Thailand has long maintained some of the harshest drug laws in the world. Rooted in a decades-long war on drugs, the country enforces strict punishments for even minor narcotics offenses. Possession of small quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, or cannabis can lead to decades in prison, and trafficking convictions may result in life imprisonment or, in extreme cases, the death penalty. These severe measures were designed to deter crime, but they have instead contributed to a massive prison crisis. Thailand has one of the highest incarceration rates in Asia. Around 70–80% of inmates are behind bars for drug-related offenses, most of them low-level users or couriers rather than major traffickers. Sentences are lengthy, parole is limited, and court backlogs delay justice. As a result, prisons are dangerously overcrowded. Some facilities operate at two to three times their official capacity, forcing inmates into cramped, unsanitary conditions. Limited access to healthcare, poor nutrition...
When people think of silk, they usually imagine the glossy smoothness of Mulberry or the luminous shine of Muga. But hidden within the folds of India’s northeastern heritage is a silk that stands apart — Eri Silk, often called the “Peace Silk.” Unlike other varieties, Eri is produced without killing the silkworm, making it not only exotic but also deeply ethical. Its story blends tradition, sustainability, and a unique texture that is winning attention in global fashion. Origins in Nature and Culture Eri silk comes from the Samia ricini silkworm, which feeds mainly on castor leaves. The name “Eri” itself is derived from the Assamese word era, meaning castor. Found widely in Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and parts of Thailand, this silk has been a cornerstone of tribal life for centuries. Among the Bodo, Khasi, and other indigenous communities, Eri is more than just a fabric — it is woven into rituals, festivals, and everyday living. Unlike the lustrous Muga, Eri silk has a matte, cotton-...