Cancún offers the cuisine of the Yucatán, but it requires venturing out of the Zona Hotelera. The author notes the difficulty of finding a specific rich soupy concoction of vermicelli and duck offal outside China.

Indian farmers face challenges in adopting solar-powered irrigation pumps due to high costs and loan interest rates. Despite government subsidies, the financial burden remains significant for farmers with average incomes and debts. Alternative funding models, such as crowd-financed loans, are suggested to bridge the financing gap. The Reserve Bank of India could facilitate this process. Crowdfunding has been successful in other regions and could help Indian farmers become self-reliant in energy needs, reduce pollution, and save on diesel costs. The story highlights the potential of crowdfunding to support sustainable farming and reduce government subsidies.

The revival of Lambadi embroidery through the formation of the craft association Porgai has significantly reduced labour migration in Tamil Nadu. Porgai, meaning happiness and pride in Lambadi dialect, was established in 2009 and involves around 60 women from local Lambadi families. These women create embroidered clothes, home furnishings, and accessories, selling their products in southern states and earning about Rs 5,000 per month. This initiative has provided a sustainable livelihood, preventing the need for migration to cities for work as labourers or construction workers. The flexibility of embroidery work allows women to manage their time effectively, contributing to their children's education and household needs. The practice also supports local agriculture by purchasing organic cotton grown in the Sittilingi valley.

The article discusses the challenges and efforts in promoting sustainable palm oil in India. It highlights the importance of sustainable cultivation over boycotts, citing higher yields and fewer pesticides as benefits of palm oil. Key players like AAK, Kamani Oil Industries, and the Solvent Extractors’ Association of India (SEAI) are working towards increasing the demand and supply of sustainable palm oil. Despite some progress, significant challenges remain, including the higher cost of sustainable palm oil and the need for better infrastructure. Organizations like WWF-India, CRB, and the Rainforest Alliance are also involved in these efforts. The article underscores India's crucial role in making the global palm oil industry more sustainable.

Chennai residents are experiencing heightened anxiety and fear due to incessant rains, reminiscent of the devastating 2015 floods. The article highlights personal stories of individuals affected by past floods and their current coping mechanisms. Experts suggest that such fears are natural and offer strategies like breathing exercises, therapy, and avoiding media to manage anxiety. The government is encouraged to provide reassurance and emergency contact details to help citizens stay calm. Community support and preparation are emphasized as powerful tools against fear and paranoia.

Tharuvaikulam, a village in Tamil Nadu, has become a hub for boat building, driven by the efforts of Madaswamy and his family. The local boatyards prioritize orders from sustainable fishers using gill nets, reflecting a commitment to sustainable fishing practices. The boat builders cater to both local and out-of-district fishermen, ensuring consistent work and contributing to the local economy.

The article discusses the efforts to promote sustainable palm oil in India, highlighting the challenges and initiatives by various stakeholders. It covers the role of organizations like RSPO, SEAI, WWF-India, and CRB in raising awareness and creating demand for sustainable palm oil. The article also addresses the complexities and costs associated with sustainable palm oil production, the potential impact of India's large market, and the progress and shortcomings of companies like AAK Kamani in meeting sustainability goals.

A team of South Indian birdwatchers discovered a new songbird species, the Lisu wren babbler, in Arunachal Pradesh. The bird, initially mistaken for the grey-bellied wren babbler, was identified through detailed observation and documentation. The discovery, published in the Indian BIRDS journal, underscores the rich biodiversity of Indian forests and highlights the importance of conservation. The team recommends further molecular and genetic analysis to establish the species scientifically. The discovery also emphasizes the role of local communities in preserving natural habitats against infrastructure development.

Farmers in Tamil Nadu, India, are increasingly switching from oil palm to coconut cultivation due to better financial returns, lower maintenance, and environmental concerns. Despite government efforts to promote oil palm to reduce import reliance, practical challenges and high water requirements have led many farmers to abandon it. Coconut cultivation is favored for its adaptability to local conditions and lower water needs. The shift is also driven by a growing preference for traditional oils and local produce, influenced by health and environmental awareness.

Saktipada Mishra and Tejaswani Mandal, both in their sixties and having faced neglect and ill-treatment from their grown-up children, found solace in each other's company. The widower and widow from Odisha's Kendrapara district married at the local Jagannath temple, sparking interest and mixed reactions online. Despite criticism, the couple enjoys their new life together, sharing a love for radio and working on Saktipada's farm. Aishwarya Mohanty, an independent journalist, reports on their story, highlighting the emotional support and safety they now share.

Villages in Tamil Nadu, such as Varadharajapuram and Kanjirangal, are generating electricity from biogas produced with waste, including cow dung and wet waste. This initiative, supported by companies like Carbon Loops Private Limited and BRITT Envirotech, has led to cleaner streets, reduced landfill waste, and provided free fertiliser to farmers. The biogas plants, funded by the National Rurban Mission, have also resulted in significant savings on electricity bills for the panchayats. The project highlights the potential of renewable energy and effective waste management in rural development.

India faces significant power outages due to coal shortages, prompting individuals like Senthil Kumar to seek renewable energy solutions. Despite ambitious renewable energy targets, large wind energy projects have slowed, and rooftop solar has yet to gain momentum. Small wind turbines and hybrids present untapped potential, with experts advocating for supportive policies and subsidies. Challenges include high costs, maintenance issues, and certification processes. Successful implementations by companies like Spitzen Energy and IYSERT Energy demonstrate the viability of small wind systems, though broader adoption requires financial and technical support.

Swara Bhasker, an actor and activist, emphasized the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone to understand and improve rural India at the inaugural Bharat Youth Dialogues. She shared how a rural immersion fellowship with PRADAN in Madhya Pradesh transformed her life and perspective. Village Square's Youth Hub initiative aims to harness the energy of India's youth for social equity, and the Bharat Youth Dialogues serve as a platform for interaction with influential figures. The event highlighted the significance of rural India, often overlooked despite being the country's backbone, and encouraged youth to engage in immersive rural experiences.

India aims to achieve its renewable energy targets by repowering old wind turbines, a process of replacing outdated turbines with more efficient ones. Despite the potential for increased energy production and environmental benefits, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, high costs, and lack of financial incentives hinder progress. Successful models from Europe and cooperative financing efforts could provide a way forward. The government needs to address these challenges to ensure the effective implementation of repowering policies.

Oil palm cultivation in Andhra Pradesh has brought economic benefits to farmers, increasing their income and reducing reliance on middlemen. However, the crop's high water demand raises sustainability concerns, with groundwater levels depleting and rainfall becoming more erratic due to climate change. Despite these challenges, oil palm remains popular among farmers for its resilience to extreme weather and lower labor needs. The Indian government continues to promote oil palm expansion to reduce palm oil imports, but water scarcity and environmental impacts pose significant challenges. Efforts to improve water management and reduce pesticide use are ongoing, but large-scale planning is needed to ensure sustainable cultivation.

Oil palm cultivation in Andhra Pradesh has significantly increased farmers' incomes and reduced their reliance on middlemen. However, the crop's high water and nutrient demands have led to concerns about sustainability, especially in regions facing water scarcity and declining groundwater levels. Despite its economic benefits, the environmental impact, including groundwater depletion and the use of banned pesticides, raises questions about the long-term viability of oil palm farming in the region. Efforts towards better water management and sustainable practices are ongoing, but challenges remain.

A. Selvan, a contract driver in Chennai, benefits from the Tamil Nadu government's power subsidy, which significantly reduces his bimonthly electricity bill from Rs 2,500 to Rs 800. The article discusses how clean energy initiatives could help alleviate the financial burdens of Indian states with substantial power debts.

South Indian farmers are transitioning from oil palm to coconut cultivation due to the high maintenance costs and water requirements of oil palm. Despite government efforts to boost domestic palm oil production, farmers like Jeyalakshmi Palaniappan and Uthirapathy Muthusamy have found coconut to be more profitable and less labor-intensive. The shift is also influenced by increasing consumer preference for traditional oils and environmental concerns. Organizations like the Coconut Development Board and the Solvent Extractors’ Association of India are involved in the discourse, while companies like Godrej Agrovet Limited process the produce. The article highlights the challenges of oil palm cultivation, including the need for significant water resources, price fluctuations, and gender disparities in labor.

In Tamil Nadu, India, farmers are increasingly switching from oil palm to coconut cultivation due to financial viability, lower maintenance, and better adaptability to climatic and soil conditions. Despite the Indian government's efforts to boost domestic palm oil production, local consumption of traditional oils like coconut and mustard is rising, along with awareness of the environmental and health impacts of palm oil. The National Mission on Oilseeds and Oil Palm (NMOOP) and the Coconut Development Board provide contrasting water requirements for these crops, highlighting the sustainability of coconut cultivation. Farmers face challenges with oil palm, including high water and maintenance needs, price fixing, and reliance on mills for fruit processing. The trend towards traditional oils is reinforced by consumer preferences for locally produced, cold-pressed oils, particularly post-pandemic.

India, the world's largest importer of palm oil, is crucial for promoting sustainable palm oil to mitigate environmental degradation and biodiversity loss. AAK Kamani, formed by the merger of AAK and Kamani Oil Industries, is working towards increasing the demand for sustainable palm oil in India. Despite challenges, including higher costs and complex supply chains, organizations like the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil, Solvent Extractors’ Association of India, and various NGOs are actively promoting sustainability. The Indian Sustainable Palm Oil Coalition aims to engage businesses and the government to shift perspectives and policies towards sustainable practices.

The article discusses the efforts to promote sustainable palm oil in India, highlighting the challenges and initiatives by various stakeholders. It emphasizes the importance of sustainable cultivation over boycotts, citing the higher yield and lower pesticide requirements of palm oil compared to alternatives. Key players like AAK, Kamani Oil Industries, and the Solvent Extractors’ Association of India are working towards increasing the demand for sustainable palm oil. Despite some progress, significant challenges remain, including the higher cost of sustainable palm oil and the need for better infrastructure and awareness. The article also mentions the role of international organizations like the RSPO and WWF-India in driving sustainability in the palm oil sector.

When weaving became unsustainable, two enterprising women from Karungalpalayam started selling idlis, leading to the development of a popular hub as many others followed their example.

Cyclone Gaja, which struck Tamil Nadu in November 2018, caused extensive damage to agriculture in coastal villages, particularly in Nagapattinam district. Farmers lost crops, trees, and livestock, and the storm surge made groundwater and soil saline. Despite efforts by organizations like Eega Trust and compensation from the Tamil Nadu government, recovery has been slow. Farmers are adapting by planting vegetables and using new methods to protect saplings from pests, but the long-term impact on their livelihoods remains significant.

The Casteless Collective, a band from Chennai, India, uses gaana music to challenge and eradicate the caste system. Formed by film director Pa Ranjith and musician Tenma, the band addresses social issues such as manual scavenging, LGBTQ rights, and violence against women through their songs. Isaivani, the band's sole female member, and other members have faced discrimination but use their music to promote equality. The band draws inspiration from the Black Arts Movement and aims to bring gaana music to the mainstream. Their performances have garnered support from both marginalized and privileged communities, fostering open discussions about caste discrimination.

The article by Jency Samuel explores the emerging trend of eco-friendly weddings in India, highlighting the shift from traditional opulent ceremonies to more sustainable practices. The author introduces Monica Pandian and Praveen Raj, a couple who celebrated their wedding on World Environment Day with e-invites and organic cotton clothing. Another couple, Veena Balakrishnan and Vignesh Vancheeshwar, educated their guests about zero-waste weddings and used natural decorations. Prashin Jagger and Deepa Kamath faced family pressure for new clothes but chose cotton over silk. The article discusses the use of seed-based jewelry, upcycled ornaments, minimalistic decorations, and waste reduction in food service. These couples have inspired a movement towards green weddings, with eco-friendly wedding planners emerging to support this cause. The article emphasizes the significant environmental impact a single green wedding can have compared to everyday sustainable actions.

The article discusses the plight of women hawkers and platform vendors in Chennai, India, during the COVID-19 lockdown. It focuses on the stories of several women, including Selvi, Ammu, and Sundari, who rely on selling flowers, fruits, and other goods to support their families. With the lockdown in place, their sources of income have been cut off, leaving them struggling to feed their families. The government's assistance and the Public Distribution System (PDS) provide some relief, but it is not enough. The women are forced to reduce their expenses to the bare minimum and rely on the generosity of regular customers or take up domestic work. The article highlights the challenges faced by informal workers, particularly women, who are often overlooked in relief efforts and do not qualify for many benefits.

In Chennai, South India, brothers Vijaykumar Mani and Vasanth Kumar Mani have founded 'I Support Farming' (ISF), a company that connects urban investors with farmers in need of capital. The investors provide funds for necessary farming investments and share in the profits, while the farmers are de-risked financially. ISF uses smart technologies and economies of scale to reduce costs and increase productivity, buying inputs in bulk and selling produce directly to mills. They also use drones and software to diagnose crop issues accurately. The business model has been successful, attracting media attention and growing to support over 200 farmers and 600 acres of land. Urban investors, like Gokulavan Jayaraman from the IT sector, see this as an opportunity to contribute to rural development while earning returns on their investments.

The Sittilingi Valley community in Tamil Nadu, known for its migratory workforce, took proactive measures to protect itself against COVID-19 under the leadership of the local panchayat. The community rallied together to implement safety protocols and safeguard their health.

The article discusses the severe impact of the COVID-19 lockdown and climate change on small-scale fishers in India. The lockdown has disrupted the supply chain, leading to a significant drop in income for fishers as they are unable to sell their catch. The situation is exacerbated by the annual fishing ban for breeding, further reducing their ability to earn a livelihood. The Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute's statistics show a decline in marine fishers' production, and the Marine Products Export Development Authority and NETFISH are mentioned as struggling with the lockdown's effects. The article also highlights the plight of women fish vendors, who are disproportionately affected due to mobility issues and the shutdown of markets. Government interventions, such as the development of an app by the West Bengal Fisheries Development Corporation and direct financial support, are discussed, but challenges remain due to insufficient data on fishers and issues with identification cards. The article also touches on the long-term impacts of climate change, including more frequent cyclones and pollution, which have compounded the difficulties faced by the fishing community.

Mani Kavu, a sacred grove in Wayanad district, is the focus of a local initiative aimed at restoring and conserving the forest area.

Rohan Sureash, a 16-year-old from Singapore, uses his culinary skills to make a difference by cooking for underprivileged children at Siragu Montessori School in Chennai. Inspired by chefs like Gordon Ramsay, Rohan launched 'Rohan's Chefology' to offer his services and donate a significant portion of his earnings to food-related causes. His efforts, supported by his family and local chefs, culminated in a successful meal for 300 children and a substantial donation to the school, showcasing his commitment to social causes.

Boatwrights in Tharuvaikulam have transitioned from building traditional wooden boats to also constructing fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) boats, adapting to the changing demands of the fishing industry. This shift was influenced by the increased use of FRP boats after the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. While some fishermen still prefer wooden boats for their durability and safety at sea, the general trend favors FRP boats for their light weight and fuel efficiency. The boat builders, who were not traditionally carpenters or boatwrights, have adapted their skills over generations, starting with Madaswamy, an ironsmith who became a boat builder. The local boat building industry supports the village's predominantly fishing-based economy and contributes to sustainable fishing practices.

Tharuvaikulam, a village in Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu, has witnessed a significant shift from traditional palmyrah tapping to sustainable fishing practices. The community, which historically relied on tapping the sap of palmyrah trees, has adapted to fishing as a primary livelihood due to factors such as drought, the decline of palmyrah trees, and a government ban on toddy tapping. Embracing gillnetting, a more eco-friendly and economically efficient method, the villagers have become conscious of resource conservation, with their practices being recommended as a model for sustainable fishing. The transition has been supported by organizations like NETFISH and the Marine Products Export Development Authority, with studies from various research institutes validating the benefits of their approach.

In Tharuvaikulam, Tamil Nadu, former palmyra tree climbers have transitioned to sustainable fishing practices, driven by economic necessity and environmental awareness. The community, once reliant on toddy tapping and coral mining, now uses eco-friendly gill nets instead of trawl nets, preserving marine life and ensuring long-term viability. Supported by organizations like NETFISH and the Fisheries College and Research Institute, their shift has proven economically beneficial, making Tharuvaikulam a model for sustainable fishing.

Coastal communities in Tamil Nadu, particularly in Roachmanagar, are enhancing their disaster preparedness in response to increasing climate risks such as cyclones and tsunamis. Training provided by various government departments has equipped villagers with the knowledge to save lives and property during natural disasters. The community has learned to handle medical emergencies, fire hazards, and the importance of heeding government warnings. Regular updates and alerts from the Fisheries Department and Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services have improved their readiness. The villagers appreciate these initiatives and hope to never have to use the skills they've acquired.

The article discusses the transition of the community in Tharuvaikulam, Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu, from toddy tapping and farming to sustainable fishing practices. The shift began after a drought and a ban on toddy tapping in 1987. The community, which initially engaged in coral mining, eventually realized the ecological damage caused by trawl nets and decided to adopt gillnetting, a more sustainable fishing method. The article highlights the economic and environmental benefits of gillnetting over trawling, as supported by a study from the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute. The community's shift to sustainable fishing is presented as a model for conservation and livelihood that balances economic needs with environmental protection.

The revival of the Lambadi women's embroidery in Tamil Nadu has not only preserved the traditional craft but also provided sustainable livelihoods, helping to reduce migration among the Lambadi tribes.

City insects have developed sophisticated camouflage mechanisms to blend into their urban environments, using techniques such as disruptive coloration, mimicry, and self-decoration. These adaptations help them avoid predators and catch prey. Betsy Selvakumar, an aquatic entomologist, explains the ecological role of these patterns. Examples include the dirt bug and the assassin bug, which use materials from their surroundings to disguise themselves.

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), a financial inclusion initiative launched by the Indian government in 2014, is criticized for not adequately addressing the financial struggles of the urban poor. The scheme, which allows citizens to open bank accounts with no minimum balance and offers insurance and overdraft facilities, is seen as more beneficial to rural populations. Urban residents like Kannika Arumugam, a domestic worker in Chennai, continue to face a vicious cycle of debt despite having a Jan Dhan account. The diversity of the urban poor's income sources and the high-interest rates charged by microfinance institutions and pawnbrokers highlight the inadequacy of PMJDY in urban settings. Experts suggest that state intervention and a more nuanced approach to financial inclusion are necessary to meet the needs of the urban poor.

Palmyrah trees in Tamil Nadu have demonstrated resilience against cyclones and climate change, but their survival is threatened by neglect and economic undervaluation. Historically integral to Tamil life, these trees are now appreciated for their ecological benefits, such as water recharge and soil stabilization. The ban on toddy and the shift to concrete structures have led to a decline in palmyrah's importance. Conservation efforts are underway, with proponents highlighting the tree's climate resilience, health benefits, and economic potential. Organizations and individuals are working to revive palmyrah through sustainable practices and promoting its products.

Palmyrah trees, the state tree of Tamil Nadu, are crucial for environmental conservation and climate resilience. Despite their historical significance and various uses, their numbers have dwindled due to industrial agriculture and a ban on toddy. Palmyrah trees help in water recharge, prevent soil erosion, and act as natural barriers against climatic forces. Efforts are being made to revive their population through community and political initiatives. The economic potential of palmyrah products like neera, jaggery, and palm sugar is significant, offering sustainable livelihoods for rural communities.

Farmers in coastal Tamil Nadu are combating soil salinity, exacerbated by droughts and groundwater depletion, through innovative organic agricultural practices. Muthukrishnan and his peers in Kadagam village employ methods such as using livestock pens to fertilize the land, adopting green manure practices, and growing traditional paddy varieties. These practices, which include rainwater harvesting and growing vine vegetables on trellises, have proven successful in reversing the effects of salinity, particularly after the 2004 tsunami. Krishi Vigyan Kendra officials recognize the challenge of farming in saline conditions, while farmers like Rajendran and Tamilselvan advocate for organic and traditional methods to ensure sustainable agriculture in the face of climate threats.

The article discusses India's initiative to mine polymetallic nodules from the seabed in the Central Indian Ocean Basin, which could provide the country with essential metals like nickel, copper, cobalt, and manganese. India has the right to explore and mine these resources through an agreement with the International Seabed Authority. While the mining could have significant economic benefits due to the depletion of terrestrial reserves, the environmental implications are not fully understood. Technologies for deep-sea mining are being developed by the National Institute of Ocean Technology, but their environmental safety is yet to be established. The article also touches on the potential strategic significance of India's initiative in the context of China's presence in the Indian Ocean. Environmental experts and organizations like the International Union for Conservation of Nature have expressed concerns about the impact of mining on marine life and ecosystems, emphasizing the need for careful study and minimal disturbance.

Villagers in Neduvasal, Tamil Nadu, are protesting against a hydrocarbon extraction project announced by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs. They fear the project will harm their agricultural land and health, citing past exploratory drillings by ONGC that allegedly led to cancer cases. While the state government has assured that the project will not proceed without villagers' consent, the central government has not provided such assurances. Protests continue in surrounding villages despite a temporary halt in Neduvasal due to school exams.

Cyclone Vardah has exposed Chennai's vulnerabilities, reminiscent of the 2015 floods, with heavy rainfall and strong winds causing power cuts and flooding. Despite previous disasters, comprehensive measures to make the city climate-resilient are lacking. Experts like Jayshree Vencatesan and Indumathi Nambi suggest hydrological reviews and increasing water retention capacity. Ravindra Singh of GIZ proposes valuing ecosystem services, while Sekhar Raghavan of Rain Centre and Shobha Menon of Nizhal emphasize the importance of rainwater harvesting and tree maintenance. The Corporation of Chennai and NDRM have taken temporary measures, but long-term strategies are needed for future extreme weather events.

Chennai's severe flooding in December 2015 highlighted the critical role of water bodies in urban flood planning. The city's poor urban planning and encroachment on water bodies exacerbated the disaster, which claimed over 500 lives and caused significant economic losses. Experts emphasize the need for better urban planning, restoration of water bodies, and improved disaster preparedness. The Indian government has allocated funds for water body restoration, but efforts need to be accelerated. Site-specific flood mitigation measures and political will are essential for enhancing urban resilience and ensuring the safety of inhabitants.

The United Nations' field operations, particularly in conflict zones in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, have become increasingly deadly, with 61 U.N. personnel killed in 2014. The U.N. Staff Union has raised concerns about the safety of staff, questioning whether the U.N. should send personnel to places where their security cannot be guaranteed. Notable incidents include the ambush in Northern Mali and the abductions in South Sudan and the Golan Heights. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and other officials have expressed serious concern over these targeted attacks, emphasizing the need for better protection and accountability.

Cuba has met the UN goal of reducing hunger, but anemia due to malnutrition remains a problem among infants, small children, and pregnant women, especially in the economically challenged eastern region. Despite efforts like the National Plan for the Prevention and Control of Anemia and international support, iron deficiency persists. The World Food Programme has supported local initiatives, including the production of fortified rice, Nutriarroz, to combat anemia. Efforts have shown some improvement, but challenges in food availability and dietary habits continue to impact health outcomes.

Boko Haram's insurgency in Cameroon's Far North Region has severely disrupted education, with over 130 schools closed and teachers refusing to work in the area due to safety concerns. The government has responded with military and legal measures, including the creation of a new military region and an anti-terrorism law. However, these actions have faced criticism from opposition and civil society groups. The crisis has led to overcrowded schools in safer areas and threatens the achievement of the Millennium Development Goal on education in the region.

The article argues that an Islamic reformation is essential to counter terrorism, highlighting the need for modernizing Islamic teachings to align with contemporary global values. It criticizes autocratic regimes in the Middle East for their repressive policies and the propagation of radical ideologies, particularly from Saudi Arabia. The author emphasizes the importance of addressing economic, political, and social grievances to mitigate radicalization and calls for a reinterpretation of Islamic principles to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

In Sri Lanka, the disappearance of cartoonist and columnist Prageeth Eknaligoda, who was last heard from on January 24, 2010, highlights a different kind of attack on press freedom compared to the Charlie Hebdo shooting. Eknaligoda, known for his work with Lanka eNews, used his art to critique corruption, human rights abuses, and the state of democracy in Sri Lanka. His disappearance, believed by rights groups like Amnesty International to involve the authorities, remains unresolved. The recent election of Maithripala Sirisena as president has given rise to cautious hope among experts and activists for accountability and an improved climate for press freedom. The new government's early actions, such as unblocking previously censored websites, are seen as positive signs, but the resolution of high-profile cases like Eknaligoda's and others remains a critical expectation.

Financing is being arranged by the African Development Bank for a multi-million dollar smart city in Diamniado, Senegal, with similar investments in the Ivory Coast and other West African states. The Diamniadio Technology Park, located 30 kms from Dakar, will feature broadband infrastructure, smart buildings, data centers, and an ICT training facility, aiming to make Senegal a tech hub for West Africa. Gabon and the Ivory Coast are also developing digital infrastructure projects, with other cyber cities emerging in Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.

The Caribbean nation of St. Kitts and Nevis is advancing its goal to become the world's first sustainable island state by constructing its second solar farm, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Funded by the St. Kitts Electricity Corporation and the Republic of China (Taiwan), this initiative aims to lower energy costs and carbon emissions. The United Nations Environment Programme and the International Renewable Energy Agency support these efforts, emphasizing the broader economic and environmental benefits of transitioning to renewable energy. Antigua and Barbuda also pursue similar green energy goals, aiming to reduce their carbon footprint.

Andrew MacMillan argues that the success of globalisation masks underlying issues that need better management to serve humanity's interests. He highlights the importance of a culture of caring, drawing on personal experiences and examples like Brazil's Zero Hunger Programme. MacMillan calls for a new international consciousness of social justice, emphasizing the role of multilateral institutions like the United Nations and the Food and Agriculture Organization in ensuring fairness and addressing global challenges such as hunger and environmental sustainability.

Boko Haram insurgents launched a devastating raid on the northern Nigerian town of Baga, with death toll estimates ranging from 150 to 2,000. The Nigerian military, accused of underestimating casualties, reported 14 soldiers killed and 30 wounded. Previous conflicts in Baga involved significant destruction and alleged military abuses. Calls for international support against Boko Haram were made by Ignatius Kaigama, while political and ethnic tensions were highlighted by Samuel Uche during a service attended by President Goodluck Jonathan. The upcoming presidential elections add to the country's volatile situation.

In the Sundarbans of India, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rising sea levels and increased soil salinity are threatening traditional farming. The region has experienced significant land loss and a growing freshwater crisis, impacting the primarily subsistence communities. To adapt, farmers like Sukomal Mandal are turning to integrated farming, which combines various agricultural practices to create a self-sustaining cycle, enhancing resilience against climate change. Despite the benefits, adoption is low due to costs and labor intensity. Experts call for federal support to aid small and landless farmers in transitioning to integrated farming to secure their livelihoods against changing weather patterns.

On January 7, 2015, two gunmen attacked the offices of Charlie Hebdo, a French satirical magazine, killing 10 media workers and two policemen. The attack, which occurred in Paris, was condemned by French President François Hollande and various organizations, including UNESCO and Amnesty International. The magazine had previously been targeted for its controversial cartoons of the prophet Muhammad. The attack sparked solidarity movements both online and in French cities, with the phrase “Je suis Charlie” becoming a symbol of support. Cartooning for Peace, co-founded by cartoonist Plantu, emphasized that art and freedom would triumph over intolerance.

The article discusses historical assassination attempts by the CIA, particularly against Cuban leader Fidel Castro, in light of the controversy surrounding the Hollywood comedy 'The Interview', which fictionalizes a plot to kill North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. It draws parallels between the movie's plot and past CIA operations, referencing a 1975 report by the U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee. The piece includes perspectives from Michael Ratner, president emeritus of the Centre for Constitutional Rights, and Dr. James E. Jennings of Conscience International, who question the FBI's assertion that North Korea was behind the Sony hack and suggest the possibility of CIA involvement. The article calls for skepticism and possibly a new investigation into the CIA's actions.

For the first time, Syrians have become the largest refugee population under the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) mandate, surpassing Afghans. As of June 2014, Syrian refugees numbered over 3 million, accounting for 23% of all refugees assisted by UNHCR. The rapid increase in Syrian refugees highlights the severe deterioration of the situation in Syria. Neighboring countries like Lebanon, Turkey, Jordan, Iraq, and Egypt are bearing the brunt of this crisis. Additionally, Syria faces the largest situation of internal displacement worldwide, with an estimated 6.5 million internally displaced persons. The Middle East and North Africa have now become the regions hosting the largest number of refugees, overtaking Asia and the Pacific.

Meat and vegetables are always available at the farm of Damaris González and Omar Navarro in Santiago de Cuba, thanks to their use of agroecological techniques and permaculture. Supported by the Bartolomé G. Lavastida Christian Centre for Service and Training, they have diversified their crops and improved their farm's infrastructure. The initiative, which began in 2009, has empowered local farmers and promoted sustainable agriculture. The project has received support from international Christian organizations and has benefited numerous families in eastern Cuba. The adoption of permaculture is seen as a solution to Cuba's food sovereignty issues, with significant economic and environmental benefits.

In the aftermath of the 2004 Asian tsunami, farmers in Nagapatnam, Tamil Nadu, faced severe agricultural challenges due to saltwater inundation. Despite initial setbacks, various NGOs, including the Tamil Nadu Organic Farmers’ Movement (TOFarM) and Kudumbam, implemented organic farming techniques to rehabilitate the soil. These efforts included the use of green manure crops like dhaincha, bio-fertilizers, and salt-resistant rice varieties. The success of these methods has not only restored the farmlands but also serves as a model for sustainable agriculture in the face of climate change.

A leading NGO has urged the U.N. Security Council to enhance its commitment to the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda, emphasizing the need for institutional support and consistent promotion of women's participation in peace efforts. The NGO Working Group on Women, Peace and Security released a policy brief highlighting trends and recommendations, noting some progress in addressing sexual violence in conflict. The call to action coincides with the 15th anniversary of the landmark Security Council Resolution 1325, which recognized the different impacts of conflict on men and women and the critical roles both genders play in peace processes.

Soil degradation is becoming a critical issue, threatening the ability to feed the global population by 2050. Experts at a conference in Reykjavík highlighted the importance of soil for ecosystem services and the need for carbon sequestration to combat soil decline and global warming. Soil erosion and land degradation are already causing significant losses in arable land, with urban development exacerbating the issue. Agricultural practices such as using seed drills, planting cover crops, and leaving crop residues can help soils become a carbon solution. The world's rangelands and pastures could potentially absorb a significant amount of carbon emissions. However, land management improvements are essential for food productivity, local livelihoods, water resources, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration. Iceland's history of overexploitation serves as a cautionary tale, with ongoing efforts to restore degraded lands.