As the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Guyana in 56 years, PM Modi's arrival marks a momentous occasion for the community. The Indian diaspora, which makes up over 40% of Guyana's population, eagerly awaits the world leader and shanti-doot who strives to unite the world and propel India into its golden age. PM Modi's visit marks a significant moment for the Indian community, deeply rooted in their traditions and eagerly showcasing their vibrant culture to welcome the Prime Minister. During this visit, PM Modi will also co-chair the second India-CARICOM Summit with the Prime Minister of Grenada, highlighting the importance of regional collaboration.
In a move to slow Russian advances in Ukraine, US President Joe Biden has approved the provision of anti-personnel mines to the Ukrainian military. This comes as reports state that North Korean troops have joined Russian marines and airborne units in battles throughout the country. The addition of anti-personnel mines marks a new level of assistance from the US in the ongoing conflict, with the mines being more deadly and longer-lasting than the previously provided anti-tank mines. Meanwhile, Ukraine's air defence units are actively working to repel a Russian air attack on the capital city of Kyiv.
Dmitry Medvedev, an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has issued a warning about the start of World War Three due to a recent US decision allowing Ukraine to launch missiles into Russian territory. In response, Putin has signed a new decree giving Russia more flexibility in responding with nuclear weapons. Medvedev has accused the US of deliberately creating an escalation for former President Donald Trump's administration and claims Russia now has the right to launch a retaliatory strike against Ukraine and NATO facilities, which would mark the start of WWIII.
In yet another round of violence, Israel has launched an air strike on central Beirut, resulting in the deaths of at least five people and injuring 24 others. This attack comes as the militant group Hezbollah considers a proposed ceasefire backed by the United States in Lebanon. As tensions continue to escalate in the region, a large fire has also broken out in Tel Aviv following the raid sirens that sounded.
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully rescued seven Indian fishermen who were apprehended by a Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) ship near the India-Pakistan Maritime Boundary. The rescue operation took place after the ICG received a distress signal from an Indian fishing boat operating near the No-Fishing Zone. Despite the PMSA's attempts to retreat, the ICG intercepted their ship and convinced them to release the fishermen. A joint investigation has now been launched to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and the subsequent rescue operation.
Despite the challenges and dangers of air travel during WW2, the Allied Forces did indeed use flights from India to resupply anti-Japanese guerrillas in British Malaya and send secret agents to aid their cause. This has been confirmed by the RAF Museum in the UK, which not only provides a factual account but also exhibits one of the actual aircraft used for such missions. One of these aircraft, a Consolidated B-24 Liberator bomber, was even part of the last combat mission of RAF's No.99 Squadron when it was stationed in the Cocos Islands, which puts it just under 12 hours of flying time away from Singapore.
In a significant milestone for Native American women, California has approved the removal of the derogatory term "squaw" from the names of more than 30 locations across the state. Following a bill signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, the offensive term will be replaced by January 2025 in 15 counties, including roads, bridges, and fire stations. This move comes as part of a nationwide effort to address and replace derogatory terms in geographic features. The decision was made in consultation with California Native American tribes, acknowledging and respecting their history and culture.
As Delhi recorded an AQI of 493 on November 18, 2024, authorities have directed all schools to move classes online and have tightened restrictions on construction and vehicle movements. The level of PM2.5 in Delhi was 26 times higher than the WHO's limit, leading to the use of an anti-smog gun on a multi-purpose vehicle in an effort to reduce air pollution. With nine stations reporting an AQI of 500, the situation is even worse than the recorded 493.
International Men's Day is observed on November 19 every year to bring attention to men's issues and promote positive masculinity. In 2024, the theme is "Men's Health Champions," which highlights the importance of men's health and celebrates those who are working to improve it. The four subthemes emphasize different aspects of men's well-being and invite everyone to participate in creating a more inclusive society. On this day, let us all reflect on the role of men in our community and work towards a more equal and healthy world for all genders.
Amid a surge in fall fires, firefighters in New York were able to safeguard over 160 homes from a stubborn wildfire near the New Jersey border thanks to a precautionary evacuation plan. Meanwhile, many communities in the Northeast are still under red flag alerts and facing hundreds of brush fires due to dry and windy conditions. California has also seen progress in containing a 32-square-mile wildfire that has destroyed over 245 structures. In response to the increase in brush fires, New York City’s Fire Department is setting up a task force to respond quickly and investigate the cause of these incidents.