Latest news with #Is
India.com
2 days ago
- Business
- India.com
India's First Underwater Metro: This Runs Beneath The River – Check Speed, Fare, Route Details
photoDetails english As India is developing in several aspects, including technology, infrastructure, education, and more, many cities are introducing metro services for citizens, while some are enhancing existing ones. Notably, one such development includes the country's first underwater metro. Updated:Jun 19, 2025, 10:35 PM IST Route 1 / 7 The Kolkata Metro's Esplanade line features India's first underwater metro, with a section of the line running beneath the Hooghly River. This 16.5 km metro route connects Howrah and Salt Lake City, seamlessly linking the two areas across the river. Cost 2 / 7 Kolkata's metro makes history as the country's first to run underwater. After an investment of approximately Is 4,965 crore, this innovative metro line has been opened for passengers, marking a significant milestone in India's transportation infrastructure. Speed 3 / 7 The underwater section of the route spans 4.8 kilometres beneath the Hooghly River. The train takes 45 seconds to cover this distance. The speed of the train while covering the underwater section is approximately 384 km/h. Inauguration 4 / 7 Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India's first underwater metro on March 6, 2024. Features 5 / 7 This underwater metro provides 5G internet connectivity and this mark it as India's first underwater metro which has been built using world-class technology. 6 / 7 Howrah Metro Station, built 33 meters underground, is the deepest metro station in India. Situated beneath a river tunnel, it lies 32 meters below the water level. The metro line features 12 stations, including three located underwater. 7 / 7 The ticket fare for the underwater metro ranges from Rs 5 to Rs 50, based on the distance travelled. The fare structure starts at Rs 5 for distances up to 2 kilometres and increases incrementally to Rs 50 for the longest routes. (Representative Images)
Japan Forward
6 days ago
- Politics
- Japan Forward
Immigration in Japan: Accepting Foreigners to Secure a Workforce
このページを 日本語 で読む What is immigration, and what does it mean to be an immigrant? In her book, Is Japan Unwelcoming to Refugees? (Keio University Press, 2024), author Fusako Yanase begins with a central question. That is, "How can people of different nationalities, languages, cultures, skin tones, and eye colors work together? How can we build a prosperous life in the same society?" She explores how we might see not only Japanese citizens, but also foreign workers, international students, and even refugees as equal participants in a shared social fabric. In this second installment of a series, she turns her focus to the special residency statuses that allow foreign nationals to work in Japan. Specifically, those are the Specified Skilled Worker, Technical Intern Training, and forthcoming Employment for Skill Development programs. Second in the series. Read the series, Immigration in Japan According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, as of October 2024, Japan employed 2,302,587 foreign workers. That represented an increase of 250,000 from 2023. The number of businesses hiring foreign labor also rose by 20,000, reaching a total of 340,000. By nationality, Vietnamese workers made up the largest share at 570,000 (24.8%). Chinese workers ranked second with 400,000 (17.8%), followed by Filipinos with 240,000 (10.7%). In April 2019, Japan upgraded its Immigration Bureau, formerly a division within the Ministry of Justice, into the Immigration Services Agency. This marked a significant policy shift toward welcoming more foreign workers. At the same time, it introduced a new visa category, the Specified Skilled Worker, which has now been in place for five years. To foster better integration between foreign workers and local communities, the government launched a range of support initiatives. These include improvements to living and working conditions, Japanese language education, and other essential services. From FY2022 to FY2026, the government reviews and refines these measures annually as part of a long-term strategy to build a more inclusive and cohesive society. Japan's Immigration Control Act currently defines 28 residency statuses. They cover everything from short-term stays such as tourism to international students, technical intern trainees, and spouses of Japanese nationals. Work-related categories for specialized and technical professions are also included. In 2019, a 29th category — Specified Skilled Worker — was introduced as part of a broader government policy. This new status applies to 16 designated industries, including nursing care, construction, manufacturing, agriculture, and food processing. The Specified Skilled Worker visa was introduced to address labor shortages. It still requires applicants to demonstrate a certain level of expertise or technical skill through academic or work credentials. However, the requirements for Japanese language proficiency and job-specific knowledge have been somewhat relaxed. In exchange, visa holders are entitled to a range of structured support measures. These are often referred to as "targeted support." They include orientation sessions on daily life in Japan, assistance with learning Japanese, help with complaints or consultations, and programs that encourage interaction between foreign residents and local communities. Workers are also allowed to change jobs within the same industry and can access services at Hello Work, Japan's network of public employment offices. The system is designed to prevent foreign workers from being left isolated or unsupported. Above all, helping them acquire a basic level of Japanese is considered essential for their success and integration. Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau Officials introduced the Technical Intern Training program to support developing countries through skill and knowledge transfer. It was aimed at transferring skills and knowledge to workers from developing countries. Today, approximately 410,000 foreign nationals reside in Japan under this system. However, many domestic employers have used it primarily to fill labor shortages with low-cost labor. As a result, many foreign workers face harassment, unpaid wages, and poor working conditions. In March 2024, in response to these persistent problems, the government announced a complete overhaul of the program. The new framework shifts away from the original goal of foreign aid and instead focuses on training and securing foreign talent to support Japan's own industrial development. Set to launch by 2027, the revised system will be renamed Employment for Skill Development. Under the new program, foreign workers will undergo a three-year training period aimed at achieving the skill level required for a Specified Skilled Worker (i) visa. This represents a significant policy pivot from international development assistance to domestic workforce strategy. To ensure a smooth transition, the current technical intern system will continue to operate for roughly three years after the launch of Employment for Skill Development. During this period, both systems will run in parallel, giving employers and workers time to adjust. Authorities aim to complete the full transition by 2030. Beyond visa-specific reforms, the Japanese government has introduced a broad set of measures to support the integration of foreign residents and strengthen the systems that serve them. These initiatives cover all legal foreign residents in Japan, not just Specified Skilled Workers, whether they are studying, working, or in training. Fusako Yanase (right) with JAPAN Forward Editor-in-Chief, Yasuo Naito (©JAPAN Forward) Funded by the national government and implemented in cooperation with local authorities, these policies aim to promote coexistence and provide practical support across various aspects of daily life. It is important to note, however, that these support measures are not available to individuals residing in Japan without legal status. Continues in Part 3: What to Know About Entry Limits Author: Fusako Yanase In addition to being an expert on immigration, Yanase is an award-winning author and former Honorary Chair of the Certified NPO Association for Aid and Relief, Japan . このページを 日本語 で読む
Economic Times
6 days ago
- Business
- Economic Times
Global energy crisis soon? As Israel targets Iran's South Pars gas field, oil prices may rise further to $200–$300 per barrel, warns Iraqi Minister. Here's what happened in Middle East conflict
Iraq's foreign minister warns that the conflict between Israel and Iran could push global oil prices to $200–$300 per barrel. A strike on Iran's South Pars gas field has reduced production. Further escalation in the region may disrupt exports, cause inflation and affect both energy producers and importers worldwide. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Oil Price Could Surge Impact on Global Energy Supply Warning on Regional Instability Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Iraq Calls for International Response Israeli Strike Hits South Pars Gas Field South Pars Gas Field's Strategic Role Broader Energy Risks Escalation May Deepen Crisis FAQs The ongoing tension between Israel and Iran is raising fears of a global energy crisis . Iraq's foreign minister has warned that oil prices could rise sharply if the situation escalates, especially if vital energy routes like the Strait of Hormuz are Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein said that oil prices could increase to $200–$300 per barrel. He discussed this with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. Hussein said that if the Strait of Hormuz is closed, oil exports could fall, affecting Iraq and other producers, an INA news agency report said that the closing of the Strait of Hormuz could remove five million barrels of oil per day from the market. Most of this oil comes from the Persian Gulf and Iraq. Such a disruption could cause serious economic effects, including higher inflation in also warned that the Israel-Iran conflict might create inflation and economic problems for both producing and importing countries. Iraq, as a producer, could face issues if exports are delayed or Iraqi minister said that Israeli military actions in Iran violate international law and regional sovereignty. He called on the global community to condemn these actions. He stressed that continued conflict could harm regional and global had to halt gas production at South Pars after an Israeli airstrike caused a fire. Phase 14 of the gas field was hit, stopping 12 million cubic metres of daily production. This was the first Israeli strike on Iran's energy South Pars field is shared by Iran and Qatar. It provides two-thirds of Iran's gas and is used for power, heating and industry. Iran produces around 275 bcm of gas yearly, mainly for domestic use. A smaller portion is exported to exports gas from the same field. An attack here signals economic targets are now part of the conflict. Oil prices rose 14% after Israel's initial strike. Analysts warn more attacks could affect Qatar's LNG operations, disrupting supplies key energy points like Kharg Island or the Strait of Hormuz are hit, oil and gas prices may increase sharply. Iran's domestic energy crisis is already deepening due to gas shortages and power cuts. The latest strike worsens this issue and may raise global prices could rise due to the Israel-Iran conflict disrupting exports from the Persian Gulf and closing key trade routes like the Strait of Pars supplies two-thirds of Iran's gas. A strike there affects domestic supply, signals economic warfare, and raises risks for energy security worldwide.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Princess Eugenie Is Spotted in a Swimsuit in Rare Appearance With Kids
Princess Eugenie Is Spotted in a Swimsuit in Rare Appearance With Kids originally appeared on Parade. is sharing a glimpse into her latest family beach day. In celebration of World Oceans Day on Sunday, June 8, the 35-year-old royal uploaded a series of photos on social media that showed her sporting a swimsuit as she and her children spent some time by the ocean. 🎬SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬 Eugenie, the younger daughter of and , shares two boys with her husband, Jack Brooksbank. The married couple, who tied the knot in 2018, are parents to 4-year-old son August and 2-year-old son Ernest. In one of the new Instagram snaps, Eugenie can be seen walking into the water with her two sons while donning a dark one-piece swimsuit with a criss-cross pattern in the back. She also appeared to be wearing a pair of sheer white shorts that covered the bottom of her swimsuit. The sweet family pic, taken of the trio from behind, also showed Eugenie holding on to younger son's hand while her firstborn ventured into the water a little bit ahead of them. "The ocean is the greatest wonder of the world 🌍," she captioned her Instagram post on Sunday, which also included some scenic shots of the ocean shore. One photo also depicted one of Eugenie's kiddos walking across the rainy beach in a raincoat and a pair of rain boots. "Celebrating @unworldoceansday today and everday [sic] 🌊," the mother of two added in her Eugenie Is Spotted in a Swimsuit in Rare Appearance With Kids first appeared on Parade on Jun 9, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.
Politico
14-06-2025
- Politics
- Politico
Israel warns ‘Tehran will burn' as Iran fires drones and missiles in response to Israeli strikes
Israel's defense minister warned Saturday that 'Tehran will burn' if Iran continues firing missiles, as the two countries traded blows a day after Israel launched a blistering surprise attack on Iranian nuclear and military sites, killing a number of top generals. Israel's military said the strikes had also killed nine senior scientists and experts involved in Iran's nuclear program. Iran's U.N. ambassador said 78 people were killed and more than 320 wounded in the attacks. Iran retaliated by launching waves of drones and ballistic missiles at Israel, where explosions lit the night skies over Jerusalem and Tel Aviv and shook buildings. The Israeli military urged civilians, already rattled by 20 months of war in Gaza sparked by Hamas' Oct. 7 attack, to head to shelter for hours. Health officials said three people were killed and dozens wounded. Speaking after an assessment meeting with the army's chief of staff, Defense Minister Israel Katz said that Iran will pay a heavy price for harming Israeli citizens. 'If (Iranian Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali) Khamenei continues to fire missiles at the Israeli home front — Tehran will burn,' Katz said. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Friday that his objective was to eliminate any Iranian threat to Israel, but he also urged Iranians to rise up against their leaders. Israel would welcome the government's overthrow even if it is not actively seeking it. Israel's strikes also put further talks between the United States and Iran over a nuclear accord into doubt. The U.S. and Iran were scheduled to meet in Oman, on Sunday. Iran's top diplomat said Saturday that talks with the United States were 'unjustifiable' after Israeli strikes on his country, likely signaling no negotiations this weekend with Washington. However he stopped short of saying the talks were canceled. The comments by Abbas Araghchi, Iran's minister of foreign affairs, came when he spoke by phone with Kaja Kallas, the European Union's top diplomat. The Israeli airstrikes were the 'result of the direct support by Washington,' Araghchi said in a statement carried by the state-run IRNA news agency. The U.S. has said it isn't part of the strikes. Khamenei said in a recorded message Friday: 'We will not allow them to escape safely from this great crime they committed.' Iran launched waves of missiles at Israel late Friday and early Saturday, and Iranians awoke to state television airing repeated clips of strikes on Israel, as well as videos of people cheering and handing out sweets. The Iranian attacks killed at least three people and wounded around 70, mostly in and around Tel Aviv, according to two local hospitals. One missile severely damaged at least four homes in the nearby city of Rishon Lezion, according to first responders. The Israeli military said seven soldiers were lightly wounded when a missile hit central Israel, without specifying where the impact occurred. It was the first report of Israeli military casualties since the initial Israeli strikes. U.S. ground-based air defense systems in the region were helping to shoot down Iranian missiles, said a U.S. official who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the measures. In Ramat Gan, east of Tel Aviv, an Associated Press journalist saw burned-out cars and at least three damaged houses, including one where the front was nearly entirely torn away. Residents of a central Israeli city that was hit Friday night told the AP the explosion was so powerful it shook their shelter door open. 'We thought, that's it, the house is gone, and in fact half of the house was gone, it fell apart,' said Moshe Shani. Israeli police said debris from the interception of drones and missiles fell in dozens of locations in northern Israel, causing damage and fires but no injuries. Israel's main international airport said Saturday it will remain closed until further notice. Iranian state television reported online that air defenses were firing in the cities of Khorramabad, Kermanshah and Tabriz, signaling the start of what could be a new Israeli attack. Footage from Tabriz showed black smoke rising from the city. An Israeli military official said Saturday that the military was poised to carry out more strikes in Iran, saying, 'This is not over.' He spoke on condition of anonymity in line with official procedures. Overnight, the sound of explosions and Iranian air defense systems firing at targets echoed across central Tehran. Iran's semiofficial Tasnim news agency reported a fire at Tehran's Mehrabad International Airport. The Israeli military said it carried out overnight strikes on dozens of targets, including air defenses, 'in the area of Tehran.' Israel's ongoing airstrikes and Iran's retaliation raised concerns about all-out war between the countries and propelled the region, already on edge, into even greater upheaval. Israel's 20-month-long war with Gaza shows no signs of ending. At least 27 people were killed by Israeli fire in Gaza overnight, according to local hospitals. Countries in the region condemned Israel's attack, while leaders around the globe called for immediate deescalation from both sides. Among the key sites Israel attacked was Iran's main nuclear enrichment facility in Natanz, where black smoke could be seen rising into the air. Israel said it also struck a nuclear research facility in Isfahan, and said it destroyed dozens of radar installations and surface-to-air missile launchers in western Iran. Iran confirmed the strike at Isfahan. The Israeli military official said that according to the army's initial assessment 'it will take much more than a few weeks' for Iran to repair the damage to the Natanz and Isfahan nuclear sites. The official said the army had 'concrete intelligence that production in Isfahan was for military purposes.' Israel denied it had struck the nuclear enrichment facility in Fordo, about 100 kilometers (60 miles) southeast of Tehran, after an Iranian news outlet close to the government reported the sound of explosions near the site. U.N. nuclear chief Rafael Grossi told the Security Council that the above-ground section of the Natanz facility was destroyed. The main centrifuge facility underground did not appear to have been hit, but the loss of power could have damaged the infrastructure there, he said. Netanyahu said the attack had been months in the making and was planned for April before being postponed. Among those killed were three of Iran's top military leaders: one who oversaw the entire armed forces, Gen. Mohammad Bagheri; one who led the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, Gen. Hossein Salami; and the head of the Guard's ballistic missile program, Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh. Two of Bagheri's deputies were also killed, Iran confirmed Saturday: Gen. Gholamreza Mehrabi, the deputy of intelligence for the armed forces' general staff, and Gen. Mehdi Rabbani, the deputy of operations. On Saturday, Khamenei named a new leader for the Revolutionary Guard's aerospace division. Gen. Majid Mousavi will replace Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh, who was killed in Friday's airstrike. The Guard's aerospace division oversees Iran's arsenal of ballistic missiles. Trump urged Iran on Friday to reach a deal with the U.S. on its nuclear program, warning on his Truth Social platform that Israel's attacks 'will only get worse.' 'Iran must make a deal, before there is nothing left,' he wrote.
