Category: News

Trump Calls India’s Economy Dead

Trump Calls India's Economy Dead

New Delhi, India – A political firestorm has erupted in India following U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments labeling the Indian economy as “dead.” The remarks, made hours after the U.S. announced a 25% tariff on Indian goods and a potential “penalty” for India’s trade with Russia, have been met with a sharp rebuttal from India’s […]

United States and Pakistan Announce Historic Trade Deal

United States and Pakistan Announce Historic Trade Deal

Islamabad, Pakistan – Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has praised a new, “historic” trade agreement with the United States, thanking U.S. President Donald Trump for his leadership in finalizing the deal. The agreement, announced on July 30, 2025, includes a key provision for the two nations to collaborate on developing Pakistan’s “massive oil reserves.” For […]

Tsunami danger mostly passes after earthquake hits off Russia

Tsunami danger mostly passes after earthquake hits off Russia

One of the world’s strongest earthquakes struck Russia’s Far East early on Wednesday (July 30, 2025), an 8.8 magnitude tremble that caused a tsunami in the northern pacific region and prompted warning for Alaska, Hawaii and other coasts south toward new Zealand . A day after the powerful earthquake, New Zealand and Chile remained on […]

Thailand and Cambodia reaffirm ceasefire

Thailand and Cambodia reaffirm ceasefire

The volatile border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia, which recently escalated into days of deadly clashes, saw a significant diplomatic intervention from China, leading to a reaffirmed, albeit fragile, ceasefire. This development follows a period of intense fighting that claimed at least 41 lives and displaced over 260,000 people, underscoring the urgent need for external […]

Rahul Gandhi Accusations and PM Modi Rebuttal on Operation Sindoor

Rahul Gandhi Accusations and PM Modi Rebuttal on Operation Sindoor

The Indian political landscape witnessed a fiery exchange in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, as Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of exploiting the armed forces for political gain following the “Pahalgam attack” and “Operation Sindoor.” This ignited a robust defense from […]

Chief Minister Vows No Tolerance for Encroachment

EMPHASIS ON DISASTER-RESILIENT URBAN GOVERNANCE IN NAGALAND Nagaland, a state nestled in India's geologically fragile North-Eastern region, is particularly vulnerable to natural calamities like earthquakes, landslides, and floods. Recognizing this inherent risk, the Nagaland government is making a concerted effort to embed disaster resilience within its urban governance framework. This commitment was strongly reaffirmed by Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio at the recent Urban and Local Resilience Training for elected members of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), underscoring a critical shift towards proactive disaster risk reduction. The recent devastating cloudbursts, landslides in Pherima, and floods in Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Niuland serve as stark reminders of Nagaland's susceptibility to recurring disasters. These incidents highlight the urgent need for a "zero-tolerance" policy on practices that exacerbate risks, such as land encroachments and non-compliant building constructions. Dr. Rio rightly emphasized that ULBs are the "first responders" and "warriors of our towns and wards," holding a pivotal role in "where policy meets survival." Their actions, from signing building permits to enforcing safety regulations, directly impact community safety and future resilience. Strict Enforcement of Building Bye-Laws: With Nagaland's urban centers predominantly in Zone V earthquake-prone areas, strict adherence to earthquake safety codes is paramount. No structure should be approved without compliance, and ULBs must insist on flood-resilient designs, including raised plinths and proper stormwater drainage, especially in low-lying areas like Dimapur. Illegal encroachments on riverbanks, drains, and unstable hillsides must be dealt with firmly, even to the extent of demolishing non-compliant structures. Vigilance and Accountability in Permits: Every building permit signed by an elected leader is a "covenant of public safety." Violations of this trust must carry severe consequences, including stop-work orders and, if necessary, demolition of structures on flood channels or landslide-prone zones. This reinforces the idea that vigilance at the local level is the primary defence against preventable disasters. Proactive Drainage System Management: Urban flooding is a recurring nightmare for Nagaland's towns. Dr. Rio stressed that drainage system management is the single most crucial preventive measure. This includes the timely cleaning and desilting of all drains, major and minor, before the monsoon season. Blockages caused by garbage, debris, vegetation, and encroachments must be cleared to ensure unimpeded water flow. Intensified garbage collection and effective solid waste disposal are also vital to prevent drain clogging. Comprehensive Landslide Risk Mapping and Geo-technical Investigations: Given Nagaland's complex and unstable geology, comprehensive landslide risk mapping in collaboration with the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) or the Department of Geology and Mining is essential. ULBs are directed to identify and mark vulnerable slopes and implement temporary safety measures. Crucially, no infrastructure project should be approved without a proper soil test and thorough geo-technical investigations, especially in high-risk zones like the NH-29 corridor. Community Engagement and Awareness: Beyond strict enforcement, ULBs are urged to actively engage with their communities, promoting public awareness and fostering collective responsibility in maintaining safe urban environments. This collaborative approach is vital for long-term resilience. Inter-Agency Coordination and Monsoon Preparedness: ULBs play a frontline role in monsoon preparedness and must ensure year-round readiness. This necessitates close coordination with District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs), the Police, Fire & Emergency Services, the Health Department, the Public Works Department, and the Public Health Engineering Department. Dr. Rio's call for ULB leaders to "rise above administrative duties to become true protectors of Naga lives" underscores the profound responsibility entrusted to them. This involves standing firm against corruption in construction practices, mobilizing local communities ("khels, colonies, and wards"), and striving to make Nagaland a model state for mountain resilience in India. Chief Minister Vows No Tolerance for Encroachment, While acknowledging the challenges posed by the terrain and limited resources, the Chief Minister emphasized that sustained effort, investment, and collaboration between ULBs, State agencies, and local communities are absolutely essential. The unveiling of the Line Department Disaster Management Plan Preparation further signifies the government's commitment to a holistic approach to disaster risk reduction. The emphasis on disaster-resilient urban governance in Nagaland is not merely a policy directive but a necessity for survival and sustainable development. By empowering ULBs, enforcing stringent regulations, fostering community participation, and prioritizing proactive measures, Nagaland aims to transform its urban centers into safe, thriving, and resilient communities capable of withstanding the inevitable challenges posed by its unique geographical landscape. This comprehensive approach, championed by Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, lays the groundwork for a safer and more secure future for all citizens of Nagaland.

EMPHASIS ON DISASTER-RESILIENT URBAN GOVERNANCE IN NAGALAND Nagaland, a state nestled in India’s geologically fragile North-Eastern region, is particularly vulnerable to natural calamities like earthquakes, landslides, and floods. Recognizing this inherent risk, the Nagaland government is making a concerted effort to embed disaster resilience within its urban governance framework. This commitment was strongly reaffirmed by […]

Parliamentary Fury Over Pahalgam Operation Sindoor

Parliamentary Fury Over Pahalgam Operation Sindoor

NEW DELHI, India – A fiery debate erupted in the Lok Sabha on Monday as the Opposition vehemently challenged the government over alleged “security lapses” leading to the recent Pahalgam terror attack and raised critical questions regarding “Operation Sindoor,” India’s military response. The session saw sharp exchanges, with opposition parties demanding accountability from Home Minister […]

Iran and European countries resume nuclear talks

Iran and European countries resume nuclear talks

Istanbul is once again at the heart of high-stakes diplomacy as Iranian and European diplomats convene to address the persistent deadlock surrounding Tehran’s nuclear program. Representatives from the E3 nations – Britain, France, and Germany – are meeting Iranian officials, marking the first direct talks since the volatile 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel in […]

India and Maldives Partnership Flourishes Amidst Historic Celebrations

India and Maldives Partnership Flourishes Amidst Historic Celebrations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the Maldives underscores the enduring strength and strategic importance of the India-Maldives relationship. Emphasizing the archipelago’s pivotal role in India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and the comprehensive MAHASAGAR vision, PM Modi reiterated India’s pride in being Male’s “most trusted friend” and a “first responder” in times of need. This […]

The Volatile Thailand Cambodian Border Dispute

The Volatile Thailand Cambodian Border Dispute

The border between Thailand and Cambodia, a historical fault line largely drawn during French colonial rule, has once again erupted in deadly violence. This long-simmering and often-overlooked dispute has escalated dramatically, with military clashes, fighter jet deployments, and accusations of aggression from both sides. This essay will explore the underlying causes of the ongoing contention, […]

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