A defence official who knows both the officers said that strong friendships among the senior leadership in the military matter a lot in strengthening the working relationship between the forces…reports Asian Lite News
For the first time in Indian military history, two classmates, Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi and Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, will be service chiefs of Indian Army and Navy.
Hailing from the Sainik School Rewa in Madhya Pradesh, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi and Army Chief Designate Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi were together in the school from class 5th-A in the early 1970s.
The roll numbers of the two officers were also around each other, as Lt Gen Dwivedi’s roll number was 931 and Admiral Tripathi’s was 938.
Their bonding was strong from the initial days in the school and they remained in touch all along, even though they were in different forces.
A defence official who knows both the officers said that strong friendships among the senior leadership in the military matter a lot in strengthening the working relationship between the forces.
“This rare honour of nurturing two prodigious students, who would go on to lead their respective Services 50 years later, goes to Sainik School, Rewa, in Madhya Pradesh,” Defence Ministry Spokesperson A Bharat Bhushan Babu said in a tweet.
The appointments of the two classmates have also come around the same time, in a gap of around two months.
Admiral took over the command of the Indian Navy on May 1, while Lt Gen Dwivedi would be taking over his new appointment tomorrow.
Lt Gen Dwivedi has had a long tenure as the Northern Army Commander where he has had long exposure to the ongoing operations in the military standoff on the LAC in eastern Ladakh.
Born on July 1, 1964, Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi was commissioned into the Jammu & Kashmir Rifles of the Indian Army on December 15, 1984. (ANI)
Special status for Bihar has been a long pending demand of the Bihar leaders including Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. They have cited the state’s economic and social backwardness…reports Asian Lite News
Advocating special status for Bihar, Janata Dal-United (JDU) leader Ashok Chaudhary affirmed on Saturday that the party leaders, including Nitish Kumar, Sanjay Jha and Lallan Singh, along with others, would meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and put forth their demand.
“Special status and a special package for Bihar are our old demands, and they are still there. Our leaders, Lallan Singh, Sanjay Jha, who are here in Rajya Sabha and the party leaders in Lok Sabha, will meet the Prime Minister in the coming times and put forth their point strongly,” Chaudhary said while speaking to reporters here in the national capital.
A National Executive meeting of JD(U), held here in the national capital, appointed party leader Sanjay Jha and Rajya Sabha MP as its working president. The key meeting also passed a resolution demanding special status for Bihar.
Special status for Bihar has been a long pending demand of the Bihar leaders including Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. They have cited the state’s economic and social backwardness.
The JD(U) leaders also demanded strict action against those responsible for the alleged irregularities in the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET)-UG exams 2024.
The NEET (UG) 2024 Examination was conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on May 5, 2024, at 4,750 centres in 571 cities, including 14 cities abroad, with over 23 lakh candidates appearing for the examination. An unprecedented 67 candidates achieved a perfect score of 720 out of 720 marks, which led to widespread protests in the country.
For the NEET-UG and UGC-NET exams, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on June 23 registered a criminal case over the alleged irregularities in the conduct of the examination by the NTA and formed special teams to probe the matter.
Meanwhile, the National Executive meeting of JD(U) was attended by party chief and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Union Minister Lallan Singh, and Sanjay Jha among others. (ANI)
CM requested the PM to grant funds to the state government and NHAI through Central Budget for the construction of a tunnel which will further help in decongesting the Bangalore city…reports Asian Lite News
After meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi where key issues concerning Karnataka’s development and progress were discussed, Karnataka Chief Minister K Siddaramaiah on Saturday submitted a detailed letter to Prime Minister Modi highlighting key demands and priorities for Karnataka’s development.
The CM of Karnataka informed this through a social media post on X and wrote, “Chief Minister Shri @siddaramaiah submitted a detailed letter to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi highlighting key demands and priorities for Karnataka’s development. Anticipating constructive collaboration for the progress of our state. The Chief Minister @siddaramaiah met the Prime Minister @narendramodi.”
Informing about the meeting, the CM of Karnataka wrote on X, “Chief Minister Shri @siddaramaiah had a constructive meeting with Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in Delhi today. Key issues concerning Karnataka’s development and progress were discussed. Committed to working together for the state’s growth and prosperity.”
In the meeting, the Karnataka CM requested approval of important projects of the states which includes Mekedatu Dam Project, Bhadra Upper Bank Project, Kalasa Banduri Drinking Water Project, etc.
In a post, the Karnataka CM wrote, “The Chief Minister @siddaramaiah met the Prime Minister @narendramodi today and requested approval of important projects of the state. The approval of the Rs 9,000 crore Mekedatu Dam Project, which will provide drinking water to Bangalore city and generate 400 MW of electricity, is pending from the Central Water Commission, and the Prime Minister was requested to take personal interest in the said project.”
“It was requested to direct the officials of the Ministry of Water Power and the Ministry of Environment and Forests to release Rs 5,300 crore for the Bhadra Upper Bank Project as announced in the Central Government Budget 2023-2024 and for quick settlement of the Kalasa Banduri Drinking Water Project. The problem of drinking water will be solved due to Mahadai Yojana, a long-time dream project of the people of Kittoor Karnataka region.”
Furthermore, the CM requested the PM to grant funds to the state government and NHAI through Central Budget for the construction of a tunnel which will further help in decongesting the Bangalore city.
The CM of Karnataka handle wrote on X, “3,000 crore for the 60 km tunnel to decongest Bangalore city, the project has several benefits. This tunnel connecting National Highway 7 to National Highway 4 could be carried out by the Government of Karnataka in collaboration with the Central National Highway Authority, and a request was made to grant funds to the State Government and NHAI through the Central Budget.”
“To increase the demand for public transport, Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation has submitted a DPR of Rs. 15,611 crore for the construction of 44.65 km of Metro 3rd phase to the Central Government, pending the approval of the Union Cabinet. Requested for approval as soon as possible. The state government has approved the construction of 73.04 km long Ashtapatha Peripheral Ring Road under private public partnership. The Chief Minister @siddaramaiah requested the Prime Minister @narendramodi to earmark the necessary funds in the Union Budget.”
Also, a request was made by CM Siddaramaiah to release a special grant of Rs 6,000 crore recommended by the 15th Finance Commission for the period 2021-26 for development of lakes and peripheral ring road.
The state government has earmarked a grant of Rs 3,000 crore in the budget for the development of seven districts of Kalyan Karnataka, and the central government has been requested to provide a corresponding grant in its budget for 2024-25 and to increase the grant provided under the development aspiring district program of the central government and to facilitate inclusion of new programs in the scheme. (ANI)
The report further added that the silver products imported from the UAE were dominated by the silver grains, which are mainly used to make jewellery…reports Asian Lite News
Stating that India’s silver imports from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) jumped “gigantically” to $1.44 billion in a year, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh asked, “Is there a chandi ghotala (silver scam)?
The Congress General Secretary said that India’s silver imports from the UAE had surged from a modest $2.2 million between January and April 2023 to a whopping $1.44 billion over the same period this year. He implied that it could be a silver scam and compared it to the electoral bond controversy.
“India’s silver imports from UAE stood at $2.2 million during Jan-April 2023. India’s silver imports from UAE jumped gigantically to USD 1.44 billion–yes, billion which is equal to 1000 million. This is a 654x jump in one year. We knew of the chanda ghotala masquerading as electoral bonds. Is there a chandi ghotala here?” Ramesh asked in the post on ‘X’ on Saturday.
He quoted a business daily in his post, which reported that the government is concerned over a 647-times spike in the import of silver from the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The newspaper adds that the government is likely to take this matter up with the UAE. The rise in silver imports from the UAE follows the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the two countries, which offers certain concessions, the newspaper said.
CEPA is a free trade agreement between the UAE and India that was signed on February 18, 2022 and came into effect on May 1, 2022. As per the government data cited by the newspaper, the overall import of silver grew 10 times during the first four months of the calendar year (Jan-April) to $3.16 billion.
It further adds that the UAE is now India’s “largest source” (45 per cent) of silver imports, though until a year ago, the UAE was not even India’s top five import partner for silver.
It claimed that the government is actively looking into the matter of rising silver imports and plans to share its concerns with the UAE.
The report further added that the silver products imported from the UAE were dominated by the silver grains, which are mainly used to make jewellery.
“The Commerce department has been trying to understand the reason behind the surge despite the stringent rules of origin, or the norms mandating 3 per cent value addition, that were agreed upon under the trade deal,” the newspaper added.
Going forward, the newspaper added that a meeting has also taken place between Customs and the Department of Commerce on the issue, citing its sources. (ANI)
The Union Minister further asserted that new dates for the NEET-PG, which was cancelled as a “precautionary measure”, would be announced by Monday or Tuesday next week…reports Asian Lite News
Amid the ongoing row over the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), Union Education Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday launched a fierce attack on the Congress party and claimed, “Unko apni rajnitik roti sekni hai” (They want to indulge in politics).
“Congress does not want discussion, and they are running away from it. They only want chaos, confusion, and want to create obstacles in the entire functioning of the institutional mechanism… The President herself has addressed the issue that Congress wants to debate, admitting the challenges and shortcomings in the process and that we have to look into them. On behalf of the government, I have clearly said that we are ready for any discussion, but Congress doesn’t want to address the students’ issue, Dharmendra Pradhan said.
” Unko apni rajnitik roti sekni hai (They want to indulge in politics)”, Pradhan added.
Listing out the series of actions taken by the government to address the matter, the Union Education Minister said that reforms have been initiated in the National Testing Agency (NTA) under the leadership of former ISRO Chairman K Radhakrishnan and that a new law has been formed to address the issue.
“Such issues have come to light even before 2014, but I cannot justify it… NTA has got new leadership, reforms have been initiated in NTA under the leadership of former ISRO Chairman K Radhakrishnan, we have formed a new law to address the issue, and the entire case has been handed over to the CBI… A new set of examination dates were announced yesterday, which were deferred or cancelled”, he said.
The Union Minister further asserted that new dates for the NEET-PG, which was cancelled as a “precautionary measure”, would be announced by Monday or Tuesday next week.
“New dates for NEET-PG will be announced by Monday-Tuesday”, Dharmendra Pradhan said.
Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha witnessed several adjournments on Friday, with Congress and other opposition parties insisting on a debate on the NEET-UG row and the government keen to take up the motion of thanks on the President’s address.
Lok Sabha was adjourned till 12 noon and later for the day as the opposition parties pressed for the acceptance of their adjournment notices seeking debate on the NEET-UG controversy. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who is the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, sought to raise the NEET-UG issue. Speaker Om Birla said that there was no provision for discussion on any other issue when the House has to take up a motion of thanks on the President’s address.
He said members can raise all the issues during the debate on the motion of thanks and the government will reply to them. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijuju made similar remarks and condemned opposition members coming to the well of the House.
Rajya Sabha also saw repeated adjournments with Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar saying that he has been pained over Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, who is Leader of Opposition, coming to the well of the House over opposition demand. The opposition members later staged a walkout.
Kharge later told the media that he had sought to draw the Chair’s attention but was not paid heed.
Dhankar said the Deputy Leader of Congress also came to the well of the House in protest.
The opposition INDIA bloc has been questioning the government and demanding a discussion over the ongoing NEET-UG row.
Delhi Environment Minister and Aam Aadmi Party leader Gopal Rai called it a “conspiracy” of the Bharatiya Janata Party government and said that AAP ministers and CM have been jailed in “fake cases.”…reports Asian Lite News
The Delhi Court sent Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to Central Investigation Bureau’s (CBI) judicial custody until July 12 in connection with the excise policy case after which Bharatiya Janata Party welcomed the court decision, whereas Aam Aadmi Party called it a “conspiracy” of the BJP.
The Rouse Avenue Court of Delhi on Saturday sent Arvind Kejriwal to judicial custody till July 12 in connection with the excise policy case.
Reacting to the development, AAP leader Sanjay Singh said that we heard CBI’s arguments and they repeated the same imaginary stories which have no relation to the truth adding that such stories do not stand in court.
“Arvind Kejriwal was first kept in police custody and today he has been taken into judicial custody in a false case. The court’s order is not out as of now,” Singh said.
Delhi Environment Minister and Aam Aadmi Party leader Gopal Rai called it a “conspiracy” of the Bharatiya Janata Party government and said that AAP ministers and CM have been jailed in “fake cases.”
“Our ministers and CM have been jailed in fake cases. This is a conspiracy of the BJP government. The facts have also come out. The Trial Court gave bail to the CM. The Trial Court said clearly that there was no proof against the CM. The ED went to the High Court without taking the order copy. The bail was stayed without a hearing… This is a campaign to destroy the Delhi government and the AAP… We hope to get optimistic results from the Court soon,” Gopal Rai said.
Advocate Rishikesh Kumar said, “Arvind Kejriwal was produced before the court because his three-day CBI custody came to an end today. CBI did not seek further police custody, they sought a judicial remand which was opposed by us saying they have no grounds to seek a judicial remand… Now Arvind Kejriwal will be produced before the court on 12 July. We had moved an application that he be provided with his diabetes medicines, test kits, and home-cooked food, and the court has agreed to our demands… On Monday or Tuesday, we will move a bail application.”
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) held a nationwide protest against the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the Delhi Liquor Policy case.
In Delhi, the AAP protested in front of the Bharatiya Janata Party headquarters, in which several party MPs, MLAs, councillors, and workers participated.
Delhi Bharatiya Janata Party chief Virendraa Sachdeva welcomed the decision of a Delhi court to send Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to judicial custody in connection with the excise policy case till June 12.
The Rouse Avenue Court of Delhi on Saturday sent Arvind Kejriwal to judicial custody till July 12 in connection with the excise policy case.
“The law is taking its course. If they have committed a crime, then they have to be ready to face the consequences. The investigation agencies have presented the evidence in the Court. They should welcome the Court’s decision. When the second wave of Covid was going on, should the Delhi government have made the liquor policy or come to the rescue of the people?” he asked.
He further said that the municipal corporation should come to the people’s rescue.
“Today also, the municipal corporation should come to the people’s rescue. The drains have not been cleaned, there is corruption in it. They have nothing to do with the problems of Delhi. They have to understand that they are in jail at the Court’s order,” he said.
The thirteenth round of negotiations for the UK-India Free Trade Agreement took place from the September 18 to December 15, 2023…reports Asian Lite News
Union Minister Piyush Goyal has said that India is actively working on the process of free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with many countries and expressed confidence of fast progress with the United Kingdom, irrespective of the result of the British elections.
He said a team of officials was in Brussels for negotiations with the European Union.
“FTA (Free Trade Agreement) is a process on which we are working very actively with many countries. Because of the elections, there was a little bit of a break in my engagement with my colleagues, ministers and other government… As we speak, the team is just returning from European Union meetings. More than 25-30 officials were in Brussels for the EU negotiations… I am confident, they will make fast progress even with the UK, irrespective of the election result. We hope to make progress after the new government comes in. If the current government comes in, they are already deeply committed to the FTA,” Piyush Goyal said.
He mentioned having discussions with members of the Labour Party, who have shown equal interest in pursuing a free trade agreement with India.
“We have already had personal discussions with the shadow trade minister and the shadow foreign minister of the Labour Party in UK a few months and they have committed to us that they are equally interested to pursue expeditiously a free trade agreement,” he said.
The thirteenth round of negotiations for the UK-India Free Trade Agreement took place from the September 18 to December 15, 2023.
The round included sessions both in person, in London and Delhi, and virtual talks. As with round 12, these negotiations focused on complex issues including goods, services, and investment.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart Rishi Sunak had earlier this month expressed satisfaction with the progress made in the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations between the two countries.
Prime Minister Modi held a bilateral meeting with PM Sunak on the sidelines of the 50th Summit of the Group of Seven (G7) in Apulia, Italy on Friday. Britain will go for polls on July 4.
Officials had said earlier this month that the long-awaited trade deal between India and Britain is likely to be signed after the completion of elections in the United Kingdom as the officials of the two countries met virtually on May 7 last month.
Last month, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry organised a Chintan Shivir to provide information related to Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to the stakeholders and officials. During the meeting officials discussed strategies and vision for 2047, economic assessments and modelling of FTAs, inclusion of new disciplines like environment, labour, gender issues, and digital trade.
India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations were formally re-launched in June 2022 as follow up of India-EU Leaders announcement in Porto in May 2021. Negotiations cover 23 policy areas and chapters. Six Rounds of negotiations were held till October 2023.
Goyal, who is on a three-day tour of Maharashtra, addressed various stakeholders and emphasised India’s strategic position in the global economy amidst current geopolitical challenges.
The minister said that India remains committed to negotiating and finalizing FTAs with various countries, despite the disruptions caused by the global election cycles.
He congratulated Ursula von der Leyen on her re-nomination as the EU Commissioner and noted her commitment to the EU-India Free Trade Agreement.
Goyal also mentioned the recent election of Antonio Luis Santos da Costa as president of the European Council, highlighting his Goan roots and historical ties to the India-EU FTA.
Tourists spend time on the National Mall in Washington D.C., the United States on Oct. 30, 2021. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua/IANS)
Despite being one of the wealthiest nations, the United States faces numerous systemic challenges that impact the daily lives of its residents. When compared to other developed countries, the US often falls short in critical areas such as healthcare, education, child welfare, cost of living, and public safety, writes Dr Tausif Malik
As the election season kicks off, Joe Biden and Donald Trump are both ramping up their campaigns, yet neither candidate seems to be addressing the critical issues plaguing regular Americans.
Trump’s rhetoric of “America sucks” stands out as one of his most offensive claims, especially when considering the tangible problems highlighted in recent analyses. From exorbitant healthcare costs and crippling student debt to child poverty and rampant gun violence, the challenges facing the United States are severe and multifaceted.
Despite these pressing issues, the political discourse remains focused on divisive rhetoric rather than meaningful solutions.
Despite being one of the wealthiest nations, the United States faces numerous systemic challenges that impact the daily lives of its residents. When compared to other developed countries, the US often falls short in critical areas such as healthcare, education, child welfare, cost of living, and public safety.
This article explores these issues, highlighting the areas where America lags behind and how it affects regular Americans, including reactions from South Asian ‘Desi’ Americans who offer a unique perspective on these challenges.
Healthcare: Poor and Expensive
The United States spends more on healthcare per capita than any other country, yet it ranks poorly in healthcare outcomes. According to the Commonwealth Fund, the US is the only high-income country without universal health coverage, resulting in high premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs for many Americans. This expensive and often inaccessible healthcare system places a significant financial burden on families, with nearly 25% of Americans reporting they or a family member delayed medical treatment due to cost.
Tourists spend time on the National Mall in Washington D.C., the United States. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua/IANS)
Reaction from Indian American: “Coming from a country with more affordable healthcare options, it’s shocking how expensive and inaccessible healthcare is in the US. Even with insurance, the out-of-pocket costs are daunting,” says Ananya, a software engineer from California.
Reaction from Bangladeshi American: Saqkib, an IT specialist from Virginia, adds, “The infrastructure issues are surprising. Back home, we often hear about America’s technological advances, but the reality on the ground is different.”
Reaction from Pakistani American: “In Pakistan, there are issues with healthcare, but at least basic treatments are affordable for most people. Here, it’s a different story,” says Saad, a financial analyst in New York.
Reaction from Afghani American: “The cost of healthcare in the US is overwhelming. In Afghanistan, even though the quality of care might not be as high, it’s at least accessible to everyone,” shares Fatima, a community organizer in California.
High Cost of Education
The cost of higher education in the US is among the highest in the world. Data from the National Center for Education Statistics shows that the average annual cost of attending a four-year public college exceeds $25,000, with private institutions averaging over $50,000. This has led to a student debt crisis, with Americans collectively owing over $1.7 trillion in student loans. Unlike many European countries that offer free or low-cost education, American students face a lifetime of financial strain.
Reaction from Indian American: “In India, education is much more affordable, even in private institutions. Here, my family and I are burdened with loans that will take decades to repay,” comments Rakesh, a graduate student in New York.
Students enjoy day time outdoors on the campus of Columbia University. (Xinhua/Wang Ying/IANS)
Reaction from Sri Lankan American: Madushka B, a marketing professional in Texas, notes, “Public transport in the US is a far cry from the systems in cities like Mumbai or Delhi. Here, we have to rely on cars, which adds to our expenses.”
Reaction from Bangladeshi American: “Education costs in Bangladesh are much lower, even for quality institutions. The debt burden here is enormous,” says Hossain, an engineer in New Jersey.
Reaction from Nepalese American: “In Nepal, higher education is affordable for most families. The US system puts a lot of pressure on students and their families,” shares Laxmi, a healthcare worker in Illinois.
High Rents and Expensive Housing
The United States faces a severe housing crisis, with rents and home prices skyrocketing across the country. According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, there is no state in the U.S. where a person working full-time at minimum wage can afford a two-bedroom apartment at fair market rent. This issue disproportionately affects low and middle-income families, who often spend more than 30% of their income on housing, leaving less for other essentials like food, healthcare, and education.
Pakistani American: Sarah, a Pakistani American living in San Francisco, shared her struggles: “The cost of housing here is insane. Even with two incomes, my husband and I find it hard to save for the future. Back home, housing is more affordable, and families can live more comfortably on a single income.”
Afghani American: Rahimi from Virginia expressed his frustration: “Rent takes up most of my paycheck. It’s stressful knowing that despite working hard, I can barely make ends meet. The government needs to address this housing crisis.”
Bangladeshi American: Nusrat in New York commented, “The housing market here is brutal. Many of us live in overcrowded apartments because we can’t afford anything better. It’s a stark contrast to Bangladesh, where living costs are lower.”
Nepalese American: Shrestha, a Nepalese American residing in Seattle, noted, “The high rents are forcing people to live farther from their workplaces, leading to long commutes and less family time. This is not the American dream we envisioned.”
Sri Lankan American: Fernando from Los Angeles highlighted, “In Sri Lanka, owning a home is more attainable. Here, it’s a distant dream. The high cost of living, especially housing, makes it hard to save and plan for the future.”
The Desi community’s reactions highlight a common theme: the high cost of housing in the U.S. is a significant burden, affecting their quality of life and financial stability. As election season approaches, these issues are critical for candidates to address to improve the lives of all Americans.
Child Poverty and Food Deserts
Child poverty is a persistent issue in the US, with the Census Bureau reporting that 16.2% of children live in poverty. This is considerably higher than in other developed nations. Additionally, food deserts—areas where access to affordable and nutritious food is limited—are prevalent in many urban and rural communities. These conditions contribute to poor health outcomes and hinder the development of children growing up in these environments.
Reaction from Indian American: “It’s disheartening to see such levels of poverty in a country as wealthy as the US. In many South Asian countries, community support systems help mitigate these issues,” shares Priya, a community organizer in Chicago.
Reaction from Sri Lankan American: “The community support back home ensures that children don’t go hungry. It’s surprising to see food deserts here,” says Perera, a teacher in Texas.
Child Mortality and High Cost of Living
The child mortality rate in the US is alarmingly high compared to other developed countries. According to the World Bank, the US has a child mortality rate of 5.4 deaths per 1,000 live births, significantly higher than in nations like Canada and Germany. Furthermore, the cost of living in major American cities is prohibitive. Housing, healthcare, and education expenses consume a large portion of household income, making it difficult for many families to make ends meet.
Reaction from Indian American: “The high cost of living here is something we didn’t fully understand until we moved. It’s a daily struggle to balance expenses,” says Deepak, a financial analyst in New Jersey.
Reaction from Pakistani American: “In Pakistan, we have a support system that helps mitigate the cost of living. Here, everything is so expensive,” notes Asma, a homemaker in Virginia.
High Debt and Poor Public Transport
Debt is a significant issue for many Americans. The Federal Reserve reports that total household debt reached $14.6 trillion in 2021, encompassing mortgage, student loan, and credit card debt. Public transportation in the US is also lacking compared to other developed nations. The American Society of Civil Engineers gave the US infrastructure a C- grade in 2021, citing aging and inadequate public transport systems that increase reliance on personal vehicles and elevate transportation costs.
Reaction from Indian American: “Public transport in the US is a far cry from the systems in cities like Mumbai or Delhi. Here, we have to rely on cars, which adds to our expenses,” notes Sneha, a marketing professional in Texas.
People visit the National Mall in Washington. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua/IANS)
Reaction from Bangladeshi American: “Public transport in the US is lacking. In Dhaka, despite the traffic, public transport options are more accessible,” comments Anwar, an engineer in New Jersey.
Crumbling Infrastructure
Infrastructure in the United States is in dire need of investment and repair. Bridges, roads, and water systems are often outdated and in poor condition. This crumbling infrastructure poses safety risks and economic inefficiencies, impacting the quality of life for many Americans.
Reaction from Indian American: “The infrastructure issues are surprising. Back home, we often hear about America’s technological advances, but the reality on the ground is different,” says Ahmed, an IT specialist in Virginia.
Reaction from Nepalese American: “The infrastructure here is not as advanced as we expected. Roads and public facilities need significant improvement,” says Laxmi, a healthcare worker in Illinois.
Maternity Leave and More Work Hours
The US is one of the few developed countries that does not mandate paid maternity leave. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave, which many families cannot afford to take. This contrasts sharply with countries like Sweden and Norway, which offer generous paid parental leave. Additionally, Americans work more hours on average than their counterparts in other developed countries, leading to higher stress levels and less work-life balance.
Reaction from Indian American: “The lack of paid maternity leave is a significant drawback. In many South Asian countries, extended family support and better leave policies help new parents,” shares Pooja, a new mother in Florida.
Reaction from Afghani American: “In Afghanistan, families support each other during maternity periods. The absence of paid leave here is tough for new parents,” comments Razia, homemaker in California.
Drugs and Gangs
The proliferation of drugs and gang violence remains a critical issue in many American cities. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, drug overdose deaths have increased significantly over the past decade. Additionally, the FBI reports that gang-related violence continues to be a pervasive problem, particularly in urban areas. This creates unsafe living environments and contributes to a cycle of poverty and crime.
Reaction from Sri Lankan American: Ravi from Los Angeles expressed concern: “The drug problem here is alarming. We hear about overdose deaths and gang violence almost every day. It wasn’t something we expected to be so prevalent when we moved here.”
Reaction from Nepalese American: Maya from Chicago shared her worries: “I fear for my children’s safety because of the gang activities in our neighborhood. We need more community programs and better law enforcement to tackle these issues.”
Reaction from Indian American: Anil Patel from Houston added, “The availability of drugs and the influence of gangs are ruining young lives. More needs to be done to provide support and opportunities for the youth to stay away from such destructive paths.”
Homelessness
Homelessness is a growing problem in the United States, with over half a million people experiencing homelessness on any given night, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The lack of affordable housing, mental health services, and substance abuse treatment contributes to this crisis, affecting cities nationwide.
Reaction from Bangladeshi Americans: Rumana from New York City commented: “It’s heartbreaking to see so many people living on the streets. In Bangladesh, community and family support systems are stronger, and we don’t see homelessness at this scale.”
Reaction from Afghani Americans: Khan from Sacramento said, “The sight of homeless camps under bridges and in parks is a stark reminder of the failure to address basic human needs. This isn’t the America we envisioned.”
Reaction from Pakistani Americans: Maheen from Dallas remarked, “There needs to be more effort in providing shelters and rehabilitation programs. The government should take immediate action to tackle this growing issue.”
Safety and Security: Gun Violence
Gun violence is a major public safety issue in the US. According to the Gun Violence Archive, there were over 43,000 gun-related deaths in 2020, a stark contrast to other developed countries with stricter gun control laws. This epidemic of violence affects communities across the nation, contributing to a pervasive sense of insecurity.
Reaction from Indian American: “The constant threat of gun violence is terrifying. We never had to worry about this level of danger back in India,” remarks Rajesh, attorney Illinois.
Reaction from Sri Lankan American: “Gun violence is a major concern here. In Sri Lanka, strict gun laws make such incidents rare,” says Ruwan, a teacher in Texas.
Retail Theft and Its Impact on Shopping and Retail Entrepreneurs
Retail theft has become a major concern in the United States, with significant impacts on both shoppers and retail businesses. According to the National Retail Federation, retail theft, including shoplifting and organized retail crime, costs the industry nearly $70 billion annually. This not only increases prices for consumers but also affects the bottom line for retail employers and entrepreneurs, often leading to store closures and job losses.
Reaction from Indian American: Rajesh, Gas Station owner in New Jersey, shared his experiences: “Retail theft has hit my business hard. We have to invest in more security measures, which increases our operating costs. Unfortunately, we have to pass some of these costs onto our customers. It’s a tough situation because it impacts our ability to compete and serve our community effectively.”
Reaction from Pakistani American: SA, who manages a boutique in Texas, voiced her concerns: “We face theft almost daily, and it’s discouraging. It’s not just about the lost merchandise, but the sense of insecurity it brings to our staff and customers. Many small business owners like us are struggling to keep our doors open.”
Reaction from Bangladeshi American: FA, a grocery store owner in California, added: “Theft affects our profits significantly. We have to work extra hours to make up for the losses, and it’s exhausting. Moreover, it disrupts the sense of trust and safety in our store environment.”
Reaction from Sri Lankan American: Desilva from Chicago said, “Retail theft is a serious issue that needs more attention from law enforcement and community leaders. It not only harms businesses but also affects the overall shopping experience for honest customers. We need stronger measures to prevent these crimes and protect our livelihoods.”
Reaction from Afghani American: Zainab, who runs a convenience store in Virginia, noted: “The frequent incidents of shoplifting have forced us to reconsider our business model. We’re thinking of moving to a different location or even closing down. It’s disheartening because we’ve built strong relationships with our customers over the years.”
Conclusion
While the United States excels in many areas, it faces significant challenges that hinder the well-being of its residents. From poor healthcare and high education costs to child poverty and gun violence, these issues require urgent attention and reform. By learning from the successes of other developed nations, America can strive to create a more equitable and supportive environment for all its citizens.
Reaction from Indian American: “America has many opportunities, but it also has many challenges. It’s crucial for policymakers to address these issues to improve the quality of life for everyone,” concludes Anjali, an entrepreneur in California.
Reaction from Pakistani American: “Addressing these systemic issues is vital for creating a better future for all Americans,” says Saad, a financial analyst in New York.
Reaction from Afghani American: “Reforming these areas can significantly improve the lives of millions,” shares Fatima, a community organizer in California.
Reaction from Bangladeshi American: “It’s important for the US to learn from other countries and implement changes that benefit everyone,” comments Hossain, an engineer in New Jersey.
Reaction from Nepalese American: “Policymakers need to prioritize these issues to ensure a better quality of life for all residents,” says Sharma, Retailer in Illinois.
Reaction from Sri Lankan American: “With concerted effort, America can overcome these challenges and become a more supportive”. Premdasa, Florida.
Recommendations
Despite these challenges, the United States remains a land of immense potential and opportunity. Addressing these issues head-on can help restore and maintain the dignity of the nation, ensuring it remains a place where everyone can thrive.
Tackling Retail Theft
Politicians can implement and support stronger laws and policies to combat retail theft. Enhanced security measures, better coordination with law enforcement, and community programs to deter crime are essential. Grants and incentives for small businesses to invest in security technologies can also make a significant difference.
Improving Healthcare
To address the high cost of healthcare, politicians should advocate for reforms that increase transparency and competition among providers. Expanding access to affordable healthcare through public options or subsidies can ensure that all Americans receive the care they need without financial strain.
Making Education Affordable
Investing in education is crucial. Politicians can work towards making higher education more affordable by increasing funding for scholarships, reducing interest rates on student loans, and supporting community colleges and vocational training programs. These steps can help reduce the burden of student debt and make education accessible to all.
Reducing Child Poverty
Combating child poverty requires comprehensive social safety nets. Expanding programs like the Child Tax Credit, SNAP, and affordable housing initiatives can provide the necessary support for families in need. Policies promoting fair wages and job opportunities are also vital in lifting families out of poverty.
Addressing Food Deserts
To tackle food deserts, politicians can support initiatives that bring grocery stores and farmers’ markets to underserved areas. Incentives for urban farming and community gardens, as well as partnerships with local businesses, can help provide fresh and affordable food to all communities.
Improving Public Transport and Infrastructure
Investing in public transportation and infrastructure is essential for the country’s growth. Politicians should push for comprehensive infrastructure bills that address the needs of urban and rural areas alike. Improving roads, bridges, and public transit systems can enhance mobility and economic opportunities for all citizens.
Enhancing Safety and Reducing Gun Violence
To improve safety and reduce gun violence, politicians can advocate for common-sense gun laws, including background checks and restrictions on high-capacity magazines. Community-based programs that address the root causes of violence, such as poverty and lack of education, are also crucial.
Providing Better Maternity Leave and Work-Life Balance
Supporting policies that provide paid maternity leave and promote a healthy work-life balance can improve the quality of life for American workers. Politicians should advocate for family-friendly workplace policies that enable parents to spend time with their children without sacrificing their careers.
Combating Homelessness
Addressing homelessness requires a multi-faceted approach. Politicians can support affordable housing projects, increase funding for mental health and addiction services, and provide job training programs to help individuals reintegrate into society. Collaborative efforts between federal, state, and local governments are essential in tackling this issue effectively.
By focusing on these areas, politicians can help create a more equitable and prosperous America. Addressing these issues not only enhances the quality of life for all citizens but also upholds the values of freedom and bravery that define the United States. Through dedicated effort and collaboration, the nation can overcome its challenges and continue to be a beacon of hope and opportunity for the world.
About the Author
Dr. Tausif Malik is an Indian American social entrepreneur, publisher, and academician, renowned for his innovative ventures. He founded and publishes The Desi Buzz, GCC Startup News, Startup Berita, and Halal Biz News, amplifying entrepreneurship globally. Dr. Malik also spearheads AIMBSN, Halal Angels Network, and Startup Villages, fostering startup ecosystems. His groundbreaking initiative, RiseBack.org, offers affordable edtech solutions, providing Indian university programs starting at $50 per month and professional IT courses priced at $250-$350. Through his diverse endeavors, Dr. Malik empowers individuals with access to education and opportunities.
The Labour Party is on course to win more than 450 seats and the biggest majority of any post-war government predicts poll, reports Asian Lite News
The Labour Party is on course for a 256-seat majority at the general election while the Tories are heading for their worst-ever defeat, according to a new poll.
In its first MRP model of the 2024 campaign, Ipsos estimated Sir Keir Starmer’s party could win 453 seats and the Conservatives 115.
If correct, that would hand Labour a historic majority of 256, the biggest of any post-war government, while plunging the number of Tory MPs to record lows.
It would also mean senior Conservative figures such as Grant Shapps, Penny Mordaunt, Gillian Keegan, Johnny Mercer and Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg losing their seats.
While Labour have consistently enjoyed a 20-point lead in the polls, the Ipsos survey is the highest projection yet of what their majority could look like.
The poll also predicts the Lib Dems could win 38 seats, the Scottish National Party 15, three for the Green Party and three for Reform UK.
According to the projection, Nigel Farage is on track to overturn a huge Tory majority to win in Clacton while former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, standing as an independent, is predicted to lose to his old party in Islington North.
The poll is likely to cement fears within the Conservative party of an extinction-level event.
Despite promises of further tax cuts in his manifesto, Rishi Sunak has failed to shift the dial in a campaign marred by political gaffes – notably his early exit from a D-day event.
Repeated forecasts of a Labour landslide have prompted gloom from some Tories, with the prime minister forced to insist on Monday that his party could still win the election after Mr Shapps, the Defence Secretary, conceded that defeat was likely.
In recent days, senior figures have taken to warning voters about the risk of a Labour “supermajority” in a bid to convince undecided voters to stick with them.
The Ipsos projection predicts a huge majority for Labour even when factoring in more than 100 seats which are “too close to call”.
The model finds 117 seats are on a knife edge as they have a winning margin of less than five percentage points. This underlines the extent to which the number of undecided voters could change the outcome for the Tories.
Kelly Beaver, chief executive of Ipsos UK and Ireland said: “Labour is increasing its 2019 vote share across the country, especially in Scotland and the North East, while the Conservatives are losing votes in all regions – especially in the East and South of England, and across the Midlands.
“What is perhaps most concerning for them are signs in the data that they are particularly losing vote share in the areas where they were strongest in 2019.”
The poll used the multilevel with poststratification (MRP) technique to model individual constituency results based on a survey of 19,689 British adults and took place between 7-12 June.
It is the second poll released this week to use the technique, following a Survation poll on Monday that estimated a similarly massive Labour majority.
Just like our brave service personnel, who have dedicated their lives to serving to the country, politics should be about service too.
If I am privileged enough to be elected as Prime Minister on Thursday, I promise to serve you and make working people better off. pic.twitter.com/XtHWHb4GUo
The Ipsos poll is the first MRP survey to be conducted entirely after Mr Farage announced he would be taking over as leader of Reform UK and making his eighth attempt to become an MP, this time in Clacton, Essex.
The poll suggests Farage is on course to win that seat, with his Reform UK party also picking up Lee Anderson’s Ashfield constituency and possibly one other seat with 12% of the national vote.
That puts the party level in terms of seats with the Greens, who Ipsos suggests could win in Bristol Central, North Herefordshire and Waveney Valley while losing their current seat in Brighton Pavilion to Labour.
The poll also sees the Liberal Democrats making gains in the South East and South West, increasing its number of seats to 38 and regaining its position as the third party in the Commons.
Meanwhile, Ipsos said the fate of the SNP was “still very much up in the air”, with the party running a close second to Labour in Scotland and expected to win around 15 seats, a significant reduction from the 48 seats it won in 2019.
Beaver said the poll was “just a snapshot of people’s current voting intentions” and there was “still time for things to change”.
She added: “But this data, in line with most of the evidence that we have seen both in the run-up to this election and since the campaign started, in terms of the mood of the nation and real election results in local elections and by-elections, suggests that the British political scene could be heading for yet another significant shift.”
The largely peaceful rallies turned violent on Tuesday when lawmakers passed the deeply unpopular tax increases following pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF)…reports Asian Lite News
At least 30 people died in protests in Kenya this week sparked by a government drive to substantially raise taxes in the East African country, Human Rights Watch said Saturday.
“Kenyan security forces shot directly into crowds of protesters on (Tuesday) June 25, 2024, including protesters who were fleeing,” the NGO said in a statement.
“Although there is no confirmation on the exact number of people killed in Nairobi and other towns, Human Rights Watch found that at least 30 people had been killed on that day based on witness accounts, publicly available information, hospital and mortuary records in Nairobi as well as witness accounts,” the statement said.
“Shooting directly into crowds without justification, including as protesters try to flee, is completely unacceptable under Kenyan and international law,” said Otsieno Namwaya, associate Africa director at Human Rights Watch.
“The Kenyan authorities need to make clear to their forces that they should be protecting peaceful protesters and that impunity for police violence can no longer be tolerated,” Namwaya added.
The largely peaceful rallies turned violent on Tuesday when lawmakers passed the deeply unpopular tax increases following pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
After the announcement of the vote, crowds stormed the parliament complex and a fire broke out in clashes unprecedented in the history of the country since its independence from Britain in 1963.
President William Ruto’s administration ultimately withdrew the bill.
The state-funded Kenya National Commission on Human Rights said it had recorded 22 deaths and 300 injured victims, adding it would open an investigation.
“Eight military officers came out and just opened fire on people. They killed several people, including those who were not part of the protests,” HRW quoted a rights activist in Nairobi as saying.
“Kenya’s international partners should continue to actively monitor the situation… and further urge Kenyan authorities to speedily but credibly and transparently investigate abuses by the security forces,” the rights watchdog said.
Ruto had already rolled back some tax measures after the protests began, prompting the treasury to warn of a gaping budget shortfall of 200 billion shillings ($1.6 billion).
The cash-strapped government had said previously that the increases were necessary to service Kenya’s massive debt of some 10 trillion shillings ($78 billion), equal to roughly 70 percent of GDP.
The Washington-based IMF has urged the country to implement fiscal reforms in order to access crucial funding from the international lender.
“The bill was expected to raise an additional $2.3 billion in the next fiscal year, in part to meet IMF requirements to increase revenues,” HRW said.
“Widespread outrage should be a wake-up call to the Kenyan government and the IMF that they cannot sacrifice rights in the name of economic recovery,” Namwaya said.
“Economic sustainability can only be achieved by building a new social contract that raises revenues fairly, manages them responsibly, and funds services and programs that protect everyone’s rights.”
