India and Bangladesh on Monday agreed to strengthen exchange visits of media delegations. Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma paid a courtesy visit to Bangladesh’s Minister of Information and Broadcasting, Zahir Uddin Swapon, where both sides discussed broad cooperation in the field of information and broadcasting, including collaboration between media and broadcasting institutions of the two countries.

They mutually agreed to increase visits of media delegations to promote closer people-to-people ties and improve mutual understanding. The High Commissioner also suggested several capacity-building programmes for journalists and media professionals under the Government of India’s ITEC initiative. As part of this effort, a special training programme for women journalists from Bangladesh is expected to be held soon in India, according to the Indian High Commission in Dhaka.

Both sides also discussed cooperation in the film sector, including organizing film screenings and festivals in each other’s countries, along with collaboration in production and post-production technology support. The High Commissioner reaffirmed India’s commitment to working closely with the government and people of Bangladesh to enhance people-centric cooperation across all areas based on shared interests and mutual benefits.

Separately, India and Bangladesh continue to deepen their engagement in multiple sectors. Earlier on April 8, Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri met Bangladesh Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman in New Delhi to explore ways to strengthen energy cooperation, following the latter’s discussions with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. During the meeting, Puri highlighted the presence of senior Bangladeshi officials and reiterated the importance of ongoing bilateral engagement.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

Nepal’s Prime Minister Balendra Shah has reorganized the hierarchy of his Council of Ministers, less than two weeks after forming the cabinet on March 27. The decision followed a Cabinet meeting and was officially announced by the Office of the President. According to the statement, the revision was made in line with Article 76(9) of the Constitution. While the ministers have retained their respective portfolios, their order of precedence has been reshuffled.

In the updated hierarchy, Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle now ranks just after the Prime Minister based on seniority. Home Minister Sudhan Gurung, who previously held the third position, has been moved down to fifth place, now ranking below Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal and Energy Minister Biraj Bhakta Shrestha.

Among the 15 cabinet members, Labour Minister Deepak Kumar Sah is placed at the bottom of the list. Balendra Shah, also known as “Balen,” took oath as Nepal’s 47th Prime Minister earlier in March, with President Ramchandra Paudel administering the oath under Article 76(1). The ceremony was attended by top officials, including the Vice President, Chief Justice, senior leaders, security heads, and members of the diplomatic community.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.

Former diplomat K. P. Fabian on Monday criticized the United States’ stance as unfortunate and reflective of arrogance. Speaking to ANI, he said Iran’s ability to shoot down American aircraft should not be underestimated. Fabian noted that while deep strikes near Isfahan were technically impressive, Iran’s relatively limited air defence and air force must also be considered. At the same time, he pointed out that Iran appears to have downed one or two US transport aircraft, which deserves acknowledgment.

He described the situation as a mixed outcome but added that it may be better things unfolded this way, given President Donald Trump’s temperament. Fabian warned that if Iran had captured American personnel, it could have provoked an even more extreme reaction from Trump, whom he accused of already showing poor judgment, citing his use of offensive language. Fabian further criticized the US for its rhetoric and approach, saying it reflects both ignorance and arrogance. He objected to the use of religious references during Holy Week and accused US leaders of disregarding international humanitarian law by openly discussing strikes on civilian targets.

On India-Iran relations, Fabian said a recent call from Iran’s foreign minister indicates Tehran values strong ties with India. However, he noted that India is not directly involved in resolving the conflict, despite Iran urging it, as BRICS chair and a Global South leader, to take a more vocal stance. Regarding claims that the US destroyed its own aircraft to prevent them from falling into Iranian hands, Fabian said such assertions cannot be confirmed and may have emerged later as a justification, especially since initial evidence released by Iran showed wreckage without any US response.

He also expressed concern about the potential escalation of the conflict, pointing out that Trump has been repeatedly shifting deadlines and ultimatums, suggesting uncertainty in decision-making. Fabian warned that unpredictable reactions from a leader in such a powerful position could pose serious risks. According to Reuters, both the US and Iran have been presented with a proposal to end hostilities. The plan, reportedly facilitated by Pakistan, outlines a two-step process involving an immediate ceasefire followed by broader negotiations, which could also lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

The marble sector in Mohmand district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, once seen as a key source of jobs and economic growth, is now facing criticism due to its harmful impact on the environment and public safety. Residents and experts caution that unregulated industrial activities are damaging water resources, farmland, and local infrastructure across the area.

Mohmand is rich in natural resources such as marble, chromite, and nephrite, which have long supported local livelihoods and contributed to the country’s economy. However, the lack of effective regulation has led to significant environmental deterioration. To address these issues, authorities introduced the Mohmand Marble City project, now known as the Mohmand Economic Zone at Machnai, aiming to shift factories into a planned industrial area with proper waste management. Despite this effort, only a few units have relocated, while most continue operating in Halimzai tehsil, especially in Chanda, Sangar, and Nasapai.

Experts report that many factories are dumping untreated wastewater, marble slurry, and dust into natural streams. This pollution is blocking waterways and increasing the risk of flash floods during heavy rains. Officials warn that clogged drainage systems could cause serious damage to homes, agricultural fields, and roads.

The environmental impact is also threatening small dams built to address water shortages. These reservoirs are quickly filling with industrial waste. For instance, a check dam near Chanda Bazaar is nearly blocked, while the Abdul Shakoor Small Dam near Ghalanai faces similar risks, potentially affecting irrigation and fishery projects.

Local residents have voiced frustration over the lack of action despite repeated complaints. Analysts point out that weak enforcement of environmental laws has allowed industries to operate without following safety standards. Stakeholders are now calling for urgent measures, including stricter regulation, relocation of polluting units, and immediate cleaning of dams and waterways to prevent further environmental harm.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.

Coverage was dominated by claims that rogue LLMs were responsible, but they had no role in the targeting. The reality is far more unsettling: this atrocity did not emerge from artificial intelligence, but from a long chain of human decisions, policies, and actions taken over many years that ultimately led to this tragic outcome.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.

On “Destination Anywhere,” Melanie Oliveiro chats with Regina Lee, a travel and home influencer, about her journey through northern Xinjiang. From the shimmering turquoise waters of Sayram Lake to the lush rolling landscapes of Nalati Grasslands and the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan mountains, Regina recounts the region’s beauty and charm. She guides listeners through glacier valleys, picturesque villages, vibrant lakes, and lively bazaars, while also sharing practical tips on how to fully experience this remarkable frontier of China.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

Southeast Asia’s largest conglomerates have traditionally been viewed as the backbone of the region’s economy. However, a recent report by global consulting firm Bain & Company indicates that this model is facing significant challenges. Specialized competitors are encroaching on their markets, and many of these corporate giants are finding it hard to stay competitive. The question now is whether Asia’s major conglomerates need to reinvent themselves — and if they can. Andrea Heng and Susan Ng discuss this with Amanda Chin, Partner at Bain & Company.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

The Middle East conflict is intensifying rapidly, with reports of casualties and damage in at least nine countries within just 10 hours. Israeli and US aircraft have carried out new strikes across Iran, while Iranian missiles and drones target US-allied Gulf states. Nosheen Iqbal talks with Jamie Wilson, the Guardian’s head of international news – watch the discussion on YouTube.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.