Indentured servitude, a practice akin to slavery, continues to exist in some countries despite its supposed abolition. This form of labor involves individuals contracting themselves to work without compensation for a fixed number of years. Whether voluntary, as a form of payment, or involuntary, as a punishment, this practice diminishes human rights and dignity. As the world grapples with modern-day slavery, the ongoing use of indentured servitude raises concern over the lack of progress in eradicating this exploitative system.
A devastating fire broke out in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Uttar Pradesh, leading to the death of ten newborn babies. Dozens of children were rescued, but the fire caused a stampede-like situation at the hospital. The cause of the fire is suspected to be a short circuit in the inner unit of the NICU. A two-member inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the incident and submit a report to the Chief Minister.
The president of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, has expressed his government's willingness to work with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to resolve any concerns about their nuclear program. This comes as IAEA chief Rafael Grossi visits Tehran, amidst concerns about escalating tensions in the region, including the recent Israeli attacks on Gaza and Lebanon. Grossi stressed the importance of achieving results in the ongoing nuclear talks in order to prevent further conflict and avoid any potential attacks on Iran's nuclear facilities.
More than 20,000 people were killed and half a million were left homeless after a powerful earthquake hit the Indian state of Gujarat in 2002. Among the affected were 150 Hindu families in the remote village of Mavnugam, whose homes were destroyed. Almost two years later, thanks to a church-led effort, the villagers now have a new village with earthquake-proof homes, a school, health center, and other amenities. This project was made possible by funds raised by international partner churches and was inaugurated on a special day for the Church of North India.
Despite making an impressive aerobatic display at the Airshow China 2024, the Su-57 fighter jet faced global ridicule and embarrassment due to its questionable build quality and stealth capabilities. Social media users pointed out far from hi-tech bolts and filler between panels, rendering the plane detectable to radars and negating its stealth abilities. This further adds to the long and troubled history of the prized Russian aircraft.
Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, spent the last 18 years of his life in Nankana Sahib, Pakistan. This gurdwara, built at the site of Guru Nanak's childhood home, serves as a reminder of his teachings and travels. It features a rock with his hand imprint, his final resting place, and the original robe gifted to him by a Muslim devotee. Other gurdwaras in the region commemorate important events in Guru Nanak's life, such as his enlightenment, acts of charity, and miraculous spring.
This November 15, 2024, Friday, Sikhs all over the world will commemorate Guru Nanak Dev Ji's 555th birth anniversary, also known as Guru Nanak Jayanti. It is a day to honor the founder of Sikhism and his teachings of unity, equality, and humanity. It is celebrated with morning processions, recitation of the holy book, and reflecting on Guru Nanak Dev Ji's spiritual journey. This year, the special anniversary falls on a Friday, making it an even more auspicious occasion.
The India-South Africa Chamber of Commerce (ISACC) was recently inaugurated with the goal of enhancing economic relations between the two countries. This includes promoting trade and investment, encouraging business collaborations, and providing networking and knowledge exchange opportunities. The chamber will focus on empowering youth and women, generating sustainable jobs, and eradicating poverty through inclusive economic policies. Key stakeholders discussed tackling visa challenges and improving business ventures between the two nations, with the chamber set to organize trade missions, seminars, and mentorship programs to build confidence and foster partnerships.
Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, has resigned after a report revealed a history of child abuse by John Smyth, an associate of the Church of England. Despite being notified by police in 2013, Welby says he believed a resolution would follow, but Smyth was never brought to justice before his death in 2018. In response to Welby's resignation, one of Smyth's victims spoke to the BBC about the horrific abuse he suffered. For more on this story, read the BBC's coverage and Justin Welby's full statement.
The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) has released the results for the Class 10 Private/Bi-Annual examinations conducted in August and September 2024. Out of the 50,935 students who appeared for the exam, only 34.69% were able to pass. There are concerns over the declining advertising revenues and the challenges faced by the media in Kashmir in covering the conflict situation in an unbiased manner.