Discover how terrorist organizations adapt their financing strategies, from traditional methods like state sponsorship and charities to modern tactics involving cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. Learn about global efforts to counter terror financing in this in-depth analysis.
Explore the evolving crime-terror nexus, where terrorist groups and criminal syndicates collaborate for mutual gains. From drug trafficking to arms smuggling, discover how these alliances shape global security threats and counterterrorism strategies.
Khushi Jain, Bhumi Sharma Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. It is one of the significant problems in older adults. In individuals aged 65 and above, TBI is the cause of more than 80,000 emergency hospital visits every year out of which more than half lead to hospitalisation. Adults aged 75 and older have the highest rates of TBI-related hospitalization and death. Falls are the leading cause of TBI for older adults (51%), and motor vehicle traffic crashes are second (9%) (Thompson et al., 2006). Age is also associated with comorbidities, such as diabetes, hypertension, and chronic renal failure, which may worsen outcomes. Also, a high percentage of older people use medications (e.g., anticoagulants and/or antiplatelets) which may worsen cerebral damage after trauma. The aged brain may be more vulnerable to TBI, with less plasticity and repair after injury (Kovacs, 2005). In addition, older people often present with alterations in cognition, memory, mood, and motor function (Glorioso and Sibille, 2011), which can hamper rehabilitation after TBI (Stocchetti et al., 2012). It has also been observed that an average of 634,000 incidents of traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs among children each year in the United States, with the highest TBI-related emergency room visits occurring in children under the age of 4 years and adolescents 15 years or older (Li & Liu, 2013) Traumatic brain injury in children commonly involves the frontal lobes, and is associated with distinct structural and behavioural changes. Although injuries to this region are clinically significant during brain development, the mechanisms behind secondary damage and long-term recovery remain poorly understood (Chen et al., 2013). Understanding the unique vulnerabilities of both older adults and children to TBI highlights the need for targeted prevention, early intervention, and improved rehabilitation strategies to enhance long-term outcomes. Aging and Youth at Risk: The Impact of Traumatic Brain Injury on Older Adults and Children Research has demonstrated that age is the strongest clinical predictor of recovery from TBI, second only to measures of injury severity (Dikmen and Machamer, 1995; Vollmer, 1993). Advanced age is considered a negative prognostic indicator. Elderly individuals appear to be at an increased risk for poor outcomes following TBI (Goleburn & Golden, 2001). After a period of relatively low risk in middle adulthood, older adults are at an increased risk for head trauma beginning at age 65 and peaking at age 70 (Fields and Coffey, 1994). In the United States, the estimated annual rate of TBI in persons in the sixth and seventh decades of life is 150–200 per 100,000 people (Cooper, as cited in Goldstein and Levin, 1995). There are age differences in the physiological structures in the structures of brains of older people as compared to younger individuals that make them susceptible to subdural hematomas after a brain injury. For instance, cerebral decline that follows aging leads to stretching of parasagittal bridging veins, leaving them more vulnerable to severe effects even after a minor trauma. In events like a fall, the impact often causes these veins to burst, causing subdural hematoma. Biologically, with aging, white matter and vasculature become more susceptible to injury, injury response mechanisms such as autophagy is dampened, and prevalence of pre-existing neurological or systemic comorbidities increases. Unsurprisingly, older adults with TBI experience higher morbidity and mortality, and slower recovery trajectories and have, on average, worse functional, cognitive, and psychosocial outcomes months or years post-injury than do younger patients (Gardner et al., 2018). Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious public health concern and is the most frequent cause of disruption to normal childhood development. TBI occurs when a sudden trauma triggers the brain to move rapidly within the skull, leading to neuronal damage. TBI can result from the head suddenly hitting an object, from a non-impact force, such as blast waves or rapid acceleration and deceleration, or from an object puncturing the skull and penetrating the brain tissue. Although TBI can occur across the lifespan, this type of brain injury can be particularly devastating for the developing brain. This interruption of normal brain development and the cascading effects of TBI may alter the course of brain development and its functioning (Laura S. Blackwell PhD et al., 2023) Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most common causes of death and long-term disability in the pediatric age range (Gotschall, 1993; Kraus, 1995). According to a report on Emergency Department (ED) visit, hospitalizations, and deaths in the United States for the years 1995–2001 (Langlois et al., 2006), nearly half a million children 0–14 years of age had TBI each year during this period. Of this number, 91.6% were treated and released from an ED, 7.8 % were hospitalized, and .6% died (Laura S. Blackwell PhD et al., 2023). Given the high prevalence and significant impact of TBI in children, it is crucial to monitor their development closely and assess potential long-term effects, to ensure appropriate interventions and support. The Long-Term Impact of Traumatic Brain Injury in Older Adults: Challenges, Outcomes, and Rehabilitation Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a devastating injury, often resulting in death or chronic disability that disrupts family, community, and vocational ties. According to new research, the effects of TBI are greater and long-term in older populations. Elderly patients tend to have higher mortality and worse outcomes than younger patients, even if the injuries they suffer are less severe. Even if the injury sustained is similar in type and severity in both, older populations go through longer rehabilitation stays, suffer higher rehabilitation costs and have greater levels of disabilities. The risk of death after the age of 65 is the maximum. Older individuals suffering from TBI are known to suffer increased deterioration mood, psychosocial functioning, and cognition, and are less likely to have complete recovery in psychosocial areas of functioning after TBI as compared to younger patients. According to Rothweiler et al. increased age at the time of sustaining a brain injury was related to greater dependence, changes in living conditions and increased
Mental health in rural India is a silent crisis—deeply rooted in stigma, lack of awareness, and poor access to care. While urban centers have made progress, millions in villages still struggle without proper diagnosis or treatment. This article dives into the harsh realities of mental health in rural India, the policies in place, and what needs to change.
From the myths surrounding mental illness to the severe shortage of trained professionals, the challenges are overwhelming. But there is hope. Successful interventions, like community health programs and telepsychiatry, are proving that change is possible. With the right policies and awareness, we can bridge the gap and make mental healthcare accessible to all.
Want to be part of the solution? Explore key policy recommendations and real-world case studies that can help transform mental health support in rural India.
This article provides research and policy recommendations for AI integration and assesses its implications on the Indian labour market, creative sector and national security.
ABSTRACT
The expansion of BRICS, with the inclusion of key economies like Saudi Arabia and Iran, is reshaping global geopolitical and economic landscapes. With strategic partnerships focusing on energy security and resource-rich nations, BRICS aims to position itself as a strong alternative to Western-led alliances. The group’s growing influence in international organizations underscores its importance in global policymaking, enhancing its geopolitical clout and economic significance.
France is emerging as a global leader in AI governance, green technology, and scientific diplomacy. With major investments in AI, renewable energy, and international trade, France is shaping the future of innovation, sustainability, and diplomacy on the world stage.
Introduction (Paiman Riazat) The question of Palestinian statehood is and has been a for decades controversial matter. The main conclusion is that Palestine seems to satisfy all the four traditional criteria mentioned in the issues of recognition such as people, land, government, and capacity (Montevideo Convention, 1933). However, Palestine has these requirements; its legal status remains in vogue for the sake of political and historical conditions. As January 2025 begins the situation in Palestine is still unknown. The war between Israel and Palestinian groups in Gaza has resulted in significant casualties and destruction. The United Nations has reported that over 46,000 Palestinians have lost their lives and many more have been injured or displaced (United Nations, 2024). Gaza is home to approximately 2.3 million people and continues to endure a strict blockade imposed by Israel since 2007 (Amnesty International, 2024). In 2012, the United Nations General Assembly granted Palestine non-member observer state status (United Nations General Assembly, 2012). This recognition has allowed Palestine to join international organizations and participate in international legal proceedings, such as the International Criminal Court (ICC) (International Criminal Court, 2021). This paper aims to effectively analyze the recognition of Palestine’s statehood in international law, discovering the legal arguments for and against its recognition. By bringing up the Montevideo criteria and the current situation on the ground, this research seeks to provide an extensive understanding of Palestine’s legal status in international law. Background (Cherry Wong) International law is a set of rules and principles that governs the relations between states and other international actors (Legal Information Institute, n.d.). It comprises treaties, customary practices, legal precedents etc. that establish obligations and rights for states to adhere to (Butchard, 2020). The aim of international law is to maintain global peace and security, addressing issues such as human rights, trade, and environmental protection (United Nations, n.d.). It is enforced through various mechanisms, emphasizing both state responsibility and the roles of international institutions (Iwasawa, 2023). Palestine’s historical context is characterized by a long struggle for self-determination amidst colonial and geopolitical challenges. The Palestinian national movement began in the early 20th century, with significant events such as the 1920 Palestinian National Council demanding independence from British rule, which was largely ignored due to the British commitment to the Balfour Declaration favoring Jewish immigration and settlement (Boulos & Abu Eid, 2024). The 1947 UN Partition Plan proposed separate Jewish and Arab states, leading to the 1948 Arab-Israeli War and the Nakba, which resulted in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians (Utrecht University, 2024). The quest for statehood continued with the establishment of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) in 1964, which became the representative body for Palestinians (Powell & Strug, 2016). The PLO declared the State of Palestine in 1988, gaining recognition from numerous countries and the UN General Assembly, which granted it non-member observer state status in 2012 (Powell & Strug, 2016). Despite this, the ongoing Israeli occupation and settlement policies complicate the realization of Palestinian statehood (Boulos & Abu Eid, 2024). International law defines statehood criteria primarily through the Montevideo Convention, which stipulates that a state must possess a permanent population, a defined territory, a government, and the capacity to engage in relations with other states (Fang, 2023). Recognition by other states is essential, as international relations are built upon the acknowledgment of a state’s sovereignty. While Palestine has been recognized by approximately 146 countries, its quest for full statehood remains hindered by geopolitical dynamics, particularly the influence of the United States and the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict (The Hindu, 2024). The significance of recognition in international law (Tasnuba Tasnim Anita) Recognition refers to the formal acknowledgment by one state of the existence and sovereignty of another state within the global community. In international law, statehood is traditionally determined by the Montevideo Convention of 1933, which outlines four criteria: a permanent population, a defined territory, a government, and the capacity to enter into relations with other states (Montevideo Convention, 1933). However, recognition by other states often solidifies and legitimizes a state’s legal standing in the international arena. But recognition is not a prerequisite for statehood, it facilitates the newly established state’s ability to participate in international organizations, treaties, and diplomatic engagements (Roth, 2010). Diplomacy often revolves around recognizing states to foster alliances, resolve disputes, and promote stability. Conversely, withholding recognition can serve as a form of protest or leverage in international negotiations. The process of recognition is rarely free of political influence. States may base their recognition decisions on strategic interests, ideological alignments, or economic incentives. This selective approach can lead to inconsistencies (Christopher J Borgen, 2009). Recognition of states in international law can take two primary forms: de jure and de facto recognition (Cochran, C. L.1968). De jure recognition is often permanent and implies that the recognized state satisfies all the criteria of statehood, including effective control and governance. It refers to the formal and unequivocal acknowledgment of a state’s sovereignty and legal personality under international law. De facto recognition often occurs in situations where a state has effective control over a territory but faces unresolved issues regarding its legitimacy or sovereignty (Briggs, H. W. 1939). It implies that while the recognizing state acknowledges the factual existence of the entity as a governing authority, it does not grant full legal legitimacy or permanence (Houghton, N.D, 1932). The case of Palestine illustrates the nuanced application of de jure and de facto recognition in international law. Over 130 UN member states have granted Palestine de jure recognition, acknowledging its sovereignty and right to statehood under international law (Ghaedi, M. 2024). Conversely, many states, including major powers like the United States, have limited their acknowledgment to de facto recognition, if at all (Al Jazeera, 2024). The recognition of Palestine is often viewed through the lens of the broader Arab-Israeli dispute, making it a symbol of regional and global political divisions (Palestine Unbound, 2016). The case of Palestine highlights the significance of recognition in shaping the legal and political realities of statehood under
Corporate Liability For Environmental Damage : A Critical Review Of Legal Principles By: Jayshree Patnaik & Manshi Abstract: In India, an increase in the number of industries has resulted in pollution of the air, water, land, and noise. Rapid industrialization of this kind has had a negative impact on our nature. The Environmental Protection Act of 1986 and the Companies Act are two of the laws that the Indian legal system has established to address environmental challenges and under which corporations are held accountable. Even if a firm doesn’t purposefully destroy the environment, they are nonetheless held accountable under the Indian legal system. This is a well-established strict liability principle that is included in Indian law. The industries that are now operating in India must take all required precautions to prevent environmental harm. Be it Corporate infrastructure, the workers commuting to and fro daily ,the multimodal transport usage to transfer goods, each of them makes a significant contribution to ravage the environment. Here’s a wager, many of us are unaware that sending mail also emits carbon dioxide up to 50 grams per mail with large attachments. In this mixed-method research we present various viewpoints, case laws, existing policies to curb the environmental blight and aim to provoke your thoughts as an individual to combat the problem. Also, a few suggestions of what collaborative approach should the government enforce along with the existing ones. Certain damages which can never be undone are the Plasticrust (when plastic melts and fuses with the natural materials like rock/corals, etc.), Nanomaterial pollution (comes from the paints, cosmetics, electronics, textiles, etc.) and the “forever chemicals”. All of these pollutants have been accumulated in the environment and the wildlife is now carrying these toxins in their tissues. How profound and urgent detoxification does the Earth require to restore itself? Introduction: The concept of holding businesses responsible for environmental damage has attracted a lot of attention worldwide, highlighting the growing recognition of businesses’ role in environmental deterioration and the need for accountability measures. The topic of corporate responsibility for environmental harm is particularly pertinent in India, a country dealing with complex environmental problems that range from deforestation and climate change to air and water pollution. This preamble establishes the framework for a comprehensive analysis of the legal rules governing Indian corporations’ liability for environmental damage. With laws like the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986 and the Companies Act of 2013 acting as pillars for monitoring business behavior with regard to the environment, India’s legal framework for environmental preservation has grown over time. India’s legal framework for corporate accountability for environmental harm is based on the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1974 and the Environmental Protection Act of 1986. The Environmental Protection Act establishes the legal framework for both environmental protection and pollution prevention and control laws. The law states that both the federal and state governments are empowered to take action to protect and enhance the environment and to prosecute violators. The Indian judiciary has been essential in holding companies responsible for environmental harm by interpreting and enforcing the provisions of these Acts. In numerous instances, the courts have held companies liable for environmental damage, even when it was unintentional or the result of suppliers’ or subcontractors’ negligence. Furthermore, courts have ruled that companies must take steps to protect the environment or face liability for future damages. Even though India has the required legal framework, it is nevertheless very difficult to hold corporations accountable for environmental harm. The absence of strong enforcement measures is one of the main problems. The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act is enforced by State Pollution Control Boards, however oftentimes they lack the resources to carry out this duty. Furthermore, the fact that fines imposed on companies that violate environmental regulations are usually insignificant means that there is insufficient deterrence. It is also difficult for citizens to hold corporations responsible for environmental destruction because of a weak legal system and a lack of public understanding of environmental issues. “Greenwashing and Corporate Commitments: The Clash Between Sustainability Goals and Industrial Expansion” Corporate industries in other words the “mega-polluters” take Sustainability-linked loans (SLL) in billions with a fake commitment to reduce carbon pollution and target sustainability. Shell, Enbridge and Drax are a few of many other companies which made it to the news for getting SLLs. Fossil fuel and mining companies have reaped billions in SLLs, many researches suggest that greenwashing in SLLs is widespread. Upon investigation, it was found that these loans are rather used in business expansion and not for reducing environmental harms. In India, Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) issued the guidelines under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 for prevention and regulation of “greenwashing” and “misleading environmental claims”. It was an addition to the guidelines for prevention of misleading advertisements and endorsements issued in 2022. These guidelines prohibit use of generic terms like ‘eco-friendly’, ‘green’, ‘cruelty free’, ‘carbon-neutral’, ‘sustainable’ and similar assertions without adequate substantiation by the manufacturers/industrialists. Illustration 1: If a company makes a statement that “its growth will be based on sustainability principles”. For the purpose of these guidelines this will not be treated as an environmental claim. However, if a company further makes a statement that “that all its products are made in a sustainable manner”, then such an environmental claim will be examined for greenwashing. Illustration 2: A marketer advertises on the bottle of its hand wash as “biodegradable” without qualification. The advertisement shall make clear that only the hand wash is biodegradable and not the bottle. The latest in occurrence was the Biological Diversity Rules, 2024 which supersedes the 2004 rules. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) announced rules to make India’s waste management system more comprehensive; previously, liquid waste was not classified as a separate category. The Draft Liquid Waste Management Rules will become effective from 1 October 2025. A bigwig tech company published that AI could help expedite decarbonization, simultaneously selling AI tools to ExxonMobil and Chevron
By Bhavya Gupta, Sanjna & Siddhii Abstract Caregiving for older adults, particularly those with chronic illnesses, often leads to significant physical, emotional, and financial strain, called caregiver burden. The burden has an inherent connection with social isolation, emotional discomfort, and the deterioration of physical health, further impacting the quality of care given. This article discusses how interventions like caregiver training, telehealth services (Tele-MANAS), and community-based programs (Atmiyata) can alleviate this burden. Addressing caregiver stress through emotional and instrumental support and policy measures such as financial aid and awareness campaigns is essential to improve outcomes for caregivers and older adults. Introduction Caregiver is referred to as someone who provides support and adheres to the needs of someone who is not fully independent, individuals such as an infants, disabled and elderly are usually in need of assistance (American Psychological Association, 2023). Support for caregivers is a key intervention to enhance the care of older adults and thereby reduce the mental health risk to caregivers. It has been observed that mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, among older adults are common because of the impact of chronic illnesses (G. & V., 2022). A high-risk group, owing to stress and mental health issues, is caregivers themselves, who can also suffer from caregiver burnout (Boisvert et al., 2022). Proper caregiver support may mitigate stress and improve caregivers’ and care recipients’ mental health outcomes (Hall et al., 2022). Areas of focus for support include resource provision, care for the caregiver, and respite-any of these would be critical in promoting the caregiver’s well-being (Hall et al., 2024). Many caregivers, however, are left without support, which ultimately corrupts their mental health and delivers a poor-quality service for older adults. Therefore, addressing these gaps is vital for the improved health of caregivers and care recipients alike. Impact of Caregiver’s Support Emotional Support For human beings, a social species, social relations are crucial to ensure safety, reproductive success, and survival. From an evolutionary perspective, social relations with a mate or a tribe improve the chances of survival in hostile environments (Reinwarth et al., 2024). Emotional support is the key to improving the conditions of older adults who live in a community with a lack of emotional support (Devkota et al., 2023). Along with a lack of emotional support, older adults live with a lack of financial aid, which makes them ineligible for healthcare use. Due to this older adults not only suffer financially but suffer psychologically. According to a study by Yon and colleagues (2017), it is estimated that 5.7% of individuals aged 60 years and older are victims of EA (elder abuse). Additionally, 28.5% of this population experiences loneliness in their last years of life, and 28.4% suffer from depression. Social isolation and loneliness are significant health risks for older adults and due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of social isolations among older adults has increased. This not only destroys the mental health of older adults but their physical health also deteriorates (Czaja et al., 2021). Social relationships are important aspects of one ‘s personal life. As age increases the depressive symptoms are most common in older adults. Factors like loneliness, physical illness, and lack of purpose affect older adult’s mental health. Studies indicate that older adults experience illness and low levels of happiness. Mental health issues in older adults require attention and support. Research conducted in China examined the impact of social activities on the mental health of older adults. Participants engaged in various activities, such as joining clubs, visiting friends, and playing games, which positively influenced their mental well-being (Gao et al., 2024). Such activities help lessen loneliness and foster a sense of belonging. Consistent emotional support from family members, peers, and caregivers can play a crucial part in diminishing depressive episodes and can help enhance resilience (Upasen et al., 2024c) Instrumental Support Instrumental support or Tangible support refers to the assistance that is provided by caregivers to help older adults carry out essential day-to-day activities (Schultz et al., 2022). These activities include: Bathing Toileting Eating Preparing meals throughout the day Medical Care Transportation Research findings indicate that anticipated instrumental support from various sources significantly reduces the odds of depressive symptoms. Specifically, anticipated support from spouses and children lowers the risk by 52% and 46%, respectively, compared to those without such anticipation (Fu et al., 2024c). Along with psychological stressors, older adults also face numerous challenges such as physical weakness, and chronic illness, which make them dependent on others. Instrumental support therefore helps to elevate such problems (Fu et al., 2024c): Encourage self-governance: Caregivers assist older adults, fostering independence and control over their lives, ultimately reducing the risk of future psychological issues. Strengthening Relationships: Support systems, such as emotional and instrumental support, can strengthen the connection and bond between caregivers and older adults. Helps in reducing the daily hassles: Providing support for older adults in managing their daily activities, including medication management, significantly enhances their overall quality of life. Caregiver Burden and Mental Health Outcomes Caregiver burden is a concept of understanding the physical, emotional and financial strain or stress experienced by caregivers, while they care for patients with chronic diseases or disabilities. It is manifested in different forms such as social isolation, psychological distress and physical health deterioration that further affects the quality of care that is provided to the patient (Bakkali & Renzulli, 2023; Parvizi & Ay, 2024). Standardized tools such as the Zarit Burden Inventory and the Burden Scale for Family Caregivers are often used in the assessment of caregiver burden and quantify their impact on caregivers, by helping in its measurement (Baysal & Corabay, 2024). Caregiver burden comprises different dimensions such as objective, subjective, and social burdens. All of them are quite relevant and affect caregivers’ lives, as well as the effectiveness of their caregiving. Objective Burden: The objective burden is all about objective things associated with the process of caregiving. These may include: Time Expenditure: Time expenditure has been identified as the most significant burden reported by care partners in
