The Ministry of Interior announced that, under the directives of First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef, security and municipal authorities have launched an intensive field campaign to address widespread violations in the district of Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh.

The operation began yesterday morning with the demolition of the first dilapidated building deemed in violation of safety and security regulations. Officials confirmed that the removal of all remaining unsafe structures will continue over the coming days.

Municipal bulldozers moved in to enforce an administrative decision ordering the evacuation and demolition of 67 properties in Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh.

Inspections had determined that these buildings were structurally unsound, at risk of imminent collapse, and posed serious dangers to residents, neighboring properties, and public safety.

The removal process commenced after property owners were formally notified to evacuate and demolish the buildings within two weeks from the publication of the decision in the official gazette Kuwait Alyawm.

Municipality Director Manal Al-Asfour personally oversaw the start of the demolition efforts, carried out in cooperation with multiple state agencies, including the Kuwait Fire Force and the ministries of Interior, Electricity and Water, Renewable Energy, and Health.

The municipality clarified that the demolitions—scheduled according to a plan to remove all 67 unsafe buildings—will be undertaken at the expense of the property owners, who failed to carry out the demolition as required.

Officials added that all safety precautions were implemented to ensure the buildings could be removed without affecting nearby homes.

Despite operating around six refineries — including the Al-Zour refinery, one of the largest globally and inaugurated only a year and a half ago — Kuwait continues to import gasoline to meet growing domestic demand.

This dependence on imports persists because current refining capacity cannot fully cover local consumption, especially during periods of scheduled maintenance or unexpected shutdowns.

According to industry sources, the Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) recently purchased 35,000 tons of 95-octane gasoline for delivery at the end of November.

A similar volume was imported in October following a fire at the Al-Zour refinery. Kuwait’s reliance on imported gasoline became particularly noticeable in 2017, often sourced from neighboring Gulf countries through cooperative arrangements, though emergency purchases from the spot market also occur.

There are several key reasons behind this ongoing need for imports:

Refining capacity limitations — Kuwait’s refineries sometimes struggle to meet rising domestic demand, creating supply gaps that must be filled through imports.

Scheduled maintenance shutdowns — Routine maintenance—such as recent work at the Ahmadi refinery, which cuts production by almost half—necessitates temporary imports to compensate for reduced output.

Unplanned outages — Unexpected shutdowns or technical disruptions can suddenly increase the need for imported fuel.

High domestic demand — Seasonal surges, including during school holidays, place additional pressure on available supplies.

Regional market dynamics — Strong demand in Asian markets can reduce the availability of petroleum products in the region, pushing Kuwait to import gasoline to secure its needs.

Kuwait’s status as the world’s sixth-largest oil producer raises recurring questions about why it still imports gasoline, whether refinery limitations are the root cause, and whether importing is economically sound. Some observers estimate the import cost at roughly 150 fils per liter.

Sources note that surging domestic consumption—driven largely by the rapid increase in the number of vehicles—has outpaced local production.

Despite Kuwait’s sophisticated refining infrastructure, gasoline output remains insufficient due to limited extraction and production rates. This makes refining less profitable and adds little value to Kuwait’s abundant crude resources.

Analysts argue that importing gasoline may actually be more cost-effective: producing one liter domestically costs between 155 and 163 fils, making imports comparatively cheaper for the state budget. Without strategic planning and strong operational management in the refinery sector, Kuwait has effectively become a gasoline-importing country despite its position as a major crude oil exporter.

Gasoline consumption in Kuwait is projected to grow steadily—by as much as 4 percent annually—reaching around 4.5 billion liters per year. Current consumption is estimated at 4.8 million liters per day for “Special” gasoline and 6.9 million liters per day for “Premium,” though these remain approximate figures.

As for proposals to privatize certain oil sector projects, some experts welcome greater private-sector involvement.

However, a critical question remains: Would privatization help Kuwait produce enough gasoline to eliminate the need for imports, or would the country continue to rely on external suppliers despite its vast crude reserves?

The Cabinet has approved the 2025 Decree-Law regulating work in Kuwait’s digital commerce sector, establishing a comprehensive legal framework for online trade, consumer protection, and oversight of service providers.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry will serve as the primary authority responsible for issuing regulations, supervising electronic platforms and auctions, and maintaining official records for all digital commerce businesses.

Under the new law, no individual or company may operate in digital commerce without registering with the Ministry. Service providers must clearly disclose their identity, commercial registration details, contact information, final prices, payment methods, delivery terms, and return policies.

Consumers are granted the right to return or exchange goods within 14 days under specific conditions, with exceptions for perishable items, customized products, and certain digital services.

The law places strong emphasis on transparency and consumer rights. Providers must issue electronic invoices in Arabic, respond to customer complaints in a timely manner, and notify consumers of any delivery delays. If the delay exceeds 14 days beyond the agreed date, consumers may cancel the contract and receive a refund.

Digital advertising is also addressed in detail.

Advertisements must include accurate information about the provider and the product or service. Any misleading, false, or unauthorized promotional content is prohibited. Social media influencers are explicitly barred from participating in deceptive campaigns, and all payments to them must be made through approved channels that comply with anti–money laundering standards.

To handle violations, the law establishes a Violations Committee within the Ministry, chaired by an advisor from the Fatwa and Legislation Department, reports, Al-Jarida daily.

This body may refer cases to the Public Prosecution, send them to a specialized dispute committee, or order temporary closure of online stores for up to 30 days.

A separate Digital Commerce Dispute Settlement Committee, chaired by a judge, will adjudicate disputes between consumers and service providers regarding product defects, conformity to specifications, or fulfillment of contract terms. It will also review appeals related to store-blocking decisions and violations referred by the Violations Committee.

The law sets strict penalties for non-compliance, including imprisonment of up to one year and fines ranging from KD 1,000 to KD 10,000. Penalties apply to anyone submitting forged documents, offering illegal products, or violating orders issued by the dispute committees. Repeat offenders face doubled penalties.

The decree also addresses cybersecurity, electronic payments, and innovation in digital commerce. Providers must comply with National Cybersecurity Center directives, use only Central Bank-licensed payment channels, and avoid imposing unauthorized fees.

The Ministry may also approve pilot projects for new technologies—such as blockchain or smart contracts—before integrating them into Kuwait’s legislative framework.

The rare move comes as American energy major Chevron seeks to plug a supply gap in Los Angeles, following an extended production shutdown at one of its key refineries.

The export underscores India’s growing prominence in global refined fuel markets and highlights shifting trade flows driven by regional disruptions.

The supply crunch began after a fire in October at Chevron’s 285,000-barrel-per-day El Segundo refinery in Southern California, which forced several processing units offline and significantly curtailed jet fuel output, the Economic Times reports.

With repairs expected to take time, the shortage opened an unusual arbitrage window—one that Indian refiners were quick to seize. The shipment, analysts say, reflects both India’s capacity to respond swiftly to global supply imbalances and the severity of the constraints on the U.S. West Coast.

According to ship-tracking data from Kpler and LSEG, about 60,000 metric tons of aviation fuel were loaded onto the Panamax tanker Hafnia Kallang between October 28 and 29 at Jamnagar port, home to Reliance Industries’ massive refining complex.

Industry sources confirmed that Castleton Commodities chartered the vessel, which is scheduled to arrive in Los Angeles in the first half of December. Neither Reliance nor Castleton provided comment, while Chevron declined to discuss commercial details.

Chevron has said repairs at its jet fuel production unit are progressing but are not expected to be completed before early 2026, raising expectations that tight supplies will persist into next year.

The company noted that it remains committed to supplying customers globally—including those reliant on the El Segundo facility—and will use both local and imported product when necessary. Market participants believe imports will remain elevated until the refinery is fully restored.

Despite the breakthrough shipment, traders say India is unlikely to become a regular supplier to the U.S. West Coast. Fuel shipments from Northeast Asia — particularly from South Korea — are typically more cost-competitive, with freight rates holding steady around $40 per ton for cargoes of approximately 40,000 metric tons.

In contrast, shipping rates from India to the West Coast are less common and not as readily quoted, limiting the commercial viability of frequent Indian exports.

Recent data underscores this trend: jet fuel exports from Northeast Asia to the U.S. West Coast climbed to a five-month high of about 600,000 tons last month, buoyed by robust arbitrage economics. Jet fuel prices in the region have been trading at roughly $10 per barrel above Singapore free-on-board benchmarks, keeping the flow of cargoes attractive for suppliers in Asia’s northern markets.

With U.S. West Coast jet fuel inventories falling to a three-month low of 11.12 million barrels as of November 7, the region is expected to continue relying on overseas cargoes.

India’s maiden shipment highlights the dynamic and opportunistic nature of global fuel markets—where disruptions in one region can quickly reshape trade patterns and create unexpected openings for new suppliers.

The National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters announced on Monday the discovery of more than 20 ovens, a half model of a winged owl, remains of local barley — providing evidence that barley was cultivated, harvested, or consumed by the people who lived there — dating back 7,500 years, broken ceramic pots, a small clay human head, miniature models, a ship model, and pottery used for food preparation at the Bahra 1 site in Al-Subbiya, northern Kuwait.

Mohammed bin Redha, Acting Assistant Secretary-General for the Antiquities and Museums Sector, described Bahra 1 as the oldest and largest known settlement in the Arabian Peninsula from the Ubaid culture period, dating back to around 5700 BC, reflecting the daily life of local communities thousands of years ago.

Polish excavations this season focused on field and laboratory analyses, including the manufacture of ornaments and ground-based radar surveys that revealed buried cultural remains for future exploration.

Dr. Hassan Ashkanani, Assistant Professor of Archaeology at Kuwait University, said the findings add to knowledge of community development in the Subiya region, complementing previous discoveries of jewelry and ornament workshops made from shells.

Dr. Agnieszka Bienkowska, Deputy Director of the Polish excavation team, noted that the results provide insights into daily practices, food preparation methods, local pottery production using clay mixed with wild plants, and the use of bitumen as fuel.

Professor Anna Smogorzewska highlighted the pottery discoveries and the local pottery workshop as among the most significant finds at the site in recent years.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry announced that the Cabinet has approved the draft law regulating digital commerce, paving the way for its submission to His Highness the Amir for ratification.

The ministry said the new legislation reflects the state’s commitment to modernizing its legal framework in line with global economic shifts, strengthening trust in the digital environment, and advancing Kuwait’s transformation toward a knowledge-based economy.

Minister of Commerce and Industry Khalifa Al-Ajil described the draft law as a “pivotal milestone” in developing Kuwait’s digital economic infrastructure. He noted that the legislation “strikes a balance between protecting consumer rights and enabling merchants to operate within clear, flexible regulations that keep pace with rapidly evolving technologies.”

Al-Ajil explained that the law establishes a comprehensive legal framework for electronic transactions, regulates digital advertising and promotional activities, and enhances personal data protection. It also reinforces transparency and professional standards in the digital market, “reflecting the state’s commitment to creating a modern, attractive environment for digital business and investment.”

The law provides a full regulatory structure for digital activity, including oversight of electronic payment methods in coordination with the Central Bank of Kuwait. It also permits the use of blockchain and smart contracts to increase transaction reliability and safeguard the rights of all parties.

The legislation introduces extensive consumer protection measures, requiring clear disclosure of store information, prices, return and exchange policies, and cancellation periods. It also mandates the issuance of approved electronic invoices and adherence to strict transparency standards.

The law further regulates digital advertising and influencer activity by requiring advertisements to be linked to merchant data and obligating that cooperation contracts be documented and retained for at least five years.

Payments must be processed through official channels in accordance with Central Bank regulations, thereby enhancing discipline and integrity in promotional content.

In addition, the law establishes an integrated electronic system for resolving digital disputes through a unified platform for submitting and tracking complaints.

Cases will be reviewed by specialized committees within defined timeframes, with decisions executed electronically—eliminating the need for paper documentation and ensuring faster, more transparent, and more effective dispute resolution for both consumers and businesses.

Al-Ajil emphasized that the Ministry, in coordination with relevant authorities, will work to implement the law and ensure an orderly transition to the regulated digital marketplace.

He noted that the legislation “supports the state’s efforts to strengthen Kuwait’s position in the global digital economy, enhance competitiveness, and build a more advanced and transparent digital business environment.”

Kuwait has secured the fourth position in the Arab world in terms of cybersecurity market size for 2025, with total spending reaching $620 million, according to Kaspersky data.

According to Bloomberg, experts predict that this figure could surpass $1 billion by 2030, driven by ambitious government plans to strengthen the nation’s cyber readiness.

Despite ranking fourth in market size, Kuwait currently sits at the third level in cybersecurity readiness. Analysts suggest that its growing market provides a strong foundation for a qualitative leap within the next five years, potentially elevating Kuwait to the top tier of Arab nations in cybersecurity by 2030.

The regional cybersecurity market is estimated at around $15 billion, with projected annual growth rates of 9-13%. In the Middle East, the cost of a single cyber incident averages $8 million, emphasizing the strategic importance of investing in robust digital protection systems.

Kuwait’s readiness score, ranging between 20 and 55 points, reflects early efforts to establish comprehensive cybersecurity frameworks. The country faces challenges including limited technical and human resources and the need for expanded training programs and cross-sector collaboration to bolster defenses.

Saudi Arabia currently leads the Arab cybersecurity market, with a market size of 15.2 billion riyals ($4 billion) at the end of 2024, marking a 14% increase over the previous year, according to the National Cybersecurity Authority.

Egypt follows, with its market exceeding $1 billion in 2025 and expected to reach $1.85 billion by 2031, based on Blue Wave Consulting data.

In the UAE, Mordor Intelligence estimates the cybersecurity market at $820 million in 2025, projecting growth to $1.39 billion by 2030 at a compound annual growth rate of 11%.

Bahrain’s market is forecast to increase from $425 million in 2025 to $560 million in 2030, while Qatar’s market is projected to rise from $143 million this year to $195.7 million by 2030.

While the Arab region as a whole is experiencing rapid cybersecurity growth fueled by digital transformation, readiness levels vary significantly. Gulf countries are advancing toward high maturity stages, while other nations remain in foundational phases, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for regional collaboration.

Kuwait’s trajectory in the cybersecurity sector indicates a growing commitment to safeguarding its digital infrastructure, expanding capabilities, and preparing for the next generation of cyber threats, in line with broader regional and global trends.

The Ministry of Interior has accelerated its technological development efforts by integrating artificial intelligence into security operations, particularly in the identification and arrest of wanted individuals.

The Ministry has already deployed advanced cameras across key facilities, vital centers, and major commercial complexes, with plans underway to extend coverage to all regions and strategic locations.

Major Farah Al-Mukaimi, Assistant Director in the Office of the Head of Human Resources and Information Technology at the Ministry, explained that the new system follows directives from First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef.

She noted that the General Department of Security Systems has launched AI-powered cameras installed at smart gates in vital facilities and at Kuwait International Airport. Smart patrols equipped with AI cameras further support security campaigns by identifying individuals directly from each patrol vehicle.

Speaking to Al-Rai during an exhibition organized by the Directorate-General of Human Resources at The Avenues Mall, Al-Mukaimi said the Ministry plans to introduce additional smart patrols soon, under the guidance of Acting Undersecretary Major-General Ali Al-Adwani and Brigadier-General Anwar Al-Yatami, Head of the Human Resources and Information Technology Sector. She stressed that these modern technologies aim to enhance response speed and improve procedural accuracy.

Al-Mukaimi clarified that smart patrols do not record general violations; instead, they focus on detecting individuals wanted for security or criminal reasons, as well as monitoring vehicles and providing support to various security sectors.

Al-Yaqub noted that the Ministry maintains comprehensive data on citizens, residents, and visitors, integrated with information systems, criminal evidence departments, civil records, travel documents, and residency databases. The Ministry is working toward full nationwide coverage with a unified AI-powered security network aimed at safeguarding public safety.

Engineer Noura Al-Harbi from the Information Systems Department emphasized the system’s strength in cybersecurity, explaining that the platform is designed to prevent breaches while ensuring continuous updates and high-performance operation. She confirmed that all stored biometric data is fully protected and accessible only to authorized agencies when an individual is wanted for security reasons.

Al-Harbi added that data for wanted individuals—sourced through the Civil Information Authority—is automatically recognized by AI cameras, smart patrols, and fingerprint verification devices used by field units. She reported that the cameras identify several wanted persons daily, significantly aiding security teams in swift arrests.

The Ministry is also coordinating with various public and private entities to expand security integration and broaden coverage at critical locations.

The Public Authority for Civil Information has introduced a new electronic service titled “Request to Access Information” via the unified government application Sahel.

The initiative comes as part of the implementation of the Right to Access Law and aims to strengthen transparency in providing official data and information.

The Authority explained that the service enables users with legitimate interest to submit formal requests for specific information, with the option to attach supporting documents directly through the app, reports Al-Rai daily.

This feature streamlines procedures and accelerates access to information in accordance with approved laws and regulations.

It added that the launch of this service reflects the Authority’s continued efforts to advance its digital services and expand digital transformation, ensuring that individuals can exercise their legal right to obtain data easily and efficiently.

The Authority emphasized that this step further enhances government transparency while modernizing public digital services to better meet the needs of citizens and residents, supporting an ongoing approach of development and improvement.

Commercial banks in Kuwait have expanded their monitoring of funds transferred through the ‘WAMD’—Kuwait’s real-time payment (RTP) service—and through links using the KNET payment gateway, as part of strengthened regulatory measures aimed at combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

Regulatory authorities have reportedly increased oversight of commercial transactions conducted through personal accounts, particularly those used to deposit business proceeds via ‘WAMD’ or through using payment links.

Bank scrutiny of transactions now extends to any unusual inflows into individual customer accounts, even single, one-time transactions, if the amounts are significant or appear inconsistent with the account holder’s financial profile. Transfers that exceed the customer’s declared income in the bank’s Know Your Customer (KYC) data by notable margins are being closely examined. In such cases, customers are first questioned by their respective banks.

If their explanations fail to justify the source of funds, the matter is escalated to the Financial Investigations Unit (FIU) for further review, especially when the deposits clearly do not match the individual’s recorded income. Banking sources emphasize that personal accounts must not be used for business or commercial transactions, revealing that investigations have already been launched against individuals whose account activity showed inflows exceeding their reported income.

Some were found to be receiving proceeds from their employers’ business operations and were subsequently required to sign formal pledges not to use personal accounts for commercial transfers in future.

The private sector is witnessing a noticeable rise in interest among Kuwaiti job seekers, with citizens opting for private employment accounting for roughly 37 percent of all those registered with the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) from early 2025 through mid-November.

More than 6,200 Kuwaitis have applied for private-sector jobs during this period, compared to 10,500 who chose government positions.

According to PAM statistics, citizen demand for private-sector opportunities has risen by about 1,600 applications since the start of 2025—up from 4,562 cases recorded last year—signaling a clear upward shift toward careers in private companies and institutions.

The data showed that the total number of citizens registered as job seekers for more than six months — those currently unemployed, not receiving a pension, and not enrolled in any educational program — stands at approximately 29,000 individuals.

Educational segmentation of job seekers revealed the following that 34 are PhD holders, around 550 Master’s degree, 15,300 university graduates and 6,350 diploma holders.

In addition, there are approximately 3,400 high school graduates, with 54 percent having completed an additional two-year or longer course of study.

PAM categorized this group into four segments: general high school graduates, those with a one-year course, those with a two-year or more program, and high school graduates with one year of experience.

Among holders of intermediate certificates, PAM recorded about 2,400 citizens across five categories. The statistics also indicated 78 individuals with vocational or parallel education qualifications, followed by 468 job seekers with educational levels below intermediate.

This growing interest in the private sector aligns with national efforts to diversify employment pathways and encourage greater citizen participation in private-sector growth.

The General Directorate of Traffic has issued a public alert urging citizens and residents to refrain from displaying used vehicles for sale on roads, public sidewalks, or any part of the roadway, warning that such practices constitute a legal violation.

According to the department, placing a vehicle in a non-designated area for sale is considered a traffic offense and may result in penalties, reports Al-Anba daily.

Offenders face parking violations for using undesignated spaces and risk having their vehicles impounded for up to 60 days, in accordance with Article 207 of the executive regulations of the Traffic Law.

The Traffic Directorate has emphasized on the importance of adhering to approved methods for selling vehicles, recommending the use of licensed showrooms, authorized dealerships, and accredited electronic platforms.

The department stressed that these measures aim to ensure public safety, maintain traffic flow, and uphold the laws in force.

Google has joined cybersecurity experts in warning users about the dangers of public Wi-Fi networks, highlighting the potential for fraud and theft of sensitive data, including banking information.

Free Wi-Fi is widely available in cafes, airports, and other public spaces, making it convenient for users in areas with poor 4G or 5G coverage or for saving on mobile data. However, these networks are often unencrypted and vulnerable to cyberattacks.

In a recent report on Android security, Google advised users to avoid public Wi-Fi whenever possible, noting that attackers can easily exploit unsecured networks.

The report also emphasized the importance of monitoring bank accounts and credit reports, and paying attention to alerts from Android devices that detect potential scams.

With cyberattacks on the rise, experts recommend using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to encrypt data when public Wi-Fi use is unavoidable.

Users should also disable automatic Wi-Fi connections on their devices and verify network names, as cybercriminals often create fake networks that mimic legitimate ones.

These precautions aim to safeguard personal information and increase awareness of growing cyber threats.

The General Traffic Department announced Resolution No. (2) of 2025 has been issued, which officially approves the list of companies authorized to issue insurance policies for civil liability arising from traffic accidents — the compulsory vehicle insurance required for all Kuwait-registered vehicles.

The department emphasized that only the companies included in this approved list are legally permitted to issue or renew mandatory vehicle insurance policies for citizens and residents.

The department urged all vehicle owners to ensure they deal exclusively with these approved companies when obtaining or renewing their insurance coverage.

According to the new decision, the officially approved companies are — Kuwait Insurance Company, Baitak Takaful Insurance Company, Gulf Insurance Group, Gulf Takaful Insurance Company, National Insurance Company, Al-Daman Takaful Insurance Company, Warba Insurance and Reinsurance Company, Arab Islamic Takaful Insurance Company, and The First Takaful Insurance Company.

This is in addition to the Zamzam Takaful Insurance Company, a branch of the Bahrain Kuwait Insurance Company, Kuwait International Takaful Insurance Company, Gulf Insurance and Reinsurance Company, Lebanese Swiss Guarantee Company, Kuwaiti Qatari Insurance Company, Enaya Insurance Company, a branch of the Saudi Arabian Insurance Company, Burgan Takaful Insurance Company, Arab Insurance Company, Taazur Takaful Insurance Company, International Takaful Insurance Company, Wethaq Takaful Insurance Company, Elaf Takaful Insurance Company, Misr Insurance Company, Boubyan Takaful Insurance Company, National Life and General Insurance Company, and Kuwait Islamic Takaful Insurance Company.

The General Traffic Department reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring compliance with the new resolution to enhance transparency and regulate the issuance of mandatory vehicle insurance policies in accordance with approved standards.

• The Kapas Kisan App is ushering India’s cotton ecosystem into the digital age. Farmers will track every transaction, from booking to payments, directly on their smartphones. This system eliminates delays, prevents crowding, and ensures timely payments into bank accounts, creating a transparent, efficient, and farmer-friendly market.
• The Kapas Kranti Mission goes beyond a typical agricultural scheme. It is a blueprint for rural transformation, focused on improving productivity in India’s cotton-growing regions through high-density plantation (HDP), precision irrigation, and scientific agronomy.
• By adopting advanced farming methods, including closer plant spacing and technology-driven irrigation, the program aims to replicate the success seen in Maharashtra’s Akola district, a model for innovative cotton cultivation.
• Transparency is central to the mission. The government has cracked down on middlemen, unscrupulous ginning mills, and counterfeit seed suppliers.
• Offenders face legal action, including license revocations and preventive detention measures. By eliminating fake seeds and strengthening quality control, farmers are guaranteed access to genuine, high-yielding varieties.

India’s cotton fields are undergoing a quiet yet powerful transformation. At the heart of this change is the $68 million (Rs 600 crore) Kapas Kranti Mission, launched by the Government of India to boost long-staple cotton production, empower farmers, and strengthen the nation’s textile industry.

Announced in Hyderabad, Telangana, by Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy, the initiative aims to bring science, technology, and innovation to every stage of cotton cultivation — from seed to sale — ensuring farmers are better equipped, better compensated, and more productive.

Modernizing cotton cultivation through innovation

The Kapas Kranti Mission goes beyond a typical agricultural scheme. It is a blueprint for rural transformation, focused on improving productivity in India’s cotton-growing regions through high-density plantation (HDP), precision irrigation, and scientific agronomy.

By adopting advanced farming methods, including closer plant spacing and technology-driven irrigation, the program aims to replicate the success seen in Maharashtra’s Akola district, a model for innovative cotton cultivation.

Farmers from other states, particularly Telangana, are invited to Akola to gain firsthand experience in these techniques, which can dramatically improve yield and quality. The government’s long-term goal is to position India as a global leader in high-quality, sustainable long-staple cotton.

A standout feature of the mission is its digital focus. The ‘Kapas Kisan App’, launched after Diwali, allows farmers to pre-book sales slots, bypass middlemen, and secure fair prices for their produce. It also provides real-time updates on procurement schedules, market rates, and quality standards.

To ensure widespread adoption, agriculture officials, Panchayat workers, and rural youth are conducting awareness campaigns in nine languages, using social media, videos, and village meetings. Post-Diwali, the government opened 122 procurement centers and 345 ginning units, monitored by committees of officials, police, and farmer representatives to guarantee transparency and protect farmers from exploitation.

A decade of growth laid the groundwork

The Kapas Kranti Mission builds on a decade of progress in India’s cotton sector. Between 2014 and 2024, cotton procurement surged from 173 lakh bales ($3.5 billion) to 473 lakh bales ($17 billion), reflecting both policy stability and farmer confidence. The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for cotton has nearly doubled under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, ensuring farmers earn fair returns for their work.

In Telangana and Andhra Pradesh alone, the Centre has spent nearly $8 billion (Rs 65,000 crore) on procurement, creating a renewed sense of purpose for millions of farming families.

Transparency is central to the mission. The government has cracked down on middlemen, unscrupulous ginning mills, and counterfeit seed suppliers. Offenders face legal action, including license revocations and preventive detention measures. By eliminating fake seeds and strengthening quality control, farmers are guaranteed access to genuine, high-yielding varieties.

Learning from success, expanding horizons

Training is a key pillar of the mission. Farmers from Telangana and neighboring states will visit Akola to observe HDP techniques, soil management, and pest control practices, creating a new generation of knowledge-driven, tech-savvy cotton growers.

Post-harvest visits will allow them to study every stage of the value chain — from field preparation to ginning and packaging — bringing back insights to enhance local practices.

The Kapas Kisan App is ushering India’s cotton ecosystem into the digital age. Farmers will track every transaction, from booking to payments, directly on their smartphones. This system eliminates delays, prevents crowding, and ensures timely payments into bank accounts, creating a transparent, efficient, and farmer-friendly market.

Cotton as a symbol of self-reliance

The Kapas Kranti Mission reflects a broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat — a self-reliant India. By modernizing cotton cultivation, the government strengthens the textile sector, supports millions of jobs, and increases exports. High-quality long-staple cotton allows India to compete globally, meeting domestic demand while expanding its presence in international markets.

The $68 million Kapas Kranti Mission is more than a productivity program — it is a movement restoring pride, prosperity, and hope to India’s cotton farmers.

With procurement centers opened post-Diwali and digital systems taking root, India’s cotton-growing regions are poised for a new era of empowerment. From Telangana’s fields to Maharashtra’s markets, the seeds of change have been sown, promising a harvest of resilience, innovation, and progress.

In a new achievement that adds to its record of excellence and security, the State of Kuwait ranked sixth globally in the list of the safest countries for 2025, according to the Global Safety Report issued by the prestigious international organization, Gallup.

The ranking is a global testament to Kuwait’s success in building a robust security system and a cohesive society governed by law and tranquility, at a time when the world is witnessing increasing unrest and conflicts in various regions.

The report confirms that Kuwait achieved this ranking thanks to integrated strategies in the areas of security, justice and social development, as the state gave utmost importance to the application of the law and the strengthening of trust between the citizen and state institutions, making it a leading model in the region in terms of community security and quality of life.

The report also revealed that a significant percentage of Kuwaiti residents feel safe walking alone in public places at night, a strong indicator of the stability enjoyed by Kuwaiti society. This feeling reflects the deep mutual trust between individuals and security forces, with both citizens and residents feeling that the law and order protect them equally, and that Kuwait provides an environment characterized by discipline and mutual respect.

Kuwait scored highly on the ‘Law and Order’ index, demonstrating the efficiency of its security apparatus and its ability to respond swiftly to incidents and maintain public safety, as well as the existence of a fair judicial system that ensures the law is applied to everyone without discrimination. This is one of the most prominent pillars of sustainable security upon which prosperous societies are built.

In regional comparisons, Kuwait stands out as one of the most prominent models of stability in the Arabian Gulf, having successfully balanced security and development despite surrounding challenges. The report affirms that Kuwait represents a unique environment combining political and social stability with economic openness, making it a safe and preferred destination for living, working, and investing in the region.

Experts believe that security in Kuwait extends beyond criminal matters to encompass economic and social security. The country’s stability encourages investors to confidently inject capital, giving the local market greater potential for growth and expansion. This secure environment has contributed to supporting development, attracting investments, and strengthening the stability of the currency and the national economy.

The global report also indicates that violence costs the world trillions of dollars annually, while safe countries spend far less on addressing tensions and instead invest in peace and development. In this context, Kuwait’s experience represents a successful model for managing security as a tool for achieving internal peace and contributing to a more stable and cooperative regional environment.

Observers agree that Kuwait’s success in achieving this global ranking is due to its wise leadership, which has established a balanced approach to governance, combining firmness in enforcing laws with flexibility in addressing societal issues, while consistently strengthening its legal and institutional infrastructure. Furthermore, Kuwait’s balanced foreign policy has contributed to solidifying its image as a nation of peace and an active humanitarian diplomat.

Kuwait’s ranking among the six safest countries in the world for 2025 is not merely a statistical achievement, but a testament to its success in building a safe and stable society based on justice, the rule of law, and mutual trust. This achievement confirms that Kuwait is steadily progressing towards a more secure and prosperous future, grounded in its deeply rooted values ​​of coexistence and peace, and continuing to solidify its position as a beacon of security and stability in the region and the world.

As part of intensified regulatory measures to combat money laundering and terrorist financing, banks have expanded their monitoring of funds transferred through the ‘Wamd’ and ‘Links’ services. The scrutiny now extends to any unusual inflows into individual customer accounts — even single, one-time transactions — if the amounts appear significant or inconsistent with the account holder’s financial profile.

According to informed sources quoted by Al-Rai, regulatory authorities have increased oversight of commercial transactions conducted through personal accounts, particularly those used to deposit business proceeds via ‘Wamd’ or ‘Links.’

Transfers that exceed the customer’s declared income in the bank’s Know Your Customer (KYC) data by notable margins are being closely examined.

In such cases, customers are first questioned by their respective banks. If their explanations fail to justify the source of funds, the matter is escalated to the Financial Investigations Unit (FIU) for further review — especially when the deposits clearly do not match the individual’s recorded income.

The sources emphasized that personal accounts must not be used for business or commercial transactions, revealing that investigations have already been launched against individuals whose account activity showed inflows exceeding their reported income.

Some were found to be receiving proceeds from their employers’ business operations and were subsequently required to sign formal pledges not to use personal accounts for commercial transfers.

In a step that reflects Kuwait’s ongoing efforts to develop its infrastructure and improve the urban landscape, seven government agencies have completed the preparation of the “Guide for Regulating the Construction of Car Park Shades in Kuwait.”

The new guide serves as a unified reference for the design and implementation of car park canopies in public facilities, including cooperative societies, schools, mosques, clinics, health centers, and hospitals.

Government sources told Al-Rai that the guide aims to create a comprehensive regulatory framework to enhance the country’s aesthetic appeal while ensuring safety and quality standards in canopy construction. It aligns with the state’s vision for an integrated and sustainable urban environment.

A specialized committee had earlier been formed to develop unified specifications and standards, and the completed guide has now been submitted to the Public Services Committee in the Council of Ministers for approval and adoption across Kuwait.

Following the committee’s submission, the Cabinet tasked the Ministry of Social Affairs, in coordination with the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy and Kuwait Municipality, to review the guide and explore the potential use of solar-powered car park umbrellas where technically feasible. The move prioritizes renewable energy solutions in public projects.

The Cabinet also emphasized that all government bodies must adhere strictly to the approved designs and specifications outlined in the guide. Each entity will be responsible for constructing its own car park shades within designated boundaries, ensuring that structures do not encroach onto streets or violate public space regulations.

To enhance public understanding of the initiative, the Ministry of Social Affairs was instructed, in coordination with the Ministry of Information and other relevant authorities, to launch a nationwide awareness campaign.

The campaign will explain the objectives and benefits of the guide and encourage community awareness about the importance of organized, visually cohesive parking spaces across Kuwait.

It is noteworthy that the Cabinet had previously issued a decision in October of last year assigning the Minister of Social Affairs, in coordination with the Ministries of Public Works, Endowments and Islamic Affairs, Education, and Health, along with Kuwait Municipality and the Union of Cooperative Societies, to establish unified standards for car park shades in mosques, schools, and cooperative societies.

The new regulatory guide confirms that the goal of standardizing canopy designs is to improve the overall aesthetic of urban and service areas while facilitating vehicle movement and providing shade and protection from extreme heat.

The guide also sets forth technical and design criteria, requiring the use of durable, weather-resistant materials and the inclusion of effective rainwater drainage and ventilation systems. It further mandates that designs harmonize with the surrounding environment in color and form, contributing to a unified visual identity for each district.

Officials explained that the guide emphasizes the use of sustainable, color-coordinated materials that align with Kuwait’s urban identity, provide ultraviolet protection, and enhance the overall quality of life in public spaces.

The regulatory document also outlines a comprehensive approval and monitoring process, requiring engineering firms to oversee project execution in coordination with Kuwait Municipality.

Site inspections will be conducted to ensure full compliance with design and safety standards. The Municipality will retain the right to remove any unlicensed or non-compliant canopy, while contractors and engineering offices will be held responsible for adherence to specifications and environmental requirements.

Ultimately, the “Guide for Regulating the Construction of Car Park Shades” represents a major step toward unifying urban design practices in Kuwait and ensuring that all public facilities contribute to a modern, safe, and sustainable cityscape.

The latest data from the Central Bank of Kuwait revealed that the “Wamd” instant payment service achieved exceptional growth during the first nine months of 2025, with the total value of transactions reaching approximately 6.063 billion Kuwaiti dinars, distributed across 80,200 transactions at an average of 76 dinars per transaction.

The figures highlight a sustained surge in the use of digital payment systems, driven by strong performance in the second and third quarters of the year.

Transaction values rose by 24.8 percent in the second quarter to reach 2.026 billion dinars, before climbing another 19.1 percent in the third quarter to 2.414 billion dinars. The first quarter had already recorded a significant 47.3 percent increase, with transactions totaling 1.623 billion dinars, compared to 1.101 billion in the final quarter of 2024.

The Central Bank noted that this steady upward trend underscores the growing preference among individuals and businesses to adopt “Wamd” as a primary digital payment channel, thanks to its speed, reliability, and enhanced security features.

The continued success of “Wamd” reflects Kuwait’s progress toward advancing its digital finance ecosystem and promoting cashless transactions, in line with the country’s broader vision for technological innovation and financial inclusion.