Today, India decided to reopen its embassy in Kabul, marking an unprecedented political step towards the Taliban government. The announcement came after Pakistan struck the Afghan capital to eliminate Noor Wali Mehsud, leader of the Pakistani Taliban. These developments are part of a new phase in the conflict between India and Pakistan, which began with Operation Sindoor, launched by New Delhi in May in response to an attack in Kashmir.

Last Sunday evening, eve of World Habitat Day, a ceremony was held at Temple Trees in the presence of Sri Lankan President Dissanayake to mark the start of a programme to provide a home to at least 4,000 families in need. Land and a symbolic cheque were also handed over. The government pledged to offer a safe, comfortable, and dignified living environment for all its citizens.

The Canadian government has listed the powerful India-based criminal network as a terrorist group. The decision follows a long trail of shootings and extortions against members of the Sikh diaspora, and comes as Ottawa attempts to restore cooperation with New Delhi following tensions over the murder of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Canadian authorities accuse the gang of acting as a tool of intimidation, with connections to Indian intelligence, a charge New Delhi vehemently denies.

More than fifty people are showing symptoms consistent with the disease, which is transmitted from livestock to humans. For the first time, cases have also been reported in the Rangpur region. The government has launched mass vaccinations and awareness campaigns, but experts warn that surveillance structures remain fragile and the risk of new infections is high.

The CCIDE and NCJP Pakistan are behind the initiative that brought together students, activists, as well as Muslim, Christian, Hindus, Sikh, and Parsi leaders. The nation's founder and the values ​​of tolerance and freedom of worship were stressed. True change lies in translating the values ​​of understanding, love, respect, and peace into concrete action.

In Pakistan's northeastern province, the local government stopped funding stipends for female public school students three years ago. Although meager (200 rupees or $US 0.70) every six months, the money was crucial for female attendance in rural areas. Across the country, spending on education is declining, and 38 per cent of children, especially girls, remain out of school, while early marriage and forced labour are on the rise.