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Former President Joe Biden delivered a significant address on Tuesday, during which he criticized President Donald Trump's administration for its perceived threats to Social Security.

Speaking at the national conference of Advocates, Counselors, and Representatives for the Disabled in Chicago, Biden emphasized the critical importance of Social Security for millions of Americans and expressed grave concerns regarding its future under the current administration, CNN reported.

Biden, who has largely refrained from public appearances since departing from the White House in January, articulated his views against the backdrop of a broader Democratic initiative labeled as Social Security Day of Action.

CNN reports: In his remarks, he blasted the Trump administration's policies as hurtful and destructive. "In less than a hundred days, this new administration has caused so much devastation and destruction. "It's quite breathtaking," Biden added.

He specifically accused the new administration of significantly undermining the Social Security Administration, asserting that they have "taken a hatchet" to vital services that benefit millions of Americans.

Hamas has rejected an Israeli proposal for a six-week ceasefire in Gaza, which conditioned the pause on the disarmament of Palestinian militant groups, BBC reported.

A Hamas official, speaking anonymously, confirmed the rejection ahead of the group’s formal response to ceasefire mediators.It comes as Israel continues its military offensive in Gaza.

Mediators had previously expressed optimism about reaching a deal soon, but concerns remain that temporary ceasefires could be undermined if they lack U.S. guarantees for a permanent resolution to the conflict, according to BBC.

The Israeli proposal also included a commitment to negotiate a lasting end to the hostilities, contingent upon Hamas and other militant factions agreeing to disarm. This information was provided by Egyptian mediators and both Hamas and negotiation officials, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of the discussions.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a prosecution complaint against Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi in the National Herald money laundering case, also naming Congress leader Sam Pitroda and others, ANI reported.

The chargesheet has been submitted under Sections 44 and 45 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.The matter will be heard in the Delhi Rouse Avenue Court on April 25, concerning arguments on cognizance. 

Special Judge Vishal Gogne noted that the predicate offense, outlined in complaint case No. 18/2019, includes charges under Sections 403, 406, and 420 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and is currently under trial, according to ANI.

The court emphasized that both the predicate offense and the money laundering offense must be adjudicated in the same jurisdiction. This case was initiated following a complaint by BJP leader Subramanian Swamy against the Gandhis and their associated companies.

Singapore's general elections are set for May 3, 2024, following the dissolution of parliament on Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's advice, as announced by the Elections Department.

This election marks Wong's first significant electoral challenge since he succeeded Lee Hsien Loong in May 2022, Reuters reported.

The elections take place at a difficult time for Singapore's export-driven economy, which is facing uncertainty exacerbated by global trade tensions. Wong stressed the significance of this election, stating that it allows Singaporeans to choose their leaders at a "critical juncture" in the country.

With 97 parliamentary seats at stake, the incumbent People's Action Party (PAP) is widely anticipated to retain power, according to Reuters.

Opposition parties are anticipated to campaign strongly, indicating that voters are increasingly interested in political diversity.

A severe sandstorm has swept through central and southern Iraq, blanketing cities in an orange haze and forcing the closure of airports as health facilities reported an alarming increase in respiratory issues.

This storm, the largest of the year, reduced visibility to less than one kilometer in various areas, Reuters reported.

Hospitals have been overwhelmed, with Muthanna province alone reporting approximately 700 cases of suffocation, as confirmed by health official Mazen Al Egeili. In nearby Najaf province, at least 250 individuals were hospitalized due to breathing difficulties, while Diwaniyah province treated around 322 patients, including children.

Additionally, more than 530 residents in Dhi Qar and Basra provinces sought medical assistance for respiratory problems.

In light of the hazardous conditions, airport operations in Najaf and Basra were temporarily halted, according to Reuters.

This latest sandstorm highlights Iraq's vulnerability to such climate events, as research by the United Nations identifies the country as one of the five most affected by climate change.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged Vietnam to stand against "unilateral bullying" in order to maintain a global free trade system, refraining from directly naming the United States. This appeal is part of Xi's diplomatic trip to Southeast Asia, which includes visits to Malaysia and Cambodia, Xinhua reported.

The timing of the trip is significant, as tensions rise from an escalating trade dispute between the US and China. Vietnam faces potential US tariffs of up to 46%, although a 90-day suspension was recently granted by the Trump administration.

As stated by Xinhua, Trump has criticized Xi's engagements with Vietnamese officials, suggesting it is a strategy to undermine American interests.

The trade war between the two countries has heated up, highlighted by the Trump administration's placement of 145% tariffs on a wide variety of Chinese imports, to which Beijing responded with its own 125% duties on American goods entering China.

Detox drinks have, over the past few years, gotten a bad rap as something that is used unnecessarily for weight loss. But there is more to these amazing drinks that can have a horde of health benefits when used right. They can soothe an upset gut, aid digestion, help clear your skin, and even rejuvenate you after a tiring day. Here are some of our favorites, including how to enjoy them.

Turmeric water

Topping the list is the very popular ‘besar paani’ that we tend to drink when we have a cold but this golden concoction is a potent anti-inflammatory drink that we must include in our diets to keep our immune systems strong and fight off infections and illnesses. Great for when you are feeling slightly under the weather and also otherwise, this drink is simple to make and easy on the tummy. Most people tend to drink it on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning. Simply add a pinch of turmeric to plain water, warm or room-temperature, give it a stir, and sip on it. Have it in a clear glass, looking at the brilliant yellow hue.

Amla, ginger shots

This is really fun to make and to have as well. We recommend you buy shot glasses to enjoy this amazing, nutrients-rich concoction. Amla ginger shots are the easiest way to give your body a health boost every morning. Amla and ginger both are powerhouses of nutrients and antioxidants and, when taken regularly, can help tackle a variety of health issues. Amla is the richest source of vitamin C, containing 20 times more than oranges. It helps boost white blood cell production and strengthens immunity. Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help protect against seasonal illnesses. Together, they can help cleanse your body from the inside. Blend one or two fresh amlas with an inch long piece of ginger and a little water till it becomes smooth. Strain the mixture and add a pinch of black salt for taste and drink it on an empty stomach.

Cucumber and mint infused water

One of the most cooling and refreshing drinks, this is a really hydrating mix for hot summer months. If you are one of those people who have to be reminded to drink water, then this one will make you chug it by the liter. Simply wash and slice some cucumbers and add it to a large jar of fresh water. Wash and crush some sprigs of mint and add that to the mix as well. You can also add some lemon slices or just let it be with cucumber and mint. Let the water sit for half an hour and then pour it into a glass to enjoy sip by sip. Cucumber and mint both have antioxidant properties that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Cumin and carom tea

Most of us drink black or milk tea to start our day or wind down after a long day with a cup of oolong tea. But what if we told you there was a healthier alternative to caffeine laden teas that could potentially mess with your sleep cycle? Jeera (cumin) and ajwain (carom) are spices that are found in most kitchens and you can use these staples to make a healthy tea that calms your nerves and helps you relax. All you have to do is boil a teaspoon of each of these seeds in water and strain and drink the golden liquid. Both these spices are known for their digestive properties and help to relieve gas and indigestion. Studies have shown that cumin water also helps stabilize blood sugar levels. The drink aids detoxification and helps boost metabolism as well.

Fennel water

Did you know that you can make a refreshing drink by simply soaking fennel seeds in water overnight? Most of us consume fennel seeds after meals. We have it at home and most restaurants also serve this, along with other dry spices, at the end of a meal. But soaking fennel seeds and drinking the water can have a lot more benefits than simply consuming a few pinches of fennel seeds. It can help build immunity, aid digestion, help with water retention, promote a healthy complexion, and support weight loss. It can also help deal with period pains. If you like a warm drink to kick start your mornings, then you can add a teaspoon of fennel seeds to one and a half cups of water, bring it to a boil, and reduce it to a cup and strain and drink it as a tea as well. You don’t have to soak the seeds overnight for this.

Cabbage, beet, and ginger juice

We all know how great the classic apple, beet, carrot juice is. Cabbage, beet, ginger, on the other hand, might sound like an odd mix, and even seem a little unappealing but hear us out. It’s a tried and tested recipe that has been a hit with people of all ages and taste preferences. Cucumber and cabbage help to eliminate excess fluid in the body while ginger helps to accelerate metabolism. This helps to burn fat and aids weight loss. You need two cabbage leaves, a tablespoon of fresh mint leaves, one small beet, half a small cucumber, one teaspoon grated ginger and a cup of water to make this drink. Blend all the ingredients together, strain the mixture, and drink it. You can also keep it in the fridge for upto a day.

The Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE) gained 26.55 points to close at 2,688.63 points on Tuesday.

Similarly, the sensitive index surged by 4.29 points to close at 450. 74 points.

A total of 21,841,047-unit shares of 320 companies were traded for Rs 8. 54 billion.

Meanwhile, Corporate Development Bank Limited (CORBL), Green Development Bank Ltd. (GRDBL) and Saptakoshi Development Bank Ltd (SAPDBL) were the top gainers today, with their price surging by 10. 00 percent.

Likewise, Balephi Hydropower Limited (BHL) was the top loser as its price fell by 9.99 percent.

At the end of the day, total market capitalization stood at Rs 4. 47 trillion.