Studies by the University of Peradeniya show that atmospheric nitrogen can be fixed into the soil and rapidly improve it thanks to sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea), reducing the need for chemical fertilisers, which are in short supply following the Strait of Hormuz blockade. Experts are urging the various stakeholders, including farmers, to leverage its potential to boost the country's food security.
Talks between the United States and Iran to firm up a still shaky ceasefire began in the Pakistani capital today. However, the United Arab Emirates is withdrawing US$ 3.5 billion (over a fifth of Pakistan's reserves) to put political pressure on the South Asian country. For Archbishop Joseph Arshad of Islamabad-Rawalpindi, “war and conflict cause immense suffering” and this needs “solutions to problems through wisdom, tolerance and dialogue.”
A new paper by the World Inequality Lab shows that the richest 10 per cent of rural households own 44 per cent of India's total land. Furthermore, recent legislative changes in Gujarat have reignited the debate over ownership in areas considered sensitive to communal tensions, raising fears of further social exclusion.
An uncontrolled outbreak has caused dozens of deaths since 15 March. Among the victims is Risa, aged 7 months; her twin sister Ruhi is in a critical condition in Dhaka. Hospitals under pressure and structural shortcomings are exacerbating the crisis. The government has launched an emergency vaccination campaign. Fr Costa: ‘Measles requires specialised wards and staff’.
Talks between Washington and Tehran will take place in Islamabad on Friday after threats of escalation. China has applied pressure, consolidating its influence in the region. Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir has played a crucial role. Uncertainties remain regarding the actual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the Israeli-Lebanon front. Pakistani Christians tell AsiaNews that they are praying for lasting “peace and prosperity”.
A coalition of civil society groups and organisations is calling on Anura Kumara Dissanayake to release at least 10 detainees unconditionally. Some have been in prison for over 30 years without trial. The controversial anti-terrorism law is under scrutiny.
