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Security stepped up at vital installations in Delhi amid soaring tensions with Pakistan

NEW DELHI, May 9 (PTI): Heavy security was deployed at the vital installations in Delhi on Friday, including government buildings and areas with high footfall, as tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after the Pakistani military targeted several border areas using drones and missiles on Thursday night.

A senior police officer said all vital installations, including government buildings, sewage treatment plants, water treatment plants, courts, and foreign embassies, are being safeguarded by deploying additional forces, including paramilitary personnel.

Police also strengthened vigil in areas with high footfalls, including markets, railway stations,  malls, parks and Metro stations, the officer said.

Asian Apparel Industry Faces Crisis Amid Trump’s Sweeping Tariffs

Dhaka — Manufacturers and suppliers across Asia are expressing deep concern over the future of their apparel hubs following US President Donald Trump’s imposition of harsh tariffs on major apparel manufacturing countries. The tariffs, announced on Wednesday, target Cambodia with 49% levies, Vietnam with 46%, Bangladesh with 37%, Indonesia with 32%, and India with 26%.

The tariffs have prompted companies in economically vulnerable South Asian countries, such as Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, to urge their governments to negotiate with the Trump administration to prevent foreign buyers from seeking cheaper alternatives. The tariff hike is expected to significantly impact fast-fashion retailers and sportswear brands that rely on manufacturing in Vietnam, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka.

The US, a major consumer of apparel and footwear, produces only 2.5% of its apparel and 1% of its footwear domestically. During Trump’s first term, tariffs on China led apparel and footwear makers to shift production to other parts of Asia. However, the new tariffs have left these manufacturers with limited options.

Garment exporter Shahidullah Azim, whose clients include North American and European retailers, expressed his dismay: “We knew something was coming, but we never expected it to be this drastic … This is terrible for our business and for thousands of workers.” Azim’s company, which employs 3,200 factory workers, is bracing for order cancellations as rising costs for buyers threaten Bangladesh’s competitive edge.

The ready-made garment industry is crucial to Bangladesh’s economy, accounting for over 80% of total export earnings, employing 4 million people, mostly women, and contributing roughly 10% to its annual GDP. Bangladesh, the second-largest producer after China, manufactures garments for global brands such as Carrefour, Uniqlo, Primark, H&M, and Zara. Manufacturers fear that buyers will be forced to choose other cost-competitive markets, dealing a massive blow to the industry.

The International Apparel Federation, representing garment manufacturers in 40 countries, called the tariffs a “major shock,” adding: “Ultimately, someone will have to pay the price.”

In Sri Lanka, the garment industry exports about 40% of its output to the US, earning $1.9 billion last year. The tariffs will affect over 350,000 employees in the garment industry, which is Sri Lanka’s second-largest foreign exchange earner. Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s office announced the formation of a panel to study potential issues arising from the new tariffs.

Yohan Lawrence, Secretary General of Sri Lanka’s Joint Apparel Association Forum, warned: “Sri Lanka could very quickly see its share of US business move to countries with lower tariffs. This situation is serious, and it must be addressed as a matter of national urgency.”

The United States Fashion Industry Association expressed disappointment over the tariffs, stating that the action will particularly affect American fashion brands and retailers.

Trump’s trade war will hurt everyone – from Cambodian factories to US online shoppers

Lisa Toohey

Professor of Law, UNSW Sydney

It had the hallmarks of a reality TV cliffhanger. Until recently, many people had never even heard of tariffs. Now, there’s been rolling live international coverage of so-called “Liberation Day”, as US President Donald Trump laid out tariffs to be imposed on countries around the world.

Just hours ago, Trump announced all imports to the United States will be subject to a new “baseline” 10% tariff. This is an additional tax charged by US Customs and Border Protection when products cross the border.

The baseline tariff is expected to take effect from April 5, and then higher reciprocal tariffs on individual countries from April 9. That leaves no time for businesses to adjust their supply chains.

What might the next “episode” hold for the rest of the world? We can expect many countries to retaliate, bringing in tariffs and trade penalties of their own. That comes with risks.

Tariffs on the whole world
Vietnam will be among the hardest hit by reciprocal measures, with a 46% tariff. China, South Korea and Japan will also feel the brunt of the newest announcement – all subject to new tariffs of between 24% and 34%. The European Union is subject to 20%.
Many countries had already vowed to retaliate.

In a recent speech, the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said “all instruments are on the table”. She also stressed that the single market is the “safe harbour” for EU members.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has vowed to retaliate against US tariffs. Ronald Wittek/EPA
Canada was apparently spared from the baseline 10% tariff. But it still has to contend with previously announced 25% tariffs on the automotive and other sectors.

Canada’s new prime minister, Mark Carney, has said “nothing is off the table” in terms of retaliation.

Major tariffs on Asia
The 34% new tariff on China will be on top of the 20% tariff previously imposed, bringing the total to 54%.

That’s a further aggravation to already fractious relations between the world’s two largest economies.

Vietnam is especially reliant on the US market, and has been trying to negotiate its way through tariff threats. This has included unprecedented agreements to accept deported Vietnamese citizens from the US.

Until this point, Vietnam had benefited from tensions between the US and China. These new enormous tariffs will have large ripple effects through not only Vietnam, but also less economically developed Cambodia (49% tariff) and Myanmar (44% tariff).
Is it worth fighting back?
Vulnerable countries may not have the leverage to fight back. It is hard to imagine what leverage Cambodia or Myanmar could have against the US, given the disparity in resources.

Other countries consider it is not worth the fight. For example, Australia is rightly questioning whether a tit-for-tat strategy is effective, or will just ramp up the problem further.

One country that has flown under the radar is Russia. Two-way trade with Russia is small, and subject to sanctions. But US media have reported Trump would like to expand the trading relationship in the future.

A nightmare for the US Postal Service
Some of the interesting impacts of Trump’s announcements relate to what trade experts call the “de minimis” rule: usually, if you make a small purchase online, you don’t pay import taxes when the item arrives in your country.

Trump closed this loophole for goods from China in February, but then paused it days later. On April 2, Trump signed an executive order to again close the loophole, which will be effective May 2.

Duties will apply to goods from China that were previously exempt, below the “de minimis” amount of US$800. Those sent through the international postal network will face a rate of either 30% of their value or a charge of $25 per item (increasing to $50 in June).

This won’t just be a nightmare for online shoppers. Some 100,000 small parcels arrive in the US every hour, many from China.

These charges will now have to be collected on many more packages, in coordination with US Customs and Border Protection.
Boycotts and retaliation
We can also expect consumer backlash to increase worldwide, too. Canada’s “elbows up” movement is one template.

Consumers around the world are already choosing to redirect their spending away from US products, expressing their anger at the Trump administration’s stance on trade, diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) policies, environmental protection, gender rights and more.

Consumers should be careful about jumping on the bandwagon without doing their homework, though. Boycotting a US fast food outlet might make you feel better (and frankly may be better for your health), but that’s also going to impact the local franchise owner.

Hating Americans en masse is also not productive – many US citizens are themselves deeply upset at what is happening.

Claiming victory while consumers pay more
Watch out for the impending claim of victory – one of Trump’s mantras popularised in the recent movie, The Apprentice.

The US trade deficit rocketed after Trump’s previous tariff announcements this year, as importers scrambled to stockpile supplies before price increases.

This cannot happen this time, because the tariffs come into effect in just three days.

In the short term, the monthly trade deficit will decline if imports return to normal, which will give Trump a chance to claim the policies are working – even if it’s just a rebound effect.

But these tariffs will harm rather than help ordinary Americans. Everyday purchases like clothes (made in places like Vietnam, Cambodia and China) could soon cost a lot more than they used to – with a $20 t-shirt going up to nearly $30, not including US sales taxes.

As this reality TV-style trade drama continues to unfold, the world should prepare for more episodes, more cliffhangers, and more uncertainty.

GCRPPB calls for urgent action re the plight of Bhutanese Refugees expelled by the US authorities

The Hague – The Global Campaign for the Release of Political Prisoners in Bhutan (GCRPPB) – a Bhutanese rights group- has expressed deep concern over the forced deportation of ten Bhutanese refugees from the United States, leading to renewed statelessness and a humanitarian crisis.

“These individuals, originally evicted from Bhutan in the 1990s, had been legally resettled in the U.S. under the UNHCR resettlement program. Despite this, they were forcibly removed and sent to Bhutan, arriving at Paro Airport on March 27, 2025,” a statement by the GCRPPB said.

Rather than allowing them to remain, Bhutanese authorities expelled them to India, where they were left without any legal status or support. Indian security forces then transferred them to the Nepal-India border at Panitanki. Three of them—Roshan Tamang, Asish Subedi, and Santosh Darji—were apprehended by Nepali authorities after reaching the Bhutanese refugee camp in Beldangi for illegally entering Nepal without legal documents. Their fate remains uncertain as they now face potential deportation back to India. The whereabouts of the remaining seven deportees remain unknown, raising serious concerns over their safety and well-being, the statement said.

“This incident highlights a blatant violation of international refugee protections and the principle of non-refoulement. These former refugees, once victims of Bhutan’s ethnic cleansing policies, are now being retraumatized and rendered stateless once again,” said the statement adding, “GCRPPB strongly condemns the actions of the Bhutanese and Indian authorities, whose coordinated efforts have placed these individuals in an unprecedented legal limbo. Their fundamental rights to asylum, protection, and legal status have been denied, exposing them to further risks of detention and abuse.”

Call for Action

The GCRPPB has called upon the Government of Nepalto refrain from deporting these individuals back to Panitanki. Instead, Nepal must coordinate with the U.S and Indian embassies in Kathmandu and call on Bhutan to accept and resettle them.

The rights group has called upon the Government ofBhutan to immediately accept them back, take responsibility for these individuals, grant them rightful legal status, and cease discriminatory actions against them.

The GCRPPB has called upon the governments of India and Nepalto provide legal clarity, temporary humanitarian protection, and ensure access to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) for these individuals.

The Bhutanese rights group has also called upon the Government of the United States to immediately halt the deportation of legally resettled Bhutanese refugees and allow them to face legal proceedings in the U.S. if they have committed any crime or violated U.S. laws.

The GCRPPB has also called upon the UNHCR and international human rights organizations to intervene immediately, investigate these violations, and provide urgent humanitarian assistance.

The GCRPPB has already contacted major international bodies such as the European Union, UN Human Rights Council, UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Human Rights Watch, and other important institutions, seeking their immediate attention on this issue, the statement said.

The rights group has also requested human rights and civil society leaders in Nepal to press the Nepalese government to coordinate with the U.S. and Indian embassies in Kathmandu to resolve this issue amicably and to prevent Bhutan from dumping its unwanted citizens in Nepal once and for all.

“The Global Campaign for the Rights of the People of Bhutan remains committed to advocating for justice, dignity, and legal protections for all displaced Bhutanese refugees beside continuing its advocacy for the safe and timely release of all the Bhutanese political prisoners and rehabilitate them.  Above all, we continue our unwavering advocacy for the safe and timely release of all Bhutanese political prisoners, striving for their rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society,” said the statement issued by Ram Karki, Founder and Global Coordinator of the  GCRPPB.

Millions Embrace Holi: A Colorful Celebration Across South Asia

Millions of people across South Asia celebrated Holi, the vibrant Hindu festival of colors, in a display of unity and cultural heritage. The festivities marked the end of winter and the triumph of good over evil, with revelers immersing themselves in a kaleidoscope of hues. Traditional sweets, lively music, and spirited dance set the stage for a jubilant celebration that resonated with communities far and wide.

In India, where Holi is a national holiday, participants dressed in white were transformed into living canvases as they playfully smeared one another with brightly colored powders. In Nepal, the two-day event, which began on Thursday, was celebrated with equal enthusiasm, honoring the divine love of Krishna and Radha—a symbol of rebirth and rejuvenation in Hindu mythology.

Children added to the excitement by hurling water balloons filled with colored pigments from rooftops, while groups in public parks used water guns to spread the festive spirit. In some areas, marigolds, roses, and jasmine petals were thrown instead of powders. On the eve of Holi, massive bonfires were lit to signify the victory of good over evil, as families gathered to sing, dance, and pray. The vibrant festival united communities, spreading pure joy and hope regionwide.

A Journey to Remember: Exploring the Magic of Andorra

By : Minu Shakya Shrestha
Tucked away in the heart of the Pyrenees, the small but stunning country of Andorra offers a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and warm hospitality. Our recent trip to this hidden gem proved to be an unforgettable experience, filled with adventure, delicious food, and friendly encounters.

Our journey began with a scenic bus ride from Barcelona airport, as there are no direct train or plane services to Andorra. The ride itself was a treat—winding roads, towering mountains, and picturesque valleys kept us captivated throughout.

We explored several beautiful towns, including Encamp, St. Julia, and La Villa. Each had its own unique charm, with cobbled streets, cozy local shops, and stunning mountain views. The peaceful atmosphere made it easy to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and fully embrace the natural beauty of Andorra.

Food lovers would find Andorra a delight. We indulged in local dishes at small restaurants and pubs, where warm smiles and welcoming gestures made up for the lack of English speakers. With a mix of basic Spanish and hand signals, we connected with the locals, sharing stories and laughter. Their hospitality made our dining experiences even more memorable.

One of the most heartwarming parts of the trip was meeting the locals in pubs and shops. Despite the language barrier, the genuine friendliness of the Andorran people made us feel right at home. Whether it was a cheerful exchange at a café or a shared laugh over a drink, these moments added a personal touch to our journey.

Our adventure reached new heights—literally—at the Soldeu Ski Resort, where we had a blast in the snow. Snowball fights, fresh powder, and the thrill of the cable car ride made it a perfect winter wonderland experience. The panoramic views of snow-covered mountains were simply breathtaking.

As our trip came to an end, we left Andorra with hearts full of joy and a camera full of stunning memories. From the scenic bus ride to the cozy mountain towns, from the welcoming locals to the snowy escapades, Andorra had given us an experience to cherish forever.

Nepal Faces Climate Crisis, Seeks Continued UK Support: Minister Shahi

London, March 15 – Nepal’s Minister of Forests and Environment, Ain Bahadur Shahi, has highlighted Nepal’s increasing vulnerability due to climate change, urging continued financial support from the UK government.

Speaking at an interactive event hosted by the Nepalese Embassy in London on Friday evening, Minister Shahi emphasized that global climate challenges are significantly impacting Nepal.

“Nepal’s mountains are melting due to climate change, affecting agriculture, tourism, and daily life. The country is in a very difficult situation,” he said.

Minister Shahi expressed confidence that the UK government would continue its financial assistance to Nepal. He attended a high-level ministerial program on water security, climate, nature, and development, where he underscored Nepal’s efforts toward sustainable progress under the joint government of the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML.

Acknowledging the contributions of Nepalese living abroad, he stated that Nepal’s new ordinance has removed legal hurdles, making foreign investment easier.

Minister Shahi also reaffirmed the strong historical ties between Nepal and the UK, particularly through the Gurkha soldiers. He expressed optimism that this relationship would deepen in the future.

The event saw the presence of Nepal’s Deputy Chief of Mission Bipin Duwadi, Nepalese community representatives, and Nepalese Ambassador to the UK, Chandrakumar Ghimire. Ambassador Ghimire described Minister Shahi’s visit as productive and emphasized the historical and strategic importance of Nepal-UK relations.

Duwadi credited the Gurkhas for strengthening ties between the two countries through their bravery and sacrifices.

On Thursday evening, Minister Shahi participated in the Water and Climate Reception at Buckingham Palace, hosted by King Charles III, where he discussed Nepal’s climate challenges and the need for global cooperation.

NNIPA Honours Nepali Taekwondo Champion Pharam Bahadur Mahat in London

London, UK – Nepali National and International Players Association (NNIPA) welcomed and honoured Nepali national player Pharam Bahadur Mahat in a special event held in High Wycombe, London. The program was organized to recognize Mahat’s contributions to Nepal’s sports community and his upcoming participation in international competitions.

The event saw the presence of former World Kyokushin record holder from Nepal, Mr. Suraj Karki and NNIPA President Mr. Siddhartha Chhetri, who officially welcomed Mahat. Mahat, currently in London, is came to participate in an International Seminar at the ITF Taekwondo London and will later compete in the World Championship in Italy this October.

Mahat, the Chief Coach of Gandaki Province ITF Taekwondo Nepal and the National Demonstration Coordinator, has played a crucial role in developing Taekwondo in Nepal. Recognising his contributions, NNIPA President Mr. Siddhartha Chhetri presented him with a token of love and wished him success in his upcoming championship.

NNIPA Vice President and former National player Mr. Suraj Karki praised Mahat’s dedication to sports, highlighting his efforts in inspiring and supporting Nepali youth through Taekwondo. Mahat expressed his gratitude to all attendees for their encouragement and support.

The event was attended by successful business personalities, journalists, and sports figures from the Nepali diaspora in the UK, showing strong community support for Mahat and Nepalese sports on the global stage.

Nations Secure Landmark Deal on Nature Funding at COP16

Rome, Feb 27, 2025 (AFP): Countries reached a last-minute agreement on Thursday to map out funding for biodiversity protection until 2030, breaking a deadlock at UN talks in Rome. The deal, seen as a crucial test of international cooperation amid geopolitical tensions, overcame deep divisions between rich and developing nations on how to raise and distribute the billions needed to safeguard global ecosystems.

Delegates erupted in applause as the agreement was finalized in the closing moments of the negotiations at the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization headquarters. “The applause is for all of you. You have done an amazing job,” said COP16 President Susana Muhamad of Colombia, visibly moved by the breakthrough.

The agreement builds on the landmark 2022 global biodiversity pact, which committed nations to halting nature’s destruction by the end of the decade and protecting 30% of the world’s land and oceans. Scientists have warned that urgent action is needed as one million species face extinction due to unsustainable farming, deforestation, and pollution.

Under the deal, countries will focus on two key goals: securing billions of dollars in additional biodiversity funding and establishing the institutions responsible for delivering it. Currently, the world is far from meeting its financial commitments—while nations pledged $200 billion annually for biodiversity by 2030, only $15 billion was delivered in 2022, according to the OECD.

The talks were also a test of global diplomacy, occurring amid trade disputes and budget cuts to international aid, including by new US President Donald Trump. Washington, which has never joined the UN’s Convention on Biological Diversity, did not send a representative to the conference.

Despite challenges, Canada’s Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault said the agreement showed that “multilateralism can present hope at a time of geopolitical uncertainty.”

With this crucial step forward, nations must now turn their commitments into action to protect the planet’s ecosystems for future generati

Former Gurkha Hari Budha Magar Sets Record as First Double Above-Knee Amputee to Summit Aconcagua

London, UK – Former Gurkha Hari Budha Magar has made history by becoming the first double above-knee amputee to summit Mount Aconcagua, the highest peak outside Asia. The veteran reached the 6,960m (22,837ft) summit in Argentina as part of his ambitious challenge to climb the Seven Summits—the highest peaks on each continent—within 12 months.

Hari, who lost both legs in Afghanistan, described the climb as both physically and mentally exhausting. “Every mountain brings its own challenges, but for me, these are amplified with my disability,” he said. Climbing three times slower than able-bodied mountaineers, he had to set up an extra Camp 4 due to the harsh conditions and exhaustion. However, his careful strategy helped him overcome Aconcagua’s notoriously strong winds.

In 2023, Hari became the first double above-knee amputee to summit Mount Everest. Now, with five of the Seven Summits completed, he aims to conquer Puncak Jaya in Oceania and Mount Vinson in Antarctica to finish his record-breaking journey. If successful, he will be the first double above-knee amputee to achieve this feat, which only 500 people in history have completed.

Beyond personal achievement, Hari hopes to inspire change in perceptions of disability. “Climbing Everest was just the beginning. You need to keep proving what’s possible to drive real change,” he said.

Hari’s challenge also supports veterans’ charities, including Blesma and The Gurkha Welfare Trust. His climb was aided by advancements in prosthetic technology and a dedicated team, including endurance athlete Sally Orange and expedition leader Rami Rasamny.

As he nears his final summits, Hari continues to redefine what’s possible in mountaineering, proving that determination knows no limits.

Nepali Army Day Celebrated at Nepal Embassy in London

London  – The Embassy of Nepal in the United Kingdom hosted a grand reception on the occasion of the 262nd Nepali Army Day at its premises this evening. The event was attended by General Sir Roly Walker, Chief of the General Staff of the British Army, H. E. Mr. Chandra Kumar Ghimire, Ambassador of Nepal to the UK, and over 150 distinguished guests from various sectors, including London-based Defense Attachés, government officials, military officers, media representatives, and members of the Nepali diaspora.

In his address, Ambassador Ghimire highlighted the illustrious history and legacy of the Nepali Army, emphasizing its role in safeguarding Nepal’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national interests. He praised the army’s commitment to global peace and humanitarian service, recognizing its significant contributions to UN peacekeeping missions.

The Ambassador also acknowledged the historic bond between Nepal and the UK through the Gurkhas, who have served in the British Army for over two centuries. He expressed gratitude to the British Government for its consistent support to Nepal and its armed forces.

General Sir Roly Walker, the Chief Guest at the event, commended the dedication, loyalty, and professionalism of the Nepali Army. He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening collaboration and cooperation between the British and Nepali military forces.

Earlier, Colonel Anup Shah, Military Attaché at the Embassy of Nepal, delivered the welcome remarks, paying tribute to the unconditional sacrifices of the Nepali Army throughout history. He presented an overview of the army’s global peacekeeping efforts, training programs, humanitarian missions, and development initiatives. Guests also viewed video clips showcasing the Nepali Army’s diverse engagements and achievements.

The event served as a testament to the deep-rooted friendship and military cooperation between Nepal and the United Kingdom while honoring the bravery and legacy of the Nepali Army.

Global Conference for a Caste-Free World 2025being organised in Toronto

Toronto — Sahayatra-Canada, a non-government organization registered in Canada – in coordination with various organizations from South Asia and North America, is organizing the Global Conference for a Caste-Free World 2025. The event will be held in Toronto, Canada, from May 25 to May 27, with the main theme Building Solidarity towards Equality, Social Justice, and the Abolition of the Caste System.”

“Over 260 million people worldwide face inhumane treatment and discrimination based on caste, race, and descent. While caste-based discrimination originated in South Asia, it has now spread globally,” said Dr Drona Rasali, chair of the organizing committee of the global conference. “The global conference will focus on generating international dialogue around best practices and solutions to address caste-based discrimination. It aims to draw the attention of national and international governments, communities, relevant organizations, and target groups toward creating and implementing effective policies to build a discrimination-free world,” he added.

The conference aims to bring together government agency, policymakers, and activists, representatives from civil society, organizations, businesses, academic researchers, scholars, and students to develop a shared platform for knowledge exchange. It seeks to unite stakeholders worldwide to discuss how caste systems and other oppressive practices can be abolished through collective efforts for justice and equity, according to the organizers.

The conference will feature participants including international and national activists, policymakers, human rights defenders, civil society representatives, businesses, academics, researchers, students, journalists, professionals, and social advocates engaged in campaigns against discrimination. 

“So far, we have receivec confirmation from 15 speakers including distinguished scholars, professors and researchers. We are optimistic that this conference will serve as a shared forum for participants to present their experiences, ideas, and initiatives, with a special focus on caste discrimination in Nepal (the focus country),” said Santosh Bishwakarma, convener of the global conference. “Furthermore, the conference aims to foster international solidarity in the fight against discrimination.”

The discussions will cover a range of topics, including the impacts of caste discrimination, personal experiences of those affected, case-studies, reviews of international laws and their implementation, global efforts to eliminate discrimination, knowledge transfer, research on Dalit-related issues, and best practices and solutions to address caste-based discrimination. The conference will also focus on organizational development, future strategies, and creating an equitable and socially just society. Approximately 500 participants from around the world are expected to attend.

Details of the conference can be accessed at https://www.sahayatraintl.com/global-conference 

New Crime and Policing Bill to Grant Police Power to search homes for stolen mobile

London — The UK government has unveiled a major piece of legislation aimed at tackling anti-social behaviour and street crime. The Crime and Policing Bill, central to the government’s “Safer Streets mission,” introduces new police powers, including the ability to search homes for stolen mobile phones without a warrant. Ministers aim to pass the bill by the end of the year.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said the bill would help “take back our streets and town centres, restoring respect for law and order.” However, the opposition has criticised the move, with the Conservatives accusing Labour of copying previous government policies.

The bill consolidates several proposals from Labour’s election manifesto and introduces Respect Orders, similar to the scrapped Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (Asbos). These will allow courts to impose behavioural restrictions while also requiring offenders to attend addiction or anger management programmes.

Other key measures in the bill include:

  • Scrapping the 2014 law that made shoplifting under £200 a lower priority for police.
  • Making assaulting a shop worker a specific criminal offence.
  • A new power allowing police to seize off-road bikes and e-scooters without warning.
  • A standalone offence for spiking drinks.
  • Strengthening Stalking Prevention Orders, allowing courts to impose restrictions even before a conviction.
  • Requiring online retailers to alert police to bulk or suspicious knife sales.

To support these measures, the Home Office has pledged £200m to recruit 13,000 additional neighbourhood officers by 2029. However, concerns remain about police funding. The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) has warned of a £1.3bn funding gap, and some forces may have to cut officers due to budget shortfalls.

Critics argue the bill lacks a clear financial plan. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp accused Labour of underfunding police forces, putting 1,800 officers at risk. The Home Office, however, insists its additional £1.1bn funding will help meet policing needs.

The Crime and Policing Bill is expected to spark heated debate as it moves through Parliament.

Community Uprising in Nepal Over Controversial Cable Car Project

Taplejung, Nepal – A $22-million government-backed cable car project in Nepal’s eastern district of Taplejung has ignited fierce opposition, with locals fearing the destruction of sacred forests and their livelihoods. Protests have escalated into violent confrontations, raising concerns over the government’s environmental policies and development priorities.

The project, spearheaded by businessman Chandra Prasad Dhakal, aims to construct a 2.5-kilometer cable car leading to the revered Pathibhara temple, a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus and the indigenous Limbu community. While the government hails the initiative as a “national pride” project, many locals see it as an encroachment on their cultural and religious heritage.

In January, demonstrations turned violent, resulting in gunfire injuries to four activists and 21 wounded security personnel. Though construction was temporarily suspended, tensions flared again this week, leaving 14 more injured, including 11 security officers. Protest leader Shree Linkhim Limbu accused authorities of using force against peaceful demonstrators, vowing continued resistance until the project is halted.

Critics argue that the government has failed to conduct proper environmental impact assessments. The project involves clearing approximately 3,000 rhododendron trees, with 10,000 more at risk, threatening endangered species like the red panda, black bear, and snow leopard.

The Supreme Court recently revoked the exemption allowing infrastructure projects in protected areas, offering hope to environmental activists. However, concerns persist that the government may still push ahead with the development.

The project has deeply divided the community. Many locals, including hundreds of porters and tea stall workers who rely on trekking pilgrims for income, fear economic devastation. “If they fly over us in a cable car, how will we survive?” questioned porter Chandra Tamang.

On the other hand, some residents believe the cable car will boost tourism and aid elderly pilgrims. Supporters argue that the project will create 1,000 jobs and drive economic growth.

With deforestation surging across Nepal for infrastructure projects, experts warn of severe long-term consequences. As tensions mount, Taplejung remains a battleground between tradition and modern development.

Nepal FM Rana urges UAE to establish direct flights between Pokhara and Dubai

RSS– Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, paid a courtesy call on Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, in Muscat, Oman, today.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 8th Indian Ocean Conference. The two leaders discussed various aspects of Nepal-UAE relations, including labor, tourism, economic development, and cooperation on climate change risk mitigation.

On the occasion, Minister Rana expressed gratitude to the UAE government for providing employment opportunities to Nepalese workers, according to her personal secretariat. In response, Minister Sayegh acknowledged the significant contributions of Nepali workers to the UAE’s socio-economic development.

The discussion also focused on strengthening cooperation in tourism, economic development, trade, and potential investment opportunities.

Minister Rana proposed the initiation of direct flights between Dubai and Pokhara International Airport. In response, Minister Sayegh assured that a technical study would be conducted to assess feasibility and advance plans for the proposed route.

Additionally, Minister Rana invited the UAE to participate in the Sagarmatha Sambaad, scheduled to be held in Kathmandu from May 16 to 18. She emphasized that the forum would address pressing regional and global issues, including climate change.

Nepal Begins Regular Import of Petroleum Products via Pipeline from India

Bagmati, Feb 17: In a significant development, Nepal has commenced the regular import of petroleum products through the newly expanded pipeline from India’s Motihari to Amlekhgunj in Bara. This marks a milestone in the Intra-national Petroleum Pipeline Expansion project, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of fuel supply in the region.

Pralayankar Acharya, Chief of Nepal Oil Corporation’s Madhes Province Office in Amlekhgunj, confirmed the completion of the pipeline expansion and the initiation of regular imports. “Petrol and kerosene have already been imported via the pipeline,” Acharya stated. “We have now started formally distributing the imported petrol to depots in major cities across the country.”

The pipeline expansion project includes the construction of two petrol tanks with a capacity of 4,100 kiloliters each, two transmix tanks with a capacity of 250 kiloliters, and 24 fully automatic loading way-refillers for transporting petrol. Additionally, a pump house and laboratory have been established at the Indian Oil Corporation’s depot in Amlekhgunj.

The project also saw upgrades to the ‘Fire Fighting System’, the ‘OWS System’ for water and oil separation, and the PMCC Cell. Likhita Infrastructure was contracted to complete the construction by 2023, but the work was only recently finished due to various delays.

Indian Oil Corporation has also constructed two transmix tanks for storing mixed fuel and a firewater tank with a capacity of 3,000 kiloliters for depot protection. With these enhancements, the Amlekhgunj depot now boasts a diesel storage capacity of 24,840 kiloliters and a petrol storage capacity of 16,630 kiloliters.

This development is expected to significantly bolster Nepal’s fuel supply infrastructure, ensuring a more stable and efficient distribution of petroleum products nationwide.