Nestled deep beneath the Sussex countryside in southern England lies the Millennium Seed Bank, a state-of-the-art facility designed to withstand disasters and preserve the world’s plant diversity. Operated by the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, this underground vault houses over 2.5 billion seeds from approximately 40,000 wild plant species. Stored in sealed glass jars and foil packets at a chilling minus 20 degrees Celsius, these seeds are safeguarded against extinction and climate change. Opened in 2000 by King Charles III, then the Prince of Wales, the facility recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking a quarter-century of global conservation efforts. The seed bank’s mission extends beyond preservation; it aims to restore ecosystems worldwide, combat biodiversity loss, and support agricultural resilience in the face of a growing global population. The process begins with field collectors gathering seeds from diverse regions, including Madagascar, Thailand, and Arctic Sweden. These seeds undergo meticulous drying, cleaning, and germination testing to ensure viability before being stored. Kew’s researchers are also pioneering cryopreservation techniques for tropical plants that cannot survive freezing. The Millennium Seed Bank has become a global hub, partnering with 279 organizations in over 100 countries and training more than 3,000 scientists. With nearly half of all flowering plants at risk of extinction, the seed bank serves as a vital insurance policy for global biodiversity, offering hope for a sustainable future.
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Millions of Indians celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights
Millions of Indians across the country joyously celebrated Diwali on Monday, marking the Hindu festival of lights that symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness. Known as ‘Deepavali,’ meaning ‘a row of lights,’ the festival is traditionally observed with social gatherings, gift exchanges, and the illumination of homes and streets with lamps, lanterns, and candles. This year, the celebrations were particularly vibrant in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, a city deeply significant to Hindus as the birthplace of Lord Ram, who returned after 14 years in exile. To commemorate his homecoming, over 2.6 million earthen lamps were lit along the banks of the Saryu River, setting a Guinness World Record for the second consecutive year. The event was further enhanced by the synchronized prayers of 2,100 Hindu priests, whose chants resonated across the shimmering riverfront. The city was adorned with fairy lights, and a spectacular laser and fireworks show illuminated its lanes and riverbanks. Thousands of residents participated by lighting lamps at their homes and temples. The massive effort involved more than 33,000 volunteers and the production of 1.6 million lamps by 40 families from nearby villages, using 73,000 liters of oil and 5.5 million cotton wicks. Despite the challenges, the collective effort created a breathtaking spectacle. However, Diwali celebrations in New Delhi were marred by concerns over air pollution, as firecrackers contributed to toxic smog. The air quality index in parts of the city surged to 347, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended maximum. In response, India’s top court allowed the limited use of ‘green firecrackers,’ designed to reduce emissions by 30%, during specific hours from Saturday to Tuesday.
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India: Toxic haze chokes Delhi; pollution soars to over 16 times’ ideal levels
New Delhi, India’s bustling capital, is grappling with an unprecedented environmental crisis as a thick, toxic haze envelops the city. On Monday, air pollution levels surged to over 16 times the World Health Organization’s recommended daily maximum, posing severe health risks to its 30 million residents. The city, already notorious for its poor air quality, faces a deadly combination of emissions from crop burning, industrial activities, and heavy vehicular traffic. The situation has been exacerbated by cooler air trapping pollutants close to the ground and the widespread use of fireworks during Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Despite the Supreme Court’s allowance of ‘green firecrackers’ designed to reduce pollution, the ban on traditional fireworks was largely ignored. Monitoring data from IQAir revealed PM2.5 levels reaching 248 micrograms per cubic meter in some areas—particles so small they can enter the bloodstream and cause cancer. The government’s Commission of Air Quality Management has warned of further deterioration in air quality and implemented measures such as ensuring uninterrupted power supply to curb diesel generator use. Additionally, Delhi authorities plan to trial cloud seeding this month, a technique to induce rain and clear the air. A Lancet Planetary Health study highlighted the grim reality, estimating 3.8 million deaths in India between 2009 and 2019 were linked to air pollution. The UN children’s agency has also raised alarms about the heightened risk of acute respiratory infections among children due to polluted air.
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UAE President extends Diwali wishes in Hindi, hopes for ‘peace, prosperity’
The UAE President, Sheikh Mohamed, extended heartfelt Diwali wishes in Hindi, underscoring the nation’s commitment to multicultural harmony and inclusivity. Addressing the significant Indian expatriate community, which numbers over four million, the President expressed his hopes for ‘peace, health, and prosperity’ in the coming year. His message, shared via social media, resonated deeply with the Indian diaspora, who celebrated the festival with traditional fervor across homes, community centers, and public spaces. This gesture highlights the UAE’s longstanding tradition of embracing diverse cultural celebrations, reflecting its respect for its multicultural population. Diwali in the UAE is marked by vibrant decorations, family gatherings, and government-approved fireworks displays, though authorities have reiterated the importance of safety and adherence to regulations. The festival also boosts local businesses, particularly gold jewellers, who report robust sales during this period. The UAE’s leadership, including Vice-President Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has consistently demonstrated its support for the Indian community, further strengthening the bond between the two nations.
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UNICEF Yemen chief among staff held by Houthis: UN official
In a concerning development, Peter Hawkins, the UNICEF representative in Yemen, has been detained by Houthi rebels in the capital city of Sanaa. According to a UN official who spoke to AFP on Sunday, Hawkins is among 15 international United Nations employees held captive following a raid on a UN complex by the Houthis the previous day. The official, who requested anonymity, confirmed the detentions but did not provide further details regarding the circumstances or the reasons behind the raid. This incident highlights the escalating tensions in Yemen, where the Houthi rebels have been engaged in a prolonged conflict with the internationally recognized government. The detention of UN personnel, particularly high-profile figures like Hawkins, raises significant concerns about the safety of humanitarian workers in the region and the potential impact on critical aid operations. The UN has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, but the situation underscores the volatile environment in Yemen and the challenges faced by international organizations operating in the war-torn country.
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Three Scots agree extradition to Canada over man’s death
Three men have consented to extradition from Scotland to Canada to face trial in connection with the death of Sharif Rahman, a 44-year-old restaurant owner. The incident, which occurred in August 2023 in Owen Sound, Ontario, allegedly involved a physical altercation over an unpaid $150 bill outside a curry house. Rahman was found unconscious by a staff member and later succumbed to his injuries in a London, Ontario hospital. Robert Evans, 24, has been charged with manslaughter, while his father, Robert Busby Evans, 47, and uncle, Barry Evans, 54, face charges of being accessories after the fact to an indictable offence. The trio, who were in Canada on holiday visas, left the country shortly after the incident. They were arrested in Edinburgh and Dalkeith last year on an international warrant. During hearings at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, all three men agreed to extradition, with Sheriff Julius Komorowski emphasizing that their decision was final and not subject to appeal. Ontario prosecutors allege that the elder Evans men attempted to obstruct the investigation, with Barry Evans driving his nephew away from the scene and Robert Busby Evans arranging his son’s return to Scotland the following day. The case will now be referred to Scottish ministers for final approval.
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From Emirati roots to global horizons: Meethaq Manpower expands into KSA
Meethaq Manpower, a prominent Emirati-owned staffing and outsourcing firm under the Al Ghandi Group, has unveiled its latest milestone with the launch of a new branch in Saudi Arabia. This strategic expansion underscores the company’s commitment to broadening its footprint beyond the UAE, targeting the GCC, the MENA region, and Europe. With over 12 years of growth under the leadership of CEO Maryam Buti AlMheiri, Meethaq has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses, government entities, and global clients, delivering innovative and ethical workforce solutions. The company’s entry into Saudi Arabia aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, a transformative economic agenda that presents significant opportunities in manpower and outsourcing. Maryam emphasized Meethaq’s mission to bridge the gap between skilled professionals and businesses, fostering a sustainable workforce ecosystem. As a 100% Emirati-owned enterprise, Meethaq embodies national pride and ambition, contributing to Emiratisation and showcasing Emirati leadership globally. This expansion not only marks a business achievement but also reinforces the UAE’s reputation as a hub of innovation and enterprise. From Dubai to Riyadh and beyond, Meethaq is paving the way for businesses and individuals to thrive, reflecting a story of vision, resilience, and determination with a lasting global impact.
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Jewels stolen from the Louvre include imperial crowns and necklaces
In a stunning heist that has left Paris in shock, a collection of priceless jewels tied to 19th-century French imperial history was stolen from the Louvre Museum. The theft, described as extraordinary, has prompted an intense investigation as the iconic museum remains closed for a second day. According to the French Culture Ministry, the stolen items include several pieces of immense historical significance. Among them are the emerald necklace and earrings once worn by Empress Marie-Louise, the second wife of Napoleon I. Also missing are the crown and brooch of Empress Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III, as well as the crown and sapphire jewelry worn by Queen Marie-Amelie and Queen Hortense, who reigned from 1830 to 1848. A reliquary brooch, another treasured artifact, was also taken. These jewels not only represent opulence but also serve as tangible links to France’s imperial past. The heist has raised concerns about security at one of the world’s most renowned cultural institutions and has left historians and art enthusiasts mourning the loss of these irreplaceable treasures.
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Philippines unveils a new jail for legislators who may face corruption trial
In a significant move to address public outrage over a sprawling corruption scandal, the Philippines has inaugurated a new detention facility in metropolitan Manila capable of housing up to 800 detainees. The jail, showcased to the media by Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, is expected to accommodate powerful legislators, public works officials, and others implicated in alleged irregularities tied to flood control projects. This initiative is part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration’s efforts to restore public trust and ensure accountability.
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Cambodia opens a new $2 billion airport to serve Phnom Penh
Cambodia’s Prime Minister Hun Manet inaugurated the state-of-the-art Techo International Airport on Monday, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts to revitalize tourism and attract foreign investment. Located in Kandal province, approximately 30 kilometers south of Phnom Penh, the $2 billion facility replaces the aging Phnom Penh International Airport, which had operated for nearly seven decades with a single runway. The new airport, a joint venture between the Cambodian government and the Overseas Cambodian Investment Corp., began operations in September and features three runways. Initially designed to handle 13 million passengers annually, its capacity is projected to expand to 30 million by 2030 and 50 million by 2050. Hun Manet expressed optimism that the airport would serve as a catalyst for economic recovery, aiming to surpass pre-pandemic tourism and investment levels. However, Cambodia’s tourism sector faces challenges, including the recent death of a South Korean man allegedly lured into an online scam center, which has drawn international attention to the country’s illegal cybercrime industry. Additionally, a brief but tense border conflict with Thailand in July further impacted tourism. Despite these setbacks, Cambodia welcomed 4 million foreign tourists from January to August 2023, with plans to leverage its second major airport in two years—the Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport, opened in October 2023—to support the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex.