Sonakshi Sarkar - The Purbottar

08 Apr

Sikkim advisor Lama proposes regional trade and transport plan

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

In a significant push for regional cooperation, Professor Mahendra P Lama, Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of Sikkim, has unveiled a comprehensive plan to transform trade and transport connectivity in Eastern South Asia. In his latest paper titled “Strengthening Trade and Transport Connectivity in Eastern South Asia”, published by UNESCAP in March 2025, Lama identifies the lack of efficient infrastructure and outdated border systems as key barriers to regional integration between Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal (BBIN). Lama emphasizes that despite shared borders and historical ties, the region faces high trade costs, poor road and rail networks, and complicated…

08 Apr

Assam, Mizoram prepare for key border discussions in Guwahati

Sonakshi SarkarAssam

In a renewed push to resolve their long-standing border dispute, Assam and Mizoram will hold a fresh round of official-level talks on April 25 in Guwahati. The meeting aims to ease tensions and work towards a peaceful and mutually acceptable solution for the people living along the volatile border. Mizoram Home Minister K Sapdanga confirmed the development, stating that preparations are underway and the state is finalising its delegation. The Mizoram team is likely to be led by Home Secretary Vanlalmawia. Assam officials have already extended a formal invitation for the talks. This round of dialogue comes after delays earlier…

07 Apr

Sikkim BJP reiterates its support for Article 371(F) and indigenous rights

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

On the occasion of its 46th Foundation Day and the 50th anniversary of Sikkim’s merger with India, the Sikkim unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) reiterated its firm commitment to protecting the rights of indigenous communities and strengthening Article 371(F) of the Constitution. During the celebration, party leaders passed key resolutions calling for stronger constitutional safeguards to preserve Sikkim’s unique identity. Article 371(F grants special provisions to Sikkim following its merger in 1975. The BJP demanded Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for twelve left-out communities in the state, citing historical relevance and the constitutional protections under Article 371(F). The party…

07 Apr

UK’s NHS Launches Nationwide Mental Health App for Youth

Sonakshi SarkarUK

The National Health Service (NHS) of the United Kingdom has launched a free mental health app designed to support youth struggling with anxiety, depression, and stress. Named “MindMate”, the app uses AI-based chat support, therapist booking, and mindfulness exercises. It’s part of a broader £150 million mental health reform targeting youth aged 13–25. UK Health Secretary Victoria Atkins stated, “We need to meet young people where they are—on their phones—with services that can genuinely help.” The app is expected to benefit over 3 million young people in the UK. In countries like Bangladesh and India, where adolescent mental health is…

07 Apr

CM of Assam emphasizes how indigenous shaping state’s cultural legacy

Sonakshi SarkarAssam

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday hailed the cultural contributions of the state’s indigenous communities, particularly the Bodo people, during the 32nd Annual Conference of the Dularai Bathou Goutham (All Bathou Mahasabha) held at Pathalikuchi in Tamulpur district. Addressing the open session of the event, CM Sarma acknowledged the deep-rooted cultural, spiritual, and religious practices of indigenous groups that have enriched Assam’s heritage. He emphasized the importance of preserving these traditions, calling them a vital part of the state’s “cultural corpus” and a reflection of the wider ethnocultural identity of the nation. “The customs, rites, and ceremonial traditions…

07 Apr

Apple to Manufacture iPhones in Indonesia from 2025

Sonakshi SarkarInternational

Apple Inc. is set to begin iPhone manufacturing in Indonesia by mid-2025, marking a strategic move to diversify its production lines beyond China and India. The decision follows Indonesia's tech investment reforms and a rapidly growing domestic market. The factory, to be established in Java, is expected to generate over 5,000 direct jobs. Apple’s partner, Foxconn, will spearhead the initial phases, with local government incentives encouraging the use of Indonesian components. Indonesia's Ministry of Industry stated the move will boost national electronics exports and attract further global investments. This development is also of significance to South Asian markets, as it…

05 Apr

Kenya Hosts Groundbreaking Conference on African Space Exploration

Sonakshi SarkarInternational

Kenya has hosted the first Pan-African Space and Satellite Conference in Nairobi, drawing representatives from 25 nations to discuss the future of space science on the continent. The conference, organized by the African Union, aims to foster collaboration in satellite research, climate monitoring, and even potential space missions. Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Defence and Space Affairs, Aden Duale, stated, “Space is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity for communication, climate data, and development.” The country has already launched two small satellites in recent years and is planning a national space center by 2027. The event was lauded by India’s…

05 Apr

Japan Launches World’s First Flying Taxi Service in Osaka

Sonakshi Sarkarjapan\

Japan has made aviation history by launching the world’s first flying taxi service in Osaka ahead of Expo 2025. The electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, developed by SkyDrive Inc., can carry two passengers and a pilot across urban areas, dramatically reducing commute times. The project, supported by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, has been in testing since 2022. The flying taxis will initially operate between Osaka's Kansai Airport and the Expo site, cutting a 40-minute road trip down to just 10 minutes. SkyDrive CEO Tomohiro Fukuzawa stated, “Our goal is to make air mobility accessible…

04 Apr

Sikkim government submits final report on ST status for 12 communities

Sonakshi SarkarSikkim

In a major step toward securing Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for 12 left-out communities in Sikkim, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Thursday chaired the fourth and final meeting of the Sikkim State High-Level Committee (SSHLC) in Gangtok. The SSHLC, formed in December 2024, was tasked with conducting ethnographic studies and field research to assess the eligibility of the communities based on the Government of India’s criteria. The final report, shaped through rigorous stakeholder consultations, will now be submitted to the Centre. The meeting saw participation from Cabinet ministers, MLAs, researchers, community leaders, and senior officials. Discussions focused on the…

04 Apr

Germany to Ban Gas-Powered Cars by 2035

Sonakshi SarkarGermany

Germany has officially announced a ban on the sale of gasoline and diesel-powered cars by 2035, aligning with the European Union’s push for a carbon-neutral future. The country plans to shift entirely to electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, making it one of the most ambitious climate policies in the auto industry. Transportation Minister Volker Wissing stated, “This is a necessary step toward a sustainable future. Germany must lead in green mobility.” Automakers like Volkswagen and BMW have already started ramping up electric vehicle (EV) production. Critics argue that the transition could impact jobs in the traditional automotive industry, but the government…