The Return of Military Rule in Africa: A Historical Perspective

Pointers by Tamanna Kanojia

29-Nov-2024

Since 2020, several African countries including Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Sudan, and Guinea have experienced military coups, marking a resurgence of militarism.
Military regimes, prevalent in Africa from 1956 to 2001 with about 80 successful coups, are characterized by suppression of protests and media censorship.
Recent coups have shifted geopolitical alliances, with West African countries distancing from France and the U.S. while drawing closer to Russia.
Militarism, rooted in post-colonial history, presents itself as a solution to perceived societal disorder, despite its historical failure to deliver on promises.
Today's military regimes, while lacking clear long-term visions, echo past promises of creating a "soldier's paradise" to justify their rule.

Netanyahu expresses regret over tragic mishap killing journalists in Gaza hospital

Pointers by Amit Dutt

25-Aug-2025

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed deep regret over the tragic incident at Nasser Hospital in Gaza that killed 20 people, including five journalists.
The attack involved a double missile strike hitting the hospital’s fourth floor while rescue teams were attending the injured.
Among the deceased journalists were members from Reuters, Associated Press, Al Jazeera, and NBC.
Netanyahu emphasized that Israel values journalists, medical staff, and civilians, and said Israel’s war is against Hamas terrorists, aiming to bring hostages home.
The incident received global condemnation, with calls for impartial investigation and ceasefire to protect civilians and press freedom.

Pointers by Amit Dutt

25-Aug-2025

PM Modi launched development projects worth Rs 5,400 crore in Gujarat across railways, roads, power, housing, and urban infrastructure.
Key railway projects include doubling Mahesana-Palanpur line and gauge conversions to improve connectivity.
Road projects include widening roads and building overpasses to ease traffic and boost trade.
Power sector upgrades focus on distribution efficiency and outage reduction in Ahmedabad, Mehsana, and Gandhinagar.
Social welfare projects include slum rehabilitation with 1,500 homes for urban poor under PMAY (U).

Pointers by Amit Dutt

25-Aug-2025

PM Modi stated India will not compromise on the interests of farmers and small businesses, even as the US prepares to impose 50% tariffs on Indian imports.
The government is ready to face increased pressure and will put the nation’s priorities first.
Modi urged citizens and businesses to support ‘Made in India’ products, promoting self-reliance.
Protection of small entrepreneurs, farmers, and cattle rearers will remain top priority for the government.
Modi condemned the US tariffs as unfair, reaffirming that India stands strong against external pressure.

Pointers by Vyom Tiwari

23-Aug-2025

Builders found human remains on August 15 at a site on Cleveland Road, Lytham, Lancashire.
Police believe the remains may belong to children and are part of a historical burial.
Authorities do not consider the discovery suspicious and treat it as isolated and historical.
Investigations are ongoing to identify the remains, including their age and cause of death.
The remains were removed from the property, and the police thanked homeowners and contractors for cooperation.

Pointers by Vyom Tiwari

23-Aug-2025

India halts most postal shipments to the US starting August 25, except letters and small gifts.
The US revoked duty-free status for imports under $800, effective August 29 under Executive Order 14324.
Only letters, documents, and gift items up to $100 worth remain exempt from customs duties.
Indian postal services paused due to unclear processes for collecting and remitting new US tariffs.
Customers with pre-booked undeliverable parcels can get postage refunds; efforts to resume soon ongoing.