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International Conference on Advancing Ocean Governance to be Held on March 28-29, 2025

The Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL), Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), Gujarat Maritime University (GMU), and the South Asia International Economic Law Network (SAIELN) are jointly organizing an international conference titled “Advancing Ocean Governance for a Sustainable Future: The Role of International Law.” The event is scheduled for March 28-29, 2025. This conference will bring together experts, policymakers, academicians, researchers, and industry professionals to explore legal, economic, and environmental aspects of ocean governance and the blue economy. The event will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, and paper presentations focusing on marine sustainability, fisheries law, and governance frameworks such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The conference will have two tracks: Panel Discussion Track – Experts will share insights on the evolving landscape of ocean governance and the blue economy. Paper Presentation Track – Selected authors will present their research, with five minutes allocated for presentations and another five minutes for Q&A. Key Themes: Recent developments in international fisheries governance, including WTO fisheries subsidies The blue economy, sustainability, and conservation UNCLOS and marine sustainability Registration Fees: Foreign academics/professionals: USD $100 Indian academics/professionals: ₹1,000 Foreign students: USD $50 Indian students: ₹500 Abstract Submission: Deadline: February 28, 2025 Word Limit: 500 words Notification of Acceptance: March 10, 2025 Selected student presenters will be eligible for SAIELN scholarships worth ₹3,000. Source: barandbench

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UNICEF and WHO Launch Mass Polio Vaccination Campaign in Gaza

The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have announced a mass polio vaccination campaign in the Gaza Strip, set to take place from February 22 to 26, 2025. This initiative aims to immunize over 591,000 children under the age of 10 against poliovirus using the novel oral polio vaccine type 2 (nOPV2). The urgent response follows the detection of poliovirus in Gaza’s wastewater, indicating ongoing circulation and increased risk for children. WHO and UNICEF warned that overcrowding in shelters, coupled with damaged water and sanitation infrastructure, has created ideal conditions for the virus to spread. Additionally, increased population movement due to the ongoing ceasefire could further exacerbate transmission. “Pockets of individuals with low or no immunity provide the virus an opportunity to continue spreading and potentially cause disease,” the joint statement read. The upcoming campaign seeks to close immunity gaps and prevent further infections. An additional vaccination round is scheduled for April to ensure comprehensive coverage. The initiative will be spearheaded by the Palestinian Ministry of Health, with support from WHO, UNICEF, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), and other partners. Efforts will focus on reaching all eligible children, including those previously missed, to halt the outbreak and protect public health. With the combination of medical intervention and coordinated global support, health officials hope to contain the outbreak and safeguard children from the debilitating effects of polio. Source: Business Standard

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China’s M&A Market Rebounds Amid Stimulus Measures and Trump Tariff Pressure

China’s mergers and acquisitions (M&A) market is witnessing a resurgence after years of decline, driven by government stimulus measures and mounting pressure from U.S. tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump. After five consecutive years of declining deal volume, China’s M&A activity surged in the final quarter of 2024, with deal value rising by 78.5% to $129 billion from the previous quarter’s $72 billion, according to Dealogic. Industry experts attribute this uptick to stimulus policies introduced in September 2024, aimed at consolidating domestic industries and strengthening China’s economic competitiveness. Despite this positive momentum, China’s total M&A deal value in 2024 remained nearly 45% lower than in 2020, when it reached $553 billion. Economic slowdown and cautious corporate strategies have contributed to a conservative investment approach in recent years, said Theodore Shou, chief investment officer at Skybound Capital. However, experts predict 2025 will bring a major shift, with increased M&A activity as Chinese firms adapt to fresh tariff challenges. Trump’s new 10% tariffs on Chinese goods, effective from February 4, have compounded existing levies of up to 25%. This has intensified the need for companies to diversify supply chains and seek strategic mergers to maintain global market relevance. Deloitte’s APAC M&A Services Leader, Stanley Lah, noted that consolidation is the fastest way for businesses to restructure amid trade pressures. Smaller enterprises, in particular, are feeling the strain, as indicated by a 4.8% drop in their revenue in Q3 2024, per Peking University’s Centre for Enterprise Research. With increasing deal activity and evolving trade dynamics, 2025 is poised to be a crucial year for China’s corporate landscape. Source: CNBC

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CBSE Issues Guidelines for Schools to Submit Observations on Board Exam Papers

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has directed all affiliated schools to submit their observations regarding the ongoing Class 10 and 12 board exams in a structured and timely manner. The board has outlined three key requests to streamline the process. CBSE’s Three Requests for Schools: Use OECMS Portal: Schools must upload their observations only on the OECMS portal instead of sending emails to different IDs. Same-Day Submission: Observations must be submitted on the same day the examination is conducted. Clarity in Reporting: Schools must provide clear and specific details about any issues in the question paper. Vague complaints like “the question is incorrect” without further explanation will not be considered. CBSE has warned that delayed, unclear, or improperly submitted observations will not be acted upon. CBSE’s Stand on Exam Paper Leaks: The board also dismissed rumors of Class 10 and 12 exam paper leaks, calling them baseless and intended to create panic among students and parents. CBSE assured that it is actively monitoring the situation and taking strict action against those spreading misinformation. Board Exams 2025: Key Details Exam Duration: February 15 – April 4 Total Students: Around 44 lakh Schools Participating: 8,000+ (India & abroad) CBSE has urged students and parents to rely only on official updates and avoid engaging with unverified information. Source: Hindustan Times

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PM Modi Announces Deregulation Commission to Boost Ease of Doing Business

New Delhi, February 12: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the establishment of a Deregulation Commission to reduce the role of the State in governance and further promote the Ease of Doing Business. Speaking at the ET Now Global Business Summit 2025, he emphasized that his government has replaced the “Fear of Business” with pro-business policies over the past decade. Key Highlights from PM Modi’s Address: 🔹 Deregulation Commission: Aims to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles and enhance governance efficiency. 🔹 Jan Vishwas 2.0: A revised version of the Jan Vishwas Act, 2023, designed to remove archaic laws and reduce compliance burdens. 🔹 Major Reforms: GST implementation, property rights reforms under Svamitva Yojana, unlocking ₹100 lakh crore worth of rural property value through drone surveys in 300,000 villages. 🔹 India’s Global Standing: Modi highlighted India’s rising economic influence, noting its key role in global discussions at events like the AI Summit in Paris. 🔹 Economic Growth: India is currently the world’s fifth-largest economy, and Modi reiterated his commitment to making India the third-largest economy in the coming years. Criticism of Previous Governments: The PM took a swipe at past Congress-led UPA governments, stating that they implemented reforms out of compulsion, whereas his administration pursues them out of conviction. Vision for ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India): PM Modi thanked the people of Odisha, Maharashtra, Haryana, and New Delhi for supporting BJP and its allies, reinforcing their commitment to accelerated development. With reforms spanning legal, economic, and governance sectors, the government is driving structural changes to boost economic growth, attract global investments, and foster innovation. Source: Hindustan Times

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Odisha CM Allocates ₹4,479 Crore for Integrated Healthcare Scheme

Bhubaneswar, February 12: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has proposed an allocation of ₹4,479 crore for the integrated Ayushman Bharat-PM Jan Arogya Yojana and Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, aimed at providing affordable and quality healthcare to beneficiaries. The state government has signed an MoU with the Centre to roll out the integrated scheme this year, expanding treatment access to 29,000 empanelled hospitals nationwide, up from the current 900 hospitals, officials said. To address the shortage of medical professionals, the recruitment of over 5,000 doctors is underway, ensuring specialist availability in state-run medical facilities, including remote areas. Key budget allocations include: 🔹 ₹3,881 crore for health infrastructure under the Mukhya Mantri Swasthya Seva Mission (MMSSM) 🔹 ₹420 crore for the Ama Hospital scheme to enhance hospital services 🔹 ₹2,091 crore for free drugs, diagnostics, dialysis, blood services, and ambulances 🔹 ₹211 crore for a comprehensive cancer care plan, emphasizing early detection through advanced screening 🔹 ₹270 crore under the Swasthya Sahaya scheme to tackle diseases, strengthen OPD, public health labs, and research The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission will receive ₹100 crore to establish a digital health infrastructure, bridging gaps among healthcare providers. A chronic kidney care registry will also be maintained for improved monitoring and treatment. To ensure universal healthcare coverage, all Gram Panchayats will have Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, with ₹500 crore allocated for the initiative. A State One Health Cell will also be set up for emergency coordination. Additionally, ₹997 crore has been allocated under the Nirmal scheme to improve hygiene and ancillary services in public hospitals. Source: TOI

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SEBI Launches RPT Portal to Enhance Corporate Transparency and Governance

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has launched a Related Party Transaction (RPT) portal to strengthen corporate governance and increase transparency in boardroom dealings. At the launch event, SEBI Whole Time Member Ashwani Bhatia likened the initiative to sunlight exposing hidden dealings, emphasizing its role in ensuring fair corporate transactions. RPTs, while capable of creating synergies, often face scrutiny due to unfair pricing and potential conflicts of interest. The portal will enable mutual funds and investors to track such transactions and demand better governance from companies. SEBI Chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch reaffirmed the regulator’s strong focus on RPTs, calling them a core governance concern. SEBI’s disclosure-based framework mandates that listed companies provide complete transparency in financial dealings to prevent unfair advantages. Looking ahead, SEBI plans to integrate supply chain data into the portal for a more comprehensive oversight of corporate transactions. The RPT portal is expected to boost investor confidence, reinforce corporate accountability, and ensure fair play in India’s financial markets. Source: CNBC

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White House Bars Associated Press from Oval Office, Air Force One Over Gulf of Mexico Naming Dispute

The White House has indefinitely blocked Associated Press (AP) journalists from accessing the Oval Office and Air Force One, citing the news agency’s refusal to adopt the Gulf of America as the official name for the Gulf of Mexico. White House Deputy Chief of Staff Taylor Budowich announced the decision on X, stating, “The Associated Press continues to ignore the lawful geographic name change of the Gulf of America. This decision is not just divisive, but it also exposes the AP’s commitment to misinformation.” Budowich further accused the 175-year-old news agency—whose style guide is widely used by global journalists—of “irresponsible and dishonest reporting.” While AP reporters and photographers will retain credentials to the White House complex, they will be barred from select events, including executive order signings and presidential travel on Air Force One. On Friday, an AP journalist was blocked from attending an Oval Office event, with a White House official reportedly telling them, “No, sorry,” when they attempted to enter. The New York Times has condemned the move, calling it “a repeated act of retribution” against press freedom. AP’s Executive Editor, Julie Pace, described the White House’s actions as an attempt to “punish” independent journalism and a “clear violation” of the First Amendment. The controversy stems from Trump’s unilateral decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico to Gulf of America—a change that only holds authority within U.S. federal documents. In response, the AP released a statement confirming it would continue using “Gulf of Mexico” in its reporting. The ban on AP journalists could significantly impact White House coverage, as the agency provides news to numerous local and national outlets that lack dedicated Washington correspondents. Critics argue that Trump’s move sets a dangerous precedent, while his supporters view it as a stand against biased media. Source: Guardian

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Macron Calls for Inclusive Governance in Syria as New Leadership Seeks Global Support

French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Syria’s new leadership to ensure governance that is representative and respectful of all communities, emphasizing the need for stability and inclusivity in the war-torn nation. Speaking at an international conference on Syria’s transition, Macron addressed the new authorities led by interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, stating that the responsibility they bear is immense. The event was attended by Syria’s Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani along with global stakeholders, including representatives from the United States, Germany, Britain, the European Union, and the United Nations. Syria’s New Leadership Seeks Legitimacy Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in December after a swift offensive by Islamist-led rebels, Syria’s interim government has worked to reassure the international community of its break with the past. The new administration has been lobbying the West to ease long-standing sanctions against Assad’s regime, arguing that economic relief is essential for rebuilding the country after nearly 14 years of civil war. Macron emphasized that the new government’s commitment to respecting all communities would be a key factor in ensuring long-term stability and enabling the return of millions of displaced Syrians. The Fight Against IS: A Priority While addressing the political transition, Macron also underscored the importance of continuing the fight against the Islamic State (IS), calling it an absolute priority for Syria’s new leadership. Despite the defeat of IS’s so-called caliphate in 2019 by Kurdish-led Syrian fighters backed by the US-led coalition, some IS cells remain active in Syria’s desert regions. Macron urged Damascus to actively participate in counterterrorism efforts. Western Nations Move to Ease Sanctions In a significant shift, France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot confirmed that the European Union is working towards a rapid lifting of sanctions on Syria, starting with key economic sectors like energy. Britain also announced a relaxation of restrictions on Syria’s energy, transport, and finance sectors, while the United States has already eased punitive measures, allowing fuel and electricity donations for six months. Challenges Ahead: Women’s Rights, Kurdish Inclusion, and Ceasefire Western governments have raised concerns about the direction of Syria’s new leadership, particularly regarding: Religious freedom Women’s rights The status of the Kurdish minority German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized the importance of women’s representation in Syria’s future government, while also calling for all actors in Syria to be included in the political process. The conference also addressed the need for a global ceasefire, particularly in the north and northeast, where Turkish-backed factions continue to attack Kurdish-held areas. A New Era for Syria? With international support gradually shifting, Syria’s interim government is set to form a new administration next month. Foreign Minister Shibani assured the global community that it would represent all Syrians in their diversity. As Macron prepares to host Sharaa in Paris soon, the coming months will determine whether Syria’s new leadership can deliver on its promises and rebuild a unified, sovereign, and stable nation. Source: The New Arab

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Vir Das Slams Mainstream Media Amid Ranveer Allahbadia Controversy

New Delhi, February 12: Comedian Vir Das has weighed in on the controversy surrounding the roast show India’s Got Latent, where guest judge Ranveer Allahbadia sparked outrage with a controversial question posed to a contestant. The show, featuring Samay Raina, Jaspreet Singh, Apoorva Makhija, and Ashish Chanchlani, has drawn widespread criticism, leading to intervention from the National Commission for Women (NCW) and a possible parliamentary panel inquiry. The controversy erupted after Allahbadia, popularly known as BeerBiceps, asked a female contestant: “Would you rather watch your parents have sex every day for the rest of your life or join in once and stop it forever?” The remark led to backlash from the public and politicians, prompting the NCW to summon all key figures involved, including the show’s producers, Tushar Poojari and Saurabh Bothra, for a hearing on February 17 in New Delhi. Vir Das Criticizes Media’s Role In a statement, Vir Das addressed the debate over comedic standards, stating that a comedian must evolve based on audience feedback. However, he took a sharp dig at traditional media, accusing it of using the controversy to attack new digital platforms. “We are watching a bunch of irrelevant mainstream media anchors bordering extinction trying to take down new media that gets millions more views, longer interviews, and far more impact at a fraction of the cost,” Das wrote. He further urged audiences to question journalism standards, stating that while comedy is being debated, the media should also be scrutinized for its priorities. Meanwhile, the NCW condemned the remarks as vulgar and offensive, citing a violation of dignity and respect. The commission has mandated the in-person appearance of all involved parties on February 17 at 12 PM at its New Delhi office. With growing political and public scrutiny, the controversy surrounding India’s Got Latent continues to escalate.

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