January 1, 2026

China Imposes 13% Condom Tax, Exempts Childcare to Boost Birth Rates

From January 1, China will tax contraceptives at 13% while making childcare services VAT-free to encourage more births. The nation faces a population drop with only 9.54 million babies born in 2024. Critics warn this policy may risk unwanted pregnancies and miss deeper social issues behind the low birth rates.

January 1, 2026

Telangana Builds 2.47 Lakh Indiramma Houses in 2025, Plans Urban Affordable Housing Policy for 2026

Telangana grounded 2.47 lakh affordable Indiramma Houses in 2025 with ₹5 lakh aid each. Rising construction costs challenge beneficiaries. The government plans an Affordable Housing Policy for urban LIG and MIG groups in 2026.

January 1, 2026

Iran Protesters Attack Government Building Amid Currency Crisis Unrest

Protesters in Iran tried to break into a government building in Fars province. The unrest follows a sharp fall in the Iranian currency. Police clashed with crowds; three officers injured and four arrested. The government declared a bank holiday in Tehran to try to stop the protests.

January 1, 2026

Bulgaria Joins Eurozone Amid Mixed Public Feelings and Political Turmoil

Bulgaria, the EU's poorest member, adopts the euro, joining the eurozone as its 21st country. The move sparks excitement among young urbanites but fear among older rural folk. Political unrest and public worries on prices mark this major currency change.

January 1, 2026

France Plans Social Media Ban for Under-15s to Cut Screen Time by 2024

France is set to ban social media access for children under 15 by September 2024. Backed by President Macron, the law aims to protect kids from online harms and limit screen time, including a mobile phone ban in schools.