MSP, loan waiver and crop insurance, crucial issues for farmers

MSP, loan waiver and crop insurance, crucial issues for farmers

The Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance faced huge setbacks in the Lok Sabha elections in the agrarian belts of the country. The BJP lost in at least 38 seats in five States where the farmers’ movement against the policies of the Narendra Modi government was strong. This government is a continuation of the first … Read more

Sunak, ’s GDP disappoints, US CPI and FOMC in focus

Sunak, ’s GDP disappoints, US CPI and FOMC in focus

By Naeem Aslam     European and US futures are trading with extreme caution on Wednesday as traders are reluctant to make any big moves ahead of two important events. Observing the day’s price action reveals a tense atmosphere, because the US CPI report and the Fed’s monetary policy decision, followed by their press conference, are … Read more

Waterborne illness now threaten flood-ravaged southern Brazil

Waterborne illness now threaten flood-ravaged southern Brazil

Waterborne diseases, particularly leptospirosis, are a major concern in Brazil’s southernmost state of Rio Grande do Sul following catastrophic floods that killed at least 169 people. Seven deaths from leptospirosis have been reported since the rains began, with another 10 deaths under investigation. Over 2,300 potential cases have been reported, with 141 confirmed. To address the high demand for medical care, four field hospitals and mobile teams have been set up. Additionally, residents returning to their homes may encounter venomous animals seeking shelter from rainwater. The destruction has also taken a toll on the mental health of the population.

Pakistan temperatures cross 52 C in heatwave

Pakistan temperatures cross 52 C in heatwave

Temperatures in Pakistan’s southern province of Sindh rose above 52 degrees Celsius, the highest reading of the summer and close to the country’s record high.

Scattered rains, ongoing light dust

Scattered rains, ongoing light dust

Scattered rains are expected on Tuesday, with temperatures rising to 29C in the interior. Light dust will also be present. Winds will be mainly south- to north-westerly, light to moderate. Overnight, low clouds and light fog are expected, with temperatures dropping to 16C inland. The presence of dust is expected to continue through Wednesday, with showers expected in the mountains and interior over the next two days. Temperatures will rise slightly through Friday, fluctuating close to average for the season.

Fifty dead in heavy rain, floods in central Afghanistan, official says

Fifty dead in heavy rain, floods in central Afghanistan, official says

At least 50 people are dead in central Afghanistan due to heavy rain and flooding. The rain spell began on Friday, cutting off key roads and causing significant destruction in the province of Ghor. 2,000 houses were destroyed, 4,000 were partially damaged, and 2,000 shops were flooded in the capital, Feroz-Koh. Last week, flash floods in northern Afghanistan killed 315 people and injured over 1,600. Afghanistan is vulnerable to natural disasters, and the lack of aid has worsened since the Taliban took over in 2021.

Afghanistan floods devastate villages, killing 315

Afghanistan floods devastate villages, killing 315

Flash floods in northern Afghanistan have killed 315 people and injured over 1,600, causing widespread devastation in villages. Thousands of homes were damaged, livestock wiped out, and health care facilities and infrastructure were affected. The Taliban’s economy minister called for support from the UN and aid agencies. Afghanistan is prone to natural disasters and is considered one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change.