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Climate change in mountain areas

Mountain Biodiversity and Climate Change highlights the need to address the impacts of climate change on the Hindu Kush-Himalayan region. This publication of ICIMOD has been developed from contributions made in a conference held last year that had brought together some 75 renowned experts.

New portal on RTI launched in India

Some concerned citizens and groups of a north Indian city have launched an interactive online portal on the Right to Information Act. It allows visitors to share and disseminate information of public interest, with special section for youth to address their concerns.

Displaced persons in Sri Lanka face health hazards

Lack of food, water and proper sanitation are posing serious health hazards for displaced people in Sri Lanka. An international NGO is trying to provide emergency shelters and other facilities but much more is needed to protect those who have been made vulnerable in this crisis.

Heartache for wives of Bhutanese refugees

Nepalese women married to Bhutanese refugees fear they may be left out of the third country resettlement programme and end up separated from their families. Even children will get separated from their uncles, cousins and grandparents.

TB vaccines proving fatal for HIV+ babies

A new WHO study has revealed that HIV-positive babies who received the BCG vaccine against tuberculosis were three times more likely to contract the infectious disease. Medical experts have raised concerns over the complications among the vaccinated kids.

Doctors will get incentives to serve rural India

After many failed attempts to get skilled medical personnel for insurgency-affected and remote areas, the Indian government has announced plans to give doctors high financial incentives. The proposed move is expected to help the poor receive immediate and quality healthcare.

Large number of Indians living in chronic poverty: Report

According to a government panel set up under the chairmanship of N.C. Saxena, 50% of Indians are living below the poverty line. The committee in its draft report has recommended that all such people should be extended the benefits of government’s social sector schemes, including the public distribution system.

Migrant miseries will trickle down worldwide

There are an estimated 200 million migrant workers today in the world, of which about 150 million are the most vulnerable due to the current global financial crisis, says the UN. Decreasing remittances are affecting not just the living conditions of migrants but also their families back home.

Pakistani tribal women enter 'forbidden territory'

Defying social taboos on women entering the public sphere, female reporters from Pakistan’s Federally Administered Tribal Areas are working on news bulletins focussing on socio-political issues. Radio Khyber that aims to counter extremism in the region has provided a platform to these women to accept new challenges.

Campaign for safe motherhood in India

Almost a quarter of the world’s maternal deaths occur in India and some states have alarmingly high rates, reveals a new report released this week in the national capital. A people-led campaign found that quality healthcare was essential for bringing down the number of deaths.

Learning the basics of HIV/AIDS

The Magic Bus, an illustrative flipbook by the International HIV/AIDS alliance, helps children to learn the basics of HIV/AIDS and its treatment. It beautifully weaves stories in simple language using cartoons that a facilitator can use to build awareness on the dreaded disease.

Gay sex not criminal anymore in India

In a historic judgment today, India’s Delhi High Court has decriminalised homosexuality among consenting adult partners. The court in its ruling said that the archaic law was violative of fundamental rights.

Distressed Indian farmers sign suicide pact

After four years of drought, 5000 farmers in Indian state of Jharkhand have signed a suicide pact. They are complaining that government is not taking any steps to improve their conditions and has in fact turned a blind eye to their plight.

Bill soon in India for women's job quota

Indian government is planning to introduce a bill in the current session of Parliament that seeks to provide reservation to women in government jobs. The country’s home minister is also confident of consensus emerging on long-pending Women’s Reservation Bill.

Women's work in globalising India

Professor Jayati Ghosh’s Never done and poorly paid makes an exceptional study of women’s role in Indian economy against the backdrop of fast globalising world. Nirmala Banerji, a feminist economist, critically examines the key issues raised in the book and the ones that failed to find a mention.

UN chief for release of political prisoners in Myanmar

Ahead of his visit to Myanmar, UN chief has urged the military junta to release all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi. He is also likely to make a pitch for creating a political atmosphere conducive to the holding of credible elections next year.

TV serial enriches farmers' lives in Bangladesh

Jiboner Jolchobi, a new television series aired on mainstream channel in Bangladesh, is equipping farmers with useful information and technologies to boost agricultural production. The programme focuses on food processing, savings and credit systems, grassroots services and disaster risk reduction.

UNICEF urges funds for Pakistan refugees

Facing shortage of funds, UNICEF has made an urgent plea for monetary support to displaced people in the north-west part of Pakistan. In recent times the country has seen the biggest ever internal displacement due to the ongoing war with Islamic fundamentalist groups.

Rains raise fears of malaria outbreak in Sri Lanka

With more rains expected this month in Sri Lanka, the fear of waterborne diseases and malaria outbreak has increased. Among the most vulnerable are people displaced by war living in pitiable conditions in camps.

Making health policy gender sensitive in Chile

Ever since a socialist president, Michelle Bachelet, has assumed power in Chile, she has steadfastly pursued health system reforms in her country. She has tried to bring in policies with a gender perspective.

'India's shallow rhetoric of inclusive growth'

The proposed Food Security Act in India is flawed, says Brinda Karat, Polit Bureau member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist)). She argues the public distribution system should be made universal, as it existed prior to the targeted system introduced in the 1990s as part of the neo-liberal agenda.

Free-trade between Nepal and Pakistan on the cards

Foreign secretaries of Nepal and Pakistan attached special importance to inking Free Trade Agreement at the earliest at a meeting on Monday in Kathmandu. Both countries have also expressed their desire to further deepen bilateral cooperation in other areas of economy, agriculture, energy, environment and culture.

India's village of deaf-mutes

A village in India’s Jammu and Kashmir has at least one member in a family who can neither speak nor hear. Doctors and scientists who conducted the study three years ago have not been able to come out with any conclusive findings about the cause.

Pakistani militants abandon peace deal

Hafiz Gul Bahadur faction of Taliban militants has scrapped the 2007 peace deal signed with the Pakistani army, citing the continued US and Pakistani military offensive. This has raised fears of prolonged bloody battle as no one has ever defeated a combined insurgency in the Waziristan area.

Serious dearth of climate change info for the poor

Very little is known about how people are coping with climate change in rural areas, especially in developing countries where three out of four persons live in villages. Sparse coverage of adaptation has implications for the world's poor, who are in most need of such information.

Women demand political commitment to fight HIV/AIDS

At a conclave held before the Lok Sabha elections in India, HIV positive women and activists urged for more political will and commitment from leaders of the country. Raising the demand for land, subsidised rations and pension funds, the victims sought more laws to ameliorate their conditions.

Iraq’s refugee women search for new lives

In Syria, one of the asylum countries, for Iraqi refugees, women and girls are the most vulnerable lot, due to absence of right to work. Economic desperation and coercion are forcing them to take up sex work against their will for survival.

Delhi sacrifices its past for future

In a bid to look swanky and up-market before the 2010 Commonwealth Games, the Indian capital is changing at breathtaking speed. In the process the city is sacrificing some of its magnificent past, writes Sam Miller, former BBC South Asia correspondent.

Gay parade in Indian cities

In Delhi and Chennai – as in other Indian cities – lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community came out in the open to celebrate their sexuality and demanded decriminalisation of homosexuality. The march was as much for sexual minorities as it was for any believer in democratic rights, said a poet.

Healthcare for children in India

Save the Children’s latest report, Freedom from Hunger for Children under Six explores inter-linkages between health and development, especially with respect to maternal-child health and nutrition. It highlights the need for greater collaboration among key stakeholders in addressing the problem at the grassroots level.

Women at forefront of Iranian protests

Neda was her name and it means ‘voice’ in Persian. The day she succumbed to a bullet injury during a protest rally against the presidential election, that was allegedly won by fraudulent means, she truly became the voice of Iranian dissent.

Civilian casualties escalating in Afghanistan, says UN

The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan has recorded 800 civilian casualties between January and May this year. Aid agencies say that conflicts between insurgent groups, international and Afghan forces have displaced tens of thousands of people – most of them are in need of protection and assistance.

India's monsoon predictions become more uncertain

As it is, Indian monsoon is a “complex and mysterious phenomenon” and climate change is making it even harder for any meteorologist to predict its course through existing models. Farmers are finding it impossible to depend on the forecasts to time their sowing, harvesting and all other agricultural activities.

Kashmir's borderline women live in 'abode of ghosts'

Volatile situation on the Line of Control between India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir between 1999 and 2003 shattered the lives of people living on the border. Women have particularly been affected by the Kargil intrusion and the resultant displacement, writes Prakriiti Gupta.

Bionic hand does wonders for amputees

iLimb, India's first bionic arm launched earlier this week in the national capital, is becoming a rage with those who have lost their limbs in wars and accidents. The motorised limb directly controlled by brain works like a natural hand, making life much easier for the affected lot.

Building a friendly education system

UNICEF has developed a manual on Child-Friendly Schools, that addresses total needs of a child as a learner and aims to create an environment that offers quality education to every youngster. It also includes an e-learning package for capacity building.

Cell phone alerts in disaster-prone Bangladesh

Thousands of people residing in Bangladesh’s Cox bazaar and Shirajganj districts will soon receive early warning alerts of an impending natural disaster. A new user-friendly initiative will prevent loss of life and damage to property due to flooding, tropical storms and cyclones.

Majority of custodial deaths in India go unreported

Asian Centre for Human Right’s new report has revealed that more than a thousand people have died in police custody in India over the past eight years. The findings illustrate the government’s failure in ensuring compliance with Supreme Court guidelines about torture and extra-judicial killings.

Vietnam: Where the schools have no loos

A recent survey revealed schools in the Vietnamese capital had shockingly failed in meeting basic sanitation facilities. The absence of toilets or the fear of unhygenic ones are negatively affecting students' health and their studying ability, it noted.

Afghanistan and Pakistan move slow on family planning

Promoting family planning is an uneasy task for health officials in conservative areas of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Experts are of the view that lack of awareness and strong cultural and religious taboos hamper women's access to health centres.

Travelling right

Heather Allen of the International Association of Public Transport wants to make public transportation sustainable in a market driven world. In an interview with Down to Earth, she talks of the bus business and pedestrians’ rights in developing countries, and why public transport should figure in climate debates.

Swine flu virus spreads its tentacles

With estimated one million cases of swine flu in the US alone, the virus is showing no signs of letting up. In Middle East, the number of cases is also growing with many new suspected and confirmed cases reported in the past few days.

Combating child labour in Afghanistan through education

Estimates suggest that 30% of Afghan children are engaged in child labour, and discriminatory traditional practices make girls more vulnerable. With support from local communities, UNICEF has successfully integrated thousands of children into community-based schools, giving them an opportunity to learn and grow.

Inexplicable bailouts explicable poverty

Over the past year the world has spent 18 trillion dollars to bail out financial institutions, while only two trillion dollars account for overseas development assistance given in the last 50 years. Through this striking revelation, the UN Millennium Campaign questions the priorities of governments claiming to reduce poverty.

Inexplicable bailouts; explicable poverty

Contrast the figure of two trillion dollars dispersed for poverty alleviation over last 50 years with 18 trillion that the world has spent in last one year in bailing out banks and other financial institutions. Obnoxious it may sound but it is enough to explain the priorities of governments.

Making the case for agriculture in Copenhagen

In the run-up to Copenhagen summit meeting in December, Washington-based International Food Policy Research Institute has said that crop and livestock research should be urgently pursued to help overcome hotter temperatures, drought and new diseases. It further says improved agricultural practices have the potential to mitigate global warming.

Epilepsy patients in India look for life partners online

In western India, Sanvedana Foundation has started an online portal to help those suffering from epilepsy find life partners. For past five years, the organisation has been providing patients consultancy and guidance in treatment and management of the disease.

Fighting for 'lost heroes' in Sri Lanka

Visaka Dharmadasa has been relentlessly providing support to thousands of families in Sri Lanka in tracing missing soldiers during the civil war. Besides advocating a permanent solution to the Tamil problem, she has been running awareness programmes across ethnic groups to empower women through education.

Mapping the progress of women in media

Highlighting concerns like occupational status, salary, reporting assignments, opportunities for training and promotion, and company policies, Elisa Munoz, director of research of the International Women's Media Foundation, examines the media industry from a gender angle. The key objective is to measure the progress of women in media, she says.

Bringing prosperity in Dalit land

As part of its corporate social responsibility, a pharmaceutical company has come forward to promote self-employment among dalit villagers in western Indian state of Rajasthan. Women’s self-help groups are manufacturing ready-made garments and other items to augment family income.

India may receive below normal monsoon this year

India’s Meteorological Department has revised its forecast saying that the country is expected to receive below normal monsoon this year. However, scientists and Planning Commission have allayed the fears of adverse impact on agriculture and economy.

Budgeting the needs of the marginalized

The perspective and choice of the ruling class encroach upon the human rights of the marginalised. Analysing allocations and plans for critical sectors in Bangladesh’s current budget, A.K.M. Masud Ali, Executive Director, INCIDIN, notes that ensuring access to resources still remains a major challenge.

'Making education a fundamental right is a top priority'

India’s Human Resource and Development minister Kapil Sibal, in an interview with Economic Times, discusses his plans to give a facelift to the country’s education sector. He outlines his plans for elementary, secondary and vocational education and the need to regulate private players to ensure quality.

Sexual violence during conflicts must end: UN

At a high-level meet of the UN held early this week, participants discussed conflict-related sexual violence in peace processes and peace accords. Women’s rights advocates stressed on the need for addressing the issue of violence against women during peace negotiations to secure the dignity and freedom of women.

Water still a challenge for Bangladesh's cyclone victims

With no signs of rain in Bangladesh, drinking water problems, amidst intense heat, for victims of Cyclone Aila are mounting. Adventist Development and Relief Agency is rehabilitating ponds and distributing emergency food packages to thousands of households.

Millennium Campaign calls for stronger aid accountability

A new analysis by the Millennium Campaign reveals a stark contrast between the money spent on bailing out the rich during the past year and the overseas aid given over the last five decades. It has asked donors to give up excuses and deliver on their promises.

Investing in green energy

UNEP’s Global Trends in Sustainable Energy Investment 2009 documents significant surge in sustainable energy investments worldwide. Despite the worst ever financial crisis, the report notes increased use of renewables and advocates an eco-friendly approach to meet challenges like energy security and resource efficiency.

A global initiative to save tigers

The World Bank has launched an initiative in 13 countries, including India, to save tigers from extinction. The bank will provide more than US$ 1 million over the next year towards training hundreds of forest rangers and other habitat managers in biodiversity management.

Indian sanitation project wins UN award

For its pioneering work in the field of community-managed water resources, Gujarat’s Water and Sanitation Management Organisation has won the prestigious UN Public Services Award. The internationally acclaimed awards recognise creative institutional efforts that promote people’s participation in policy and decision-making.

UN launches 'seal the deal' campaign

The UN has launched a campaign to pressurise world governments to ‘seal the deal’ in Copenhagen later this year based on a “fair, effective and scientifically ambitious new climate framework”. Its chief has warned that there is a lot of work to do but not a lot of time.

Poor are no 'lifeless bricks'

Studies have demonstrated that given the right opportunities, the poor in India are very much capable of helping themselves in order to move out of the vicious cycle of poverty. They have shown surprising sophistication when dealing with finances, writes Niranjan Rajadhyaksha.

Displaced Muslims of Sri Lanka plan return

Nearly 20 years after they were forced to flee by the Tamil Tigers from areas dominated by them, Lankan Muslims in Sri Lanka are planning to return home. The country’s relief and rehabilitation minister has assured that after the clearance of land mines, displaced Tamils and Muslims will be resettled.

US aid temporarily resolves Afghan pastureland conflict

US humanitarian aid has successfully staved off the brewing conflict between two ethnic communities in Afghanistan. Over past few years, disputes over access to public pastureland between Kuchis and ethnic Hazaras have frequently led to armed clashes.

India's sodomy laws steeped in colonial mindset: HRW

Awaiting a high court ruling on legalising homosexual conduct in India, Human Rights Watch has called upon the government to repeal all laws criminalising such acts. In the new Hindi translation of its earlier report, the watchdog describes these British-era traditions as draconian provisions that need urgent reform.

World entering an era of 'slower growth', says report

According to the latest World Bank report an unprecedented decline in global output, trade and private capital flows is slowing down economic growth. Experts say that with the continuing downturn, poor countries will be hard pressed to meet their external financing needs which could adversely affect the MDGs.

UNEP launches online tool to conserve marine ecosystem

UNEP has launched a new online system to view and study the world’s marine protected areas. By providing accurate information on marine species and habitats, the tool will help governments and communities to conserve the diversity of life in coastal environments.

Marriage brings comfort for India's HIV positive couples

Shunned by family and society, many HIV positive people in western India have chosen to marry a fellow HIV carrier. The first of its kind, a local NGO is promoting this cause not just to build a practical base for dealing with the illness, but also to help control the spread of infection.

Bhutanese refugees in Nepal hope for repatriation

Thousands of Bhutanese refugees in Nepal who fled their country fearing ‘ethnic cleansing’ have resettled in third countries over the past year. While bilateral talks have failed to come up with a solution, these minorities also known as ‘Lhotsampas’ have launched a campaign for repatriation.

Africa-Asia civil society exchange on MDGs

An African delegation of civil society leaders is on a visit to India to share their experiences, challenges and success in advocacy on MDGs. Organised by the UN Millennium Campaign, the visit's first day was marked by a meeting with a union cabinet minster and the release of MDGs Status Reports for two Indian states.

Involving children in HIV/AIDS initiatives

Seen and heard, a new document from Panos London looks at the experiences of young children with HIV/AIDS and examines issues around children's participation. It explores the need to involve children in decisions that affect their lives, and equip them with appropriate communication tools.

Proposing a green world order

The Green Economic Zones proposed by tribal communities in Indian state of Gujarat will spur developmental activity without having to destroy the biodiversity and local livelihoods. Promoting self-sufficiency, the concept is nothing short of a revolutionary alternative to Special Economic Zones, writes freelance journalist Harmony Siganporia.

One-sixth of humanity to go hungry: FAO

New estimates by UN food agency suggest that this year number of people going hungry everyday is going to reach 1.2 billion. It has warned that this silent hunger crisis is posing a serious threat to peace and security world over.

New time rules for saving energy in Bangladesh

Power shortage in Bangladesh is posing serious problems for entrepreneurs in the country. The government has introduced daylight saving time during summers, which aims to help save energy and ensure smooth functioning of businesses.

A contraceptive revolution in India

An Indian couple is steadfastly engaged in bringing winds of change in rural Bihar by motivating people to the benefits of a small family. With the help of thousands of volunteers, they are reaching out to married couples who want to control their family size but do not know how.

Poverty forces internally displaced Afghans return home

Ever growing insecurity, lack of aid and grinding poverty in camps have forced thousands of refugees in Afghanistan to return to their native places. In 2002, about 1.2 million people had become internally displaced out of fear of ethnic cleansing by victorious anti-Taliban Tajik, Uzbek and Hazara militias.

Women's groups seek gender equity at UN summit

Before a crucial UN summit meeting, a coalition of international NGOs, comprising mostly women’s rights groups, has called for a ‘gender equitable’ response to the financial crisis. These groups are demanding that the world body should play a leadership role in shaping the new global development and financial architecture.

Invisible faces of war

Refugee Girls: The Invisible Faces of War is a comprehensive document by the Women’s Refugee Commission. It narrates untold stories of millions of girls displaced by conflicts and shows how with education these girls can emerge out of the crisis.

Secure the lives of displaced women: UN

Increasing violence against women refugees in camps has left them defenceless and insecure. UN agency for refugees urges the international community to keep building pressure on oppressive regimes and provide more financial assistance to ensure the rights and dignity of displaced women.

Delay in Indian citizenship affecting Afghan refugees

Hundreds of Hindus and Sikhs, who fled the Taliban regime and the subsequent war on terror in Afghanistan, are feeling frustrated as their fate still hangs in the balance. In the absence of citizenship, these refugees struggle hard to find gainful employment and enjoy other rights.

Afghan refugees sewing up a new life in Iran

A UNHCR funded project has trained thousands of Afghani women in Iran in tailoring, language and computers. Learning to become self-sufficient, these women refugees are now encouraging their daughters to get educated.

Pakistan observes three decades of hosting Afghans

For many displaced Afghan nationals, Pakistan has been a home away from home for several years. According to the latest UNHCR report, thousands of registered Afghans live in 84 refugee villages in Pakistan, while many are still waiting to return home.

Climate change can uproot up to 50 million in 2010

A senior UN researcher has said that as early as next year the world will witness a huge displacement of people, mostly in northern India, due to climate change. The study confirms that ‘glacier melt’ will affect major agricultural systems in Asia, threatening food production in some of the most densely populated regions.

World's worst places to be a refugee

According to the latest annual World Refugee Survey by the US Committee for Refugees and Immigrants released in Washington earlier this week – Gaza, South Africa and Thailand are among the world's worst places to seek refuge. Mass exodus, forcible detention in camps and trafficking make their lives miserable.

Rohingyas face persecution in Bangladeshi camps

Rohingya refugees from Myanmar living in Bangladesh are treated badly in makeshift camps and are subjected to all kinds of humiliation. In the assessment of Medecins Sans Frontieres, more than 20,000 people were living in dire humanitarian conditions, suffering from malnutrition, poor water and sanitation, and no assistance.

South Asia on US watch-list for trafficking

Human trafficking is continuing unabated in many South Asian countries, says a new report by the US State Department. Children are trafficked from countries like India, Nepal and Sri Lanka for involuntary servitude to work as domestic servants, circus entertainers, factory workers, commercial sex workers or beggars.

Indian NGO brings a positive change through education

A local NGO in Manipur in northeast India is supporting education of HIV+ children with financial and material assistance from altruistic individuals. There are many such children in the state who remain deprived of school education due to the poor economic conditions of their parents.

Migrants living with HIV face human rights violations

Discriminatory laws and policies have made the lives of migrants vulnerable by limiting their access to treatment and therefore exposing them to HIV infections. In a newly released report, Human Rights Watch calls on all stakeholders to work jointly in providing internal and international migrants with adequate healthcare.

Clashes at Maoist 'liberated zone' in India

Security forces have clashed with protesters in the Lalgarh region of West Bengal state in India, where Maoist rebels have taken control. Trouble in the area started in November last year when the convoy of chief minister was attacked while returning from foundation stone laying ceremony for a steel plant.

Zero farming helps Indian farmer restore soil fertility

Disheartened with drop in yield, a farmer in south India took to ‘zero farming’ to fix the natural balance of the soil. The use of the technique has not only increased food productivity but also transformed the field into a mini-forest, which helps in preserving the natural habitat.

'Women need proportional representation in all spheres'

Women’s liberation in India is intertwined with the emancipation of the backward and oppressed castes, says Kancha Ilaiah, political scientist and social activist. The principle of reservation in eliminating gender disparity should simultaneously address the caste inequality within women folk, he argues.

Cancer treatment on-air in India

Need to connect regional cancer centres to remote areas has led a prominent health institution in India to provide expert cancer care on-air. With user-friendly equipment and instantaneous service, the telemedicine network is delivering faster and quality treatment to patients.

Journalists in Sri Lanka facing severe persecution

A new study by the Committee to Protect Journalists has said that at least 11 Sri Lankan reporters and editors have been driven into exile in the last one year amid an intensive government crackdown. Media persons have had to face severe retribution for critical coverage of military operations against Tamil rebels.

Bringing risk reduction on the development agenda

At the ongoing biennial session on disaster risk reduction, UN representatives have recommended governments to increase investments in sound and sustainable disaster risk reduction measures. Millions of people have lost their lives and property in the past few years due to weather, climate or water-related calamities.

Women writers in Sri Lanka come of age

In 1928, Rosalind Mendis became the first woman from Sri Lanka to have ever written a novel. A half-a-century-long drought followed before creative writing, especially by women, could take root and flourish in the island country, writes Vijita Fernando.

India extracts small victory at Bonn climate meet

At the Bonn climate meet an alliance of key emerging economies had put up a common proposal demanding the industrialised nations cut their emissions by at least 40%. Despite the deeply fractured G-77, India insisted on stronger commitments from the West.

ADB to double clean energy investments in Asia

As part of its energy efficiency initiative, the Asian Development Bank has decided to double its clean energy investments in Asia to US$ 2 billion, starting from 2013. Wind, biomass and hydropower in countries like China, India, Bhutan and others are likely to get a boost from this hike.

Continue AIDS funding amid economic crisis: UN

Top UN officials have urged countries to maintain and strengthen their commitments to tackle HIV and AIDS. They warn that slashing resources now, notwithstanding the global economic downturn, could mean greater costs and suffering in the future.

Adaptation to disastrous climate-related change faltering

A new report jointly prepared by Caritas Internationalis and CIDSE, the network of Catholic development and relief agencies, says technologies helpful in adapting to challenges of flooding and desertification should immediately be implemented. It rues that international community is not doing enough to transfer and implement adaptation technologies.

Ruckus in India over beneficiaries of food security law

Conflicting views over the definition of poverty has led to an endless debate between the centre and states in India. With the Food Security Act in the offing, fight over beneficiaries is becoming more intense.

LTTE forms 'new government' from undisclosed location

Almost a month after Sri Lankan government pronounced victory over LTTE, the rebel group has issued a statement declaring the formation of a "provisional transnational government" to pursue self-rule for the Tamil minority.

Help on way for eunuchs in Pakistan

A ray of hope has emerged in Pakistan for transgendered people, as the Supreme Court has ordered a survey of eunuchs to save them from a life of shame. They lead an ignominious life and are the most oppressed and deprived segment of the society.

Job scheme in India rekindles hope in times of recession

India’s rural employment guarantee scheme is saving many from sliding below the poverty line during the ongoing global economic crisis. For poverty-stricken rural populace, when there is nothing to bank upon it works as a safety net.

Health MDGs remain elusive

A new study by the Global Campaign for the Health Millennium Development Goals reveals that efforts to reduce maternal and newborn deaths have not met enough success. It highlights practical ways to scale up spending to improve health of women and children in developing countries.

MDG advocacy in elections

To inspire citizens for realising development goals, UN Millennium Campaign’s toolkit Campaigning for the MDGs: Making Votes and Voices Count in Elections outlines practical strategies for advocacy during the electoral process. It is designed to guide political parties and activists in carrying out an effective campaign.

Pedestrians and cyclists dying more in road accidents

A new WHO study says that half of 1.27 million people who die in road accidents every year are pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists. While road traffic death rates in many high-income countries have declined, research suggests such deaths are increasing in most regions of the world.

Maternal mortality rate appalling in Bhutan

A new report released on maternal and child health in Bhutan reveals that many women die due to pregnancy related complications. The report recommends creating a supportive environment for women by educating, empowering and providing them with proper healthcare.

India tightens swine flu advice

In view of the ever increasing number of people infected with swine flu, the Indian government has advised citizens not to travel abroad until the threat recedes. Meanwhile, WHO chief Margaret Chan has warned that the pandemic can cripple fragile health services in poor countries.

Online healthcare becoming popular in India

Tired of queuing up and inaccurate advises, people are logging onto medical health services for consultations, appointment scheduling, recommendations on healthcare providers and treatments. From childcare to fitness, the online healthcare model is offering patients reliable and multiple solutions at the first click.

Welfarist policies won the elections for parties in India

Political parties and governments that addressed people’s poverty concerns before last month’s elections in India emerged as clear winners. In a country that has no rival when it comes to absolute number of people living in chronic hunger, promise of cheap rice acquires huge significance, notes journalist P. Sainath.

Girl child labourers in Nepal make a new beginning

Girls are ‘hidden face’ of child labour in Nepal, who work in large numbers in carpet manufacturing industry of the country. A joint UNICEF-ILO project is rehabilitating these children and provides them education for a better future.

Disputed victory crushes reform hopes in Iran

Hardliner Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has been elected as president of Iran for yet another four-year term in a controversial election. With his victory, hopes for reforms in domestic and foreign policy of the country have suffered a huge setback.

Creating new spaces for social outcasts in India

In a small but significant departure from tradition, dalit women, sex workers and transgenders are being engaged in managing restaurants and coffee shops in India. Considered as untouchable and social outcasts, these groups are now presented with opportunities to try out new professions.

Rural women turn green entrepreneurs in Bangladesh

Grameen Shakti, a company empowering rural households with access to green energy, has brought remarkable difference to the lives of women in Bangladesh. It trains them in renewable energy technologies and helps them set up their own business.

Burmese migrant children missing out on education

Language barrier and poverty are one of the main reasons because of which children of Burmese migrants in Thailand remain out of schools. Local NGOs have opened learning centres but the ministry of education does not recognise them.

Ecosystem and human well-being

UNDP-UNEP’s new handbook Mainstreaming poverty-environment linkages into development planning serves as a guide for practitioners engaged in the task of mainstreaming poverty-environment linkages into national development planning. The document lays out a programmatic approach to a flexible model that can be adapted to national circumstances.

Lesser allocations for health and education in Pakistan's budget

Pakistan’s newly announced budget contains lesser allocations for health and education, reflecting the government's lack of priority to these critical sectors. With a poor track record in achieving universal enrollment at primary level and reducing child mortality, the country runs a risk of missing the MDGs.

Vanishing green cover of Mumbai

Increasing infrastructural development in the commercial capital of India has taken a toll on the forest cover, shrinking it to a negligible size. Officials claim that encroachment of sanctuaries, depletion of the buffer zone and illegal settlements in and around the unprotected forests have affected these natural habitats.

Political empowerment must for gender equality in India

The Women’s Reservation Bill holds immense potential for transforming Indian politics and correcting an unjust and unrepresentative system, notes Devaki Jain, a development economist. Taking cue from the success of women’s quota at the grassroots, she defends the Bill for paving the way for meaningful empowerment.

Grassroots partnerships help curb tuberculosis in India

Increasing awareness and better health services have resulted in a higher rate of detection of tuberculosis, which has helped in lowering number of infections in India, says Nadia McGill public relations assistant, ADRA International. With 3.3 million existing TB cases, communities need to be more vigilant in combating the disease.

Climate changing faster than expected

New scientific research suggests that climate change is taking place faster than expected. At a forum on climate change, called by the Global Legislators Organisation for a Balanced Environment (GLOBE), environmental experts have presented a bleak picture for future.

Indian youngsters advocate gender equality

A panel of experts gathered at a conference on gender equity, diversity and inclusivity came out with the conclusion that the attitude of Indian males towards gender issues is taking a positive turn. Young men are refusing to accept dowries and acknowledging women as equals in society.

Stolen UN food in Somalia being sold in market

At a time when millions of people are starving in Somalia, thousands of sacks of food item, bearing the WFP logo and meant not-for-sale, are being sold in main markets. The UN has launched an enquiry into the fraud.

Women's group douses tribal flare-ups in northeast India

In Assam, a conflict-ridden northeastern state of India, women and children are facing the wrath of militant outfits and security forces alike. An apex women’s body of the Karbi tribe is working towards their empowerment and is also taking up peace-building initiatives as one of its activities.

Accept 'inconvenient truth' about climate change

Financing emission cuts in developing countries now and helping them adapt to climate change will reap rewards in the future, says James Ensor, Director of Policy at Oxfam Australia. Denial of the truth about climate change will derail the process of securing a global deal at Copenhagen, he adds.

Award to Vedanta withdrawn amidst controversy

Vedanta, a UK-based company allegedly involved in the destruction of Niyamgiri Hills in Orissa, a state in eastern India, was surprisingly chosen as the recipient of World Environment Foundation’s award for best practices in environment management. Protests by concerned citizens and organisations forced the organisers to "review" their decision.

Developing a vulnerability index for climate change

At the UN climate change talks in Bonn, it has been felt that there is a need to devise an environment vulnerability index. With the big money expected to come from the Adaptation Fund, it is important to develop a method to prioritise funding.

No one cares about elder abuse in India

In India incidents of abuse and neglect of older people are increasing by the day. There is also a widespread understanding that it is a normal consequence of ageing and thus allowed to go un-addressed, argues Dr Mala Kapur Shankardass of the International Network for Prevention of Elder Abuse.

Mainstreaming climate change in development

OECD’s Policy Guidance on Integrating Climate Change Adaptation into Development Co-operation advances the notion of applying a climate lens to policymaking to reduce vulnerability. The document focuses on strengthening countries’ and donors’ capacities to integrate adaptation responses at various levels of development planning.

Permanent nature of camps in Sri Lanka worries UN

Sri Lankan government has claimed that it has already resettled about 2,000 displaced people in their villages in the north-west in the past week. The UN has expressed deep concern about the permanent nature of shelters being put up in the camps, indicating delay in resettlement.

Water project brings ethnic harmony in Sri Lanka

They had to go miles to fetch water and had never dreamt that some day it would be supplied right at their doorsteps. This became a reality with their own and the efforts of Gemidiriya Community Development, an NGO working in Sri Lankan villages on the issue of livelihood improvement.

Education for all in Pakistan is a gargantuan task

The overall educational scenario in Pakistan is dismal. Much will depend on how much money does the federal government allocate in the budget and how does it implement the proposed National Education Policy, if the country wants to achieve the MDG in this regard.

Towards making frontiers greener

With hazardous substances crossing borders and putting human health and the environment at serious risk, the world is only just beginning to focus on environmental threats posed by legal and illegal trade, writes senior journalist Darryl D'Monte.

Climate migration may reach unprecedented levels

A new report by UN University’s Institute for Environment and Human Security, CARE International and Columbia University’s Center for International Earth Science Information Network has warned that displacement due to global warming can be unprecedented. It estimates that there may be 200 million environmentally-induced migrants by 2050.

Smart PowerMeter for efficient energy choices

Google is going to launch an online PowerMeter in India that will help people track their energy consumptions, sitting right at home. The use of the service will encourage people in making smart energy choices.

Land grabs threatening farmers and food security

Foreign investors and governments are grabbing agricultural land the world over – particularly in Asia and Africa – jeopardising the future of farmers and overall food security. The International Food Policy Research Institute has estimated that millions of hectares of farmland has been subject to transactions.

Blast accused families in India demand impartial probe

At a press conference held earlier this week in the Indian capital, wives of nine accused in the 2006 Malegaon serial blasts urged for an impartial probe. A human rights activist says minority witch-hunting in the name of fighting terrorism must stop.

The making of a model village in India

From a village where everyone lived in poverty, Hiware Bazaar in western India today has emerged as a model of rural sustainability through people’s participation. It shows how the right kind of efforts can bring about miracles and attract people back in its fold who had left it for lack of opportunities.

Meltdown pushing more girls into child labour: ILO

A new ILO study points out that global financial crisis may aggravate child labour, with girls facing increased risks. Declining household income and family preference for boys’ education force girls bear the double burden of working at home and outside, exposing them to abuse.

Afghanistan wakes up to protect its cultural heritage

Afghanistan’s looted and smuggled artifacts seized at London’s Heathrow airport have been sent back to Kabul. The culture ministry has formed a special police force to help the country restore its cultural heritage by protecting it from homegrown looters and getting back its priceless collections from abroad.

Indian students graduate as Asia's first HIV workers

A US-based NGO and an Indian University have trained 24 students in HIV medical care. The programme, first of its kind in Asia, aims to train volunteers in counselling and anti-retroviral therapy to address the shortage of healthcare workers in India.

A humanitarian response to education

Save the Children’s new report: Last in Line, Last in School 2009 finds that nearly 40 million children worldwide are out of school in conflict-affected fragile states. With global financial crisis threatening investment in basic services, the report urges governments to prioritise education aid for children in emergencies.

Kashmir simmering over rape and murder

Demonstrations in India-administered Jammu and Kashmir continue to protest against the alleged rape and killing of two women by members of paramilitary forces. A Delhi-based human rights organisation has condemned the incident, calling it “a horrific crime by any measure.”

India envisions 'Green Commonwealth Games'

The organising committee of Commonwealth Games has partnered with UNEP to make the sporting event the first ever green games in 2015 in the Indian capital. Measures like water conservation, afforestation and pollution-free modes of transport are being initiated to reduce carbon emissions.

Donor funding 'still hesitant' in Pakistan

If more funds are not made available soon, essential services can be disrupted by the end of this month in war-torn North West Frontier Province of Pakistan. Despite the appeal issued by an UN agency for US$ 543 million, only a fraction has trickled in.

Global arms spending hits an all time high

Military spending worldwide registered a record high in 2008, according to a Swedish think tank. The idea of 'war on terror' driven by US invasions in Afghanistan and Iraq and the surge in Russian and Chinese defence expenditures provided a justification for countries to spend heavily on armaments.

Walking to end the global food crisis

World Food Programme mobilised hundreds of thousands of people across 70 countries earlier this week to raise awareness on child hunger and malnutrition. The ongoing economic and food crises have pushed more people on the brink of poverty and hunger.

Helping people start off small business in Sri Lanka

In Galle district of Sri Lanka, a local NGO is helping people to come out of the vicious cycle of poverty. Thousands of people have started income-generating projects with assistance from Gemidiriya Community Development and Livelihood Improvement Project.

UN agencies to make world cities safer for women

UN-HABITAT and UNIFEM have joined hands to make the world cities free of violence against women and girls. By running campaigns for attitudinal change, providing adequate street lighting and safe transportation, women’s freedom to mobility and participation in public life can be ensured.

Pakistani theatre voicing social concerns

Tehrik-e-Niswan, a theatre troupe in Pakistan headed by a women’s rights activist, has staged plays on social issues like domestic violence, rape, child abuse and girls’ education. Resisting the pressure from clerics, the troupe continues to mobilise women on social issues.

Basketball coach provides hope to refugees in Bangladesh

Yugoslavian national Petar Ristic uses his sporting skills to help refugee children in Bangladesh. Supported by UNHCR and a local NGO, he teaches basketball and other games to the children living in camps including girls and the disabled, enabling them to work together and realise their dreams.

Theatre legend Habib Tanvir passes away

One of the greatest stalwarts of Indian stage, eminent playwright Habib Tanvir passed away on Monday due to prolonged illness. A pioneer in bringing folk theatre to the contemporary stage, the man will be remembered for his contribution in strengthening the country’s secular and progressive traditions.

Women and secularists absent in Obama's Cairo speech

US President Barack Obama’s speech in Cairo last week is being seen as a welcome departure from Bush’s ‘clash of civilisations’ approach. But he has also been blamed for essentialising Islam, ignoring the large differences that exist among Muslim believers themselves.

Doing away with lessons of hate

By distorting history and vilifying others, school textbooks in Pakistan are fomenting extremism, reports journalist Nirupama Subramanian. The national curriculum revised in 2006, that had made a conscious effort to teach tolerance and respect for diversity, is yet to be implemented.

New climate pact should address human suffering: UN

With Bonn climate talks entering their final phase, the UN has urged for a deal that would minimise humanitarian suffering. To help protect the vulnerable sections from climatic shocks, it is being emphasised that the new emissions agreement must take a practical approach.

Justice delivery from a feminist perspective

Nari Adalats or informal women’s courts in Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in India, have been playing an important role in dispensing justice to women. It began 12 years ago as an innovative experiment for providing social justice at the grassroots level.

Urban India fighting new health hazards

Stressful and unhealthy lifestyles are exposing upwardly mobile urban Indians to a host of diseases like TB, diabetes and cancers. According to WHO, India has the highest number of TB patients in the world, and is witnessing a rising number of diabetic cases as well.

Advocating gender equality in media

Getting the balance right is an illustrated resource handbook by UNESCO, which deals in gender issues in media. The document assesses the key challenges faced by female journalists and the need for concrete policies for ensuring more equality in mainstream media.

Indian women: Face of hope in Nandigram

Women had played an active role in protests against conversion of fertile agricultural land into a special economic zone in India’s West Bengal. Two years later it is the women of Nandigram again who are in the forefront of struggle for rebuilding their shattered lives, writes Aditi Bhaduri.

Tiananmen vigil held in Hong Kong

Last week hundreds of thousands of people gathered in Hong Kong to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Tiananmen massacre. In 1989, the Chinese government had brutally crushed the democracy protests in 1989.

Women in India rein in drunken men

In a Haryana village in northern India, four-year long struggle led by some gutsy women has brought an end to consumption of liquor in public places. In the process, these women have also ushered in a revolution for caste and gender equality in a hierarchal and male-dominated society.

Pakistan NGOs advocate judicious use of water

Local NGOs in Pakistan’s commercial capital have intensified their awareness campaign about water conservation. Karachi city has currently a population of 16 million, which is going to double in 2020 and if the water is not saved now people are likely to face a severe shortage.

Cellphones to hone teaching skills

Teachers in India will soon be able to access information relevant to their subjects through mobile phones. A government-funded institute is developing a database that will store comprehensive course contents in various formats to enhance teachers’ knowledge.

Citizenship remains a far cry for Lebanese women

In deeply conservative West Asia, Lebanon has the reputation of a liberal country and yet its women married to foreigners cannot pass citizenship to their children. As the country gears up for a change of guard, activists are rallying hard for an amendment to the discriminatory nationality law.

Anomalies in midday meal scheme for schools in India

The Comptroller and Auditor General of India’s annual report has revealed several irregularities in the implementation of the midday meal scheme in a north Indian state. This has left many children deprived of the benefits of the programme and has severely affected the goal of universalisation of primary education.

Poor disproportionately burdened by bribe demands

The Barometer, a global public opinion survey drawn from 69 countries released last week by Transparency International, has revealed that the private sector uses bribes to influence public policy, laws and regulations. It shows that the poorest families continue to be punished by petty bribe demands.

WHO recommends anti-diarrhoea vaccine

WHO’s group of experts, based on new clinical trials, have strongly recommended administering anti-diarrhoea vaccine on all children for reducing severe diarrhoea episodes. Rotavirus, cause of the disease among infants and young, kills half a million children in the developing world – mostly in Asia and Africa.

Bringing people close to nature

A two-day EcoFestival was organised earlier this week in the Indian capital by Kriti, a development research organisation, to promote the idea of nurturing nature. The objective was to inspire people to act towards ensuring ecological sustainability.

Greening the toilets

Untreated sewage contaminates water, affecting both environment and human life, says Rohini Nilekani, Founder-Chairperson, Arghyam. She argues for a new paradigm of ecological sanitation which is both financially sound and environmentally sustainable.

Addressing health needs through human resource

Leveraging human capital to reduce maternal mortality in India, a research paper explores contrasting approaches employed by two Indian states to improve health outcomes in resource-constrained settings. Using case studies of Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, the paper examines the use of public private partnership to deal with staff shortage.

Save monsoons, Greenpeace tells Indian PM

A new Greenpeace study has warned that the phenomenon of global warming will significantly affect the Indian monsoons leaving an adverse impact on people. Meanwhile, in Nepal, a government official has attributed the country’s slow progress on climate change to lack of adequate funds.

Cutting down global fossil fuel emissions

With more than 30% of all greenhouse gas emissions linked to agriculture and land use, it has become essential to focus on this sector. A new report from Worldwatch Institute and Ecoagriculture Partners outlines major strategies to remove carbon from the atmosphere.

Migrants from Afghanistan multiplying in the west

Facing insecurity and lack of economic opportunities at home, young Afghans are increasingly resorting to costly and perilous illegal migration to European and other developed countries. A UNHCR report says around 18,000 asylum-seekers have registered in as many as 44 countries in the West last year.

An opportunity for change

The clear verdict in Indian elections is a clarion call for good governance and stability. The UN Millennium Campaign and Wada Na Todo Abhiyan believe that after years of fractured mandate, it is now an opportunity for the government to move ahead on MDGs and deliver on its promises.

Tripura takes the ICT route to quality eyecare

The Tripura Vision Centre project in northeast India is pushing information communication technology to its extreme to provide the best eye care facility to its citizens. Seeing its success, the government is planning to equip these centres with facilities to provide treatment for other diseases.

India's apex court takes tough stand against dowry

Commenting on a recent case of dowry death in a north Indian state, the country’s apex court has said that no mercy should be shown towards the perpetrators of crime. Every year thousands of women fall prey to greedy husbands and in-laws.

Women prisoners are a neglected lot

Prison authorities the world over pay very little attention to women prisoners' needs. To protect them from physical and emotional abuse, there is a need to overhaul the criminal justice system and train the staff in gender-sensitivity, says a World Health Organisation editorial.

Nurturing young lives in Pakistani camps

In northwest Pakistan, UNICEF supported schools for internally displaced people are helping young children resume their education and have the semblance of a normal life. Hundreds of students are already enrolled with 32 primary schools in 20 official camps.

Green energy becomes the darling of the world

Clean technologies the world over attracted US$ 140 billion last year, overtaking the total investments on fossil fuels like gas, coal and electrical power. Although Europe is still the main centre for green power, countries like India and China are also fast catching up.

Urban Corruption Survey 2009

Youth Social Development‘s Urban Corruption Survey 2009 is a scientific attempt to facilitate the identification of unethical practices in public agencies in eastern India. By quantifying the costs of corruption, the study attempts to raise citizen’s awareness and hold government accountable on transparency.

Tackling chronic malnutrition in Nepal

A UNDP project in Nepal’s Jumla district is being implemented to provide better health services and reduce malnutrition. As part of efforts to localise MDGs, mothers are taught about proper nutritious diet for their babies and other essential steps to ensure children’s growth.

India registers an increase in polio cases this year

An expert body of the Government of India had projected that transmission of a particular type of poliovirus could be stopped by mid 2009, if its recommendations were properly implemented. It has now been discovered that 18 more new cases have been added.

Plight of Indian labourers going unnoticed

Slate-pencil making business in central India continues unabated in spite of the National Human Rights Commission recommending a ban. In the process of production, labourers inhale the silica dust that causes an incurable lung disease called silicosis.

Monitoring food security

UNESCAP report – Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security in Asia and the Pacific – examines different kind of challenges to food security of the region, springing from the ongoing economic recession. The study suggests a regional framework of action and advocates strengthening of social protection programmes to tackle the crisis.

Economic crisis escalating conflict in the world

According to a new Global Peace Index, there is an obvious correlation between the ongoing economic crisis and the declining peace. In comparison to last year, the world today is witnessing more violent demonstrations with governments becoming less tolerant towards human rights.

Agriculture essential for facing climate change

FAO has said in a policy brief at the ongoing Bonn climate meet on climate change that sustainable farming practices can offer important options for mitigation and increase agricultural productivity. It says this in turn will help reduce hunger and poverty.

BPO for rural women in India

In a deeply conservative western Indian state of Rajasthan, rural girls with modest education do not have to go to cities like Bangalore in search of BPO jobs. Since 2000, Source of Change has been providing them with employment opportunities right at their doorsteps.

No water for Cyclone Aila victims in Bangladesh

Survivors of Cyclone Aila in southern Bangladesh are now faced with shortage of drinking water due to contamination of ponds, wells and tube wells. Relief assistance has yet to reach thousands of people on many of the islands.

Hunger up by 100 million in South Asia

A new UNICEF report has revealed that the number of chronically hungry people in South Asia has touched the figure of 400 million – highest in last four decades. The ongoing global recession and the food crisis are to be blamed for the significant increase in numbers.

'Disability is as much a social construct as gender'

India’s women’s movement has failed to recognise the experiences of disabled women in a sexist and able society. Any feminist discourse must include their concerns to resist hegemony, argues Anita Ghai, psychologist and women’s right activist.

Bangladesh policymakers to be sensitised on development

A five-year leadership orientation programme has been launched in Bangladesh by the UN Millennium campaign in association with local NGOs. Inaugurating the programme in Dhaka last week, the Speaker of the parliament urged MPs to discuss issues like climate change, trade policies, gender, poverty and human rights.

Climate change will leave millions displaced

Unprecedented sea level rise may drive small islanders to unfamiliar locations, leaving them to struggle with a lost identity. A new policy document claims that by 2050, there could be 200 million climate refugees.

UN rejects Lanka toll cover-up

The UN chief has dismissed allegations that his agency deliberately covered up a high civilian death toll during the last phase of the Sri Lankan conflict. Last week some media reports had cited confidential UN reports that suggested more than 20,000 casualties.

Talks on negotiating texts on climate change begin

Delegates from 182 nations have gathered in Bonn, Germany, to initiate discussions on post-Kyoto Protocol regime. The negotiations will form the basis for the UN-backed climate change deal that is expected to be clinched in Copenhagen later this year.

Women parliamentarians prove their mettle in Pakistan

A new study has dispelled the widely held notion that woman parliamentarians in Pakistan are no more than “silent spectators”. On the contrary, it says they play a significant role in legislative functioning through their interventions on issues like violence, health, education, and environment.

Debt albatross around the neck of developing countries

Everyday the poorest countries end up paying millions of dollars to the world’s richest nations in debt repayment. The Jubilee Debt Campaign has called for immediate cancellation of US$ 400 billion debt to help these economies fight devastating effects of the global recession.

Third gender may find a place in Nepal's next census

After repealing all discriminatory laws against the country’s sexual minorities, Nepal is mulling to include the third gender in its next census. Experts feel that proper documentation will help government formulate necessary policies to ensure their rights.

Securing human rights amidst crisis

Amnesty International’s report: The State of the World’s Human Rights reveals that global recession is fuelling suppression of human rights. As governments worldwide crack down on people protesting against economic hardships, the document highlights the need for a new global deal to avert further instability.

2009 worst in terms of job creation, says ILO

The number of unemployed worldwide could rise up to 230 million, says ILO’s new report. With economic crisis deepening at an unprecedented pace, the international labour body has called for an emergency global jobs pact placing employment creation and social protection at the heart of recovery policies.

FAO launches portal on animal welfare

FAO has launched a new web portal to facilitate a single access point for international and national information related to farm animal welfare. Policymakers, farmers, scientists and animal welfare experts can now access research findings, relevant legislation and policies on livestock through this online gateway.

NGOs oppose US billion-dollar pledge to IMF

The US Senate approval to the 108-billion-dollar fund for the IMF has been severely criticised by civil society groups. Expressing concern over the conditions imposed by the international donor body on low-income countries, opponents say the move may force poor nations to employ contractionary policies.

A model for neonatal care

The sick and newborn care unit at a hospital in western India is proving to be a lifesaver for infants. The state-of-the-art facility provides free of cost treatment to those below poverty line and is being replicated across the state to reduce the infant mortality rate.

Indian sites added to UN list of biosphere reserves

UNESCO has added three Indian wildlife reserves to the list of World Network of Biosphere Reserves. With the latest addition of 22 special spots identified globally, the list now counts 533 biosphere reserves where humans are interacting with the rest of nature in sustainable ways.

Cyclone Aila hit areas fear disease outbreak

Fear of epidemic looms large across Bangladesh and India’s eastern coast after Cyclone Aila slammed the region last week. According to international NGO ActionAid, inundation and waterlogging in affected areas pose serious risk to the health of survivors living in cramped shelters.

Indian women: Faceless, voiceless and un-represented

Successive governments in India have failed to address the core concerns of women voters, who constitute around half the total voters of the country. Will the new government do more than the ritualistic posturing and ineffectual policy-making for this faceless and voiceless section, asks Pamela Philipose, Director, Women’s Feature Service.

Achieving sustainable mobility

Mobility for development, a report from WBCSD examines the state of mobility in fast-growing cities. It argues that with integrated planning and innovative solutions, environmental costs of transportation can be reduced.

Child executions hot topic in Iran's presidential vote

As Iran prepares to elect its new president next month, a range of civil liberties issues have come to the fore from juvenile executions to the freedom of expression. Under Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s presidency, the country has become more intolerant and has frequently pursued clampdown on dissidents, human-rights activists and journalists.

Soaring needs outpace funding

The political complexities and global economic crisis have dampened the generosity of governments and individual donors. Aid agencies are facing difficulties to run their humanitarian programmes due to shortage of funds in strife-ridden Sri Lanka, Pakistan and the Horn of Africa.

Bangladesh: Missed opportunities and lost childhood

Millions of children in Bangladesh are forced to work at an age when they ought to be playing and learning. Despite provisions in the country’s constitution for free education, young kids have no other option but to go and toil in factories and home to eke out their living.

Curfew adding to the woes of civilians in Pakistan

Human Rights Watch has criticised the Pakistan government for keeping people indoors without any food, water or medicines in Swat Valley for past ten days. Local population is facing tough time due to the ongoing battle between Taliban militants and the army.

Tribal women in India fight liquor demons

In tribal dominated area of central India, women from Bhil tribe came together to fight the liquor mafias. Alcoholism was making men in the community abdicate their responsibilities towards their families and indulge in domestic violence.

Bangladesh to digitise land records

Bangladesh has planned to digitise the country’s complex land-ownership records. Under the proposed system, all documents will be uploaded to a database and villagers will be able to access the online services through computerised information centres.

GCAP launches 'Press the G8' Campaign

As part of its anti-poverty mobilisation efforts ahead of the G8 summit in July, Global Call to Action against Poverty has launched a new interactive game. It allows activists to literally ‘press’ the G8 leaders and sign an online petition to express their support for the cause.

India's disabled face mobility challenges

While technology in locomotion and mobility for the disabled has taken great strides worldwide, India continues to use antiquated tricycles and wheelchairs. Designing user-friendly appliances would ameliorate their conditions.

Developmental projects harming indigenous people

The UN forum on indigenous people has expressed its concerns over the possible violation of the rights of aboriginal people due to increased infrastructural activities in and around their habitats. The body has called upon the governments to protect them through appropriate policies, regulation and adjudication.

Global crisis 'hits human rights'

Amnesty International’s latest annual report says that millions of people are facing insecurity and indignity due to the global economic crisis and their protests are being met with repression. The report has warned that the rising poverty can trigger instability and mass violence.

'We desperately need a new Bretton Woods'

In an interview to La Repubblica, renowned Indian economist Prof Jayati Ghosh says that the ongoing economic crisis is the creation of ‘deregulated financial market’ system and therefore requires government regulation. She argues in favour of more equitable and sensible patterns of consumption and production.

Man has fundamentally changed ocean ecosystems

If there is one activity that has single-handedly destroyed the marine life, it is fishing. Experts, however, say with proper management of fisheries, oceans can still be made much more productive in the future.

New fight brews in Sri Lanka after the Tigers

Before its defeat, LTTE had always projected itself as the sole representative of Tamils in Sri Lanka. Now intensifying competition among Tamil politicians can once again threaten peace and the presence of armed groups, often in league with security forces, does not augur well for future.

Child labourers in Afghanistan exposed to health hazards

Unhealthy working conditions inside Afghanistan’s coal mines are making child coal miners prone to varied health risks like injuries, respiratory and eye infections. A report highlights how illegal mines are using primitive methods, where health and environmental concerns are barely considered.

Gender and climate change

Oxfam GB’s latest publication, Engendering adaptation to climate variability in Gujarat, India, is a policy document that acknowledges the women’s concerns in adaptation interventions. It provides simple and practical tools for measuring vulnerability and advocating policies and programmes sensitive to gender issues.

Radio gives voice to marginalised women

Deccan Development Society’s community radio has transformed lives of several rural women in southern India. While disseminating local knowledge on farming, medicine and health through radio programmes, these poor dalits also feel empowered on hearing their own voices.

Karachi no longer liberal for Pakistani women

Women in Karachi, the commercial capital of Pakistan, are increasingly feeling insecure due to rising militancy. Increased threats from fundamentalists have caused panic among upper- and middle-class women, who have long enjoyed the liberal environment of the country’s most cosmopolitan city.

Ecuador's new GM laws 'could allow suicide seeds'

Though Ecuador has been importing genetically modified soybeans and corn for food processing for more than a decade, it has not allowed the cultivation of such crops. Critics say President Rafael Correa’s recent proposal for modification in the legislation will make poor farmers dependent on big companies for seeds.

WFP reaches out to youth via web

A new ‘teachers and students’ section will soon appear on the website of the World Food Programme. Aiming for more participation from youth in the fight against hunger, it plans to contain attractive online features like gaming, videos, news and maps.

Pictorial warnings on tobacco products in India

A bench of Supreme Court judges in India has given clearance to the display of health warnings on all tobacco products from May 31. Health activists warn that any dilution of the pictorial warnings would paralyse the campaign of cautioning people about tobacco-related health risks.

Food factories help viruses spread and evolve

The spread of the influenza A(H1N1) virus is linked to the way food is produced in factories, says Sunita Narain, Director, Centre for Science and Environment. She argues that practices like intensive poultry farming with dense animal population help viruses spread fast causing outbreak of pandemics.

UN call for Sri Lanka war crimes investigation

The UN human rights chief has called for a probe into alleged war crimes and violations of international humanitarian law by both sides in Sri Lanka. The government has also been urged to provide access to media and human rights monitors to the camps sheltering around 250,000 civilians.

Food prices to go up again, says report

Prompted by the rise in fuel prices and threats like climate change, food prices will increase again, says a new UN report. To avert another crisis in Asia and the Pacific, it recommends farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices and avoid over-intensive cultivation.

Displaced Pakistani women lack medical facilities

UN humanitarian agencies in Pakistan have expressed concern over dearth of skilled medics and insufficient arrangements for internally displaced women in camps. Housing 6,000 pregnant women, these camps lack midwives, labour rooms, neonatal and emergency services.

Alien species threaten livelihoods in poor countries

Increased movement of alien species induced by climate change is destroying natural systems in developing countries. Biodiversity experts warn that local natives face a risk of extinction due to competition for food, habitats and resources.

Netball helps Indian girls step forward

As part of its corporate social responsibility, an international bank has collaborated with NGOs to empower underprivileged urban Indian girls using netball. The programme called ‘Goal’ leverages sport for positive social change and provides loan to help girls achieve their professional ambitions.

UN chief condemns North Korea's nuke test

Calling it a grave threat to regional peace and stability, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has strongly deplored Democratic People's Republic of Korea’s latest underground nuclear test. The Security Council has begun drafting a new resolution against this violation of international law.

Mothers in India seek justice for their children

In north India’s Azamgarh district, Muslim women have come together to fight for the rights of their sons who, they allege, have been falsely branded as terrorists. In an atmosphere where men folk are too terrified to speak up, these illiterate women are countering an attempt to malign their community.

Ushering good governance in India

Social Watch India’s report on Governance and Development 2008-09 explores the intrinsic relation between effectiveness and legitimacy in achieving a stable democracy. To maintain a balance between the two, the performance of the institutions of governance becomes significant.

Radio encourages Afghan women to run for office

Salam Watandar, a radio programme in Afghanistan, has successfully persuaded a large number of women candidates to contest provincial council elections. Due to growing insurgency, women were fearful of participating in the electoral process.

India's apex court grants bail to Dr Binayak Sen

India’s Supreme Court today granted bail to Dr Binayak Sen, a respected people’s doctor and civil rights activist. He had been languishing in Raipur jail for over two years for his alleged links with Maoists.

Business leaders mull long-term climate policies

On the first day of World Business Summit in Copenhagen, business leaders and shareholders have raised the demand for clearer carbon emission rules to meet the future challenges of global trade. UN chief has cautioned participants that a failure in taking action on climate change may result in a catastrophe.

Children bore maximum brunt of Lankan offensive

UN’s initial analysis indicates an abnormally high number of child casualties – 3,600 children killed and 7,650 wounded – in the Sri Lankan offensive against Tamil rebels. Meanwhile, the government, after the UN chief’s visit to the island nation, has said it will rehabilitate the LTTE child soldiers.

Bangladesh rural healthcare in a shambles

Bangladesh’s rural healthcare system is collapsing due to shortage of medical personnel, poor transport facilities and infrastructural inadequacies. People are forced to resort to seek immediate medical help from quacks that further puts them at risk.

The foolproof voter of India

India's election verdict has once again proved that voters expect results and not rhetoric from their political leaders. To find favour with people, political parties need to include serious development content backed by credible performance on the ground, says Lysa John, national campaign coordinator of Wada Na Todo Abhiyan.

Talibanised Pakistan poses difficulties for women

With the strengthening of fundamentalist forces in Pakistan, women from minority communities, particularly Dalit Christians, face an uncertain future in the country. Discriminatory laws and the government’s failure to take action against societal forces hostile to minorities have fostered intolerance, says journalist Lys Anzia.

Saving the free souls of rural India

Bauls, a group of mystic singers from West Bengal in India, who, for generations carried social messages in their songs, are facing threats from the growing urbanisation and consumerism. A new book shares some interesting anecdotes of their lives and culture.

Bridging the digital divide

Measuring the Information Society, a new index from International Telecommunication Union captures the level of advancement of ICTs in more than 150 countries. The objective is to measure the global digital divide and provide policymakers with a useful tool to assess the information society development.

World's first tuition-free, online university

A newly formed University of the People presents a gateway to aspiring students from around the world to continue higher education from their homes at a minimal cost.

'Cooking the books' to conceal failure of HIV programme

The world has miserably failed in delivering on its promise of halving HIV infections among newborn babies by 2010, as it gets reflected in the fact that 900 babies are born everyday with AIDS virus. Yet in a ‘conspiracy of misinformation', governments are triumphantly claiming to be making progress.

Child mortality slashed by one-third, says WHO

WHO’s first progress report on the health-related MDGs claims that deaths of children under five years have declined sweepingly by nearly 30% since 1990. The drop is being attributed to the success of several measures taken by governments in developing countries like providing mosquito nets, medicines and improved sanitation facilities.

New climate change draft irks India

The first draft on climate change put up on the UNFCCC website for negotiations in the Copenhagen summit has left India sceptical about the new deal. All kinds of proposals that skew negotiations in favour of industrialised nations have made their way into the proposed deal.

Sri Lanka vows to resettle Tamils within six months

After meeting with Indian envoys, Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa has promised to resettle the war-displaced people in the next six months. In a joint statement released by both sides, the Indian government has committed to provide assistance in de-mining, building civil infrastructure and reconstructing houses.

Pakistan’s economic growth slowest in decade

Come June, when the fiscal year ends in Pakistan, the country’s economy this year would have grown at the slowest pace in a decade, say officials and analysts. It is now seeking US$ 600 million in emergency relief funds from donors to help displaced people from the embattled Swat Valley.

World turning hostile for journalists

Journalists all over the world are facing an increased security threat, making it difficult for them to cover events in conflict zones. According to International News Safety Institute as many as 28 journalists have been killed so far this year.

Inculcating 'dignity of sanitation' in South Asia

At a workshop currently on in the Bhutanese capital, school children are learning the importance of sanitation and hygiene. In South Asia, about 900 million people still do not have access to toilets.

Child labour ban perpetuates poverty in South Africa

In a deeply impoverished country like South Africa, banning child labour more than ten years ago has only added to the miseries of families looking for additional source of income. The vacuum left by greater adherence to the law has not been filled by education or extracurricular activities.

Public support for Talibans waning in Pakistan

Those who have escaped from the Taliban-controlled Swat Valley in Pakistan are giving eyewitness accounts of brutalities – beheading, shooting, kidnappings and preventing children from going to schools – perpetrated by Islamic zealots. For the first time, local people are voicing their disgust against jihadis so vociferously.

UN demands unimpeded access to Lankan refugee camps

An upsurge in the number of refugees in Sri Lanka is straining health, sanitation and water systems in the refugee camps. UNICEF and partners, working round the clock attending children and women displaced in the war, seek greater access to these shelters to provide better humanitarian assistance.

Tough road ahead for India's new environment minister

Soon after joining office, the new environment minister in India will be hard-pressed to address key environmental issues before the Copenhagen summit takes off in December. Generating funds for the Green India programme and lobbying for a strong position in the global climate change dialogue are principal agendas.

Marrying a rapist is adding insult to injury

As part of a policy to “reform and rehabilitate” rapists and their victims, prison authorities and NGOs in eastern India are facilitating marriages between them. Women’s rights activists view this as a ploy by the alleged offender to escape punishment and a double whammy for his victim, reports journalist Eliza Parija.

Budgetary allocations should focus on MDGs

Participants at a discussion held in Dhaka last week observed that issues such issues like financial crisis and climate change are pushing more people into poverty lines. It was felt that greater allocations should be made for agriculture, education and the protection of the environment to reflect needs of all.

Severe water crisis in Myanmar's cyclone-hit areas

A year after Cyclone Nargis tore through Myanmar, survivors continue to face severe water scarcity. Aid agencies say that the work of cleaning and repairing of ponds that serve as the main source of water has not been completed.

Linking disaster management and human development

UN Global Assessment Report on Disaster Risk Reduction, Risk and poverty in a global climate provides a comprehensive account of the impact of natural hazards on humanity. It calls for a radical shift in development practices, and the need for pre-emptive risk reduction policies.

Story of a sweatshop buster in Bangladesh

Kalpona Akter has emerged as one of the leading labour activists in Bangladesh, fighting for the rights of workers in the country’s six billion dollar garment industry. Of the 2.2 million workers, 85% are women who work in pitiable conditions without any job security and other benefits.

US announces new auto emission standards

American President Barack Obama has announced new fuel and emission standards for auto industry. The US Congress is now contemplating a legislation that aims to go beyond to cover other sectors of economy to fight the risks of global warming.

WSIS calls for a safe digital world for children

The WSIS Forum that began early this week at the ITU headquarters at Geneva focused on cybersafety for children on the first day.

India for 'political reconciliation' in Sri Lanka

Indian government is likely to provide Rs 500 crore aid package for internally displaced people in Sri Lanka. Reiterating the need for a political solution, India has called upon the Lankan government to consider devolution of powers to north-eastern regions and ensure other rights of ethnic Tamils.

Climate change: 'Lack of symbiosis between science and politics'

On the sidelines of a two-day national workshop organised by India’s Ministry of Earth Sciences in Pune, Shyam Saran, special envoy to the prime minister on climate change, elaborated, in an interview to OneWorld South Asia, on various issues that needed to be addressed immediately.

International groups demand justice for Dr Binayak Sen

Over 50 international organisations protested last week in several US and European cities, demanding immediate release of Indian human rights activist Dr Binayak Sen. He has been languishing in jail for past two years.

Afghanistan-Pakistan: A tough terrain for female scribes

The threat of Taliban has forced several women journalists in Afghanistan and Pakistan to switch to other vocations. Defying the odds, however, are a few brave women who continue to report on the conflict and raise awareness on sensitive issues.

Pakistan races to deal with mounting refugees

Likening the magnitude of displacement in Pakistan with Rwanda’s of the 1990s, the UN has said that the "situation is volatile and changing rapidly". Nearly 1.5 million people are said to have fled their homes so far from the Swat Valley, where government forces are battling Taliban fighters.

'State's role is crucial in achieving inclusive growth'

By giving a clear mandate for stability and development, the Indian electorate has rejected the vote bank politics based on caste, religion and identity, says Rajiv Kumar, Director, Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations. He says that it is now incumbent upon the government to redesign policies of good governance.

US-China deal on climate change on the cards

Based on secret negotiations on climate change held between China and US in final months of the Bush administration, American President Barack Obama can seal accord with the Asian giant on cutting emissions as early as this autumn.

Kashmir: Paradise lost to drug abuse

Hundreds of thousands of young people in Kashmir are suffering from drug addiction. NGOs and experts fear that if government authorities do not address the problem soon, it may assume disastrous proportions.

Bangladesh government urged to create more job opportunities

Speakers gathered at a recent workshop in Dhaka called upon the government to make special budgetary allocation for the country's youth. Organised by a local NGO in association with the Millennium Campaign, the workshop discussed policy measures to create more employment opportunities in Bangladesh.

Food crisis hitting poorest the hardest in Nepal

At a place where people have to sweat for two days to earn enough for two kg of rice, life can only be described in terms of constant and bitter struggle for survival. Millions of people in Nepal are finding it difficult to cope with the excessively high food prices.

UK-India project to study climate change

As part of a collaborative research programme between India and the United Kingdom, five new projects will assess climate change impact on India up to 2050. Two regional projects in states of Orissa and Madhya Pradesh will evaluate vulnerability and develop adaptation options.

Nurturing early childhood

State of the World’s Mothers 2009, the tenth annual report of Save the Children focuses on the inextricable link between the well-being of mothers and their children. The report provides effective solutions to early education challenges and the need for strategic policies in carrying out proven programmes.

Eco-friendly toilets in rural India

A village in South India has set an example for small towns by building ‘Ecosan’ toilets that use ash in flushing to turn faeces into manure. These toilets have helped in maintaining ecological sanitation and prevented a nearby river from polluting.

LTTE leader Prabhakaran dead

Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam chief Velupillai Prabhakaran is dead, says Sri Lankan army. The rebel leader was reportedly killed earlier today when he was trying to escape from the war zone in an ambulance with two of his aides.

Mobile phone-based money transfer soon in Bangladesh

Bangladesh is all set to introduce mobile phone technology for money transfer. Once operational, it would not only make transfers faster and cost-effective but also help bring down the flow of remittances through unofficial channels into the country.

World Bank: Job cuts will hurt developing countries

World Bank has warned that labour migration cuts by industrialised countries will adversely affect poorer nations. In the coming months higher unemployment, cuts in investment and aid, combined with a drop in remittances, would only increase the levels of poverty in the developing world.

Tribal women missing from Indian politics

In eastern Indian state of Orissa, deeply entrenched gender factor clipped the wings of many women aspirants in the just concluded parliamentary and state elections. To change the status of women in this tribal-dominated state, political parties will have to seriously re-think their ticket distribution strategies, argues journalist Maipadma Jena.

Nepal's political crisis delays humanitarian assistance

Aid workers in Nepal are worried over the delay in providing support to Koshi flood victims whose compensation package has been put on hold. Meanwhile, an alliance of 22 parties has staked its claim to form a new government.

Burmese leader Suu Kyi faces trial

Myanmar’s pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi can be jailed for up to five years for allegedly breaking the conditions of her house arrest. Critics say this is yet another attempt by the military junta to silence dissent before the promised multi-party elections in 2010.

Sri Lanka claims victory over Tamil Tigers

Claiming victory from Jordan Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapakse said that he would be going back to a country totally freed from the barbaric acts of the LTTE. Amidst reports of Tigers preparing a mass suicide, the UN has expressed "grave fears" for the safety of trapped citizens.

India again gives mandate to Congress-led alliance

Indian voters have given a clear mandate to the Congress and United Progressive Alliance to rule the country for next five years. The ruling coalition, which is now only a few seats short of halfway mark, is all set to form a new government.

'Financial crisis has challenged the neo-liberal agenda'

G20 decisions reflect that business cannot go as usual and the world needs an alternative, says Minar Pimple, Deputy Director Asia, United Nations Millennium Campaign. In an interview to ATN Bangla, he talks about the need for countries to reorient their growth and investment to make development more equitable.

America's demonised and criminalised immigrants

David Bacon's new investigative book details the history of immigrant labour in the United States and argues that human beings cannot be designated as “illegal”. There are currently more than 11 million undocumented workers in the country, most of them from indigenous regions of Mexico like Chiapas and Oaxaca.

Pakistan facing worst refugee crisis since Partition

Taking advantage of temporary relaxation in curfew, thousands in Pakistan’s North West Frontier Province rushed out to take shelter in camps. According to UN estimates about 830,000 people have been rendered homeless within past one month due to the ongoing conflict between army and Islamic militants in the Swat Valley.

All-female madrasas expanding rapidly in Pakistan

The new-age Islamic religious schools for girls are becoming hugely popular in Pakistan. By providing more opportunities and greater scope for higher education, these all-female seminaries are helping young women earn a suitable position in the society.

WHO stresses on proper sanitation to combat cholera

As indicated by WHO, poor sanitation has led to unprecedented outbreak of cholera worldwide. Despite many vaccines introduced in endemic countries, the disease is still affecting thousands.

Coping with India's rural doctor shortage

To tide over acute dearth of doctors in remote areas, Andhra Pradesh in southern India has launched a mobile health programme. Vans equipped with basic medical tools and skilled paramedics visit rural parts of the state to provide instant relief to patients.

UN awards Indian water and sanitation body

Water and Sanitation Management Organisation, a state government entity in India, has been honoured with the UN Public Service Award for encouraging community involvement in managing local water sources and environmental sanitation. Over 4,000 villages have been fully equipped with sustainable water supply systems till date.

Fresh wave of exodus in Sri Lanka

Increased pressure from Washington and the UN Security Council has forced Sri Lanka to carry out rescue operation inside the 3.5 sq. km new safety zone. Raising concerns over the continuing mass exodus, they urged the government to give UN and ICRC-led humanitarian teams access to civilians trapped between the warring parties.

Grid computing guiding multi-drug discovery

Grid computing infrastructures for virtual screening are helping to fight neglected diseases like HIV/AIDS, malaria, flu, polio and others. Scientists are using these high-speed, cost-effective grids to discover promising drug-like molecules to combat deadly diseases like malaria.

Myanmar junta's 'aid wall' still a hindrance

One year after the deadly cyclone hit Myanmar, freelance journalist Brian McCartan analyses the response of military rulers and donor countries to the tragedy. Many international aid groups complain that the junta has maintained restrictions in other parts of the country, effectively building an "aid wall" around the Nargis-hit delta.

Monitoring human trafficking

UN Office on Drugs and Crime’s Global Report on Trafficking in Persons assesses the different forms of human trafficking and the global fight to end the practice. It explains the growth of modern slave markets and exposes ineffectiveness of governments in implementing legislations for curbing the crime across borders.

UN appeals all to join its 'Billion Tree Campaign'

UN Environment Programme takes its ‘Billion Tree Campaign’ to a popular social networking site to achieve the goal of planting seven billion trees before the Copenhagen summit in December this year. The initiative would send a message to world leaders on the need to seal the post-Kyoto climate deal.

Curtains come down on Indian elections

With the Phase-V polling over yesterday, the month-long election process in India has come to an end. Several exit polls and surveys have given the ruling Congress-led alliance a slight edge over the National Democratic Alliance led by Bharatiya Janata Party. Results will be declared on May 16.

Tough law against acid attackers sought

At the 10th anniversary of the Bangladesh Acid Survivors Foundation, around 600 victims from India, Nepal, Pakistan, Uganda, Cambodia and the host country narrated horrific stories of attacks, resulting mostly from spurned sexual advances and unfulfilled dowry demands.

India's success story bypasses its unorganised sector

India’s National Commission for Enterprises in the Unorganised Sector in its final report has indicated the failure of economic reforms in improving conditions of the working poor. It has found that most of the job growth happened in informal sector, offering neither job nor social security to workers.

The cookstove climate fix

Cookstoves or chulhas are back in vogue - this time on the world stage ostensibly to fight climate change. Environmentalist Sunita Narain argues that picking on the 'survival' emissions of the poor only creates space for more polluting cars and power stations for the rich.

UN body expands support for Lanka's pregnant women

Health and safety of pregnant women in the war-torn northern Sri Lanka have come under serious stress due to huge influx of people. The UN Population Fund is gearing up for the crisis by arranging mobile reproductive health clinics, maternity kits, emergency care and psychosocial counselling.

No toilet, no bride

A blog comment on an international news website highlights the need for indoor toilets in hinterlands of north India. There have been instances when prospective brides have refused to marry until their in-laws have arranged for proper sanitation facilities at home.

Nepal unprepared to deal with another quake

Prone to earthquakes, Kathmandu with its high-population density and unplanned construction faces a grave threat. According to experts thousands of lives are at risk in the Nepalese capital due to rickety structures, ill-equipped authorities and lack of public awareness.

Children facing tough time in Pakistan

Children are taking the maximum brunt of the ongoing war between government forces and militants in North West Frontier Province of Pakistan. Forced out of schools, they are taking up odd jobs on streets to make ends meet.

ILO says forced labour causing untold human suffering

ILO’s new report reveals that workers are losing staggering US$ 20 billion annually – in unpaid wages, underpayment, unremunerated overtime and other deductions. The UN body calls for increased efforts to eradicate the corrupt practices, underlining the fact that forced labour is the antithesis of decent work.

World's richest coral reef zone fast vanishing

‘Coral Triangle’ in southeast Asia is fast depleting and if urgent action is not taken there is a danger that nothing of it will be left by the end of this century, says a new report released by WWF. The region is known for containing 75% of world’s coral reefs.

The price of modern slavery

Forced labour worldwide amounts to over $20 billion, in terms of lost earnings, says ILO’s new report: The Cost of Coercion. The report presents a new perspective on this insidious practice and suggests implementing integrated policies and programmes to empower those at risk.

Afghan private schools seen as sign of hope

The emergence of private schools in Afghanistan is a sign of growing stability and optimism for the future. Despite all the shortcomings, the revival of education system in the country is considered one of the biggest achievements of the Karzai government.

Young minds changing the world with ICTs

At the UN Global Forum on Information and Communication to be held in June, World Summit Youth Award winners will present their innovative creations. By using various digital and mobile content, these youths have paved a way for communities to deal with everyday crisis.

Making ship 'recycling' safer

At a meet currently on in Hong Kong, countries are expected to approve international rules governing the ship breaking industry. Based largely in South Asia, the industry poses serious threat to environment and the health of workers due to the presence of toxins like asbestos, mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls.

Poor sanitation 'biggest child killer'

A new report by WaterAid reveals that children are dying more due to poor sanitation than diseases like HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. Increased investments in sanitation would significantly bring down child mortality.

A global panel to monitor toxic chemicals needed

At a conference on chemical management, the UN has been urged to create an international panel of experts similar to IPCC to monitor the risks of hazardous substances on health and environment. Meanwhile nine more chemicals were banned the world over under the Stockholm Convention.

Meltdown melts clean tech investment

It does not augur well for the UN climate change conference to be held later this year in Copenhagen that the clean energy projects around the world have taken a backseat. According to a UK-based think tank, investments in wind, solar and other renewable energy projects don’t look very promising.

Displaced Pakistanis need urgent support

In view of rapidly unfolding events and the magnitude of displacement in the North West Frontier Province of Pakistan, the UN refugee agency has appealed the international community to provide additional relief material. More than 360,000 people have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict between government forces and militants.

'Rape is not just another crime'

Reporting of a heinous crime like rape in Indian mainstream media is voyeuristic, insensitive, sensational, speculative and thus unethical. Kamayani Bali-Mahabal explores how prejudiced reporting can also mean subjecting the victim to a 'second rape.'

Obama expands health agenda not funding

Critics are accusing President Barack Obama of breaking his campaign pledge for ‘dramatic increase’ in US assistance for global health. Last week he had asked the Congress to approve US$ 63 billion to be spent over next six years on health in developing countries.

Criminality, not patriarchy, deters women in politics

With only a fraction of women candidates contesting the ongoing parliamentary election, political empowerment of women is a far cry. Regional editor of IPS Ranjit Devraj analyses the factors that prevent women from stepping into a territory where criminals and corrupt politicians rule the roost.

Prachanda: Delhi missed chance to resolve Nepal crisis

In an interview to a prominent Indian newspaper, Nepal’s Prime Minister said that he wanted to settle the issue of "civilian supremacy over military" through discussion with New Delhi. But India’s "security and bureaucratic establishment" was busy encouraging Nepal's political parties to create confusion on the issue.

Heavy casualties in Sri Lankan shelling

Up to 1,000 people have reportedly died in the last two days of fighting in Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, a coalition of international human rights group has urged the UN Security Council to step in to hold talks with the government on the "bloodbath" that is not sparing even children.

Pakistan's 'battle for survival'

As the Pakistani army goes for a major ground offensive to wipe out Islamic militants from the war-torn Swat Valley, tens of thousands of civilians have already begun fleeing out of fear. Officials say as many as 1.3 million people can soon be rendered homeless in North West Frontier Province.

A Sri Lankan refugee provides refuge

Escalating violence between government forces and the LTTE rebels in Sri Lanka forced V. Thenmozhi and her parents flee to India in 1990. Papri Sri Raman chronicles the life of this resilient refugee woman who has since dedicated herself working for Tamil refugees in southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

Using ICTs for accelerated service delivery

Uses of electronic identification facilities are seen as a tool to improve governance and service delivery for sectors like health and banking. The World Bank headquarters organised a global video conference that drew participants from 11 countries including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India and Pakistan.

New technology capable of feeding more hungry stomachs

At a time when global food crisis threatens India, System of Rice Intensification (SRI) has proved to be a boon for the country’s paddy farmers. Using less water, seeds and chemical inputs, this technology has increased rice production manifold in several regions across India.

UN launches virtual community on gender and migration

UN-INSTRAW’s virtual community provides a space for discussion on women's participation in migratory flows and their contribution to development. The initiative seeks to collect experiences worldwide and strengthen existing networks among experts to enrich research and policy advocacy in the field.

UK's income gap widening

Britain has been witnessing the worst kind of inequality since the early 1960s. The ruling Labour Party has abandoned the 2010 goal of halving child deprivation and is now concentrating on abolishing it entirely by 2020.

People still trapped in Lanka conflict zone

The international community has expressed its deep concern for thousands of civilians trapped in Sri Lanka’s conflict zone. As the government forces close in, India and others are trying to prevent this last assault that can result in a bloodbath and make reconciliation more difficult.

Moderate voting in penultimate phase of Indian polls

India's 85 constituencies in eight states went to poll on Thursday. About 57% of 94.6 million voters turned up to exercise their right to vote in the fourth phase of parliamentary elections that witnessed six deaths in clashes.

UN conspicuously silent on Myanmar's child victims

A New York-based organisation in its report has castigated the UN for remaining silent on the issue of violation of children’s rights in Myanmar. It urges the world body to “move swiftly” so that rape, abduction and recruitment of children in warfare could be immediately stopped.

Epicentre of swine flu limps back to normalcy

Restaurants, offices, high schools and universities have reopened in Mexico City after five-day shutdown due to swine flu scare. The Mexican capital, one of the busiest places in the world, saw a steep drop in its tourist inflow in past weeks.

Little help for IDPs in Pakistan as violence spreads

About 35,000 people who have been displaced in North West Frontier Province of Pakistan due to ongoing fighting between the army and Taliban militants are in desperate need of help. People taking shelter in temporary camps have no clean water, toilet or cooking facilities.

US strikes in Afghanistan killed dozens

Red Cross has said that the US air strikes in Afghanistan’s Farah province on Tuesday killed dozens of civilians including women and children. Later American President Barack Obama described his meeting with Hamid Karzai and Asif Ali Zardari as "extraordinarily constructive."

Obama goes for greener biofuel

US President Barack Obama has announced 1.8 billion dollar plan to develop a new generation of environmentally friendly biofuels that have lower carbon footprint. Environmentalists have hailed the decision saying the move is an early indication that his administration is willing to take on the powerful farming lobby.

WHO to ensure that poor receive swine flu vaccine

World Health Organisation is in talks with drug manufacturers to ensure that the poor in developing countries do not face shortage of swine flu vaccines. It is also discussing with major funding agencies to provide money for the purchase of medicines.

Women care workers and their rights

Gender and care, a report by BRIDGE assesses the importance of different forms of care work. It gives an insight into the rights and opportunities of women involved in care-taking and highlights the need for more commitment in gender advocacy.

Nepal on the threshold of political change

An all-party meeting in Nepal has decided to stake claim to form a new government in the country. Earlier the president had asked all the political formations to set their differences aside and work towards reaching a consensus on the issue of government formation by Saturday.

Digital Bangladesh: Virtual dreams, real lives

An elusive project to transform Bangladesh needs an infusion of resources, leadership and village-centred development if it is to be made meaningful, says Delwar Hussain, a researcher on Bangladeshi society with London School of Economics.

ADB's capital boost "irresponsible and dangerous"

A network of 250 activist groups says that the Asian Development Bank’s move to increase its capital base for financing infrastructure projects in poor Asian regions can prove to be disastrous. It alleges the region has already experienced forced displacement and environmental degradation caused by the bank's funded projects.

Innovating to make life easier for the disabled

Vikram Dubal in western India creates a wide range of products to help the physically challenged and distributes them free as part of his social commitment. He has made calendars in Braille, goggles that beep when faced with obstruction, canes that warn against electrical signals and many more.

Mass exodus imminent from Swat Valley in Pakistan

A minister from North West Frontier Province government has expressed fears about the possibility of large-scale exodus from Swat Valley. Pakistani army has been engaged in a pitched battle with Taliban militants in the region for more than a week now.

Indian women feel at home in politics

They may not be able to match the popularity and appeal of Mayawatis, or Jayalalithas or Sonia Gandhis. But a new breed of women politicians in India’s small towns is fast emerging as a force to reckon with.

Sustainable development through energy efficiency

India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change aims at a directional change to provide ecologically sustainable solutions. Being at an early stage of development, the country has a wider spectrum of choices to chart out a developmental pathway, says Dr. Akhilesh Gupta, advisor to Minister of Science and Technology.

Myanmar rejects appeal for Aung Suu Kyi's release

Pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi is likely to remain under house arrest, as the military junta in Myanmar has rejected an appeal for her release. The Nobel Peace laureate has spent more than 13 years in detention for the ‘crime’ of demanding democracy.

Paris meeting to avert future famines

Senior experts from FAO-OECD are meeting in the French capital to devise long-term strategies for investment in sustainable agriculture that will help address the global food insecurity. At present, close to one billion people across the world are suffering from hunger and malnutrition.

Nepal sliding back into the abyss

Nepal prime minister’s resignation has further endangered the already fragile peace process in the country. The Maoist leader has expressed his disappointment over the existence of ‘parallel power centres’ and interference of reactionary forces in undermining democracy.

Websites engage voters for Indian polls

A vigorous online activity is going on in India, urging people to vote consciously. Especially targeted at the youth and using interactive tools like blogs, games, e-discussions, these e-platforms are aiming to create an informed citizenry.

UN pays tribute to slain editor’s courage

On the World Press Day, the posthumous recipient of the UNESCO award on press freedom – Sri Lankan editor Lasantha Wickrematunge continues to inspire journalists. His death has however been a blow to independent media as many now engage in self-censorship, say his colleagues and widow.

Nepal PM fails to sell his civilian supremacy argument

The removal of Chief of Army Staff in Nepal comes with the pressing necessity of integrating Maoist combatants into the national army, argues veteran journalist Kanak Mani Dixit. He further points out that the breaching of the ‘due process’ has led to a constitutional crisis in the country.

Involving locals in bio-conservation

Conservation in Protected Areas: Do Local People Benefit? is a policy brief published by National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) North-South. It suggests practical ways to address biodiversity conservation priorities as well as the livelihood needs of local inhabitants.

A positive read

Living with virus of a dread disease may not be easy but Positive + doesn’t let the gloom descend on its readers. A single woman’s initiative in southern India, this free bilingual fortnightly is the country’s first newspaper on HIV/AIDS and has struck a unique chord with the people.

Sri Lankan army strikes at hospital

In its bid to wipe out the LTTE, the Sri Lankan army has hit a makeshift hospital inside the civilian safe zone. While the military officials deny the attack, doctors working in the area have captured images showing shelling by the army, which has reportedly killed 91 civilians.

Mexican indigenous women challenge 'machismo'

Mexico still has to go a long way in bringing gender and ethnic equity in governance and other spheres of social life. For the first time in a deeply patriarchal society that thinks women’s involvement in politics brings earthquakes, two indigenous women are vying for seats in the Mexican Congress.

Getting girls into high schools

World Bank’s latest report Educating Girls in the 21st Century highlights the gender disparities at the level of secondary education. Linking the issue with economic development, the report advocates interventions like scholarships and female teacher recruitment to increase enrollment of the girls.

Forced labour at Commonwealth Games site alleged

A civil rights group in its report has said that thousands of workers engaged in Commonwealth Games Village site in Delhi are not being paid even the legally stipulated minimum wages. According to Article 23 of the country's Constitution and a Supreme Court ruling, this amounts to begaar or forced labour.

Rural women in India join the tech fraternity

An all-women BPO working in the hinterlands of Rajasthan has brought rural women closer to technology. Training in data entry and transcription work has given them an edge over others as they aim to carve a niche in the tech world.

No scheme for Pakistan's informal workers

Workers in Pakistan have not received their dues despite the government enacting new laws to improve their lot. A study documenting the state of labour in the country during last year shows that unorganised workers continue to suffer from exploitation, low wages and inadequate social safety nets.

Tension brewing in tea gardens of India

The closure of many tea gardens in India has left close to a million tea workers in West Bengal unemployed and distressed. A report released in the national capital argues that there is a need to revive the industry to avert a humanitarian crisis.

India demands access for aid agencies in Sri Lanka

India has sought greater access for international humanitarian agencies to provide succour to displaced people living in camps set up by Sri Lankan government. Taking great umbrage at this suggestion, President Mahinda Rajapaksa has strongly reacted saying the country does not need any preaching.

'Asia needs a different plan to recover from crisis'

Asia’s excessive dependence on external demand for growth can affect its long-term sustainability, says M. Shahidul Islam, Research Associate at the Institute of South Asian Studies, National University of Singapore. Highlighting the uncertainty of fiscal packages, he insists on a constructive plan to stimulate growth.

Water people of Andes face extinction

Those who outlasted the Inca Empire and even survived the Spanish conquest are now facing extinction due to climate change. Members of an ancient tribe living in the interiors of Bolivia are going through a tough time as the Lauca river that nurtured and sustained them is drying up.

ADB triples capital base to boost poverty reduction

Responding to the global economic crisis, the Asian Development Bank has substantially raised its capital base to support long-term development needs of Asia and the Pacific. Poorer member countries are facing an estimated resource gap of $53 billion a year for meeting the Millennium Development Goals.

Maternal height linked to child deaths in India

Children of shorter mothers are 70% more likely to die due to underweight and anaemia, says a study about India by researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health. Another key finding suggests the presence of inter-generational transfer of poor health from mother to offspring.

WHO's new growth measures help fight infant mortality

Ten million under-five children die every year globally and about half of them succumb to death due to malnutrition. Now WHO has come out with new growth standards that will make the process of detection of undernourishment among infants quicker and cheaper.

India voting enters key phase

Third phase of voting is taking place in India to elect a new government. Many prominent leaders, including the ruling party's president Sonia Gandhi and the main opposition party's prime ministerial candidate L.K. Advani, are in the fray for today’s poll.

Swine flu threatening to bloom into a pandemic

Based on assessment of all available information, WHO has raised the current level of swine flu alert to phase 5, the second highest on its threat scale. Prominent medical journal The Lancet has warned that the pandemic, if full-blown, can kill millions in the developing world.

For UN rescuing civilians in Sri Lanka a 'top priority'

For the sake of estimated 50,000 trapped civilians, a top UN relief official has appealed for further humanitarian pause in combat operations against the Tamil rebels in Sri Lanka. So far the government has shown its unwillingness as it thinks the LTTE is likely to exploit the ceasefire to regroup militarily.

'Chanderi ki Awaaz' soon to go on air

Young members of weavers’ community in central India have moved a step closer towards setting up their own community radio station. Recently the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has issued a ‘Letter of Intent’ to them and now they are likely to go on air by early next year.

Building an inclusive knowledge society

UNESCO supported publication, Mapping media education policies in the world, gives a comprehensive view on the subject. It stresses on the involvement of policymakers in the implementation of media education programmes in their respective countries.

Biggest emitters seek consensus before Copenhagen

A two-day meeting of the world’s 17 biggest emitters of greenhouse gases concluded in Washington yesterday. There was a sense of optimism that it helped provide a springboard towards more comprehensive talks during Copenhagen summit as successor to the Kyoto Protocol.

Pakistani army reclaims key town in Bumer

A day after the Pakistani army launched its attack on Taliban militants, the federal government has managed to reclaim a key town in Bumer district. For past many days now there is a growing fear that Taliban are trying to extend their control beyond the Swat Valley.

Bangalore Metro being built by child labour

An environmental group in southern India has claimed that contractors are engaged in employing children in the construction of Bangalore Metro network in gross violation of several national and international laws. The group has also alleged that the project is causing severe damage to environment of the city.

Disabled in Bangladesh demand more opportunities

People with disabilities in Bangladesh have demanded opportunities for skill development training and extended support from government in the form of reservations in public services. The problem of joblessness among physically challenged people is rampant in the country.

UN body laments drop in aid to basic education

UNESCO has pointed out in its latest report that the promise of aid by donor countries to provide basic education in poor countries is still half-hearted. Currently 75 million children globally are out of school and the progress towards achieving the goal of universal primary education is unsatisfactory.

Bangladesh reviews UNESCO report on Education for All

A national session was recently organised in Bangladesh to share UNESCO’s EFA Global Monitoring Report 2009 with government agencies, NGOs, and other development practitioners. Participants felt that educational policies must be formulated and implemented under an inclusive framework.

Innovations for sustainable development in agriculture

With Rachel Carson's book, Silent Spring, the hazards of chemical pesticides were exposed paving the way for a new environmental movement that encouraged eco-friendly products. OneWorld South Asia spoke to four distinguished speakers and sought their views at the 5th International Conference on Biopesticides currently on in the Indian capital.

UN for global coordination in reducing disaster risk

At the release of a report, Tsunami Lessons Learned, UN chief has highlighted the need for governments to adopt strategic action in reducing disaster risk. Investing in flood control measures, good buildings and coastal management can help nations to cope with severe weather events.

'Spiralling population strains Bangladesh sustainability'

Overpopulation in Bangladesh continues to increase the risks associated with global warming, says Professor Mahfuz R. Chowdhury from Long Island University, New York. With huge amount of landmass being lost to rising sea levels, the government needs to act more swiftly, he adds.

Urban poor reclaim public spaces to plant trees

Residents of Madanpur Khadar, a resettlement colony in south Delhi, came together last week to plant trees on the occasion of Earth Day. Guided by officials from the horticulture department and civil society representatives, the youth learnt to plant saplings and protect the environment.

Indian girls say 'no' to early marriage

Young girls marrying at a tender age may be a common phenomenon in hinterlands of India, but this seems to be changing after government offered remedial education to children in eastern part of the country. UNICEF is also running several similar programmes across South Asia that has the world’s highest levels of child marriage.

World Bank warns of human catastrophe

World Bank chief Robert Zoellick has urged donor countries to keep their promise of aid and even pledge more to avoid a human and development calamity in many poor nations. The bank will provide US$ 100 billion over three years and launch initiatives in social protection, public works and agriculture.

Sri Lanka says focus now on rescuing civilians

Sri Lankan government has announced that no heavy weapons will be used against the Tamil rebels who are now confined inside a small no-fire zone so as to avoid collateral damage. Meanwhile the UN agencies have sent fresh emergency relief supplies to help people uprooted by the intense armed conflict.

Anti-racism meet vows to fight racial discrimination

Dubbed as Durban II, the UN organised anti-racism conference held in Geneva last week adopted a document that emphasised on the need to fight all forms and manifestations of racism, xenophobia and related intolerance globally. Representatives of India’s marginalised sections were unhappy that caste-based discrimination was not equated with racism.

Interactive media for effective communication

Come on In. The Water‘s Fine published by Brotherton Strategies explores the opportunities and challenges presented by new interactive media tools under Web 2.0 technology. The report seeks to help organisations in reaching out to a wider audience to drive their grantmaking.

World's major rivers 'drying up'

Scientists have observed a downward trend in freshwater availability due to reduced river flow around the world. Installation of dams, irregular rainfall patterns and increasing temperature are causing longer dry spells, putting water supplies under strain.

Tax havens become a poll issue in India

Promising to bring back billions of black money hoarded in Swiss banks, political parties in India have stirred up a hornet’s nest. Seeing it as a new attempt to woo the electorate, experts feel that successive governments’ inaction is unlikely to change the sixty year old practice.

Tree tracking in India goes hi-tech

Armed with GPS-based technology, a team of botanists in India is out in the field to check the illegal felling of trees in major cities. Details such as height, canopy and condition of each tree will be recorded in digital format, making compilation of data much easier.

World prepares to fight swine flu epidemic

The H1N1 strain of swine flu has claimed at least 103 human lives in Mexico and is suspected to have spread to many other parts of the world. Associated usually with pigs but when the flu spreads from person to person it becomes a tougher strain that is harder to treat.

Five million Afghan children out of school

Poor infrastructure and persisting gender bias have kept over five million children out of school in Afghanistan. Fearing Taliban’s attacks on teachers and students, parents are reluctant to send their wards to school leading to high illiteracy among girls.

Sri Lanka scoffs at LTTE ceasefire call

Sri Lanka has rejected the unilateral ceasefire declared by the decimated LTTE as a 'joke', saying that the Tigers have no option but to surrender. UN is urging the government to allow distribution of aid to trapped and starving civilians, whose number it believes, exceeds 50,000.

Acting swift to cope with climate crisis

Oxfam’s new report: The Right to Survive projects a rise of more than half in the number of people affected by climate change by 2015. It warns that the crisis could be exacerbated by entrenched poverty, higher population density and a humanitarian system that is wanting.

Taliban surge in Pakistan raises nuclear threat

With increasing influence of Taliban forces in Pakistan, the debate whether the country’s nuclear arsenal is safe has once again become a matter of grave concern for international community. Even the US is not very confident this time.

India and Spain enhance trade ties