India Takes Part in the 63rd Session of the Commission for Social Development at New York
India took part in the 63rd session of the Commission for Social Development (CSoCD), held at New York, USA. This participation was led by Smt. Savitri Thakur, the Minister of State for the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India (GoI). This session aimed to encourage discussions and collaborations on pressing social development challenges, with an emphasis on advancing inclusive social policies and fostering global social well-being. The session witnessed the participation from 49 countries including Ministers from 16 countries like France, Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Sweden, etc.
Feb 11, 2025
Romania President Resigns After Impeachment Pressure Over Cancelled Vote
Romania's President Klaus Iohannis resigned amid a concerted push by far-right parliamentary parties to have him impeached in the wake of a contentious election.
His resignation came two months after a top court annulled a presidential election in the European Union country amid allegations of Russian meddling and after a previously little-known, far-right candidate – Calin Georgescu – won a surprise first-round victory.
India Retains Third Position Globally for LEED Green Building Certification in 2024
India once again secured the third position globally in the U.S. Green Building Council's (USGBC) annual ranking of countries and regions with the most LEED-certified green buildings. With 370 projects covering 8.50 million gross square meters (GSM) of certified space, India continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable construction and environmentally responsible development. This ranking highlighted India's growing role in the global green building movement and its progress in achieving sustainability goals.
According to the USGBC, the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is a globally recognised standard that measures sustainability, energy efficiency, water conservation, and reduced carbon footprint in buildings. India's continuous performance in the top three rankings highlights its increasing adoption of these green building standards.
On the global stage, mainland China led the rankings in 2024 with over 25 million GSM of LEED-certified space, while Canada followed with 10 million GSM. India's 8.50 million GSM placed it third, reinforcing its leadership in sustainable construction in the Asia-Pacific region.
Feb 10, 2025
War-Torn Lebanon Forms New Government
Lebanon formed a new government, following unusually direct US intervention in the process and in a step intended to bring the country closer to accessing reconstruction funds following a devastating war between Israel and Hezbollah.
The new Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said that the 24-member cabinet would prioritise financial reforms, reconstruction and the implementation of a United Nations resolution seen as a cornerstone to stability on the Lebanese border with Israel.
After US Exit, Argentina Cuts Ties with WHO
Argentina has announced its withdrawal from the World Health Organisation (WHO), following a similar decision made by the United States under President Donald Trump. President Javier Milei's administration cited "deep differences" with the WHO's handling of health issues, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic.
This move has sparked debates on Argentina's global standing, healthcare policies, and the potential impact on the WHO's credibility. Critics argue that the decision may require congressional approval and could have long-term consequences for Argentina's healthcare system and international relations.
International Buddhist Confederation Unveils Tri-services Trek
The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) is set to launch the Lord Buddha Trination Triservices Expedition, a historic initiative uniting the armed forces of India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. This unique motorcycle expedition will commence from Lumbini, Nepal (the birthplace of Lord Buddha) and conclude in Galle, Sri Lanka, covering key Buddhist heritage sites along the route.
The expedition aims to celebrate the shared cultural and spiritual heritage of the three nations while promoting peace, harmony, tourism, and environmental awareness. Organised in collaboration with IBC, this journey will reinforce the historical spread of Buddhism and the deep-rooted ties between these countries.
The expedition will be formally flagged off on February 19, 2025, by former President Ram Nath Kovind from Bodhgaya.
Upon reaching Sri Lanka, the expedition will be ceremonially flagged off by the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Ms. Harini Amarasuriya in Jaffna on March 5, 2025 marking the culmination of a momentous journey across three nations bound by the Buddha's teachings.
Feb 09, 2025
Relief for Indians in US, Court Blocks Donald Trump's Citizenship Order Indefinitely
In a big relief for Indian students and professionals living in the United States on visas and awaiting green cards, a federal judge in Seattle has indefinitely blocked President Donald Trump's executive order that seeks to end birthright citizenship. Slamming the order, the court reportedly said that Trump is trying to skirt the rule of law to play policy games with the Constitution.
Feb 08, 2025
After US, Israel Announces Departure from 'Anti-semitic' UN Human Rights Council
A day after President Donald Trump announced the United States' withdrawal from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Israel declared it would follow suit. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar announced the decision, stating, "Israel joined the United States and will not participate in the UNHRC."
Sa'ar accused the UNHRC of protecting human rights violators while unfairly targeting Israel.
The announcement from the Israeli Foreign Minister came amid Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to the United States.