Category: Life & Style

The Centre plans to send a human into the deep sea, likely aligning with India’s human space mission in early 2026. Union Minister of State for Science, Jitendra Singh, announced this on Thursday during the commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami at INCOIS.

Recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mention of the Deep Sea Mission in a past Independence Day address, Singh highlighted the significance of this initiative. “We are planning to send a human into the deep sea. It’s a fascinating coincidence – one Indian in space and another in the deep sea,” he said.

The human space mission, originally scheduled for 2025, has been rescheduled to early 2026. Singh emphasized the unique nature of these parallel missions, stating, “One Indian up there, and one in the deep sea – this will be a record of sorts.”

He also stressed the growing importance of oceanic exploration in India’s vision for a ‘Viksit Bharat.’ The Deep Sea Mission is a critical step in advancing scientific research and showcasing India’s capabilities in space and marine exploration. Both missions mark significant milestones in the country’s journey toward technological and scientific progress.

Starting January 1, 2025, visitors worldwide can apply for a Thai e-Visa through the official website www.thaievisa.go.th. Previously available in select locations, this global rollout expands access, allowing applicants to complete the entire process online.

The Thai e-Visa system will cover all 94 Royal Thai Embassies and Consulates-General worldwide, streamlining the application process and enhancing user accessibility.

Key Features:

1. Global Access: Apply from anywhere in the world.
2. Simplified Process: Navigate through a user-friendly platform.
3. Paperless Submissions: All applications are fully electronic.
4. Enhanced Security: Advanced screening integrated with international databases ensures safe processing.

Benefits:

• Convenience: No need to visit an embassy or consulate.
• Fast Approvals: Enjoy quicker processing times.
• Versatility: Suitable for tourists, business visitors, and short-term stays.

How to Apply:

1. Visit www.thaievisa.go.th.
2. Create an account using your email.
3. Fill out the application form.
4. Upload required documents.
5. Pay the fee via the secure online portal.
6. Receive your e-Visa electronically once approved.

This expansion simplifies travel to Thailand, offering a faster, hassle-free way for global visitors to secure their visa.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, on Wednesday.

One of the key highlights was the foundation stone of the Ken-Betwa River Linking Project, India’s first interlinking of rivers under a national perspective plan. This project aims to provide irrigation facilities across districts in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, benefiting thousands of farmers.

During his speech, PM Modi said, “In one year of (Chief Minister) Mohan Yadav’s government, development has gained new momentum. Today, development projects worth thousands of rupees have been started here. The Ken-Betwa Link Project has also been approved. I congratulate the people of Madhya Pradesh for these initiatives.”

PM Modi also unveiled a commemorative stamp and coin to honor the 100th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He laid the foundation for 1,153 Atal Gram Sushasan Buildings, designed to strengthen Gram Panchayats and promote good governance at the local level.

Additionally, he inaugurated the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project in Khandwa district. The project aims to reduce carbon emissions, conserve water by limiting evaporation, and support India’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.

These initiatives highlight the government’s commitment to sustainable development and improved governance.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received the Wisam Mubarak al-Kabeer, or the Order of Mubarak the Great, on December 22. Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait, presented this honor to PM Modi.

What Is the Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer?

The Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer is Kuwait’s highest national award. It is given to Heads of State, foreign Sovereigns, and royal family members as a symbol of friendship and goodwill.

Past recipients of this prestigious award include Queen Elizabeth II, George HW Bush, Bill Clinton, King Salman of Saudi Arabia, and Nicolas Sarkozy.

The Kuwaiti government instituted the award in 1974 to honor Mubarak Al Sabah, also known as Mubarak the Great. He ruled Kuwait from 1896 to 1915 and played a vital role in its autonomy from the Ottoman Empire. In 1899, he signed a treaty with Britain to protect Kuwait from Turkey, making it a British protectorate. Mubarak’s reign significantly shaped Kuwait’s future.

Design and Evolution

The award’s design was updated in 1992 after Kuwait’s liberation from Iraq. It continues to symbolize Kuwait’s strong relationships with global leaders.

PM Modi’s recognition with this award reflects the deepening ties between India and Kuwait.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) has introduced a new regulation allowing retired residents to enjoy long-term residency in the UAE.

Eligibility Criteria for Retired Residents

Expatriate retirees with at least 15 years of work experience, inside or outside the UAE, can apply for this 5-year residency visa. Applicants must meet one of these financial criteria:

1. Own property worth at least Dh1 million
2. Have savings of Dh1 million
3. Earn a monthly income of at least Dh20,000 (or Dh15,000 in Dubai)

A bank statement from the last six months is also required. The visa is renewable if financial requirements remain fulfilled.

Simple Application Process

Applicants can easily apply through the UAEICP smart app or official website. Using UAE Pass, they can update details, pay fees, and receive their residency and ID cards through approved delivery services.

Dubai’s Special Provisions for Retirees

Dubai offers additional flexibility, allowing retirees to qualify with a monthly income of Dh15,000 or investments in property or savings worth Dh1 million. These measures aim to make the UAE an attractive destination for retirees worldwide.

Hanoi on Thursday. The event aims to boost its domestic defence industry and promote military exports.

The fair will feature nearly 250 exhibitors, including top defence companies from the U.S., Europe, Turkey, Israel, Iran, Russia, and Ukraine. Despite being a major importer of Russian weapons, Vietnam has recently focused on strengthening its local defence industry.

The country’s state-owned defence firm Viettel, along with other local companies, will display missile defence systems, drones, air defence radars, armoured vehicles, and artillery. Some of these weapons will be showcased for the first time, according to the defence ministry’s media.

“This marks a key step in Vietnam’s strategy to strengthen its defence industry,” said Nguyen The Phuong, a Vietnam security expert from the University of New South Wales. He highlighted that Vietnam’s approach includes signing deals with foreign arms exporters to produce some components locally.

Promoting exports of military products has become a priority for Vietnam’s defence ministry. This move reflects the nation’s push for greater self-reliance in a region marked by boundary disputes with China in the South China Sea.

Russia has developed an mRNA vaccine to fight cancer, according to TASS. Andrey Kaprin, General Director of the Radiology Medical Research Center, announced that cancer patients will receive the vaccine for free. The vaccine’s public release is expected in early 2025.

The vaccine’s development involved collaboration with several research centers. Pre-clinical trials revealed its ability to suppress tumor growth and prevent possible metastases. Alexander Ginsburg, Director of the Gamaleya National Research Center, shared this update with TASS.

Many are calling this breakthrough the “discovery of the century.” The Russian government’s move to offer the vaccine for free signals its significance in healthcare advancement.

Ginsburg also highlighted the role of AI in personalized cancer vaccines. He mentioned that artificial neural networks could reduce the time to create a personalized vaccine to under an hour. This development could revolutionize how cancer treatments are tailored to individual patients.

With the vaccine set to launch in 2025, cancer patients worldwide are watching closely. Russia’s latest medical innovation could mark a turning point in the global fight against cancer.

Thailand has become the 51st nation to join the Artemis Accords, marking a commitment to safe and responsible space exploration. The signing ceremony took place in Bangkok, Thailand’s capital city, on Monday.

“Thailand’s commitment to the Artemis Accords will strengthen its engagement with NASA and the international community,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. He praised Thailand’s leadership in supporting open, responsible, and peaceful space exploration.

Pakorn Apaphant, Executive Director of Thailand’s Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), signed the Artemis Accords on behalf of Thailand. The event also included Thailand’s Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Supamas Isarabhakdi, and U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Robert Godec. Nelson contributed a pre-recorded video message for the ceremony’s closing remarks.

“Thailand will enter the golden age of space exploration in full force,” said Apaphant, highlighting the significance of the nation’s decision.

The Artemis Accords, established in 2020 by NASA, the U.S. Department of State, and seven other founding nations, promote the peaceful and beneficial use of space. The principles align with the Outer Space Treaty and other agreements, such as the Registration Convention and the Rescue and Return Agreement. They also support best practices for space exploration, including the public release of scientific data.

Thailand hosted a grand welcome ceremony to celebrate the arrival of its 2,000,000th Indian tourist this year. Key attendees included Mr. Sorawong Thienthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports, H.E. Mr. Nagesh Singh, India’s Ambassador to Thailand, and Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor. Also present were Ms. Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing, and executives from Suvarnabhumi Airport and Thai Airways International (THAI).

Minister Sorawong Thienthong expressed his delight, saying, “We are thrilled to welcome the 2,000,000th Indian tourist this year. This milestone reflects Thailand’s growing popularity among Indian travellers and the strong ties between our nations. We look forward to welcoming even more visitors to experience Thailand’s unique attractions.”

India remains one of Thailand’s top tourism markets. In 2019, Thailand received 1.96 million Indian visitors, generating 80 billion Baht in revenue. By 2023, arrivals reached 1.63 million, contributing 61.9 billion Baht.

Indian tourists visit Thailand year-round, exploring destinations like Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, and Chon Buri. Emerging spots like Surat Thani and Kanchanaburi are also gaining popularity. Tourists enjoy Thai cuisine, nightlife, beaches, massages, and historical landmarks.

Thailand’s visa exemption policy allows Indian tourists to stay for up to 60 days, making travel easier. Targeted marketing initiatives and partnerships with travel operators further boost Thailand’s appeal as a top destination for Indian travellers.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has been crowned Europe’s most powerful person for 2024 by Politico. The annual list highlights key figures shaping European politics, with Meloni’s rise reflecting the growing influence of right-wing populism.

As the leader of Italy’s right-wing Brothers of Italy party, Meloni has become a dominant force in European politics. Since taking office in 2022, she’s shifted from being seen as an ultranationalist to a leader respected by Brussels and Washington.

Politico calls her a “straight-talking alpha” known for outsmarting opponents with her sharp intellect and commanding presence. Her leadership has positioned her as a crucial figure in the EU, balancing nationalism with pragmatic governance.

Meloni’s government is now seen as one of Italy’s most stable administrations in recent years. Her approach to issues like migration and LGBTQ+ rights, once expected to trigger backlash from the EU, has instead received mixed responses — from indifference to approval.

Her leadership style, political savvy, and ability to maintain a steady government have cemented her as a formidable player on the European stage.