‘Stop invasion and deport them’: Texas activist targets Hanuman temple, Indian Immigrants

Posted on February 16, 2026 by Srinivas Chakravarty

A Texas-based conservative activist has sparked controversy after sharing a video of a 90-foot-tall “Statue of Union” of Lord Hanuman, which is located at the Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Sugar Land, Texas. While sharing the video, Carlos Turcios, a Republican activist based in the Dallas, Fort Worth region, said that third World Aliens are slowly taking over Texas and America.

🚨SUGAR LAND, TEXAS🚨This is not Islamabad, Pakistan, or New Delhi, India. This is Sugar Land, Texas. Third World Aliens are slowly taking over Texas and America. Why is the third-largest statue in the US this??!

Stop the INVASION!

Follow:@Carlos__Turcios pic.twitter.com/hzNIunlyQ4

— Carlos Turcios (@Carlos__Turcios) February 16, 2026

In a post on X, he aid, “stop the invasion.”His remarks drew support from some anti-immigration users while others criticised the post as racist and misleading.One of the supporters said, “Stop the invasion and deport them all.”

Another said, “Disgusting. Get rid of it as soon as possible. What is wrong with Texas? Gotta be money.” While critics claimed, “Wasn’t Charlie Kirk saying about Secularism being a western and Christian value? Besides there are way more churches and Jesus statues in India than there are Hindu temples and statues in the US.”

Inaugurated in August 2024, this Panchaloha Abhaya Hanuman statue is the tallest in North America, representing strength, devotion, and a “spiritual epicenter” for peace. Earlier also, Turcios had criticised claiming that “third world aliens” were entering the US through H-1B visas and said that Frisco had been “invaded.”

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AI Impact Summit: Long Queues, Brief Evacuation Create Confusion at Pragati Maidan

Posted on February 16, 2026 by Sridhar P

What was billed as a landmark showcase of India’s AI ambitions descended into disarray on its opening day, with throngs of attendees facing interminable queues, sudden evacuations, and logistical nightmares at the Pragati Maidan venue in the capital.

The India AI Impact Summit, running through February 20, drew sharp online backlash as delegates, startups, and journalists reported overcrowding, inadequate signage, and conflicting access protocols. With an expected footfall of 250,000, the event aimed to position India as a voice for emerging economies in AI governance.

Instead, organizational hiccups threatened to eclipse the government’s narrative of technological prowess under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration.Several participants described a frantic morning, with entry delayed until late, only for the exhibition hall to be abruptly cleared for security sweeps ahead of high-profile arrivals. “Unclear instructions had left many scrambling to reclaim possessions,” one delegate told Reporters, echoing sentiments shared widely on social media.

Venue Evacuated Briefly

The chaos peaked around midday when the venue was evacuated for hours of sanitization, stranding exhibitors and founders outside without water or updates. Punit Jain, founder of developer platform Reskilll, captured the frustration in a viral post on X: “An AI Summit that sidelines its own builders? • 7 AM queues • 9 AM entry • 12 PM full evacuation • Hours of sanitization • PM visit at 5 PM. Day 1 Ends here. Meanwhile, exhibitors, delegates, startup founders left outside. No water. No clarity.”

An AI Summit that sidelines its own builders?

• 7 AM queues
• 9 AM entry
• 12 PM full evacuation
• Hours of sanitization
• PM visit at 5 PM
. Day 1 Ends here

Meanwhile — exhibitors, delegates, startup founders left outside. No water. No clarity.

Media shows celebration.… pic.twitter.com/u6hXBbiDG6

— Punit Jain (@punit__jain) February 16, 2026

Jain, who tagged IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and the Prime Minister’s Office, accused organizers of mobilizing the ecosystem only to displace it, calling it “not how we build India’s AI future.”

Journalists fared no better, grappling with mismatched digital QR codes and promised physical passes that never materialized. In a WhatsApp group for media covering the event, reporters lamented a lack of workspaces, with one noting the absence of seating to file stories or conduct interviews.

Sreenivasan R, an education and tech activist, highlighted the disorganization in real-time:

“@OfficialINDIAai

@IndiaAiExpo

chaotic entry,

@DiGiyatra

no use. Thousands in 5Queues and one bags scanner. Poor management across. No proper directions. People going in circles. Sessions cancelled, agenda vanishing from App. Labelling wrongly done at rooms.” Sreenivasan, an alumnus of IIM Bangalore and Jawaharlal Nehru University, added that he was “helping wherever” possible amid the confusion.

International Visitors in Dismay

Even international visitors expressed dismay. Raj Vardhan, who traveled from the United States, described his ordeal: “Flew all the way from the US for the AI Summit, only to face chaos on Day 1. Overcrowded, poorly planned, and couldn’t get into a single session. To make it worse, endless political convoys blocking roads turned getting out into a nightmare.”

Vardhan’s post, hashtagged #AISummit and #AIIndia, voiced cautious optimism for Day 2, urging a demonstration of “true AI leadership.” The complaints echoed an earlier vent from Maitreya Wagh, co-founder of AI voice startup Bolna, who found himself locked out of his own booth: “Gates are closed so could not access my own booth at the AI Summit. If you’re also stuck outside and wanted to visit the Bola team, dm me. We may set up a mini-booth at some Connaught Place cafe.”

For now, attendees are bracing for Tuesday’s panels, where some speakers remain in limbo over session confirmations and agendas. Amid the glitches, the summit’s core message, amplifying Global South perspectives on ethical AI, hangs in the balance, overshadowed by the very disorganization it sought to transcend.

2,000-year-old Iron Age temple discovered in Denmark

Posted on February 16, 2026 by Srinivas Chakravarty

Beneath what appeared for generations to be an unremarkable stretch of grassland in central Jutland, archaeologists have uncovered one of the most consequential Iron Age sites ever found in Denmark: a vast, fortified settlement centred on a monumental temple dating back nearly 2,000 years.

The discovery at Hedegaard, near Ejstrupholm, is reshaping historians’ understanding of how power, religion and long-distance connections were organised in northern Europe around the turn of the Common Era. Danish archaeologists say the site was not a peripheral village but a regional power centre, combining ritual authority, political control and economic activity within a single, carefully planned landscape.

“This is not just another settlement,” said Martin Winther Olesen, museum inspector at Museum Midtjylland. “Everything here is bigger, more complex and more deliberate than what we normally see. Nothing is ordinary.”

A Landscape That Hid Its Past

For decades, Hedegaard gave little hint of what lay beneath. Unlike many archaeological sites disturbed by deep ploughing, the area’s cultural layers remained remarkably intact, protected by relatively light agricultural use. That preservation would prove crucial.

The site first drew attention in 1986, when archaeologist Orla Madsen uncovered an unusually rich burial ground containing weapons — a signal that the area held higher-status remains. Excavations continued sporadically until 1993, after which the site slipped into dormancy.

It was only after research resumed in 2016, and intensified fieldwork in 2023, that archaeologists realised the graves were just one element of a much larger whole. What emerged was a fortified complex comprising elite residences, workshops, defensive palisades and a central temple — all laid out on a scale rarely seen in Iron Age Denmark.

The Temple at the Heart of Power

At the centre of Hedegaard stands the most striking discovery: a large ceremonial building, dated to around 0 AD, offering some of the clearest evidence yet of Iron Age religious architecture in Denmark.

The temple measures roughly 15 by 16 metres, almost rectangular in form. A ring of robust posts creates a colonnade encircling a smaller inner structure. This inner building was constructed with deeply set posts, clay walls and split wooden planks, and features a south-facing entrance — a detail archaeologists believe carried symbolic meaning.

Inside, researchers uncovered a raised 2-by-2-metre hearth, decorated with stamped and linear patterns. Crucially, the hearth shows no signs of everyday cooking.

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“This was not a domestic space,” archaeologists say. “It was a ritual one.” The find provides rare physical evidence of how religious ceremonies may have been staged, offering insight into belief systems that were previously known mostly through later texts and scattered finds.

Fortifications in the Shadow of Rome

Hedegaard’s scale and defences also place it firmly within a wider European context. Around the time the temple was built, the Roman Empire was expanding northwards, reaching as far as the River Elbe, not far from Jutland.

Archaeologists believe Hedegaard’s palisades and defensive structures were not incidental. Their design reflects technical knowledge and strategic planning, possibly shaped by awareness of Roman military organisation and the shifting balance of power in northern Europe.

“The fortifications may have been practical,” Olesen said, “but they were also symbolic. They sent a message: this was a place of authority, not to be challenged lightly.”

Taken together, the discoveries at Hedegaard challenge older views of Iron Age Denmark as a landscape of loosely connected farming communities. Instead, the site points to centralised power, controlled by elites who commanded resources, organised large-scale construction and maintained long-distance contacts.

The combination of ritual space, political authority and economic activity in one location suggests Hedegaard functioned as a hub — a place where decisions were made, alliances forged and religious legitimacy reinforced.

For archaeologists, the implications extend far beyond central Jutland.

“This forces us to rethink how power was structured in northern Europe at the dawn of the Roman era,” researchers say. “Hedegaard was not on the margins of history. It was very much part of it.”

Ten Years After Paris Climate Pact, Warming Curve Steepens Alarmingly

Posted on February 16, 2026 by Sridhar P

Ten years after the Paris Agreement entered into force with the promise of bending the global temperature curve, the latest scientific data suggest the opposite has happened. The planet is warming faster, not slower, and the physical systems that regulate Earth’s climate are crossing thresholds once considered distant risks.

Newly released datasets from leading climate agencies show that 2025 ranks among the three hottest years ever recorded, while atmospheric greenhouse gases, ocean heat and sea levels all reached new highs. Together, the numbers paint a sobering picture: efforts to rein in fossil fuel use have not kept pace with the scale of the challenge.

A decade on, the world is drifting further from its climate goals.

Emissions in Reality

Countries with Highest Carbon Footprint

Measurements from the World Meteorological Organization’s Global Atmosphere Watch network show concentrations of carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide climbing to record levels, the primary driver behind the sharp temperature rise observed from 2023 to 2025.

According to the Global Carbon Budget, global fossil-fuel carbon dioxide emissions are projected to reach 38.1 billion tonnes in 2025, the highest level ever recorded. Coal, oil and gas use continue to rise, offsetting gains from renewable energy deployment.

The report, compiled by more than 130 scientists worldwide, estimates emissions will grow by 1.1% in 2026, pushing atmospheric CO₂ concentrations to roughly 52% above pre-industrial levels.

Scientists warn the remaining carbon budget is vanishingly small. To have a reasonable chance of limiting warming to 1.5°C, humanity can emit only about 170 billion tonnes more CO₂, roughly four years of emissions at current rates.

Regionally, trends diverge. Emissions are still rising in China, India, the United States and the European Union, while Japan has recorded a modest decline.

A Decade of Acceleration in Temperatures

Data from NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies show Earth’s surface temperature in 2025 averaged 1.19°C above the 1951–1980 baseline, effectively tying with 2023 as the warmest year on record.

When measured against the pre-industrial era, the picture is starker. The WMO’s consolidated dataset places 2025 at 1.44°C above pre-industrial levels, ranking it among the three hottest years in the 176-year instrumental record.

Independent analyses from Berkeley Earth confirm the trend: warming has accelerated notably since the mid-2010s, coinciding with a surge in cumulative emissions.

Arctic: Sea Ice at Historic Lows

The Arctic is warming more than twice as fast as the global average, according to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

NOAA’s 2025 Arctic Report Card found that the period from October 2024 to September 2025 was the warmest in the region since records began in 1900. In March 2025, Arctic sea-ice extent reached its lowest winter maximum ever recorded, covering just 14.47 million square kilometres, data from the U.S. National Ice Center show.

Scientists warn that shrinking sea ice not only accelerates warming, by reducing the Earth’s reflectivity, but also disrupts weather patterns far beyond the polar regions.

Oceans: Absorbing the Heat, Raising the Seas

The oceans, which absorb more than 90% of the excess heat trapped by greenhouse gases, set new records in 2025. NOAA and Berkeley Earth report that upper-ocean heat content reached its highest level ever measured.

As oceans warm, they expand. Combined with melting glaciers and ice sheets, this has pushed global sea levels steadily higher. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change projects a rise of 0.20 to 0.29 metres by 2050, compared with the 1995–2014 average, a change that threatens coastal cities, ports and low-lying nations.

A Decade After Paris

When the Paris Agreement was adopted, governments pledged to keep warming “well below” 2°C and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C. A decade later, the data show the world edging perilously close to that lower threshold, without a credible pathway to stop there.

The science does not argue that Paris failed; it shows that implementation has lagged ambition. What the next decade delivers will depend less on new pledges than on whether the existing ones finally translate into structural change.

For now, the climate system is delivering its verdict in numbers, and those numbers are moving faster than diplomacy.

Charged over false Walmart kidnapping charges, Indian-Origin Man files lawsuit now

Posted on February 16, 2026 by Naresh Kumar

A Georgia man who spent more than six weeks behind bars after being accused of trying to kidnap a toddler inside a Walmart has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit, alleging that police and prosecutors pursued charges despite video evidence that contradicted the accusation.

The lawsuit, filed on February 9, 2026, in federal court in Atlanta, was brought by Mahendra Patel, 57, of Acworth, Georgia. Patel was arrested in March 2025 after a fellow shopper told police he attempted to abduct her 2-year-old son inside a Walmart Supercenter. He remained in the Cobb County Jail for more than 40 days without bond before prosecutors ultimately dismissed the case later that year.

Patel’s complaint names Caroline Miller, the woman who made the accusation, as well as the Acworth Police Department, the Cobb County District Attorney’s Office, and several individual investigators. The lawsuit alleges wrongful prosecution, false arrest and violations of Patel’s constitutional rights under federal law.

According to the complaint, authorities continued to pursue felony charges even after reviewing store surveillance footage that Patel’s attorneys say clearly showed he committed no crime.

“The video proves what we have said from the beginning, Mr. Patel did nothing wrong,” one of his attorneys said in a statement. “Yet he was jailed, publicly branded a criminal, and stripped of his liberty without probable cause.”

Surveillance Video at the Center of the Case

At the heart of the lawsuit is Walmart surveillance video that Patel says was either ignored or mischaracterized by investigators. According to Patel and his legal team, the footage shows him briefly assisting the toddler, who appeared unsteady on his feet, while Patel was shopping in the store’s pharmacy area.

Patel has consistently denied attempting to take the child. At a news conference after the charges were dropped, he described the incident as a moment of ordinary human concern that spiraled into what he called a life-altering ordeal.

“I went in to get Tylenol,” Patel said. “Instead, I got the biggest headache of my life.”

His attorneys argue that the video undermines the core allegation of attempted kidnapping and that there was no evidence Patel tried to remove the child from his mother or the store.

Arrest at Gunpoint, Weeks in Jail

According to the lawsuit and reporting by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Patel was pulled over and arrested at gunpoint shortly after the Walmart incident. He was charged and booked into the Cobb County Jail, where he remained for more than six weeks without bond.

During that time, the complaint states, Patel lost income, suffered emotional distress and experienced lasting damage to his reputation within his community. The lawsuit also alleges that investigators failed to properly assess exculpatory evidence and that prosecutors proceeded with the case despite knowing the evidence was weak.

Patel’s legal team claims authorities either ignored or withheld evidence favorable to the defense, a charge that, if proven, could raise serious constitutional questions about due process.

Claims of a Broader Systemic Problem

The lawsuit seeks unspecified compensatory damages for financial losses and emotional harm, punitive damages to deter similar conduct, and reimbursement of legal fees.

In a statement, Patel’s attorney said the case reflects a broader concern about the criminal justice system’s handling of high-emotion allegations.

“This is what happens when accusations are treated as facts and evidence is treated as an inconvenience,” the attorney said. “No one should lose their freedom because authorities fail to do their job.”

Neither the Acworth Police Department nor the Cobb County District Attorney’s Office has publicly commented on the lawsuit as of publication. Court filings do not indicate when defendants are expected to respond.

Aftermath and Unanswered Questions

While the criminal case against Patel has been dismissed, the civil lawsuit is likely to reopen scrutiny of how the investigation was conducted, and why Patel remained jailed for weeks despite the existence of video evidence that his attorneys say contradicted the accusation.

For Patel, the lawsuit is not only about financial compensation, but about clearing his name. “You can’t get those days back,” he said. “But you can tell the truth.”

The case now moves into federal court, where judges will determine whether the actions of police and prosecutors crossed the line from error into constitutional violation, a distinction that could have implications well beyond one man’s experience in a Walmart aisle.

Is US Military Preparing For Weeks-Long Iran Operations?

Posted on February 15, 2026 by Sridhar P

The US military is preparing contingency plans for the possibility of sustained, weeks-long operations against Iran if President Donald Trump authorises military action, according to two US officials cited by Reuters in its report. Such preparations point to a scenario that would go far beyond the limited, one-off strikes seen previously between the two countries.

The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the planning, said the scope of military options under consideration underscores the high stakes surrounding ongoing diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran.

US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are scheduled to hold talks with Iranian representatives in Geneva on Tuesday, with Oman acting as a mediator. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said over the weekend that President Trump still prefers a diplomatic solution, but acknowledged that negotiations with Tehran remain challenging.

Even as diplomacy continues, Washington has significantly bolstered its military presence in the region. US officials confirmed that the Pentagon is deploying an additional aircraft carrier to the Middle East, along with fighter aircraft, guided-missile destroyers and thousands of troops. The buildup has heightened concerns about a possible escalation into open conflict.

Trump for Regime Change

Speaking after a military event at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, Trump openly raised the prospect of political change in Iran, suggesting that a change in government “seems like that would be the best thing that could happen.” He declined to name potential successors, saying only that “there are people.”

Trump has previously expressed reluctance to deploy large numbers of ground troops to Iran, remarking last year that “the last thing you want to do is ground forces.” The assets now being positioned in the region point primarily to air and naval strike options, although Trump has shown a willingness in other theatres, including Venezuela, to rely on special operations forces.

Asked about preparations for a potentially prolonged military campaign, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said the president has “all options on the table” when it comes to Iran. She added that Trump consults widely but ultimately decides based on US national security interests. The Pentagon declined to comment.

The United States has carried out strikes on Iranian targets before, including last year’s “Midnight Hammer” operation, in which stealth bombers flew directly from the US to hit Iranian nuclear facilities. That operation was limited in scope, and Iran’s response was confined to a restrained retaliatory strike on a US base in Qatar.

This time, officials said, the planning is more complex. In a sustained campaign, US forces could target Iranian state and security institutions in addition to nuclear infrastructure. While specific targets were not disclosed, analysts warn that such operations would significantly increase risks to US personnel.

Iran’s Missile Arsenal

Iran possesses a substantial missile arsenal, and US officials expect Tehran to respond forcefully to any sustained attack. One of the officials said Washington fully anticipates Iranian retaliation, potentially triggering cycles of strikes and counter-strikes over an extended period.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has warned that any attack on Iranian territory could prompt strikes on US military bases across the Middle East. The US maintains installations in several countries in the region, including Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan and Turkey.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed Iran with Trump during talks in Washington last week, stressing that any agreement with Tehran must address Israel’s security concerns. Iran has indicated it is willing to discuss limits on its nuclear programme in exchange for sanctions relief, but has ruled out negotiations on its missile capabilities.

Meanwhile, Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi argued that US military intervention could hasten political change in Iran. In an interview with Reuters, the US-based son of Iran’s last shah said there were signs the current leadership was weakening and that an attack could accelerate its collapse.

As diplomatic efforts continue, US military preparations suggest Washington is keeping open the option of a prolonged confrontation, one that could reshape regional security dynamics and carry far-reaching consequences for the Middle East.

New recombinant mpox strain detected in UK and India, WHO urges continued monitoring

Posted on February 15, 2026 by Arun Kumar N

WHO confirmed that two cases of the recombinant strain – combining genomic elements of clades Ib and IIb of the monkeypox virus (MPXV) – have been identified to date: one in the United Kingdom and one in India. Both patients had recent travel histories, and neither experienced severe illness.

No secondary cases were detected following contact tracing.

WHO has published a detailed update on the two cases and the national responses.

Recombination is a natural process that can occur when two related viruses infect the same person and exchange genetic material, producing a new variant.

According to WHO, detailed genomic analysis shows the two individuals “fell ill several weeks apart with the same recombinant strain,” suggesting that additional undetected cases may exist.

What is mpox?

Mpox is an infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), part of the Orthopoxvirus genus, which also includes the virus that causes smallpox.

It spreads through close physical contact, including sexual contact, and in some cases through contaminated materials or respiratory droplets.

Symptoms typically include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and rash and/or lesions.

Click here for the WHO factsheet on mpox.

Two detected cases

The case in the United Kingdom was detected in December 2025 in a traveller returning from a country in the Asia Pacific region. Initial laboratory testing identified the virus as clade Ib, but whole genome sequencing later revealed that it contained genetic regions from both clade Ib and clade IIb strains. Repeat sequencing confirmed the findings and demonstrated that the virus “can replicate and presents potential for onward transmission.”

In India, a patient who developed symptoms in September 2025 was initially classified as infected with clade II MPXV. However, following updates to global genomic databases, the virus was reclassified as the same recombinant strain identified in the UK. The Indian case represents the earliest known detection of this strain.

“Due to the small number of cases found to date, conclusions about transmissibility or clinical characterization of mpox due to recombinant strains would be premature, and it remains essential to maintain vigilance regarding this development,” WHO said.

Clinical presentations in both cases were consistent with known mpox infections.

Risk assessment unchanged

WHO’s overall risk assessment remains unchanged: the risk is assessed as moderate for men who have sex with men with new and/or multiple partners and for sex workers or others with multiple casual sexual partners, and low for the general population without specific risk factors.

At the same time, WHO cautioned that clade differentiation PCR tests alone “may not reliably identify recombinant MPXV strains,” meaning genomic sequencing is essential for detection.

“All countries should remain alert to the possibility of MPXV genetic recombination,” WHO said, urging continued epidemiological surveillance, sequencing, vaccination of at-risk groups, and infection prevention and control measures.

WHO advised that no travel or trade restrictions are warranted based on current information.

World Entrepreneurs and Investment Forum put women at the heart of economic transformation

Posted on February 14, 2026 by Arun Kumar N

That was the central message of the Manama Declaration, issued at the close of the World Entrepreneurs and Investment Forum (WEIF) held this week in Bahrain.

The declaration places women at the heart of economic transformation, underscoring that empowering them within business and innovation ecosystems is essential to achieving inclusive and sustainable growth.

It also calls for strengthening women’s presence across emerging sectors, including the green, blue and orange economies which respectively promote environmental responsibility, sustainable use of ocean resources and creativity.

Organized by the UN Industrial Development Organization’s (UNIDO) Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Bahrain, the forum convened leaders, investors and entrepreneurs from around the world to shape a more resilient global economy and unlock new opportunities for women-led enterprises.

Women entrepreneurs gather on stage at the International Woman Entrepreneurial Challenge 2026 in Manama, Bahrain.

“An amazing opportunity”

For many participants, the forum delivered tangible results.

Doris Martin, CEO of DMartin Consultancy in Bahrain, attended in search of meaningful collaboration and found it.

Through business-to-business (B2B) meetings facilitated during the event, she established partnerships with companies in the United Arab Emirates and Morocco.

“This forum has been effective for me,” she told UN News. “I’ve had B2B collaboration with regional companies through Bahrain and through UNIDO.”

Tosin Arwejulo, CEO of Leadership Excel Consultancy and a Nigerian-American entrepreneur based in Bahrain, described the forum as a “powerful networking platform.”

“I’ve had the opportunity to talk to people from literally every continent,” she said. “It has been an amazing opportunity to connect with like-minded leaders.”

From left to right: Tosin Arwejulo, CEO of Leadership Excel Consultancy and a Nigerian-American entrepreneur based in Bahrain, and Doris Martin, CEO of DMartin Consultancy in Bahrain(In the middle).

Shared challenges, shared solutions

The forum’s impact extended beyond the Arab region.

Ayanthi Gurusinghe, President of the Ceylon Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka and representative of the South Asian Women Development Forum, attended alongside delegates from India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan.

She said participants exchanged valuable lessons, particularly around access to finance, a challenge faced by women entrepreneurs across regions.

“It was a good opportunity for networking, to come together, share views, learn and exchange experiences,” she said, expressing appreciation to UNIDO for creating a space where global connections could flourish.

Ayanthi Gurusinghe, President of the Ceylon Chamber of Women Entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka and representative of the South Asian Women Development Forum, at WEIF 2026 in Bahrain.

Special focus on artists with disabilities

Beyond panel discussions and networking sessions, the forum also spotlighted inclusive entrepreneurship through three exhibitions including on “Determined Creative Entrepreneur.”

Among the exhibitors was Nisreen Samour of Micro Art Center in Bahrain, which specializes in training and developing artistic talent, with a special focus on artists with disabilities.

“Today, we have about nine students participating, each specializing in an artistic field that aligns with their interests and abilities,” she said.

“I personally train them, and we are currently working on developing their skills and empowering them to produce professional artwork that will help them effectively enter the art market and the job market, thus contributing to increased productivity and the center’s overall performance” she told UN News.

The centre also works with orphans, helping them develop artistic skills and showcase their work publicly — fostering independence and self-reliance through creativity.

Nisreen Samour of Micro Art Center in Bahrain, which specializes in training and developing artistic talent, with a special focus on artists with disabilities.

The role of academia

One recurring theme was the role of higher education in preparing young women to enter the world of entrepreneurship.

In an interview with UN News, Dr. Nihal Al-Najjar, professor at the Royal University for Women in Bahrain, highlighted the need to embed entrepreneurship deeply within academic systems.

“Our academic role is to integrate entrepreneurship not just as a subject, but as a methodology,” she said, explaining that experiential learning and practical application are key. “We encourage students to think, innovate and identify gaps in society, and then work to find solutions.”

She added that universities must go beyond classroom teaching by connecting students to the wider entrepreneurial ecosystem, guiding them towards mentorship, funding opportunities and professional networks when they are ready to launch their own ventures.

Dina Najar at WEIF2026 in Manama, Bahrain, covering Sustainable Development Goals.

A driving force for sustainable development

The World Entrepreneurs and Investment Forum (WEIF) was preceded by the annual conference of the International Women Entrepreneurial Challenge (IWEC)—a New York-based NGO that helps women-owned businesses to grow.

Speaking at the conference, UNIDO Director General Gerd Müller described women’s entrepreneurship as a driving force for sustainable development, global innovation and economic inclusion.

“We must ensure that women everywhere have a level playing field and are given the opportunity to unlock their full potential,” he stated, highlighting persistent barriers to finance, technology, and higher-skilled roles for women globally.

Reaffirming UNIDO’s commitment, he added that “empowering women is essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.” The 17 SDGs, adopted by governments in 2015, provide a blueprint for a more just and equitable future for all people and the planet.

Mr. Müller praised Bahrain’s leadership in supporting entrepreneurship and women’s economic participation and outlined UNIDO’s ongoing work in crisis-affected countries, noting, “UNIDO has just started working to set up recovery programmes in Syria, Sudan, and Palestine… mostly the women there are affected, and they need our support.”

Gerd Müller, Director General of UNIDO, speaking at the International Woman Entrepreneurial Conference in Bahrain 2026.

Women as engines of business

In her opening remarks, IWEC Chair Ibukun Awosika highlighted women’s transformative role as engines of business, leadership, and national progress.

She emphasized that women constitute half of the world’s productive assets and, when empowered, become game changers in corporate and political leadership. Drawing on her own journey, Ms. Awosika recalled building a manufacturing group over 36 years before becoming the first and only woman chair of sub-Saharan Africa’s oldest financial institution, First Bank of Nigeria.

“What women represent to the world is 50 per cent of its assets — productive, constructive assets that are game changers when fully deployed,” she said.

“Every nation that has enough wisdom to invest and to actualize the talent that is in 50 per cent of its population is a country that is set to win.”

H.E. Mrs. Ibukun Awo, IWECC Chair, speaking at WEIF2026 in Bahrain.

Success Stories from Bahrain and Nigeria

According to its website, the International Women Entrepreneurial Challenge (IWEC) has recognized 575 distinguished awardees globally, honoured annually at its conferences and nominated by partner organizations, representing women-owned businesses from across the world.

In Bahrain, IWEC recognized a new cohort of awardees from the Middle East and Africa.

Among them was Sonia Mohamed Janahi, founder of Maya La Chocolaterie, who highlighted UNIDO’s role in advancing women’s entrepreneurship.

With UNIDO’s support, Janahi expanded her Bahraini chocolate brand into Africa, establishing a cocoa processing plant in Côte d’Ivoire, creating jobs, promoting ethical supply chains, and ensuring global recognition for African-produced chocolate.

Official event photo from WEIF2026 in Manama, Bahrain.

“UNIDO has played a very vital role in my progression. They have taken my project and opened opportunities for me,” she told UN News, underscoring UNIDO’s commitment to recognizing women entrepreneurs across Bahrain, the Middle East, and Africa.

“This event represents women globally and investments over $6 billion that bring women globally together. It awards women who have not just started a business but have sustained a business and scaled up a business and have had an impact on the economy and on the society.”

Also honoured was Nigerian entrepreneur Oluwakelemi, who discussed her gifting and lifestyle retail business, which employs women and supports household incomes across Nigeria while preparing to expand internationally.

“I am passionate about building scalable African businesses with global reach,” she told UN News. “Not less than 5,000 people have been able to benefit from our business, from our work.”

In the hands of innovators from the Global South, AI can transform lives

Posted on February 14, 2026 by Arun Kumar N

Fodder cutters are fearsome machines with huge circular blades spinning at high speed, powered by small generators. Operated by rural workers in several developing countries, including India, Pakistan and Kenya, they pose a constant risk – many have had hands or arms amputated following accidents.

The consequences are devastating. Tasks that shape daily life – harvesting crops, kneading dough, stitching embroidery – suddenly become impossible. Thousands of women are left with reduced independence, lost livelihoods, and, too often, social exclusion.

Until recently, advanced prosthetics were far beyond their reach. Now, homegrown AI tools are opening the door to the same kinds of sophisticated devices available in wealthier countries.

Karachi-based Bioniks Technologies partnered with UN Women to design and deliver prosthetic limbs tailored specifically for affected female workers in Pakistan’s Sindh province. The initiative harnessed frontier technologies – 3D modelling, digital scanning, and artificial intelligence – to create lightweight, durable, and intuitive bionic arms capable of transforming daily life.

A rural Pakistani woman injured by a fodder cutter.

“Through this collaboration, we provided advanced prosthetic arms, hands-on training, psychological support and awareness sessions to help communities understand safety practices and prevent such injuries in the future,” says Ayesha Zulfiqar, co-founder of Bioniks.

“Watching these incredible women regain their mobility, dignity, independence and return to hand embroidery, their main source of income, has been profoundly inspiring. This is more than technology, it’s restoring hope, confidence and opportunity.”

The India AI Impact Summit: A first for the Global South

This initiative is a powerful example of what can be achieved when AI is available to innovators based in the Global South.

Democratising AI is a major priority for the United Nations, which is working to ensure that this rapidly evolving technology is developed ethically and benefits people everywhere.

At the India AI Impact Summit, taking place from 16 to 20 February in New Delhi, several UN agencies will showcase the initiatives they are supporting in the country and across developing nations.

The Summit is the first major event of its kind in the Global South. Building on the momentum of the 2023 AI Safety Summit convened by the UK, and the 2025 AI Action Summit in France, it will also feature UN Secretary‑General António Guterres and Amandeep Gill, his Special Envoy for Digital and Emerging Technologies.

Speaking to author and podcaster Anirudh Suri in the run-up to the conference, Mr. Gill said that the UN is focused on bridging the growing ‘AI divide’ (between wealthy and developing economies, as well as the rich and poor within countries) and making AI more accessible to people everywhere.

“The concentration of economic and technological power is our biggest concern at the United Nations,” said Mr. Gill. “We’ve seen this story before, during previous industrial revolutions, when those who missed steam power found themselves 50 years behind in terms of development. We cannot afford to let that happen again.”

Despite the fears he expressed, Mr. Gill pointed to regions that have put plans in place to capitalise on AI and avoid being left behind. “I see this in Southeast Asia, in many parts of Africa and in India, where the government is taking the lead, subsidising access to AI for researchers, developers and smaller companies.”

Although the AI Impact Summit is not a UN event, Mr. Gill has been involved in shaping the agenda and considers it to be an important moment on the path to international governance. “It’s exciting to see the focus on bridging the AI divide, building capacity and involving citizens in a democratic approach to the technology.”

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World News in Brief: Deadly strikes in Sudan, Guterres calls for unity ahead of Ramadan

Posted on February 14, 2026 by Arun Kumar N

Fresh waves of violence in Sudan and neighbouring South Sudan are pushing fragile communities into deeper crisis, with attacks on towns, health facilities and aid infrastructure forcing thousands to flee and leaving humanitarian agencies scrambling to respond.

Over the past week, conflict has intensified in Sudan’s North Kordofan state, where more than a dozen attacks were reported around the towns of El Obeid, Bara, Rahad and Um Rawaba. The violence is part of a broader deterioration in security conditions across several regions already battered by prolonged conflict.

Attacks Spread Across Kordofan

In South Kordofan, suspected drone strikes targeted health facilities in Kadugli, the state capital, as well as in the town of Kuweik. According to early reports, the strikes killed at least four medical workers and injured more than 20 others.

Aid officials say the attacks on medical infrastructure have further strained already fragile health services in the region. Hospitals and clinics have struggled to cope with rising casualties while dealing with shortages of medicine, equipment and trained staff.

The renewed violence has also raised alarm among international observers. A recent report by the United Nations Human Rights Office warned that systematic attacks against civilians in Sudan’s Darfur region during late 2025 may amount to crimes against humanity.

Displacement And Humanitarian Needs Rising

The escalating fighting is triggering fresh displacement across several parts of Sudan.

UN Secretary-General spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said the violence was forcing large numbers of people to abandon their homes and seek safety elsewhere.

“The violence is triggering a new wave of displacement, with reports of many fleeing homes and in need of food, health care and protection,” he said during a briefing on Friday.

Humanitarian agencies say the situation is particularly worrying in the towns of Dilling and Kadugli, where conditions continue to deteriorate. Aid groups have warned that without immediate access to affected areas, relief operations will struggle to meet growing needs.

Drone strikes have also damaged telecommunications infrastructure, commercial vehicles and major transport routes. The disruptions have slowed the movement of humanitarian supplies and staff, complicating efforts to deliver aid.

The United Nations has urged all parties involved in the conflict to ensure the protection of humanitarian facilities and to allow safe and unhindered access for relief operations.

Violence Spills Into South Sudan

Meanwhile, the humanitarian outlook in South Sudan is also worsening.

Since late December 2025, violence has surged across northern and central regions of the country, according to the UN children’s agency UNICEF.

In Jonglei state alone, at least 280,000 people have been displaced by the fighting. Aid officials say most of those forced to flee are women and children.

Many families have sought refuge in displacement camps originally set up during earlier phases of South Sudan’s civil war. Others are sheltering in remote areas with little or no access to basic services.

Children account for more than half of the displaced population. UNICEF warns that many of them face grave risks, including recruitment by armed groups, family separation and gender-based violence.

Children in Gaza hold lanterns to celebrate the advent of Ramadan. (file)

Health System Near Collapse

The continuing violence has pushed South Sudan’s already fragile health system to the brink.

UNICEF says at least 11 health facilities have been attacked or looted since the latest surge in fighting began. Several nutrition centres have also been forced to shut down.

At the same time, a cholera outbreak has added further strain. Nearly 500 cases have been reported nationwide, overwhelming treatment centres and stretching limited medical resources.

Aid agencies estimate that about 825,000 children in Jonglei, Unity and Eastern Equatoria states are now at risk of acute malnutrition. Without urgent treatment, severely malnourished children face dramatically higher mortality risks.

Despite the challenges, humanitarian organisations continue to operate health, nutrition and child protection programmes in several parts of the country.

Global Appeal For Peace During Ramadan

Against the backdrop of these crises, UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged the international community to embrace unity and compassion as Muslims around the world prepare to observe the holy month of Ramadan.

He described Ramadan as a time of reflection and hope, but acknowledged that for many people living in conflict zones—from Gaza and Yemen to Afghanistan and Sudan—peace remains elusive.

“For Muslims around the world, the holy month of Ramadan is a sacred period of reflection and prayer. Ramadan also represents a noble vision of hope and peace.” Mr. Guterres said in a message ahead of the start on Tuesday. “May this Holy Month inspire us to work as one to build a more peaceful, generous and just world for all people,” he said.

Calling for greater solidarity, Guterres urged governments and humanitarian actors to work together to bridge divisions, deliver aid to vulnerable communities and uphold the dignity and rights of people affected by war.

He expressed hope that the spirit of Ramadan would inspire renewed efforts to build a more peaceful and just world.

Syria transition gains ground with Kurdish deal, but violence and humanitarian strain persist

Posted on February 14, 2026 by Arun Kumar N

A new agreement between the Syrian government and Kurdish-led forces in the country’s northeast is being viewed by the United Nations as a potentially significant step toward stabilising a region long shaped by conflict and competing authorities.

Briefing members of the UN Security Council for the first time in his role as Deputy Special Envoy for Syria, Claudio Cordone highlighted the ceasefire and integration agreement signed on January 30 between Damascus and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The arrangement, he said, could mark an important turning point if implemented effectively.

Agreement Aims To Integrate Northeast Syria

The deal outlines a gradual process to integrate the military and administrative structures of northeast Syria with the Syrian state. It also contains provisions aimed at facilitating the return of displaced residents and safeguarding Kurdish cultural and educational rights.

Officials say the framework builds upon earlier government measures, including Presidential Decree 13, which recognised certain linguistic, cultural and citizenship rights for Kurdish communities.

Cordone told the Council that hostilities in the region had largely subsided and that work on implementing the agreement had begun.

Security deployments by Syria’s Ministry of Interior have already taken place in key cities such as Al-Hasakeh and Qamishli, while talks are underway regarding local governance arrangements and political appointments.

The United Nations Secretary-General welcomed the agreement soon after it was announced, urging all sides to move quickly to ensure its full implementation. He emphasised that the deal should guarantee the peaceful integration of the northeast, protect Kurdish rights and enable displaced Syrians to return home voluntarily and safely.

Security Council members echoed that message in a presidential statement this week, describing the deal as a comprehensive step that could help prevent further civilian suffering and reduce risks surrounding detention facilities holding suspected fighters from the Islamic State group, also known as ISIL or Da’esh.

UN Continues Political And Humanitarian Engagement

Alongside political mediation, the United Nations remains heavily involved in humanitarian operations across Syria.

The office of the UN Special Envoy continues to engage with the Syrian government and other political actors in an effort to advance the broader political transition. These discussions include implementing the northeast agreement, encouraging inclusive governance and promoting respect for human rights.

At the same time, UN agencies and partner organisations are delivering food, water, healthcare and shelter to millions of Syrians affected by years of war. Aid teams are also supporting mine clearance operations, restoring damaged infrastructure and helping communities rebuild basic services.

These efforts aim to create conditions that would allow displaced families to return home in safety and dignity.

Security Concerns Persist In Several Regions

Despite the relative calm in parts of the northeast, the situation across Syria remains fragile.

Cordone said the United Nations is closely monitoring the transfer of suspected Islamic State fighters from Syria to Iraq. He stressed that legal proceedings must meet international fair-trial standards and urged countries to repatriate their citizens detained in Syria as quickly as possible.

Elsewhere in the country, tensions continue to flare. In the southern province of Sweida, clashes between government forces and local armed groups have caused damage to infrastructure and triggered electricity outages. Protests calling for greater local autonomy have also resurfaced.

In southern border areas, Israeli military operations and search activities have continued. Reports have also emerged of aerial herbicide spraying damaging farmland. UN officials have called for adherence to international law and urged Israel to withdraw from territories it occupies in violation of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement.

Participants at a UN workshop on recovery priorities, challenges and response planning /UN

Displacement And Humanitarian Needs Remain High

Humanitarian conditions remain difficult for many Syrians despite some limited improvements.

According to the UN humanitarian coordination office, recent clashes in the northeast displaced tens of thousands of people. Although many have since returned, around 130,000 individuals remain displaced across the governorates of Al-Hasakeh, Ar-Raqqa and Aleppo.

More than 90 percent of those affected are women and girls, many of whom are living in overcrowded camps or staying with host families already facing economic hardship.

Heavy flooding this week in Idlib and northern Latakia further compounded the crisis, killing two children and destroying or damaging around 2,000 tents sheltering displaced families.

Still, aid groups say access to some areas is gradually improving. UN teams have reached around 200,000 people in recent weeks, delivering assistance through more than 170 aid convoys.

Electricity supply has also reportedly resumed in the town of Ain al-Arab, also known as Kobane, following repairs to damaged infrastructure.

Political Transition Moves Forward

Attention is now turning to the next stage in Syria’s political transition: the formation of a new People’s Assembly.

Elections for most seats were held in October 2025, though additional seats, including those representing Raqqa, remain to be filled. Confirmation is still awaited regarding the appointment of 70 members by President Ahmed al-Sharaa and the date of the assembly’s opening session.

Cordone stressed that the success of the transition would depend on meaningful representation from Syria’s diverse communities and regions.

He also underscored the need to address long-standing issues such as the fate of missing persons and mechanisms for transitional justice.

Highlighting the contributions of Syrian women throughout years of conflict, the UN envoy said their participation in politics and civil society would be essential for building a more inclusive and stable future.

He concluded his remarks by praising the resilience of the Syrian people and expressing hope that continued cooperation between Syria and the United Nations would help lay the foundations for lasting peace and recovery.

‘Like a scene out of a horror movie’: UN report warns of war crimes in Sudan’s El Fasher

Posted on February 14, 2026 by Arun Kumar N

A new United Nations report has documented widespread atrocities in Sudan’s Darfur region, accusing fighters from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias of carrying out mass killings, sexual violence and other grave abuses during an assault on the city of El Fasher.

The findings, released by the UN human rights office, highlight what investigators describe as a systematic pattern of violence against civilians during the ongoing conflict between Sudan’s national army and the RSF militia.

War In Sudan Enters Third Year

Sudan has been engulfed in a brutal power struggle for nearly three years, with fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF spreading across large parts of the country.

Darfur, a region already scarred by earlier conflicts, has once again become one of the epicentres of violence. The UN report focuses particularly on the RSF’s offensive against El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur, which has been under siege.

According to UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, the lack of accountability for past abuses continues to fuel fresh cycles of violence.

“Persistent impunity fuels continued cycles of violence,” Türk said, urging credible investigations and justice for those responsible for the latest atrocities.

Mass Killings And Targeted Attacks

Based on hundreds of interviews conducted with survivors and witnesses in late 2025, UN investigators documented more than 6,000 killings during the first three days of the RSF offensive on El Fasher.

The report cautions that the actual death toll is likely far higher, as the assault continued for weeks and access to some areas remained restricted.

Investigators recorded multiple incidents of mass violence. In one of the most devastating attacks, RSF fighters reportedly opened fire with heavy weapons on a large group of civilians seeking shelter at Al-Rashid dormitory within El Fasher University.

Around 1,000 people had gathered there for safety on October 26, but witnesses said roughly 500 were killed when the fighters began firing indiscriminately.

One witness described the aftermath as resembling “a scene out of a horror movie,” recounting how bodies were thrown into the air by the blasts.

Ethnic Targeting And Summary Executions

The report also documents a series of summary executions carried out inside El Fasher.

According to witnesses, RSF fighters targeted young boys and men under the age of 50, accusing them of collaborating with Sudanese government forces or allied militias.

In many cases, investigators said the accusations appeared to be based largely on ethnicity. Members of non-Arab communities, particularly those from the Zaghawa ethnic group, were reportedly singled out during searches and arrests.

Civilians who were injured or otherwise unable to fight—individuals considered hors de combat under international humanitarian law—were also among those targeted, the report states.

Widespread Sexual Violence Reported

Survivors interviewed by UN investigators described repeated incidents of rape, gang rape and other forms of sexual violence during the assault.

Women and girls from Zaghawa and other non-Arab communities appeared to be particularly vulnerable.

Witnesses recounted cases in which victims were abducted and held for ransom, with sexual violence used as a tool of intimidation and coercion. In other instances, women were assaulted during invasive body searches carried out by armed fighters.

The report also documents cases of torture, forced disappearances, arbitrary detention and the recruitment of children to take part in hostilities.

Possible Crimes Against Humanity

Human rights officials say the pattern of abuses seen in El Fasher resembles earlier attacks carried out by RSF forces in other parts of Darfur during the war.

One such episode occurred at the Zamzam displacement camp in April 2025, where investigators also documented large-scale violence against civilians.

According to the UN report, the scale and organisation of these attacks suggest they may form part of a deliberate campaign targeting civilian populations.

“The acts of violence knowingly committed as part of such an attack would amount to crimes against humanity,” the UN human rights office said.

Calls For Accountability And Mediation

Türk urged all parties involved in the conflict to ensure that forces under their command immediately cease violations of international law.

He also called on countries with influence over the warring factions to help prevent further atrocities, including by respecting existing arms embargoes and halting the flow of weapons into the conflict.

The UN human rights chief stressed the need for stronger international support for mediation efforts aimed at securing a ceasefire and reviving political dialogue.

“In a protection crisis of this scale, human rights must remain central to efforts to achieve a durable resolution of the conflict,” he said.

As fighting continues across Sudan, humanitarian agencies warn that millions of civilians remain trapped in one of the world’s most severe and rapidly worsening crises.

Madagascar: ‘Overwhelming’ destruction, surging needs after back-to-back cyclones – WFP

Posted on February 13, 2026 by Arun Kumar N

Madagascar is grappling with a growing humanitarian emergency after two powerful cyclones struck the island nation within three weeks, leaving widespread destruction and pushing hundreds of thousands of people into urgent need of assistance.

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) says around 400,000 people are now facing acute humanitarian needs following the storms, which damaged homes, infrastructure and vital services across several regions.

Powerful Cyclone Hits Key Coastal City

Cyclone Gezani made landfall on Tuesday evening near the port city of Toamasina, also known as Tamatave, Madagascar’s second largest urban centre. The storm brought powerful winds reaching up to 250 kilometres per hour, leaving extensive destruction in its wake.

Tania Goossens, WFP’s country director in Madagascar, described the devastation after returning from a field visit to the city.

“The scale of the destruction is really overwhelming,” she told reporters during a briefing from the capital, Antananarivo.

Local authorities estimate that roughly 80 percent of Toamasina has sustained damage. Essential services have also been severely disrupted, with electricity functioning at only a fraction of normal capacity.

“It’s running on roughly five percent electricity at the moment,” Goossens said, adding that large areas remain without water supply. Even the WFP’s warehouse and office in the city were completely destroyed by the cyclone.

Casualties And Widespread Damage

Initial assessments indicate that at least 38 people have died and more than 370 others have been injured as a result of the storm.

Beyond the human toll, the cyclone has caused extensive damage to homes, businesses, schools and healthcare facilities. The city’s main hospital was among the structures affected.

Goossens said many families have been forced to abandon their homes after roofs were ripped off buildings or entire structures collapsed under the force of the winds.

During her visit to the disaster zone, she saw residents attempting to recover what little remained of their belongings from the wreckage.

“Many are spending the night in homes where the roofs have been torn off,” she said.

Streets throughout the city remain blocked by uprooted trees and debris, making movement difficult. Fuel shortages are also complicating relief efforts.

Families Struggle To Find Food And Shelter

The storm has left thousands of residents uncertain about how they will secure food and shelter in the coming days.

According to WFP officials, many families have lost nearly all of their possessions. Some are sheltering in damaged homes while others have moved to temporary sites with limited facilities.

“Families are telling us that they have lost everything,” Goossens said, warning that access to basic necessities remains a major concern.

Humanitarian agencies are particularly worried about deteriorating water, sanitation and hygiene conditions. Damaged infrastructure and shortages of clean water could increase the risk of disease outbreaks in affected communities.

Aid workers are also monitoring rising protection risks for vulnerable groups, including women, children, elderly people and individuals with disabilities.

Aid Efforts Underway Amid Funding Shortfall

Before the storm struck, the WFP and partner organisations had already begun distributing cash assistance to vulnerable households so they could purchase food and prepare for the cyclone.

Now, the agency is deploying its remaining emergency food supplies to assist affected communities, working closely with Madagascar’s national disaster response teams.

However, Goossens warned that the scale of the crisis is exceeding the resources currently available.

The country was already facing serious food insecurity even before the cyclones hit. According to the latest data from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), about 1.57 million people across Madagascar were experiencing food shortages, with around 84,000 facing emergency levels of hunger.

Concern As Cyclone Season Begins

The humanitarian challenge is compounded by the timing of the disaster. Madagascar is currently entering the peak of its lean season, the period before harvests when food supplies are typically at their lowest.

At the same time, funding shortages are threatening to limit the response.

The WFP estimates that it faces an $18 million funding gap over the next six months to support both lean season assistance and cyclone relief operations.

“We will need sustained support over the coming months to help people recover, rebuild and strengthen their resilience against further shocks,” Goossens said.

With the cyclone season only just beginning, aid agencies fear that additional storms could further strain already fragile communities across the island nation.

Political violence against MPs rising worldwide: IPU

Posted on February 13, 2026 by Arun Kumar N

Violence and intimidation against elected lawmakers are rising across the world, increasingly fuelled by online hostility and political polarisation, according to a new report presented at the United Nations.

Martin Chungong, Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), warned that the growing hostility directed at parliamentarians could have serious consequences for democratic institutions if left unchecked.

“If the phenomenon goes uncontrolled, there will be major implications for democracies, parliaments and human rights worldwide,” he told a UN conference in New York on Wednesday.

Online Abuse Dominates Political Violence

The report, titled When the Public Turns Hostile: Political Violence Against Parliamentarians, draws on responses from lawmakers in 85 countries. It also includes detailed case studies from Argentina, Benin, Italy, Malaysia and the Netherlands to examine how the problem manifests in different political environments.

One of the report’s most striking findings is the scale of online abuse faced by politicians. Between 65 percent and 77 percent of members of parliament in the five case-study countries reported experiencing harassment or threats on digital platforms.

The most common forms of intimidation include insults and degrading language, the spread of false or misleading information, and direct threats.

Researchers also found that hostile online behaviour tends to surge during politically sensitive moments, such as national or local elections, heated parliamentary debates or discussions on polarising social and cultural issues.

Women Lawmakers Face Greater Risk

The report highlights a clear gender gap in exposure to political violence.

About 76 percent of women lawmakers reported experiencing some form of abuse, compared with 68 percent of male parliamentarians.

Women are also more likely to face gendered or sexualised harassment, particularly online. Such attacks often include derogatory comments about appearance, threats of sexual violence or attempts to undermine credibility based on gender.

Lawmakers from minority communities, including racial minorities, people with disabilities and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, are also more frequently targeted by online abuse and harassment.

Social Media And AI Amplifying Hostility

The IPU report identifies several factors contributing to the growing hostility directed at politicians.

Rising political polarisation, economic pressures and public frustration with institutions are all contributing to an increasingly confrontational political climate. Social media platforms, researchers say, often amplify anger and misinformation, making it easier for abusive messages to spread widely.

New technologies are also playing a role. The report notes that artificial intelligence tools and deepfake technology are increasingly being used to create manipulated images or videos aimed at discrediting political figures.

Italian MP Valentina Grippo, who is part of the European delegation to the IPU, said lawmakers now face constant scrutiny and criticism in the digital age.

“If you say something that is not perfectly in line with what your audience wants to hear, then you have multiple attacks,” she said in an interview with UN News.

Grippo added that political debate is increasingly shifting away from policy disagreements toward identity-based conflicts.

“You no more have the confrontation between ideas, which is normal, which is part of politics, but you really have a fight between identities,” she said.

Anonymous Users Often Behind Attacks

According to the survey, most incidents of political intimidation are carried out by individuals rather than organised groups.

In the online sphere, anonymous users were identified as the main perpetrators in several countries. Nearly nine out of ten lawmakers surveyed in Argentina, Italy, Malaysia and the Netherlands said anonymous accounts were responsible for most abusive messages.

Chungong said the effects of sustained online harassment often extend beyond digital platforms.

“Those we surveyed consistently told us that sustained online abuse affected their offline behaviour, including their willingness to engage publicly and their sense of personal safety,” he said.

Threats To Democratic Participation

The IPU warns that increasing hostility toward politicians could weaken democratic systems over time.

Many lawmakers reported altering their behaviour to avoid attacks, including limiting public appearances, avoiding controversial topics or self-censoring their views.

Some politicians have also chosen to leave office or decided not to seek re-election because of sustained threats and harassment.

These trends, the report says, could discourage diverse groups from entering politics and ultimately undermine representative democracy.

“It makes it more difficult to somehow be able to deliver a message without fearing that it is misunderstood,” Grippo said, noting that in many parts of the world political expression still carries serious personal risks.

Call For Stronger Political Leadership

The report urges political leaders and parliamentary institutions to set clearer boundaries around acceptable public discourse and to respond more firmly to intimidation directed at elected officials.

It stresses that protecting lawmakers from threats is essential to ensuring that dissenting voices and minority perspectives are not silenced.

The Inter-Parliamentary Union, founded in 1889, is the global organisation representing national parliaments. Today it brings together 183 member parliaments and 15 regional parliamentary bodies, working to promote democracy, peace and sustainable development while defending the rights of parliamentarians worldwide.

World News in Brief: Violence, Terror Attacks And Digital Security Dominate Global Concerns At UN

Posted on February 4, 2026 by Arun Kumar N

Rising conflict, humanitarian emergencies and growing concerns over critical digital infrastructure dominated recent discussions involving United Nations agencies and global leaders, with crises unfolding from South Sudan to Pakistan and new efforts launched to safeguard global communications networks.

Fighting In South Sudan Displaces Thousands

Renewed violence in South Sudan’s Jonglei state has triggered a large-scale humanitarian crisis, forcing at least 250,000 people to flee their homes since the beginning of 2026.

The clashes, concentrated in northern and central parts of the state, have left families cut off from basic services in regions already struggling with some of the country’s worst malnutrition rates.

UNICEF warned that the situation poses a grave threat to children, many of whom are already suffering from severe food shortages.

“We are extremely concerned for women and children impacted by these violent clashes,” said UNICEF’s country representative in South Sudan, Noala Skinner. “A malnourished child without treatment is 12 times more likely to die.”

Humanitarian agencies face major obstacles in reaching affected communities. Movement by road, river and air remains heavily restricted, making it difficult to deliver emergency assistance.

Several areas are running dangerously low on therapeutic food used to treat severely malnourished children. Six counties in Jonglei are close to exhausting these supplies.

Across the country, at least 17 health facilities have been forced to shut down due to insecurity, further weakening an already fragile healthcare system.

UNICEF has also reported ten incidents in which health and nutrition supplies were looted.

Despite the challenges, aid workers continue to deliver support where possible. The organisation has sent water purification equipment to prevent potential cholera outbreaks and delivered malaria treatment kits, emergency medical supplies and therapeutic food intended to reach more than 10,000 people.

UN Condemns Deadly Attacks In Pakistan

Meanwhile, the United Nations has strongly condemned a series of violent attacks in Pakistan’s southwestern province of Balochistan that left dozens of people dead, including children.

UNICEF expressed deep concern after reports confirmed that children were among those killed or injured during the attacks last weekend.

“Children cannot be targets nor collateral damage, and their lives must always be protected,” said UNICEF representative in Pakistan Pernille Ironside.

She extended condolences to the victims’ families and warned that escalating violence is creating fear and insecurity among communities.

The attacks took place on January 31 and were later condemned by the UN Security Council.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, council members described the violence as “heinous and cowardly” acts of terrorism that resulted in the deaths of 48 people, including 31 civilians.

Among the civilian victims were five women and three children.

Authorities say the attacks were claimed by the Balochistan Liberation Army, a separatist militant group. Local officials later told reporters that security forces killed 145 members of the banned organisation in subsequent operations.

The Security Council expressed its deepest sympathy to the victims’ families and to the government and people of Pakistan, while wishing those injured a full recovery.

Global Summit Focuses On Submarine Cable Security

In a separate development, governments and industry representatives from more than 70 countries gathered in Porto, Portugal, to address growing concerns over the security and resilience of submarine communication cables.

These undersea cables carry the majority of the world’s digital traffic and form the backbone of global internet connectivity.

During the International Submarine Cable Resilience Summit 2026, participants adopted a declaration aimed at strengthening international cooperation to protect the network.

Today roughly 500 submarine cables stretch across more than 1.7 million kilometres of ocean floor, linking continents and supporting the global digital economy.

ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin said safeguarding these systems is a shared responsibility.

“When it comes to critical digital infrastructure like submarine cables, resilience is both an end-to-end imperative and a shared responsibility,” she said.

Participants also discussed ways to improve repair times, strengthen monitoring systems and increase investment in infrastructure protection.

Protecting Connectivity For Vulnerable Regions

Experts at the summit warned that cable disruptions can have serious consequences, particularly for smaller countries and remote island communities that rely on only a few connections to the global network.

Sandra Maximiano, chairwoman of Portugal’s telecommunications regulator ANACOM, said international cooperation would be key to reducing the risks.

“I firmly believe the advisory body is already delivering concrete and meaningful impact,” she said, pointing to ongoing efforts to improve preparedness and response capabilities.

The Porto meeting followed the first global summit on submarine cable resilience held in Abuja, Nigeria, as governments and technology leaders seek stronger collaboration to protect one of the world’s most critical digital systems.

UN Condemns Russian Strikes On Ukrainian Cities As Energy Infrastructure Comes Under Pressure

Posted on February 3, 2026 by Arun Kumar N

United Nations officials have expressed alarm over renewed Russian strikes targeting Ukrainian cities and critical infrastructure, warning that the attacks are worsening conditions for civilians as winter temperatures continue to grip the country.

Matthias Schmale, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine, said he was “appalled” by the latest attacks reported in the cities of Dnipro, Kharkiv and Kyiv. The strikes have also contributed to widespread power outages affecting multiple regions, including Dnipro, Odesa and Vinnitsya.

Infrastructure Attacks Affect Millions

Schmale warned that continued assaults on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure are placing millions of civilians at risk by disrupting essential services.

“Systematic attacks by the Russian Federation Armed Forces on critical infrastructure affect the daily lives of millions and cause life-threatening conditions for the most vulnerable, including older people and children,” he said in a statement shared on social media.

He also emphasised that international humanitarian law prohibits attacks on civilian infrastructure and called for greater protection of essential facilities that support daily life.

The strikes come as Ukraine continues to face repeated attacks on energy facilities that supply electricity, heating and water to major population centres.

UNICEF Steps Up Emergency Support

In response to the continuing disruptions, the UN children’s agency UNICEF has increased efforts to support basic services across the country.

The organisation has been working to help keep heating systems, hospitals and water supply networks functioning during the cold winter months.

Since November, UNICEF has delivered 106 mid- and large-capacity generators across Ukraine. These units are being used to support water utilities and district heating companies that provide essential services to homes and public institutions.

Another 149 generators are expected to be distributed in the coming weeks to strengthen backup electricity systems and ensure continued operations in key facilities.

UNICEF Representative in Ukraine Munir Mammadzade said families across the country are struggling to cope with the disruptions.

“Across the country, vital services for children and families are strained and parents are struggling to keep their children warm, prepare hot food and access regular running water,” he said.

“These generators will help the brave technicians on the ground to keep systems running, to keep the heating on, hospitals open and water flowing.”

Drone Attack Kills Coal Miners

In a separate incident, UN human rights monitors confirmed that a Russian drone strike killed and injured coal miners in eastern Ukraine over the weekend.

The attack occurred on Sunday in the city of Ternivka in the Dnipropetrovsk region, an area located roughly 65 kilometres from the frontline.

According to local authorities, the strike killed 12 civilians and wounded 16 others.

Danielle Bell, head of the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine, said the attack highlights the growing risks civilians face even in areas distant from active combat zones.

“This incident highlights the dangers civilians face when hostilities extend into areas of everyday life, even well beyond the active fighting zone,” she said.

Civilians Targeted During Commute

The victims were coal mine workers travelling home by bus after completing their shift at a nearby mine.

Witnesses said several drones struck the road near the bus over a period of several minutes, triggering explosions that shattered the vehicle’s windows and caused heavy casualties among passengers.

Other civilians driving nearby and individuals who rushed to assist the injured were also reportedly among the victims.

UN investigators visited the site on Monday to document the aftermath. They observed two large craters, one in front of and another behind the damaged bus, as well as fragments believed to be from the drones used in the strike.

Survivors Describe Chaos

Human rights monitors interviewed survivors who described scenes of panic and confusion following the explosions.

One injured miner said he managed to escape through a shattered bus window after the first blast. As passengers tried to help one another, a second explosion occurred shortly afterwards.

He told investigators that the victims were ordinary workers simply trying to return home after their shift.

“This is all wrong,” the miner said. “We are ordinary coal mine workers. People were simply returning to their homes, to their families.”

UN officials say the incident underscores the continuing human toll of the conflict, as civilians remain exposed to deadly attacks even far from the main battlefield.

Sensex Jumps Over 2,000 Points After India-US Deal; Rupee Logs Best Day Since 2018

Posted on February 3, 2026 by Sridhar P

Indian equity markets closed sharply higher on Tuesday, extending a powerful rally as investors welcomed the finalisation of the long-awaited India–US trade deal, which is expected to improve trade prospects and revive foreign investor interest.

Benchmark indices posted broad-based gains through the session. The Sensex rose 2,072.67 points, or 2.54 per cent, to end at 83,739.13, while the Nifty climbed 639.15 points, or 2.55 per cent, to close at 25,727.55.

Market sentiment turned decisively positive after U.S. President Donald Trump announced that reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods would be reduced to 18 per cent, easing a major source of uncertainty that had weighed on equities in recent months.

Technical analysts said momentum remains favourable in the near term. “The key support zone remains at 25,500–25,600 (gap support), while 25,900–26,000 acts as a major psychological and supply resistance area,” an analyst said.

Heavyweight stocks led the rally on the Sensex. Shares of Adani Ports, Bajaj Finance, InterGlobe Aviation (IndiGo) and Power Grid Corporation posted strong gains, reflecting renewed confidence across infrastructure, financials and transport-related counters. Tech Mahindra and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) were the only stocks to close in negative territory.

Gains Broad-based

Gains were broad-based across sectors. All sectoral indices ended higher, with the Nifty Realty index emerging as the top performer, rising more than 4 per cent. Chemical, pharmaceutical and consumer durables stocks also saw strong buying interest, with their respective indices advancing over 3 per cent each.

The rally extended beyond frontline stocks into the broader market. The Nifty MidCap 100 index gained 2.84 per cent, while the Nifty SmallCap 100 index rose 2.82 per cent, underscoring improving risk appetite among investors.

Analysts said the market performance reflected growing optimism around the trade outlook and expectations of improved economic prospects. “Indian equities experienced a significant rally today, driven by the long-anticipated India–US trade deal and a strengthening rupee, which boosted expectations of renewed FII inflows,” an expert said.

The currency market mirrored the positive sentiment. The rupee strengthened sharply, appreciating by Rs 1.28, or nearly 1.40 per cent, following the trade deal announcement. The move marked the rupee’s best single-day gain since December 2018.

Market participants said the combination of tariff relief, a firmer currency and expectations of capital inflows could continue to support equities in the near term, even as investors watch global cues and domestic macro developments closely.

Sensex Soars Over 2,400 Points as Markets Cheer India–US Trade Deal

Posted on February 3, 2026 by Sridhar P

Indian equity markets staged a powerful rally on Tuesday morning, surging nearly 3 per cent in early trade, as investors reacted enthusiastically to the announcement of the India–US trade deal that promises immediate tariff relief for Indian exports.

By 9.25 a.m., the Sensex had jumped 2,421 points, or 2.97 per cent, to 84,088, while the Nifty climbed 741 points, or 2.96 per cent, to 25,829, marking one of the strongest single-session opening rallies in recent months.

The sharp upmove followed confirmation that India and the United States have agreed to a trade arrangement under which reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods will be cut to 18 per cent from 25 per cent. In addition, the extra 25 per cent duty imposed on India over its purchases of Russian crude oil will be scrapped. U.S. President Donald Trump said the agreement would be “effective immediately” after a phone call with Prime Minister Narendra Modi late on Monday, delivering instant relief to exporters and markets.

The rally was broad-based, extending well beyond frontline stocks. The Nifty Midcap 100 index surged 3.10 per cent, while the Nifty Smallcap 100 rose 3.25 per cent, signalling renewed risk appetite across market segments that had remained under pressure amid trade uncertainty.

All sectoral indices traded firmly in the green, led by realty, auto, consumer durables and information technology. The realty index jumped 4.47 per cent, auto rose 3.78 per cent, consumer durables gained 3.69 per cent, and IT stocks advanced 3.04 per cent, reflecting expectations of stronger demand, improved export competitiveness and higher earnings visibility.

At 18 per cent, India’s new U.S. tariff rate now undercuts that of several key export-oriented Asian economies. Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and Vietnam face tariffs of 20 per cent, while Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines and Pakistan are subject to tariffs of 19 per cent. Market participants said this relative advantage could help Indian exporters gain market share in labour-intensive and manufacturing segments.

Technically, analysts said immediate support for the Nifty lies in the 25,600–25,800 zone, while resistance is seen at 26,200–26,350. A sustained move above these levels could open the door to further upside, they added.

“The dramatic announcement of the long-awaited US–India trade deal and the US decision to cut tariffs on India from 50 per cent to 18 per cent is a game changer for the Indian economy and stock markets as its delay was the single important factor weighing on the markets,” an analyst said, underscoring how prolonged uncertainty had capped valuations.

Market watchers said the deal could lift India’s growth trajectory, with GDP growth seen rising to around 7.5 per cent in FY27, supported by stronger exports to the U.S. Corporate earnings, which are already showing signs of revival, could accelerate to 16–18 per cent growth in FY27, aided by improved demand conditions and operating leverage.

Rupee Rebounds

Analysts also expect the rupee to rebound sharply in the near term. They said the combined impact of the US–India trade deal, the recently concluded EU–India trade agreement, and the growth-focused Union Budget has materially improved India’s macro outlook. The positive sentiment could trigger renewed foreign capital inflows, potentially strengthening India’s Balance of Payments position.

Large-cap stocks in banking, non-banking financials, telecom, capital goods and IT — sectors traditionally favoured by foreign institutional investors — are expected to attract significant inflows if risk-on sentiment sustains, market participants said.

Global cues were largely supportive. In Asia, China’s Shanghai Composite rose 0.38 per cent and Shenzhen gained 0.93 per cent. Japan’s Nikkei jumped 3.23 per cent, South Korea’s Kospi surged 5.04 per cent, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng edged up 0.11 per cent.

U.S. markets had ended the previous session mostly higher, with the Nasdaq gaining 0.56 per cent, the S&P 500 advancing 0.54 per cent, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average adding 1.05 per cent.

Despite the sharp rally, data showed that foreign institutional investors remained net sellers on February 2, offloading equities worth ₹1,832 crore. Domestic institutional investors, however, continued to provide strong support, with net purchases of ₹2,446 crore, cushioning the market ahead of the trade deal announcement.

The scale and breadth of Tuesday’s rally suggest that investors are now repositioning for a post-tariff-reset environment, with expectations of stronger growth, improved earnings visibility and renewed foreign interest shaping near-term market sentiment.

India–U.S. Deal: What We Know, What We Don’t

Posted on February 3, 2026 by Sridhar P

The announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi that Washington will cut its “reciprocal” tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 18% has brought immediate relief to Indian exporters and signalled a thaw after nearly a year of strained ties. The rollback also includes the removal of a punitive 25% penalty tariff imposed last August, which had pushed total U.S. tariffs on Indian exports to 50%, among the highest in the world, on par with Brazil.

Yet, beyond the headline tariff cut, the statements from Washington and New Delhi diverge sharply. While Mr. Trump has framed the move as part of a sweeping trade deal involving oil, investments and zero tariffs, Mr. Modi has confined himself to welcoming the tariff relief alone. This gap leaves several fundamental questions unanswered.

Is There Actually a US-India Trade Deal?

Mr. Trump’s repeated references to a “Trade Deal” have created ambiguity over whether the two sides have concluded a comprehensive agreement or merely agreed on a tariff rollback. One possibility is that he is referring to the long-discussed “first tranche” of an India–U.S. Free Trade Agreement (FTA), negotiations for which gathered pace after Mr. Modi’s visit to Washington in February 2025.

If so, the absence of detail is striking. Unlike the EU–India FTA concluded last week, where the negotiated text and scope were clearly outlined, neither Washington nor New Delhi has released any documentation, timelines or sectoral commitments for an India–U.S. FTA. Tariffs, non-tariff barriers, market access and investment rules were all meant to be part of this package, yet none of these elements has been formally disclosed.

Compounding the uncertainty is Mr. Trump’s claim that India has agreed to reduce “Tariffs and Non-Tariff Barriers against the United States, to ZERO”. New Delhi has not confirmed this, nor clarified which tariff lines would be reduced to zero. Sensitive sectors such as agriculture, particularly soyabean and dairy, which India has consistently opposed, remain conspicuously unaddressed.

The confusion is not new. In January, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said a deal had been ready for months but stalled because, according to him, Mr. Modi did not make a phone call to clinch it, a claim the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) firmly denied.

Does 18% Figure Indicate Level Playing Field for India?

The reduction to 18% is unquestionably an improvement from the earlier 25% rate imposed in April 2025. That earlier hike had left Indian exporters worse off than many regional competitors: Bangladesh and Vietnam faced tariffs of around 20%, Pakistan 19%, while China’s 34% rate was largely deferred until November 2026.

For labour-intensive sectors such as apparel, and for gems and jewellery exporters who were among the hardest hit, the new rate restores some competitiveness. However, Indian exporters are still not on equal footing. Many neighbouring and Asian economies continue to enjoy a Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) concession of about 5%, a benefit the U.S. withdrew from India in June 2019 during Mr. Trump’s first term.

As a result, Indian industry had hoped that any revised reciprocal tariff would land closer to 15%, not 18%. The current rate narrows the gap, but does not eliminate it.

What Is Actually Happening With Russian Oil?

Perhaps the most contentious claim from Washington is Mr. Trump’s assertion that Mr. Modi has “agreed to stop buying Russian Oil, and to buy much more from the United States and, potentially, Venezuela”, a move he linked to ending the war in Ukraine. The MEA has so far declined to comment on this assertion.

This silence matters because it cuts against India’s long-stated position. When the U.S. imposed a 25% penalty tariff last August over India’s Russian oil purchases, the MEA called the move “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable”, stressing that energy imports are driven by “market factors” and the need to ensure energy security.

In practice, however, India’s Russian oil imports have already been declining. After peaking in 2024, refiners began scaling back purchases. In October, imports of Russian Ural crude fell about 38% year-on-year. By December, the trend had deepened.

According to the European Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), “India’s Russian crude imports recorded a sharp 29% month-on-month reduction to the lowest volumes since the implementation of the price cap policy.” On January 6, 2026, Reliance Industries said it would not receive any Russian oil in January and had not taken Russian crude for the previous three weeks.

The key question is whether these reductions reflect commercial recalibration, or a political commitment now being formalised under U.S. pressure.

India Under US Sanctions Pressure?

There is historical precedent for concern. In 2019, India “zeroed out” imports of Iranian and Venezuelan oil after U.S. sanctions threats, with then U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley publicly pressing New Delhi. Following the U.S. operation against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in January this year, Mr. Trump has suggested that Washington would now “allow” imports of Venezuelan oil, a position that offers India flexibility, but also underscores how contingent its energy choices appear on U.S. approval.

The pressure extends beyond oil. The U.S. has warned of 25% tariffs on countries doing business with Iran and has withdrawn the sanctions waiver for Indian investment in Iran’s Chabahar port. Government sources indicate India is prepared to give up its “minimal levels” of trade with Iran to avoid further tariffs.

Significantly, the Union Budget presented on February 1 makes no allocation for Chabahar in the coming year. After 23 years of strategic investment, this omission suggests New Delhi may be preparing to pause or retreat from the project until the sanctions environment eases.

What’s $500 Billion Commitment?

Mr. Trump’s claim that Mr. Modi committed to “BUY AMERICAN” at a much higher level, including purchases of over $500 billion in U.S. energy, technology, agricultural products, coal and more, is one of the boldest assertions yet the least substantiated.

The MEA has declined to confirm any such commitment. Context matters here. India–U.S. bilateral trade in goods currently stands at about $131 billion. India’s cumulative investment in the U.S. has hovered around $40 billion.

A $500 billion figure, therefore, can only be meaningful if spread over many years and across multiple sectors, much like similar claims Mr. Trump has made about the European Union, Japan and others following their trade deals. Without timelines, sectoral break-ups or binding mechanisms, the number functions more as a political headline than a verifiable obligation.

The tariff cut to 18% is real, immediate and economically significant. Beyond that, much remains unresolved. The gulf between Washington’s expansive claims and New Delhi’s carefully limited confirmations raises fundamental questions about the scope of the agreement, India’s energy autonomy, and the true balance of concessions.

Until the fine print is released, the India–U.S. deal remains less a finished treaty and more a framework shaped as much by geopolitics and pressure as by trade economics.

Invisible highways: Undersea Cables Power 99% Of Global Internet Traffic, Despite Growing Risks

Posted on February 2, 2026 by Arun Kumar N

The world’s digital economy depends heavily on a vast network of undersea cables stretching across the ocean floor, quietly carrying nearly all international internet traffic and enabling trillions of dollars in financial transactions every day.

Despite their central role in modern connectivity, these cables remain largely invisible to the public, even as governments and technology experts grow increasingly concerned about their security and resilience.

Tomas Lamanauskas, Deputy Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), highlighted the importance of the infrastructure ahead of a global summit on submarine cable resilience in Porto, Portugal.

“About 99 per cent of the international internet traffic goes through submarine cables. Even the conversation you and I are having right now is carried through these cables,” he said in an interview with UN News.

Backbone Of The Digital Economy

While most people associate internet access with mobile networks, satellites or broadband connections, the global exchange of data actually relies on a complex system of fibre-optic cables lying hundreds of metres beneath the ocean surface.

These cables act as the “digital highways” of the modern world, linking continents and enabling the rapid movement of information across countries and markets.

Today more than 500 commercial submarine cables connect different parts of the world, carrying vast volumes of data every second. Together, they stretch across roughly 1.7 million kilometres of ocean floor, long enough to circle the Earth multiple times.

Though relatively thin, roughly the width of a garden hose, the cables transmit hundreds of terabits of information per second using fibre-optic technology.

A Technology With Deep Historical Roots

The idea of connecting nations through underwater cables dates back more than a century.

The first undersea telegraph cable was laid between England and France in 1850, marking the beginning of a technological transformation in global communications.

Over time, these systems evolved from telegraph lines to telephone networks and eventually to high-speed fibre-optic cables capable of transmitting massive volumes of digital data.

Before cables are installed, engineers survey the seabed to identify routes that minimise environmental impact and reduce the risk of damage. Specialised ships then deploy the cables, unrolling large reels onto the ocean floor.

Disruptions Can Have Global Impact

Because submarine cables form the backbone of international communications, any disruption can quickly affect economies, financial markets and essential services.

According to the ITU, between 150 and 200 cable incidents occur globally each year, averaging three to four disruptions every week.

Some of the most significant disruptions in recent years occurred in the Red Sea, where cable damage in 2024 interrupted roughly a quarter of data traffic flowing between Europe and Asia.

Outages can also be triggered by natural disasters such as earthquakes, underwater landslides or volcanic eruptions.

However, experts say human activity accounts for the majority of incidents. Around 80 percent of cable damage is caused by fishing trawlers or ship anchors dragging across the seabed.

Remote Regions Face Greater Risks

When cables fail, the consequences can be particularly severe for remote island nations and regions with limited connectivity.

Lamanauskas pointed to the Pacific island nation of Tonga as an example. Since 2019, the country has experienced three major internet disruptions linked to an earthquake, volcanic eruptions and accidental damage caused by ship anchoring.

In areas with only a single cable connection, even minor damage can leave entire populations without internet access for days or weeks.

“Imagine your entire community being offline for a week, unable to access digital healthcare, information or education,” he said.

Even small delays in data transmission can have significant economic consequences. For instance, a millisecond delay caused by cable congestion could affect financial trading systems in major global markets.

Repairs And Maintenance Challenges

Maintaining the vast network of undersea cables presents logistical challenges.

Some of the infrastructure installed during the early 2000s technology boom is now nearing the end of its typical 25-year lifespan, increasing the need for maintenance and replacement.

When a cable is damaged, engineers can usually identify the problem quickly using monitoring systems. However, the repair process often involves complex international coordination.

Obtaining permits and approvals from multiple jurisdictions can sometimes delay repair operations more than the technical work itself.

Depending on the location of the damage and the availability of specialised repair vessels, restoring a cable may take anywhere from several days to several months.

Global Efforts To Strengthen Cable Resilience

The growing dependence on digital connectivity has prompted governments and industry leaders to focus more closely on protecting submarine cables.

The International Telecommunication Union is working with countries and private companies to strengthen the resilience of the global network.

Its efforts include developing technical standards, improving coordination between countries and encouraging faster permitting processes for repairs.

The agency also promotes measures to prevent accidental damage and ensure that cable maintenance can be carried out more efficiently.

Lamanauskas said the rapid expansion of internet use continues to drive massive growth in cable capacity.

“Over the last 40 years, the capacity of these optical cables has been increasing by about 40 per cent every year,” he said, describing the growth as exponential.

As global demand for data continues to surge, strengthening the reliability and security of these underwater connections will remain a critical challenge for governments, businesses and international organisations alike.