Mohini Barman - The Purbottar

25 Oct

Britain Targets Youth Addiction with Vape Ban Proposal

Mohini BarmanInternational

The United Kingdom government has announced plans to ban disposable vapes by 2026 in an effort to combat rising nicotine addiction among teenagers. The move comes after a sharp increase in youth vaping, with health officials warning of long-term health effects. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that the government “cannot allow an entire generation to grow up addicted to nicotine.” The ban will cover the sale and manufacture of single-use vapes, while reusable and medically approved devices will still be permitted. The new regulation will also impose stricter advertising standards, limiting promotions near schools and online platforms. Public health groups…

24 Oct

Bangladesh Expands Digital Economy with New IT Export Hubs

Mohini BarmanBangladesh

Bangladesh has announced the opening of five new IT export hubs to strengthen its position in the global technology market. The initiative, supported by the Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority, aims to generate $5 billion in software and IT service exports by 2030. Officials said the hubs would create over 100,000 jobs, mainly for youth and women. Indian tech companies have shown interest in partnering with Bangladeshi startups under the South Asian Digital Partnership Forum. Experts believe the expansion of the digital economy could transform Bangladesh into a regional innovation center, similar to Bengaluru or Pune.

24 Oct

Biden Administration Launches Mega Fund to Tackle Climate Change

Mohini BarmanInternational

The United States has launched a new $50 billion global climate initiative aimed at cutting carbon emissions, promoting renewable energy, and supporting developing nations in climate adaptation. The plan, announced by President Joe Biden, focuses on partnerships with countries across Asia, Africa, and Latin America to promote sustainable technologies. The fund will assist developing economies in transitioning from fossil fuels to green energy, with India, Indonesia, and Kenya expected to be key beneficiaries. Experts say this move strengthens U.S. leadership in climate diplomacy, especially ahead of the COP30 Summit scheduled in Brazil next year. Climate analysts praised the initiative as…

23 Oct

Dhaka Unveils South Asia’s First Highway with Solar Roof Panels

Mohini BarmanBangladesh

Bangladesh has inaugurated its first solar-powered expressway connecting Dhaka to Narayanganj, marking a significant milestone in South Asia’s green infrastructure development. The 25-kilometer highway features solar panels installed along its central divider and overhead roofs, capable of generating up to 40 megawatts of electricity daily — enough to power nearby communities and reduce grid pressure. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said during the inauguration, “This project represents our vision for a cleaner, self-sufficient Bangladesh.” The initiative aligns with the government’s target to produce 10% of the nation’s energy from renewable sources by 2030. Experts praised the project as a model for…

23 Oct

UK to Ban Sale of New Petrol Cars from 2030

Mohini BarmanInternational

The United Kingdom government has reaffirmed its plan to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars starting in 2030, as part of its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the move is aimed at cutting transport-related emissions, which account for nearly one-third of the nation’s total carbon output. Under the new policy, car manufacturers will be required to gradually increase electric vehicle (EV) sales, reaching 100% by 2030. The government has also announced a £2 billion fund to expand charging infrastructure and provide incentives for EV buyers. However, the automobile…

22 Oct

Bangladesh Expands Solar Power Projects to Reduce Reliance on Imports

Mohini BarmanBangladesh

Bangladesh has announced a nationwide expansion of solar power projects aimed at cutting energy imports and promoting renewable sources. The Power Development Board said new installations will add 2,000 megawatts to the national grid within three years. The initiative is supported by international partners, including Japan and the Asian Development Bank. Officials stated that the new projects will reduce the country’s dependency on expensive liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports. Energy experts in India have noted that similar projects across the subcontinent could foster regional power-sharing agreements. Cross-border energy exchange between India, Nepal, and Bangladesh could soon become a reality, boosting…

22 Oct

Torrential Rains Batter Britain; Thousands Brace for Flooding

Mohini BarmanInternational

Heavy rainfall has disrupted life across much of the United Kingdom this week, prompting flood warnings in several counties including Yorkshire, Cumbria, and Gloucestershire. The UK Met Office reported that some regions experienced more than a month’s worth of rain within 48 hours, leading to swollen rivers and severe transport delays. Local authorities have urged residents to stay indoors and avoid traveling unless necessary. Emergency services rescued dozens of people stranded in vehicles and flooded homes. Train services between northern England and Scotland were temporarily suspended due to waterlogging on tracks. Experts say that climate change is intensifying rainfall patterns…

20 Oct

Relief for Britons as UK Inflation Falls to Three-Year Low

Mohini BarmanInternational

The United Kingdom’s inflation rate dropped to 2.3% in September, the lowest in three years, according to official data from the Office for National Statistics. The fall has been driven largely by declining energy and food prices, offering a sense of relief to millions of households struggling with cost-of-living pressures. The Bank of England is expected to maintain interest rates at 5.25% for now but may consider rate cuts early next year if the trend continues. Economists say this marks a “turning point” after two years of high inflation that eroded real incomes. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the…

18 Oct

Japan’s Robot Caregivers Transform Elderly Healthcare

Mohini Barmanjapan\

In response to its aging population, Japan has introduced robotic caregivers in eldercare facilities across Tokyo and Osaka. These robots, equipped with artificial intelligence and emotional recognition software, assist with mobility, medication reminders, and companionship. The government-backed initiative aims to fill the growing shortage of human caregivers and improve quality of life for senior citizens. Early reports suggest patients feel “less lonely” and “more independent” with robotic assistance. Tech companies such as Panasonic and SoftBank are leading the innovation, and Japan’s Health Ministry plans to expand the program nationwide by 2027. Experts in India and Nepal have shown interest in…

18 Oct

NASA to Launch First Crewed Mission to Mars by 2035

Mohini BarmanInternational

NASA has announced its ambitious plan to send the first humans to Mars by 2035, marking a major milestone in human space exploration. The project, under the “Artemis to Mars” program, aims to build on the success of lunar missions and establish a permanent human presence on the Red Planet. According to NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, the agency is working closely with international partners such as the European Space Agency and private companies like SpaceX. The upcoming Artemis IV mission will play a key role in testing long-duration space travel systems. Scientists believe the Mars mission will unlock answers about…