Canada - The Purbottar

09 Jul

Canada Battles Record Wildfire Season in British Columbia

Mohini BarmanCanada

Canada’s British Columbia is grappling with one of its worst wildfire seasons on record, as more than 150 active fires threaten homes and ecosystems. Thousands have been evacuated, with emergency crews working around the clock. The dry weather, combined with unusually high temperatures, has created a perfect storm for the rapid spread of fires. Canadian authorities have requested assistance from neighboring provinces and even international partners. The country’s wildfire management agencies are also using satellite monitoring and drone surveillance to predict hotspots. South Asian countries like Nepal and India, which also face increasing wildfire threats in hilly and forested regions,…

03 Jul

Canada Legalizes Medical Psilocybin for End-of-Life Care

Mohini BarmanCanada

In a groundbreaking move, Health Canada has approved the regulated medical use of psilocybin—the active compound in magic mushrooms—for terminally ill patients experiencing anxiety or depression. The approval follows years of advocacy by palliative care experts and patients' rights groups. The treatment will be administered in certified clinics under medical supervision. Health officials emphasize that this is not a blanket legalization, but a compassionate exception to help ease mental suffering during end-of-life care. This decision opens up possibilities for discussions in other countries, including South Asian nations, on integrating alternative therapies into palliative support.

25 Jun

Ottawa Moves to Regulate Artificial Intelligence Before Crisis Hits

Mohini BarmanCanada

Canada has officially launched the AI & Data Ethics Safety Institute in Toronto, aimed at regulating artificial intelligence use and preventing risks tied to misinformation, job loss, and discrimination. The move comes amid global efforts to align ethical frameworks with rapid AI development. Canadian Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne said the institute will work with international bodies, including the EU and India, to build safer digital systems. The announcement follows similar initiatives in the UK and USA. This is likely to influence policy decisions in South Asia, where digital economies are booming but AI regulation remains scattered. Bangladesh and India are…

24 May

Canada Announces New Immigration Reforms to Attract Skilled Workers

Mohini BarmanCanada

Canada has unveiled a new immigration policy aimed at attracting global tech talent, healthcare professionals, and skilled tradespeople. The system, launching in early 2026, will use AI-driven screening to fast-track applications from high-demand sectors. This move comes amid Canada’s labor shortage, especially in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia. The government has confirmed new bilateral agreements with India and Bangladesh to facilitate applicant pools. Nepal and Bhutanese tech workers and students may also benefit through third-country sponsorship pathways. South Asian educational consultants have welcomed the changes, predicting a surge in applications from the region.

16 May

Ottawa Approves Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy for PTSD and Depression

Mohini BarmanCanada

In a groundbreaking move, Canada has officially approved the use of psychedelics such as psilocybin and MDMA in therapeutic settings for treating PTSD and severe depression. Health Canada granted licenses to select clinics after positive trial outcomes. The decision has been hailed by mental health professionals who argue that traditional antidepressants fail for many patients. These therapies will only be administered under supervision and after all conventional treatments are tried. Mental health experts in South Asia, including India and Nepal, are watching closely. Some psychiatric associations have urged governments to begin regulated trials for similar treatments, especially in cases of…

07 May

Canada to Ban Single-Use Plastics from 2025

Mohini BarmanCanada

Canada has announced a bold plan to ban single-use plastics, such as straws, cutlery, and grocery bags, starting in 2025. The decision comes as part of the country’s commitment to reducing pollution and combating climate change. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that the ban will significantly reduce ocean waste and support recycling industries. Environmental groups have applauded the move, urging other countries—including South Asian nations facing plastic pollution challenges—to follow suit. This policy is expected to inspire similar eco-friendly initiatives in nations like India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, where waste management and environmental sustainability are growing concerns.

26 Apr

Canada Legalizes Psychedelic Therapy for Mental Health Treatment

Sonakshi SarkarCanada

In a landmark decision, Canada has legalized the medical use of psychedelics like psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms) and MDMA for treating depression, PTSD, and anxiety under professional supervision. The Canadian Health Ministry stated that evidence from clinical trials shows significant improvements in mental health conditions that resisted conventional treatments. This move is closely watched by mental health professionals globally, including those in South Asia where rates of depression and PTSD are rising, highlighting the need for innovative treatments.

27 Mar

Canada Moves to Ban Single-Use Plastics by 2025

Sonakshi SarkarCanada

Canada has announced a nationwide ban on single-use plastics, including straws, cutlery, and plastic bags, effective by 2025. The government’s initiative aims to reduce plastic waste and mitigate pollution in oceans and waterways. Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault stated that the ban aligns with Canada’s commitment to achieving zero plastic waste by 2030. Businesses are encouraged to switch to sustainable alternatives such as biodegradable packaging and reusable materials. Environmental groups have praised the decision, citing the devastating impact of plastic pollution on marine life. However, some industries have expressed concerns about the financial burden of transitioning to eco-friendly materials. The government…

18 Mar

Carney Visits Macron and Starmer to Strengthen Ties Against U.S. Trade Policies

Sonakshi SarkarCanada

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is on his first overseas trip to France and the UK, seeking stronger alliances in response to President Donald Trump's trade policies affecting Canada's sovereignty and economy. In Paris, Carney and French President Emmanuel Macron presented a united stance against economic and geopolitical challenges, implicitly referencing Trump's trade war and "America first" diplomacy. Carney emphasized Canada's position as the "most European of the non-European countries," highlighting the importance of reliable allies. The trip underscores Canada's efforts to navigate the complexities of current international trade dynamics and reinforce partnerships with key European nations.

18 Feb

Canada Increases Refugee Intake Amid Global Crises

editorCanada

Canada has announced a significant expansion of its refugee resettlement program, aiming to welcome 50,000 additional refugees over the next three years. The policy is a response to ongoing humanitarian crises in regions such as the Middle East and Africa. Priority will be given to families, women, and children at risk. The Canadian government will also work with international agencies to ensure safe and efficient relocation. This initiative reinforces Canada’s reputation as a leader in global humanitarian efforts.