International - The Purbottar

11 Nov

U.S. Election 2025: Early Polls Show Tight Race Between Democrats and Republicans

Mohini BarmanInternational

The upcoming 2025 U.S. presidential election is shaping up to be one of the most closely contested in recent history. Early national polls show both the Democratic and Republican nominees running neck and neck, with less than a two-point difference in voter support. Economic uncertainty, immigration policy, and healthcare reforms are among the major issues dominating voter sentiment. Political analysts believe that younger voters and suburban women could decide the outcome, as both parties ramp up digital outreach and local campaigning. The Democrats are focusing on protecting democracy and climate policy, while the Republicans are promising stricter border controls and…

10 Nov

U.S. Inflation Cools to 3.1%, Raising Hopes for Fed Rate Cut

Mohini BarmanInternational

The U.S. inflation rate fell to 3.1% in September, the lowest in more than two years, signaling a possible end to the Federal Reserve’s aggressive rate hikes. Energy and housing costs, major inflation drivers, saw modest declines, while food prices remained stable. Economists suggest that if the trend continues, the Fed may announce a rate cut early next year. President Joe Biden welcomed the news, calling it “a sign that our recovery is strong and steady.” However, analysts warn that lingering global uncertainties — including Middle East tensions and Chinese market instability — could still impact long-term stability. The Dow…

08 Nov

US Inflation Eases Slightly, Raising Hopes for Interest Rate Cuts

Mohini BarmanInternational

The latest US Labor Department data shows inflation easing to 3.2% in September, marking a slight decline from August’s 3.4%. This moderation has fueled optimism that the Federal Reserve may soon consider reducing its benchmark interest rates, which have remained high since 2023. Food and housing costs continue to rise, but energy and transportation prices have seen noticeable declines. Economists say this trend indicates that the US economy is stabilizing after a turbulent two years marked by pandemic-related disruptions and global conflicts affecting supply chains. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell stated that the inflation trend “is moving in the right…

06 Nov

UK to Launch Mandatory Digital ID for Workers by End of Term

Mohini BarmanInternational

The United Kingdom government has revealed a plan to introduce a mandatory digital identity scheme for citizens and resident workers, aiming to make employment checks more robust and streamline access to public services. According to announcements, by the end of this parliamentary term the new system will require anyone working in the country to verify identity online via a government-approved digital ID. The move is described by ministers as a dual measure: tightening security, particularly in the labour market, and simplifying interactions with services like welfare, healthcare, and driver licensing. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the scheme will “help ensure…

04 Nov

Africa’s Largest Wind Farm to Power New Cross-Border Grid Project

Mohini BarmanInternational

Kenya’s Lake Turkana Wind Power Project — already Africa’s largest — will expand its capacity by 25% to supply power to Ethiopia, Uganda, and Tanzania through a regional energy grid. The project currently provides nearly 17% of Kenya’s total electricity. The expansion, funded by the African Development Bank and the EU, is expected to be completed by 2027. Kenyan President William Ruto stated, “Clean energy is no longer a luxury; it’s the backbone of our growth.” The initiative aligns with the African Union’s vision of a continent-wide renewable energy corridor. For India and South Asia, this development holds lessons in…

04 Nov

UK to Introduce ‘Digital Pound’ by 2028

Mohini BarmanInternational

The United Kingdom’s Treasury and the Bank of England have confirmed plans to launch a “digital pound” by 2028. The digital version of sterling will operate alongside physical cash, allowing citizens and businesses to make secure online payments directly with central bank money. Officials say the initiative will strengthen financial inclusion and support the modern economy in a rapidly digitising world. The Bank of England will begin public trials by 2026, focusing on privacy protection and cybersecurity. Finance Minister Rachel Reeves said, “The digital pound will ensure the UK remains competitive in the global financial system.” However, critics warn that…

31 Oct

France Introduces New Visa Policy for Digital Nomads

Mohini BarmanInternational

France has launched a new “Digital Nomad Visa” designed to attract skilled remote professionals from around the world. The visa allows foreign freelancers, IT experts, and creative workers to live and work in France for up to two years. The move aims to boost France’s growing tech ecosystem, particularly in Paris, Lyon, and Bordeaux, where startup hubs are flourishing. Applicants must show stable income, proof of remote employment, and valid health insurance. French officials hope this will bring innovation and diversity to the national economy. The initiative mirrors similar programs in Portugal and Estonia, both of which have seen economic…

31 Oct

U.S. Senate Approves Major AI Regulation Bill

Mohini BarmanInternational

In a historic move, the U.S. Senate has passed a comprehensive bill to regulate artificial intelligence (AI), marking the first major federal legislation on the technology. The “AI Accountability and Safety Act” was approved with strong bipartisan support and is aimed at ensuring transparency, privacy protection, and responsible use of AI in public and private sectors. The bill mandates that companies developing AI systems disclose training data sources, prevent algorithmic bias, and ensure human oversight in critical decision-making. It also proposes the formation of a national AI ethics board. U.S. President Joe Biden is expected to sign the bill into…

29 Oct

Biden Administration Pushes Massive Investment in Clean Energy and Jobs

Mohini BarmanInternational

The United States government has unveiled a $2 trillion green infrastructure package aimed at transforming the country’s energy system and creating millions of jobs. The plan, announced by President Joe Biden, includes major investments in renewable energy, electric vehicle infrastructure, and climate-resilient public transport. Under the proposal, the government will fund the construction of solar and wind power plants, expand charging stations for electric vehicles, and modernize the national electricity grid. A significant portion of the investment will also go toward repairing aging roads, bridges, and water systems, with strict environmental standards applied. Experts say the move could significantly cut…

27 Oct

Tokyo’s New Robots Aim to Ease Nursing Shortage in Aging Society

Mohini BarmanInternational

Japan has launched a nationwide program deploying AI-powered care robots to assist its rapidly aging population. The robots, developed by several local tech firms, are designed to help with mobility, medicine reminders, and emotional support. The initiative, supported by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, seeks to address the country’s acute shortage of caregivers. Japan currently has one of the highest elderly populations in the world — nearly 30% of citizens are over 65. Early trials in Osaka and Tokyo show that elderly residents feel more engaged and less isolated when interacting with robots. “They remind me to take…