News & Events

Following the submission of a Letter of Intent to host the 2036 Olympics, India is now exploring a bid for the 2030 Commonwealth Games. According to a report in The Indian Express, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has initiated informal discussions with the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) regarding the possibility of hosting the centenary edition.

Unlike the 2010 edition held in New Delhi, Ahmedabad has emerged as the frontrunner, with Bhubaneswar also under consideration. CGF President Chris Jenkins and Chief Executive Katie Sadlier recently visited India, engaging with state and central government officials in Gandhinagar, Bhubaneswar, and New Delhi to assess the feasibility of a bid.

During the National Games opening ceremony in Dehradun, Jenkins held discussions with IOA President P. T. Usha. The CGF has set a deadline of 31 March for countries to submit an official Expression of Interest (EOI), leaving India with limited time to finalise its decision.

Read the original article here: https://www.business-standard.com/sports/commonwealth-games/india-likely-to-bid-for-2030-commonwealth-games-in-ahmedabad-report-125020500598_1.html

New Zealand’s Parliament has passed groundbreaking legislation granting Mount Taranaki the same legal rights as a human being, marking a significant step forward in indigenous rights and environmental protection. Under the Taranaki Maunga Collective Redress Bill, the mountain will now be legally known as Te Kahui Tupua and jointly managed by local iwi (tribes) and the government.

Mount Taranaki holds deep spiritual significance for Māori communities, who regard it as a sacred ancestor. This legislative change recognises their enduring connection to the landmark while addressing historical grievances. Minister Paul Goldsmith highlighted the importance of acknowledging past injustices to support the aspirations of the iwi.

New Zealand has previously granted legal personhood to natural landmarks, including the Te Urewera forest (2014) and the Whanganui River (2017), ensuring their protection and cultural recognition.

Read the original article here: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/new-zealand-grants-legal-personhood-to-mount-taranaki/ar-AA1yc2hm?ocid=BingNewsVerp

The festivities of the day commence with formal ceremonies in Colombo, where Sri Lanka’s President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, raises the national flag and delivers an address highlighting the country’s achievements and aspirations for the future. The proceedings feature military displays, traditional performances, and multi-faith observances, embodying the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka’s diverse population.

Across the island, citizens gather to celebrate with magnificent fireworks displays, patriotic musical performances, and community events. Schools and organisations organise special programmes commemorating Sri Lanka’s journey to independence. National Day serves as a poignant moment for collective reflection, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to the nation’s development and social harmony.