Month: September 2025

Addressing the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Tuesday said the world is witnessing the conservation of international order marked by “repeated concessions to power players, attacks on sovereignty, arbitrary sanctions, and unilateral interventions becoming the rule.”

Brazil traditionally delivers the first address at the General Assembly debate.

Opening the high-level debate, Lula began, “Madam President of the General Assembly, Mr. Secretary-General, dear heads of state and government and representatives of the member states gathered here. This should be a time to celebrate the United Nations. Created at the end of World War II, the UN symbolises the highest expression of peace. And today, however, the ideals that inspired its founders in San Francisco are under threat as never before.”

He delivered a wide-ranging speech that underscored the threats to multilateralism, democracy, and global peace.

“Multilateralism is at a new crossroads. The organisation’s authority is in check. We are witnessing the conservation of an international order marked by repeated concessions to power players, attacks on sovereignty, arbitrary sanctions, and unilateral interventions becoming the rule,” Lula stated. He warned of “a clear parallel between multilateralism’s crisis and the weakening of democracy.”

He highlighted the dangers of authoritarianism, noting, “Anti-democratic forces are trying to subjugate institutions and stifle freedoms. They worship violence, praise ignorance, act as physical and digital militias, and restrict the press.”

Referring to Brazil’s own struggle, Lula said, “Even under an unprecedented attack, Brazil chose to resist and defend its democracy, regained 40 years ago by its people after two decades of dictatorial governments.”

Lula also indirectly slammed US President Donald Trump for imposing tariffs and sanctions on the South American country following the conviction of Brazil’s former President Jair Bolsonaro for allegedly plotting a coup in the country after his party lost the 2022 polls. Trump has also imposed sanctions on the wife of the judge who presided over Bolsonaro’s trial.

“There is no justification for unilateral and arbitrary measures against our institutions and our economy. The aggression against the independence of the judiciary is unacceptable. This interference in domestic affairs is aided by a subservient far-right who is nostalgic of past hegemonies. False patriots plan and publicly promote actions against Brazil,” he asserted.

Bolsonaro was sentenced to over 27 years in prison, despite the US imposing 50 per cent tariffs on Brazilian exports in an attempt to halt his trial.

“A few days ago, and for the first time in 525 years of our history, a former head of state was convicted of attacking the democratic rule of law. He was investigated, indicted, tried and held accountable for his actions in a meticulous process. He has the right to defend himself, a prerogative that dictatorships deny their victims. Before the eyes of the world, Brazil sent a message to all aspiring autocrats and those who support them: our democracy, our sovereignty are non-negotiable,” Lula said

The Brazilian President stressed that “sound democracies go beyond the electoral ritual,” and are measured by principles such as “the reduction of inequalities and the guarantee of the most basic rights — food, safety, work, housing, education and health.”

On global hunger, Lula said, “Therefore, we were proud to receive confirmation from FAO that Brazil has once again left the hunger map in this year 2025. But in the world there are still 670 million hungry people and about 2.3 billion face food insecurity. The only one of which everyone can emerge victorious is the one we wage against hunger and poverty.”

He called for revised global priorities, urging the international community to “reduce arms spending and increase development aid, relieve the burden of the foreign debt of the poorest countries — above all African nations — and set minimum global tax standards so that the super-rich pay more taxes than workers.”

Turning to digital governance, Lula warned, “The internet cannot be a land of lawlessness. Regulating does not mean restraining freedom of expression. It’s about ensuring that what is already illegal in the real world is treated the same way in the virtual environment.”

He announced, “Last week, I proudly enacted one of the world’s most advanced laws for the children and adolescents in the digital environment.”

On regional stability, Lula stressed Latin America’s role as “a continent free of weapons of mass destruction” but expressed concern that “the comparison between crime and terrorism is worrying.”

On conflicts abroad, he stated, “In the conflict in Ukraine, we all already know that there will be no military solution. The recent meeting in Alaska raised hopes for a negotiated way out. It’s necessary to pave the way for a realistic solution… The terrorist attacks perpetrated by Hamas are indefensible from any angle, but nothing — absolutely nothing — justifies the ongoing genocide in Gaza.”

“There, under tons of rubble, are buried tens of thousands of innocent women and children. There we can see that international humanitarian law and the myth of ethical exceptionalism of the West are also being buried,” he said.

Lula also batted for an “independent” Palestinian state.

“The Palestinian people are at risk of disappearing. They will only survive with an independent state integrated into the international community. This is the solution defended by more than 100, reaffirmed yesterday here in this very plenary, but barred by a single veto.”

On climate, Lula declared, “Bombs and nuclear weapons will not protect us from the current crisis… Without a complete picture of the nationally determined contributions, we will be walking blindfolded towards the abyss. Brazil has committed to reducing its emissions by 159 to recovering all greenhouse gases in all sectors of the economy.”

He called for justice in the global energy transition: “Demanding greater ambition and greater access to resources and technology is not a matter of charity, but of justice.” Lula further stressed, “The world will learn about the reality of the Amazon (river). We reduced deforestation by half in the region in the last two years. Eradicating it requires ensuring decent living conditions for its millions of inhabitants.”

In conclusion, Lula said, “The UN has today almost four times more members than the 51 who were at its foundation. Our historic mission is to make it once again a barrier of hope and a promoter of equality, peace, sustainable development, diversity and tolerance. May God bless us all and thank you very much.” (ANI)

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Tuesday led a significant meeting between a US Congressional delegation and India’s Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs.

He highlighted the surprising silence of the Indian-American diaspora on critical issues affecting India-US relations. During the meeting, a congresswoman shared that she hadn’t received a single call from Indian-American voters urging policy changes, prompting Tharoor to urge the diaspora to be more vocal.

The meeting addressed concerns over H-1B visa hikes, 50% tariffs on Indian goods, and US sanctions on the Chabahar Port, with some US lawmakers criticising the Trump administration’s decisions.

The five-member delegation, all Democrats (four from California), expressed strong support for India-US partnership despite recent challenges like H-1B visa restrictions and trade tariffs.

Speaking with ANI, Tharoor stressed that if Indian-Americans care about their motherland, they must actively advocate for India’s interests and pressure their political representatives.

“I do want to stress that one of the points we raised was why the Indian-American diaspora has been so silent about all of this. One of the congresswomen said that not one phone call has come to her office from any Indian-American voter asking for her to support a change of policy, and this is something that is surprising and that I think we all need to reach out to the Indian-American population saying, if you care about the relationship with your motherland, then you also have to fight for it, speak for it and make more of an effort to press your political representatives to stand up for India. But the ones who came here are already friends of India, well disposed towards India and they have spoken very warmly and positively of the relationship…,” Tharoor told ANI.

Tharoor noted that the visiting US lawmakers were already “friends of India,” praising India’s economic resilience and the contributions of its diaspora. He emphasised that American opinion, including Congress, remains committed to strengthening India-US relations.

The meeting between a delegation of US Congresspersons and the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs was led by Tharoor at Parliament House Annexe Extension Building.

“We had a very good visit from a US Congressional delegation which consisted of 5 members of the US House of Congress who happened all to be from the Democratic Party and four of them were from California, but they had tremendous interest in India. I think the most important message that came out from them was that a lot of American opinion, including in the US Congress, is very strongly committed to the Indian relationship, the strategic partnership, that India is valued and that they remain determined to strengthen that relationship despite the recent setbacks that we are all familiar with, the H1-B visa setback, the 50% tariff setback, the sanctions on the Chabahar Port and various other things which have made life a bit difficult in the Indo-US relationship currently…,” Tharoor told ANI.

The committee also discussed India-Sri Lanka relations and future directions with Ministry of External Affairs representatives. As Chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, Tharoor played a pivotal role in facilitating the dialogue. (ANI)

Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf made history, joining Hardik Pandya, Wanindu Hasaranga and Rashid Khan as the joint-highest wicket-taker in the history of men’s T20I Asia Cup edition, while Shaheen Shah Afridi overtook Shadab Khan to rise as Pakistan’s second-highest wicket-taker in T20Is.

Pakistan’s explosive pace duo of Shaheen and Haris registered their names in history during their side’s Asia Cup Super Four clash against Sri Lanka at Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. During the match, Shaheen emerged as the top wicket-taker with 3/28 in four overs, while Rauf took 2/37 in his four overs.

Now, with 14 wickets, Haris is the joint-highest wicket-taker in the history of the Asia Cup T20I edition. In nine matches, he has taken these 14 wickets at an average of 16.64, with an economy rate of 7.68, with best figures of 3/29.

On the other hand, Shaheen, with 114 wickets in 90 matches at an average of 22.10 and best figures of 4/22, is the second-highest wicket-taker for Pakistan in T20Is. At the top is Haris, with 130 wickets in 92 matches at an average of 20.95, with best figures of 4/18.

Coming to the match, Pakistan won the toss and elected to field first. SL was reduced to 80/6. Kamindu Mendis (50 in 44 balls, with three fours and two sixes) kept the innings together for Lankan Lions and took them to 133/8 in 20 overs. (ANI)

After facing backlash for casting actress Poonam Pandey as Mandodri in the Ramlila at the Red Fort ground in Delhi, the Luv Kush Ramlila Commitee announced that they have decided to part ways with the actress to avoid the “division in the society.”

In a press conference held today, Arjun Kumar, the president of the Luv Kush Ramlila Committee, announced that they have decided that Poonam Pandey will not play the role of Mandodari in the Ramlila organised by them.

While addressing the media in the national capital, Arjun Kumar said, “The Love Kush Ramla Committee has written a letter, to Poonam Pandey and in that letter we wrote that we respect your feelings but if there is a division in the society, if there is a wrong message in the society, then we have decided, that Poonam Pandey, this time, will not play the role of Mandodari, in the Love Kush Ramla Committee, instead of her, this place will be given to another person.”

Arjun Kumar described the decision as respecting the “sentiment” of the public when it comes to organising Ramlila in Delhi.

While speaking to ANI, he said, “Public sentiments within the country have been taken into account. The Ramlila isn’t meant to be done by undermining public sentiment. Our goal is clear: the Ramlila should be held with public sentiment in mind.”

Subhash Goyal, the Secretary of the Luv Kush Ramlila Committee, called the decision an attempt to spread a “positive message” in society.

“Our only concern is that we don’t want to get involved in any controversy. We do good work to give a positive message to society. If society doesn’t want us to do it, then we won’t. We’ll decide within a day or two (name of person who will play the role of Mandodari). We’ve received numerous requests from artists. We’ll decide from them, and then we’ll let you know which artist will be included,” said Subhash Goyal while talking to ANI.

Meanwhile, actress Poonam Pandey recently announced that she was looking forward to playing the part and in the process of cleansing herself, had decided to fast on all nine days of Navratri, in a video message uploaded on her Instagram handle. (ANI)

Vikrant Massey on Tuesday was felicitated with the National Film Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for ’12th Fail’, based on the true story of Manoj Kumar Sharma, who overcame immense challenges to clear the UPSC exam and become an IPS officer.

He received the prestigious award from President Droupadi Murmu at the 71st National Film Awards ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi.

Vikrant shares this special honour with Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who won the award for ‘Jawan’.

In August, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting announced the winners’ list, with Vikrant honoured as one of the National Award recipients.

A few hours after the announcement, Vikrant, in a press statement, expressed his happiness, dedicating the award to “marginalised people.”

“…I dedicate this award to all the marginalised people in our society — those who are often looked through, and those who are fighting the socio-economic paradigm of our country every single day,” he shared. He described it as a “privilege” to receive the award alongside Shah Rukh Khan.

“I want to thank the Honourable Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the NFDC, and all the esteemed jury members of the 71st National Film Awards for considering my performance worthy of this recognition. I also want to thank Shri Vidhu Vinod Chopra ji for giving me this opportunity. Today, if I may say so, a 20-year-old boy’s dream has come true.I am eternally grateful to the audiences for honouring my performances and for recommending this film with such love. It is a privilege to be sharing my first National Award with an icon like Shah Rukh Khan,” Vikrant expressed.

’12th Fail’ was released in 2023 by director Vidhu Vinod Chopra. The story revolves around Manoj Kumar Sharma’s journey preparing for the UPSC exam and his struggles. The film’s story motivates viewers to persevere through challenges. It puts the spotlight on his journey and how his wife, IRS officer Shraddha Joshi, played a crucial role in his rise. Medha Shankr plays a pivotal role in the film. (ANI)

Britain is facing a massive £2 trillion reparations demand from the Palestinian Authority following Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s recognition of Palestine as a state, reported The Winnipeg Sun.

This staggering figure, equivalent to the size of Britain’s entire economy, is based on the UK’s historical administration of Palestine from 1917 to 1948. The UK governed Palestine during this period, issuing the Balfour Declaration in 1917, which promised a Jewish homeland, sparking tensions with the Arab populations.

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas cites international law, seeking compensation for land and perceived injustices during British rule. The £2 trillion demand dwarfs previous UK compensation settlements, sparking concerns about fiscal stability.

The demand quickly split British politics, drawing strong responses across the spectrum. Shadow Home Secretary Robert Jenrick dismissed it as “ahistorical nonsense” and pledged that no taxpayer funds would be used.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said the recognition was a mistake, while some Labour MPs echoed past arguments in favour of reparations. The British government has maintained that recognition was symbolic and does not trigger any financial obligations, reported The Winnipeg Sun.

While politicians clashed, legal experts pointed out that the likelihood of reparations succeeding was extremely low. They cited sovereign immunity, the long passage of time, and the absence of direct causation as barriers to any such claim. Yet, as The Winnipeg Sun highlighted, the demand remains politically significant because it transforms a symbolic gesture into leverage.

The broader implications are being closely watched. “This is how symbolic gestures turn into costly disputes,” the commentary observed. Even though no money is changing hands, debates over reparations–like those tied to slavery and colonialism in other countries–have often become enduring points of contention. The Palestinian Authority has made clear it will use recognition as a foundation for further political and financial claims, while Hamas has continued to frame each step as another “victory.”

Attention has also shifted beyond Britain, with Canada now entering the debate. Prime Minister Mark Carney moved to recognise Palestine without parliamentary approval or a national debate.

According to The Winnipeg Sun, the decision was not included in his election platform and was taken unilaterally, “chasing symbolism over substance.” Critics argue that the move risks straining relations with Israel, a close ally in security, intelligence, and technology.

The commentary further warned of the consequences of timing. “I do not want war. I don’t believe anyone does. But rewarding terrorism does not create peace. Recognition handed out while the hostages remain captive is not a path to stability. It is a signal that violence pays,” it noted.

Britain’s experience has already underscored the risks, and questions remain over whether Canada could face similar demands in the future. Analysts stress that the issue is less about whether reparations succeed in court and more about the expectation that such demands are legitimate. Once that expectation takes root, it can reshape political debates and fuel grievances across allied nations.

“Carney should have known better. Instead, he followed the leader, ignoring the risks, ignoring Israel, and ignoring the Canadians who never had a say,” the piece concluded, warning that recognition may be symbolic, but the fallout is very real.

The developments in London and Ottawa coincided with a wider international shift. Six countries, including France, announced their decision to recognise Palestinian statehood during a high-level summit held in New York on the eve of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

France, which co-hosted the meeting with Saudi Arabia, was joined by Andorra, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and Monaco in confirming their recognition.

The announcement came just a day after the United Kingdom formally extended recognition to Palestine, a step that has added momentum to the growing international push for Palestinian statehood. (ANI)

A recent World Bank (WB) report has raised alarms over the increasing poverty rate in Pakistan, emphasising the urgency for long-term, inclusive reforms to safeguard the country’s most vulnerable communities, according to Dawn.

According to the latest report, the poverty rate has increased by 7% over the past three years, standing at 25.3% as of 2024-25.

The report, titled “Reclaiming Momentum Towards Prosperity: Pakistan’s Poverty, Equity and Resilience Assessment,” represents the first in-depth examination of poverty and welfare in Pakistan in more than two decades, as highlighted by Dawn in its coverage.

The study utilises over 25 years of data from household surveys, spatial analysis, projections, and various administrative sources.

Dawn reported that after a consistent decline from 64.3% in 2001-02 to 21.9% in 2018-19, the national poverty rate has been rising again since 2020.

The World Bank attributes this reversal to a series of overlapping crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, inflationary pressures, severe flooding, and macroeconomic instability.

Moreover, it notes that the earlier gains in poverty reduction were driven by a consumption-led growth model, which has now exhausted its potential.

According to Dawn, the report found that much of the earlier reduction in poverty was due to increased income from non-agricultural labour, with many families transitioning from farming to service-sector jobs.

However, Pakistan’s structural transformation has been slow and uneven, which has limited job creation, diversification, and productivity growth.

The study also underscores the challenges of informal employment, which still accounts for over 85% of jobs, and notes that women and youth remain largely excluded from the labour force.

In addition to economic concerns, the report highlights severe social deficits. Nearly 40% of Pakistani children are stunted, a quarter of primary-aged children are not in school, and three-quarters of those who do attend struggle with basic reading comprehension, as reported by Dawn.

Basic services also lag behind: by 2018, only half of households had safely managed drinking water, and nearly one-third lacked access to safe sanitation.

Dawn further noted the World Bank’s emphasis on persistent regional disparities. Rural poverty remains more than double the rate seen in urban areas, and many districts that were underdeveloped decades ago still face the same conditions today. (ANI)

South superstar Mohanlal was conferred with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award by the President Droupadi Murmu at the 71st National Awards ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on Tuesday.

After working for over four decades in the cinema industry, the Dadasaheb Phalke Selection Committee chose Mohanlal as the recipient of the award for his contribution to Indian cinema.

Mohanlal was elated to recieve the award from President Murmu on Tuesday. The actor received a standing ovation from the attendees at the Vigyan Bhawan as he accepted the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

Mohanlal’s wife, Suchitra Mohanlal, was also present at the ceremony. She appeared to be emotional after the actor was called on stage to collect the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

The actor donned an all-white outfit, including a kurta, for the event. He complemented his outfit with a white scroll. President Murmu was joined by the Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw at the event.

Last week, the Information and Broadcasting Ministry recognised Mohanlal’s remarkable cinematic journey while announcing the award.

“On the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award Selection Committee, the Government of India is pleased to announce that Shri Mohanlal will be conferred the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2023. Mohanlal’s remarkable cinematic journey inspires generations! The legendary actor, director, and producer is being honoured for his iconic contribution to Indian Cinema. His unmatched talent, versatility, and relentless hard work have set a golden standard in Indian film history,” Information and Ministry said in a post on X.

While speaking to ANI after the announcement of the award on September 20, Mohanlal said he views it as something much bigger than himself. The ‘Drishyam’ actor explained that since the honour is returning to Malayalam cinema after “20 years,” it belongs to all the artists who have shaped him as an actor.

“This is a tribute to the Malayalam film industry. After 20 years, this award is coming back to the Malayalam film industry. So, I am sharing this award with the Malayalam industry. I share this with all the great artists who work with me in Malayalam cinema, who have shaped me, who brought the artist in me, and who have shown beautiful light on my graceful walk in the industry. I share all my love and respect with them. When I heard that I was receiving the award, it was the greatest moment of my life,” said Mohanlal.

In a career spanning over four decades, Mohanlal has worked in numerous films across various genres. Known primarily for his work in Malayalam films, Mohanlal has also featured in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi films.

He has received numerous accolades, including National Awards and the prestigious Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan.

Earlier, veteran filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan from Kerala was conferred with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2004 for his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema. (ANI)

After over 30 years in the film industry, Bollywood supertsar Shah Rukh Khan finally received his first National Film Award for Best Actor.

On Tuesday, SRK was honoured with the National Film Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role, by President Droupadi Murmu at Vigyan Bhavan in Delhi.

SRK received the award for his performance in Atlee’s directorial ‘Jawan’, which was released in theatres in September 2023.

Dressed in a black suit, Shah Rukh looked extremely happy at the prestigious 71st National Film Awards Ceremony. His manager, Pooja Dadlani, was also present at the event.

The National Film Award winners were announced in August, with Shah Rukh Khan named Best Actor in a Leading Role.

After the announcement, SRK had taken to social media to share an emotional video of gratitude for his fans, team, family, and colleagues.

“Thank you for honouring me with the National Award. Thanks to the jury, the I&B ministry. Iss samman ke liye Bharat Sarkar ka dhanyawaad. Overwhelmed with the love showered upon me. Half a hug to everyone today…,” he said.

“Needless to say, I am overwhelmed with gratitude, pride, and humility. To be honoured with the National Award is a moment that I will cherish for a lifetime. Thank you so much to the jury, the chairman, and to the I&B Ministry, and to everyone who thought I was worthy of this honour,” the 59-year-old actor had said.

He had also thanked his entire team of ‘Jawan’.

“I want to thank my team and management, which works tirelessly. They bear with me my eccentricities and my impatience and give me their full attention, making me look much better than I am. This award would not be possible at all without their love and perseverance,” he added.

Shah Rukh had also acknowledged the unwavering support of his family throughout his journey.

“My wife and kids, who over the last few years have given me so much more love and care as if I am the kid in the house, and want only the best for me. They know my obsession with cinema takes me away from them, but they all bear it with a smile and allow me the time,” he emphasised.

With ‘Jawan,’ Shah Rukh returned in full force in 2023, taking on a dual role with action, emotion, and intensity. The film became one of the biggest blockbusters of the year, and his performance struck a chord with the masses.

Shah Rukh Khan, who was shooting overseas for his film King, specially flew back to Delhi to attend the 71st National Film Awards ceremony.

In ‘King’, SRK will be seen sharing screen space with his daughter Suhana. Deepika Padukone is also a part of the film.

Recently, Deepika took to Instagram and expressed her excitement about her sixth collaboration with Shah Rukh Khan. The duo was last seen together in ‘Jawan’.

She gave fans a glimpse of the first day of the shoot as she shared a candid photo on Instagram, holding Shah Rukh Khan’s hand.

Along with the picture, she also wrote a heartfelt note about what she learned from him nearly “18 years” ago.

“The very first lesson he taught me almost 18 years ago while filming Om Shanti Om was that the experience of making a movie, and the people you make it with, matter far more than its success. I couldn’t agree more and have applied that learning to every decision I’ve made since. And that’s probably why we’re back making our 6th movie together. #king #day1,” Deepika posted.

‘King’ will be the sixth time Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone share the screen. From her debut blockbuster ‘Om Shanti Om’ to hits like ‘Chennai Express,’ ‘Happy New Year,’ ‘Pathaan,’ and ‘Jawan,’ the two have never failed to entertain fans. (ANI)

As part of Operation Numkoor, customs officials conducted raids at the residences of film actors Prithviraj Sukumaran and Dulquer Salmaan.

Raids followed the discovery that luxury cars were being smuggled into India via Bhutan without paying taxes.

Raids are being carried out at 30 locations in Kerala today.

Raids are being conducted at various locations in Kozhikode as well.

According to customs sources, these vehicles are brought by middlemen from Bhutan and sold in India.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Dulquer has the Tamil and Telugu bilingual film, ‘Kaantha’ in the pipeline. A teaser of the film was unveiled on the actor’s 42nd birthday, focusing on an estranged relationship between a father and son.

Prithviraj was seen in ‘Sarzameen’, an action thriller film written and directed by Kayoze Irani. Produced by Karan Johar, Hiroo Yash Johar, and Apoorva Mehta under Dharma Productions, in collaboration with Star Studios, the film stars Prithviraj Sukumaran, Kajol, and Ibrahim Ali Khan. (ANI)