Subarno

Greece has banned "overweight" tourists from riding donkeys on Santorini. New legislation aims to protect the island’s iconic donkeys and mules from carrying excessively heavy loads, but doubts remain about how effectively the rules will be enforced. The steep, sun-drenched cliffs of Santorini have long been a flashpoint in the debate over animal welfare. For years, these hardworking animals have trudged up hundreds of punishing stone steps under the intense Mediterranean heat while ferrying tourists on their backs. In response to growing international criticism and documented cases of injury and exhaustion, Greek authorities have introduced strict new regulations. Donkeys may now only carry a maximum of 100 kilograms — roughly one-fifth of their body weight. The law also requires better access to shade and water to ease their suffering. While the move has been welcomed by animal rights groups, many remain skeptical. Reports of continued overworking and poor care persist, prompting activists to urge visitors to avoid donkey rides altogether and opt instead for the cable car or stairs. The controversy reflects a larger global shift toward ethical tourism, where the responsibility now falls on both authorities to enforce the rules and travelers to make more conscious choices. As the debate unfolds, the future of this centuries-old tradition hangs in the balance between cultural heritage and modern animal welfare standards.

AI layoffs are a textbook collective action problem: Each company cuts workers to compete, but if everyone does it, demand collapses. You optimized costs and killed your own customers… and your company.

"India has replaced China as the largest manufacturer of smartphones for the US in just four years. The latest iPhone in your pocket was made in India. They are doing the kind of high-precision manufacturing that people said only China could do," says Fareed Zakaria

Indigo Stretch is quite a decent option for Singapore-Delhi, though inconsiderate co-passengers can undo even the best experience. Last night, even before take off, a young girl in the row ahead was watching something on her iPad at full volume. Her mother sat next to her, unfazed. I was in the last 150 pages of a gripping book - the kind you want to finish in one peaceful stretch. I had a plan - a spare pair of inexpensive headphones! I thought I’d lean forward after takeoff and say, “Excuse me, would you like to ask your daughter to use this?” Subtle! After take off, before I could make my move, the mother pulled out her own phone… and started a Hindi serial. Full volume. Now what? What if I proceed with my plan and she asks, “What about my earphones?” 😟 I resigned to my fate, put on my ear blockers and went back to my book. I’m still a few pages short, thanks to a steady background noise of saas-bahu drama and a youth influencer!