Meet the Indus River Dolphin: The National Aquatic Mammal of Pakistan
The Indus River dolphin, often confused with the Ganges River dolphin, is an endangered freshwater mammal. With a distinct long snout and stocky body, it has adapted to the river’s murky waters, relying on echolocation for navigation and hunting. The cetacean is threatened by pollution, habitat degradation, and river damming, causing its population to dwindle drastically. As one of the rarest dolphins in the world, conservation efforts, including habitat protection and community awareness programs, are crucial for preserving this iconic species and safeguarding the health of the Indus River ecosystem.
The Third Anglo-Afghan War (1919)
The Third Anglo-Afghan War broke out after Amanullah Khan declared Afghanistan’s independence from Great Britain. Amanullah’s background, motivations for war, geo-strategic aspects, and religious and tribal relationships were significant factors leading to the outbreak of the war.
Amina Iqbal notes that the war resulted in Afghanistan gaining full sovereignty over its national machinery and led to the signing of a peace treaty in 1919.
A History of the Second Anglo-Afghan War (1878-1880)
The Second Anglo-Afghan War, spanning from 1878 to 1880, saw the British Empire vying for control over Afghanistan amid the Great Game rivalry with Russia.
The war and the subsequent Treaty of Gandamak highlighted the challenges of imposing imperial control in Afghanistan’s rugged terrain and fierce resistance, ultimately leading to strained Anglo-Afghan relations.
Kalka Devi Temple: The Legacy of Hindu Temples in Pakistan
Situated near Sukkur, the Kalka Devi Temple embodies the enduring legacy of the past in contemporary times, reflecting Pakistan’s rich history and cultural identity.
Built in the 1920s by Hemraj Kewalramani, the temple’s architecture blends Islamic and Hindu styles, featuring intricate carvings and paintings depicting Hindu mythology.
Despite being an important site for Hindu pilgrims, the temple’s visitors are mostly Muslim tourists. Today, the temple symbolizes unity and interfaith understanding, preserving Pakistan’s diverse heritage amidst environmental threats and commercial pressures.
Congo Bleeding for Cobalt: A Genocide in the Making
The Democratic Republic of Congo is currently witnessing one of its worst phases of violence and displacement in history, with approximately 6 million citizens internally displaced.
The quest for cobalt and extremist militias waging war in eastern provinces of Congo are causing a silent genocide of the Congolese.
Collaborative efforts should prioritize civilian safety, stability promotion, and the development of long-term solutions to end the cycle of violence that has afflicted the region for far too long.
China’s Maritime Strategy: Unleashing Artificial Intelligence in the South China Sea
China strategically deploys artificial intelligence (AI) in the South China Sea, enhancing maritime control through deep-sea operations, maritime drones, and decision-making processes. This multifaceted approach, aimed at gaining a technological edge and expanding influence, raises significant geopolitical and security concerns, and poses challenges to international law. The strategic use of AI by China in this critical region has implications for global stability and demands careful monitoring and international cooperation.
The Israeli Attacks in Gaza: Assessing the Humanitarian Implications
The ongoing Israel-Gaza War has plunged the people of Gaza into widespread devastation. Israel’s relentless bombings have resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with thousands of Palestinians killed and injured. Half of Gaza’s population comprises children, who are now bearing the brunt of the conflict.
Gaza no longer has any safe spaces, and even its hospitals are not immune to Israeli attacks. With no access to food, water, electricity, and shelter, the future of Gaza seems bleak if the current situation persists.
The Hierarchy of Courts in Pakistan
The judicial system in Pakistan is a multi-tiered structure encompassing a diverse range of courts, each designated to handle specific legal matters and issues. At the pinnacle of this structure is the Supreme Court of Pakistan, the highest judicial body in the state. This hierarchical system extends to various other courts including high courts, the Federal Shariah court, civil courts, criminal courts, and specialized tribunals, each vested with distinct jurisdictions and functions.