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FBR extends tax return filing deadline by 15 days

Date extended in view of request from various trade bodies, tax payers and tax bar association, reads notification

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Sugar prices remain high despite imports

Punjab, Sindh, KP see sugar prices remain high

EconomicsPakistan

Wheat, flour prices soar amid continuous floods in Pakistan

Authorities launch crackdown on hoarding as 18,700 sacks recovered in Punjab

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Spain's Pork Industry under Pressure by Swine Fever Threat ASF outbreak causes growing concern among farmers Spanish pig producers are facing pressure following the detection of African Swine Fever in Spain. Jordi Saliveri who runs a Catalonia farm of 8,000 pigs expressed his frustration at the threat to exports and income. He said that importers stop purchasing pork once they are linked to ASF. It has reduced the price of each pig from EUR30-EUR40. This is a serious strain on farmers' finances. What is African Swine Fever? ASF, or African Swine Fever (ASF), is an extremely contagious virus that affects wild boars and pigs. The disease does not affect people. An infected wild boar, discovered in Collserola Park near Barcelona, was the beginning of this outbreak. The authorities immediately restricted the access to this area and began investigations. Officials are still investigating the exact cause of the outbreak, but have already ruled out the nearby research facility. Wild Boar and Spread The wild boar population is a key factor in the spread of this virus. They often travel near urban areas and increase the transmission risk. Oscar Ordeig, regional agriculture minister in the region, warned of serious problems caused by an overpopulation wild animals. These include disease transmission and road accidents. Catalonia has between 120,000 to 180,000 wild boars. The authorities plan to cut this number in half. Culling at Large Scale and Control Measures Around 24,000 wild boars have been killed in this region. Teams of special agents are focusing on high-risk zones in a 6-kilometer radius from the initial cases. Monitoring has been extended to a wider zone of 20 kilometers. To track down and eliminate infected animals, officials use traps, drones, cameras and controlled weapons. Each captured animal was tested for ASF and, by the end of March, there were 232 confirmed cases. Strict Safety and Containment Measures The authorities have taken strict measures in order to stop the spread of this virus. This includes movement restrictions, fences, and the regular disinfection and cleaning of footwear, equipment and vehicles used in affected regions. The steps taken are intended to prevent any further damage and protect the Spanish pork industry. It is the biggest in the world.
Economics

Spain Pork Industry Faces Swine Fever Threat, Farmers Struggle with Losses

Spanish pig producers are facing pressure following the detection of African Swine Fever in Spain. Jordi Saliveri who runs a Catalonia farm of 8,000 pigs expressed his frustration at the threat…

How fast can you hire domestic help in India in just 15 minutes? A Closer Look at Fairness
Economics

How fast can you hire domestic help in India in just 15 minutes? A Closer Look at Fairness

Seema Kumri, a young woman from Noida near Delhi, arrives at her workplace on a Tuesday wearing a violet T-shirt. She begins her work right away. In less than one hour she…

What an AI assistant tells us about Beijing's ambition
EconomicsInformation Technology

China’s AI Craze – How “Lobster Tech” is Shaping Digital Ambitions

China's interest in artificial intelligent is taking an interesting turn, with the rise and popularity of a "lobster"-named AI assistant. OpenClaw is a tool that has gained traction amongst tech lovers,…

US introduces 100 percent tariffs on patent medicines In a significant policy shift, the United States announced that patented drugs entering their country will be subject to a tariff of 100 percent. It is intended to reduce the reliance of pharmaceutical companies on imported drugs and encourage them to produce their products in-country. The rule does allow for flexibility. Negotiating agreements with US officials can help companies avoid the tariffs. Manufacturing incentives and Deals White House made it very clear that companies can eliminate or reduce tariffs through commitments. A company that agrees to construct new facilities in the US by January 2029 may be eligible for a 20 percent tariff reduction. Tariffs can be reduced to zero for companies that agree on pricing agreements with government. These agreements include the sale of medicines at similar prices to other countries. This is especially true for Medicaid and public health programs. Many pharmaceutical companies already have such agreements in place, with more expected soon. Generic Medicines: Impact Generic medicines are exempt from the tariff. Generic drugs are widely available and inexpensive in the US. The policy has a limited impact, since most of the prescriptions are generic. International Agreements and Trade Impact Some countries already have trade agreements in place with the US to protect their pharmaceutical exports. The UK, for example, has a trade agreement that guarantees zero tariffs on all its pharmaceuticals. The UK will pay higher prices to its National Health Service in exchange for this. The agreement benefits both British pharmaceutical firms and patients, who could benefit from an earlier access to new treatment. The same arrangements are applicable to Switzerland, Japan and South Korea as well as members of the European Union. The Timeline for Negotiation and the Window of Opportunity US Government has allowed pharmaceutical companies time for response. The US government has given pharmaceutical companies 120 days for large firms to reach agreements and 180 days for smaller ones. This approach, according to officials, is designed to encourage more firms to come to the table for negotiations and to invest in US-based production. The Industry's Reactions & Concerns The real impact of the tax depends on whether or not companies are able to secure deals and exemptions. Smaller companies may not be able to benefit from existing agreements, but larger firms could. Analysts warn that an increase in domestic production could lead to higher costs. Some analysts note that government pricing agreements may balance costs but details are unclear. Economic Impact of Investment According to the White House, the policy on tariffs has encouraged the pharmaceutical industry to invest around $400 billion dollars in the US. The officials believe that this would strengthen the national security of Canada and reduce its dependence on drug trafficking from abroad. Other Tariff Policy Changes In addition to adjusting pharmaceutical tariffs the US has also adjusted tariffs for metals such as steel, aluminium, and copper. The changes will remove the tariffs from products that only contain small quantities of materials.
EconomicsHealth

US introduces 100 percent tariffs on patent medicines

In a significant policy shift, the United States announced that patented drugs entering their country will be subject to a tariff of 100 percent. It is intended to reduce the reliance…

French Ship crosses Strait of Hormuz Despite Ongoing Tensions After weeks of conflict, a French container ship successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz. This vessel was operated by the French shipping company CMA CGM, and registered in Malta. It completed its voyage as global shipping lanes begin to move cautiously again. Media reports confirmed that the company had made the trip, and analysts pointed out that this was the first large Western ship to cross since tensions escalated. Waterway Restricted, but not Fully Closed Recent conflict in the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted oil and gas traffic. Many operators have had to stop or delay their movement in the region because of attacks on several ships. Shipping activity has dropped dramatically, despite Iran's declaration that all vessels are welcome to pass. Many ships avoided sailing along the central route, and instead chose to sail closer to Oman’s coast to minimize risk. Transit of Other Ships A Japanese vessel carrying natural gas, along with the French ship, also safely exited this strait. The operator of the ship confirmed that crew members and cargo were safe. The operator confirms that the limited movement of maritime cargo is still taking place, under strict safety measures. Sharp Drop in Shipping Traffic Before the war, the Strait of Hormuz was regularly used by hundreds of vessels. Reports suggest traffic is down 95 percent. In late March only 100 ships managed to pass, which is an average of five or six vessels per day. Around 200 ships were stranded on nearby waterways earlier in the crisis due to a halt of operations. Global trade has been severely affected by the slowdown. Global Economic Impact Strait of Hormuz is a major route for transporting liquefied gas and oil. This route is critical to the global energy market. Oil prices soared as shipping declined. The rise in oil prices has led to a global increase in fuel costs and concerns over inflation. This situation threatens to increase the price of basic goods like food, medicine, and electronic devices.
EconomicsUnited StatesWar

French Ship crosses Strait of Hormuz Despite Ongoing Tensions

After weeks of conflict, a French container ship successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz.It completed its voyage as global shipping lanes begin to move cautiously again. Media reports confirmed that the…

India faces rising water and beverage costs amid extreme heat and global crisis India will experience a hot summer with temperatures that are expected to exceed 45degC across several regions. The tensions in the world over Iran put pressure on India's supply chain. The combination of these factors is causing concern about the rising price of beverages and bottled waters across Canada. As access to clean water remains limited, the demand for bottled water is on the rise. In many areas of India, access to clean drinking water is still a problem. Many people depend on bottled drinking water because of this. According to recent data, around 15% of urban and rural households rely on bottled drinking water. This dependence increases in hotter months, when there are more water shortages or contamination. But bottled water may not be affordable to everyone. The financial burden is felt more by rural communities. The rising oil price pushes up packaging costs Crude oil prices are the main cause of the increase in price. Fuel prices around the world have increased due to shipping route disruptions, particularly in and around Strait of Hormuz. About 20% of world oil and gas is transported through this route. Prices have risen due to limited access. This has affected countries like India that rely on imported oil. PET plastic is made primarily from crude oil. The plastic used in the production of bottles for soft drinks, water and other items. PET shortage impacts production across industries PET preforms have become scarce for manufacturers. They are used in the production of bottles. Costs of materials have risen dramatically. The price of these materials has risen from 115 to 180 rupees. The price increase has caused a disruption in production and forced about 20 percent of Maharashtra's bottle-making plants to temporarily shut down. PET packaging is used in many industries, not just bottled water. Food delivery, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and beauty products are all industries that rely on PET packaging. Brands begin to increase prices Bisleri, one of the leading brands in bottled waters, has already increased its prices. A 12-pack of one-liter water bottles now costs around 11 percent more. Bailley Premium Water and Clear Premium Water are also following the trend. Many companies have covered a portion of the costs to protect their customers. Experts warn that this approach will not last. Customers may soon feel the impact Prices for bottles are mostly unchanged at the moment. One-liter bottles still cost around 20 rupees while five-liter bottles sell for 60-70 rupees. This could change in the near future. Companies may increase prices to customers as demand increases during peak summer months, such as April and May. Experts in the industry believe that, as global conditions worsen, it is possible for bottled water to become prohibitively expensive. Growing Market Facing Uncertain Future In 2024, the PET packaging market in India was estimated at $1.5 Billion. By 2033, it is predicted to grow to $2.2 billion. The current crisis shows how the global supply chain is crucial to the growth of the sector. A disruption in supply chains can have a rapid impact on production, prices, and availability.
EconomicsHealth

India faces rising water and beverage costs amid extreme heat and global crisis

India will experience a hot summer with temperatures that are expected to exceed 45degC across several regions. The tensions in the world over Iran put pressure on India's supply chain. The combination…

Myanmar's coup leader who set off a brutal civil war becomes president
EconomicsUnited StatesWar

Trump Proposes $1.5 Trillion Defence Budget with Cuts to Domestic Spending

Massive Defence Budget Plan Announced The White House has proposed a major increase in the US defence budget, aiming to raise it to $1.5 trillion. This would be one of…

Clapham High Street Teen Disturbances Lead to Arrests and Police Action
EconomicsTravel

Clapham High Street Teen Disturbances Lead to Arrests and Police Action

Six teenage girls were arrested after two incidents of anti social behaviour in south west London. Police say the events were linked to online trends that encouraged the crowd to…

China bone ash apartments ban empty apartment shrine
Economics

China Bone Ash Apartments Ban: Government Cracks Down on Unusual Burial Practice

China Bone Ash Apartments Ban Explained The Chinese authorities are planning to outlaw a practice that is gaining popularity, whereby families keep cremated remains inside empty apartments. The "bone ash apartment"…

Economics

US Gas prices cross $4 after Iran conflict disrupts global oil supply

The price of gasoline in the United States has surpassed $4 a gallon for first time since the year 2022. As the Iran conflict continues to disrupt global oil supplies, energy…

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The most common reason for women giving birth on their backs Birthing in a traditional upright position is no longer the norm Women have been giving birth to their babies in upright positions for thousands of years. The upright positions were chosen to support the flow of childbirth and the way the body naturally moves. Women are often placed backwards in modern hospitals, particularly those of many countries that have developed post-industrially. The change in medical practice, rather than human preference, is the reason for this relatively recent development. Modern practices in childbirth In the 1600s, it became popular to lie down while giving birth. Francois Mauriceau was a French doctor who promoted reclining. Mauriceau believed that it made birth easier and more comfortable for both women and doctors. At this time, pregnant women began to be treated as medical conditions. During this shift, the midwives' role was reduced and male doctors were more involved. Others historians suggest social factors also played a part. According to reports, King Louis XIV preferred to watch births in a more clear manner, and this may have influenced his preference for reclining positions. What upright postures make sense Midwives and experts in birth physiology agree on one thing: gravity is a big help to the process of birthing. Gravity helps the baby move through the birth canal when a woman is upright. During labour, many women choose to squat, kneel, or even lean forward. The positions chosen by women during labour are not at random. They correspond to the way their bodies work. Research on the birth position The benefits of upright positions for birthing are well-documented. Reviewing multiple studies that involved thousands of women, several positive results were found. The women who remain upright throughout labour usually experience: Reduced chances of Cesarean Delivery Epidurals are no longer necessary There are fewer neonatal babies in need of care A shorter workday is another key advantage. Positions that are upright can make contractions more efficient. Experts note also that standing up during birth may help to reduce the use of interventions like forceps or vacuum delivery. Additionally, improved blood flow may improve oxygen delivery to the infant. Limitations and considerations Although upright positions have many benefits, they are not suitable in every circumstance. Certain research has suggested that blood loss may increase, particularly in high-risk pregnancies. Medical guidance is crucial. Healthcare providers evaluate the best approach for each birth based on their individual needs. Choose your birth settings The environment can also influence how women deliver. Women are more inclined to choose upright positions and move around freely in supportive environments like birth centers. In these centres, tools such as birthing balls or stools are often available. In contrast, standard hospital delivery rooms may limit movement. A fixed bed may encourage lying down even when other positions are more natural. The conclusion of the article is: It isn't the only or most common way to give birth. The upright birth position has been part of the human experience for centuries and is supported both by instinct and scientific research. The modern healthcare system continues to find a balance between safety and these natural methods.
The most common reason for women giving birth on their backs
News
Hungary Investigates alleged pipeline sabotage amid tensions surrounding the election Political pressure and energy dependence Hungary is heavily reliant on Russian gas to meet its energy requirements. The TurkStream pipeline supplies gas to Hungary and other nearby countries, such as Slovakia. The TurkStream pipeline is a major factor in keeping Hungary investigates alleged pipeline sabotage amid election tension Energy dependence and political pressure Hungary relies on Russian gas for a large part of its energy needs. It receives between five and eight billion cubic meters of gas each year through the TurkStream pipeline, which also supports nearby countries like Slovakia. This supply plays a key role in keeping energy costs lower for households. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has made energy security a central part of his election campaign. He says cheap Russian oil and gas help protect citizens from rising prices. He also claims that external forces are trying to disrupt these supplies to weaken his government. Orbán has accused a group linked to Kyiv, Brussels, and Berlin of trying to interfere in Hungary’s energy access. He warns that a future government led by opposition figure Péter Magyar could align Hungary with European policies and increase its involvement in the war between Russia and Ukraine. Accusations and political debate Orbán also blamed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for blocking oil supplies to Hungary. He pointed to disruptions in the Druzhba pipeline, which runs through Ukraine. Ukrainian officials responded that Russian attacks caused the damage and said repairs should restore the flow soon. Opposition leader Péter Magyar rejected Orbán’s claims. He described them as fear based political messaging and suggested that advisers linked to Russia may be shaping the narrative. Explosives discovered near key pipeline Tensions increased after Serbian authorities found two backpacks filled with explosives and detonators near the village of Tresnjevac. The site lies close to the point where the TurkStream pipeline enters Hungary from Serbia. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić confirmed the discovery and informed Orbán. He described the explosives as extremely dangerous and said authorities had launched an investigation to find those responsible. Security concerns ahead of elections Security experts warned that the incident could be part of a staged operation designed to influence public opinion. Some analysts believe such actions could increase support for Orbán’s party, Fidesz, or justify emergency measures during the election period. Orbán responded by calling an emergency meeting of Hungary’s National Defence Council. Authorities continue to investigate the situation as concerns grow over national security and political stability. household energy prices low. Viktor Orban, Prime Minister of Hungary, has placed energy security at the heart of his campaign. Orban says that cheap Russian gas and oil protects citizens against rising prices. He claims external forces have also tried to undermine his government by disrupting these supplies. Orban accused a group with ties to Kiev, Berlin, Brussels and Kyiv of trying to interfere with Hungary's access to energy. Orban warns that an opposition-led future government could align Hungary to European policies, and increase the country's involvement in wars between Russia and Ukraine. Political debate and accusations Orban has also accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of blocking oil deliveries to Hungary. Orban cited disruptions to the Druzhba Pipeline, which passes through Ukraine. Ukrainian officials said that Russians attacked caused the damage, and repairs would be completed soon. Peter Magyar, the leader of opposition in Hungary, rejected Orban’s assertions. He called them fear-based messages and said that advisors with ties to Russia could be shaping the narrative. Explosives discovered near key pipeline Serbian authorities discovered two backpacks containing explosives and detonators in the vicinity of Tresnjevac. Near the TurkStream pipeline entry point into Hungary, the site is close by. Orban was informed by the Serbian president Aleksandar Vucic. The explosives were described as dangerous by Vucic, who said that authorities have launched an investigation in order to identify the culprits. Elections: Security Concerns Experts in security warned that this incident may have been staged to manipulate public opinion. Analysts believe that such acts could boost support for Orban’s Fidesz party or justify emergency measures in the run-up to elections. Orban's response was to call an urgent meeting of the National Defence Council. As concerns about national security and stability grow, authorities continue their investigation.
Hungary Investigates alleged pipeline sabotage amid tensions surrounding the election
Crime and Justice United States
Justin Rose Eyes Masters Glory After Years of Near Misses at Augusta
Justin Rose Eyes Masters Glory After Years of Near Misses at Augusta
Sports
Nigerian Army Recovers Hostages Following Church Attacks in Kaduna Attack During Easter Worship in Kaduna Armed attackers attacked a church during the Easter festivities in north-west Nigeria. According to security forces, the gunmen took hostages and killed at least five civilians. The initial report of seven fatalities was made by a church official, however the authorities confirmed only five. Military Rescue Operation Nigerian troops responded quickly and engaged in an intense gunfight with the attackers. The troops forced the gunmen back, leaving the hostages behind and bodies of victims. Soldiers successfully freed 31 hostages. The officials stated that it is likely the attackers suffered significant losses in the conflict. As evidence, they pointed out blood trails along the escape route. Additional troops were also sent to the area in order to find the suspects who fled and increase security. The rise of insecurity and kidnappings In northern Nigeria, kidnappings for ransom are common. Violent attacks also continue to be perpetrated. While security problems persist, armed groups, also known as bandits, are still conducting raids. Local reports indicate that although the army claimed a rapid response, the attackers were active for some time before being stopped. Residents have been urged to provide information which can assist security forces in stopping criminal groups, and improving safety throughout the region. Zamfara Military offensive The Nigerian army killed 65 armed bandits during a separate raid in Zamfara. This operation was launched after a mass abduction that took place earlier this week. The police confirmed that the manhunt was launched following the abduction of villagers in large numbers. Global Concerns about Security International attention has been drawn to Nigeria's security issues. Donald Trump, the former US president, expressed concern about Christians' treatment and called for better protection. Nigerian government rejects claims of persecution of Christians and Muslims. US troops have also helped Nigerian military forces. US troops are involved in providing training to militant groups, armed gangs and other armed groups.
Nigerian Army Recovers Hostages Following Church Attacks in Kaduna
United States War
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