Pakistan’s request to reduce the 18 percent GST on condoms and other contraceptives has been rejected by the International Monetary Fund, leaving the government unable to make birth-control products cheaper in a period of rising population and financial pressure. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had asked the Federal Board of Revenue to approach the IMF for immediate approval to remove the tax, but the lender made it clear that such changes cannot be made mid-year and may only be considered du

Gita Gopinath, the renowned Indian-born economist and current First Deputy Managing Director at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), is set to leave her position at the IMF at the end of August. She will return to Harvard University to take up the prestigious role of the inaugural Gregory and Ania Coffey Professor of Economics in Harvard's Department of Economics. This move marks a new chapter in Gopinath's illustrious career, one that began at the I

Mucus in the lungs is a common concern, especially during respiratory infections, seasonal changes, or after exposure to pollutants. While mucus is essential for trapping dust, microbes, and irritants, excess production can lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as chest congestion, coughing, difficulty breathing, and fatigue. Health authorities like the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have acknowledged the role of lifestyle and home

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has embarked on a significant 11-day official tour to the United States and Peru to deepen India's role in global economic policy, strengthen bilateral relationships, and lead India’s presence at key multilateral forums. Her visit, taking place during a time of growing international economic uncertainty, aims to project India’s strategic interests in trade, finance, and development partnerships. Beginning in San Francisco, Sithar

World Sleep Day is a global event celebrated to highlight the importance of quality sleep and raise awareness about sleep-related issues such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and disrupted sleep patterns. Organized by the World Sleep Society, this day emphasizes the impact of good sleep on overall well-being and encourages practical solutions for improving rest. One natural approach to better sleep is through Ayurvedic remedies. Ayurveda, India's traditional system of medicine, offers several ca

The Indian Coast Guard Ship Sachet set sail for Sudan on Friday, carrying over two tons of life-saving medicines, including anti-cancer drugs, as part of India’s ongoing humanitarian efforts. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed the aid consignment, reinforcing India's commitment to providing relief in conflict-affected regions."Extending Humanitarian Assistance to the People of Sudan. An Indian Coast Guard Ship Sachet departed today for Sudan, carrying a consignmen

Acetaminophen, commonly known as paracetamol, has been widely used as a pain reliever during pregnancy. It is often recommended due to its perceived safety compared to other painkillers. However, recent research suggests a potential link between acetaminophen use during pregnancy and an increased risk of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children. A study conducted by the University of Washington has raised concerns, prompting discussions on whether its safety profile

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has reassured chilli farmers that the state government is actively working to address the recent decline in chilli prices. Speaking to the media in New Delhi, Naidu attributed the sharp drop in prices to reduced global demand, which has impacted farmers who previously benefited from high international market rates. He urged farmers not to panic and assured them that necessary support measures are be

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in its latest bulletin released on February 19, stated that the tax cuts in the Union Budget 2025, along with moderating inflation, are expected to provide financial relief to the middle class and boost overall household spending. This announcement comes after the February Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, where the newly appointed RBI Governor, Sanjay Malhotra, emphasized the positive economic impact of the tax relief measur

With the Modi government set to present its second full budget for the third term in power, the middle and lower-income groups across India are hopeful for key reforms that could alleviate their financial burdens. The anticipated reforms in Budget 2025 include tax relief measures, simplification of income tax laws, and a focus on financial literacy, insurance, and retirement savings. Key Expectations from Budget 2025 Insurance Sector Reforms:

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has advised Kenya to prioritize developing a predictable and robust regulatory framework for its cryptocurrency sector. In response to requests from Kenya's Capital Markets Authority (CMA) for input on future crypto regulations, the IMF conducted a detailed review of Kenya's crypto landscape. A 43-page Technical Assistance Report released on January 8 outlines the key steps needed to enhance regulation, ensuring the safety of participants and comp

Sri Lanka has committed to completing its foreign debt restructuring by the end of December 2023, aiming to address its $46 billion external debt. After defaulting on debt in April 2022, the country has been working on rebuilding its finances with help from an IMF bailout. Deputy Minister Anil Jayantha Fernando confirmed that debt restructuring, which has been delayed for over two years, is critical for the country's economic recovery. The restructuring includes international sovereign bo

On Thursday, Pakistan's government announced that it would need to endure "transitional pain" following the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) approval of a new $7 billion relief package aimed at stabilizing its faltering economy. While the nation's economy has shown signs of stabilization since narrowly avoiding default last summer, it remains heavily reliant on IMF bailouts and support from friendly countries to manage its substantial debt, which consumes nearly half

In a generous show of support for those affected by recent floods in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Nandamuri Balakrishna has announced a significant donation of Rs. 50 lakhs each to the Chief Minister’s Relief Funds of both states. This contribution is part of a broader effort by various film celebrities to provide aid and relief during this critical time. Today, Balakrishna’s younger daughter, Nandamuri Tejaswini, met with Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy to hand

In a significant gesture of support, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan recently met Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy at his residence in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad. The visit was marked by Pawan Kalyan presenting a cheque for ₹1 crore as a donation to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund (CMRF), aimed at aiding flood victims in Telangana. During the meeting, Pawan Kalyan and Revanth Reddy engaged in discussions about various issues affecting the two Telugu st

In the face of severe flooding in Vijayawada, the Akshaya Patra Foundation has emerged as a beacon of hope, providing critical support to those affected by the disaster. Partnering with the Andhra Pradesh government, the foundation has been instrumental in preparing and distributing hygienic and sanitized food to the flood victims. Their efforts have ensured that over 10 lakh people have received much-needed nourishment during this challenging time. Feeding such a large number of pe

Andhra Pradesh has been grappling with its worst flooding in decades, with Vijayawada and surrounding areas suffering severe impacts from the Krishna River’s wrath. For the past week to 10 days, the state has faced extreme distress, prompting relentless efforts from both the government and private individuals to restore normalcy. Among the notable contributors is philanthropist and entrepreneur Ka

In recent days, Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh has faced unprecedented flooding, resulting in extensive damage and leaving many residents stranded. Torrential rains led to the overflow of the Budameru rivulet, submerging low-lying areas and causing significant disruption to public life. The Andhra Pradesh government, under Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, swiftly initiated a comprehensive rescue operation to mitigate the damage and provide essential aid to affected residents. As rain

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is earning widespread acclaim for his prompt and effective response to the recent floods in Andhra Pradesh. The state has been grappling with severe flooding due to relentless rains and significant inflow from upstream areas, leading to overflowing water bodies and breaches. In this challenging scenario, Naidu’s leadership and innovative approach to flood relief

In response to the devastating floods in Telangana, the Telangana Government Employees Joint Action Committee (JAC) has made a significant contribution to relief efforts. The JAC has announced that all categories of government employees, including ordinary employees, gazetted officers, teachers, workers, pensioners, and contract staff, will donate one day of their basic salary to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund. This collective gesture is expected to contribute around Rs 100 crore to a