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- The World Social Report, published by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), focuses on critical global social development issues. It calls for a new policy direction grounded in equity, economic security, and solidarity.
- Key Challenges Identified: The report reveals that over 690 million people live in extreme poverty, while 2.8 billion remain vulnerable to it, with even small economic disruptions posing serious risks. Income inequality has deepened, with 52 out of 128 countries seeing rising inequality over three decades—especially in populous countries like India and China, as well as many developed nations. Additionally, global trust in institutions is falling, with 57% of people lacking confidence in their governments, weakening social cohesion.
- Policy Recommendations: The report urges a people-centered approach, rooted in the Copenhagen Declaration (1995), advocating for strong investment in public services and social protection. It also calls for inclusive, adaptable institutions to strengthen equity and societal trust.
- The Simla Agreement was signed between India and Pakistan in 1972 as a key peace initiative following the 1971 India-Pakistan War, which led to the emergence of Bangladesh from what was formerly East Pakistan.
- Key Provisions of the Simla Agreement: The agreement emphasized resolving all bilateral disputes, including the Kashmir issue, through peaceful, direct dialogue—rejecting third-party involvement. Both nations pledged to uphold each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity in line with the UN Charter.
- Redefinition of Ceasefire Line: The ceasefire line in Jammu and Kashmir, as of December 17, 1971, was redesignated as the Line of Control (LoC), which remains a de facto boundary.
- Normalising Ties: Both countries committed to restoring communication links, encouraging cross-border travel, enhancing trade, and fostering cooperation in science and culture.
- Significant Outcomes: Pakistan formally recognized Bangladesh, and India released around 93,000 Pakistani prisoners of war. India also returned over 13,000 km² of captured territory, retaining only select strategic areas.
- A recent study highlights the serious impact of toxic metal pollution in soils on both food production and safety. Regions most at risk include southern China, northern and central India, and parts of the Middle East.
- Soil Metal Pollution Overview: Heavy metals and metalloids such as arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury are persistent pollutants that do not degrade, instead accumulating in soil over decades. Cadmium is the most prevalent, with 9% of global soils exceeding safe limits. These pollutants originate from both natural (geogenic) sources—like volcanic activity and bedrock weathering—and human (anthropogenic) activities, including agriculture, industry, and household waste.
- Impact and Consequences: Soil pollution disrupts ecosystems by reducing primary productivity and diminishing essential soil services. It poses major health risks, contributing to over 500,000 premature deaths annually. Toxic metals also bioaccumulate in plants and animals, potentially entering the human food chain and causing harm. Furthermore, pollution alters soil biodiversity and nutrient balance, affecting soil fertility.