NEW DELHI TIMES R.N.I. No 53449/91 DL-SW-1/4124/20-22 (Monday/Tuesday same week) (Published Every Monday) New Delhi Page 24 Rs. 7.00

22 - 28 March 2021 Vol - 31 No. 8 Email : [email protected] Founder : Dr. Govind Narain Srivastava ISSN -2349-1221 Pakistan takes Acceptance of one’s fault is the Sri Lanka for a ride greatest attainment Last month, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan went on A terrible truth that afflicts us all is that we are all so his maiden visit to the island nation of Sri Lanka. The very ashamed of our faults and mistakes. Yes, we are theme of his visit was widely advertised as strategic petrified and so very insecure of others finding out of partnering between Islamabad and Colombo to our faults. We would rather have the world believe that increase trade and furthering bilateral relations. we are infinitely strong and flawless than admit that “It’s But none could deny the fact that how our fault or that we made a mistake”. opportunist Imran Khan is. We fear the cruel and harsh judgments of others and are During his visit, Imran Khan met with so very insecure that they will not accept us if they see President Rajapaksha... that we are an idiot inside or if they knew of our flaws... By Dr. Ankit Srivastava Page 3 By Dr. Pramila Srivastava Page 24

By NDT Special Bureau Page 2 Free Laundromats or Universal BIO-TERRORISM Pakistan among biggest importers of major Basic Income New formulae for creating havoc arms in Asia and Oceania: SIPRI Report

The sight of the homeless sleeping on sidewalks in below- Bio-terrorism has emerged as a major security threat in A report published on March 15 by the Stockholm freezing temperatures is not an uncommon sight for those the contemporary world. In simple terms, bio-terrorism is International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) revealed of us who call the downtown core of Canada’s... the deliberate release of viruses, bacteria... that Pakistan was among the biggest importers... By Tarek Fatah Page 2 By Sujay Dhawan Page 4 By Himanshu Sharma Page 5 For critical insights One Year* Five Year* Subscribe Rs. 350 Rs. 1500 To Subscribe E-Paper Whatsapp +91 9999 331 600 * Details on Page 21

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Opinion NEW DELHI TIMES India’s pluralistic, liberal democracy: A beacon for the world many crises with no known panacea. India Modi has energetically pushed for reforms farming and eliminate the bulk of poverty ◆ By NDT Special Bureau is diverse is an understatement. It lies in the on both the economic and social fronts. remaining in India within a decade. But @NewDelhiTimes cross-section of geopolitical cracks is a fact. A universe like India is bound to have the path of this change will be a domestic India faced n-number of social, communal, opposition, and if you are reading it in issue. What’s problematic is the deliberate [email protected] economic, symbolic, political, cultural, news, and watching protestors storm roads, targeting of Indian interests like embassies racial, and name it, problems, but that didn’t and opposition rambling, Twitter on the abroad by anti-India elements. Not the great ndia has not just been termed as the deterr the determination of standing by the boil, foreign outlets sermonising, Rights Indian Tug of War! I largest democracy in the world but values of democracy. It is with this logic, organizations calling-in India experts, and Which country has given reservations to the fact remains it is the largest democracy most political scientists predicted India will India buzzing like a sweet metal string; you 60 percent of its poor, and historically in the world with a much more strengthened break apart shortly after 1947. are witnessing the Democratic Festival of discriminated population? India never saw outlook. A nation that woke to life and Elephant. freedom in 1947 from the clutches of But to their dismay, India not only solved discrimination in the scale of black racism, colonialism and is moving ahead to make a mammoth of its own issues, but it also Democracy is where one has the right to but it has made special privileged provisions a sustainable future with a pluralistic consolidated, grew its strength, fought wars protest, and India has given its citizens the for both religious and linguistic minorities. approach. Since its independence, the nation with unruly neighbors, helped create free very right to protest peacefully. With strong Which other country has done this? Bangladesh and contributed the most to diplomacy and stern leadership of PM Modi, has surprised even the most practical and An intriguing question however is which world peace with its boots serving under India will be among the top five economies talented political scientists of the world. country, apart from India, is giving away the UN Flag. And India did all this without in the next decade. Why? Understanding Coronavirus vaccines to the suffering alliances, with humanitarian principles, this is important The current government made an world? India’s “Vaccine Maitri” initiative without the deserving seat of UN Security in order to amendment to give “six years early” has reached 70+ countries with COVID Council, but with the fullest assumption understand the citizenship to “minority” refugees from Vaccines. Recall India’s population! of responsibility bestowed on it by its very nature of “certain neighboring countries”. Instead India not just believes in healing the self forefathers. India. of gratitude, it was attacked by vicious but valours the ideals of good for all. No From its Most of India’s problems are older than propaganda. What is dangerous to note selfish attempts were made by India to first inception as the nation-states themselves, yet the is that anti-India elements who covertly vaccinate its own population then think of a modern unwavering attitude has kept it upright and work to sabotage the image of India on its neighbourhood and the world. Political free nation, its compliance of democratic values has international platforms have been fueling struggles and protests are necessary, India faced made it an epitome of democracy for many the peaceful protests, be it anti-CAA or the however, that itself is not the determiner. other nations to follow. Farmer’s protest, to give it a radical turn. great Democracies have created the elaborate India is facing threats from radical Islamic Despite being a pluralistic society, has structure of elections, representations, ideology and has handled it well. Remember India given in to orthodoxy? No. In freedom to protest, political negotiations, that fewer Indian Muslims gave importance fact, the ideals enshrined in the Indian etc. and it is a sight to behold. Foreign to the call of the Islamic State than distant Constitution: Freedom - Economic, organizations can’t scale India based on just modern developed nations. India has the Social and Political, is in many ways “protests”, can’t measure India’s freedom second-largest Muslim population. If one much more encompassing than the based on just “legal proceedings”, and goes by fact, Indian minorities are content Western Constitutions because can’t equate Indian democracy with just and happy. makers of India had realized that “monolithic democracies”. India is like no capacity building is an inherent Indian Agriculture has historically been a other and it is a fact none can devalue. India part of freedom. Something controlled sector with fixed markets, no has come a long way. From being the land of that Nobel Laureate in freedom to market produce anywhere else, the snake-charmers and slums, to being one Economics, Amartya Sen and incentivized unorganized business. of the strongest democracy and a trustworthy worked out much later. The Change is necessary to pull Indian ally to most of the countries, India has Government of Narendra Agriculture towards modern sustainable written a history that is unprecedented. Free Laundromats or Universal Basic Income their clothes for free. No questions asked. introduced Private Members Bill C-273 — chosen for debate at the governing party’s An Act to establish a national strategy for a April 9-10 convention.” ◆ By Tarek Fatah The pandemic has caused great damage to guaranteed basic income. Author & Columnist, Canada the world economy, devastating the dignity To those who say UBI is a left-wing @TarekFatah and self-respect of millions who have lost conspiracy, allow me to list those who have [email protected] their jobs or have become redundant in the backed the concept: new economy that is rising from the ashes of he sight of the homeless sleeping a world we once knew. 1. Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg. T on sidewalks in below-freezing Musk suggests it will become necessary temperatures is not an uncommon sight for Individual charity and kindness of citizens as automation eliminates jobs, while the those of us who call the downtown core of towards strangers may be noble deeds, but Facebook CEO sees it as a way to give people Canada’s major cities our home. However, a compassion alone never offered a solution a safety net to support entrepreneurship new category of the poor is emerging in our to the challenges of a society divided by neighbourhoods. wealth. Ask Mother Teresa. 2. 100 Canadian CEOs, who in 2018 urged

PC : Getty Images Premier Doug Ford to rescue Ontario’s basic Imagine having to choose between milk Only state intervention — be it in education, income project. for your children and getting your clothes healthcare or social services – can level the Introducing her bill, Dzerowicz disclosed, cleaned at the laundromat. This is not a playing field and accord some degree of some Ministers in Prime Minister Justin 3. The United Church of Canada believes, “A theoretical scenario; it is a fact of life. dignity to the less fortunate. Yes, I use the Trudeau’s cabinet were “very supportive” [basic income] program would help provide word “less fortunate” because not everyone of her initiative. According to a Huffington an adequate living level for everyone and In January, Nancy Seto, owner-operator of is able to inherit some of the trillions that are Post story: “The realities of work are address the persistent inequities within our the Yummi Cafe Laundromat in Toronto being inherited by the children of the baby- changing faster than ever, Dzerowicz said, country.” noticed a regular customer who had done his boomer generation — wealth from their adding an observation that more workers washing but was not drying them. parents for work they never did. are shifting to the gig economy, making 4. Pope Francis, who wrote after the temporary short-term work increasingly When she asked the customer why he wasn’t coronavirus pandemic, “This may be the common. Future job security is also being drying his large pile of clothes, the man told Thankfully, there is a way out and there time to consider a universal basic wage. threatened by automation and artificial her he had to choose between using the dryer are people willing to act to create a more intelligence.” and buying milk for his kids. “I felt so bad equitable society. Their plan is to introduce 5. The Anglican Church of Canada. that I offered to cover the cost,” Seto told the concept of a Universal Basic Income CBC Toronto. (UBI) at the upcoming federal Liberal As Canadian Press reports: “The idea of With the NDP already committed to UBI, a convention in April. creating a universal basic income is being Liberal initiative in this direction may very Since that incident, Seto and her husband pushed by Liberal MPs and grassroots well end the hopes of Conservative leader have opened up their laundromat inviting The initiative was first put into motion by party members, young and old, from east to Erin O’Toole and mean another term for people hiding in poverty to wash and dry MP Julie Dzerowicz, who in February west — and is among the top priority issues Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

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Editor’s Desk NEW DELHI TIMES Pakistan takes Sri Lanka for a ride Beggars can’t be donors!! put Islamabad in a sore spot where it has By offering to promote the One Belt and attempt by Pakistan is its pitch to make to walk a thin line between the Taliban and Road project of Beijing, Imran has nakedly the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) a Nuclear- ◆ Dr. Ankit Srivastava the US. The economy is in severe distress tried to showcase its concocted lies. Sri free zone of peace. This was born years Chief Editor and terror-finance watchdog FATF has Lanka has no conflicts with India and in back when India launched its first nuclear @AnkitNDT maintained unwavering restrictions for fact, both nations have a very good shared ballistic missile submarine INS Arihant. Sri [email protected] the past few years. FATF is well-aware of cultural and bilateral relationship. Lanka back in 1971 had proposed to make Pakistan’s lying tactics. Pakistan is largely IOR a zone of peace, free of foreign navies. ast month, Pakistan’s Prime Minister isolated and in dire need of allies, who even Both have considered each other as strategic Pakistan is trying to tweak it, but too late for L Imran Khan went on his maiden visit to if symbolic can put a joint face in some of partners whose history dates back to the manipulation. the island nation of Sri Lanka. The theme of the issues. The most important issue for epic quest of Lord Ram through the Palk his visit was widely advertised as strategic Pakistan is India. Strait and the historical travel of Ashoka’s Pakistan’s vigorous attempts to reach out partnering between Islamabad and Colombo siblings to ancient Lanka as missionaries of to South Asian Nations is a clear attempt to increase trade and furthering bilateral According to the calculus of Pakistan, Sri Buddhism. to counter India. Though India is not relations. But none could deny the fact that Lanka is also facing distress due to the UN concerned about the bilateral relations of how opportunist Imran Khan is. Human Rights Commission’s regular efforts Further, Pakistan’s proposal to establish a Pakistan with its neighbours, it has to fast- for an investigation into the war crimes on South Asian culture centre is laughable since track the resolution of the remaining issues During his visit, Imran Khan met with the Tamil population. Pakistan is hoping to South Asian native cultures like Buddhism, in its relations with its neighbours. President Rajapaksha and both leaders delve into this contentious issue to create Sikhism, Hinduism are on verge of extinction discussed bilateral relations. Imran stressed a rift between India and Sri Lanka. But no and heavily persecuted in Pakistan. Seems On a humorous note, if Rajapaksha uses the that Pakistan is a gateway to the Central gains at hand because Colombo takes New Imran forgot the destruction of the Bamiyan $50m credit line from Pakistan, Islamabad Asian trade and both nations can work Delhi as its elder brother and both nations Buddha by the so-called heroes of Pakistan. may run to international forums yet again to together to further the shared culture. In a share strengthened bilateral partnership. finance it. That’s the seriousness of the crisis gesture of strategic intent, Pakistan offered facing Pakistan’s economy. With regard to Defence, Sri Lanka being a $50m credit line for defense purchases. Sri Lanka is a distant maritime nation with a maritime nation needs a strong Navy, Those aware of Pakistan’s duplicity can’t Imran’s attempts to lure Sri Lanka is a neatly respect to Pakistan. Though both nations something which Pakistan has very sweep the fact under the carpet that the drawn trap and the land of the legendary had closer partnerships at some points in little to offer. Pakistan has no maritime $50m credit line offered by Pakistan to Sri spinner Muttiah Muralitharan is likely to their history, it was mutual overlapping of industrial complex of any worth and relies Lanka is nothing more than a façade. have recognised it. interests at best. Pakistan is shooting for far too heavily on others to fulfil its own the moon by offering to become a reliable requirements. With such generous donation to Sri Lanka, In the wake of the evolving relationship partner for Colombo. Pakistan stunned the world. At one hand, among South Asian countries and with Imran Khan doesn't even have a plane to fly It would be better for Sri Lanka to realise Pakistan’s unscrupulous attempts to snatch to the US and borrowed Saudi Prince's jet. To do that it has quite cleverly played the that allies like fundamentalist Pakistan will away India’s allies, it will be interesting to And on the other hand he is being benevolent China card. The China Pakistan Economic bring down the democratic image of the watch what is reserved in the fate of India enough to donate. What a joke! Pakistan Corridor with a maritime port at Gwadar island nation. Another equally interesting and Sri Lanka relationship. needs to understand that beggars can't be offers an opening into Central Asia. donars. Imran Khan should understand that Pakistan had offered Colombo its Joint Pakistan's donation to Sri Lanka will create Fighter 17 Thunder jets, though it hurdles for them when they go and ask for was rejected. Imran is likely to have international aids either to the OIC or the pushed for Lanka to become a partner US. in this project. Though investments from Pakistan mean little to Sri The visit was strategically timed. Pakistan Lanka, Imran is piggy-backing is facing increasing global pressure to end on Chinese investments. How state-led terrorism, especially by India. On he wants to do it is an entirely its western front, the Afghanistan issue has puzzling question?

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International NEW DELHI TIMES BIO-TERRORISM New formulae for creating havoc

◆ By Sujay Dhawan the intentional release of biological agents or toxins for the purpose of harming or Editor killing humans, animals or plants with the @SujayDhawan intent to intimidate or coerce a government [email protected] or civilian population to further political or social objective.” Bioterrorist attacks can B io-terrorism has emerged as a major be covert or even overt and is caused by Images PC : Getty security threat in the contemporary virtually any pathogenic microorganism. world. In simple terms, bio-terrorism is the Bioterrorist agents of major concern have deliberate release of viruses, bacteria, toxins been categorized as A, B and C based on the or other harmful agents to cause illness priority of the agents to pose a risk to the or death in people, animals or plants. The national security and the ease with which bio-terrorism? Let us look at some of the Pacific may be linked to Arctic sea ice INTERPOL Bio-terrorism incident pre- they can be disseminated. major researches into the subject. A study reduction” explored how melting sea ice planning and response guide titled, “A pneumonia outbreak associated may be facilitating the spread of a disease defines the term a s Category A comprises of high- with a new coronavirus of probable bat called Phocine distemper virus (PDV) follows: “Bioterrorism priority agents which pose a risk to origin” published in Nature in February among marine mammals. refers to national security. These can be easily 2020 concluded that the COVID-19 virus is transmitted and disseminated, result 96% genetically identical to a Coronavirus Coming back to COVID-19, it cannot be in high mortality, have potential that was previously identified in bats, and denied that the pandemic has once again major public health impact, may researchers are working to discover even bought the threat of bioweapons. Cases cause public panic, or require closer Coronavirus matches in animals to involving the deliberate use of biological special action for public health hone in on the path of spill over into people. agents for malicious purposes have occurred in preparedness. Category B include recent history. Over the past decades, the UN those that are moderately easy Whether the Coronavirus was man-made or Member States have negotiated and adopted to disseminate, cause moderate not, one more ‘virus terrorist’ being released a series of international legal instruments to morbidity and require enhanced by nature is completely the fault of humans. address the risk that non-State actors might disease surveillance and public We are talking about the melting of polar ice develop, acquire and use biological agents or health diagnostic capabilities. releasing harmful docile/dormant viruses weapons for terrorist purposes. Category C includes emerging in the atmosphere as well as seas. Ice can pathogens that could be engineered transport a wide variety of contaminants Overall, countries must make consensus for mass dissemination in the ranging from anthropogenic pollutants like on an internationally binding framework future and have potential for high oil, lead, mercury, and microplastics, to dust, to combat bio-terrorism threat otherwise it morbidity, mortality and major sediments, aerosol deposits, algae, and even could go out of control. We just pray that health impact. Now, let us turn to biological communities. A study published countries like Pakistan never get there hand the most burning question of the in Scientific Journal in communities, “Viral on such weapons or else all hell will break day. Is the Coronavirus a form of emergence in marine mammals in the North loose. International Political Scenario of the Week Niger ◆ By NDT Bureau The threat the terrorists pose to Niger and @NewDelhiTimes bordering states was once again highlighted [email protected] as gunmen on motorcycles attacked a group of civilians returning from market day in Lebanon a volatile corner of Niger, leaving at least 58 people dead and then burning granaries The United Nations has said that politcal to the ground on March 15. The victims polarization in Lebanon is blocking progress were returning home from a large livestock on key reforms and worsening the already market in Banibangou, near Niger’s troubled dismal socio-economic situation in the border with Mali. The suspected extremists country. The UN Deputy Special Coordinator also destroyed nearby granaries that held for Lebanon Najat Rochdi remarked that the valuable food stores. Extremists belonging country was in a state of political paralysis. to the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara “As Lebanon continues to suffer from group are known to be active in the Tillabery the worst economic and financial crisis in region where the villages were attacked. The its modern history, while grappling with Tillabery region in Niger is located near the the COVID-19 outbreak and the political country’s borders with Mali and Burkina Faso, stalemate, we are now in a race to support an where more than 95,000 people are displaced. increasing number of people who are falling beyond poverty into despair,” Rochdi said. Tanzania She said that the government must listen to Tanzania has got its first ever female the grievances of its people, and allow them President as Samia Suluhu Hassan, took to participate in the political process. “In this the oath of office. She takes the reins of the spirit, the United Nations has been intensifying office of the President after the death of her support for women’s political representation controversial predecessor, John Magufuli, and participation in the 2022 elections,” who denied that COVID-19 is a problem in the first and the biggest challenges before many are skeptical that she will follow the East African country. The 61-years-old Hassan will be to devise an effective a different policy course on COVID-19 Rochdi said. “But to restore public trust Hassan took the oath of office at State House, COVID-19 response strategy for Tanzania. in Tanzania as compared to Magufuli. in government institutions and political the government offices in Dar es Salaam, As mentioned earlier, Maguful had a “This is the time to stand together and leadership, the election must take place the country’s largest city. The inauguration very casual approach to COVID-19 get connected. It’s time to bury our on time without any undue delay.” In all was witnessed by Cabinet Members, and did not formulate a proper health differences, show love to one another the political turmoil, Lebanon’s economy former Presidents Ali Hassan Mwinyi and response despite repeated calls from and look forward with confidence,” she continues to deteriorate. The financial crisis Jakaya Kikwe. Hassan was Magufuli’s Vice the World Health Organization which said after taking the oath of President. has seen the value of the Lebanese pound President, first elected with him in 2015 and underscores the need for Tanzania to “It is not the time to point fingers at sink by 90%, plunging many into poverty re-elected last year. She will serve out the take robust action both to safeguard each other but to hold hands and move and endangering imports as dollars grow remaining four years of the late Magufuli’s their own people and protect populations forward to build the new Tanzania that scarce. term, which ends in October 2025. One of in these countries and beyond. However, President Magufuli aspired to.” www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

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International NEW DELHI TIMES Pakistan among biggest importers of major arms in Asia and Oceania: SIPRI Report biggest exporters — increased deliveries, attacks from regional rival Shia Iran. By Himanshu Sharma ◆ but exports from Russia and China fell and Islamic Republic of Pakistan has been @_Himansh_ that offset the rise. It was the first time since the cunning and crooked enemy who is 2001–2005 that the volume of deliveries [email protected] attacking and annexing India’s land since of major arms between countries — an August 15, 1947. It did so in Jammu and indicator of demand — did not increase report published on March 15 by Kashmir. Its age-old strategy is to impart from the previous five-year period. A the Stockholm International Peace thousand cuts on India—the enemy it Research Institute (SIPRI) revealed that The Corona pandemic has shut down cannot even dream of subjugating. The Pakistan was among the biggest importers economies across the world while pushing poor country Pakistan should have used the of major arms in Asia and Oceania from many countries into deep recessions. money for poverty upliftment but it chose 2016-2020. During the period, among many However, it is too early to say whether arms purchase. China has been exploiting regions of the world, Asia and Oceania stood the current slowdown in arms deliveries Islamabad’s vulnerabilities to palm-off its out as the largest importing region for major obsolete junk weapons to Pakistan on loan

will continue. “The economic impact of PC : Getty Images arms. It received 42 per cent of global arms the COVID-19 pandemic could see some with high interest rates! transfers! In addition to Pakistan, Australia, countries reassessing their arms imports in As the exact figures are not mentioned and the dust. After Kargil, Pakistan has not China and South Korea are also listed among the coming years,” said Pieter Wezeman, comparison with other importers in the dared to directly attack India but disruptive the biggest importers in the region. Senior Researcher with the SIPRI Arms region is not given, the quantum of Pakistani practices like Mumbai terror attack of 2008 and Military Expenditure Programme. China was the world’s fifth largest arms imports vis-a-vis other countries in the and Pulwama attack of 2019 have continued “However, at the same time, even at the exporter during 2016–20. However, exports region is difficult to ascertain. However, unabated. India’s purchase of arms is in height of the pandemic in 2020, several from China decreased by 7.8pc during the Islamabad has been imparting costs on India response to Pakistan’s preparedness. period. Chinese arms exports accounted countries signed large contracts for major in search of ever-eluding parity with India. Post-Kargil, China’s aggressive designs for 5.2pc of total arms exports. Pakistan, arms.” The United Arab Emirates signed forced India to constantly update its Bangladesh and Algeria were the largest an agreement with America to purchase Pakistan has money to buy arms but not arsenal. Chinese aggression at the Galwan recipients of Chinese arms. 50 F-35 jets and 18 armed drones for a enough to purchase vaccines. The jihadist Valley in Ladakh alerted India to its lack of $23 billion package. The Middle Eastern state has convoluted priorities. Now there defence preparedness. Thus, both China and A growing perception of China as a threat countries accounted for the biggest increase is no money for vaccines because scarce Pakistan have been instrumental in forcing to other countries existence and sovereignty in arms imports, up 25pc in 2016–2020 from resources have been spent on arms. became the main driver for arms imports, 2011–15. India into purchases of weapons it would for many states in Asia and Oceania. The Pakistan has engaged India in war four times not have done otherwise. The conspiracy international deliveries of arms were flat Saudi Arabia, the world’s biggest arms within a span of 52 years (Kashmir 1947 to has adversely impacted India’s growth and in the period 2016-2020, ending more than importer, increased its arms imports by 61pc Kargil 1999) and every time the Islamic development trajectory, but the democratic a decade of increases. The United States, and Qatar increased it by 361pc. Both the State was the aggressor! It’s a different nation is sure to bounce back with a more France and Germany — three of the world’s Sunni Kingdoms of the Middle East fear matter that every time Pakistan had to bite strengthened attitude. Sri Lanka confronts Islamic fundamentalism, bans burqa Face covering or burqa is not allowed for women, even during the performance of Hajj. Burqa is not a necessity, but manifests Islamic extremism polluting subcontinent’s culture ◆ By NDT Bureau Burqa should have been banned long back for safeguarding citizens. Though belated, @NewDelhiTimes an excellent job done. That’s awesome. [email protected] Slowly and steadily all countries are realizing the reality of political Islam. The world welcomes the decision for a better ri Lanka will ban the wearing of the future. India too could learn from Lankan burqa- the full-face covering worn S brothers. by Muslim women — and shut more than PC : Getty Images a thousand madrassahs (Islamic schools) Sri Lanka has the right to do what it thinks on grounds of “national security.” Muslim is good and right for itself. A very wise and women and girls never wore the burqa in sensible decision for the safety of people. early days. This sign of religious extremism Their country their rules! Colombo cannot is a recent development which Colombo burqa and Muslims were not less Muslim internationally. This is not only a security be blamed. It is starting to march towards intends to ban. those days. They were rather more Muslims threat but also a sign of mental imprisonment progress; it is lesson for all. than the present lot. It is a sign of religious of woman. Burqa ban came shortly after On Easter Sunday, April 29, 2019, Sri extremism that came about recently. Pakistan PM’s so-called “monumental, It is simply following some European Lanka experienced a string of suicide bomb extremely successful and path-breaking” nations who had bitter experiences of attacks on churches and hotels by Islamist Burqa was never a dress in the subcontinent, visit to Sri Lanka! This fallout is definitely rising Islamism. Those nations were militants which killed more than 250 people. not even during the Moghul period. Face not an achievement, rather a great failure! accommodative to start with but lost their That forced the Buddhist-majority nation to covering or burqa is not allowed for women, Sri Lanka literally shut Imran up! He can’t society and territories to Islam. That’s a great temporarily ban the burqa. Later that year, even during the performance of Hajj. Burqa take his wife- First Lady Bushra Bibi to learning. Despite being Pakistan’s friends, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who crushed a decade- is not a necessity, but manifests Islamic Colombo. Will the greatest Twitter warrior Sri Lanka and China are not accommodating long insurgency as the Defence Secretary, extremism polluting subcontinent’s culture. Imran Khan protest Colombo’s decision as Islamic moorings. was elected as the President on promise of an act of Islamophobia? crackdown on Islamic extremism. Colombo Moderating the hardliner Islamist thinking is Had this decision to ban burqa been taken ensures that nobody can open a school and the need of the hour. Colombo has attempted Muslims should understand that today in India the unholy combination of divisive teach whatever they want to the children. that. Pakistan which is excessively enmeshed everybody hates political Islam that tries Naxals, pseudo-seculars, half-baked in Islamic (Arabic) paradigm should to conquer the entire world by hook or by intellectuals and fake-democrats would To contain the Coronavirus pandemic, the implement it as well. Wearing layers of crook. Islamists must introspect- why there have roasted PM Modi alive. A very nice Sri Lankan government made the cremation cloth is uncomfortable; it is loss of identity is deemed Islamophobia in every country? decision which will bring peace in the of COVID-19 victims mandatory for public and demeaning for women. The modern After France’s so-called anti-Islamist region and should be implemented all over security but hard-core Islamists persisted world must come out of this medieval mind- actions, Swiss burqa ban, and now Lankan the world. A good lesson for India to learn on burying their dead. Colombo had to step set and remove gender inequality against burqa ban, the world is slowly waking up. from a progressive Sri Lankan nation. Sri back and remove the mandatory cremation women. Modern age requires not burqa Sri Lanka becomes the first Asian country Lanka has become the torch-bearer for the requirement after the international rights but strong laws to protect women. Islamic to ban burqa. Other countries could follow. whole world. India should soon try to ban groups criticized the move. In early days, fundamentalism has forced Colombo to take Whatever is needed to eradicate terrorism this outdated practice for the safe-guarding Muslim women and girls never wore the drastic actions. Burqa needs to be banned must be done by every country. of the rights of Muslim women.

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 6 22 - 28 March 2021

International NEW DELHI TIMES Biden administration looking to engage North Korea productively the background in the hope of curbing the ◆ By NDT Bureau rapid nuclear fissile material enrichment by @NewDelhiTimes Kim. Some other opportunities that might be explored include resuming talks on the [email protected] unification of the Korean peninsula, and de- escalation of heavily manned border areas in n March 8, the annual US-South favour of trade. O Korea Military Exercises began and concluded on March 11. What was striking The 2018 and 2019 Summits highlighted the in this year’s exercise was that it omitted fact that North Korea is not averse to conflict the regular Field exercises and consisted of resolution through talks. If Kim walked to the only a Command Training Exercise indoors. table, there is a fair bit of chance that he is President Biden seems to be setting the willing to strike a bargain in order to keep his grounds for renewed talks between the US empire safe. and North Korea soon. Biden will try to take forward the Every year when the US exercises with denuclearisation agenda by trading the South Korea, Pyongyang responds with PC : Getty Images permanent closure of North Korean Nuclear tests of missiles and some provocations on facilities and helping the Supreme Leader with the ground. The historic Trump meeting North Korea is believed to have around 40 have been affected due to COVID restrictions. challenges to food security. If talks progress, with Kim Jong-Un, the dictator of North Nuclear warheads. In 2017, it claims to have The pandemic must be having a devastating we might see a re-orientation of the US-South Korea, was memorable for a variety of tested its first Thermonuclear weapon at the impact on the poor people of Northern Korea. Korea military cooperation. Stopping any reasons. It showed the limitations of Punggye-ri test site. Moderation in the tones of both sides can further development of warheads will be a Trump’s aggressive threats and plain talks facilitate negotiations to ease the effects of the good beginning. while dealing with Nuclear powers. After The Hwasong-15 ICBM (intercontinental pandemic better. Even upcoming harvesting If Joe Biden extends an olive branch to the failure of the talks, the US kept its tough Ballistic Missile) has the capacity to target seasons might play a role in pushing the North Pyongyang, it will give ample opportunity sanctions on North Korea. any place in the US, with estimates putting to chalk out some decrease in tensions with for the North and South Korean nations its range at around 8000 miles. Though the South Korea and the US. The change in the administration seems to missile testing by North Korea involves along with the United States to check on have adopted a more calculated and nuanced much shorter ranges (but high altitudes to It is hoped that Kim Jong-Un will not give each other’s understanding. Trump left the approach regarding dealing with North Korea compensate) and many tests have failed, up Nuclear weapons easily or might never talks with Kim, at a bitter level with both and its rogue Nuclear arsenal. Thinking Washington can take no chances. After all, go Nuclear-free. After all, he thinks it is his engaging in banters later. about Coronavirus as an excuse for not a single missile hitting the US shores can be security in his own Kingdom. conducting the field training is misleading catastrophic. Biden will hope to achieve the first since the US Military has held exercises with Biden will look to convince North incremental step in the resolution of conflict other partners in recent times. Further, both Cutting down on the rhetoric, the Biden Korea to give up its ambitious missile talks before a year. If unsuccessful, United have quickly chalked out an agreement over administration seems to be headed towards development and testing programs in States Marines will be seen flexing their sharing of costs of the US troops stationed progressive slow diplomacy. South Korea exchange for relaxation for trade with muscles in South Korea again in the next in South Korea. has maintained that food supplies to the north Seoul. De-nuclearization may be pushed to year. Save Our Treasures, Our Artifacts The global art market is plagued with crimes of theft of original masterpieces, cultural and historical heritages to museums and the valuation of these keeps countries from proactively pursuing ◆ By NDT Bureau historical liths puts them out of the reach of endless efforts to stop this illicit trade. Big @NewDelhiTimes the imaginations of the common man. names like businessmen and powerful people associated with this trade compound [email protected] It is only after prosperity reigned in wealthy the problem further. nations and people got developed a taste odern western art developed as a result for art through education of culture that we The art and antiquity sector will continue M of the Renaissance. Art has always see a slowly developing public discourse to attract criminals as long as strict rules been the part of revolutions at its heights on their importance to collective mankind. are not framed to check unrecorded private and family treasures at their lows. Every art The attachment of national prestige to transactions. Unlike the hi-tech heists as form has a sentimental value. Europe has historical heritage has also driven ancient portrayed in movies, most of the heritages are remained the fertile ground of the world’s cultural nations to pitch for the protection lifted off their resting sites even before they best art even now. Only now others are of antiquities. In Asian states, public make it to the public domain. These include catching up. The numerous valuable arts and demands regarding the safeguarding of tens of thousands of Asian and historic antiquities are owned today by collectors, PC : Getty Images “looted heritage” during colonial history artifacts lost and found in archaeology sites. rich families, museums, and many amazing latest investigations have revealed that art and repatriation of many such lost artifacts But thefts are also common. historical pieces are yet to be digitally and antiquities are not the repose of the rich are heartening. But a global effort to build The use of artifacts to fund terror groups imaged, circulating around the world in alone, terror groups such as Islamic State a proper system of ownership, access, has given a renewed vigour to governments secrecy so unique to the world of art. has a special interest in them and collected recording, and preservation of artifacts is to pursue the illegal trade. Database thousands of invaluable heritages in “Venice The global art market is worth $67billion seen missing. The 1954 Hague Convention and cooperation are extremely useful to of the Sands” city of Palmyra. and is one of the most sought-after lucrative for the Protection of Cultural Property develop domain knowledge and tracking. markets among the rich with a taste for in the Event of Armed Conflict, and the Public knowledge must be widened to the culture. The market is home to the most The underground criminal network in arts 1970 UNESCO Convention on the Means importance of these artifacts to reduce their spectacular creations of mankind and and antiquities is vast, well hidden, and of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit complicity by making it an unacceptable beholds the vivid lively encapsulating spreads across continents. Many thousand Import, Export, and Transfer of Ownership criminal activity. When we lose an artifact, wonders any person will treasure. But as you artforms are known to be residing in the of Cultural Property were some of the we not only lose the rich history it carries may know, behind anything precious, come custom spaces of the free ports and airports. steps to prevent any loss of these artifacts. about a certain point in time, we also lose the vultures. Investigations into crime in this sector are However, efforts to police it, have remained the collective wealth of mankind forever. severely handicapped due to understaffed pathetic. Ill funded and inadequately staffed Private ownership is most welcome because The global art market is plagued with crimes enforcement agencies and lack of initiatives law enforcement agencies, legal problems it creates an elaborate economic system for of theft of original masterpieces, cultural and by national governments to crack down concerning the artifacts, and the problem of the maintenance of these assets, but public historical heritages. The trade always had a on a market that has cultural undertones demanding knowledge requirements about access should be encouraged to share the reputation of being a white-collar crime. But of secrecy. Public imagination is limited art and culture are not easy to address. This wealth of the world with the world. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

22 - 28 March 2021 7

International NEW DELHI TIMES Boiling political rivalry in Senegal could augment economic distress The problem of a large unemployed population and poverty has been criticized by Sanko as the failure of President Sall and Khalifa Sall, both opposition leaders, whether he would be running for President for ◆ By NDT Bureau lost Parliamentary immunity in corruption a third time. If he chooses to do so, Senegal @NewDelhiTimes cases. Though Ousmane Sanko was released will see a widespread confrontation between on bail in the rape case, he has demanded that Sall and opposition parties. [email protected] Sall publicly declare that he won’t run for Presidency for a third time in 2024. Alleging enegalese Opposition Leader Ousmane The COVID pandemic worsening is also that Sall is using Judiciary to side-line him, S Sanko is challenging President Macky tied with the economic development, he demanded restoration of rights of other Sall and the political turf war has already PC : Getty Images unemployment and poverty which are the indicted opposition leaders. Quite recently, claimed multiple lives. Since his arrest last main driving factors of public distress. keeping Senegal dependent on France. One Sanko demanded religious authority to February, Ousmane Sanko, the leader of of the basic issues of conflict remains the become part of the negotiations, whether to Vaccinating a large percentage of the the Patriots of Senegal for Ethics, Work CFA Franc currency guaranteed by France allow Sall for running a third time. population is extremely important and and Fraternity Party, has become the main and used in many West African countries. the only way for Senegal to defeat the Opposition Leader. On March 3, Sanko The problem of a large unemployed President Sall has taken a host of steps to challenges threatening stability. Many was arrested for violating public order with population and poverty has been criticized bring things under control. The difficulties African nations have been undone due to unlawful demonstrations before appearing by Sanko as the failure of President Sall. faced by the economy due to Coronavirus political turf wars, while people suffer from in the court for an alleged rape charge. His The problem has been compounded by infections and regional lockdowns are incessant politicization. arrest led to widespread arson and violent lockdowns and a slump in global economy. problematic. Sall has stepped up efforts protests across many parts of Senegal. to boost the economy and compensate Sanko’s rise to politics is spectacular since businesses for losses. Release of Sanko was For now, Senegalese hope for a stabler The major sites under attack from followers he secured above 15% of the votes in the also an effort to curb further violence. It leadership from Sall. The COVID pandemic of Sanko include the French businesses. 2019 elections and the PASTEF became remains to be seen if charges against Sanko is not over yet and many countries are Protesters accuse President Sall’s the third largest party. After the defection are dropped and his immunities are restored. witnessing an increase in infections, Senegal exclusionary policies being favourable to the of Idrissa Seck to the ruling side, Sanko If Sall decides to relinquish contesting the including. The challenge of economy, health French. Multiple French business outlets, became the primary Opposition Leader. But Presidential election in 2024, political must be dealt with immediately. government offices, and gendarmerie posts since his vigorous campaign targeting long- instability can be quenched for a while. It were targeted in the protests. Most of the running President, he lost Parliamentary will also parallelly heat up new political Political parties need to engage together French sites under attack were around immunity in a rape case filed against him conquests and rivalries for leadership. and find a workable truce to rebuild the Capital Dakar. in Dakar. Sanko has alleged that Sall is Senegalese economy in 2021. Cooperation attempting to side-line the opposition with But confrontation is more likely in the is required now more than ever among Sanko has criticized President Sall for manufactured cases. Earlier, Karim Wade coming days unless Macky Sall makes it clear President Sall and the opposition. China’s Government Work Report lays the path for diversification of industries, hard luck for foreign companies specific policies to promote the growth of of the Communist Party of China (CPC) for companies with good relations with ◆ By NDT Bureau “essential competencies” as well as the Politburo and Chairman of the National China, such as Russia and Iran, to profit @NewDelhiTimes technologies needed by emerging industries. People’s Congress Standing Committee, and extend commercial collaborations. The This includes rising basic research budget announced plans to speed up the passage most likely areas of contention are those [email protected] allocations, directing commercial banks of new legislative instruments to tackle involving China’s human rights record and to minimize fees and finance technology international sanctions, foreign intervention, national-security-related industries. remier Li Keqiang of China released ventures, and decreasing regulatory burdens and especially “long-arm jurisdictions.” P the Government Work Report on to benefit science and technology start-ups. Amid concerns raised by the US and March 5, 2021, outlining the government’s In addition, the government announced the European governments, China’s upcoming policy implementation progress in 2020 as construction of revamped infrastructure reform of Hong Kong SAR’s Legislative well as economic and social development and logistics systems that are conducive to Election and Chief Executive appointment goals for 2021. The work report stressed the modern connectivity technologies, including processes in 2021 would increase the importance of maintaining stability across RMB3.65 trillion in conventional and possibility of sanctions from the Western the country while downplaying numerical “new infrastructure” systems, such as 5G governments. The elimination of successful growth goals. Although Hu Zucai, Deputy telecoms networks and upgrading existing political opposition in Hong Kong is Head of China’s National Development and industrial supply chains, as well as livelihood also likely to increase the impression Reform Commission (NDRC), stressed that development and environmental protection. that domestic political influence takes the country would not abandon the tradition precedence over any prospect of business of setting numerical GDP goals, the modest The opening of Chinese markets would liberalization, which may lead some aim of “over 6%” for 2021 is a clear political be accelerated in order to increase foreign PC : Getty Images multinational corporations to reconsider signal of a change in policy priorities. The investment opportunities. This would expanding into Chinese markets. growth target was much lower than current almost certainly be done in a very targeted Since January 2021, the National estimates for China’s post-coronavirus manner, with only companies in sectors that Development and Reform Commission However, the success of China’s COVID-19 disease 2019 (COVID-19) growth rate are aligned with China’s industrial policy (NDRC) and the Ministry of Commerce vaccine delivery to African, Latin American, (which forecasts 7.6% growth in 2021), and strategic goals benefiting. The Ministry (MofCom) have worked together to introduce and Southeast Asian countries, as evidenced and the development focus has changed to of Commerce emphasized the need for a series of steps to conduct “national by high efficacy rates of Chinese-made include not only economic growth but also preferential policies for foreign companies security reviews” on all foreign investments. vaccines against emerging and mutated other “quality of growth” metrics like food in advanced manufacturing, developing, Regulatory uncertainty, implicit barriers to strains of the virus, as well as fast and low- prices, employment, financial risk, and high-tech, energy-saving, and environmental entry, and unanticipated additional costs cost deliveries to poor countries, would help environmental sustainability. The lack of a protection industries. Local governments, are likely to persist in sectors perceived as China’s international profile. on the other hand, have been told that major hard growth goal in the 14th Five Year Plan critical to national security or companies from Successful global delivery of COVID-19 foreign investment projects must “conform to (FYP) means that the local governments jurisdictions with political tensions with China, vaccines is likely to minimize not only national industrial policy planning” and that would no longer be incentivized to focus despite government intentions to open markets the probability that developing countries politicians must stop “investing blindly.” solely on economic growth as a primary to foreign investment. Technology, internet will support investigations into the virus’s success measure. However, the government has suggested portals, and financial services, all of which are origins– an issue on which China has accused The importance of cultivating domestic that it would enhance legal authority against strongly promoted by the 14th FYP, are highly Western countries of discriminating against innovation in high-tech industries has been international sanctions and investment likely to be deemed national-security related it – but also the likelihood that developing emphasized even further, suggesting that screening due to national security concerns, as well. countries will support investigations into strategic industries will receive preferential which would almost certainly result in The deterioration of US-China ties would the virus’s origins and also assist China in policy treatment. The Central Committee’s more politically motivated discriminatory dissuade foreign companies, especially those gaining considerable diplomatic clout in Fifth Plenum has designated innovation acts, primarily affecting the United from Western countries, from expanding developed countries, allowing for stronger as a “key aspect” of China’s development States and its allies. During the National their exposure to China’s markets. This, on trade and investment links in emerging strategy. The 2021 Work Report outlined People’s Congress, Li Zhanshu, a member the other hand, could increase opportunities economies in the coming years.

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 8 22 - 28 March 2021

International NEW DELHI TIMES Myanmar’s economy witnesses the waning effect pertaining to Military-led coup While it is difficult to estimate the degree ◆ By NDT Bureau to which Tatmadaw-linked firms are @NewDelhiTimes involved in economic activity, an increase in targeted sanctions against MEH and MEC [email protected] – as is likely in response to the Tatmadaw’s increased use of lethal force – would almost ince Myanmar’s military (the Tatmadaw) certainly harm the economy. S declared a State of Emergency on February 1 and vested all authorities in Commander-in-Chief General Min Aung Moreover, a number of regional firms are Hlaing hand, job disruption and private- divesting from Tatmadaw-led businesses. sector-led divestitures have steadily Several companies have already pulled out increased. of investments, including Kirin Beverages of Japan, TDS Consulting of Singapore, Although the full impact of the coup is yet Woodside Energy of Australia, and Amata to be reflected in the results, Myanmar’s PC : Getty Images Corporation of Thailand. Commercial short-term prospects are significantly worse. demand from abroad is likely to be curtailed Myanmar’s fiscal year (FY) 2020–21 GDP roadblocks, with supply chain disruption due to the EU’s procedural timeframe. for reputational reasons, and we expect the growth forecast was downgraded by IHS set to escalate. Domestic expenditure and pattern of international withdrawals and Coronavirus disease is another risk factor. Markit from 5.7 percent to 0.3 percent consumption are also projected to suffer as order cancellations to continue on a larger Although there is currently no official following the coup. a result of the coup. While unlikely, a near- scale. term political settlement would be critical data from Myanmar on the occurrence to economic recovery in FY 2021–22. of COVID-19 cases and the subsequent Foreign investors’ trust in doing business in Remarks from the Tatmadaw suggesting a Myanmar’s economic recovery is predicated vaccine rollout, it is highly likely that cases the country will be harmed by the country’s longer-than-one-year state of emergency on a quick response to the coup, which seems occur, and case numbers are likely to rise ongoing political instability, particularly would jeopardize the continuity of foreign- impossible. The worsening of Myanmar’s given the prevalence of large crowds during given the disruption in factory operation. invested projects. After anti-coup demonstrators launched the war, increasing withdrawals from and protests. A return of the virus will have curtailment of business relations with the long-term economic consequences, slowing Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) on As the number of deaths rises, the EU February 4, they abstained from work in region, and the prospect of sanctions all pose ventures in a variety of industries, including a threat to the country’s economy. manufacturing. governments will be more likely to change both the public and private sectors in order the bloc’s preferential treatment of Myanmar to bring the country’s government on hold. The garment sector is critical to the outlook Sanctions levied by foreign governments imports. It has been noted that the exports through because it accounts for the majority of and divestitures led by the private sector are Yangon’s ports had fallen by nearly 90%. Myanmar’s overall exports (30%), with both likely to grow. Formal restrictions have Governments of the Association of Southeast Myanmar’s manufacturing sector would production levels likely to deteriorate also been enforced, and their use is likely Asian Nations (ASEAN) – especially almost definitely be harmed by the CDM. further as a result of large-scale job to become more common as the number Indonesia and/or Malaysia – declaring their The movement’s mass factory closures and abstentions by garment-sector staff in the of protest deaths continues to increase. refusal to recognize the military government roadblocks have resulted in raw material CDM and withdrawals by foreign investors The US placed sanctions on companies would increase the possibility of sanctions. shortages and blocked shipping lines, with such as Benetton, motivated by reputational led by Myanmar Commander-in-Chief supply chain chaos expected to worsen. The concerns and potential future sanctions. Min Aung Hlaing’s children on March 10. While both possibilities are impossible, if coup is also expected to have a negative effect Furthermore, the sector is heavily dependent Myanmar’s Ministry of Defense, Ministry the Tatmadaw relaxed its political grip and on domestic investment and consumption. on the European Union trade concessions, of Home Affairs, and two Tatmadaw-led called new (free) elections – or if the CDM though removal of trade preferences under firms, Myanmar Economic Holdings (MEH) wanted to scale back its demonstrations, Raw material shortages and clogged the All but Weapons (EBA) arrangement and Myanmar Economic Corporation minimizing economic disruption – these distribution lines have resulted from the of the Generalized Scheme of Preferences (MEC), have also been added to the US’s events would alleviate downward pressure movement’s mass plant closures and (GSP) is impossible in the two-year outlook (sanctioned) Entity List. on Myanmar’s economy. Ayesha Suicide Case points towards the social decay within the community social revolution in the context in which it flaunted his extra-marital affair, which must Moreover, the irony is that the mentally ◆ By NDT Bureau was first revealed. have been emotionally torturing and mentally rigid men justify such practices in the name @NewDelhiTimes depressing, bringing in a social reality we all of religion, culture, and familial traditions, live with. The reports explicate that Ayesha’s which are usually invoked to confine [email protected] Alas, the social order of the Muslims today is in shambles. No one is giving a damn to husband stressed that he would continue the women’s freedom and agency in social life. extra marital affair if Ayesha’s family does not Today, dowry and domestic violence hardly he famous Greek Philosopher Aristotle what we have been preached. Everybody is meet the dowry demand. become an issue of our collective conscience T says, “The unexamined life is not violating the norms of Islam like anything. and deliberation. Therefore, it is imperative worth living.” He has outrightly rejected the A recent example is of a 23-years-old to eradicate parochialism and the persisting unexamined existence. Islam, as we know Ayesha of Gujrat, who was married to a Ayesha’s suicide is a clear precedent of social evils and go by Constitutional it, sets the roadmap for a good life. It sets person from Rajasthan, namely Arif Khan. how rotten and contained our social and parameters to ease our familial and social guidelines for living a life that will act as The girl recorded her last message on her community structures are. Parochialism system. a guiding light for all of the humanity. Out phone because her husband had asked her and patriarchy are deep-rooted and have of all the things that Prophet Muhammad to do if she commits suicide. The video clip become our existential reality. There are (PBUH) did, education formed the essential went viral across all social media platforms, plenty of women like Ayesha, whose cases Indian Muslims, in particular, need to be and central part of Islamic society. and some mainstream media channels also hardly find media space or who, because of more cautious about such practices, address shared that clip. Ayesha was seen smilingly societal and family pressures and the fear of these issues at the community level while He wanted Muslims to read and learn. Out of saying that she would finally meet Allah and follow up social stigmas hardly expose their taking references from the Constitutional all the issues that the Muslim society today ask Him about where she went wrong. She cases. Therefore, our moral responsibility is laws and Islamic literature. Islam denounces confronts, social problems are more critical. also requested her dad to withdraw the case to do away with this dowry system and the dowry and domestic violence against The preservation of social order depends on just because she did not want to throw her in- familial alienation of women through those women, subsequently establishing a each member of that society freely adhering laws in trouble. Her message is disheartening, practices that motivate such women to end respectful position for women and makes it to the same moral principles and practices. highlighting the women’s plight and the social their lives by suicide. However, numerous mandatory for both to cherish and maintain Islam, founded on individual and collective stigma and harassment they go through daily. other practices have complicated the lives of the delicate balance in their lives and morality and responsibility, introduced a As per reports, Ayesa’s husband proudly women and have compromised their honour. strengthen the social fabric. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

22 - 28 March 2021 9

International NEW DELHI TIMES 5 years on, stalled France announces EU Turkey soft new virus migrant deal restrictions in remains a model Paris region ive years after it was signed, the he French government backed off F widely-criticized deal between the T from ordering a tough lockdown for European Union and Turkey aimed at Paris and several other regions despite preventing migrants from entering Greece an increasingly alarming situation at no longer works, but the Europeans insist it hospitals with a rise in the numbers of has served them well and will do so again. COVID-19 patients. Instead, the Prime Not only that, they want to do similar deals Minister announced a patchwork of new

in northern Africa. Photo AP PC : restrictions while reducing the national curfew by one hour. Recent signals from Brussels and Ankara inevitable human cost.” Greek islands, a Syrian would be resettled suggest that an arrangement will be found from Turkey to the EU. Since March 2016, Getting large doses of fresh air is being to resuscitate the March 2016 “EU Turkey The International Rescue Committee’s according to EU figures, Turkey took 2,140 encouraged, meaning that people living Statement” — which reduced migrant Imogen Sudbery says it’s sparked a mental people, plus 601 under an arrangement in the Paris region and in the north of the arrivals into the Greek islands to a relative health emergency. with Greece, while the EU resettled 28,621 country can walk as long as they like in a trickle in a couple of years — and an update people. day, but within a 10-kilometer (6-mile) of its terms is likely. “It has become crystal clear that outsourcing radius of their homes and with a paper the EU’s migration management to non-EU The impact of the agreement was immediate. authorizing the stroll. countries is neither a humane, sustainable or “I think it should continue to be implemented Arrivals from Turkey plummeted within two workable solution,” she said. Stores, however, will feel the pinch with all and continue to be the key framework for years, but the disputes among EU countries non-essential outlets — but not bookshops - cooperation on migration,” EU foreign continue today. The agreement was drafted in a panic after closing down. And travel between regions is policy chief Josep Borrell said, a week the arrival of well over 1 million people The deal itself ground to a standstill a year forbidden without a compelling reason. before he submits a report to a summit of the in Europe in 2015, many of them Syrians ago as the coronavirus spread and after 27-nation bloc’s leaders on the troubled state and Iraqis fleeing conflict, sparked one of Turkey, angered by a lack of EU support for Nothing will change at schools, which are to of EU-Turkey ties. the EU’s biggest ever political crises as its invasion of northern Syria, gave approval remain open, but sports activities will now countries bickered over how to manage the for thousands of migrants to leave, sparking be allowed. For Borrell, the deal saved lives, stopped arrivals. clashes at the Greek border. most people trying to cross the Aegean Sea to islands like Lesbos and Samos, and Under it, the EU offered Turkey up to 6 More than 3,000 people who were in Greece improved the circumstances of refugees in billion euros ($7.1 billion) in aid for Syrian have found new homes in 13 European Turkey. But for aid groups, it created open- refugees on its territory, visa-free travel countries since April. None have been sent air prisons where thousands have languished for Turkish citizens and fast-track EU to Turkey. in squalid conditions while others were membership talks to persuade Ankara to blocked in Turkey. stop tens of thousands of migrants setting Still, the money continues to pour in — out for Greece. indeed the EU recently extended two Eve Geddie, Director of Amnesty programs for Syrian refugees in Turkey International’s EU office, said that five It all involves some legal sleight of hand; worth almost half a billion euros (nearly Photo AP PC : years on, “15,000 women, men and children Europe’s top court has no jurisdiction over $600 million). The money doesn’t go to the remain trapped in overcrowded camps.” its terms. government, but the migrants’ spending will She said it highlights the EU’s willingness flow into the Turkish economy. to strike deals “based purely on political It was a one-for-one arrangement. For Prime Minister Jean Castex announced the convenience with little regard for the every migrant that Turkey took from the Credit : Associated Press (AP) new rules, which took effect and will last for at least four weeks. He referred to “massive new measures” to “slow down (the virus) Indonesia urges ASEAN leaders without locking down people.” “I also know the deep wish of many of you to enjoy the outdoors, since the crisis has to hold summit on Myanmar coup gone on for one year and Spring is coming,” Castex said. largest economy, said that he will immediately contact the sultan of Brunei, He also announced that the French would be which holds the rotating presidency of the able to get inoculated with the AstraZeneca 10-member Association of Southeast Asian vaccine - and that he himself will be getting Nations, to set up an ASEAN summit to a shot “to show we can have complete address Myanmar’s turmoil. confidence.”

Widodo’s comments came after ASEAN Castex is making for himself an exception to Foreign Ministers held their first meeting the age rule, moving to the front of the line early this month since the coup, which of those awaiting vaccinations, currently deposed Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi reserved for people 75 and older or with and her allies. serious health concerns. France and some other countries briefly Brunei issued its own chairman’s statement suspended use of the vaccine over fears of after the Ministers apparently failed to blood clots, and are resuming it after the agree on a declaration in the meeting European Medicines Agency gave its green where Myanmar’s top diplomat briefed PC : AP Photo AP PC : light. them during a video conference. It said the ndonesian President Joko Widodo address, offering his condolences to the Ministers called on all parties in Myanmar Castex said France faces a “third wave” of I urged a halt to violence in Myanmar victims and their families. to refrain from instigating further violence the pandemic, with three-quarters of new and asked the fellow leaders of Southeast and start talks on a peaceful solution. cases from the more contagious variant that Asia countries to hold a summit on the More than 200 people have been killed originated in Britain, and more patients who crisis. by security forces since the Feb. 1 coup, ASEAN includes Brunei, Cambodia, are younger and in better health. according to credible tallies. Nearly 2,000 Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the “Indonesia urges that the use of violence in have been jailed. Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. “The situation is deteriorating,” he said. Myanmar be stopped immediately to avoid more victims,” Widodo told a televised Widodo, the leader of Southeast Asia’s Credit : Associated Press (AP) Credit : Associated Press (AP)

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 10 22 - 28 March 2021

International NEW DELHI TIMES Yemeni rebel offensive threatens camps of those who fled war lready displaced once in Yemen’s Government-allied forces, aided by a Saudi- A grinding civil war, Mohammed Ali led coalition, have ramped up attacks in Saleh fled with his pregnant wife and their other areas recently in an apparent attempt three children to central Marib province to force the Houthis to spread out their last year to seek refuge in a region that has resources and make them more vulnerable. Photo AP PC : known some relative peace and stability because of well-protected oil fields nearby. The Marib offensive “is a fateful battle for the Houthis,” said political analyst Abdel- But now the fighting is moving toward them Bari Taher. “It will determine the future of again. their ability to rule” in northern Yemen.

Iran-backed Houthi rebels are pushing to Marib houses a key oil refinery that capture the province from the internationally produces 90% of liquefied petroleum gas, the war has deteriorated into a stalemate, airstrikes helped fend off the Houthis. recognized government to try to complete which is used for cooking and heating in killing about 130,000 people and spawning “Without their support, the situation would their control over the northern half of Yemen. almost all Yemeni households. Severe fuel the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. The be very different,” he said. If they succeed, the Houthis could claim a shortages already plague many areas across Biden administration last month officially strategic win after a largely stalemated battle the country. in almost seven years of fighting. withdrew its backing for the coalition but Hundreds of fighters, most of them Houthi said the U.S. would continue to offer support rebels, have been killed in the Marib The fighting in Marib could displace at The sounds of war terrify Saleh and his to Saudi Arabia as it defends itself against campaign, according to officials from both least 385,000 people, according to the family. Houthi attacks. sides. U.N. migration agency. Four displacement camps in the province have been abandoned “It’s a nightmare we are experiencing every The latest offensive has been among the Houthi leaders have portrayed the offensive since the start of the offensive, said Olivia night,” he said from a camp for the displaced fiercest, with the Houthis moving heavy as a religious battle, a sign of its significance Headon of the International Organization for that had previously escaped violence. weapons toward Marib. They have yet to for them. The rebels have tried to take Marib Migration in Yemen. achieve major progress amid stiff resistance for years, seizing towns and districts in The Houthis launched their Marib offensive from local tribes and government forces neighboring provinces. in February. The new campaign, combined Yemen has been convulsed by civil war since aided by airstrikes from the coalition. with increasing Houthi missile and drone 2014 when the Houthis took control of the “There are probably multiple agendas at play attacks on neighboring Saudi Arabia, comes capital of Sanaa and much of the northern But the fighting is coming close to civilians in Marib but the most urgent is the Houthis’ as the Biden administration tries to relaunch part of the country, forcing the government and the displacement camps. Houthi forces belief they can take Marib city and end the talks on ending the conflict in Yemen — of President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi to have hit the provincial capital, also called war for the north, while improving their the Arab world’s poorest country that has flee to the south, then to Saudi Arabia. Marib, and its outskirts with ballistic economic sustainability and their bargaining been pushed to the brink of famine by the missiles, explosives-laden drones and position with Saudi Arabia,” said Peter bloodshed. The Saudi-led coalition, backed at the time shelling, according to aid workers. Salisbury, Yemen expert at the International by the U.S., entered the war months later Crisis Group. The Houthi push in Marib also threatens to to try restore Hadi to power. Despite a Sheikh Sultan al-Aradah, the provincial ignite more fighting elsewhere in Yemen. relentless air campaign and ground fighting, governor, told reporters that the coalition’s Credit : Associated Press (AP) Spain adopts euthanasia law Bank of England: despite conservative opposition Cautious optimism over UK economic awmakers voted to make Spain the Belgium, Canada, Luxembourg, Colombia, L sixth country in the world, and the and the Netherlands. In Switzerland and PC : AP Photo AP PC : fourth in Europe, to allow physician- some U.S. states, medically assisted suicide outlook assisted suicide and euthanasia for long- — when patients self-administer lethal drugs he Bank of England voiced cautious 70,000 a day in early January — and the suffering patients with incurable diseases under medical supervision — is permitted. T optimism about the U.K.’s economic rapid rollout of vaccines has spurred hopes and for people with unbearable permanent outlook in the wake of a sharp fall in about a pick-up in economic activity in the conditions. coronavirus infections and the rapid rollout spring as lockdown restrictions are lifted. of the nation’s COVID-19 vaccination The turnaround is notable since Britain The Spanish parliament’s lower house voted program. 202-140 with two abstentions on the final has had Europe’s deadliest coronavirus passage of the euthanasia bill. Legislators In a statement, the policymaking Monetary outbreak, with around 126,000 dead. Policy Committee noted some “positive” from the left-wing governing coalition The British government, which is responsible recent economic developments as it kept the and other parties supported it, while for the lockdown in England, has laid out a bank’s main interest rate unchanged at the conservative and far-right lawmakers voted path for easing restrictions over the coming record low of 0.1%. All nine members of “no” and vowed to overturn the legislation weeks but insists that it will be guided by

PC : AP Photo AP PC : the committee also voted against any further in the future. the “data, not dates.” The other nations of increase in the bank’s bond-buying program. the U.K. — Scotland, Wales and Northern Health Minister Carolina Darias hailed Politicians in Portugal have tried to pass The decision to keep interest rates on hold Ireland — are following similar lockdown the passing of the bill as an important step a law similar to neighboring Spain’s, but had been widely predicted in financial easing timetables. “towards the recognition of human rights.” the country’s Constitutional Court this markets following Britain’s improved week blocked the legislation, arguing that By mid-April, the British government hopes “We are heading towards a more humane coronavirus situation. the bill was imprecise in identifying the that retailers in England selling nonessential and fair society,” she told the Congress of circumstances under which life-ending items, such as footwear and books, will be Deputies. “The rates of COVID infections and procedures could occur. hospitalizations have fallen markedly across able to reopen. Pubs are also set to reopen The bill was the result of a lengthy legislative the United Kingdom and the vaccination outdoors from that date, with indoor serving journey that began three years ago and Under the new Spanish law, the process program is proceeding at a rapid pace,” following on May 17. underwent several rounds of revision in for patients to get approval to die can last the committee said in minutes published Also bolstering the anticipated recovery parliamentary committees and in the Senate. over a month, with two requests in writing alongside the decision. “Looking ahead, has been the speed at which the coronavirus It is expected to go into effect in mid-June, followed up by consultations with medical the expected easing of COVID restrictions vaccines have been injected into people’s when Spain’s public health system will need professionals not previously involved in the made it likely that there would be increases arms, certainly when compared with other to provide life-ending assistance in justified case. Only after a fourth and last statement in both supply and demand over the coming nations in Europe. More than 25 million cases. where patients repeat their desire to die, a months.” people in the U.K. had received a first dose regional committee of experts could give the of vaccine, nearly half of its eligible adult Euthanasia — when a doctor directly final go-ahead. The combination of falling coronavirus administers fatal drugs to a patient — is infections — new cases are running at population. either legal or sanctioned by courts in Credit : Associated Press (AP) around 5,000 a day against a peak of nearly Credit : Associated Press (AP) www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

22 - 28 March 2021 11

International NEW DELHI TIMES Italy honors Dutch PM Rutte’s conservatives Armenia to COVID dead with see 4th straight election win hold early living monument he process of forming a new Dutch even though the election came just two T governing coalition began, a day after months after his last coalition resigned over parliamentary on anniversary Prime Minister Mark Rutte’s conservative a scandal in which the country’s tax office taly inaugurated a living monument party powered to a fourth consecutive wrongfully labeled thousands of families election in June I victory in a vote held during a nationwide who claimed child welfare benefits as to its COVID-19 dead as it marked rmenia’s Prime Minister set an early the anniversary of one of the most lockdown and dominated by the COVID-19 fraudsters. A pandemic. parliamentary election for June as haunting moments of the pandemic: when The other big winner of the night was the he sought to defuse the country’s political Bergamo’s death toll reached such heights The feat put Rutte in position to lead far-right populist Forum for Democracy, crisis. that an army convoy had to transport coalition talks, most likely with another which rose from two to eight seats after coffins out because its cemeteries and big winner — the centrist, pro-European its flamboyant leader, Thierry Baudet, The opposition pushing for Prime Minister crematoriums were full. D66 party led by former diplomat Sigrid campaigned on a pledge to end the country’s Nikol Pashinyan’s resignation has demanded Kaag, who danced on a table when an exit coronavirus lockdown. that he step down before the vote. poll showed her party capturing one of its As other party leaders spoke to reporters, In a Facebook statement that followed biggest-ever victories. Baudet was conspicuous by his absence. his talks with the leader of an opposition However those two parties will likely need Twitter hashtag “waarisbaudet” or faction in parliament, Pashinyan said the at least two more partners to form a majority “whereisbaudet” was trending in the parliamentary vote will be held on June 20. coalition. According to the national news Netherlands. The party eventually expressed PC : AP Photo AP PC : The opposition was divided over the vote’s agency ANP, based on 88% of votes counted, its gratitude to voters. prospect. Vazgen Manukyan, a veteran Rutte’s party, known by its Dutch acronym “A half million people in the Netherlands politician whom the opposition named as VVD, won 35 of the 150 seats in the lower have said: we want our lives back. A a prospective caretaker Prime Minister, house of parliament while D66 garnered 24. thunderous blow against the endless rejected the move, while Artur Vanetsyan, lockdowns. A huge victory for freedom,” the the former head of the National Security party tweeted. Service, said his Homeland opposition party will take part in the election. Baudet, arriving at parliament for a meeting of party leaders, told reporters he “was Armenia has been gripped by political Premier Mario Draghi visited the northern actually hoping for more” seats in the tensions after suffering a humiliating defeat city to commemorate a national day of election. last year in an armed conflict with Azerbaijan mourning for Italy’s coronavirus victims. over Nagorno-Karabakh, a territory within Flags flew at half-staff around the country It was something of a political resurrection PC : AP Photo AP PC : for the party that imploded late last year Azerbaijan that Armenia-backed separatists and public authorities observed a minute of controlled for more than 25 years. silence. amid reports of anti-Semitic text messages among its youth wing. The opposition supporters have been Draghi laid a wreath at Bergamo’s cemetery blocking government buildings and and inaugurated a forest named in honor of Despite the gains for Baudet, the far-right barricaded streets to press the demand for the more than 100,000 victims in Italy, the populist bloc in the Netherlands is unlikely Pashinyan’s resignation. first country in the West to be hit bythe to take part in any new coalition. Anti-Islam outbreak. lawmaker Geert Wilders, whose Party for Pashinyan has refused to step down, Freedom lost three seats and is now the defending a November peace deal that “This wood doesn’t only contain only the country’s third-biggest party, said he would ended the six weeks of fighting over memory of the many victims,” Draghi said. again lead the opposition. Nagorno-Karabakh as the only way to “This place is a symbol of the pain of an prevent Azerbaijan from overrunning the entire nation.” The political left also looks likely to be out entire region. of power after parties lost seats or failed to At the Wood of Memory, Bergamo Mayor gain ground after four years in opposition to Giorgio Gori said the city had decided Rutte wants to move quickly to hammer out Rutte’s outgoing center-right coalition. The against a memorial or a piece of artwork to a coronavirus recovery plan before getting Green Left party, a big winner in the 2017 commemorate its dead. into a government blueprint for the new election, was forecast to lose half of its 14 “We decided to honor victims with a work coalition’s four-year term. seats. that is alive, with a monument that breathes,” “We must have plans in place to unlock he told the handful of dignitaries gathered the country,” Rutte told his lawmakers in a The Dutch election, coming just months after on a windy lawn surrounded by the first 100 virtual meeting. Britain’s Brexit divorce with the European freshly planted saplings. Union came into full force, saw gains among The splintered political landscape in the pro-EU parties. D66 has long been a staunch The anniversary came as much of Italy Netherlands - 17 parties were forecast to defender of the 27-nation bloc and among Photo AP PC : including Bergamo is under new lockdown, have won at least one seat - could make new parties in the lower house was the pro- with schools, shops and restaurants coalition talks difficult. European party Volt, which was forecast to shuttered, amid a new surge of infections win three seats. blamed on variants. And it comes as Italy’s Party leaders took the first step by appointing halting vaccination campaign has slowed two “scouts,” one from Rutte’s VVD and Voter Tim Logemann said he was down further because of the temporary a second from D66, to examine different disappointed in the result. More than 6,000 people were killed in the suspension of AstraZeneca shots. parties’ wish lists and investigate possible fighting over Nagorno-Karabakh, which coalitions ahead of formal talks. “I had hoped that the VVD would definitely lies within Azerbaijan but was under the After the European Medicines Agency lose some points,” he said. “I personally control of ethnic Armenian forces backed by declared the vaccine safe, Draghi The VVD selected Senator Annemarie voted for one of the smaller parties that Armenia since a separatist war there ended announced the AstraZeneca vaccinations Jorritsma, while D66 chose Kajsa didn’t get any points at all, so that’s even in 1994. would resume. Ollongren, who was interior Minister more disappointing.” and deputy Prime Minister in Rutte’s last The Russia-brokered peace deal let Footage of the army convoy snaking its way Cabinet. They plan to start talks with party Kaag, who served as Minister for foreign Azerbaijan reclaim control over large parts through Bergamo’s roads on March 18, 2020 leaders and write a report for the newly trade and development cooperation in Rutte’s of Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding remains one of the most heart-wrenching elected lawmakers ahead of their first last coalition, had campaigned as a viable areas. and iconic images of the pandemic, in a sitting on March 31. alternative to Rutte as national leader in a year that saw many. It joined the photo of an country that has never had a female Prime Pashinyan has dismissed the opposition’s exhausted Cremona nurse collapsed on her “In times of corona, it is of course important Minister. Speaking to party lawmakers, she demand to step down before the vote. The computer keyboard after a shift, and more to form a new Cabinet as soon as possible.. laid out her party’s key themes. 45-year-old former journalist has retained recently, an image of a dejected Rome-area that can get to work on the economic and significant public backing despite the defeat bistro owner sitting hunched over in her social social recovery,” Jorritsma said, “We want unity, renewal and sustainability,” in Nagorno-Karabakh, with thousands restaurant kitchen after the latest lockdown adding that she hopes it will be possible to she said. “D66 must and will make that rallying in his support to counter the was imposed. form a new coalition before the summer. happen.” opposition-led pressure for his resignation.

Credit : Associated Press (AP) Rutte’s victory had been widely predicted Credit : Associated Press (AP) Credit : Associated Press (AP)

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International NEW DELHI TIMES Europe pause of AstraZeneca sends North Korea ripple of doubt elsewhere cuts ties with he suspension of the AstraZeneca Malaysia over T vaccine in several European countries over the past week could fuel skepticism about the shot far beyond their shores, US extradition potentially threatening the rollout of a orth Korea said that it has terminated vaccine that is key to the global strategy N diplomatic ties with Malaysia over to stamp out the coronavirus pandemic, its decision to extradite a North Korean especially in developing nations. criminal suspect to the United States. It’s the latest development in growing animosity As things stand, it’s either AstraZeneca between Washington and Pyongyang as or nothing for some poorer countries. The the North ramps up pressure on the Biden vaccine from the Anglo-Swedish drug administration over a nuclear standoff. maker is cheaper and easier to store than many others. It will make up nearly all of North Korea’s Foreign Ministry said the the doses shipped in the first half of the year money laundering charges against the man PC : AP Photo AP PC : by COVAX, a consortium meant to ensure are an “absurd fabrication and (a) sheer low- and middle-income countries receive a concern across the world, as many people stick by the shot. plot” orchestrated by “the principal enemy vaccines. are hesitant about shots developed in record of our state.” The statement said Malaysia time. African countries have faced particular “We will continue the inoculations,” said “committed super-large hostile act ... in With little other choice, most developing hurdles on a continent wary of being a Lia Tadesse, Health Minister of Ethiopia, subservience to the U.S. pressure” and the countries that had the AstraZeneca on hand testing ground for the West. Some leaders which received 2.2 million doses of the United States will “pay a due price.” pushed ahead with it even as major countries have pushed back against skepticism, AstraZeneca vaccine last week. It’s unclear whether or when North Korea in Europe suspended its use over the past while others, such as those in Burundi and will pull its diplomats out of Malaysia since week after reports that unusual blood clots Tanzania, have fed it by appearing to deny Authorities in India — home to the vaccine it has a history of backing away from threats. were found in some recipients of the shot — the seriousness of COVID-19. manufacturer that will likely make a despite insistence from international health large portion of the doses destined for the agencies that there was no evidence the “Unfortunate events” in Europe will ”clearly developing world — said that they would vaccine was responsible. not be helpful for our public confidence, in continue AstraZeneca inoculations with building public confidence and trust on “full vigor” as infections jumped in several But while governments in Africa and the use of that particular vaccine and other parts of the country. After initially saying it elsewhere expressed their determination vaccines for sure,” John Nkengasong, would delay use of the vaccine, Thailand Photo AP PC : to continue using the shot, not everyone is director of the Africa Centers for Disease said it would carry on with AstraZeneca, convinced. Control and Prevention, told reporters, as and the Prime Minister even got his shot in he encouraged African countries to continue public. “Why should I allow it to be used on me? their vaccinations. Are we not human beings like those in Brazil’s state-run Fiocruz institute delivered Ties between North Korea and Malaysia Europe?” Peter Odongo, a resident of a town That came hours before the European Union the first AstraZeneca shots bottled in Brazil have been virtually frozen since the 2017 in northern Uganda, told the Daily Monitor drug regulator gave the same message to as the Health Ministry sought to allay slaying of the estranged half brother of newspaper this week. its 27 members. The European Medicines concerns about the blood clot reports, urging North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at Kuala Agency said its experts concluded that the calm. Lumpur International Airport. Observers The East African country has received vaccine is not linked to an overall increase believe no Malaysian diplomat is currently 864,000 AstraZeneca doses via COVAX so in the risk of blood clots, though it could not Very few developing countries bucked in North Korea. Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry far but had administered fewer than 3,000. definitively rule out a link to rare types of the trend. Congo, for instance, halted use website said the North Korean Embassy is Authorities blamed logistical challenges clots and the vaccine. In response, countries of AstraZeneca, putting its vaccination led by Kim Yu Song, the chargé d’affaires in transporting the vaccines deep into including Italy, France and Germany campaign on hold even before it began since and councilor, and six other staff. the country, but newspaper reports cite announced they would resume use of the it has no doses of anything else. Indonesia “Yes, we will be shutting down. We are now resistance to the vaccine. shot. said it would wait for a full report from the discussing the plans with our staff here and WHO. liaising with our government,” Kim was Even before the latest debate over Even before those reversals, several quoted as saying by the the New Straits AstraZeneca, vaccine skepticism had been Credit : Associated Press (AP) developing nations had said they would Times. that national security policy has on climate Malaysia has long been a crucial economic Biden meets with UN Security change. hub for North Korea, handling trade, labor exports and some illicit businesses in Biden has vowed that the U.S. will consider Southeast Asia. Experts say North Korea is Council members to talk climate climate issues in nearly all policy making taking a tough stance over the extradition and has committed to the U.S. cooperating because it sees it as a pressure tactic against on multilateral efforts on addressing climate the North. change. “North Korea is taking a hard line because That’s a marked departure from his it thinks it must not back down (over the predecessor, Donald Trump, who largely extradition) as it’ll then have a war of nerves ignored scientific consensus about the need with the Biden government in the next four for nations to take action to curb rising years,” said Nam Sung-wook, a professor at temperatures. South Korea’s Korea University.

During the virtual meeting, Biden also Nam said North Korea also likely worries urged the security council to take action on that other cases involving North Korean several severe crises, including in Myanmar, nationals could occur in other Southeast Ethiopia, Libya, Syria and Yemen. Asian countries. Threatening to cut ties with Malaysia was one The President was joined by John Kerry, the of the North’s strongest options to express White House special envoy on climate, and its anger with the Biden administration principal deputy national security adviser without jeopardizing an eventual return to PC : AP Photo AP PC : Jon Finer. They briefed the council on U.S. nuclear negotiations with Washington, said priorities regarding climate change and resident Joe Biden told the permanent the international body’s Group of Friends Hong Min, a senior analyst at Seoul’s Korea regional security issues. P representatives of the U.N. Security on Climate and Society. The group was Institute for National Unification. Council that the United States will join launched in 2018 with a focus on the impact Credit : Associated Press (AP) Credit : Associated Press (AP) www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

22 - 28 March 2021 13

THIS DAY | THAT YEAR | NEW DELHI TIMES

22 March, 1993 Intel introduced Pentium-processor (80586) 64 bits- 60 MHz-100+ MIPS on this day that year. PC : Getty Images

23 March, 1931 Indian independence fighters Bhagat Singh, Shivaram Rajguru and Sukhdev Thapar were hanged after conducting an assassination and a bombing on this day that year.

24 March, 2008 Bhutan officially became a democracy, with its first ever general election on this day that year. PC : Getty Images

25 March, 2016 Suicide attack during a football match in Iskandariya, Iraq killed at least 32 people on this day that year. PC : Getty Images

26 March, 2005

The Taiwanese government called on 1 million Taiwanese to demonstrate in Taipei, in opposition to the Anti-Secession Law of the People's Republic of China. Around 200,000 to 300,000 attended the walk on this day that year. PC : Getty Images

27 March, 2019 Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the country is now a "space power" after successfully shooting down a satellite from space in a ballistic missile test on this day that year. PC : Getty Images

28 March, 1995 World's largest bank-Japan's Mitsubishi Bank & Bank

of Tokyo merged on this day that year. PC : Getty Images

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 14 22 - 28 March 2021

Delhi/NCR NEW DELHI TIMES Hardeep Singh Puri says buildings that Kejriwal asks Centre to take back will be demolished or remodelled under Government of National Capital Central Vista project not finalised yet Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) bill

◆ By NDT Bureau @NewDelhiTimes [email protected]

elhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal D has asked the Centre to take back the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) bill. The Bill through

amendments in various sections makes it PC : Getty Images PC : Getty Images mandatory for the government to send files to/ seek the opinion of the Lieutenant Governor Parliament building and Central Vista ◆ By NDT Bureau before taking any administrative decisions. Avenue have commenced. The Bill seeks to replace the “Government” Delhi go? Why were elections conducted? @NewDelhiTimes in the Act with the “Lieutenant Governor” The people of Delhi are being cheated by Besides the new Parliament building, [email protected] — a central government appointee who the central government. This is wrong,” the project for the redevelopment of the is always seen as one working keeping Kejriwal said. nion Housing and Urban Affairs Central Vista - the nation''s power Centre’s interest in mind. The Bill says, “The U Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has said corridor- envisages a common central expression “Government” referred to in any "Do elections, votes and our 62 out of 70 that the buildings that will be replaced as secretariat, revamping of the 3-km law to be made by the Legislative Assembly seats don't mean anything?" Kejriwal further part of Central Vista have not been finalised Rajpath from Rashtrapati Bhavan to shall mean the Lieutenant Governor. asked. yet. India Gate, a new residence for Prime Minister and PM''s office, and a new Speaking at a protest organised by his Aam “Be it folding our hands before them [the Other components of the project are in the Vice-President Enclave. Aadmi Party (AAP) against the GNCTD Centre] or touching their feet, we are ready planning stage, Hardeep Singh Puri told (Amendment) Bill, Kejriwal said, "I want to do anything for the people of Delhi. We Rajya Sabha in a written response to a "The number of existing buildings to be to appeal to the Centre to take back the will not allow any work to stop in the city. question. remodelled and demolished under the GNCTD Bill, don't cheat the people with We will ensure that the powers of the people Central Vista Project has not been finalised," this legislation. of Delhi are given back to them. The country He said the construction works of a new Puri said. is celebrating its 75th year of independence “The bill says the government means the from British rule and here BJP led Centre L-G. If that is the case, where will the Chief government is snatching the rights of the Minister go? Where will the people of citizens of Delhi,” Kejriwal said. East Delhi Municipal using legacy waste in an 800m stretch in Kalyanpuri. East Delhi Municipal Corporation approves Corporation (EDMC) officials said the pilot project will be overseen by the Central Road project to construct a Research Institute (CRRI).

road using legacy waste Vijay Prakash, the East civic body’s chief engineer, said CRRI will check if the road, ◆ By NDT Bureau to be made with legacy waste inert materials @NewDelhiTimes generated after processing by trommel machines at Ghazipur landfill, is fit to bear [email protected] the expected load and examine it for cracks.

n a first of its kind initiative in the city, “We will use nearly 25,000 metric tonnes of I the East Delhi Municipal Corporation legacy waste from Ghazipur landfill in the has approved the construction of a road process,” said Prakash. Delhi government announces release of 28 crore for salaries of teachers PC : Getty Images dialogue with him on the pending issues and ◆ By NDT Bureau concerns,” he added. @NewDelhiTimes “I have been reading news reports that the teaching staff of the DU colleges is not [email protected] getting salaries. Our Government is known and recognised for working to improve the he Arvind Kejriwal led government of education and health sectors in Delhi but there T Delhi has announced the released \ funds has been an unwarranted misunderstanding amounting to Rs 28.24 crores for the salaries and misinterpretation of the intentions of the of the staff of its fully-funded DU colleges. Delhi government. I want to clarify to all of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the esteemed members present in this meeting; that the Government will only issue funds in we are on the same side of the table. We do the future based on the directions of the court not oppose the pleas and concerns of the on whether the funds currently available staff. Since the last few years, we have tried under different heads can be used for salaries to initiate talks with the DU authorities and or not. “We are releasing the amount so that the VC, but there may have been differences, teaching staff and the colleges do not suffer political and otherwise. Today is a new till the matter is in court.” “We will issue an beginning,” Kejriwal said during his meeting invite to the Vice-Chancellor on behalf of with senior academic staff, Principal Secretary Shri Manish Sisodia Ji's office to initiate a and other senior officials. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

22 - 28 March 2021 15

National NEW DELHI TIMES Dr Harshvardhan appointed as Chairman of the Stop TB Partnership Board The Partnership’s vision is a TB-free world. ◆ By NDT Bureau The appointment of Dr Harsh Vardhan @NewDelhiTimes as the Chair of this prestigious global body is a proud recognition of India’s political [email protected] commitment to eradication of TB. The Union Health Minister will hence serve a three-year r. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister term, commencing July 2021, as the Chair of D for Health and Family Welfare has the Board of Stop TB Partnership. Established been appointed Chairman of the Stop TB in the year 2000, the ‘Stop TB Partnership’ is Partnership Board. He has been appointed to mandated to eliminate Tuberculosis as a public this post in recognition of his contribution health problem. to the movement to eradicate Tuberculosis (TB) from India by 2025. The organization was conceived following In a statement, the Union Ministry of Health the meeting of the First Session of the Ad Hoc and Family Welfare said that the Stop TB Committee on the Tuberculosis Epidemic held Partnership is a unique international body in London in March 1998. In its inaugural with the power to align actors all over the year itself, the Stop TB Partnership through world in the fight against TB. the Amsterdam Declaration gave a call for collaborative action from Ministerial delegations The participation of a wide range of from 20 countries that bear the highest burden constituencies gives this global body the of TB. It has 1500 partner organizations which credibility and the broad range of medical, include international, non-governmental and social and financial expertise needed to governmental organizations and patient groups. defeat TB. The Secretariat is based at Geneva, Switzerland. PC : Getty Images Roads and Indo-U.S. Science and Technology Section 144 Highways will be Forum launches the US India Artificial imposed in free of toll plaza Intelligence (USIAI) Initiative Gautam Buddha soon: Gadkari Nagar till April 30 ◆ By NDT Bureau ◆ By NDT Bureau @NewDelhiTimes @NewDelhiTimes PC : Getty Images [email protected] [email protected]

nion Minister of Road Transport and n the light of the rising instances U Highways Nitin Gadkari has said that I of COVID-19 cases, y, the Gautam very soon, roads and highways in the country Budhha Nagar Police on has imposed will be free of toll plaza and complete GPS- restrictions under Section 144 of the CrPC, IUSSTF’s USIAI Initiative focuses on which bars the gathering of more than four based toll collection will be implemented to ◆ By NDT Bureau replace toll plazas. AI cooperation in critical areas that are people at a public place, as a precautionary @NewDelhiTimes priorities for both countries. USIAI will measure till April 30. serve as a platform to discuss opportunities, [email protected] challenges, and barriers for bilateral AI R&D collaboration, enable AI innovation, help he US India Artificial Intelligence share ideas for developing an AI workforce, T (USIAI) Initiative has been launched and recommend modes and mechanisms for by the Indo-U.S. Science and Technology catalysing partnerships. Forum (IUSSTF) Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, Prof Ashutosh Sharma Jonathan Margolis, Acting Deputy Assistant remarked during the launch of the initiative Secretary, U.S. Bureau of Oceans & that “Indo-US relationship in the field of International Environmental & Scientific S&T is very old collaborations have resulted Affairs, U.S. Department of State, said on in great benefits for both the countries. We the occasion that collaboration between need to further scale it up in various fields, India and United States is based on shared and Artificial Intelligence (AI) can play a values of openness, transparency, and major role in the future. We have identified the reciprocity and encourages innovation that barriers for growth in India that could be useful will benefit both countries. “The US-India for the United States too”. strategic partnership can be strengthened by focusing on AI cooperation in critical areas PC : Getty Images Speaking online at the launch of the initiative that are priorities for both countries,” he of IUSSTF, a bilateral organization funded added. In a statement in Lok Sabha during the The restrictions have been imposed in view by the Department of Science & Technology Question Hour, Gadkari remarked: “want “Two large democracies of the world can of the upcoming festivals such as Holi, Shab- (DST), Governments of India, and the U.S. to assure the House that within one year all do wonders by creating synergies and e-Baraat, Good Friday, Navratri, Ambedkar Department of States, he also said that physical toll booths in the country will be collaboration, and the time is right to launch Jayanti, Ram Navami, Mahavir Jayanti, research, technology in artificial intelligence removed. It means that toll collection will such initiative. Hanuman Jayanti etc. amid the ongoing is being promoted and implemented in the happen via GPS. The money will be collected COVID-19 pandemic, it stated. country through a network of 25 technology We are looking forward for more research based on GPS imaging (on vehicles),” hubs working as a triple helix set up under and high-impact collaboration to boost "During these occasions, the chances of anti- He said 93 per cent of the vehicles pay the National Mission on Interdisciplinary both the economies, create jobs, and bring social elements attempting to disrupt law toll using FASTag, but the remaining 7 per Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS). prosperity,” Dr. Sethuraman “Panch” and order cannot be ruled out," Additional cent have still not taken it despite paying a He also pointed out the recent policies to Panchanathan, Director, National Science Deputy Commissioner of Police (Law and double toll. liberalise India’s geospatial policies. Foundation (NSF), pointed out. Order) Ashutosh Dwivedi said in the order.

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Neighbourhood NEW DELHI TIMES Sri Lanka to take time to Bangladesh and Maldives consider proposed ban on burqa sign four MoUs PC : AP Photo AP PC :

and pelagic fishing and MoU on cultural ◆ By NDT Bureau ri Lanka’s government said that it Catholic churches, one Protestant church exchange programme (CEP) for 2022-2025. S @NewDelhiTimes would take time to consider a proposed and three top hotels. The MoU on joint commission for ban on the wearing of burqas, which a top [email protected] comprehensive cooperation (JCC) was security official called a sign of religious Earlier, a Pakistani diplomat and a U.N. signed by Bangladesh Foreign Minister extremism. expert expressed concern about the possible angladesh and Maldives have signed Dr AK Abdul Momen and the Maldivian ban, with Pakistani Ambassador Saad B four Memorandum of Understandings Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid. The MoU Sri Lanka’s Minister of public security, Khattak tweeting a ban would only injure the (MoUs) to boost cooperation between the on bilateral foreign office consultations Sarath Weerasekara, said that he was feelings of Muslims. The United Nations’ two countries in different areas including (FOC) was signed by Bangladesh Foreign seeking Cabinet approval to ban burqas - special rapporteur on freedom of religion or fisheries and cultural affairs. Secretary Masud Bin Momen and Abdul a garment worn by some Muslim women belief, Ahmed Shaheed, tweeted that a ban Ghafoor Mohamed. covering the body and face - a move was incompatible with international law and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Maldivian he said would have a direct impact on the rights of free religious expression. President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih were The MoU on cooperation in the field of national security. present at the signing of the four MoUs at fisheries and pelagic fishing was signed Separately, Sri Lanka’s Foreign Ministry the Prime Minister’s Office in Dhaka. by Bangladesh Fisheries and Livestock However, government spokesman Keheliya said the government would take the time to Minister SM Rezaul Karim and Minister Rambukwella said a ban was a serious consult with all parties concerned and reach Bangladesh’s PM Press Secretary Ihsanul of Economic Development of the Maldives decision requiring consultation and a consensus. Karim informed that The Mous signed Fayyaz Ismail. The MoU on cultural consensus. are – MoU on joint commission for exchange programme (CEP) for 2022-2025 “It will be done in consultation. So, it Sri Lanka also has plans to close more than comprehensive cooperation (JCC), MoU on was signed by State Minister for Cultural requires time,” he said without elaborating, 1,000 Islamic schools known as madrassas bilateral foreign office consultations (FOC), Affairs of Bangladesh KM Khalid and the at the weekly media briefing held to because they are unregistered and accused MoU on cooperation in the field of fisheries Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid. announce the cabinet decisions. of not following national education policy. The wearing of burqas in Sri Lanka was Muslims make up about 9% of the 22 Jean Arnault named as UN temporarily banned in 2019 soon after the million people in Sri Lanka, where Easter Sunday bomb attacks on churches Buddhists account for more than 70% of the and hotels that killed more than 260 people population. Ethnic minority Tamils, who are Secretary-General's Personal in the Indian Ocean island nation. Two local mainly Hindus, comprise about 15% of the Muslim groups that had pledged allegiance population. to the Islamic State group were blamed for Envoy on Afghanistan the attacks at six locations — two Roman Credit : Associated Press (AP) Nepal expecting hundreds of climbers despite pandemic PC : AP Photo AP PC :

process as well as regional cooperation will ◆ By NDT Bureau continue, as mandated.” epal is expecting hundreds of foreigners camps of Mount Manaslu and Mount @NewDelhiTimes N to attempt to scale the highest Nuptse, respectively, Acharya said. The responsibilities of the Personal Envoy [email protected] Himalayan peaks despite the pandemic. include to liaise, on behalf of the Secretary- General, with regional countries with The spring season, which is popular because he United Nations Secretary-General the aim of supporting the negotiations The Department of Tourism in Kathmandu of favorable weather, began this month. T has announced the appointment of between Afghanistan and the Taliban and said that more than 300 foreigners have It extends up to the end of May, when Jean Arnault as his new Personal Envoy on implementation of any agreements which expressed interest in climbing Mount weather deteriorates and climbing becomes Afghanistan and Regional Issues. are reached, Mr. Dujarric added. Everest this spring. dangerous. There’s similar interest for other mountains Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for “Given the importance of regional too, said Mira Acharya, a director at the Those wishing to scale mountains still have Secretary-General António Guterres, said cooperation in support to Afghanistan, the department. to be quarantined in a hotel in the capital and that Mr. Arnault “will work closely with Personal Envoy will seek to advance the test negative for the coronavirus. SRSG Deborah Lyons and the UN Assistance good neighbourly relations contributing One Japanese and four Canadians climbers Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), whose to peace in the country”, the spokesperson are already trekking their way to the base Credit : Associated Press (AP) long-standing work in support of the peace said. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

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North America NEW DELHI TIMES Accountant testifies Mexico’s last island penal colony he saw Honduras may now host cruise ships President take bribes Honduran accountant testified that exican officials said ferries and cruise A he fled Honduras because he felt M ships may soon be visiting the former his life was in danger after witnessing two Isla Marias prison, after the last island meetings in which an alleged drug trafficker penal colony in the Americas was closed paid bribes to now- President Juan Orlando and turned into an environmental education Hernández in 2013. center in 2019. In both meetings, the subject was “protection The education camp hasn’t gone very well- and receiving drugs,” said José Sánchez, only 40 youths have been trained on the a pseudonym prosecutors used for his island - and the administration of President protection. At one Hernández was given Andrés Manuel López Obrador is now $10,000 and at another the amount was trying a different tack, because the island $15,000, the accountant said. hasn’t been offsetting the costs associated The accountant said he felt fear seeing with keeping it open. Hernández and a drug trafficker sitting at the same table. “I was seeing the candidate Officials said that they are planning to build for the presidency meeting with a drug a dock for larger ships on the Isla Madre trafficker,” he said. main island, the only one of the four Marias islands that is inhabited. Visitors will be That alleged drug trafficker was Geovanny able to tour the remote island jail, but not Fuentes Ramírez, whose New York trial stay overnight. Tourism Secretary Miguel Photo AP PC : is in its second week. Hernández’s name Torruco described future tours. The hemisphere was once dotted with escape-proof places to “rehabilitate” inmates has come up repeatedly in the trial as U.S. remote island jails like the one depicted in through hard labor. Often known as “prisons prosecutors continue to argue that his “The experience begins with the cruise the movie “Papillon,” but they all gradually without bars,” with the ocean serving as the political rise was fueled by drug traffickers. ship or ferry arriving from Mazatalán or closed. When Panama closed its Isla Coiba most effective barrier to escape, the penal San Blas, to Isla Madre, and on the voyage penal colony in 2004, Isla Marias became colonies were also known for being at least the passengers can admire the beauty of the last one remaining in the Americas. in part self-supporting and a way to settle the ocean,” Torruco said. It would be quite remote islands. a long ride; the four islands are located 70 But far from the bloody reputation of places miles (110 kilometers) off the Pacific coast like Devil’s Island — the French Guiana But in the end, the Islas Marias wound up of Nayarit state. penal colony shuttered in 1946 — toward costing Mexico far more per prisoner than the end, the Islas Marias harbored many did mainland jails. “Visitors will have their first contact with lower-risk or well-behaved inmates and the the former island prison which for 100 years colony was viewed as a step toward release Chile closed its Santa Maria prison island in sheltered numerous criminals,” Torruco or rehabilitation. the late 1980s, Costa Rica’s Isla San Lucas said. Officials compared it to the now-closed penal colony closed in 1991 and Brazil’s Photo AP PC : U.S. prison at Alcatraz, and said tourist While the prison kept mass tourism at bay, Isla Grande in 1994. Peru dramatically visits could start within three months. the islands suffered severe environmental ended its El Fronton island prison in 1986: degradation from over a century of use as a Gunboats blew up most of the buildings The penal colony, founded in 1905, passed penal colony. to put down a riot, killing more than 100 through some periods of infamous brutality, inmates. and as recently as 2013, the Islas Marias Island penal colonies were used around held 8,000 inmates. the world starting in the 1700s as remote, Credit : Associated Press (AP)

The accountant testified that in addition to Mexico’s ex-oil boss quits; the two payments he witnessed, Hernández arrived various times to the company in a helicopter to receive monthly payments of 250,000 lempiras, about $10,000. The Fuel oil burn to increase payments were for his campaign, the since 1993. López Obrador said Romero The deal would worsen pollution problems accountant said. Deschamps had not actually been working at state-owned generating plants. since he resigned the union post, but rather In the first meeting the accountant allegedly using up vacation days he accumulated But López Obrador has enacted a new law witnessed, Hernández received $15,000. It while serving as a union official. that electricity must first be bought from happened at a round table in the office of government-owned generating plants, which Fuad Jarufe, owner of Graneros Nacionales “Even though it may be legal, we considered largely run on fossil fuels like coal, fuel oil in Choloma north of San Pedro Sula. The it was immoral” for Romero Deschamps to and diesel. accountant said that Fuentes Ramírez told continue drawing pay at the beleaguered Hernández when he presented the money it government oil company, which has been If any demand remains, power will be was “to help you in the campaign.” technically bankrupt for some time. purchased from renewable and private The accountant counted the money while natural gas-fired plants. In addition to his union role, Romero Hernández looked at his cell phone. Hernández preferred cash, the accountant Deschamps, 77, long served in That has drawn complaints from investors, PC : AP Photo AP PC : said. Congress for the old ruling Institutional many of them foreign, who say it violates he former leader of Mexico’s oil Revolutionary Party, and allegedly the U.S.-Mexico-Canada free trade pact “We will be untouchable,” Hernández said, T workers’ union will finally be diverted millions in union and company and Mexico’s commitments to cut carbon by the accountant’s re-telling. Hernández resigning from his symbolic post as a worker funds to the party’s campaigns in 2000. emissions. They claim it also creates a allegedly also said “He was going to shove at the state-owned oil company Pemex, His family’s lavish lifestyle was a de facto government monopoly, hurts the drugs up the gringos’ own noses and they President Andrés Manuel López Obrador frequent cause of scandal. competition and will make Mexicans buy weren’t even going to realize it.” announced. dirtier, more expensive electricity. This week, the beleaguered oil company Hernández won his first term as President The resignation marks an end to the decades- has reportedly reached a deal with the state- López Obrador has said the law is meant in 2013 and took office in January 2014. long career of Carlos Romero Deschamps, owned electrical power utility to offload protect government-owned fossil fuel plants Prior to that he had been the President of once considered one of the most powerful stocks of fuel oil that Pemex can’t get rid against what he call unfair competition from Honduras’ congress. and corrupt figures in Mexico. of. The utility will take the heavily polluting private wind, solar and natural gas-fired Hernández has not been charged and has fuel oil to burn at power plants, and return power plants. repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. In October 2019, Romero Deschamps natural gas that Pemex cannot produce resigned as leader of the union, a post he held enough of. Credit : Associated Press (AP) Credit : Associated Press (AP)

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Africa NEW DELHI TIMES Ethiopia rejects Somalia starts first inoculations Hope that South outside mediation with AstraZeneca vaccines Africa’s COVID-19 omalia launched COVID-19 vaccinations been inoculated, according to SONNA, the corruption inspires in Nile River dam S with the inoculation of the Health official government news agency. The agency Minister, who received the jab publicly to said Mohamed, who is also known as Farmajo, action dispute reassure the nation about its safety. expressed concern over insufficient public here’s some hope in South Africa awareness about the pandemic as well as n Ethiopian official said that his The Horn of Africa nation, which has T that this time the outrage against support being given to people suffering from A government opposes calls by Sudan recently experienced a surge of cases, corruption inspires effective action. COVID-19. for outside mediators including the United received its first shipment of 300,000 doses Public anger over suspect government States in the ongoing dispute over Ethiopia’s of the AstraZeneca vaccine through the The virus has killed a growing number of contracts worth nearly $900 million for the construction of a massive hydroelectric dam international COVAX intiative to ensure that prominent Somalis, including a former purchase of supplies to fight COVID-19 on the Nile River. low- and middle-income countries receive President. Somalia has recorded 8,946 may finally bring the South African vaccines. Somalia’s first vaccinations confirmed cases of COVID-19, including Ethiopia is generally opposed to mediation government to take more decisive steps happened in a small ceremony at the Martini at least 349 deaths, according to the Africa by outside parties even though the African against corruption, say experts. Union is welcome to help, Dina Mufti, Africa’s most developed economy is spokesman for Ethiopia’s Ministry of already deeply mired in corruption with a Foreign Affairs, told reporters. commission of inquiry hearing allegations “The tripartite talks between Ethiopia, of widespread graft during the tenure of Sudan, and Egypt on the Grand Ethiopian former President Jacob Zuma. The new Renaissance Dam should be concluded charges of the misuse of public money between the three countries themselves, not earmarked to fight the COVID-19 pandemic through mediators,” he said. “The role of has the potential to be a turning point, say mediators is facilitating the talks, not spoon- those experts. feeding the process.” In a report last month, the government’s Mufti added that Ethiopia has “big respect Special Investigative Unit outlined how for the African Union” and that the country the procurement of personal protective “believes in resolving African problems by equipment for hospitals and clinics and other Africans.” supplies in the early months of the pandemic PC : AP Photo AP PC : last year was abused by local, provincial, The Sudan Tribune reported that Sudan and national officials. had formally requested mediation by the hospital in the capital Mogadishu where Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. European Union, the United States, and the Health Minister Fawziya Abikar Nur urged As South Africa’s virus cases multiplied But some ordinary Somalis who spoke to African Union to resolve the dispute after the public to embrace the vaccines to stem rapidly, making it Africa’s worst affected The Associated Press said they are not keen the visit of Sudan’s Prime Minister to Cairo infections in the country of 15 million country, those officials were signing off on getting vaccinated. last week. people and one of the continent’s weakest on more than 2,500 emergency contracts health systems. “Who knows what they’re giving these that were identified for investigation for government officials and what they will corruption and mismanagement. More “We’re planning to inoculate 20% of the be giving to the general public,” said Abdi allegations are still coming in, investigators public starting with the front-line workers Ga’al Issak, a government employee in the say, and their probe is ongoing. such as the health workers and most education department. vulnerable groups including the elderly people,” she said. Issak asked, speaking specifically of the “We will be working hard to raise the AstraZeneca shot, “If it is good, why those awareness of our people against this many European countries are refusing to dangerous virus, and campaign as well to take it? When marrying a lady, first you have PC : AP Photo AP PC : persuade our people in trusting this vaccine to check how she behaves in her parents’ which can save many lives,” she said. house, and if she’s good there, only then will Despite negotiations that have lasted years, she be good in your house as well.” Sudan, Egypt and Ethiopia have failed to Only five people, including the Minister reach a deal over how to share the Nile’s and two employees of the World Health Although the government encourages masks water, a lifeline for all three countries. The Organization, received a shot in the arm. It in public, social distancing and regular hand talks with a variety of mediators, including was not immediately clear why this was the washing to control the pandemic, many do the Trump administration, have failed to case. not follow the guidelines. produce a resolution. But the Minister said authorities would In Mogadishu’s streets only a few people can get to work distributing the vaccines be seen complying. In the mosques, where

Ethiopia began filling the dam’s reservoir Photo AP PC : last July as heavy rains flooded the river. across Somalia, which is battling an most people don’t wear masks, the imams The $4.6 billion dam will be Africa’s Islamic extremist insurgency making roads ask those praying to stand firmly side-by- largest. It is expected to reach full power dangerous. side in order to keep Satan at bay. generating capacity in 2023, according to “We’ll be distributing these doses to most Mogadishu-based health worker Dr. Some of the alleged corruption was grand the government. of the main hospitals in the capital and Abdirahman Bilal said that while “this and complex, involving front companies Ethiopia insists the dam is a crucial the government headquarters so that the second phase is more visible among the moving millions of dollars through a web of development that will help pull millions government employees can easily get their people,” not all the victims are recorded bank accounts. of its nearly 110 million citizens out of vaccination in their places of work,” she “because many people don’t make it to the said. Other schemes were shamelessly simple, poverty and become a major power exporter. hospitals” and some are not even aware like overcharging for blankets to be given to Downstream Egypt, which depends on the Across Africa, leaders such as Rwanda’s there is a pandemic. the poor as winter set in. One, a $670,000 Nile to supply fresh water to its farmers and Paul Kagame and South Africa’s Cyril order to buy motorcycles with sidecars to While most of Somalia’s cases have been population of 100 million, asserts that the Ramaphosa have been photographed use as ambulances for COVID-19 patients, reported in recent weeks, many people feel dam poses an existential threat. It has said getting a COVID-19 vaccine in a bid to was just absurd. that Ethiopia is filling the dam too quickly. reassure their people about safety. Use of there are more urgent issues at hand amid a Sudan has also voiced concern over its the AstraZeneca vaccine is being suspended continuing stalemate over how and when to There was “a complete breakdown of the access to the Nile’s water. in some European countries such as hold the country’s overdue elections. checks and balances,” the unit said. Negotiators have said key questions remain Germany and Italy because of reports of The President’s term expired last month and Some cases have been forwarded to about how much water Ethiopia will release dangerous blood clots in a few recipients, his opponents say he is in office illegally. prosecutors for criminal proceedings. The downstream if a multi-year drought occurs even though the European regulator said And al-Shabab, the al-Qaida-linked Islamic investigative unit is looking into transactions and how the countries will resolve any future there was “no indication” the shot was extremist rebel group, has been staging involving more than 30% of all the money disputes. Ethiopia rejects binding arbitration responsible. The AstraZeneca vaccine is increasingly regular attacks on public places, the South African government spent on at the final stage. the only one available in Somalia and many including hotels. fighting COVID-19 up to November, it said. other African countries. Somali President Credit : Associated Press (AP) Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed had already Credit : Associated Press (AP) Credit : Associated Press (AP) www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

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South America NEW DELHI TIMES Venezuelan teen sells drawings on Twitter to buy food amuel Andrés Mendoza carefully Rodriguez, 38, discovered Samuel’s S chooses from dozens of colored effort when he asked for her bank account pencils spread out on his kitchen table, information so that people could pay for his humming a reggaeton song as he deftly work. applies contrast to the Dragon Ball anime character taking shape on his sketch pad. Samuel, who said he began drawing at age 5, has an inclination for anime characters, but It is not just a pastime anymore for has also portrayed soccer superstar Cristiano the 14-year-old. Without his mother’s Ronaldo and the animated SpongeBob knowledge, he began selling his drawings SquarePants. on his Twitter page to help the family get by and to pay for a special diet doctors say he Venezuelan artist Oscar Olivares, who runs needs in Venezuela’s troubled economy. an art academy, saw Samuel’s tweets and gave him a scholarship to study drawing. “Hi. I’m Samuel, I’m selling my drawings Social media followers have also gifted for $1 to help my mom with my diet, buy him a laptop, a set of artists’ pencils her a house and a shop so she won’t work — and peanut butter, a good source of on the street and get sick with COVID-19 protein. and buy peanut butter for me. Thank you, sir PC : AP Photo AP PC : and madam,” he tweeted along with photos Samuel, who said he may raise his prices of four drawings. Dragon Ball’s Goku. “And here it is.” But they came home in December after she as his skills advance, would like to make lost her job and found increasing prejudice YouTube-style videos about videogames It caught the eye of many and he now has In a crisis-wracked country where workers against the growing number of Venezuelan when he grows up. more than 15,000 followers, selling dozens earn an average of $2 per month, his sales migrants. of drawings he has worked up at a table can make a big difference for a family “I’m proud of him, really. I don’t have between a worn-out couch and a rusting budget strained by his need for high-protein The mother of three now sells snacks from a words,” Rodríguez said. “But I do feel refrigerator in the small family home in foods to deal with a form of malnutrition. table in Barquisimeto’s main plaza. She also angry sometimes, I feel helpless, because I Barquisimeto, about five hours west of found work as a cleaner. Still, it has been think that at his age, he should be studying, Venezuela’s capital, Caracas. Like millions of other Venezuelans, Samuel difficult to afford the relatively expensive learning, and not wanting to work to and his mother, Magdalena Rodríguez, high-protein foods needed by her son, who help me, when I’m the one who has to do “The truth is I did not know that I was going emigrated in search of better conditions. also has a diagnosis of Asperger syndrome, a everything possible to give them comfort to draw like that, but time has passed, and I They went to Colombia in 2019 when broad branch of the autism spectrum. and nourishment.” have managed to paint for real,” Samuel said widespread power outages hit her homeland this month, showing his finished drawing of just as she learned of her son’s diagnosis. “It’s not easy,” Rodriguez said. Credit : Associated Press (AP) Brazil’s Bolsonaro names 4th Judge orders 4 Health Minister during pandemic months pre-trial

ith COVID-19 still raging in Brazil, ministry for the longest period of the three Photo AP PC : W President Jair Bolsonaro picked pandemic Ministers before Queiroga. The detention for his fourth Health Minister since the revolving door reflects the challenges for pandemic began, this time the head of the the government of Latin America’s largest Bolivia’s Áñez country’s cardiology society who in the nation to implement effective measures to past has spoken favorably of the country’s control the virus’ spread -- or even agree judge in Bolivia ordered former conservative leader. which measures are necessary. A interim President Jeanine Áñez held for four months in preventative detention Queiroga has already called Bolsonaro following her arrest on charges linked to the “a great Brazilian.” His social media 2019 ouster of socialist leader Evo Morales, channels have not made any criticism of the which his supporters consider a coup détat. President’s handling of the pandemic and Prosecutors accuse Áñez, who assumed the pushed for a quick vaccine rollout. grown more authoritarian with nearly 13 presidency following Morales’ resignation years in office, that he illegally ran for a and exile, of terrorism and sedition for João Gabbardo, a former secretary-executive fourth reelection and then allegedly rigged the violent social explosion that led to his of the health ministry, said on Twitter that the outcome, that right-wing forces led ouster. She was arrested and has called her Queiroga will face the worst figures of the violent protests that prompted security forces detention an “abuse,” denying that a coup pandemic in Brazil when he takes over. to push him into resigning and then cracked

PC : AP Photo AP PC : took place. down on his followers, who themselves protested an alleged coup. “The record number of deaths today will After a virtual hearing due to the pandemic, be in a high scale. A suggestion; do not judge Regina Santa Cruz backed prosecutors’ Marcelo Queiroga will replace Eduardo Dozens of people were killed in 2019 in a speak against a national lockdown,” said request that Áñez be held in a women’s Pazuello, an active-duty army general series of demonstrations against and then for Gabbardo, who now works for the Sao Paulo prison in La Paz. The judge also ordered with expertise in logistics who landed the Morales. state government. four months of preventative arrest for two of position last May despite having no prior her Former Ministers. Morales sent a tweet saying, “The authors health experience. Pazuello acknowledged in a press conference and accomplices of the dictatorship should that Bolsonaro aimed to replace him. The Áñez and the two ex-Ministers heard be investigated and published.” Queiroga said in a press conference in first candidate for the job, cardiologist the ruling from police cells and will be capital Brasilia that the COVID-19 policy Ludhmila Hajjar, rejected it. transferred to prison in the coming hours. After Morales resigned - or was pushed - he will implement “is of the Bolsonaro and flew abroad, many of his key supporters administration, not of the Health Minister.” Pazuello’s two predecessors left the position Earlier, Áñez called on the Organization of also resigned. Áñez, a legislator who had amid disagreements with Bolsonaro, American States and the European Union to been several rungs down the ladder of “I came to work for Brazil and other who criticized broad social distancing send missions to Bolivia to evaluate what Presidential succession, was vaulted into the Ministers of the Bolsonaro administration. and supported the use of an unproven she called “an illegal detention.” interim presidency. The President is very worried about the anti-malarial drug to treat the disease. But Morales Movement Toward Socialism situation,” said Queiroga, who insisted he He continues to hold those positions, The arrest of Áñez and warrants against remained popular. It won last year’s is against any lockdown measures. Some despite health experts’ admonishments and numerous other former officials has further elections with 55% of the vote under Brazilian cities are implementing restrictive studies showing the drug has no effect on worsened political tensions in a South Morales’ chosen candidate Luis Arce, who shutdowns to halt the spread. COVID-19. American country already torn by a cascade of perceived wrongs suffered by both sides. took the presidency in November. Pazuello had presided over the health Credit : Associated Press (AP) Those include complaints that Morales had Credit : Associated Press (AP)

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Opinion NEW DELHI TIMES Sustainable Development Goals can guide Asia-Pacific to build back better sufficient data to tell us the true story of progress. ◆ By Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana UN Under-Secretary-General and It is too soon to see the real impact of the Executive Secretary of the UN ESCAP COVID-19 pandemic on progress towards @UN_Armida the SDGs. However, early studies from UN agencies < https://data.unescap.org/ T he COVID-19 crisis poses an publications> in the Asia-Pacific region unprecedented threat to development show no single Goal is safe against the in the Asia-Pacific region that could reverse pandemic’s negative impact. In particular, much of the hard-earned progress made in the “leave no one behind” objective of the recent years. The good news is we know SDGs is at high risk. Early data show that how to tackle this challenge. Recovery mothers and children, students, informal from the pandemic and our global efforts workers, the poor, elderly, refugees and to deliver the United Nations Sustainable health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to deteriorate due to unsustainable asylum seekers are extremely vulnerable. Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 must on its population. Yet despite these hard-won human activities, and economic gains from Simultaneously, despite a short-term dip in go hand-in-hand. The Goals provide a gains, the region faces many challenges, sustainable fisheries are decreasing. air pollution during strict lockdowns, the compass to navigate this crisis, faster and such as providing an adequate healthcare pandemic’s negative environmental impacts The COVID-19 pandemic was another greener, everywhere and for everyone. workforce, reducing premature deaths and have already emerged. Additionally, there urgent signal that our unsustainable improving mental health. are concerns that the economic recession Results from the 2021 edition of the Asia and consumption and production put unbearable caused by COVID-19 might lead to a the Pacific SDG Progress Report published As we find our way out of this pandemic, pressure on ecosystems. Unless there is a decline in investment in protecting natural today by the United Nations Economic and we must focus efforts on more equitable and transformative change towards a sustainable environments. Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific greener growth. The environment and the future, pandemics will emerge more (ESCAP) show that the region fell short most vulnerable population groups should often, with more damage to our societies of its 2020 milestones for the Goals, even not pay the price for our economic ambitions and economies. Wildlife and ecosystem Recovery measures are an excellent before entering the global pandemic. The and rapid industrialization (Goal 9, another conservation are vital to prevent future opportunity for us to rethink our options for region must accelerate progress everywhere area of faster progress for the region). pandemics and the transfer of diseases from development pathways that are inclusive, and urgently reverse its regressing trends animals to humans. more resilient and respect planetary on many of the Goals and targets to achieve The most alarming observation in the new boundaries. As we enter the Decade of the ambitions of the 2030 Agenda for ESCAP report is regressing climate action Robust evaluation of progress on the SDGs Action to deliver the 2030 Agenda, we need Sustainable Development. trends (Goal 13) and life below water (Goal is disrupted by lack of data. Data availability to reinforce our collective commitment to 14). The Asia-Pacific region is responsible on the indicators has increased in the region the SDGs and let it provide our compass for In the last decade, Asia and the Pacific has for more than half of the global greenhouse in recent years as more countries prioritize building back together, better and greener. made extraordinary progress in good health gas emissions. Adverse impacts of natural the SDGs. However, challenges remain, Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana is Under- and well-being (Goal 3), which may partly disasters on people and economies increase and we need to do more to fill data gaps on Secretary-General of the United Nations and explain its relative success in reducing the year-by-year. The quality of the oceans nearly half of the official indicators without Executive Secretary of ESCAP Religious conversion under pressure or through allurement is prohibited in Islam that brought people of these lands closer ◆ By NDT Bureau to Islam instead. The character, honesty, @NewDelhiTimes compassion, and warmth of the practitioners attracted native people to learn and adopt [email protected] this religion. In the Indonesian case, people practised Islam only as a belief system but eligious conversion historically has retained their tribal culture and traditions. In R been a topic of great discussion, the Indian case, Sufi’s and merchants from in particular when conversion to Islam west Asia never tried to impose Arabian is concerned. The conversion history is culture; instead, they Indianised themselves divided; historian like Will Durant advocate and their religion and became part of its that conversion Islam has been through composite culture, which is being cherished force and sword. However, the historian to this day. It was the fusion of Sufism and like Marshall Hodgson denounced this Bakhti movement that Skism as a religion supposition. began its journey in the subcontinent. Therefore, conversion history is not clear Therefore the carriers of Islam had neither about how conversion to Islam have pressurised nor allured anyone to adopt to PC : Getty Images happened and continue to happen. Others their faith and belief system. In fact, the believe that conversions have often taken Quran systematically denounces any kind are plain and clear. Therefore, there is no defined explanation for conversion. The place due to certain emancipatory principles of pressure put upon any with regard to need to force anyone to embrace Islam” carriers of the message are clearly instructed of Islam like the principles of brotherhood conversion. In this regard, the Quran reads (Kathir, 1473). In another verse, the Quran not to impose their faith upon others. Neither and compassion, the denunciation of that “there is no compulsion in religion. explicates that “Invite (people) to the way of is it permitted to allure someone for personal racial discrimination and its emphasis on Verily, the Right Path has become distinct your Lord with wisdom and good counsel. reasons and benefits. maintaining peace. from the wrong path. Whoever disbelieves Moreover, argue with them in the best of in Taghut and believes in Allah, then he has manners” (16:125). Therefore compulsion However, history tells us that there have One of the significant successes of Islam, so grasped the most trustworthy handhold that has no place in Islam, and allurement does been numerous instances when the forced far, has been that wherever it made inroads, will never break. not make sense at all. What a Muslim can conversion has taken place. Simultaneously, it has mingled with native cultures carving do is share the message and live the example such incidents are minimal to suggest and a unique space for itself and contributed to Furthermore, Allah is All-Hearer, All- of prophet Muhammad so that his character, conclude that Islam as a religion has been the cultural development at the same time. Knower” (2:256). Explaining the context, social dealings and his contributions conveys imposed upon. If at all the practice continues It has been carried by merchants, traders, Ismail Ibn Kathir writes that, “Do not force the way of living Islam adheres to. in any form, it becomes mandatory for the travellers and Sufi saints to lands like India anyone to become Muslim, for Islam is Muslim community to take collective steps and Indonesia. It was not a compulsion plain and clear, and its proofs and evidence In fact, in Islamic literature, there is no well- and prevent such practices. www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

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Sports NEW DELHI TIMES System overhaul Preview of the UEFA Champions needed to stop slide of Sri League Quarterfinals In a repeat of the last year final, defending and Real Madrid will look to take full ◆ By Dr. Pawan Mathur Lankan cricket European Champions Bayern Munich face advantage. Salah and Mane are quality nce a dominant force in world cricket, @PawanMathur the 2020 finalists PSG. This is a marque strikers against any opposition but then with contest among the four quarterfinals a fully fit Sergio Ramos, Real Madrid look a O Sri Lanka’s slide internationally has [email protected] opened debate in this island nation about and should produce some outstanding different beast altogether. whether democracy and a free hand in the attacking football. Bayern also like to play he quarterfinals line up of the UEFA Modric is also getting back to his best. Real administration of the sport is working. a high pressing line but, in this season their T Champions League has been decided. Madrid have also shown this season that Here is a preview of the four quarterfinals defence has tended to become leaky in some Sri Lankans have long embraced cricket, a matches. when the situation demands, they raise their game in Europe. colonial legacy, as their own. It’s not only Manchester City vs Borussia the country’s most popular sport, but also a This can not be afforded against PSG as Real Madrid should win this tie and even eye unifying factor. Dortmund Neymar and Mbappe will punish them hard. As regards the Bayern attack, they have the final as they will consider themselves in This week marked the 25th anniversary the best striker in the world in the form of the relatively easier half of the draw facing of Sri Lankan cricket’s most celebrated Robert Lewandowski aided by one of the the winner of Porto versus Chelsea. achievement — the World Cup triumph in best midfields in Europe. They will take 1996. But the memories of those peaks had maximum advantage of even the slightest Porto versus Chelsea fans and critics wondering how it all could of errors by PSG defence. To contain have gone downhill so quickly. Lewandowski, Marquinhos will have to bring his A game to the fore. This should be Since 2015, Sri Lanka has won just 19 and a close game but we will place our money on lost 31 of the 57 test matches it has contested. Bayern considering their legacy in European football. Once the pace-setters in the one-day format, Sri Lanka’s record in one-day internationals Liverpool vs Real Madrid since 2015 is 33 wins and 64 defeats, including three in a row against the West PC : Getty Images Indies last week.

Manchester City, one of the tournament favourites, will play Borussia Dortmund. Manchester City have all but sealed the English Premier League title and Pep Guardiola is now hunting for European glory. Looking at their style of play and the squad depth, Manchester City look the favourites to win this tie and advance to the semi-finals. Pep Guardiola likes to play a

possession-based game combined with a PC : Getty Images high attacking line. Manchester City are a PC : AP Photo AP PC : free scoring side.

In Twenty20s, the quickest and most vibrant Rahim Sterling in the forward line up On form and pedigree, Chelsea look from of the game in recent years, Sri Lanka’s combined with them midfield prowess of favourites to win the tie. Chelsea did record is 19-47. Bernando Silva, Kevin De Bruyne and İlkay an outstanding job in the Round of 16 Gündoğan can penetrate any defence in to knock out Atletico Madrid. Under After winning the World Cup final over Europe today. City’s defensive wall of Kyle Tuchel, Chelsea have blossomed and PC : Getty Images Australia in 1996, Sri Lanka has twice been Walker, Ruben Dias and John Stones has their indifferent start to the season, runner-up in the biggest ODI event. It also been solid but will have a test in their hands Kai Havertz and Timo Werner are now won the World Twenty20 title in 2014, to contain the Dortmund attacking line finally delivering the goods. five years after being runner-up, but hasn’t which will be led by Erling Haaland.with In a repeat of the 2018 final. Liverpool takes qualified for the semifinals of any major the support of Jadon Sancho, Marco Reus on Real Madrid. There is an added spice to Porto under Sergio Conceicao too did tournament in the last six years. and Julian Brandt. City’s defence however the tie considering what transpired between very well in the Round of 16 to knock out looks a shade superior to Dortmund defence. Mo Salah and Sergio Ramos. Zinedine Juventus. Sergio Olivieria was outstanding Though initial defeats were thought to be At this point, the money is on City, but as Zidane will be looking for one more against Juventus scoring two crucial away temporary in the wake of retirements to Manchester United showed a few days ago, European glory to add to Real Madrid’s goals. some of the biggest stars in the game, the City can be controlled if the opposition decorated cabinet. Liverpool’s season in prolonged failure has exposed a system that presses hard from the start. However, it is England has been indifferent with a spate However, there is no denying the fact that is no longer producing top-quality players. easier said than done against City. Overall, of injuries including their leader in defence facing Porto was being considered the easiest it will be a tough fixture for Dortmund and option for the remaining 7 quarterfinalists. Past international players and analysts blame Virgil Van Dijk. Manchester City should go through. Chelsea, considering their squad and current administrators and a lopsided Sri Lanka This has made them defensively vulnerable form should go through to the semifinals. Cricket constitution and a bloated voting Bayern Munich vs Paris Saint- system for stymieing the development of the game domestically. Germain (PSG)

Democracy “has not worked as far as Sri Lanka Cricket is concerned. There are many loopholes in the constitution which have been exploited by the administration and the clubs,” cricket analysist Callistus Davy said.

Sri Lanka Cricket’s constitution allows for elected officials to simultaneously hold executive positions in clubs at first-class level, increasing the potential for conflicts of interest.

Credit : Associated Press (AP) Images : Getty PC

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Technology & Health NEW DELHI TIMES Canine Parvo Virus (CPV): A deadly virus leading to alarming death rate of puppies ◆ By Smt. Maneka being bred at the breeding establishments, Parvo virus is extremely contagious. It enough in one so young. It only takes a day Sanjay Gandhi have low immunity due to constant abuse takes 10–14 days to show symptoms after or two for a 9-week-old puppy to become and minimal nourishment and, are the first contraction. fatally dehydrated. Gently pull the pup’s @ManekaGandhiBJP victims of CPV. Typically, buyers write to loose skin between and behind the ears on The basic clinical signs of the CPV are fever me when they go to get a refund and are the neck and release. If the scruff falls back or low body temperature (hypothermia), n 1987, a street litter of a month-old refused, because the entire puppy trade is into its normal position within a second, he’s appearance of blood in vomit and stool, I puppies, being fed by me, started dying illegal and done in cash with no receipts. not dehydrated and treatment is going well, abdominal pain, nausea, dehydration and at an alarming rate. The splotches of blood so far. If it takes two or three seconds to lethargy. Persistent vomiting and diarrhoea in their stools were diagnosed as parasitic fall back into place, he’s starting to become cause rapid dehydration, and damage to worms. The ill-informed vet immediately dehydrated, the longer it takes the more the intestines and immune system cause gave them deworming tablets (which is a dehydrated he is. If the scruff doesn’t fall septic shock. Vomit may be clear or a poison) and there was a rapid decline. All back into place, even after a few seconds, yellow or brown colour, and diarrhoea the pups died within 3 days, consumed by you have a life-or-death situation on your will often contain blood and be a light severe gastroenteritic haemorrhaging. The hands. His gums will be pale as well. He yellow or mustard coloured hue. The blood killer was the deadly Canine Parvo Virus needs intravenous fluids and electrolytes, comes from intestinal bleeding and gives a (CPV). and FAST! particular smell to the diarrhoea. If there are absolutely no vets, or even First recognised in the 1970s, the CPV is Parvo kills by dehydration and exhaustion, compounders, who know how to give an now in epidemic form. Outbreaks have been as the constant attack on the intestinal tract intravenous injection, do this: reported from all over India. Thousands of pushes out water and electrolytes before pups have died. Since government refuses to they can be absorbed, and the vomiting and Hydration is what may help to keep your give the vaccine and government hospitals

PC : Getty Images diarrhoea keep the dog from getting any rest. pup alive. Focus on it. Keep your pup warm do not treat parvo cases, the animal welfare and give fluids every half hour. If he won’t shelters are full and the mortality of these This is what you need to do if you have a drink on his own, you’ll have to syringe feed young pups crowded together is extremely There are two prominent strains of the canine pup with parvo: parvovirus (CPV-2a and CPV-2b) from the the fluids. Don’t give plain water as he needs high. Animals’ feeders simply do not have Parvovirus causes life threatening genus family of Parvoviridae. It spreads electrolytes to continue his survival, and the money to give vaccines to the pups and dehydration and anaemia. They are basically through infected faeces, vomit, blood, touch, pushing straight water can decrease his survival we all stand by helplessly as they die. In a bleeding out internally while also losing the surfaces, clothing, etc. Shelters, kennels, chances by flushing out the electrolytes he normal year, only one street pup survives a fluids/nutrients they desperately need to clinics, public parks are prime locations already has. Give clear Pedialyte. litter. The rest are run over, die of starvation, fight it off. poisoned or thrown away in plastic bags. where the virus lurks. Its favourite victim He will also need calories to fight the This year, even that one is unlikely. is the young pup, but unvaccinated dogs Rush to a vet. infection. If he can tolerate it, you can give in general are vulnerable. Undetected, or The only thing your vet can do to treat this chicken or vegetable broth with a bit of A majority of pups sold by pet shops and dog diagnosed at a later stage, it is almost always virus is to give IV fluids (50 ml twice a day), added salt (sodium will help him to retain breeders have parvo. There are two reasons: fatal within 48-72 hours. antivomiting and antidiarrhoea medications, water) mixed with a bit of puppy milk the puppy has been taken away from its often along with a sedative to buy their replacer (NOT COWS MILK). Mix the milk mother at 3 weeks of age, by breeders and Parvo virus attacks the cells in the small immune system time to fight the virus, and to broth in a 1:3 ratio. Too much milk will sellers, to supply customers who want intestine, making the intestinal wall antibiotics to fight secondary infections. also increase diarrhoea. But he needs those really small pups. If it had been nursed by vulnerable to bacteria in the center of the The fluid therapy can be Loparamide, calories. the mother the pup would have developed gut. The bacteria cross over into the blood Metronidazole augmented with antibiotics To Read Full Article : https://www.newdelhitimes. an immunity, which would have helped his stream leading to sepsis which causes organ com/canine-parvo-virus-cpv-a-deadly-virus-leading- Cefotoxin, Cefazolin, Ampicillin, little body fight off the virus. No pet shops failure. Parvo also attacks the bone marrow, to-alarming-death-rate-of-puppies Gentamycin, Tamiflu. vaccinate puppies, and they put pups from causing dangerously low white blood cell To join the animal welfare movement different breeders into one cage. The dogs are counts. This denies the body the one thing it Home treatment, of pushing fluids and contact [email protected], bred in slummy filthy conditions. The dogs, needs to fight off the sepsis. feeding nutritional broths, isn’t always www.peopleforanimalsindia.org EU regulator ‘convinced’ US astronaut launching next AstraZeneca benefit outweighs risk month may spend year in space he European Union’s drug regulator on confidence in inoculation campaigns T ASA may soon chalk up another one- insisted that there is “no indication” the world over, many of which are already N the AstraZeneca vaccine causes blood clots struggling to overcome logistical hurdles year space mission thanks to an out-of- as governments around the world faced and widespread hesitancy about vaccines. this-world Russian movie-making deal. the grimmest of dilemmas: push on with Astronaut Mark Vande Hei learned just last a vaccine known to save lives or suspend “We are still firmly convinced that the week that he’ll launch April 9 on a Russian its use over reports of clotting in some benefits of the AstraZeneca vaccine in rocket to the International Space Station. The recipients. preventing COVID-19 with its associated former station resident suspected that might Photo AP PC : risk of hospitalization and death outweigh happen and had been training just in case. the risk of the side effects,” said Emer “Vyzov,” challenge in English, it’s meant Cooke, the head of the agency. In a news conference from cosmonaut to highlight Russian space activities and headquarters in Star City, Vande Hei said glorify the cosmonaut profession, according Many scientists have argued that even the he may have to give up his return Soyuz to a news release. loss of a few days in vaccinating vulnerable seat in the fall to a Russian space tourist people could be far costlier than the impact who’s interested in filming up there. If that Five years have passed since now retired of any rare phenomenon. happens, he and possibly one of his two astronaut Scott Kelly completed a 340- Russian crewmates would have to wait for day space station mission, a U.S. record. But a cascading number of countries have the next Soyuz ride home — most likely in Astronaut Christina Koch came close to that taken a different view and locked away shots spring 2022. a year ago. from the Anglo-Swedish company, awaiting PC : AP Photo AP PC : the results of an EMA review, promised. “Honestly, for me, it’s just an opportunity NASA is eager for more extra-long missions for a new life experience,” he told reporters. to study the human body’s adaptation to The European Medicines Agency urged Sweden was the latest to do so, choosing “I’ve never been in space longer than about weightlessness, especially as it looks ahead governments not to halt use of the vaccine caution over speed, even as Cooke insisted six months, so if someone tells me I’ve got to to Mars expeditions of at least a few years. at a time when the pandemic is still “that at present there is no indication that stay in space for a year, I’ll find out what that Space station missions typically last six taking thousands of lives each day. And vaccination has caused these conditions.” feels like. I’m really enthusiastic about it.” months. already there are concerns that even brief The movie is planned by Russia’s Channel suspensions could have disastrous effects Credit : Associated Press (AP) One and a TV film studio. Tentatively titled Credit : Associated Press (AP) www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper

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Entertainment & Lifestyle NEW DELHI TIMES Grammy Award Marvel’s ‘Falcon’ ratings drop promises action, 51 percent to explores race, record low patriotism hen Steve Rogers handed Sam Wilson rammy producers avoided the Zoom W his Captain America shield at the end G awkwardness of other pandemic-era of Marvel’s massive 2019 event “Avengers: awards shows and gave music-starved fans Endgame,” Wilson tried it on for a beat. performances by the industry’s biggest stars. “How does it feel?” the wrinkled Rogers And viewers still stayed away.

PC : AP Photo AP PC : asked. “Like it’s someone else’s,” Wilson CBS’ Grammys telecast reached 9.2 million- responded. television and streaming - viewers, the CBS won the week, averaging 4.9 million 6. “The Voice” , NBC, 7.57 million. That reluctance and skepticism is front-and- lowest number on record and a precipitous viewers in prime time. NBC had 4 million, center as Wilson’s story continues in “The 51% drop from last year, the Nielsen ABC had 3.4 million, Fox had 2.6 million, 7. “Chicago Fire,” NBC, 7.04 million. Falcon and the Winter Solder,” a new six- company said. Univision had 1.4 million, Ion Television 8. “The Voice”, NBC, 6.89 million. had 1.2 million and Telemundo had 1 episode Disney+ series that promises an That followed the Golden Globes’ 63% exploration of patriotism and race alongside million. 9. “Young Sheldon,” CBS, 6.49 million. decline in ratings a few weeks ago and its shootouts and soaring chase scenes. The record low ratings for the Emmy Awards Fox News Channel led the cable networks, 10. “President Biden’s Address to Nation,” series launches. last fall. averaging 2.45 million viewers in prime ABC, 6.34 million. That’s enough for television executives to time. MSNBC had 1.84 million, CNN had 11. “911,” Fox, 6.28 million. worry about whether this is just pandemic- 1.29 million, HGTV had 1.15 million and ESPN had 1.06 million. related or if they can no longer depend on 12. “FBI: Most Wanted,” CBS, 6.15 million. these traditional attention-getting events. ABC’s “World News Tonight” won the The Oscars, coming up next month on ABC, evening news ratings race, averaging 8.9 13. “Chicago PD,” NBC, 5.89 million. has often been the year’s most-watched million viewers. NBC’s “Nightly News” had 14. “President Biden’s Address to Nation,” television event after the Super Bowl. 7.3 million and the “CBS Evening News” CBS, 5.83 million. had 5.3 million. There are multiple factors, including the Photo AP PC : decline of broadcast TV in general and the 15. “The Masked Singer,” Fox, 5.66 million. For the week of March 8-14, the top 20 fragmentation of entertainment: There are programs, their networks and viewerships: fewer movies, TV shows and songs that pull 16. “The Neighborhood,” CBS, 5.62 million. society together. Social media also allows 1. “NCIS,” CBS, 9.78 million. 17. “American Idol,” ABC, 5.5 million. fans to catch highlights of an awards show later instead of watching the full event, 2. “Grammy Awards,” CBS, 9.23 million. 18. “Station 19,” ABC, 5.41 million. which for the Grammys lasted nearly four hours. 3. “60 Minutes,” CBS, 8.14 million. 19. “911: Lone Star,” Fox, 5.36 million. While “Endgame” appeared to promise For the Grammys, the ratings decline came 4. “FBI,” CBS, 7.66 million. 20. “Bob Hearts Abishola,” CBS, 5.21 million. a quick transition for Anthony Mackie’s despite the general view that it was a well- Falcon to take up the Captain America produced event. 5. “Chicago Med,” NBC, 7.571 million. Credit : Associated Press (AP) mantle, as he has in the comics, the creator of “Falcon” promises only complications. Ananya Panday slays Malcolm Spellman said the series will Spike Lee to head Cannes explore “the conflict for a Black man the summer fashion confronting those stars and stripes.” He said the Wilson/Falcon character is set in two unusual outfits Film Festival jury to “emerge from this story as a hero of the ◆ By NDT Bureau times and a hero of the people today. And that journey of whether it’s even appropriate @NewDelhiTimes to deal with the symbol, the Stars and [email protected] Stripes, to me, felt super, super relevant and timely.” So will there be a Black Captain America by the time the final credits roll in April? Mackie, steeped in Marvel’s renowned secret-keeping after playing Falcon since 2014′s “Captain America: The Winter PC : Getty Images Soldier,” will only say this: “I’m very happy

PC : AP Photo AP PC : with the end of ‘Falcon,’ and I feel like I have one of the most unique, coolest characters in ecently Ananya Panday redefines pike Lee, who was set to lead last year’s we’ve just been through, Spike Lee has all of comic book movies.” R summer fashion in two unusual outfits, S jury for the Cannes Film Festival that never stopped encouraging us,” said Lescure both styled by celebrity stylist Lakshmi Lehr. was ultimately canceled by the pandemic, in a statement. Unlike the mostly insular “WandaVision,” In the first look, Ananya was seen keeping it will preside over this year’s jury instead. the first Marvel series launched after easygoing in a “white ruche bralette top styled “This support is finally coming to fruition “Endgame,” “Falcon” promises a larger with a fitted pair of black denim.” She further The French Riviera festival announced that and we could not have hoped for a more scope of globe-trotting adventure with chose to leave the halter top untied and opted Lee will be President of the jury for the 74th powerful personality to chart our troubled implications for multiple characters in for a delicate bronze makeup teamed with a Cannes. Usually held in May, this year’s times.” upcoming series and films. pair of abstract hoops with stout gold rings. Cannes Film Festival has been delayed by Organizers said preparations “are in full Spellman drew inspiration from race- Her hair was blow-dried into messy waves. the health crisis. It’s set to take place July swing” for this year’s Cannes, more details conscious “buddy two-handers” like “Lethal She just nailed the monochrome look. 6-17. of which will be announced in coming Weapon,” “48 Hours” and “The Defiant Ones,” highlighting the warm chemistry In the second look, she wore a striped outfit Lee is the first Black person to head the weeks. Selections will be announced in early between Mackie and Sebastian Stan, who that gave cheerleader vibes! She was seen Cannes jury, which selects one of cinema’s June. in a cobalt blue and white stripe crop top joined Marvel movies as Bucky Barnes top prizes, the Palme d’Or. Several of Lee’s films premiered at Cannes, with full sleeves teamed with a matching in 2011′s “Captain America: The First including “Do the Right Thing” in 1989. In short skirt and a belt. Her hair was tied Pierre Lescure, President of the festival, Avenger.” In comics, Barnes has also taken 2018, his “BlacKkKlansman” won one of in a ponytail with a similar makeup and praised Lee for his loyalty and spirit. up Cap’s shield, lending an inherent tension the festival’s top prizes, the Grand Prix. completed the stunning look with a pair of to the series titular pairing. white heels. “Throughout the months of uncertainty Credit : Associated Press (AP) Credit : Associated Press (AP)

India’s only International Newspaper www.NewDelhiTimes.com 24 22 - 28 March 2021

Think - Tanks NEW DELHI TIMES Acceptance of one’s fault is the greatest attainment Those who never admit their faults and errors are those who never suspected that they might be anything less than perfect mistakes are a part of life, we can do nothing All of us for a fact know to a fairly errors are those who never suspected that ◆ By Dr. Pramila for a while and it’s ok. But for most of us, our considerable degree that none of us can they might be anything less than perfect. It Srivastava conciseness can be harsh and unforgiving ever be considered perfect, not even the is, in other words, a sense of innocence and and as we had thought from a very young most competent person in the world could purity that renders people to be unpleasant @PramilaBK age when things go wrong, we consider ever come close to being perfect, so the and dangerous as it removes their capacity [email protected] it as an unforgivable sin and a shameful only people who could be counted as for introspection, moderation, feel guilty, representation of our character, one which good are those who are modest and openly and atonement. terrible truth that afflicts us all is that we should never allow anyone to ever know prepared to acknowledge their tendency to A we are all so very ashamed of our about. make mistakes and be less than perfect. If A person who doesn’t admits his or her fault faults and mistakes. Yes, we are petrified we deny our faults then that would mean but instead hides them or denies them is one and so very insecure of others finding out of that we deny ourselves the opportunity that refuses to change and will most probably our faults. We would rather have the world to acknowledge our own mistakes and repeat the same mistakes in the future. believe that we are infinitely strong and weaknesses preventing us to come to terms Most of us will or might have already flawless than admit that “It’s our fault or with the fact that we are perfectly imperfect realized that no one is without faults and that that we made a mistake”. We fear the cruel and that it is okay to make a few mistakes the people we consider good or those who and harsh judgments of others and are so as we try to learn and navigate through the we look up to aren’t people without flaws very insecure that they will not accept us if many trials of life. but they are just people who are unusually they see that we are an idiot inside or if they We need to acknowledge that we are experts aware of them and are very committed to knew of our flaws or mistakes that we have at focusing on the faults of others and at overcoming them. Only with a level of self- committed. ignoring evidence of our own less than doubt and self-reflection can we admit our faults and check our myriad tendency to

But the same goes for everyone, we are all PC : Getty Images ideal natures. We can point out so quickly terrified of each other’s harsh and terrible and clearly the faults and weaknesses of self-arrogance and pride that disallows us judgments and are always permanently others, all the while not even considering from admitting our mistakes and makes us But the truth is every single one of us self-critical, self-hating, and afflicted by a that we might, if not in a similar but different rigid and uncorrectable. has committed the sin of failing, making sense that we are undeserving and not good situation, be no better than those we have so mistakes, not being good enough and all of We must therefore learn to admit that all enough. This intolerance of oneself and the mercilessly condemned. We feel the need us has committed numerous shameful and of us are sinners and faulty by default, that fear of having to screw up and admit our to be always righteous and right. We place embarrassing mistakes that we rather not we are perfectly imperfect and will make faults may stem from the residue of the ourselves above the faults and weakness be reminded of, but in actuality, no one is numerous mistakes over the course of our voices of our parents, as we were growing of everyone else including our own and better than the other. We have to accept the lives, so instead we should try to create up or as the brilliant Sigmund Freud would therefore we continue to deny our faults fact that all of us have made numerous grave a sense of self observance, tolerance, call it, the “Superego”. and the chance to redeem ourselves and so errors and will continue to do so. Therefore, understanding, productive guilt and we continue to ruthlessly deny and hide our These consciences are benign for the lucky our only focus is to try to admit and learn kindness within ourself. We shouldn’t faults and continue to go on committing few, if we fail today, we will try tomorrow, from our faults and mistakes the best we can allow our own correctness or rightness them over and over again. we need not be the most charming person so that we may come out of the other end as at a particular moment to be an excuse to to be loved and valued, we deserve a rest, a better person. Those who never admit their faults and judge others for their mistakes. PANCAP devises toolkit to boost response to HIV in the Caribbean and vulnerable populations (in particular) gains made in the HIV response”. Ivan ◆ By International Institute for Non - Aligned Studies and contributes to more rapidly expanding Cruickshank, Executive Director, Caribbean effective HIV, Tuberculosis (TB) and Vulnerable Communities Coalition (CVC), @iinsNAM Malaria responses. stated that he endorsed the toolkit and [email protected] welcomed the attention placed on the need The toolkit is built on the principles of for more partnerships between governments he Pan-Caribbean Partnership commitment, meaningful participation and CSOs. “Civil society is the heart and the T against HIV and AIDS (PANCAP) of all partners, transparency, fairness and backbone of the Region’s HIV response,” is a Caribbean regional partnership of equity, accountability and independence. stated the Executive Director, “they reach governments, regional civil society The toolkit will allow countries to assess the most vulnerable who are in urgent need organisations, regional institutions and where they are along the process and of access to health. Governments need to government and CSOs as they build organisations, bilateral and multilateral provide guidance to move to the next steps. recognise the tremendous value that CSOs partnerships to deliver HIV services. agencies and contributing donor partners. For countries that are in the initial stages or bring to the response and work with them to PANCAP provides a structured and unified Jason Shepherd, Senior Programme Officer, are just discussing social contracting, the reach those most affected by HIV. I applaud approach to the Caribbean’s response to the Caribbean Regional Network of People toolkit will provide advice on the critical this PANCAP initiative and hope that HIV epidemic, coordinates the response Living with HIV/AIDS also endorsed the areas for consideration, such as the legal governments and CSOs seize the opportunity through the Caribbean Regional Strategic toolkit and echoed that governments and and regulatory framework, costing and to use the toolkit to build strategic alliances Framework on HIV and AIDS (CRSF) to CSOs need to collaborate on HIV activities the standardized contractual mechanism that will benefit the most vulnerable”. maximise efficient use of resources and in light of the ongoing COVID-19 challenge. that must be put in place. Dr Rosmond increase impact, mobilises resources and “As we continue to navigate COVID-19, Adams, Director, PANCAP highlighted Veronica Cenac, the consultant responsible build capacity of partners. PANCAP was social contracting offers an effective solution that the toolkit is timely as COVID-19 for the toolkit, highlighted that it contains established by a Declaration of CARICOM for HIV programmes reaching those most at- threatens to undermine the gains made in guidance to countries and recommends a Heads of Government on 14 February risk for HIV”, remarked Shepherd. the Region’s HIV response. He explained four-stage process for the implementation 2001 in response to the threat of HIV to that the toolkit aims to assist regional of social contracting in the Caribbean. (in arrangement with sustainable human development. countries in developing and implementing These include securing the Political Will News from Non-Aligned World) On March 2, 2021, PANCAP launched a social contracting mechanism in of Government and CSOs, Readiness www.iins.org a toolkit for social contracting during a partnership between governments and Assessment – virtual event attended by key stakeholders CSOs with recommended actions set out in Analysis of Legal and from the Region’s HIV response including a 4-stage process and examples of regional Regulatory Framework, Contact New Delhi Times Government, civil society organisations and international experiences to guide Implementation Process, (CSOs) and the CARICOM Secretariat. decision making. “Collaboration between and a Roadmap for For Complaints & Suggestions According to a press release by CARICOM, governments and civil society is critical sustainability. She +91-9999331600 social contracting involves governments particularly at a time where COVID-19 has emphasised that providing financial support for programmes, placed a strain on the Region’s resources effective rollout of A-2/59, Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi-110029 interventions and other activities for responding to HIV”, stated Dr Adams, social contracting implemented by civil society organisations. “we hope that this toolkit can foster more will require planning, Visit us at : twitter@NewDelhiTimes This is done to help prevent reductions and collaborations and partnerships between ongoing advocacy, and facebook.com/newdelhitimes disruptions in targeted services for key governments and CSOs to maintain the collaboration between Printer and Publisher: Dr. (Mrs.) Pramila Srivastava, on behalf of Dr. Ankur Srivastava, Printed at Sudhir Printers, 151, Desh Bandhu Gupta Market, Karol Bagh, Delhi - 110005, Published at A-2/59 Safdarjung Enclave New Delhi-110029. Ph.: 26102520, 26105846 Fax: 26196294 Email: [email protected], Vol. 31, No. 8 Editor : Dr. Ankit Srivastava www.NewDelhiTimes.com India’s only International Newspaper