As recently as 40 years ago, many parents of stillborn babies and babies who died shortly after birth were not told what happened to their child’s body. A new mass grave has been found by a woman looking for her two brothers…reports Asian Lite News
More than 300 bodies have been discovered in a mass grave in Oldham, with the majority belonging to babies and children.
The 12x12ft grave in Royton Cemetery was found by a woman looking for her brothers, with one stillborn and the other dying within five hours in 1962.
According to councillors Maggie Hurley and Jade Hughes, who revealed the discovery in a statement, 146 of the bodies were stillborn babies and 128 babies and young children.
Until the mid-1980s, stillborn babes were often taken from families with no consultation with their parents, who would not know where they were taken.
“It’s a stark injustice that parents were denied the fundamental right to bury their babies, a right that should be inherent and unquestionable,” the councillors said. “This situation should stir our collective sense of fairness and empathy.”
The woman’s find left her “in tears”, they added, and “feeling a profound sense of loss and injustice”. She needed emotional and practical help to cope with the trauma of her discovery, they said.
The councillors also said this grave is not the only one of its kind in Royton Cemetery, with another three of a similar size.
Of the 303 bodies found, they added there were only 147 names online, with 156 names missing – though they say this has been addressed. “We also asked about the other cemeteries across the borough, and we were informed that there is missing information for these cemeteries as well,” they said.
“The staff are currently in the process of rectifying this by cross-referencing all available records and updating the online database.”
According to stillbirth and neonatal death charity Sands, parents of stillborn babies or those dying shortly after birth were not consulted about funeral arrangements.
“Before then, parents were not usually involved and many were not told what happened to their baby’s body,” the charity said, adding this changed midway through the 1980s.
“Some parents who have tried to trace the grave or cremation record of a baby who died some time ago have been successful.”
In many cases, they added, stillborn babies were buried in a shared grave with other babies.
The Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management said in a journal in 2015 many of these babies would be buried in an unconsecrated area as the child would not have been baptised – and the parents “urged to forget”.
Sands states there was a “general belief, both amongst professionals and society as a whole, that it was best to carry on as though nothing had happened”.
“You may have been discouraged from talking about or remembering your baby and discouraged from expressing grief,” they added. The councillors said the woman set out to look for her brothers after reading the story of Gina Jacobs, who in 2022 found her son, who was stillborn in 1969, in a mass grave at a cemetery in Wirral.
On Thursday night, Jacobs referred to the woman’s discovery in a Facebook group, commenting she is “working tirelessly to get justice and recognition for our babies and born sleeping siblings”.
‘Never forgotten’
The statement read: “How many babies are laying in Royton Cemetery in mass graves, their identities unknown to their grieving relatives? It’s a stark injustice that parents were denied the fundamental right to bury their babies, a right that should be inherent and unquestionable. This situation should stir our collective sense of fairness and empathy. We cannot change what has happened, but we can ensure that the babies born sleeping are named, recognised, and never forgotten.”
A motion, due to be discussed at a council meeting on 11 September, has called for the council to erect a memorial to the buried children. It also suggests records and documents about the burials should be made more accessible and digitalised.
The adults in the graves are presumed to be what are known as “pauper’s burials”, for individuals whose families could not afford to pay for a grave. The Royton grave’s discovery follows another mass grave being found in Wirral earlier this year, where resident Gina Jacobs, 79, found her stillborn son after a 53-year search.
Over the past 20 years, mass graves containing the remains of stillborn babies have been discovered in Lancashire, Devon, Middlesbrough and Huddersfield.
Earlier on Thursday, the Parliament voted to dismiss Kuleba, who tendered his resignation on Wednesday…reports Asian Lite News
The Ukrainian Parliament has voted to appoint Andrii Sybiha as the country’s new Foreign Minister, replacing Dmytro Kuleba, according to lawmaker Oleksii Honcharenko.
Sybiha won the support of 258 of 315 lawmakers present, Honcharenko said on Thursday on Telegram.
Earlier on Thursday, the Parliament voted to dismiss Kuleba, who tendered his resignation on Wednesday, Xinhua news agency reported.
Sybiha, 49, previously served as deputy head of the President’s Office and became Kuleba’s deputy in April.
Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, has said of the reshuffle, which is taking place at a critical juncture in the war with Russia, that the country needed “new energy”.
Sybiha, a career diplomat, worked for several years in Zelensky’s office. He is one of eight new Ministers expected to be appointed on Thursday.
Critics have said that the reshuffle represents a consolidation of power by a small group of Zelenskiy loyalists allied with Andriy Yermak, the head of the President’s Office.
A former Ambassador to Turkey, Sybiha had also served as Yermak’s deputy.
Alexander Kamyshin, a popular figure feted for keeping Ukraine’s railways running through the war, is also being moved from the Strategic Industries Ministry to the President’s Office.
Others have raised eyebrows over the timing of the reshuffle, amid a recent increase in Russian missile attacks on Ukraine.
The appointments come as Zelensky is preparing to travel to the US later this month to present what Kyiv has called his “victory plan” to the US President Joe Biden, a key ally.
Zelensky has repeatedly called on allies to lift restrictions that ban Kyiv from using western weapons for long-range strikes into Russia.
Russian forces are inching forward in the east and have stepped up their campaign of missile and drone attacks on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities far from the frontline, hitting the power sector and other infrastructure in almost daily attacks.
Russian President, Vladimir Putin, said on Thursday that Ukraine’s incursion into the Russian region of Kursk had failed to slow Russia’s own advance in eastern Ukraine and had weakened Kyiv’s defences along the frontline in a boost to Moscow.
That was countered by Nato’s Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, who told reporters in Oslo that Ukraine had achieved “a lot” in its Kursk offensive.
Putin, speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, said that Russian forces were gradually pushing Ukrainian soldiers out of Kursk, where on August 6, Ukraine launched the biggest foreign attack on Russia since the second world war.
Zelensky has said Kyiv plans to hold territory in Kursk and that the operation, which he says is part of a not fully disclosed victory plan, has brought the war home to Russians.
According to the report, the positive momentum is set to continue throughout the second half of the year….reports Asian Lite News
Buoyed by overall infrastructure growth and expanding commercial market, the hospitality investment sector in the country showed robust growth in the first half this year, according to a new report.
Hotel investment transactions reached $93 million and are expected to reach $413 million by year-end — a 22 per cent increase compared to last year, according to latest data from JLL Hotels and Hospitality Group
Top hotel companies led by contributing 44 per cent of the total transaction volume. It was followed by owner-operators at 30 per cent and high-net-worth individual (HNIs), family offices, and private hotel owners at 26 per cent.
According to the report, the positive momentum is set to continue throughout the second half of the year.
Reeling under acute losses, Raj hotel industry cries for incentives
Key markets, including Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune and Chennai, remain dominant, accounting for 78 per cent of the projected transaction volumes.
Tier 2 and 3 markets are likely to contribute the remaining 22 per cent.
Notably, JLL has already facilitated two significant transactions at the onset of the second half of 2024, comprising an operational hotel in Mumbai and a premium hotel land sale in Goa.
“The surge in investor interest for both – operating assets and land sales illustrate the attractiveness of the investment landscape, bolstered by favourable macroeconomic factors, an expanding commercial market, and improved air connectivity,” said Jaideep Dang, Managing Director, Hotels and Hospitality Group, India, JLL.
This positive outlook is further reinforced by the substantial hotel development activity witnessed across various tiers, with over 19,440 keys signed in the first half of 2024 alone, the report mentioned.
Another report earlier this month said that 2,706 new rooms were added in the upscale and premium segment in the first half of this year, amid a notable growth in infrastructure development. Out of these, 994 rooms (37 per cent) were upscale while the remaining (63 per cent) consisted of premium inventories.
Indian hospitality industry is on a strong footing marked by a rise in occupancy, new projects opening and a bullish pipeline for the future, according to Skye Hospitality.
Beauty Market to Outpace China, Japan
India is set to become one of the world’s most influential markets for beauty and personal care — soaring higher than China, the US, Japan, and South Korea, according to a report.
The report by online beauty and fashion marketplace Nykaa showed that India is set to see a 10-11 per cent growth by 2028 and will reach $ 34 billion in the beauty, and personal care market.
“India is the fastest growing beauty and personal care market globally, expected to reach $ 34 billion by 2028, from the current $20 billion,” according to a Nykaa statement.
The growth is much higher than other countries like China (4-5 per cent), the US (2-4 per cent), Japan (2-3 per cent) and South Korea (2-3 per cent), revealed the Nykaa Beauty Trends report.
It showed that e-commerce is poised to be the biggest driver of this growth and the fastest-growing segment, anticipated to achieve a CAGR of around 25 per cent.
This is followed by increasing aspirations and higher incomes among Indian consumers, which will steer the market for premium beauty –expected to reach $3-3.2 billion by 2028, said the report.
Further, with 520-560 million users in 2023, social media will also play an important role in the democratisation of beauty expertise and influencing consumer choices.
Meanwhile, the online trade channels for beauty and personal care are also expected to grow at around 25 per cent CAGR. It will be at par with offline organised trade which will account for 33 per cent of the segment’s total turnover.
On the other hand, the unorganised offline trade channels share will reduce from an estimated 55 per cent in 2023 to 35 per cent by 2028, the report said.
“Our report clearly shows a market poised for extraordinary growth, driven by premiumisation, technological advancements, and a new generation of discerning consumers,” said Anchit Nayar, Executive Director and CEO, of Nykaa Beauty.
Throughout the seminar, nine Israeli defence companies showcased advanced technologies to counter the drone threat….reports Asian Lite News
As part of strategic ties, officials from Israel and India held a seminar this week to enhance security cooperation and combat the threat of drones.
The seminar held between September 2 to 4 in the national capital was attended by officials from the Directorate for Defense Exports at the Israeli Ministry of Defence (SIBAT), in collaboration with the Israel Economic and Commercial Mission in New Delhi, the Israeli Ministry of Economy and Industry, the Israel Export Institute, the Israeli Embassy in India, the Indian Ministry of Defence, and SIDM (Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers).
Throughout the seminar, nine Israeli defence companies showcased advanced technologies to counter the drone threat.
“D-Fend Solutions, Septier, and Sentrycs presented Cyber Radio Frequency (CRF)-based systems for detecting, locating, and neutralising drones. Smart Shooter demonstrated intelligent fire control systems for small arms to intercept drones. ThirdEye Systems showcased AI-driven vision and robotics systems for detecting and identifying drones and small aircraft. ELTA Systems, Rafael, Elbit Systems, and Skylock exhibited solutions based on sensors, radars, electronic warfare, and communication systems for detecting, identifying, and neutralising drones,” the Israeli Embassy in New Delhi said in an official press release.
The seminar created a unique opportunity to showcase Israeli companies’ advanced technologies, deepen security cooperation between Israel and India, and promote joint solutions to security threats.
On the second day of the seminar, the focus was laid on creating business synergies between the industries of Israel and India to explore partnerships using the Israeli defence and dual use technologies to address the growing threats of drones, both for defense and civil related applications.
“Over 150 business meetings were held on this day between the 9 Israeli companies and the Indian industry representatives. On the last day, the Israeli delegation held site visits to prominent Indian entities, to learn more about the present and future drone threats as they are analysed by their security heads,” the release added.
The seminar focused on addressing the growing threat of drones, both in security and criminal aspects, which poses a significant challenge to security forces worldwide due to their ability to be used for intelligence gathering, weapon carrying, and precise attacks.
The event featured participation from representatives and senior officials from the Israel Ministry of Defence, economic and security attaches, and representatives from the Indian Ministry of Defence, military branches, Ministry of Interior, and defence and civilian industries from both countries.
Amit Satija, Joint Secretary DIP, Department of Defence Production, Indian Ministry of Defence, said: “The seminar reflected the commitment of India and Israel to continue and deepen security cooperation between the countries. We see great importance in sharing knowledge and technologies and in developing joint solutions to the modern threats facing both sides.”
During the seminar, Israel shared its operational experience and advanced technological capabilities with India, aiming to deepen security cooperation between the two countries.
Meanwhile, the Director of the IMoD International Defence Cooperation Directorate (SIBAT), Brig. Gen. (Res.) Yair Kulas said: “The seminar provided a unique opportunity for Israeli defence industries to create business opportunities, develop connections with government officials and key local industry players, and establish B2B relationships with Indian companies. We see great importance in continuing the security cooperation between the countries and believe that activities of this kind help promote the activities of Israeli industries under the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Self Reliant’ policies.”
Israel Embassy Economic Counsellor, Natasha Zangin: “Israeli technologies, particularly in the field of homeland security, are highly regarded in India and generate significant interest from both public and private entities.”
“The recent seminar, which facilitated over 150 business meetings, is a testament to the strong demand for these technologies. We will continue to support Israeli companies in their endeavours in India until we see these promising opportunities translate into business partnerships that will strengthen the security and relations of both Israel and India,” Zangin added. (ANI)
The remarks by Kirby came as he held a press briefing alongside White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Wednesday….reports Asian Lite News
John Kirby, the White House’s national security communications adviser, dismissed as “ridiculous” the allegations made by a senior Russian official that the United States had interfered in India’s 18th Lok Sabha elections, which took place in May this year.
The remarks by Kirby came as he held a press briefing alongside White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Wednesday.
National Security Council spokesman John Kirby
When asked about a senior Russian official’s claim in May that the US was attempting to interfere in India’s elections, Kirby said, “It’s not true! it’s a ridiculous claim.”
In a statement, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova alleged in May that the United States was attempting to disrupt India’s domestic political landscape, aiming to complicate the country’s general parliamentary elections.
She had said, “…The reason is the desire to unbalance the internal political situation in India in order to complicate the general parliamentary elections taking place in the country. Of course, this is part of interference in India’s internal affairs,” Zakharova said.
During the briefing, Kirby also spoke on Russia’s “attempt to interfere” in the 2024 presidential election and said, “The Department of Justice, the Department of Treasury, and the State Department took a series of coordinated actions against foreign actors associated with the Russian government who are attempting to covertly influence our elections.”
US have found that RT (Russia Today) was being used by the Russian government to spread propaganda, influence elections, and shape policies in the US and other countries.
The Bharatiya Janata Party-led NDA secured 293 seats in the Lok Sabha elections. BJP won 240 seats on its own. In the 543-strong lower house of the Indian parliament, 272 is the minimum majority figure.
PM Modi’s leadership of the NDA was formally endorsed, with crucial support from the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Janata Dal (United).
Notably, PM Modi is the second Indian leader to win a third term after founding prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru. (ANI)
The move by the Left government is seen as an effort to bring together the opposition-ruled states to strengthen their bargaining position…reports Asian Lite News
Kerala will host a conclave of five opposition-ruled states–four from South India and Punjab from the North–to discuss how to ensure their fiscal needs are addressed in the upcoming 16th Finance Commission, state Finance Minister K N Balagopal said on Thursday.
Besides the Left-ruled Kerala and AAP-governed Punjab, the states that will take part in the conclave are Tamil Nadu (DMK) and the Congress-ruled states of Karnataka and Telangana.
The move by the Left government is seen as an effort to bring together the opposition-ruled states to strengthen their bargaining position with the BJP-ruled Centre. Last year, the state had filed a suit in the Supreme Court against the Centre for imposing limits on its borrowing capacity.
Balagopal said that the conclave, which will be inaugurated by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on September 12, aims to ‘protect and strengthen’ the cooperative and fiscal federalism of the country.
Besides himself, Telangana Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Bhatti Vikramarka Mallu, Karnataka Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu and Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly V D Satheesan will also take part in the conclave, Balagopal said.
Additionally, officials including finance secretaries of all the five states and several subject matter-related experts, like former Economic Advisor to the Central Government Arvind Subramanian, will also attend, the minister said.
He further said the conclave was being hosted by Kerala at a time fiscal federalism in the country was under challenge to a great extent.
“The main objective of the conference is to conceptualise the developmental and financial issues being faced by the states and present them before the 16th Finance Commission.
“A healthy Centre-State relationship requires fiscal stability of the states,” Balagopal said.
The minister contended that the Union government was taking a completely different stand by adopting “unfair methods of distribution of funds” to the states.
He also contended that a huge amount of revenue collected by the Centre from the states as cess and surcharge is not put in the divisive pool and therefore, the states do not get a share of that amount which is to the tune of several lakhs of crores of rupees.
In 2011-12, the share of cess and surcharge in Central government revenue was 9.4 per cent and by 2022-23, it had gone up to 22.8 per cent, he said. As a result, the states get only 29.6 per cent of the Centre’s revenue as against the recommendation of 41 per cent by the 15th Finance Commission, Balagopal contended. The minister also alleged that the discriminatory approach of the Centre also exists in the matter of borrowing rights of the states. He further said that the state should get the tax share that it is eligible for and there should be a timely increase in grants to local bodies.
Kerala is also eligible for special additional assistance due to its emphasis on welfare activities, he said. “Various other states are also facing this kind of financial discrimination. All these things will be part of the discussion in the conclave,” he said.
New Delhi, Jul 30 (ANI): Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman speaks in the Lok Sabha during the Monsoon Session of Parliament, in New Delhi on Tuesday. (ANI Photo/SansadTV)
FM denies ‘friction’ in Centre-State ties over GST
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday denied any “friction” in the ties between the Centre and States over Goods and Services Tax and emphasised that the federal structure in this economic reform should be respected.
Simplifying and easing compliance on the tax payers received top priority rather than raising revenue during all consultative meetings on the union Budget, she said.
“Revenue is the last consideration with which every budget meeting happens. You may think that I am not telling the truth. The hard truth I would like to put before you. Yes, we like to raise revenue. During several consultations including those with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, revenue raising came last. But, simplifying, easing and compliance of taxpayers came first,” Sitharaman said.
Addressing a meeting on “The Finance Minister’s Insight: Path Forward” held under the aegis of the Revenue Bar Association here, she said the average Goods and Services Tax (GST) rate decreased to 12.2 per cent as of 2023, which was much below the revenue neutral rate (RNR), originally suggested at 15.3 per cent.
“We did see how much of effort happened at ground level to bring one nation-one taxation,” she said. On a charge in certain quarters on one of the biggest economic reforms in India, Sitharaman said “I completely deny that there’s a lot of friction in GST relationship with states…The Centre is not extracting revenue from states.”
The federal structure in the GST framework has to be respected so that both the Centre and States could work together to promote developmental activities besides widen the tax base, she said. “That’s the spirit with which we are working,” the Finance Minister stressed.
The spirit of revenue generation for both Centre and states should be to see how evasion could be avoided or targeted, how this should be addressed, and compliance ensured by making people think it is better and easier to comply than to evade, she said.
Finance Ministers representing various states attending the GST council meeting spoke on how to facilitate greater simplification, greater rationalisation and revenue generation. “So, for those who all want to believe that discordant notes guide finance ministers’ meeting, I would like to say that’s the place where the least politics works,” she said.
During his meeting with the Russian President in July, Modi said that there was no solution on the battlefield and peace talks do not succeed amid bombs, guns and bullets…reports Asian Lite News
Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that India, China and Brazil could mediate in potential peace talks over Ukraine, Reuters reported. Putin said a preliminary agreement reached between negotiators of Russia, Ukraine during the talks held in Istanbul, which was never implemented, could serve as the basis for talks. The two nations held talks in Istanbul during the first few weeks of war in 2022.
Russia and Ukraine have been engaged in a conflict since February 2022. India has called for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the conflict.
Earlier on August 23, Modi visited Ukraine, the first Indian PM to the European nation. During the bilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, PM Modi emphasised India’s position of peaceful resolution of the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.
“India was never neutral, we have always been on the side of peace,” PM Modi told Zelenskyy. He said that India was ready to play an active role in the path to peace and progress.
During Modi’s visit, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed confidence that India had a role to bring peace to the conflict ridden region.
Ukrainian President said, “India will play its role. I think that India began to recognise that this is not just conflict, this is real war of one man and his name is Putin against whole country whose name is Ukraine. You are a big country. You have a big influence and you can stop Putin and halt his economy, and put him really in his place.”
Earlier in July, Modi visited Russia and held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. It was Modi’s first visit to Russia since the war started between Moscow and Kyiv in 2022.
During his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in July, Modi said that there is no solution on the battlefield and added that peace talks do not succeed amid bombs, guns and bullets.
During his talks with Putin, Modi said, “As a friend, I have always said that for the bright future of our coming generations, peace is of utmost importance. But I also know that solutions are not possible on battlegrounds. Amid bombs, guns and bullets, solutions and peace talks do not succeed. We will have to follow the path to peace only through talks.”
During his meeting with Putin, Modi said that everyone who believes in humanity is pained when there is a loss of lives. He further stated that it is “heart-wrenching” when innocent children are dying.
Modi had said, “Be it war, conflicts, terror attacks – everyone who believes in humanity is pained when there is loss of lives. But when innocent children are murdered, when we see innocent children dying, it is heartbreaking. That pain is immense. I also held a detailed discussion with you over this.”
India has so far not publicly censured Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and it has largely abstained on all Ukraine-related resolutions at the United Nations. It has ramped up purchases of discounted Russian commodities, especially oil. The Indian side has emphasised that it is ready to play an active role in all peace efforts.
Currently, as Ukrainian troops are engaged in Russia’s Kursk region, Moscow is making advances in the eastern part of Ukraine, which it has been occupying since February 2022. Both countries have been launching massive drone attacks on each other, targeting key infrastructures.
Following Ukraine’s Kursk move, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said, on August 19, that talks were out of the question. Ukraine controls more than 1,200 square km in the region now, it said.
In the past, Putin himself has said that dialogues with Ukraine would need to start with Zelensky’s acceptance of “realities on the ground.” This would mean Ukraine recognising Russia’s control over significant portions of four Ukrainian regions, as well as Crimea.
India, known for its historical non-alignment and strategic balancing between major global powers, presents a complex yet promising option for mediation. India’s relationships both with Russia and the West are characterized by strategic partnerships and pragmatic diplomacy. Its experience in multilateral negotiations and its role in global forums such as BRICS contribute to its potential effectiveness as a mediator. Nonetheless, India’s strategic interests and its balancing act between competing powers could influence its impartiality and effectiveness. India’s ability to navigate these complex relationships will be critical in determining its success as a mediator in the Ukraine conflict.
The international response to Putin’s mediation proposal has been mixed, reflecting a range of strategic interests and concerns. The European Union (EU) has expressed scepticism, perceiving the proposal as a potential political manoeuvre rather than a genuine effort towards peace. This cautious stance underscores concerns about the effectiveness of the proposed mediation in the absence of concrete commitments from Russia regarding conflict resolution.
In the bronze medal match on Thursday, Parmar defeated Elielton de Oliveira of Brazil by an Ippon to claim the third position on the podium. …reports Asian Lite News
Kapil Parmar made history for Indian sport, winning the country’s first medal in para-judo at the Paralympic Games in Paris on Thursday. Parmar won a bronze medal in the Men’s 60kg J1 category in the French Capital.
In the bronze medal match on Thursday, Parmar defeated Elielton de Oliveira of Brazil by an Ippon to claim the third position on the podium. This is the first time that an Indian has won a medal in the para-judo after Parmar became the first judoka from the country to qualify for the Paralympic Games.
Parmar’s bronze medal took India’s tally in the Paralympic Games in Paris to 25 — five gold, nine silver and 11 bronze medals. The country currently occupies the 14th position in the overall medals tally.
The 24-year-old from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Parmar had earlier lost to Iran’s Banitaba Anitaba Khoram Seyed Meysam in the semifinals A, going down by an Ippon in a bout in which he also incurred a penalty. Parmar had earlier reached the last-four stage with a 10-0 win over Marcos Dennis Blanco of Venezuela in the quarterfinals.
Hailing from the village Shivor in Madhya Pradesh, Kapil Parmar had a life-altering accident when he was playing in the fields of his village and accidentally touched a water pump, resulting in a severe electric shock.
He was found unconscious by a villager and taken to the hospital in Bhopal, where he remained in a coma for six months. Despite this setback, Kapil’s love for judo, which he enjoyed playing in school, never waned. He got support from his family despite the limited financial resources of his taxi driver father who also had to support Kapil’s three brothers and a sister.
A silver medallist in the Asian Para Games 2022, Parmar has faced numerous hardships throughout his life. He and his brother used to run a tea stall to support themselves. Even now, Kapil’s brother Lalit remains his main source of financial support, continuing to help him pursue his passion for judo.
Parmar, who picked up has so far won a gold medal in the Commonwealth Championships in 2019 and has bagged gold medals in the IBSA Judo Grand Prix events in Antalaya and Tbilisi in 2024 and in the IBSA Judo Grand Prix Alexandria in 2023.
‘Special One’
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated judoka Kapil Parmar for his memorable performance as he won a bronze medal on Thursday, the first won by the country in para-judo in the Paralympic Games here. Parmar defeated Elielton de Oliveira of Brazil by an Ippon in the Men’s 60kg J1 category in the French Capital.
“A very memorable sporting performance and a special medal!” the Prime Minister said in his social media post.
“Congratulations to Kapil Parmar, as he becomes the first-ever Indian to win a medal in Judo at the Paralympics. Congrats to him for winning a Bronze in the Men’s 60kg J1 event at the #Paralympics2024! Best wishes for his endeavours ahead,” the Prime Minister wrote in a media post on Thursday.
In the bronze medal match on Thursday, Parmar defeated Elielton de Oliveira of Brazil by an Ippon to claim the third position on the podium. This is the first time that an Indian has won a medal in the para-judo after Parmar became the first judoka from the country to qualify for the Paralympic Games.
Parmar’s medal took India’s tally in the Paralympic Games in Paris to 25 — five gold, nine silver, and 11 bronze medals. The country currently occupies the 14th position in the overall medals tally.
The 24-year-old from Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Parmar had earlier lost to Iran’s Banitaba Anitaba Khoram Seyed Meysam in the semifinals A, going down by an Ippon in a bout in which he also incurred a penalty. Parmar had earlier reached the last-four stage with a 10-0 win over Marcos Dennis Blanco of Venezuela in the quarterfinals.
This article delves into the political and economic landscapes of Pakistan and Bangladesh, exploring the factors that have prevented Pakistanis from mobilising to reclaim their democratic institutions from decades of military hegemony….reports Asian Lite News
Pakistan currently finds itself in a state of profound crisis, marked by an economy on the brink of collapse, soaring inflation, widespread joblessness, chronic poverty, and persistent internal security challenges amidst prolonged political turmoil. Yet, in these dire conditions, the military-dominated establishment continues to wield unyielding control over Pakistani society, suppressing any form of dissent against the state.
In contrast, Bangladesh recently underwent notable political upheaval when a popular student-led movement, driven by comparatively less severe grievances, succeeded in unseating Sheikh Hasina’s government on August 5. This stark difference raises pivotal questions about the political will and agency of the Pakistani populace, which appear to bolster the narrative of the Pakistani Army’s supposed invincibility. This article delves into the political and economic landscapes of Pakistan and Bangladesh, exploring the factors that have prevented Pakistanis from mobilising to reclaim their democratic institutions from decades of military hegemony.
Since 2010, Bangladesh’s economy experienced remarkable growth under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership, expanding at an average annual rate of over 6 per cent and peaking at 7.9 per cent in 2018. This impressive economic trajectory positioned Bangladesh as the ‘Asian Tiger’ of the region. A robust rise in exports and inward remittances from its burgeoning diaspora saw foreign exchange reserves soar to $48 billion by August 2021, a significant economic achievement. However, the global economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict brought about stagnation.
Exports and remittances declined sharply, and by 2024, foreign reserves had plummeted to $18 billion. The economy also faced challenges in generating adequate employment opportunities for its youthful population, while inflation surged to 9.7 per cent by June 2024, escalating the cost of living for many Bangladeshis. Moreover, Sheikh Hasina’s administration was further marred by widespread corruption among officials. Consequently, when student protests against job reservations erupted in June, these grievances quickly evolved into a broader popular movement, with citizens demanding the government address the escalating economic woes.
In stark contrast, Pakistan finds itself ensnared in a self-inflicted economic quagmire, primarily a result of the enduring dominance of the military establishment and its allied civilian elites. For example, despite securing yet another IMF bailout in May 2024, Pakistan’s foreign reserves — crucial for maintaining its import lifeline — dropped to a precarious $9 billion by June 2024, barely enough to cover four weeks of imports. Additionally, the country’s external debt obligations exceed $130 billion, largely owed to China, accounting for over 37 per cent of its GDP. Servicing this debt has become a significant challenge, consuming a substantial portion of the government’s annual revenues and locking Pakistan into a tight fiscal corner.
The situation is further exacerbated by spiralling retail inflation, which soared to over 12.6 per cent by June 2024, intensifying the cost of living pressures on ordinary Pakistanis. Moreover, nearly 40 per cent of the population — over 98 million people — lives in multidimensional poverty, with the World Bank cautioning that an additional 10 million could be pushed into poverty if the economy does not recover. Given the government’s ongoing (mis)management, this scenario appears increasingly likely. Yet, despite these dire economic conditions and pervasive corruption within the government, the military-controlled establishment continues to stifle any dissent against its rule.
Bangladesh and Pakistan also exhibit markedly different dynamics when it comes to internal security and political freedoms. While the government in Dhaka was ousted by popular dissent, the military-backed civilian administration in Islamabad remains firmly entrenched, despite its repeated failures to safeguard its citizens and nurture democratic growth. Following a tumultuous decade in the 2000s, Bangladesh achieved a degree of stability under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership from 2009 onwards. Her government effectively dismantled radical elements through a robust counter-terrorism strategy, and by 2013, the country was stable enough to pivot towards economic growth.
The only notable similarity between the two nations lies in their restrictions on political freedoms for opposition parties. In recent years, the ousted Bangladeshi Prime Minister had adopted increasingly autocratic measures, particularly in her dealings with the main opposition leader, Begum Khaleda Zia, and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). This authoritarian drift also fuelled widespread discontent against Sheikh Hasina.
In contrast, Pakistan remains as unstable and vulnerable as ever, with its internal security apparatus largely ineffective against the resurgence of militant groups capable of orchestrating violence at will. For example, on August 26, 2024, a deadly attack in Balochistan claimed the lives of 38 civilians, starkly highlighting the deteriorating security landscape and the military’s failure to safeguard the country both internally and externally.
Furthermore, in the first four months of 2024 alone, Pakistan endured over 245 terror-related incidents, resulting in the deaths of more than 136 civilians and 127 security personnel. The Pakistan Army, deeply engrossed in political manipulation and pursuing economic gains, has shown itself to be incapable of managing the escalating security crisis. Despite this glaring failure to stabilise the nation, the military establishment, rather than addressing the threats, continues to cling to power and suppress any dissent that seeks to hold it accountable.
Many may wonder how Pakistan’s military establishment maintains such a firm grip over state institutions and quashes all dissent against its authoritarian rule. The simplest explanation lies in its long-standing history of political meddling — both overtly through coups and covertly through electoral manipulation — to control political actors and safeguard its vast economic interests, which have expanded massively over the decades, with some estimates placing the military’s commercial assets above $20 billion.
Since the first coup in 1958, when General Ayub Khan seized power and declared himself president, the military has never truly relinquished control, even during periods of civilian governance. Instead, it has deeply embedded itself within state structures, stifling any chance for democracy to flourish. As the most powerful state entity, the military continues to overshadow all civilian institutions, including the executive. The blatant rigging of the February 8 general elections to install its preferred political actor is the latest example of its ongoing ability to manipulate the country’s political landscape. These actions are all geared towards preserving the economic interests and institutional dominance of the military establishment.
This political manipulation is closely reinforced by the Pakistan Army’s near-total control over the country’s information and media landscape. It has imposed strict boundaries on media organisations and professionals, enforced with harsh penalties for anyone who dares to cross them, including judicial and extra-judicial measures. For example, after being compelled to flee Pakistan, prominent TV journalist Arshad Sharif was killed in Kenya in 2023, with suspicions pointing towards the involvement of Pakistan’s intelligence agency, the ISI.
Likewise, Imran Riaz Khan was abducted for more than four months following the anti-establishment protests on May 9, 2023, and Asad Ali Toor was detained in 2024 for exposing election fraud. These repressive tactics, combined with restrictions on internet freedoms, ensure that the military’s version of events remains the dominant narrative accessible to Pakistanis, thereby stifling any form of dissent against the regime.
The Pakistan Army’s grip extends well beyond media censorship; it also permeates the militarised operations across the tribal areas of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and large parts of Balochistan, where political dissidents are routinely abducted in these economically deprived regions. The military continues to wield brute force against these communities, resorting to enforced disappearances as a regular tactic. The harsh crackdown on Baloch women protesters and Pashtun nationalists further illustrates the military’s imperialist approach to managing these marginalised regions.
Thus, it becomes starkly evident that, despite escalating economic crises, worsening internal security, restricted political freedoms, and intensified media censorship, the Pakistan Army-led establishment has criminalised all forms of anti-government dissent. This has rendered political expressions of opposition, like those seen in Bangladesh, exceedingly difficult, especially in light of the military trials of civilians involved in the anti-government protests of May 2023. Consequently, the rise of any organised political movement appears highly improbable, unless the people themselves choose to break their complacency and free themselves from the grip of the Pakistan Army’s hegemonic rule.
It is therefore clear that despite worsening economic conditions, escalating internal insecurity, restricted political freedoms, and intensified media control, the Pakistan Army-led establishment has effectively criminalised all forms of anti-government dissent. Unlike in Bangladesh, this has severely curtailed the possibility of political movements taking root, especially after the military trials of civilians involved in the May 2023 anti-government protests. As a result, the chances of any organised political uprising seem remote — unless the people decide to rise above their complacency and throw off the yoke of military rule.
To spread a million Smiles, SIFFCY, and SMILE Foundation are gearing up to host the eleventh edition of its film festival early next year. The 10th edition held this year was a huge success, says Rahul Laud, Associate Editor at Asian Lite who attended it narrates his experience.
The call from the organizers of Smile Int’l Film Festival for Children and Youth (SIFFCY) “ SUBMIT YOUR FILM !” has created huge excitement and enthusiasm among film goers especially those who work among kids and youth. SIFFCY has opened entries for the 11th edition of its annual festival, scheduled from 28 Jan until 03 Feb 2025, in New Delhi and several other locations across India. Hosted by Smile Foundation in partnership with the European Union in India the prestigious – European Children’s Film Association (ECFA) Award at the annual festival each year, distinguishes SIFFCY as the only non-European festival to do so.
Kids with Jury member
SIFFCY is one of the flagship initiatives of India’s leading development organisation Smile Foundation launched in 2015 India. Shantanu Mishra, Chairman of SIFFCY and Founder, Mentor, and Executive Trustee at SMILE Foundation, said, “The festival aims to engage, encourage, educate & empower young minds through GOOD WORLD CINEMA and various film-related workshops.”
The 10th edition of the annual SIFFCY organized in partnership with the European Union (The delegation of the European Union in India), was held successfully from 9th to 15th Apr 2024 in New Delhi and 100+ other locations across India. The week-long film festival reached out to more than 5,00,000 young audiences across India with a diverse program of over 150 films from 52 countries and 50 different workshops, masterclasses, panel discussions, and more. The festival has garnered huge international support with 50+ national and international industry professionals, jurors, filmmakers and guests from 12 different countries participating in person and 100+ young Jurors from 10 different countries participated virtually during these 7 days.
Judita and Anna Members Intl Jury
The national media has recognized the 10th edition of SIFFCY as the largest film festival in the country this year! Major activities along with the opening and award ceremony were held in New Delhi during the week. Simultaneously multiple screenings and related activities were scheduled in different schools and communities in various locations across India. Selected programs were also available on the festival’s specially designed, secured, dedicated streaming platform for the online participants throughout the week.
with Madhu Chopra and Nizam bandhu atist band
The young, dynamic, enthusiastic, and globally recognized Producer and Director Jitendra Mishra who has been the Festival Director since its inception boasts that SIFFCY is aimed “ To promote GOOD CINEMA that meant for children & youth; To bring together high quality, entertaining, multi‐cultural cinema for children & youth; To cultivate an understanding of other cultures, lives & experiences through the medium of film; To catalyze critical appreciation and creative pursuit of cinematic art amongst children & youth; To support the work of talented and dedicated children & young film‐makers and encourage the exchange of ideas amongst them”
The 10th film fest, witnessed some unique films in the screening programs including 10 films made by the students of BATA University, Zlin, with the support of the Czech Embassy in India, 10 films from Germany with the support of SCHLiNGEL Int’l Film Festival, 10 classic animations curated by TV Studio Animated Films, Poznan and presented by acclaimed film personality Mr. Jerzy Moszkowicz along with the Polish Institute New Delhi and 10 films made by children from various countries under the PRIX JEUNESSE Suitcase section.”
Shantanu Mishra, Founder and Executive Trustee at SMILE and Chairman , SIFFCY
In addition, the SIFFCYthethe team organized several interactive workshops for free for the children and youth. The collaboration with the prestigious European Union for SIFFCY 2024 and its Member States has taken the stage at the festival at its 19th edition. This was a collective effort by the Smile Foundation management, the Delegation of the European Union, the SIFFCY team of devoted and dedicated volunteers, eminent jurors, partners, supporters, filmmakers, and all the participants.
On the occasion of announcing the 11th edition, Santanu Mishra added, “It is a momentous occasion for all of us at Smile Foundation as we showcase a decade of good cinema through SIFFCY. We believe that cinema plays a pivotal role in shaping young minds. We will carry forward our mission to engage young audiences creatively and meaningfully to strengthen the value system in our society. Good content and works of art bring lots of opportunities and, in this digital age, platforms like SIFFCY have a significant role to play.”
Jitendra Mishra (R) Festival Director escorts guest at SIFFCY
SIFFCY has been the only non-European Festival – the only Indian festival to host the CIFEJ Award supported by UNESCO. The film KUNG FU LION by Froukje Tan from the Netherlands won the ECFA award at the 10the festival this year, while the CIFEJ Award went to ICARUS AND THE MINOTAUR by Carlo Vogele from Luxembourg, France, and Belgium. WEEKEND REBELS by Marc Rothemund from Germany won 4 different awards including the biggest award of the festival – the best feature film award (children).
Jitendra Mishra with Gaur International School, New Delhi officialsKIDS FOR GOOD CINEMA AT SIFFCY
