Afghanistan

Karzai Calls Clerics’ Gathering ‘Symbolic’: Tolo News

Former President Hamid Karzai called the gathering of the Islamic clerics held in Kabul “symbolic,” saying that this was more a gathering of the “Taliban movement themselves.” Click here to read…

Unknown Disease Strikes 50 Children in Southern Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

The disease that has affected 50 children in the Siori region of the province of Zabul has cholera-like symptoms, according to the state-run Bakhtar news agency. A mobile medical team has reportedly been sent to the region to examine and attend to the sick children and prevent the spread of the unknown disease, according to Dr. Abdul Hakim Hakimi, the Taliban’s head of the public health department in Zabul province. Click here to read…

China Envoy in Kabul Says Humanitarian Aid is Priority: Tolo News

China says that the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan is critical and noted that the United States has not released the frozen assets of Afghanistan. Wang Yu, China’s ambassador to Kabul, expressed concerns over the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan at an event which was held to hand over Chinese aid to needy people in Afghanistan, making remarks that held the US responsible for this situation. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Load shedding at specific times likely- The Daily Star

The government is considering reducing electricity production to save the fuel for producing power, said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday. Click here to read…

PM Hasina’s mango diplomacy: Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif gets 1 metric tonne Amrapali- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has sent 1000kg of famed Amrapali mango to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as gift in a gesture of goodwill. Click here to read…

Bangladesh Ambassador to Poland, Japanese Ambassador to receive ‘Bangabandhu Medal for Diplomatic Excellence’- The Daily Star

Bangladesh Ambassador to Poland, Sultana Laila Hossain, and Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh, Ito Naoki, will receive the ‘Bangabandhu Medal for Diplomatic Excellence’ – for their significant contributions. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Ngawang Dramtoe lhops struggle to save maize- Kuensel

Lhops (Doyas) of Ngawang Dramtoe in Tading, Samtse are struggling to save their maize from wild animals. Click here to read…

Water flagship programme to address water shortage in Tangmachhu- Kuensel

Catering to Maenbi gewog, Tangmachu school and other government offices like the basic health unit and RNR office, Tangmachu town is growing. Click here to read…

Export restriction on potatoes from Bhutan to India lifted – Kuensel

The government of India (GoI) has given a one-year extension of exemption on the export of potatoes from Bhutan to India. Click here to read…

Maldives

Maldives to introduce an unemployment benefit scheme: Edition MV

Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer signed the agreement on behalf of the government while Country Director for Maldives Faris Hadd-Zavos signed the agreement on behalf of the World Bank. Click here to read…

Government announces measures to decrease expenditure, increase revenue: The Sun

The government, on Tuesday, has announced measures which will be taken to decrease state expenditure and increase state revenue in order to improve the fiscal situation of Maldives. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar’s SAC refuses to allow Sokhonn to meet Aung San Suu Kyi – Asia News Network

Foreign minister and ASEAN special envoy on Myanmar Prak Sokhonn was unable to meet with former civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi due to unspecified “judicial procedures” cited by the ruling State Administration Council (SAC). Click here to read…

Two Indians shot dead in Myanmar near border: Report – Hindustan Times

Two people of Tamil origin were shot dead in the Tamu area of Myanmar, bordering Manipur, on Tuesday, according to media reports in the neighbouring country that Indian authorities were trying to corroborateClick here to read…

Beijing wants instability in Myanmar: Southeast Asia expert Bertil Lintner – India Blooms

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrived in Myanmar on Saturday to attend a regional conference that the opposition views as a “violation of peace efforts”. For his first visit since the military seized power in Myanmar ousting the elected government, Chinese FM Wang Yi will look to secure Beijing’s long-term interests. Click here to read…

Further clashes break out between resistance and junta forces in southern Shan, Karenni states – Myanmar Now

The anti-junta Karenni Nationalities Defence Force (KNDF) launched a lethal attack on a military vehicle southeast of Loikaw last week, causing multiple casualties, a spokesperson for the resistance group said. Click here to read…

A Toothless International Response to a Merciless Myanmar Regime – The Irrawaddy

The world sees Myanmar’s generals and their military as “a bunch of thugs”. The problem, however, is that it doesn’t treat them as thugs. In a recent interview with The Irrawaddy, US State Department Counselor Derek Chollet called the ruling military “a bunch of thugs” Click here to read…

Myanmar military’s proxy party convenes central assembly – Myanmar Now

The proxy party of Myanmar’s military convened its annual central committee meeting in Naypyitaw on Wednesday amid tight security and expectations of a shakeup of senior leaders. Click here to read…

Nepal

Govt to withdraw citizenship bill, pass new one- The Himalayan Times

The government today decided to withdraw the Citizenship Act (Amendment) Bill from the Parliament. It will register a new citizenship bill and seek its passage through a fasttrack process. Click here to read…

Malaysia’s Weston Company to hire Nepali workers on zero investment- The Himalayan Times

Malaysia-based Information Technology (IT) Company is all set to hire Nepali workers on zero investment. Click here to read…

Federal government overlooks statute as it wants to oversee Valley’s security- The Kathmandu Post

Nepali Congress and CPN-UML are in favour while the Maoists are against the proposed arrangement. Click here to read…

Gender-responsive budgeting: Good on paper, poor on implementation- The Kathmandu Post

In the absence of monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, existing gender financing policies of Nepal have failed to yield desired results. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Parliamentary body to keep eye on talks with TTP: Dawn

The military on Tuesday secured the nod of the Parliamentary Committee on National Security’s for peace talks with the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) after conceding to the Pakistan Peoples Party’s demand for the process to be overseen by a parliamentary committee. Click here to read…

Pakistan turns net importer of Afghan goods: Dawn

As Pakistan’s exports to Afghanistan saw a deeper drop since the Taliban took control of Kabul in August 2021, the government on Tuesday took a major decision to allow trade of all products to Kabul in the rupee via land routes owing to the non-availability of tradable currency through banking channels. Click here to read…

Army budget trimmed to pave way for IMF deal: The Express Tribune

Pakistan has slashed the armed forces development programme by Rs72 billion or one-fifth of the allocation made on June 10 in order to meet a major condition of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) about achieving primary budget surplus in the new fiscal year. Click here to read…

Power subsidy dilemma: Govt reluctant to approve proposed hike in tariff: The News

Despite making a commitment with the IMF for raising the electricity tariff by Rs7.92 per unit, the federal cabinet has not yet approved the recent proposed increase of the power tariff by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) in a phase-wise manner. Click here to read…

Imran Khan warns of spilling beans if pushed to wall: The News

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman and former prime minister Imran Khan said Tuesday he would spill the beans if pushed to the wall, adding he was silent only for the sake of the country. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Bankrupt Sri Lanka’s inflation jumps beyond 50 percent: ABS-CBN News

Sri Lanka’s inflation hit a ninth consecutive record in June, official data showed Friday, rising to 54.6 percent a day after the IMF asked the bankrupt nation to rein in galloping prices and corruption. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka is ‘bankrupt,’ says PM Wickremesinghe: DW News

Sri Lanka is bankrupt and its unprecedented economic crisis is set to last until at least the end of next year, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe told lawmakers in parliament on TuesdayClick here to read…

India to Supply Fuel to Sri Lanka Only After Advance Payment: Bloomberg

India is seeking payment in advance for supply of fuel to Sri Lanka after credit lines were exhausted, according to people with knowledge of the matter. The larger South Asian neighbor stopped supplying gasoline and diesel on credit after the island nation ran out of dollars to purchase fuels amid its worst economic crisis. Click here to read…

UK reinstates warning against travel to Sri Lanka: BBC

A shortage of basic necessities including medicines, cooking gas, fuel and food has sparked protests and violence in the Asian country. Sri Lanka’s government said it only had enough petrol to last one day as it faces its worst crisis in 70 years. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Taliban Grand Meeting Did Not Lead to Breakthrough: HRW: The Khaama Press

The Human Rights Watch (HRW), including a number of students and teachers, said their expectations from the recent national assembly of Afghan clerics were not met, according to sources, as there was no specific mention of girls’ education and their rights in the country. Click here to read…

I Want to See Girls Back to School: UNAMA Acting Head: The Khaama Press

The acting Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan Ramiz Alakbarov said the promises made by the Islamic Emirate government are just words, according to sources, adding he wants the door for girls’ school to be re-opened. Click here to read…

Will request India to speed up return of Af students: Taliban: Times of India

The Taliban have said they will ask the Indian government to expedite return to India of Afghan students who want to resume their studies here. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Momen’s new book launched- The Daily Star

A new book authored by Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen was launched yesterday highlighting Bangladesh’s successes over the last 50 years and the potential to grow further. Click here to read…

Gas crunch brings back power cuts- The Daily Star

People have been enduring severe power cuts for the last few days as electricity production was hampered mainly due to a shortage of natural gas supply. Click here to read…

“Compared to food crisis in US, UK, we’re still in decent state”- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh today (July 4, 2022) said Bangladesh is in a good state compared to food crisis in the United States and United Kingdom. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Pvt Sector and Banks wrestle over Phase Four Monetary Measures as Govt tries to be a referee- Bhutan Today

The Royal Monetary Authority (RMA) recently announced the Phase Four Monetary Measures that offers loan deferments between one year to two years and eight types of loan restructuring depending on the risk category. Click here to read…

PHPA-I employees’ contract extended until July end-Kuensel

Contract has been extended for the employees of Punatshangchhu-I Hydroelectric Project Authority (PHPA-I) by another one month, until end of this month. Click here to read…

Bhutanese have a strong bond with WFP- Kuensel

With the education ministry, but also in collaboration with agriculture and health ministries, we are rolling out a digital platform called School Meal Planner (SMP) PLUS, which allows us to design nutritious menus based on a digital database of 3,500 types of food. Click here to read…

Govt allows imports of potatoes from Bhutan till June 2023- Mint

The Indian government on Tuesday allowed the import of fresh and chilled potatoes from Bhutan without any license up to June 2023. According to a notification by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), import of potatoes from Bhutan is permitted freely without any license up to June 30″.Click here to read…

Maldives

Finance Ministry sign $10 million grant with World Bank: The Sun

The Finance Ministry detailed that the project – Sustainable and Integrated Labor Services (SAILS) was aimed at supporting Maldives in promoting competition in the broadband market with the grant. Click here to read…

Prince Faisal bin Salman receives Maldives president in Madinah: Arab News

President of the Republic of Maldives Ibrahim Mohamed Solih arrived in Madinah on Monday to visit the Prophet’s Mosque. The president was received by Madinah Gov. Prince Faisal bin Salman and a number of officials at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Growing insecurity in Rohingya Refugee Camps: A Threat to South Asian Security? – Modern Diplomacy

The increasing rate of trans-border crime in those bordering camps is not only making the Rohingya refugees vulnerable and prone to crimes but also threatening South Asian security as a whole. The Rohingya community leader’s speech of “We don’t want to stay in the camps. It’s hell.” in the ‘Go Home’ campaign in 20th June, 2022, made us rethink about the security situation in the campsClick here to read…

Myanmar hosts 1st regional meeting since army takeover – ABC News

Myanmar’s military government on Monday hosted its first high-level regional meeting since the army took power last year, with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and counterparts from Mekong Delta nations attending. Click here to read…

Junta’s imprisonment of two Sittwe men under controversial law draws criticism – BNI Online

U Maung Aye, 53, and U Hla Thein Aung, 46, both the residents of Danyawaddy ward, were detained by junta soldiers on June 24 as the regime searched wards and detained residents after the Arakan Army (AA) abducted two junta soldiers in the state capital the previous day.
Click here to read…

Nepal

NOC hikes price of petroleum products- Himalaya

Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) has increased the price of petroleum products effective from tonight. Click here to read…

Newly appointed ministers take oath of office- Himalaya

President Bidya Devi Bhandari today administered oath of office and secrecy to newly appointed ministers in Kathmandu. Click here to read…

Newly appointed tourism minister Shrestha pledges full support to solve problems in mountaineering sector- Himalaya

Newly appointed Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Jeevan Ram Shrestha pledged his full support to resolve different challenges in the mountaineering sector during a meeting with a delegation of Everest Summiteers Association led by President Maya Sherpa, at his office on Sunday. Click here to read…

Move to lower eligibility age for elderly allowance to cost over Rs15 billion- Kathmandu Post

Government expenditure for social security allowances to nearly double in two years. Click here to read…

Calls are growing for Finance Minister Sharma to quit, as he fails to come clean- Kathmandu Post

Prime minister’s reluctance to take action raises suspicion if there are too many skeletons in the closet. Click here to read…

Issue of school textbook shortage raised in National Assembly session- Republica

The National Assembly, the Upper House of the Federal Parliament, has unanimously approved its decision to send the ‘COVID-19 Crisis Management Bill, 2078 BS’ to the Legislation Management Committee for clause-wise deliberations on it. Click here to read…

Tribhuvan University hostels: While many buildings are unlivable, the livable ones are captured by non-students- Online Khabar

Problems have always plagued Tribhuvan University (TU), Nepal’s oldest university. It has problems with its policy, infrastructure, management, course and the list goes long. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Cabinet approves second NAB amendment bill in span of a month: Dawn

The federal cabinet on Monday passed the National Accountability (Third Amendment) Bill, 2022, with fresh legislation aiming to restrict the watchdog’s role in corruption cases of over Rs500 million and taking away the president’s authority to appoint accountability court judges. Click here to read…

Editorial: LNG emergency: Dawn

PAKISTAN is looking to buy a lot of LNG amid ongoing countrywide blackouts. The government has just released one of its biggest LNG purchase tenders ever to procure 10 cargoes for delivery through September. Click here to read…

Spymaster directs intelligence officers to stay away from political activities: The Express Tribune

The country’s spymaster has issued strict orders to his commanders from top to the lowest tier and other officials to stay away from any activity involving politics and politicians following policy directives from the chief of army staff. Click here to read…

Foreign plot: Maryam says Imran staged ‘biggest drama’ in Pakistan’s history: The Express Tribune

Lashing out at former prime minister Imran Khan for “ignoring Punjab” — Pakistan’s most populous province with 120 million people — PML-N Vice-President Maryam Nawaz on Monday said that the ex-PM staged “the biggest drama in the history of Pakistan under the name of foreign conspiracy”.Click here to read…

Trade deficit goes up by massive 55.29pc: The News

The country’s trade deficit ballooned by 55.29 percent in the financial year ended June 30, 2022 on the back of surging imports, especially of petroleum and groups. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Crisis-hit Sri Lanka extends school closures: Arab News

Schools across Sri Lanka will close for one week starting Monday, the Education Ministry has announced, as the island nation grapples with its worst economic crisis since gaining independence in 1948. Click here to read…

Crisis-hit Sri Lanka offers fuel quotas to firms which can pay in dollars: Business Standard

Potential purchasers must pay as much as a month in advance to open a consumer account at state-run Ceylon Petroleum Corp., Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera tweeted on Sunday. Fuel will be issued on a daily or weekly basis from July 12, according to the minister. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka limits fuel to essential services with supplies set to run out in days: The Guardian

Sri Lanka’s energy minister has said the country’s fuel supplies will run out in a few days, forcing nationwide school closures and prolonged power cuts, as the worst economic crisis in its history continues. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka central bank guidance peg falls 24 cents: Economy Next

A guidance peg announced by Sri Lanka’s central bank for interbank transactions dropped 24 cents to 359.79 against the US dollar on July 04 from the previous day’s 359.55, banks’ data showed. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Critical Concerns Not Addressed at Clerics’ Gathering: Citizens: Tolo News

Some Afghan citizens said that the essential problems faced by the people of Afghanistan were not addressed in the resolutions issued by the major gathering of the Islamic clerics. A three-day gathering of Islamic clerics was held from Thursday to Saturday, concluding with a resolution of 11 principles. Click here to read…

Islamic Clerics’ Gathering Issues 11-Point Resolution: Tolo News

The participants of the clerics’ gathering held at the Kabul Loya Jirga Hall released a resolution comprised of 11 principles, in which they called on the world to lift sanctions on Afghanistan and to recognize the Islamic EmirateClick here to read…

Different Narratives of One Event; Taliban Embassy in Pakistan Says the Man Killed at Torkham Was an Afghan National: The Khaama Press

The elderly man who attempted to cross the Torkham border on July 2 but was barred from doing so by Pakistani forces, and afterwards killed himself by running himself under a car, was an Afghan national, according to officials of the Taliban administration’s embassy in Pakistan. Click here to read…

The EU Provides an Additional €40 Million for Child Protection and Polio Vaccination in Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

According to a statement made by the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) on Sunday, the European Union provides an additional €25 million for polio vaccines and €15 million for child protection in Afghanistan. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

China wants to build Dhaka-Ctg expressway- The Daily Star

China has proposed to build the Dhaka-Chattogram Expressway under a government-to-government-Public Private Partnership (G2G-PPP) framework, bringing the project cancelled last year back into focus. Click here to read…

Present evidence-based arguments: Japanese ambassador to TIB- The Daily Star

Japan ambassador to Bangladesh Ito Naoki urged Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) to publish reports with evidence-based arguments. Click here to read…

Labour rights situation: Bangladesh listed among 10 worst countries- The Daily Star

Bangladesh is one of the world’s 10 worst countries for workers, according to the Global Rights Index 2022 of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC). Click here to read…

Bhutan

Inward remittance scheme incentives hiked to 2 percent- Kuensel

The Royal Monetary Authority (RMA) extended the incentive scheme for inward remittance for Bhutanese who live, work or study overseas for another six months beginning yesterday. Click here to read…

Members can’t be casual in Parliament: Speaker- Kuensel

Amid serious discussions, it is the viral remarks and statements of ministers and MPs in Parliament that have caught widespread attention. Click here to read…

(Editorial) A national priority- Kuensel

The Royal Bhutan Police is apprehending traffickers or smugglers of the so-called contraband substances or “drugs”. Both the frequency and the quantity is alarming and worrying at the same time. Click here to read…

Highest irregularities observed in PHPA-I: AAR 2020-21- Bhutan Today

Among the six hydropower projects in the country, Punatsangchhu Hydroelectric Project Authority (PHPA-I) had the highest irregularities in the annual audit report (AAR) 2020-21 with a reported amount of Nu 1,920.237 million (M). Click here to read…

India’s Israel envoy accredited to Bhutan- The Tribune

Bhutan, which is extremely selective about establishing diplomatic relations, accepted the credentials of Israeli Ambassador to India Naor Gilon. Click here to read…

HH Je Khenpo appoints Kilkhor Lopen of the Zhung Dratshang- BBS

His Holiness the Je Khenpo conferred Tashi Lekdhar to appoint Kilkhor Lopen of the Zhung Dratshang at the Tashichhodzong today. Lopen Dorji Wangdi from Rukubji in Wangdue Phodrang is the new Kilkhor Lopen. Click here to read…

Maldives

MMA launches currency symbol for Maldivian Rufiyaa: The Sun

The symbol, which introduces an additional horizontal stroke to the Dhivehi letter “Raa”, was unveiled by Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Technology, Aminath Shauna in a special ceremony at the MMA headquarters on Sunday. Click here to read…

Maldives New ‘Evidence’ Law Undermines Media Freedom: Human Right Watch

In a serious setback for media freedom, the Maldives parliament today enacted legislation allowing courts to force journalists and media outlets to reveal their sources. Click here to read…

Myanmar

China’s top diplomat makes first trip to Myanmar since coup –

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi has arrived in Myanmar on his first visit to the country since the military seized power in a coup last year. Click here to read…

Myanmar Regime Sorry for Junta Jet Intrusion into Thai Airspace – The Irrawaddy

Myanmar air force chief General Htun Aung has apologised to his Thai counterpart after a Myanmar military fighter jet intruded into Thai airspace on Thursday, just a day after coup leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing met a Thai army general to discuss stability and anti-terrorism in areas along the Myanmar-Thailand frontierClick here to read…

Junta Watch: Military Bends Rules to Fill Ranks; Loyal Monk Promoted, and More – The Irrawaddy

Over the past year, Myanmar people have developed a deep loathing for the country’s military thanks to its terrible atrocities against civilians. The number of young people opting to join the junta’s institutes has consequently plunged, forcing the army to loosen age limits in order to lure fresh recruits. Click here to read…

Local seriously injured in army-planted landmine explosion – Narinjara

A cowherd was seriously injured on Friday when he stepped on a landmine, planted by the junta forces nearby LIB 375 battalion based in Kyauktaw locality of Rakhine State. The injured individual is identified as U Than Sein Maung (45 years old) hailing from Wet Hmaing village under Kyauktaw township. Click here to read…

Nepal

Dahal proposes a new front of ‘socialists’ but offers little clarity- Kathmandu Post

In what comes as a surprise to many, the Maoist Centre chair holds a meeting of members of the Secretariat of the invalidated NCP—without those from the UML. Click here to read…

Complications galore as there’s more to Rana impeachment than meets the eye- Kathmandu Post

Questions remain what happens if House expires before his retirement. Some experts argue he can return to office. Click here to read…

Covid resurgence and cholera outbreak pose ‘increasing challenge’ to public health- Kathmandu Post

Focus on curative methods instead of preventive methods makes problems perennial, experts say. Click here to read…

Taking a ‘corrupt judiciary’ by its horns- Himalayan Times

Lawyers say structural reforms are needed to address the problem of corruption in the judiciary.
Click here to read…

Over 200,000 foreign tourists visit Nepal in six months- Himalayan Times

As many as 237,813 foreign tourists have visited Nepal in the last six months. Click here to read…

Nepal yet to inform the US of its withdrawal from the State Partnership Program- Online Khabar

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the government of Nepal is yet to inform the United States government that it has decided to withdraw from the controversial State Partnership Program (SPP). Click here to read…

Pakistan

PM Shehbaz orders early resolution of energy crisis: Dawn

Taking action over increasing public complaints about loadshedding across the country, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday ordered an early resumption of power generation from the plants closed due to various administrative and technical issues. Click here to read…

Pakistan seeks Qatar gas on deferred payment: Dawn

Amid severe energy crunch and unprecedentedly expensive fuel imports, Pakistan is seeking more gas imports on deferred payments from Qatar, which is irritated by roadblocks to its infrastructure investment plans, particularly in import terminals. Click here to read…

PML-N rifts deepen over Miftah’s future: The Express Tribune

Finance Minister Miftah Ismail has found unequivocal support from party stalwarts at a time when he has been facing criticism from within the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) amid speculations of ex-financial czar Ishaq Dar’s return to Pakistan to replace him. Click here to read…

Army chief’s fresh directions: The News

Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa has issued fresh directions to all his commanders and key officers, including those associated with the ISI, to stay away from politics and avoid interacting with politicians. Click here to read…

Only way out of crisis is holding polls: Imran: The News

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan Sunday again said it was his clear message to the imported government and its backers that the only way out of descending into total chaos was to hold free and fair elections immediately. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has less than a day’s worth of fuel left: Times of India

Sri Lanka has less than a day’s worth of fuel left, the energy minister said on Sunday, even as the cash-strapped nation extended school closures for one week because there isn’t enough fuel for teachers and parents to get kids to classrooms. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka keeps schools shut amid fuel crisis: Hindustan Times

Sri Lanka extended school closures for one more week starting July 4 amid unprecedented fuel crisis, the education ministry announced on Sunday. The government and state-approved private schools will remain closed for a week as there’s not enough fuel for teachers and parents to get children to classrooms. Click here to read…

Cardinal appeals to Pope to solicit aid for Sri Lanka: Asia News Network

Colombo Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith says that the need of the hour is the initiation of a high profile investigation to find out how this country was dragged down to its present plight of being a beggar nation, fix responsibility for these crimes and find ways to recover the money stolen from the people. Click here to read…

DEFENCE

• Joint Military Exercise “Ex SAMPRITI-X” concludes.
• Extension of entry age: Agnipath Scheme.
• Agnipath – Raksha Mantri approves 10% reservation of jobs for Agniveers in Indian Coast Guard, Defence Civilian posts & 16 DPSUs.
• Multinational Peacekeeping Exercise “Ex Khaan Quest -2022” culminates.
• India and Australia discuss ways to enhance defence cooperation during bilateral talks.
• Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile successfully flight-tested.
• IAF to participate in tactical leadership programme with Egyptian Air Force.
• Indian Air Force conducted the Capstone Seminar at Air Force Auditorium, New Delhi, marking the culmination of the first Warfare & Aerospace Strategy Program (WASP).
• India and Malaysia decide to enhance defence cooperation.
• INS Satpura to participate in RIMPAC-22.
• Indigenously-developed Laser-Guided ATGM successfully tested.
• High speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) was successfully flight-tested.
• India and & Saudi Arabia discuss ways to enhance bilateral defence cooperation.
• India delivers 6 tons of medical assistance to Afghanistan.
• Fourth India-Japan Cyber Dialogue.

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

Africa

Somalia

• Security forces killed at least 67 al-Shabaab terrorists in a foiled attack in Galgaduud region.

Nigeria

• Security forces killed 47 Boko Haram terrorists and rescued a Chibok girl in Borno.

Afghanistan

• IS-KP claimed responsibility for Karte Parwan Gurudwara attack in Kabul.

Pakistan

• Pakistan remained on FATF’s ‘grey list’.
• China blocked India-US’ joint move to designate deputy chief of LeT as terrorist under the UNSC sanctions.

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

• NIA officials searched multiple locations in the UT of J&K in ‘J&K Terror Conspiracy’ case.
• Security forces killed three terrorists in two separate CT operations in Pulwama and Baramulla.
• NIA officials searched multiple locations in the UT of J&K and arrested a terrorist in ‘TRF Conspiracy’ case.
• “Security forces have eliminated 118 terrorists, mostly of LeT, since January 2022”: claimed J&K Police.
• NIA officials searched multiple locations in the UT of J&K and arrested four OGWs from Pulwama.
• Security forces killed four HM terrorists in two CT operations in Anantnag and Kulgam.

Left-Wing Extremism

• NIA officials arrested a Maoist in connection with ‘Edakkara Maoist’ case.
• Three CRPF personnel attained Veergati in Maoist attack in Odisha.
• NIA officials raided multiple locations in Telangana and arrested three Maoists in ‘Peddabayalu CPI (Maoist) recruitment’ case

Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)

• Two Islamic extremists beheaded a tailor in Rajasthan over his support to Nupur Sharma’s statement on Prophet Mohammad.

Khalistan-inspired Extremism

• Ahead of political roadshow, Khalistan slogan found at Sangrur temple gate.

Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs)

• NIA officials searched two locations in West Bengal in case of ‘Seizure of FICN at Kolkata’.
• NIA filed chargesheet against four FICN traffickers in case of ‘Seizure of FICN and Gold at IGI Airport New Delhi’.

Human-Trafficking

• NIA officials searched a location in Uttar Pradesh and arrested a human-trafficker.

DEFENCE

Joint Military Exercise “Ex SAMPRITI-X” concludes.

The aim of the exercise was to strengthen the military relations between the two countries. The exercise also provided an opportunity to the contingents from both the Armies to understand each other’s tactical drills and operational techniques as well as to share their experience on Counter Insurgency/ Counter Terrorism, Peace Keeping and Disaster Relief Operation under the United Nations mandate. Senior officers of both the Armies conveyed their appreciation to the participating contingents for achieving the objectives of the Exercise.
For more information: Click here to read…

Agnipath Scheme.

Consequent to the commencement of the AGNIPATH scheme, the entry age for all new recruits in the Armed Forces has been fixed as 17 ½ – 21 years of age.Cognizant of the fact that it has not been possible to undertake the recruitment during the last two years, the Government has decided that a one-time waiver shall be granted for the proposed recruitment cycle for 2022. Accordingly, the upper age limit for the recruitment process for Agnipath scheme for 2022 is increased to 23 years.
Reference: Click here to read…

Raksha Mantri approves 10% reservation of jobs for Agniveers in Indian Coast Guard, Defence Civilian posts & 16 DPSUs.

Raksha Mantri has approved a proposal to reserve 10% of the job vacancies in Ministry of Defence for Agniveers meeting requisite eligibility criteria. The 10% reservation will be implemented in the Indian Coast Guard, defence civilian posts and all the 16 Defence Public Sector Undertakings – Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) Limited, Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL), Mishra Dhatu Nigam (Midhani) Limited, Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL), Advanced Weapons & Equipment India Ltd. (AW&EIL), Munitions India Limited (MIL), Yantra India Limited (YIL), Gliders India Limited (GIL), India Optel Limited (IOL) and Troop Comforts Limited (TCL). This reservation would be in addition to existing reservations for ex-servicemen.Necessary amendments to relevant recruitment rules will be undertaken to implement these provisions. The DPSUs will be advised to make similar amendments to their respective recruitment rules. Necessary age relaxation provision will also be made to enable recruitment of Agniveers to the above posts.
Reference: Click here to read…

Multinational Peacekeeping Exercise “Ex Khaan Quest -2022” culminates.

The Multinational Peacekeeping Exercise “Ex Khaan Quest -2022” culminated at the Peace Support Operations Training Centre in Ulaanbaatar at Mongolia.The exercise conducted from 06 June to 20 June 2022 provided a platform for mutual learning and sharing best practices amongst the armies from 16 Nations. The Indian contingent consisting of personnel from the LADAKH SCOUTS participated in the field training as well as the Command Post exercise. A number of training activities were organised during the course of the exercise, which included mock tactical operations as per United Nations (UN) mandate, combat discussions, training of staff & command appointments; as part of a combined UN brigade, in order to enhance multinational interoperability.
Reference: Click here to read…

India and Australia discuss ways to enhance defence cooperation during bilateral talks.

Raksha Mantri and Australian Deputy Prime Minister & Minister for Defence Mr Richard Marles held a bilateral meeting in New Delhi on June 22, 2022. The two Ministers reviewed the existing defence cooperation activities which have been increasing despite challenges of COVID-19 pandemic and discussed ways to enhance further cooperation. The Ministers reviewed the defence and security pillars of the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
They welcomed the growing diversity and frequency of defence exercises and exchanges between the two countries and undertook to build upon operational engagements through the India-Australia Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement.
Both Ministers committed to give fillip to the India-Australia Joint Working Group (JWG) on Defence Research and Materiel Cooperation, which will meet in Australia later this year. This JWG is a crucial mechanism for boosting ties between defence industries.
Both Ministers welcomed the plan to commence the landmark General Rawat Young Officer Exchange Programme in the latter half of 2022, which was announced during the virtual summit meeting between the Prime Ministers of the two countries on March 21, 2022.
The Ministers reviewed strategic challenges and the regional security situation and reaffirmed their shared objective of an open, free, inclusive, prosperous and rules-based Indo Pacific region. They looked forward to India’s participation in Australia’s Indo Pacific Endeavour exercise in October 2022.
For more information: Click here to read…

Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile successfully flight-tested.

Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM) was successfully flight-tested by Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy off the coast of Odisha on June 24, 2022. The VL-SRSAM, a ship borne weapon system, is meant for neutralising various aerial threats at close ranges including sea-skimming targets.The launch of the system was conducted against a high speed aerial target mimicking aircraft, which was successfully engaged.
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IAF to participate in tactical leadership programme with Egyptian Air Force.

Indian Air Force would be participating in Tactical Leadership Programme at Egyptian Air Force Weapon School from 24 Jun – 24 Jul 22 in Egypt (Cairo west Airbase) with three Su-30MKI aircraft, two C-17 aircraft and 57 IAF personnel (including C-17 contingent). It is a unique exercise with Air assets in a Large Force Engagement environment, simulating various conflict scenarios.
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Indian Air Force conducted the Capstone Seminar at Air Force Auditorium, New Delhi, marking the culmination of the first Warfare & Aerospace Strategy Program (WASP).

The Indian Air Force conducted the first Warfare & Aerospace Strategy Program (WASP) culminating with a Capstone Seminar at Air Force Auditorium, New Delhi on 24 Jun 2022. This Capstone Seminar showcased the learning objectives of WASP and helps the IAF leadership to validate the desired outcomes from the program. The participants presented papers on contemporary topics concerning application of air power in recent conflicts and the changing doctrinal precepts that establish the dominant role of air power in national security.

The WASP was conceptualised by the IAF with the purpose of creating a pool of mid-career air power practitioners with strategic acumen and a deep understanding of warfare history and theory. It aims to enhance the doctrinal vision of the participants and cultivate their aptitude for effective arguments on strategy.
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India and Malaysia decide to enhance defence cooperation.

Raksha Mantri (RM) held a Video Conference with Senior Defence Minister of Malaysia, YB Dato ‘Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein on June 27, 2022. A wide range of issues concerning bilateral, regional and defence industrial cooperation were discussed during the meeting.

Both Ministers expressed the intent to further boost the already strong India-Malaysia Defence cooperation. The two Ministers discussed the existing defence cooperation activities and framework, and ways to further enhance them under the existing Malaysia India Defence Cooperation Meeting (MIDCOM) framework. The next MIDCOM is scheduled to be held in July 2022, and it was decided to use this platform for a deeper engagement in defence.

Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted the areas in which Indian Defence industries could assist Malaysia. He suggested a visit of senior officers from Malaysia to India to get a first-hand experience of the facilities and products of Indian Defence industry.

The Malaysian Senior Defence Minister expressed the need for inducting women personnel in peace keeping missions. Both sides agreed to engage each other on this issue. It was also agreed to upgrade capability for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations. Raksha Mantri also invited Senior Defence Minister of Malaysia to visit India at an early convenient date to discuss closer and strategic defence ties.
For more information: Click here to read…

INS Satpura to participate in RIMPAC-22.

INS Satpura entered Pearl Harbour in Hawaii Islands on 27 Jun 22 to participate in RIMPAC-22. INS Satpura and one P8I maritime patrol aircraft from the Indian Navy are participating in one of the largest multilateral Naval Exercises, the US Navy led biennial Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise 2022. The exercise spanning over six weeks of intense operations and training is aimed at enhancing interoperability and to build trust among Navies of friendly foreign countries. 27 countries are participating in the current edition of the multi-dimensional exercise.
For more information: Click here to read…

Indigenously-developed Laser-Guided ATGM successfully tested.

Indigenously-developed Laser-Guided Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) was successfully test-fired from Main Battle Tank (MBT) Arjun by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Army on June 28, 2022.

The all-indigenous ATGM employs a tandem High Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) warhead to defeat Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA) protected armoured vehicles. The ATGM has been developed with multi-platform launch capability and is currently undergoing technical evaluation trials from 120 mm rifled gun of MBT Arjun.
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High speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) was successfully flight-tested.

ABHYAS – High speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) was successfully flight-tested from on June 29, 2022. The performance of the aircraft at low altitude including sustained level and high manoeuvrability was demonstrated during the test flight. The air vehicle was launched using twin under-slung boosters which provide the initial acceleration to the vehicle. It is powered by a small gas turbine engine to sustain a long endurance flight at high subsonic speed. The target aircraft is equipped with Micro-Electromechanical Systems-based Inertial Navigation System for navigation along with the Flight Control Computer for guidance and control along with Indigenous Radio Altimeter for very low altitude flight and Data Link for encrypted communication between the Ground Control Station and Target Aircraft. The vehicle is programmed for fully autonomous flight.
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India and & Saudi Arabia discuss ways to enhance bilateral defence cooperation.

Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Defence for Strategic Affairs Mr. Ahmed A Aseeri called on Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar in New Delhi on June 30, 2022. They discussed ways to enhance defence cooperation between the two countries. The Deputy Minister briefed the Defence Secretary about the 5th meeting of India – Saudi Arabia Joint Committee on Defence Cooperation (JCDC) that was held on June 29, 2022.

During JCDC the meeting, the two sides reviewed the progress made in military-to-military engagements, including joint exercises, expert exchanges and industry cooperation. It was decided to identify new avenues and examine areas of mutual interest for Joint Venture in order to enhance defence industry cooperation. Enhancing the scope and complexities of the existing joint naval exercises and expanding bilateral exercises in other domains were also discussed.

It was agreed to hold the next meeting of JCDC in Saudi Arabia on mutually convenient dates in 2023. The JCDC is the apex body between the Defence Ministries of India and Saudi Arabia to comprehensively review & guide all aspects of bilateral defence cooperation.
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India delivers 6 tons of medical assistance to Afghanistan.

India supplied the seventh batch of medical assistance on 30June 2022, consisting of 6 tons of essential medicines to Afghanistan, as part of India’s ongoing humanitarian assistance. The same was handed over to the Indira Gandhi Hospital, Kabul. In the wake of recent tragic earthquake, India, as the first responder, supplied almost 28 tons of earthquake relief assistance in two relief flights. These relief consignments were handed over to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), UN World Food Program (WFP) and the Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS). Furthermore, India is in the process to ship more medical and wheat assistance to Afghanistan in coordination with the UN agencies on ground.
For more information:
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Fourth India-Japan Cyber Dialogue.

The Fourth India-Japan Cyber Dialogue was hosted by India virtually on 30 June 2022. The Indian Delegation was led by Smt. Muanpuii Saiawi, Joint Secretary, Cyber Diplomacy Division, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), while the Japanese delegation was led by Mr Yutaka Arima, Ambassador in-charge of Cyber Policy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

Both sides discussed important areas of bilateral cyber cooperation and reviewed the progress achieved in the areas of cybersecurity and Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) including 5G Technology. Both sides exchanged views on latest developments in cyber domain and mutual cooperation during cyber consultations at the United Nations and other multilateral and regional fora.
For more information: Click here to read…

INTERNATIONAL TERRORISM

Africa

Somalia

Security forces killed at least 67 al-Shabaab terrorists in a foiled attack in Galgaduud region.

On 17 June 2022, Somalia’s Galmudug State forces killed 67 al-Shabaab terrorists and wounded several others in a foiled attack in Bahdo area in Galgaduud region. According to the Information Minister of Galmudug— Ahmed Shire, “local residents and regional forces repulsed the attack by al-Shabaab terrorists in the region. The security forces personnel arrested a suicide bomber who was about to detonate a Vehicle-borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) on security forces and villagers.”
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Nigeria

Security forces killed 47 Boko Haram terrorists and rescued a Chibok girl in Borno.

On 12 June 2022, security forces had gun-battle with terrorists while clearing their enclave in Gazuwa in Bama Local Government Area of Borno and eliminated at least 47 Boko Haram terrorists. The security forces also rescued Mary Dauda, one of the Chibok girls abducted in 2014. “The rescued mother and child are currently in military custody, receiving medical and rehabilitation attention. Also, on 06 June 2022, troops rescued five abducted victims who were kidnapped by terrorists,” said Defence Headquarters’ spokesman— Maj Gen Bernard Onyeuko.

However, Boko Haram terrorists and their families continued to surrender before Nigerian troops in the North-East part. “Cumulatively, a total of 57,004 of Boko Haram terrorists and their families have surrendered comprising of 12,547 males, 17,027 females, and 27,430 children,” added Maj Gen Onyeuko.
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Afghanistan

IS-KP claimed responsibility for Karte Parwan Gurudwara attack in Kabul.

On 18 June 2022, the Islamic State-Khurasan Province (IS-KP) terrorists carried out an attack on Gurudwara in Kabul in which two people, including a Sikh community member, were killed. In a statement released on its Amaq website, the IS-KP claimed the responsibility of the attack and called it a targeted attack on Hindus and Sikhs and the ‘apostates’ who protected them in ‘an act of support for the Messenger of Allah’.
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Pakistan

Pakistan remained on FATF’s ‘grey list’.

On 17 June 2022, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)’s President— Marcus Pleyer had announced that Pakistan would remain on ‘grey list’ of nations that do not take full measures to combat money laundering and terrorism financing. The announcement gave a blow to Pakistan’s newly elected government, which said it has mostly complied with the FATF’s tasks set for Pakistan. “An onsite inspection by FATF team in Pakistan would be done before October 2022. However, FATF is praising Pakistan for implementing the organisation’s action plans— a clear indication that Pakistan is moving closer to getting off the ‘grey list’”, said FATF President Pleyer.
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China blocked India-US’ joint move to designate deputy chief of LeT as terrorist under the UNSC sanctions.

At the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), China blocked a joint move by India and the United States (US) to enlist Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)’s deputy chief— Abdul Rehman Makki as a global terrorist, by placing a ‘technical hold’ on the proposal.

China’s move was in the similar fashion which it had adopted to repeatedly block the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammad chief— Masood Azhar, under the UNSC’s al-Qa’ida and ISIL Sanctions Committee, before finally relenting in May 2019 in the face of international pressure.
For more information: Click here to read…

DOMESTIC TERRORISM

Jammu and Kashmir

NIA officials searched multiple locations in the UT of J&K in ‘J&K Terror Conspiracy’ case.

On 24 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched 14 locations in the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) in districts of Srinagar, Baramulla, Pulwama, Anantnag, Budgam, and Kathua, in connection with the ‘J&K Terror Conspiracy’ case.
The case— RC-05/2022/NIA/JMU relates to terror conspiracy hatched by Pakistan-based commanders of terrorist organisations for furthering terror activities, including targeted killings of minorities, security forces personnel, and attacking religious pilgrimages, including Holy Sri Amarnathji Yatra, Shri Maa Vaishno Devi Yatra.
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Security forces killed three terrorists in two separate CT operations in Pulwama and Baramulla.

On 21 June 2022, security forces eliminated three terrorists in two separate counter-terrorism (CT) operations in Pulwama and Baramulla districts of the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). In first operation, security forces carried out a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in Tulibal village in Sopore area of Baramulla district and killed an unidentified terrorist.

In other CT operation on the same day, security forces killed two terrorists in Tujjan area in Pulwama district. According to police reports, one of the slain terrorists was identified as Majid Nasir of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM).
For more information: Click here to read…

NIA officials searched multiple locations in the UT of J&K and arrested a terrorist in ‘TRF Conspiracy’ case.

On 22 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched 11 locations in the Union of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K)’s Srinagar, Kulgam, Pulwama and Ganderbal districts and arrested a terrorist— Mudasir Ahmed Dar, from Kulgam.

The case— RC-32/2021/NIA/DLI relates to the activities of The Resistance Front (TRF), which is an off-shoot terror group of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), for radicalising, motivating, and recruiting youth from
J&K to undertake terror activities in the Valley and other parts of India. Mudasir was involved in providing logistic support and transportation of arms and ammunition.
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“Security forces have eliminated 118 terrorists, mostly of LeT, since January 2022”: claimed J&K Police.

Compared to the previous year, security forces have eliminated 63 more terrorists in 2022. “Since January 2022, security forces killed 118 terrorists, including 32 foreign terrorists. Out of 118, 77 terrorists were belonging to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and 26 were of Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM),” said Inspector-General of Police (IGP) (Kashmir)— Vijay Kumar. Since 15 June 2022, 17 terrorists have been killed in the Valley.
For more information: Click here to read…

NIA officials searched multiple locations in the UT of J&K and arrested four OGWs from Pulwama.

On 20 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched seven locations in Pulwama district of the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and arrested four Over-Ground Workers (OGWs)—i) Sahil Ahmed Khan, ii) Jahangir Ahmed Dar, iii) Shahid Ahmed Shergojri, and iv) Inayat Gulzar Bhat, for harbouring Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists in the Valley and arranged transportation and logistic support for them.

The case— RC-02/2022/NIA/JMU relates to the activities of JeM, in which two terrorists were eliminated by security forces at Chewa Kalan in Pulwama on 11 March 2022.
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Security forces killed four HM terrorists in two CT operations in Anantnag and Kulgam.

On 14 June 2022, acting on an intelligence input, a joint team of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) police, Indian Army’s 1 Rashtriya Rifles, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) launched a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in Mishipora-Kujjar village of Yaripora area in Kulgam district and killed two Hizbul-Mujahideen (HM) terrorists.

In another counter-terrorism (CT) operation on the same day, security forces killed two HM terrorists in Hangalgund, Kokernag area of Anantnag district. “One of the slain terrorists was involved in the killing of Rajni Bala— a teacher from Samba who was assassinated at Gopal Pora Kulgam on 31 May 2022,” said Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Range— Vijay Kumar.
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Left-Wing Extremism

NIA officials arrested a Maoist in connection with ‘Edakkara Maoist’ case.

On 24 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials arrested Iyyappan G aka Hari, from Tamil Nadu, in connection with ‘Edakkara Maoist’ case.

The case— RC-02/2021/NIA/KOC pertains to membership and conduct of training camp for cadres of CPI (Maoist), including arms training, flag hoisting, and celebrations of CPI (Maoist)’s formation day during the last week of September 2016 in Nilambur forest of Malappuram district in Kerala.
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Three CRPF personnel attained Veergati in Maoist attack in Odisha.

On 21 June 2022, three Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel attained Veergati (fell in the battle) in a Maoist attack in Patadhara Reserve Forest in Bheden block in Nuapada district in Odisha. “It was suspected that Maoists had prior information regarding the movement of the forces; all of a sudden, they (Maoists) opened fire on the forces,” said a police officer on anonymity basis.
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NIA officials raided multiple locations in Telangana and arrested three Maoists in ‘Peddabayalu CPI (Maoist) recruitment’ case.

On 23 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials carried out search operations in three locations in Telangana’s Ranga Reddy, Medak and Secunderabad districts, and arrested three Maoists— i) Dongari Devendra, ii) Dubasi Swapna, and iii) Chukka Shilpa.

The case— RC-02/2022/NIA/HYD relates to the conspiracy and recruitment of one college student by the operatives of Chaitanya MahilaSangham (CMS)— a frontal organisation of CPI (Maoist).
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Islamic Extremism (excluding J&K)

Two Islamic extremists beheaded a tailor in Rajasthan over his support to Nupur Sharma’s statement on Prophet Mohammad.

On 29 June 2022, two Islamic extremists— Mohammad RiyazAkhtari and Gaus/Ghouse Mohammad posed as a customer while entering a tailor shop and beheaded the tailor— Kanhaiya Lal over his social media post supporting former BJP spokesperson— Nupur Sharma’s remarks on Prophet Mohammad.

The duo extremists shot a video of killing of Kanhaiya Lal, and also threatened Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in another video, which went viral on social media platforms. Soon, police traced and arrested both extremists from Rajsamand district, 61 km from Udaipur in Rajasthan. Prohibited orders were imposed under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) across Rajasthan for a month and mobile internet services had been suspended for 24 hours followed by the incident.
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Khalistan-inspired Extremism

Ahead of political roadshow, Khalistan slogan found at Sangrur temple gate.

On 19 June 2022, ahead of the political road show of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to be taken out by Delhi Chief Minister (CM) Arvind Kejriwal and Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, the ‘Khalistan slogan’ and ‘26 January 2023 referendum’ was found painted at the gate of a Kali Devi temple in Sangrur.

The proscribed organisation— Sikh for Justice (SFJ)’s legal advisor— Gurpatwant Singh Pannun uploaded a video on social media and informed that “the AAP formed government in Punjab with the support, including financial, of pro-Khalistan Sikhs. The Khalistan Referendum votes will be polled on 26 January 2023 and if AAP government tried to take any step against it, they will be reminded about the assassination of former Punjab CM Beant Singh. The only solution of Punjab is Khalistan.”
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Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs)

NIA officials searched two locations in West Bengal in case of ‘Seizure of FICN at Kolkata’.

On 26 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials carried out search operation at two locations in Golabgunj and Sultangunj in Kaliachak Police Station area in Malda district of West Bengal.

The search operation was related to the case— RC-08/2020/NIA/DLI, in which high quality Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICNs) of worth ₹ 3,46,000 were recovered from possession of two FICN traffickers— i) Senaul SK, and ii) Akramul, near Calcutta Sports Journalists’ Club, Maidan Tent, Kolkata. During the search operations, NIA officials seized digital devices, including mobile phone, SIMs, and other incriminating materials.
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NIA filed chargesheet against four FICN traffickers in case of ‘Seizure of FICN and Gold at IGI Airport New Delhi’.

On 24 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a chargesheet before the NIA Special Court (New Delhi) against four Fake Indian Currency Note (FICN) traffickers— i) Mohammad Shahjan (Uttar Pradesh), ii) Amir ul-Haq (Delhi), iii) Abdul Wahid (Delhi), and iv) Amandeep Singh (Punjab), in a case related to the seizure of the FICN and Gold at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in New Delhi.

In case— RC-05/2022/NIA/DLI, the custom officials seized FICNs worth ₹ 10 lakhs and 175 gms of Gold from Mohammad Shahjan who had arrived from Ras al-Khaimah airport in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). According to the investigation, Shahjan conspired with other FICN traffickers, including Amir ul-Haq and Amandeep Singh. Abdul Wahid used to provide logistic support and arrange funds for visa and air tickets of the ‘human couriers’ involved in smuggling of FICN and gold to India.
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Human-Trafficking

NIA officials searched a location in Uttar Pradesh and arrested a human-trafficker.

On 22 June 2022, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) officials searched a location in Deoband in Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh and arrested a human-trafficker— Mazid Ullah (resident of Myanmar) in the conspiracy of illegal trafficking of Rohingya and Bangladeshi Muslims into India.
The search operation was related to the case— RC-05/2021/NIA/GUW, in which NIA officials seized digital devices, including mobile phones, SIM cards and memory sticks, and other incriminating materials.
For more information:
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Afghanistan

Meeting in Kabul of Clerics from Across Afghanistan Begins: Tolo News

The anticipated gathering of clerics from across Afghanistan was held in Kabul on Thursday to discuss the current Afghan situation. It was attended by Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund and other top members of the Islamic Emirate as well as thousands of clerics from across the country. Click here to read…

India Delivers a Consignment of 6 Tons Medical Assistance to Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

As part of its continuous humanitarian support, India delivered the seventh consignment of medical aid to Afghanistan today, containing 6 tons of essential medicines, according to an official statement of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, released on 30th JuneClick here to read…

The Taliban’s Religious Gathering Emphasizes on Beheading Critics: The Khaama Press

Mawlawi Mujib Rahman Ansari, a vigilante, bearded clergyman, a preacher in a mosque in northwestern Afghanistan’s Herat province, who is also an attendee of the Taliban’s religious grand assembly has stated in the gathering that anyone who rebels against the Islamic regime should be beheaded. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Energy Treaty – Bangladesh should not sign it: CAB- The Daily Star

Bangladesh should not sign the Energy Charter Treaty (ECT), as the international agreement only serves the purposes of international businesses in the energy sector, not the country’s national interest, said Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB) at a dialogue with journalists yesterday. Click here to read…

Yunus Centre tries to hide the truth: Hasan- The Daily Star

Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud today denounced the Yunus Centre’s statement that denied Dr Muhammad Yunus’s alleged role to scrap World Bank’s financing in Padma Bridge construction as evil attempts to hide the truth. Click here to read…

Birth certificates for street children: High Court issues rule- The Daily Star

The High Court today (June 30, 2022) directed the government to submit a report on the steps taken to issue birth certificates to all street children across the country in three months before this court. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Bhutan set to raise SDF to 200 USD- The Daily Bhutan

On the 24th of June 2022, the National assembly passed the Tourism Levy Bill of 2022. With this new act the sustainable development fee (SDF) of 65 USD per night has now been increased to 200 USD per night. Along with the increase in the SDF the minimum daily package rate (MDPR) has been removed as well. Click here to read…

Government outs Sung-jeon App from 12th FYP- Bhutan Today

With overwhelming priorities in the 12th Five-Year-Plan, the government is not in a position to implement one of its election pledges, the Sung-jeon App. Click here to read…

DHI projects to earn foreign currency- Bhutan Today

Druk Holding and Investments (DHI) is working on two to three major projects according to Lyonchhen Dr Lotay Tshering. He said that the earnings from those projects are expected to generate foreign currency. Click here to read…

Water shortage hampers service delivery in Tsirangtoed- The Kuensel

Due to its strategic location, Tsirangtoed gewog serves as a centre for residents of neighbouring gewogs to avail health and education services. Click here to read…

Maldives

Imports to Maldives increase to 52 percent in May 2022: Edition Mv

According to the latest update from Maldives Customs Service, the total imports inclusive of fuel rose to 52 percent in May 2022. The total imports to the country in the review month was recorded at MVR4.4 billionClick here to read…

In the future as well, Maldives will mainly depend on India: The Sun

Speaking in the fifth episode of ‘Ask Speaker’ show on Thursday night, Nasheed said that India is the country that has been most helpful to Maldives in the past and in present. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar fighter jet crosses into Thailand’s air space in Tak: Bangkok Post

A Myanmar fighter jet crossed into Thailand’s air space over Phop Phra district late on Thursday morning, panicking local residents and forcing two local schools to suspend classes. Click here to read…

Myanmar Junta Using Massive Airstrikes to Defend Strategic Outpost: The Irrawady

Myanmar’s military regime is employing massive airstrikes against resistance forces attempting to seize a strategic junta outpost in Karen State near the border with Thailand. Click here to read…

Nepal

90 settlements in Salyan at risk of landslides, forest department says- The Kathmandu Post

Risk aggravated by haphazard road construction, claims Disaster Management Committee chiefClick here to read…

Despite six-decade history, parliamentary practice remains weak in Nepal- The Kathmandu Post

Experts say that in countries where political parties aren’t democratic, the parliamentary practice cannot be effective. Click here to read…

Power utility calls off bid to sell 200MW to India under long-term contract- The Kathmandu Post

Citing complications in bidding, Nepal Electricity Authority now aims to trade power in the day-ahead market of Indian Energy Exchange Limited. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Chasing simple majority in PA session without PTI, ‘Q’: Dawn

The Punjab Assembly’s marathon 40th session, that saw the controversial election for the chief minister on April 16, would resume its proceedings on Friday afternoon (today) for a do-over of the election of the chief executive, sending both treasury and opposition parties into late night huddles to devise their strategies for the ‘big day’. Click here to read…

Govt jacks up petrol price by Rs14.85 per litre: Dawn

The federal government on Thursday announced another hike in the prices of all petroleum products – especially petrol by Rs14.85 per litre and high-speed diesel (HSD) by Rs13.23 per litre, with the change set to take effect from midnight. Click here to read…

Pakistan dumping ground for global hazardous waste, Senate body told: Dawn

Pakistan is importing massive amounts of hazardous waste from several countries, including the United Kingdom, Iran, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, a parliamentary committee was informed on Thursday. Click here to read…

CPEC’s Karot Hydropower Plant put into ‘full commercial operation’: The Express Tribune

Karot Hydropower Plant, the first hydropower investment project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), was put into full commercial operations on Wednesday. Click here to read…

Rupee falls 30pc against dollar in FY22: The News

The rupee posted slight gains against the dollar in last trading session of the 2021/22 fiscal year, pushed by routine import payments and greenback sales by exporters, dealers said. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

IMF end-of-mission report highlights ‘corruption vulnerabilities’ in Sri Lanka: The Island

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) personnel that remained in Sri Lanka for ten days from 20-30 June to study the exact reasons for the current economic crisis in the country and design a comprehensive economic programme have stressed the need to reduce ‘corruption vulnerabilities’ in Sri Lanka. Click here to read…

Indian fishermen back again and ‘crushing’ our livelihoods, say Sri Lankan counterparts: The Hindu

Just after Tamil Nadu’s annual fishing ban ended mid-June, Indian fishing trawlers are back near Sri Lanka’s northern coast, “crushing” fishermen’s livelihoods that are already under enormous strain during the island’s economic crisis, according to northern Sri Lankan fisher leaders. Click here to read…

India made a recommendation for Adani Green: Sri Lankan power board: Business-Standard

The Ceylon Electricity Board, in a clarification to a Sri Lankan business daily, has said that the Indian government recommended Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) for constructing wind power projects in the Mannar and Pooneryn regions of the country. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Afghans Hope Gathering of Clerics Will Solve Nation’s Problems: Tolo News

Residents of the provinces of Ghazni, Maidan Wardak, Kunduz, and Baghlan speaking to TOLOnews expressed hopes that the “Gathering of Islamic Clerics” will find a basic solution for the country’s current economic crises and job shortages. Click here to read…

US and Taliban to Meet in Qatar to Talk About Unfreezing Afghanistan Funds: The Khaama Press

Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Foreign Minister of the Taliban, led a delegation that left for Qatar on 29th June to continue discussions with US officials over releasing $9 billion in withheld Afghan assets as the country struggles with a famine and poverty crisis. Click here to read…

Moscow Trying to ‘Build Relations’ With Kabul: Putin: Tolo News

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that Moscow is attempting to build relations with the Islamic Emirate and that Russia wants to see all the ethnic groups in Afghanistan take part in running the country. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Navy detains 135 Indian fishermen on Bay- The Daily Star

Bangladesh Navy detained 135 Indian fishermen, including eight trawlers, from the Bay of Bengal on Monday night. Click here to read…

‘We have won’- The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday told parliament that construction of Padma Bridge had been delayed for two years due to conspiracy. Click here to read…

Bangladesh-US relations to flourish further- The Daily Star

Bangladesh heartily believes that its relationship with the US will flourish in the coming days as the bond between the two nations is strong not only at the government level but also at the people’s level, Law Minister Anisul Huq said yesterday. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Confusions over Money and Financial Bills- Kuensel

Even though it is the third Parliament, there are confusion and lack of clarity on what construes a Money Bill and a Financial Bill. Click here to read…

Bhutan’s borders to reopen in September- Kuensel

Bhutan will reopen its borders to tourists on September 23, 2022, the Tourism Council of Bhutan announced yesterday. Click here to read…

29 percent of irregularities from AAR 2010-2020 pertains Hydropower Projects- Kuensel

Of the total irregularities amounting to Nu 4,979.098 million (M) from Annual Audit Report (AAR) 2010-2020, Nu 649.714M was resolved as of March 31 this year. Click here to read…

PAC recommends govt to mainstream unresolved irregularities in the APA- BBS

Audit observations have been increasing over the years. And this according to the Public Accounts Committee could be resolved if the government incorporate non-compliance to laws, rules and regulations, and financial lapses in the Annual Performance Agreement or APA. Click here to read…

Nepal

Top court quashes all decisions related to Nijgadh airport- Kathmandu Post

In a 3-2 ruling, the Supreme Court, however, keeps options open for building an international airport, with strict conditions of minimal environmental damage. Click here to read…

Bhattarai faction frets as Yadav goes solo with Cabinet reshuffle proposal- Kathmandu Post

Deuba calls for consensus proposal. Observers say JSP dispute could impact the coalition. Click here to read…

Official raises some hackles by saying local units are unfit to handle school education- Kathmandu Post

During grilling by a parliamentary panel over delay in federal education bill, the education secretary said local units don’t have capability and expertise to ensure quality of education. Click here to read…

Incessant rainfall triggers floods across Tarai region- Himalayan Times

Inundation and floods triggered by incessant rainfall have killed one person and displaced hundreds of families across the Tarai. Click here to read…

On high monsoon alert in Nepal- Nepali Times

The flood in Sindhupalchok a year ago on 15 June swept away Asha Gurung’s dreams. The mother of three was swift enough to save her children but lost her house, cattle, eatery and all other valuables to the disaster. Click here to read…

Inflation hits a 6-year high in Nepal. What next?- Online Khabar

“Some time ago, the price of an egg increased from Rs 15 to Rs 17 and now the eggs per crate costs around Rs 500. A few days ago, jar water became more expensive. Click here to read…

Maldives

No plans to lockdown Maldives again: Minister Naseem: Edition Mv

Health Minister Ahmed Naseem said on Wednesday that there were no plans to put Maldives under lockdown again despite increased Covid cases in the country. Click here to read…

Health Ministry requests to submit ventilator case for arbitration to recover payment: The Sun

Health Ministry has requested with Attorney General’s Office (AGO) to file an arbitration case to recover the monies paid by the government to Dubai-based Executors General Trading to procure ventilators for COVID-19 patients in 2020. Click here to read…

Myanmar

Three more bodies found near Letpadaung copper mine- Myanmar Now

The tortured bodies were discovered just days after junta forces murdered and dismembered two other local men in the area. Click here to read…

Members of Myanmar army-backed militia shot dead at Mon State checkpoint- Myanmar Now

A local resistance force claims responsibility for an ambush that reportedly killed five Pyu Saw Htee guards. Click here to read…

Heavy fighting reported as KNU continues assault on junta outpost near Thai border- Myanmar Now

Regime forces deploy airstrikes and heavy artillery in a bid to prevent another base from falling into KNU hands. Click here to read…

Myanmar maritime trade surges by $1.3 mln as of 17 June- GNLM

The value of Myanmar’s maritime trade between 1 April and 17 June in the current financial year 2022-2023 soared to US$5.38 billion, reflecting a sharp rise of $1.3 billion, according to the Ministry of Commerce. Click here to read…

All possible means should be applied to control illegal trade along the trade routes in states and regions: Vice-Senior General- GNLM

State Administration Council Vice-Chairman Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Senior General Soe Win addressed the coordination meeting 3/2022 of the Anti-Illegal Trade Steering Committee in the meeting room of the Ministry of Commerce in Nay Pyi Taw at 2 pm yesterday. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa calls Vladimir Putin, to visit UAE to seek fuel imports: WION News

Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has been exploring options of buying oil from Russia and he is already in conversation with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, a minister said according to PTI. Click here to read…

Quick Passports for Foreign Employment: News First

Sri Lanka’s new Minister of Investment Promotion Dhammika Perera has taken a series of measures to address the longstanding issues at the Department of Immigration and Emigration. Click here to read…

Doctors, bankers protest ‘impossible situation’ as Sri Lanka runs out of fuel: Times Of India

Doctors and bankers were among hundreds of Sri Lankans who marched on Wednesday to demand the government resolve a severe fuel shortage at the heart of the Indian Ocean island’s worst economic crisis in decades or step down. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Finance ministry sees more tough times ahead: Dawn

Hinting at a further increase in the policy rate by the State Bank of Pakistan, the Ministry of Finance anticipates ‘blurred growth prospects’ for the economy, which could be marred by the prevailing inauspicious global environment and higher domestic inflation, going beyond 15 per cent, in the upcoming fiscal year set to begin on Friday. Click here to read…

TTP refuses to budge from demand for Fata merger reversal: Dawn

The proscribed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has categorically stated that the insurgent group would not back down from its demand for the reversal of the merger of erstwhile Fata with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

China to Issue Visas for Afghan Businesspeople: Tolo News

In a meeting with the acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Amir Khan Muttaqi, the ambassador of China, Wang Yu, expressed China’s readiness to facilitate visas for Afghan businesspeople in Afghanistan, MoFA announced Click here to read…

Voices Call for Inclusion of Women, All Ethnic Groups in National Gathering: Tolo News

Anticipating the “Gathering of Islamic Clerics,” expected to be held on Wednesday, a number of politicians and residents asked that the Islamic Emirate invite women as well as representatives from all Afghan ethnic groups. Click here to read…

US Pledges $55 Million in Aid for the Victims of the Deadly Earthquake in Afghanistan: The Khaama Press

According to the United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s announcement on Tuesday, the United States would provide Afghanistan immediate assistance amounting $55 million in response to the devastating earthquake that struck last week in a remote part of the country’s southeast. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Fuel prices may go up by at least Tk 10- The Daily Star

The government is bent on raising fuel prices by Tk 10-30 each litre, despite vehement opposition from consumer rights groups and experts. Click here to read…

Mask mandate back again- The Daily Star

As Covid-19 cases are rising steeply in the country, the Cabinet Division yesterday instructed all officials concerned to enforce the “no mask, no service” policy everywhere and ensure that everyone follows health safety rules. Click here to read…

Press freedom enjoyed like never before- The Daily Star

Newspapers and electronic media are now enjoying unrestrained freedom under the current government, Information Minister Hasan Mahmud told parliament yesterday. Click here to read…

Dhaka Tokyo ink loan and grant deeds- The Daily Star

Bangladesh and Japan have signed a loan and grant agreement worth $1.23 billion for projects including the northern route of Mass Rapid Transit Line 5. Click here to read…

“Impose sanctions on Dr Yunus, Hilary Clinton and Cherie Blair”- The Daily Star

Independent lawmaker and a presidium member of Jubo League, Mujibur Rahman Chowdhury, today demanded in the parliament to impose sanctions on Prof Dr Muhammad Yunus, Hilary Clinton, and Cherie Blair so that they could not hatch any further conspiracy against Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Momen seeks apology, compensation from “institution” that claimed Padma Bridge corruption- The Daily Star

Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has sought apology and compensation from those who humiliated Bangladesh through accusing some top officials of a conspiracy of corruption in the Padma Bridge project. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Bhutan can become energy secure in next 3 years: Lyonpo Loknath Sharma- Kuensel

Bhutan at present is not energy secure, said Lyonpo Loknath Sharma. Adding 200MW of wind energy in the next 2 to 3 years, he said, could help the country achieve energy security. Click here to read…

Tourists who confirmed tours before June 20 can visit at old pricing- Kuensel

All tours confirmed before June 20, 2022 can avail of rates applicable under the Tourism Levy Act of Bhutan 2020, the minimum daily package rate (MDPR), which includes the royalty of USD 65. Click here to read…

Falling boulders kill two men and injure three in Samdrupjongkhar- Kuensel

Falling boulders killed two men and injured three men at Phochu in Lauri gewog, Samdrupjongkhar, on June 27. Click here to read…

NA passes Tourism Levy Bill 2022- BBS

The National Assembly passed the Tourism Levy Bill 2022 today, accepting all the Council’s recommendations. The Bill will now be submitted to His Majesty The King for Royal Assent. As per the Bill, every tourist visiting Bhutan will be levied a Sustainable Development Fee of 200 US dollars per night. Click here to read…

Maldives

Maldives to build one of the world’s first floating cities as response to climate change: The National News

The Maldives will soon be home to one of the world’s first floating cities. Set in a warm-water lagoon close to the capital, Male, the new district will feature thousands of waterfront residences built across a flexible, functional grid. Click here to read…

Cabinet ministers briefed on latest updates of Yoga Day violence: The Sun

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, on Tuesday, has briefed his cabinet on the finding of the cabinet subcommittee investigating the mob attack on event held on June 21 at the National Stadium to mark the International Day of YogaClick here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar: Response overview, June 2022 – Relief Web

Humanitarian needs in Myanmar continue to rise sharply since February 2021 as a result of political and economic upheaval and increased conflict. Click here to read…

Junta restricts food sales in Tanintharyi’s Palaw Township – Mizzima

The junta has ordered the closure of rice warehouses and restricted sales of food in Palaw Township in Myeik District, Tanintharyi Region, since 26 June, according to locals. Click here to read…

Thai authorities rescue two Burmese nationals from sinking boat – Mizzima

The Thai Border Guard Special Force carried out an emergency rescue of two Myanmar nationals when their fishing boat sank in Thai territorial waters on 26 June at around 12 p.m. Click here to read…

NLD slams junta transfer of Suu Kyi to prison in Myanmar capital – RFA

Myanmar’s deposed National League for Democracy (NLD) on Tuesday condemned the junta’s decision to move party leader Aung San Suu Kyi from detention to a prison in the nation’s capital, citing poor conditions and lack of access to health care at the facility. Click here to read…

Number of Rakhine youths gone missing after military’s arrest – Narinjara

A number of Rakhine youths have gone missing after they were arrested by the military councils during this month from the capital city of Arakan State. They were abducted by the junta soldiers from Sittwe after the Arakan Army members arrested a military captain and a soldier from the city on 23 June. Click here to read…

ASEAN Special Envoy on Second Visit to Myanmar; No Meeting With Suu Kyi – The Irrawaddy

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Special Envoy on Myanmar will start his second tour to the country on Wednesday, following up on the bloc’s peace plan and humanitarian assistance for the country that has been in social, political and economic turmoil since last year’s coup. Click here to read…

80 illegal immigrants from Myanmar held in Manipur – The Week

Eighty illegal immigrants from Myanmar were apprehended from Manipur’s Churachandpur district on Tuesday, police said. These illegal immigrants, who did not have any valid documents, were living in rented accommodations in Ngathal village and Vaal Veng of the district, they said. Click here to read…

Nepal

Government unclear on how to adjust taxes days after it slashed fuel prices- Kathmandu Post

Finance Ministry says Supply Ministry decided on price cuts; the former has made no move to revise the taxes yet. Click here to read…

Five traffic cops under probe after the incident of doctor beating- Kathmandu Post

A medical officer from Pulchowk-based health facility was beaten black and blue by a traffic official who asked him why he was ‘walking at night.’ Click here to read…

Nepal to build Budhi Gandaki hydroelectricity project through a separate company- Kathmandu Post

The storage-type 1,200 megawatt project has suffered quite some politicking over the years, with various governments allowing a Chinese firm to build it and then revoking the plan. Click here to read…

Incessant rainfall triggers floods across Tarai region- Himalayan Times

Inundation and floods triggered by incessant rainfall have killed one person and displaced hundreds of families across the Tarai. Click here to read…

UML demands resignation of Gandaki CM- Republica

The CPN-UML has demanded the resignation of CM Pokharel, saying that the ruling coalition has made the provincial assembly a prisoner of indecision by halting the discussion on the budget. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Crisis-hit Sri Lanka’s economy shrinks 1.6% in the March quarter: Business Standard

Sri Lanka’s economy fell back into contraction last quarter as the country battled its worst economic problems since independence, with emergency aid to stabilise the island nation proving elusive. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka to end fuel duopoly to ease scarcity: Telegraph India

Sri Lanka will allow companies from oil-producing countries to import and sell fuel, the power and energy minister said on Tuesday, ending a duopoly as it tries to overcome a shortage of petrol and diesel that is exacerbating an economic crisis. Click here to read…

1,000 MT of Chinese Rice reach Sri Lanka: News First

44 containers of 1,000 MT rice donated by the Chinese people to Sri Lankan students arrived today. The shipment was handed over to the Ministry of Education on Tuesday (28). Click here to read…

Sri Lanka IOC restricts petrol sale amid fuel shortage: ANI

Amid the economic crisis and severe fuel shortage in Sri Lanka, Indian Oil’s subsidiary in Sri Lanka, Lanka IOC (Indian Oil Corporation) announced to restrict the sale of petrol to a maximum of Rs 7000 for four-wheelers, with immediate effect. Click here to read…

Pakistan

Pakistan needs to ‘do more’ for double IMF payout: Dawn

Pakistan will have to take at least two more “prior actions” to secure two combined tranches of about $1.85 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) by the end of July or early August. Click here to read…

GST on raw material aggravates shortage of 40 drugs: The News

In the wake of 17pc GST on the import of raw material, production of medicines has considerably dropped and aggravated the shortage of, at least, 40 essential and lifesaving drugs in markets across the country. Click here to read…

Imran warns Punjab police, bureaucrats not to follow ‘illegal’ govt orders: Dawn

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan on Tuesday asked the Punjab police and bureaucracy not to follow “illegal orders” of the provincial government during the upcoming local government elections, claiming the PTI has been maintaining the departments’ record. Click here to read…

Power outages pose risk of ‘connectivity blackouts’: Dawn

The telecom industry has warned the government of connectivity failures if prolonged power outages continue amid high fuel costs and stringent conditions on battery imports. Click here to read…

Cabinet rolls out first policy to tackle hazardous waste: The Express Tribune

The federal cabinet approved on Tuesday country’s first-ever National Hazardous Waste Management Policy, 2022, hoping that the Centre and provinces would finalise a National Action Plan (NAP) implementation framework of the policy within three months so that the country does not become a dumping ground of hazardous disposals. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

Sources: Loya Jirga of 3,000 to Be Held on Wednesday: Tolo News

Around 3,000 people from across Afghanistan have been invited to a gathering of Islamic clerics, expected to be held at the Loya Jirga Hall on Wednesday in Kabul, sources told TOLOnewsClick here to read…

Central Bank of Afghanistan: Money-Trading Through Forex Is Illegal: The Khaama Press

Da Afghanistan Bank, in a statement issued on Sunday, June 26th, announced that it has not licensed or permitted the operation of the Forex online in Afghanistan, therefore, any financial transaction through the online platform is against the law. Click here to read…

Human Rights Watch: Taliban’s Jirga Lacks Legitimacy If It Excludes Women: The Khaama Press

In reaction to the Jirga of the Taliban that will take place in the Loya Jirga tent, Human Rights Watch said that a decision-making body, such as a Jirga that excludes women and other groups is not legitimate. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

Pressure on forex reserves: Govt exploring loan of up to $4.5b from IMF- The Daily Star

As a precautionary move, Bangladesh has started talks with the International Monetary Fund about taking a loan of $4-4.5 billion to shore up the precarious foreign currency reserves. Click here to read…

Fully profitable, but with govt subsidies- The Daily Star

Dhaka Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (Wasa) operates with the government’s “alms”, said its managing director Taqsem A Khan while talking about the price hike of water. Click here to read…

Momen urges Britain to resettle 1 lakh Rohingya refugees- The Daily Star

Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has requested the British Secretary of State Elizabeth Truss to resettle one lakh Rohingya refugees who are now sheltered in Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Bhutan

NC asks govt to expedite decision on delayed hydropower projects- Kuensel

The government is waiting response from the Government of India (GoI) on the issues of two hydropower projects under construction, Punatsangchu-I Hydroelectric Project and Kholongchu Hydropower Project which have been delayed. Click here to read…

Student sustains second degree burns from electrical accident- Kuensel

A 14-year-old student of Chumigthang MSS student, Pasakha is recovering at Phuentsholing General Hospital (PGH) from second degree burns he sustained from an electrical accident at Baunijhora, Pasakha on June 25. Click here to read…

Incessant rain affects work progress at Namling- Kuensel

Construction officials are advising road users to avoid travelling at night as the stretch from Yongkola to Namling area gets continuous rainfall. Click here to read…

Government outs Sung-jeon App from 12th FYP- Bhutan Today

“Sung-jeon App is for country’s security,” Lyonpo said. Adding to it, Lyonpo said internet outage outside would also impact the internet services in the country, and Sung-jeon App was planned to offset such issues. Click here to read…

Govt waiting for India’s answer to replace dam with barrage at PHPA-I- BBS

The National Assembly today redeliberated the National Council’s recommendation, to expedite the decision to avoid further delay of PHPA-I. The construction of PHPA-I began in 2008 and was scheduled for completion in 2016 with the then estimated budget of more than Nu 35bnClick here to read…

Maldives

Maldives reports over 1,000 new Covid-19 cases, five fatalities: Raajje MV

Statistics revealed that between June 19 – 25, an alarming total of 1,202 new Covid-19 infections were confirmed nationwide, including 528 from the congested capital, Greater Malé Area, 452 from residential islands outside of the capitalClick here to read…

The President concludes his official visit to Rwanda: African business

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih returned to Malé on Monday morning after concluding his official visit to the Republic of Rwanda. The President, accompanied by First Lady Fazna Ahmed and a high-level delegation, was in Kigali, Rwanda, to attend the 26th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). Click here to read…

Myanmar

Myanmar Army Abandons Taga, Headquarters of Northeast Insurgent Groups, after Three Years – News18

The Tatmadaw or Myanmar Army has left the Taga areas of Sagaing, Myanmar, which were captured in January 29, 2019 from the Northeast-based insurgent groups, according to sources. A top insurgent leader from Sagaing confirmed: “The Myanmar Army left the Taga areas on June 15.” Click here to read…

NUG: Burma Army Using Rape As Weapon Of War – BNI Online

Burma Army (BA) soldiers have raped at least 72 people, but sexual violence against civilians is likely to be higher since the military coup took over the country 17 months ago, according to Duwa Lashi La, acting president of the interim National Unity Government (NUG). Click here to read…

Military’s arbitrary civilian arrests are violation of human rights: Arakan activist group – BNI Online

The Arakan Human Rights Defenders and Promoters Association (AHRDPA) said in a statement on Friday that the Myanmar military’s arbitrary arrests of civilians in Arakan State are a clear violation of human rights. U Mrat Tun, an executive director of AHRDPA, told DMG that the military has arrested and tortured some civilians in Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, Ponnagyun and Sittwe townships in recent days. Click here to read…

2022/65 “The International Community Needs to Prepare for a Post-Tatmadaw Myanmar” by Anders Kirstein Moeller – ISEAS

The Tatmadaw’s combat forces of around 100,000 are stretched thin, facing a vast array of armed resistance groups and engaging in unfamiliar cellularized warfare. Although the Tatmadaw maintains control of key urban centres, it has been unable to consolidate power in smaller towns and rural areas. Click here to read…

UK announces second round of sanctions against arms dealers – Mizzima

Campaigning group justice for Myanmar has welcomed the UKs second round of sanctions targeting arms dealers obtaining arms for Myanmar. The organisation also called for urgent and coordinated international action against the Myanmar military’s economic interests and business relationships, including from regional democracies Australia, India, Japan and South Korea. Click here to read…

Court in army-ruled Myanmar gives Suu Kyi colleague 21 years – AP News

Zaw Myint Maung is a second vice president and spokesperson of Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy party, which won a landslide victory in the 2020 general election but was prevented from returning to the office for a second five-year term when the army seized power in February last year. Click here to read…

Nepal

They worked as domestics and dishwashers. Now they are successful entrepreneurs- Kathmandu Post

Nepalis in the industrial city of Ludhiana in Punjab, India share their rags-to-riches stories. Click here to read…

Testing of third phase of Mahakali irrigation canal begins- Kathmandu Post

The Stage III of the project, which would irrigate around 33,520 hectares of land in farwestern Nepal, has been completed after 26 years. Click here to read…

Nearly 70 percent water samples in Valley contaminated- Kathmandu Post

Officials say failure to ensure safe drinking water poses a challenge to controlling outbreaks of waterborne diseases, including cholera. At least 12 people tested positive for cholera in 8 days. Click here to read…

Amid SPP confusion, home minister makes a gaffe saying pullout letter sent to the US- Kathmandu Post

Foreign Ministry is yet to write to the US. American embassy says it acknowledges Nepali Cabinet’s public statements regarding its desire not to move forward on the SPP. Click here to read…

Citizenship bill to be passed with political consensus: Minister Khand- Kathmandu Post

Home Minister Bal Krishna Khand has said the government has been taking initiative to forward the citizenship bill with consensus among the political parties. Click here to read…

Ensure voting rights for prisoners: SC- Himalayan Times

The Supreme Court has ordered the government to allow prisoners to vote in the upcoming parliamentary elections likely to be held in November. Click here to read…

Germany to continue bilateral development cooperation with Nepal- Himalayan Times

The Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) of Germany has decided to continue with the bilateral development cooperation with Nepal beyond 2023. Click here to read…

Pakistan

UAE offers quid pro quo bailout deal: The Express Tribune

In response to Pakistan’s request for multibillion dollars in fresh loans, the United Arab Emirates has offered to buy minority shares in publicly-listed government-owned companies at a negotiated price and a seat on each of the firm’s boards. Click here to read…

Will rifts among allies brew distrust in the centre?: The Express Tribune

The anticipated unease and friction in the ruling coalition showed its tentacles on Monday over the local government elections in Sindh as MQM-P and JUI-F, among others, rejected results of Sindh LG poll results and accused PPP of rigging. Click here to read…

Import expensive fuel or brave long outages: Nepra chief: Dawn

At a public hearing on a petition for a Rs7.96 per unit increase in FCA for electricity consumed in May, Chairman Nepra Tauseef H Farooqui, who presided over the event, said though a formal notification would be issued later after verification of evidence, the minimum increase in FCA would be about Rs7.90 per unit for ex-Wapda Discos with a financial impact of Rs113bn during the upcoming billing month (July). Click here to read…

Imran unveils July 2 Islamabad protest plan: Dawn

Exactly a month after abruptly ending the Azadi March with a six-day ‘ultimatum’ to the PML-N government for announcement of early elections, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan on Monday announced he would lead the July 2 protest at Islamabad’s Parade Ground against the “imported government imposed on Pakistan through a US regime change conspiracy”. Click here to read…

Ex-spymaster denies meeting Imran, joining PTI: News

Former ISI DG Lt-Gen (retd) Zaheerul Islam has said that he has neither joined the PTI nor met Imran Khan. Talking to The News, he said that he had recently held a gathering of the local elders at his house in his native village in Kahuta where the community decided to support the PTI candidate for PP-7 Rawalpindi in the upcoming by-elections. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Just days from running out of fuel, Sri Lanka halts sales for 2 weeks: Times of india

Sri Lanka will shut schools and only allow fuel supplies to services deemed essential like health, trains and buses for two weeks starting Tuesday in a desperate attempt to deal with a severe shortage. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka sends SOS message to India for fuel, suspends retail sale for 2 weeks: Hindustan Times

Sri Lanka’s high commissioner Milinda Moragoda discussed with Hardeep Singh Puri the “possibility of securing petrol and diesel supplies that are required by Sri Lanka at present on an urgent basis”. Click here to read…

US delegation meets Sri Lankan President PM discusses economic crisis: The Week

A high-level US delegation on Monday met Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and discussed measures to help the island nation cope with an unprecedented economic crisis and severe shortages of essential supplies. Click here to read…

Afghanistan

70% of Nuristan Schools Lack Buildings: Tolo News

Nuristan’s department of education said that 70 percent of schools in this province do not have buildings, and they must temporarily use tents at these schools to solve this problem. Click here to read…

UNSC Session Discusses Afghan Human Rights, Earthquake: Tolo News

On Thursday, the UN Security Council held a session to discuss the situation in Afghanistan. In the session, many of the participants called attention to the devastating earthquake, the human rights situation, restrictions on Afghan women and girls and the overall crisis ongoing since the collapse of republic government in August 2021. Click here to read…

Earthquake Survivors in Afghanistan at Risk of a Disease Outbreak: The Khaama Press

Following a UN agency’s warning of a cholera outbreak in the quake-hit area, the spokesperson of the Taliban’s Ministry of Public Health said on Sunday that thousands of people affected by the fatal earthquake in southeast Afghanistan need access to clean water, food, and are highly susceptible to diseases. Click here to read…

Kabul Optimistic about Formal Recognition amid Heightened Situation: The Khaama Press

The acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Amir Khan Muttaqi said he is optimistic about Islamic Emirate relations with the international community, hopping for world recognition amid ongoing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. Click here to read…

Bangladesh

‘Polls will be transparent’- The Daily Star

Australian High Commis-sioner to Bangladesh Jeremy Bruer yesterday said Australia hopes that Bangladesh’s next general election will go well and be transparent. Click here to read…

Acquire scientific knowledge – The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday urged students to acquire scientific knowledge and take the country towards development and prosperity. Click here to read…

Explore alternative power sources – The Daily Star

Capacity charges for idle power plants, theft in the name of system loss, wastage and dependency on imported gas and fuel without exploring alternatives are the main causes behind high energy costs, said speakers at a dialogue yesterday. Click here to read…

New law will be enacted for police: Home Minister – The Daily Star

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan told the parliament today that a new law for the Bangladesh Police will be enacted keeping in view of the current situation and turning police into a more people-friendly and service-oriented organisation. Click here to read…

Saudi Arabia detains Bangladeshi hajj pilgrim for “begging” – The Daily Star

Saudi Arabian police detained a Bangladeshi hajj pilgrim on charges of begging in Madinah. Click here to read…

Minority leaders demand Momen’s resignation over remarks made in India – The Daily Star

Minority community leaders in Bangladesh today demanded resignation of Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen over statements they claimed he made while visiting India, regarding atrocities on minorities in Bangladesh. Click here to read…

“India, Pakistan, US lauded govt on Padma Bridge opening, but BNP couldn’t” – The Daily Star

Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud today (June 26, 2022) said India, the US and even Pakistan extended greetings to the government as Bangladesh opened the biggest self-financed Padma Bridge, yet BNP could not. Click here to read…

PM urges Kuwait to invest in Bangladesh’s Special Economic Zones – The Daily Star

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today urged the Kuwait government to invest in Special Economic Zones of Bangladesh. Click here to read…

Bhutan

Is Bhutan’s economy at risk?- Kuensel

Bhutanese economy has been recovering well from the pandemic after the economy contracted to 10.1 percent in 2020. Click here to read…

Understanding Tourism Industry- Kuensel

Current national discourse on the tourism industry, with all the passion and diversion of views, is educative. It is a welcome trend that there is a vigorous exchange on an issue of national concern and importance and impact. Click here to read…

Fourth phase of monetary measures provides loan restructuring options- Kuensel

Phase IV of the monetary measures will allow eight different forms of loan restructuring options to support depending on the severity of impact of the pandemic and the affordability of the borrowers. Click here to read…

Finance Minister introduces Tourism Levy Bill of Bhutan in NC- Bhutan Times

The minister for finance, the Member In-Charge of the Bill, Namgay Tshering introduced the Tourism Levy Bill of Bhutan 2022 in National Council on 24 June. Click here to read…

Indian Embassy celebrates 8th International Day of Yoga in the capital- Bhutan Times

In collaboration with Bhutanese friends and fellow Indians, the Embassy of India organized the main event of the celebrations of the 8th International Day of Yoga (IDY) at the Clock Tower Square, Thimphu on 21 June. Click here to read…

Increase bandwidth for Druk Research and Education network- Bhutan Times

In keeping with the request made by the government, Bhutan’s Druk Research and Education Network, which is connected to India’s National Knowledge Network, will be provided increased internet bandwidth from 1 GBPS to 5 GBPS. Click here to read…

NC recommends Govt. to stop extending deadlines for hydropower projects- BBS

With the ongoing hydropower projects in the country repeatedly missing deadlines, the National Council (NC) has recommended the government avoid this. Click here to read…

Maldives

The Maldives, Not entirely idyllic: The SUN

The Maldives presents unique governance problems as it is not a contiguous territorial nation state. There are 1,192 islands, of which 187 are reportedly populatedClick here to read…

Was not instructed against holding yoga event by any authority: The SUN
Youth Ministry, on Sunday, has stated that they were not instructed by the Islamic Ministry nor any other government authorities against holding the event at national football stadiumClick here to read…

Myanmar

The U.S. Can Put Sanctions on Russian Gas to Punish Putin. I’m Asking It to Do the Same in Myanmar – NY Times

Myanmar’s modern history has been marked by colonial exploitation, military repression, violence and democracy denied. Grass-roots activists like me and thousands before me have dedicated our lives and sacrificed our safety to change this. Click here to read…

Myanmar Resistance Claims 25 Junta Soldiers Killed – The Irrawaddy

A total of 25 Myanmar junta troops and allied militia members were killed by the people’s defense forces (PDFs) at a village in Tamu Township, Sagaing Region, on Wednesday. Click here to read…

Dhaka seeks Commonwealth support for Rohingya repatriation – TBS News

Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has reiterated that earliest repatriation of all forcibly displaced Rohingyas back to their ancestral homeland in Rakhine in safety and dignity remains Bangladesh’s compelling priority. Click here to read…

Military is Weaker Since Coup and Momentum is With the Armed Resistance – The Irrawaddy

Ye Myo Hein, the executive director of the Tagaung Institute of Political Studies and a public policy fellow with the Woodrow Wilson International Center’s Asia Program, recently published a research report: “One Year On: The Momentum of Myanmar’s Armed Rebellion.”Click here to read…

Arakan Army Detains Myanmar Naval Officer – The Irrawaddy

The Arakan Army (AA) seized a captain from the Myanmar military’s Danyawaddy naval base in Rakhine State’s capital, Sittwe, on Thursday, according to town residents. The captain was detained near the naval base and was reportedly in uniform and armed when abducted by the AA. Click here to read…

DFA signs framework allowing Rohingya refugees to study in PH – Manilla Bulletin

Secretary of Foreign Affairs Teodoro Locsin Jr. signed last Wednesday, June 22, the Legal Framework for the Complementary Pathways (CPath) Program for Rohingyas, which aims to provide an educational pathway to eligible beneficiaries and engage relevant government agencies and private institutions to promote durable solutions to help beneficiaries achieve self-relianceClick here to read…

Nepal

CPN (US) demand met, Cabinet reshuffled- Himalayan Times

President Bidhya Devi Bhandari has, on the recommendation of Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, appointed new ministers from CPN (Unified Socialist). Click here to read…

Parliament to endorse citizenship bill: Speaker- Himalayan Times

Speaker Agni Prasad Sapkota said the Parliament was preparing to pass the citizenship bill in the current budget session. Click here to read…

‘Identify competencies to enhance students’ performance’- Himalayan Times

India’s renowned behavioural scientist Prof of Eminence Sanjeev P Sahni has emphasised ‘maximising potential through behavioural competencies and performance enhancement of students’. Click here to read…

Forex reserves down to fund imports for just a little over six months raises alarm- Kathmandu Post

Questions arise if import control measures have worked and government is doing much to address economic woes. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka

Putin to the rescue? Sri Lanka seeks discounted oil from Russia & Qatar: Indian Express

Sri Lanka announced sending ministers to Russia & Qatar to try and secure cheap oil. 2 ministers will visit Russia & discuss getting more oil, after the purchase of 90,000 tonnes of Siberian crude in May. Click here to read…

Sri Lanka to use foreign companies to distribute fuel: Prensa Latina

The Sri Lankan government will allow foreign companies to distribute fuel in a measure aimed at alleviating the shortage of gasoline and diesel due to the country’s economic crisis, media reported on Sunday. Click here to read…

Top US officials in Sri Lanka to help resolve the economic crisis: Tribune India

A high-level US delegation arrived in Sri Lanka on Sunday to hold talks with the country’s top leadership and explore the “most effective ways” to help the island nation resolve its unprecedented economic crisisClick here to read…

Pakistan

Terrorism increased as provinces’ role in NAP ignored: PM: Dawn

Chairing a meeting on law and order here, the prime minister lamented that the role of the provinces in the implementation of NAP had been ignored during the last four years [when PTI was in power] which led to an increase in acts of terrorism in the country. Click here to read…

Turkiye keen to expand trade with Pakistan: Dawn

As Pakis¬tan and Turkiye prepare to conclude the Trade in Goods Agreement (TGA) next month, Ankara is keen on increasing the number of flights from the three existing cities and adding two more destinations in Pakistan while a power distribution company wants to invest in Lahore. Click here to read…

Pakistan to approach G20 against India’s plan: The Express Tribune

Pakistan will reach out to the G20 countries particularly with which it has close ties in an attempt to stop India from holding any event or meeting of the grouping in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Click here to read…

ANP cries foul as PTI snatches PK-7 seat in Swat by-poll: The Express Tribune

The ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) candidate, Fazal Maula on Sunday won the Swat by-election in PK-7 constituency of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Assembly by defeating the Awami National Party (ANP) rival. Click here to read…

China’s top legislature concludes standing committee session: Xinhuanet

June 24, 2022

The Standing Committee of the 13th National People’s Congress (NPC) concluded its 35th session Friday in Beijing. At the closing meeting, lawmakers voted to adopt a revised Law on Physical Culture and Sports, a black soil conservation law, a decision to amend the Anti-monopoly Law, and a decision to amend the procedural rules of the NPC Standing Committee. Click here to read…

China steps up support for unemployed college graduates: Xinhuanet

June 24, 2022

China has launched a campaign to help unemployed college graduates and young people under the age of 35 secure jobs, in a bid to maintain employment stability and ensure stable economic performance. Nine pro-employment measures have been outlined to provide better services to job hunters in the campaign, which will last until December this year, according to a circular released by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security on Friday. Click here to read…

Wang Xiaohong appointed Minister of Public Security: China Daily

June 24, 2022

Wang Xiaohong was appointed Minister of Public Security on Friday, replacing Zhao Kezhi, according to a decision adopted by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, China’s top legislature. Click here to read…

Explosion killed 2, injured 20 in Beijing’s neighbor: China Daily

June 24, 2022

A gas explosion occurred on Friday morning at a commercial street at Yanjiao town in Sanhe city, Langfang, Hebei province, leaving two dead and 20 injured as of Friday afternoon, according to a statement from the city’s government. Click here to read…

Traditional drug use down, as synthetic use rises: China Daily

June 24, 2022

While the proportion of traditional drug-related crime is decreasing in China, synthetic drug crime is rising, a senior prosecutor from the Supreme People’s Procuratorate said. Drug users have been turning to synthetic narcotics and psychotropics — drugs controlled by the State — in recent years, as tough control measures block access to more traditional drugs forcing users to find alternatives, Chen Guoqing, the SPP’s deputy-general prosecutor, told a news conference on Friday, two days ahead of the 35th International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit TraffickingClick here to read…

China launches cybersecurity review into online academic database to ‘prevent data security risks, safeguard natl security’: Global Times

June 24, 2022

China on Friday launched a cybersecurity review of China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), the country’s largest academic research database, in an effort aimed at “preventing national data security risks, maintaining national security, and protecting the public interest,” said an official from the country’s cybersecurity review office on Friday. Click here to read…

Political advisors discuss protection of excellent culture, art of ethnic minorities: Xinhuanet

June 25, 2022

The National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China’s top political advisory body, held a video conference on Friday to discuss the protection and inheritance of the excellent culture and art of ethnic minoritiesClick here to read…

China to enhance legal protection of farmlands: Xinhuanet

June 25, 2022

China will expedite the formulation of a farmland protection law, a further step to safeguard the country’s farmlands, according to the Ministry of Natural Resources. Existing regulations, such as the prohibited non-agricultural use of arable land, will be elevated to law, the ministry said. Click here to read…

Remarks by Chinese President Xi Jinping at the High-level Dialogue on Global Development: Xinhuanet

June 25, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted the High-level Dialogue on Global Development on Friday in virtual format. Following is the full text of the remarks by President Xi at the meeting: Click here to read…

Full text of Chair’s Statement of the High-level Dialogue on Global Development: Xinhuanet

June 25, 2022

Following is the full text of the Chair’s Statement of the High-level Dialogue on Global Development. Chair’s Statement of the High-level Dialogue on Global DevelopmentClick here to read…

China to provide 50 million yuan of emergency humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan: Xinhuanet

June 25, 2022

After the earthquake disaster in Afghanistan, the Chinese government has decided to provide 50 million yuan (about 7.46 million U.S. dollars) of emergency humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Saturday. Click here to read…

Airbus to set up China research center to boost innovation: Xinhuanet

June 25, 2022

Airbus will establish the Airbus China Research Center in Suzhou, east China’s Jiangsu Province, to strengthen the company’s footprint and innovation partnerships in China, the company announced Friday. Click here to read…

PLA monitors US spy aircraft flyover in Taiwan Straits, vows to safeguard national sovereignty: Global Times

June 25, 2022

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) monitored the flyover of a US spy aircraft over the Taiwan Straits on Friday, vowing to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity amid large-scale military drills in the region in response to repeated provocations by the “Taiwan independence” secessionists and US, Japanese interference forces. Click here to read…

China proposes rules to regulate private pension investment via mutual funds: Reuters

June 25, 2022

China’s securities regulator proposed rules to regulate private pension investment via mutual funds, setting the criteria for qualified products and sales agents under a scheme that will channel fresh savings into the country’s capital markets. Click here to read…

Guangdong floods caused billions in economic losses: China Daily

June 26, 2022

The recent floods inflicted by heavy downpours between June 13 and 21 in Guangdong, the most serious in seven decades for the province, caused direct economic loss of more than 7.4 billion yuan ($1.11 billion). Click here to read…

Xi underscores importance of better respecting public opinion, following aspirations of the people: Global Times

June 26, 2022

Chinese President Xi Jinping has underscored the importance of better listening to the people’s voices by making good use of the internet and other channels, after millions of public suggestions were made on the work related to the upcoming 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC). Click here to read…

Chinese authorities unveil plans to ‘maximise display of police force’ two weeks after group assault on women: South China Morning Post

June 26, 2022

China has promised a “maximum” display of police force in a 100-day campaign the public security ministry said would improve public safety. The announcement comes two weeks after a brutal group attack against women on the streets of the northern Chinese city of Tangshan that sparked a nationwide outcry. Click here to read…

Officials vie to offer pledges of loyalty to Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of 20th Party Congress: South China Morning Post

June 26, 2022

Senior officials in the Communist Party around the country are lavishing praise on President Xi Jinping in the final run-up of the 20th Party Congress, using words such as “beacon”, “compass” and “fulcrum” to refer to his status. The acclaim comes months before China’s important political event when Xi is expected to kick off his third term as the party’s leader, and the party is expected to see a new leadership line-up. Click here to read…

G-7 leaders to ban Russia gold imports, monitor assertive China: Kyodo

June 27, 2022

Group of Seven leaders on Sunday looked set to tighten sanctions on Russia over its war on Ukraine after U.S. President Joe Biden said the group will ban Russian gold imports in a show of unity as the forum navigates the broader consequences of the prolonged war. Click here to read…

G7 aims to raise $600 billion to counter China’s Belt and Road: Reuters

June 27, 2022

Group of Seven leaders on Sunday pledged to raise $600 billion in private and public funds over five years to finance needed infrastructure in developing countries and counter China’s older, multitrillion-dollar Belt and Road project. Click here to read…

China’s fourth telecom player China Broadnet comes online, connects to 5G signal: Global Times

June 27, 2022

China’s state-owned radio and TV carrier China Broadnet launched its official website on Monday, announcing it has started 5G mobile phone services. Xiang Ligang, director-general of the Beijing-based Information Consumption Alliance, told the Global Times on Monday that China Broadnet had acquired a telecom carrier operation license, which is the same as ones held by China’s another three telecom giants China Mobile, China Unicom and China Telecom. China Broadnet has since become the fourth player in the sector. Click here to read…

Chinese mainland reports 5 new local confirmed COVID-19 cases: Xinhuanet

June 27, 2022

The Chinese mainland Sunday reported five locally-transmitted confirmed COVID-19 cases, three of which were in Beijing and two in Shanghai, the National Health Commission said Monday. A total of 18 local asymptomatic carriers were newly identified on Sunday in seven provincial-level regions, including six in Liaoning. Click here to read…