In El Salvador, community radio stations provide an alternative to gang involvement for youths, fostering a sense of identity and belonging. The Radio and Participative Programmes Association of El Salvador (ARPAS) supports 22 community radio stations, which address local issues and hold the government accountable. Despite the high violence rates, these stations offer a platform for young people to engage in meaningful work and social issues. The article highlights the stories of individuals like Nicolas Humberto Garcia, who resisted gang influence, and others who found purpose and community through radio. The narrative underscores the positive impact of community radio in a country struggling with poverty, violence, and social exclusion.

Japan has raised the age of consent for sex from 13 to 16, a significant legal reform after 116 years. The change, driven by public pressure and advocacy from women's groups, also broadens the definition of rape to include non-consensual sexual intercourse and extends the reporting window for rape to 15 years. The reform addresses long-standing issues within Japan's patriarchal society, where consent and sexual harassment have been contentious topics. The article highlights the roles of various stakeholders, including politicians, activists, and experts, in pushing for these changes, and discusses the broader cultural and legal context of sexual consent in Japan and other countries.

The author shares a personal journey with scalp psoriasis, detailing how various life events and emotional stressors have triggered flare-ups. Moving from Mumbai to Tokyo and then to Dublin, the author identifies cold weather, stress, and diet as significant factors affecting their condition. Positive lifestyle changes, including regular exercise and a healthier diet, have helped manage the symptoms, leading to a period of no flare-ups.

Tokyo offers a variety of hidden nature escapes that provide a serene contrast to the bustling city life. Key spots include the Meiji Jingu shrine, a tranquil forested area with historical significance; Mount Takao, a popular hiking destination with stunning views and seasonal attractions like Beer Mount; and the Imperial Palace, surrounded by beautiful gardens and a moat. Inokashira Park in Kichijoji offers a mix of natural beauty and local culture, while the Tama River area provides opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. The Izu Islands, accessible by boat or plane, offer tropical landscapes, surfing, hiking, and unique local experiences. These destinations highlight the diverse and accessible nature escapes within and around Tokyo.

Melek Ortabasi, a professor of Japanese literature at Simon Fraser University, has been separated from her children due to Japan's travel restrictions amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite efforts and communication with the Canadian Embassy in Tokyo, her children are unable to join her in Japan. The travel ban, which was imposed in response to the Omicron variant, has affected many foreign residents and students, leading to family separations and academic disruptions. The article highlights personal stories of those impacted, including an Australian man and his newborn, and a British woman unable to attend her father's memorial. It also mentions petitions and actions taken by affected individuals and groups seeking to address the hardships caused by the restrictions. The sentiment in Japan appears to support the travel ban, with a survey showing 89 percent approval, but this has led to accusations of racism and xenophobia from those affected.

TELL Japan is launching the Step Up Challenge to raise mental health awareness by encouraging participants to walk 21,081 steps in a day, symbolizing the number of lives lost to suicide in Japan last year. The campaign runs from Sept. 10 to Oct. 10, coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day and World Mental Health Day. TELL Japan, a Tokyo-based nonprofit, has been providing counseling and support to Japan’s international community for nearly five decades. The Step Up Challenge, which raised ¥1.2 million last year, follows the success of the organization's previous Tokyo Tower Climb event.

Tear gas, banned in warfare, has become a normalized tool for protest policing worldwide. The article traces its history from British colonial use to its deployment in Vietnam and recent protests in India and the US. It examines the legal and ethical controversies surrounding its use, the commercial trade in teargas munitions, and the personal experiences of those exposed to it, including a US Navy veteran, an activist in Portland, and a photojournalist in Kashmir. The piece also touches on the health impacts of tear gas, including its effects on menstrual and reproductive health.

The Tokyo Olympics, marked by high costs, controversies, and the COVID-19 pandemic, left Japan with mixed emotions. While the Games brought pride through medal wins and moments like Ryo Kiyuna's historic karate gold, they also faced criticism for prioritizing the event over public health and financial concerns. Controversies involving key figures and the exclusion of spectators due to the pandemic further fueled public dissatisfaction. The event highlighted issues of racial diversity, mental health, and social acceptance, reflecting a complex national sentiment towards the Olympics.

The 1964 Tokyo Olympics left a lasting impression on Japanese citizens like Nobumi Hiramatsu, Hiroko Mori, and Hideo Nakajima, who recall the event with nostalgia and pride. The games symbolized Japan's post-war reconstruction and technological advancements. However, the same individuals express disappointment and skepticism towards the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which are taking place amid the COVID-19 pandemic without spectators, leading to a lack of enthusiasm and a sense of division among the Japanese people. The article contrasts the unity and excitement of the 1964 games with the controversy and subdued atmosphere of the current Olympics, highlighting the changes in public sentiment and the impact of the pandemic on the event.

Foreign students at Japanese universities face significant challenges due to Japan's strict border control measures amid the Tokyo Olympics. While athletes are allowed entry, students like Shani Weiss from Tel Aviv remain stranded, leading to disruptions in their education and personal lives. Academics have called for more transparency and flexibility from the Japanese government, highlighting the negative impact on education and research. The situation has also sparked concerns about xenophobia and discrimination against foreign residents in Japan.

The Embassy of Japan in India issued an apology on its Facebook page for an 'utterly inappropriate video' that offended many Indian friends, following a backlash over a problematic music video posted on YouTube.

Indian diaspora in Japan faced significant challenges in sending oxygen concentrators to India during the second wave of COVID-19 due to limited business channels and unprecedented circumstances. Despite the Japanese government's provision of 800 ventilators and 800 oxygen concentrators as emergency aid, individual efforts by Indian residents encountered delays and frustrations, highlighting the need for greater openness and flexibility in such humanitarian efforts.

Digital Action's project around the Digital Services Act (DSA) aimed to diversify civil society input in the European Commission's public consultation, focusing on including marginalized groups. The DSA, setting platform regulation for EU countries, is seen as a global precedent for internet regulation. Digital Action facilitated the participation of 21 organizations by providing bespoke advice and policy guides. The project revealed barriers to participation, such as complex processes and lack of expertise or funding within civil society. The collaboration led to a unified civil society voice on key issues, highlighting the importance of long-term engagement and building trust for effective advocacy against the lobbying power of Big Tech.

Priyanka Borpujari, a former Fulbright scholar and award-winning journalist, reflects on how the COVID-19 lockdown in India has affected the public experience of gender inequality. Initially, she imagined the lockdown might ease the challenges faced by women in public spaces.

The century-old Kranti Nagar chawl in Mumbai was demolished to make way for the Mumbai Metro project, displacing 108 families. Residents, including Sarubai Maruti Gawde and her family, faced emotional and logistical challenges during the move. The chawls, historically significant and culturally rich, are being replaced due to urban redevelopment and changing social aspirations. The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) has faced criticism for environmental damage and inadequate resettlement plans. Experts like Amita Bhide highlight the socio-economic shifts influencing Mumbai's housing landscape.

Begum Samru, a courtesan turned mercenary and queen, commanded an army and ruled over Sardhana in 18th-century northern India. Despite her significant influence, she is largely forgotten today. Born Farzana, she charmed Mughal rulers and formed a power couple with Austrian mercenary Walter Reinhardt. After his death, she continued to wield power, converting to Catholicism and building the Basilica of Our Lady of Graces. Her legacy includes her strategic diplomacy and the vast fortune inherited by the East India Company upon her death.

Ganesh Dattatrey Shinde, a contract worker in Mumbai, is unable to access loans or receive proper employment benefits due to a system that exploits laborers like him. Employed by contractors who circumvent labor laws to avoid providing permanent positions, Shinde and his colleagues do not receive the gloves, masks, and boots that are supposed to be provided by the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM). Shinde's attempts to secure a loan for home repairs were thwarted by his precarious employment status and discrepancies in his identification documents. Despite a Supreme Court ruling in favor of the workers, Shinde has yet to see any improvement in his situation. He has joined the Kachra Vahtuk Shramik Sangh (KVSS), an organization fighting for the rights of contract sanitation workers, and has started investing in small insurance policies for future security.

Kenny Basumatary's film 'Suspended Inspector Boro' combines mixed martial arts and comedy to address human trafficking in Assam. Released on December 7, 2018, the film follows a suspended police officer unraveling a trafficking racket. Despite budget constraints and competition from major Bollywood releases, the film achieved success in Assam. Basumatary, known for his unique filmmaking style, drew inspiration from real-life events and news reports. Poonam Gurung, who plays a strong female lead, prepared extensively for her role. The film's success is attributed to Basumatary's consistency and the limited scope of Assamese cinema.

Cricket in India is deeply rooted in sexism, as evidenced by the treatment of female cricketers and the recent sexist remarks by Hardik Pandya on 'Koffee With Karan.' The BCCI's response, which includes a temporary ban for Pandya and K.L. Rahul, is criticized as a short-term solution that fails to address the underlying issues of sexism in the sport. The article calls for a more comprehensive approach to sensitizing players about these issues, as highlighted by cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle.

In the impoverished village of Magurmari, Meghalaya, families are grappling with the loss of loved ones trapped in an illegal 'rat-hole' coal mine in Ksan. Despite a rescue operation involving the National Disaster Response Force and Indian Navy, there has been no sign of the 15 trapped miners. The practice of 'rat-hole' mining, banned in 2014 due to environmental concerns, remains prevalent due to economic pressures. The incident underscores the dire conditions and risks faced by villagers who turn to illegal mining for better wages, despite the life-threatening dangers.

A Catholic nun in Kerala, India, accused Bishop Franco Mulakkal of raping her 13 times between 2014 and 2016. Despite initial inaction and threats, Mulakkal was eventually arrested but released on bail. Father Kuriakose Kattuthara, who testified against Mulakkal, was found dead, raising further concerns. The nun and her supporters face threats and transfers, while the Catholic Church in India is criticized for hushing up crimes. The case has led to protests, reduced donations, and varied reactions from outright support to dismissal of the nuns' pleas.

The transgender community in India continues to face significant discrimination, particularly in light of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill of 2018. The bill, which mandates screening committees and sex reassignment surgery for gender recognition, is seen as violating fundamental rights and further criminalizing the community. Protests have erupted across the country, with activists urging amendments to the bill. The bill also threatens access to healthcare and undermines the unique kinship bonds within the transgender community. The Supreme Court's 2014 recognition of transgender people as a third gender and the subsequent directive for affirmative action are being reneged upon by the current bill.

India's farmers, led by figures like Sanjay Sathe, are protesting against the dire state of agriculture, demanding the implementation of the National Commission on Farmers' recommendations and loan waivers. The agrarian crisis has led to widespread farmer suicides and migration to cities. Recent protests have gained momentum, with significant marches in Mumbai and New Delhi, challenging the ruling BJP to address these issues ahead of upcoming elections. The article highlights the systemic problems in Indian agriculture and the growing collective action among farmers.

Diwali, a significant Hindu festival, was celebrated in India and Pakistan with various activities including shopping, exchanging gifts, and setting off firecrackers. In Mumbai, celebrations were subdued due to a Supreme Court order limiting firecracker use, while New Delhi saw peak pollution levels. In Lahore, Pakistan, the main event was held at Krishna Mandir, with participation from Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, and Muslims. Due to security concerns, many Hindus in Pakistan celebrated Diwali indoors or within temple compounds.

Bosnia and Herzegovina faces renewed ethnic tensions following the election of Željko Komšić, a moderate leader from the Democratic Front, to the Croat presidency. His victory over nationalist Dragan Čović of the Croatian Democratic Union has sparked controversy, with Čović's supporters claiming Komšić does not represent Croats. The electoral framework prioritizes ethnicity over representation, complicating efforts to change the Constitution. The country remains divided, with high youth unemployment and economic instability driving many to seek opportunities in northern Europe.

Since 2012, TwoCircles.net has been capturing the everyday rituals of Muslims during Ramzan, aiming to subvert stereotypes and showcase the diversity of experiences. The online platform, created by Boston-based Kashif ul-Huda, features a photo each day of the month, taken by photojournalists like Natisha Mallick and Savad Rahman. The images, which have been exhibited and presented at institutions like MIT, avoid clichéd narratives and instead focus on personal spirituality and discipline. Huda, a tech firm employee with no formal journalism training, believes this approach helps to counteract fear-based narratives and present Islam's spiritual values.

On the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr, prominent journalist Shujaat Bukhari was assassinated in Kashmir, along with two personal security officers. Bukhari, known for his efforts to promote the Kashmiri language and for initiating ceasefire conversations between Indian and Pakistani diplomats, was loved by many but also despised by some. His assassination may be linked to terrorist groups aiming to disrupt the ceasefire during Ramzan. Bukhari's death led to political upheaval, including a shutdown called by separatist parties, detentions of leaders, and the withdrawal of the BJP from the state government alliance, resulting in the appointment of a new governor. Journalists across India protested his killing, and his newspaper, Rising Kashmir, continued its publication in his honor. The incident highlights the dangers faced by voices in India that challenge the status quo.

The 'Adopt a Heritage' scheme in India, allowing corporations to adopt heritage sites, has sparked controversy with the Dalmia Bharat Group's adoption of the Red Fort. Historians and opposition parties fear alteration of historical narratives and profiteering, while local communities in Assam oppose the privatization of cultural sites. Comparisons to Italian restoration practices are met with skepticism, and the potential disregard for local culture and historical nuances raises concerns about the impact of such privatization efforts on India's layered history and regional sentiments.

The article details the severe health and living conditions faced by residents of Mahul, a slum rehabilitation camp in Mumbai. It highlights the high pollution levels, inadequate infrastructure, and the resulting health issues, including multiple deaths. The narrative includes personal stories of residents, their struggles, and the ongoing legal battle to have Mahul declared inhospitable. The article criticizes the government's insufficient response and emphasizes the need for better living conditions and rights for the poor.

India approved the death penalty for rapists of girls under 12, a decision made after the rape of two minors and associated with the ruling BJP. The article questions the effectiveness of the death penalty as a deterrent, citing a high number of rape cases and low conviction rates. It highlights the patriarchal framework of the ordinance, the high percentage of known perpetrators, and the challenges in addressing child sexual assault within families. The article suggests that without addressing the root causes, such as toxic masculinity and lack of sex education, stringent punishments will not protect India's daughters.

Afroz Shah, a lawyer from Mumbai, has led a three-year effort to clean up Versova beach, resulting in the return of olive ridley sea turtles after two decades. Despite initial lack of support from local authorities, Shah's initiative gained recognition from the UN Environment Programme and local celebrities. The clean-up has significantly improved the beach's water quality, highlighting the impact of community activism on environmental conservation.

The article contrasts the media's handling of two deaths in India: the murder of Madhu, an indigenous man in Kerala, and the death of actress Sridevi. While Madhu's death highlighted the plight of indigenous people and sparked protests, it was overshadowed by sensational coverage of Sridevi's death. The piece criticizes Indian journalism for prioritizing sensationalism over serious issues, revealing a failure to uphold its democratic role.

The article highlights the mass rapes and torture committed by the Indian Army in the villages of Kunan and Poshpora in Kashmir on February 23, 1991. Despite the passage of nearly three decades, justice remains elusive for the victims due to the impunity granted by the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA). The piece underscores the ongoing struggle for justice by the survivors and human rights organizations, while also noting the broader context of military occupation and human rights abuses in Kashmir. The article calls for the remembrance of these atrocities and the continued resistance of Kashmiri women against oppression.

India's second-largest public sector bank, Punjab National Bank, was defrauded of approximately $1.7 billion by jewelers Nirav Modi and Mehul Choksi through collusion with bank officials. Despite early warnings, including from whistle-blowers and a former bank director, the fraud went undetected for years. The scandal has sparked outrage and debate, with the ruling BJP denying any personal connections between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nirav Modi, and the opposition Congress party demanding accountability. The case has highlighted the broader issue of bad loans in India's public sector banks and the disproportionate impact on small borrowers and farmers, contrasting with the treatment of wealthy defaulters.

The article discusses the violent protests led by the Shri Rajput Karni Sena against the release of the movie 'Padmaavat,' which depicts the mythical figure Queen Padmini. The protests have included attacks on the film's director, vandalism, and threats against the lead actress. Despite changes to the film and legal interventions, the violence has escalated, highlighting issues of intolerance and censorship in India. The article also touches on the broader implications for free speech and the role of state governments in addressing such violence.

In December 2017, the Gujarat assembly elections in India became a focal point for questioning the development model championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his tenure as chief minister. Three young leaders, Hardik Patel, Alpesh Thakor, and Jignesh Mevani, emerged as significant challengers to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), each representing different social groups within the state. Their collective voice raised concerns about the lack of equitable development and the BJP's reliance on the 'vikas' narrative. The election's outcome was seen as crucial for the BJP and Modi's image, especially in light of the 2002 Godhra riots and the criticism of Modi's neoliberal policies.

Delhi's severe air pollution crisis, highlighted by a video of a smog-induced car pile-up, has led to emergency measures including school closures and a proposed reimplementation of the odd-even vehicle scheme. Despite temporary measures, the city's pollution persists due to local sources like vehicles and construction, compounded by poor weather forecasting. Comparisons with Beijing's more effective long-term strategies underscore Delhi's need for a comprehensive public transport system and more robust environmental policies.

A list of 60 academics accused of sexual harassment in India, posted on Facebook by law student Raya Sarkar, has caused division among Indian feminists and raised questions about due process and the effectiveness of social media in addressing such issues. The debate highlights the challenges women face in speaking out against harassment and the need for real-time conversations to address the nuances of movements like #MeToo.

India faces an uncertain climate future with frequent floods and droughts disrupting life and agriculture. Bihar's monsoon patterns have changed, leading to annual floods, while drought affects 40 percent of districts. Cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru have experienced extreme rainfall, causing significant damage. The Asian Development Bank and Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research report highlights South Asia's high flood exposure, with potential displacement of 130 million people by the century's end. Environmental mismanagement, such as haphazard construction and deforestation, exacerbates disasters like the 2013 Uttarakhand floods. The National Green Tribunal is criticized for ineffective environmental protection. Activist Dinesh Mishra advocates understanding river patterns over flood control measures. Climate change's impact on agriculture is severe, with suggestions to shift to low water-intensity crops. State-level climate change policies are emerging, but the question remains if these measures are sufficient.

The ASB Writers Club, founded by Gayathri Durairaj in 2015, provides a supportive community for expat mothers in Mumbai, helping them share personal stories and experiences through writing. The club has grown from seven to 35 members and has published two multilingual anthologies. Members like Heesoo Lim and Katya Schodts have found solace and validation in the group, which meets weekly to write and share. The club will discuss their literary journeys at an upcoming event at Trilogy Book Store.

The article highlights the struggles of street vendors in Mumbai, focusing on Hari, a coconut water seller, and the broader issues faced by hawkers in the city. Despite legislation aimed at protecting their rights, vendors face constant harassment and corruption from municipal authorities and police. The lack of new licenses and inadequate urban planning exacerbate their plight. The article also discusses the economic impact of bribes and the need for more inclusive urban planning. Advocacy groups and some community initiatives show support for hawkers, but systemic issues persist.

In 2016, Delhi experienced severe smog post-Diwali due to firecrackers, leading to a Supreme Court ban on firecrackers in 2017 to reduce pollution. While environmentalists and citizens supported the ban, critics highlighted the need to address year-round pollution and some viewed the ban as targeting Hindu festivals. Despite the ban, firecrackers were still used, resulting in high pollution levels. The article underscores the tension between cultural practices and public health, with significant opposition from nationalist figures and communal sentiments influencing the debate.

The article critiques the Indian judicial system's handling of consent in three recent cases, highlighting the acquittal of Mahmood Farooqui, the bail granted to three Jindal students accused of rape, and the nullification of Hadiya's marriage by the Kerala High Court. It underscores the courts' patriarchal attitudes and the disregard for women's consent, while also noting some positive judicial steps towards recognizing nonconsensual sex with minors as rape. The article calls for a shift in judicial perspectives to better protect women's rights and deliver justice.

India's first online concert, GivNow Live, was held as part of Daan Utsav, a week-long celebration of giving. The concert featured performances by Kavita Seth and poet Dipti Misra, with proceeds going to NGOs Kat-katha and Urja Trust. Audience members purchased passes online and enjoyed the concert from their own devices. The event emphasized donations, with a portion of the proceeds and artist fees going to the NGOs. GivNow, which collaborated with 31 NGOs, will match the funds raised.

ConnectFor, a non-profit organization, is orchestrating a saree donation drive to make the festive season brighter for those unable to afford new clothes. Inspired by a story from Kolkata, Shloka Mehta, a founder of ConnectFor, aims to collect about 1,000 sarees for distribution through five partner NGOs during Daan Utsav. The drive will include an event at Animedh Charitable Trust, where 150 graduating women will receive sarees to aid their entrepreneurial endeavors. Donations are accepted at various locations and can be coordinated through WhatsApp or email.

In the aftermath of the monsoon-season flooding in Mumbai on August 29, which left 14 people dead and caused widespread devastation, women and girls are shouldering the burden of restoring their homes and managing daily life. With inadequate sanitation facilities, which were the first to be flooded, and the risk of health complications from tainted drinking water, the female residents of Mumbai's slums face significant challenges. Charities like Pehchaan Foundation are providing some relief, but the scale of the problem is immense, with an estimated 250,000 homeless people in the city. The floods have highlighted the precariousness of life for many women in Mumbai, especially those in impoverished areas.

The author recounts personal experiences during a flood in Mumbai, drawing parallels with the struggles faced by people in Assam and Bihar. The article criticizes the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation and the Shiv Sena for failing to manage the city's infrastructure and for prioritizing grandiose projects over practical solutions. It questions the glorification of the 'Mumbai spirit' and calls for action against the responsible authorities. The author plans to investigate the aftermath of the flood, including the number of leptospirosis patients, highlighting a naturalized response to the city's recurring failures.

Badri Baldawa, a 73-year-old steel exporter and chartered accountant from Mumbai, embarked on an adventurous 72-day road trip covering 19 countries with his wife and granddaughter. The journey, which started in March 2017, spanned 22,200 km and included diverse experiences from cultural events in Thailand to navigating challenging terrains in China and Russia. The trip highlighted the couple's resilience and adaptability, as well as their reflections on cultural differences and civic responsibilities. The Baldawas aim to inspire others by demonstrating that age is just a number and that challenges can be overcome with determination.

In Mumbai, a series of demolitions have left many slum dwellers homeless, despite claims of residence prior to the year 2000 which would entitle them to legal housing. The demolitions, aimed at protecting mangroves, have been criticized for ignoring the rights and needs of the poor. The Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation's decision to fell mangroves for metro construction has been met with backlash. Housing rights activists argue that the term 'encroacher' is unfairly applied to those who cannot afford housing in Mumbai. Historical housing provisions for workers have been largely ignored post-Independence, and the Slum Rehabilitation Authority's efforts have often disrupted communities. The Adarsh Housing Society scam exemplifies the builder-politician nexus in land allocation. A United Nations Special Rapporteur has called for a national housing law based on human rights. Experts suggest expanding the scope of affordable housing and rethinking the legal framework to better accommodate the poor.

Zakir Naik's influence in Indonesia has grown, particularly in the context of the Jakarta gubernatorial elections where his speeches aligned with conservative Islamic groups' calls for electing a Muslim leader. This contributed to the defeat of Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, a Christian, by Anies Baswedan, a Muslim. The rise of Islamist radicalism poses a threat to Indonesia's secular values. Various figures and organizations, including Vice-President Jusuf Kalla and media outlets like Tempo and Republika, played roles in this dynamic. Concerns are raised about the potential impact on future national elections.

The article discusses the benefits of using Contently's content marketing platform. It suggests that companies struggling to produce high-performing content have not yet found success through agencies, freelance platforms, or internal resources. Contently offers a solution with its platform that provides strategic alignment, a marketplace for creative talent, and content specialists. The platform is presented as a way to create content that stands out, with customers reportedly achieving an average of 6x return on investment in a matter of months.

Violence against women journalists in India is prevalent, both in the field and within the journalism fraternity. A recent protest in Mumbai highlighted the issue following the rape of a young photojournalist. The Indian media, while reporting on violence against women, often overlooks sexual harassment in its own workplaces. Veteran journalist Rina Mukherjee fought a decade-long battle to win a sexual harassment case against a former superior at The Statesman. The Vishakha Guidelines, meant to protect women from sexual harassment at work, are ineffective in practice. Photojournalist Uma Kadam recounts her experiences of harassment in the industry. The protest made many women journalists realize that their profession does not shield them from the sexist culture of the nation.

The Queens Borough Public Library offers a 'Read Down Your Fees' program allowing young users to reduce their overdue fines by reading. For every half-hour of reading, $1 is deducted from their fines. The program is popular and considered a success by library officials, despite the extra staff time required. Similar initiatives exist in other libraries, including the New York Public Library. The program aims to remove barriers between children and books, and to teach responsibility without imposing financial burdens on families with limited means.

Columbia University's dining hall began serving Nutella daily, leading to students consuming over 100 pounds per day and taking jars away, causing thousands of dollars in expenses for Dining Services in just one week.