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...

Pakistani Passport Ranked 4th Worst Globally for Fourth Consecutive Year

Pakistani Passport Ranked 4th Worst Globally for 

Fourth Consecutive Year



According to the latest Henley Passport Index, the Pakistani passport has been ranked as the fourth worst in the world for the fourth consecutive year. This ranking is based on the number of destinations that passport holders can access without prior visa requirements.

Current Rankings and Visa-Free Access

The 2024 Henley Passport Index, which evaluates 199 countries, placed Pakistan's passport at the 100th spot, alongside Yemen, with visa-free access to only 33 countries. The only countries ranked lower are Iraq (101st), Syria (102nd), and Afghanistan (103rd), which offers visa-free access to just 26 destinations, the lowest in the index's 19-year history.

Global Passport Powerhouses

On the other end of the spectrum, Singapore retained the top spot, with its passport granting visa-free access to 195 destinations. This is followed by Germany, Italy, Japan, France, and Spain, each allowing visa-free entry to 192 countries. Austria, Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, South Korea, and Sweden are ranked third, with access to 191 destinations.

The United Kingdom shares the fourth position with Belgium, Denmark, New Zealand, Norway, and Switzerland, offering visa-free travel to 190 states. The United States holds the eighth rank, with access to 186 destinations.

UAE's Ascent in Passport Rankings

A notable highlight in this year's index is the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which made its debut in the top 10. The UAE passport now provides visa-free access to 185 destinations, a remarkable increase of 152 since the index began in 2006. This rise has moved the UAE from 62nd to 9th position in the rankings.

Henley & Partners CEO Juerg Steffen attributes the UAE's "meteoric ascent" to the government's deliberate efforts to position the country as a global hub for business, tourism, and investment. The correlation between a country's visa-free score and its economic prosperity was emphasized, noting that nations with higher scores tend to have greater GDP per capita, increased foreign direct investment, and stronger international trade relationships.

Comparison with Indian Passport

In comparison, the Indian passport ranks significantly higher than the Pakistani passport. According to the same Henley Passport Index, the Indian passport is ranked 80th, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 59 destinations. This ranking reflects India's stronger international relations and economic standing, providing its citizens with greater global mobility.

Conclusion

The Henley Passport Index serves as a barometer of global mobility, reflecting the ease with which citizens can travel internationally. The rankings highlight the disparities in passport strength and underscore the impact of national policies on global mobility. The UAE's rise and Pakistan's continued low ranking illustrate the broader socio-economic and geopolitical factors influencing these outcomes.

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