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Brazil joins South Africa’s genocide case at ICJ against Israel

**Brazil Joins South Africa’s Genocide Case at ICJ Against Israel**

Brazil has officially joined South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This move is largely symbolic, signifying that whatever construction emerges from the court’s eventual judgment will be equally binding upon Brazil.

In a recent development, Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva met with Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia on March 6, 2024. This meeting underscores Brazil’s growing engagement in international legal matters.

*Photo credit: REUTERS/Ueslei Marcelino/File Photo*

By SARAH BEN-NUN
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https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868287

Word of the Day: Callous

**Word of the Day: Callous**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 21, 2025 | 05:21 pm*

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### What’s the story?

The adjective **“callous”** describes someone who shows little or no concern for the feelings of others. It is used to characterize a person who is emotionally hardened, unkind, or indifferent to the suffering of others. A callous attitude makes someone appear cold and uncaring.

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### Origin of the Word

The word **“callous”** comes from the Latin word *callum*, which means “thick skin.” When it first entered the English language in the 1500s, it referred to skin that had become hardened from use. Over time, the meaning expanded to describe people who are hardened in spirit—unfeeling or lacking compassion.

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### Synonyms for “Callous”

Words that are often used interchangeably with “callous” include:
– Cold
– Harsh
– Unkind
– Uncaring
– Ruthless
– Indifferent
– Unsympathetic

Each of these words suggests a person who shows little concern for others or who ignores their feelings.

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### Sentence Usage

Here are some examples of how to use **“callous”** in different contexts:
– “His callous remarks hurt her deeply.”
– “The manager’s callous attitude upset the employees.”
– “Ignoring the suffering of others is a callous act.”

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### Why Use the Word?

Using **“callous”** helps describe behavior that is cold, unfeeling, or lacking empathy. It adds sharpness when portraying characters or situations where compassion is missing. Whether in storytelling, reports, or everyday conversations, “callous” clearly conveys emotional hardness.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/word-of-the-day-callous/story

H-1B visa fee hike: Beneficiaries like Musk, Nadella, Pichai silent

**H-1B Visa Fee Hike: Beneficiaries Like Musk, Nadella, Pichai Remain Silent**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 21, 2025, 06:25 PM*

Silicon Valley’s tech giants, including Elon Musk, Sundar Pichai, and Satya Nadella, have remained notably silent following the announcement of a new $100,000 fee on H-1B visa petitions. The fee hike was introduced by the Trump administration last Saturday, sparking surprise given that some of these leaders, notably Musk, have previously expressed strong opposition to changes in the H-1B visa system.

**Musk’s Previous Stance on H-1B Visa Changes**

Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, has been vocal about the importance of the H-1B visa program. In December, Musk took to X (formerly Twitter) to highlight that many critical contributors to his companies are beneficiaries of the H-1B visa. He went as far as threatening to “go to war” if the system was altered in a way that could harm these professionals.

**Details of the New Rule**

The recent regulation, signed by President Trump, imposes a hefty $100,000 fee on H-1B visa petitions. According to the administration, the goal is to ensure that only “extraordinarily skilled” individuals enter the U.S. workforce, preventing companies from using foreign professionals to replace American workers.

This fee hike predominantly affects Indian professionals, who make up approximately 71% of all H-1B visa holders.

**Clarifications on the Fee**

The administration clarified that this new rule only applies to *new* visa petitions and does not impact existing H-1B visa holders who are re-entering the country. Karoline Leavitt, White House spokesperson, explained on X that “this is NOT an annual fee. It’s a one-time fee that applies only to the petition.”

A petition refers to a company’s request to bring a skilled foreign worker to the U.S. workforce.

—

The response—or lack thereof—by influential tech leaders continues to draw attention as the industry assesses the impact of this significant policy change on talent acquisition and innovation.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/h-1b-visa-s-100-000-fee-what-are-silicon-valley-ceos-saying/story

Is ‘Lokah’ coming to OTT soon? Dulquer Salmaan reveals truth

**Is ‘Lokah’ Coming to OTT Soon? Dulquer Salmaan Reveals the Truth**

*By Isha Sharma | Sep 21, 2025, 05:04 PM*

Dulquer Salmaan, the producer of the blockbuster Malayalam film *Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra*, has addressed rumors regarding the movie’s imminent OTT release. The film, which stars Kalyani Priyadarshan and Naslen, has reportedly become the highest-grossing Malayalam film, amassing over ₹271 crore in global earnings since its release on August 28.

### Official Statement from Dulquer Salmaan

Amid widespread speculation about *Lokah* potentially streaming on Netflix in multiple languages, Dulquer Salmaan took to X (formerly Twitter) to clarify the situation. He stated clearly,

> “Lokah isn’t coming to OTT anytime soon. Ignore the fake news and stay tuned for official announcements! #Lokah #WhatstheHurry.”

In addition, his production house, Wayfarer Films, echoed this message across its social media platforms, urging fans to rely only on verified updates.

### About the ‘Lokah’ Franchise

*Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra* marks the beginning of an ambitious five-part franchise directed by Dominic Arun. In this installment, Kalyani Priyadarshan plays the role of a yakshi/vampire named Chandra/Neeli.

Looking ahead, the second chapter will feature Tovino Thomas portraying a goblin named Chathan. Dulquer Salmaan himself is rumored to take on the role of Charlie, an odiyan (shapeshifter).

Additionally, legendary actor Mammootty lent his voice to the character Moothon in this film; however, it remains unclear whether he will reprise this role in future installments.

—

Stay tuned for more official updates about the *Lokah* franchise and its release plans.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/dulquer-salmaan-clears-air-on-lokah-ott-release/story

VinFast India taps Hyundai executive as its CEO

**VinFast India Taps Hyundai Executive as Its CEO**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 21, 2025, 02:58 PM*

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**Vietnamese EV Maker VinFast Appoints New CEO in India**

Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer VinFast is set to appoint Tapan Ghosh, currently Vice President and Head of Sales at Hyundai India, as the CEO of its Indian operations. Ghosh has already submitted his resignation to Hyundai and is expected to join VinFast India on October 16.

This leadership change comes shortly after VinFast launched its two new electric SUVs, the VF6 and VF7, in the Indian market.

—

**VinFast’s Growing Presence in India**

So far, VinFast’s strategy in India has been overseen by Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia. The company has established an assembly plant in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, with plans to initially produce 50,000 cars. Production capacity is expected to scale up to 300,000 units over time.

VinFast has also committed to investing nearly $2 billion in India over the next few years to strengthen its operations and expand its local footprint.

—

**Tapan Ghosh’s Industry Experience**

Tapan Ghosh brings extensive automotive industry expertise to VinFast. Beginning his career with Hindustan Motors in 1995, Ghosh has worked with several major companies, including Honda Cars, Mahindra & Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki India, and Tata Motors. Since joining Hyundai in 2013, he has played a key role in driving sales growth.

His appointment as CEO is expected to add significant value to VinFast’s ambitions in India by leveraging his deep understanding of the local market.

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**VinFast’s Market Entry Strategy vs Tesla**

VinFast’s approach to entering India contrasts with Tesla’s. Tesla entered the Indian market in July with showrooms in Mumbai and Delhi but maintains limited operations and remote leadership.

VinFast, on the other hand, is focusing on local manufacturing and leadership, a strategy experts believe is vital for success in India’s competitive EV segment.

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**Challenges Ahead for VinFast in India**

While VinFast has surprised many by pricing its cars competitively alongside established Indian brands like Tata and Mahindra, gaining consumer trust remains a significant challenge.

According to Puneet Gupta from S&P Global Mobility, “Customers already have inhibitions about EVs, so an added uncertainty about a relatively unknown brand in the Indian market will not make things easy for VinFast.”

The appointment of a seasoned Indian automotive leader like Ghosh is seen as a critical step in overcoming these challenges and building confidence among Indian buyers.

—

**Conclusion**

VinFast’s aggressive investment and localization efforts, combined with Tapan Ghosh’s leadership, mark a pivotal moment in the company’s journey to establish itself as a strong player in India’s rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/auto/vinfast-to-appoint-hyundai-s-tapan-ghosh-as-india-ceo/story

GST rate cuts take effect tomorrow: What’s getting cheaper

**GST Rate Cuts Take Effect Tomorrow: What’s Getting Cheaper**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025, 03:39 PM*

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council’s decision to cut rates on nearly 375 items will come into effect from tomorrow, September 22. This move is set to make a wide range of products—including kitchen staples, electronics, medicines, and automobiles—more affordable for consumers across the country.

### Sectoral Impact: Price Cuts Expected Across Consumer Goods

The GST rate cut will benefit multiple sectors. Daily-use food items such as butter, namkeen, ketchup, jam, dry fruits, coffee, and ice cream are expected to become cheaper. Electronics like TVs, air conditioners, and washing machines will also see price reductions. Several FMCG companies have already begun revising their prices in anticipation of the lower tax burden on these products.

### Healthcare: Medicines to Become More Affordable

The healthcare sector stands to gain significantly. Most medicines, formulations, and medical devices—such as glucometers and diagnostic kits—will now attract a GST rate of 5%. This reduction is expected to ease medicine costs for households. Pharmacies have been directed to either revise maximum retail prices or sell medicines at rates reflecting the new lower tax.

### Construction, Automotive Sectors to Benefit

Builders and homebuyers will also benefit from the GST rate cut, with cement’s tax rate reduced from 28% to 18%. The automobile sector is among the biggest beneficiaries: buyers of small cars will now pay 18% GST, while bigger models will attract 28%, a notable reduction from previous rates. This move is expected to boost demand in the automotive market.

### Services: Tax Cuts for Everyday Services and Household Staples

The services sector will also see benefits. Salons, beauty parlors, yoga studios, gyms, and health clubs will now be taxed at 5% without input credit, down from the earlier 18% with credit. Household staples such as hair oil, soaps, shampoos, toothbrushes, and toothpaste are also expected to become more affordable due to the lowered tax rate.

### Simplified GST Structure: Moving to a Two-Rate System

Alongside the rate cuts, the GST Council has simplified the tax structure into a largely two-rate system — 5% and 18%. Ultra-luxury goods will continue to attract a higher tax of 40%, while tobacco and related products will remain in the 28% slab with an additional cess. This marks a shift from the current four-slab system of 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28%, simplifying compliance and rate management.

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Overall, the GST rate cuts coming into effect tomorrow aim to lighten the tax burden on consumers and businesses alike, promoting affordability and stimulating demand across various sectors. Stay tuned for more updates on pricing changes as companies revise their rates in line with the new GST norms.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/new-gst-rates-on-375-items-come-into-effect-tomorrow/story

Is ‘Lokah’ coming to OTT soon? Dulquer Salmaan reveals truth

**Is ‘Lokah’ Coming to OTT Soon? Dulquer Salmaan Reveals the Truth**

*By Isha Sharma | Sep 21, 2025, 05:04 PM*

Dulquer Salmaan, the producer of the blockbuster Malayalam film *Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra*, has addressed rumors regarding the movie’s immediate OTT release.

The film, which stars Kalyani Priyadarshan and Naslen, has emerged as the highest-grossing Malayalam movie, earning over ₹271 crore globally since its release on August 28.

### Official Statement from Dulquer Salmaan

Amid widespread speculation about *Lokah* potentially premiering on Netflix in multiple languages, Dulquer Salmaan took to X (formerly Twitter) to clarify the matter. He wrote,
“Lokah isn’t coming to OTT anytime soon. Ignore the fake news and stay tuned for official announcements! #Lokah #WhatstheHurry.”

His production house, Wayfarer Films, has also confirmed this information across its official social media channels.

### About the *Lokah* Franchise

*Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra* is the first installment in a planned five-part franchise directed by Dominic Arun. In this film, Kalyani Priyadarshan portrays Chandra/Neeli, a yakshi (vampire).

The upcoming chapters will expand the universe further: the second installment will feature Tovino Thomas as Chathan, a goblin. Meanwhile, Dulquer Salmaan is rumored to play Charlie, an odiyan (shapeshifter).

Mammootty lent his voice to the character Moothon in the first film, although it remains uncertain whether he will reprise his role in future installments.

Stay tuned for more updates and official announcements regarding the *Lokah* franchise and its release plans.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/dulquer-salmaan-clears-air-on-lokah-ott-release/story

UK’s Starmer set to recognize Palestinian state today despite strong opposition from Israel, US

UK’s Starmer Set to Recognize Palestinian State Despite Strong Opposition from Israel and US

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce the recognition of a Palestinian state on Sunday, a move that has drawn significant criticism from Israel, former US President Donald Trump, and segments of the UK public ahead of a key United Nations meeting.

Starmer’s decision marks a notable shift in the UK’s foreign policy stance and is seen as an effort to support renewed efforts toward peace in the Middle East. However, it has also sparked controversy given the complex geopolitical implications and the strong opposition from Israel and its allies.

Keir Starmer, pictured on July 28, 2025. (Photo credit: REUTERS/EVELYN HOCKSTEIN)

As the announcement approaches, attention is focused on how this recognition might influence the broader UN discussions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the international community’s role in seeking a resolution.

By MATHILDA HELLER

https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868242

Bear Attacks Surge as Fatality Rate Reaches 24%

Autumn is the most dangerous season in Japan as bears become highly active in search of food before winter hibernation. The country is home to two bear species: the brown bear, or higuma, found in Hokkaido, and the Asiatic black bear, or tsukinowaguma, which lives in Honshu and Shikoku.

A large brown bear can stand nearly three meters tall and possesses enough strength to break a horse’s neck with a single blow. Remarkably, they can sprint 100 meters in as little as six seconds, while black bears cover the same distance in about eight seconds. The fatality rate for victims attacked by brown bears is 24 percent, compared to just 2.3 percent for black bears.

Between April and August 2025, 69 people were injured or killed by bears—matching the pace from two years earlier, when an acorn shortage triggered the worst year on record for bear-related incidents.

Surveys conducted since 2018 by the Environment Ministry have confirmed new areas of bear habitation, with populations expanding across Japan except in Shikoku. Hokkaido’s brown bear population has more than doubled over the past 30 years, while black bears have expanded their range by 1.4 times. Today, Chiba Prefecture remains the only part of Honshu without wild bears, and the species is extinct in Kyushu.

The surge in bear numbers is linked to shifts in human society. During the early 20th century, widespread hunting for pelts and gallbladders—used in traditional medicine—threatened bear populations with extinction in some regions. However, following the introduction of a new protection framework in 1999, combined with population decline and abandoned farmland providing more food, bear populations rebounded rapidly.

As their habitats have extended closer to towns and villages, many bears have lost their natural fear of humans. This has led to more frequent appearances in residential areas, increasingly referred to as “urban bears.”

Experts emphasize that both population management and deterrence measures are essential. Mayumi Yokoyama, a professor at the University of Hyogo, highlights the need to capture not only bears that enter towns but also those living near homes to reduce overall numbers. At the same time, food sources such as persimmons and garbage should be controlled, and electric fences installed around farmland to deter bears.

In 2024, the government removed bears from its list of protected species and reclassified them as managed wildlife, alongside deer and wild boar. This change permits more aggressive population control through concentrated hunting. Since September, municipalities have also been authorized to permit the use of hunting rifles in urban areas.

Bears have long been familiar figures in Japanese folklore—from legends of Kintaro wrestling a bear to tales of coexistence with nature. Yet, the growing frequency of bear encounters underscores the need for modern solutions.

As experts warn, only by combining careful population management with preventive measures can people and bears continue to coexist in today’s Japan.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146950.php

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