humanitarian concerns

Parvathaneni, while speaking at the Annual UNSC Open Debate on "Protection of civilians in armed conflict", congratulated China on assuming the UNSC Presidency for this month.

Amidst the sweltering heatwave, the Bihar government is stepping up to safeguard the well-being of home delivery and courier workers. To shield these vital workforce members from soaring temperatures, they are setting up dedicated shelters and providing fresh drinking water throughout Patna. This proactive measure underscores the commitment to ensure their health and comfort as demand for online services escalates.

Princess Diana's walk through an Angolan minefield became a powerful symbol, transforming a distant humanitarian crisis into a visible, personal urgency. The image powerfully conveyed the devastating, lifelong impact of landmines on civilians, transcending abstract data. This iconic moment highlighted the critical need for demining and victim support, leaving a lasting legacy of awareness and advocacy.

The World Health Organization's Kyiv office sustained damage from debris during recent Russian strikes, prompting the WHO Director-General to renew calls for a ceasefire. The building, housing multiple UN agencies, saw shattered windows but no injuries. These attacks, which killed at least four civilians and injured others, follow Moscow's vow of retaliation for Ukrainian strikes.

India has strongly criticized Pakistan at the UN Security Council, accusing it of a long record of violence against civilians and citing recent incidents in Afghanistan linked to Pakistani military action. India's envoy highlighted UNAMA findings of civilian casualties due to cross-border violence and airstrikes, including an attack on a hospital during Ramadan.

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar urged BRICS nations to find practical solutions to geopolitical crises, emphasizing the threat to global energy and economic security from West Asian tensions. He stressed dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for sovereignty, while also highlighting concerns over unilateral sanctions, terrorism, and the need for UN Security Council reform.

A joint US-Nigerian offensive has dealt a significant blow to ISIS in Africa, eliminating 175 ISWAP fighters, including key leaders responsible for global operations and propaganda. This campaign dismantled vital logistical networks, marking a major setback for the terror group's expansion in the region. The operation highlights ongoing efforts to counter persistent militancy.

Aid workers in eastern Congo face a dual threat of the rare Bundibugyo Ebola and community anger, with suspected cases nearing 1,000. Residents, fueled by suspicion and distrust, have attacked healthcare facilities and aid personnel. This volatile situation, exacerbated by armed conflict and weakened surveillance, hinders containment efforts as the outbreak spreads rapidly.

The UAE strongly condemned a drone strike on its Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, calling it a dangerous escalation and a threat to regional stability. Saudi Arabia also intercepted drones from Iraq. Amidst rising tensions, US President Trump warned Iran to act swiftly, while Tehran threatened retaliation against perceived US-Israeli aggression.

Many Indian immigrants on employment and student visas rely on getting their green card while they’re still in the US. The new rule adds further uncertainty to the process.

Royal commentators are buzzing with controversy following Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's anniversary photos, with claims that the couple intentionally diverted attention from King Charles's recent visit to Northern Ireland. This provocative act stirs an already simmering pot of frustration among palace staff, who perceive a recurring trend of the couple overshadowing crucial royal engagements.

Former Army officer Khushboo Patani, Disha's sister, strongly condemned dowry-related deaths, questioning societal marriage pressures. Through Instagram, she criticized women being conditioned to compromise in abusive situations and urged them to reject dowry-driven marriages, emphasizing self-reliance and the courage to live alone. Her powerful message resonated widely.

The US under Trump is intensifying pressure on Cuba, drawing comparisons to its Venezuela policy. However, experts believe Cuba's complex political structure and disciplined security apparatus make it a far riskier and potentially costlier challenge for Washington than Venezuela.

Families of prisoners in Tamil Nadu face immense hardship, losing financial stability and social standing. Children are denied education and opportunities, trapped in a cycle of debt and stigma. Organizations advocate for structured loan systems to prevent entire generations from being destroyed by a parent's conviction, offering a path to a better future.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar criticized "unilateral coercive measures" and sanctions, stating they disproportionately harm developing nations and cannot replace diplomacy. He also voiced concern over the West Asia crisis, emphasizing the need for uninterrupted maritime traffic and a sustained ceasefire in Gaza, advocating for a two-state solution.

Logistical issues, threat of action & staff shortage & physical exhaustion affecting morale

Iran's armed forces are prepared to retaliate after President Trump rejected Tehran's ceasefire proposal, escalating regional tensions. The dispute over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil route, has already caused significant energy supply shocks and threatens global food security, with the UN warning of a potential humanitarian crisis.

In the wake of growing unrest in Myanmar, Mizoram has witnessed a dramatic increase in its refugee population, soaring to around 40,000. Among these, more than 1,000 newcomers have recently crossed the border but have yet to be processed for biometric registration, as local authorities remain hopeful for their quick repatriation.

An Irish teenager's innovative project made invisible microplastic pollution visible. Fionn Ferreira used magnetic liquids to attract tiny plastic particles from water. This simple yet powerful demonstration captured global attention. Scientists are now further exploring magnetic methods for water purification. The discovery highlights a tangible approach to a growing environmental concern.