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New York City has announced an expansion of its school-based mental health initiative, offering free counseling services across all public high schools. The program will include on-site psychologists, peer-support groups, and parental workshops. The decision follows data showing a 40% rise in teenage anxiety and depression since the pandemic. Mayor Eric Adams stated that “mental health is just as important as academics.” This approach is gaining interest among South Asian education leaders, especially in urban areas like Kolkata, Dhaka, and Kathmandu, where student stress and academic pressure are high.

Tens of thousands took to the streets in Germany this week, protesting the growing influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Demonstrations were held in major cities including Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg, with protestors demanding the government curb extremist rhetoric and policies. The protests were sparked by leaked reports suggesting AfD members were involved in secret meetings discussing deportation of immigrants. Human rights groups have expressed deep concern about the implications for democratic values in Europe. The developments are being closely followed in South Asian countries with large diaspora communities in Germany, especially from Bangladesh and India.