Former Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the country amid massive public uproar surrounding the ongoing food and fuel shortages. Rajapaksa is currently in Singapore, but a Cabinet spokesperson said that he is “not in hiding” and will be returning to the country “very soon”.

During an interview with Daily Mirror, Bandula Gunawardena clarified that the visit to Singapore was due to “personal reasons” and although he is “not aware of an exact date”, Rajapaksa will not be staying there indefinitely. He added that all proper procedures were followed regarding the visit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-slams-pak-chinas-proposal-to-invite-third-countries-in-cpec-projects-500680">India slams Pak-China’s proposal to invite&nbsp;third countries&nbsp;in CPEC projects</a>

The island nation has been experiencing huge inflation in the recent past and this is the most economic crisis in Sri Lankan history since they gained independence back in 1948.

Following the massive protests around the country, Rajapaksa left for Singapore on July 12 and on the following day, he officially submitted his resignation. He was succeeded by Former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe who was elected after yet another election in Sri Lanka.

While Rajapaksa maintained that his visit to Singapore was “completely personal”, the spokesperson for the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs also confirmed that he has not applied for asylum.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

&nbsp;“He (Rajapaksa) has not asked for asylum and neither has he been granted any asylum. Singapore generally does not grant requests for asylum,” the spokesperson said according to Reuters.

Meanwhile, a rights group called the International Truth and Justice Project (ITJP) has lodged a complaint for Rajapaksa’s arrest in Singapore for his role in the Sri Lanka civil war.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the country amid massive public uproar surrounding the ongoing food and fuel shortages. Rajapaksa is currently in Singapore, but a Cabinet spokesperson said that he is “not in hiding” and will be returning to the country “very soon”.

Former Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the country amid massive public uproar surrounding the ongoing food and fuel shortages. Rajapaksa is currently in Singapore, but a Cabinet spokesperson said that he is “not in hiding” and will be returning to the country “very soon”. During an interview with Daily Mirror, Bandula Gunawardena clarified that the visit to Singapore was due to “personal reasons” and although he is “not aware of an exact date”, Rajapaksa will not be staying there indefinitely. He added that all proper procedures were followed regarding the visit. Also read | India slams Pak-China’s proposal to invite third countries in CPEC projects The island nation has been experiencing huge inflation in the recent past and this is the most economic crisis in Sri Lankan history since they gained independence back in 1948. Following the massive protests around the country, Rajapaksa left for Singapore on July 12 and on the following day, he officially submitted his resignation. He was succeeded by Former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe who was elected after yet another election in Sri Lanka. While Rajapaksa maintained that his visit to Singapore was “completely personal”, the spokesperson for the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs also confirmed that he has not applied for asylum. WATCH WION LIVE HERE - “He (Rajapaksa) has not asked for asylum and neither has he been granted any asylum. Singapore generally does not grant requests for asylum,” the spokesperson said according to Reuters. Meanwhile, a rights group called the International Truth and Justice Project (ITJP) has lodged a complaint for Rajapaksa’s arrest in Singapore for his role in the Sri Lanka civil war. (With inputs from agencies)

Former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa will return to Sri Lanka, says cabinet spokesperson

Sri Lanka's new President Ranil Wickremesinghe swears in his Cabinet on Friday comprising members of the previous government. Dinesh Gunewardena takes oath as the new Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. Gunawardena, 73 had earlier served as the foreign minister and education minister.

Sri Lanka Live News: New President Ranil Wickremesinghe swears in new cabinet

British PM Boris Johnson has convened his cabinet today, a day after he survived the challenge to his leadership. In all, 211 Tory MPs voted for him while 148 were against which means PM Boris Johnson cannot be challenged for almost an year.

Boris Johnson convenes cabinet, Tory rebels vow to keep trying to topple UK PM's government

Australia's new federal ministry was sworn into office on Wednesday, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese appointing a record number of women to a diverse cabinet team.

Australia's first ever cabinet with 10 women and Muslim federal ministers

Pakistan prime minister Shehbaz Sharif will be returning home from London after an extended visit with his cabinet to meet Nawaz Sharif. Who's calling the shots in Pakistan? Exiled Sharif or Junior Sharif?

Pakistan: Opposition targets Shehbaz Sharif govt over London visit

Political turmoil continues to worsen in Sri Lanka as protests against the ongoing economic crisis continue. In the latest, unconfirmed reports suggest that Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa might have resigned .

Sri Lanka: Cabinet spokesperson says PM Mahinda Rajapaksa agreed to step down

In the new cabinet under Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has been sworn in as Pakistan's new Foreign Minister.

Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto Zardari sworn in as Pakistan's new Foreign Minister

Pakistan's new Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has appointed a multi-party coalition cabinet for his government without any big surprises, however, the key portfolios have been assigned to officials from the two parties that combined to oust Imran Khan in the first place.

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif picks multi-party coalition cabinet

Thirty-one federal ministers and three state ministers of the newly elected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s cabinet took oath on Tuesday after much delay.

Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani administered the oath after President Arif Alvi excused himself over a reported illness.

A notification issued by Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s office revealed the names of the federal cabinet ministers who would be taking the charge. Among them include Marriyum Aurangzeb, Khawaja Asif, Rana Sanaullah, Rana Tanvir and Sherry Rehman.

Moreover, as per the notification, Dr. Aisha Ghaus Pasha, Hina Rabbani Khar, Abdul Rehman Khan Kanju and Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar have been named as the minister of state.&nbsp;

As per the cabinet division, Sharif’s PML-N party, which leads the National Assembly with a majority among the ruling alliance, will have 12 federal ministers, two ministers of state, and two advisers.

The PPP will have nine federal ministers, two ministers of state, and one adviser to the PM.

Four ministers will be from JUIF, two from MQM-Pakistan, and one each from JWP, BAP, and PML-Q.

Meanwhile, President Alvi is expected to go on leave on Tuesday over reported illness, Dawn newspaper reported citing sources.

Previously, Alvi couldn’t administer the&nbsp;oath to PM Sharif&nbsp;on health grounds after which Sanjrani had taken over the responsibility.

According to Alvi's official Twitter account, the Pakistan president has been examined by a doctor.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-is-turning-off-lights-in-homes-and-businesses-here-is-why-471961">&nbsp;Pakistan is turning off lights in homes and businesses. Here is why&nbsp;</a>

“President Dr Arif Alvi has complained of discomfort. The physician has examined him thoroughly and has advised him to rest for a few days," the tweet read

GeoTV, citing sources, reported that the opposition is looking to remove President Arif Alvi, but they have not yet decided as they need support in the national and provincial assemblies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bilawal-bhutto-likely-to-be-pakistans-next-foreign-minister-say-sources-471930">Bilawal Bhutto likely to be Pakistan's next foreign minister, say sources</a>

The ruling parties would decide the name of the next president at an appropriate time, the Pakistani-based news outlet reported.

Watch |&nbsp;Shehbaz Sharif yet to unveil his team, 36 cabinet ministers to take oath in Islamabad

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shehbaz-sharif-yet-to-unveil-his-team-36-cabinet-ministers-to-take-oath-in-islamabad-471991/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

(With inputs from agencies)

Thirty-one federal ministers and three state ministers of the newly elected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s cabinet took oath on Tuesday after much delay. Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani administered the oath after President Arif Alvi excused himself over a reported illness.

Thirty-one federal ministers and three state ministers of the newly elected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s cabinet took oath on Tuesday after much delay. Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani administered the oath after President Arif Alvi excused himself over a reported illness. A notification issued by Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s office revealed the names of the federal cabinet ministers who would be taking the charge. Among them include Marriyum Aurangzeb, Khawaja Asif, Rana Sanaullah, Rana Tanvir and Sherry Rehman. Moreover, as per the notification, Dr. Aisha Ghaus Pasha, Hina Rabbani Khar, Abdul Rehman Khan Kanju and Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar have been named as the minister of state. As per the cabinet division, Sharif’s PML-N party, which leads the National Assembly with a majority among the ruling alliance, will have 12 federal ministers, two ministers of state, and two advisers. The PPP will have nine federal ministers, two ministers of state, and one adviser to the PM. Four ministers will be from JUIF, two from MQM-Pakistan, and one each from JWP, BAP, and PML-Q. Meanwhile, President Alvi is expected to go on leave on Tuesday over reported illness, Dawn newspaper reported citing sources. Previously, Alvi couldn’t administer the oath to PM Sharif on health grounds after which Sanjrani had taken over the responsibility. According to Alvi's official Twitter account, the Pakistan president has been examined by a doctor. Also read | Pakistan is turning off lights in homes and businesses. Here is why “President Dr Arif Alvi has complained of discomfort. The physician has examined him thoroughly and has advised him to rest for a few days," the tweet read GeoTV, citing sources, reported that the opposition is looking to remove President Arif Alvi, but they have not yet decided as they need support in the national and provincial assemblies. Also read | Bilawal Bhutto likely to be Pakistan's next foreign minister, say sources The ruling parties would decide the name of the next president at an appropriate time, the Pakistani-based news outlet reported. Watch | Shehbaz Sharif yet to unveil his team, 36 cabinet ministers to take oath in Islamabad (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif's long-awaited cabinet takes oath today

Sri Lanka: The parliament of the debt ridden south Asian nation is all set to reconvene tomorrow but there is more political trouble for the Gotabaya-led government.

Sri Lanka: New cabinet to be sworn-in tomorrow, 18 ministers to take oath

Pakistan's new Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to unveil his cabinet today, a week after he was elected to power during the midnight session vote of the national assembly.

Pakistan cabinet: PM Shehbaz Sharif to unveil cabinet, no clarity on portfolio distribution yet

The parliament of the debt ridden south Asian nation Sri Lanka is all set to reconvene tomorrow but for now President Gotabaya has appointed 17 new cabinet ministers which comes amid widespread anti-govt protests .

Sri Lanka cabinet: 17 new ministers appointed by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa

Will Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) join the Cabinet of the new government led by Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif? &nbsp;

The question seems to be on the minds of several people in Pakistan and elsewhere. &nbsp;

Although the PM has been laying stress that the second largest party in the ruling coalition should join it, the co-chair of PPP, Asif Ali Zardari, has hinted that the party may not take up any ministries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/raja-parvaiz-ashraf-elected-new-pak-national-assembly-speaker-471390" hreflang="en">Raja Parvaiz&nbsp;Ashraf elected new Pak National Assembly Speaker</a>

The party seems to be more interested in constitutional offices,&nbsp;Dawn reported quoting a PPP leader.&nbsp;It also wants to give a chance to other members of the coalition, which comprises eight political parties. &nbsp;

"I don't think we are taking any ministries. We want to give a chance to our friends,” PPP co-chair told journalists on Saturday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The remark came outside the National Assembly when Raja Pervaiz Ashraf of PPP was elected as speaker unopposed. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Shehbaz Sharif government yet to finalise cabinet, MQM-P likely to get Sindh governorship

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/shehbaz-sharif-government-yet-to-finalise-cabinet-mqm-p-likely-to-get-sindh-governorship-471421/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Cabinet is yet to be decided. The PPP has earlier told the PM that it wants to support the government from the outside, Dawn said citing sources. &nbsp;

“We know the fragile nature of our alliance and we want to see the present government succeeding. We don’t want to give an impression that we have come to power only to get some portfolios or to enjoy perks and privileges. We want business,” a PPP leader had earlier said. &nbsp;

The PM has also been tight-lipped over the inclusion of PPP in the Cabinet. A decision on the federal Cabinet may come soon, media reports said citing sources in PML(N). &nbsp;

The PPP seems to have been preparing for the next elections as it has started accepting applications for ticket allotment for general elections, both for national and provincial assembly seats. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Will Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) join the Cabinet of the new government led by Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif? The question seems to be on the minds of several people in Pakistan and elsewhere.

Will Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) join the Cabinet of the new government led by Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif? The question seems to be on the minds of several people in Pakistan and elsewhere. Although the PM has been laying stress that the second largest party in the ruling coalition should join it, the co-chair of PPP, Asif Ali Zardari, has hinted that the party may not take up any ministries. Also Read: Raja Parvaiz Ashraf elected new Pak National Assembly Speaker The party seems to be more interested in constitutional offices, Dawn reported quoting a PPP leader. It also wants to give a chance to other members of the coalition, which comprises eight political parties. "I don't think we are taking any ministries. We want to give a chance to our friends,” PPP co-chair told journalists on Saturday. The remark came outside the National Assembly when Raja Pervaiz Ashraf of PPP was elected as speaker unopposed. Watch: Shehbaz Sharif government yet to finalise cabinet, MQM-P likely to get Sindh governorship × The Cabinet is yet to be decided. The PPP has earlier told the PM that it wants to support the government from the outside, Dawn said citing sources. “We know the fragile nature of our alliance and we want to see the present government succeeding. We don’t want to give an impression that we have come to power only to get some portfolios or to enjoy perks and privileges. We want business,” a PPP leader had earlier said. The PM has also been tight-lipped over the inclusion of PPP in the Cabinet. A decision on the federal Cabinet may come soon, media reports said citing sources in PML(N). The PPP seems to have been preparing for the next elections as it has started accepting applications for ticket allotment for general elections, both for national and provincial assembly seats. (With inputs from agencies)

Will PPP join Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif's Cabinet? Leader Asif Ali Zardari gives a hint

Crisis-ridden Sri Lankan government is struggling to contain the outrage across the country after Sri Lanka's entire cabinet resigned from their post, the embattled president invited the opposition to join a unity government.

Sri Lanka Crisis: Gotabaya invites opposition to join a  unity govt, forms a temporary cabinet

Pakistan's Federal Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry has revealed that Prime Minister Imran Khan would soon make changes in the federal and Punjab cabinets.

Cabinet will be rejigged in 2 weeks, says Pakistan minister Fawad Chaudhry

With a massive change in the political system, Chile's youngest president Gabriel Boric has unveiled his first centrist cabinet, and for the first time in the history of Chile, the country's cabinet is all set to be dominated by women.

Chile's youngest ever President Gabriel Boric unveils his women majority cabinet

After a record wait of 10 months after elections, the Netherlands has finally elected a new cabinet. This is the Dutch prime minister's 4th coalition government and is aimed big at climate change and dealing with the Covid situation.

Netherlands: New cabinet to focus on climate change, and Covid fallout

In a new directive, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan seems to have barred federal cabinet members from going abroad without permission, a report by 'The Express Tribune' said.

At a recent federal cabinet meeting, the matter linked to National Assembly Member (MNA) Riaz Fatyana’s trip to Glasgow for the climate summit came up. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/historic-rally-women-in-pakistans-gwadar-demand-basic-rights-432919" hreflang="en">'Historic rally': Women in Pakistan's Gwadar demand basic rights</a>

When it was discussed, the PM said that as he was also not undertaking foreign visits, the ministers should follow suit. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry also said that the MNAs and senators of the country have been travelling abroad more than the ministers. &nbsp;

Khan said that even the MNAs and senators should not go on such trips. “Government affairs should be the first priority for us,” the leader added. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/army-colonels-majors-are-acting-like-kings-says-chief-justice-of-pakistan-432699" hreflang="en">Army colonels, majors are acting like kings, says chief justice of Pakistan &nbsp;</a>

Earlier, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan decided to allow Indian wheat to reach Afghanistan through Pakistan. Pakistan government made the decision public in a press release and via tweet. &nbsp;

The release said 50,000 metric tonnes of Indian wheat will go to Afghanistan a humanitarian help. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Khan also vowed to facilitate the return of Afghan patients who had gone to India for medical treatment. &nbsp;

"Pakistan will also facilitate the return of Afghan patients who had gone to India for medical treatment and are stuck there," announced the prime minister. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a new directive, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan seems to have barred federal cabinet members from going abroad without permission, a report by 'The Express Tribune' said.

In a new directive, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan seems to have barred federal cabinet members from going abroad without permission, a report by 'The Express Tribune' said. At a recent federal cabinet meeting, the matter linked to National Assembly Member (MNA) Riaz Fatyana’s trip to Glasgow for the climate summit came up. Also Read | 'Historic rally': Women in Pakistan's Gwadar demand basic rights When it was discussed, the PM said that as he was also not undertaking foreign visits, the ministers should follow suit. Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry also said that the MNAs and senators of the country have been travelling abroad more than the ministers. Khan said that even the MNAs and senators should not go on such trips. “Government affairs should be the first priority for us,” the leader added. Also Read: Army colonels, majors are acting like kings, says chief justice of Pakistan Earlier, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan decided to allow Indian wheat to reach Afghanistan through Pakistan. Pakistan government made the decision public in a press release and via tweet. The release said 50,000 metric tonnes of Indian wheat will go to Afghanistan a humanitarian help. Khan also vowed to facilitate the return of Afghan patients who had gone to India for medical treatment. "Pakistan will also facilitate the return of Afghan patients who had gone to India for medical treatment and are stuck there," announced the prime minister. (With inputs from agencies)

Federal cabinet members can’t go abroad without permission, says Pakistan PM

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a bill to repeal the three farm laws, which triggered protests at Delhi borders by thousands of farmers, according to official sources.

The Farm Laws Repeal Bill, 2021 was approved days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement to repeal the three central farm laws.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reacts-to-pm-modis-decision-to-repeal-three-controversial-farm-laws-430439">India reacts to PM Modi's decision to repeal three controversial farm laws</a>

The new bill will now be introduced in the Lok Sabha for passage in the upcoming Winter session of Parliament beginning November 29.

The repeal of these three legislations has been one of the key demands of around 40 farmer unions protesting against these reforms for nearly a year now.

On November 19, Modi in his address to the nation had announced the withdrawal of the three farm laws saying the government could not convince protesting farmers of the benefits of these reforms. He had also urged them to end the protest and return home.

The three laws to be repealed are: Farmer's Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act; The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Act; and The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-repeals-three-controversial-farm-laws-asks-protesting-farmers-to-return-home-430403">Indian PM Modi repeals three controversial farm laws, asks protesting farmers to return home</a>

These laws, passed in September last year, had triggered widespread protests by thousands of farmers mainly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh at Delhi borders.

The protest started at the fag-end of November 2020 and is still continuing.

Meanwhile, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) -- joint body of farmer unions leading the current protests -- on Sunday wrote to the Prime Minister urging him to immediately resume talks on the farmers' six demands including a legal guarantee to the procurement of crops at minimum support price (MSP).

Watch |&nbsp;All three farm laws repealed, PM Modi apologizes to farmers, urges them to go home

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/all-three-farm-laws-repealed-pm-modi-apologizes-to-farmers-urges-them-to-go-home-430440/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">
The other demands were sacking and arrest of Union Minister of State for Home Ajay Mishra in connection with the Lakhimpur Kheri incident, withdrawal of cases against farmers and building of a memorial for those who lost their lives during the agitation.

They also sought removal of penal provisions on farmers in the "Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act 2021" and withdrawal of the draft "Electricity Amendments Bill, 2020/2021" proposed by the government.

SKM had said it would continue its planned protests, including the march to Parliament on November 29, to observe one year of anti-farm law protests.
</div>

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a bill to repeal the three farm laws, which triggered protests at Delhi borders by thousands of farmers, according to official sources.

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a bill to repeal the three farm laws, which triggered protests at Delhi borders by thousands of farmers, according to official sources. The Farm Laws Repeal Bill, 2021 was approved days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement to repeal the three central farm laws. Also read | India reacts to PM Modi's decision to repeal three controversial farm laws The new bill will now be introduced in the Lok Sabha for passage in the upcoming Winter session of Parliament beginning November 29. The repeal of these three legislations has been one of the key demands of around 40 farmer unions protesting against these reforms for nearly a year now. On November 19, Modi in his address to the nation had announced the withdrawal of the three farm laws saying the government could not convince protesting farmers of the benefits of these reforms. He had also urged them to end the protest and return home. The three laws to be repealed are: Farmer's Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act; The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Act; and The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act. Also read | Indian PM Modi repeals three controversial farm laws, asks protesting farmers to return home These laws, passed in September last year, had triggered widespread protests by thousands of farmers mainly from Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh at Delhi borders. The protest started at the fag-end of November 2020 and is still continuing. Meanwhile, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) -- joint body of farmer unions leading the current protests -- on Sunday wrote to the Prime Minister urging him to immediately resume talks on the farmers' six demands including a legal guarantee to the procurement of crops at minimum support price (MSP). Watch | All three farm laws repealed, PM Modi apologizes to farmers, urges them to go home The other demands were sacking and arrest of Union Minister of State for Home Ajay Mishra in connection with the Lakhimpur Kheri incident, withdrawal of cases against farmers and building of a memorial for those who lost their lives during the agitation. They also sought removal of penal provisions on farmers in the "Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Act 2021" and withdrawal of the draft "Electricity Amendments Bill, 2020/2021" proposed by the government. SKM had said it would continue its planned protests, including the march to Parliament on November 29, to observe one year of anti-farm law protests.

Cabinet approves Farm Laws Repeal Bill; a new bill to be introduced in upcoming winter session of parliament

The Taliban on Tuesday said that they have expanded their interim cabinet by adding 27 new members.Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesman for the interim government, said the appointments had been made in compliance with orders from Taliban`s supreme leader Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada, reported Pajhwok Afghan News.

More than two dozen high-level officials, including ministers and deputy ministers, were named.Maulvi Shahabuddin Delawar has been appointed as acting minister of mines and petroleum and Mullah Mohammad Abbas Akhund as acting minister of disaster management.

Twenty-five others have been appointed as deputy ministers, corps commanders and heads of independent departments, according to a list released by Mujahid, reported Pajhwok Afghan News.

The new names in the interim cabinet of Islamic Emirate include -&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Maulvi Shahabuddin Delavar, acting minister of mines and petroleum;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Haji Mullah Mohammad Esa Akhund, deputy minister of mines and petroleum;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Mullah Mohammad Abbas Akhund, acting minister of disaster management;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Sharafuddin, deputy minister of disaster management;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Enayatullah, deputy minister of disaster management;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Hamdullah Zahed, procurement director;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Sheikh Abdul Rahim, deputy director of procurement;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Qudratullah Jamal, Supreme Audit Office head;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Ezatullah, deputy chief of the Supreme Audit Office;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Mohammad Yousef Mastari, acting director of prisons;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Mullah Habibullah Fazli, deputy director of prisons;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Keramatullah Akhundzadah, head of the Administrative Reform and Civil Service Commission;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Ahmad Taha, deputy minister of border and tribal affairs;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Gul Zarin, head of Kochi affairs at the Ministry of Border and Tribal Affairs;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Sheikh Maulvi Abdul Hakim, deputy minister of martyr and disabled affairs;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Saeed Ahmad Shahidkhel, deputy minister of education;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Abdul Rahman Halim, deputy minister of rural rehabilitation and development;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Atiqullah Azizi, deputy minister of finance and administration at the Ministry of Information and Culture;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Mullah Faizullah Akhund, deputy minister of youth affairs at the Ministry of Information and Culture;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Saifuddin Tayeb, deputy minister of communications;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Fathullah Mansour, head of Kandahar airport;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Mohammad Ismail, executive commander of the Military Court;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Esmatullah Asim, deputy head of the Red Cross;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Rahimullah Mahmoud, deputy commander of the Al-Badar Corps in Kandahar;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Abdul Samad, deputy commander of Azam Corps in Helmand;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Mullah Nasser Akhund, deputy minister of finance;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Maulvi Arefullah Aref, deputy minister of energy and water.</li>
</ul>

The Taliban in early September formed the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) and had appointed 33 more cabinet ministers that neither have women nor mainstream politicians from previous regimes rather it appointed the world`s most dreaded and wanted cabinet ministers.In September, the Taliban announced a new list of 17 more ministers in the caretaker Afghanistan Cabinet.The latest list of 27 new members in the cabinet too excludes any women representation.

The Taliban on Tuesday said that they have expanded their interim cabinet by adding 27 new members.Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesman for the interim government, said the appointments had been made in compliance with orders from Taliban`s supreme leader Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada, reported Pajhwok Afghan News.

The Taliban on Tuesday said that they have expanded their interim cabinet by adding 27 new members.Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesman for the interim government, said the appointments had been made in compliance with orders from Taliban`s supreme leader Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada, reported Pajhwok Afghan News. More than two dozen high-level officials, including ministers and deputy ministers, were named.Maulvi Shahabuddin Delawar has been appointed as acting minister of mines and petroleum and Mullah Mohammad Abbas Akhund as acting minister of disaster management. Twenty-five others have been appointed as deputy ministers, corps commanders and heads of independent departments, according to a list released by Mujahid, reported Pajhwok Afghan News. The new names in the interim cabinet of Islamic Emirate include - Maulvi Shahabuddin Delavar, acting minister of mines and petroleum; Haji Mullah Mohammad Esa Akhund, deputy minister of mines and petroleum; Mullah Mohammad Abbas Akhund, acting minister of disaster management; Maulvi Sharafuddin, deputy minister of disaster management; Maulvi Enayatullah, deputy minister of disaster management; Maulvi Hamdullah Zahed, procurement director; Sheikh Abdul Rahim, deputy director of procurement; Maulvi Qudratullah Jamal, Supreme Audit Office head; Maulvi Ezatullah, deputy chief of the Supreme Audit Office; Maulvi Mohammad Yousef Mastari, acting director of prisons; Mullah Habibullah Fazli, deputy director of prisons; Maulvi Keramatullah Akhundzadah, head of the Administrative Reform and Civil Service Commission; Maulvi Ahmad Taha, deputy minister of border and tribal affairs; Maulvi Gul Zarin, head of Kochi affairs at the Ministry of Border and Tribal Affairs; Sheikh Maulvi Abdul Hakim, deputy minister of martyr and disabled affairs; Maulvi Saeed Ahmad Shahidkhel, deputy minister of education; Maulvi Abdul Rahman Halim, deputy minister of rural rehabilitation and development; Maulvi Atiqullah Azizi, deputy minister of finance and administration at the Ministry of Information and Culture; Mullah Faizullah Akhund, deputy minister of youth affairs at the Ministry of Information and Culture; Maulvi Saifuddin Tayeb, deputy minister of communications; Maulvi Fathullah Mansour, head of Kandahar airport; Mohammad Ismail, executive commander of the Military Court; Maulvi Esmatullah Asim, deputy head of the Red Cross; Maulvi Rahimullah Mahmoud, deputy commander of the Al-Badar Corps in Kandahar; Maulvi Abdul Samad, deputy commander of Azam Corps in Helmand; Mullah Nasser Akhund, deputy minister of finance; Maulvi Arefullah Aref, deputy minister of energy and water. The Taliban in early September formed the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) and had appointed 33 more cabinet ministers that neither have women nor mainstream politicians from previous regimes rather it appointed the world`s most dreaded and wanted cabinet ministers.In September, the Taliban announced a new list of 17 more ministers in the caretaker Afghanistan Cabinet.The latest list of 27 new members in the cabinet too excludes any women representation.

Taliban expand interim cabinet, 27 new members named

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has revealed his newly shuffled cabinet. The 30-member team has an equal number of men and women, which is a rare show in governments across the globe.

Canada: Equal number of men & women in Junstin Trudeau's new cabinet

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who fell short of a majority in last month's election, will introduce a Cabinet on Tuesday that analysts say should hone in on the fight against climate change.

Trudeau's Liberals gained four seats to 159, but fell short of the 170 needed to pass legislation without the support of an opposition party. Minority governments normally last about two years instead of a full, four-year term.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-youths-take-to-streets-in-fridays-for-future-climate-protests-423195">In pics: Youths take to streets in Fridays for Future climate protests</a>

Trudeau, 49, has promised to spend tens of billions of extra dollars over five years to help the economy recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. But analysts said Ottawa should narrow its focus and make fighting climate change a clear priority.

Peter Donolo, a political strategist at Hill Knowlton who was communications director for Liberal former Prime Minister Jean Chretien, said the campaign had "a very ambitious agenda."

"I would simplify it &nbsp;on how to position Canada as a winner in the greener global economy over the longer term, and then on how to ensure that those benefits are shared more equitably," he said by phone.

One option Trudeau is considering is a climate portfolio that pulls together some policies normally handled by several ministries, according to one Liberal source.

The new Cabinet will be sworn in at 10:30 a.m. (1430 GMT). Trudeau says it will be composed of an equal number of men and women, a pattern he set when first taking office in 2015.

Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland will keep her job, Trudeau said shortly after the vote, and has begun to reduce&nbsp;COVID-19 support programs as the economy recovers and inflation&nbsp;at an 18-year high.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-canada-colluded-to-provoke-trouble-says-china-after-warships-sail-through-taiwan-strait-421574">US, Canada colluded to provoke trouble, says China after warships sail through Taiwan Strait</a>

Last month's vote marked Trudeau's third win as Liberal leader. Unhappiness over his decision to call an early election during the pandemic left him short of a majority.

Trudeau's priorities are managing COVID-19, bolstering healthcare, fighting climate change and fostering a green economy, supporting economic growth, delivering national childcare and affordable housing plans, and following through on reconciliation with indigenous Canadians, a separate source with direct knowledge of the Cabinet said.

"This is only an 18- to 24-month government, so the idea that you can address all four or five or six or seven of those issues&nbsp;is preposterous," said Ian Lee, a business professor at Ottawa's Carleton University.

Lee said growing the green economy should be a priority and merited a US-style climate czar "with gravitas and with skill, and who has sharp elbows and is not afraid."

Liberal officials say Public Services and Procurement Minister Anita Anand, who played a major role in obtaining COVID-19 vaccines, is set for a promotion, and Tourism Minister Melanie Joly also might get a more important role.

Anand could replace Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan, who has been widely assailed over what critics say has been a lackluster effort to address allegations of sexual assault in the military, two Liberal sources said.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who fell short of a majority in last month's election, will introduce a Cabinet on Tuesday that analysts say should hone in on the fight against climate change.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who fell short of a majority in last month's election, will introduce a Cabinet on Tuesday that analysts say should hone in on the fight against climate change. Trudeau's Liberals gained four seats to 159, but fell short of the 170 needed to pass legislation without the support of an opposition party. Minority governments normally last about two years instead of a full, four-year term. Also Read | In pics: Youths take to streets in Fridays for Future climate protests Trudeau, 49, has promised to spend tens of billions of extra dollars over five years to help the economy recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. But analysts said Ottawa should narrow its focus and make fighting climate change a clear priority. Peter Donolo, a political strategist at Hill Knowlton who was communications director for Liberal former Prime Minister Jean Chretien, said the campaign had "a very ambitious agenda." "I would simplify it on how to position Canada as a winner in the greener global economy over the longer term, and then on how to ensure that those benefits are shared more equitably," he said by phone. One option Trudeau is considering is a climate portfolio that pulls together some policies normally handled by several ministries, according to one Liberal source. The new Cabinet will be sworn in at 10:30 a.m. (1430 GMT). Trudeau says it will be composed of an equal number of men and women, a pattern he set when first taking office in 2015. Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland will keep her job, Trudeau said shortly after the vote, and has begun to reduce COVID-19 support programs as the economy recovers and inflation at an 18-year high. Also Read | US, Canada colluded to provoke trouble, says China after warships sail through Taiwan Strait Last month's vote marked Trudeau's third win as Liberal leader. Unhappiness over his decision to call an early election during the pandemic left him short of a majority. Trudeau's priorities are managing COVID-19, bolstering healthcare, fighting climate change and fostering a green economy, supporting economic growth, delivering national childcare and affordable housing plans, and following through on reconciliation with indigenous Canadians, a separate source with direct knowledge of the Cabinet said. "This is only an 18- to 24-month government, so the idea that you can address all four or five or six or seven of those issues is preposterous," said Ian Lee, a business professor at Ottawa's Carleton University. Lee said growing the green economy should be a priority and merited a US-style climate czar "with gravitas and with skill, and who has sharp elbows and is not afraid." Liberal officials say Public Services and Procurement Minister Anita Anand, who played a major role in obtaining COVID-19 vaccines, is set for a promotion, and Tourism Minister Melanie Joly also might get a more important role. Anand could replace Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan, who has been widely assailed over what critics say has been a lackluster effort to address allegations of sexual assault in the military, two Liberal sources said.

Canada's Trudeau to unveil Cabinet amid push to fight climate change

As the five-party ruling coalition alliance agreed on a shared cabinet, Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Friday formed a 25-member cabinet after three months of assuming power.&nbsp;

President Bidya Devi Bhandari announced the appointment of 16 new ministers and two state ministers on the recommendation of Prime Minister Deuba.&nbsp;

Out of the 25 cabinet portfolios, the Nepali Congress-led by Deuba is holding nine seats, including the Prime Minister’s seat and one state minister’s seat.&nbsp;

Among the newly appointed ministers from the Nepali Congress are Gyanendra Bahadur Karki as Communication and Information Minister, Minendra Rijal as Defence Minister, Uma Kanta Chaudhary as Water Supply Minister and Gajendra Bahadur Hamal as Minister of Industry, Commerce and Supply.&nbsp;

Last month, Nepali Congress leader Narayan Khadka was appointed as Foreign Minister, and earlier, Deuba had appointed Bal Krishna Khand as Home Minister.&nbsp;

Earlier in July, Deuba had also appointed Umesh Shrestha as state minister for Health and Population. Now, Shrestha has been shifted to the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers as state minister without portfolio.

Meanwhile, the CPN-Maoist Centre, an alliance partner, holds six cabinet seats after Devendra Poudel was appointed as Education Minister, Shashi Shrestha as Land Reforms Minister, and Maheshwar Gahatraj as Youth and Sports Minister.&nbsp;

Also, Bodh Maya Kumari Yadav, from the Maoist Centre, has been appointed as state minister for Education, Science and Technology. 
Earlier, from the Maoist Centre, which is led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, Pampha Bhusal was appointed as Energy, War and Irrigation Minister, Janardan Sharma as Finance Minister and Krishna Kumar Shrestha as Labour Minister.&nbsp;

Similarly, the CPN (Unified Socialist), led by Madhav Kumar, Nepal holds four chairs in cabinet and one state health minister.&nbsp;

Among the newly appointed ministers, CPN-US leader Birodh Khatiwada has been appointed as Health and Population Minister, Rajendra Prasad Shrestha as Federal Affairs and Administration Minister, Prem Bahadur Ale as Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister and Ram Kumari Jhankri as Urban Development Minister.&nbsp;

While, Bhawani Prasad Khapung was appointed as State Health Minister, Rajendra Shrestha, Renu Yadav, Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav, and Mahendra Raya Yadav have been given the ministries of Federal Affairs and Local Development; Physical Infrastructure and Transport; Forest and Environment; and Agriculture and Livestock Development from the Janata Samajwadi Party (JSP).

The deal on the cabinet expansion was reached on Tuesday after Deuba held a meeting with other coalition leaders—Prachanda, Madhav Kumar Nepal, and Upendra Yadav.&nbsp;

Deuba was under scrutiny for not being able to give full shape to the cabinet even after two months in office. There were only six ministers in Deuba’s cabinet.&nbsp;

As per constitutional provisions, the cabinet can not exceed 25 ministers.&nbsp;

Deuba was not able to expand the cabinet after coalition partners, the Janata Samajwadi Party, demanded the scrapping of the Political Party Act (Second Amendment) Ordinance first.

As the five-party ruling coalition alliance agreed on a shared cabinet, Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Friday formed a 25-member cabinet after three months of assuming power.

As the five-party ruling coalition alliance agreed on a shared cabinet, Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba on Friday formed a 25-member cabinet after three months of assuming power. President Bidya Devi Bhandari announced the appointment of 16 new ministers and two state ministers on the recommendation of Prime Minister Deuba. Out of the 25 cabinet portfolios, the Nepali Congress-led by Deuba is holding nine seats, including the Prime Minister’s seat and one state minister’s seat. Among the newly appointed ministers from the Nepali Congress are Gyanendra Bahadur Karki as Communication and Information Minister, Minendra Rijal as Defence Minister, Uma Kanta Chaudhary as Water Supply Minister and Gajendra Bahadur Hamal as Minister of Industry, Commerce and Supply. Last month, Nepali Congress leader Narayan Khadka was appointed as Foreign Minister, and earlier, Deuba had appointed Bal Krishna Khand as Home Minister. Earlier in July, Deuba had also appointed Umesh Shrestha as state minister for Health and Population. Now, Shrestha has been shifted to the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers as state minister without portfolio. Meanwhile, the CPN-Maoist Centre, an alliance partner, holds six cabinet seats after Devendra Poudel was appointed as Education Minister, Shashi Shrestha as Land Reforms Minister, and Maheshwar Gahatraj as Youth and Sports Minister. Also, Bodh Maya Kumari Yadav, from the Maoist Centre, has been appointed as state minister for Education, Science and Technology. Earlier, from the Maoist Centre, which is led by Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, Pampha Bhusal was appointed as Energy, War and Irrigation Minister, Janardan Sharma as Finance Minister and Krishna Kumar Shrestha as Labour Minister. Similarly, the CPN (Unified Socialist), led by Madhav Kumar, Nepal holds four chairs in cabinet and one state health minister. Among the newly appointed ministers, CPN-US leader Birodh Khatiwada has been appointed as Health and Population Minister, Rajendra Prasad Shrestha as Federal Affairs and Administration Minister, Prem Bahadur Ale as Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister and Ram Kumari Jhankri as Urban Development Minister. While, Bhawani Prasad Khapung was appointed as State Health Minister, Rajendra Shrestha, Renu Yadav, Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav, and Mahendra Raya Yadav have been given the ministries of Federal Affairs and Local Development; Physical Infrastructure and Transport; Forest and Environment; and Agriculture and Livestock Development from the Janata Samajwadi Party (JSP). The deal on the cabinet expansion was reached on Tuesday after Deuba held a meeting with other coalition leaders—Prachanda, Madhav Kumar Nepal, and Upendra Yadav. Deuba was under scrutiny for not being able to give full shape to the cabinet even after two months in office. There were only six ministers in Deuba’s cabinet. As per constitutional provisions, the cabinet can not exceed 25 ministers. Deuba was not able to expand the cabinet after coalition partners, the Janata Samajwadi Party, demanded the scrapping of the Political Party Act (Second Amendment) Ordinance first.

Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba announces a 25-member cabinet three months after taking office

Nagaraj Naidu, the Chef de Cabinet of the President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Abdulla Shahid, has said that an Indian diplomat holding the position shows the “confidence of the PGA (President of the General Assembly) on what India brings to the table”.

Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York, Naidu said, “We are here to be seized of issues erupting all over the world. We have to take care of member states’ concerns and specific areas.”

This is the first time that an Indian diplomat is helming the post. He will be holding the position for a period of one year.

The position is akin to the principal secretary, a top bureaucrat, serving to the prime minister in the Indian political system.

Naidu explained the work as, “A train that is running nonstop and we are at the 76th station and we just dropped at the 77th station, that is the work.”

The 77th session of the UNGA will begin next year in September.

Naidu is a 1998 batch Indian Foreign Service officer, a fluent Chinese speaker, and an avid yoga practitioner. He has served in China and was also the National Coordinator for establishing the International Solar Alliance in India.

WION: What is your daily routine and how is the workflow?

Nagraj Naidu: The 76th session of the General Assembly kicked off recently, with only two more days to end. We just finished the high-level debate week, which is ending today. The work in the general assembly is such that we oversee all six committees. The work in those committees revolves around all the important initiatives and the pressing matters, which the President of the UNGA feels that needs to bring to the attention of the UN members. These can be issues such as climate change, Covid 19 vaccination and the inequity in distribution as we are seeing today, and all other issues that the member states think that needs to be deliberated upon in the general assembly. The office works for almost 24/7. We operate at every hour to enable virtual meetings to take place at any part of the day. Considering the time zones, we practically schedule meetings all the time. And, the PGA (president of the general assembly) has to be present in all the meetings, as there is massive coordination involved related to writing speeches, appointing co-facilitators, scheduling events and the plenaries throughout the year. It is like a train that is running non-stop, and we were at the 76th station, and we have just dropped at the 77th station, that is how hectic the work is.

WION: You are the first Indian diplomat to hold office. What are your thoughts?

Nagraj Naidu: It’s a privilege for India and I am delighted that I was chosen. It reflects the confidence of the PGA on what India brings to the table. The post of chef de cabinet is an important one, there is a lot of responsibility, and it requires to be in touch with all the UN member states. Handling the office brings its complexities, it is tremendously satisfying because once you are here, you manage all the processes. There is pressure from all the member states, which is good, and it also ensures that the president’s office works for the member states interests. Our work revolves around six different committees of the UN. The first committee is related to disarmament, the second committee deals with economic and social affairs, the third committee looks at the human rights issues, the fourth committee discusses the decolonisation issue, the five committees discusses the UN’s budget, like: What are the resources available for us, and how we can spread those resources to areas which are important to member states. And finally, the 6th committee looks after the legal issues. So, it’s an elaborate agenda and my responsibility as the chef de cabinet is that we run the agenda smoothly. The discussion happens in a very constructive atmosphere and it is deliberated upon. We bring the resolution and decisions of the general assembly to the broader UN membership.

WION: So, one has to put a lot of effort and diplomatic outreach, while also communicating with a lot of people.

Nagraj Naidu: Absolutely, you are firefighting from day one. It is the responsibility of the office to be ready at all times because we are here to handle the crisis situation. The PGA has to deliberate some of these issues and bring in his perspective that can reassure the member states that the important issues are getting the concerned attention and they are also getting resolved. The way we chart our calendar for the year is to seek what are these mandated events the president has to organise throughout the year. And then we work with a large number of teams to discuss requests made by the member states to the PGA. He delivers through the year. This is a massive exercise, and we have a very good team in place. We have a lot of guidance from PGA himself and we are looking at a very substantive and productive 76th session.

Nagaraj Naidu, the Chef de Cabinet of the President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Abdulla Shahid, has said that an Indian diplomat holding the position shows the “confidence of the PGA (President of the General Assembly) on what India brings to the table”.

Nagaraj Naidu, the Chef de Cabinet of the President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Abdulla Shahid, has said that an Indian diplomat holding the position shows the “confidence of the PGA (President of the General Assembly) on what India brings to the table”. Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York, Naidu said, “We are here to be seized of issues erupting all over the world. We have to take care of member states’ concerns and specific areas.” This is the first time that an Indian diplomat is helming the post. He will be holding the position for a period of one year. The position is akin to the principal secretary, a top bureaucrat, serving to the prime minister in the Indian political system. Naidu explained the work as, “A train that is running nonstop and we are at the 76th station and we just dropped at the 77th station, that is the work.” The 77th session of the UNGA will begin next year in September. Naidu is a 1998 batch Indian Foreign Service officer, a fluent Chinese speaker, and an avid yoga practitioner. He has served in China and was also the National Coordinator for establishing the International Solar Alliance in India. WION: What is your daily routine and how is the workflow? Nagraj Naidu: The 76th session of the General Assembly kicked off recently, with only two more days to end. We just finished the high-level debate week, which is ending today. The work in the general assembly is such that we oversee all six committees. The work in those committees revolves around all the important initiatives and the pressing matters, which the President of the UNGA feels that needs to bring to the attention of the UN members. These can be issues such as climate change, Covid 19 vaccination and the inequity in distribution as we are seeing today, and all other issues that the member states think that needs to be deliberated upon in the general assembly. The office works for almost 24/7. We operate at every hour to enable virtual meetings to take place at any part of the day. Considering the time zones, we practically schedule meetings all the time. And, the PGA (president of the general assembly) has to be present in all the meetings, as there is massive coordination involved related to writing speeches, appointing co-facilitators, scheduling events and the plenaries throughout the year. It is like a train that is running non-stop, and we were at the 76th station, and we have just dropped at the 77th station, that is how hectic the work is. WION: You are the first Indian diplomat to hold office. What are your thoughts? Nagraj Naidu: It’s a privilege for India and I am delighted that I was chosen. It reflects the confidence of the PGA on what India brings to the table. The post of chef de cabinet is an important one, there is a lot of responsibility, and it requires to be in touch with all the UN member states. Handling the office brings its complexities, it is tremendously satisfying because once you are here, you manage all the processes. There is pressure from all the member states, which is good, and it also ensures that the president’s office works for the member states interests. Our work revolves around six different committees of the UN. The first committee is related to disarmament, the second committee deals with economic and social affairs, the third committee looks at the human rights issues, the fourth committee discusses the decolonisation issue, the five committees discusses the UN’s budget, like: What are the resources available for us, and how we can spread those resources to areas which are important to member states. And finally, the 6th committee looks after the legal issues. So, it’s an elaborate agenda and my responsibility as the chef de cabinet is that we run the agenda smoothly. The discussion happens in a very constructive atmosphere and it is deliberated upon. We bring the resolution and decisions of the general assembly to the broader UN membership. WION: So, one has to put a lot of effort and diplomatic outreach, while also communicating with a lot of people. Nagraj Naidu: Absolutely, you are firefighting from day one. It is the responsibility of the office to be ready at all times because we are here to handle the crisis situation. The PGA has to deliberate some of these issues and bring in his perspective that can reassure the member states that the important issues are getting the concerned attention and they are also getting resolved. The way we chart our calendar for the year is to seek what are these mandated events the president has to organise throughout the year. And then we work with a large number of teams to discuss requests made by the member states to the PGA. He delivers through the year. This is a massive exercise, and we have a very good team in place. We have a lot of guidance from PGA himself and we are looking at a very substantive and productive 76th session.

Here to be seized of issues erupting all over world: UNGA president’s Chef de Cabinet

Taliban's forming of an all-male cabinet has raised concerns from many countries of the world including the US.

Countries including US respond to Taliban's new government formation

Women protestors take to the streets of Afghanistan against the lack of representation of women in the Taliban's cabinet.

Female protesters take to Afghanistan's streets to protest against Taliban

In order to pay homage to the old guard of the group, The Taliban on Tuesday announced a caretaker Cabinet. It has given top posts to Taliban personalities, who dominated the 20-year battle against the US-led coalition and its Afghan government allies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Interim Prime Minister will be Mullah Hasan Akhund, who had headed the Taliban government in Kabul during the last years of its rule.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Hundreds of Afghans took to the streets of Kabul to protest against Pakistan

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/hundreds-of-afghans-took-to-the-streets-of-kabul-to-protest-against-pakistan-411345/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, who led talks with the United States and signed the deal that led to America's final withdrawal from Afghanistan, will be one of Akhund's two deputies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid made the announcement. Mullah Yaqub, the son of the Taliban founder and late supreme leader Mullah Omar, was named defence minister.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The position of interior minister was given to Sirajuddin Haqqani, the leader of the feared Haqqani network.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/breaking-taliban-announce-leader-first-ministers-in-new-government-411393" hreflang="en">Breaking: Taliban announce leader, first ministers in new government</a> &nbsp;

"The cabinet is not complete, it is just acting," Mujahid said at the Government Information and Media Centre in Kabul. "We will try to take people from other parts of the country."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Amir Khan Muttaqi, a Taliban negotiator in Doha and member of the first regime's cabinet, was named foreign minister.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the lineup, there was no evidence of non-Taliban representation, which was a big demand of the international community.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In order to pay homage to the old guard of the group, The Taliban on Tuesday announced a caretaker Cabinet. It has given top posts to Taliban personalities, who dominated the 20-year battle against the US-led coalition and its Afghan government allies.

In order to pay homage to the old guard of the group, The Taliban on Tuesday announced a caretaker Cabinet. It has given top posts to Taliban personalities, who dominated the 20-year battle against the US-led coalition and its Afghan government allies. The Interim Prime Minister will be Mullah Hasan Akhund, who had headed the Taliban government in Kabul during the last years of its rule. Watch: Hundreds of Afghans took to the streets of Kabul to protest against Pakistan × Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, who led talks with the United States and signed the deal that led to America's final withdrawal from Afghanistan, will be one of Akhund's two deputies. Spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid made the announcement. Mullah Yaqub, the son of the Taliban founder and late supreme leader Mullah Omar, was named defence minister. The position of interior minister was given to Sirajuddin Haqqani, the leader of the feared Haqqani network. Also Read | Breaking: Taliban announce leader, first ministers in new government "The cabinet is not complete, it is just acting," Mujahid said at the Government Information and Media Centre in Kabul. "We will try to take people from other parts of the country." Amir Khan Muttaqi, a Taliban negotiator in Doha and member of the first regime's cabinet, was named foreign minister. In the lineup, there was no evidence of non-Taliban representation, which was a big demand of the international community. (With inputs from agencies)

Paying homage to old guard, Taliban name caretaker Afghanistan cabinet

Supreme commander Hibatullah Akhundzada has confirmed that the Taliban is in the final stages of announcing a new Cabinet that was expected to include all members of its current leadership council.

Taliban to announce new cabinet, Hibatullah Akhundzada to approve final cabinet

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has decided to further expand his cabinet for the second time, a CPN-UML leader confirmed.&nbsp;

“Seven new ministers and a minister of state will be inducted in the Oli-led cabinet,” a CPN-UML leader Bishnu Rijal said in a tweet.&nbsp;

All the ministers will be sworn in by President Bidya Devi Bhandari at her official residence, Shital Niwas.

Lila Nath Shrestha Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs told WION that Khagaraj Adhikari will be the new Home Minister, while Nayankala Thapa will be given Minister for Information and Communication portfolio.&nbsp;

Shrestha also confirmed that Narad Muni Rana will be given the Ministry of Forest and Environment, Jawala Kumari Sah as Minister for Agriculture and Mohan Baniya will be appointed as a minister without a portfolio.&nbsp;

A senior leader Raj Kishore Yadav as Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies and Ganesh Pahadai Minister for General Administration has been appointed.&nbsp;

Asha Bishowkarma will be appointed Minister of State for Forest and Environment.

According to government sources, the Ministry of Defense will remain with Prime Minister Oli.&nbsp;

Earlier on June 4, Oli had reorganized his cabinet and included ten Janata Samajwadi Party leaders in the cabinet.&nbsp;

The decision comes after the Supreme Court on Tuesday issued an order seeking a written response from the government within 15 days, on its decision to reshuffle the cabinet.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has decided to further expand his cabinet for the second time, a CPN-UML leader confirmed. “Seven new ministers and a minister of state will be inducted in the Oli-led cabinet,” a CPN-UML leader Bishnu Rijal said in a tweet.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has decided to further expand his cabinet for the second time, a CPN-UML leader confirmed. “Seven new ministers and a minister of state will be inducted in the Oli-led cabinet,” a CPN-UML leader Bishnu Rijal said in a tweet. All the ministers will be sworn in by President Bidya Devi Bhandari at her official residence, Shital Niwas. Lila Nath Shrestha Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs told WION that Khagaraj Adhikari will be the new Home Minister, while Nayankala Thapa will be given Minister for Information and Communication portfolio. Shrestha also confirmed that Narad Muni Rana will be given the Ministry of Forest and Environment, Jawala Kumari Sah as Minister for Agriculture and Mohan Baniya will be appointed as a minister without a portfolio. A senior leader Raj Kishore Yadav as Minister for Industry, Commerce and Supplies and Ganesh Pahadai Minister for General Administration has been appointed. Asha Bishowkarma will be appointed Minister of State for Forest and Environment. According to government sources, the Ministry of Defense will remain with Prime Minister Oli. Earlier on June 4, Oli had reorganized his cabinet and included ten Janata Samajwadi Party leaders in the cabinet. The decision comes after the Supreme Court on Tuesday issued an order seeking a written response from the government within 15 days, on its decision to reshuffle the cabinet.

Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli to expand his cabinet for the second time

After joining hands with Janata Samajwadi Party Nepal, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, on Friday, reconstituted his cabinet.&nbsp;

Ten Janata Samajwadi Party leaders have been included in the Oli-led cabinet and among which two have been appointed as the state ministers.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-rejects-uk-tabloids-report-claiming-emergence-of-covid-19-nepal-variant-389337" hreflang="en">Nepal rejects UK tabloid's report claiming emergence of COVID-19 'Nepal variant'</a>

President Bidya Devi Bhandari administered the oath of offices and secrecy to the new cabinet as the ministers at Shital Niwas, the office of the President.

Special Economic Advisor to PM Moti Lal Dugar told WION that there are currently seven portfolios under Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli which includes Defence Ministry and Home Ministry.&nbsp;

He said the portfolios under the PM will be assigned to other leaders in the coming days.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-800000-doses-of-chinese-vaccine-arrive-in-nepal-388808" hreflang="en">COVID-19: 800,000 doses of Chinese vaccine arrive in Nepal</a>

PM Oil appointed UML leader Bishnu Poudel as Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Raghubir Mahaseth as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and JSP leader Rajendra Mahato as Deputy Prime Minister and Urban Development Minister.

In the previous government, UML general secretary Ishwor Pokharel was the only deputy prime minister.

Sher Bahadur Tamang has replaced Hridayesh Tripathi as the new Health Minister.&nbsp;

JSP leader Sarad Singh Bhandari has been appointed as the new Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Minister. Earlier, the ministry was led by CPN-Maoist leader Top Bahadur Rayamajhi.&nbsp;

Anil Kumar Jha has been given charge of Ministry of Water Supply, Laxman Lal Karna has been given charge of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation Ministry, Bimal Prasad Shrivastav is in charge of Labour, Employment and Social Security Ministry and Uma Shankar Aragaria has been appointed as Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister.

Similarly, Chanda Chaudhary has become the Ministry of Women, Children and Senior Citizen and Ekwal Mia has become the Minister for Youth and Sports.

Chandrakant Chaudhary will be the Minister of State for Energy and Renuka Gurung Women and Children.

Earlier, when the Prime Minister tried to get a vote of confidence, 12 out of 32 JSP MPs voted against him.

The Upendra Yadav faction has said that Mahanta Thakur, Rajendra Mahato, Laxman Lal Karna and Sarvendranath Shukla have been expelled from the party while the Mahanta Thakur faction has also expelled Upendra Yadav from the party.

After joining hands with Janata Samajwadi Party Nepal, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, on Friday, reconstituted his cabinet. Ten Janata Samajwadi Party leaders have been included in the Oli-led cabinet and among which two have been appointed as the state ministers.

After joining hands with Janata Samajwadi Party Nepal, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, on Friday, reconstituted his cabinet. Ten Janata Samajwadi Party leaders have been included in the Oli-led cabinet and among which two have been appointed as the state ministers. Also read | Nepal rejects UK tabloid's report claiming emergence of COVID-19 'Nepal variant' President Bidya Devi Bhandari administered the oath of offices and secrecy to the new cabinet as the ministers at Shital Niwas, the office of the President. Special Economic Advisor to PM Moti Lal Dugar told WION that there are currently seven portfolios under Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli which includes Defence Ministry and Home Ministry. He said the portfolios under the PM will be assigned to other leaders in the coming days. Also read | COVID-19: 800,000 doses of Chinese vaccine arrive in Nepal PM Oil appointed UML leader Bishnu Poudel as Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Raghubir Mahaseth as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and JSP leader Rajendra Mahato as Deputy Prime Minister and Urban Development Minister. In the previous government, UML general secretary Ishwor Pokharel was the only deputy prime minister. Sher Bahadur Tamang has replaced Hridayesh Tripathi as the new Health Minister. JSP leader Sarad Singh Bhandari has been appointed as the new Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation Minister. Earlier, the ministry was led by CPN-Maoist leader Top Bahadur Rayamajhi. Anil Kumar Jha has been given charge of Ministry of Water Supply, Laxman Lal Karna has been given charge of Land Management, Cooperatives and Poverty Alleviation Ministry, Bimal Prasad Shrivastav is in charge of Labour, Employment and Social Security Ministry and Uma Shankar Aragaria has been appointed as Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister. Similarly, Chanda Chaudhary has become the Ministry of Women, Children and Senior Citizen and Ekwal Mia has become the Minister for Youth and Sports. Chandrakant Chaudhary will be the Minister of State for Energy and Renuka Gurung Women and Children. Earlier, when the Prime Minister tried to get a vote of confidence, 12 out of 32 JSP MPs voted against him. The Upendra Yadav faction has said that Mahanta Thakur, Rajendra Mahato, Laxman Lal Karna and Sarvendranath Shukla have been expelled from the party while the Mahanta Thakur faction has also expelled Upendra Yadav from the party.

Nepal PM reorganises cabinet, appoints three deputy Prime Ministers

cabinet

Cabinet, News on Cabinet, stories on Cabinet, articles on Cabinet, Cabinet stories at Wion, Cabinet news, Cabinet latest news