Prospects for lasting solution to Pak-Afghan conflict remain unlikely: Report

IANS | March 7, 2026 3:13 PM

Canberra, March 7 (IANS) The ongoing conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan marks a sharp deterioration in bilateral ties that have simmered since the Taliban reclaimed power in August 2021. Islamabad has previously carried out significant airstrikes targetting Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants in Afghanistan, notably in December 2024, a report has highlighted.

Major Swathi shares experiences, challenges in South Sudan after winning UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025 (IANS Exclusive)

IANS | March 7, 2026 11:31 AM

New Delhi, March 7 (IANS) Major Swathi Shantha Kumar, a Bengaluru-based officer serving with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) has been honoured with the UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025 in the gender category for her project ‘Equal Partners, Lasting Peace’. Speaking to IANS, the Indian Army officer shared her experiences during the mission, her key responsibilities on the ground, and the challenges she faced while serving in the conflict-affected region.