Supreme Court Advocates for Childcare and Feeding Rooms in Public Spaces

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Supreme Court Advocates for Childcare and Feeding Rooms in Public Spaces The Supreme Court of India has suggested that the Union Government develop a comprehensive policy addressing the construction of feeding rooms and childcare facilities  in public places. This move aims to ensure that nursing mothers and their children can access basic amenities in a dignified and private manner, reinforcing their fundamental rights under the Indian Constitution. SC Encourages Policy Formulation A bench comprising Justice BV Nagarathna  and Justice N Kotiswar Singh  highlighted the absence of a structured framework to address this pressing issue. The court advised the Centre to propose a policy that could then be implemented across the states, scheduling the next hearing for December 10, 2024.   The apex court emphasized that before issuing formal directions, it was crucial to understand the Centre’s perspective on implementing the petitioner’s demand for childcare and feedi...

EAM Jaishankar Meets Mauritius Envoy to UN; Discusses a Range of Global Issues

EAM Jaishankar Meets Mauritius Envoy to UN; Discusses a Range of Global Issues



External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with the Permanent Representative of Mauritius to the United Nations, Jagdish Koonjul, on Monday. The meeting highlighted the enduring and robust relationship between India and Mauritius, with discussions covering a broad spectrum of global issues.


Strengthening Bilateral Relations


EAM Jaishankar expressed his appreciation for the insightful discussions held with Ambassador Koonjul. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Jaishankar remarked, "Glad to meet Ambassador Jagdish Koonjul of Mauritius. Appreciated our discussions on a range of global issues."


The ties between India and Mauritius are rooted deeply in historical, demographic, and cultural connections. Indian-origin people make up nearly 70% of Mauritius' population of 1.2 million, underscoring the unique bond between the two nations.


Recent Diplomatic Engagements


In March, President Droupadi Murmu oversaw the signing of four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between India and Mauritius, aimed at enhancing cooperation in several critical areas:


1. Financial Services Sector: Agreements to boost cooperation in financial services, information sharing, and capacity building to combat corruption and money laundering.

2. Public Service Recruitment: An MoU between the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) of India and the Public Service Commission of Mauritius to share experiences and expertise in public services recruitment.

3. Double Tax Avoidance Agreement: Both countries agreed on a protocol to amend the India-Mauritius Double Tax Avoidance Agreement, ensuring it aligns with the OECD/G20 Base Erosion and Profit Shifting Minimum Standards.

4. Community Development Projects: President Murmu and the Mauritian Prime Minister virtually inaugurated 14 community development projects funded by Indian assistance.


India as a First Responder


India has consistently been a reliable partner for Mauritius in times of crisis. During the Covid-19 pandemic, India responded to Mauritius' request by supplying 13 tonnes of medicines, including 0.5 million tablets of Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), 10 tonnes of Ayurvedic medicines, and deploying an Indian Rapid Response Medical Team in April-May 2020. Additionally, India extended support during the Wakashio oil-spill crisis.


Trade Relations


Since 2005, India has been one of the largest trading partners of Mauritius. For the fiscal year 2022-2023, Indian exports to Mauritius amounted to USD 462.69 million, while Mauritian exports to India were USD 91.50 million, resulting in a total trade volume of USD 554.19 million.


Relevant Laws and Agreements


1. Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs): These agreements, like the ones signed between India and Mauritius, are legally binding documents that outline cooperative efforts in specific areas such as financial services and public service recruitment.

2. Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA): This is an agreement between two countries to prevent the same income from being taxed in both jurisdictions. The amended protocol between India and Mauritius ensures compliance with international standards set by the OECD and G20.

3. International Trade Laws: Govern the trade relations between countries, ensuring that trade practices are fair and beneficial for both parties involved. The robust trade between India and Mauritius is governed by such laws, ensuring a stable and mutually beneficial economic relationship.

4. Public Health Laws and International Aid: During crises like the Covid-19 pandemic, international aid, including medical supplies and expertise, is provided based on agreements and requests between nations. India's assistance to Mauritius during the pandemic was guided by such agreements.


Conclusion


The meeting between EAM Jaishankar and Ambassador Koonjul underscores the strong and multifaceted relationship between India and Mauritius. The ongoing cooperation and the recent agreements highlight the commitment of both nations to address global challenges and strengthen their bilateral ties.

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