Amid the ongoing trade war between the United States and China, Beijing on Wednesday hit back at Donald Trump’s 104 per cent tariffs with its own additional tariffs of 84 per cent, up from the previous 34 per cent, on all American goods. The Chinese finance ministry said that these additional tariffs will be imposed on goods from the US from April 10, news agency Reuters reported. Beijing had previously announced a retaliatory tariff of 34 per cent on American goods.

China’s commerce ministry also announced that it has added 12 US entities to its export control list, while including 6 American entities to its “unreliable entity” list.

ALSO READ | Donald Trump hits China with 104% tariffs amid ongoing trade tensions

Soon after the announcement, the US stock index futures also reportedly took a sharp dive.

This comes just a day after Trump imposed a 104 per cent tariffs on China, with the White House press secretary saying that the additional tariff will be collected from Wednesday, April 09.

Trump’s move was in response to China’s retaliation to his reciprocal tariffs, with the President on Tuesday saying that he was waiting for a response from China before implementing duties exceeding 100 per cent.

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The reaction comes in light of Goldman Sachs lowering India’s growth outlook by 20 to 40 basis points, now placing it at 6.1% for FY 2025-26. Economists attribute the dip to escalating trade tensions triggered by the US imposing a 26% tariff on Indian imports, with even higher rates targeting other major economies like China.

One of the most vulnerable sectors is India’s diamond export industry, which depends heavily on US demand. The sector is expected to take a major hit, threatening thousands of jobs.

Officials have confirmed that discussions are underway with key ministries and export associations to analyze the overall impact and possible responses. At least four to five proposals have been submitted to support the affected industries. These include extension of interest subsidies, export diversification support, and access to additional bank credit.

A separate finance official stated that while the situation is being closely monitored, India’s fiscal stability is not expected to be significantly impacted by the current trade shifts.

India reportedly does not plan to retaliate immediately, instead favoring a negotiation route to de-escalate tensions.

The stock market reacted sharply to global concerns, with the Sensex plummeting over 3,900 points in early trade on Monday. Investors lost more than ₹20 lakh crore in market value as the index logged one of its steepest falls since the COVID-19 pandemic.

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University’s Response

Following the controversy, the university issued a statement clarifying that its course is designed to provide an academic perspective on Hinduism and is not intended to misrepresent or offend any religious group. It emphasized that terms used in religious studies, such as fundamentalism, may differ in meaning from their public or political interpretations, leading to misunderstandings.

The university also stated that it does not typically review individual lectures but ensures that all courses meet established academic and pedagogical standards. It confirmed that the concerns raised by student Vasant Bhatt were reviewed by the dean and the director of religious studies, who subsequently discussed them with the course instructor, Professor Aaron Michael Ullrey.

Professor’s Clarification

Professor Ullrey, the instructor of the Lived Hindu Religion course, defended his teaching, asserting that his approach is rooted in descriptive anthropology rather than prescriptive theology. He stressed that his objective is to highlight the historical depth, rationality, and complexity of Hindu religious traditions.

Rejecting claims that he referred to Hinduism as a colonial construct or a political tool, Ullrey stated, “I never declared anything to be the essence of Hinduism, which would contradict both the course and my own research.” He also refuted reports that misquoted him as saying Hinduism was not an ancient, lived tradition.

He clarified that the course traces Hindu religious traditions back to the earliest scriptures of 1500 BCE and explores the development of rituals and mythologies from ancient times to the present. He asserted that his lectures address multiple perspectives on Hinduism, with no single interpretation being considered definitive.

The Controversy

The dispute began when Vasant Bhatt, a political science student at UH, accused the course of distorting Hinduism’s history and presenting it as an oppressive political tool. He filed a formal complaint with the dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, alleging that the professor’s teachings misrepresented the religion.

In response, the university upheld its stance on academic freedom while acknowledging the student’s concerns. It reiterated that the course is part of a broader academic effort to understand religious movements and is not intended to promote any particular ideology or perspective.

As discussions continue, the controversy has sparked debates on how Hinduism is represented in academic settings, with students and scholars weighing in on the balance between religious sensitivity and academic inquiry.

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Myanmar Seeks International Aid

Myanmar’s military junta leader, General Min Aung Hlaing, has urged international support, inviting “any country” to send assistance. While Myanmar has traditionally been hesitant to accept foreign aid, the scale of the disaster has prompted a change in stance. The UN has allocated $5 million for immediate relief efforts, and India has pledged to send over 15 tonnes of relief materials, including medical supplies, food, and shelter essentials.

Destruction and Humanitarian Crisis

Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, has suffered extensive damage, with monks trapped under rubble at Phaya Taung Monastery. Hospitals in major cities, including Naypyidaw and Sagaing, are struggling to accommodate the influx of victims. In Thailand, a 33-story under-construction building collapsed in Bangkok, killing at least six people.

International Reactions and Support

• United Nations – Secretary-General Antonio Guterres confirmed that the UN is mobilizing in Southeast Asia for relief efforts.
• United States – Former President Donald Trump stated that his administration would assist Myanmar in disaster recovery.
• Pope Francis – The Vatican released a statement confirming the pope’s prayers for the victims in both Myanmar and Thailand.
• India – The Indian Air Force is deploying aircraft loaded with aid supplies to assist Myanmar.

Ongoing Aftershocks and Risks

Aftershocks continue to rattle the region, with a 6.4-magnitude tremor following the main earthquake and another 4.2-magnitude shock occurring late Friday night. The US Geological Survey has warned that the final death toll could exceed initial estimates.

Global Concerns Amid Political Instability

The earthquake comes at a time of political turmoil in Myanmar, further complicating relief efforts. Amnesty International noted that the disaster has worsened conditions for displaced populations in the country. With resources already strained, humanitarian organizations are urging swift international action to prevent further loss of life.

The world watches as Myanmar struggles to recover from one of its deadliest earthquakes, with rescue teams racing against time to save those still trapped under the rubble.

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A Champion Born from Adversity

Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, Foreman had a difficult childhood, growing up in the tough Fifth Ward of Houston. He was a troubled youth but found his calling in boxing through the Job Corps, where he was mentored by legendary trainer Doc Broadus. His natural talent, raw power, and determination quickly set him apart, and he rose to prominence in the boxing world at an astonishing pace.

Foreman’s breakthrough moment came in 1968 when he won a gold medal in the heavyweight boxing division at the Mexico City Olympics. His dominant performance on the international stage paved the way for his professional career, and soon, he became a feared and respected figure in heavyweight boxing.

Becoming the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion

Foreman turned professional in 1969 and quickly made his mark with a string of knockout victories. His defining moment came in 1973 when he challenged Joe Frazier for the heavyweight championship. In what remains one of the most brutal and one-sided title fights in boxing history, Foreman knocked Frazier down six times in two rounds, securing the undisputed heavyweight championship of the world. That fight not only established Foreman as the most intimidating puncher of his era but also cemented his place among boxing’s all-time greats.

However, his reign as champion came to an abrupt halt in 1974 in one of the most famous boxing matches of all time—“The Rumble in the Jungle” against Muhammad Ali in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo). Ali employed the now-legendary “rope-a-dope” strategy, allowing Foreman to tire himself out before delivering a stunning knockout in the eighth round. It was a humbling loss for Foreman, but it became one of the most celebrated fights in history.

Following his defeat, Foreman continued to fight but experienced mixed success. In 1977, after a shocking loss to Jimmy Young, he claimed to have a near-death experience in his dressing room, which led him to retire from boxing and devote his life to religion.

A New Life as a Minister and a Stunning Comeback

Foreman became an ordained minister and dedicated himself to preaching and community service. He founded the George Foreman Youth and Community Center in Houston, providing mentorship and guidance to underprivileged children. For nearly a decade, he stayed away from the ring, focusing on his faith and his charitable endeavors.

However, in 1987, Foreman made an unprecedented return to boxing at the age of 38. Initially, many dismissed his comeback as a publicity stunt, but he proved doubters wrong by gradually working his way back to the top. His second run in boxing was defined by his transformation—gone was the menacing young knockout artist; in his place stood a wiser, more composed fighter with a jovial personality that won over fans worldwide.

Then, in 1994, in what is regarded as one of the most extraordinary moments in boxing history, Foreman, at the age of 45, knocked out the much younger and heavily favored Michael Moorer to reclaim the heavyweight championship. With that victory, he became the oldest heavyweight champion in history, a record that still stands today. Foreman retired for good in 1997, leaving behind a professional record of 76 wins (68 by knockout) and 5 losses.

The Business Empire – The George Foreman Grill

While most athletes struggle financially after retirement, Foreman became a business icon. In the mid-1990s, he partnered with Salton, Inc. to endorse a fat-reducing cooking device—the George Foreman Grill. His warm and friendly personality made the grill a household name, and the product became a massive success.

Foreman’s business acumen proved to be just as formidable as his punching power. He reportedly earned over $200 million from the grill business, far exceeding what he made during his boxing career. His success as an entrepreneur made him a role model for athletes looking to transition into business after retirement.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Foreman’s story is one of transformation and perseverance. From a troubled youth to an Olympic champion, from a feared knockout artist to a beloved public figure, and from a retired boxer to a multimillionaire entrepreneur, his life embodied the power of reinvention.

His influence extended beyond sports and business—he was a devoted father, a philanthropist, and a man of faith. He was known for his humility, humor, and infectious enthusiasm. He named all five of his sons “George” as a way of ensuring they carried on his legacy. His impact on the sport of boxing and beyond will be remembered for generations to come.

Tributes Pour In from Around the World

Following the news of his passing, tributes flooded in from across the world. Former rivals, fellow boxers, celebrities, and fans paid homage to Foreman’s contributions to boxing and his larger-than-life persona.

Boxing legend Mike Tyson shared, “George was not just a champion in the ring but a true champion in life. He inspired millions with his story of resilience and redemption.”

Former heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis wrote, “A warrior, a preacher, a businessman, a father. Foreman did it all. The boxing world has lost a legend.”

Even outside the sports world, people recognized Foreman’s impact. TV personality Oprah Winfrey commented, “He taught us that success isn’t just about winning fights, but about how you live your life.”

Final Thoughts

George Foreman’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will live on. His incredible journey—from a fierce young champion to a revered elder statesman of boxing and business—serves as an inspiration for athletes and dreamers worldwide.

As fans remember his thunderous punches, his infectious laughter, and his iconic grill, one thing is certain: George Foreman will never be forgotten.

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Ceasefire Breakdown and Escalation

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the decision to resume military action was due to Hamas’ refusal to release hostages and rejection of ceasefire proposals. “Israel will, from now on, act against Hamas with increasing military strength,” a statement from Netanyahu’s office declared.

Reports indicate that Israeli airstrikes targeted Deir Al-Balah, Gaza City, Khan Younis, and Rafah, with the Palestinian civil emergency service confirming at least 35 airstrikes across Gaza. Senior Hamas security official Mahmoud Abu Watfa was reportedly among those killed in the strikes.

Failed Ceasefire Talks

The ceasefire, which began in January, was structured in three phases and initially led to the release of three dozen hostages in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. However, efforts by Arab mediators and the United States to negotiate the second phase, aimed at securing the release of 60 remaining hostages, collapsed. Netanyahu had warned earlier that military action would resume if Hamas did not comply with Israel’s demands.

Humanitarian Toll and International Response

The conflict, which started after Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack that killed around 1,200 people and took 250 hostages, has resulted in severe humanitarian consequences. According to Gaza health officials, over 48,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel’s counteroffensive began, with 90% of Gaza’s population displaced. The Gaza Health Ministry reports that more than half of the casualties are women and children.

The White House was reportedly consulted before Israel launched Monday’s airstrikes, according to Fox News. Meanwhile, the situation remains volatile as both sides show no signs of backing down, raising concerns over the fate of hostages and civilians caught in the conflict.

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Although no immediate reports of damage or injuries have surfaced, the quake caused a moment of panic among residents who felt the sudden jolt. Many Californians are accustomed to minor earthquakes, but the frequency of recent seismic activity in the region has raised concerns about the possibility of a larger earthquake in the near future.

Residents Describe the Earthquake Experience

Many locals took to social media and online earthquake tracking forums to describe their experiences. Some reported mild vibrations, while others noted stronger swaying motions that lasted for a few seconds.

A Brea resident shared their experience with Volcano Discovery, a platform that collects real-time earthquake reports from around the world:
“I was sitting in my chair reading when I suddenly felt a very gentle vibration. It was a small jiggle, nothing too alarming, but it was noticeable.”

Meanwhile, a Camarillo resident described the quake as unsettling:
“At first, I thought it was a passing truck or some random movement, but then I realized it was an earthquake. I felt like I had to wait for it to pass, but the intensity seemed to increase for just a brief moment. I don’t know if it was my fear of the unknown kicking in, but it definitely made me uneasy. I remember the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake, and that was terrifying. This one wasn’t nearly as bad, but it had that same swaying motion. You never know when a minor tremor could turn into something much bigger.”

Another resident from Agoura Hills reported:
“The walls of my apartment shook for about three to four seconds. It wasn’t violent, but enough to wake me up. It’s the third Sunday in a row that we’ve had an earthquake around here. It makes me nervous.”

Social Media Reactions

Many California residents took to X (formerly Twitter) to share their reactions to the quake.

• One user wrote: “Wild! Glad it was only a few seconds, but I’m definitely staying prepared.”
• Another commented: “Earthquake in LA again?! This is getting too frequent. Mother Nature, give us a break!”
• A concerned resident tweeted: “LA has had an earthquake every Sunday for the past three weeks… I’m officially worried.”
• One humorously added: “At this point, my earthquake kit is just my running shoes by the bed.”

Recent Earthquakes in the Region

This is the latest in a series of earthquakes that have struck Southern California in recent weeks. Just over a week ago, on March 9, a 4.1-magnitude earthquake hit Westlake Village near Malibu. That tremor, which had a depth of 11.7 kilometers, was felt across Los Angeles, Thousand Oaks, Ventura County, Simi Valley, and Long Beach.

Although minor earthquakes are common in California, seismologists are keeping a close watch on these recurring events. The region sits on the San Andreas Fault, one of the most well-known fault lines in the world. Experts warn that while small quakes relieve some built-up stress along fault lines, they could also be precursors to a much larger seismic event.

Preparedness and Safety Measures

With the increase in seismic activity, experts are urging residents to take basic earthquake preparedness measures. Here are a few key recommendations from the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES):

1. Have an Emergency Kit – Include water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and important documents.
2. Create a Family Plan – Identify a safe location inside and outside your home and practice earthquake drills with your family.
3. Secure Heavy Objects – Bolt bookshelves, mirrors, and other heavy items to walls to prevent them from falling during a quake.
4. Know Drop, Cover, and Hold On – In case of an earthquake, drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops.
5. Stay Informed – Sign up for earthquake alerts through apps like ShakeAlert to receive early warnings.

What’s Next?

While no significant damage was reported from the March 17 earthquake, seismologists will continue monitoring aftershocks and other seismic activity in the area. California remains one of the most earthquake-prone regions in the world, and scientists continue to study patterns in an effort to better predict future quakes.

For now, residents are advised to stay vigilant, be prepared, and take precautions as the state experiences ongoing seismic activity.

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Abu Qatal was a close associate of Hafiz Saeed, the mastermind behind the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. He was a key member of LeT and was known for plotting several attacks in Jammu & Kashmir.

Last year, on June 9, Abu Qatal was involved in the attack on a bus carrying pilgrims returning from the Shiv Khori temple in Reasi district, Jammu & Kashmir. The attack claimed the lives of 10 people.

Reports of Hafiz Saeed’s Death Emerge, Later Denied

Social media was flooded with reports claiming that Hafiz Saeed was also killed in this attack. Some users stated that while Abu Qatal was driving through the Jhelum area, bike-riding assailants opened fire on his car. Abu Qatal was killed on the spot, and Hafiz Saeed, who was reportedly in the car, was injured and later succumbed to his wounds. However, these claims were later denied.

Last Year’s Attack on Pilgrims’ Bus in Reasi

On June 9, 2024, terrorists opened fire on a bus traveling from Shiv Khori to Katra in Jammu & Kashmir. The driver was injured, causing him to lose control of the bus, which then fell into a gorge. The attack resulted in 10 deaths and 33 injuries. Abu Qatal was identified as one of the masterminds behind the attack.

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The crew of four astronauts include – Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers, JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Kirill Peskov.
Crew-10 is the 10th crew rotation mission under SpaceX’s human space transportation system and the 11th flight with a crew aboard to the ISS station through NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, including the Demo-2 test flight. The mission was delayed on Thursday due to a hydraulic system issue with a ground support clamp arm.

NASA’S The Falcon 9 rocket lifted off from its Kennedy Space Center to bring back two astronauts.Washington:
NASA and billionaire Elon Musk’s SpaceX on Friday (local time) launched a fresh crew to the International Space Station (ISS), paving the way for stranded astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore to return home after nine long months. The Falcon 9 rocket, carrying a Dragon spacecraft on the Crew-10 mission, lifted off from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center at 4:33 am (IST) after a brief delay on Thursday.

The crew of four astronauts include – Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers, JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Kirill Peskov.

Crew-10 is the 10th crew rotation mission under SpaceX’s human space transportation system and the 11th flight with a crew aboard to the ISS station through NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, including the Demo-2 test flight. The mission was delayed on Thursday due to a hydraulic system issue with a ground support clamp arm.

NASA’s veteran astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have been stuck aboard the ISS in June last year. What was supposed to be an eight-day ISS mission, stretched into months due to a Boeing Starliner spacecraft malfunction. The astronauts were to return home in February next year, but even that was delayed.

According to NASA, the two stranded astronauts are scheduled to return to Earth a few days after the Crew-10 launch.

What began as a technical failure has also spiraled into a political flashpoint, as US President Donald Trump and his close advisor, Elon Musk — who leads SpaceX — have repeatedly suggested that former president Joe Biden “abandoned” the pair intentionally and rejected a plan to bring them back sooner. That accusation caused uproar in the space community, especially since Mr Musk did not provide any specifics.

The duo’s return plan has been unchanged since they were reassigned to SpaceX’s Crew-9, which arrived in September aboard another Dragon carrying only two crew members- instead of the usual four- to make room for Mr Wilmore and Ms Williams. When Danish astronaut Andreas Mogensen pointed this out on X, Mr Musk lashed out at him, using a slur for mentally disabled people.

Some retired astronauts rushed to Mr Mogensen’s defense — while Mr Wilmore appeared to back the SpaceX CEO, saying his comments must have been “factual,” though he admitted he was not privy to any details.

Mr Trump, meanwhile, has drawn attention for his bizarre remarks about the situation, referring to Ms Williams, a decorated former naval captain, as “the woman with the wild hair” and speculating about the personal dynamic between the two.

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