#pakistan economy 2021

[reasonsforhope]

"Nasir Mansoor has spent 40 years fighting for Pakistan’s workers. Whether demanding compensation on behalf of the hundreds of people who died in a devastating 2012 factory fire in Karachi or demonstrating against Pakistani suppliers to global fashion brands violating minimum wage rules, he’s battled many of the country’s widespread labor injustices.

Yet so far, little has improved, said Mansoor, who heads Pakistan’s National Trade Union Federation in Karachi... Regulations and trade protocols look good on paper, but they rarely trickle down to the factory level. “Nobody cares,” Mansoor said. “Not the government who makes commitments, not the brands, and not the suppliers. The workers are suffering.”

Change on the Horizon

But change might finally be on the horizon after Germany’s new Supply Chain Act came into force last year. As Europe’s largest economy and importer of clothing, Germany now requires certain companies to put risk-management systems in place to prevent, minimize, and eliminate human rights violations for workers across their entire global value chains. Signed into law by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in January 2023, the law covers issues such as forced labor, union-busting, and inadequate wages, for the first time giving legal power to protections that were previously based on voluntary commitments. Companies that violate the rules face fines of up to 8 million euros ($8.7 million)...

...As governments come to realize that a purely voluntary regimen produces limited results, there is now a growing global movement to ensure that companies are legally required to protect the people working at all stages of their supply chains.

The German law is just the latest example of these new due diligence rules—and it’s the one with the highest impact, given the size of the country’s market. A number of other Western countries have also adopted similar legislation in recent years, including France and Norway. A landmark European Union law that would mandate all member states to implement similar regulation is in the final stages of being greenlighted.

Although the United States has legislation to prevent forced labor in its global supply chains, such as the 2021 Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, there are no federal laws that protect workers in other countries from abuses that fall short of forced labor. That said, a proposed New York state bill, the Fashion Act, would legally require most major U.S. and international brands to identify, prevent, and remediate human rights violations in their supply chain if passed, with noncompliance subject to fines. Since major fashion brands could hardly avoid selling their products in New York, the law would effectively put the United States on a similar legal level as Germany and France...

The Results So Far

As of January, Germany’s new law applies to any company with at least 1,000 employees in the country, which covers many of the world’s best-known fast fashion retailers, such as Zara and Primark. Since last January [Jan 2023], German authorities say they have received 71 complaints or notices of violations and conducted 650 of their own assessments, including evaluating companies’ risk management.

In Pakistan, the very existence of the German law was enough to spark action. Last year, Mansoor and other union representatives reached out to fashion brands that sourced some of their clothing in Pakistan to raise concerns about severe labor violations in garment factories. Just four months later, he and his colleagues found themselves in face-to-face meetings with several of those brands—a first in his 40-year career. “This is a big achievement,” he said. “Otherwise, [the brands] never sit with us. Even when the workers died in the factory fire, the brand never sat with us.” ...

-via The Fuller Project, April 2, 2024. Article headers added by me.

Article continues below, with more action-based results, including one factory that "complied, agreeing to respect minimum wages and provide contract letters, training on labor laws, and—for the first time—worker bonuses"

With the help of Mansoor and Zehra Khan, the general secretary of the Home-Based Women Workers Federation, interviews with more than 350 garment workers revealed the severity of long-known issues.

Nearly all workers interviewed were paid less than a living wage, which was 67,200 Pakistan rupees (roughly $243) per month in 2022, according to the Asia Floor Wage Alliance. Nearly 30 percent were even paid below the legal minimum wage of 25,000 Pakistani rupees per month (roughly $90) for unskilled workers. Almost 100 percent had not been given a written employment contract, while more than three-quarters were either not registered with the social security system—a legal requirement—or didn’t know if they were.

When Mansoor, Khan, and some of the organizations raised the violations with seven global fashion brands implicated, they were pleasantly surprised. One German retailer reacted swiftly, asking its supplier where the violations had occurred to sign a 14-point memorandum of understanding to address the issues. (We’re unable to name the companies involved because negotiations are ongoing.) The factory complied, agreeing to respect minimum wages and provide contract letters, training on labor laws, and—for the first time—worker bonuses.

In February [2024], the factory registered an additional 400 workers with the social security system (up from roughly 100) and will continue to enroll more, according to Khan. “That is a huge number for us,” she said.

It’s had a knock-on effect, too. Four of the German brand’s other Pakistani suppliers are also willing to sign the memorandum, Khan noted, which could impact another 2,000 workers or so. “The law is opening up space for [the unions] to negotiate, to be heard, and to be taken seriously,” said Miriam Saage-Maass, the legal director at ECCHR.

Looking Forward with the EU

...Last month [in March 2024], EU member states finally approved a due diligence directive after long delays, during which the original draft was watered down. As it moves to the next stage—a vote in the European Parliament—before taking effect, critics argue that the rules are now too diluted and cover too few companies to be truly effective. Still, the fact that the EU is acting at all has been described as an important moment, and unionists such as Mansoor and Khan wait thousands of miles away with bated breath for the final outcome.

Solidarity from Europe is important, Khan said, and could change the lives of Pakistan’s workers. “The eyes and the ears of the people are looking to [the brands],” Mansoor said. “And they are being made accountable for their mistakes.”"

-via The Fuller Project, April 2, 2024. Article headers added by me.

[fatehbaz]

Midway through Jamil Jan Kochai’s collection The Haunting of Hajji Hotak and Other Stories, which maps generations of Afghan and Afghan American lives against over a century of entwined wars, sits what appears to be a résumé. Entitled “Occupational Hazards,” it meticulously records the everyday labors of an Afghan man: [...] his “[d]uties included: leading sheep to the pastures”; from 1977–79, “gathering old English rifles” left over from the last war while being recruited into a new war; in 1980–81, “burying the tattered remnants of neighbors and friends and women and children and babies and cousins and nieces and nephews and a beloved half-sister”; [...] becoming a refugee day-laborer in Peshawar, Pakistan; in 1984, becoming a refugee in Alabama, where he worked on an assembly line with other Asian migrants whom the white factory owner used to push out the local Black workforce; and so on. Dozens of events, from the traumatic to the mundane, are cataloged one by one in prose that is at once emotionless and overwhelming. [...] Kochai interviewed his father for the résumé’s occupational trajectory [...]. An Afghan shepherd [...] is displaced by imperial wars and then, in the heart of empire, is conscripted into racialized domestic economies [...]. [M]ethodically translating lived violence via a résumé, a bureaucratic form that quantifies labor in its most banal functionality, paradoxically realizes the spectacular breadth of war and how it organizes life’s possibilities. [...]

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In this collection, war is past, present, and plural. In Afghanistan, Kochai recounts the lives of Logaris and Kabulis, against the backdrop of the US occupation, still dealing with the detritus of previous wars - British, Soviet, a­nd civil - including their shrines, mines, and memories. In the United States, Afghan Californians experience the diasporic conditions of war -- state neglect of refugees combined with targeted surveillance -- amid the coming-of-age of a second generation that must confront inherited traumas while struggling to build political solidarities with other displaced youth.

These 12 stories explore the reverberations between historical and psychic realities, invoking a ghostly practice of reading. Characters, living and dead, recur across the stories [...]. Wars echo one another [...]. Scenes and states mirror each other, with one story depicting Afghan bureaucracies that disavow military and police violence while another depicts US bureaucracies that deny social services to unemployed refugees. History itself is layered and unresolved [...]. Kochai, who was born in a refugee camp in Peshawar, writes from the position of the Afghan diaspora [...]. In August 2021, the US relegated Afghanistan to the past, declaring the “longest American war” over. Over for whom? one should ask. [...] War, in other words, is not an event but a structure. [...]

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In Kochai’s collection, war is not the story; rather, war arranges the scenes and life possibilities [...]. Kochai carefully puts war itself, and the warmakers, in the narrative background [...].

This is a historically incisive narrative design for representing Afghanistan. Kochai challenges centuries of Western colonial discourses, from Rudyard Kipling to Rambo, that conflate Afghanistan with violence while erasing the international production of that violence as well as the social and conceptual worlds of Afghans themselves. Instead, this collection moves the reader across Afghans’ transcontinental, intergenerational, and multispirited social worlds -- including through stories of migrations and returns, homes populated by the living and the martyred, language that enmeshes Dari, Pashto, and Northern California slang, as well as the occasional fantastical creature [...].

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Like Kochai’s debut novel 99 Nights in Logar (2019), this collection merges realism and the fantastic, oral and academic histories, Afghan folklore and Islamic texts, giving his fiction a dynamic relation to history. Each story is an experiment, and many of them are replete with surreal or magical elements [...].

As in Ahmed Saadawi’s 2013 novel Frankenstein in Baghdad, a nightmarish sensorium collides with a postcolonial body politics [...].

In a recent interview, Kochai said that writing about his family’s experiences of war has compelled him to explore “realms of the surreal or magical realism […] because the incidents themselves seem so unreal […]. [I]t takes years and decades to even come to terms with what had actually happened to them before their eyes.” He points not to a documentary dilemma but to an epistemological one. While some scholars have argued that fantastic genres like magical realism are often conflated with exoticized imaginaries of the Global South, others have defended the form’s critical possibilities for rendering complex realities and multiple modes of interpretation. Literary metaphors, whether magical or otherwise, are always imprecise; as Afghan poet Aria Aber puts it, “you flee into metaphor but you return / with another moth / flapping inside your throat.” [...]

Kochai does not “escape” into the surreal or magical as fictions but as other ways of reckoning with war’s pasts ongoing in the present.

---

All text above by: Najwa Mayer. “War Is a Structure: On Jamil Jan Kochai’s “The Haunting of Hajji Hotak and Other Stories.”“ LA Review of Books (Online). 20 December 2022. [Bold emphasis and some paragraph breaks/contractions added by me. Presented here for commentary, teaching, criticism.]

[darkmaga-returns]

Predicting the collapse of a country is like reading between the lines of history, economics, and politics. Some nations, however, are walking on thin ice, where even a small additional burden could lead to their downfall. In this article, we’ll explore 10 countries facing severe risks that could put them on the brink of collapse by 2027. Some of these might surprise you.

1. Lebanon: A country where nothing works anymore Once hailed as the “Switzerland of the Middle East,” Lebanon is now in absolute economic chaos. Hyperinflation, currency collapse, and political corruption have brought the state to its knees. Ordinary citizens struggle to secure basic needs like food and fuel. Can Lebanon still be saved, or will it follow the fate of nations that fragmented into smaller entities?

2. Afghanistan: Taliban isolation and hunger Since the Taliban regained power, Afghanistan has plunged into international isolation. Its economy is collapsing, people are starving, and humanitarian organizations cannot meet the overwhelming needs. If the situation doesn’t improve, the state risks fragmentation into territories controlled by armed factions.

3. Haiti: From freedom to a nation ruled by gangs Haiti has been grappling with a crisis for years. With no functioning government, armed gangs dominate cities. Add to that natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricanes, and you have a recipe for complete collapse. Can Haiti ever rise again?

4. Sudan: A nation in perpetual conflict Sudan’s civil war between the army and militias is spiraling into catastrophe. Thousands are dead, millions are displaced, and famine looms large. If the conflict continues, Sudan could disintegrate into smaller regions controlled by local warlords.

5. Venezuela: From riches to rags Home to some of the world’s largest oil reserves, Venezuela has been in freefall for years. Hyperinflation, food shortages, and mass emigration have devastated the nation. Could Nicolás Maduro’s regime fall, or will Venezuela remain stuck in this “frozen collapse” for decades?

6. Myanmar: A coup that crushed hope The 2021 military coup plunged Myanmar into chaos. Protests, uprisings, and ethnic conflicts have become the norm. If the military junta doesn’t relinquish power, the country risks breaking into warring regions.

7. Yemen: A nation where survival is a battle Yemen is the epitome of disaster. Its civil war between Houthi rebels and the internationally recognized government has raged for years. Millions suffer from hunger and disease. If the conflict isn’t resolved, Yemen could vanish as a functioning state altogether.

8. North Korea: Behind the curtain of isolation Kim Jong Un’s regime appears solid, but what if it isn’t? Economic sanctions, famine, and a possible power struggle after his death could lead to an unexpected collapse. If that happens, the chaos could be unimaginable.

9. Pakistan: Battling economic and political storms Pakistan is grappling with an economic crisis deepened by debts and political instability. Extremism, corruption, and worsening relations with neighbors could weaken the country to the point of losing control over its regions.

10. Somalia: A collapse that never ended Somalia has been a failed state for decades. The terrorist group Al-Shabaab still controls large swathes of territory, while the central government remains weak. Without minimal international support, total disintegration seems inevitable.

Why Do Countries Most Of Time Collapse? Normally, the collapse of a state is always the result of a combination of factors:

Economic instability: Hyperinflation, overwhelming debts, or resource shortages.

Political corruption: Weak governments unable to address crises.

Civil conflicts: Wars, ethnic tensions, or regional uprisings.

Climate change: Worsening conditions, natural disasters, and resource depletion.

International isolation: Sanctions or loss of foreign support.

[mariacallous]

Nasir Mansoor has spent 40 years fighting for Pakistan’s workers. Whether demanding compensation on behalf of the hundreds of people who died in a devastating 2012 factory fire in Karachi or demonstrating against Pakistani suppliers to global fashion brands violating minimum wage rules, he’s battled many of the country’s widespread labor injustices.

Yet so far, little has improved, said Mansoor, who heads Pakistan’s National Trade Union Federation in Karachi. Despite spending most of his time dealing with issues in the country’s garment sector, labor laws are still routinely flouted inside factories. Not even European Union trade schemes such as the Generalized Scheme of Preferences—which benefits developing countries such as Pakistan but requires them to comply with international conventions on labor rights—have helped curb violations in an industry notorious for them. Regulations and trade protocols look good on paper, but they rarely trickle down to the factory level. “Nobody cares,” Mansoor said. “Not the government who makes commitments, not the brands, and not the suppliers. The workers are suffering.”

But change might finally be on the horizon after Germany’s new Supply Chain Act came into force last year. As Europe’s largest economy and importer of clothing, Germany now requires certain companies to put risk-management systems in place to prevent, minimize, and eliminate human rights violations for workers across their entire global value chains. Signed into law by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in January 2023, the law covers issues such as forced labor, union-busting, and inadequate wages, for the first time giving legal power to protections that were previously based on voluntary commitments. Companies that violate the rules face fines of up to 8 million euros ($8.7 million).

For decades, Western companies based in countries with highly paid workers and strong labor protections have sourced from low-income countries where such laws don’t exist or are weakly enforced. While this business model cuts costs, it’s made it incredibly difficult for workers to seek justice when problems arise. Given the garment sector’s long history of poor labor conditions—whose victims are a predominantly female workforce—rights groups say the industry will feel some of the highest impacts of new due diligence laws such as Germany’s.

Until now, promises made by fashion brands to safeguard workers stitching clothes in factories around the world have been largely voluntary and poorly monitored. If the promises failed or fell short and that information became public, the main fallout was reputational damage. As governments come to realize that a purely voluntary regimen produces limited results, there is now a growing global movement to ensure that companies are legally required to protect the people working at all stages of their supply chains.

The German law is just the latest example of these new due diligence rules—and it’s the one with the highest impact, given the size of the country’s market. A number of other Western countries have also adopted similar legislation in recent years, including France and Norway. A landmark European Union law that would mandate all member states to implement similar regulation is in the final stages of being greenlighted.

Although the United States has legislation to prevent forced labor in its global supply chains, such as the 2021 Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, there are no federal laws that protect workers in other countries from abuses that fall short of forced labor. That said, a proposed New York state bill, the Fashion Act, would legally require most major U.S. and international brands to identify, prevent, and remediate human rights violations in their supply chain if passed, with noncompliance subject to fines. Since major fashion brands could hardly avoid selling their products in New York, the law would effectively put the United States on a similar legal level as Germany and France.

Abuses in textile manufacturing have been well documented. Horror stories about brutal violence or building collapses make the news when there’s a major incident, but every day, members of a predominantly female workforce live on low wages, work long hours, and endure irregular contracts. Trade unions, when they are allowed, are often unable to protect workers. A decade ago, the European Parliament described the conditions of garment workers in Asia as “slave labour.”

As of January, Germany’s new law applies to any company with at least 1,000 employees in the country, which covers many of the world’s best-known fast fashion retailers, such as Zara and Primark. Since last January, German authorities say they have received 71 complaints or notices of violations and conducted 650 of their own assessments, including evaluating companies’ risk management.

In Pakistan, the very existence of the German law was enough to spark action. Last year, Mansoor and other union representatives reached out to fashion brands that sourced some of their clothing in Pakistan to raise concerns about severe labor violations in garment factories. Just four months later, he and his colleagues found themselves in face-to-face meetings with several of those brands—a first in his 40-year career. “This is a big achievement,” he said. “Otherwise, [the brands] never sit with us. Even when the workers died in the factory fire, the brand never sat with us.”

Nearly 12 years on from the 2012 fire, which killed more than 250 people, violations are still rife for Pakistan’s 4.4 million garment sector workers, who produce for many of the major global brands. Several of these violations were highlighted in research conducted by FEMNET, a German women’s rights nonprofit, and the European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights (ECCHR), a Berlin-based nongovernmental organization, into how companies covered by the Supply Chain Act were implementing their due diligence obligations in Pakistan. With the help of Mansoor and Zehra Khan, the general secretary of the Home-Based Women Workers Federation, interviews with more than 350 garment workers revealed the severity of long-known issues.

Nearly all workers interviewed were paid less than a living wage, which was 67,200 Pakistan rupees (roughly $243) per month in 2022, according to the Asia Floor Wage Alliance. Nearly 30 percent were even paid below the legal minimum wage of 25,000 Pakistani rupees per month (roughly $90) for unskilled workers. Almost 100 percent had not been given a written employment contract, while more than three-quarters were either not registered with the social security system—a legal requirement—or didn’t know if they were.

When Mansoor, Khan, and some of the organizations raised the violations with seven global fashion brands implicated, they were pleasantly surprised. One German retailer reacted swiftly, asking its supplier where the violations had occurred to sign a 14-point memorandum of understanding to address the issues. (We’re unable to name the companies involved because negotiations are ongoing.) The factory complied, agreeing to respect minimum wages and provide contract letters, training on labor laws, and—for the first time—worker bonuses.

In February, the factory registered an additional 400 workers with the social security system (up from roughly 100) and will continue to enroll more, according to Khan. “That is a huge number for us,” she said.

It’s had a knock-on effect, too. Four of the German brand’s other Pakistani suppliers are also willing to sign the memorandum, Khan noted, which could impact another 2,000 workers or so. “The law is opening up space for [the unions] to negotiate, to be heard, and to be taken seriously,” said Miriam Saage-Maass, the legal director at ECCHR.

After decades of issues being swept under the carpet, it’s a positive step, Mansoor said. But he’s cautious. Of the six remaining global fashion brands contacted, three are in discussions with the union, while three didn’t respond. Implementation is key, he said, particularly because there has already been pushback from some Pakistani factory owners.

Last month, EU member states finally approved a due diligence directive after long delays, during which the original draft was watered down. As it moves to the next stage—a vote in the European Parliament—before taking effect, critics argue that the rules are now too diluted and cover too few companies to be truly effective.

Still, the fact that the EU is acting at all has been described as an important moment, and unionists such as Mansoor and Khan wait thousands of miles away with bated breath for the final outcome. Solidarity from Europe is important, Khan said, and could change the lives of Pakistan’s workers. “The eyes and the ears of the people are looking to [the brands],” Mansoor said. “And they are being made accountable for their mistakes.”

[xtruss]

Imran Khan Warns That Pakistan’s Election Could Be A Farce

His Party is Being Unfairly Muzzled, the Former Prime Minister Writes From Prison

— January 4th, 2024 | The Economist

Imran Khan, Former Prime Minister of Pakistan. Image: Dan Williams

Today pakistan is being ruled by caretaker governments at both the federal level and provincial level. These administrations are constitutionally illegal because elections were not held within 90 days of parliamentary assemblies being dissolved.

The public is hearing that elections will supposedly be held on February 8th. But having been denied the same in two provinces, Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, over the past year—despite a Supreme Court order last March that those votes should be held within three months—they are right to be sceptical about whether the national vote will take place.

The country’s election commission has been tainted by its bizarre actions. Not only has it defied the top court but it has also rejected my Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (pti) party’s nominations for first-choice candidates, hindered the party’s internal elections and launched contempt cases against me and other pti leaders for simply criticising the commission.

Whether elections happen or not, the manner in which I and my party have been targeted since a farcical vote of no confidence in April 2022 has made one thing clear: the establishment—the army, security agencies and the civil bureaucracy—is not prepared to provide any playing field at all, let alone a level one, for pti.

It was, after all, the establishment that engineered our removal from government under pressure from America, which was becoming agitated with my push for an independent foreign policy and my refusal to provide bases for its armed forces. I was categorical that we would be a friend to all but would not be anyone’s proxy for wars. I did not come to this view lightly. It was shaped by the huge losses Pakistan had incurred collaborating with America’s “war on terror”, not least the 80,000 Pakistani lives lost.

In March 2022 an official from America’s State Department met Pakistan’s then ambassador in Washington, dc. After that meeting the ambassador sent a cipher message to my government. I later saw the message, via the then foreign minister, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, and it was subsequently read out in cabinet.

In view of what the cipher message said, I believe that the American official’s message was to the effect of: pull the plug on Imran Khan’s prime ministership through a vote of no confidence, or else. Within weeks our government was toppled and I discovered that Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, had, through the security agencies, been working on our allies and parliamentary backbenchers for several months to move against us.

People flocked onto the streets to protest against this regime change, and in the next few months pti won 28 out of 37 by-elections and held massive rallies across the country, sending a clear message as to where the public stood. These rallies attracted a level of female participation that we believe was unprecedented in Pakistan’s history. This unnerved the powers that had engineered our government’s removal.

To add to their panic, the administration that replaced us destroyed the economy, bringing about unprecedented inflation and a currency devaluation within 18 months. The contrast was clear for everyone to see: the pti government had not only saved Pakistan from bankruptcy but also won international praise for its handling of the covid-19 pandemic. In addition, despite a spike in commodity prices, we steered the economy to real gdp growth of 5.8% in 2021 and 6.1% in 2022.

Unfortunately, the establishment had decided I could not be allowed to return to power, so all means of removing me from the political landscape were used. There were two assassination attempts on my life. My party’s leaders, workers and social-media activists, along with supportive journalists, were abducted, incarcerated, tortured and pressured to leave pti. Many of them remain locked up, with new charges being thrown at them every time the courts give them bail or set them free. Worse, the current government has gone out of its way to terrorise and intimidate pti’s female leaders and workers in an effort to discourage women from participating in politics.

I face almost 200 legal cases and have been denied a normal trial in an open court. A false-flag operation on May 9th 2023—involving, among other things, arson at military installations falsely blamed on pti—led to several thousand arrests, abductions and criminal charges within 48 hours. The speed showed it was pre-planned.

This was followed by many of our leaders being tortured or their families threatened into giving press conferences and engineered television interviews to state that they were leaving the party. Some were compelled to join other, newly created political parties. Others were made to give false testimony against me under duress.

Despite all this, pti remains popular, with 66% support in a Pattan-Coalition 38 poll held in December; my personal approval rating is even higher. Now the election commission, desperate to deny the party the right to contest elections, is indulging in all manner of unlawful tricks. The courts seem to be losing credibility daily.

Meanwhile, a former prime minister with a conviction for corruption, Nawaz Sharif, has returned from Britain, where he was living as an absconder from Pakistani justice. In November a Pakistani court overturned the conviction (Under United States’ Scrotums Licker Corrupt Army Generals’ Directions).

It is my belief that Corrupt to his Core Mr Sharif has struck a deal with the establishment whereby it will support his acquittal and throw its weight behind him in the upcoming elections. But so far the public has been unrelenting in its support for pti and its rejection of the “selected”.

It is under these circumstances that elections may be held on February 8th. All parties are being allowed to campaign freely except for pti. I remain incarcerated, in solitary confinement, on absurd charges that include treason. Those few of our party’s leaders who remain free and not underground are not allowed to hold even local worker conventions. Where pti workers manage to gather together they face brutal police action.

In this scenario, even if elections were held they would be a disaster and a farce, since pti is being denied its basic right to campaign. Such a joke of an election would only lead to further political instability. This, in turn, would further aggravate an already volatile economy.

The only viable way forward for Pakistan is fair and free elections, which would bring back political stability and rule of law, as well as ushering in desperately needed reforms by a democratic government with a popular mandate. There is no other way for Pakistan to disentangle itself from the crises confronting it. Unfortunately, with democracy under siege, we are heading in the opposite direction on all these fronts. ■

— Imran Khan is the Founder and Former Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and was Prime Minister of Pakistan from 2018 to 2022.

— Editor’s Note: Pakistan’s government and America’s State Department deny Mr Khan’s allegations of American interference in Pakistani politics (Bullshit! Hegemonic War Criminal Conspirator United States and Corrupt Army Generals and Politicians of Pakistan Were Clearly Involved. It’s Social Media’s Modern Era, Not 1970). The government is prosecuting him under the Official Secrets Act.

[khazanaqueen]

Halal Food in Canada: A Growing Industry Catering to Diverse Communities

Canada is a multicultural nation that embraces diverse cultural and religious practices. Among its many communities, the Muslim population has been steadily growing, creating an increasing demand for halal food. Halal, an Arabic term meaning "permissible" in Islamic law, applies to food and beverages prepared following specific guidelines, including the humane slaughtering of animals and the prohibition of certain items such as pork and alcohol. The availability and popularity of halal food in Canada have surged in recent years, driven by demographic shifts, increased consumer awareness, and business expansion.

The Rise of Halal Food in Canada

According to Statistics Canada, the Muslim population in Canada has been rising significantly due to immigration from Muslim-majority countries, including Pakistan, India, Syria, Egypt, and Somalia. With an estimated 1.8 million Muslims in Canada as of 2021, the demand for halal food has become a significant economic force, influencing various sectors, from retail to restaurant chains.

Supermarkets, grocery stores, and specialty halal butchers have expanded their offerings to cater to this growing demand. Large retailers such as Walmart, Costco, and Loblaws have introduced halal-certified meat and packaged goods, making it easier for Muslim consumers to access products that align with their dietary and religious beliefs. Additionally, dedicated halal food markets have flourished in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary, offering a broad selection of fresh and frozen halal products.

Halal Certification in Canada

For a food product to be considered halal, it must adhere to Islamic dietary laws. Various organizations in Canada oversee halal certification to ensure compliance with these standards. Some of the prominent halal certification bodies include:

Halal Monitoring Authority (HMA)

Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of Canada (IFANCC)

Halal Advisory Group

Canadian Halal Food Certification

These organizations inspect food production facilities, slaughterhouses, and packaging processes to verify that they meet halal requirements. Their certification provides assurance to consumers and helps businesses establish credibility within the halal market.

Halal Restaurants and Fast Food Chains

The restaurant industry in Canada has also responded to the growing demand for halal food by offering more halal options. Major fast-food chains such as Popeyes, KFC, and Subway provide halal-certified meat in select locations, especially in cities with large Muslim populations. Additionally, numerous independent halal restaurants and food trucks serve diverse cuisines, including Middle Eastern, South Asian, African, and even Western dishes prepared in accordance with halal standards.

Toronto, in particular, is a hub for halal dining, featuring an extensive selection of restaurants offering everything from halal gourmet burgers to traditional Middle Eastern shawarma. Other cities, such as Edmonton and Ottawa, have also seen an increase in halal dining options, reflecting the nationwide demand.

The Economic Impact of Halal Food

The halal food industry has become a significant contributor to Canada’s economy. With an estimated market value of billions of dollars, the halal sector has created employment opportunities, boosted local businesses, and attracted international halal food brands. The food industry’s response to the demand for halal products has also encouraged Canadian food producers to export halal-certified products to global markets, particularly in Muslim-majority countries such as Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates.

Moreover, the rise of halal food tourism in Canada has drawn visitors from around the world who seek halal-friendly travel experiences. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver are becoming known for their diverse halal food scenes, enhancing Canada’s reputation as an inclusive and multicultural destination.

Challenges and Future Trends

Despite the growing popularity of Top bangladeshi Restaurant in Toronto, challenges remain. One of the primary concerns for consumers is the lack of standardization in halal certification. Different certification bodies have varying criteria, leading to confusion among consumers and businesses. Establishing a unified national halal certification system could help address this issue and enhance consumer confidence.

Another challenge is the misconception and lack of awareness surrounding halal food. Some non-Muslim consumers may be unfamiliar with halal dietary laws and hesitant to try halal products. However, many businesses and advocacy groups are working to educate the public on the benefits of halal food, emphasizing its quality, hygiene, and ethical sourcing practices.

Looking ahead, the halal food industry in Canada is expected to continue expanding. Innovations in food technology, plant-based halal alternatives, and sustainable halal meat production are gaining traction. Additionally, e-commerce platforms have made halal products more accessible, allowing consumers to order halal-certified groceries and meals online with ease.

Conclusion

Halal food in Canada has evolved from a niche market to a mainstream industry, reflecting the country’s growing Muslim population and commitment to diversity. With increasing availability in supermarkets, restaurants, and online platforms, halal food is becoming more accessible than ever. Despite some challenges, the future of halal food in Canada looks promising, with continued business growth, economic contributions, and enhanced consumer awareness shaping the industry’s trajectory. As demand continues to rise, Canada’s food industry will likely see even greater innovation and inclusivity in the halal sector, making it a thriving part of the nation’s culinary landscape.

[news365timesindia]

[ad_1] New Zealand and Bangladesh’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (PC: BLACKCAPS & BCBtigers/X) New Zealand and ICC tournaments are synonymous with bitter-sweet moments. Usually, New Zealand make it to the later stages of various ICC tournaments, only to miss on winning the big prize. They have still won a couple of ICC trophies – The ICC Knockout tournament in 2000 and the World Test Championship in 2021. New Zealand are now all geared up to participate in the Champions Trophy, which is basically a tweaked version of ICC Knockout, with the tournament being played on the basis of splitting teams into two groups. Here’s a brief analysis of the New Zealand squad: The New Zealand unit is going through a transition phase, with Mitchell Santner taking over the mantle of leading the side in abridged versions from Kane Williamson. The veteran pace duo of Tim Southee and Trent Boult have bid adieu to international cricket. However, New Zealand still have enough firepower to chisel a way out of a group that has the traditional rivals – India and Pakistan, alongside Bangladesh. In Ben Sears and Will O’Rourke, they have two young fast bowlers who are renowned for bowling with a burst of pace and extracting bounce. In unfamiliar climes – Pakistan and Dubai – they might still struggle to adjust, but make no mistake the pace pair have the potential to become genuine wicket-takers across formats. Nathan Smith, another young cricketer, could also turn out to be a useful seam-bowling option. He is also a handy customer with the bat, down the order. Meanwhile, the onus is on Matt Henry to lead the pace attack. Henry is one of the better seamers going around, arguably he is the best at using the wobble-seam delivery. Lockie Ferguson, who is now one of the experienced bowlers in the set-up, will add more pace to the arsenal. For the Latest Sports News: Click Here Special event for NZ squad announcement for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (PC: BLACKCAPS/X) We still have to touch upon Santner, their spin spearhead. The left-arm spinner, who can also make handy contributions with the bat, has mastered the art of subtle changes in pace and flight, along with unremitting control. His economy rate of 4.84 in ODIs exemplifies his skills. On some of the slower decks in Asia, he would have a major role to play. Glenn Phillips, who has improved as a spinner, and Michael Bracewell, yet another all-rounder, will be his spin colleagues. The batting unit will again revolve around Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Phillips and Devon Conway. Tom Latham, the Test skipper, has been assigned with wicketkeeping duties. Verdict – New Zealand have a tendency to punch above their weight in ICC tournaments. They might sneak through to the last-four stage of the tournament. Bangladesh’s squad announcement for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (PC: BCBtigers/X) Among Group A teams, Bangladesh also have announced their squad. Litton Das being left out of the squad is the main talking point. It is true that Litton averaged a paltry 1.20 last year, but he is still one of those players who can turbo-charge their batting engine with his range of shots. So, Bangladesh could have shown some faith in him. This is what Litton had to say to the press reporters after scoring a ton in the Bangladesh Premier League: “There is nothing to prove to anyone and I am not interested to prove anything to anyone.” With Shakib Al Hasan failing a bowling reassessment test in Chennai and Tamim Iqbal’s retirement from internationals, Bangladesh have entered a new phase. All eyes will be on Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur Rahim, the two remaining experienced cricketers in the squad, to shoulder the responsibility in the batting department. Mahmudullah, in particular, was in supreme form last year, averaging almost 50 in this format. Najmul Hossain, the skipper, also was in fine form in 2024. Tanzid Hasan and Towhid Hridoy are two of the younger players in the set-up. Among them, Towhid looks promising.

With  Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana, Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman in the ranks, Bangladesh also have some variety in the pace attack. Mehidy Hasan, who is also decent with the bat, Nasum Ahmed and Rishad Hossain will lead the spin attack. Verdict – The 50-over format suits Bangladesh to an extent but it could prove to be difficult for them to reach the semifinals. Also Read: Iyer 2.0 redefines domestic toil after BCCI contract snub The post New Zealand and Bangladesh – A bird’s-eye view of the two squads appeared first on Sports News Portal | Latest Sports Articles | Revsports. [ad_2] Source link

[news365times]

[ad_1] New Zealand and Bangladesh’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (PC: BLACKCAPS & BCBtigers/X) New Zealand and ICC tournaments are synonymous with bitter-sweet moments. Usually, New Zealand make it to the later stages of various ICC tournaments, only to miss on winning the big prize. They have still won a couple of ICC trophies – The ICC Knockout tournament in 2000 and the World Test Championship in 2021. New Zealand are now all geared up to participate in the Champions Trophy, which is basically a tweaked version of ICC Knockout, with the tournament being played on the basis of splitting teams into two groups. Here’s a brief analysis of the New Zealand squad: The New Zealand unit is going through a transition phase, with Mitchell Santner taking over the mantle of leading the side in abridged versions from Kane Williamson. The veteran pace duo of Tim Southee and Trent Boult have bid adieu to international cricket. However, New Zealand still have enough firepower to chisel a way out of a group that has the traditional rivals – India and Pakistan, alongside Bangladesh. In Ben Sears and Will O’Rourke, they have two young fast bowlers who are renowned for bowling with a burst of pace and extracting bounce. In unfamiliar climes – Pakistan and Dubai – they might still struggle to adjust, but make no mistake the pace pair have the potential to become genuine wicket-takers across formats. Nathan Smith, another young cricketer, could also turn out to be a useful seam-bowling option. He is also a handy customer with the bat, down the order. Meanwhile, the onus is on Matt Henry to lead the pace attack. Henry is one of the better seamers going around, arguably he is the best at using the wobble-seam delivery. Lockie Ferguson, who is now one of the experienced bowlers in the set-up, will add more pace to the arsenal. For the Latest Sports News: Click Here Special event for NZ squad announcement for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (PC: BLACKCAPS/X) We still have to touch upon Santner, their spin spearhead. The left-arm spinner, who can also make handy contributions with the bat, has mastered the art of subtle changes in pace and flight, along with unremitting control. His economy rate of 4.84 in ODIs exemplifies his skills. On some of the slower decks in Asia, he would have a major role to play. Glenn Phillips, who has improved as a spinner, and Michael Bracewell, yet another all-rounder, will be his spin colleagues. The batting unit will again revolve around Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Phillips and Devon Conway. Tom Latham, the Test skipper, has been assigned with wicketkeeping duties. Verdict – New Zealand have a tendency to punch above their weight in ICC tournaments. They might sneak through to the last-four stage of the tournament. Bangladesh’s squad announcement for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (PC: BCBtigers/X) Among Group A teams, Bangladesh also have announced their squad. Litton Das being left out of the squad is the main talking point. It is true that Litton averaged a paltry 1.20 last year, but he is still one of those players who can turbo-charge their batting engine with his range of shots. So, Bangladesh could have shown some faith in him. This is what Litton had to say to the press reporters after scoring a ton in the Bangladesh Premier League: “There is nothing to prove to anyone and I am not interested to prove anything to anyone.” With Shakib Al Hasan failing a bowling reassessment test in Chennai and Tamim Iqbal’s retirement from internationals, Bangladesh have entered a new phase. All eyes will be on Mahmudullah and Mushfiqur Rahim, the two remaining experienced cricketers in the squad, to shoulder the responsibility in the batting department. Mahmudullah, in particular, was in supreme form last year, averaging almost 50 in this format. Najmul Hossain, the skipper, also was in fine form in 2024. Tanzid Hasan and Towhid Hridoy are two of the younger players in the set-up. Among them, Towhid looks promising.

With  Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana, Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman in the ranks, Bangladesh also have some variety in the pace attack. Mehidy Hasan, who is also decent with the bat, Nasum Ahmed and Rishad Hossain will lead the spin attack. Verdict – The 50-over format suits Bangladesh to an extent but it could prove to be difficult for them to reach the semifinals. Also Read: Iyer 2.0 redefines domestic toil after BCCI contract snub The post New Zealand and Bangladesh – A bird’s-eye view of the two squads appeared first on Sports News Portal | Latest Sports Articles | Revsports. [ad_2] Source link

[newstfionline]

Sunday, November 10, 2024

First Major Snow of the Season Pummels Denver Region (NYT) An early season snowstorm—one that could be the largest in decades—is expected to clobber much of Colorado and parts of New Mexico starting Friday afternoon. The National Weather Service said snowfall accumulations from Friday into Saturday morning could be significant, with 12 to 20 inches expected over the Palmer Divide (south of Denver and north of Colorado Springs), eight to 14 inches across Greater Denver and Boulder, and eight to 16 inches for the mountains and southern foothills. The combination of heavy snow rates and gusty winds will lead to blizzard conditions in some areas, the service said.

Biden administration to allow American military contractors to deploy to Ukraine (CNN) The Biden administration has lifted a de facto ban on American military contractors deploying to Ukraine to help the country’s military maintain and repair US-provided weapons systems, particularly F16 fighter jets and Patriot air defense systems, an official with direct knowledge of the plan told CNN. The new policy, approved earlier this month before the election, would allow the Pentagon to provide contracts to American companies for work inside Ukraine for the first time since Russia invaded in 2022. Officials said they hope it will speed up the maintenance and repairs of weapons systems being used by the Ukrainian military. Current and former officials familiar said the policy change will not result in the kind of major American contractor presence that existed in Iraq and Afghanistan. Instead, it would likely result in anywhere from a few dozen to a couple hundred contractors working in Ukraine at a time.

Migrants reconsider their trip (NYT) This Sunday was the day that Daniel García, a Venezuelan delivery worker living in the capital of Colombia, had planned to begin an arduous land journey toward the United States. Then Donald J. Trump became president-elect, and everything changed. Unsure if he could make it to the border before Mr. Trump’s inauguration, and fearful that he would be turned away once Mr. Trump was in office, Mr. García, 31, has decided to stay put. “It is a very high investment,” he said of the journey north, which he figured would cost him $2,500, about a year’s savings. “I prefer not to risk it,” he added. With Mr. Trump now headed back to the White House, many potential migrants are rethinking their plans, while border officials are working hard to understand what a Trump presidency will mean for the number of people trying to make it the United States.

Germany’s coalition collapse brings more pain to its ailing economy (Reuters) The collapse of Germany’s ruling coalition is set to bring more economic pain in the months ahead and just a glimmer of hope for Europe’s ailing economic giant if, and that is a big if, it can lead to a less fractious government and more coherent policies. The break-up came at a critical juncture for Europe’s biggest economy, just hours after Donald Trump won the U.S. presidential election, raising the spectre of a tit-for-tat trade war with Germany’s main trading partner. Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Wednesday sacked his finance minister, paving the way for a snap election after months of bickering in his three-party coalition that has further hurt confidence in an economy struggling with high energy costs and eroding competitiveness. The world’s third-largest economy has lagged the European Union average since 2021 and is expected to shrink for the second year running in 2024, making it the worst performer among the Group of Seven major economies.

Death toll rises to 24 in a powerful suicide bombing at a rail station in southwestern Pakistan (AP) A suicide bomber blew himself up at a train station in restive southwestern Pakistan on Saturday, killing at least 24 people, including soldiers and railways staff, and wounding about 50 others, some critically, officials said. The attack happened when nearly 100 passengers were waiting for a train to travel to the garrison city of Rawalpindi from Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province, according to Hamza Shafqaat, a senior government administrator. A separatist group, the Balochistan Liberation Army, claimed the attack in a statement, saying a suicide bomber targeted troops present at the railway station. The outlawed BLA has long waged an insurgency seeking independence from Islamabad.

North Korean GPS manipulation disrupted dozens of planes and vessels, South Korea says (AP) South Korea’s military said North Korea disrupted GPS signals from border areas for the second-straight day on Saturday, affecting an unspecified number of flights and vessel operations. Tensions between the rival Koreas have escalated as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un flaunts his advancing nuclear and missile program and engages in electronic and psychological warfare, such as flying thousands of balloons to drop trash and anti-South Korean propaganda leaflets in the South. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said North Korean operations to manipulate GPS signals were detected from around the western border city of Kaesong and the nearby city of Haeju on Friday and Saturday, and said the activities disrupted dozens of civilian aircraft and several vessels.

Japan’s prime minister vows military buildup and deeper ties with the US as regional tension rises (AP) Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba renewed a pledge Saturday to build up his country’s military and deepen its alliance with the United States under President-elect Donald Trump. Ishiba, who made the comments at an annual troop review held at Camp Asaka in the Tokyo suburbs, said the security environment surrounding Japan and the international community has significantly worsened due to escalating tensions with China, Russia and North Korea. He pledged to reinforce Japan’s military power.

Philippine president angers China with new laws to demarcate South China Sea territories (AP) Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed two laws on Friday reaffirming the extent of his country’s maritime territories and right to resources, including in the South China Sea, angering China, which claims the hotly disputed waterway almost in its entirety. China’s foreign ministry said it summoned the Philippines ambassador to China to lodge a “stern protest.” The ministry condemned the move as an attempt to “solidify the illegal ruling of the South China Sea arbitration case through domestic legislation.” Confrontations between Chinese and Philippine coast guard and naval forces in the disputed sea passage have spiked alarmingly since last year. That has sparked fears that the United States—Manila’s longtime treaty ally—may get drawn in a major conflict.

Jordan’s tourism industry struggling as Gaza war deters visitors (Reuters)—Enas Al Hinti has cut staff pay in half and asked workers to take unpaid leave in an effort to keep her hotel in ancient Petra open as Western holidaymakers fearful of conflict shun destinations in the Middle East. A crisis across the region’s tourism industry since the start of the Israel-Hamas war 13 months ago is being felt acutely in Jordan, whose border with Israel along the Red Sea and Dead Sea is studded with beach resorts. Sites such as Petra, Wadi Rum and crusader castles have been drawing visitors for decades—more than one million a year before the war, mainly Americans and Europeans. But Reuters reporters on a recent trip to the city carved from rose-coloured rock—Jordan’s most-visited tourist attraction—found businesses boarded up by their owners. “There are no revenues, it’s all losses,” Al Hinti, who runs the Nomads hotel, told Reuters. Data and interviews with seven hotel and business owners and tour operators underline the damage to the tourist industry, which last year made up 12.5% of the economy.

Gazan Rescue Service Has Stopped Operating in the North (NYT) When an Israeli airstrike hit a home in northern Gaza early Thursday, residents said, there were no paramedics or emergency medical workers around to help pull out people trapped in the rubble. Instead, Mazen Ahmed said he and other neighbors in Beit Lahia had to dig through the debris by themselves. They found at least one body. “We went out to try to rescue on our own to the extent of our abilities,” Mr. Ahmed said on Thursday, speaking by voice message from a cemetery where those killed in the latest Israeli airstrikes were being buried. “There were no stretchers, there were no rescuers, there were no emergency responders.” More than two weeks ago, Gaza’s Civil Defense, the main emergency service in the Palestinian territory, said it was forced to cease rescue operations in the north because of attacks by the Israeli military on its members and destruction of its equipment. Residents now rush casualties to hospitals in private vehicles or on donkey carts.

Mozambique on edge as army is deployed to help stop post-election protests (AP) Mozambique has deployed soldiers on the streets to help keep order following weeks of protests against the ruling party that has been accused of rigging last month’s election to extend its 49 years in power. The country of 34 million people in southern Africa is on edge, with the presidential palace under heavy guard and security forces constantly patrolling the streets. Many people are locking themselves in their homes. Thousands of protesters set fires and barricaded roads in the capital, Maputo, on Thursday in the biggest demonstration since the Oct. 9 election. Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets.

TB reclaims title of deadliest infectious disease (NPR) The ancient scourge of tuberculosis for years was the deadliest infectious disease. Then SARS-CoV-2 came along and grabbed the notorious title of #1 killer: In 2020, COVID-19 was responsible for 3.5 million deaths worldwide vs 1.5 million for TB. The 2024 Global Tuberculosis Report, published last week by the World Health Organization, puts TB back in the top slot with 1.25 million deaths in 2023 compared to 320,000 COVID-19 deaths. According to the report, approximately 8.2 million people were newly diagnosed with TB in 2023—the highest number since WHO began global TB monitoring in 1995 and a “notable increase” from 7.5 million people newly diagnosed in 2022.

As wellness trends take off, iodine deficiency makes a quiet comeback (Economist) A century ago, much of northern America was known as the goitre belt. In some regions, anywhere from 26% to 70% of school-aged children had the characteristic neck swellings, or goitres, caused by an enlargement of the thyroid gland. After trials showed that supplements of iodine could prevent goitre, iodised salt was rolled out commercially in 1924, starting in grocery stores in Michigan. By the 1940s, the goitre belt had vanished. In today’s America changing diets, a lack of public-health education, and complacency mean that iodine deficiency may once again be on the rise. Why the decline? For one, only about half of American table salt (which makes up 11% of the salt Americans consume today) is actually iodised. More important, the salt used in processed foods—which accounts for a dominant and ever-increasing share of American salt consumption—is also iodine-free. Changing salt consumption is not the only dietary trend at play. Decreasing demand for meat and fish, both good natural sources of iodine, is also having an effect. This problem is not exclusive to America. Deficiencies have risen as Europeans consume fewer dairy products.

[techtired]

India National Cricket Team Vs Afghanistan National Cricket Team Timeline

The India National Cricket Team's first game in the Super 8 round of the 2024 T20 World Cup will be on Thursday at the Kensington Oval in Barbados against Afghanistan. Team India is ready to play. They are in first place in Group A with seven points, earned from three wins and one tie with Canada. On the other hand, Afghanistan won three of their four Group C games, including a big 84-run win over New Zealand. Their only loss was to co-hosts West Indies, which was a big disappointment. India national cricket team vs Afghanistan national cricket team timeline Australia and Bangladesh have joined both teams in Group 1 of the Super Eight stage. England, the West Indies, South Africa, and the USA are in Group 2. At this time, the competition gets tougher and strategic plays start. Important Players And Plans Team Key Players Role Strategy India Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal Batting Possibly moving Kohli to No. 3, strengthening the batting Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal Bowling Focusing on spin bowling Afghanistan Rashid Khan, Mujeeb ur Rahman Spin Bowling Utilizing spin to challenge India's top order India wants Virat Kohli to have a better event because he has only scored five runs in three games. If Yashasvi Jaiswal is added, it could change how the batters play, which could mean that Kohli moves to the No. 3 spot. The pitches in the Caribbean might be better for spinners, which means that Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal could play essential parts. Conversely, Afghanistan has a strong group of spin bowlers led by Rashid Khan and Mujeeb ur Rahman, who could make it hard for India's top-order batters. Meetings And Records From The Past In eight T20Is, India and Afghanistan have played each other. India has a strong record, winning seven of the eight games. They had played each other before, and India won the gold medal at the Hangzhou Asian Games because it was seeded higher. This year, India won an exciting Super Over match, and the final at the Asian Games was called off because of rain. Scorecard for India vs Afghanistan T20I India Batting Batsman Runs Balls Fours Sixes Strike Rate Rohit Sharma 54 36 6 2 150.0 KL Rahul 62 48 4 3 129.2 Virat Kohli 122* 61 12 5 200.0 Suryakumar Yadav 16 9 2 1 177.8 Rishabh Pant DNB - - - - Extras 8 Total 212/2 20 overs Afghanistan Bowling Bowler Overs Runs Wickets Economy Rashid Khan 4 40 0 10.0 Mujeeb ur Rahman 4 32 1 8.0 Mohammad Nabi 4 45 0 11.2 Other Bowlers 8 95 1 Varied Afghanistan Batting Batsman Runs Balls Fours Sixes Strike Rate Mohammad Nabi 43 35 5 2 122.9 Other Batsmen Various Varied Extras 10 Total 111/8 India Bowling Bowler Overs Runs Wickets Economy Bhuvneshwar Kumar 4 4 5 1.0 R Ashwin 4 25 0 6.2 Arshdeep Singh 4 20 2 5.0 Other Bowlers 8 62 1 Varied New Performances and Important Stats Indian captain Virat Kohli has scored 201 runs, and Afghanistan's Mohammad Nabi has got 163. Leading wicket-takers: Arshdeep Singh and R Ashwin stand out for India because they each took 5 wickets. Important Matches: India has always beaten Afghanistan in the T20 World Cups. Their most recent game, in 2021, was a comfortable win for India, thanks to solid performances from KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma. Vital Match Stats (T20Is) India got 212/2 on September 8, 2022, the highest number. Afghanistan got 111/8 on the same date, which was the lowest score. As an individual, Virat Kohli's best score of 122* and Bhuvneshwar Kumar's best bowling numbers of 5/4 both happened in 2022. Significant Wins: On September 8, 2022, India beat Pakistan by 101 runs, which was their biggest win by runs. This detailed timeline and data set show how much the India and Afghanistan cricket teams hate each other and want to win as they prepare for the important games in the 2024 T20 World Cup. Read the full article

[exportimportdata-blog]

Cotton Export from India: A Comprehensive Analysis

India has long been a major player in the global cotton market, owing to its favorable climate, vast agricultural land, and rich history of cotton cultivation. The country is renowned for its high-quality cotton, which is exported to numerous countries worldwide. This article delves into various aspects of cotton export from India, focusing on raw cotton export from India, leading cotton exporters in India, and detailed cotton export data from India. Additionally, it examines India cotton export statistics, the countries to which India exports cotton, and the top cotton exporters in India.

Historical Context and Significance

India's relationship with cotton dates back to ancient times. The country is one of the original homes of cotton cultivation and textile production. Historically, Indian cotton textiles were highly prized across the world, contributing significantly to the country's economy. This legacy continues today, with India being one of the largest producers and exporters of cotton globally.

Current State of Cotton Export from India

Production and Quality

India's cotton production is centered in states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. The country produces a variety of cotton types, including short-staple, medium-staple, and long-staple cotton, catering to different segments of the global market. The quality of Indian cotton is widely recognized, with certain varieties like Shankar-6 from Gujarat being particularly sought after.

Export Dynamics

Cotton export from India includes both raw cotton and cotton yarn. The country has established itself as a reliable supplier in the international market. Raw cotton export from India has seen significant growth over the years, driven by increasing demand from countries with burgeoning textile industries.

Cotton Export Data from India

Analyzing cotton export data from India provides valuable insights into the industry's trends and dynamics. Over the past decade, India has consistently ranked among the top cotton exporters in the world. The volume of raw cotton export from India has shown a steady increase, reflecting the country's capacity to meet global demand.

Volume and Value

According to the latest India cotton export statistics, the country exported approximately 1.5 million bales of raw cotton in the 2020-2021 fiscal year. This represented a slight increase from the previous year, despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The total value of these exports was around USD 1 billion, highlighting the economic significance of the sector.

Major Markets

Cotton exporters in India to various countries underscores the global reach of Indian cotton. Key destinations include Bangladesh, China, Vietnam, and Pakistan. These countries have robust textile industries that rely heavily on imported cotton. Bangladesh, in particular, has emerged as the largest importer of Indian cotton, driven by its thriving garment manufacturing sector.

Cotton Exporters in India

The success of cotton export from India can be attributed to the efforts of numerous exporters who ensure the quality and timely delivery of cotton to international markets. Several companies have made a name for themselves in this sector, becoming synonymous with reliability and quality.

Prominent Exporters

Some of the top cotton exporters in India include:

Welspun India Ltd. A leading name in the textile industry, Welspun India Ltd. is renowned for its high-quality cotton products. The company exports a significant portion of its raw cotton production to various countries.

Vardhman Textiles Ltd. Vardhman Textiles Ltd. is another major player in the Indian cotton export market. The company has a strong presence in the international market, with exports constituting a substantial part of its business.

Nahar Spinning Mills Ltd. Known for its superior quality cotton yarn, Nahar Spinning Mills Ltd. is a prominent exporter of raw cotton from India. The company has a well-established export network, catering to clients worldwide.

Arvind Limited Arvind Limited is a diversified conglomerate with significant operations in the textile sector. The company exports large volumes of cotton and cotton products to numerous countries.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the cotton export industry in India has seen considerable success, it is not without challenges. Fluctuating global cotton prices, competition from other cotton-producing countries, and logistical issues are some of the hurdles faced by Indian exporters. However, there are also significant opportunities, particularly in emerging markets and through advancements in cotton processing technologies.

India Cotton Export Statistics

A closer look at India cotton export statistics reveals interesting trends and patterns. Over the past few years, there has been a noticeable shift in the destinations of Indian cotton exports. While traditional markets like China and Bangladesh remain dominant, new markets in Southeast Asia and Africa are emerging.

Export Trends

Rising Exports to Vietnam and Indonesia These countries have seen a rapid expansion of their textile industries, leading to increased demand for raw cotton from India.

Decreased Exports to China Although China remains a major importer, its share of Indian cotton exports has decreased slightly, possibly due to its own efforts to boost domestic cotton production and imports from other sources.

Increased Exports to Bangladesh Bangladesh continues to be the largest importer of Indian cotton, driven by its massive garment manufacturing industry which relies heavily on imported cotton.

Cotton Export from India to Which Country?

Understanding the specific countries to which India exports cotton helps in comprehending the global demand dynamics. Cotton export from India to which country are spread across various regions, with Asia being the largest market. Here’s a breakdown of the major importers:

Asia

Bangladesh As the largest importer, Bangladesh accounts for a significant portion of India’s cotton exports. The country's garment industry, one of the largest in the world, depends heavily on Indian cotton.

China China, despite recent fluctuations, remains a key market for Indian cotton. The country's textile industry is vast, and Indian cotton is an essential raw material.

Vietnam Vietnam’s textile sector has grown rapidly, leading to increased imports of Indian cotton. The country is now one of the top importers of Indian cotton.

Other Regions

Turkey Turkey imports Indian cotton to support its large textile and garment manufacturing industries.

Pakistan Given its proximity and shared cultural ties, Pakistan is a significant importer of Indian cotton, although political factors sometimes affect trade.

Indonesia Indonesia's expanding textile industry also relies on imports of Indian cotton.

Future Prospects

The future of cotton export from India looks promising, with several factors likely to influence its trajectory. The Indian government’s initiatives to support agriculture and improve export infrastructure, along with advancements in cotton farming techniques, are expected to boost the sector.

Technological Advancements

Adoption of better farming techniques and genetically modified cotton varieties can significantly increase yield and quality, making Indian cotton even more competitive in the global market.

Diversification of Markets

Expanding into new markets beyond traditional ones will be crucial. African and Latin American countries present untapped potential for Indian cotton exporters.

Sustainable Practices

With increasing global emphasis on sustainability, adopting eco-friendly farming and processing methods will enhance the appeal of Indian cotton in international markets.

Conclusion

Cotton export from India remains a vital component of the country’s economy, reflecting a rich heritage and a robust agricultural sector. The continuous demand for raw cotton export from India, coupled with the efforts of leading cotton exporters in India, ensures that the country maintains its position as a top player in the global cotton market. Detailed cotton export data from India and India cotton export statistics highlight the sector’s growth and potential. As India navigates the complexities of international trade, focusing on quality, sustainability, and market diversification will be key to sustaining and enhancing its cotton export industry.

[gary232]

According to a recent report from Goldman Sachs, the balance of global economic power is projected to shift dramatically in the coming decades.

In the graphic above, we’ve created a bump chart that provides a historical and predictive overview of the world’s top 15 economies at several milestones: 1980, 2000, 2022, and Goldman Sachs projections for 2050 and 2075.

Projections and Highlights for 2050 The following table shows the projected top economies in the world for 2050. All figures represent accurate GDP projections based on 2021 USD.

Rank Country Real GDP in 2050 (USD trillions) 1 🇨🇳 China $41.9 2 🇺🇸 US $37.2 3 🇮🇳 India $22.2 4 🇮🇩 Indonesia $6.3 5 🇩🇪 Germany $6.2 6 🇯🇵 Japan $6.0 7 🇬🇧 UK $5.2 8 🇧🇷 Brazil $4.9 9 🇫🇷 France $4.6 10 🇷🇺 Russia $4.5 11 🇲🇽 Mexico $4.2 12 🇪🇬 Egypt $3.5 13 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia $3.5 14 🇨🇦 Canada $3.4 15 🇳🇬 Nigeria $3.4 A central theme of the past several decades has been China and India’s incredible growth. For instance, between 2000 and 2022, India jumped eight spots to become the fifth-largest economy, surpassing the UK and France.

By 2050, Goldman Sachs believes that the weight of global GDP will shift even more towards Asia. While this is partly due to Asia outperforming previous forecasts, it is also due to BRICS nations underperforming.

Notably, Indonesia will become the fourth-largest economy by 2050, surpassing Brazil and Russia as the largest emerging market. Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelagic state and currently has the fourth-largest population, at 277 million.

The Top Economies in the World in 2075 The following table includes the underlying numbers for 2075. Once again, figures represent accurate GDP projections based on 2021 USD.

Rank Country Real GDP in 2075 (USD trillions) 1 🇨🇳 China $57.0 +39 Investment South Asia 41% 2 🇮🇳 India $52.5 +49 Asia 32% 3 🇺🇸 US $51.5 +25 N. America 14% 4 🇮🇩 Indonesia $13.7 +12 EU 8% 5 🇳🇬 Nigeria $13. +13 Africa 7% 6 🇵🇰 Pakistan $12.3 +12 S. America 6% 7 🇪🇬 Egypt $10.4 +10 8 🇧🇷 Brazil $8.7 +7 9 🇩🇪 Germany $8.1 +4 10 🇬🇧 UK $7.6 +5 11 🇲🇽 Mexico $7.6 +5 12 🇯🇵 Japan $7.5 +3 13 🇷🇺 Russia $6.9 +5 14 🇵🇭 Philippines$6.6 +7 15 🇫🇷 France $6.5 +3

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Gary Finneyfrock

@garyfinneyfrock1

9 hours ago

The Okinawan Diet, Just the Basics Everyone knows that the Okinawan diet is the best because they have most of the world's centurions. Here are the basic foods they eat at all their meals.

[darkmaga-returns]

Russia’s Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu announced that Russia would remove the blacklist status from the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) in anticipation of a lucrative trade and transportation deal.

The Trans-Afghan Corridor railway service will connect Afghanistan to ports in Uzbekistan and Pakistan. The 573 km railway is expected to cost between $4.8 billion and $6.9 billion, with construction beginning in 2025. This will simplify transit as cargo will be able to reach Pakistan in Uzbekistan in 3 to 5 days compared to the 35 days it currently takes. The line will also incorporate road transport. Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Russia, and Belarus all have a hand in this major project.

Now there are numerous variables for concern. Pakistan and Afghanistan will need to maintain strong diplomatic ties. Afghanistan has a notoriously rough and unforgiving landscape, and the line will need to operable in extreme weather conditions. Numerous nations, especially Pakistan, needs to rapidly fix its infrastructure. The presence of various extremist groups in the region are concerning to all involved.

Russia has stated that they would provide most of the financial backing for this project as it enables it to expand influence throughout South and Central Adia. Russia has expressed a further interest in investing in Afghanistan as it is rich in mining and agriculture.

The international community does not see the Taliban as a legitimate government, rightfully so, but the group has been in power since August 2021 after America retreated from Afghanistan under Biden’s orders. The Taliban has collapsed the nation’s economy, with over 90% of the population facing food insecurity. They have absolutely no idea how to run a nation and have been at the mercy of both China and Russia. China’s own Belt and Road Imitative is another potentially lucrative contender for the region, even though China does not officially acknowledge the Taliban as a legitimate government.

Estimates state that the Trans-Afghan Corridor will be complete by 2030, a pivotal year for geopolitics. The international community will certainly be in an uproar now that Moscow is officially partnering with the IEA.

[influencermagazineuk]

UK Grad Visa Scheme Isn't Troublesome, Finds Report Amid Immigration Concerns

UK Grad Visa Scheme Isn't Troublesome, Finds Report Amid Immigration Concerns Following concerns about potential misuse for immigration purposes, a new report recommends maintaining the graduate visa route, highlighting its importance for British universities. The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) investigated the scheme after Home Secretary James Cleverly requested an expedited review in March. The committee examined if the visa was being exploited and if it primarily attracted students seeking immigration rather than education. A graduate visa allows international students to remain in the UK for up to three years after completing a university program. Dependents like partners and children can also apply. Last week, former immigration minister Robert Jenrick called for the graduate visa's abolition, arguing it facilitated "entry for individuals to work in the gig economy and for very low wages." Universities and industry leaders expressed anxieties that the 2021-introduced route might be scrapped or restricted based on a negative report. This fear, in turn, led to a significant decline in applications from international students. However, the committee, comprising five university professors and a Home Office representative, discovered "no widespread evidence of abuse" of the graduate visa program. "The limited conditions associated with the route lead to comparatively low abuse risks," the report stated. The review also revealed that the visa scheme is aiding universities in expanding course offerings while compensating for financial shortfalls from domestic students and research endeavors. Additionally, it "supports the government's international education strategy." The report indicated that in 2023, 114,000 graduate route visas were issued to applicants, with an additional 30,000 for dependents. It further noted that students from India, Nigeria, China, and Pakistan constituted 70% of all graduate visa holders, with India exceeding 40%. Professor Brian Bell, the MAC chair and a prominent labor economist leading economics at King's College London, commented, "Our review recommends maintaining the graduate route in its current form. It does not undermine the integrity and quality of the UK's higher education system." "The graduate route is a crucial aspect of our offer to international students considering studying in the UK," Professor Bell continued. "The fees they pay contribute to universities recouping losses incurred from teaching British students and conducting research. Without these students, many universities would be forced to shrink, leading to a decline in research output. This underscores the intricate relationship between immigration and higher education policies." The report discovered that a majority of graduate visa holders had completed postgraduate programs, with the most significant growth stemming from postgraduate courses offered by non-Russell Group universities, accounting for 66% of all graduate visas. Since 2021, the proportion of primary applicants exceeding 25 years old has grown by 15 percentage points, reaching 54% in 2023. The report also revealed that while graduate visa holders initially tend to occupy lower-paying positions, their job prospects and salaries improve over time. Notably, nearly half of the initial cohort transitioned to skilled worker visas, primarily securing skilled roles. Read the full article

[xtruss]

Imran Khan Writes From Prison: Why The World Must Pay Attention To Pakistan

Imran Khan is the Founder of the Political Party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and Served as the 19th Prime Minister of Pakistan From August 2018 Until April 2022. In Jail Since 2023, He Has Been Facing Several Fake Court Cases Charging Him with Offenses Ranging From Corruption to Misuse of Power. He Denies the Accusations.

— By Imran Khan | February 28, 2025

Imran Khan, Pakistan's prime minister, speaks in a prerecorded video during the United Nations General Assembly via live stream in New York, U.S., on Friday, Sept. 24, 2021. Michael Nagle—Bloomberg via Getty Images

we settle into 2025, I reflect on what has been one of the most tumultuous and testing periods in Pakistan’s history. From my confinement in a solitary cell, I witness the heartbreaking reality of a nation gripped by authoritarian rule. Yet, despite everything, I remain steadfast in my belief in the resilience of the Pakistani people and their unwavering commitment to justice.

The politically motivated charges against me are nothing more than an attempt to silence my fight for democracy. But this struggle is not about me alone. The erosion of democracy in Pakistan has far-reaching consequences. A destabilized Pakistan threatens regional security, disrupts trade, and weakens global democratic values. The world must recognize the urgency of this crisis—not just for Pakistan’s future, but for the stability of South Asia and beyond.

The suppression of democratic voices in a country as pivotal to regional and indeed global security as Pakistan sets a dangerous precedent, one that should concern all who believe in free and fair governance.

This past year has brought unprecedented oppression. The brutal crackdown on my political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and its supporters has shocked the world. International rights groups and the U.N. have documented arbitrary detentions, and politically driven trials in military courts. To date, 103 PTI workers and office bearers have been convicted in these courts—a blatant violation of Pakistan’s commitments under international human rights conventions, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights or ICCPR. The international community, including the EU, U.K., and U.S., has voiced concerns over these trials.

These issues affect ordinary Pakistanis. Pakistan risks losing its preferential trade status with the EU, a move that would devastate our economy, particularly the textile sector. Yet, those in power in Pakistan continue down their reckless path, jeopardising Pakistan’s standing with fabricated narratives and baseless propaganda about me and my fellow PTI party workers.

The world must also pay attention because, as democracy is eroded internally in Pakistan, terrorism has surged in regions such as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. This has not happened by accident, nor is it simply chance.

Rather than addressing these critical security threats, the Pakistani military’s resources have been diverted to a campaign of vengeance against political opponents such as PTI. The judiciary, instead of being a bulwark for justice, has been reduced to what I view as a tool of political persecution. Anti-terrorism courts are now filled with PTI supporters facing absurd charges.

Homes have been raided, families have been terrorised, and even women and children have not been spared from this brutal repression. Our social media volunteers, supporters in the diaspora, and activists have had their families harassed and abducted, all in an effort to silence dissent. My party has documented 12 supporters killed by security services during anti-government protests in Islamabad in late November.

Despite my concerns about the country’s leadership, including about the allegations of fraud in the election that brought it to power, I authorised PTI’s leadership to engage in talks with the current government to prevent further violence and human rights abuses.

Our agenda was clear: a judicial commission to investigate attacks on PTI party workers and unarmed protesters. We also demanded the release of all political prisoners.

In response, I was offered house arrest in exchange for ambiguous “political space” for PTI, but I rejected this outright.

Meanwhile, Parliament has been reduced to what me and my party views as a rubber stamp for authoritarian policies. Legislation aimed at curbing judicial independence, suppressing free speech, and criminalising dissent has been pushed through without debate. Political disagreement is now labelled as “anti-state” activity, punishable by forced disappearances and draconian anti-terror laws. The last vestiges of democracy in Pakistan have been all but erased.

Beyond Parliament, it is also imperative that Pakistan’s Army Chief Syed Asim Munir acknowledges and respects the constitutional boundaries of the military. Only by doing so can Pakistan thrive under a true democratic system—one that is chosen by the people, for the people. History has shown that dictatorships in Pakistan are fleeting, but the damage they inflict lingers for generations, outlasting all those who impose them. The future of our nation depends on upholding democracy, not suppressing it.

Yet, despite these dark times, the people of Pakistan have never been more awake or aware. They see through the lies, and their determination gives me hope. The fight for justice and dignity is not an easy one, but it is one worth waging. I firmly believe that truth will prevail. Together, we will rebuild a Pakistan where citizens’ rights are protected and democracy is restored.

Outside Pakistan, the world is also at a crossroads. As global challenges—from conflict to economic instability—intensify, the need for strong and principled leadership has never been greater. It is in this context that I extend my heartfelt congratulations to President Donald J. Trump on his historic inauguration in January. His remarkable political comeback is a testament to resilience and the will of the people.

During his first tenure, the United States and Pakistan enjoyed a strong working relationship built on mutual respect. As he settles into office again, we look forward to his administration reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles, human rights, and the rule of law—particularly in regions where authoritarianism threatens to undermine these values. A democratic and stable Pakistan is in the interest of the international community, and we will continue to push for that balance to be restored.

Additionally, I encourage his administration to strengthen economic partnerships that create opportunities for nations like Pakistan to build self-sustaining economies. Fair trade policies, investment in critical sectors, and a commitment to regional stability will foster prosperity and help prevent the conditions that lead to conflict and extremism. I remain hopeful that this new chapter in U.S. leadership will bring meaningful engagement in these critical areas and contribute to fostering significant peace and progress.

As we move forward, I remain resolute in my vision for Pakistan—a nation built on justice, opportunity, and equality. The road ahead will be difficult, but I have no doubt that the people of Pakistan, united in their resolve, will overcome these challenges. Together, we will build a brighter future for generations to come.