SpaceX came close to completing an hourlong test flight of its mega rocket on its third try Thursday, but the spacecraft was lost as it descended back to Earth. The company said it lost contact with Starship as it neared its goal, a splashdown in the Indian Ocean. The first-stage booster also ended up in pieces, breaking apart much earlier in the flight over the Gulf of Mexico after launching from the southern tip of Texas near the Mexican border. “The ship has been lost. So no splashdown today,” said SpaceX’s Dan Huot. “But again, it’s incredible to see how much further we got this time around.”

Two test flights last year both ended in explosions minutes after liftoff. By surviving for close to 50 minutes this time, Thursday’s effort was considered a win by not only SpaceX’s Elon Musk, but NASA as well as Starship soared higher and farther than ever before. The space agency is counting on Starship to land its astronauts on the moon in another few years. The nearly 400-foot (121-meter) Starship, the biggest and most powerful rocket ever built, headed out over the Gulf of Mexico after liftoff Thursday morning, flying east. Spectators crowded the nearby beaches in South Padre Island and Mexico. A few minutes later, the booster separated seamlessly from the spaceship, but broke apart 1,500 feet (462 meters) above the gulf, instead of plummeting into the water intact. By then, the spacecraft was well to the east and continuing upward, with no people or satellites on board. Starship reached an altitude of about 145 miles (233 kilometers) as it coasted across the Atlantic and South Africa, before approaching the Indian Ocean. But 49 minutes into the flight – with just 15 minutes remaining – all contact was lost and the spacecraft presumably broke apart. At that point, it was 40 miles (65 kilometers) high and traveling around 16,000 mph (25,700 kph). SpaceX’s Elon Musk had just congratulated his team a little earlier. “SpaceX has come a long way,” he said via X, formerly called Twitter. The rocket company was founded exactly 22 years ago Thursday.

NASA watched with keen interest: The space agency needs Starship to succeed in order to land astronauts on the moon in the next two or so years. This new crop of moonwalkers – the first since last century’s Apollo program – will descend to the lunar surface in a Starship after transferring from NASA’s Orion capsule in lunar orbit. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson quickly congratulated SpaceX on what he called a successful test fl ight as part of the space agency’s Artemis moon-landing program. The stainless steel, bullet-shaped spacecraft launched atop a first-stage booster known as the Super Heavy.

Both the booster and the spacecraft are designed to be reusable, although they were never meant to be salvaged Thursday. On Starship’s inaugural launch last April, several of the booster’s 33 methane-fueled engines failed and the booster did not separate from the spacecraft, causing the entire vehicle to explode and crash into the gulf four minutes after liftoff. SpaceX managed to double the length of the fl ight during November’s trial run. While all 33 engines fired and the booster peeled away as planned, the flight ended in a pair of explosions, first the booster and then the spacecraft.

The Federal Aviation Administration reviewed all the corrections made to Starship, before signing off on Thursday’s launch. The FAA said after the flight that it would again investigate what happened. As during the second flight, all 33 booster engines performed well during ascent, according to SpaceX. Initially, SpaceX plans to use the mammoth rockets to launch the company’s Starlink internet satellites, as well as other spacecraft. Test pilots would follow to orbit, before the company flies wealthy clients around the moon and back. Musk considers the moon a stepping stone to Mars, his ultimate quest. NASA is insisting that an empty Starship land successfully on the moon, before future moonwalkers climb aboard. The space agency is targeting the end of 2026 for the first moon landing crew under the Artemis program, named after the mythological twin sister of Apollo.

The Ministry of Interior has taken proactive measures to address the issue of begging, designating a hotline within the Criminal Security Sector for swift response to such cases.

Emphasizing the gravity of begging as a societal offense that tarnishes the civilized fabric, the Ministry underscores its commitment to bolstering security efforts against this phenomenon, reports Al-Anba daily.

The General Department of Security Relations and Media urges public cooperation with the General Department of Criminal Investigation by promptly reporting any instances of begging. Citizens can reach out via designated hotline numbers: 25589655 and 25589644, or utilize the emergency line (112), operational round the clock. It emphasizes the citizen’s role as a guardian of their homeland, emphasizing collective responsibility for the welfare of society.

In a recent decree, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Acting Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef, has granted a grace period to expatriates found violating residency laws and regulations in Kuwait. This grace period spans from April 1, 2024, to July 1, 2024, coinciding with the holy month of Ramadan and the ascension of His Highness the Amir to power.

The decision is geared towards maintaining Kuwait's humanitarian stance while facilitating adherence to residency regulations. Individuals unable to settle fines or rectify their residency status are offered the option to depart from designated ports without incurring penalties and may re-enter under revised procedures.

Those failing to rectify their status within the grace period will be subject to legal penalties, including deportation. Additionally, individuals encountering administrative or judicial hurdles are advised to seek assistance from the General Administration of Residence Affairs for further evaluation.

The Assistant Undersecretary for Sanitary Engineering Affairs at the Ministry of Public Works Eng. Abdul Rahman Al-Enezi announced the end of sewage problems in the residential city of Sabah Al-Ahmad after linking the entire city’s pumping station to the Umm Al-Hayman purification station, which was recently completed and operated, with a capacity of 500 thousand cubic meters per day.

In a press statement issued Monday, he explained that the sewage problems, which had lasted more than 12 years and had been worrying the people of the area, had been completely ended by connecting the pumping station to the purification station. This is because of the elimination of the sources of environmental pollution, such as unpleasant odors, insects, swamps, and other problems, which were the causes of several complaints from residents to all parties.

Al-Enezi stressed the sector’s keenness in the previous stage to accelerate procedures and redouble the effort to connect the city to Umm Al-Hayman station, in implementation of the directives of the Minister of Public Works and Minister of State for Municipal Affairs Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan to overcome all obstacles to the connection process and to expedite the solution to the problem that has been troubling citizens in the area for years. Accordingly, the eastern and southern parts of the area were connected. He stated that the quantities of sewage pumped from the pumping station in the area to the Umm Al-Hayman station currently amount to 30,000 to 36,000 cubic meters per day. Its total capacity is 140,000 cubic meters per day, in order to absorb all the quantities of sewage once the area is completely inhabited.

WHY is sponsorship necessary for those planning to visit Kuwait? It’s time to open up the country and eliminate these hesitations and requirements. Everyone eager to explore Kuwait, and holds a round-trip ticket and hotel reservation, or friends who can vouch for well-being during their stay in Kuwait, should be warmly welcomed.

While there are certain nationalities we may prefer not to host due to security concerns, we must also recognize the importance of tourism. Rigorous oversight can be applied to those visitors, while maintaining caution in countries with strained relations or poor security conditions.

Zahed Matar

Arab Times

Government agencies continue to implement executive measures, requesting the Civil Service Commission to examine academic certificates issued from the year 2000.

The Ministry of Education has given its employees a week to upload copies of university certificates issued since 2000, along with their equivalency from the Ministry of Higher Education, via the ministry’s website.

Similarly, the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs has circulated a notice to all its employees, both citizens and residents, emphasizing the necessity of submitting a copy of their university academic qualification and the equivalency issued by the ministry.

Higher education for a maximum period of one month is required. Any employee failing to provide the necessary data will bear legal responsibility.

According to security sources, officers from all sectors of the Ministry of Interior, including Public Security, Traffic, Operations, and Criminal Investigations have been deployed to deal with traffic jams and arrest outlaws and beggars during the month of Ramadan, especially those present in markets, stores, and mosques. They explained that any expatriate caught begging will be deported from the country and a block will be placed on the sponsor’s file. According to the instructions of the ministry leadership, strict measures must be taken regarding this phenomenon, which increases during the month of Ramadan.

In this context, the ministry’s Security Media Department announced that the Criminal Security Sector has designated a hotline to receive reports related to beggars after which necessary steps will be taken immediately. Security efforts are being exerted to confront this phenomenon, which represents a crime against society and harms the civilized appearance. The department called on everyone to cooperate with the General Department of Criminal Investigations by immediately reporting any observed case of begging, using the following two numbers – 25589655 and 25589644 – or the emergency hotline No. 112, which receives their reports round the clock. The department said every person must be “a guardian of his country and keen about the public good”.

The Embassy of India in Kuwait is currently accepting applications and inquiries related to the Certificate of Relationship. Please note the following:

1. Since it is a one-page document, up to six names can be listed on a single relationship certificate. There is no need for separate Relationship Certificates for each individual if multiple persons require one.

2. Documents required for a Relationship Certificate:

(a) The original passport of the applicant(s).

(b) Self-attested copies of the passport and Civil ID of the applicant(s) and the relative(s).

(c) Copy/copies of all documents related to supporting the relationship, such as passport(s), birth certificate, etc.

(d) In the event of a discrepancy in the name(s) of the relative(s) as stated in the submitted supporting documents, the applicant is required to provide the following additional documents:

A notarized affidavit duly attested by the Home Department of the concerned state government and the Ministry of External Affairs, or any of the branch offices or Regional Passport Offices (RPO) in India.

One and the same certificate issued by the Taluk office/registrar office/tehsildar or other relevant state government authorities. This certificate should be duly attested by the Home Department of the concerned State government and the Ministry of External Affairs, or any of the branch offices or Regional Passport Offices (RPO) in India.

3. If an applicant requests a Relationship Certificate for their spouse, the spouse’s name must be mentioned in the applicant’s passport.

4. Additional documents may be required for verification based on the documents submitted.

Upon completing a contract with a company in Kuwait, it's expected that both parties adhere to the agreed terms, including any provisions for transitioning to another company. However, situations can arise where an employee finds themselves wrongfully reported as absconding, despite having fulfilled their contractual obligations. This situation not only brings undue stress but can also have serious legal implications. Here's a detailed guide on how to navigate such a scenario, ensuring your rights are protected and you can move forward with your career in Kuwait or elsewhere.

 Immediate Actions to Take:

1. Discuss the Issue with the Company's Mandoop: The first step should be to directly communicate with your company's mandoop (a company representative responsible for handling legal and governmental paperwork). Misunderstandings or clerical errors can sometimes lead to wrongful absconding reports. It's possible that the company has motives not immediately apparent, such as avoiding payment of dues.

2. Approach the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM): If discussions with your company don't yield results, your next step should be to approach PAM. You can update your status and explain your situation, providing evidence that the company did not comply with the mandatory notice period or issue a termination letter. PAM can then review your case and potentially mediate.

Understanding Your Rights and Legal Avenues:

1. Seek Legal Advice: Given the complexity of labor laws, consulting a lawyer specializing in Kuwaiti labor law is crucial. They can offer advice specific to your case and guide you on possible legal actions against the company for wrongful reporting and failure to adhere to the contract terms.

2. Gather and Submit Necessary Documentation: Ensure you have all relevant documents, such as contract copies, communication records with the company, and any proof of the notice period breach or termination letter absence. This documentation is vital for legal proceedings and for filing a complaint with PAM.

Planning Your Next Steps:

1. Negotiate a Transfer or Temporary Visa: Ideally, your employer should provide assistance in securing a temporary visa while you find another job or facilitate an immediate transfer if you already have an offer. If the company refuses to assist, this should be included in your complaint to PAM and discussed with your lawyer.

2. Filing a Complaint with PAM: If your employer is uncooperative, filing a formal complaint with the Public Authority for Manpower is necessary. Detail your situation, backed by all available evidence, to initiate an official review and mediation process.

3. Considerations for Leaving Kuwait or Moving to Another GCC Country: Resolving an absconding report is crucial before attempting to leave Kuwait or apply for jobs in other GCC countries. Unresolved issues can lead to travel bans or employment restrictions within the GCC.

Key Takeaways:

1. Act quickly and document all interactions with your employer.

2. Direct communication with the company's mandoop may resolve the issue without further legal actions.

3. Legal advice is crucial in navigating the complexities of labor law and potential court proceedings.

4. Filing a complaint with PAM can help mediate and resolve disputes with your employer.

Being wrongfully reported as absconding is a challenging scenario, but understanding your rights and the steps to address the issue can help mitigate the situation. From seeking legal advice to engaging with Kuwait's Public Authority for Manpower, there are avenues available to rectify the situation and protect your professional future in Kuwait or elsewhere in the GCC.

Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Cultural Center has unveiled an extraordinary celestial event set to grace Kuwait on Saturday, March 16. For the first time in 33 years, Kuwait will experience equal nights and days, each lasting precisely 12 hours. This remarkable occurrence coincides with the sacred month of Ramadan, enhancing its significance.

Khaled Al-Jumaan, the esteemed director of the Space and Astronomy Museum at the cultural center, revealed the details on Monday. According to Al-Jumaan, the sun will rise at 5:57 am and set at 5:57 pm on the 16th of March. As a result, the day will gradually lengthen, offering a unique opportunity to observe and appreciate the subtle changes in daylight duration.

Following a recent meeting between the General Administration of Residence Affairs and the Public Authority for Manpower, an agreement has been reached to reinstate work permits exclusively for Egyptians within Kuwait's government sector, in accordance with Article 17 regulations.

Approved government entities for the recruitment of Egyptian workers now include prominent institutions such as the Ministries of Education, Health, Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, along with the Kuwait Municipality. Roles targeted for recruitment encompass vital positions such as doctors, teachers, nurses, imams of mosques, washers of the dead, and grave diggers, as reported by the Al-Jarida daily.

According to sources cited by Al-Jarida, the issuance of visit visas for certain nationalities previously prohibited has resumed. However, exceptions remain for Iranians due to security concerns and Afghans, who lack embassy representation in Kuwait.

The Ministry of Interior and the Public Authority for Manpower have concluded the drafting of a new law, which is slated to be submitted for approval to Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Acting Minister of Interior, Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef. Once approved, the law will be presented to the upcoming National Assembly.

The proposed legislation includes stringent measures aimed at combating expatriate sheltering, with provisions for significant financial penalties and severe administrative actions. Individuals found guilty of sheltering expatriates may face the registration of an absenteeism case against them.

Moon-sighting committees in countries all around the world have gathered to see the last moon of Sha'ban, which marks the start of the holy month of Ramadan.

The following countries have announced that the crescent moon has not been sighted on Sunday, March 10, making March 12 the first day of Ramadan.

- Australia: The Australian Fatwa Council announced that Ramadan 2024 will begin on March 12 for Muslims in the country. The Australian National Imams Council in a social media post said that the date was issued following extensive consultations with the Imams from the Australian Fatwa Council and the Grand Mufti of Australia, Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohamad.

- Philippines: Local media reported that the Bangsamoro Grand Mufti said that the crescent moon was not sighted on Sunday, March 10, and thus the holy month would commence on March 12.

- Singapore: The Mufti of Singapore has announced that Ramadan in the country will begin on March 12. According to local media, he said that according to astronomical calculations, the crescent seen when the sun sets on Sunday evening is "too small" and "does not meet the criteria of imkanur rukyah (calculation)" agreed upon by members of MABIMS (Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore) countries.

- Indonesia: The Ministry of Religious Affairs in Indonesia announced the start date of Ramadan as March 12, as the crescent had not been sighted at observation points in the country.

- Malaysia: The Keeper of the Rulers' Seal, Syed Danial Syed Ahmad, in Malaysia has announced that Ramadan will start on March 12 in the country.

- Brunei: Ramadan will begin on March 12 in Brunei, as the crescent moon has not been sighted in any part of the country.

Kuwait Municipality recently announced the launch of a new communication service for the public to notify them electronically about a warning or violation through notifications that reach the concerned party via the Sahel app. In a press statement, it explained that the launch of this service was based on direct directives from the Minister of Public Works and Minister of State for Municipal Affairs Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan to facilitate citizens and residents to be informed directly of the measures taken in the event of a warning being issued regarding municipal violations to avoid legal accountability, as well as the financial fines that result from failure to respond to the warning or violation. It also provides an opportunity to complete the reconciliation order process in order to avoid issuance of judicial rulings against the violator in the event that a violation report is issued by municipal inspectors.

This step is consistent with the government’s approach to developing services, and for benefiting from the Sahel app and the communication tools available within the government’s electronic services. In a related context, the Environmental Affairs Committee of the Municipal Council, during its meeting headed by Alia Al-Farsi, referred to the executive branch the Ministry of Health’s letter regarding health control over waste landfills, to obtain a detailed report on it. It also referred to the executive branch the proposal submitted by a citizen regarding helping citizens and reducing burdens. The committee kept on its agenda the two proposals submitted by member Eng. Sharifa Al-Shalfan regarding maintaining the cleanliness of the marine environment and recycling plastic bottles and their covers. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Works announced that it had received 3,310 complaints in January from all governorates of the country.

In a statement, it explained that these reports included 622 from Farwaniya Governorate, 655 from Jahra Governorate, 573 from Capital Governorate, 457 from Ahmadi Governorate, 313 from Hawally Governorate, and 173 from Mubarak Al- Kabeer Governorate. There were also 288 reports related to highways. A total of 61 reports were received by Sanitary Engineering Department, and 68 reports were received by the ministry’s Operations Room. The ministry received many complaints related to streets and roads in different areas of the governorates. The complainants appreciated the efforts exerted by the ministry during the current period for various maintenance works. In some complaints, they stated that the roads have been suffering for years from severe neglect and lack of attention due to the lack of maintenance contracts for the streets and internal roads, most of which have eroded. They called for the speedy repair of the streets and the elimination of the potholes found on most streets, especially the highways, which expose the users of those roads to accidents. These complaints came from many areas that suffer from road problems, including Abdullah Al-Mubarak, Sabahiya, Saad Al-Abdullah, Rehab, Omaria, and other areas. In a separate context, sources from the Ministry of Public Works indicated that the Construction Projects Sector of the Ministry of Public Works is in the process of proposing a consultancy agreement to design a building and headquarters for the Ministry of Higher Education, revealing that a budget has been allocated during the 2024/2025 fiscal year.

The Amiri Diwan on Saturday conveyed congratulations of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to the citizens and residents of Kuwait on the advent of the fasting month of Ramadan. The Diwan announced that His Highness the Amir and the gracious Al- Sabah family will receive well-wishers on the blessed month on the first and second days of Ramadan from 08:00 p.m. at the family’s Diwan at Bayan Palace.

The Ramadan well-wishers will be allowed to enter the palace via the gate of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Fahad bin Abdulaziz road. The Amiri Diwan prayed to His Almighty so he may safeguard His Highness the Amir, His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Dr. Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah and recur the gracious month with all blessings and goodness. It has also hoped that Islamic states and their peoples may witness progress and prosperity. (KUNA)

Deputy Secretary General of the Kuwait Banking Association, Sheikha Al- Issa, stated that the timing of receiving customers at local banks during the holy month of Ramadan will be from 10 am to 1:30 pm, based on the circular issued by the Central Bank of Kuwait in this regard, reports Al- Qabas daily. Al-Issa added local banks will receive customers as follows:

Main centers and branches operate one shift from 10 am to 1:30 pm. Branches operating at Kuwait International Airport: 24/7, based on working hours determined by each bank at its discretion. Branches in commercial complexes — from 11:00 am to 3:30 pm except and from 8:00 pm to 11:30 pm on Fridays.

She went on to say, “With the possibility of a slight discrepancy in the working hours of commercial mall branches, determined by each bank at its discretion, in coordination with the management of the commercial mall in which the branch is located, customers can also complete their banking transactions easily, conveniently and securely through bank applications on smartphones, or via devices.” The automated withdrawals and deposits, however, will be available in various regions of Kuwait.

The Indian government on February 29 approved proposals for three new semiconductor manufacturing facilities. This is part of a larger plan to create a domestic industry for making these critical components. Construction on all three facilities is expected to begin very soon, within the next 100 days.

Earlier in December 2021, the government had launched the India Semiconductor Mission, a programme to develop a domestic ecosystem for manufacturing semiconductors and displays. This initiative aims to make India a major player in this field with a budget of Rs. 76,000 crore. In June 2023, the government approved a proposal from Micron to build a semiconductor facility in Sanand, Gujarat. Construction of this facility is underway, and it is expected to spur the growth of a strong semiconductor ecosystem in the surrounding area.

Tata Electronics Private Limited (TEPL) is partnering with Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp (PSMC) from Taiwan to build a semiconductor fabrication facility (fab) in Dholera, Gujarat, India. This fab will have a production capacity of 50,000 wafers starts per month (WSPM) and will focus on creating chips for various sectors like high-performance computing, electric vehicles, and consumer electronics. The total investment for this project is estimated to be Rs. 91,000 crores. PSMC is known for its expertise in chip manufacturing that will bring its experience to the table while TEPL leverages its presence in the Indian market.

This plant will be the first in India to manufacture semiconductor wafers which are used in many industries and is expected to begin construction in about three months. This is a major step forward for India which has previously struggled to attract global semiconductor companies. It is also important because most of the world’s chip manufacturing is currently concentrated in a few countries, such as China, Taiwan, and South Korea.

Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test, a private limited company (TSAT), is planning to build a new semiconductor facility in Morigaon, Assam, India. This project is estimated to cost ₹27,000 crore. The company is developing its own advanced packaging technologies, including flip chip and ISIP (integrated system in package). This project aims to create a complete ecosystem for semiconductor manufacturing in the region. Once operational, the facility will have a daily production capacity of 48 million units and cater to various sectors, including automotive, electric vehicles, consumer electronics, telecom, and mobile phones. It is also expected to generate over 27,000 jobs, both directly and indirectly.

The TSAT facility in Morigaon will focus on manufacturing three main technologies: Wire Bond, Flip Chip, and Integrated Systems Packaging (ISP). These technologies will create components for various industries, including automotive, communications, and electronics. The facility will benefit from investments in Indian-developed technology and a team with extensive experience. Construction is expected to begin this year, with the first part of the facility opening in mid-2025. This project aligns with the Indian government’s plan to become more self-sufficient in technology and industry. Building this facility is a major step forward for India’s technological independence and economic growth.

The India Semiconductor Mission has made significant progress in a short period of time, achieving four major milestones. There has been a surge of interest from major semiconductor companies around the world. The Indian government has announced financial incentives totalling $7 billion for several new semiconductor manufacturing facilities, including a collaboration with Micron. Additionally, India is actively attracting foreign companies like Foxconn and AMD to set up local operations. This comprehensive plan is designed with a 20-year timeframe that has potential to leverages India’s existing pool of 300,000 design engineers who already contribute to the global chip design landscape.

CG Power is joining forces with Renesas Electronics from Japan and Stars Microelectronics from Thailand to build a new semiconductor facility in Sanand, Gujarat, India. The project will involve an investment of Rs.7,600 crore. Renesas, a major player in specialized chips, will provide technological expertise. The facility will manufacture chips for various sectors including consumer electronics, industrial applications, automobiles, and power. It is expected to have a production capacity of 15 million units per day.

Samsung Semiconductor India Research (SSIR) has opened a new R&D facility in Bengaluru, focusing on cutting-edge research. Additionally, the government’s Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme is supporting domestic companies. Saankhya Labs and Sensesemi Technologies received approval under this scheme, allowing them to develop advanced solutions for various applications, including 5G, satellite communication, and medical devices. Furthermore, a joint venture between Murugappa Group, Renesas Electronics, and Stars Microelectronics is planned to establish a semiconductor assembly and testing facility in Gujarat. This venture is awaiting government approvals and subsidies.

In a significant development, Israeli chipmaker Tower Semiconductor is nearing the final stages of securing approval for an $8 billion fabrication plant in India. This would be the first instance of a top global company participating in India’s $10 billion chip manufacturing initiative. The government is aiming to approve the proposal before the upcoming general elections. These developments highlight India’s growing presence in the global semiconductor landscape.

The Minister of State for Electronics & Technology highlighted this positive development, stating that India is rapidly emerging as a player in the global semiconductor industry. He pointed out that just two years ago, India had no presence in this crucial sector. A total of Rs. 2.50 Trillion is planned to be invested through these companies.

As India embarks on this ambitious journey, it has the potential to become a global centre for both innovation and manufacturing in the semiconductor sector. Additionally, this initiative paves the way for the indigenous development of advanced packaging technologies within India. The establishment of these units will create 20,000 direct jobs in advanced technology, alongside an estimated 60,000 indirect jobsacross various industries. This will significantly boost employment in downstream sectors that rely on semiconductors, such as automotive, electronics, telecommunications, industrial manufacturing, and many others.

The government acknowledges the rapid pace of change in the semiconductor industry and is focusing on capturing market share in the 28 nanometer and above chip segment, which is still in high demand for various applications. They believe India’s large talent pool and growing international collaborations will position them well in this market. While the US has a larger budget for its semiconductor program whereas India is making rapid progress with its $10 billion initiative. In essence, India’s Semiconductor Mission marks a transformative leap in the nation’s technological sphere, brimming with full potential and abundant opportunities.

With the approval of three new manufacturing facilities and strategic collaborations with global giants, India is swiftly emerging as a formidable player in semiconductor production. Initiatives like Tata Electronics’ partnership with Powerchip, CG Power’s collaboration with Renesas and Stars Microelectronics, and the potential $8 billion investment from Tower Semiconductor underscore India’s commitment.

The government’s holistic approach, focusing on talent development, comprehensive chip design, and international collaborations, positions India for global semiconductor prominence. As the nation strides towards self-sufficiency, it promises innovation, economic growth, and a pivotal role in the dynamic semiconductor industry.

The Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy announced some work will be carried out on the water network at the Shuwaikh Pumping Station, Thursday, at 10:00 pm, for 6 hours, which will result in pressure weakness in fresh water in the following areas — Kuwait City, Mansouriya, Shuwaikh Industrial and Residential areas, Kaifan, Hawally, Al-Shamiya, Abdullah Al-Salem, Al-Dasma and Al-Nuzha.

The Ministry thanked the consumers for their cooperation during the work period, noting that in the event of a water outage, consumers are requested to call 152, reports Al-Seyassah daily.

Remittances by the Indian expats in Kuwait reached approximately 2.1 billion dinars (around 6.3 billion dollars) in 2023, constituting 4.8% of the total remittances from Indians abroad, totaling 125 billion dollars. New Delhi is pushing a proposal at the World Trade Organization to slash the costs of cross-border transfers and bolster the digital payment infrastructure’s interoperability and connectivity reports First Post.

Officials quoted by the newspaper stated that the proposal aims to save developing countries 30 to 40 billion dollars, with 78% of last year’s total remittance flows, amounting to $860 billion, directed towards low- and middle-income countries. They emphasized India’s goal of reducing remittance transaction costs to under 3% and eliminating remittance corridors with costs exceeding 5% by 2030, aligning with the World Trade Organization’s development agenda to diminish inequality within and between nations.

The proposal highlighted that fees on transfers below $200 to overseas workers could soar up to 10%, sometimes reaching 15 to 20%. The average global remittance cost was reported at 6.18%, double the United Nations’ sustainable development goal of 3%. The reduction in costs is anticipated to benefit numerous countries, with India projected to be the primary beneficiary, followed by Mexico ($67 billion), China ($50 billion), the Philippines ($40 billion), and Egypt ($24 billion). India has the largest number of immigrants abroad, around 17.9 million, with remittances contributing 3.4% to its GDP.

The Indian proposal advocates for interoperability and connectivity in digital payments infrastructure, emphasizing that digital transfers cost significantly less than non-digital transactions, with an average global cost of 4.84%. Switching from cash to digital transfers could yield substantial cost reductions, with digital platforms offering faster, cheaper, and more transparent transactions. Moreover, linking national digital payment systems across borders could eliminate the necessity for foreign currency transfers.