AV 25th November 2023

FIRST & FOREMOST ASIAN WEEKLY IN EUROPE David Beckham spotted with Bollywood stars at Sonam’s party in Mumbai

Community Celebrates Diwali SEE PAGE - 14 to 17

SEE PAGE - 28

PM Modi celebrates Diwali with jawans in Himachal

R

SEE PAGE - 23

25 NOV - 1 DEC 2023

Let noble thoughts come to us from every side

PM THANKS COMMUNITY FOR BEING HIS INSPIRATION

India witness a historic World Cup, several records broken SEE PAGE - 32

VOL 52 - ISSUE 29

DR S JAISHANKAR CALLS ON THE DIASPORA TO PROUDLY TELL THE STORY OF ‘A NEW INDIA’

Photo credit: Simon Walker / No 10 Downing Street

Touches feet of Dr M N Nandakumara MBE of Bhavan, greets and meets India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and wife Kyoko Jaishankar

Dr S Jaishankar with wife Kyoko performing Abhishek at Neasden Temple

FULL STORY ON PAGE 15

Labour selects London’s Deputy Mayor Rajesh Agrawal as their parliamentary candidate in Leicester East PM Rishi Sunak, daughters Krishna and Anoushka with wife Akshata Murty stepping out of No 10, to put diyas in front of the iconic door of Downing Street

Rupanjana Dutta India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar with wife Kyoko met with the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife Akshata Murty at 10 Downing Street on Diwali day, Sunday 12 November, to convey Diwali wishes from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He was also gifted a bat signed by Indian cricketer Virat Kohli as a Diwali present.

The Sunak family including daughters Krishna and Anoushka were seen gathering outside the No 10 door, putting diyas, as a custom to ward off evil. The family afterwards also visited Vedic Society Hindu Temple, in Southampton, where the PM and wife were seen singing Bhajan with other visitors.

Continued on page 17

Rajesh Agrawal, Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer and Deputy Leader Angela Rayner

FULL STORY ON PAGE 11

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25 Nov - 1 Dec 2023

Sunak favoured "just letting people die" during the pandemic According to extracts from Sir Patrick Vallance's diary, Rishi Sunak was allegedly in favour of "just letting people die" during discussions of a second lockdown in 2020.

The former chief scientific adviser also claimed that Sunak's "eat out to help out" policy contributed to the spread of Covid and contradicted public health messaging.

Vallance asserted that he was not consulted about the policy and would have clearly communicated its potential to spread the virus, directly rebuking the prime minister. During his testimony at the Covid inquiry, Vallance criticised Boris Johnson, stating that the prime minister was "bamboozled" by statistics and struggled to grasp scientific concepts. He also accused

Sir Patrick Vallance

Matt Hancock of repeatedly making untrue statements.

Vallance expressed strong disapproval of the "eat out to help out" policy, stating that it was "highly likely" to have contributed to virus transmission. He emphasised that had he been consulted beforehand, he would have advised

against it, noting that the policy undermined the cautionary message about mixing indoors with other households.

Extracts from Vallance's diary, presented to the inquiry, document a meeting in October 2020 where Johnson allegedly advocated for "letting it rip," suggesting that those who would die "have had a good innings."

Dominic Cummings, in favour of a lockdown, reportedly described Sunak's approach as "Rishi thinks just let people die, and that's OK." Another extract indicated that Sunak, during his time as chancellor in the summer of 2020, characterised his approach to opening the economy as "all about handling the scientists, not handling the virus."

Coutinho: India and UK can jointly achieve energy and climate goals Claire Coutinho, Britain’s Secretary of State for Energy and Net Zero, emphasised the shared energy and climate change objectives between India and the UK. The 38-year-old Goanorigin Conservative MP, recently promoted by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in a Cabinet reshuffle, playfully acknowledged her role as the latest British Indian member in frontline British politics during a Diwali reception hosted by the India Global Forum (IGF) on Thursday evening.

As the second Cabinet minister of Goan heritage after former Home Secretary Suella Braverman, Coutinho highlighted the

"hugely important" IndiaUK partnership and the potential for increased collaboration in the realm of climate action.

“I am not the first British Indian Cabinet member. I’m not even the first Goan Cabinet member because we are starting quite a trend in this country,” quipped Coutinho. She underscored the significance of the relationship, referring to it as a "living bridge" with India, emphasising the shared goals, particularly in energy and climate change. Coutinho stressed the importance of innovation, the people involved, financial expertise, and the brilliant technolo-

Claire Coutinho

gies being collaboratively developed across borders.

She expressed the critical role these elements play in ensuring the shared goals are achieved collaboratively.

UK suggests adding India to safe states list The UK government has proposed to expand the list of safe states by including India, among others, in an effort to streamline the repatriation process for individuals traveling illegally from these countries and to eliminate their eligibility for asylum in Britain.

Legislation introduced in the House of Commons

on Wednesday (8) outlines plans to add India and Georgia to the list of safe countries. The Home Office asserts that this initiative is designed to fortify the nation's immigration system and counteract the misuse of unfounded protection claims.

Expanding the list is expected to expedite the

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removal of individuals lacking the right to stay in the UK, sending a clear message that illegal entry will not be tolerated. This move aligns with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's commitment to "stop the boats" carrying migrants who illegally arrive on the country's shores after undertaking hazardous journeys across the English Channel. Despite individuals from India and Georgia not being evidently at risk of persecution, the Home Office notes an increase in small boat arrivals from these countries over the past year.

By designating India and Georgia as safe countries, the Home Office intends to reject asylum claims from individuals arriving illegally from these nations. The UK already considers other countries, such as Albania, Switzerland, and those in the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA), as safe.

King Charles hosts 75th birthday reception for Indian nurses To commemorate his 75th birthday, King Charles III hosted a special reception at Buckingham Palace dedicated to honouring Indian nurses, midwives, and global medical professionals who have made significant contributions to the NHS. The event acknowledged the pivotal role played by Indian professionals among the estimated 150,000 international nurses and midwives currently serving in the NHS. As the NHS itself celebrates its 75th anniversary, approximately 400 nurses and midwives from various countries, including India, the Philippines, Sri

Lanka, Nepal, and Kenya, attended the reception, highlighting their substantial contributions to the UK's health and social care sector.

The reception was part of a series of royal events on the King's birthday, where he chose to work through the day, engaging in goodhumoured interactions with guests. The NHS choir sur-

prised him with a rendition of 'Happy Birthday,' and he received a birthday card from a schoolgirl celebrating her birthday on the same day.

Victoria Atkins, the newly appointed Health Secretary, expressed appreciation for the event, emphasising the significant contributions of healthcare professionals from around the world, including India, to the NHS. She highlighted the close ties between the UK and India and expressed her anticipation of visiting India, subject to the prime minister's permission.

Watchdog warns 'toxic' NHS poses risk to people The health ombudsman, Rob Behrens, has expressed concern that the "toxic" behaviour of doctors in the NHS is jeopardising patient safety.

Behrens, responsible for investigating complaints about the NHS in England, highlighted the hierarchical and highhanded attitudes of clinicians, asserting that such behaviour undermines the quality of care provided.

He called for a redesign of medical training to promote a more empathetic and collaborative approach among medical professionals.

He pointed to specific

Rob Behrens

instances of failings in the treatment of conditions like sepsis and challenges within maternity services, stating that he is "shocked on a daily

basis" by the issues he encounters. He noted that there is a tendency to prioritise organisational reputation over patient safety, a practice he finds troubling.

The ombudsman emphasised that patient safety failings result in approximately 11,000 avoidable deaths each year in the NHS. He raised concerns about the emergence of a "Balkanisation" within health professionals, with rivalries between different medical groups, such as doctors and nurses or midwives and obstetricians, negatively impacting patient care.

NHS England's Dr Nikki Kanani to resign Renowned British Asian GP, Dr Nikki Kanani, has announced her departure from her current position at NHS England next month, culminating six years of dedicated service.

During her tenure, she served as the medical director for primary care, overseeing the establishment of Primary Care Networks (PCNs) and contributing to the development of a new five-year contract for primary care. She played a pivotal role in managing the response to the Covid-19 pandemic in her capacity as the deputy Senior Responsible Officer (SRO) for vaccination and screening. Despite her significant

contributions, she will step down as the director of clinical integration next month.

In 2018, Dr Kanani made history by becoming the first female to be appointed as the director of primary care in the NHS. Based in London, she received acclaim for her leadership qualities, often standing alongside then Prime Minister Boris Johnson during live coronavirus briefings from Downing Street.

Her career trajectory includes her departure in July 2022 from the role of medical director of primary care to assume the position of director for clinical integration within the Chief Delivery Office team at

Dr Nikita Kanani

NHS England. Notably, she played a key role in securing £4.5 billion in funding for primary and community care in 2019 as part of the NHS’s long-term plan for 2023-2024.

Croydon parents accuse SEN school of neglect A Croydon family has expressed apprehension regarding their son's experience at a special education needs (SEN) school.

Lalini and Russell Dowdeswell have raised concerns about changes in their non-verbal autistic 10year-old son's behaviour after he returned home from St Nicholas School on Reedham Drive in Purley.

Russell, an SEN teacher himself, and Lalini noticed a significant shift in their son's mood, with visible

signs of stress, mania, and unrest whenever anything related to school was mentioned.

The parents have reported that their son came home on one occasion with an unexplained 'black eye and bruises,' and on multiple instances, he had scratches and bruises that were absent in the morning when they dropped him off at school.

Despite bringing these incidents to the school's attention, the Dowdeswells

claim that the school acknowledged the injuries but did not provide a clear explanation of how and why they occurred.

Furthermore, the Dowdeswells have connected with other parents who share similar concerns about their children's wellbeing at the school. Despite the current 'Good' rating by Ofsted, multiple complaints from parents raise questions about the overall treatment of students at St Nicholas School.

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Starmer's resilience amidst election challenges During the Labour Party conference in October 2023 in Liverpool, Sir Keir Starmer addressed business leaders, sharing insights into the upcoming political landscape. Sir Starmer acknowledged the expected intensity of the campaign, foretelling a contentious battle between parties.

While the Tories depict him as indecisive, Labour portrays Rishi Sunak as an aloof figure. Despite their non-confrontational personalities, both leaders are expected to engage in robust political discourse.

Additionally, Sir Starmer emphasised that the election's focal point would be the economy, with Labour concentrating on the cost-of-living challenges. They propose a program of subsidies and home-building deregulation to stimulate growth, aiming to counteract doubts about Labour's fiscal responsibility.

Dr S Jaishankar, India's External Affairs Minister, met the Labour leader in London, expressing optimism for strengthened India-UK ties under Labour's potential leadership after the upcoming general election. Sir Starmer is a frontrunner for the next Prime Minister, aligning Labour's positions with the growth of ties. Despite past strains, Dr Jaishankar noted Labour's supportive stance.

Keir Starmer has done his bit despite all the criticism, by trying to strengthen ties with India and the Indian community in the UK. His visits to Neasden Temple, participating in cultural programmes throughout the year and meeting Dr Jaishankar are tactics that his party may not fully appreciate, but the leader is trying.

During the Q&A session at the UK-India week this year, Sir Starmer emphasised the importance of a strategic partnership with India, trade between the two countries, turning a new leaf and said, “We have used the word reset before, this is what I

mean by saying resetting relationship, which recognises where we are now, rather than defining ourselves by the past.”

His resilience confounds Tory strategists, emphasising his detachment from sectional interests. The focus on the economy, particularly Rachel Reeves' efforts, contributes to Labour's stability, fostering trust and approval. However, he has expressed concerns for his family's safety amid rising abuse and death threats to MPs over the Gaza conflict.

Facing divisions in his party, of course, Mr Starmer worries about protecting loved ones! Eight frontbenchers and two ministerial aides resigned, with 56 MPs rebelling in favour of a ceasefire. Jo Stevens' office was vandalised, and MPs, regardless of stance, received threats and abuse. The Opposition Leader emphasises the pressure on colleagues and condemns the targeting of MPs, calling for the full force of the law against protesters.

The scale is reminiscent of Tony Blair's 2003 vote on Iraq.

Sir Starmer, defending his position, emphasised leadership's duty to create a secure future for both Palestinians and Israelis.

He called for adherence to international law, humanitarian pauses, and increased efforts to ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Jess Phillips, a prominent rebel, resigned as the shadow domestic violence minister.

Labour leads with 44% in the latest YouGov poll, 23 points ahead of the Conservatives at 21%, their lowest since Liz Truss’s tenure. While individual polls may lack conclusive significance, the consistent narrative remains. Despite potential backbench and grassroots dissent, Sir Starmer's leadership feels secure.

Amid debates over the Gaza conflict, the Labour leader prioritises international reliability over domestic unrest, determined to act as Britain’s next prime minister.

Thought for the week “Don’t count the days, make the days count.”

— Muhammad Ali

Political Sketchbook Alpesh Patel

Number 10 and Diwali but More

Shifting tides in American diplomacy As two of the world's superpowers, the United States of America and China have a relationship that is both critically important and complicated by strategic rivalry. In addition, their relationship, bilateral and otherwise, has significant ramifications for global politics, economy, and security.

The recent bilateral summit between US and Chinese presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping, adjacent to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting, was an opportunity to prevent a competitive relationship from spiralling into a more contentious confrontation. Before the US elections take place next year, this summit may be the final face-to-face gathering between the two leaders. The two biggest economies have aspiration and zeal to scale to new heights in the fronts of trade and commerce.

Both presidents reached agreements covering fentanyl, military communications, and artificial intelligence, as well as commitments to improve transport links and expand educational and cultural exchanges between the two countries.

President Biden addressed human rights issues in Xinjiang, Tibet, and Hong Kong. Clarifying that the “One China” policy remains unchanged, the US President signalled that Washington did not intend to provoke Beijing on Taiwan, unless there’s aggression. The administration has earlier said of militarily protecting Taiwan, it is attacked by China.

Biden sought China’s involvement to de-escalate tensions with Iran, the other main adversary of Washington with whom Beijing shares considerably warmer ties. There’s nothing on paper or even an oral commitment to work on easing tensions, emanating from the Ukraine and Israel-Palestine conflict.

During the post-meeting press conference, President Biden's impromptu remark referring to Xi as a "dictator" prompted a visibly uneasy reaction from Secretary of State

Blinken, caught in an unguarded moment on camera. This comment drew a stern response from China, which labelled the US President's statement as "extremely wrong and irresponsible." Additionally, in a conversation with executives at the APEC Summit the following day, Biden emphasised that the US maintains "real differences" with China.

However, India finds itself in a complex position amidst these global shifts. The country continues to grapple with ongoing border disputes with China, highlighted by the 2020 Galwan Valley incident. These tensions, coupled with the evolving US-China relationship, are shaping India's strategy towards its northern neighbour. With China's growing assertiveness in the region, there has been a noticeable shift in Asia and the Indo-Pacific dynamics. This shift has led to India and the US exploring a deeper partnership. The US has emphasised the Indo-Pacific as a strategic priority, countering China’s regional ambitions and forming alliances to offset China's expanding influence.

As the US presidential election approaches, its impact on domestic politics is becoming increasingly significant. Highlevel meetings provide the current administration with a crucial chance to showcase their global leadership and diplomatic abilities. In the fierce race for the presidency, candidates are known to spend extensively on their campaigns, a trend that has been escalating in US elections for decades. In a recent example, Nikki Haley's presidential campaign has reportedly allocated $10 million for advertising across television, radio, and digital platforms in Iowa and New Hampshire. Following the 2020 presidential election, which was the most expensive in history and spending was hit nearly $14 billion, the upcoming election is projected to see even higher spending, potentially reaching a record-breaking level.

India's initiative to make Millet a global sensation During his recent visit to the UK, Indian Minister of External Affairs, Dr S Jaishankar, delivered a speech at the Central Hall Westminster, shedding light on the transformed image of India. While showcasing the successful campaigns of the Modi government, he particularly highlighted the remarkable success story of millets.

Millet is gaining widespread recognition as a superfood, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, protein, and antioxidants. India, realising the significant potential of millets, is actively promoting their consumption and cultivation.

Following Prime Minister Modi's suggestion, the United Nations has officially designated 2023 as the International Year of Millets, with the prime minister championing this grain, often referred to as the "poor man's grain," on the global stage.

An indication of the grain’s popularity comes as a song titled "Abundance in Millets," competes in the best global music performance category at the Grammy. This song is a collaboration between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and IndianAmerican singer Falguni Shah and her husband, Gaurav Shah.

Millets, known for their exceptional nutritional composition, not only provide a sustainable source of energy but also offer a myriad of health benefits, making them a remarkable addition to any diet. These grains are rich in fibre, protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a highly nutritious choice. Overall, millet stands out as a versatile and nutritious grain, symbolising both cultural heritage and a pathway to better health.

While millets are currently gaining global popularity, they have been a fundamental part of daily life in India for centuries, deeply rooted in the country's diverse culinary tradi-

tions. Cultivated in India for over 5000 years, millet served as a staple in ancient civilisations, predating both wheat and rice.

India's promotion of millet goes beyond advocating for a healthier diet; it addresses crucial issues such as agricultural sustainability, climate change, and food security. Known for resilience to water scarcity, it can flourish in semi-arid regions, presenting a sustainable alternative for Indian agriculture.

Millets, with their adaptability to erratic weather patterns, offer a resilient and climate-smart option for the Indian agricultural landscape.

Not only is the grain an integral part of the country’s agriculture, but India is also positioned to be a key player in the global millet supply chain, with exports totalling USD 64 million in 2021-22. There has been a notable 12.5% increase in millet exports from April to December 2023 compared to the same period last year. India's millet exports now extend to 139 countries, including Libya, Tunisia, Morocco, the UK, Yemen, Oman, and Algeria. Additionally, value-added millet products from India are making their mark globally. Millet is not a recent entrant to the global market, but India's effective marketing has elevated it to a recognised brand. Before millets gained widespread popularity, Asian Voice spotlighted Gobble Wobble, a small business started by women in South India, producing millet-based food for children, as it was already acknowledged as a healthy alternative in India.

The promotion of millets holds significant advantages for small businesses, capitalising on heightened demand. This opens up opportunities to market a diverse array of products, contributing to the scalability of businesses. This aligns perfectly with the all-embracing marketing strategy for millets.

The light of the diyas on Downing Street is a beacon that shines far beyond these shores. It tells a story of possibility, a story that will inspire countless others across the globe.

There is immense joy and immeasurable pride in this historic moment. It's a celebration not just of a festival, but of a journey—a journey of a thousand miles that began with the humblest of steps towards progress, understanding, and mutual respect.

Here, within these walls where the weight of empire once deliberated its course, now stands a leader of Indian descent, a Hindu Prime Minister, entrusted with the helm of Britain's future. The significance of this moment transcends politics; it's a testament to the United Kingdom's enduring narrative of diversity, acceptance, and unity.

This week, the Prime Minister sought the King's presence to unveil the legislative agenda. Yet, this was no ordinary audience with the monarch.

For the last time a king presided, the sun had not set on the British Empire, an empire that held sway over India. Now, centuries later, it is a leader of Indian origin who converses with a King about the future of Britain, not as a subject, but as a foremost citizen.

The office now on this Diwali celebration resonates with the chants of Sanskrit slokas, the air carries the fragrance of prasad, and every corner is adorned with symbols of Hindu faith. Lord Ganesh, the remover of obstacles, looks on, a deity revered not just by Hindus.

As a British Hindu Indian myself, I feel a surge of pride. This is a country where my faith is celebrated, not just within the walls of temples but in the corridors of power. As I speak to British military personnel inside Number 10, I am reminded of the deep bonds between the United Kingdom and India, exemplified by joint military exercises that showcase our shared commitment to global peace and security.

This is the beauty of modern Britain—a nation that can look back at its imperial past and yet celebrate its future.

But this is not and cannot be triumphalism. We are one of the most fortunate communities in Britain. We must reach across all communities for the betterment of Britain. Jai Hind. God Save the King.

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in brief

The teenager who lost his life in a fatal stabbing following a street fight in west London has been identified by homicide detectives as Simarjeet Singh Nangpal, aged 17.

The incident occurred in Burket Close, where Nangpal, residing in close proximity to the crime scene, sustained knife wounds on Wednesday.

Despite efforts by paramedics to save him, the teenager succumbed to his injuries. Currently, four men, aged 21, 27, 31, and 71, are in police custody, having

Source: Met Police

Teenager murdered in Harry breaks BANK MANAGER SUES FOR 'RACIALLY Southall, first image revealed silence with MOTIVATED' ARREST call to the King

Simarjeet Singh Nangpal

been arrested on suspicion of murder.

An eyewitness recounted the brutal nature of the

incident, describing how Nangpal was violently beaten and stabbed during a clash between two groups in the street. The chaotic scene unfolded outside a residence on Burket Close, marked by screaming, fighting, and an atmosphere of mayhem.

The suspects were apprehended on-site, with two initially taken to the hospital for injuries sustained prior to police arrival, subsequently being discharged. Presently, all four suspects remain in police custody.

Tragic deaths in Hounslow house fire Tragedy struck on Sunday(12) night as a house fire claimed the lives of six individuals, including Seema Ratra and her three young children—Riyan, Shanaya, and Arohi. The school paid tribute to the deceased family members.

Aroen Kishen, the father, had left the house before emergency services arrived and was transported to the hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries.

Initially, five bodies were discovered, but one individual remained unaccounted for. Following safety measures to stabilise the struc-

ture for investigators, the police initiated an investigation, leading to the discovery of the sixth victim.

On Tuesday, individual bouquets of flowers were tenderly placed at the site on behalf of Springwell School in Hounslow, each dedicated to one of the three children lost in the tragic house fire. The attached tributes conveyed a poignant message: "Rest in peace sweet child." Family members, overwhelmed with grief, attended the scene, grappling with the devastating loss.

The fire, battled by

around 70 firefighters until the early hours of Monday morning, wreaked havoc, destroying two floors of the residence and causing damage to the roof. Distressed residents in the vicinity had observed smoke on Sunday evening, uncertain whether it was linked to Diwali celebrations involving fireworks.

As investigations into the fire's cause unfold, authorities have reported no arrests at this time. The community remains shaken by the heartbreaking incident, offering condolences and support to the grieving family.

A birthday phone call from Prince Harry to King Charles may signal a potential improvement in the strained relationship between father and son.

King Charles

Prince Harry

On Tuesday, Prince Harry, residing in California, called his father to extend birthday wishes on King Charles's 75th birthday.

It is reported that the King also spoke with the Duchess, and a heartwarming video of their grandchildren, four-year-old Prince Archie and two-year-old Princess Lilibet, singing happy birthday was sent.

Princess Lilibet, who met her grandfather around her first birthday during a visit to Britain for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee, adds a delightful touch to the occasion. Despite maintaining a tradition of birthday greetings, sources note that Harry and his father have not communicated for several months, with their last in-person interaction believed to be around the time of the late Queen's funeral over a year ago.

While Harry attended the King's coronation in May, he returned to California for his son Archie's fourth birthday instead of joining the family at Buckingham Palace after the service at Westminster Abbey.

The parents of an eightyear-old girl who tragically lost her life when a driver crashed through a fence at her Wimbledon school have expressed that they are finding it incredibly challenging to cope.

Four months after Nuria Sajjad's passing, her mother, Smera Chohan, still grapples with the lingering question of whether she could have done anything to save her daughter. On July 6, Nuria's final day of school for the year, the mother-daughter pair were taking photos at The Study Preparatory School when a Land Rover

unexpectedly plowed into the playground in southwest London.

Another child, Selena Lau, aged 8, also lost her life in the collision, and several others sustained injuries, some of which were severe.

A 46-year-old woman from Wimbledon was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been bailed until January.

The police investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Nuria's father, Sajjad Butt, conveyed to the BBC that the couple is grappling with "a deep hole" in their

Source: Met Police

Wimbledon school crash victim's parents seek answers Royal Mail fined £5.6 million for late deliveries

Nuria Sajjad

lives, struggling to find any sense of purpose. They have raised questions about the delay in the legal proceedings related to the case.

In Wolverhampton, two 12year-old boys have been apprehended on suspicion of murder following the fatal stabbing of a 19-yearold man, Shawn Seesahai.

The incident occurred near Laburnum Road, East Park, just before 8:30 pm on Monday. West Midlands Police reported that the two boys were arrested at their residences on Tuesday and are currently in custody.

In response to the

Source: West Midlands Police

Two 12-year-olds arrested for fatal stabbing

Shawn Seesahai

tragedy, the police force has heightened dedicated

patrols in the area. DCI Dave Sanders, leading the homicide team, expressed condolences to Shawn's family and provided an update on the investigation.

He stated, "Our thoughts remain with Shawn's family, who have been fully updated with this latest development. Our investigation is moving at pace, and we continue to encourage anyone with information to contact us."

The competition regulator has imposed a £5.6 million fine on Royal Mail for falling short of its first and second-class postal delivery targets. Ofcom, in response to the challenges faced by the struggling postal service, including strikes and competition losses, stated that Royal Mail significantly and inexplicably breached its obligations in the last financial year.

During the year, only 73.7% of first-class mail was delivered within one working day, below the 93% target, and 90.7% of secondclass mail was delivered within three working days, compared to the 98.5% target. Ofcom revealed that 89.35% of delivery routes were completed on the required day, falling far short of the 99.9% target. Despite facing strikes, adverse weather conditions, and temporary closures of the Stansted airport runway, Ofcom asserted that Royal Mail's first and second-class performance was only 82% and 95.5%, respectively.

Ian Strawhorne, Ofcom’s director of enforcement, emphasised the significant impact of the pandemic on Royal Mail's operations but noted that the company had been warned not to use it as an ongoing excuse. He stated that the company had failed consumers, and the fine serves as a wake-up call, urging Royal Mail to take its responsibilities more seriously.

The penalty, which includes a 30% reduction due to Royal Mail admitting liability and agreeing to settle the case, must be paid to the Treasury within two weeks.

Dale Semper, a 41-year-old accomplished black bank manager, is pursuing a £1 million lawsuit against the Metropolitan Police, alleging wrongful arrest he believes was racially motivated. In August 2017, while driving his partner Denise Huggan to a railway station, Semper was stopped by police, handcuffed, and escorted to his Enfield home in north London. Police conducted searches at Semper's, his mother Linnette's, and Huggan's residences. Accused of various offenses, including firearms, fraud, money laundering, and ties to people smugglers, Semper, a Lloyds bank manager, contends that these allegations significantly impacted his job, finances, and mental health.

Despite release from custody, his bank accounts were frozen, he was suspended from work, and he developed post-traumatic stress disorder.

CHURCH SEEKS MISSING BAPTISMS POST-PANDEMIC The Church of England is grappling with a baptism backlog, actively seeking around 70,000 individuals who missed out on christening opportunities due to the pandemic. Although there was nearly a 50% increase in baptisms from 2021 to 2022 as Covid restrictions eased, many parents opted to christen older infants and toddlers who hadn't been able to undergo the ceremony as newborns during lockdowns. Despite a substantial rebound in baptisms last year, the 2022 figures remained below pre-Covid levels. The Church aims to locate these individuals and encourage them to step forward for baptism. The Church of England's website notes that the terms "baptism" and "christening" may be used interchangeably, signifying the moment when a person is "welcomed into the family of the church."

DIABETES RISK IN WOMEN WITH SIXHOUR SLEEP Research indicates that reducing sleep by just 90 minutes per night significantly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes in women. A study conducted by Columbia University in New York involved 38 women aged 20 to 75 who typically slept 7.5 hours a night. They were instructed to delay bedtime by 90 minutes for six weeks, maintaining their usual wake-up time, resulting in an average sleep duration of 6.2 hours per night.

Blood tests revealed a rapid increase in insulin resistance, with a 15% average rise and elevated blood sugar levels, heightening the risk of type 2 diabetes. This impact was more pronounced in menopausal women. Upon returning to their regular 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night, insulin resistance and glucose levels normalised.

HEALTH GROUP ACCUSED OF CONCEALING TRUE DEBT Nearly four years after the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) initiated an inquiry into NMC Health following an accounting scandal, the regulatory body has officially reprimanded the now-collapsed FTSE 100 company. The FCA's investigation results reveal that the private healthcare firm had deceived the market regarding its debts, significantly understating the amount—potentially up to $4 billion—and maintaining dual sets of accounting records. Founded by Indian tycoon Bavaguthu Raghuram Shetty, NMC Health was headquartered in the United Arab Emirates and had operations in 19 countries, including the ownership of Aspen Healthcare in Britain.

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NHS roadshow to act on early lung cancer symptoms The NHS will visit thousands of people in England’s lung cancer hotspots with giant inflatable lungs this month, to raise awareness of potential cancer symptoms and help catch cancer earlier.

The Let’s Talk Lung Cancer roadshow, run between NHS England and Roy Castle Lung Foundation, kicks off as new survey data reveals that just a third of (33%) South Asians respondents would see their GP if they had a cough for three weeks or more.

While more than a quarter (28%) of South Asian individuals surveyed believe that lung cancer only affects smokers.

Over half (55%) of South Asian survey respondents also believed that or were unsure whether lung cancer only affects a small amount of people every year in England, when in fact it’s the leading cause of cancer deaths in the UK. Nasim is 65 years old and recovering from lung cancer following removal of part of her left lung. She initially went to see her GP as she was losing weight and didn’t know why.

Nasim Panjwani

‘I have never smoked, so I didn’t ever think it could be lung cancer.

However, when my friends and family started pointing out that I was looking thin I thought I should get checked out.’

Diagnosing lung cancer early dramatically increases people’s chances of survival – those diagnosed at stages one or two are nearly 20 times more likely to survive for five years or more than those whose cancer is caught at later stages.

She said: ‘If you’ve had a cough for three weeks or more, or something feels not quite right, please get medical advice and give yourself the best chance.’

As part of the road-

show, specialist teams of volunteers will assist the campaign to educate the public and help catch more cancers early.

This comes as survey data also shows that just over a third (34%) of South Asian people surveyed would visit their GP if they had a chest infection that kept coming back, and a similar percentage would do the same if they had a loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss (36%), which are lesser-known signs of lung cancer.

Chief Executive of Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, Paula Chadwick, said: “It is staggering thatso many of those surveyed still do not know how prevalent lung cancer is.

“We believe this stemsfrom a reluctance, even aversion, to talking about lung cancer, and that is largely because of its linksto smoking and associated stigma.”

The NHS’s Help Us, Help You lung cancer campaign focuses specifically on raising awareness of thekey symptom of lung cancer – a cough that lasts for three weeks or more.

Met Police officer convicted of harassing colleague A Metropolitan Police officer, PC Harvinder Dulay, assigned to the Westminster, Hammersmith and Fulham, and Kensington and Chelsea units, has been found guilty of harassing a female colleague while on duty.

The conviction, following a trial at City of London Magistrates’ Court, stems from the officer's persistent and unwelcome communication through text messages, emails, and calls to his colleague in February 2022. PC Dulay, who is cur-

rently on restricted duties, will now face misconduct proceedings, with the police force emphasising a swift and thorough review of the case. The court proceedings began after the officer was charged on May 1, 2022.

Detective Chief Superintendent Owain Richards, the local policing commander for central London, condemned PC Dulay's behaviour as completely unacceptable. He stressed that no woman working for the Met should

have to endure repeated and unwanted messages, especially from a fellow colleague.

Expressing relief that the victim brought the matter to attention, Richards affirmed that, now that criminal proceedings have concluded, a misconduct hearing will be promptly scheduled to address the officer's actions and determine appropriate consequences. The police force is committed to ensuring accountability and maintaining a workplace environment free from harassment.

Harrow MP opposes plan for 5 tower blocks North London MP Bob Blackman has strongly criticised proposals for the construction of five new tower blocks, arguing that they offer "minimal benefits" for local residents.

The redevelopment initiative, centred on a Burnt Oak car park at the junction of Harrow, Brent, and Barnet boroughs, could result in the elimination of 200 parking spaces and the closure of a nearby library.

Linkcity, in collaboration with Barnet Council, aims to transform the Watling

Bob Blackman

Avenue Car Park into over 300 flats, asserting that it will enhance the town centre with new housing, green spaces, and cycle links.

Despite the council's claims of town revitalisa-

tion, MP Bob Blackman is actively opposing the project, encouraging residents to participate in the ongoing public consultation.

Blackman contends that the development inadequately considers the impact on residents and commuters, particularly through the potential loss of crucial station car parks.

Barnet Council had greenlit the site for redevelopment in 2021, finalising an agreement with Linkcity for the proposed scheme in February of the current year.

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Challenging weeks for British politics, good news for India Rishi Sunak faced yet another challenging week during his tenure as the Prime Minister as he sacked Home Secretary Suella Braverman after she was criticised for handling of police tactics during proPalestinian protests.

Braverman's criticism of the Metropolitan Police drew far-right groups into clashes with officers, sparking calls for her dismissal.

Parle of controversies Braverman's dismissal was not impulsive but a result of mounting controversies. From comparing pro-Palestinian protests to Northern Ireland's Troubles to insensitive remarks about homelessness and asylum seekers, her statements fuelled criticism. Previous controversies include comments on grooming gangs and describing asylum seekers' arrival as an "invasion."

The decision reflects a pattern of inflammatory remarks.

Scathing attack on PM while he meets inflation target Suella Braverman launched a scathing attack on Rishi Sunak, accusing him of repeated failures and broken immigration pledges after he dismissed her as home secretary. In a pointed letter to the prime minister, Braverman claimed a secret deal secured her cabinet role, emphasising her pivotal support for Sunak's ascent to No 10. Braverman warned that Sunak's "magical thinking" without a credible Plan B could jeopardise a year's effort on the small boat crossings law.

Interestingly, Sunak expressed satisfaction as inflation dropped to 4.6%, meeting his year-end target.

Despite recent turbulence, Sunak affirmed his commitment to fiscal discipline and reducing inflation. He emphasised the importance of staying the course to address economic challenges and acknowledged the need to work towards further reducing inflation.

While not widely popular, Braverman’s "lifestyle choice" remark about rough sleeping drew widespread dismay. Sunak's initial hesitation to sack her, despite internal pressure, might stem from a desire not to bolster her opposition leader campaign.

But, Braverman's leadership aspirations face hurdles; the latest Conservative Home survey ranks her fifth among cabinet ministers, and she must secure sufficient MP votes to enter the top two for party members' consideration—a challenging task given her past performance.

Dame Priti Patel has directed Rishi Sunak to proceed with the Rwanda plan in the UK, despite the Supreme Court's ruling.

Suella Braverman

Expressing disappointment with the decision on refoulement, Patel urged the Prime Minister to ensure the plan's implemen-

tation, emphasizing the agreed partnership with Rwanda in good faith and the lawfulness of processing asylum claims in safe third countries. She stressed the need for careful review and consideration of the judgment's full details, acknowledging the legal acceptance of the principle involved.

Good news for India This appointment allows Cameron to reshape his legacy, aiming to be remembered for revitalising the Abraham Accords postHamas. Positive for India, Cameron, a staunch supporter, visited six times,

enhancing business ties and meeting with Dr Jaishankar.

The UK added India to its safe states list, expediting the return of illegal entrants. Cameron tried, albeit with little success, to strengthen two-way trade and investment when he was prime minister. He made three visits to India in that role and hosted Narendra Modi in London in 2015. His last publicised visit was as a private individual in December 2016, when he was paid a rumoured £200,000 to speak at a Hindustan Times conference.

David Cameron appointed as UK’s Foreign Secretary, diaspora cheers his political comeback In a series of surprising reshuffles, Foreign Secretary James Cleverly was transferred to the Home Office, and unexpectedly, Rishi Sunak brought former Prime Minister David Cameron out of retirement to become the new Foreign Secretary.

While the Middle East conflict influenced the reshuffle, Sunak's primary aim is to convey a specific message to Conservative Party voters for the impending general elections by January 2025. Braverman, fired twice, symbolises far-Right urging stringent policies.

Lord Cameron, a moderate conservative, opposed Brexit, left after 2016 referendum.

Cameron's appointment doesn't signal a shift to the centre by Sunak.

Sunak aims to blend Braverman's agenda with Cameron's stability, appealing to a divided party.

Success hinges on steadying the ship before elections amid Labour's internal divisions.

Lord Cameron, one of the first engagements after being appointed the Foreign Secretary was a meeting with India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, where they discussed world politics, especially the situation in the Middle East.

David Cameron’s comeback has been controversial, especially due to his sudden departure post-EU referendum and his alleged relation with the Green Sill finance scandal. Hardcore Brexiteers are also unhappy about a ‘Remainer’ negotiating and discussing foreign policies with the EU on behalf of Britain.

Though Lord Cameron is believed to be a critic of PM Sunak, especially during his recent U-turn on HS2, his special appointment to the

photo credit: Raj D Bakrania, PrMediapix

CB Patel, Editor-in-Chief, Asian Voice interviewing then Prime Minister David Cameron at No 10

Cabinet has led to open speculations of him becoming the party’s leading face sooner or later.

Dr S Jaishankar meets David Cameron

Lord Cameron’s reappointment has been cheered and welcomed by the diaspora, who loved Mr Cameron as their Prime Minister. He was the first to start Diwali, Eid and Vaisakhi celebrations for the community at 10 Downing Street, calling himself “Britain’s first ever British-Asian Prime Minister” during an interview with Asian Voice, pre2015 elections. His young children were seen running around these community events in Indian attires, eating sweets such as laddoos and he also visited India a few times in his official capacity.

Lord Cameron was a regular visitor to Neasden Temple and Gurudwaras too, with wife Samantha and the first to welcome India’s newly elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015 to London, especially at the Wembley Stadium, in front of 40,000 spectators.

He brought Priti Patel to

the front of UK politics by coining a role as the champion of the diaspora and the rest is history. Rishi Sunak also became an MP for the first time in 2015, joining David Cameron’s government.

Lord Dolar Popat, a long-standing supporter of Lord Cameron for years, sent him a congratulatory letter, welcoming him back into UK politics. He wrote, “Your appointment has come at a difficult time for the country and amidst many events around the world from the war in Ukraine to the conflict in Gaza. During this difficult time, it is important that we have people with experience and expertise in key roles and I'm glad that the role of Foreign Secretary has been filled by you, our former Prime Minister and a good friend of mine.

“During this time of Diwali, we look for the light amongst the darkness and I am glad that we can see that represented by this appointment. I am reminded today about all the work you did to modernise the Conservative Party, bringing in the British Indian community and being ambitious about Britain's role in the international community…”

Lord Cameron also had a relatively easy-going relationship with UK’s ethnic and foreign press. His first interview with Asian Voice was as the Opposition Leader, followed by a few exclusives as the Prime Minister.

Yorkshire Asian Young Achiever Awards winners announced The winners of the Yorkshire Asian Young Achiever Awards (YAYA’s) were announced at a gala awards night on 17 November at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford.

The awards were founded by Bradford-charity the QED Foundation and are supported by title sponsor, York St John University.

Nusaybah Tufail, 22, was awarded the Achievement in Health, Mental Health, or Healthcare award, sponsored by the University of York. She lives in Bradford and works at Bradford Teaching Hospital on the neonatal ward. She is the first female in her family to have completed a university

The winners of the Yorkshire Asian Young Achiever Awards

They celebrate young people aged 16 to 30 of South Asian heritage who were born in or live and work in Yorkshire, and who have overcome deprivation and disadvantage, or successfully broken through barriers, to become successful role models in their chosen fields. Over 30 nominees were in contention for the ten award categories.

Tanisha Jain, 20, from York won the Achievement in Sport award, sponsored

by Janan. She is the first Asian woman to be Sport Union President at the University of York and has increased diversity for the BAME and LGBTQ communities at the university.

She’s also treasurer for the Last Taboo, which helps victims of sexual violence.

degree (in Children’s Nursing).

Additionally, Mohammed Saeed, 19, won the Achievement in Arts and Creative Industries, sponsored by the Science Media Museum while Mahnoor Akhlaq was awarded Achievement in Media, sponsored by LocalIQ. Mohammad Malik, 24, was awarded Achievement in Education, sponsored by PeopleCert and Safura Said won the Private Sector/ Young Entrepreneur category, sponsored by Morrisons among various other winners.

The night also featured an inaugural award for school children, the Yorkshire Asian Young (YAY) award, which went to 15 year-old Umra Andar from Belle Vue Girls Academy.

NHS gender pay gap is a punishment for female doctors Research conducted by the King's Fund think tank reveals a persistent gender pay gap in the NHS, with female doctors earning 5.5% less than their male counterparts in the UK. According to data from the Office for National Statistics for this year, the average hourly earnings for a full-time female doctor are £30.93, while male doctors earn £32.74.

The gender pay disparity is notably pronounced in general practice, where male doctors earn 50% more than their female counterparts.

Annual NHS figures indicate that male GPs earned an average of £146,000 last year, compared to £97,500 for female GPs, primarily due to a higher likelihood of men running their own practices.

Examining the entire health and social care sec-

tor, which comprises 3 million workers, the King's Fund found a 10.2% gender pay gap, driven by the overrepresentation of men in higher-paid roles such as top-earning NHS consultants and hospital managers.

Despite women constituting 77% of the NHS workforce, only 58% of the highest-earning staff at NHS England are women.

The majority of lowerpaid roles in the NHS, particularly in nursing and social care, are held by women.

Although female nurses earn slightly more than their male counterparts on average, the social care workforce, where women make up 81%, remains one of the lowest-paid sectors, with most staff earning a minimum wage of £10.42 per hour.

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Pharmacy reforms to bring new services to the High Street Shefali Saxena Thousands of women across England will be able to get the contraceptive pill at their local pharmacy from next month, as part of a major expansion of primary care services.

Pharmacies across the country will begin offering the new contraceptive service in December with almost half a million women able to access the pill next year without needing to contact their GP first.

The rollout is part of the NHS and government’s primary care access recovery plan, announced by the head of the NHS and the Prime Minister in May, which committed to making it quicker and easier for millions of people to access healthcare on their high street.

Pharmacists will also ramp up the number of lifesaving blood pressure checks given to at-risk patients over the next year with a commitment to deliver 2.5 million a year by Spring 2025 – up from 900,000 carried out last year. It is estimated this could prevent more than 1,350 heart attacks and strokes in the first year.

And beginning early

next year, patients will also be able to get treatment for seven common conditions directly from a pharmacy, without the need for a GP appointment or prescription. The new service will cover sinusitis, sore throat, earache, infected insect bite, impetigo, shingles, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women.

The ambitious blueprint aims to free up to 10 million GP appointments a year by next winter and give the public more choice in where and how they access care.

Skilled and qualified health professionals staff community pharmacies. A consultation has already been launched to enable pharmacy technicians to supply and administer medicines and the responses are currently being reviewed.

Nick Kaye, chair of the National Pharmacy Association, said: “Having been amongst those to deliver a locally commissioned walk-in common ailments service in community pharmacies in Cornwall, I’ve seen first-hand how improving access to advice and treatment works for GPs, pharmacists and above all patients. Today’s deal means that people across the whole

Raj Aggarwal OBE

country will soon be able to benefit from pharmacists’ prompt and expert support.

NHS England have put their faith in us, having seen community pharmacy successfully deliver other clinical services at scale.”

More than a hundred pharmacies took part in the contraceptive pilot earlier this year with more than 4,500 women who had already accessed the pill able to receive an ongoing supply of oral contraception at their local pharmacy.

Speaking to the newsweekly, Raj Aggarwal OBE who ran the Central Pharmacy chain in Cardiff and is a fellow of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society said: "The expansion of primary care services to include community pharmacies is a positive step that will provide much-needed convenience and accessibility for women seeking contraceptive care. It makes sense to use the expertise of pharma-

cists but it is crucial to ensure that community pharmacies are adequately resourced and equipped to handle this increased responsibility. Investing in training and staff development will be essential to ensure that women receive the high-quality care they deserve. Additionally, we must closely monitor the impact of this reform on the workload and profitability of community pharmacies.

Overall, I believe that the expansion of primary care services to include community pharmacies is a positive development that has the potential to improve access to essential healthcare for women across the UK, but it needs to have adequate funding as well otherwise it will be another drain on local pharmacies that are already struggling financially.”

Pharmacist Reena Barai told Asian Voice, “So many women will benefit from faster and easier access to contraception thanks to this service.

Community Pharmacy teams and their Pharmacists are ideally placed to offer this in particular as we have established relationships with our patients and are trusted in our communities.”

Seven arrests after raids on collapsed law firm Seven individuals have been apprehended by the Serious Fraud Office (SFO) in a series of early morning raids related to the collapse of the law firm Axiom Ince. The SFO initiated a criminal investigation on Tuesday after £66 million of client funds went missing from the firm's accounts.

Collaborating with the Metropolitan Police, over 80 investigators from the SFO conducted arrests at nine locations in Bedfordshire, suspecting the individuals of fraud offenses. The investigation was prompted by Pragnesh Modhwadia, the former managing partner of Axiom Ince, who acknowledged in September that a substantial portion of the missing funds had already been expended.

Modhwadia disclosed to the High Court that millions from the funds were used to acquire six properties and renovate seven others. Documents obtained by the legal website Roll on Friday suggest that the former

Axiom Ince leader owns a diverse portfolio, including houses, luxury flats in London, office buildings, and shopping malls. The portfolio, amassed over nearly two decades, reportedly features a £1.6 million flat in Chelsea and a £4.6 million office block in Edgware.

In addition to his property investments, Mr. Modhwadia utilised the funds to acquire two law firms through prepack administration deals. One of these acquisitions involved purchasing Ince Group for £2.2 million. Ince Group, formerly London's largest listed law firm, had collapsed in April, leaving creditors with a debt of £41 million.

Mr. Modhwadia, along with two other law firm directors, Shyam Mistry and Idnan Liaqat, faced suspension by the Solicitors Regulation Authority in August. The suspension was based on suspicions of dishonesty in their professional conduct.

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British Jews invite friends from Indian community to join a national solidarity march this Sunday The Jewish community has invited friends from the British Indian community to join in a national solidarity march against antisemitism this Sunday 26 November, 1:30pm at Central London.

The march is taking place against the backdrop of a worrying rise in antisemitism, in the wake of the war in Gaza, which followed the barbaric terrorist attacks which took place in Israel on Saturday 7 October.

The Community Security Trust, a charity which protects the Jewish community, recorded at least 1324 antisemitic incidents across the UK in the 40 days following 7 October. This is the highest ever total reported to CST across a forty-day period, since it started recording antisemitic incidents in 1984.

Compared to the same period last year, there has been an increase in anti-Jewish

hate acts of 510%.

These include assaults, damage to property, abusive behaviour and several instances on university campuses. Here are just three examples of the many incidents logged

by CST: u A Jewish school in Manchester received a call, and a voice said, “I tell you what, you better sort this f*cking sh*t out.” u A teacher overheard a conversation about Jewish people at school, and one of the boys said, “They should all be gassed.” u A Jewish man approached somebody he thought he was friendly with at his London gym.

The response was, “F*ck off, you Nazi terrorist sympathiser, you people

are scum.”

The organisers of the march said, “The past few weeks have been really difficult ones for the Jewish community. We have seen an upsurge in antisemitism that we never thought we would see. We have witnessed criminality, including glorification of terrorism, support for banned terrorist organisations such as Hamas, and incitement to racial or religious hatred against Jews. It is a sad truth that Jews do not feel safe in our capital city.”

Zaki Cooper, who is CoChair of the British Indian Jewish Association, said, “In

the Jewish community, we have been hit by the upsurge in antisemitism.

But we know that this hateful approach is not shared by most British people, and of course our friends in the Indian community. As British Indian and British Jews, we have such a wonderful friendship. I have been comforted by the very many messages of support I have received from Indian friends.

If anyone is able to come along to the march on Sunday from the Indian community to show their solidarity with the Jewish community, this would be so appreciated. The idea of the march is to make a stand against antisemitism from people of all faiths and communities, as well as across the political spectrum.”

'Uganda is the safest tourism destination': High Commissioner Madhvani Uganda showcases tourist attractions at the World Travel Market, London Uganda showcased a variety of tourist attractions at the World Travel Market, at Excel London from 6-8 November 2023. The participants include about 20 companies under the Uganda Tour Operators Association, representatives of hotels under the Uganda Hotel Owners Association, Uganda Wildlife Authority, Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, Private Sector Foundation, Uganda Mission London and other stakeholders.

The High Commissioner of the Republic of Uganda to the UK and Ireland HE Nimisha Madhvani specially present at the Uganda marquee and applauded the

Ugandan High Commissioner to the UK Nimisha Madhvani with Vice Chair Board of Directors of Private Sector Foundation Uganda Sarah Kagingo

stakeholders. In a special interaction, she said, “The prospects are very good with

a lot of interest in destination Uganda from prospective tourists and travel agents. WTM London is one of the most influential travel and tourism events globally.

Uganda is the safest tourism destination.

President Museveni has been advocating for the last 36 years that Uganda is a safe investment and friendly destination for tourism. Uganda is also focusing on sports tourism internationally.”

“For the first time in more than 50 years, India and Uganda are connected by non-stop Air service by Uganda Airlines. Uganda Airlines started operating a direct flight between

Mumbai, India and Entebbe, Uganda. The service will run three times a week. We are also hoping for the Entebbe to London direct flight” added HE Madhvani.

Sarah Kagingo, Vice Chair Board of Directors of Private Sector Foundation Uganda said, “Explore Uganda, the pearl of Africa. A beautiful country where we all enjoy safety. Once Sir Winston Churchill described our country as a fairy tale.

Dona Tindyebwa from the Association of Uganda Tour Operators said, "Uganda is safe and friendly, please come and enjoy the beauty of nature and its products".

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (UK) Queensbury celebrates Vijayadashmi Cllr Ameet Jogia lauds the work carried out by HSS (UK) in promoting the development of Youth with ‘Sanskaars' Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (UK) Queensbury chapter organised a joyous celebration to mark the auspicious festival of Vijayadashami on 4 November 2023. The event was attended by around 270 people, including community leaders, local councillors and seniors from the HSS (UK).

The event's chief guest, Councillor Ameet Jogia MBE, lauded the work carried out by HSS (UK) in promoting the development of Youth with good Sanskaars (character), who can go on to contribute and serve local communities. He also emphasised the importance of an individual serving the community in their varying capacity and playing their part to make a difference and improve the overall state of the society.

Atul Ganatra, Satya

Cllr Ameet Jogia MBE

Shakha Saha Karyawaha HSS (UK) said, “Beyond the enthralling performances, Vijayadashmi carries a profound message of the eternal triumph of good over evil. It serves as a reminder to uphold values such as truth, justice, and compassion in our daily lives, transcending cultural and religious boundaries.”

Other dignitaries in attendance also expressed

Physical activities performed by participants of all ages

their admiration for the work carried out by HSS (UK).

Guests praised HSS (UK)’s endeavours to engage with communities, recognising the contributions of educators and first responders and training HSS members to give back to the community.

The event included a wonderful presentation of the physical activities per-

formed by participants of all ages who attend the weekly sessions of the Queensbury chapter. The demonstrations included Yoga, Ni-Yudhha – an Indian Martial art and the execution of a range of synchronised drill movements which captivated the audience and showcased the discipline and skill required to master the manoeuvres in unison.

If you were introduced by someone...

Rohit Vadhwana

I

n social and professional situations, we get introduced to a variety of people by someone. It's networking. If your contact introduces you to someone, it may be for the benefit of you and the person introduced. This new contact may be helpful and beneficial in your personal life or professionally. You both are free to avail that advantage through the newly formed relationship.

However, in certain contexts, the person making the introduction has the intention of being involved in all the interactions or transactions you conduct with the new contact. Especially in the business field, people might want to get a share of the profit or at least recognition for their service. In personal life, the person might not want you to be closer to the new contact. The expectation might be that old and original contact will always remain the first priority in your life.

What if the situation changes? What if you get more intimate with the newfound person than the earlier one?

Doesn't it create a sense of jealousy for the one who had taken trouble and risk to introduce you to the new face?

And if the other person also gets tight with you, it might create a disaster. The two new contacts becoming more friendly while the one bridging them kept at a distance is not really a welcome situation most of the time.

However, in business situations, it is obvious that if the new business contact can offer you better deals, you will certainly take them. Similarly, in personal relationships, if the cord is struck, hearts will meet. No one can come in between, and no reason can hold you back from going ahead with that. But it should not be handled in a way that looks like cheating on the person who made the introduction. Let's say there was the expectation of sharing the profit in a business network, it should be done.

In personal relations, the one making your contact might have an expectation of being kept informed. You should do so. Rest is the turn of events that may take place on its own.

Although we cannot make an accurate prediction as to how will the situation unfold, there are certain etiquettes that one needs to follow in such a situation.

Transparency and clear communication are at the core of handling such situations. Keeping the connecting person always informed, to the extent possible, is beneficial for you in the long term. For the benefit of one time, if you fail to follow this etiquette, in the future no one will help you in any business or social situation. No one will involve you in their network. Therefore, if you were introduced by someone, give all the credit to that person for anything that comes out as a result of that introduction.

(Expressed opinions are personal)

Ukraine Christmas Mission: Food For All vans will leave for Ukraine on 22 December Hare Krishna devotees are fully prepared for the Ukraine Christmas Mission 2023. Food For All vans will be leaving the UK for Ukraine on 22 December for 2 weeks. The Christmas Mission will be supporting people who are still living in devastated villages in the Kherson area.

Providing more information, team leader Parasuram said, “There are over 10,000 Hare Krishna Ukrainian-born devotees.

Since the war started 25 devotees have sadly been killed in the war. In all the major cities in Ukraine, the

Hare Krishna devotees are distributing Prasad, sanctified food to the people fleeing the war.”

“Here in the UK, we support this valuable service, by bringing essential food and equipment to support this unending need. We are driving out from the UK with 3 vans. Our van has over 20 bullet holes in it from previous tours. This year we are bringing lots of Christmas presents for the Ukrainian children who have been living in basements for over a year. This will be our 8th tour since the beginning of the war,” said Parasuram.

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Guests at Shanti Bhavan's fundraising gala listens to incredible life stories of alumni students The Shanti Bhavan UK Chapter’s 2023 Fundraising Gala was organised on 9 November 2023 at 11 Cavendish Square. Shanti Bhavan’s alumni Papitha Ravi and Amrutha Harish shared their incredible stories of journey and achievements.

Shanti Bhavan: Papitha Ravi who’s now studying Graphic Design at Bournemouth University, and Amrutha Harish who now works for the Asian Development Bank in Bangalore. Papitha and Amrutha both came from really challenging personal situations and study-

Ajit George

Amrutha Harish

Shanti Bhavan is a residential school based just outside Bangalore. SB was founded 26 years ago by Indian-American businessman, academic, and philanthropist Doctor Abraham George.

In the welcome address, Jay Singadia, SB UK Chapter Chair and Alexis Golden, SB UK Chapter vice chair talked about the set-up of

the UK Chapter as well as their experience as volunteers on the Shanti Bhavan campus.

In the keynote address, Ajit George, Director of Operations for SB mentioned the journey of Dr George from military service in the US and finally founding Shanti Bhavan. He also talked about the impact the school has had on the communities and the families of the kids who have been helped through education.

He also touched on the exciting plans to open Shanti Bhavan 2, the second school, in Karnataka, later in 2024.

All heard the inspiring stories of two graduates of

Papitha Ravi

ing at Shanti Bhavan made it possible for them to support their parents and break from the generational cycle of poverty, addiction and violence.

Traditional Carnatic music ws performed by RN Prakash and Shashank Puranik from Bangalore.

A vote of thanks was given by Giulia Barresi, UK Chapter Board Member.

Women and children can be beacons of change in their communities: Madhavi Vadera 'Celebrating Changemakers, Raising Voices' held by The Lifelines International The Lifelines International team organised an event 'Celebrating Changemakers, Raising Voices’ on 17 November 2023 at St John’s Waterloo to celebrate organisations and individuals who have made positive and impactful change in the world, such as Future Leaders, Satya Special School, Quest for Learning and CORD. Musicians from the Inner Vision Orchestra, led

by Baluji Shrivastav OBE, gave a mesmerising performance. In the welcome speech, the CEO of Lifelines International, Madhavi Vadera said, “We dream of a world where all women and children have the education, self-belief, and local support systems to achieve their full potential. By empowering them, they can be beacons of change in their communities – creating a chain of lifelines. We seek to create and invest in a passion-driven network of charities and NGOs aligned with our vision, and who work with us as active partners, transferring expertise, and delivering exponential change.

We believe that no one should stand alone.

Through our relationships, we continually strive to establish and widen net-

Dr Kshama Metre

Madhavi Vadera and Baluji

works across all of our key causes.”

Padma Shree Dr Kshama Metre spoke about her groundbreaking work in founding the Chinmaya Organisation for Rural Development (CORD) – one of the original charities funded by Lifelines International. She said, “We started in the remote area of the country where the Government cannot reach.

Some villages have no electricity at that stage. We eventually got to know that one single isolated program by the Government or any other body wasn't going to work as the downline was accountable to their bosses only, with no accountability the ground. towards Whereas we always believe that the programmes should be driven by the people who are going to transform their

lives themselves.”

Dr Kshama, popularly known as Doctor Didi added, “India is a very diverse country. It has many issues and problems but no simple solution. No fixed solution or no ground-level solution. However proactive engagement of the people brings solutions. Active participation, Integration of all issues, sustainability, small contributions and networking are the keys to success.

When we network, we make optimum utilisation of the resources. We are very lucky that rural India is governed by the Panchayati Raj. Everyone concerned is involved in the system.”

Revd Canon Giles Goddard of St John’s spoke about the history of the church and its current community and sustainability work.

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25 Nov - 1 Dec 2023

Is it time for a messiah to descend on earth?

Looking at the mind-boggling violence on TV, perpetrated against not only those who are directly involved but against defenceless children, women and the elderly, one may wonder where we are heading. Are we following in the footsteps of the one and only butcher Hitler, who was responsible for more than 20 million deaths? If so; it is time for the world to unite against the evil of mass murders!

According to Hindu mythology, “The All Mighty God” the creator of the Universe; will send his Messiah to earth, in the form of a superhuman being when the law and order break down, there is no one capable of restoring peace and harmony that could save the human race, stop them destroying themselves in a drunken rage as predicted in the holy book of “Mahabharata.” Have we reached this stage that we need intervention from the “Above”, unable or unwilling to resolve our self-created problems, self-inflicted wounds that we need Devine intervention from Heaven?

Lord Rama and Lord Krishna, Guru Nanak, Lord Buddha, Prophet Mohamed and Jesus Christ, a few among many who were all superhuman beings who came to our aid, descended from heaven to rescue the human race from self-destruction. Looking at the current situation, the clashes between different human-created religions, culture and politics, tribalism and castism; is creating unprecedented upheaval never seen before since the end of WW2.

With ever-present TV in practically every room, we are never far away from the gruelling, heart-rending pictures that are flashed at us day and night without a pause.

Although most of us have become accustomed to these exposures, there are still many soft-hearted, kind, caring and gentle people who find such a situation difficult to grasp, to take in men-made sufferings on an unimaginable scale!

Practically every Continent and most countries are the victims of internal strife, civil war or outright hostility among groups of nations. South America where the difference between rich and poor is the greatest, countries mostly ruled by a few privileged personalities, suffer most from civil wars, and under-privileged fighting guerrilla warfare, Cuba, Nicaragua, Columbia, Argentina, Somalia, Ukraine and many more countries are the prime examples. No wonder Argentina gave us Eva Peron, a simple night-club entertainer who first captivated the heart of President Peron and the world with her favourite song, “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” became an instant hit, still deeply residing in our unconscious mind, surfacing now and then to remind us of the struggle she had to endure to save her beloved Argentina.

Let us hope that we are just passing through a crazy period, the world will stabilize and peace and harmony will prevail.

Bhupendra M. Gandhi

Rude reporters Television and radio reporters are getting on my nerves.

They ask questions and as the interviewee starts responding they interrupt over and over again, resulting in both talking at the same time and confusing viewers and listeners. Pleas of "let me finish" by frustrated interviewees are mostly disregarded which is plain bad manners.

Ash Gupta

Arise and awake to carbon emissions After experiencing lots of natural disasters the people of the world have awakened and realised the need to protect the environment as we are part of one big system.

The richest 1% contribute 16% of carbon emissions in 1 year (2019 data) and can cause 1.3 million excessive heatrelated deaths. It would take 1500 years to produce the same amount of carbon dioxide by people of the bottom 99%, that is contributed by billionaires in 1 year. Arise and awake to carbon inequality!

TS Karthik Chennai

When Imran Khan was the…

When Imran Khan was the PM of Pakistan, he was keen on resolving the Kashmir issue with India. Hopefully, the present PM of Pakistan will settle this long-standing border crisis. Pakistan should also move away from China and mend its ties with the United States of America.

Jubel D'Cruz, Mumbai, India

KAPIL’S

We will remember them Every year we remember our fallen heroes. The UK has seen 15 Prime Ministers during the 70 years of the reign of her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll. Every year UK political party conference is held with a big bang and pump of circumstances for an equal and fair society.

But our heroes' situation is getting worse. It is now 209 years since the Gurkha recruitment into the British army.

UK government still has not stopped the illegal mining of cheap raw materials the "GURKHAS", from the foothills of Nepal. Dehumanisation, alienation exploitation, scandal and great betrayal against the British Gurkha soldiers and their families from Nepal, continue. The violation of the Tripartite Agreement of 9 November 1947 by the UK government, failed to treat the Gurkhas on equal footing as other units in the parent army so that the stigma of mercenary troops may be at all times be wiped out.

Gurkhas are still struggling hard to find the "STATUS", dignity and barred from basic voting and human rights abuses '. UK government used the Gurkhas across the globe without any proper travelling documents to fight and die for the vested interest and expansion of the "British Empire" and travel with an Army ID for the overseas exercise.

I booked my 15-day holiday package to Croatia Montenegro and Bosnia to celebrate our 50th, Wedding anniversary through RSD Travel LTD and have to cancel because of my British passport Vs others. Because I had my Indefinite leave to remain (ILR) and was barred from travelling to above mentioned EU countries. My plan for the 50th wedding anniversary has been ruined, because of the biased policy of the UK government and penny-pinching on the plight of the Gurkhas issues.

Now the Gurkhas are on the verge of becoming" LIMBO" and "ILLUSION" in the 21st century. Please Google the greater map of Nepal. Illegal occupation of 66 thousand hectares of land from East to West of Nepal. The UK government failed to treat the Gurkhas on equal footing as the other units in the parent army so the stigma of mercenary troops may be for all times wiped out.

No justice no Vote! Equal danger equal reward!

Levelling up between pre and post-July 97 British Gurkhas.

Enough is enough! Ayo Gurkhali/Here comes the GURKHAS. Yam Gurung (Retired) UK

Save Mother Earth from dangers The fact of the matter is that Mother Earth still has been caught in the vicious circles of Nature’s fury and natural disasters like earthquakes and floods.

First up, our universal globe has been the most beautiful haven for human beings to live, having been giving shelter to all living species and having been home to numerous natural resources like mountains, trees, seas and rivers.

People and countries have been in existence with all Mother Earth’s might. Way back in the early 1990s during my school days, people faced massive floods and their aftermath in areas like Korkai, Tiruchendur, Tuticorin, and Tirunelveli in Tamil Nadu. As a schoolboy then, I remember seeing huge holes/rifts on the road caused by floods near the banks of the river Thamirabarani [close to Korkai] – the people all around were taken by surprise.

Given this past experience, one can imagine the gigantic aftermath of an earthquake even as floods like this could cause damage to things as hard as roads/rock structure.

The world apart, all Asian countries including all the Himalayan nations [perched on the beautiful Himalayas] should wake up and get ready to tackle Nature’s fury through sensible methods like planting trees and great technological advances available now.

P Senthil saravana Durai

Right or wrong?

Recent changes made by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in the important portfolios like Home Secretary and Foreign Secretary are right or wrong that time will prove but I think long-term stability is required in important departments like finance, home affairs, foreign affairs, defence etc. Some changes are made to improve efficiencies and they should be welcome but generally, changes are made for political reasons or when the ideological beliefs do not match. If we take the example of India these key ministries have been handled by very competent people for a long time and that is one of the reasons for the progress of the country. They can make the right decisions fearlessly keeping in mind the country’s priorities as well as those of the party’s as well. Let us hope that the recent changes made by Rishi Sunak will give the intended benefits.

Hitesh Hingu London

Kapil Dudakia

KHICHADI

Racists march from the Left Has the world has gone mad? Asked a friend. In the ‘good’ old days, we all knew where we stood with racists. If you were not white, then you were treated like dirt and attacked at every opportunity. Growing up in the 60’s we knew what to expect. Go to school, get called every name under the sun, and on the way back homeget attacked by gangs of white youth. Come home, clean up and get the homework done, otherwise all hell would break loose at home as well.

In the 21st Century, we now have racists of all types.

But these racists of today are bigots with multiple personalities. They don’t only discriminate based on race, colour, religion, gender and class, but add to that list wealth, nationality, culture, language, and the most important reason of all, out of utter ignorance imparted by their woke ideology.

For decades thisracist underbelly of Europe, supplied by the politics of the left, has remained hidden. We all knew it was there, but rhetoric andplatitudes hid the truth of the racists on the left. However, the war between Israel and Palestinian Hamas has exposed them all.

Lest we forget, Palestinian Hamas attacked Israel.

They butchered hundreds, raped women and young girls, slaughtered little babies and took hostages. No nation can be expected to sit back and accept this without wanting to exact a response. Israel hasa legal right of self-defence. A ceasefire is not possible until the threat that existsisdiminished to such an extent that the chances of it ever attacking Israel again are reduced markedly.

I commend PM Sunak, President Biden, PM Modi, President Macron, and yes even Keir Starmer for having the spine to reject a ceasefire. They know the real threat would still exist, and that means the cycle of Hamas attacks would continue.

Astonishingly right across Europe, Americaand other nations, we witnessed the madness of tens of thousands of people taking part in hate marches. I looked at hundreds of images of these so-calledmarches, and guess what, I did not come across even ONE that denounced Palestinian Hamas. Not one placard, not one poster, not one banner and not one chant to denounce the terrorism of Palestinian Hamas.

The racism of the far-rightwas at least consistent.

They hate anyone who is not white. However, the masses who call themselves centrists, or on the left,or part of the BAME community, have finally shown their true colours. There is one common thread that runs through most of these new age discriminating racists, their hatred for Jews and increasingly Indians (in particular, Hindus, Sikhs and Jains).And the root of this hatred stems from Islamist (and even Marxist) ideology.

It creates a problem for Keir Starmer, since many members of the Labour Party, andmany who vote for them,consist of people who have an axe to grind based on these prejudices. Antisemitism and anti-Hindu sentiments might have been subdued by Keir recently, but this war between Israel and Palestinian Hamas has shown the extent to which these racists are deeply embedded withinthe Labour grassroots.

Apart from Hindus, Jains and Sikhs, most who stand with our Jewish friends, it was telling to see some from the BAME community pandering to the Islamists.

Can you imagine, we have reached the day when Europeans, with their colonised slaves, marchtogether on the streets of Europe against Israel! Yes, this is the very Europe that turned a blind eye whilst Germans committed the genocide of Jews. Back then we said never again, how shallow was that promise to our Jewish friends who today find themselvesliving in fear, again. But this time they also face attacks from some morally questionable people from the BAME community.

Whilst Keir may well be clever enough to make the right call, I suspect there are many in his party who hold views that appease the Islamists. Can this nation afford to bring to power such a party? We even had children missing school toprotestagainstIsrael. The Hamas objective of ‘from the river to sea’ becoming the anthem for thehate marchers. The discriminating new age racists have established their woke caliphate.What will it take for people to wake up to the threat that we ALL face from our very own who in their deluded woke world, champion the cause of the very people who wish us harm?

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Labour selects London’s Deputy Mayor Rajesh Agrawal as their parliamentary candidate in Leicester East Leicester East was Keith Vaz’s constituency for 25 years, before he stood down as an MP London's Deputy Mayor for Business, Rajesh Agrawal, born in Indore, has been selected as Labour Party’s parliamentary candidate in Leicester East by defeating another Indian-origin candidate Cllr Rishi Madlani in the local parliamentary contest.

Announcing his selection on social media, Agrawal expressed honour and the desire to reset Leicester East with a focus on delivering for all residents. Endorsed by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, he plans to continue championing ideals from his role as Deputy Mayor for Business, aiming to replicate successes in Leicester East.

“I’m honoured to be selected as the Labour Party’s Parliamentary candidate for Leicester East,” Agrawal posted on X. “It’s time to use this auspicious moment to reset Leicester East, with a Labour MP who’ll deliver for everyone who lives here. let’s get Britain’s future back,” he said.

“As London’s Deputy Mayor for Business, I’ve flown the British flag and championed our ideals around the world, attracting

Rajesh Agarwal with Mayor Sadiq Khan at Shree Swaminarayan Temple, Kingsbury

hundreds of millions in international investment, creating hundreds of thousands more jobs and giving over 255,000 people better employment conditions. I’ll bring similar successes to Leicester East and make sure it gets its fair share,” reads his mission statement. He reflects on his migrant journey 22 years ago when he arrived in the UK from India with little in his pocket and went on to set up a successful fintech business.

“As a fintech entrepreneur, I built a team that challenged the status quo by lowering the cost of moving money for migrant workers and businesses alike. I’m passionate about entrepreneurship and opportunity. It’s why I’m

standing to become your next Labour MP for Leicester East because I believe there’s a Labour way to grow our economy; one that’s pro-worker and proemployer too,” Agrawal said.

Agrawal, 46, vows to represent the diverse constituency as a member of Parliament for all residents of a constituency that represents one of the largest South Asian origin populations in the UK. He emphasised his commitment to economic growth and social issues.

Reflecting on his migrant journey, Agrawal, who arrived in the UK 22 years ago, highlighted his entrepreneurial success in fintech. He aspires to bring a "Labour way" of economic growth that supports both

workers and employers.

Priorities include championing Leicester's economy, addressing the cost-of-living crisis, and promoting affordable housing.

While acknowledging the challenges of his predecessors, such as Keith Vaz and Claudia Webbe, Agrawal remains determined to navigate the political landscape and serve the constituents effectively. The next general election is anticipated in 2024.

Agrawal has been an ardent supporter in the com-

L-R CB Patel, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar, Lord Rami Ranger and Rajesh Agrawal at the 19th Asian Achievers Awards organised by ABPL Group where the latter won the Editor's Award for Public Services

munity in championing Leicester’s economy, helping residents with the cost-ofliving crisis and creating affordable homes among his top priorities. Before starting

his Deputy Mayoral role, he was a key contributor, and columnist in Asian Voice and his business regularly supported ABPL group’s various initiatives and campaigns.

MP Vara pays tribute to those who died from UK and Subcontinent of India to mark Armistice Day The Rt Hon Shailesh Vara MP has paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives to ensure that Britain remained a free country.

In the House of Commons Garden of Remembrance, Mr Vara paid tribute to the brave men and women by placing two poppies.

One to honour those who died from Britain and the other, with the Om sign, for those who died from the subcontinent of

India.

The photos show the two poppies as well as Mr

Vara placing them and paying his respects to the fallen.

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25 Nov - 1 Dec 2023

Hamish Morjaria’s powerful blend of ancient Indian history and conspiracy theories Subhasini Naicker Businessman turned author, Hamish Morjaria announced the acquisition of “The Harveen Gill Mysteries” under the publication company Pac Macmillan. It is a trilogy series rooted in ancient Indian history that blends conspiracy theories.

The Muziris Empire is the first book in the series and is slated for a summer 2024 publication. The Da Vinci Code meets The Magicians of Mazda in this enthralling alchemy of mythology, science, religion and cryptography, told across three interweaving perspectives, moving back and forth in time and set in presentday Kerala, which was once home to the ancient city of Muziris.

Talking to Asian Voice, Morjaria discusses South Asian history, cultural authenticity and representation of diversity in the UK's literary scene. an you tell us about your book and what are the key themes you have explored?

The Muziris Empire is the first of an edge-of-the-seat trilogy rooted in ancient Indian history that blends conspiracy theories and ancient secrets, as ambitious Indian archaeologist Dr Harveen Gill races to make the discovery of a lifetime.

Harveen leads her team of Indian archaeologists to the ruins of the lost empire of Muziris.

Things come to a head when she makes an amazing discovery. In another part of the world, Don Clemente in Rome, soon-to-behead of Santa Alleanza, a sacred alliance founded to safeguard the interests of the Vatican and the Papacy, is keenly watching the Indian team’s progress, for their next discovery could shake the very foundations of the Church. The book explores to what lengths will Don, a guardian of the Church, go to fetter the patrons of science.

Will Harveen unearth the truth, or will she be forever silenced?

The narrative intricately weaves through remarkable chapters of Indian history, shedding light on lesser-known aspects from its era as a pivotal

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global trading hub. The book will be released by Pan Macmillan in May 2024. ow do you maintain cultural authenticity and historical facts while also taking creative liberties in your writing?

In my formative years, English, RE, Geography, and History lessons opened a gateway to the world—exploring English monarchs, Roman and Greek empires, and their cultural advancements. Despite a North London school with over half Asian pupils, my cultural background lacked representation.

Decades later, helping my children, I found textbooks still lacking diversity. This led to the creation of the Muziris Empire story, aiming to introduce a more inclusive and diverse perspective to historical narratives.

While the primary characters in the book are fictional, the narrative grounds itself in factual accuracy by anchoring to real places and historical dates.

Specifically, the portrayal of the port of Muziris remains steeped in historical authenticity, supported by documented evidence from sources like Pliny the Elder and trading documents such as the 'Muziris Papyrus.' Maintaining authenticity holds cultural paramount importance in my work, especially in portraying the interconnectedness of South Asians with the global community.

As I endeavour to craft thrilling adventures, this remains a constant guiding principle, consistently at the forefront of my creative process. ow important is diversity and representation of South Asian voices in the UK's literary scene?

The representation of South Asian voices holds immense significance, particularly in shaping the understanding of our diaspora for the upcoming generation. It serves as a platform to inspire fellow South Asians to explore creative paths often overshadowed by conventional careers.

In the UK, there's an unprecedented surge in South

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Hamish Morjaria

Asian-authored books, offering diverse narratives across various genres. The rise of self-publishing and high-quality independent presses has contributed significantly to this proliferation.

Notably, authors like Vaseem Khan, Kia Abdullah, and Abir Mukherjee have produced exceptional works, exemplifying the richness and diversity found within South Asian literature today. The critical necessity in this landscape is a monumental bestseller from a South Asian author. Until then, we will continue to see trauma stories that can be marketed for their diversity. hat challenges did you face while writing your debut book?

I came into this process thinking that the literary world would be easy to navigate and the most difficult part would be to write a good book. The facts are very different as publishing is still, in many ways, a very traditional process. The major publishers will only accept submissions from an agent, and the best agents are in high demand often receiving hundreds of manuscripts a week.

Finding an agent to champion my project was the major challenge which required me to edit the original manuscript a several times.

In crafting this series, another primary challenge I encountered was the tendency for early drafts to immerse too deeply in the captivating historical context. My central aim in this project was to maintain utmost fidelity to historical facts while intricately weaving an engaging and thrilling narrative around them.

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Riz Ahmed to produce 'Mustache'

by Imran J. Khan Riz Ahmed and his production company, Left Handed Films, have joined forces with the 2023 SXSW Audience Award-winning project, "Mustache," marking the directorial and screenwriting debut of Imran J. Khan. The collaboration between Ahmed's Left Handed Films and Khan began through the Pillars Artist Fellowship.

In a statement to Deadline, Ahmed and Allie Moore of LeftHanded Films expressed their immediate admiration for Khan upon their initial connection. They described Khan as "the real deal," citing his visual flair, quirky humor, and emotionally resonant vision. The duo characterised "Mustache" as the film the industry needs at this moment, praising it as a classic teen film from a unique perspective seldom explored.

Describing the project as an

"undeniable crowd-pleaser" and Khan as an "irresistible and unique new voice," Ahmed and Moore conveyed their excitement about bringing "Mustache" to a wider audience. They highlighted the film's ability to transport viewers back to the awkward, humorous, and poignant moments of adolescence that shape individuals.

Khan expressed gratitude for Left Handed Films' support for emerging artists and thanked Riz Ahmed for partnering on "Mustache."

He conveyed to continue eagerness collaborating with Ahmed and Allie Moore to share this special film with audiences worldwide.

The collaboration underscores Ahmed's commitment to supporting and promoting emerging talent in the film industry through Left Handed Films.

Indhu Rubasingham announces final season at Kiln Theatre As "Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)" kicks off, Kiln Theatre's Artistic Director, Indhu Rubasingham, has unveiled her final season for the company, concluding her impactful 12-year leadership at the North West London institution.

Reflecting on this moment, Rubasingham expressed a mix of emotions, stating, "Tinged with many emotions, I am proud to share my final season at Kiln Theatre." The season commences

Indhu Rubasingham

with a comedic production by the acclaimed Spymonkey company, in collaboration with Royal & Derngate, adapting Aristophanes' "The Frogs."

Following this, Kiln Theatre embarks on an exciting collaboration with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), set to be revealed in the upcoming season announcement by Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey.

Rubasingham anticipates the significance of Kiln's participation in this pivotal moment and eagerly awaits further details when the RSC shares its plans.

The season also features two world premieres of Kiln commissions by remarkable voices, Samuel Adamson and Suhaiymah Mansoor Khan.

Samuel Adamson's "The Ballad of Hattie and James," directed by

Richard Twyman in partnership with ETT, and Suhaiymah Mansoor Khan's debut play, "Peanut Butter & Blueberries," complete the lineup.

Rubasingham highlighted the fitting conclusion to her tenure with debut plays, emphasizing her commitment to providing a platform for diverse voices expressing perspectives and insights. She thanked the audience for their support during her time as Artistic Director and looked forward to their experience of these diverse worlds at Kiln Theatre.

Priority booking for Kiln Card holders is now open for "The Frogs," "The Ballad of Hattie and James," and "Peanut Butter & Blueberries," with general sales starting at 12 pm on Tuesday, November 14th.

Krishnan Guru-Murthy eliminated from 'Strictly Come Dancing’ Krishan Guru-Murthy, the Channel 4 broadcaster, has become the seventh celebrity to exit the popular celebrity dance reality show, Strictly Come Dancing 2023.

His elimination occurred after he finished at the bottom of the leaderboard on Saturday with a score of 25 out of 40 for his Samba to Bamboléo by Gipsy Kings.

Angela Rippon, 79 years old, secured a higher public vote,

leading to the dance-off between the two contestants.

In the dance-off, the judges— Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, and Anton Du Beke— decided to save Rippon and her partner Kai Widdrington, who performed a Paso doble to Madonna’s “Hung Up.” This decision led to Guru-Murthy's elimination, despite head judge Shirley Ballas expressing that she

would have saved him.

Following his elimination, Guru-Murthy expressed being "heartbroken" and shared a lengthy post on the social media platform X. However, the decision sparked controversy among Strictly fans, with some accusing the show of favouring Rippon, the oldest contestant in the show's history, to ensure her advancement to Blackpool.

British filmmaker gets IFFI opening British filmmaker Stuart Gatt, whose film "Catching Dust" inaugurated the 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), expressed the significance of sharing his work with the Indian audience.

The desert drama, featuring Erin Moriarty, Jai Courtney, Dina Shihabi, Ryan Corr, Jose Altit, Gary

Fannin, and Olwen Fouere, unfolds in the isolated landscape of Texas’ Big Bend and was showcased at the INOX multiplex in Panaji.

"Catching Dust" revolves around a lone trailer on an abandoned commune in the isolation of Texas’ Big Bend, serving as an involuntary refuge for Geena and her criminal husband, Clyde.

Gatt, who is of half-Indian heritage with his mother originating from South India, acknowledged the amazing response from the audience at the film festival.

The film's screening at IFFI marked a significant moment for Gatt, reinforcing the global reach and impact of cinematic storytelling.

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MIRA SHAH ON THE THRILLS BEHIND “HER” D

aughter of Indian African parents, Mira V Shah is a former City lawyer turned writer. “Her” is her first-ever novel which she wrote in 2020 during the first UK lockdown.

The #1 bestseller, HER was published in ebook and audio in March 2023 with the paperback was recently released on November 20, 2023.

“Her” explores the story of two- women: Rani and Natalie. Rani, who always felt like an outsider, imagines owning the beautiful house across the street, recently put up for sale, while living in a tiny rented flat. When Natalie, with her lavish lifestyle, adoring husband, and highpowered job, moves in, Rani is drawn to her, but as they become friends, she questions if Natalie's seemingly perfect life is too good to be true.

In an interview with Asian Voice, Mira discusses her novel and the art of writing psychological thrillers. an you provide a brief overview of "Her"?

I would describe “Her” as a psychological drama/domestic noir set on a North London suburban street about two young women in their twenties, Rani and Natalie, who strike up an unexpected friendship that leads to chilling consequences.

While the novel explores many different themes like flawed perception, trauma, grief, racial prejudice, and class, at its heart it is a

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story centred on the nuances ferent to the published verand complexities of female sion. I’m a character-driven friendship. writer rather than a plot-driven one, which I understand is hat inspired you to write rare for thriller/suspense writthis psychological ers. I never plan chapters thriller? before writing. All I have are “Her” is inspired by differthe main characters, general ent threads of my life. After themes, the setting, and an losing my mother in my late idea for an opening. This teens, I wanted to explore the means that I find out what subject of loneliness in young happens in the novel in real people, which is rarely spoken time as I’m writing it – and about. Your twenties are supoften my characters take me posed to be an exciting period Mira V Shah to some very dark places! of discovery and growth, but re there any authors, books, or films that for many people, myself includinfluenced your writing? ed, it can be bitterly isolating Unlike many writers, I have never studand stifling. On the surface, my ied creative writing and learnt the art of stoprotagonists Rani and Natalie rytelling organically through books, TV drahave very little in common. mas and films. I read widely, and often outBut what unites them is their side my genre. Literary fiction is great for crippling loneliness. interesting character observations – think I started writing the novel Elizabeth Strout, Elena Ferrante, Zadie that became “Her” while livSmith and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. ing in a tiny flat during the Women’s fiction is brilliant for relatable pandemic. Writing became a themes and trends – Lianne Moriarty and means of escaping from the Sally Hepworth are favourites of mine. I read uncertainty of the world and a lot of character-driven thrillers too, particwhen reality felt confined ularly those that explore the darker side of and limited. This experience ordinary people – Lisa Jewell and Sabine inspired the tense claustroDurrant do this extremely well. I’m also phobia and voyeurism seen influenced by diverse novels that steer away throughout the novel. from stereotypes and create underrepresentow do you approach ed characters with agency – Kia Abdullah crafting suspense and and Celeste Ng are huge inspirations. maintaining a sense of ow do you aim to connect with your mystery? readers, and what do you hope they take Crafting suspense and away from the experience of reading "Her"? maintaining a sense of mystery is primarily In “Her” I hoped to create main characabout pacing – deciding the best points in ters who feel like real people, and whose lives your novel to slow the pace down or create a continue off the page. They may not always faster pace that puts the reader on the edge be likeable, and readers may judge them and of their seat. the decisions they make, but I hope my charThe original draft of “Her” was very difPhoto credit Mark Solon

Anusha Singh

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Girls lead the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Prize On November 16, Queen Camilla hosted a reception for the winners of The Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Prize, a prestigious competition with a remarkable 140-year history, dating back to Queen Victoria's reign.

Organized by the Royal Commonwealth Society (RCS), the 2023 edition of the competition saw an impressive record of 34,924 entries. The winners included Siddhi Deshmukh in the senior category and Shreeya Sahi in the junior category, with runners-up Yong Sin Kong and Mitali Ragtah. Notably, all the finalists hailed from India and Malaysia.

Established in 1883, the Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition (QCEC) holds the distinction of being the world's oldest international schools' writing contest.

Over the past decade, the RCS reported that

Queen Camila with the winners

the competition has actively involved approximately 140,000 young people, over 5,000 schools, and numerous volunteer judges from across the Commonwealth.

The event continues to be a significant platform for fostering literary talent and encouraging cultural exchange among the youth within the Commonwealth.

Gujarati entrepreneur named finalist for National Business Women's Awards Nikita Thakrar, a British-born The DNC Dance and Yoga entrepreneur, emerged as a finalStudio earned a spot on the ist at the National Business shortlist for the 'Service Women's Awards 2023 held at Excellence' award, a recogniHilton Hotel, Wembley on tion attributed to their outNovember 15th. standing 100% 5-star reviews, These awards celebrate the high customer satisfaction, achievements of female and continual impact in the entrepreneurs across the UK, realms of dance and yoga. acknowledging their significant Catering to students spanning contributions to their respective ages 4 to 74, the studio is affecindustries. In 2005, Nikita tionately referred to as a 'home founded her dance company, away from home' by its stuNikita Thakrar DNC, and in 2011, she estabdents, fostering a sense of lished the DNC studio in Slough, Berkshire. community and promoting Indian culture.

With over 100 weekly students learning Nikita expressed gratitude for the national Classical Indian Kathak dance and Yoga, the recognition she has received. She is also a studio also serves as a space for workshops public speaker and author, with her debut and retreats hosted by various teachers and book titled 'Meditation through Poetry' practitioners. recently published.

acters remain relatable. I hope readers become invested in them enough to care what happens to them and to keep turning those pages.

I also wanted to show that it is possible to create a fast-paced, twisty, and entertaining novel whilst simultaneously exploring profound themes such as racial prejudice, trauma, grief, and loneliness. And if my novel lives on in readers’ heads after they’ve turned the final page then that is a huge bonus. ere there any particular challenges you faced while writing the book?

“Her” is the first novel I have ever written or even attempted. So, the main challenges I faced when writing the first draft was overcoming self-doubt and accountability in terms of keeping going when I had no confirmation that what I was writing showed any promise. While most first novels are semiautobiographical, allowing the writer to draw on their own life experiences, I also explored themes in the novel that I have no personal experience of. This was particularly challenging as I wanted to write from a place of authenticity and do justice to these very real experiences. Sometimes this involved desk research. Other times, I was able to speak to people and delve into these subjects in more detail.

Can you provide any hints or insights into your future projects?

My second novel, “The House Sitter” will be published in June 2024. I’m currently juggling the editing stages with a demanding full-time job and a busy family life. I would describe it as a locked-room family drama with a twist, set in a picturesque yet isolated region of rural Italy.

I’m also in the early stages of planning my third novel – currently unnamed. I hope to explore themes of trauma, the infallibility of memory and revenge, as well as tapping into the current true crime trend.

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First Minister announces New Grant Thornton South Asia Business Wales and India initiative for 2024 Group illuminates London with at Diwali celebrations in Cardiff Diwali celebrations Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford announced plans for a new Welsh and India economic initiative next year at the official Indian government Diwali event in Cardiff on 8 November.

Speaking at the event at Glamorgan Cricket club in Pontcanna, the 69-year-old Labour politician revealed the details for the Year of Wales in India 2024 which aims to create even greater economic and cultural ties between the two nations.

The launch is due to take

First Minister Mark Drakeford, Economy Minister Vaughan Gething, Health Minister Baroness Eluned Morgan, Indian Honorary Consul Raj Aggarwal and Deputy High Commissioner of India to the UK, Sujit Ghosh in Cardiff

Drummers at Diwali in Cardiff

place in India around St David’s Day (1st March 2024) and other events are planned in a number of cities including Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru.

The First Minister was joined by Health Minister Baroness Eluned Morgan, Economy Minister Vaughan Gething, Deputy High Commissioner Shri Sujit Ghosh, who all spoke at the event which was organised

by Indian Honorary Consul Raj Aggarwal.

The packed Diwali celebration was attended by hundreds of guests and included some exuberant festivities, with traditional Indian music, dancing and food.

Speaking at the event Indian Honorary Consul Raj Aggarwal voiced his excitement for the forthcoming initiatives.

Raj Aggarwal said, "We are looking forward to organising several events in India next year to build even

stronger links between our two nations. The main themes for these meetings will include trade and investment, education, culture and health. This is a great opportunity to consolidate our relationships to ensure greater cooperation in the coming years."

And he added, "I'm also glad to see Indian students here tonight who attend all the eight universities in Wales. There are currently over 2,200 Indian students studying for degrees at Welsh Universities and increase of over 200% since 2016, which brings in around £200m of revenue to our educational establishments. I myself was a graduate of Cardiff University and I owe so much to the education I received in this country."

The event was also attended by several representatives from major Indian companies in Wales, as well as some Indian start-ups.

Indian Diaspora in the UK and Love Slough lights up Slough High Street with Diwali Parade The Indian Diaspora in the UK (IDUK Group), in partnership with Love Slough (Slough BID), hosted a vibrant Diwali Parade at Slough High Street, attracting hundreds of people to join the celebration of the spectacular Diwali festival.

The event was followed by mesmerising dance perfor-

mances, that added to the festive atmosphere.

The celebration occurred on 11 November 2023. The event started at the meeting point outside O2 on the High Street in Slough. The Town Centre came alive with vibrant colours and enchanting music during the extraordinary Diwali Parade. Over

ten drum players from Dhol Beats UK also participated in the parade to make it filled with desi music, and people could not stop dancing to the beats of drums, creating a truly immersive experience for all attendees.

The event’s highlight was the lively Diwali Parade, bringing together individuals from various back-

grounds to celebrate the festival of lights. With the theme “Come & Celebrate the festival of lights with us and be part of a vibrant community as we come together to spread joy and positivity,” the event aimed to foster unity and harmony among diverse communities.

Following the parade, dance enthusiasts gathered at the Queensmere Observatory Shopping Centre for an enchanting dance performance for one hour. The performances showcased the community’s rich cultural heritage and artistic talent, captivating the audience with vibrant displays.

Grant Thornton's Finsbury Square office and surrounding in London sparkled with the vibrant hues of Diwali on 7 November, enveloping attendees in the jubilant spirit of the festival.

The distinguished presence of Her Excellency, Ugandan High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Nimisha Madhvani, added a luminous touch to the evening's celebrations. Noteworthy speeches delivered by Anuj Chande OBE and Lord Karan Bilimoria resonated deeply, imparting inspira-

Lord Bilimoria, Her Excellency, Ugandan High Commissioner to the UK, Nimisha Madhvani, Anuj Chanda and guest

rance. In these troubled times for the world, Diwali brings some hope for peace.”

Lord Billimoria added, “Diwali, the festival of lights,

The Akshayapatra kiosk

tion amidst a delightful backdrop of Indian delicacies. The ambiance, adorned with beautiful rangoli and glowing diyas, created a truly magical atmosphere.

Reflecting on the event, Anuj Chande said, “We were delighted to host our friends, clients, and contacts on 7 November at our London offices to celebrate Diwali and to thank them all for their support over the last year. Diwali symbolises the triumph of good over evil, lightness over darkness, and knowledge over igno-

represents the victory of good over evil and light over darkness. The lamps we light signify our hope for health, peace, and prosperity in the year ahead. With the global situation in such turmoil, the spirit of Diwali is ever more important. I wish you all a happy Diwali and a prosperous new year.”

The event served as a meeting point for dignitaries, clients, and friends from the UK-India business landscape, embodying the sentiment of "Atithi Devo Bhav" (the guest is

equivalent to God). Indian companies play a pivotal role in the UK economy, both in terms of investment and trade. The 10th Grant Thornton-CII India Meets Britain report 2023 highlights the UK as a prime market for Indian businesses, underscoring the robust economic partnership between the two nations against the backdrop of recent global economic developments.

The Akshaypatra kiosk stood out, showcasing gift boxes in support of underprivileged children. This heartfelt gesture added a special touch, brightening their Diwali celebrations.

The event spotlighted the unity and joy of Diwali, underscoring the importance of UK-India collaborations. Anticipated UKIndia Free Trade Agreement prospects, expected this year, signal further Indian growth in the UK. With the Indian economy poised to be the world's third-largest by 2030, two-way trade and investment between India and the UK are set to surge. photo credit: Raj D Bakrania, PrMediapix

Diwali celebrations at Kenton On November 8th, the Kenton Area Traders' Association, chaired by Mr Ketan Mandalia, organised a festive lights switch-on event on Kenton Road.

Attendees included local residents, businesses, councillors, Kenton's Safer Neighbourhood Team officers, and pupils from three Kenton schools. The choirs of St Gregory's Catholic Science College, Uxendon Manor Primary School, and The Mount Stewart Schools sang festive songs and performed Diwali dances. The Mayor of Brent, Cllr Orleen Hylton and the Mayor of Harrow, Cllr Ramji Chauhan jointly led the community countdown to illuminate the festive lights extending festive season wishes.

“Ghar wali Diwali” in Glasgow Dr Rashmi Mantri, the Director of the British Youth International College, organised a Diwali celebration in Glasgow, bringing a sense of “Ghar wali Diwali” to the community. The event featured cultural programs, vibrant decorations with lights and diyas, and a delectable spread prepared by the head chef, Manoj Maheswari. Abhishek Vijayvargiya and Pooja Vijay co-hosted the Diwali Utsav. Special gratitude was extended to the chief guests, Mr. Andrew Lal (in association with Glasgow Hindu Mandir) and Mr. Harminder Berman, for their participation in lighting the Diyas.

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DR S JAISHANKAR CALLS ON THE DIASPORA TO PROUDLY TELL THE STORY OF ‘A NEW INDIA’ The External Affairs Minister visits Neasden Temple, hosts Diwali reception for the diaspora, meets Cabinet and Shadow Cabinet Ministers during his 5-day visit Dr S Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister of India, and wife Kyoko Jaishankar visited UK for 5 days over Diwali. The Minister spent Sunday 12 November evening with UK PM Rishi Sunak and wife Akshata Murty at No 10.

Later the Minister thanked Mr Sunak and wife for their generous hospitality on a tweet and also visited Neasden Temple, where he and wife performed the abhishek of Shri Nilkanth Varni Maharaj.

During his visit, Minister Jaishankar met various Cabinet and

EAM Dr S Jaishankar and HE Vikram Doraiswami, with journalists Naomi Canton, Rupanjana Dutta, Nabanita Sircar, Danish Khan, Ruhi Khan, Sanjay Suri, Aditi Khanna and Sriram Lakshman

peace and intricate architecture while learning about the contributions of the Mandir and wider fellow-

Dr Jaishankar’s press conference with journalists at India House along with High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami Photo credit: Simon Walker/No 10 Downing Street

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak meets the Minister of External Affairs of India Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and his wife Kyoko Jaishankar at 10 Downing Street.

Shadow Cabinet Ministers including the newly appointed Foreign Secretary David Cameron, where a range of regional issues including the RussiaUkraine and the IsraelHamas conflict in West Asia were discussed. He also met UK Home Secretary James Cleverly and National Security Adviser (NSA) Tim Barrow where India's concerns about pro-Khalistan extremism and its impact on the safety of its diplomats in the country were among the topics addressed during his meetings.

Opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer and Shadow Secretary David Lammy also met EAM Dr S Jaishankar, in efforts for the Labour party to interact with the Indian government and build a relationship, lost over the past years. The Minister met former PM Tony Blair too, discussing bilateral ties, the West Asia situation and Africa.

He was also gifted with a cricket bat by PM Sunak with signature from England's cricket team players.

Visit to Neasden Temple Minister Jaishankar attended BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London, popularly known as Neasden Temple on Sunday 12 November 2023 to celebrate the festival of Diwali with British Hindus and the Indian diaspora.

Dr Jaishankar was traditionally welcomed by senior swamis and trustees of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha after which they proceeded on a brief tour of the Mandir, spending several minutes absorbing its

ship to British society.

The couple also performed the abhishek of Shri Nilkanth Varni Maharaj, the teenage form of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, before addressing the assembly in the prayer hall.

The BAPS Mandir in

tion for the diaspora at the Central Hall Westminster.

In his 30 mins speech, he spoke about a ‘new India’, and a relationship of “equals” between UK-India, under the capable leadership of the Indian Prime Minister and his various initiatives - the technological and socio-economic developments in India including the success of PM Modi’s Millet promotion campaign.

Describing the bilateral

Dr Jaishankar addressing the diaspora at Diwali reception in presence of Lord Tariq Ahmad and Indian High Commissioner HE Vikram Doraiswami

London was the first traditional Hindu temple outside of India and is the largest in Europe. It has served as a radiant embodiment of India’s values in the heart of the UK for almost 30 years. Dr Jaishankar drew upon these contributions and commented, “A large part of the image of India is what happens in India, but a large part of it is what each one of you (Indian diaspora) does every day – in your work, in your living, in your neighbourhood, and in your activities.

The Indian community abroad is our real strength, so once again, I thank you all for everything that you do every day. That is what really defines India. I am blessed that I am with you here today.”

Meeting with the diaspora On Monday 13 November, EAM Dr S Jaishankar hosted a recep-

relationship with the UK as a 'positive force', Dr Jaishankar told UK’s Indian diaspora to spread the story of the new India and called the community as the ‘motivator’ for bilateral ties.

He spoke about the strengths of the UK-India relationship and how it could better contemporary technology, or help in greater manufacturing, science and innovation, and how it can also promote pluralism, democracy, respect for diversity in the world.

While the much-anticipated Free Trade Agreement (FTA) under Roadmap 2030 between the UK and India is yet to reach its concluding stage, what Dr Jaishankar called ‘a landing point that works for both’, reportedly added, “India and the UK have a long history, and a very complex history. What we

are trying to do is to make history a positive force with our commonalities, shared practices and institutions… to make history work for us.”

Repatriation of 8th century temple idols On the final day of his visit, the Minister presided over a repatriation ceremony in India House for two 8th-century temple idols -

Yogvivekdas Swami, Head Swami of Neasden Temple welcomes Dr S Jaishankar

Yogini Chamunda and Yogini Gomukhi, that were stolen from a temple in Lokhari, Uttar Pradesh, India between late 1970s and early 80s. They were recovered by the Indian High Commission with the help of India Pride Project and Art Recovery International. Dr Jaishankar unveiled the idols at the Sardar Patel Hall, India House and said that he looked forward to their return of the idols to their own home country (India).

This was followed by a press conference where he discussed various topics including the Khalistani problems in the UK. The Minister referred to his conversation with former Foreign Secretary James Cleverly regarding Khalistan and violent protests outside India

House. He said, “We have been trying to get the government here to understand that while we as a fellow democracy certainly understand the importance of freedom of expression, and of speech, they should be on guard against the misuse of these freedoms.”

He assured that the gravity of the situation was sharply recognised by the UK officials and the Indian government has made it clear that a “firm stance against the advocacy of violence and extremism” should be taken and India expected its UK’s diplomatic mission be provided with the requisite protection.

Dr Jaishankar's final engagement was an in-conversation session at London's Royal Overseas League organised by Wilton Park.

Rt Hon Shailesh Vara MP celebrates Diwali in Parliament Members of Peterborough's Bharat Hindu Samaj were recently invited to a reception in the House of Commons to celebrate Diwali.

They were invited by their local Member of Parliament, the Rt Hon Shailesh Vara MP, whose constituency of North West Cambridgeshire includes the southern half of Peterborough city.

On this important occasion, candles were lit to mark the triumph of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance and light over darkness.

Following the reception, Mr Vara said, "I was very pleased to welcome to Parliament members from my local Hindu community for this very important Hindu festival.

The message of the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness is highly appropriate given all the problems that the

Rt Hon Shailesh Vara MP with members of Peterborough's Bharat Hindu Samaj

world faces today."

Kishor Ladwa, President of the Bharat Hindu Samaj added, “On behalf of Peterborough’s Bharat Hindu Samaj I would like to thank Mr Shailesh Vara for looking after us so well on our recent visit to Parliament.

It was a lovely occasion and an opportunity to celebrate Diwali with people from other parts of the UK, with candles

being lit to wish for a better future for all of us."

Vishal Vichare, who also attended the reception commented, "Diwali is a special occasion for Hindus and it was a great privilege to be able to celebrate it in the magnificent setting of the Palace of Westminster. It was a wonderful evening as Hindus pray for a better future in these troubled times."

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Leader of the Opposition Sir Keir Starmer Akshata Murty pays homage to Karnataka's visits BAPS Swaminarayan Temple for Diwali heritage with her 'Gandaberunda' necklace The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer MP, Leader of the Opposition and the Labour Party, visited BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, London on Monday 13 November 2023 to celebrate the festival of Diwali.

The visit underscored Sir Keir’s commitment to engaging with diverse communities and celebrating

Sir Keir Starmer warmly greeted and welcomed by Tyagvallabhdas Swami

cultural events that enrich the fabric of British society and he was welcomed with traditional marks of goodwill by senior swamis and trustees of the Temple.

During his time at the Temple, Sir Keir immersed himself in the Diwali festivities, joining in ceremonial prayers and experiencing the warmth of the community spirit. He also engaged with young and senior volunteers of the Temple and learned of its various contributions to the community.

After arriving in the assembly hall, Mr Starmer addressed the congregation.

He said: “I stand in awe of the celebrations here and the selfless seva of thousands of volunteers – working with such care and commitment to make this iconic occasion a reality. Their extraordinary efforts do not go unnoticed. A temple of

Sir Keir Starmer admires the Annakut display with Jitubhai Patel, Chairman of BAPS UK & Europe

Sir Keir Starmer perform the holy waving of the lamp

my admiration and respect for everything you do for our country. Quite simply, the UK would be diminished in so many ways without you.”

Dr Mayank Shah, a trustee and volunteer at the Temple, added, “We were honoured to have Sir Keir Starmer with us at Neasden Temple today during such an auspicious time of the year. We appreciate the time

Yogvivekdas Swami, Head Swami of Neasden Temple and Sir Keir Starmer performing Abhishek ceremony of Shri Nilkanth Varni

this scale and perfection and the spirit of limitless sacrifice and dedication that animates it does not come about by chance. Neasden Temple is a beacon of compassion and harmony for everyone – regardless of creed or background [and] an integral part of the religious and cultural landscape of Great Britain. To British Indians, I want to express

he took out to join the local community of British Hindus in celebrating and reinforcing key Hindu values such as family respect, civic duty, and public service – values which are also quintessentially British values.”

Sir Keir departed the assembly after receiving a special gift representing fulfilment and auspiciousness.

South East London’s biggest Diwali Mela attracts thousands in joyful celebration A fantastic Diwali Mela event was held in Bexley, attended by thousands of people, of all ages and backgrounds who came together to enjoy food, dance, music and an incredible million ‘Diya room’ on 11 October.

The free annual celebration held by the award-winning charity Yog

Cultural performance

Foundation, was a huge success and was attended by local MP Louie French who was thrilled to welcome Southeast Londoners of all

Members of Yog Foundation and guests

faiths, from as far wide as Kent, to this unique celebration of the Festival of Lights with those in attendance ensuring the occasion became a shining example of our city’s unity and strength in diversity.

Key highlights included performances by children as young as 7 years, a virtual reality experience of Lord Hanuman and a nonstop recital of Hanuman Chalisa by members of the community. A wonderful array of delicious, volunteer prepared food offered as a mountain of food was also on display. The food was

then offered as prasad to the attendees.

Yog Foundation runs free activities in the borough including health and wellbeing activities for residents, from their current hired spaces in Townley Grammar School. The charity has quickly become a nationally recognised organisation through activities and initiatives to help promote and maintain the rich cultural heritage of Hindus - with all activities offered free of charge along with humanitarian efforts through charitable initiatives.

Wearing the 'Gandaberunda' necklace during Diwali in the UK, Akshata Murty paid homage to Karnataka's heritage.

The necklace features the two-headed bird, a symbol deeply rooted in Mysuru's history for over 500 years. As the daughter of Infosys founder Narayana Murthy and philanthropist Sudha Murty, Akshata's choice celebrated the state emblem, resonating with Hindu mythology where the 'Gandaberunda' represents Lord Vishnu. Originating

from the Vijayanagara Empire, it became Mysuru's insignia, symbolizing over five centuries of royal history. The mythical bird, asso-

ciated with magical strength, graces temple sculptures across India, making Akshata's cultural tribute significant.

Points of Light recognition for Go Dharmic founders Hanuman Dass and Sheena Randerwala received the Points of Light Award on November 8, 2023, at 10 Downing Street, in acknowledgement of their outstanding commitment as charity leaders and community champions.

The award specifically commends their remarkable contributions through Go Dharmic, a UK and international charity.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan celebrates Diwali at Neasden Temple The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, joined thousands from the local community and further afield at the iconic Neasden Temple to celebrate Diwali, the Hindu ‘Festival of Light’, on Sunday 12 November 2023.

The Temple’s celebrations illustrated an abundance of family values, personal spirituality, and the enduring spirit of community giving, casting a radiant light of hope in these challenging and uncertain times.

Mayor of London offering his respects in the Neasden Temple shrines

Sadiq Khan meeting young visitors

The Mayor’s presence reflected the importance of London’s cultural diversity and communal harmony, and underscored the City’s spirit of inclusivity.

Mr Khan inaugurated the sparkling fireworks display in the evening, which brought a fusion of light and sound into the night skies of north-west London.

Thousands joined for the time-honoured rituals, harmonious sounds of music and sumptuous vegetarian food that provided something for everyone to enjoy.

Inspired by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj’s

spirit of selfless service and charity, the Temple had partnered with The Felix Project to support the provision of fresh fruit and vegetables to local food banks at a time when the cost-of-living crisis is adversely impacting many families.

Sharing his impressions of the Temple’s celebrations, Mr Khan said, “One of the things I love about coming to this Temple is the diversity of people. People from all across the country and all across the world come here to celebrate Diwali.

“I am in awe of what the

Neasden Temple volunteers do. The most joyous thing about your work is not only serving those who are Hindu but everybody – the youth work, the work during the Pandemic, the work to help the elderly, but it is particularly important to help those struggling because of the cost-of-living crisis. The Felix Project is an amazing organisation and an amazing project. It makes me really happy to see the partnership between Neasden Temple and The Felix Project. Making sure others benefit from this generosity makes me incredibly proud.”

In the evening, the Temple paid tribute to heroes from the armed forces who sacrificed their lives in service to their country during times of conflict in a moving Remembrance Sunday assembly attended by several members of the British Army, Western Front Association, Royal British Legion, and various faith communities.

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PM THANKS COMMUNITY FOR BEING HIS INSPIRATION Continued from page 1 On Wednesday 8 November, the same Downing Street looked like a dream as guests queued through the iconic No 10 door to attend Rishi Sunak’s second Diwali reception for the community as the Prime Minister. His first one was 2 days after he became the first ever Indian origin Prime Minister of the UK last year.

The building right from the ground floor to the hall on the first floor, was decorated with plenty of diyas and candles, orange and yellow marigolds from floor to walls to stairs to bannisters, colourful stickon rangolis on the carpeted floors and gorgeous red flowers across the rooms in vases. Even outside the iconic No 10 door there were diyas and rangoli - the very first time in the building’s

PM Sunak with members of His Majesty’s Armed Forces

Hindu temples representing various sects- an idea that Mr Sunak himself was apparently invested in.

The podium had a huge statue of Lord Ganesha on one side, in a garland with diyas, waiting to be lit by the PM. Staff with juices and lassis made rounds, along with Indian canapés by Sanjay Foods. Indian Sweets on rounds included a mix of laddoos, kaju katli among other varieties as well as

Samachar, celebrity and singers/musicians local Navin Kundra, Kishan Amin, Rekesh Chauhan BEM, NISAU Chair Sanam Arora, Trupti Patel of Hindu Forum of Britain, and Hanuman Dass with wife Sheena Randerwala, Founders of Go Dharmic, who received the Points of Light Award along with Dr Mukesh Chugh.

Children from Avanti Court Primary School performed Sanskrit

PM Sunak with wife Akshata, daughters Krishna and Anoushka and family at the Vedic Society Hindu Temple, in Southampton

history.

Inside, at the end of the hallway before the reception entrance stood the First Lady Akshata Murty herself, looking beautiful in a dark pink and golden printed salwar kameez, with matching shoes, bindi and green and golden bangles.

She personally welcomed in everyone to her home, wishing them a Happy Diwali, as guests slowly

sweet hot jalebis with a sprinkle of nuts on top. ho were in attendance?

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In attendance were 150 people including Lord Karan Bilimoria, Lord Kulveer Ranger, Lord and Lady Raj Loomba, Baroness Sandip Verma with husband Ashok Verma, Lord and Lady Dolar Popat, Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt, Rt Hon Theresa Villiers MP,

PM Rishi Sunak meets Dr M N Nandakumara of Bhavan

trickled in, marvelling at the gorgeous decorations, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries with her.

At the reception hall, a huge Annakut was on the display. The centre of it was a beautiful marble statue of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman that belonged to the home of Lord and Lady Dolar Popat in London’s suburbs.

The Annakut on display that included delectable sweets and savouries were contributed by several

Conservative Friends of India co-chairs Cllr Ameet Jogia MBE with wife Priya Jatania and Cllr Reena Ranger OBE, Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami, Dr M N Nandakumara MBE from Bhavan, Bollywood actor Preity Zinta, Akshay Kumar with wife Twinkle Khanna, Vishakha Dasi from Bhaktivedanta Manor, Sanjay Kara from BAPS Swaminarayan Temple Neasden, CB Patel, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of Asian Voice and Gujarat

particularly one of the largest temples in the UK, who as you all know are celebrating their 50th anniversary this year. I'm delighted that their President Vishakha Dasi is here with us today. Thank you to all the volunteers, of course, an incredibly special time for all of us at home with our families. But for me now, it also brings back amazing memories of becoming Prime Minister this time last year is up to the set.”

He further added, “Many of you have been asking me and people do what's this last year been like. And I say look, it's been a year of incredibly hard work, some real progress, and of course memories that will stay with me for the rest of my life. First of all, living out my childhood dream, which was playing cricket

PM Sunak meeting Lord and Lady Popat

chants/shlokas as Mr Sunak and Ms Murty lit the lamps to mark the official beginning of the Diwali celebrations at No 10.

M Sunak and Ms Murty address guests Ms Murty, welcoming and addressing the audience from the podium said, “It's such a special occasion for all of us here. And this reception is extra special for me because last year when

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with the England team in the garden. But probably the less said about the England cricket team is better now.

We will switch to the Indian side of the family.”

Talking about his meeting with two of the iconic world leaders, as the room filled with laughter, Mr Sunak said, “Another incredible memory was sharing my mom's homemade Barfi with

PM Sunak greeting the Avanti Court Primary School students

Rishi became prime minister this was the first reception we hosted. So, it's nice to see so many familiar faces and also some new faces so welcome.”

Mr Sunak said, “Happy Diwali. It's a great pleasure and a privilege to welcome you all here. But let's start by thanking the children from Avanti Court Primary School for leading us in our direction tonight. But also thank you to all the Mandirs who have so generously contributed to the Annakut display next door, and

President Vladimir Zelensky when he visited at Chequers.

My mom was so excited when I told her about that, that she then said she should probably ship more Barfi to him. So, when we hear that he's been taken down with diabetes, we’ll know!”

Speaking about his visit to G20 in India, as Britain’s first ever Indian-origin PM he added, “Then it was an incredible moment actually to go to India for the G20 as the first British Indian Prime Minister, be there for

Rishi Sunak and wife Akshata with faith leaders, temple representatives and community stalwarts

India's big moment on the world stage with Modi ji and that was a very special moment. I think for all of us, saw what had who happened to India's development over the two years it was a proud moment for everyone. And it was an incredible success.”

Speaking about his challenging job for the last one year, he further said, “But in all honesty, as I look back over the last year in this

the next generation first.

And looking around this room. We should be filled similarly, with hope and ambition. Because here we are, with many of you standing together, all of whom are making incredible contributions to your communities up and down the country. It is an inspiring thing to stand here with all of you. And what better way to celebrate this Diwali with the brilliant people in this

Lord and Lady Loomba, singer Navin Kundra, Dina Ladwa, Alpesh Patel, Ugandan Ambassador Nimisha Madhvani, Rupanjana Dutta, Managing Editor, Asian Voice, Mahesh Liloriya, Group Editor, ABPL Group with PM Rishi Sunak

job has brought many challenges but what has sustained me throughout and continues to sustain me is remembering the values that my parents brought me and my brother and sister off with hard work, a commitment to service, is understanding the value of education in all things and making the right decisions, not just the easy ones. And I know as I look around that

room who are lighting the way for our future. So, thank you for being here. Thank you for sharing this very special moment.”

M’s interaction with the community After his speech Mr Sunak met every single guest, spoke to them and shook hands. He also touched the feet of Dr Nandakumara, while exchanging pleasantries

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Rishi Sunak meeting Bollywood actors Preity Zinta (left) and Akshay Kumar with his wife - former actor, author and columnist Twinkle Khanna

many of you are brought up with those same values too.

And I want to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to each and every single one of you for the incredible things that you all do in your lives.

“Now over the last year, I've spoken to quite a bit about my family's story about my Naniji boarding our first ever plane to come here from East Africa over 60 years ago, and the journey that I know will be familiar to many of you in this room.

It was a story about hope, faith, ambition, and putting

with him. Women, many elderly present were eager to meet him, which Mr Sunak obliged them with even photos. He also held a special audience with the Bollywood stars.

Few guests had personal messages for the PM, one even requesting on behalf of his child for an Easter egg hunt in the No 10 garden to another coming forward to gift the PM with a personalised Diwali card with the PM’s family portrait on its cover.

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Dear Financial Voice Reader, Alpesh Patel OBE

Finance isn’t funny they say. Money is no laughing matter!

I explain finance on TikTok – so I would know. The most popular questions of late surround pensions. With the Budget coming up and Diwali behind us, let me answer some basic questions.

I should caveat, I am a stock picking expert, not a pensions one.

Ah, the Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP)! It's that mystical vessel where Brits can hoard their wealth for the golden years, all while enjoying a bit of financial juggling.

Let's demystify this financial marvel with a dash of humour, shall we?

What's a SIPP? Imagine a treasure chest where you can stash your gold (read: money), but the government kindly tops it up as a 'thank you' for saving for your retirement. That's a SIPP in a nutshell. It's a DIY pension scheme where you, the illustrious captain of your financial ship, get to decide where to invest. Stocks, bonds, funds, or even property – the world's your oyster! Banks like Barclays or brokers like AJ Bell or Hargreaves are people through whom you can open one online.

Opening a SIPP: The Adventure Begins Opening a SIPP is akin to starting a new adventure game. You need to pick your character (the provider), understand the map (investment choices), and be aware of the dragons (fees and risks). The process is fairly straightforward – a bit of paperwork, some identity checks (to ensure you're not a financial doppelganger), and voilà, you're ready to set sail on the SIPP sea.

But Wait, I Have a Workplace Pension!

Fear not, having a workplace pension doesn’t mean you can’t flirt with a SIPP. Think of your workplace pension as your dependable, slightly dull partner, while the SIPP is the exciting, slightly unpredictable sidekick. You can contribute to both, and in fact, diversifying your retirement savings might just be the sprinkle of wisdom your future self thanks you for. And more you save, the better too in theory, for your old age.

Picking Stocks: The SIPP Stock Market Soirée Now, picking stocks in your SIPP isn't like grabbing cereal off a supermarket shelf. It requires a bit of thought, research, and perhaps a crystal ball. You could go for individual stocks if you fancy yourself a bit of a stock whisperer, eg Microsoft and Apple and Amazon are in my pension pot, plus a few more, or opt for index tracker such as those tracking the Nasdaq or S&P500.

Remember, the stock market is like a rollercoaster – thrilling, unpredictable, and not for the faint-hearted. It's about playing the long game, so strap in, and don't get too queasy with the ups and downs.

The Bottom Line In summary, a SIPP is your financial playground. It's where you can grow your retirement savings and have a bit of fun with investing. But as with any playground, there are rules to follow and risks to be aware of. Be wise, diversify, and don't put all your eggs in one stock-market basket.

So, there you have it, a brief excursion into the world of SIPPs. Remember, in the grand casino of life, the SIPP is one of the more exciting tables to play at. Just make sure you know the rules of the game, and maybe, just maybe, you'll hit the retirement jackpot!

Retail slump hints at UK high street recession Retailers in Great Britain faced a significant downturn in sales during October, indicating a high street recession in the lead-up to Christmas, primarily attributed to elevated borrowing costs and increasing prices. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported a notable 2.7% yearon-year decline in retail sales, with clothing and household goods stores being the hardest hit.

Unfavourable weather conditions further exacerbated the situation. The ONS highlighted the severity of the economic slowdown by revealing a month-onmonth drop of 0.3% in October, contrasting sharply with the 0.3% rise anticipated by economists polled by Reuters. September's figures were revised downward, indicating a steeper decline of 1.1% in the month, com-

pared to the initially estimated 0.9% fall.

The ONS underscored the gravity of the situation by noting that retail sales volumes in October reached their lowest point since February 2021, a period marked by extensive Covid19 restrictions on non-essential retail in England, Scotland, and Wales. This confluence of factors paints a challenging landscape for retailers heading into the festive season.

According to the ONS, the escalating prices of petrol and diesel acted as an additional deterrent for shoppers. The surge in fuel costs, coupled with a decrease in car usage, led consumers to shy away from out-of-town shopping centres and nearby towns, particularly for high-priced items.

Hunt's pledge for a 'lower-tax economy' boosts Tory hopes UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has pledged to put the country "on a path to a lower-tax economy" in the upcoming Autumn Statement. This has raised expectations among Conservative MPs that the Chancellor will announce cuts to both personal and business taxes.

Plans to cut inheritance tax have been postponed until next year, fuelling hopes that the Chancellor might instead focus on reducing the 20p basic rate of income tax, in line with Prime Minister Rishi

Sunak's commitment to lowering the rate to 16% by the end of the next parliamentary term.

Higher-than-expected tax revenues and lower debt servicing costs have provided Chancellor Hunt with more fiscal flexibility than initially anticipated, allowing room for potential giveaways in the Autumn Statement. While initial plans were to delay headline-grabbing income tax cuts until the spring Budget, the Conservative Party's poor opinion poll ratings have exerted pres-

Union leaders strive to prevent job cuts at Tata Steel UK Union leaders have conveyed to Tata Steel that keeping a blast furnace operational at Port Talbot steelworks until 2032 is imperative to prevent the potential closure of the company's UK steelmaking operations and avert job losses.

Tata Steel had initially been on the brink of announcing the immediate closure of two blast furnaces, risking around 3,000 jobs.

However, the announcement was unexpectedly postponed, providing an opportunity for unions to present proposals to Tata Steel.

Community and GMB, two major unions representing workers, are endorsing proposals drafted by the consultancy Syndex, aiming to prevent job losses and mitigate the impact on the Port Talbot economy. The proposals, presented at a private meeting, suggest a two-stage transition to electric arc furnaces that could protect 2,000 jobs.

Unite, another union

representing steelworkers, has publicly opposed the potential job cuts proposed in the alternative plan. Tata Steel, owned by the Indian conglomerate Tata Group, is considering a significant reduction in operations at the Port Talbot site and aims to transition to greener electric arc furnaces, potentially commencing operations in 2027.

While the UK government supports Tata's plan with a £500 million pledge to facilitate the transition, unions and local politicians argue for job guarantees.

Talks between union leaders and Tata Steel have been described as positive, with the Syndex proposal seen as a credible and deliverable alternative to the company's original plan.

UK savers advised swift action amid dropping rates Savers are being advised to act swiftly in securing the best returns on their money following a series of interest rate reductions on highyield accounts.

NS&I recently lowered the rate on its three-year green bonds from 5.7% to 3.95%, and similar cuts were made by providers like Shawbrook, Tandem, and Ford Money.

Amid these changes, Metro Bank has emerged as an exception by raising the rate on its Instant Access Savings account to 5.22%, featuring a 3.46% bonus for the first 12 months. This account, accessible online or in-branch, offers the bonus to those depositing at least £500 within 28 days.

With falling inflation, savers now have the oppor-

tunity to achieve interest rates that outpace rising prices. However, fixed-rate savings accounts paying above 6% are no longer available, and experts caution that the most attractive deals may quickly reach full subscription.

Rachel Springall, a finance expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, noted, “Savers will no longer find a bond that pays more than 6%, but it is worth noting that challenger banks are still holding the top spots despite shuffling positions.” She emphasised the need for consumers to act promptly in seizing these top deals, considering offers from less familiar brands in the process.

sure on Hunt to act sooner.

Chancellor Hunt's allies suggest that the most significant tax cuts in the Autumn Statement will target businesses, with a focus on boosting growth. There are expectations that the Chancellor will aim to make the "full expensing" capital allowance regime permanent, costing about £9 billion annually. Full expensing allows businesses to deduct the full cost of investments in IT equipment, plant, or machinery from their profits.

While committing to

Jeremy Hunt

not announce tax cuts that hinder the Bank of England's efforts to control inflation, Chancellor Hunt highlighted that Britain has made significant progress in halving inflation to 4.6% this year. The Autumn Statement is anticipated to provide more details on the economic government's and fiscal policies.

Nationwide reports increase in UK mortgage arrears Nationwide has issued a warning about the increase in mortgage arrears even as the building society reported heightened profits due to elevated interest rates. The Bank of England's 14 interest rate hikes since the end of 2021 have led to higher borrowing costs, causing financial strain for some mortgage holders but benefiting savers.

While Nationwide revealed a rise in residential mortgage arrears from historically low levels, it emphasised that they remained below the industry average.

The building society highlighted key risks, including higher interest rates, persistent inflation, and an uncertain economic outlook.

In response to these challenges, Nationwide has increased its mortgage impairment provisions to £305m, up from £280m in April. The government's

mortgage charter has seen more customers availing measures to cope with increased mortgage costs.

However, as of the end of September, only 5,000 customers were on interest-only payments. Like other lenders, Nationwide has experienced positive effects from higher interest rates, leading to increased income. In the first half-year to September 30, underlying profit before tax rose to £1.3bn from £980m a year earlier. Statutory profit increased to £989m from £969m after the initial "fairer share" payment to Nationwide's members, amounting to £344m.

Despite the positive financial results, the building society faced criticism for its "fairer share" scheme, with some customers expressing dissatisfaction with the exclusion of certain groups from the one-off payments

Rising bills lead millions in the UK to unplug fridges Approximately 2 million households in the UK have resorted to turning off their fridges or freezers to save money amid what poverty campaigners describe as a "frightening" level of hardship.

Nearly half of these households reported disconnecting their refrigeration appliances for the first time since May, signalling the ongoing impact of the cost of living crisis on low-income families, according to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF) charity.

The latest survey from the JRF's cost-of-living crisis tracker, conducted in October, revealed that a quarter (2.8 million) of low-income households in the UK had incurred debt to purchase food, a third had sold belongings for cash, and one in six had utilised community "warm rooms." The survey highlighted that millions of families are resorting to "desperate measures" to cope with escalating bills and prices, with four out of five households on universal credit foregoing food, heating, and replacing worn-out clothing.

Despite the government allocating over £12 billion in targeted cost-of-living support and a recent decrease in inflation, the JRF noted that 7.3 million households had gone without food and essential items in the past six months, indicating that the crisis persists.

There is speculation that ministers might freeze the value of working-age benefits from April, potentially raising billions for the Treasury but causing about 9 million households to lose an estimated average of £460 and pushing lower-income families further into poverty. Charities emphasise that while headline falls in inflation are positive, the improvement in living standards for the poorest depends on increasing benefits to reflect rising food and energy prices and private sector rents.

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India's exports see fastest rise Walmart looks to widen Indian in Oct; imports at a new high supplier network October had the strongest rate of growth in India's goods exports in almost a year, up 6.3%, while imports surged to a record $65 billion, up 12.3%. The trade imbalance thus reached a new high of $31.4 billion, surpassing the prior record of $30 billion set in July 2022. With updated figures for August indicating a 3.8% gain, it was only the second time this year that exports increased.

“Some of the data in the first week of November suggests that green shoots are stabilising. We are hopeful that we will surpass last year’s numbers. This is happening despite falling commodity prices,” commerce secretary Sunil Barthwal told reporters.

The Commerce

Secretary, however, refused to indicate a number, arguing that exports will depend on commodity prices, the exchange rate, and the interest rate environment in the advanced economies, which have dampened demand.

India's goods exports were forecast to have reached a record of $451 billion in the previous fiscal despite some year,

slowdown in the second half of the year. This is anticipated to improve as the base effect takes hold for the remainder of the fiscal year. If the trend continues, policymakers should be concerned about a larger trade deficit since it will put pressure on the rupee in the event that the global economic climate deteriorates or geopolitical tensions rise.

Consumer loans to get costlier as RBI steps in to curb surge After cautioning lenders over the surge in unsecured personal loans for several weeks, the Reserve Bank of India moved in to make it costlier for banks and nonbanks to lend to this segment by requiring them to set aside more capital.

The RBI increased the risk weight on consumer credit by a fourth, from 100% to 125%. This means that while earlier banks needed to maintain capital of Rs 9 for every Rs 100 they loaned, they will now have to keep Rs 11.25.

The regulator also

increased the risk weight on credit card receivables and bank loans to NBFCs, whose risk weight is below 100%.

This directive will increase the cost of bank borrowing for top-rated finance companies but will exclude NBFCs that lend to priority

HC orders tax refund of £112.8 mn to Voda Idea The Bombay high court directed I-T authorities to refund Vodafone Idea £112.8 million paid in taxes in 2016-17, holding an assessment order against the telecom major “unsustainable and time-barred”.

On August 31, 2023, an assessing officer passed an order against Vodafone Idea, two years after a dispute resolution panel (DRP) issued directions to the company. The order was issued under the faceless assessment system, which seeks to eliminate the human interface between taxpayers and the IT department. Vodafone Idea had contested that the assessing officer failed to pass the final order in the prescribed period.

A division bench of Justices K R Shriram and Neela Gokhale also recommended an inquiry against the assessing officer for “failure to abide by the legal mandate and the lack of diligence on the part of officials concerned. Strict action should be taken against persons responsible for the laxity and lethargy displayed which has caused a huge loss to the exchequer and, in turn, to citizens of this country,” said the judgment, directing that a copy of the order be given to CBDT and principal secretary of the Union finance ministry.

sectors like housing and small and medium enterprises.

The move will not affect home, auto or education loans, RBI said, but clearly expressed its displeasure at some of the loans that are being offered. While bank credit growth has increased by around 20%, retail loans have jumped 30%. Within this, credit card outstanding payment is estimated to have risen by around 30%.

Banks have also been lending to non-bank finance companies that are offering unsecured and personal and consumer loans.

Walmart is actively seeking to form partnerships with new Indian suppliers and manufacturers in order to expand its product basket and enter newer categories.

It considers India to be one of its top sourcing priorities.

“We continue to find new category expansion and opportunities to go beyond apparel and home, which have historically been sourced from India. Our sourcing strategy is to have the right product at the right price and make sure they are sourced in a trusted way,” Andrea Albright, executive VP, sourcing, at Walmart, ssaid.

The US-based retailer is already collaborating with local suppliers to obtain

Pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca Pharma plans to cease production at its sole facility in India, located in Bangalore, as part of a "global strategic review." The company, which generates over £ 100 million in revenue annually, believes that outsourcing its core manufacturing function to a contract manufacturer can increase shareholder value, people familiar with the matter said.

When contacted, a company spokesperson said: “This is our only manufacturing site in India, and it mainly caters to primary care products for

November 9, the RP filed an application with the NCLT, Mumbai bench, seeking to start the liquidation process for FRL under Section 33 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.

The plan presented by Space Mantra was turned down by the lenders in the vote on September 30, with only 42% support, falling below the necessary 66% for approval. According to regulations of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI), the RP is required to submit an application to the NCLT in accordance with the voting results.

JSW beats Adani to bag Karnataka port project JSW Infrastructure, India’s second largest commercial port company and part of $23-billion JSW Group, has won a tender to develop a £411.9 million port in Keni, Karnataka.

It beat Adani Ports in winning the tender. The proposed Keni port will be primarily for coal and coke cargo, which is being utilised by steel, cement and power plants. It will also be further supported by Iron ore, limestone, dolomite handlings and

export of finished steel products.

According to the Karnataka

from flip-flops to athletic shoes. We have an order for shoes from India underway,” she added.

Walmart has been sourcing goods from India for more than 20 years now, and it claims that Indiamade apparel, jewelry and homeware, among other products, reach customers in 14 markets, including the US, Canada, Mexico, and the UK.

Drug firm AstraZeneca to exit India manufacturing

Liquidation of Future Retail proposed The curtains are closing on the saga of one-time Raja of Retail, Kishore Biyani’s flagship. The insolvency professional overseeing the bankruptcy proceedings has proposed the liquidation of Future Retail, the bankrupt company that lost most of its key locations after Reliance Retail took over their tenancy.

In a letter to the exchange, Future Retail said after the committee of creditors did not approve the resolution plan from Space Mantra, a platform for construction materials, for Future Retail (FRL), the resolution professional has taken the next step. On

toys, shoes, and bicycles in order to meet its goal of purchasing $10 billion worth of goods from India annually by 2027.

For bicycles, the firm just announced its first export order with Punjab-based Hero Eco Group, Albright said. “We are working with Micro Plastic on toy exports.

We are also exploring all categories of shoes, ranging

Maritime Perspective Plan, Karnataka is currently having potential of 44 MTPA of cargo and the same is expected to increase to 117 MTPA by 2035. On comparison to the future demand and the capacity being handled by the present ports, there is a need for a deep port to fulfil the cargo handling gap requirement in future. Hence, the concept of alternate port in Kent has emerged.

the domestic market. We are committed to advancing access to innovative medicines in India, with a clear ambition to be pioneers in science, lead in specialist disease areas, and transform patient outcomes.''

This action reflects a trend in which multinational corporations are feeling the heat in the fiercely competitive domestic pharmaceutical sector, which is dominated

by Indian giants. Local businesses have expanded at a rate that is almost twice as fast as that of multinational corporations (MNCs), who

have restructured their operations by selling their brands domestically or by lowering their exposure and sales force. A few of them also left the nation's research and development sector.

AstraZeneca India stated that, pending the acquisition of the required statutory approvals, it will put the manufacturing site up for sale in a fully operational manner and start looking for a buyer who can also serve as a contract manufacturing organisation for the company's products that are currently produced or packaged at this site.

IndiGo group plans electric air taxi foray

Bengaluru, Delhi and Mumbai will be the initial cities of an allelectric taxi air service that IndiGo's parent company, InterGlobe Enterprises, wants to introduce and run in 2026.

With support from major automakers Stellantis, United Airlines, and Boeing, among others, it has partnered with Archer Aviation, a premier California-based electric air taxi firm.

The partnership plans to finance the purchase of up to 200 of Archer’s electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft - Midnight - for the India operations. United had earlier ordered 200 of these eVTOLs. The goal is for a passenger on an InterGlobe-Archer flight to be able to fly the 27-km Delhi trip from Connaught Place to Gurugram, typically taking 60 to 90 minutes by car, in about seven minutes, IGE said in a statement. Midnight is a four-passenger plus pilot vehicle that is anticipated to be in commercial service in the US in 2025. It is built to conduct quick back-to-back flights with little time for charging in between.

With regulatory permits pending, IndiGo and Archer plan to collaborate in the construction of vertiport infrastructure, pilot training, and operational launch.

Archer CCO Nikhil Goel told the media last month that India will be one of the biggest markets for urban air mobility. And that Archer will consider making its eVTOLs here to lower the cost.

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Another anti-India terrorist killed in Pakistan NEW DELHI: Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Akram Ghazi was shot and killed by unidentified persons in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. This is the second terrorist assassination in a week to target India.

According to sources, Akram Khan, also known as Ghazi, was one of the leading recruiters for Lashkar from 2018 to 2020 and was in charge of radicalising a large number of terrorists who

entered the Kashmir Valley in several groups over the previous two years.

Khwaja Shahid, one of the masterminds of the 2018 Sunjwan terror attack in J&K, was abducted and, later, found beheaded near the Line of Control in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

The role of local rivals, including those from different terror groups, and in-fighting in

Bangladesh SC upholds verdict barring Islamist party from polls DHAKA: Bangladesh’s Supreme Court dismissed an appeal by the country’s largest Islamist party seeking to overturn a 2013 ruling that barred it from participating in elections for violating the constitutional provision of secularism.

Bangladesh is set to hold its next national elections on January 7.

A five-member bench headed by the chief justice handed out the ruling. Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s main lawyer did not appear before the court due to “personal problems” and his petition, filed previously, seeking to postpone the hearing for six weeks was also rejected.

The high court’s decision 10 years ago cancelled the party’s registration with the election commission, thus stopping it from participating in elections

or using party symbols. But it did not ban it from political participation. The ruling, at the time, came amid calls to ban the party for opposing the country’s 1971 independence war against Pakistan. The government of PM Sheikh Hasina, after coming to power in 2009, sought to try Bangladesh Jamaat-e Islami’s leaders for their role in acts of genocide and war crimes during the war. Some have been hanged or given life sentences since 2013. A lawyer for the party said it would continue to be politically active.

Lashkar’s own ranks are two of the preliminary lines of inquiry being pursued by Pakistani agencies working on Ghazi’s killing.

“Ghazi was a key member of Lashkar’s central recruitment cell and known for his hatefilled speeches against India,” said a source. He was shot dead by bike-borne men in Bajaur district, the source said, adding that Pakistani spy agency ISI has

been trying to downplay the killing.

This marks the second highprofile Lashkar assassination in a short period of time. LeT commander Riyaz Ahmed was assassinated in September in Rawalakot, Pakistan, outside Al Quddus Masjid. In PoK, he was in charge of recruiting Lashkar.

Another significant setback for LeT and ISI is the death of Ghazi.

The funds to be issued are a second tranche of the bailout, which is subject to an approval from the IMF's executive board.

"Upon approval around $700 million (SDR 528 million) will become available bringing total disbursements under the program to almost $1.9 billion," IMF Pakistan mission chief Nathan Porter said in a statement.

An IMF mission led by

Undocumented Afghans go into hiding in Pakistan ISLAMABAD: After years of living in Pakistan, thousands of Afghans have gone into hiding.

Rights activists say they are trying to escape a government order to expel undocumented foreigners, fearing persecution under the Taliban should they return to their homeland.

“The government of Pakistan, which started the deportation... the process has completely ruined the situation to such an extent that we are currently locked in our homes. We are currently living in a situation where we are inside the house but we cannot turn on the electricity. The gate is locked from the outside. We are locked inside, we can't come out, we can't turn on our lights, we can't even talk loudly.”

Those at the shelter say the lock was put there by local supporters so neighbours believe the

house is unoccupied. And that some locals are helping the Afghans arrange for necessities to be smuggled into the shelter under the cover of night.

A woman, who is from the Afghan capital of Kabul, worries she could be prosecuted if she returns.

She converted from Islam to Christianity in 2019. Renunciation of the Islamic faith is a serious offense under the strict Islamic law practiced by the Taliban.

Authorities began rounding up migrants across the country after a deadline for voluntary exits expired on November 1.

The expulsion decision came after suicide bombings this year which the government - without providing evidence - said involved Afghans. Islamabad has also blamed them for smuggling and other militant attacks.

In a historic move, New York State Governor Kathy Hochul has signed legislation making Diwali a holiday for public schools in the city.

The legislation requires that all public schools be closed on the “15th day of the eighth month of the Indian calendar in each year, which is known as Diwali,” a press release said. Kathy Hochul said the legislation is “an opportunity for our children to learn about and celebrate traditions from across the world.” There were 1,047,895 students in the NYC school system, the largest school district in the US, in 2022-23.

Of these, 16.5% were Asians.

Lawmakers urge US to halt assistance to Pak till it KERALA MAN HELD FOR SHOOTING AT PREGNANT WIFE holds fair polls ISLAMABAD: A group of 11 influential US lawmakers have urged the Biden administration to withhold future assistance to Pakistan until Islamabad restores constitutional order and holds free and fair elections. In a letter to secretary of state Anthony Blinken, the lawmakers, which included Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, who is one of the champions of Muslim causes in the US Congress, requested the state department to assess if US-origin security assistance had facilitated human rights violations in Pakistan.

“We further request that future security assistance be withheld until Pakistan has moved decisively toward the restoration of Constitutional order, including by holding free and fair elections in which all parties are able to participate freely,” they wrote.

Pakistan’s moves to further strengthen the blasphemy law also figured prominently in the letter, which warned Blinken that the proposed changes would be used to further tighten the noose around smaller religious groups and minorities, the Dawn newspaper reported.

Seek restoration of constitutional order and rollback of blasphemy law changes in Pakistan, the Congress members said, “We are extremely concerned about the passing of the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2023 which will strengthen the existing blasphemy law, which has historically been used to persecute religious minorities.”

In the letter, the US lawmakers pointed out that the bill, which is yet to be signed by President Joe Biden, was “passed in haste despite repeated calls from many lawmakers for a thorough parliamentary procedure”.

IMF says Pakistan set to receive $700 mn after review success ISLAMABAD: The IMF said it had reached a staff-level agreement with Pakistan on the first review of a $3 billion bailout, which will unlock $700 million in funding for the country.

Ahead of the bailout in July, Pakistan had to undertake a slew of measures demanded by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), including revising its budget, a hike in its policy rate, and increases in electricity and natural gas prices.

DIWALI DECLARED A HOLIDAY IN NYC PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Porter, which has been in Pakistan for two weeks for technical and policy talks, concluded its visit. It reviewed whether Pakistan was on track to meet benchmarks set under the standby arrangement agreed in July, which had immediately disbursed a first tranche of $1.2 billion to help the South Asian economy avert a sovereign debt default.

Pakistan was facing an acute balance of payment cri-

sis, with its foreign exchange reserves diminished to barely three weeks of controlled imports, along with historically high inflation and an unprecedented currency devaluation.

Under the bailout deal, the IMF also got Pakistan to raise $1.34 billion in new taxation to meet fiscal adjustments. The measures fuelled all time high inflation of 38% year-on-year in May, the highest in Asia, which still is hovering above 30%.

Four Indian American students win Rhodes scholarship NEW YORK: Out of 840 candidates from 70 countries, four Indian American students have been chosen to be a part of the University of Oxford's Rhodes Scholars Class of 2024.

For the first time since the Covid epidemic, 32 scholars were chosen through in-person interviews; Mrinalini S. Wadhwa, Suhaas Bhat, Nayantara K. Arora, and Aishani Aatresh are among them.

These scholars will start their graduate studies in October 2024.

Wadhwa of New York City is a senior at Columbia University, where she majors in history and mathematics. She co-founded a programme providing a three-year English curriculum for low-income Indian students in New Delhi.

Bhat from Wisconsin is a senior at Harvard University majoring in Social Studies and Physics. He co-founded an organization at Harvard that provides peer-facilitated group psychotherapy to students. He will pursue an M Sc in Mathematical Modeling and Scientific Computing and an M Sc in International Health and Tropical Medicine.

At the University of Oregon's Clark Honours College, Arora, a senior from Portland, is majoring in neuroscience and minoring in global health and chemistry. Her study focuses on two areas: the connection between Alzheimer's disease and the vasculature, and global health biomarkers in Tunisia. Aatresh, a California native, is a senior studying complex biosocial systems at Harvard College. She collaborated with the emergency response team of the New York City health and hospital system during the worldwide pandemic.

Amal Reji from Ettumanoor in Kerala’s Kottayam district was arrested for allegedly shooting and wounding his 32-year-old pregnant wife, Meera Abraham, at a church parking lot in Chicago, his relatives said. The couple, residing in the US for six years, has a four-year-old child. Meera, who also hails from the same district in Kerala, suffered gunshot wounds in her abdomen and chin during an altercation between the couple. Meera is said to be in critical condition due to excessive bleeding. She was three months pregnant.

CLERICS HELD FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN PAK MADRASSA Two clerics have been arrested in Pakistan’s Punjab province over the alleged sexual abuse and torture of students at Jamia Al-Mustafa, an unregistered madrassa in Chakwal. The arrest followed a victim’s disclosure to his father about the mistreatment, prompting other students to come forward. Local police were subsequently involved, and a preliminary investigation revealed instances of sexual assault and torture.

Fifteen students, claiming to be victims, underwent medical examinations. Doctors found assault marks on their bodies, including teeth marks and an English alphabet “Z” inscribed on several children’s backs with a sharp object. The madrassa’s spokesman reported to police that the seminary’s administration received complaints against the teachers, and surveillance footage confirmed their misconduct.

FIRE AT CHINA COAL COMPANY OFFICE KILLS 26 A fire that erupted in the office of a coal company in northern China has killed 26 people, state media said, raising the death toll from the latest in a series of deadly accidents to befall the coal industry. President Xi Jinping, on a trip to the US, urged the authorities to ensure more safety measures are put in place to avoid such incidents, Xinhua news agency said. At least 38 people were injured in the blaze, which broke out at the four-storey Yongju Coal Industry Joint Building in the country’s top coalproducing hub of Shanxi. Police have detained several people for questioning, state broadcaster CCTV said, adding that the cause of the blaze was being investigated.

CANADIAN MAN FOUND GUILTY OF MURDERING MUSLIM FAMILY A Canadian man inspired by white nationalist beliefs has been found guilty of murdering four members of a Muslim family by running them over with a pick-up truck in an attack that sent waves of shock, grief and fear across the country and spurred calls to tackle Islamophobia. The 22-year-old Nathaniel Veltman, who had railed against immigration and Islam, was convicted of attacking the family in the Ontario town of London in June 2021.

Salman Afzaal, 46; his wife, Madiha Salman, 44; their daughter Yumnah, 15; and Afzaal’s mother, Talat, 74, were killed. The couple’s nine-year-old son suffered serious injuries but survived. The family, originally from Pakistan, had been out for a walk near their home.

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in brief FIVE INDIAN ORIGINS KILLED IN MELBOURNE SUV MISHAP Five members of two Indian-origin families in Australia, including two children, were killed when an SUV ploughed into a dining area of a pub in Melbourne. Vivek Bhatia (38), his son Vihan (11), Pratibha Sharma (44), her daughter Anvi (nine), and partner Jatin Chugh (30) died after the BMW mounted a kerb and hit patrons on front lawn of Royal Daylesford hotel, the Sydney Morning Herald reported. Many others who were injured have been shifted to hospital. The driver, a 66year-old, was spoken to by police, but was not arrested or charged. The driver’s lawyer said he was an insulin-dependent diabetic who required immediate treatment from paramedics at the scene.

S KOREA HALTS FLIGHTS TO LIMIT DISTRACTION FOR STUDENTS More than half a million students in South Korea are sitting for the crucial national university entrance exam, with authorities set to take extraordinary measures to minimise distraction. The nine-hour test, which is being taken by 504,588 pupils, is crucial for securing spots in top universities. The importance of the test was reflected by the aggressive measures authorities were taking to prevent any disturbance. To reduce noise disruption during the listening portion of the English test, Seoul’s transportation ministry has announced a nationwide ban on all aircraft takeoffs and landings outside of emergency situations. The ban will be in effect for 35 minutes. More than 90 flights had to be rescheduled due to the exam.

8 KIDS AMONG 11 KILLED IN MYANMAR AIR STRIKES Air strikes by Myanmar’s military on a village in a western region have killed at least 11 civilians, including eight children, a leading opposition group and residents of the area said. The attack on Vuilu village, south of Matupi township in Chin state, also left four people wounded, according to independent local media. The military government has not announced attacks at the location. Chin state has been deeply involved in the armed struggle against military rule since the army takeover. The Chin National Front, an armed ethnic opposition group, and its allies seized Rihkhawda town which borders India. Ngai Tam Maung, a deputy minister of the humanitarian affairs and disaster management in the National Unity Government said two military jets dropped bombs on buildings in Vuilu.

US APPROVES WORLD’S 1ST CHIKUNGUNYA VAX US health authorities approved the world’s first vaccine for chikungunya, a virus spread by infected mosquitoes that the Food and Drug Administration called “an emerging global health threat”. The vaccine, developed by Europe’s Valneva which will be marketed under the name Ixchiq, was approved for people aged 18 and over who are at increased risk of exposure, the FDA said. Ixchiq’s green-light by the US drug regulator is expected to speed the vaccine’s rollout in countries where the virus is most prevalent.

Chikungunya, which causes fever and severe joint pain, is generally seen in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, southeast Asia and parts of the Americas.

8 Indians, PIOs in inaugural Time 100 climate list WASHINGTON: Eight individuals of Indian and Indian-origin, including World Bank President Ajay Banga and Ola Electric's cofounder Bhavish Aggarwal, have been recognised in Time magazine's inaugural list of the world's most influential leaders driving businesses towards concrete climate action.

The 'Time 100 Climate' list comprises CEOs, founders, philanthropists, musicians, policymakers, and government officials worldwide and precedes the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference scheduled in the United Arab Emirates on November 30.

Apart from Banga and Aggarwal, the list includes Rajiv J

president of The Shah, Rockefeller Foundation; Geeta Aiyer, founder and president of Boston Common Asset Management; Jigar Shah, director of the US Department of Energy Loan Programmes Office; Manoj Sinha, CEO and co-founder of Husk Power Systems; Seema Wadhwa, executive director for environmental stewardship for Kaiser Permanente; and Amit Kumar Sinha, managing director and CEO of Mahindra Lifespaces.

Banga, 64, who commenced his five-year term as World Bank Group president in June, is steering the institution towards a new mission of eradicating poverty while combating climate change.

Aggarwal, 38, is lauded for leading Ola Electric's efforts in electrifying the majority of India's mopeds Ajay Banga and Bhavish Aggarwal and scooters. Rajiv dwellers by 2050. Manoj Sinha's Shah's Rockefeller Foundation Husk Power Systems operates focuses on aligning all initiatives mini grids across Asia and Africa, and investment strategies with a achieving profitability in India climate lens. and Nigeria this year.

Geeta Aiyer's Boston Seema Wadhwa oversees Common Asset Management Kaiser Permanente, one of the prioritises climate change mitilargest healthcare providers in gation through shareholder the US, aiming to achieve netengagement with portfolio comzero status by 2050. Jigar Shah, panies. Amit Kumar Sinha, leaddirector of the US Department ing Mahindra Lifespaces, is of Energy Loan Programmes addressing the challenge of susOffice, is responsible for public tainable urban development as investment in clean infrastrucIndia projects a rise in income ture and energy projects. and 400 million new urban

Gaza hostage deal is closer than ever, says US official GAZA/JERUSALEM: A deal to secure the release of some of the hostages held in Gaza by Hamas militants is closer than ever in the Islamist group’s war with Israel, a White House official said. White House deputy national security adviser Jon Finer said an agreement to free “considerably more than 12” hostages would also likely include an extended pause in the fighting and allow for the distribution of humanitarian assistance in Gaza.

Meanwhile, fighting raged, with Hamas militants battling

Israeli forces trying to push into Gaza’s largest refugee camp, the day after Israeli and US officials denied a report that a deal had been reached. “What I can say at this point is that some of the outstanding areas of disagreement, in a very complicated, very sensitive negotiation, have been narrowed,” Finer said. “I believe we are closer than we have been in quite some time, maybe closer than we have been since the beginning of this process, to getting this deal done,” he added.

Israel’s ambassador to the

US Michael Herzog said that Israel was hopeful a significant number of hostages could be released by Hamas “in coming days”. Hamas took about 240 hostages during its deadly crossborder rampage into Israel on October 7. Qatar PM Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman al-Thani told a press conference in Doha that the main obstacles to a deal were now “very minor”, with mainly “practical and logistical” issues to surmount.

The Hamas gunmen battled Israeli forces trying to push into

Gaza’s largest refugee camp and at least 11 Palestinians were killed by an air strike on a house, medics said. Hamas and local witnesses say militants are waging guerrilla-style war in pockets of the densely urbanised north, including parts of Gaza City and the sprawling Jabalia and Beach refugee camps. Witnesses reported heavy fighting overnight between Hamas gunmen and Israeli forces trying to advance into Jabalia, the largest of Gaza’s camps with nearly 100,000 people.

Another Hindu Caucus launched – a 10 Indian-Americans win state and local elections in US Republican one backed by Shallia WASHINGTON: At least ten Indian-Americans, nearly all of whom are Democrats, have emerged victorious in local and state-level surveys conducted across the United States, demonstrating the increasing political clout of an ethnic group that makes up just over 1% of the total population. Ghazala Hashmi, a native of Hyderabad, won reelection to the Virginia State Senate for a third term.

She was the first Muslim woman and Indian-American elected to the Virginia state legislature in history. The Virginia State Senate seat held by Suhas Subramanyam was reelected. In 2019 and 2021, he was chosen to serve two terms in the House of Delegates. Born in Houston, Subramanian is the first Hindu elected to the Virginia House. He previously served as a technology policy advisor in the Obama White House. Business leader Kannan Srinivasan, who immigrated from India in the 90s, was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates from the India-American-dominated Loudon County area.

All three winners in Virginia are from the Democratic Party, as are the three winners from New Jersey.

Both Democratic Party-affiliated Indian Americans, Raj Mukherji and Vin Gopal, were elected to the State Senate in New Jersey. Re-elected to the Burlington County Board of County Commissioner position in New Jersey is Indian-American educator Balvir Singh.

Meanwhile, Indian-American physician Dr. Anita Joshi won the West District seat for the Carmel City Council in Indiana, and Democrat Neil Makhija won the coveted job of Montgomery County Commissioner in Pennsylvania.

Haley announces $10 mn in ad spending for Iowa, New Hampshire NEW HAMPSHIRE: Nikki Haley's presidential campaign announced it will be booking $10 million worth of television, radio and digital ads in Iowa and New Hampshire. The ad campaign is set to launch beginning in the first week of December and will run through Iowa's Republican caucuses on Jan 15 and the New Hampshire primary.

The advertisement reservation marks the biggest investment the Haley campaign has made to date, as she attempts to solidify her lead against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in New Hampshire and improve her standing in Iowa. "Nikki Haley's momentum and path to victory are clear," said Haley's campaign manager Betsy Ankney. "The same can't be said for Ron DeSantis, who, even with a decent showing in Iowa, can't afford a cup of coffee at the Red Arrow Diner in New Hampshire and is a mere tourist in South Carolina."

The $10 million ad booking in the two states through January is nearly five times larger than the DeSantis campaign's $2 million TV ad reservation in Iowa for the same time period.

WASHINGTON: Republican lawmakers have launched a Congressional Hindu Caucus that will be the second but largest yet for championing causes and issues related to Hindu Americans.

“Today I am so excited to announce the official launch of the Congressional Hindu Caucus in the US Congress,” Elise Stefanik, who is the fourth ranking member of the Republican leadership in the House of Representatives, said at an event organized by Shalabh “Shalli” Kumar.

Kumar shot to fame in the India-US world when he launched a campaign in 2013 to lobby US authorities to grant a visa to Narendra Modi, then chief minister of Gujarat, revers-

ing their decision to rescind it over the riots in the state.

Although Kumar fell out of favor with Modi very soon, he had moved on to find a new person and cause to support: Donald Trump. “This caucus will support legislation and issues important to Hindu Americans,” Kumar said at the launch of the Congressional Hindu Caucus.

This is the second congressional caucus launched to represent Hindu Americans, who are largely India -descent Americans who are increasingly choosing to identify themselves by their religion rather than then their country of origin. But it also touts itself as a representative of Sikh, Jain and Buddhist communities.

Record number of Indian students enrolling in US colleges WASHINGTON: After a slump during the pandemic, international students have returned in large numbers to US colleges, with Indian students leading the surge.

More than ever before and second only to China, colleges recruited approximately 269,000 Indian students; the majority are enrolled in graduate programmes in business, science, and technology.

Findings from the State Department and the nonprofit Institute of International Education indicate that this equates to a 35% increase in the number of students from India.

“The US maintains a strong relationship with India on education, which I think is getting even stronger and even more connected,” said Marianne Craven, the State Department’s acting deputy assistant secretary for academic exchange.

According to the survey, the total number of foreign students enrolled at US universities increased by 12% during the 2022-23 academic year, marking the biggest annual growth in over 40 years. The largest number of international students since the 2019–20 academic year was over one million.

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At 76.2%, MP records highest ever Sahara Group founder voter turnout; Chhattisgarh sees 75% Subrata Roy dies at 75 A voter turnout of 76.2% was recorded in the assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh, which is the highest in the state’s history, officials said. Polling was held for all 230 constituencies in a single phase on Friday last. Seoni district in east MP recorded the highest voter turnout of 85.68%, while the tribal dominated Alirajpur in the western region saw the lowest voter turnout of 60.1%, officials said.

The second highest voter turnout of 85.23% was recorded in the Naxalites-hit Balaghat district in the western region sharing a border with Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra, indicating that ballots prevailed over bullets as Maoists discouraged people from voting and put roadblocks in the election process.

75% turnout in Chhattisgarh 2nd phase Chhattisgarh recorded a turn out of 75% in Phase-II of the assembly elections, notching up an overall average of 76.3%, a shade lower than

the 2018 polling of 76.4%. Polling was quite subdued in urban areas, but electrifying in the rural belt. What it means for the parties in the fray, especially governing Congress and main opposition BJP, will be learnt on December 3. The EC released revised figures for both phases and declared the average turnout to be 76.3%.

In Madhya Pradesh, it was 67.25 per cent in 2003, 69.78 per cent in 2008, 72.13 per cent in 2013 and 75.63 per cent in 2018. In 2018, the Bharatiya Janata Party received 41.02 per cent votes, the Congress 40.89 per cent, and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and other

parties got 10.83 per cent votes.

Even after getting more vote share than the Congress, the BJP won 109 seats in 2018 compared to 114 bagged by the grand old party.

The remaining seats went to the BSP (2), Samajwadi Party (1) and independents (4). The Congress had then formed government with the help of the BSP, SP and independents under the leadership of Kamal Nath.

However, the Kamal Nath led government collapsed in March 2020 after a rebellion by Jyotiraditya Scindia and MLAs loyal to him, paving the way for return of the BJP government headed by Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

In the state elections held on Friday, the fate of 2,533 candidates, including CM Chouhan of the BJP and his predecessor and state Congress chief Kamal Nath, has been sealed in the Electronic Voting Machines.

A total of 64,626 polling stations were set up in the state. Votes will be counted on December 3.

ASI gets 10 more days to submit Gyanvapi survey report The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) was given an extension of 10 days by the Varanasi district court to submit its scientific survey report about the Gyanvapi mosque complex.

Although the ASI was initially given until November 17 to submit the report, it asked the court for an additional 15 days. Amit Srivastava, the government's standing lawyer, stated that the court ordered ASI to turn in the report by November 28 after hearing the plea.

In its application, the ASI had stated that in compliance with the

court’s order, it had completed the scientific survey at the site and needed some more time for preparing a detailed report. Earlier, on July 21, the court had ordered for a survey to ascertain whether Gyanvapi mosque was built on the remains of a temple.

The district judge had ordered an ASI survey on the plea of four women plaintiffs. In compliance with the order, the ASI started the scientific study of Gyanvapi mosque on July 24.

The mosque management committee, or Anjuman Intezamia Masajid (AIM), did, however, submit a

revision appeal to the Allahabad High Court. The HC stopped the ASI poll on July 24 but rejected AIM's objection to the district judge's ruling on August 3.

On August 4, the ASI started the survey again after the AIM moved the SC, which rejected a reprieve. The deadline for the survey has been extended three times by the ASI: on August 5, September 8, and October 5. The ASI requested and was allowed a 15-day period to to submit its report on November 2, following the completion of its examination at Gyanvapi mosque.

Bihar assembly clears bills to increase quota limit from 50% to 65% With the unanimous approval of the bills, the Bihar assembly increased the reservations percentages for government jobs and educational institutions for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Backward Classes, and Extremely Backward Classes from 50% to 65%. When the 10% reservation for economically disadvantaged groups is taken into account, the total reservation percentage increased to 75%.

The expanded quota is divided into four categories: 25% for EBCs, 20% for

SCs, 2% for STs, and 18% for the Backward Classes. With the governor's approval, the increased quota will become a legal requirement. The two proposed revisions were not amended by the BJP MPs, who were expected to do so. The proposals were therefore approved by a unanimous vote. The Bihar Reservation in Vacancies of Posts and Services (SC, ST, and OBCs) Amendment Bill of 2023 and the Bihar Reservation (in admission in educational institutions) Amendment Bill, 2023 were

the two independent legislation that were passed by the assembly.

“It has been done on the basis of the caste-based headcount and economic survey of people and families conducted in the state,” chief minister Nitish Kumar said in the assembly. “Now the BJP members should lobby the Centre for a caste census in the country. After holding the caste census, if the Centre wants to further increase the quota for the SCs, STs, Backward Classes and EBCs, it can do so,” Kumar added.

OBITUARY Harendrakumar Manibhai Patel (Nar)

DOB: 5 June 1946 (Ode, India) Demise: 13 November 2023 (London, UK)

It is with deep sadness, we announce the passing of Harendrakumar Manibhai Patel on 13th November 2023. At the age of 77, he peacefully departed surrounded by his family. He leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness and will be remembered for the warmth and support he gave to his family and a very large circle of friends. A loving husband to Urvashiben Patel and a dedicated father and grandfather, he will be greatly missed. Our deepest condolences go out to all who were touched by his presence and we share in the grief of this loss. May his soul rest in peace.

Om Shanti.. Shanti.. Shanti..

Wife: Urvashiben H Patel Son: Vijaykumar H Patel Son: Mayank H Patel

Daughter-In-Law: Avani V Patel Daughter-In-Law: Mandip M Patel

Grandchildren: Raj, Maya, Aman Funeral: Friday 24th November 2023 at 12pm South London Crematorium Rowan Road, London, SW16 5JG Mrs Urvashiben Harendra Patel, 48 Hallowell Close, Mitcham, Surrey CR4 2QD Tel: 0208 687 1058

Subrata Roy, the founder of Lucknow-based Sahara Group, died at the age of 75 last week. The company announced that he died from cardio-respiratory arrest following an extended battle with complications related to metastatic malignancy, hypertension, and diabetes.

"It is with profound sadness that Sahara India Pariwar informs the demise of Hon'ble 'Saharasri' Subrata Roy Sahara, Managing Worker and Chairman, Sahara India Pariwar," read the statement issued by Sahara India Pariwar.

"Saharasri ji was a guiding force, a mentor, and a source of inspiration for all who had the privilege to work alongside him," it added further. Born on June 10, 1948 in Bihar's Araria, Subrata Roy Sahara began his journey as businessman in 1976 with Sahara Finance, a chit fund company. He founded the Sahara India Pariwar, and the group's employees used to address him as Sahara Shri. Having scripted one of the most famous rags-to-riches stories of the country, Roy went on to expand his business across various sectors ranging from finance, housing, manufacturing, aviation and the media and became a household name. His enterprise went on to own landmark global properties, including New York's Plaza Hotel and London's iconic Grosvenor House.

Under Roy's leadership, Sahara also sponsored the Indian cricket and hockey teams and owned a Formula One racing team. However, troubles for Roy began when Sahara has been embroiled in a battle with market regulator SEBI over repaying billions of dollars to investors who put their money in a bond scheme that was later ruled to be illegal.

Roy was arrested in March 2014 for failing to attend a contempt of court hearing and was on bail since 2016. He had denied any wrongdoing. Sahara and Roy had been in the spotlight in 2020 after they got a district court to stall the release of Netflix's series "Bad Boy Billionaires" featuring Roy, among others, claiming it would damage his reputation.

Netflix later released the show after the court lifted its injunction.

Expect to stay in UK for months if not years: Nirav tells London court A London court was informed by Nirav Modi, the accused of fraud at Punjab National Bank, that he anticipates staying in England for several months or even years, and that "proceedings are still ongoing that prevent his extradition to India." The 52-year-old diamond merchant was making an appearance before Barkingside Magistrates’ Court in East London for a reexamination about a fine of £150,247 that he owes for failing to pay costs during his unsuccessful extradition appeal hearing.

Nirav made his appearance via video link from HMP Thameside. He informed the magistrates that he could pay the fine each month with £10,000, according to an order he had received dated December 2022. The court verified that he had paid £80,000 and that £70,247 was still owed.

Nirav had told the court in March that he was “borrowing the £10,000” from prison. He was refused permission to appeal his extradition at the Supreme Court in December 2022, meaning he should have been extradited within 28 days of that date, but he has still not gone back. When the magistrate asked him why he was in prison, he said it was “because of an extradition request by the Indian government”.

Dialogue must: Rajnath on South China Sea row Days after openly criticising China's assertive actions in the Indo-Pacific, India's defence minister Rajnath Singh declared that his country is totally committed to freedom of navigation, overflight, and unhindered lawful commerce in international waters in accordance with international standards.

The Asean and its dialogue partners should “actively collaborate” to ensure peace, prosperity and security in the region, with all adhering to international norms like the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982, Singh said while addressing the Asean defense ministers’ meetingplus (ADMMPlus) in Jakarta.

Rajnath Singh

“Dialogue and diplomacy are the way forward for global peace and stability,” Singh said, amid the renewed heightened tensions in the South China Sea due to Beijing’s strong arm expansionist tactics against its smaller neighbors and the continuing military conflict in eastern Ladakh.

Singh reiterated India's message to the globe that "this is not an era of war" and emphasised the need to

abandon the "us versus them" mentality. "Consultative and development-oriented initiatives to reflect the larger consensus among various stakeholders" are what he asked for in regional security.

He stated that in order to improve marine security in the area, India was dedicated to "nurturing practical, forward-looking and resultoriented cooperation" with ADMM-Plus. Apart from the 10 Asean countries, the ADMM-Plus includes India, China, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Russia and the US as the dialogue partners. China and Russia, however, were represented by senior officials instead of their defense ministers at the meet.

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PM Modi celebrates Diwali India, Australia discuss trade, with jawans in Himachal defence and investment ties Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated this year's Diwali with soldiers in Lepcha in Himachal Pradesh.

Addressing the troops there, PM Modi said, "India is safe as long as our Army stands firm and unshakable like the Himalayas, on its borders."

The Prime Minister lauded the Army's role in securing the borders amid the conflicts around the world. "Given the situation in the world today, expectations from India are continuously increasing. In such a situation, it is important that India's borders remain secure. We are creating an atmosphere of peace in the country and you have a big role in this," he told the troops.

He added that India's Army and security forces have constantly contributed towards nation-building.

PM Modi remarked on his tradition of celebrating Diwali with Army jawans

and said he has been doing it for the last 30 to 35 years. He said it was a tradition he has been observing even before he became the chief minister of Gujarat or the prime minister.

He also applauded the troops for spending the Diwali away from their families and said, "It is said that the festival is celebrated only where there is family, but today, you are all stationed at the borders while being away from your families. It shows the pinnacle of your devo-

tion to duty."

He added that for him, a place where the security forces are deployed is no less than a temple. PM Modi said India is now emerging as a "global player" in the defence sector and not only are the country's defence needs fulfilled, but also those of friendly countries. He added that between Diwali in 2016 and this year, India's defence exports have risen eight fold and the domestic defence production is now £10 billion.

NIA books Pannun for threatening Air India flyers The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has charged Gurpatwant Singh Pannun under the anti-terror law for attempting to target and disrupt the Indian transportation industry, days after the airline was designated as a "individual terrorist" and he threatened passengers flying on Air India with a worldwide blockade and the airline's closure of operations starting on November 19.

NIA, in a statement said it had charged US-based Pannun - the self-declared ‘General Counsel’ of the banned Khalistani outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 and the Indian Penal Code.

In a video message released by him on November 4, Pannun had asked Sikhs not to fly Air India on or after November 19, citing a threat to their lives. He also threatened Air India, now owned by the Tata Group, that it would not be allowed to operate globally. Further, Pannun issued a warning to the Government of India that Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi would remain closed on November 19 and that it would be renamed after ‘Shahid Beant Singh and Shahid Satwant Singh’ - the two assassins of Indira Gandhi who were later hanged to death, “once Punjab is liberated”.

NIA said Pannun’s

assertions and threats have triggered a high alert and investigations by the security agencies in Canada, India and other Air India destinations across the world. Extra security measures including restrictions on visitors’ entry have been put in place at airports in Delhi and Punjab.

The NIA stated that the US-based attorney has been fabricating a story about the problems in the state of Punjab, particularly in relation to the Sikh religion, and encouraging animosity between the Sikh community and other Indian communities as part of his coordinated plan to encourage terror acts in India to revive terrorism in India.

Pull out troops from Maldives, new president tells India Mohamed Muizzu has requested that India remove its military personnel from the Indian Ocean archipelago in an official correspondence, one day after taking office as president of the Maldives. According to the president's office, Muizzu asked for the evacuation of Indian troops at a meeting with Union minister Kiren Rijiju, who was in Male for the president's inauguration.

Muizzu expressed hope that India will respect the “democratic will” of the Maldivian people.

He, however, acknowledged the role played by Indian military choppers, which Indian personnel help fly, in facilitating emergency medical evacuations and, according to Indian government sources, agreed to find a “workable solution” for their continued operation. Importantly for New Delhi, Muizzu called for accelerating work on India-assisted projects, including the $500 million Greater Male Connectivity Project that was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Muizzu’s predecessor Ibrahim Solih.

“They (the choppers) are also central to the confidence that international tourists have staying on remote islands. He appreciated their role in monitoring and combating drug trafficking,” said an Indian source.

The future of the two helicopters and the Dornier plane that India gave the Maldives is probably in doubt due to the departure of all Indian employees.

Although president-elect Muizzu had stated multiple times that he wished to remove Indian military forces from the Maldives, ideally during the first week of his administration, the announcement still appeared hurried because, as he himself acknowledged.

According to high-level sources in the previous Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) government, there’s not a single Indian military personnel in the Maldives, except for those sent under the Indian government’s technical and economic cooperation program to help fly the Dornier aircraft and the choppers India had gifted to the country.

The second iteration of the two-plus-two ministerial dialogue took place between Australia and India, with defence minister Rajnath Singh and foreign minister S Jaishankar conversing with their respective counterparts, Penny Wong and Richard Marles, about how to improve Indo-Pacific cooperation in the face of Chinese assertiveness, strengthen defence and security partnerships, and increase trade and investment ties.

The two nations decided to further strengthen their overall bilateral defensestrategic ties, including cooperation in information exchange, maritime domain awareness, and specialised areas like artificial intelligence (AI), cyber, anti-submarine, and anti-drone warfare, after noticing China's expansionist muscle-flexing in the IndoPacific. Australian deputy PM and defence minister Richard Marles, in his bilateral meeting with Singh as well in the two-plus-

two dialogue later, stressed that China was “the biggest security anxiety” for both India and his country, while also being their largest trading partner.

Sources said India also shared its deep concerns about China’s salami-slicing tactics on its land borders as well as expanding naval forays into the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), even as Beijing also strong-arms its smaller neighbours in the South China and East China Seas as well as the Taiwan Strait.

Singh, on his part, said there is “consensus” that “a strong IndiaAustralia partnership augurs well for the overall peace, security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region”.

Rejecting historical inhibitions, India and Australia have been progressively building up their bilateral defence ties in order to emulate New Delhi's long-term rising trajectory with the other two Quad countries, the US and Japan.

India appeals against death sentence to 8 Navy veterans in Qatar India has appealed against a Qatar court verdict that sentenced eight Indian Navy veterans to death last month, the Centre said.

India continues to pursue the matter diplomatically and the Indian embassy in Doha got another round of consular access to the detainees on November 7.

The MEA said the judgment was confidential and shared only with the legal team.

“We are now pursuing further legal steps. We will also remain engaged with the Qatari authorities in this matter,” MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.

“We are in touch with their families. We will continue to extend all legal and consular support, and I would urge everyone not to

engage in speculation considering the sensitive nature of the case,’’ he added. A hearing on the subject is scheduled for November 23.

The allegations against the former Navy officers have not yet been made public by Qatari authorities, but it appears that they passed on confidential information to Israel regarding a submarine project in Qatar.

India described the sentencing as deeply shocking but has refrained mostly from speaking publicly on the issue, citing the confidential nature of legal proceedings in Qatar.

Similar to other Gulf nations, India's relations with 800,000 Indians living in Qatar have been expanding, with a current emphasis on enhancing defence and security cooperation.

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in brief

SOUTH INDIA

TN House re-adopts 10 bills returned by governor at special sitting CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu assembly last week readopted the 10 bills, withheld by governor R N Ravi and returned to the state government. This includes a bill adopted by the previous AIADMK regime to name the Fisheries University after late chief minister J Jayalalithaa.

The assembly unanimously passed a resolution moved by chief minister M K Stalin to reconsider the bills after the BJP and AIADMK walked out.

“The governor kept the bills for a long time and on November 13, without giving any reasons, he returned them, merely saying, ‘I withhold of assent’.

This assembly feels that the governor withholding assent to the bills and returning it without giving any reasons is not acceptable,” the resolution said.

The assembly had a special sitting days after the governor returned the bills, largely empowering the state to appoint vicegovernment chancellors for universities.

Stalin said the governor not giving assent to bills, and other files, was illegal, anti-democratic, anti-people, anti-conscience and against the

M K Stalin

sovereignty of the legislature. The respective secretaries and the chief secretary had clarified in writing and in person whenever the governor had raised queries about the bills in the past.

“In no instance has he been denied explanations he sought. Returning some bills passed by the assembly without giving assent, based on his personal likes and dislikes, amounts to the governor insulting the people of Tamil Nadu and the assembly,” the chief minister said.

The CM said the TN government had written to the President to give appropriate instructions to the governor who had been on a path of confrontation.

Former Karnataka CM Kumaraswamy pays 68,000 fine for drawing electricity illegally BENGALURU: Karnataka’s former chief minister and JD(S) chief HD Kumaraswamy sought to put an end to the controversy over “power theft” to illuminate his JP Nagar home during Deepavali, saying he had paid a fine of Rs 68,526, even though he claimed it to be an error on the part of an electrician.

The JD(S) chief alleged a political witch-hunt against him for being vocal against the Congress government. “The government ran a systematic campaign against me, led by the CM and the deputy CM, alleging that I am a power thief,” he said.

CM Siddaramaiah, however, insisted that Kumaraswamy had paid the penalty imposed by Bescom since he was indeed involved in “power theft. If he had not done anything wrong, why did he pay the penalty?” Siddaramaiah retorted.

On November 14, Congress alleged the former CM had “stolen electricity” to illuminate his house on Deepavali. The party even posted a video, showing a connection being drawn to Kumaraswamy’s house from a distribution pole in the vicinity.

Kumaraswamy blamed the electrical contractor hired by his staff for the violation, and termed the charges & penalty imposed as “unjust and excessive”.

PUNJAB

You are playing with fire, SC Haryana to move SC over tells Punjab governor quashing of 75% local quota law CHANDIGARH: The Haryana government will move the Supreme Court against the Punjab and Haryana High Court order quashing a law that provided 75 per cent reservation in private sector jobs to residents of the state, Deputy Chief Minister Dushyant Chautala said.

We are examining the high court verdict and will soon move the Supreme Court, the JJP leader said, asserting that the law was in the interest of the state and the industry.

The high court's decision was also a setback for Chautala as providing 75 per cent reservation in private sector jobs for state-domiciled candidates was a key poll promise of his Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) during the 2019 assembly polls.

Chautala said the state government's intention was to give employment to local youths and provide skilled workers to the industry.

The Punjab and Haryana High Court, in its judgment, held the Haryana State Employment of Local Candidates Act, 2020, "ultra

vires" and "unconstitutional", and ruled that it will become "ineffective from the date it came into force". The verdict came following multiple petitions filed by several industrial associations against the implementation of the Act. After the polls, the JJP extended support to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and formed a government in alliance as the saffron party fell short of attaining a simple majority on its own.

The law, which came into effect on January 15, 2022, provided 75 per cent reservation in jobs in the private sector to candidates from the state. It covered jobs offering a maximum gross monthly salary or wages up to Rs 30,000.

The Act was applicable to employers of the private sector companies, societies, trusts, limited liability partnership firms, partnership firms and any person who employs 10 or more people on salary, wages or other remuneration for manufacturing, carrying on business or rendering any service in Haryana.

NEW DELHI: In a big victory for the AAP government led by Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Supreme Court slammed the Punjab governor for “playing with fire” and “putting parliamentary form of government in peril” by withholding assent to four bills passed by the assembly on the erroneous and mistaken ground that the June 19-20 session, in which the bills were passed, was invalid.

Mincing no words in criticising the governor for exceeding his jurisdiction and treading into the domain of the speaker, who alone exercises power to adjourn or prorogue the assembly, a bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra said, “The speaker was within his rights to adjourn the budget session sine die without proroguing it. How can you (governor) say that a bill, which has been passed by the assembly, shall not be assented to on the ground that the session itself is invalid? Do you realise the gravity of what you are doing?”

The SC said, “The governor says the session of the legislative assembly, which has passed four bills, that session itself is void because the assembly ought to have been prorogued and not adjourned sine die. Do you realise you are playing with fire?

“The bills are passed by a duly elected legislative body. If you have reservations on the bill on the ground that it is unconstitutional, you have your remedies under the Constitution.

You can reserve it for consideration of the President, you can return it to the assembly. But surely, you can’t sit on judgment over it and say this legislative assembly session is unconstitutional. If we allow this power to the governor, what will happen? Will we continue to be a parliamentary form of government?” It ruled that the session was valid and asked the governor to proceed to examine the bills within his constitutional powers.

For the Tamil Nadu government, similar grievances were made by senior advocates A M Singhvi, Mukul Rohatgi and P Wilson, who said the governor was sitting on 12 bills. “How will the government function with such an obstructionist governor?”

Wilson asked.

WEST BENGAL

Centre tells Visva-Bharati to drop earlier plaques and put Tagore’s name KOLKATA: The Centre has asked VisvaBharati University to remove the earlier plaques that were installed on its premises to mark the Unesco heritage tag to Santiniketan. The Union ministry of education has also sent a detailed text in English and Hindi for the new plaque with Rabindranath Tagore’s name.

As instructed by the ministry, VB has formed a six member panel to prepare the text in Bengali. The new text does not mention the names of PM Narendra Modi or the varsity’s former vice-chancellor Bidyut Chakrabarty.

A source said the Bengali translation has already been done and sent to the ministry.

Visva-Bharati’s interim V-C Sanjoy Kumar Mallick said: “The office of the vice-

chancellor hasn’t issued any official statement, yet.”

The text sent by the ministry is in a plaque-like format with Unesco logo on the left, national emblem in the middle and VB’s logo on the right.

Santiniketan, Tagore’s ‘abode of peace’ that houses Visva-Bharati, was inscribed as a Unesco ‘World Heritage Site’ on September 17. Following this, the VB authorities put up three marble plaques, which bore the names of Modi and Chakrabarty, the then VC. It triggered a major row for leaving out Tagore’s name.

BSY’S SON NAMED KARNATAKA BJP PRESIDENT Senior BJP leader B S Yediyurappa’s younger son B Y Vijayendra, a first-time MLA, was appointed Karnataka BJP president in what was seen as a bid to consolidate the party’s support base among Lingayats, the singlelargest community in the state, and to bring about an electoral compact with new ally JD(S), which relies on the support of Vokkaligas, the second most dominant community in the state. The appointment of Vijayendra, who is well regarded for his political acumen and organisational capability, comes months after his father was appointed as a member of the BJP parliamentary board, the highest decision-making body of the party. The appointment of Vijayendra is seen as a step to win back support of Lingayats, which will be crucial for the saffron party in the 2024 polls.

LANKA RELEASES 22 TN FISHERMEN AS FM STEPS IN Sri Lankan authorities released 22 dhow (country boat) fishermen from Tamil Nadu detained by them earlier in the day on charges of poaching in their territorial waters after Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman intervened in the matter. The two dhows seized by the Lankan side were also released and the fishermen allowed to sail back on their crafts. Sitharaman had come to Rameswaram to distribute welfare measures under the Prime Minister’s SVANidhi (The PM Street Vendors’ Atmanirbharnidhi). Knowing about it, district president of Country Boat Fishermen Welfare Association SP Rayappan met her and urged her to intervene in the matter.

Sitharaman contacted officials of the external affairs ministry and urged them to step in.

“She called important people, including some in Sri Lanka, and assured us that the arrested fishermen would be released,” said Rayappan.

PUNJAB ASSEMBLY TO HAVE 2-DAY MEET FROM NOV 28 Punjab Vidhan Sabha’s Winter Session will be held from November 28 to 29. This will be the fifth session of the current Vidhan Sabha. The session is being convened after the Governor prorogued the Budget Session last week. This decision was taken in the meeting of the Punjab Council of Ministers led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. At least three Money Bills are to be presented in the Vidhan Sabha. The bills to be tabled in the Assembly are the Punjab Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (Amendment) Bill, 2023; The Punjab Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023; and the Indian Stamp (Punjab Amendment) Bill, 2023. Finance Minister Harpal Cheema said the Council of Ministers had also announced creation of nine new posts in the Majaraja Ranjit Singh Sports University.

CENTRE, BENGAL GOVT CLASH IN SC OVER CBI PROBES IN STATE Appearing before a bench of Justices B R Gavai and Aravind Kumar, which was hearing a suit filed by the West Bengal government against the Centre, solicitor general Tushar Mehta said it was not maintainable as the relief was sought against CBI probes but the central government had no control over it as the agency was independent and autonomous.

The state, which in 2018 withdrew general consent for the CBI, sought a declaration from the court that the agency had no jurisdiction to enter its territory to probe a case without taking its approval on a case-to-case basis.

Mehta said allowing the state’s plea would amount to quashing all orders of constitutional courts which directed CBI probes.

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SC questions TN governor for delaying assent to bills sent to him Exasperated by the interminable delay on the part of Tamil Nadu governor R N Ravi in processing bills sent for his assent after being passed by the assembly, one as far back as January 2020, the Supreme Court on Monday said, “After we passed the order, the governor took action. What was the governor doing for three years?”

A bench of Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra was irked by the fact that the governor, after the court’s November 10 order frowning upon the delay, cleared some long-pending bills on November 13.

However, attorney general R Venkataramani’s submission cooled down the proceedings.

Venkataramani placed the list of 181 bills sent to the governor since January 13, 2020 and told the court that 151 of them had been cleared. The AG said the government had withdrawn five bills and the governor had reserved nine bills for the President’s consideration. The AG said the governor had withheld assent to 10 bills, while five more, sent to him in October, were in the process of consideration.

“All the 12 bills mentioned in the writ petition (filed by the TN government) were disposed of on November 13. Out of these, assent is withheld in 10 bills and two bills have been reserved for consideration of the President. As on November 16, only five bills, which have been received in October, are under consideration,” he added.

The Tamil Nadu assembly, through a

special session on November 18, re-passed the 10 bills to which the governor had withheld assent, and sent these back for clearance. As per Article 200, once the governor returns a bill to the assembly and the latter re-approves it, the governor has no discretion but to give assent to it.

SC pulls up Kerala governor Meanwhile, the Supreme Court gave the Union government and the Kerala governor Arif Mohammad Khan four days to respond to a petition by the Pinarayi Vijayan government accusing the governor of being deliberately inactive on giving assent to eight bills passed by the assembly.

The bench headed by CJI entertained the petition and asked the governor’s office and the Union government to respond to the Kerala government’s petition by Friday, when it will be taken up for further hearing.

Appearing for the Kerala government, senior advocate K K Venugopal told the SC that of the eight bills, three were earlier promulgated as ordinances by the governor before these being converted to bills and passed by the assembly. “Now, he has been sitting over them for the last three years,” he said.

On closer scrutiny, the court found these eight bills have been pending the governor’s assent for the last 7 to 23 months.

Interestingly, the Kerala government has also challenged a high court order disposing of its 2022 petition seeking a declaration that the governor’s inaction on pending bills was arbitrary and unconstitutional.

Second supply route created for workers trapped inside Uttarkashi tunnel After more than two hundred hours trapped within the collapsed tunnel in Silkyara, Uttarkashi, there was finally some positive news for the 41 exhausted, terrified, and injured labourers. In an apparent major breakthrough, rescue personnel successfully created a second supply route by putting a six-inch-diameter pipe through the wreckage and out the other side.

NHIDCL director Anshu Manish Khalkho said, “The 53m-long pipe is a veritable lifeline. We had been trying to do this for the last nine days. This will enable us to send nutritious and larger quantities of food and other essentials like medicines.

We’ll also be able to improve ventilation. A microscopic camera will be sent to study their condition.”

Arnold Dix, the world’s leading expert on tunnelling, reached the site. “We’re going to get them (labourers) out for sure. We have got the best experts for this Himalayan geology here. We are going to find a solution,” the Australian said.

Food will be sent to workers on doctors’ recommendation: DM After forcing the workers to survive on chickpeas, almonds, cashews, and popcorn for days, rescuers were observed making hot khichdi bottles intended for delivery to them late at night, according to the media. The rescue workers had earlier been using a four-inch steel pipe.

But it was limited to sending the dry food. A few of the

workers reported experiencing stomach pain. The fourinch tube provided an even oxygen supply.

District magistrate of Uttarkashi, Abhishek Ruhela, said, “We're consulting doctors and a variety of food will be sent to the workers only on their recommendation.”

Parallely, Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) is working on another vertical pipeline for supply of essential items, according to officials of NHIDCL, the central government PSU which has been made coordinating agency for the multipronged and simultaneous rescue efforts.

An NHIDCL official said:

“The area in which the workers are trapped is 8.5m high and about 2km long. This is the tunnel's built-up portion where concreting work has been done...Water and electricity are available in this part of the tunnel.”

For the mission, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has dispatched two robots, together with a remotely driven car known as "Daksh."

Notably, the central authorities in charge of the rescue were preparing for the next phase by concurrently working on "five options" to reach the trapped personnel, putting the operations essentially on stop.

3,000 apply for 20 posts of Ayodhya Ram temple priests About 3,000 candidates have applied for the posts of 20 priests of Ayodhya’s Ram temple. The vacancies were advertised by Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, which has shortlisted 200 candidates, based on merit, for interviews being held at Karsevakpuram in the temple town.

The three-member interview panel comprises Jaykant Mishra, a Hindu preacher from Vrindavan, and two mahants from Ayodhya Mithilesh Nandini Sharan and Satyanarayan Das. The chosen 20 will be appointed as priests at different posts in the Ram Janmabhoomi complex after six months of residential training. Those shortlisted, but not selected, will be given certificates after training and may be appointed as priests in future, said Govind Dev Giri, treasurer of the Ram Mandir Trust.

Candidates are being asked “tough

questions” regarding the procedure of different pujas, during the interview. Some of these included ‘sandhya vandan’, its procedures and mantras, special mantras and ‘karma kand’ regarding the worship of Lord Ram, etc, Giri said.

The 20 candidates will go through six months of training to be held at Karsevakpuram that has offices of several Hindu organisations, including VHP. The training will be based on a religious syllabus prepared by the top seers.

Social media giants summoned over deepfakes The government has summoned social media giants over the issue of deepfakes, the move coming within days of a massive controversy over a fake video of actress Rashmika Mandanna.

“Social media giants such as Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube are among companies that have been asked to present and give their views on the matter, especially as these are the platforms that are used to amplify any such

distorted content,” a source said, adding that the matter will be looked into by the IT ministry and other relevant ministries.

According to sources, the administration is "extremely concerned" about the domino impact of any such fakes, particularly in light of the upcoming national elections that take place next year as well as the ongoing elections in several states.

The government is responding quickly to the

ED seizes assets worth £75.2 mn of company linked to Gandhis Property worth £9 million belonging to Young Indian - the company linked to Congress's Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi - has been attached by the Enforcement Directorate in connection to its investigation into the National Herald case. The attached property includes the National Herald Houses in Delhi and Mumbai and Nehru Bhavan in Lucknow. Sources said the overall value of properties seized belonging to Associated Journals is £75.2 million.

The Central agency is investigating an alleged money laundering case linked to the National Herald newspaper. The case involves allegations of cheating, conspiracy, and criminal breach of trust in the acquisition of the Associated Journals Limited - which ran the newspaper - by Young Indian Pvt Ltd. "ED has issued an order to provisionally attach properties worth £75.19 million in a money-laundering case investigated under the PMLA,

2002," the ED said in a post.

"Investigation revealed that M/s.

Associated Journals Ltd. (AJL) is in possession of proceeds of crime in the form of immovable properties spread across many cities of India such as Delhi, Mumbai and Lucknow to the tune of £66.16 million and M/s. Young Indian (YI) is in possession of proceeds of crime to the tune of £9.02 million in the form of investment in equity shares of AJL," the post read.

issue of deepfakes, particularly after Mandanna's edited video went viral on social media.

“Certain views were given by the social media companies on the matter, and the government now wants to discuss these – as well as provisions within the IT Act – during the proposed meeting,” a source said.

Section 66 D of the IT Act, 2000, provides for punishment - which can be imprisonment for up to three years and fine up to Rs 100,000 - for those found cheating by personation by using computer resources.

The government has requested that social media companies do their due diligence, which includes verifying compliance with laws, privacy policies, user agreements, and alerting users not to host any content that falsely represents another person.

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EMBRACE THE CHILL Top winter wonderland travel experiences

W

hile summer is typically considered the prime time for travel, opting for a winter getaway opens the door to an entirely different realm of exploration.

Venturing out during the deep winter months can unveil magical experiences and introduce you to destinations you might not have previously considered.

creating a picturesque destination.

Charming villages around the Alps offer a snow globe-like experience.Basel provides a range of winter activities, from scenic train journeys through the Swiss countryside to unique fondue experiences aboard trains.

Unwind with a thermal spa visit, such as the over 600-year-old Mineralbad and Spa Rigi Kaltbad, overlooking Lake Lucerne.

Across the globe, there are numerous winter wonderlands, each boasting breathtaking beauty. To ignite your wanderlust, the travel experts at Iglu Cruise have unveiled five must-visit winter destinations for your bucket list.

Additionally, they've shared insights into the top attractions awaiting you in these regions.

Lapland, Finland

Dyker Heights neighbourhood in Brooklyn

Edinburgh, UK: A Winter Wonderland Close to Home

Prague, Czech Republic Explore the enchanting winter charm of Prague, where the Old Town Square hosts one of Europe's largest markets, featuring handmade crafts and delectable fare. From late November to December, the city transforms into a fairyland adorned with

twinkling Christmas lights, enhanced by the majestic castle in the backdrop. Prague's winter wonderland blanketed in snow from November to March, offers a serene and picturesque atmosphere with temperatures dropping to 2°C or lower. A river cruise along the Vltava River provides a

Credit: Visit Finland | Juho Kuva

For a winter wonderland escape closer to home, consider visiting the Scottish capital, Edinburgh.

Marvel at enchanting illuminations adorning the city, with George Street featuring captivating lights. The Royal Botanic Garden transforms into a winter wonderland, featuring sparkling light tunnels and projections animating historic Inverleith House. Enjoy the festive atmosphere at East Princes Street Gardens, hosting a traditional Christmas Market with around 70 stalls offering the best from local and international traders.

Discover handmade gifts, bespoke products, and delectable treats. The iconic big wheel and helter-skelter add an extra dash of excitement.Experience a unique Polar Express at Waverley Station—an interactive theatre performance bringing characters from the iconic film to life. Sing, dance, savor hot chocolate, and anticipate a visit from Santa Claus. Edinburgh, with its festive lights, bustling markets, and immersive experiences, provides a magical winter escape close to home.

Santa Clause in Lapland

unique view of iconic landmarks, including the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle.

Basel, Switzerland The enchanting Christmas magic of Basel, Switzerland is hailed for hosting the best Christmas markets in Europe in 2021.

These markets boast exquisite jewellery, festive decorations, culinary delights, fairground attractions, and live entertainment.Switzerland's winter allure extends beyond the markets, with ski slopes, snow-draped mountains, and frozen lakes

Lapland, the quintessential Winter Wonderland and Santa Claus's official residence, captivates thousands of visitors, especially during Christmas, with Rovaniemi as a standout. Santa's hometown allows guests to encounter the legendary figure, explore his workshop, and meet the reindeer that aid his sleigh flights.Adventurous spirits can embark on a husky safari, traversing the thick snow and picturesque landscapes.

For an extraordinary night, tourists can consider staying in an ice hotel or igloo, sleeping under the stars, and, if lucky, witnessing the mesmerising northern lights.

New York City, USA For those with the means, immersing oneself in the Christmas magic of New York City is an unparalleled delight as the metropolis transforms into a globally renowned hub of festive revelry. One can glide across the ice at Central Park, stepping into a cinematic universe, or meander down 5th Avenue, where the mere act of window shopping infusesChristmas spirit. As night falls, New York City becomes a dazzling spectacle of Christmas lights and the Dyker Heights neighbourhood in Brooklyn, where residents bedeck their houses with extravagant Christmas decorations, is worth exploring. Indulge in the holiday spirit at some of the United States' most significant Christmas markets. The Grand Central Holiday Fair and Bryant Park’s Winter Village offer an abundance of unique handmade gifts, Christmas tree decorations, winter accessories, and gourmet food and drinks.New York City during Christmas is a feast for the senses, a radiant celebration promising unforgettable memories in the heart of Manhattan.

The Great Partition: The Making of India and Pakistan by Yasmin Khan

An insightful and moving book, the Great Partition explores one of the most important and painful moments in South Asian history—the 1947 partition of India. The book painstakingly documents the political and social upheavals of Partition and brings to light, the ignored human stories of suffering and survival.

The book provides a thorough analysis of the political and historical background that preceded the partition, looking at the roles of the Muslim League, the Indian National Congress and the British colonial government. The book's emphasis on the human angle of Partition is among its most captivating features. The narrative is enriched by a wealth of primary sources, including personal letters, diaries, and eyewitness accounts, which add a deeply human perspective to the historical analysis.

Yasmin Khan's work stands out for its meticulous research, nuanced analysis, and its empathetic portrayal of the human cost of this geopolitical upheaval. Her analysis is balanced, avoiding the trap of one-sided narratives, and offers a multi-faceted view of the events and decisions that led to the creation of India and Pakistan. Khan gives graphic details of the widespread sense of

Book Review

loss and dislocation felt by millions of people, as well as the community violence and enormous migrations. Her writing style is engaging and accessible, making the book suitable for both academic and general audiences.

The incorporation of women's experiences is a particularly noteworthy aspect of the book. While the narratives of Partition often centre around political leaders or the experiences of men, Khan discusses how women's bodies became battlegrounds for communal honour and how they suffered distinct forms of violence and trauma.

This gendered analysis offers a more comprehensive understanding of the societal impact of Partition, making her book not just a historical account but also a work of significant social inquiry. The book also explores the role of British colonial policy in the Partition

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Thousands to be spared cancer with 4p-a-day pill Following the approval of a 4p daily pill as a preventive treatment for breast cancer, thousands of women will be spared the disease. The medication Anastrozole, which has been shown in tests to almost reduce the risk of breast cancer if taken daily for five years, will be available to almost 300,000 women who are at higher risk.

Protesters celebrated the decision as a “significant advancement” in the fight against the illness, which is the most common cancer in Britain, accounting for 47,000 new cases annually. Anastrozole had only been approved for use as a therapy up until yesterday; it was not a preventive approach.

NHS England said 289,000 women in their 50s and 60s at moderate or high risk of breast cancer would now be eligible for the drug. They will include women with a family history of the disease, or who have faulty genes such as BRCA1, the so-called Jolie gene, that put them at greater risk.

In England, almost 2,000 cases of breast cancer could be avoided if just 25% of people sign up and half of them finish the entire course. Additionally, it would save the NHS almost £15 million in medical expenses. The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has granted approval for the drug's licence to be extended to cover use as a preventive measure.

Uncommon reasons that you have high cholesterol Individuals who have high cholesterol nearly generally follow strict diet plans that exclude all sources of fat from their regular meals. While avoiding processed foods, red meat, full-fat dairy, fried foods, and sugary sweets is crucial, when added to the diet in moderation, unsaturated fats can help lower bad cholesterol and preserve heart health.

Nutritionist Rashi Chowdhary said, “If you’re at 200 (cholesterol levels) with a good thyroid panel, no inflammatory markers out of range you’re still in the clear.” She elaborates on possible root causes of elevated cholesterol levels.

Stress: High levels of stress also likely result in elevated cortisol levels, which can increase the amount of cholesterol your blood sends to your adrenal glands. Your body will have to manufacture more cholesterol the more cortisol it needs.

Low T3 production or conversion: For cholesterol to be converted into necessary hormones like progesterone and oestrogen, enough T3 is needed. Additionally, a low T3 indicates insufficient thyroid hormone for the synthesis of these other hormones.

Your diet is high in vegetable oils, seed oils, canola oil, corn oil, etc and refined carbs: This can lead to elevated cholesterol levels. Too many PUFAs damage the transport of fats around the body, which can build up in your blood vessels.

Adjust sleep position to get relieve from ear pain Decreasing the pressure on the ear can reduce your ear pain. One way to support your head is to place two or more pillows underneath it and elevate it above your body. Moreover, you ought to refrain from sleeping on the side of the afflicted ear. For instance, if your right ear has an infection, you should try sleeping on your left side. By lowering the pressure inside the ear, changing your sleeping posture can help ease ear pain.

Health Views Disclaimer: The information provided is for general knowledge only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Habits for a healthy heart that could add years to your life Adopting healthy lifestyle measures, such as regular physical activity and a good diet, can knock years off your biological age, according to a new study.

Furthermore, the study of 6,500 adults found that those in good cardiovascular health were, on average, five years younger in their biological age than in their actual or chronological age.

Here is checklist for a healthy heart: Eat Better: Aim for an overall healthy eating pattern that includes whole foods, lots of fruits and vegetables, lean pro-

tein, nuts, seeds, and cooking in non-tropical oils such as olive and canola.

Be More Active: Adults should get 2.5 hours of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous physi-

cal activity per week.

Children should have 60 minutes every day, including play and structured activities.

Get Healthy Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

Children require more: 10-16 hours for ages 5 and younger, including naps; 9-12 hours for ages 612; and 8-10 hours for ages 13-18.

Control Cholesterol: Heart disease can result from elevated non-HDL (high-density lipopro-

tein), or "bad," cholesterol levels.

Instead of monitoring total cholesterol, your healthcare provider may choose to assess non-HDL cholesterol since it is a reliable indicator that can be determined across all individuals and does not require prior fasting.

Manage Blood Sugar and blood pressure: Most of the food we eat is turned into glucose (or blood sugar) that our bodies use as energy. Keeping your blood pressure within acceptable ranges can keep you healthier longer. Levels less than 120/80 mm Hg are optimal.

High metabolism may be an List of some detox drinks early sign of Alzheimer's to fight air pollution disease: Study A study from Karolinska Institutet claims that an early stage of Alzheimer's disease is characterised by a spike in metabolism in the hippocampus, a region of the brain. In Sweden, the most frequent type of dementia affects roughly 20,000 people annually.

Recent studies have demonstrated that an early sign of the illness is a metabolic increase in the mitochondria, or cellular power plants. The study's researchers employed mice that developed Alzheimer's disease pathology in a manner comparable to that of humans. The 2016 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was given for the discovery that disturbance to the cellular recycling mechanism induced synaptic alterations in young mice after an increase in metabolism.

"The disease starts to develop 20 years before the onset of symptoms, so it's important to detect it early -- especially given the retardant medicines that are

starting to arrive," says Per Nilsson, associate professor at the Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet. "Metabolic changes can be a diagnostic factor in this.”

Maria Ankarcrona, a professor at the same department, said, "Interestingly, changes in metabolism can be seen before any of the characteristic insoluble plaques have accumulated in the brain. The different energy balance tallies with what we've seen in images of the Alzheimer brain, but we've now detected these changes at an earlier stage.”

Your physical and mental well-being might suffer greatly from breathing in toxic air. People in Delhi NCR continue to report health concerns such as colds, coughs, asthma flare-ups, and other respiratory ailments, as long as the area's air quality index remains in the bad range.

Certain detox drinks may help reduce stress if you experience the negative impacts of air pollution.

Following are some morning detox drinks that can help flush out toxins and boost metabolism: Green tea with lemon: Squeeze in some fresh lemon for an additional serving of vitamin C, which is well-known for strengthening the immune system. Green tea's potent antioxidants, called catechins, may be able to shield cells from harm from air pollution.

Warm lemon water: Lemon stimulates the liver and promotes detoxification. Warm water aids digestion and can help eliminate toxins from the body.

Turmeric and ginger tea: Turmeric and ginger are amazing to have during pollution season as they have anti-inflammatory properties, and they may potentially reduce inflammation caused by exposure to pollutants.

Cucumber and mint-infused water: Cucumber contains antioxidants that may help combat free radicals, while mint has a soothing effect on the digestive system and adds a refreshing flavour.

Beetroot and carrot juice: Carrots and beets can help liver function and are high in antioxidants. Together, they form a delicious and healthful drink when juiced. It protects cells and gets rid of poisons from the body.

Loneliness has a terrible effect on autistic people New research disproves the myth that persons with autism don't form deep social relationships because they experience loneliness more strongly than the general population. The new study examined the experiences of autistic persons and attempted to quantify the degree of suffering connected to loneliness while also offering a qualitative look at loneliness in autistic adults.

One of the authors, Dr Gemma Williams, a public health research officer, said, “In the quantitative part of the study, our results indicate that sensory differences are related with higher loneliness and associated poor mental health in both autistic and non-autistic adults.

This effect was exacerbated in autistic adults

due to a greater presence of sensory processing differences.”

She collated first-hand reports from autistic adults on intense loneliness and the obstructive role of sensory environments,

which refute stereotypes about autistic adults lacking social motivation. Dr Williams said, “The cost of transport in the city, it’s really quite expensive and prohibitive for some people. So, especially if people are out of work or in transient work or zero-hour contracts where they don’t know how much or how many hours they’re gonna get from one month to the next.”

Meeting up for activities during a crisis in the cost of living may be beyond the means of many people, but people with autism are particularly vulnerable since they often face financial disparities related to not just a lack of support and employment prospects but also access to benefits.

Positive attitude may be associated with less anxiety about ageing Less anxiety about ageing may be linked to a positive attitude towards physical activity.

Rephrasing information about both exercise and ageing can encourage more healthy behaviours, but views of both are influenced by gender, age, marital status, and money, according to researchers who evaluated data from a multi-state study.

Sarah Francis, who holds several titles at Iowa State University, said, “As this large demographic ages, it's really important to support health-promoting behaviours and have an approach that focuses on prevention -- not just

treatment when it comes to chronic diseases.

To do that, we need to know what their needs are and how best to address those needs," says Sarah Francis.

A portion of their research has been devoted to determining the variables that affect physical activity, such as "ageing anxiety."

According to Francis, this anxiety includes worries about relationships, physical and psychological changes, and discomfort or disinterest in being among elderly people. It also includes anxieties and concerns about losing autonomy.

"Previous research has shown that if you have high anxiety about aging, you have poor health outcomes. But if you view it more positively as a life stage, you have better health outcomes. You're more likely to make lifestyle changes that benefit you in the long run,” says Francis.

The researchers created a 142-question online survey and used Qualtrics to find volunteers in order to learn more about the relationship between ageing anxiety and physical activity as well as other variables including age, gender, marital status, and income.

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25 Nov - 1 Dec 2023

David Beckham spotted with Bollywood stars at Sonam’s party in Mumbai D

avid Beckham has been spotted with Sonam Kapoor and her husband Anand Ahuja after the Bollywood stars hosted a welcome party for the footballer.

Beckham,48, made a surprise appearance at the Cricket World Cup semifinal between India and New Zealand in Mumbai. After having spent several days in Gujurat as a Unicef ambassador, the former Manchester United star was invited to the game by the International Cricket Council (ICC), which has partnered with Unicef in a project to empower women and girls through cricket.

“What an incredible atmosphere… Thanks to @unicef and @sachintendulkar for making me so welcome at the Cricket World Cup… These fans have such amazing energy,” Beckham wrote in his latest Instagram post.

Actress Karisma Kapoor, who attended the private dinner, shared photos with Beckham on Instagram. In the photo side by side with the footballer, Karisma wrote: “Did it for the kids…Not really...” and described Beckham as “warm and gracious.”

Host Anand also posted a photo on his page featuring Beckham and a few other guests. The caption read: “Just another vision of how sport brings us together! ..it was tense for a minute but @indiancricketteam clamped down and pulled through!

“Thanks @arjunkapoor for making sure we had a big TV set up showing the match during dinner just so people could sneak in and out to catch a glimpse of India’s tremendous semi finals victor on the way to its fourth ODI World Cup Finals appearance!!”

Amidst the excitement, Arjun shared more snippets from the private party and said it was “a night to remember.”

Aishwarya pens heartfelt note for daughter on birthday A ctress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan recently took to her Instagram account and dedicated a heartfelt note to her daughter Aaradhya who turned 12 this year. In the photo, Aishwarya is in a black outfit, smiling as she posed with little Aaradhya.

Sharing the photo, she wrote in the caption, “I LOVE YOU infinitely, unconditionally, forever and beyond my darling Angel Aaradhya. You are the absolute love of my life… I breathe for you… my soul… HAPPY HAPPY HAPPIEST 12th BIRTHDAY. God Bless you always ALLWAYS. Thank you for being YOU… precious love… I love you the mostestestestestestestestestestestestest . You are the bestestestestestestestestestestestest.”

Several people reacted to the post, including Yuvika Chaudhary and Sonal Chauhan sent their love for the mother-daughter duo. Joining them, a fan wrote in the comments, “Happy Birthday to the little angel.” Another one wrote, “Ageing like a fine wine.”

Abhishek Bachchan also posted an adorable throwback picture with Aaradhya on his Instagram account.

The picture had baby Aaradhya gazing at her father affectionately in a white dress while Abhishek looked dapper in a suit.

His post read, “Happy birthday my little princess! I love you mostest.” His post also garnered much attention.

Actress Preity Zinta shared her wishes in the comment section saying, “Happy Birthday Aradhya God bless you.”

Fardeen Khan said, “Congratulations.”

Rohit Bose Roy said, “Awwwwwww Happy birthday princess.”

Celebrities such as Abhishek’s sister Shweta Bachchan, Athiya Shetty, Kunal Kapoor, Sonu Sood, Sunil Shetty and Sikandar Kher among others dropped red heart emojis in the comment section.

Aishwarya and Abhishek tied the knot in April 2007. They had their first child, Aaradhya in 2011.

Sanjay Gadhvi of ‘Dhoom’ fame passes away F

ilmmaker Sanjay Gadhvi passed away at his Mumbai residence on Sunday. His daughter Sanjina Gadhvi shared the news. She said, “He passed away at his residence. We are not sure what it is, but it is most likely a heart attack. He wasn’t unwell, he was perfectly healthy.” He is survived by his wife, Gina, and two daughters.

Gadhvi directed the 2004 ‘Dhoom’ starring Hrithik Roshan and its 2006 sequel.

Actors Abhishek Bachchan and Bipasha Basu

along with production house YRF, shared their condolences and remembered him on social media. Abhishek wrote, “I took this photo of Sanjay whilst we were filming the climax of Dhoom 2 in South Africa. We made 2 films together - Dhoom and Dhoom 2. Sanju, when I spoke to you last week and we were reminiscing about our shoots and memories I would never have imagined even in my craziest dreams that I would have to write a post like this.”

Kangana reunites with Madhavan for new film

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angana Ranaut is all set to reunite with actor R Madhavan for an upcoming pan-India psychological thriller. The production commenced over the weekend in Chennai. The actress shared a picture on X and wrote, “Today in Chennai we started filming our new film, a psychological thriller. Other details coming soon. For now need all your support and blessings for this very unusual and exciting script.”

The movie will be helmed by ‘Thalaivii’ director Vijay.

Expressing her excitement about working with Vijay once again, she said, “Dear Vijay sir after the incredible experience of Thalaivii happy to be

basking in your glory again I love to be your team and take your commands. Thank you sir.” Kangana also shared a picture with Rajinikanth and wrote, “Thalaivar thrilled us with his surprise visit on our set today.”

The much-anticipated psychological thriller is set to captivate audiences in a bilingual release, Hindi and Tamil.

He added, “I’m shocked beyond belief.

You had faith in me, even when I didn’t. You gave me my first ever hit!!! I can never ever forget that or be able express what it meant to me. I will cherish your friendship always.

Rest in peace my brother.”

Bipasha, who featured in ‘Dhoom 2,’ shared a picture of Gadhvi on Instagram Stories and wrote, “Rip my friend Om Shanti @sanjaygadhvi4 Gone too soon.” John Abraham, who played the antagonist in the first instalment, wrote, “Remember the times I spent with you on the film closest to my heart #Dhoom. May the angels always ride with you. Rest in peace Sanjay Gadhvi.”

Vir Das explains why comedians don’t host award shows in India

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ndian comedian Vir Das has penned a note about why award ceremonies are better with comedians and not big stars as hosts. He also hinted at how mostly big stars are roped in to host major award events in India and how this affects the mood of the evening. The post comes in response to Jimmy Kimmel hosting the Oscars this year.

Vir took to Instagram to share a note and captioned it, “For the five people who care…” His note read, “Someone asked me today why comedians don't host film awards in India. Now many comedians myself included have scripted every film award we have. The point of having comedians host the Oscars or film awards is that for a night, a jester would humanise the most beautiful chosen people in the world, since they were being

celebrated already. That's when any joke is a punch up.”

He further wrote, “Here, egos won't take a joke from anyone not at their level. So you go big. Ironically, the bigger the star who hosts, the trickier it's gonna be. So a huge star hosting works for the people in the room, just not always funny for the people watching. Simply because the power imbalance is off.

It's only funny when the host has less power. So you're deciding between who you want the show to be funny for. The viewers, or the winners.”

Many flocked to the comment section to agree with Sir’s point of view. A fan wrote, “The awards themselves are quite funny. Best comedian in a villainous role, Best Actor in a wholesome entertainer, Best newcomer and awards to everyone who turned up.”

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Allu Sirish has a fanboy moment with Jr NTR

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ctor Allu Sirish recently shared an adorable picture with Jr NTR. In the picture, Sirish can be seen dressed in monochrome while Tarak is dressed in black, with the duo showing off their bromance, hugging each other tightly and smiling at the camera.

He captioned the picture, “Friends, family or fans I see the same warmth and affection whenever someone asks Tarak anna for a photo. The most kind hearted. #deepavali2023.” The photo was clicked at Chiranjeevi’s Diwali bash, which saw numerous Tollywood celebs in attendance.

Rapper Raja Kumari performed at the starstudded do and a video of her performing to the title song of ‘Jawan’ while Chiranjeevi dances along has gone viral on social media.

Also present at the bash were the rest of the Mega and Allu family, including Ram Charan, Allu Arjun, Varun Tej, Lavanya Tripathi and many others.

On the work front, Allu Sirish is shooting for a film called ‘Buddy’ that is yet to hit the screens.

Mansoor Ali Khan reveals he made the Trisha comment 'in jest' M

ansoor Ali Khan has issued a statement clarifying his stance and comments towards his ‘Leo’ co-star Trisha. Recently, a video of the actor from one of his interviews surfaced on social media, where he was allegedly making some highly inappropriate comments about the actor. Several celebrities have condemned the remarks including ‘Leo’ director Lokesh Kanagaraj and singer Chinmayi Sripada.

In his statement, Mansoor said, “Ah.. My kids informed me that they had heard on the news that I had mistreated Trisha in the press meet. To be honest, I complimented her at that press conference. In the Leo movie, Trisha is treated similarly to how Hanuman moved the mountain Chiranjeevi. I made the comment in jest. Some have purposefully sliced it and presented it to Trisha in an alternative format.

I am not the kind of person who is afraid of all this fuss. Today, politicians in prominent positions are among the heroines who have collaborated with me. Several of the heroines settled down and married wealthy businessmen.

My daughter Dil Rupa is a huge fan of yours. I also have two more daughters. They want to get married. I have to support that.

Those who have acted with me know very well how I respect women. Some people have angered Trisha by misrepresenting this.

There is much work to be done in the world.

So focus on your work. Thank you!”

Trisha and Mansoor were recently seen in ‘Leo,’ however, they didn’t share screen space.

In his video, Mansoor reportedly says in his regional language, “When I heard that I was acting with Trisha, I thought there would be a bedroom scene in the film. I thought that I could carry her to the bedroom just like I did with other actresses in my earlier movies. I have done so many rape scenes in a number of movies and it's not new to me. But these

guys didn't even show Trisha to me on the sets during the Kashmir schedule.”

Trisha responded to the video and wrote on X, “A recent video has come to my notice where Mansoor Ali Khan has spoken about me in a vile and disgusting manner. I strongly condemn this and find it sexist, disrespectful, misogynistic, repulsive and in bad taste. He can keep wishing but I am grateful never to have shared screen space with someone as pathetic as him and I will make sure it never happens for the rest of my film career as well.

People like him bring a bad name to mankind.”

Ranbir asks Rashmika to choose between him and Vijay Deverakonda

Tamannaah and Vijay Varma to tie the knot soon?

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amannaah Bhatia had a long career as a leading actress for more than 18 years in Tamil and Telugu cinema. She made her debut in the year 2005 with the film 'Kedi', following which her character in Balaji Shakthikvel's 'Kalloori' was well received by the audiences. Her next big break into commercial cinema came with Dhanush's 'Padikadhavan' after which there was no turning back.

Tamannaah has acted opposite most of the big stars of Tamil cinema including Vijay, Ajith, Suriya, Vikram, Karthi, Vijay Sethupathi, Simbu, Dhanush, Jayam Ravi and Vishal among others. Recently her appearance in a few scenes and the mega hit 'Kaavaalaa' song in Superstar Rajinikanth's all time blockbuster hit 'Jailer' was one of the major highlights of the film.

Tamannaah recently revealed that she is dating popular Bollywood actor Vijay Varma.

The couple met during the making of their web series 'Lust Stories 2'. It is now being reported that they are going to get married

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soon. The hot couple recently stole the spotlight at a grand pre-Diwali bash held at the renowned fashion designer Manish Malhotra's residence.

While the couple arrived separately at the party, it was during their exit that they showcased their affection by walking hand in hand and engaging in a joyful conversation. In a viral video shared on social media, Vijay can be seen graciously opening the door for his ladylove.

ctor Ranbir Kapoor put his ‘Animal’ costar Rashmika Mandanna on the spot when he asked her to choose between him and her ‘Dear Comrade’ co-star and rumoured boyfriend Vijay Deverakonda. The moment came on Nandamuri Balakrishna’s chat show ‘Unstoppable with NBK 2’ to promote their upcoming film.

In a trailer for the latest episode of the show, NBK welcomed the cast of ‘Animal’ on his chat show. In the clip, he is seen dancing with Ranbir on a track from the movie as well as the title song of his 2017 Telugu film, ‘Paisa Vasool.’ Ranbir also spoke in Telugu as he narrated a popular dialogue from Nandamuri’s 2014 film ‘Legend.’

Ranbir also pulled Rashmika’s leg when he asked Nandamuri to ask her to choose between Ranbir and Vijay Deverakonda. In fact, Vijay even called her during the show, as she blushed. Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, the pan-India film also stars Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Tripti Dimri, Shakti Kapoor, and Prem Chopra.

Produced by Kumar and Krishan Kumar’s T-Series, Murad Khetani’s Cine1

Studios, and Pranay Reddy Vanga’s Bhadrakali Pictures, ‘Animal’ is slated to release in cinemas on December 1 in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam.

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Emmy award for comedian Vir Das

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ith his standup show "Vir Das: Landing," comedian Vir Das won the coveted International Emmy Award for Comedy, making India proud. The star, who won in the Comedy category, shared the title with the British comedy series 'Derry Girls Season 3'.

'ANIMAL' TAKES OVER TIMES SQUARE!

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V and YouTube personality Lilly Singh hosted her annual Diwali celebration in Los Angeles over the weekend. The event featured several celebrities including Terry Crews, Jay Sean, Nora Fatehi, Guru Randhawa, Mindy Kaling, Ruby Rose, Tan France, Victoria Justice and Tesher. Actors Poorna Jagannathan and Richa Moorjani of the Netflix show ‘Never Have I Ever’ were seen on the dance floor in the video posted by Lilly.

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Talking about winning at the International Emmy Awards, Vir Das expressed his excitement and joy and said, "This moment is truly surreal - an incredible honour that feels like a dream. Winning an Emmy for 'Vir Das: Landing' in the 'Comedy Category' is not just a milestone for me but for Indian comedy as a whole."

"I have immense gratitude, holding the International Emmy for Best Comedy for 'Vir Das:Landing.' This one is for my team and for Netflix without whom this wouldn't have been possible. This journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, and to win this accolade for my fifth special with Netflix feels like a culmination of passion, perseverance, and the undying support of people around the globe who have given so much love to 'Vir Das: Landing.'

He went on to add, "My journey from crafting local stories to receiving a global accolade has been both challenging and rewarding, and Netflix has been instrumental in that growth. I'm excited about the continued exploration of diverse narratives, from Noida to the International Emmys - India gets you there."

Signing off, he said, "This award is not just a recognition of my work but a celebration of the diverse stories and voices from India. Stories that make us laugh, reflect, and, most importantly, unite. This one is for India, for Indian comedy and for the community of artists at large."

In addition, producer Ekta Kapoor won the Directorate Award at the 51st International Film Awards, making history as the first Indian woman filmmaker to win the International Emmy Directorate Award.

Lilly Singh throws lavish, star-studded Diwali party in LA

he heart of Manhattan's iconic Times Square was recently taken over by T-Series, Cine1 Studios and Bhadrakali Pictures’ 'Animal'. The teaser for the highly anticipated Sandeep Reddy Vanga movie headlined by Ranbir Kapoor lit up the dazzling digital billboards of the cultural hub that never sleeps. The teaser, a tantalizing glimpse into a world of ‘Animal’, left onlookers in awe as the teaser roared on the screen and set the concrete jungle abuzz with excitement.

Starring Ranbir Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol and a talented ensemble, 'Animal' is a crime drama that promises to take viewers on a thrilling ride by delving into various facets of human emotions. The film's teaser, playing out in the heart of Times Square, was a testament to the film's popularity and buzz and as the movie's release date draws nearer, the ‘Animal’ takeover of

Times Square is an early sign of a cinematic gamechanger set to captivate audiences worldwide.

Animal fever has taken a hold in Dubai as well, where the movie's posters and teaser are displayed on a number of digital billboards.

In the meantime, a unique trailer for Animal was recently shown in front of Bobby Deol, Ranbir Kapoor, and producer Bhushan

Kumar of T-Series on the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.

Bhushan Kumar and Krishan Kumar’s T-Series, Murad Khetani’s Cine1 Studios and Pranay Reddy Vanga’s Bhadrakali Pictures have backed 'Animal'.

'Animal' releases on 1st December 2023 in 5 languages - Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam.

Every glimpse of 'Animal' has been gauging excitement, offering viewers a spectrum of human emotions. Right from the intense pre-teaser featuring Ranbir's fiery performance to the teaser's exploration of grey dynamics shared between father and son, each asset has unveiled a different facet of Vanga’s directorial. The unmissable soulful song 'Hua Main' further added a romantic and emotional layer, while the most recent song 'Satranga' focuses on the relationship between husband and wife, unravelling the complexities of post-marriage life.

Grammy nominations for Zakir, Vijay Iyer, Rakesh Chaurasia and song with PM Modi T

he popular fusion group known for their raw talent, Shakti, has been nominated for Best Global Music Album -‘This Moment.’

Shakti’s Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain and flautist Rakesh Chaurasia also got nominated for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album, Best Global Music Performance and Best Instrumental Composition for their work with banjo great Béla Fleck and bassist Edgar Meyer. The album is ‘As We Speak.’

The heralded pianist and composer Vijay Iyer’s collaboration with Arooj Aftab and New York’s Shahzad Ismaily bagged a nomination for Best Alternative Jazz Album and Best Global Music Performance. The album is ‘Love In Exile.’

A song on millets composed

and sung by Falguni and Gaurav Shah to create awareness millets and featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been nominated for the Best Global

Music Performance category for Grammy awards 2024. The track, titled ‘Abundance of Millets,’ centers around the health benefits and the government’s efforts to promote it and Modi speaks about its importance.

Also getting the nod is vocalist and composer Priya Darshini of the song ‘The Wall’ which is in the album ‘On Becoming’ which has been nominated Best Contemporary Instrumental Album.

Lilly, who shone in an ethnic outfit by designer duo Falguni Shane Peacock, took to Instagram to share a bunch of pictures and a video from the party. She captioned it, “Love and Light 2023… for the culture. It was a privilege to host a community filled with people who exude love and light. Because we need that more than ever. There are so many talented people who help bring my vision to life.”

The party seemed to be an extravagant affair featuring white decor with lots of string lights.

Aerial dancers were also spotted.

The food included Asian and Indian dishes as well as seafood and lots of desserts. Lilly wrote, “You all see that beautiful cake?

That’s just how @somethingmeetha rolls. At the end of the party, there wasn’t a single dessert left because people devoured them.”

She also wrote, “After the party, so many people texted me saying “your family and friends are so warm and welcoming,” and that makes me really proud. I’ve been to one too many events in my life where I walked in and immediately felt awkward. I felt this pressure to put on an act and find acceptance. That’s the opposite of what I want this annual event to be. Whether this is your 30th Diwali, or your first, this party will always be about unity, warmth and inclusion. That good, good energy is mandatory.

Grateful for these moments. This is love.”

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Suryakumar Yadav to lead India in Australia T20Is Suryakumar Yadav will be the captain and NCA head VVS Laxman will be the coach of the Indian team for the five-match T20 series against Australia.

Shreyas Iyer will join the squad as vice-captain for the last two T20Is. Ranked as the No. 1 batsman in T20Is, this is the first time Suryakumar will be captaining India. The decision comes after it became clear that Hardik Pandya, who suffered a bad ankle injury during the World

Cup, is not likely to return to action in the next few months.

Paceman Prasidh Krishna, who replaced Pandya in the World Cup but didn’t get a game, has been included in the squad for this series, while all rounder Axar Patel, who missed the World Cup due to a quadriceps injury, has returned.

Apart from Surya, Ishan Kishan, who played only the first two games, Krishna and Iyer (last two T20Is), all the players who were a part of the Indian

team which lost the 2023 ODI World Cup final to Australia have been rested to allow them to recover after a grueling campaign. Almost the entire Indian team for this series comprises those players who were a part of the gold medalwinning side at the Hangzhou Asian Games in October.

Curiously, experienced wicketkeeper-bat Sanju Samson and leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal have not made the cut.

Apart from Laxman, the other

FA suspends council member after he compared Israeli PM to Hitler The Football Association has suspended a council member who said that “Adolf Hitler would be proud of Benjamin Netanyahu.”

Wasim Haq, who joined the FA in 2018 to represent BAME football communities, has been suspended pending the outcome of an investigation. The FA said in a statement: “The investigation into Wasim Haq’s conduct is underway and he has been suspended from his council duties pending the outcome of the process”.

It comes after he was sacked as an independent councillor by the Lawn Tennis Association for his comments on the ongoing war in Gaza between Israel and Hamas. Haq has since deleted his tweet, which read: “Netanyahu has sacrificed his own people to

maintain power … whilst #Palestinians are trying to maintain their sanity. Adolf Hitler would be proud of Benjamin Netanyahu."

Haq, who also holds a role with England Golf and describes himself as an “advisor/mentor” on social media, previously denied being anti-Semitic. He wrote on Twitter : “To ensure that there is no doubt I am now aware that a tweet I published has caused offence.

"My tweet was directly in relation to comparing two individuals who in my eyes have caused contemporary and historical irreparable harm to victimised communities on both sides of this tragic conflict.

“I am not and never have been the kind of person that targets anyone or any

community over any difference ever. I am not antisemitic and have never been accused of being so. I unreservedly apologise if this was taken in any other way.

Lord Wolfson, who chairs the FA’s Football Regulatory Committee, previously said: “Taking down the tweet and apologising is the minimum.

That is necessary but it plainly can’t be a sufficient response.

The LTA’s statement read: “The LTA board considered this matter today and agreed that the tweet posted by Haq was unacceptable and in no way reflects the LTA’s position or values. Therefore the board has agreed that Wasim Haq will be removed from his role as an independent councillor with immediate effect.”

Adam Azim clinches European light-welterweight title Adam Azim clinched the European light-welterweight title, halting Franck Petitjean in the tenth round in Wolverhampton. The 21year-old Briton delivered a dominant performance, flooring the defending champion with a body shot in the fifth. Petitjean, 35, rose after the count but his corner threw in the towel in the tenth after a second knockdown.

Azim's record now stands at 10 wins with seven stoppages. Aspiring to follow in the footsteps of his idol Amir Khan, Azim eyes a world championship by age 22, with his 22nd birthday approaching in July.

“It feels amazing to have won the European Title. A lot of people don’t realise I’m only 21 years old, so to break records like I have done is a huge statement. I chopped that tree down and got the stoppage to become the firstever British-Pakistani to win the European Title. I enjoyed the moment and now I’m focused on bringing those World Titles back to Slough in 2024,” Adam exclusively told Asian Voice.

members of the support staff are Sitanshu Kotak (batting coach) Sairaj Bahutule (bowling coach) and Munish Bali (fielding coach).

India squad for Oz T20Is: Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad (vice-captain), Ishan Kishan, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Shivam Dubey, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Mukesh Kumar.

Suryakumar Yadav

Six Indian players named in ICC's team of World Cup 2023 Rohit Sharma was named captain of ICC's World Cup 2023 XI which has as many as six Indians players in it.

Apart from captain Rohit, the other Indians who made it into the team of the tournament which has players from five teams, are Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami. The other five members of the World Cup XI were from champions Australia (2), semi-finalists South Africa (1) and New Zealand and Sri Lanka (1).

All-rounder Glenn Maxwell and leg-spinner Adam Zampa were the only Aussies in the team XI. The selection panel consisted of former West Indian fast bowler and ICC commentator Ian Bishop, South African commentator Kass Naidoo, former Australian fast bowler and commentator Shane Watson, ICC general manager Wasim Khan and Sunil Vaidya (journalist).

Rohit led the team from the front as his fearless batting won him praise from all quarters, with the Indian skipper finishing as the second highest scorer in the tournament with 597 runs in 11 matches at 54.27 with one century and three fifties.

Kohli, who became the

first batter ever to score more than 700 runs in a single world cup edition, finished with a total of 765 runs with three centuries and two fifties. With more than half of the ICC's team of the tournament comprising of Indian players, it was yet another indication of the fact that despite not winning the title, the hosts were the best side on the competition having registered a record 10 wins.

Wicketkeeper-batter and vice-captain KL Rahul, who made 452 runs at 75.33 with one century and two fifties, finished as the eighth-highest run-scorer in the World Cup and was named in the Team of the Tournament.

Despite missing four matches of the league stage initially, Mohammed Shami finished as the best bowler with 24 wickets in only seven matches.

India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who was the fourth most successful bowler in the World Cup with 20 wickets in 11 matches at 18.65, also features in the ICC XI. Ravindra Jadeja featured in the team alongside Australia veteran Glenn Maxwell for his all-round exploits in the competition.

“India's spin-bowling all-

rounder Jadeja played a crucial role for his team, taking key wickets throughout the middle overs and consistently turning the screw,” the ICC said.

South Africa's wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock, who is now retired from the ODI format given the World Cup is over, was named as one of the two openers in the competition having scored four centuries for the Proteas during their excellent run in the league.

The coveted No. 4 slot went to New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell, who was the only batter to have dominated the Indian bowlers when they were on song during their two meetings – one at the league stage and the other at the semifinals.

Australia's sole specialist spinner Adam Zampa, who finished as the second-best bowler with 23 wickets in 11 matches, featured at the last spot while South Africa's Gerald Coetzee was named the 12the man.

ICC's Team of the Tournment: Rohit Sharma (c), Quinton de Kock, Virat Kohli, Daryl Mitchell, KL Rahul (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Adam Zampa, Dilshan Madushanka, 12th man: Gerald Coetzee.

Lanka govt apologises to Jay Shah In a previous interview with the newsweekly, Adam spoke about his quest with ADHD. He said, “I come from a Pakistani Asian family. I’m Kashmiri as well as British, as I was born in the UK. We’re all warriors in my family. We’re from the Janjua Rajput caste, which is the same as Amir Khan, who is someone I’ve always looked up to.”

He first discovered he had ADHD at 4 years old. He was very hyperactive and had this energy that no one in his family had ever seen before.

“My parents saw that I couldn’t stop fidgeting, I kept moving around and messing about - so they took me to the Doctor where I was

diagnosed with ADHD. My family knew I needed an outlet for my energy, so they chose boxing and that helped me manage my ADHD,” he said.

Adam insisted that ADHD is very prevalent in the Asian community. “I think people need to understand that ADHD isn’t a bad thing to have. It’s a really good thing. You can use it to achieve good things.

Not just in boxing - it could be cricket, football, or any great activity. You can use your ADHD to achieve something great. ADHD is a superpower. It is energy that you can channel into anything you want to achieve great things,” he added.

The Sri Lankan government has offered its apology to Jay Shah, president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and secretary of the Indian board (BCCI), over former World Cup-winning captain Arjuna Ranatunga’s controversial remarks that Shah was responsible for “ruining” the Island nation’s cricketing structure.

In a clarification made

by Sri Lankan ministers, Harin Fernando and Kanchan Wijesekara, during a parliament session – which was widely reported in the media – both politicians expressed their deep regret over the defamatory statement by Ranatunga.

“We as a government express our regret to the

Asian Cricket Council chief Jay Shah. We cannot point our hands at the ACC or other countries for the shortcomings of our institutions. It is a wrong assumption," Wijesekara, who is a minister of power and energy, was quoted as saying in the parliament by several media outlets.

Later, Fernando, minister of tourism, informed that Sri Lankan president, Ranil

Wickremesinghe, has spoken to Shah regarding the ban imposed on Lankan cricket by the International Cricket Council.

Earlier this week, Ranatunga was quoted by Sri Lankan newspaper Daily Mirror as saying that the country’s cricket board was being ruined because of pressure from Shah.

“Because of the connection between SLC officials and Jay Shah, they (the BCCI) are under the impression that they can trample and control SLC. Shah is running Sri Lanka Cricket.

SLC is being ruined because of pressure from Shah. One man in India is ruining Sri Lankan cricket,” Ranatunga said.

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India witness a historic World Cup, several records broken In the end, life is nothing more than a handful of stories we wish to share. Many cricket fans in India and other parts of the world have enjoyed a story unlike few in the last six weeks. It was an audacious and lovely cricket team tale. It unfurled like a dream and was full of charm. Even though India's dream was shattered in the finals, history was made.

India may not have been able to win the Cup, but Rohit & Co's dominance in the ICC Team of the Tournament was largely due to their unbeaten run before the final, which saw numerous players come up to do the job.

India achieved a historic feat by winning 10 consecutive matches—comprising the semifinal and nine league games—under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, a milestone never before accomplished in the history of ODI series.

However, the pivotal match was claimed

by Australia, showcasing their superior performance in the final at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium. With this victory, they secured their record-extending sixth ODI World Cup trophy, marking yet another remarkable achievement in the history of One-Day Internationals.

The 2023 ODI World Cup has etched its place as one of the most monumental International Cricket Council (ICC) events in the sport's extensive history. A staggering

Oz Captain Pat Cummins with PM Modi and Australian deputy PM Richard Marles

record of 1.25 million fans graced the stadiums to witness the matches live. The ICC reported an astounding total attendance of 1,250,307 spectators throughout the 45-day extravaganza, surpassing the previous benchmark of 1.016 million set during the 2015 edition held in Australia and New Zealand.

Virat Kohli won the 'Player of the Tournament' award for his 765 runs in 11 matches, while Mohammed Shami was the highest wicket-taker with 24 wickets in 7 matches. Virat and Shami are among the six Indian players in ICC's Team of the Tournament, with Rohit (captain), KL Rahul (wicketkeeper-batter), Jasprit Bumrah and the other four.

Following India’s unfortunate loss, Prime Minister Narendra Modi boosted morale in the Indian cricket camp by visiting the dressing room and offering words of consolation to players, including captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli.

Kohli breaks Tendulkar’s ODI record, much to the latter’s pleasure The batsman with the most ODI hundreds, Virat Kohli, blasted past Sachin Tendulkar. In the semifinal of the ICC Cricket World Cup in Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, Kohli achieved his record-breaking 50th ODI century against New Zealand. In the Eden Gardens match against South Africa, Kohli reached his 49th ODI century and tied Tendulkar. With over 700 runs, including three hundreds and five fifties, Virat Kohli has been at the peak of his game

at the 2023 World Cup. In the meantime, Virat Kohli was expected to smash Sachin Tendulkar's mark at the 2023 World Cup. Following Kohli's 49th ODI century, which tied Tendulkar for the lead, Sachin went to X to congratulate Virat on the historic achievement and to predict that he will top the rankings for most ODI hundreds in the 2023 World Cup. "Well played Virat. It took me 365 days to go from 49 to 50 earlier this year. I hope you go from 49 to 50 and break my record in the next few days. Congratulations," wrote Tendulkar.

English football legend attends World Cup semi-final David Beckham, a former footballer for Manchester United and Real Madrid, was

Sachin Tendulkar and David Beckham pose with the UNICEF mascots

present at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai for India vs. New Zealand Cricket World Cup 2023 semifinal match. The UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador was in India for three days.

Before going to the Wankhede stadium, he first met Sachin Tendulkar, a former Indian batter and UNICEF Regional Goodwill Ambassador for South Asia, in Mumbai. The two legends then walked onto the field ahead of the match and met a few players from both New Zealand and the Indian cricket team, and posed for photos with the ODI ICC World Cup trophy.

Before the big game, Beckham was seen interacting with many members of the Indian team, and his picture with Virat Kohli went viral. In fact, shortly after the Indian cricket star made history by hitting his 50th ODI century, Beckham was seen embracing Virat Kohli.

Celebrities showing their support for the Indian team

However, it is Beckham's conversation with Kuldeep Yadav ahead of the game that has taken social media by storm. Kuldeep was visibly in awe of meeting Beckham and had a fanboy moment. He told the football star that, “After cricket, football is everything for me.” He also expressed admiration for Paul Scholes and Gary Neville.

The event was graced by a multitude of celebrities, adding glamour to the occasion. David Beckham was spotted seated alongside Kiara Advani and Sidharth Malhotra, while Ranbir Kapoor was seen in the company of John Abraham.

Shahid Kapoor and Kunal Khemu appeared to be in high spirits throughout the match.

Notably, veteran actor Rajnikanth was also present, adding to the star-studded

PM Modi consoling Indian players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the dressing room

gathering.

Bollywood turned up in support of the Indian team Ahmedabad witnessed the arrival of numerous celebrities who came to rally behind Team India at the World Cup Finale in 2023. Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh, adorned in Indian jerseys, graced the event alongside their family members.

Shah Rukh Khan was spotted in the stadium with his 'KHANdan', while Ayushmann Khurrana joined the stands seated with AbRam, Suhana, Aryan, and Shanaya Kapoor. Adding to the star-studded affair, South superstar Daggubati Venkatesh also made an appearance in Ahmedabad to witness the thrilling match.

Asha Bhosle, accompanied by her granddaughter Zanai Bhosle, graced the memorable World Cup 2023 final match.

Seated beside Shah Rukh Khan, the veteran singer enjoyed the game. A heartwarming moment unfolded when noticing that Asha Bhosle had finished her tea, Khan graciously took her cup and personally handed it to a staff member. This act of humility and reverence towards the legendary singer left everyone in the vicinity deeply impressed.

Actors Soha Ali Khan and Kunal Khemmu with daughter at the final match

BCCI's revenue from the ICC World Cup shared The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reaps significant benefits from the International Cricket Council's (ICC) annual net earnings of US $600 million, translating to approximately ₹49,918.4 crores. This accounts for an impressive 38.5% share. Over a four-year period, this translates to an annual average of ₹12,479.6 crores. Moreover, the ICC World Cup has contributed substantially to the Indian economy, generating a significant boost across various sectors.

India’s Diwali celebration ahead of the crucial qualifier and final During the ICC World Cup 2023, the

Sharma arriving at the event accompanied by his wife, Ritika, while Virat Kohli was seen attending alongside Anushka Sharma. The celebration was vibrant with other players such as Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, and Mohammed Shami, joyfully engaging in the festivities, capturing moments together in photographs.

Notably, the team's coach, Rahul Dravid, was also part of the celebration, seen actively interacting and relishing the occasion alongside others in the shared video.

World Cup excitement for the Indian diaspora across the world A significant number of individuals from the global diaspora made the journey to Ahmedabad to witness the World Cup 2023 match. The event drew people from various parts of the world who were eager to support and cheer for Team India. Despite the disappointment and heartbreak that ensued from the match's outcome, the spectators were filled with immense pride for Team India due to their commendable and consistent performance throughout the tournament.

The collective pride stemmed from the team's efforts and achievements leading up to the World Cup, showcasing skill, determination, and sportsmanship. The diaspora's presence at the event underscored the strong and enduring connection that individuals from different corners of the world feel toward their homeland, particularly when it comes to celebrating and supporting their national sports teams.

Manish Tiwari, Founder HereandNow365 Ltd, travelled from the UK to attend and spoke to Asian Voice about the same. He said, “The tournament obviously brought all Indian team lovers together but not just from India. I was there for finals and prior to that for some games and wherever I went, I saw the Indian diaspora from all corners of the world, from Britain, from America and everywhere else in Asia and Africa.”

“Last night I shared a meal after the heartbreaking Indian defeat with an elderly retired couple from Manchester whose son had arranged a surprise ticket and had actually turned with the tickets. This was special as if Cricket had united the diaspora and brought them back to India.

Undoubtedly a very special World Cup for that reason alone. India obviously is now a Mecca for Indian fans to visit their favourite team and its iconic stars.”

Indian team celebrating Diwali

Indian cricket team joyously celebrated Diwali, a moment captured and shared in a video by The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Dressed elegantly in traditional Indian attire, the team, along with their partners, gathered for the festivities. The video showcased Rohit

Fans cheering their respective teams