Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior announced on Monday an update to the smartphone alert notifications that ring simultaneously with sirens. 

As of Monday, alerts will be sent with a loud notification tone from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, and with a message tone from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am, the ministry said in a statement.

The new update was made to enhance alert efficiency and taking people’s rest periods into account, while ensuring that warning notifications are effectively delivered when needed, the ministry explained.

An Indian expatriate has been killed following an attack on a Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy (MEW) desalination facility in Kuwait, authorities confirmed.

The deceased has been identified as Selvam, a native of Tamil Nadu..

His death has sent shockwaves through the Indian community in Kuwait, with tributes and condolences pouring in from friends, colleagues, and well-wishers.

The Indian Embassy in Kuwait expressed deepest condolance on this 1 tragic incident. Embassy is cordinating with the relevant authorities to R render all possible suppory and assistance, it said in a statement.

According to officials, the attack targeted a service building within one [ of the power and water desalination plants, causing extensive structural damage and disrupting operations. Emergency and technical teams were immediately deployed to the site and began carrying out response T and containment measures in line with established emergency s protocols.

Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with critical infrastructure facilities placed on high alert.

At the core of Kuwait’s customs operations lies a highly sophisticated command hub where every movement is tracked and every piece of data is analyzed in real time.

During a field visit, Al-Rai gained exclusive access to the control room of the General Administration of Customs—an advanced operational center widely regarded as the “beating brain” of border security.

Speaking on the sidelines of the tour, Deputy Director General for Research, Investigation and Customs Ports Affairs, Saleh Al-Omar, described the control room as the nation’s first line of defense against smuggling.

Operating around the clock, the facility integrates skilled national personnel with cutting-edge technology to ensure rapid response and precise decision-making at all times.

Al-Omar highlighted the significant progress made in modernizing customs systems, with a strong reliance on artificial intelligence and advanced data analytics.

These technologies enable authorities to identify high-risk shipments with remarkable accuracy, while maintaining seamless connectivity across all land, sea, and air entry points. The goal, he noted, is to strike a balance between stringent security measures and the smooth flow of trade.

The control room functions through close coordination with key government entities, most notably the Ministry of Interior.

This integration has played a decisive role in thwarting numerous smuggling attempts, reflecting a unified national effort built on real-time information sharing and operational efficiency.

Describing the nature of operations, Al-Omar explained that the control room serves as the central command and monitoring unit for all customs activities. From tracking the movement of goods and travelers to handling routine and emergency reports, the system ensures immediate response and continuous oversight.

Operations within the facility are uninterrupted, supported by specialized teams working in shifts and a surveillance network of approximately 1,000 cameras installed across all ports. This extensive coverage guarantees full readiness, particularly amid rising trade volumes and increasingly sophisticated smuggling techniques.

The technological backbone of the system includes integrated digital platforms that track shipments and link them to importer data, alongside smart surveillance systems and AI-powered analytics. Together, these tools enhance the precision of monitoring and reduce reliance on random inspections.

Incoming reports are handled with speed and efficiency. Each case is analyzed by specialists, classified according to risk level, and immediately assigned to field teams for action. Continuous monitoring ensures that every case is followed through to resolution.

Risk management remains a cornerstone of operations. By analyzing historical smuggling patterns and building comprehensive databases, customs authorities can target suspicious consignments with accuracy. This strategic approach not only strengthens control but also facilitates legitimate trade by minimizing unnecessary delays.

Al-Omar emphasized the importance of ongoing coordination with national agencies, particularly security and regulatory bodies. Instant information exchange and joint operations have significantly enhanced the effectiveness of border protection efforts.

The achievements of the control room are notable. Authorities have successfully intercepted multiple smuggling attempts while also accelerating customs clearance procedures. Continuous upgrades to electronic systems have further improved overall operational performance.

However, challenges persist. Smuggling methods continue to evolve, trade volumes are increasing, and the demand for constant technological upgrades remains high. Addressing these challenges requires sustained investment in both systems and human capital.

To that end, customs authorities place strong emphasis on workforce development. Personnel undergo specialized training programs, both locally and internationally, alongside workshops focused on modern technologies, ensuring they remain equipped to handle complex and rapidly changing scenarios.

Supporting this centralized system are control rooms established at each customs port, serving as backup operational centers. These units maintain direct communication with the main command center and relevant authorities, ensuring continuity of operations under all circumstances.

Public engagement also plays a vital role. Through the “Masdar” application, citizens and residents can submit reports and complaints confidentially. Authorities stress that community cooperation is essential in safeguarding national security and preventing the entry of prohibited items.

Al-Omar concluded by commending the dedication and professionalism of customs personnel, describing them as a critical pillar in protecting the nation while facilitating trade.

He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to ongoing development, enhanced coordination, and maintaining the highest standards of operational efficiency—assuring the public that the country’s supply lines remain secure and fully operational despite current challenges.

Kuwait's Ministry of Interior urged the public to exercise extreme caution and strictly adhere to safety guidelines issued by competent authorities due to fluctuating weather conditions across the country.

Forecasts from the Meteorological Department indicate that the country will be affected by heavy rain starting Thursday morning at 10:00 am. The peak of the weather event is expected to last until 8:00 pm, after which conditions are projected to subside gradually, the ministry said in a statement.

The Ministry warned that moderate to heavy thunderstorms are expected in various areas, accompanied by active southerly winds reaching speeds between 60–70 km/h.
There's also a chance of dust and heavy rain that may significantly lower horizontal visibility, while significant wave height increases are expected in coastal areas.

The Ministry of Interior has urged the public to avoid leaving their homes unless absolutely necessary, particularly during peak hours. For those who must travel, the authorities recommend driving with caution and staying away from pooling water and flood-prone areas.

In case of emergency, people are urged to call the emergency hotline at 112, or the Civil Defense Operations at 1804000.

Jazeera Airways has established a vital supply chain corridor into Kuwait via Qaisumah Airport (AQI) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, successfully transporting its first shipment of 4.5 tons of fresh fruits and vegetables from Chennai, India, into Kuwait through a seamless multimodal operation.

This marks a significant milestone in providing additional resource of sustaining the country’s access to essential goods supply during ongoing regional challenges.

The cargo was flown into Qaisumah Airport, and then transported overland into Kuwait, ensuring continuity of supply for perishable goods despite airspace and operational constraints.

This initiative builds on Jazeera Airways’ ongoing efforts to maintain critical connectivity for Kuwait, extending beyond passenger travel to support essential supply chains that underpin daily life.

At a time when traditional logistics channels are under pressure, the ability to participate in moving essential commodities such as perishables efficiently and reliably has become increasingly important.

Fresh produce, with its limited shelf life, requires speed, precision and coordinated execution across borders. Jazeera Airways’ ability to deliver under these conditions highlights both operational agility and a strong commitment to national priorities.

Barathan Pasupathi, Chief Executive Officer of Jazeera Airways, said, “In the current environment, connectivity is not only about moving people, it is also about ensuring the continued flow of essential goods into Kuwait.

“Establishing this supply chain corridor via Qaisumah allows us to support the national food reserves at this critical time. This is a responsibility we have embraced as Kuwait’s national carrier, and one we will continue to build on,” he added.

The establishment of this cargo corridor not only addresses immediate supply needs but also sets the foundation for a more flexible and responsive logistics network going forward.

The operation required close coordination with multiple stakeholders across Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and India, including aviation authorities, customs, ground handling teams, and logistics partners.

From uplift in Chennai to final delivery in Kuwait, the process was executed with tight timelines to preserve product freshness and quality.

Barathan added: “We are especially thankful for the ongoing support from the government entities both in Kuwait and KSA for helping facilitate this effort.”

By leveraging its alternative operating model via Qaisumah — which already supports passenger movement through integrated air and overland transport — Jazeera Airways has now expanded its capabilities to include cargo, further strengthening Kuwait’s resilience in the face of disruption.

In challenging times, ensuring access to essential goods becomes a matter of national importance. Through this initiative, Jazeera Airways reaffirms its commitment to supporting Kuwait — keeping supply lines open, markets moving and communities sustained.

In a strong show of diplomatic solidarity, Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Paramita Tripathi, reaffirmed New Delhi’s unwavering support for Kuwait’s sovereignty, commending the professionalism and swift response of Kuwaiti authorities in navigating ongoing regional challenges.

Speaking at a well-attended press conference at the Indian Embassy, Tripathi praised the Kuwaiti government’s effective measures to secure essential supplies, particularly food and energy, amid heightened geopolitical tensions.

The ambassador underscored the embassy’s full commitment to safeguarding the Indian community, revealing that officials have been closely monitoring developments since February 28. A 24-hour emergency hotline has been activated, alongside dedicated response teams to handle inquiries and provide immediate assistance.

Highlighting the strength of bilateral ties, the Indian envoy pointed to intensified high-level engagement between the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi and his Kuwaiti counterpart Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, noting that two phone calls within a fortnight focused on regional developments, reaffirming India’s support for Kuwait and stressing the importance of safeguarding maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz.

On the consular front, the embassy has coordinated closely with the Kuwaiti authorities to facilitate the movement of Indian nationals.

More than 1,100 transit visas to Saudi Arabia have been issued, while special flights operated by Jazeera Airways have been arranged to transport passengers from Kuwait to Qaisumah Airport and onward to six destinations across India.

Despite flight disruptions, the ambassador confirmed that 17 deceased individuals were successfully repatriated to India through coordinated efforts with Kuwaiti authorities.

She also highlighted India’s role in supporting Kuwait’s food security by maintaining steady exports of fresh produce, emphasizing that the Indian community — exceeding one million residents — remains safe and secure.

Concluding her remarks, the ambassador expressed hope for sustained stability and peace across the region.

The Kuwait Airways (KA) announced Saturday the resumption of its scheduled flights to and from Cairo via Dammam Airport in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with four flights per week on Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, as of this Thursday, March 26.

Acting CEO of KA Abdulwahab Al-Shatti told KUNA that passengers would be received at the Khairan Mall terminal on Wednesday, March 25, this week, 24 hours before the flight time. The latest time for receiving passengers and for the buses to depart to the Nuwaiseeb border crossing is 8 hours before the departure time, he elaborated.

The company would continue to employ its operational capabilities with high efficiency toensure smooth travel flow, he noted, He affirmed that the company relies on flexible and proactive operating plans that keep pace with various developments.

He stressed that the KA is keen on continuous coordination with the relevant authorities inside and outside Kuwait, in a way that contributes to providing the best operational alternatives and solutions.

Al-Shatti pointed out that the safety and security of passengers and flight crews remain at the top of the national carrier’s priorities. He went to say that a designated area has been prepared for passengers at Khairan Mall to ensure their safety and comfort, while also
ensuring that they receive their land transportation ticket. He urged travelers to adhere to the instructions regulating land transport trips, beginning with proceeding to the baggage weighing area and completing check in procedures.

Travel procedures will be completed at King Fahd International Airport in Dammam in preparation for departure to the final destination, Cairo. Al-Sahtti noted that passengers are transported via buses belonging to the company from the Kuwait to King Fahd International Airport in Dammam. He stressed that residents must obtain a transit visa for Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Al-Shatti stated that Kuwait Airways provides limousine service to transport Royal and Business Class passengers from their houses to Khairan Mall only and based on service requests. He explained that passengers wishing to travel using their private vehicles must proceed to Khairan Mall to obtain their boarding pass, then head to Dammam Airport to check in and hand over their baggage.

The Kuwait Airways allows booking for passengers through the Customer Service Call Center (171) or via WhatsApp at: 009651802050, along Kuwait Airways’ sales offices. – Kuna

In a message of confidence and reassurance, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, Engineer Fatima Jawhar Hayat, affirmed that Kuwait’s fresh water reserves remain abundant, emphasizing that all transmission, production, and distribution operations are proceeding seamlessly and without disruption.

Speaking to Kuwait TV, Hayat reassured both citizens and residents that essential electricity and water services are firmly “in trustworthy national hands,” managed with high levels of efficiency and professionalism by dedicated teams across the ministry’s sectors.

She underscored that, despite the challenging regional circumstances, the nation continues to benefit from a resilient infrastructure and well-coordinated operational framework that ensures uninterrupted service delivery.

On the occasion of Eid al-Fitr, Hayat extended heartfelt appreciation to ministry employees, praising their unwavering commitment. She described them as “soldiers of the nation,” standing shoulder to shoulder with colleagues across government institutions, working tirelessly to safeguard vital services and uphold national stability during critical times.

Kuwait launched a test alert system for smartphones to warn the public in cases of danger or near danger, the Center of Government Communications announced early Thursday.

The test alerts will be available on Android and Huawei devices, CGC said, noting that they will be rolled out for Apple devices soon.

The system sends alerts in three levels: the first as a warning voice alert in case of emergency, the second as an SMS message with a standard notification tone, and the third as a silent text message. The desired level can be selected in the phone’s settings, CGC said.

Jazeera Airways today announced opening Kuwait’s gateway to the world. From 18 March, the airline in coordination with the UAE Embassy in Kuwait, Al Ain Airport, and other stakeholders, will recommence daily flights between Kuwait and Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates, via Qaisumah Airport in Hafar Al Batin, Saudi Arabia.

Given Al Ain’s proximity to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, two major global aviation hubs, passengers will also benefit from convenient access to a wide range of international destinations.

The launch of Al Ain marks the first connection between Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates since the suspension of operations at Kuwait International Airport, reinforcing Jazeera’s efforts to maintain vital travel links during this period.

The service expands the airline’s network during the current regional situation and supports passenger connectivity to and from Kuwait. Passengers will be transported safely by bus between Kuwait and Qaisumah Airport before boarding onward flights to Al Ain International Airport. Inbound passengers will travel from Al Ain to Qaisumah before continuing overland into Kuwait.

Barathan Pasupathi, Chief Executive Officer of Jazeera Airways, said, “As the only airline operating from Kuwait, we are pleased to start flights from Kuwait to Al Ain via Qaisumah Airport.

“By connecting to Al Ain, the heart of UAE, we have successfully opened a gateway for passengers to access international destinations through nearby Dubai and Abu Dhabi, two major aviation hubs.

“These services will help people reunite with their families and loved ones, while also supporting business and essential travel. We are grateful for the close cooperation of authorities and partners in Kuwait, the UAE, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for making these operations possible,” Pasupathi said.

Jazeera Airways is also operating flights to Alexandria, Assiut, Cairo and Luxor in Egypt, as well as Amman, Colombo and Istanbul, with additional destinations and increased frequencies, including to India, expected to be introduced gradually.

Passengers can book their travel through the Jazeera Airways website: jazeeraairways.com or the airline’s mobile app.

In a statement to KUNA, CITRA noted the license was granted after Starlink met all regulatory and technical requirements set by the authority, ensuring compliance with national telecommunications laws and frequency spectrum regulations.

The authority added that introducing low-Earth orbit satellite technologies will provide high-speed connections with low latency, boosting competition in the telecommunications market and offering users additional diverse options.

CITRA also praised the efforts of the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority in providing a conducive investment environment and facilitating the company’s presence and investments in Kuwait.

The statement noted that Starlink will soon begin providing its equipment and services to the general public in Kuwait once the final technical and procedural arrangements are completed.

CITRA emphasized that it continues to develop the regulatory environment for the telecommunications and ICT sector to keep pace with the latest global technological advancements and serve vital sectors and individuals, particularly in areas difficult to reach through traditional terrestrial networks. – KUNA

Kuwait’s total agricultural production reached approximately 285.3 thousand tons in 2025, valued at around 32.57 million Kuwaiti dinars, according to data released by the Central Statistical Administration. The output included nearly 79 varieties of vegetables, fruits, and leafy greens.

The data indicated that production volumes increased by 12.5 percent compared with 253.7 thousand tons in 2024. However, the total value of production recorded a slight decline of about 1.3 percent, down from 33 million dinars in 2024, reflecting lower prices for some crops despite higher output.

During the first half of 2025, Kuwait produced about 220.7 thousand tons of agricultural products worth 23.9 million dinars. The fourth quarter alone contributed approximately 64.6 thousand tons valued at 8.66 million dinars, reports Al-Rai daily

Major Crops

Tomatoes topped the list of the most produced crops in 2025, reaching 77.3 thousand tons with a value of about 7.97 million dinars, compared with 81.6 thousand tons in 2024. Cucumbers ranked second with 46.8 thousand tons valued at 7.88 million dinars, down from 53.5 thousand tons in the previous year.

Other key crops included:

• Eggplant: about 22.9 thousand tons worth 3.26 million dinars
• Peppers: about 14.3 thousand tons valued at 3.72 million dinars
• Potatoes: about 14 thousand tons worth 1.73 million dinars

These five crops — tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, peppers, and potatoes — accounted for nearly 75 percent of the total value of agricultural production, indicating the sector’s continued reliance on a limited number of primary crops.

Secondary Crops

Production of several secondary crops also remained steady. Lettuce production reached about 14,200 tons valued at 1.3 million dinars, compared with 14,480 tons in 2024. Butternut squash recorded 8,190 tons worth 838,000 dinars, while cauliflower reached 5,790 tons valued at 744,000 dinars.

Other crops included:

• Zucchini: 3,790 tons worth 685,000 dinars
• Okra: 1,470 tons worth 659,000 dinars

Leafy Greens and Legumes

Leafy greens and legumes accounted for smaller production volumes. Output included 1,960 tons of coriander valued at 247,000 dinars and 2,690 tons of parsley worth 326,000 dinars.

Among legumes and grains:

• Beans: 1,330 tons worth 411,000 dinars
• Cowpeas: 995 tons worth 430,000 dinars
• Corn: about 3,000 tons valued at 509,000 dinars

Sector Challenges

Despite the growth in production volumes, the agricultural sector continues to face several challenges. These include oversupply of seasonal crops such as tomatoes and cucumbers, which contributes to price declines, as well as rising production costs linked to energy, fertilizers, and labor.

The data also highlights limited crop diversification relative to local market demand.

Food Security Efforts

Nevertheless, the increase in production reflects the continued expansion of local agriculture, supported by the use of greenhouses and modern farming technologies, as part of Kuwait’s broader efforts to strengthen food security.

Quarterly Production in 2025

• First quarter: 74.6 thousand tons valued at 10.35 million dinars
• Second quarter: 118.6 thousand tons worth 9.06 million dinars
• Third quarter: 27.5 thousand tons worth 4.9 million dinars
• Fourth quarter: 64.6 thousand tons valued at 8.66 million dinars

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common digestive disorders worldwide, affecting millions of people with symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation. While nutrition plays a central role in managing IBS, a powerful nutrient often misunderstood is fiber in the diet.

In fact, there are two main types: Soluble and insoluble fiber and each interacts with the gut differently. For people with IBS, understanding these differences can mean the difference between calm digestion and a flare-up. Let us look at the differences between these two fibers.

Soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel-like texture in the digestive tract. This slows down digestion, helps regulate blood sugar, and promotes a regular bowel rhythm. For IBS sufferers, soluble fiber is often considered the gentler option.

Examples of soluble fiber foods include oats and oat bran, psyllium husk (a common supplement for IBS); apples, pears, and citrus fruits (with their peels); carrots, zucchini, and sweet potatoes.

Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, does not dissolve in water. Instead, it adds bulk to stools and speeds up movement through the intestines. This can be too harsh for IBS patients, often worsening symptoms such as bloating, cramping, and diarrhea.

Examples of insoluble fiber foods include, wWheat bran and whole wheat products, nuts and seeds, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, dark leafy greens (kale, spinach), corn and popcorn

People with IBS often receive the advice to eat more fiber, but without distinguishing between the two types. Research consistently shows that increasing insoluble fiber may worsen symptoms, while increasing soluble fiber often provides relief

A few practical tips for IBS patients:

• Start with soluble fiber: Introduce gentle, soluble-rich foods first, such as oatmeal or chia seeds.
• Go slow: Adding fiber too quickly can cause gas and bloating. Increase gradually and monitor symptoms.
• Mind portion sizes: Balance is key.
• Hydration is essential: Fiber needs water to work properly. Drink plenty of fluids, especially if taking fiber supplements.

Fiber is not the enemy in IBS. It is a powerful tool when understood and used correctly. Soluble fiber, in particular, is often a friend to the sensitive gut, helping to ease both constipation and diarrhea. Insoluble fiber, while beneficial for general gut health, should be approached with more caution in IBS management.

By paying attention to the type of fiber consumed, IBS patients can shift from fear and frustration to greater control and comfort in their daily lives.

Since 1 June 2025, the Ministry of Interior in collaboration with the Public Authority of Manpower (PAM) has introduced the need for private sector employees (Article 18 residency holders) to obtain an electronic ‘Exit Permit’ approved by their sponsor prior to their departure from Kuwait.

The need for expatriates employed in the public sector to obtain departmental permission for travel has been in place for long. Over the past nine months the online system, which works through the unified government application for electronic services (Sahel) or the Ashal portal of the PAM, has streamlined the process of requesting and obtaining exit permits.

According to the authorities, since the start of the process, tens of thousands of expatriates employed in the private sector have departed Kuwait without any hassle using the exit permits. Only very few cases of delays in obtaining exit permits have been recorded, mostly due to non-approval of exit permits by sponsors. All of these cases were through timely intervention of PAM  and other regulatory authorities.

Amid the prevailing extraordinary circumstances there has been a surge in demand for exit permits. So what are the actions that an expatriate can follow if the sponsor delays or denies a request for an exit permit during this period.

What to do if exit permit denied by employer:

• If your sponsor (employer) does not approve your request for an exit permit, the first step should be to contact the employer in person and attempt to resolve it amicably, as exit permit approvals are mandatory, unless specific legal and financial reasons are valid.
• If the sponsor still refuses to heed your request and unreasonably withholds or delays it, you have the option to file a complaint with the PAM to intervene and ensure approval.
• You can also visit the Labor Relations Unit in the area that corresponds to your company’s file, to lodge a formal complaint.
• However, prior to filing a formal complaint or approaching PAM, ensure that there are no outstanding issues like unpaid fines, expired residency, court cases, or bank dues.which might cause an automatic rejection.
• Also, keep a record of your application in the Sahel app and any communication that you hold with your employer.

Exit permits are required for:

The need for an exit permit applies to all private-sector expat workers (Article 18 residency holders) and is required for both temporary exits, such as vacations or in emergencies, and permanent departures from Kuwait.

The process for obtaining an exit permit has been designed to be primarily online and accessible 24/7. Multiple-trip exit-permit options are also now available

Domestic workers (Article 20 residency holders) and dependents of Article 18 workers are exempt from the requirement for an exit permit.

If you are unable to use the app, your employer is required to apply on your behalf.

The process is designed to be quick, often approved instantly or within hours.

How to apply for an exit permit:

• Private sector expat workers can submit an electronic exit permit request using their Civil ID number and personal information via the unified government application for electronic services (Sahel) or the Ashal portal of the manpower authority. Workers have the right to choose the start and end dates of the permit upon submitting the application, and importantly, the permit does not entail any commitment to a specific return date.
• The application is then automatically sent to the employer for approval. Employers must use the Sahel-Business app or PAM’s Ashal portal. The system will automatically verify the employer-employee match before the permit is issued. Authorised individuals within a company can approve these requests automatically.
• Once approved by the employer, the permit is issued instantly, without additional formalities, and is linked online to the Ports Authority at all land, sea and air ports thus facilitating immediate online travel permission verification at these sites.

Authorities maintain that the exit permit process is intended to strengthen oversight of the labor market, ensure a balance between the rights of workers and that of employers, prevent illegal departures, and ensure workers settle their dues and fulfill financial and contractual obligations. A significant motive for introducing exit permits is to help curb illicit visa trading and other irregularities within the labor market.

Indian Ambassador to Kuwait H.E. Paramita Tripathi held a virtual meeting with representatives of Indian air carriers operating in Kuwait to review the current operational status of flights in light of the temporary closure of Kuwaiti airspace.

During the interaction, the ambassador discussed the status of flights to and from Kuwait following the government’s decision to suspend air traffic from February 28, 2026 due to the ongoing regional security situation.

The Indian envoy stressed the importance of maintaining close coordination between the embassy and the airlines to ensure timely assistance for Indian nationals in Kuwait, particularly those who require emergency travel to India.

She reaffirmed that the safety, security, and well-being of the Indian community in Kuwait remain the embassy’s highest priority.

The meeting included representatives from major Indian carriers such as Akasa Air, IndiGo, and Air India Express.

The initiative comes as the embassy continues to coordinate with relevant authorities and airlines to support Indian citizens during the current regional developments.

The India national cricket team etched its name in cricket history after defeating New Zealand national cricket team by a commanding 96 runs to win the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final, sealing one of the most emphatic victories ever seen in a title clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad today (Sunday)..

The victory was not just another trophy for India — it marked a historic milestone for Indian cricket. With this triumph, India became the only nation to successfully defend the T20 World Cup title, proving its dominance in the shortest format of the game.

The win also made India the only country to lift the T20 World Cup trophy three times (2007, 2024, 2026), cementing its legacy as the most successful team in the tournament’s history.

Adding further glory to the achievement, India also became the first team to win the T20 World Cup on home soil, delighting millions of passionate fans across the country who celebrated the historic moment with immense pride.

India’s performance throughout the tournament reflected a perfect blend of aggressive batting, disciplined bowling, and sharp fielding. In the final, the Indian batsmen produced a powerful display to post a massive total, putting New Zealand under immediate pressure. The bowlers then delivered a clinical performance, dismantling the Kiwi batting lineup and sealing a comprehensive victory.

The triumph represents a golden chapter for Indian cricket and reinforces the nation’s status as a global powerhouse in the sport. From packed stadiums to celebrations across cities and villages, the victory sparked nationwide jubilation, as fans hailed the team’s remarkable achievement.

With three titles, a successful title defence, and a historic win at home, the India national cricket team has set a new benchmark in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, writing a memorable story that will be remembered for generations.

Frequently Asked Questions for Indian Citizens in Kuwait

This guide is mainly for: Private-sector employees registered under the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM).

Important: Payroll rules and complaint routes can differ for government employees and domestic workers (who are governed under separate regulations). Always follow the exact category shown in your official employment records.

How the Sahel Salary Notification Works

PAM’s electronic wage monitoring process is designed to reduce “silent” underpayment in the private sector. In simple terms:

1. Your employer deposits salary into your local bank account (as required under the wage deposit framework).
2. PAM’s monitoring system detects whether the deposit reflects a shortage that needs explanation.
3. If a shortage is detected, you may receive an alert through the Sahel (سهل) app to view the reason and related status.

Why this is a big deal: the worker gets visibility, and the employer is pushed to document and justify any shortage using official channels.

What Details You’ll See in the Notification

When a salary shortage is flagged, the Sahel notification typically aims to show:

• The deposited salary amount (and the shortage compared to the expected wage record)
• The “reason” recorded for the shortage (as entered by the employer, if entered)
• Company file status (whether the case is pending clarification / compliance action)

Note: Exact labels can vary as Sahel services are frequently updated.

What Counts as a “Shortage” (Common Reasons)

Not every alert means wrongdoing. Shortages can appear for valid reasons—but they must be properly recorded and supported.

Common valid reasons (if documented properly)

• Unpaid leave (approved leave without pay)
• Absence days (unauthorized absence affecting salary)
• Disciplinary deductions (must follow written procedures and limits)
• Court-ordered deductions (e.g., alimony within limits)

Common “false alarm” situations

• Salary paid in two separate transfers (part now, part later)
• Late deposit (deposit happens after the due window)
• Employer payroll mapped incorrectly (wrong month / wrong employee record)

Your Legal Rights (Kuwait Labour Law Basics)

These are the core wage rules employees should know (private sector):

• Payment frequency & timing: Monthly employees must be paid at least once a month, and wages should not be delayed beyond the 7th day after the due date.
• Bank deposit requirement: Employers must deposit wages into the worker’s account at a local financial institution (wage deposit framework).
• Limits on disciplinary deductions: Deductions as a penalty cannot exceed five days’ wage per month (with any excess carried forward).
• Limits on debt/loan deductions: For employer debts/loans, deductions are capped (commonly cited as 10%), with separate rules for other debts such as alimony within specified limits.

Practical takeaway: Even when deductions are legal, they must be justified, documented, and within legal limits.

Penalties & Company File Suspension (What Happens to Employers)

Under the current enforcement approach reported in Kuwait in 2026, when wage shortages are detected and not clarified properly, PAM can apply administrative actions such as:

• Suspension / temporary closure of the company file
• Blocking certain transactions until the wage issue is clarified and resolved

This pressure mechanism is meant to ensure employers address underpayment quickly and compensate affected workers where required.

Employer Responsibility: Ashal/AS’HAL Salary Shortage Documentation

Employers are expected to use the Ashal (أسهل) / AS’HAL company system to record any salary shortage and provide the legal reason. Good compliance practice includes:

• Entering the shortage against the correct employee/month
• Choosing the appropriate legal reason (leave, absence, disciplinary action, etc.)
• Attaching supporting documentation where required (approvals, warning letters, absence reports)

Why this protects workers: it creates an official record that can be reviewed in disputes.

What Employees Should Do If They Receive a Deduction Alert

Step-by-step checklist (do this same day)

1. Take a screenshot of the Sahel notification (date/time + amount + reason).
2. Check your bank statement to confirm the deposited amount and date.
3. Ask HR in writing for the exact justification and supporting documents (leave approval / disciplinary memo / court order).
4. Verify if it’s a split payment: Ask whether a second transfer is scheduled.
5. If unresolved, use PAM worker e-services to submit an inquiry/complaint and attach your proof (Sahel screenshot + bank statement).

How This Helps Employees AND Companies

How it helps employees

• Transparency: Workers are alerted when a shortage is detected instead of discovering it months later.
• Evidence: Sahel notifications support workers when raising disputes and complaints.
• Faster resolution: Many issues are fixed quickly once the employer is forced to justify the shortage.

How it helps companies (especially compliant employers)

• Fewer misunderstandings: Clear recorded reasons reduce disputes and rumors.
• Early error detection: Payroll mapping or bank transfer mistakes can be corrected before becoming formal cases.
• Compliance protection: Proper documentation helps the company avoid escalating penalties and file suspension.

Pediatric and developmental psychology experts have raised concerns over excessive screen exposure among young children, particularly those under the age of three, warning that it not only weakens language and social skills but also deprives children of essential sensory, motor, and cognitive experiences that form the foundation of healthy development.

Specialists stress that replacing real-world play with virtual engagement denies the developing brain the rich and complex stimulation it needs. Recent studies link prolonged screen time in early childhood to speech delays, reduced attention and concentration, and difficulties in emotional regulation.

According to experts, the issue is not limited to the type of content viewed, but also the nature of the medium itself. While screens appear interactive, they are largely passive, limiting the development of “reciprocal interaction” — the back-and-forth social engagement through which children learn to read facial expressions, interpret tone of voice, and respond appropriately.

Researchers emphasize that the early years of life represent a critical period for brain development, when neural connections are formed at a rapid pace in response to real-world experiences.

Key areas affected include:

• Fine motor skills: Activities such as holding a physical book or stacking blocks activate important brain regions.
• Sensory development: Children learn by tasting, smelling, touching, and listening to their environment.
• Socio-emotional growth: Imaginative play with peers and adults helps children develop “theory of mind,” or the ability to understand that others have different thoughts and feelings.
• Problem-solving skills: Unstructured play allows children to face real challenges, encouraging patience, creativity, and resilience.

Despite these concerns, experts acknowledge that screens are now an unavoidable part of modern life. Rather than fostering parental guilt, they recommend practical strategies: setting firm time limits, choosing high-quality interactive content, co-viewing with children, and ensuring that screen-free time is filled with free play, reading, and direct social interaction.