyword id="19921630" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="T20-World-Cup" source="keywords">T20 World Cup</keyword> is closing the gap in the race to become the "most important" <keyword id="21493847" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ICC-event" source="keywords">ICC event</keyword> to players around the world, marking a shift from the dominance of the <keyword id="19921632" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="ODI-World-Cup" source="keywords">ODI World Cup</keyword>. According to a survey conducted by the <keyword id="22223543" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="World-Cricketers-Association" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="World Cricketers Association" meta.hostid="153" meta.entityid="World Cricketers Association">World Cricketers Association</keyword> (<keyword id="20895828" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="WCA" source="keywords">WCA</keyword>), formerly FICA, an overwhelming 85 percent of players viewed the 50-over <keyword id="19930296" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="world-cup" source="keywords">World Cup</keyword> as the most important in 2019, compared to 15 percent for the T20 World Cup. In 2024 however, those figures have changed with 50 percent of the players considering the ODI showpiece as the most important and 35 percent favouring its T20 equivalent. The ongoing edition of the T20 World Cup, jointly hosted by the USA and West Indies, will conclude with the title clash between <keyword id="19895063" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="keywords">India</keyword> and <keyword id="19899437" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="South-Africa" source="keywords">South Africa</keyword> in Barbados on Saturday. As per the survey done by the re-branded body, for players under 26, the inclination towards the T20 World Cup rose significantly, with 41 percent preferring it over the 50-over World Cup at 49 percent in 2024. Overall, there has been a sharp increase in the popularity of the T20 format. Compared to 2019 when 82 percent of players picked <keyword id="19935483" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Test-cricket" source="keywords">Test cricket</keyword> as the most important format, it's only 48 percent right now. As many as 30 percent of the players picked T20 as the most important format. Players from India, Pakistan and Afghanistan are among those who are not represented by the WCA since they are not unionised. Responses were sought from players of other major cricket nations, including Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, Bangladesh and West Indies. According to the WCA, the sample size for this year's survey was around 330 professional players from 13 different countries, with the majority of them being current internationals. There is a higher proportion of female respondents in 2024. In the current edition of the T20 World Cup, the much-awaited clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan garnered a staggering 256 million viewing hours in India alone.

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