Asia’s NCD Strategy: Regional Collaboration

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer account for 60% of deaths in Asia. Regional health bodies now coordinate NCD screening programs, lifestyle awareness campaigns, and cross-border research collaborations. Singapore leads with AI-powered health risk prediction tools, while India and
October 6, 2025

Rice Belt Innovations in Asia: From Thailand to Bangladesh

Asia’s rice bowl nations face challenges of water scarcity, soil degradation, and labor shortages. Mechanization, drought-tolerant seed varieties, and alternate wetting-drying irrigation methods improve yields sustainably. Thailand pioneers laser land leveling for efficient water use, while Bangladesh adopts rice transplanters reducing manual
October 6, 2025

Southeast Asia & Central Asia: Tech Hubs Beyond the Usual Suspects

Countries like Vietnam, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan are emerging as alternative technology hubs thanks to young workforces, pro-digital policies, and strategic locations between Europe and Asia. Vietnam’s IT outsourcing sector, Uzbekistan’s e-commerce boom, and Kazakhstan’s fintech startups illustrate diverse innovation landscapes. Governments are
October 6, 2025

AAN

AAN | 27:12:2025
India has been confirmed as the Chair of the Kimberley Process for the year 2026, bringing closure to an extended impasse over leadership within the global diamond certification body. The decision was reached by consensus among participating members, following months of negotiations after earlier bids failed to gain unanimous support. India will formally assume the chairmanship from January 1, 2026, after serving briefly as Vice-Chair in late 2025.

The Kimberley Process is a tripartite initiative involving governments, the diamond industry, and civil society, aimed at preventing the trade in conflict diamonds. India’s appointment marks its third tenure as Chair, underscoring its growing influence in the global diamond value chain. During its chairmanship, India is expected to prioritise governance reforms, strengthen compliance mechanisms, and advance discussions on transparency and traceability within the Kimberley Process framework.

Source: Rapaport News