The UK Supreme Court has ruled unanimously that the term "woman" under the Equality Act 2010 refers to biological sex, marking a major legal milestone in a years-long case between the Scottish government and campaign group For Women Scotland. Lord Hodge emphasized that the judgment should not be seen as a victory for one group over another, while affirming that transgender individuals still retain legal protections. The ruling was met with cheers and tears of joy from campaigners in court. Politicians including Kemi Badenoch and Rosie Duffield hailed the decision as a "victory for common sense." (PC: Reuters)

The Trump administration has announced tariffs of up to 245% on Chinese imports, intensifying the US-China trade war. The move follows Beijing’s recent export bans on high-tech materials like gallium, germanium, and rare earth metals crucial to defense and tech industries. “China now faces up to a 245% tariff,” said a White House statement, calling it part of Trump’s “America First Trade Policy.” In response, China raised its tariffs on US goods to 125%. President Trump emphasized the tariffs are meant to secure U.S. industries and supply chains, while exempting other countries during ongoing trade negotiations. (PC: AFP)

In a landmark ruling, the UK Supreme Court has declared that the legal definition of a woman under the Equality Act 2010 is based on biological sex. The decision follows a legal dispute between the Scottish Government and advocacy group For Women Scotland. While reaffirming protections for transgender individuals, the court stated that sex-based rights apply to those biologically female, rejecting the notion of “certificated sex.” Campaigners say the ruling clarifies who can access women-only spaces and services. The court emphasized that trans people remain protected under gender reassignment provisions, and can still claim discrimination based on perceived gender identity. (PC: BBC)

Hamas announced it has lost contact with the captors of Israeli-American soldier Edan Alexander following an Israeli airstrike in Gaza. Alexander, a central figure in a proposed 45-day ceasefire deal, was to be released first as a goodwill gesture. Israel resumed its offensive on March 18, halting a two-month truce. Hamas warned families that continued bombardment could lead to more hostage deaths. With 58 hostages still in captivity, French President Macron urged a ceasefire and humanitarian aid access. The UN warns Gaza faces its worst humanitarian crisis in 18 months, as Israel blocks aid to pressure Hamas. (PC: AFP)

Telangana has officially declared heatwaves and sunstrokes as “State-Specific Disasters,” becoming the first Indian state to do so. Families of victims will now receive ₹4 lakh in compensation. The move comes as India faces rising temperatures, with Delhi reaching 37°C and Srinagar recording its hottest April day in nearly 80 years at 30.4°C. The IMD forecasts above-normal monsoon rainfall this year and predicts dry weather in Jammu & Kashmir until April 17. Gujarat has launched emergency water planning, ensuring summer preparedness. As extreme heat grips the nation, government responses are intensifying to protect public health and infrastructure. (PC: Hindustan Times)

Nvidia expects a $5.5 billion hit after the U.S. government imposed tighter export restrictions on AI chips to China. The ruling affects Nvidia's H20 chip, a major seller in China, now requiring a license for export, including to Hong Kong. Officials cited concerns over potential use in Chinese supercomputers. Nvidia's shares fell nearly 6% in after-hours trading. Analysts say while the loss is significant, Nvidia can absorb it. Experts warn the move may signal a broader tech decoupling between the U.S. and China, especially in the critical AI semiconductor sector, as both nations intensify their trade and tech rivalry. (PC: Getty Images)

On April 15, 2025, President Donald Trump initiated a national security investigation into the United States' dependence on imported rare earth elements, predominantly from China. This move, made under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, aims to assess the potential risks of relying on these critical minerals, vital for industries like electronics, renewable energy, and defense. The investigation follows China's recent export restrictions on rare earths, escalating the ongoing trade war. The review could lead to the imposition of tariffs and will take up to 180 days, with significant implications for global supply chains. (PC: Getty Images)  

On April 14, 2025, Blue Origin completed its first all-women space mission aboard the New Shepard rocket, featuring celebrities and pioneers like Katy Perry, Lauren Sánchez, Gayle King, Aisha Bowe, Amanda Nguyen, and Kerianne Flynn. The 11-minute suborbital flight was celebrated as a milestone for women in space. However, it quickly drew criticism online, with skeptics calling it a “publicity stunt” and circulating videos claiming the launch was fake. While some accused Blue Origin of prioritizing celebrity over science, others defended the mission as a powerful statement for inclusivity and gender representation in space exploration. (PC: Republic World)

On April 14, 2025, former U.S. President Donald Trump intensified his conflict with Harvard University by halting $2.2 billion in federal grants and $60 million in contracts. This move came after Harvard rejected the administration's demands to dismantle its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, suppress pro-Palestinian student groups, and enhance cooperation with immigration authorities. Harvard President Alan Garber defended the university's autonomy and academic freedom. The controversy has sparked nationwide debate, with prominent figures including Barack Obama backing Harvard, accusing the Trump administration of political overreach and threatening institutional independence in higher education. (PC: AP)

Former President Donald Trump has threatened to revoke Harvard University’s tax-exempt status following its rejection of sweeping federal demands tied to antisemitism policies. Hours earlier, his administration froze $2.2 billion in federal funding, demanding changes in admissions, hiring, and teaching to curb campus antisemitism. Harvard President Alan Garber said the university would not compromise its independence or First Amendment rights. The administration’s proposed reforms included auditing academic departments and reporting students with “hostile” views. Trump accused the university of promoting political ideology and called for an apology. Harvard faculty argue the government is targeting academic freedom and free speech. (PC: Getty Images)