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  • Pakistan: Second suicide bombing reported from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, death toll surges to 57

    Pakistan: Second suicide bombing reported from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, death toll surges to 57

    Pakistan was struck by a wave of devastating bomb blasts on Friday, sending shockwaves through the nation as it celebrated Milad-un-Nabi, the birth of Islam’s Prophet Muhammad, also known as Eid Miladun Nabi. The attacks unfolded in quick succession, claiming the lives of at least four individuals, including a police officer, and leaving a dozen others injured in the twin blasts that shook the Doaba police station.

    Summary:

    • Two major blasts occurred during Milad-un-Nabi celebrations in Pakistan, claiming a total of 57 lives.
    • The first blast, a powerful suicide attack, devastated a mosque in the restive Balochistan province.
    • The second explosion occurred at a mosque in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Hangu city.
    • In Hangu, the roof of the mosque collapsed due to the blast, trapping numerous people under rubble.
    • The second explosion in Doaba police station took place during Friday prayers.
    • No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks.
    • The Mastung district, already a target for terror attacks, experienced its second major blast in 15 days.
    • The Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, an umbrella group of several terrorist outfits, has a history of deadly attacks in Pakistan.

    Detailed Article:

    Pakistan was struck by a series of devastating bomb blasts on Friday, casting a pall over the nation’s Milad-un-Nabi celebrations, commemorating the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. The twin blasts occurred in quick succession at different locations, leaving a trail of destruction and a rising death toll.

    In the first attack, a powerful suicide blast tore through a mosque in Pakistan’s volatile Balochistan province. Meanwhile, another explosion rocked a mosque in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Hangu city. The combined toll from these blasts now stands at a staggering 57 lives lost.

    Hangu District Police Officer Nisar Ahmed provided harrowing details of the aftermath, stating, “The roof of the mosque caved in due to the impact of the explosion,” and noted that nearly 30 to 40 people remained trapped under the debris. Rescue efforts were underway, with heavy machinery called in to retrieve the injured and deceased.

    The initial explosion occurred at the entrance of the Doaba police station, where a gathering of people had amassed. Minutes later, a second blast shook the premises, this time inside a mosque during the Friday sermon.

    Meanwhile, in Balochistan’s Mastung district, near the Madina Mosque on Al Falah Road, another bomb attack unfolded, adding to the grim tally. Among the casualties was Mastung’s Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Nawaz Gashkori, who was on duty for the Milad-un-Nabi rally.

    The timing of this attack is particularly unsettling, coming just one day after the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) reported the killing of a key Islamic State (ISIS) commander in the Mastung district. The additional suicide bomb blast further compounds the tragedy, raising the total death toll to 55 in Mastung alone.

    Mastung has been a recurring target for terror attacks over the past several years, with one of the deadliest occurring in July 2018 when at least 128 people lost their lives.

    No group has claimed responsibility for these brutal attacks, but the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, a conglomerate of various terrorist organizations, has been known for orchestrating deadly attacks across Pakistan over the years. Their history includes assaults on military bases, attacks on army headquarters in 2009, and the 2008 bombing of the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad.

    This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat of terrorism in Pakistan, and the authorities are under immense pressure to safeguard the nation against such devastating acts.

    News Summary:

    • Pakistan was rocked by twin bomb blasts during Milad-un-Nabi celebrations, with a death toll of 57.
    • A mosque in Balochistan and another in Hangu city were targeted, leaving dozens injured.
    • Rescue efforts are ongoing, with heavy machinery used to retrieve victims.
    • No group has claimed responsibility, but the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan is known for similar attacks.
    • The Mastung district, a frequent target, experienced its second major blast in 15 days.
    • Pakistan faces an ongoing threat of terrorism, with authorities working tirelessly to ensure public safety.
  • Women’s reservation bill signed into law by President Droupadi Murmu

    Women’s reservation bill signed into law by President Droupadi Murmu

    In a historic move, the Indian Parliament has passed the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, making it law after President Droupadi Murmu granted her assent to the women’s reservation bill. This landmark legislation paves the way for the reservation of 33% of seats in the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and state assemblies for women. However, the implementation of this reservation will be contingent on a new census and delimitation process.

    The momentous occasion occurred during a special session of Parliament, coinciding with the inauguration of the new Parliament building on September 19, underscoring India’s commitment to empowering women in politics.

    AIMIM’s Lone Opposition: The passage of the bill was not without opposition, as the All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM) voiced its dissent. AIMIM argued that the legislation primarily benefits Savarna (upper-caste) women and does not provide any reservation for Muslim women representatives. Meanwhile, the Congress party raised concerns about the delay in implementation and sought reservations for Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

    Implementation Hurdles and Timeline: The women’s reservation bill specifies that its provisions related to seat reservations for women in the Lok Sabha, state legislative assemblies, and the Legislative Assembly of the National Capital Territory of Delhi will only come into effect following a delimitation exercise. This delimitation process will be conducted after the release of data from the first census conducted after the commencement of the Constitution Act in 2023.

    Moreover, these reservations will cease to be in effect after a span of fifteen years from the commencement date of the Constitution Act.

    Inclusive Legislation: The enactment of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam is a significant step towards gender parity in Indian politics, aiming to provide women with greater representation and a voice in legislative matters. It reflects the nation’s commitment to achieving greater inclusivity in its democratic processes.

    As India looks forward to the new era of its Parliament and political landscape, the women’s reservation bill serves as a testament to the nation’s dedication to fostering equal opportunities and empowerment for all its citizens.

    News Summary:

    • The Indian Parliament passes the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, enacting a 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies.
    • President Droupadi Murmu grants her assent to the historic women’s reservation bill.
    • Implementation of the reservation hinges on a new census and delimitation process.
    • AIMIM raises concerns about the bill favoring Savarna women, while Congress seeks OBC reservations.
    • The legislation will take effect after the first census following the Constitution Act of 2023 and remains in force for fifteen years.
  • Jangpura heist: Delhi Police detain 2 men from Chhattisgarh; 18 kg of jewellery recovered

    Jangpura heist: Delhi Police detain 2 men from Chhattisgarh; 18 kg of jewellery recovered

    The Delhi Police have made significant progress in the investigation of the recent Rs 25 crore heist at a jewellery store in Southeast Delhi’s Bhogal area. Two suspects, identified as Lokesh Shrinivas and Shiva, both hailing from Chhattisgarh, have been detained in connection with the audacious robbery. Investigators have also managed to recover approximately 18 kg of stolen gold and diamond jewellery from the possession of the apprehended individuals.

    Modus Operandi and History: According to senior police officers, Lokesh Shrinivas, one of the detained suspects, has a history of involvement in similar jewellery shop break-ins. The duo is currently being transported to Delhi for further investigation. They are now facing questioning regarding their alleged roles in the heist and the intricate modus operandi employed during the robbery.

    Quotes from Police Officials: A senior police officer stated, “We will soon formally arrest them,” signifying that legal proceedings against the suspects are imminent. Furthermore, the officer added, “They are being questioned about the other members involved in the incident,” suggesting that the authorities are actively pursuing leads to apprehend any additional individuals linked to the heist.

    Breakdown of the Heist: The robbery took place on Sunday night, where at least three suspects executed a meticulously planned operation. They infiltrated Umrao Jewellery in Bhogal by gaining access through the building’s terrace and subsequently drilling a hole into the strongroom. The stolen loot included gold and diamond jewellery valued at an astonishing Rs 25 crore.

    Investigative Efforts: The case is receiving simultaneous attention from both the Delhi Police Crime Branch and local police authorities. Teams from these units collaborated to trace the suspects back to Chhattisgarh, eventually leading to their detention.

    Summary:

    • Delhi Police detain two individuals from Chhattisgarh, Lokesh Shrinivas and Shiva, in connection with a Rs 25 crore jewellery heist in Bhogal.
    • Approximately 18 kg of stolen gold and diamond jewellery has been recovered from their possession.
    • Lokesh Shrinivas has a history of breaking into jewellery shops.
    • The suspects are under interrogation regarding their alleged roles and the modus operandi of the heist.
    • Authorities are actively pursuing leads to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in the incident.
    • The robbery involved a sophisticated plan, including entry through the terrace and drilling into the strongroom.
    • The case is being investigated jointly by the Delhi Police Crime Branch and local police units.
  • 55 Killed As 2 Suicide Blasts Strike Pakistan In Hours

    55 Killed As 2 Suicide Blasts Strike Pakistan In Hours

    In a devastating turn of events, Pakistan bore witness to two deadly suicide blasts on Friday, claiming the lives of 55 innocent people and leaving dozens injured. The first explosion rocked a mosque in Balochistan’s Mastung district, while a second blast occurred hours later in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Hangu city. The attacks unfolded as worshippers had gathered to mark the joyous occasion of Eid Miladun Nabi, the celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s birth.

    The powerful suicide blast in Balochistan, near Madina Mosque on Al Falah Road, resulted in the tragic loss of at least 52 lives and left over 50 individuals wounded. Among the deceased was Deputy Superintendent of Police Nawaz Gashkori, who was on duty for the occasion. The explosion was a suicide attack, with the bomber detonating himself next to the DSP’s vehicle, as confirmed by City Station House Officer Mohammad Javed Lehri.

    While no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, it occurred just a day after the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) eliminated a key Islamic State (ISIS) commander in Mastung. District Health Officer Rashid Muhammad Saeed expressed concern over the possibility of a rising casualty count, with some of the injured in critical condition.

    Balochistan’s interim Information Minister, Jan Achakzai, emphasized that the enemy sought to undermine religious tolerance and peace in the region. Caretaker Chief Minister Ali Mardan Domki vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice, asserting that those who targeted peaceful gatherings would be dealt with firmly. He urged unity against terrorism, reaffirming that Islam espouses peace and condemning the assailants as unrepresentative of true Muslims. The caretaker CM also declared three days of mourning throughout the province.

    Interim Interior Minister Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti condemned the attack and stressed that terrorists had no faith or religion. He assured that all resources were deployed for the rescue operation and that the injured would receive the best possible treatment.

    Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif decried the act as detestable, especially during a sacred occasion marking the birth of the Holy Prophet. He extended condolences to the affected families.

    Meanwhile, heightened security measures were put in place across Pakistan. The Punjab police ensured security during Friday prayers, while Karachi police remained on high alert, directing vigilance during Eid-i-Miladun Nabi processions and Friday prayers.

    Mastung has been a recurring target of terror attacks over the years, with the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, associated with al-Qaeda, blamed for various deadly incidents, including the 2018 attack that claimed 128 lives. The region’s resilience in the face of adversity remains a testament to Pakistan’s determination to counteract terrorism.

    Summary:

    • Twin suicide blasts in Pakistan claim 55 lives and leave dozens injured during Eid Miladun Nabi celebrations.
    • A powerful explosion in Balochistan’s Mastung district kills at least 52 people, including Deputy Superintendent of Police Nawaz Gashkori.
    • Second blast in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Hangu city kills three and injures five.
    • No group claims responsibility, but the attack follows the elimination of an ISIS commander by the Counter Terrorism Department.
    • Pakistan’s interim leaders vow to bring the perpetrators to justice and condemn the attack’s impact on religious tolerance.
    • Security measures are heightened across the country in response to the bombings.
    • Mastung has a history of terror attacks, with the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan and al-Qaeda-linked groups responsible for previous incidents.
  • Justice Katju Slams Arghya Sengupta’s Views on Constitutional Reform, Advocates Strong Central Governance

    Justice Katju Slams Arghya Sengupta’s Views on Constitutional Reform, Advocates Strong Central Governance

    Arghya Sengupta’s superficiality and inanity

    By Justice Katju

    I saw the recent interview by the eminent journalist Karan Thapar of Arghya Sengupta, Research Director of Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy on his book ‘The Colonial Constitution‘, and I regret to say that I found Dr Sengupta’s views totally superficial and inane

    The thrust of Dr Sengupta’s argument is that the basic defect in the Indian Constitution of 1950 is that it does not devolve power to the people. In other words it gives too much power to the Central Government, which towers over the people, and therefore it is broadly a repetition of the colonial Government of India Act, 1935 made by the British rulers.

    But the vast majority of the Indian people are casteist and communal, with backward mindsets. Devolving power to them really means devolving power on people with feudal mindsets ( as Karan rightly pointed out in the interview when talking of village panchayats and local bodies ). Should power be given to such people ?

    The Constitution has set up a system of parliamentary democracy, but everyone knows that in India this largely runs on the basis of caste and communal vote banks. Casteism and communalism are feudal forces, which must be destroyed if India is to progress, but parliamentary democracy further entrenches them. How can India progress under this system ? Dr Sengupta simply ignores this question.

    India is perpetually in an election mode. Apart from the Central Government, there are 28 states and 8 Union territories in India, and the moment one election ends preparations begin for the next one somewhere or the other. Presently focus is on the coming parliamentary elections due in 2024.

    https://news.abplive.com/elections/upcoming-elections-in-india

    Our politicians, who are experts in manipulating elections, constantly go around polarising society, and whipping up casteism and communalism to win elections, paying little attention to the people’s welfare.

    So the fundamental flaw in the Indian Constitution is that it has set up parliamentary democracy, which ensures that India remains semi feudal and backward. Dr Sengupta does not deal with this, and yet advocates modernity, which is a contradiction because parliamentary democracy ensures that India does not modernise.

    To set up a modern Constitution is only possible after a mighty historical united people’s struggle, led by patriotic, modern minded leaders, which will be protracted, and in which tremendous sacrifices will have to be made.

    As to who will be those patriotic leaders determined to raise the standard of living of our people and give them decent lives, how will that struggle be conducted, how much time will it take to achieve success, what will be the alternative to parliamentary democracy under which India will rapidly industrialise and modernise, etc no one can predict. One cannot be rigid about historical forms. The enlightened sections of the people will have to use their creativity in solving these problems.

    The Constitution of 1950 no doubt gave to the people certain fundamental rights, which were not there in the Govt of India Act, 1935. But these were only political rights, not economic ones. In India there is massive poverty, record and rising unemployment, appalling level of child malnutrition ( Global Hunger Index has said that every second child in India is malnourished ), skyrocketing prices of food and other essential commodities, almost total lack of proper healthcare and good education for the masses, etc.

    https://m.economictimes.com/news/india/level-of-hunger-in-india-serious-ranks-107-on-global-hunger-index-2022/articleshow/94876759.cms#:~:text=India%20ranked%20107%20out%20of,the%20highest%20in%20the%20world.

    Moreover, even the political rights often exist only on paper, as they are rarely enforced. After all, the Constitution is only a piece of paper, but the ground realities are very different. Many people who criticise the government are arrested and jailed for long periods on concocted charges. Atrocities are often committed on minorities.

    Dr Sengupta is totally wrong when he advocates decentralisation. In fact we need a strong central government if we wish to solve our basic socio-economic problems, but this must consist of modern minded patriotic persons. 

    Karan gave the example of the Meiji Restoration in Japan in 1868 which led to modernisation and emergence of Japan as a modern industrial country. The real rulers during the Meiji Restoration was not the Emperor but his handful of advisers who were modern minded people determined to transform Japan from a feudal country under the Shoguns to a modern country. This was not done democratically by taking the consent of the people by elections.

    Similarly, Mustafa Kemal, who was an army general who staged a coup in 1922 and deposed the Sultan and Khalifa, and then destroyed feudalism in Turkey forcibly, not by elections. In fact if elections had been held, most Turks, who were then feudal minded, would have opposed abolition of sharia, suppression of the clergy, and emancipation of women.

    Since most of our people are backward with feudal mindsets we must have a central government which ‘towers over the people’ ( to use Dr Sengupta’s words ), but such a government must consist of patriotic modern minded persons. Devolution of power to the people means keeping India backward, semi feudal and poor..

  • Sonam Kapoor’s Video Raises Questions on Honey for Infants, Medical Experts Advise Caution

    Sonam Kapoor’s Video Raises Questions on Honey for Infants, Medical Experts Advise Caution

    A recent video featuring Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor discussing infant nutrition has prompted a broader conversation on the inclusion of honey in infants’ diets. While Kapoor did not explicitly advocate for the use of honey, her remarks have drawn attention to the topic.

    Sonam Kapoor's Video Raises Questions on Honey for Infants, Medical Experts Advise Caution

    Medical Perspective:

    Medical professionals uniformly discourage the introduction of honey to infants below the age of one year. For infants under six months, exclusive breastfeeding is recommended, with no additional supplements, including water. Even for infants between six and twelve months, the benefits of honey remain unclear. Given the lack of proven advantages and the potential risks, the consensus among medical experts is to err on the side of caution.

    Non-Medical Considerations:

    Beyond the medical aspect, there are non-medical factors that come into play. These can be divided into genuine concerns and personal beliefs.

    Kapoor, who herself manages diabetes, may harbor subconscious worries beyond the low risk of botulism associated with honey. It’s conceivable that she views apple puree, which she can control more directly, as a safer option than honey.

    Kapoor mentioned an “argument with a panditji” in her video, though the specifics of this exchange cannot be verified. Notably, suggesting honey for infants is not considered an essential religious practice. Kapoor also expressed her openness to considering apple puree, which is not recommended for infants under six months.

    While the details of the interaction with the “panditji” remain uncertain, Kapoor’s juxtaposition of ‘panditji’ and ‘our traditions’ raises questions about potential pressures to follow unscientific practices.

    Conclusion:

    In light of the ongoing discussion, it is crucial to prioritize the guidance of medical professionals and refrain from introducing honey to infants. The potential risks outweigh any perceived benefits, making it an unnecessary addition to an infant’s diet.

    News Summary:

    • Sonam Kapoor’s recent video discussing infant nutrition sparks a wider conversation on the inclusion of honey in infants’ diets.
    • Medical experts unanimously advise against giving honey to infants under one year due to potential risks and unestablished benefits.
    • Kapoor’s personal experience with diabetes may contribute to her cautious approach towards honey.
    • Kapoor’s mention of an “argument with a panditji” prompts considerations about potential influences of unscientific traditions.
    • The medical community emphasizes the importance of adhering to established guidelines for infant nutrition.
  • TheLiverDoc’s Twitter Account Suspended Amid Legal Battle with Himalaya Wellness

    TheLiverDoc’s Twitter Account Suspended Amid Legal Battle with Himalaya Wellness

    Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, known as ‘theliverdoc‘, faces court order after critical comments on AYUSH remedies and Himalaya products

    New Delhi, September 28, 2023

    In a recent legal development, Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, a prominent hepatologist and clinician-scientist, has had his Twitter account suspended after a court order was secured by Himalaya Wellness Company. The company sought to restrain Dr. Abby from making defamatory remarks against their products and to direct the social media platform, formerly known as Twitter, to suspend his account.

    Advocate Udaya Holla, representing Himalaya Wellness, argued that the company’s business had seen a substantial reduction due to Dr. Abby’s derogatory statements against their products. Allegations were also made that Dr. Abby may be acting in collusion with pharmaceutical giants Cipla and Alchem.

    Dr. Abby is known for his critical comments regarding alternate health remedies, particularly AYUSH medicines, and has been a prominent voice on the platform. Notably, his assertion in 2021 that Himalaya’s product Liv52 could exacerbate pre-existing liver disease gained significant attention.

    The court issued a temporary injunction, prohibiting Dr. Abby from making defamatory remarks against Himalaya Wellness or its products. It also directed the suspension of his social media handle until the date of the next hearing, set for January 5, 2024.

    Responding to the allegations, Dr. Abby Philips refuted the claims made by Himalaya Wellness, stating that they were false and baseless. He emphasized that his posts are founded on scientific evidence and previously published studies, highlighting issues such as lack of standardization and contamination in the products.

    Dr. Abby has been a vocal advocate for liver health, particularly in addressing concerns about improperly prepared AYUSH remedies. Over the years, he has received multiple legal notices and even faced an attack on his lab by homeopathic practitioners.

    Key Points:

    • Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips’ Twitter account, known as ‘theliverdoc’, suspended in India after Himalaya Wellness Company’s court order.
    • Himalaya Wellness sought to restrain Dr. Abby from making defamatory remarks against their products and directed the suspension of his account.
    • Advocate Udaya Holla argued that Dr. Abby’s comments led to a substantial reduction in the company’s business, suggesting collusion with pharmaceutical companies Cipla and Alchem.
    • Dr. Abby is renowned for critical comments on alternate health remedies, particularly AYUSH medicines, and gained attention for his assertion on Liv52 in 2021.
    • Court issues temporary injunction, restraining Dr. Abby from making defamatory remarks until the next hearing on January 5, 2024.
    • Dr. Abby refutes allegations, emphasizing that his posts are backed by scientific evidence and published studies, highlighting issues in product quality.

  • Pakistan Cricket Team warmly welcomed in India

    Pakistan Cricket Team warmly welcomed in India

    I was very happy to note that the Pakistan cricket team got a rousing welcome from the Indian public on their arrival in Hyderabad, India to play in the World Cup.

    The Pakistani media, which is largely anti Indian, and many Pakistanis, were pleasantly surprised at the hearty welcome given to the Pakistan team in India

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LS9Cx_RP4hg&pp=ygUvcGFraXN0YW4gY3JpY2tldCB0ZWFtIGFycml2ZXMgaW4gaW5kaWEgcmVhY3Rpb24%3D

    Pakistani Captain Babar Azam was overwhelmed by the warm welcome he received, and he said he felt he was in Pakistan

    He gave a statement that earlier he and his team were nervous about coming to India, but Indians won their hearts by the enthusiatic welcome they gave

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yedF8AEmVlc

    This shows that despite all attempts by certain people to create enmity between India and Pakistan, the Indian public does not harbour any hostility towards Pakistanis, and have displayed maturity. After all, cricket is just a game, and is not war.

    My own opinion is that India and Pakistan are one country, so we should cheer the Pakistani team if it wins any match as if India has won, and if they lose we should feel India has lost.

    https://indicanews.com/2023/05/03/justice-markandey-katju-did-pakistans-loss-against-england-call-for-an-indian-celebration-no/

     In the India vs Pakistan matches, whichever team wins we should think that India has won, because Pakistan and India are really one 

    Pakistan cricket team arrives in India
  • Qazi Faez Isa will assuredly go to Jahannum

    Qazi Faez Isa will assuredly go to Jahannum

    A Pakistani friend spoke to me a short while back on WhatsApp and asked my opinion of the Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa.

    I said he is a fraud, and a mere dramabaz.

    He asked me why I thought so.

    I replied that as a Judge he has taken an oath to uphold the Pakistan Constitution, and protect the rights of citizens, which includes the right to life and liberty ( Article 9 ). About 10,000 people have been arrested, beaten, brutally tortured, and jailed on concocted and frivolous charges,  after the events of 9th May, and held in terrible conditions, and 180 false charges have been levied against former Prime Minister Imran Khan for which he has been incarcerated, but he will never order their release.

     Also, he will never order holding elections within 90 days, as is the requirement of Article 224(2).

     Instead, he has been doing the dramabazi of refusing protocol facilities, guard of honor, bullet proof car, etc to show off how good a man he is.

    My friend said that there is a danda above him, so he cannot do that.

    I said that the bigger danda is of Allah who on roz-e-mehshar ( the Day of Judgment ) will assuredly send Qazi Faez Isa to jahannum for not doing his solemn duty 

  • India wants WTO rules on foodgrain scrapped

    India wants WTO rules on foodgrain scrapped

    India is set to advocate for the removal of trading entitlements that have historically favored developed countries and obstructed fair access to export markets for developing nations during the next World Trade Organization (WTO) interministerial meeting in Abu Dhabi.

    In a move aimed at addressing global farm export imbalances, India will focus on eliminating the ‘additional Final Bound Total Aggregate Measurement of Support (FBTAMS) entitlements,’ which represent fixed allowances exceeding the ‘de minimis limits’ set by the WTO Agreement on Agriculture (AoA).

    In trade terminology, ‘de minimis limits’ refer to the minimal level of domestic support allowed, even if it distorts global prices. These limits stand at 5% of production value for developed nations and 10% for developing countries. The disparities in these limits have sparked tensions, particularly when India had to defend its minimum support price (MSP) program amid global food supply concerns arising from the Ukraine war.

    An informed source stated, “India believes any negotiations on domestic support need to first address existing asymmetries and imbalances in the WTO Agreement of Agriculture. Discussing disciplines on domestic support for India must begin with the removal of historical asymmetries in domestic support.”

    India’s stance is to level the playing field by ending the FBTAMS entitlements enjoyed by certain members, which allow them to provide support beyond de minimis limits and extensive flexibility to concentrate product-specific support.

    Nevertheless, resistance to this issue remains, and no formal negotiations have commenced within the WTO.

    According to the Third World Network (TWN), a think tank specializing in global trade, developing countries should vigorously raise the issue of disciplining FBTAMS entitlements as they are “the primary source of inequity” in the AoA. TWN contends that permitting substantial additional entitlements for a select few countries creates significant advantages in policy space, exacerbating inequality among nations.

    This imbalance also underpins other contentious topics on the negotiation table, including public stock holdings (PSH) and special safeguard mechanisms that developing countries have called to address.

    India has faced persistent scrutiny from major foodgrain exporters such as the United States and Canada over its PSH program, which they claim is heavily subsidized, particularly for rice.

    India has resorted to the ‘peace clause’ multiple times at the WTO due to breaches of the 10% subsidy ceiling on rice procurement. Indian officials argue that they primarily export premium quality rice, not the common paddy acquired under the MSP program.

    At the WTO’s Committee on Agriculture, India disclosed that its 2019-20 rice production held a value of $46.07 billion, with subsidies amounting to $6.31 billion, surpassing the 10% limit.

    India, in conjunction with a coalition of developing and African nations, has also presented a permanent solution for public stockholding of foodgrains. This proposal would grant them greater flexibility to offer increased farm support.

    Queries directed to the commerce ministry’s spokesperson remained unanswered at the time of this report.

    Summary:

    • India plans to request the removal of entitlements in trading rules that have favored developed nations during the upcoming WTO meeting.
    • India’s focus is on eliminating ‘additional Final Bound Total Aggregate Measurement of Support (FBTAMS) entitlements’ that exceed ‘de minimis limits’ established by the WTO Agreement on Agriculture.
    • ‘De minimis limits’ are minimal levels of domestic support, set at 5% of production value for developed nations and 10% for developing countries.
    • India contends that addressing domestic support negotiations should start with rectifying historical asymmetries.
    • Developing nations argue that FBTAMS entitlements are a primary source of inequality in the AoA.
    • India faces scrutiny over its public stock holding (PSH) program for rice at the WTO.
    • India, along with other developing and African nations, has proposed a permanent solution for public stockholding of foodgrains to enhance farm support flexibility.