International - The Purbottar

26 Sep

Freeport’s Grasberg Mudslide Cuts Supply, Sends Metals Soaring

Mohini BarmanInternational

Copper prices have jumped sharply following a fatal mudslide at Freeport-McMoRan’s Grasberg mine in Papua, Indonesia — one of the world’s largest producers. The company has declared force majeure, citing major disruption to output and transportation routes. The Grasberg mine accounts for around 3% of global copper production, and the reduced supply has triggered concerns about deficits in 2025 and beyond. Analysts say the shock could ripple across commodity markets, especially in countries dependent on copper imports. Shares of major miners rose in response, while investors scrambled to reposition portfolios. Many see this as a reminder of the fragility of…

24 Sep

Airport Chaos Sparks Fears of Infrastructure Attacks

Mohini BarmanInternational

Flights were grounded in both Denmark and Norway after unauthorized drones were detected in the airspace near major airports overnight. The disruptions affected tens of thousands of passengers as flights were diverted or delayed across the region. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen described the incident as possibly the “most serious attack on Danish critical infrastructure to date.” Norwegian authorities also confirmed broad disruptions. Investigations are underway on whether the drone incursions were coordinated, with speculation about Russian involvement in light of regional tensions. NATO condemned airspace violations over Estonia just days earlier, heightening security concerns across Northern Europe. Analysts say…

23 Sep

Hurricane Lee Slams US East Coast

Mohini BarmanInternational

Hurricane Lee made landfall on the US East Coast on Friday, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding across New England. Authorities evacuated thousands from vulnerable coastal towns, while airlines canceled more than 800 flights. Power lines collapsed in Massachusetts, leaving over 300,000 homes without electricity. Emergency services said rescue teams are working round the clock to clear roads and restore power. Meteorologists warn that climate change is making Atlantic storms more intense, causing longer-lasting damage. President Joe Biden has pledged federal aid to assist recovery.

22 Sep

US Teachers Strike in Chicago Over Pay and Class Sizes

Mohini BarmanInternational

Public schools across Chicago remained closed on Friday as thousands of teachers went on strike demanding higher wages, smaller class sizes, and more mental health staff in schools. Union leaders say teachers have been underpaid while dealing with overcrowded classrooms, which affects both staff morale and student performance. The city government has called the strike “disruptive” but acknowledged that negotiations are ongoing. Parents expressed frustration, balancing sympathy for teachers with the challenges of childcare during closures. Analysts believe the strike could set a precedent for other US cities where education unions are pressing for reform.

19 Sep

Berlin Speeds Up Clean Energy Push

Mohini BarmanInternational

The German government has announced an accelerated plan to shut down all coal-fired power plants by 2030, five years earlier than previously scheduled. Economy Minister Robert Habeck said the move is crucial to meeting climate targets and reducing dependency on imported fuels. Renewable sources, particularly wind and solar, will replace the lost capacity. Environmental groups have welcomed the decision, while energy companies have sought financial support for the transition. The shift is expected to influence EU climate policy and encourage other European nations to fast-track their energy transitions.

19 Sep

UN Warns of Rising Global Hunger

Mohini BarmanInternational

The United Nations’ latest report warns that global hunger has risen for the fourth consecutive year, affecting over 780 million people worldwide. Conflict, climate change, and economic slowdown have worsened food insecurity, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South Asia. The report notes that despite record global harvests, distribution and affordability remain critical issues. The World Food Programme has called for urgent international cooperation, highlighting that children are the most vulnerable group. Analysts warn the crisis could trigger further migration and political instability if left unaddressed.

18 Sep

American Consumers Still Struggle Despite Economic Relief

Mohini BarmanInternational

The latest U.S. Labor Department data shows annual inflation cooled to 3.2% in August, easing pressure on the Federal Reserve to hike interest rates further. However, food and housing costs remain stubbornly high, continuing to pinch household budgets. Analysts note that while energy prices fell, grocery bills are still up by nearly 5% compared to last year. President Joe Biden welcomed the slowdown but acknowledged that “families are still feeling the burden of everyday costs.” For global markets, the development signals stability in the U.S. economy, which influences trade, investment, and currency flows across Asia and Europe.

18 Sep

Modi Replies to Gates’ Birthday Note, Emphasizes India’s Role in Global Progress

editorBusiness, International, National, Political

Thank you for your kind greetings, Bill Gates. "India looks forward to collaborating to create a sustainable and promising future for future generations," Prime Minister Modi said. As Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates wished PM Modi a happy 75th birthday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reacted on Thursday with thanks, emphasizing the necessity of working together to create a sustainable future for future generations. "Thank you for your nice greeting, @BillGates. India looks forward to collaborating to create a sustainable and prosperous future for future generations," PM Modi wrote in a post on X. In his greeting on Wednesday, Gates…

17 Sep

Support for Renewable Energy and Electric Mobility

Mohini BarmanInternational

The German government has approved a €10 billion fund to accelerate the country’s transition to renewable energy and green industries. The fund will support electric vehicle charging networks, hydrogen fuel research, and solar and wind projects. Chancellor Olaf Scholz said the initiative will “secure Germany’s leadership in climate innovation” while creating jobs. European observers believe this move also strengthens Germany’s influence in the EU’s collective climate policy.

17 Sep

Tech Giant Pushes Deeper into Artificial Intelligence

Mohini BarmanInternational

Apple has launched its latest iPhone model with advanced artificial intelligence features integrated into its operating system. The device includes real-time language translation, enhanced photo editing through AI, and smarter Siri voice assistance. CEO Tim Cook said the move reflects Apple’s “commitment to merging hardware, software, and intelligence seamlessly.” Analysts believe this AI push is a response to growing competition from Google and Samsung. Customers in the U.S. and Europe will get the first deliveries next week, while Asian markets, including India, are expected to see rollouts by the end of the month.