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Nepal Welcomes Its First Transgender Woman MP – Bhumika Shrestha: Know The Woman Breaking Barriers in Parliament

By
Nirjala Gaud
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In a groundbreaking moment for inclusivity and representation in South Asia, Bhumika Shrestha has become Nepal’s first transgender woman Member of Parliament. On March 16, 2026, Nepal’s Election Commission officially confirmed the 37-year-old LGBTQ+ rights activist as a proportional representation MP from the centrist Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP), which secured a commanding majority in the recent general elections. Draped in garlands and surrounded by supporters at the Blue Diamond Society office in Kathmandu, Shrestha accepted symbolic gifts-including a pen representing her new legislative authority-amid celebrations that underscored the joy and hope within Nepal’s marginalized communities.

Shrestha, a longtime advocate affiliated with the Blue Diamond Society (BDS), has dedicated years to fighting for the rights of gender and sexual minorities. She is the author of the autobiography Bhumika: Tisro Lingiko Atmakatha (Bhumika: Autobiography of a Third Gender), which chronicles the challenges and triumphs of transgender individuals in Nepal. Her work earned her international recognition, including the International Women of Courage Award from the U.S. State Department in 2022.

Expressing her emotions after the confirmation, Shrestha told AFP: “I am very excited but also feel the responsibility on my shoulders. Our constitution has provisions for our community but they have not translated to laws and policies. Our community expects me to raise our issues in parliament.”

This landmark achievement comes in the wake of Nepal’s March 5, 2026, general elections-the first since anti-corruption protests toppled the previous government in September 2025. The RSP, led by rapper-turned-politician Balendra Shah, won 125 directly elected seats and 57 through proportional representation, totaling 182 seats in the 275-member House of Representatives-just shy of a two-thirds majority.

Nepal has long been a regional leader in progressive LGBTQ+ policies: discrimination based on gender or sexual orientation was outlawed in 2007, a “third gender” category was introduced for citizenship documents in 2013 (with passports following in 2015), and a 2023 Supreme Court interim order allowed same-sex and transgender couples to register marriages. Despite these advancements, openly LGBTQ+ representation in politics has been scarce since openly gay activist Sunil Babu Pant served as a lawmaker in 2008.

With more than 900,000 people identifying as sexual minorities according to BDS estimates, Shrestha’s entry into parliament is hailed as a “historic” step by community leaders like Umisha Pandey, president of BDS: “Our pains, our sufferings, our feelings, our stories and our every problem is only understood by us, not by others.”

Shrestha has pledged to advocate for stronger constitutional implementation, legal protections, and greater inclusive representation for gender and sexual minorities-turning symbolic progress into tangible policy change. This victory not only elevates transgender voices in Nepal’s political arena but also signals a broader shift toward diversity in governance, inspiring hope for marginalized groups across the region. As Shrestha steps into her role, the Himalayan nation takes a significant stride toward true equality and representation.

MP’s Unsung Hero: 20-Year-Old Bittu Tabahi Single-Handedly Cleans Polluted Ajnar River in MP

By
Nirjala Gaud
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In the heart of Madhya Pradesh (MP), a state often celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, one young man has emerged as a powerful symbol of environmental action and personal responsibility. Bittu Tabahi, a 20-year-old from the small town of Biaora in Madhya Pradesh, has captured national attention by taking on the massive task of cleaning the heavily polluted Ajnar River-almost entirely on his own. What began as frustration over the river’s neglected state has become one of the most talked-about individual environmental efforts in MP and across India.

The Ajnar River in Biaora, Madhya Pradesh, had turned into a heartbreaking eyesore: thick layers of green algae covered its surface, while plastic waste, garbage, and years of accumulated debris choked its flow, rendering sections “biologically dead.” Tired of endless complaints and visible neglect, Bittu decided to act. He launched his cleanup mission around January 26, 2026 (Republic Day), initially with a handful of friends, but he has continued the grueling work largely solo.

Armed only with gloves, basic tools, trash bags (frequently purchased with his own money), and sheer willpower, Bittu waded into the polluted waters of the Ajnar River day after day. His Instagram account, @bittu_tabahi, became the window into this remarkable journey-sharing raw, powerful before-and-after videos that show the transformation of Madhya Pradesh’s local waterway from a green, trash-filled mess to clearer, reflective waters that once again mirror the sky and surrounding trees.

Despite skepticism from locals in Madhya Pradesh who repeatedly told him, “You will never be able to clean this river,” Bittu turned doubt into fuel. He focused on high-visibility areas like the main river ghat and proved the naysayers wrong through persistent effort. One viral clip captures his calm response to people throwing fresh waste back into the river while he stepped away to buy more bags-he politely asked them to stop and reminded everyone that meaningful change in MP and beyond starts somewhere, even if it’s slow. Mid-March 2026, the results in Madhya Pradesh were visible and inspiring: sections of the Ajnar River that were once overwhelmed by algae and pollution now appear dramatically cleaner, with restored natural clarity. Bittu deliberately leaves piles of collected waste along the banks as stark reminders of the long-term neglect faced by rivers in Madhya Pradesh and many parts of India.

His videos have gone massively viral, racking up millions of views and sparking widespread praise for this young hero from MP. Netizens across the country have hailed him as a true inspiration, with many calling for more such individual actions while questioning why a 20-year-old from Madhya Pradesh is doing-with bare hands and basic tools-what municipal authorities in the state (equipped with machinery and budgets) have failed to achieve.

Bittu’s mission has ignited deeper conversations in Madhya Pradesh and nationwide:The glaring gap between India’s cultural worship of rivers and the harsh reality of pollution. The urgent need for stronger civic sense among citizens in MP and beyond. The demand for accountable local governance and municipal action in Madhya Pradesh to prevent such neglect. Bittu keeps his effort collaborative by openly asking followers for tips on faster, more effective water-cleaning methods—turning his solo project in Madhya Pradesh into a growing call for collective environmental responsibility. In a world full of complaints, Madhya Pradesh’s Bittu Tabahi proves that real heroes often emerge from ordinary places-wearing gloves instead of capes, armed with tools and tenacity. His story from MP reminds us that one determined individual in Madhya Pradesh can spark visible change and inspire a nation-one removed bag of trash at a time.

Navreh~ The Kashmiri Festival of New Beginnings and Spiritual Reflection

By
Kanan Rathore
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Marking the beginning of a new year in the Kashmiri Hindu calendar, Navreh is a deeply symbolic and culturally rich festival celebrated by the Kashmiri Pandit community. Observed on the first day of the Chaitra month, Navreh coincides with the onset of spring, reflecting nature’s renewal and the promise of new beginnings.

When is Navreh in 2026?

In 2026, Navreh will be celebrated on 19 March, aligning with Chaitra Shukla Pratipada, the first day of the Hindu lunisolar calendar. The day also coincides with other regional New Year festivals like Ugadi and GudiPadwa, highlighting the shared cultural rhythm across India.

What is Navreh?

The word “Navreh” is derived from Sanskrit—Nav meaning “new” and Reh from Rekha meaning “line” or “era”—symbolising the beginning of a new year or time cycle. It is primarily celebrated in Kashmir and among Kashmiri Pandit communities across India.

More than just a calendar event, Navreh is a day of introspection, gratitude, and spiritual alignment, setting the tone for the year ahead.

Significance and Historical Roots

Navreh has deep historical and spiritual significance. It is closely associated with the ancient Saptarishi calendar, believed to have been in use in Kashmir for thousands of years. The festival symbolises the creation of time and cosmic order, linking it with broader Hindu beliefs that the universe began during this sacred period.

The festival also reflects the intimate connection between nature and human life, as it marks the arrival of spring in the Kashmir Valley—a time when snow begins to melt and life slowly re-emerges.

Rituals and Traditions

One of the most unique aspects of Navreh is the preparation of the “Navreh Thali”, a sacred platter arranged on the eve of the festival. It typically includes:

●Rice (symbol of sustenance)
●Coins or currency (prosperity)
●A pen or book (knowledge)
●A mirror (self-reflection)
●Fresh flowers (beauty and growth)
●Walnuts (purity and health)
●A religious text or almanac

The thali is placed in the prayer room overnight, and the first thing devotees do in the morning is look at it, symbolising a mindful and prosperous start to the year.
Families also visit temples, offer prayers, and listen to the Panchang (Hindu almanac), which outlines predictions and guidance for the coming year.

Food and Festive Delicacies

Food plays an important role in Navreh celebrations. Traditional Kashmiri dishes are prepared, often including:

●Rice-based meals
●Yogurt dishes
●Seasonal vegetables

A unique ritual involves soaking walnuts in water overnight and distributing them among family members, symbolising unity, health, and prosperity.

Where and How Navreh is Celebrated

Navreh is primarily celebrated in Kashmir and by the Kashmiri Pandit diaspora across India, especially in cities like Jammu and Delhi.

The celebrations are generally simple, spiritual, and family-oriented, focusing on prayers, rituals, and reflection rather than large public festivities. The emphasis is on beginning the year with clarity, discipline, and positivity.

A Festival of Reflection and Renewal

At its heart, Navreh is a festival of inner awakening and new beginnings. It encourages individuals to reflect on their lives, set intentions, and move forward with wisdom and balance.

In a fast-changing world, Navreh continues to preserve the cultural identity and spiritual heritage of the Kashmiri people—reminding us that every new year is not just about time passing, but about growing, learning, and beginning anew.

Ugadi- The Festival of New beginnings in South India

By
Kanan Rathore
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Marking the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new lunar cycle, Ugadi is one of the most important festivals celebrated in southern India. Known as the Telugu and Kannada New Year, Ugadi symbolises renewal, prosperity, and the start of a fresh chapter in life. Rooted in ancient traditions and aligned with nature’s rhythm, the festival reflects both cultural richness and spiritual depth.

When is Ugadi in 2026?

In 2026, Ugadi will be celebrated on 19 March (Thursday), marking the first day of the Chaitra month as per the Hindu lunisolar calendar.
The festival falls on Chaitra Shukla Pratipada, which signifies the beginning of a new year in many Indian traditions.

What is Ugadi?

The word “Ugadi” is derived from two Sanskrit words—Yuga (age) and Adi (beginning)—meaning “the beginning of a new era.”
It marks the start of a new calendar year for people in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka, where it is also called Yugadi.

Significance and the Story Behind Ugadi

Ugadi holds deep mythological and spiritual importance. According to Hindu belief, this is the day when Lord Brahma created the universe and began the cycle of time, making it an ideal moment for new beginnings.

The festival is also closely tied to the arrival of spring, a season that symbolises growth, renewal, and harmony in nature. It reflects the idea that just as nature rejuvenates itself, humans too should embrace change, positivity, and fresh opportunities.

Rituals and Traditions

Ugadi is celebrated with a blend of spiritual rituals and joyful customs:

●Abhyanga Snanam (oil bath): A ritual purification to begin the year fresh
●Home decoration: Mango leaf torans and rangoli (muggu) adorn entrances
●Temple visits and prayers: Devotees seek blessings for the year ahead
●Panchanga Sravanam: Listening to the Hindu almanac predictions for the new year

These rituals symbolise cleansing of the body, mind, and surroundings, welcoming positivity and prosperity.

Festive Foods and Ugadi Pachadi

No Ugadi celebration is complete without the iconic Ugadi Pachadi—a special dish that perfectly captures the philosophy of life.
Made with six ingredients—neem (bitter), jaggery (sweet), tamarind (sour), raw mango (tangy), chilli (spicy), and salt—it represents the six emotions of life: joy, sorrow, anger, fear, disgust, and surprise.
Other festive delicacies include Bobbattu (similar to puran poli), pulihora, and various traditional sweets, making the celebration both symbolic and flavourful.

Where and How Ugadi is Celebrated

Ugadi is widely celebrated in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka, and by Telugu and Kannada communities across the world.

Families gather, wear new clothes, exchange greetings, and prepare festive meals. Cultural programs, temple festivities, and community celebrations add vibrancy to the occasion. The festival shares its essence with Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, both marking the beginning of a new year in different regions.

A Festival of Life and New Beginnings

At its core, Ugadi is not just about marking a date—it is about embracing life in all its forms. From the symbolism of Ugadi Pachadi to the reading of the Panchang, every ritual reminds us that life is a blend of experiences, and each one shapes our journey.

As the new year begins with Ugadi, it brings with it a powerful message: welcome every moment—sweet or bitter—with hope, balance, and optimism.

Vikram Samvat: The Story, Significance and Science Behind India’s Ancient Calendar

By
Kanan Rathore
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The Vikram Samvat is one of India’s most ancient and culturally significant calendar systems, still widely used to determine festivals, rituals, and auspicious occasions. Deeply rooted in history and tradition, it reflects a harmonious blend of astronomy, mythology, and daily life.

Meaning of ‘Samvat’

The word Samvat (or Samvatsara) originates from Sanskrit and means “year” or “era”. It signifies a system of time reckoning that marks years from a particular historical or legendary event. Thus, Vikram Samvat essentially means “the era of Vikram”, referring to a timeline associated with King Vikramaditya.

The Story Behind Its Beginning

The origin of Vikram Samvat is traditionally linked to the legendary king Vikramaditya of Ujjain. According to popular belief, he established this calendar in 57 BCE to commemorate his victory over the Shakas (foreign invaders) who had troubled parts of India. His triumph was seen as a restoration of peace and prosperity, and the new era was started as a symbol of that victory.

While historians continue to debate the exact historical accuracy of this account, the cultural narrative remains powerful. Over time, Vikram Samvat became deeply embedded in Indian society, guiding not just timekeeping but also traditions and rituals.

How the Calendar Works

Vikram Samvat is a lunisolar calendar, meaning it is based on both the Moon’s phases and the Sun’s position. Each month is divided into Shukla Paksha (waxing phase) and Krishna Paksha (waning phase). To maintain alignment with the solar year, an additional month called Adhik Maas is inserted periodically.

The year typically begins with Chaitra (March–April) in many regions, marking the onset of spring and new beginnings.

Vikram Samvat in Today’s Context

In 2026, Vikram Samvat corresponds to 2082–2083, with the new year 2083 beginning on 19th March 2026. New year festivals such as Gudi Padwa and Ugadi mark this transition in different parts of India.

Difference from the Gregorian Calendar

The Gregorian Calendar is purely solar and follows fixed dates, whereas Vikram Samvat is dynamic and shifts with lunar cycles. This is why festivals like Diwali and Holi fall on different dates every year in the Gregorian system.

A Calendar Close to Nature

One of the most remarkable aspects of Vikram Samvat is its close connection to nature. By aligning with both lunar and solar movements, it accurately reflects seasonal changes. Historically, agricultural cycles, festivals, and daily life were planned according to this system, making it environmentally relevant.

A Living Legacy

More than just a calendar, Vikram Samvat is a living tradition that continues to guide cultural and spiritual life in India. It stands as a testament to ancient Indian wisdom—where time is not just measured, but experienced in harmony with nature and heritage.

Gudi Padwa: Significance, Traditions and the Spirit of Renewal

By
Kanan Rathore
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Celebrated with vibrant colours, cultural pride, and deep spiritual meaning, Gudi Padwa marks the beginning of the Hindu lunisolar New Year for Marathi and Konkani communities. Observed on the first day of the month of Chaitra (March–April), the festival coincides with the arrival of spring—a time when nature itself reflects renewal and new beginnings.

What is Gudi Padwa?

Gudi Padwa is more than just a festival—it is the start of a new cycle of time. It is widely celebrated in Maharashtra, Goa, and parts of western India, where families come together to welcome the new year with rituals, prayers, and festive joy.

The word ‘Padwa’ refers to the first day of the lunar fortnight, while ‘Gudi’ is a symbolic flag that represents victory, prosperity, and divine blessings.

Significance and the Stories Behind the Festival

Gudi Padwa holds layered significance—mythological, historical, and agricultural.

According to Hindu belief, this is the day when Lord Brahma created the universe and introduced the concept of time, making it an ideal moment for fresh beginnings.

Another popular legend connects the festival to the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana and his return to Ayodhya, symbolising the triumph of good over evil.

Historically, it is also linked to King Shalivahana’s victory and the beginning of the Shalivahana calendar, as well as the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj , reflecting pride and cultural identity in Maharashtra.
At a deeper level, the festival marks the arrival of spring and the harvest of rabi crops, reinforcing its connection with nature and cycles of life.

Rituals and Traditions

The most iconic ritual of Gudi Padwa is the hoisting of the ‘Gudi’. A bamboo stick is draped with a bright cloth, decorated with neem and mango leaves, a garland of sugar crystals, and topped with an inverted copper or silver pot. This Gudi is placed outside homes as a symbol of victory and is believed to ward off negativity while inviting prosperity and good fortune.

The day begins with an early oil bath, followed by cleaning and decorating homes with rangoli and torans. Families prepare festive dishes and consume a mixture of neem leaves and jaggery, symbolising the acceptance of both bitter and sweet experiences in life.
Many households also perform special prayers and listen to the Panchang (Hindu almanac) to understand what the new year holds.

Celebrations at Home: A Glimpse from Pune

Beyond rituals described in texts, the true essence of Gudi Padwa lies in how it is celebrated within homes.

Sharing her experience, Akanksha Veer from Pune offers a glimpse into the warmth and enthusiasm of the festival:
“Gudi Padwa is a very special day for us. I prepare puran poli at home every year, and we also make the traditional sugar garlands. The children are dressed up beautifully in festive clothes, and the whole family celebrates together. We make it a point to wear new sarees or new outfits, and I even buy gold every year on this day—it feels very auspicious and brings a sense of new beginnings.”

Her words beautifully reflect how traditions are not just rituals, but lived experiences—passed down through generations and celebrated with love and joy.

Regional Celebrations and Cultural Spirit

While Gudi Padwa is most prominently celebrated in Maharashtra, similar New Year festivals are observed across India—such as Ugadi in Karnataka and AndhraPradesh, and Navreh in Kashmir —each reflecting regional traditions but sharing the same essence of renewal.

In cities like Mumbai and Pune, the festival is marked by colourful processions, traditional attire, music, and community gatherings, creating an atmosphere of joy and cultural pride.

A Festival Rooted in Renewal

At its heart, Gudi Padwa is a celebration of new beginnings, resilience, and optimism. It aligns human life with the rhythms of nature—when the earth renews itself, people too are encouraged to begin anew, with hope, clarity, and positivity.

More than a festival, Gudi Padwa is a reminder that every ending leads to a fresh start—and every new year carries the promise of growth and prosperity.

Indian-Origin Filmmaker Alexandre Singh Wins Oscar 2026 for Best Live-Action Short Film | Rare Tie at Academy Awards

By
EBNW Story
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In a proud moment for global cinema, Indian-origin filmmaker Alexandre Singh clinched the Best Live-Action Short Film award at the 98th Academy Awards for his thought-provoking French-language drama Two People Exchanging Saliva.

In a rare and historic twist, the award was shared in a tie with The Singers, directed by Sam A. Davis and Jack Piatt—marking one of the few ties in Oscar history. This achievement places Singh among the growing list of Indian-origin talents making a mark on the global stage.

Who Is Alexandre Singh? (Biography & Background)

Born in Bordeaux to an Indian father and French mother, Singh grew up in Manchester before studying fine art at the prestigious University of Oxford.

Now based in Brooklyn, Singh is known for blending visual art with cinematic storytelling, creating films that explore complex social and philosophical themes. His unique style has steadily earned him recognition across international film festivals.

About the Oscar-Winning Film Two People Exchanging Saliva

Co-directed with Natalie Musteata, the 36-minute short film presents a surreal dystopian world where even the most basic human intimacy is outlawed.

In this bizarre society:

  • Physical affection is punishable by death
  • People exchange slaps as currency
  • Human relationships are tightly controlled

The film uses absurdity and dark humor to deliver a powerful commentary on social control, intimacy, and human behavior, making it both unsettling and deeply thought-provoking.

Rare Oscar Tie: A Historic Moment

The Best Live-Action Short Film category saw an extremely rare tie, with Two People Exchanging Saliva sharing the award with The Singers.

  • This is only the 7th tie in Oscar history
  • Ties occur when Academy voters give equal votes to two nominees
  • Both films received exceptional global acclaim

Such moments highlight the diversity and strength of storytelling in contemporary cinema.

Important Facts

  • The 98th Academy Awards honored films released in the previous year
  • Short films are defined as films with a runtime of 40 minutes or less
  • Oscar ties are extremely rare, with only seven recorded instances
  • Alexandre Singh has Indian-French heritage and studied at Oxford

Artistic Vision & Previous Works

During his acceptance speech, Singh highlighted the power of art to influence society over time, reinforcing his belief in cinema as a tool for reflection and change.

Some of his notable earlier works include:

  • The Appointment (2019)
  • Plan large (2016)

His Oscar-winning film also premiered at the prestigious Telluride Film Festival, further cementing his reputation as a rising voice in global filmmaking.

Why This Win Matters

Singh’s Oscar victory is more than just a personal milestone—it reflects the growing global impact of Indian-origin creators in cinema. His success showcases how experimental storytelling and bold ideas can resonate across cultures and borders.

As the world of cinema evolves, filmmakers like Alexandre Singh are redefining narratives—proving that even the most unconventional stories can leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.

Power Hitter Ishan Kishan Joins Forces with Ai+ Smartphone

By
EBNW Story
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 Ai+ Smartphone today announced an exclusive brand alliance with cricketer Ishan Kishan, bringing together a brand that refuses to compromise on technology with a player who has built his career by refusing to play within limits set by others.

The association reflects a shared belief between the brand and the cricketer: that ambition should never be restricted by access. Ai+ Smartphone has built its identity around delivering modern technology with unbeatable performance and thoughtful design, without placing it behind a premium price barrier.

Commenting on the collaboration, Madhav Sheth, CEO of Ai+ Smartphone and Founder of NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said:

“Ishan Kishan represents something that resonates deeply with what Ai+ Smartphone stands for. He didn’t wait for permission to back himself. He showed up, played his game, and earned his place on his own terms. That is the spirit we build for — people moving forward with purpose and expecting the technology in their hands to keep up. Bringing Ishan on board reflects the kind of brand we are becoming as we prepare for the next phase of our journey with the Nova Series launching soon.”

Through the collaboration, Ishan Kishan will feature across Ai+ Smartphone’s campaigns and brand initiatives in the coming months. Fans can also expect exclusive behind-the-scenes cricket content and brand moments created using Ai+ Smartphone devices, as the company prepares to introduce its upcoming Nova Series, the next step in its product journey.

The alliance brings together a brand and a cricketer connected by the same idea — that ambition should never have to compromise.

Ai+ Smartphone is a next-generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system.

Remembering Kalpana Chawla: India’s Daughter Who Touched the Stars

By
Kanan Rathore
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On her birth anniversary, we remember Kalpana Chawla, a pioneering astronaut who became a global symbol of determination, excellence, and the limitless power of dreams. As the first woman of Indian origin to travel to space, her life continues to inspire generations across the world.

Early Life and Roots in India

Kalpana Chawla was born on March 17, 1962, in Karnal, in Haryana. Growing up in a modest family, she developed a fascination for aircraft and the night sky at a very young age. She pursued a degree in aeronautical engineering from Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh, one of the few women in her field at the time. Determined to follow her passion, she later moved to the United States for higher studies, earning a Master’s degree from the University of Texas and a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering from the University of Colorado.

Journey with NASA and Space Missions

Kalpana Chawla joined NASA in 1988 and was selected as an astronaut in 1994. Her first space mission was STS-87 aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia in 1997. During this mission, she operated robotic arms and conducted experiments related to microgravity, contributing significantly to space research.

Her second mission, STS-107 in 2003, was a dedicated scientific research mission. The crew conducted over 80 experiments in areas such as life sciences, material science, and atmospheric studies, making it one of the most research-intensive space missions.

The Columbia Tragedy and a Lasting Legacy

On February 1, 2003, tragedy struck when the Space Shuttle Columbia disintegrated during re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere, leading to the loss of all seven astronauts on board. The accident shocked the world, but Kalpana Chawla’s legacy as a fearless explorer and scientist only grew stronger.

Why She Is Remembered

Kalpana Chawla is remembered not only for her scientific contributions but also for breaking barriers in a male-dominated field. She showed that geography and background are no limits to ambition. Her journey from a small town in India to space remains one of the most powerful stories of perseverance.

Today, several institutions, scholarships, and awards in India and abroad bear her name. On her birth anniversary, she is celebrated as a role model for youth, especially women in STEM, reminding us to dream big and pursue those dreams with courage and dedication.

Global Institutions in Focus: How World Organisations Like UN, NATO and EU Shape Peace, Power and Cooperation

By
Kanan Rathore
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Recent geopolitical tensions in West Asia involving countries like Iran and the United States have once again highlighted a critical question: Where do global organisations stand in times of crisis? While their responses may sometimes appear cautious, these institutions remain the backbone of international cooperation, diplomacy, and conflict management.

Why Were Global Organisations Created?

Most major international organisations were formed after the devastation of World War II to prevent future conflicts, promote economic stability, and encourage dialogue between nations. Over time, their roles have expanded to include security, trade, health, development, and environmental governance.

Major Global Organisations and Their Roles

1. United Nations (UN)

Founded: 1945

Members: 193 countries

Purpose: Peacekeeping, human rights, humanitarian aid

The UN remains the most universal global body, with agencies like WHO, UNESCO, and UNICEF working across sectors. However, its Security Council often faces criticism due to veto powers held by permanent members.

2. North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)

Founded: 1949

Members: 30+ countries

Purpose: Collective defence

NATO ensures military cooperation among Western nations and has played a central role in European security, especially in the Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

3. European Union (EU)

Founded: 1993

Members: 27 countries

Purpose: Economic and political integration

The EU acts as a powerful economic bloc, often imposing sanctions and providing humanitarian aid during conflicts.

4. Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)

Founded: 1969

Members: 57 countries

Purpose: Represent Muslim-majority nations

OIC plays a diplomatic role in issues concerning the Islamic world, particularly in West Asian geopolitics.

5. BRICS

Founded: 2009

Members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa (expanded group)

Purpose: Economic cooperation among emerging economies

BRICS is increasingly seen as a counterbalance to Western-led global institutions.

6. Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)

Founded: 2001

Members: China, Russia, India, Pakistan, and Central Asian nations

Purpose: Regional security and cooperation

SCO focuses on counter-terrorism, regional stability, and economic ties in Asia.

7. World Trade Organization (WTO)

Founded: 1995

Members: 160+ countries

Purpose: Regulate global trade

The WTO ensures fair trade practices and resolves disputes between nations, playing a key role in global economic stability.

8. International Monetary Fund (IMF)

Founded: 1944

Members: 190+ countries

Purpose: Financial stability and crisis support

IMF provides financial assistance and policy advice to countries facing economic crises.

9. World Bank

Founded: 1944

Members: 180+ countries

Purpose: Development and poverty reduction

The World Bank funds infrastructure and development projects, especially in developing nations.

10. G20

Founded: 1999

Members: 19 countries + EU

Purpose: Global economic coordination

The G20 brings together major economies to discuss global financial stability, climate change, and development.

11. Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

Founded: 1967

Members: 10 Southeast Asian countries

Purpose: Regional cooperation and economic growth

ASEAN promotes stability and trade in Southeast Asia.

12. African Union (AU)

Founded: 2002

Members: 55 African countries

Purpose: Unity and development in Africa

AU works on peacekeeping, economic integration, and political stability across the continent.

13. SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation)

Founded: 1985

Members: 8 South Asian countries including India

Purpose: Regional cooperation in South Asia

Though facing challenges, SAARC aims to improve economic and cultural ties in the region.

Coordination in Global Crises

These organisations collaborate through peacekeeping missions, sanctions, financial aid, trade agreements, and diplomatic negotiations. However, geopolitical rivalries and national interests often slow down unified responses, as seen in recent global conflicts.

Why They Remain Crucial Today

In today’s interconnected world, global organisations are more relevant than ever. They provide:

●Platforms for dialogue and diplomacy

●Mechanisms for conflict resolution

●Economic and humanitarian support

●Coordination on global issues like climate change and pandemics

Despite limitations, they act as bridges between nations, helping maintain a balance of power and fostering cooperation.

A World That Still Needs Cooperation

As global tensions rise, the importance of these institutions becomes even more evident. Their effectiveness ultimately depends on the willingness of nations to collaborate. In a world shaped by complex challenges, global organisations remain essential—not just as institutions, but as symbols of collective responsibility and shared future.

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