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PM Modi greets nation on 75th Republic Day Women display motorcycle Friday extended greetings to the nation on the occasion of the 75th Republic Day. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP National President J. P. Nadda also greeted the countrymen.
New Delhi, Jan 26 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on
Prime Minister Modi posted on X in Hindi: "Best wishes on the special occasion of the 75th Republic Day. Jai Hind!".
Union Home Minister Shah remembered and saluted the fallen soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the unity and integrity of the country.
The court has asked the district administration to make the necessary arrangements in the next seven days.
As per the court order, Hindu devotees can now offer prayers at 'Vyas Ka Tehkhana', a sealed area inside the Gyanvapi mosque. While speaking to reporters, advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side, said, "The Hindu side has been allowed to offer prayers at
Republic Day parade at Kartavya path on Friday. Over 260 women showcased their bravery, valour and determination through varied formations, including Chandrayaan, Sarvatra Suraksha, Abhivadan and Yog Se Siddhi.
"Hearty greetings to all the countrymen on Republic Day. On this auspicious occasion Continued on Page 3
Varanasi court allows Hindus to worship in Gyanvapi mosque basement Varanasi (UP), Jan 31 (IANS) A Varanasi court on Wednesday allowed Hindus to worship inside the sealed basement of the Gyanvapi mosque.
daredevil stunts at R-Day parade
'Vyas Ka Tehkhana'. The District Administration will have to make arrangements within seven days. Everyone will now have the right to perform puja."
New Delhi, Jan 26 (IANS) Women personnel of CRPF, BSF and SSB exhibited the country’s Nari Shakti carried out daredevil motorcycle stunts during the
New Delhi, Jan 26 (IANS) Russian President Vladimir Putin has showered praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying
Interacting with university students in Kaliningrad Region on Thursday, to mark the 'Russian Students Day', Putin also said he appreciated India for following
an 'independent' foreign policy which is not easy to pursue in the current scenario, according to a report in Russia Today. Putin also warned "outside forces" (the West) not to "play games" for political clout in India. "Playing games with India related to influence on its politics from outside has no future," the Russian leader said. Continued on Page 3
According to Israel Defence Ministry officials, discussions are on at a higher level and a ceasefire leading to the release of a batch of women, elderly and sick Israeli hostages from the custody of Hamas will commence soon. Tel Aviv, Jan 31 (IANS) A ceasefire to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas for release of hostages is likely by the coming week.
In a statement on Tuesday, Gallant said that this could lead to a war and called upon for more comprehensive preparations. Tel Aviv, Jan 31 ( IANS) Israel Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, widely considered a hawk in the
He added that Hezbollah has 150,000 rockets and mortars and could fire potentially up to 8,000 rockets per day.
Continued on Page 3
Continued on Page 3
tonne of cocaine worth 57 million pounds to Australia after a probe found they were behind a company that sent the drugs by plane under a cover load of metal toolboxes.
He warned that this was several levels of magnitude greater than what Hamas was able to do other than for one day on October 7, 2023. The Defence Minister, who is also a former General of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), said that the rockets of Hezbollah are also more precise, long-range and destructive.
While Hamas has been insisting on a complete withdrawal of Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for the next round of ceasefire, Israel had
British-Indian couple convicted of exporting GBP57 mn cocaine to Australia
Hezbollah could attack Israeli city of Haifa: Israel Defence Minister Israeli war cabinet, has said that terror group Hezbollah could attack the northern Israel city of Haifa.
Continued on Page 3
Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal likely by next week
India has highest economic growth rate due to PM Modi’s leadership: Putin "India has one of the highest rates of economic development and growth in the world, and that too is due to the leadership qualities of the incumbent Prime Minister. It was during his leadership that India reached such a pace", the media reported.
Ministry of Defence said that tableaux of 16 States and Union Territories (UTs) rolled down the Kartavya Path, showcasing
London, Jan 30 (IANS) A British Indian couple has been convicted of exporting more than half a
Arti Dhir, 59, and Kavaljitsinh Raijada, 35, were convicted of 12 counts of exportation and 18 counts of money laundering by a jury following a trial at Southwark Crown Court on Monday. The married couple from Hanwell Continued on Page 3
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Community News Injuries, IPL pressure, aging players complicate team selection for T20I World Cup
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5 US destinations to watch in 2024
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
COVER STORIES
PM Modi extends greetings to Israel-Hamas ceasefire nation on 75th Republic Day deal likely by next week Continued from Page 1
of democracy, I salute all the freedom fighters, constitution makers and the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the unity and integrity of the country. Let us all together take a pledge to protect our democratic values on the occasion of Republic Day and contribute in realising Prime
Minister Narendra Modi's resolve of a developed India," posted Shah on X. Nadda also posted on X: "Heartiest greetings to all the countrymen on the 75th Republic Day. Today, on this occasion, I salute all our freedom fighters, brave soldiers and constitution makers, who gave everything for the
backed out of it in total.
Nadda unfurled the national flag at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi on the occasion.
Sources in the Israel defense ministry told IANS that Israel side has agreed upon the release of a large number of Palestinians who have been arrested and jailed in Israel in exchange for the hostages in the custody of Hamas.
India has highest economic growth rate due to PM Modi’s leadership: Putin Continued from Page 1
Putin also said that Russia can rely on India as a trusted partner. "We have very good relationships with India, and our faith in India is demonstrated by the fact that Moscow is Delhi's greatest
foreign investor... and it is just the beginning," Russia Today cited Putin as saying. Putin also praised the 'Make in India' initiative and said that it is making massive waves under PM Modi.
The Russian President pointed out that India has a great culture, calling it interesting, diverse, and colourful. "Russia is probably one of the few countries where Indian films are regularly broadcast on national
Women display motorcycle daredevil stunts at R-Day parade Continued from Page 1
India’s rich cultural diversity and creativity. Arunachal Pradesh tableau showed Bugun Community Reserve - Viksit Bharat, Haryana displayed 'Mera Parivar - Meri Pehchan'. Manipur tableau displayed Thambal Gi Langla Lotus Threads. Madhya Pradesh tableau came with the theme of Self-Reliant Women - Mantra of Vikas. Odisha tableau showed Women Empowerment in Viksit Bharat. Chhattisgarh showed ‘Aadim Jansansad of Bastar Muria Darbar’. Rajasthan tableau came with Viksit Bharat Main - Padharo Mahare Desh. Maharashtra tableau had a theme of Inspiration for Indian Democracy: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Andhra Pradesh tableau displayex ‘Transforming School Education in Andhra Pradesh - Making Students Globally Competitive. Ladakh tableau showed Viksit
Bharat: Empowering Women Through Employment in Ladakh’s Journey. Tamil Nadu tableau had Kudavolai System in Ancient Tamil Nadu - Mother of Democracy. Gujarat tableau showed Dhordo: A Global Icon of Gujarat’s Border Tourism. Meghalaya tableau came with Meghalaya’s Flourishing Tourism. Jharkhand tableau displayed Jharkhand’s Tasar Silk. Uttar Pradesh tableau showed a wonderful picture of Ayodhya: Viksit Bharat - Samradh Virasat, Telangana tableau had Democracy at the Grassroots: The legacy of Telangana’s Freedom Fighters. The Ministry of Defence said that around 13,000 special guests invited to witness the parade this year included best performers in various fields and those who made best use of various schemes of the Government such as Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural and Urban), PM Ujjwala Yojana, PM
Street Vendor's Aatmanirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi), PMKrishi Sinchayee Yojana, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, PM Vishwakarma Yojana, PM Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojna, PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, Stand-Up India scheme, Pre-Matric Scholarship Scheme and Rashtriya Gokul Mission. Sarpanches of Vibrant Villages, women workers of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Electronic Manufacturing sectors and Central Vista Project, women Space Scientists of ISRO, Yoga Teachers (Ayushman Bharat), winners of international sports events and Paralympic medalists In addition, Best Self-Help Groups, Farmers Producer Organisations, references of PM Mann ki Baat programme, and ‘Super-100’ of Project Veer Gatha 3.0 and winners of National School Band Competition attended the parade. These special guests were prominently seated at Kartavya Path.
Hezbollah could attack Israeli city of Haifa: Israel Defence Minister Continued from Page 1
several days or a couple of weeks.
He also added that defence analysts are of the belief that even if Iron Dome maintained an 80 to 90 per cent shoot-down rate, enough rockets would get through the missile shield to do major damage to Haifa and some other cities.
The defence think-tanks, however, said that but the early firing period would harm the northern Israeli towns, including Haifa, and that Hezbollah could manage rocket fire for longer than Hamas.
Israeli Defence officials still believe Israel would "win" such a war in the military terms and that unprecedented levels of air force strikes in Lebanon would degrade Hezbollah's rocket power within
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The IDF in a statement on late Tuesday night said that it's aircraft hit a Hezbollah command centre and an observation post in the southern Lebanon village of Khiam. The statement also said that on
Continued from Page 1
sovereignty, integrity and unity of the nation. Let us all together contribute to the fulfillment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resolve of a capable, self-reliant and developed India.
Tuesday, the Israel Air Force had attacked another observation post and building used by Hezbollah in Ayta ash-Shab and Mhaibib. Hezbollah only managed to fire one rocket from Lebanon at the Arab al-Aramshe area, which landed in an open area without causing any injuries. It may be noted that after the assassination of top Hamas leader Saleh al-Arouri in southern Beirut, allegedly by Israel in a drone attack, the Hezbollah Chief Hassan Nasrallah had warned
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Several rounds of mediatory talks held at the behest of Qatar, Egypt and the US at Doha, Cairo and Paris seems to be bringing in results.
According to information available after the release of women, sick and elderly civilians in Hamas custody, a second batch of hostages would also be released in which women Israeli soldiers in Hamas custody would be freed.
CIA chief William Burns and Mossad Chief David Burnea were also present in the recent mediatory talks held at Paris and have ironed out certain issues pertaining to ceasefire during their talks with Qatar and Egyptian mediators.
Sources clarified that there could be a one month ceasefire in hostilities but Israel has not agreed for the safe passage of top Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Mohammed Deif from Gaza into either Qatar or Turkey. Israel Defense Minister Yoav Gallant had clearly stated that the Israel army would smoke out Sinwar from his hideout and would kill him.
British-Indian couple convicted of exporting GBP57 mn cocaine to Australia Continued from Page 1
cocaine worth tens of millions of pounds from the UK to Australia, where they knew they could maximise their revenue," Piers Phillips, NCA Senior Investigating Officer, said.
Dhir and Raijada were identified by National Crime Agency (NCA) investigators after the Australian Border Force intercepted the cocaine upon its arrival in Sydney in May 2021.
"They kept their illicit profits in cash at their home and in storage units, as well as purchasing property, gold and silver in an attempt to hide their wealth. These defendants may have thought they were removed from the misery caused by the drugs trade but their greed was fuelling it," Phillips added.
in the Ealing district of West London, who denied exporting cocaine to Australia and money laundering, will be sentenced at the same court today.
The drugs had been shipped via a commercial flight from the UK and consisted of six metal toolboxes which, when opened, were found to contain 514 kilos of cocaine. Officers traced the consignment back to Dhir and Raijada, who had set up a front company called Viefly Freight Services with the sole purpose of smuggling drugs. Both defendants had been directors of the company at different points since its incorporation in June 2015, the NCA said in a statement released on Monday. Raijada's fingerprints were found on the plastic wrappings of the metal toolboxes containing the seized drugs, while receipts for the order of the toolboxes, worth 2855 pounds, were discovered at the couple’s home. The NCA claimed that there had been 37 consignments sent to Australia since June 2019, of which 22 were dummy runs and 15 contained cocaine. According to the crime agency, their knowledge of the airport freight procedures -- with both of them having worked for a flight services company at Heathrow -was used to cover their criminal activities.
Dhir and Raijada were arrested at their home in Hanwell on June 21, 2021. A search of their premises led to 5000 pounds worth of goldplated silver bars, 13,000 pounds inside the home and 60,000 pounds in cash in a safety deposit box. Following further investigations, the pair were arrested again in February, 2023 and this time officers discovered almost three million pounds in cash hidden in boxes and suitcases at a storage unit in Hanwell, which Raijada had rented in his mother’s name. Financial inquiries found they had also purchased a flat in Ealing for 800,000 pounds and a Land Rover for 62,000 pounds, despite declaring profits of only a few thousand pounds to HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs). Investigations showed that both defendants held cash in bank accounts which far exceeded their declared income. They had deposited almost 740,000 pounds in cash into 22 different bank accounts since 2019 and were further charged with money laundering.
"Arti Dhir and Kavaljitsinh Raijada used their insider knowledge of the air freight industry to traffic
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
ADVERTORIAL
Bravus kicks off 2024, with promise of jobs and prosperity for communities As we kick off the year that is 2024, we are ready to get stuck into what will undoubtedly be another landmark year for Bravus. Our work spans export thermal coal, solar energy, port operations, and rail operations across six distinct companies
based in regional areas of the state of Queensland. All up, more than 2,000 men and women work for or at a Bravus site every day, making us one of biggest private job creators in these communities. Beyond the economic benefit
created, our people and their families are a part of, and add to, the social fabric of the towns and cities they live in and that’s something we’re very proud of. We’re proud of our Indian heritage, too. Bravus is part of the Adani Group, and, through us,
Adani is by far the biggest Indian investor in Australia, making an important contribution to both the nation’s growing Indian Diaspora and to championing bilateral trade between Australia and India. We look forward to achieving new milestones in 2024
as we continue to helping the Adani Group create a brighter future for humanity at home, and abroad. With our best wishes for the new calendar year to you and your loved ones.
(L-R) New BRC trainee train drivers Taylor Paul, Maleisha Leo, Ebony Geddes, and Zane Prior at Bowen Rail Company_s local provisioning yard
A Bowen Rail Company train loading at the Carmichael TLO
Bravus staff member checks solar panel at Rugby Run solar farm
Carmichael team member and First Nations man, Gary
CAT 796 AC Haul Trucks at the Carmichael mine
North Queensland Export Terminal, home of the Abbot Point Operations team
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
ADVERTORIAL
Greater Springfield Kite Festival 2024 soars to new heights at Woodcrest Oval Ground Australia Day and Indian Republic Day celebrated on Kite Festival
A kaleidoscope of colors and cultures
Springfield, 26 January: The Greater Springfield Indian Association (GSIA) hosted the second edition of the Greater Springfield Kite Festival at Woodcrest Oval Ground, transforming the skies into a vibrant display of colors and celebration. Held on the auspicious occasion of Australia Day and Indian Republic Day, the event brought together the local community for a day filled with joy, cultural diversity, and shared festivities with live DJ.
The festival kicked off at 12 PM and continued until 6 PM, with the Woodcrest Oval Ground becoming a hub of activity. Attendees were treated to the mesmerizing sight of kites of various shapes and sizes dancing in the sky, symbolizing unity and joy.
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Adding to the cultural experience, the festival featured a live DJ, traditional Indian food stalls offering tantalizing flavors, and vibrant stalls showcasing exquisite jewelry. Local spiritual stores contributed to the mystical
atmosphere, providing attendees with opportunities for spiritual and recreational activities. Community spirit and participation Local businesses actively participated in the festival, creating a bustling marketplace within the event grounds. Representatives and businesses from Greater Springfield showcased their products and services, fostering an environment of community bonding and camaraderie. Honorable Shane Neumann, Member of Parliament, expressed appreciation for the
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efforts of GSIA and President Mukesh Dubey in organizing the event. Other esteemed guests, including Honorable Milton Dick, Honorable Charis Mullen, Mayor Theresa Harding, and Councillor Paul Tully, applauded the festival's success and pledged continued support for future community events.
of the attendees, making it a memorable day for all.
A resounding success
GSIA President Mukesh Dubey expressed gratitude for the community's enthusiastic participation and the support received from local leaders. With the success of this event, GSIA looks forward to organizing more vibrant and community-centric gatherings in the future.
The Greater Springfield Kite Festival 2024 was not just an event but an immersive experience that celebrated diversity, unity, and the rich tapestry of cultures within the community. As kites soared high, so did the spirits
The Greater Springfield Kite Festival 2024 stands as a testament to the power of community bonding and shared celebrations, making it a hallmark event in the Greater Springfield calendar.
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
Amid dhols, chants, rallies, Hindus across the world say ‘Jai Shri Ram’ Georgia. Over 100 Tesla-owning Hindus gathered at Sri Bhaktha Anjaneya Temple in Maryland and arranged their cars in such a way that it formed the word "Ram'' when seen from a bird's eye view.
New Delhi, Jan 22 (IANS) Amid the sounds of dhols and firecrackers, distribution of sweets, rallies and chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’, Hindus in India and abroad came together to celebrate the 'Prana Pratishtha’ ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya on Monday. The US, where Indian-Americans make up approximately 1.35 per cent of the population, kicked off the celebrations almost a week before the temple's consecration with massive car rallies in Houston and California. Carrying saffron banners with images of Ram Lalla and the temple, more than 1,100 Hindus took part in a Bay Area car rally, and a huge crowd gathered at the iconic Times Square in New York, singing hymns in praise of Lord Ram. Laddos were also distributed as 'prasad' by the members of the 'Overseas Friends of Ram Mandir' at Times Square. In addition, the US Chapter of the VHP erected over 40 billboards in 10 states, including Texas, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and
“This is a huge accomplishment after 500 years of struggle. Congratulations to my Hindu friends and my constituency and around the world. May you all be blessed,” Congressman Rich McCormick said in a statement, greeting the Hindu community. The event was broadcast live at approximately 300 locations across the US, including at Times Square which was lit up with vibrant colours and Lord Ram's images. In Mauritius, where the population consists of around 48 per cent Hindus the community came together to light 'diyas' at the temples and recited the ‘Ramayan Paath.’ In addition, the government also announced a two-hour off to Hindu officials on Monday. Car rallies were also organised in London as well as Sydney, amidst chants and bhajans in praise of the deity. In London, the rally commenced from The City Pavillion on Collier Road and travelled through East London before returning to the starting point. January 22 was declared as
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and his Oakville counterpart Rob Burton said the consecration "holds immense cultural, religious, and historical significance for Hindus worldwide, signifying the culmination of a centuries-old dream." In the Caribbean nation of Trinidad and Tobago, Hindus organised cultural events and sang hymns in praise of their deity on Sunday. In France 'Ram Rath Yatra' will start from Place De La Chapelle at 12 pm and culminate at the Eiffel Tower's, Place De Trocadero, by 3 pm.
"The grand opening of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a big religious event. It also comes with a large economic impact as India gets a new tourist spot which could attract 50 million plus tourists a year.
In neighbouring Nepal, Janakpur, which is considered to be the birthplace of Lord Ram's wife Sita, was lit up and 1,25,000 lamps will illuminate the Janaki temple today, along with 'aartis' in praise of Lord Ram and Sita. Ram Lalla's idol was installed in the sanctum sanctorum of the grand new temple in Ayodhya on January 18, and the rituals which began on January 16, will culminate today with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several other dignitaries attending the event.
"A $10 billion makeover (around Rs 82,500 crore) which includes a new airport, revamped railway station, township, improved road connectivity, etc. will likely drive a multiplier effect with new hotels and other economic activities. It can also set a template for infradriven growth for tourism," the Jefferies report states. Amid increased economic and
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increased economic and religious migration to Ayodhya, multiple sectors stand to benefit including hotels, airlines, hospitality, FMCG, travel ancillaries, cement etc," the Jefferies report added.
The Ram temple at Ayodhya can "create a meaningfully large economic impact", said Jefferies.
Before the pandemic, tourism contributed $194 billion to FY19 GDP.
Main pilgrimage site, spread over nearly 70 acres, will be equipped to host about a million devotees together.
This is now expected to grow at an 8 per cent CAGR to $443 billion by FY 2033.
"Religious tourism is still the biggest segment of tourism in India. Several popular religious centres attract annual tourist traffic of 10-30 million despite the existing infrastructural bottlenecks. And hence, the creation of a new religious tourist centre (Ayodhya) with improved connectivity and infrastructure can create a meaningfully large economic impact," it said. "The makeover is now set to transform the ancient city from a sleepy town to a global religious and spiritual tourist hotspot. Tourism is projected to surge and
Ayodhya, Jan 22 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi broke his 11-day fast after concluding the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ rituals in Ayodhya on Monday. He took a sip of ‘charnamrit’ to break his fast. The charnamrit has five main ingredients -- yogurt (dahi), milk,
honey, tulsi (Indian holy basil), and ghee. The Prime Minister had undertaken a rigorous 11-day fast ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. During this period, he only drank coconut water and slept on the floor.
Six ‘aartis’ to be held every day for Ram Lalla
A ceremony at the Ganesha temple in La Chapelle will include an elaborate puja, aarti, prasad distribution, and a cultural show.
religious migration to Ayodhya, "multiple sectors stand to benefit including hotels, airlines, hospitality, FMCG, travel ancillaries, cement etc", the report added.
Number of pilgrims is expected to jump to 1-1.5 lakh per day, the report further stated.
PM Modi breaks 11-day fast after Pran Pratishtha of temple
'Ayodhya Ram Mandir Day' in the towns of Oakville and Brampton in Canada's Ontario province.
Ram Mandir in Ayodhya to attract 5 crore tourists every year: Jeffries report
New Delhi, Jan 22 (IANS) Ram Mandir in Ayodhya is expected to have a big economic impact in the region as tourism is projected to surge to 5 crore visitors every year to the holy town, according to global brokerage firm Jeffries.
RAM MANDIR PRAN PRATISHTHA
He said that now the aartis will include Mangala, Shringaar, Bhog, Uthapan, Sandhya and Shayan aarti.
Ayodhya, Jan 23 (IANS) ‘Aarti’ will be performed at the Ram temple, now known as 'Balak Ram temple’, six times a day. After the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the deity on Monday, there is going to be a change in his worship and aarti also. The entire method has been systematized. “Now Ashtyam Seva of Ram Lalla will be held in all eight hours of 24 hours. Apart from this, aarti of Ram Lalla will be performed six times. Passes will be issued to attend the aarti. Till now there were two aartis of Ram Lalla Virajman,” said Acharya Mithileshnandini Sharan, the instructor of Ram Lalla’s priests.
Mangala Aarti is meant to awaken God. The deity will be decorated in Shringaar Aarti. Puri-sabzikheer will be offered in Bhog Aarti. Uthapan Aarti is performed to remove the evil eye on Ram Lalla. Sandhya Aarti is done in the evening and then Shayan Aarti before putting the Lord to sleep. Apart from offering purivegetables, rabri-kheer, Ram Lalla will also be offered milk, fruits and pedas every hour in the afternoon. Ram Lalla will wear white on Monday, red on Tuesday, green on Wednesday, yellow on Thursday, cream on Friday, blue on Saturday and pink on Sunday. On special days, the deity will wear yellow clothes. Darshan will be held from 6.00 a.m.
Sonu, Anuradha, Shankar Mahadevan sing verses from Ramcharitmanas at Pran Pratishtha ceremony
Currently, the tourism-to-GDP ratio in India, at 6.8 per cent of the GDP, puts the country below most of the large emerging and developed economies, which are higher by 3-5 percentage points. "Among the travel service providers, Indigo announced Ayodhya as its 86th domestic destination with direct flights from Delhi, Ahmedabad & Mumbai. Air India, announced direct flights from Bengaluru, Kolkata & Delhi. Spicejet and Akasa Air also announced flights connecting Ayodhya with multiple cities. IRCTC announced tour packages to Ayodhya," added the report.
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Ayodhya (UP), Jan 22 (IANS) Well known singer Sonu Nigam sang verses from the Ramcharitmanas ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. He won an applause for his rendition of ‘Raghukul reet sada chali aayi” and the saints, in
particular, were seen clapping to the rhythm. Sonu set the spiritual mood for the event and ended his performance with Jai Shri Ram. Anuradha Paudwal and Shankar Mahadevan also regaled the audience with their devotional renditions.
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Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
INDIA NEWS
RAM MANDIR PRAN PRATISHTHA
Melbourne celebrates historic Ayodhya Temple consecration Melbourne, January 23 (Australia India News Newsdesk) Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar, accompanied by a multitude of members from the Indian community, gathered at Sri Durga Temple, Melbourne, on
January 22, to witness the live streaming of the consecration ceremony at Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Bedecked in traditional attire, some attendees adorned themselves with bows and arrows, paying homage to the revered occasion. The ambiance
at Sri Durga Temple brimmed with festivity and reverence. The auspicious date of January 22, 2024, marked a historic milestone for Indians in India and across the globe as they tuned in to witness the consecration of the Shri Ram
Temple in Ayodhya. Following years of fervent devotion and struggle, devotees now have the opportunity to visit the sacred temple and offer their prayers. The momentous occasion resonated deeply with devotees, symbolizing a triumph of faith
and resilience. The live streaming of the consecration ceremony at Sri Durga Temple provided a spiritual connection for the Indian diaspora in Melbourne, fostering a sense of unity and reverence across continents.
Ramajanmabhumi Pranpratishtha celebrations held in Sunshine Coast History was made on 22 January 2024, when Srirama returned to his home and temple after 496 years. Aditya Mandal Sunshine Coast, along with HSS Bhaskar Shakha, was the medium through which Hindu families in the Sunshine Coast came together to witness the event online.
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The venue was the picturesque Bellvista Meeting Place, where 104 people, children and adults, rejoiced alike and celebrated Diwali on this monumental day. "From our distant corner, we joined the chorus of millions in a global prayer by reciting Ramaraksha Stotram and
Hanuman Chalisa. A thousand miles away, our hearts beat in sync with the chanting throngs in Ayodhya. Though oceans separated us from the Janmabhoomi, the day felt electric," read a statement by Aditya Mandal Sunshine Coast.
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It read further: "On the screen, the magnificent temple gleamed, a beacon of hope. "And minutes later when Sriram’s divine murti appeared before us, there was not a single dry eye in that hall. Tears streamed down our faces, washing away generations of collective sorrow.
"We, the children of a fractured past, stood united, energised and enlivened by the energy that is Sriram, ready to contribute in every way possible to rebuild the civilisation of Bharat. It is great to be a part of history and witness Sanatan dharma renaissance." By Yogesh Apte
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
Divya Pahuja murder: Absconding accused Ravi Banga arrested in Jaipur delete some of his objectionable photos from her mobile phone.
Gurugram, Jan 26 (IANS) A team of Gurugram Police on Friday arrested an absconding accused Ravi Banga -- in connection with the murder of Divya Pahuja, a former Gurugram-based model and girlfriend of slain gangster Sandeep Gadoli, in Jaipur, an official said. "The accused has been taken on a three-day police remand for questioning," Varun Dahiya, ACP (crime), said. Banga has been on the run since January 2. The Gurugram Police had announced a reward of Rs 50,000 against him. Divya Pahuja, 27, was allegedly shot dead on January 2 by Abhijeet Singh, the owner of Hotel City Point, where she was staying. According to the police, Divya and Abhijeet were in a relationship and the latter killed the woman in a fit of rage after she refused to
Following his arrest, Abhijeet told the police that Divya was also blackmailing him and extorting money from him. Following the murder that took place on January 2, Balraj and Ravi -- Abhijeet's friends, had dumped Divya's lifeless body in Bhakra Canal in Patiala which was recovered from a canal at Tohana in Haryana's Fatehabad district on January 13. During the investigation, the police found that Balraj Gill, a resident of Sector-5, Panchkula, and Ravi Banga, a resident of Gurdwara Road Model Town, Hisar, were involved in connection with the murder case. In connection with Divya's murder, the police have so far arrested seven persons including the prime accused, Abhijeet Singh, his aides Om Prakash, Hemraj, Balraj Gill, Parvesh, Ravi Banga and a woman, Megha.
New Delhi, Jan 26 (IANS) The Delhi High Court has rejected the plea to suspend the 10-year sentence of Jaideep Singh Sengar, the brother of expelled BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar. Jaideep was convicted in March 2020 for his involvement in the death of the father of the 2018 Unnao rape victim. The court, led by Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, dismissed Jaideep's application seeking suspension of his sentence during the pendency of his appeal.
The court had temporarily suspended his sentence in June, citing his fragile health, a measure that was subsequently extended. Despite arguments for parity with the five co-accused persons whose sentences were suspended, the court found no merit in Jaideep's plea. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) opposed the
Binder Gujjar is said to be the prime conspirator in the alleged "fake encounter" of gangster Sandeep Gadoli, along with the Gurugram Police, which took place in Mumbai in 2016. Divya was the prime accused in the case. Later, she was arrested in connection with the gangster's murder, and she spent seven years in jail. She was granted bail last year in June by the Bombay High Court. Divya's family has alleged that her murder was conspired by Sandeep Gadoli's family members, along with Abhijeet.
plea, saying that he had served only about 30 per cent of his tenyear sentence.
The Hyderabad MP participated in the event held at Madrasa Jamiatul Mominat, an Islamic seminary for girls. He along with teachers and other staff members and students sang the national anthem. Like in the past, Owaisi also unfurled the national flag at Madina Circle in the old city.
Hyderabad, Jan 26 (IANS) AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi
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The MP also participated in another Republic Day event organised by AIMIM in Yakutpura constituency. After unfurling the national flag, he distributed free sewing machines among women.
Prayagraj, Jan 30 (IANS) Trouble is brewing in Allahabad University (AU) with students alleging assault on a postgraduate student by AU proctor and SSL hostel assistant, and the university officials denying the charge. A large number of students held a protest near the Central Library Gate of the Allahabad University on the issue and blocked the road, late on Monday evening. Contrary to the allegations, the AU administration filed a complaint against the student at Colonelganj police station. The dispute arose over mess fees, with SSL hostel residents objecting and filing a complaint with the vice-chancellor. The MA final year student
The Republic Day programme was also held at Darussalam, the headquarters of AIMIM. “My solemn hope on this Republic Day is that hate is bulldozed, injustice is encountered and oppression is eliminated,” Owaisi posted on ‘X’ Unfurling of the national flag marked the day at the offices of other political parties. Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and ministers D. Sridhar Babu and Ponnam Prabhakar celebrated the Republic Day event at Gandhi Bhavan, the Congress headquarters. Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president K. T. Rama Rao led the Republic Day celebrations at Telangana Bhavan.
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He alleged that the student misbehaved and issued threats when his suspension order was issued. The student left the proctor’s office after police intervention. AU's Public Relations Officer, Jaya Kapoor, refuted the assault claims, stating that neither the proctor Rakesh Singh nor any proctorial board members assaulted the student. "AU has footage of the student entering and leaving the proctor’s office, and a complaint has been filed against the student at Colonelganj police station," she added.
director Pyarelal Sharma (of the Laxmikant-Pyarelal duo) and Tamil actor and DMDK founder Vijaykanth (posthumous) are among the 17 recipients of the Padma Bhushan.
The observations made by the court clarified that they should not be construed as an opinion on the merits of the case. The high court has now scheduled Jaideep's appeal against the sentence and conviction for a hearing on May 5. The trial court had convicted Kuldeep Sengar on December 16, 2019, under various provisions of the IPC and also imposed a fine of Rs 25 lakh on him.
Atul Narain Singh, in his police complaint, stated that the student had made objectionable comments against the hostel authorities on WhatsApp.
Vyjayantimala, Chiranjeevi conferred Padma Vibhushan; Mithun, Usha Uthup get Padma Bhushan
The court, after reviewing AIIMS' medical report, concluded that Jaideep's health condition did not warrant relief from serving his sentence in jail.
Owaisi unfurls national flag at madrasa in Hyderabad unfurled the national flag at a madrasa in the old city of Hyderabad on 75th Republic Day on Friday.
Enraged students gathered outside the university gate, resisting police attempts to pacify them.
Parvesh had supplied the 'murder weapon' to Abhijeet.
Unnao rape case: Delhi HC upholds 10-yr sentence for brother of expelled BJP MLA Kuldeep Sengar
While in custody, Jaideep claimed to be diagnosed with oral cancer and received interim bail in November 2020, extended until January 18 last year.
claimed he was summoned to the proctor’s office on Monday, where assistant superintendent Atul Narain Singh allegedly assaulted him.
Om Prakash and Hemraj had helped Abhijeet to drag Divya's body into the boot of a BMW car.
The woman had helped Abhijeet in hiding documents and personal
The decision was made considering factors such as his medical condition, the severity of the offence, and public confidence in the judiciary.
Trouble brews at Allahabad University as students allege assault by faculty
belongings of Divya.
Divya came in contact with Abhijeet through a jailed gangster, Binder Gujjar.
NEWS FROM INDIA
New Delhi, Jan 26 (IANS) Legendary actress Vyjanthimala, former Vice President M. Venkiah Naidu and Telugu superstar and former Union Minister K. Chiranjeevi were among the recipients of the Padma Vibhushan award for 2024. Sulabh Foundation founder and Chairman Bindeshwar Pathak (posthumous) and artist Padma Subrahmanyam were the other two recipients. The Ministry of Home Affairs said that for the year 2024, the President has approved conferment of 132 Padma Awards. The list comprises 5 Padma Vibhushan, 17 Padma Bhushan and 110 Padma Shri Awards. 30 of the awardees are women and the list also includes 8 persons from the category of Foreigners/ NRI/PIO/OCI and 9 Posthumous awardees. Supreme Court's first woman judge M. Fathima Beevi (posthumous), actor Mithun Chakraborty, Foxconn Chairman Young Liu, former Union Minister and BJP leader Ram Naik, singer Usha Uthup, veteran music
A total of 110 people were conferred the Padma Shri including tennis player Rohan Bopanna, squash player Joshna Chinappa, and philanthropist Kiran Nadar. The Bharat Ratna, the topmost civillian award, was already announced for socialist leader and former Bihar Chief Minister, the late Karpoori Thakur. Padma Awards one of the highest civilian Awards of the country, are conferred in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri. The Awards are given in various disciplines such as art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, and civil service, among others. 'Padma Vibhushan' is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service; 'Padma Bhushan' for distinguished service of high order; and 'Padma Shri for distinguished service in any field. The awards are announced on the occasion of Republic Day every year. These Awards are conferred by the President of India at ceremonial functions held at the Rashtrapati Bhawan usually around March/April every year.
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INDIA NEWS
NEWS FROM INDIA
Stalin in Spain to woo BJP expects Ram Mandir to buoy its vote share across NE states investments for TN Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government came to power at the Centre in 2014.
evening. Chief Minister Stalin was welcomed by Dinesh K. Patnaik, Ambassador of India to Spain, and the officials in the Indian embassy there, the state government said in a statement. The chief minister is scheduled to hold a conference of representatives of industry bodies, investors from major companies and investment agencies in which he will speak about investor-friendly environment in his state. Chennai, Jan 30 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin is on an eight-day trip to Spain to woo investments for the state. The Chief Minister, along with his wife Durgavathy Stalin, State Industries Minister TRB Raja and a high-level official delegation reached Madrid on Monday
Direct talks would be held with major companies like ROCA, Edibon, Acciona, GE Stamp and Invest Spain, the statement said. Previous visits undertaken by the Chief Minister to the UAE, Singapore and Japan in 2021 had garnered investments worth Rs 7,442 crore and provided jobs to 17,000 people.
BJP makes its job easier by returning Ram Mandir to the centre of its narrative
Agartala, Jan 27 (IANS) Though the January 22 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is likely to help the BJP attain electoral gains in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls in a few northeastern states, particularly in Assam and Tripura, the saffron party is still much ahead of the Congress-led opposition INDIA bloc. The organisational base of the Congress, which governed several northeastern states for many decades, started declining in the region after 2018 as the saffron party gradually took over the lost base of the grand old party. The BJP also strengthened its hold in the region ever since the Prime
After the Assembly elections in the five northeastern states in 2022 and 2023 – Manipur, Tripura, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Mizoram – the Congress’ position has further weakened in the region, while the BJP has only bolstered. Political pundits said that though the BJP is in an advantageous position in the electoral battle ahead of the ensuing Lok Sabha elections, the Ram Mandir issue would definitely help the party in a few northeastern states, including Assam and Tripura, to consolidate its electoral strength. “After the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya, the BJP would get electoral benefits in the upcoming general elections in Assam and Tripura and also in the Christian-dominated states to deal with their anti-incumbency factors,” political commentator Sekhar Datta told IANS.
He said the BJP would also try to gain electoral mileage by capitalising the NDA government’s developmental schemes implemented in the northeastern states since the Modi government came to power 10 years ago. Datta said: “During the past 10 years, not only infrastructure development, the northeastern region also witnessed all-round development in all sectors besides taming of the decades long insurgency problems in most of the northeastern states. The BJP certainly focuses on these matters in a big way.” Of the 25 Lok Sabha seats in the eight northeastern states, currently 14 (56 per cent) are with the BJP while the Congress has 4 (16 per cent). The other Lok Sabha seats are held by the local and regional parties. In the 2019 parliamentary polls, the BJP in Assam increased its tally from 7 in 2014 to 9. Across northeast India, the BJP, which won eight seats in 2014, increased the seat tally to 14 in 2019.
put the Opposition in the antiHindu camp.
Lucknow, Jan 27 (IANS) It is a perfect recipe – more perfect than what the BJP had imagined it to be. With careful planning, the BJP has managed to bring the Ram temple in Ayodhya to the centre of the electoral narrative and the response from the common man will make sure that it stays there till the elections are held, sometime in April-May. The ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony reached every household in India through live telecast and streaming on January 22. Temple memorabilia is on sale across the country, making sure that there is a bit of Ram Lalla in every heart, every house. The surging crowds that reached Ayodhya after the consecration ceremony on January 22, was more than what the BJP expected. The Yogi Adityanath Government had to stop bus services, appeal to the people to wait longer for ‘darshan’, increase darshan timings and even reschedule Ayodhya-bound trains. Crowds that are pouring into the holy city from all parts of the country, will, perhaps, make sure that the BJP reaches its target of 50 per cent vote share – or maybe even more. The manner in which the BJP has built up the temple narrative, has
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“It is clear – if you have declined the invitation to the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony, you are perceived as anti-Ram. For the moment, the BJP and Ram are almost synonymous and you cannot separate the two. Even the VHP which spearheaded the entire Ayodhya movement seems to have taken a back seat. VHP leaders’ presence was not very visible at the ceremony,” opined a political analyst. A senior BJP Legislator said, “If this is so, then we have toiled for it. Yogi Adityanath put infrastructure development in Ayodhya on the fast track and ensured that the development of the holy city took place faster than the temple construction. Prime Minister Modi also ensured that the airport, railway station and other facilities came up in record time. Those who are going to Ayodhya, are seeing the magnificent temple and also a new Ayodhya.” The BJP is now planning to take groups of devotees from every Assembly constituency to offer prayers at the Ram temple. The campaign will continue till Holi, which falls on March 25. After a gap of about a week, Ayodhya will start celebrating Chaitra Navratri which will culminate in Ram Navami on April 17 – celebrations for which will again be on a grand scale. The BJP clearly visualised and pushed the temple plank to the doors of the Lok Sabha elections and a host of programmes will broaden the outreach.
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NEWS FROM AUSTRALIA
Emergency situation declared for Four Indians dead in beach tragedy flooding in northern Australia told reporters on Friday that an estimated 100 residents of the two communities had been evacuated to higher ground, with authorities expecting the area to remain flooded for up to one week. Canberra, Jan 19 (IANS) An emergency situation has been declared and remote communities evacuated in Northern Territory (NT) amid flooding. NT Police on Thursday declared an emergency situation for the small towns of Pigeon Hole and Daguragu -- both located approximately 550 km south of Darwin in the Australian outback -- due to flooding, reports Xinhua news agency. Matt Hollamby, Acting Assistant Commissioner of NT Police,
He said that authorities were also preparing evacuation plans for the larger town of Daly River -- 130 km south of Darwin -- in case water levels in the area reach major flood level. Evacuees from Pigeon Hole will be housed at facilities in Darwin except for those considered medically vulnerable who will instead be taken to the closer town of Katherine. Those from Daguragu will remain in the small nearby community of Kalkarindji until it is safe to return to their homes.
Sydney, Jan 23 (IANS) Sydney Airport saw 3.58 million passengers passing through the terminals in December 2023, up 15.8 per cent from the passenger traffic in same month of 2022, said an airport report.
The airport's international terminal scored 1.5 million passengers in December 2023, an increase of 29.4 per cent from December 2022 and representing a 93.3-per cent recovery compared to December 2019, Xinhua news agency reported. Meanwhile, domestic and regional passenger traffic was up 7.6 per cent in December 2023 from a year ago to reach 2.08 million.
The Indian High Commission condoled the deaths as a "heartbreaking tragedy" and assured all assistance to the family and friends of the deceased.
Miriam Bradbury, a BoM meteorologist, told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on Friday that it was a significant situation. "The flood risk is still really high. The catchments are saturated after days of rain already. We've got flood watches current for much of the Top End and northern interior of the NT, with a number of flood warnings in place," she said. The Victoria Highway -- the only major road linking the NT with Western Australia -- has been closed since Wednesday due to flooding.
Sydney Airport sees strong monthly passenger traffic in Dec 2023 traffic compared to December 2019, the airport said in a report released on Monday.
were from Clyde in Melbourne's south-eastern suburbs and that the 43-year-old was an international visitor.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has forecast that some parts of the NT could receive over 200 mm of rainfall as a tropical low storm makes its way across the territory.
the US, Britain, India and South Korea. For the whole year of 2023, Sydney Airport recorded more than 38.65 million passenger traffic, jumping 32.7 per cent from that in 2022 but still 13 per cent less than the annual record of 44.4 million set in 2019. The airport also saw extra international capacity translate into strong passenger volumes in the India and South Korea markets in 2023, Sydney Airport CEO Scott Charlton said.
Melbourne, Jan 25 (IANS) A 43-year-old Indian national and three of her relatives, all in their 20s, died on Phillip Island in one of the worst drowning tragedies in the Australian state of Victoria since 2005, local media reports said. Off-duty lifeguards surfing at the unpatrolled Forrest Caves beach were the first to rush to the aid of the struggling group on Wednesday at around 3.30 pm, The Age reported. They found three women and a man unresponsive after being pulled from the water and were given immediate CPR by the emergency services who had rushed to the site. Three of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while a woman was airlifted to The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne in critical condition where she succumbed to her injuries. Victoria Police Eastern Region Assistant Commissioner Karen Nyholm told The Age that they
"Heartbreaking tragedy in Australia: 4 Indians lost their lives in a drowning incident at Phillip Island, Victoria. Deepest condolences to families of the victims. @cgimelbourne team is in touch with friends of the deceased for all necessary assistance," the Indian High Commission said in a social media post on X on Thursday. "We all worked tirelessly to help those people," Ambulance Victoria manager Paul James told The Age. Victoria Police said investigation is on as to what led to the tragedy even as emergency services warned against swimming at the relatively remote Forrest Caves beach -- a spot best suited to surfers. "I couldn't define the worst [incident] ever, but I certainly say this was horrific," Nyholm told The Age. Liam Krige, Life Saving Victoria's general manager of operations, said at a press conference that 19 people had drowned in Victoria since December 1 -two more than the same period last summer. "Behind each one of these drownings, there is a family; there’s a brother, there's a sister, there's a mother, there's a daughter," he said.
Australia sees 40% rise in sexual assault Football Australia backs referee Faghani cases since 2013 The figure represents the strongest monthly passenger traffic since 2019 and a 90.6 per cent recovery of the passenger
Top 10 nationalities travelling through Sydney Airport in December 2023 included Australia, China, New Zealand,
"We look forward to growing extra seat capacity and securing new services in 2024 and further cementing our position as Australia's gateway," he noted.
amid abuse over Asian Cup red card
Canberra, Jan 31 (IANS) Football Australia (FA) has showed its support to the Iranian-Australian referee Alireza Faghani who was subjected to online abuse over a red card for Iraq at the AFC Asian Cup.
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In a statement issued on Tuesday night, FA said it was working with relevant law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of Faghani and his family after the referee was targeted online following Iraq's elimination by Jordan from the Asian Cup in Qatar on Monday,
for an excessive celebration after the striker gave Iraq a 2-1 lead in their round-of-16 match, reports Xinhua.
"The safety and well-being of all Football Australia staff and members of the Australian football community is our priority," FA said.
After the match, some fans on social media targeted Faghani for the decision to send off Hussein, exposing his personal information and creating a petition calling for his suspension that had been signed by over 750,000 people as of Wednesday.
"Football Australia is in constant contact with Alireza and is providing him and his family with all the support they require," FA noted. Faghani, who has served as a FIFA referee since 2008 and represented Australia since 2023, gave Aymen Hussein a second yellow card in the 77th minute
Down to 10 men, Iraq were unable to hold their lead with Jordan scoring in the 95th and 97th minutes to win 3-2 and advancing to the quarterfinals.
The Asian Football Confederation has said in a statement that it condemns any form of threat, harassment or disclosure of personal information targeting referees, players, officials or stakeholders.
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with 152.2 out of every 100,000 people having made complaints to police in the state in 2022, more than double the 71.2 out of every 100,000 people in the Australian Capital Territory. Canberra, Jan 30 (IANS) Australia has recorded 40 per cent rise in sexual assault cases since 2013, a government report said. In an annual report published on Monday, the federal government's principal review body, the Productivity Commission, said that 123.7 out of every 100,000 Australians reported being sexually assaulted to police in 2022, an increase of 42.8 percent from 86.6 out of every 100,000 people in 2013, Xinhua news agency reported. The highest numbers of such cases were reported from New South Wales, the largest of Australia's states and territories,
The national rate of armed robbery reports fell from 24.3 out of every 100,000 people in 2013 to 18.1 in 2022, and homicide rate fell slightly from 1.9 victims per 100,000 people to 1.6 in the same period, the report said. Mark Dreyfus, Australia's attorney-general, said the inquiry would look into how the government can improve the justice system experiences of victims and survivors of sexual assault. In January, the federal government announced an Australian Law Reform Commission review into justice system responses to sexual violence.
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Russian plane shot down by Ukraine’s armed observed the launch of two forces killing over 70 Ukrainian missiles." Wednesday blamed Ukraine for downing the Ilyushin II-76 transport plane, saying Kiev used an anti-aircraft missile system to shoot the plane. Kiev has so far made no comment on Moscow's claims, which Russian officials have been reporting since shortly after news of the crash broke, media reports said.
Kiev, Jan 24 (IANS) A Russian Ilyushin II-76 transport plane carrying missiles and soldiers was shot down by Ukraine's armed forces in Belgorod region, killing all 74 people onboard, the media reported. Russia, however, claimed that the plane was carrying Ukraine armed forces POWs and not missiles. Russia's Defence Ministry on
The Russian Defence Ministry said: "Today, at 11.15 a.m., the Kiev regime committed a terrorist act as a result of which a Russian military transport aircraft was shot down, flying along the route Chkalovsky-Belgorod airfield to transport Ukrainian military personnel for exchange. "The plane was destroyed by the Ukrainian Armed Forces from the area of Liptsy, Kharkiv region, using an anti-aircraft missile system," the ministry said. "The radar equipment of the Russian Aerospace Forces
While Russia claims the flight was carrying prisoners of war, Ukraine claims it had missiles. But reports said Russian media had reported that a military plane with 74 people on board crashed in the Belgorod region of Russia, near the Ukrainian border. The region's governor, Vyacheslav Gladkov, said all those on board were killed. But, there are conflicting reports about who or what was on board. Russian state media reported that 65 Ukrainian servicemen were on the plane, being flown to Belgorod ahead of a prisoner swap. Ukraine says the plane was carrying missiles for the S-300 air defence system, according to the official Ukrainian information service, quoting a source in the Ukrainian armed forces. Meanwhile, CNN reported it was unable to independently verify either claim. It reached out to Ukraine for comments on allegations it shot down the plane.
World Court orders Israel to prevent genocide in Gaza, but doesn’t demand ceasefire
United Nations, Jan 26 (IANS) The World Court on Friday ordered Israel to ensure that its military does not commit any actions that could be genocide in its campaign in Gaza against Hamas, but it did not dictate a ceasefire. The court, formally known as the International Court of Justice, also ordered Israel to immediately allow “urgently-needed basic services and humanitarian assistance” to the Palestinians of Gaza. Citing inflammatory rhetoric from some Israeli leaders, the court also ordered Israel to punish and prevent incitement to genocide. The court, which is based in The Hague, has no way of enforcing its judgments and countries can – and do – flout them. It also turned down the request of South Africa to order a ceasefire, while considering whether a genocide had been committed. The interim judgment delivered by the court’s President Joan Donoghue spoke at length about the sufferings of the people of Gaza and the long-term effects of Israeli action. “The court is acutely aware of the
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extent of the human tragedy that is unfolding in the region and is deeply concerned about the continuing loss of life and human suffering,” it said.
Although its rulings are legally binding, the court does not have the power to enforce its rulings and countries can scoff at them with no consequences.
The court reserved judgment on the crux of the case whether Israel had committed genocide, but said that “in the court’s view, at least some of the acts and omissions alleged by South
The 15 judges of the court were joined by two ad hoc judges each appointed by South Africa and Israel under its procedures.
Africa have been committed by Israel in Gaza appear to be capable of falling within the provisions of the [genocide] convention”. South Africa, with searing memories of apartheid and the suppression of the majority by the White minority rulers, took on the Palestinian cause, and brought the case against Israel to the court. South Africa invoked the international convention on preventing genocide to allege that Israel was committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, where Israel launched a counterattack after Hamas had attacked it killing about 1,200 people and taking about 240 hostage on October 7. Israel’s counterattack has led to the killing of about 25,000 people, many of them women and children, and the displacement of about 85 per cent of Gaza’s population of about 2 million. The judgement noted both the attacks. The court functions totally independently of the UN, with none of its bodies like the Security Council or the General Assembly having a say other than electing the judges.
The court issued a set of six orders, four of them relating to preventing what could constitute genocide, and two on procedural matters. Fifteen judges, including Dalveer Bhandari of India, agreed with all the orders of the court, while Israel’s Judge Ahron Barak dissented on some of them and Julia Sebitunde on all of them. The two judges did not issue formal dissents. South Africa cited the deaths of about 25,000 people – most of them women and children – in the Israeli counterattacks and asserted that they "are genocidal in character because they are intended to bring about the destruction of a substantial part of the Palestinian national, racial and ethnical group".
39 killed, 9 injured in China building fire of a six-story commercial and residential brick-concrete structure. The flame quickly spread to shops on the first and second floors.
Nanchang, Jan 25 (IANS) Thirtynine people were killed and nine others injured after a building fire broke out Wednesday afternoon in the city of Xinyu in east China's Jiangxi Province, local authorities said. The fire broke out in the building at around 3 p.m. in the Yushui District of Xinyu, the local fire response emergency headquarters was quoted by Xinhua news agency as saying. The rescue operations by nearly 120 firefighters concluded at 8:50 p.m., with no remaining people trapped. Among the injured, eight are in stable condition, while another one is being rescued. The fire started in the basement
Israeli leaders have reacted with outrage at the suggestion of genocide as the Jewish people were victims of the crime by Nazis in Europe and have found refuge in Israel.
Neither does the UN Secretary General has any role in it.
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A preliminary investigation revealed that the fire was caused by the illegal use of fire by workers for the refurbishment of cold storage inside the basement. The thick smoke quickly engulfed up to the second floor, which was occupied by training facilities and a hotel. The public security authorities have already placed 12 responsible people in custody. The provincial authorities vowed to hold those responsible accountable in accordance with the investigation results. Also, they ordered a "blanket" inspection to identify hidden safety dangers in street shops, schools and crowded places such as scenic spots and shopping malls.
21 Israeli soldiers killed in single attack in Gaza grenade at a nearby tank on Monday, triggering a premature explosion that resulted in the collapse of the buildings while the soldiers were either inside or nearby, Xinhua news agency reported. Tel Aviv, Jan 23 (IANS) At least 21 Israeli soldiers have been killed in Gaza while fighting Hamas, the Israel Defense Forces said on Tuesday. Addressing a press briefing, IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari said soldiers were preparing explosives to demolish two buildings when militants launched a rocket-propelled
Offering condolences to the families of the soldiers who died, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted on X: " I wish to strengthen the dear families of our heroic warriors who fell on the battlefield. I know that for these families, their lives will be changed forever. Prime Minister Netanyahu said the millitary has launched an investigation into the incident.
Missing Indian student found dead on Purdue University campus in US Upon arrival, a "college-aged male" was found deceased outside Maurice J Zucrow Laboratories on Purdue's campus, the Fox59 news channel reported, citing the coroner.
Israel countered South Africa’s allegations saying that it has the right to self-defence and that it took steps to protect civilians by warning them about bombings in advance so they can move out of harm's way and even abandoning some sorties when civilians are in danger.
WORLD NEWS
New York, Jan 30 (IANS) An Indian studying at Purdue University has been found dead outside a building on the campus after he went missing last week, a county coroner in the US confirmed. According to the Tippecanoe County Coroner's Office, officials were called around 11.30 a.m. on Sunday to 500 Allison Road in West Lafayette for a possible body.
"Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the family, and we hope they are respected during such a difficult time," Coroner Carrie Costello said, adding that an autopsy is due to take place. According to The Purdue Exponent, the university's student-run newspaper, Acharya was a double major in computer science and data science at the John Martinson Honors College. Chris Clifton, the university's Computer Science head told The Exponent that he received an email from the Office of the Dean of Students confirming Acharya's death on Monday.
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WORLD NEWS
British-Indian teen’s killer 3 Indians win UK’s prestigious will not face murder trial Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists between discoveries that organic molecules, and ions at the due to ‘mental illness’ remain in the lab and those that nanoscale, exploring its potential Calocane, who "believed MI6 was spying on him", denied three counts of murder but admitted three counts of manslaughter based on diminished responsibility in November, 2023. Prosecutor Karim Khalil KC told Nottingham Crown Court on Tuesday that the victims' families -- who had hoped for a murder trial -- were consulted before deciding to accept the pleas entered by Calocane. The court was told that Grace showed "incredible bravery" by attempting to fight off Calocane and save Webber as they were attacked while walking home from a night out. London, Jan 25 (IANS) A 32-yearold man who stabbed BritishIndian teen, Grace O'MalleyKumar, and two others to death in the UK last year, will not face trial for murder after his plea of guilty to manslaughter was accepted as victims' families grieved the loss of lives. Valdo Calocane, a dual GuineaBissau/Portuguese national, killed 19-year-old students, Grace and Barnaby Webber, and 65-year-old school caretaker Ian Coates during an incident near Nottingham University on June 13, 2023. During Tuesday's hearing at the Nottingham Crown Court, prosecutors accepted Calocane's guilty plea based on diminished responsibility after psychiatrists said he suffered paranoid schizophrenia. The decision was made as Calocane suffered from "serious" mental illness, a judge was told. Also known as Adam Mendes,
Calling Calocane "a cold, cowardly and calculating killer", Grace's father, Sanjoy Kumar praised his daughter who "heroically and valiantly fought you. Like a hero, she put herself in harm's way," The Guardian reported.
make transformative scientific breakthroughs,” said Sir
Leonard Blavatnik, Founder and Chairman of Access Industries and Head of the Blavatnik Family Foundation. London, Jan 24 (IANS) Three Indian scientists are among the nine recipients of this year's Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists in the UK for their pioneering work in the fields of chemical, physical, and life sciences.
“We are proud that the Awards have promoted both UK science and the careers of many brilliant young scientists and we look forward to their additional discoveries in the years ahead.”
Professors Rahul R. Nair, Mehul Malik, Dr Tanmay Bharat, and others will be honoured and receive grants totaling 480,000 pounds at a black-tie gala dinner and award ceremony in London, on February 27.
Professor Nair, a materials physicist at The University of Manchester, was named Laureate in Physical Sciences & Engineering for developing novel membranes based on two-dimensional (2D) materials that will enable energy-efficient separation and filtration technologies.
“Providing recognition and funding early in a scientist’s career can make the difference
Using graphene and other 2D materials, his research aims to study the transport of water,
applications to address societal challenges, including water filtration and other separation technologies.
He will receive 100,000 pounds in unrestricted funds for his research that has provided valuable insights "into the movement of water and other molecules in nanocapillaries, as those movements differ from their behaviour on the macro scale," the award statement said. A Quantum physicist and Professor of Physics, Professor Mehul Malik, is advancing quantum communications at Heriot-Watt University through revolutionary techniques that harness highdimensional entanglement -- a complex quantum physics phenomenon.
"You deserve the harshest punishment available. A clear message must be sent out to the families in our country. They must be reassured that their children are safe ... and that something like this never happens again," Kumar told the court. Calocane will also be sentenced for three counts of attempted murder after he tried to run over three pedestrians with a van on the same day he killed Grace, Webber, and Coates, local media reports said. The CCTV footage played in court showed Calocane walking calmly just hours before the attack, carrying a rucksack and a holdall, later found to contain multiple weapons.
Israeli army kills over 350 in Gaza’s Khan Younis during past 48 hrs: Hamas that Nasser Hospital has been filled with medical waste due to a blockade by the Israeli army, noting that at least 7,000 wounded and sick people in the enclave are in urgent need of life-saving treatment. Gaza, Jan 29 (IANS) The Hamasrun government in Gaza said in a statement that the Israeli army killed at least 350 Palestinians in the past 48 hours in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip. Medical teams were unable to reach dozens of bodies scattered on the streets, the statement added on Sunday, noting that local residents had to bury the dead in the courtyard of the city's Nasser Hospital as they could not take them to the Khan Younis cemetery, Xinhua news agency reported. Meanwhile, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Sunday
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The Palestine Red Crescent Society warned in a statement about the depletion of the oxygen supply at Al-Amal Hospital in Khan Younis amid the ongoing siege by Israeli forces, which has made it difficult for medical teams at the hospital to perform surgical operations. Since its onset on October 7, 2023, the months-long deadly conflict between Israel and Hamas has led to a Palestinian death toll of 26,422 in Gaza, with the number of injuries rising to 65,087, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry on Sunday.
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
From the editor’s desk
Ram Temple consecration marks India’s cultural renaissance mutual respect that have defined Indian civilization for millennia. It is a reminder that despite the challenges and tribulations of the past, India's journey towards progress, prosperity, and peace continues unabated.
India-France relations deeply rooted amidst global challenges In a world marked by geopolitical shifts and uncertainty, the relationship between India and France emerges as a beacon of stability, cooperation, and shared values. As these two nations deepen their ties across various domains, their partnership not only strengthens bilateral relations but also contributes to regional and global stability. However, the growing bonhomie between India and France also raises concerns for China, signaling a shift in the balance of power and a challenge to its hegemonic aspirations in the Indo-Pacific region. The historical ties between India and France trace back centuries, rooted in cultural exchanges, shared values, and mutual respect. From the colonial era to the modern age, the relationship between these two nations has evolved, reflecting a deep appreciation for each other's heritage, diversity, and aspirations. Today, India and France stand as strategic partners, united by a commitment to upholding democratic principles, promoting peace and stability, and addressing common challenges facing the international community. The core of India-France partnership has to do with a robust defense cooperation, which is based on mutual trust, convergence of strategic interests, and technological collaboration. France has emerged as an important defense partner for India, as it provides advanced military equipment, expertise, and training to give a boost to India's defense capabilities. Steps such as joint military exercises, defense dialogues, and technology transfer initiatives have added to the strengthening of bilateral defense ties, with a view to addressing emerging security threats. Strong trade, investment, and innovation ties characterize the equally important economic side of the France-India relationship. France is one of India's top commercial partners in Europe, and the amount of trade between the two countries has been steadily increasing recently. Investment flows between France and India cover a wide range of industries, including technology, infrastructure, renewable energy, and aerospace. These investments boost economic growth, provide jobs, and encourage innovation in both nations. Cultural exchanges serve as a bridge between India and
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France, promoting mutual understanding, appreciation, and dialogue among diverse communities. India's rich cultural heritage, artistic traditions, and spiritual values find resonance in France's vibrant cultural landscape, fostering connections and friendships between people from both nations. Cultural diplomacy enhances people-topeople ties, strengthens social bonds, and nurtures a sense of shared humanity, transcending geographical boundaries and linguistic barriers. Beyond purely bilateral collaboration, India and France have a strategic partnership that covers problems of shared concern on a regional and global scale. Promoting peace, security, and prosperity throughout the Indo-Pacific region and beyond is a shared goal of both countries. Their cooperation in the areas of climate change, sustainable development, maritime security, and counterterrorism is a reflection of their common goal of establishing an international system of laws based on democracy, pluralism, and respect for human rights. China's fears about the strengthening of India-France relationship has to do with its concerns about a shifting balance of power in the Indo-Pacific and a challenge to its hegemonic ambitions. India's engagement with France and other likeminded countries, shows its commitment to safeguarding regional stability and promoting a free, open, and inclusive IndoPacific. The growing commonness in the interests between India and France signifies changing dynamics of global politics and the fruition of new alignments based on shared values and strategic interests. China is not comfortable with accepting India as an emerging global power. It very well understands that India and France share a history of mutual trust and friendship, and the recent state visit of the French President Emmanuel Macron to India signifies further strengthening of the bond between both the countries. This goes against China’s interest as it requires France to have less partnership with India, and more partnership with itself. This will ensure India’s surge to a powerful position globally can be slowed down, if it cannot be stopped entirely. As India and France strengthen their partnership, they must navigate complex geopolitical challenges and seize opportunities for cooperation, innovation, and dialogue.
EDITORIAL
By Rabindra Mukherjee The recent consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, a culmination of centuries of aspirations, signifies not just the construction of a sacred edifice but the dawn of a new era in India's cultural landscape. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership in this historic event, as well as the nationwide celebration, underscores a profound shift towards unity, peace, and collective progress. India’s President Droupadi Murmu's letter to India’s Prime Minister Modi encapsulates the sentiment pervading the nation—a sense of reverence for the past and a hopeful gaze towards the future. As India embarks on this transformative journey, the Ram temple stands as a beacon of hope, symbolizing the triumph of faith, harmony, and the rule of law. In his address, India’s Prime Minister Modi eloquently captured the essence of the moment, describing it as a supernatural phenomenon, an auspicious juncture that heralds the beginning of a new epoch. His invocation of Ram Lalla as a harbinger of peace, patience, and harmony resonates deeply in a society seeking solace and unity amidst diversity. The grandeur of the Ram temple, constructed in the traditional Nagara style, reflects India's rich architectural heritage and spiritual ethos. Its towering presence, supported by pillars of strength and resilience, serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of Indian civilization. Modi's call to build a strong, grand, and divine India echoes the aspirations of millions who envision a nation founded on principles of inclusivity, compassion, and progress. As the sun sets on the era of division and discord, India embraces a future illuminated by the ideals of Lord Shri Ram—a future characterized by peace, prosperity, and mutual respect. The global resonance of the consecration ceremony underscores India's cultural influence and universal appeal. From Kashmir to Afghanistan, devotees from diverse backgrounds converge to offer their blessings, transcending religious and geographical boundaries. The gift of saffron from Kashmiri Muslims exemplifies the spirit of camaraderie and shared heritage that binds India's diverse
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communities together. India’s President Murmu's reflection on the Ram Mandir opening underscores its significance as a milestone in India's journey of self-discovery. As the nation prepares to celebrate Republic Day, the Ram temple stands as a testament to India's unwavering commitment to its civilizational ethos—a reminder that the rule of law, unity, and faith in the collective destiny of its people prevail. The consecration of the Ram temple signifies more than just a religious milestone; it marks the dawn of a new era—a renaissance of India's cultural identity, rooted in the timeless values of love, sacrifice, and spiritual enlightenment. It is a testament to the resilience of India's democratic fabric, where the voice of justice, tempered by the wisdom of the ages, guides the destiny of the nation. As the echoes of the consecration ceremony reverberate across the land, let us heed Modi's call to build a future worthy of India's glorious past. Let us forge ahead with unity, humility, and a shared vision of prosperity for all. The Ram temple stands as a testament to India's enduring spirit—a symbol of hope, resilience, and the collective aspirations of a nation united in its pursuit of a brighter tomorrow. The journey to the consecration of the Ram temple has been arduous, marked by legal battles, social tensions, and political upheavals. Yet, it is a testament to India's democratic ethos that justice prevailed, and the rule of law triumphed. The Supreme Court's landmark verdict in 2019 laid the foundation for reconciliation, healing, and nation-building—a testament to India's commitment to secularism, pluralism, and the protection of religious freedoms. As the dust settles on the hallowed precincts of the Ram temple, it is imperative that we reflect on the significance of this moment in India's history. The temple stands not just as a symbol of religious devotion but as a testament to India's civilizational resilience—a reminder that the bonds of culture, tradition, and shared heritage transcend the barriers of time and space. The consecration of the Ram temple is a reaffirmation of India's commitment to its cultural heritage, a celebration of its spiritual legacy, and a testament to the enduring values of tolerance, compassion, and
As the nation rejoices in the consecration of the Ram temple, let us reaffirm our commitment to the ideals of unity, diversity, and inclusive development that have been the hallmark of India's identity. Let us embrace the spirit of fraternity, compassion, and solidarity that defines our shared humanity. Let us look to the future with hope, optimism, and a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that the dawn of a new era beckons—an era of peace, prosperity, and progress for all. Moreover, the ideals of Sanatan Dharma, enshrined in the teachings of Lord Shri Ram, serve as a guiding light for India's collective conscience. These values—of dharma (righteousness), karma (action), and seva (service)—form the bedrock of India's spiritual heritage, inspiring generations to strive for excellence, uphold justice, and foster unity amidst diversity. The consecration of the Ram temple is a testament to the enduring legacy of Sanatan Dharma, a reaffirmation of India's commitment to its cultural roots, and a celebration of the timeless wisdom embodied by Lord Shri Ram. As the nation embarks on a new chapter in its history, let us draw strength from the teachings of our ancestors, forge ahead with courage and conviction, and build a future that honors the sacred principles of Sanatan Dharma—a future that is rooted in love, compassion, and harmony. As the rays of the rising sun illuminate the sacred precincts of the Ram temple, let us envision a nation where the ideals of Sanatan Dharma serve as a guiding force, inspiring us to overcome challenges, bridge divides, and create a society that is truly reflective of India's timeless spirit. In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." Let us, therefore, rededicate ourselves to the noble ideals of Sanatan Dharma and work towards building a nation that is inclusive, equitable, and compassionate—a nation that reflects the true essence of Ram Rajya, where every individual is treated with dignity, respect, and empathy. As we celebrate the consecration of the Ram temple, let us reaffirm our commitment to the values that define India's cultural heritage, uphold its rich traditions, and inspire its people to strive for excellence. Together, let us build a future that is guided by the timeless principles of Sanatan Dharma—an era of peace, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment for all.
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
Male spells a geo-political trend D.C. Pathak New Delhi: The anti-India remarks made by Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu on returning home from a five-day high-profile state visit to China on January 13, go beyond what could be considered as the consequence merely of India's known political support for his predecessor Ibu Solih in the recently held presidential poll in Maldives. They reflect a global trend of the rise of radicals in the Muslim world on one hand and the impact of USChina polarisation - indicating a new Cold War on the horizon - on the Islamic world, on the other. The spread of 'radicalisation' was accentuating the divide between the forces fiercely hostile to the US-led West and those Muslim countries who chose to be friendly with the US. The 'war on terror' that followed 9/11 proved to be a direct combat between the Islamic radical forces and the USled West and helped the former to spread their hold on the Indian subcontinent, West Africa and the Middle East. The US-China polarisation is pushing radicalised Muslim entities closer to China for political reasons. The developments in Maldives are a part of the current geopolitics marked by the ascendancy of India as a major power which is friendly with the US, the deepening conflict between the US on the one hand and an ambitious China aspiring to become the second superpower, on the other and the anti-India narratives built by lobbies in India and abroad about the treatment of Muslim minority in the country. Significantly, some of the ministerial colleagues of Muizzu had earlier described India as a 'puppet of Israel' injecting a communal bias against secular democratic India and confirming their own 'radicalised' approach. It is likely that Maldives would add to the group of countries like Pakistan, Turkey and Malaysia in the Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) accentuating the divide between pro-US and 'radicalised' Muslim countries. Mohamed Muizzu had contested the Presidential election in
Maldives on an 'India out' platform opposing the 'India First' call of Ibu Solih and emerged victorious.
found friendship with Maldives.
On return from China, President Muizzu - who broke the tradition of a newly elected Maldivian President making his first foreign visit to India - in an apparent jibe against India declared that "we may be small but we are not in any country's backyard - nor does it give any country license to bully us".
Just as the 'war on terror' in Afghanistan led to the growth of Al Qaeda and Taliban, the US action in Iraq in 2003 enabled the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS ) to strike roots in the IraqSyria region.
Asserting that the Indian Ocean does not belong to any single country, he claimed that ChinaMaldives relations were based on respect for sovereignty, equality and non-interference in internal affairs. Muizzu announced a slew of measures aimed at curtailing the dependence of Maldives on India in key sectors including health care, food security and tourism. China's Indian Ocean footprint was visibly enhanced by the elevation of ties between Maldives and China to the level of 'strategic partnership' during Muizzu's visit to Beijing. On January 14, Muizzu stepped up his anti-India rhetoric by asking India to withdraw all Indian military personnel deployed in the Indian Ocean archipelago by March 15. He reportedly directed the Maldivian delegation participating in the talks on the issue to inform Indian officials that the troops must be withdrawn by that date. There are around 70 military personnel and a dozen medical hands assisting in flying and managing helicopters and also in disaster management. Muizzu has taken a strange stance - apparently attributable to Chinese influence - considering the fact that India looked upon the Maldives as a key maritime neighbour in the Indian Ocean Rim (IOR) and gave it a special place in an initiative like SAGAR (security and growth for all in the region). India will certainly find ways and means of countering any Chinese designs in the Indian Ocean particularly any hostile activity pursued through China's new-
The impact of radicalisation on the Muslim world should not be underestimated.
ISIS had its origins in Al Qaeda in Iraq (AQI) and while 'competing' with Al Qaeda in furthering the cause of radical Islam, it attracted notice more for its hostility to the Shiites in the region on sectarian lines. This explains the intensity of ISIS opposition to the Alawite regime of Bashar al-Assad in Syria as well. All Islamic radical outfits consider the US-led West as their prime enemy and for political reasons alone, may be inclined to be on the side of China in the latter's rift with the US. China is taking full advantage of this geopolitical environment to expand its influence. Its adjustment with the Taliban Emirate in Kabul - with the helping hand of Pakistan enabled it to extend its Belt & Road Initiative (BRI) to Afghanistan. The new level of friendship struck by China with Maldives during Muizzu's visit to Beijing saw the Maldivian President recording his appreciation for BRI and China extending a grant of MVR 2 billion to Maldives. Islamic radicals are 'revivalists' who demand going back to the Puritan Islam of the period of the four 'Pious Caliphs' that brooked no compromises and who advocate recourse to Jehad to restore the political hold and glory of the faith. Western culture with its 'corrupting' influence and the Shiite 'deviants' are the prime targets of radicalised Sunnis. Interestingly, the Shiite regime of Ayatollahs in Iran is ideologically against Capitalism and is hence fundamentally against the US too.
support extended by Hizbollah and Houthis to the former in the current Israel-Hamas confrontation. It is a matter of concern that the post-Cold War era is witnessing a proliferation of proxy wars and cross-border offensives and an increasing trend of misuse of cyberspace for combat and destruction. Technology can be used for both development and destabilisation and rogue nations and non-state actors cannot be easily prevented from misusing technology. India has in the follow-up on the G20 Summit already taken the initiative of calling an international conference to examine the issue of regulating the operations of Artificial Intelligence. The phenomenon of proxy wars has been further complicated by the new trend of terrorists attacking the strategic and economic lifelines of the targeted country to economically weaken the opponent. Further, 'information warfare' has become another new form of combat in which social media is used for peddling misinformation or building false narratives to bring down a legitimate regime or influence the outcome of a democratic election in a country. Instigating separatism or an insurgency from outside is also a kind of external threat countries face today - India has seen this happening in both Kashmir and the North East. ITBP is a matter of great satisfaction that measures have been taken by the present Union Home Minister to curb Naxalism, terrorism and separatist movements, with good results. Developments in the Maldives reflect the current geopolitics that features the US-China clash of interests, the Ukraine-Russia military confrontation, the Hamas-Israel conflict, the rise of Islamic radicals in the Muslim world and a Sino-Pak axis that was active against India.
Iran shares the antipathy that radicalised Hamas had towards Israel and this pretty much explains the active
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has, by taking an independent stand on the Ukraine-Russia military confrontation and getting
of courage and its show of responsibility. INS Sumitra, which is deployed along the east coast of Somalia in the Gulf of Aden, intercepted distress calls from hijacked vessels, and upon receiving these calls promptly started its rescue mission. The incident pertained to the rescue of an Iranian fishing vessel, Iman, which was hijacked by pirates. The Indian Navy’s prompt action rescued the vessel. What INS Sumitra did was a show of its strategic competence and effective utilization of maritime resources, thereby ensuring the
safe release of the vessel and its crew, nullifying any potential acts of piracy in the region. This wasn’t the only time the Indian Navy has proved its capability in a crisis situation. As media reports suggest, in a similar situation, the Indian Navy's guided missile destroyer, INS Visakhapatnam, which is deployed in the Gulf of Aden, was instrumental in responding to a distress call from the British oil tanker, MV Marlin Luanda that had become a target of suspected Houthi militants. Indian Navy’s timely action through its
SPECIAL FEATURES India to abstain from voting in UNGA on a US-sponsored resolution against Russia while at the same time clearly messaging the two warring sides that "this is not an era of war", helped India to become an important voice in the world on issues of war and peace. What is more, India has been able to establish that its relationship with the US would remain deep and irreversible despite its continuing bonds of friendship with Russia. India has a clear sight of which side to be on, in the emerging polarisation between the US and China and has decided to take on the latter on LAC, on the marine front and on international platforms - it has already stepped up its role in Quad. On the threat from Islamic radicalisation and faith-based terrorism, India again is firmly with the US in dealing with the shared danger. India has unequivocally condemned the terror attack of Hamas on Israel but has favoured a 'two-state' solution in Palestine and restraint in the use of military power to avoid civilian loss of life. As regards the Sino-Pak axis, India is prepared to deal with the two adversaries and foil their attempts to carry out covert operations against this country’s internal security. On the whole, there is clarity in Prime Minister Modi's policy of getting the two largest democracies of the world - India and the US - to lead the democratic order against the perils of dictatorial and fundamentalist regimes. Indo-US cooperation is touching new heights in the spheres of both security and economic development and is at the forefront in regard to the application of new technologies including Artificial Intelligence (AI) to the same. In a multipolar world order, India is rightly opting for bilateral and multilateral friendships designed to serve the mutual interests of the partners while preserving the cause of global peace. (The writer is a former Director of the Intelligence Bureau. Views are personal)
Indian Navy’s heroic deeds amidst maritime challenges By Rabindra Mukherjee Indian Navy has always been at the forefront of ensuring maritime safety and security. When it comes to maritime prowess, the Indian Navy has always risen to the occasion and proven its mettle time and again. Recently, the Indian Navy has once again displayed exemplary courage and commitment in ensuring maritime security by succeeding in its daring rescue missions in the challenging waters of the Indian Ocean. In recent incidents, as reported by
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media outlets, the Indian Navy managed to rescue hijacked vessels and thwarted attacks on merchant ships, highlighting the important role played by it in ensuring the safety of vessels and in maintaining peace and stability in the region. Media reports have shown that as one of the powerful Navies of the world, the Indian Navy has responded swiftly to the crisis, exhibiting alertness and strategic competence. The Indian Navy is receiving applause owing to an Indian naval warship, INS Sumitra’s exemplary act
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intervention in the firefighting efforts on board the vessel, shows its commitment to assisting vessels in crisis without paying any attention to their nationality. It must be appreciated that these are seas that are most challenging. The attacks by Yemen-based Houthi rebels on merchant vessels proves the point that the maritime operations in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea are unpredictable in nature, to say the least, and therefore, full of challenges for any sophisticated Navy of any country.
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Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
INDIA NEWS
BUSINESS & TRADE
Govt hikes import duty on gold and Adani Group to invest in various public sectors of Nepal: Minister silver coins, jewellery findings to 15 per cent, from 10 per cent at present, with effect from January 22. Findings are items like hooks and clips which are components used for making jewellery. The step has been taken to benefit the domestic industry.
New Delhi, Jan 23 (IANS) The government has raised the import duty on gold and silver findings as well as coins of precious metals
The new duty rate of 15 per cent, comprises a Basic Customs Duty (BCD) of 10 per cent and an additional 5 per cent under the All Industry Duty Drawback (AIDC). However, this increase does
The government has also raised the import duty for spent catalysts that contain precious metals. The new duty rate is 14.35 per cent, which comprises a 10 per cent Basic Customs Duty and an additional 4.35 per cent under the All Industry Duty Drawback. The increase, however, is not applicable to the Social Welfare Surcharge (SWS) exemption.
Microsoft now a $3 trillion company, second after Apple
billion into OpenAI, reports The Verge.
reached the milestone valuation after its stock climbed 1.5 per cent in trading on Nasdaq late on Wednesday. Tim Cook-led Apple hit the $3 trillion market cap around two years ago. San Francisco, Jan 25 (IANS) Microsoft has reached the coveted $3 trillion mark and became the second company after Apple to achieve this feat. Microsoft reached a $3 trillion market cap, the first time in its 48-year history. The Satya Nadella-run company
Microsoft’s stock has been rallying in recent months, amid its artificial intelligence (AI) push along with OpenAI. In the past five years, Microsoft’s stock price has moved from $107 to the current price of around $404. Microsoft, under Nadella, has also acquired several AI companies and invested more than $10
Nadella took charge of the company nearly 10 years ago, and acquired Minecraft developer Mojang, LinkedIn, GitHub, and Xamarin. Earlier this month, Microsoft surpassed Apple’s market cap to become the world’s most valuable public company for a brief period. Now, it has finally crossed the $3 trillion mark and stayed there. The company’s stock saw a big bump after it announced a steep price on Copilot for Microsoft 365, its AI-powered Office documents. Since then, the company has been announcing new AI features every now and then.
7 in 10 CEOs globally planning to invest in genAI in 2024: Report
New Delhi, Jan 23 (IANS) About seven out of 10 CEOs globally are planning to invest in generative artificial intelligence (genAI) this year, a new report said on Tuesday. According to the global softwareas-a-service (SaaS) company Netcore Cloud, genAI emerges as a top investment priority, with CEOs foreseeing a tangible payoff within the upcoming three to five
years.
on a product or service.
The report also suggested that consumer preferences are strongly inclined toward short-form video content, and convenient and instant transactions.
Moreover, the report noted that users actively explore brands and products on Instagram, making it the platform's second most engaging activity, captivating 62.2 per cent of its users. Similarly, on TikTok, 65 per cent of users rely on online reviews and creator recommendations for informed online purchase decisions. "As we step into a future dominated by AI and automation, understanding these trends is crucial for any marketer looking to make a substantial impact," said Mahesh Narayanan, Chief Marketing Growth Officer at Netcore Cloud.
With 90 per cent of consumers convinced by videos in their product decisions, industry leaders are embracing influencer marketing, leveraging short videos to shine a spotlight on their product line, according to the report. About 89 per cent of consumers revealed that viewing a video has tipped the scales when deciding
AI won’t take as many jobs as expected: Study San Francisco, Jan 23 (IANS) While researchers around the world expect job losses due to artificial intelligence (AI) soon, a new study has said that AI might not take as many jobs as expected. A recent study conducted by MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) investigated whether AI could perform tasks more efficiently than humans and whether it was cost-effective for businesses to replace human labour with AI.
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The study took into consideration the broader implications of AI implementation in the labour market. The researchers found computer vision AI can currently automate tasks that makeup 1.6 per cent of worker wages in the US economy, excluding agriculture. However, only 23 per cent of those wages, equivalent to 0.4 per cent of the entire economy, would be cheaper for companies to automate instead of hiring human workers at current costs.
while the airport in Bhairawaha was built with a loan extended by the Asian Development Bank but built by the Chinese contractors.
not apply to the Social Welfare Surcharge (SWS) exemption.
"We find that at today’s costs US businesses would choose not to automate most vision tasks that have “AI Exposure,” and that only 23 per cent of worker wages being paid for vision tasks would be attractive to automate," the authors said. "Overall, our findings suggest that AI job displacement will be substantial, but also gradual -- and therefore there is room for (government) policy and retraining to mitigate unemployment impacts," they added.
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Kathmandu, Jan 24 (IANS) Nepal Finance Minister Ram Sharan Mahat has said that Adani Group will invest in various public sectors in Nepal including airports and energy sector. “The founder and chairman of the Adani Group, Gautam Adani had proposed to invest in Nepal, particularly in energy and airport management sectors,” Mahat said after having recently met the business magnate in Gujarat. Mahat -- who was recently in Gujarat to attend the Vibrant Gujarat Summit -- met Adani, who in return has pledged to invest in Nepal particularly in the construction of the new airport near India-Nepal border and taking over the management of the Bhairawaha International Airport, Tribhuwan International Airport among others. “I also invited him (Adani) to participate in the upcoming Nepal Investment Summit to be organised by the government of Nepal in April. He has committed that he will try his best to attend the summit,” Mahat told IANS. Nepal has recently built two international airports in Bhairawaha and Pokhara but they have failed to conduct regular flights after India refused to provide air space for Nepali flights to operate. The Pokhara International Airport was built with a Chinese loan
Mahat said that he (Adani) had expressed his intent to expand and operate the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, taking management of the Bhairawaha International Airport and construction of the Nijgadh International Airport in Bara. “The new airport in Nijgadh is expected to cost around $ 6.7 billion. We are ready to operate the international airports in Bhairawaha and will construct the airport in Nijgadh,” Mahat told IANS quoting Adani as saying. Mahat said that Adani has also expressed intent to invest in hydropower projects in Nepal particularly in investing in Bheri and Karnali projects. “A team of Adani Group had recently visited Kathmandu and held talks with Director General of Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) Pradip Adhikari and discussed the possibility of investing in Nepal’s airport sector,” Mahat said. He said that after being unable to operate the Pokhara Regional International Airport (PRIA) and Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA), which were built with loans, CAAN has decided to bring the private sector into the operation of three international airports including the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) and the construction of the Nijgadh International Airport. “CAAN has sent a proposal to the Ministry of Culture, Tourism,
Chinese stocks have lost $6 trillion in 3 years no doubt a challenging and frustrating period for investors and market participants in Chinese equities,” Goldman Sachs analysts wrote in a research note on Tuesday.
Hong Kong, Jan 23 (IANS) Over the past three years, about $6 trillion -- equivalent to roughly twice Britain’s annual economic output -- has been wiped off the value of Chinese and Hong Kong stocks, a media report said. The Hang Seng index has crashed 10 per cent so far this year alone, while the Shanghai Composite and Shenzhen Component indexes are down 7 per cent and 10 per cent, respectively, CNN reported. The astonishing losses, reminiscent of the last Chinese stock market crash of 2015-2016, highlight a crisis of confidence among investors concerned about the country’s future.
“China … [is] currently trading at suppressed valuations and decade-low allocations across [investment] fund mandates.” The world’s second largest economy is plagued by a myriad of problems. They include a record downturn in real estate, deflation, debt, a falling birth rate and shrinking work force, as well as a shift towards ideology driven policies that has rattled the private sector and scared away foreign firms, CNN reported. The stock meltdown has made Chinese markets the world’s worst performers so far this year. And all this is playing out against the backdrop of a global stock market rally, led by Wall Street’s record-setting run, and by Japan in Asia, CNN reported.
“The past three years were
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Honorary Consulate organizes India’s Republic Day celebrations Brisbane, January 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk) Honorary Consulate of India, Brisbane hosted the 75th Indian Republic Day celebrations on 26
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January. The Indian national flag was unfurled, followed by other official ceremonies. Children attending the event made cultural presentations. Besides the members from Indian diaspora
and other guests, members of the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland team were also present on the occasion.
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Indian Consulate in Brisbane runs an inclusive range of consular services to local, Indian, and international citizens in Australia. Indian It represents one of 197 consular and diplomatic
representations of India all over the world. It also represents one of 335 foreign consular and diplomatic representations from around the world in Australia.
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R-Day flypast spectacle: 54 aircraft including Rafel, Sukhoi, Jaguar & Tejas roar skies aircraft participated in the flypast.
New Delhi, Jan 26 (IANS) The most eagerly awaited part of the Republic Day Parade on Friday was ‘The Flypast’ -- a breathtaking airshow by 54 aircraft and helicopters. These included three aircraft from the French Air and Space Force, 46 from the Indian Air Force, one from the Indian Navy, and four helicopters from the Indian Army. intage as well as modern V aircraft such as Light Combat Aircraft ‘Tejas’, Rafale, Su-30, Jaguar, Dakota, Dornier, C-17, C-130J as well as Light Combat Helicopter ‘Prachand’, Advanced Light Helicopters and Apaches displayed various formations, including 'Tejas', 'Netra', 'Varuna', 'Vajraang', 'Trishul', 'Amrit', 'Prachand', 'Arjan' and Tangail. The concluding Vertical Charlie maneuver was performed by a Rafale fighter aircraft. The 54 aircraft comprising 29 fighter aircraft, eight transport, 13 helicopters and one heritage
Rafel, Sukhoi, Jaguar, C-295, C-17, LCH Prachand helicopter and Mig-29 aircraft were the part of the flypast during the Republic Day. Four Tejas aircraft made their debut in the Republic Day Parade. Four aircraft from the Indian Army and one from the Indian Navy also flew in two separate formations with the IAF aircraft. All these aircraft operated from six different bases. The IAF said that participating aircraft flew in several formations. It included Dhwaj Formation, Rudra formation, Baaz Formation, Prachand Formation, Tangail Formation, Arjan Formation, Netra Formation and Varuna Formation. Dhwaj formation comprising four Mi-17 IV helicopters were flown in an 'Inverted Wine Glass' formation, trooping the National Ensign, as well as those of the three services. Helicopters of the formation showered flower petals on the audience. The 'Rudra' formation comprised helicopters from the Army Aviation Corps and included one LCH Prachand and three ALH WSI helicopters flown in a four aircraft 'Diamond' formation and
Republic Day Parade 2024: Best marching contingents and tableaux awarded (MoD) official said.
Baaz Formation. Three MiG-29 aircraft also participated in flypast in a 'Vic' formation, the IAF said. According to the IAF, Prachand formation had an LCH Prachand helicopter in lead, with two Apache and ALH MK-IV aircraft together flying in a five aircraft 'Arrow' formation. Tangail formation, comprising one Dakota aircraft in lead, with two Dornier aircraft in echelon, flew in 'Vic' formation. A C-295 aircraft flanked by two C-130 aircraft in echelon, flew as the Arjan formation. Netra formation, comprising one AEW and C aircraft and two Su30 aircraft in echelon, were flown in 'Vic' Formation. An Indian Navy P-81, flanked by two IAF Su-30 aircraft were flown as the 'Varuna' formation. The IAF said that Bheem formation comprising a C-17 and two Su-30 aircraft in echelon (streaming fuel) did flypast in 'Vic' formation. Making its debut in the Republic Day Parade, was the Tejas formation, comprising four Tejas aircraft in 'Diamond' formation. Vajraang formation, comprising six Rafale aircraft, were flown in 'Inverted wine glass' formation.
REPUBLIC DAY 2024
New Delhi, Jan 31 (IANS) Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt on Tuesday gave away the best marching contingents and tableaux awards for the Republic Day Parade. He announced separate results, one by a panel of judges and the other through an online public vote conducted by MyGov. Three panels of judges were appointed to assess the performance of Marching Contingents from three Services, Marching Contingents from Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF)/other auxiliary forces, and tableaux from various States/ Union Territories and Ministries/ Departments. Odisha was adjudged the best state/union territory (UT) tableau by a panel of judges whereas Sikh Regiment Contingent as best marching contingent among the three services, and Delhi Police Women Contingent named best marching contingent among Central Armed Police Forces/ other auxiliary forces in both categories, an Ministry of Defence
The MoD in a statement added that best states/UTs tableau award was given to Odisha's Woman Empowerment in Viksit Bharat, followed by Gujarat (Dhordo: A Global Icon Of Gujarat's Border Tourism) and Tamil Nadu (Kudavolai System in ancient Tamil Nadu -- Mother of Democracy). Ministry of Culture's tableau based on the theme 'Bharat: Mother of Democracy' bagged the top position among Ministries/ Departments in the panel of judges section. Special Prize was given to Central Public Works Department (Central Vista -- Viksit Bharat Ka Pratibimb) whereas special memento was given to 'Vande Bharatam' – Dance Group, the MoD official added. The MoD said that in addition to the panel of judges, a web page was created on MyGov platform for online registration of citizens for watching the Republic Day Parade and Beating the Retreat Ceremony 2024 online. An online poll was conducted by MyGov for the citizens to vote for their favourite tableau from states/UTs and Ministries/ Departments as well as among the marching contingents to select the best among the popular choice category.
R-Day functions pass off R-Day Parade begins with ‘Aavaahan’, peacefully in J&K President’s buggy makes a comeback Droupadi Murmu and chief guest French President Emmanuel Macron arrived at the Kartavya Path in a horse-pulled buggy, the practice which made a comeback after a gap of 40 years. New Delhi, Jan 26 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu led the Nation in celebrating the 75th Republic Day on Friday as she unfurled the national flag at Kartavya Path in the national capital and the parade began with ‘Aavaahan’, a band performance by over 100 women artists playing various types of percussion instruments, symbolising Nari Shakti, a new element added to the customary march. In a revival of tradition, President
For the first time ever, the parade was heralded by over 100 women artists playing Indian musical instruments. The parade commenced with the music of Sankh, Naadswaram, Nagada, etc. played by these women artists. Kartavya Path also witnessed a march past by a combined Band and Marching contingent of the French Armed Forces. A 30-member band contingent headed by Captain Khourda, which was followed by a
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) said that based on the twin themes of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Bharat - Loktantra ki Matruka’, this year’s parade was witnessing the participation of around 13,000 Special Guests -- an initiative which provided an opportunity to people from all walks of life to take part in the celebrations and encourage Jan Bhagidari in this national festival. The parade is a showcase of India’s rich cultural diversity, unity, progress, its military prowess on the back of increasing indigenous capabilities, and the growing Nari Shakti, the MoD official added.
1500 farmers witness R-Day parade on special invitation Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana to witness the parade.
New Delhi, Jan 26 (IANS) At least 1500 farmers on Friday witnessed the 75th Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare had extended the invitations to these 1500 farmers, who are beneficiaries of Central government schemes such as
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The government had invited over 15,000 guests to witness the Republic Day parade. The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare had also organised a two-day program and training for their special invitees on January 25 and 26. The ministry said that a comprehensive training session on key government schemes and
activity incurring tourism that has taken place in the UT under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi.
90-member marching contingent, led by Captain Noel.
initiatives such as Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, Per Drop More Crop, PMFBY etc and a field visit to the renowned fields of PUSA campus were organised for the farmers on January 25. It said that on January 26, these special invitees witnessed the spectacular parade at Kartavya Path and after the parade, Minister of Agriculture, Farmers Welfare, and Tribal Affairs Arjun Munda interacted with the farmers at PUSA.
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Jammu/Srinagar, Jan 26 (IANS) 75th Republic Day functions passed off peacefully in J&K on Friday as Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha unfurled the national flag and took the salute at the main function held at the M.A. Stadium in Jammu. Earlier, the Lt. Governor laid a wreath at the Balidan Stambh in Jammu to pay tributes to the martyrs who laid down their lives in the service of the nation. Later, Sinha unfurled the national flag and took salute at an impressive parade in M.A.Stadium in Jammu. Smartly turned out contingents of CAPFs, local police, home guards and school children marched past the podium where Sinha took salute. The L-G greeted the people on the 75th Republic Day of the country and said that the nation will never forget its martyrs who had laid down their lives to protect the sovereignty and integrity of the country. He also spoke of the great transformation in every sphere of
He said the days of shutdowns, stone pelting and street violence had ended in Kashmir and the dawn of development had started paying dividends to the common man. In the Valley, the main Republic Day function took place at the Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar where R.R. Bhatnagar, advisor of the Lt Governor unfurled the national flag and took salute at the parade. Foolproof security arrangements had been made to secure the venues of the main functions in Jammu and Srinagar. Special arrangements had been made to ensure the maximum participation of the public in these functions while no restrictions on public movement and the mobile phones were imposed anywhere in the Valley. Smartly dressed contingents of police, paramilitary forces, home guards and school children took part in the parade at Srinagar. The main function was followed by cultural programmes depicting unity in diversity of the two regions of J&K. Republic Day functions were also held at all other district headquarters in J&K.
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Message from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for the Indian diaspora in Australia on Republic Day 2024 Since Independence, India has drawn on the vitality and diligence of its people to build a modern nation defined by innovation and success. On our shared national days, we also have an opportunity to celebrate the depth of our friendship. Australia and India have never been closer.
"Republic Day is an opportunity to celebrate India’s extraordinary success across more than seven decades of independence.
The bonds between our two nations are lifelong and intergenerational, built on the deep and enduring links between our people. The Indian diaspora here in Australia is the lifeblood of
THE HON PETER DUTTON MP
our friendship. Importantly, ours is a relationship with a bright future. As we together honour and cherish the region we call home, we are united in advancing and preserving an open, inclusive, stable and prosperous IndoPacific. On Republic Day, I’m delighted to send my congratulations to all who celebrate the great achievements of the Republic of India."
LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION INDIA’S REPUBLIC DAY
On behalf of the Coalition, I send my best wishes to the people of India, to Prime Minister Modi, and to Australians of Indian ancestry as you celebrate India’s Republic Day. It was on this day 74 years ago when India’s Constitution came into force. It was a triumph for a new and young nation which had only become independent 895 days earlier. During the historical event in 1950, the first President of India, Dr Rajendra Prasad, famously said: “Our Constitution is a democratic instrument seeking to ensure to the individual citizens the freedoms which are so invaluable. India has never prescribed or prosecuted opinion and faith and our philosophy has room as much for a devotee of a personal god, as for an agnostic or an atheist. We shall, therefore, be only implementing in practice under our Constitution what we have inherited from our traditions, namely, freedom of opinion and expression.” Today, as Australians serendipitously celebrate our national day and our own modern democratic achievement, we extend our congratulations to our friends in India. Each year, Australia and India open new pipelines of friendship, opportunity and enterprise which multiply the connections between our two nations – a true sign of the growing strength of our democracies. Happy Republic Day to India.
Hon Peter Dutton MP Leader of the Opposition 26 January 2024
Republic Day of India 2024 A Message from the Regional Director, North (Qld & NT) Parliament House CANBERRA ACT 2600
On behalf of the Department of Home Affairs, I extend my warmest greetings and wishes to the Indian Community in Queensland and the Northern Territory on the joyous occasion of India's Republic Day! The commemoration of adopting of the Constitution of India on 26 January 1950 serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of freedom, democracy, and unity that forms the bedrock of India - values that continue to strengthen the shared bonds with Australia. Today, we celebrate the remarkable journey of India, a land rich in heritage, vibrant in culture, and pulsating with innovation. In Queensland and the Northern Territory, the contributions of our nearly 100,000 people of Indian ancestry remain invaluable. You have woven the threads of your culture into the tapestry of our region, enriching our society with your entrepreneurial spirit, caring attitude, and unwavering commitment to community. Through your achievements, you not only bring pride to Australia and India, but also serve as an inspiration to the broader Australian community.
Vijay Chowk reverberated with Indian tunes during Beating Retreat 2024 among others.
On this Republic Day, let us continue our spirit of togetherness and reaffirm our shared values of peace, tolerance, and inclusivity. As we build bridges of understanding and cooperation, let us all play our part in creating a brighter future for our communities and nations.
New Delhi, Jan 29 (IANS) The historic Vijay Chowk in the national capital came live to foottapping tunes and synchronised steps by members of armed forces during the 'Beating Retreating' ceremony on January 29, marking the end of the 75th Republic Day celebrations.
Rena FALLON Acting Regional Director, North (Qld & NT) Department of Home Affairs 25 January 2024
Ulfat Khan: First girl Parade Commander for PM Rally from URI Republic Day Camp 2024 held in New Delhi.
Jammu, Jan 30 (IANS) Senior Cadet Captain Ulfat Khan of Uri has become the first-ever girl cadet to be selected as Parade Commander at the Prime Minister's Rally during the
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"Selected from a pool of 2,274 NCC cadets from 28 States and Union Territories and from 17 Directorates across the Nation, Ulfat's journey from a remote background to a national achiever is a testament to her unwavering determination and resilience,” army said.
geographical barriers, Ulfat's relentless pursuit of excellence propelled her forward. Born in Uri, Baramulla District in 2002, Ulfat Khan pursued her schooling in various Kendriya Vidyalayas across Delhi, Jharkhand and Odisha before joining GCW Gandhinagar for her higher education.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) informed that the music bands of the Indian Army, Navy, Indian Air Force and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) played 31 captivating and foottapping Indian tunes before a distinguished audience, comprising President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The ceremony began with the massed band's 'Shankhnaad' tune, which was followed by the enthralling tunes such as 'Veer Bharat', 'Sangam Dur', 'Deshon ka Sartaj Bharat', 'Bhagirathi', and 'Arjuna' by Pipes and Drums band. The CAPF bands played 'Bharat Ke Jawan' and 'Vijay Bharat',
Army said that despite facing numerous challenges, including
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'Tiger Hill', 'Rejoiced in Raisina' and 'Swadeshi' were among the tunes played by the band of the Indian Air Force, while the audience was witnessing the Indian Navy band playing a number of tunes, including 'INS Vikrant', 'Mission Chandrayaan', 'Jai Bharati' and 'Hum Tayyar Hain'. This was followed by the Indian Army band which played 'Faulad Ka Jigar', 'Agniveer', 'Kargil 1999', 'Taqat Watan', among others, MoD added. The massed bands then played the tunes 'Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja', 'Aye Mere Watan Ke Logon' and 'Drummers Call'. The event was concluded with the ever-popular tune of 'Sare Jahan se Acha'. The MoD said, "'Beating Retreat' traced its origins to the early 1950s when Major Roberts of the Indian Army indigenously developed the unique ceremony of display by the massed bands." It marked a centuries-old military tradition, when the troops ceased fighting, sheathed their arms, withdrew from the battlefield and returned to the camps at sunset at the sounding of the Retreat. Colours and standards are cased and flags lowered. The ceremony creates nostalgia for the times gone by, an MoD official added.
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Sydney embraces India’s 75th Republic Day Sydney, January 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk) Sydney witnessed vibrant celebrations in honour of India's 75th Republic Day at the Consulate of India on January 26. Consul General Dr S Janakiraman hoisted
the Indian flag, symbolizing the nation's rich heritage and progress. The solemn moment was accompanied by the stirring strains of the Indian national anthem, echoing a sense of unity and pride among attendees. Following the ceremonial flag
hoisting, Consul General Janakiraman shared excerpts from Indian President Droupadi Murmu’s heartfelt message, underscoring the significance of the occasion. The audience was captivated by cultural performances that showcased the diversity of Indian traditions
and values, reaffirming the strong bonds between India and its diaspora in Sydney. The Republic Day celebrations serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Indian Australian community, which has long been an integral
part of commemorating this momentous occasion. From the bustling streets of Canberra to the dynamic cities of Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth, Indian Australians have fervently participated in honouring India's democratic journey and shared cultural heritage.
India’s 75th Republic Day celebrated with zest in Canberra Canberra, January 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The Indian diaspora in Canberra marked India’s 75th Republic Day with fervour and pride as High Commissioner–Designate Gopal Baglay hoisted the Indian national flag at the High Commission. Amidst a gathering of Indian diaspora from various
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parts of Australia, Baglay shared excerpts from Indian President Droupadi Murmu’s heartfelt message to the Indian nation, which was broadcast on January 25. The celebration resonated with cultural performances showcasing the deep-rooted bonds cherished by the Indian diaspora with their homeland. From vibrant dances to melodious
tunes, the event radiated the essence of India's rich heritage and diverse cultural tapestry. The enthusiastic participation of members underscored the significance of the occasion, reflecting the unity and pride of Indians across the globe. Indian Republic Day holds profound historical significance,
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commemorating the enactment of the Constitution of India on January 26, 1950. This momentous day symbolizes India’s transition to a sovereign republic, embodying the principles of democracy, liberty, and equality enshrined in its constitution. It serves as a reminder of the nation’s journey towards independence and sovereignty.
Beyond the borders of India, the Indian diaspora worldwide joins in celebrating Republic Day with zeal and reverence, honouring their roots and heritage. The festivities not only evoke a sense of nostalgia but also reaffirm the enduring spirit of unity and patriotism among Indians across generations and geographies.
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Patriotism and unity mark Perth’s 75th Republic Day celebrations Perth, January 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
from Curtin University and the University of Western Australia.
The Consulate in Perth resonated with the vibrant spirit of India's 75th Republic Day, where the Indian diaspora and friends of India united in fervent celebration. Among the esteemed guests were veterans of the Indian armed forces, community leaders, business associations, Indianorigin councilors, and students
Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi inaugurated the festivities by unfurling the national flag, followed by the heartfelt reading of Indian President Droupadi Murmu's address to the nation. The event gained momentum with captivating performances by community members, who showcased their patriotism
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through song and dance. A standout moment arrived with the soulful rendition of India's national anthem on the violin, performed by the talented 8-year-old Sriya Sri. Following suit, 11-year-old Maya Desai from the Bhairavi School of Dance mesmerized the audience with a graceful Bharatnatyam performance. Mitul Patel's keyboard melodies and Abhishek
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Mishra's stirring recitation of his poem titled 'Desh' added layers of depth to the cultural tapestry.
Australia, reflecting the youthful energy and commitment to national pride.
The event witnessed a touching tribute from the Sanskriti Seniors, who presented the timeless melody 'Chodo Kal ki Baatein,' invoking nostalgia and unity among attendees. The program reached its crescendo with a patriotic dance by students from the University of Western
Guiding the audience through the festivities was Suchet Kaur, a dynamic student from the University of Western Australia, who skillfully emceed the entire program, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience for all.
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India’s 75th Republic Day: Vibrant festivities mark Melbourne consulate celebrations Melbourne, January 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The Consulate General of India in Melbourne resonated with patriotic zeal as the 75th Republic Day of India was joyously celebrated on January 26. The Consul General, Dr Sushil
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Kumar, graced the occasion with his presence, symbolizing the significance of the day. Accompanied by a vibrant gathering of members from the Indian diaspora, the event unfolded with the ceremonial unfurling of India’s national
flag, a symbol of the nation's sovereignty and resilience. Amidst the fluttering tricolour, the air was imbued with the spirit of unity and pride. The festivities transcended ceremonial rituals, embracing the cultural mosaic that defines
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India's essence. Enthusiastic participants from the Indian community showcased the country's rich heritage through captivating cultural performances, reflecting India's unity amidst its diverse tapestry of traditions and cultures.
From soul-stirring dances to melodious renditions, the celebration echoed the harmonious blend of cultures that characterize the Indian ethos. Each performance served as a testament to India's vibrant spirit and enduring legacy, resonating with the hearts of those present.
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GOPIO Gold Coast host India Republic Day at Robina GOPIO Gold Coast hosted the 75th Indian Republic Day celebrations on Saturday 27th January 2024, which was attended by approximately 100 people from the Gold Coast and the wider Indian and multicultural Community. The event was graced by the presence of QLD MP for Surfers Paradise John-Paul Langbroek (Shadow Minister for Seniors,
Communities and Disability Services & Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships , QLD MP for Bonney – Sam O’Connor(Shadow Minister for Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Shadow Minister for Science and Innovation, Shadow Minister for Youth, Gold Coast City councillor Herman Vorster and several other
dignitaries and representatives of the many Indian and multicultural communities. India Republic Day represents the true spirit of the independent India. The highlights of the event included a traditional welcome to the country by the Ngarang-Wal Gold Coast Aboriginal Association where some of the members were honoured with the gift of Ochre, the singing of the Australian and
Indian National Anthem and Shloka chanting by the Mantra group, classical Bharatanatyam dances performed by the talented students of Rhythm India School of Dance and a beautiful ode to the almighty by Mr Sanjay Dar. Attendees enjoyed delicious Indian snacks by ‘Maha catering group’, which they enjoyed while mingling after the formal proceedings.
The GOPIO GC Indian Republic Day event was a wonderful opportunity to bring together people of Indian origin and proudly display both the traditional Australian and Indian culture and heritage to the wider community. The event was kindly sponsored by QLD MP and Shadow Minister for multiculturalism, Mr John Paul Langbroek.
Indian Art Exhibition organised by GOPIO Gold Coast GOPIO-GC was recently invited to organise an art exhibition at the Robina Community Art Gallery (opposite the Robina Community Library) to coincide with the 75th Indian Republic Day celebrations. The GOPIO-GC committee
requested the community to lend their artwork for such an exhibition. The response from the community was overwhelming and we were able to launch the exhibition on the 23rd of
Jan 2024. The exhibition was formally opened by Anthony Shorten who is a strong advocate for multiculturalism. Numerous artists and community representatives attended the launch.
The variety of art on display included oil paintings, water colours, cross-stitch needlework, Madhubani paintings, Lippan art. This showcases the sheer diversity of Indian art. GOPIO-GC thanks Asha Jose, Kamiya Talati,
Lakshmi Narasimhan, Megha Dasog, Neelam Maheshwari, Nidhi Patel, Seema Chauhan, Smitha Mandre Jackson, Sudha Manian and Varsha Badhe for their contributions. The display is scheduled to run till the 4th of February.
GOPIO Gold Coast hosts the Australian Citizenship Ceremony This Australia Day weekend, we at GOPIO Gold Coast were thrilled to host an inspiring Australian Citizenship Ceremony, marking a
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significant milestone in the lives of our newest Aussie citizens. It was a day filled with joy, pride, and a shared sense of belonging
in the beautiful mosaic of Australian society. A special thank you to Gold
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Coast Mayor Tom Tate for presiding over the ceremony, Mayoress Ruth Tate for your kind support, and MP John-Paul
Langbroek Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism for welcoming the 50 new citizens.
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Damini Women’s Association of Qld hosts Australia Day Brisbane, January 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk) Damini Women's Association
of Qld inc. hosted Australia Day on 26 January in Gumdale. Among other guests, members of the Federation of Indian
Communities of Queensland attended the event. The event unfolded a beautiful celebration which included a variety
of programs from diverse communities. Thirteen women decided to
form this Association, which was registered under the office of fair trade on November 3, 2006.
Perth’s Indian community celebrates Uttar Pradesh Divas Perth, January 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk) In a vibrant showcase of cultural richness, the Indian community in Perth marked the inaugural Uttar Pradesh Divas, celebrating the heritage and traditions of the divine land. The event, a first of its kind, resonated with
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the essence of Uttar Pradesh's cultural tapestry, offering a glimpse into its timeless traditions. The festivities featured captivating performances, including Kajri and Birha folk songs presented by the Lok Sangeet Mandli of the Uttar
Pradesh Awadh Manch, along with soul-stirring Alha folk melodies. Adding youthful exuberance to the celebration, young girls from Jhankar Perth enthralled the audience with their captivating rendition of the 'Ram Ayenge' dance. The Academy of Indian Classical
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and Bollywood Dance artists showcased their mastery with classical and fusion Kathak dance performances, captivating spectators with their grace and precision. The ambiance reverberated with the melodies of Ghazals and Kawwali, further enriching the cultural experience for attendees.
Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi applauded the community's efforts in organizing the Uttar Pradesh Divas celebrations. He commended their dedication to preserving and promoting Indian culture, particularly among the younger generation, fostering a deeper connection to their roots and heritage.
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BAPS celebrates inauguration of Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya Shri BAPS Swaminarayan Hindu Temple, Kingston Brisbane hosted a joyous celebration on Sunday, January 21st, marking the inauguration of the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The event welcomed esteemed guests including Dr Ashutosh
Mishra CEO of IAIE, Abhishek Sharma from Bhartiya Samaj, Dr Ram Mohan, Australia India News, Sureshbhai Limbani and team from HSS, Shree Hari and team from VHP, Pandit Piyushbhai Shastri and various organizations' leaders.
The festivities featured special prayers, cultural activities, and a vibrant parade (Akshat Kumbh Palkhi ) with statues of Shri Ram, Sitaji, and Hanumanji. Pujya Arshpurush Swami ji emphasised the importance of unity and mutual respect from the Tulsi
Ramayana. The event showcased the teachings of Shri Ramchandraji Bhagwan, promoting happiness and collaboration. More than 800 attendees felt a sense of community, reflecting the spirit
of Sanatan Hindu Dharma. The celebration not only honoured the historic occasion but also demonstrated the BAPS’s commitment to fostering togetherness and joy among the people of Brisbane who share a belief in these timeless teachings.
Sydney
Melbourne
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Jyoti-Amarjot Goraya gets Lord Mayor’s Australia Day award Brisbane, January 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk) Jyoti-Amarjot Goraya has been awarded with Lord Mayor’s Australia Day 2024 -Achievement Award for the dedicated 28 Years of High School Chemistry teaching and for her pivotal role in promoting and preserving Indian culture in the region with various community projects.
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Through her ongoing efforts she has consistently showcased her commitment to promoting cultural events and fostering community unity. The Lord Mayor's Australia Day awards recognise individuals who have made a significant contribution to their local community in a voluntarily.
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Tragic drowning incident shakes Melbourne’s Indian Community in the heartbreaking incident recently, said a report from Times of India, an Indian daily.
Melbourne, January 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The Indian community in Australia is in mourning following the tragic death of four compatriots, including three women, who drowned at an unpatrolled beach in Phillip Island this week. The victims, identified as Jagjeet Singh Anand, Suhani Anand, Kirti Bedi, and Reema Sondhi, lost their lives
According to the Times of India report, the group of about 10 people, including Sondhi, who was visiting her family in Australia, were enjoying a day out at Phillip Island, near Melbourne in Victoria, when the tragedy occurred. While Sanjeev, Sondhi's husband, survived, the community grapples with the loss of their loved ones. Ravinder Singh, a close associate of the victims' families, expressed profound sadness, stating, "It is the darkest day of my life." Singh
emphasized the need to raise awareness about the dangers of swimming at unpatrolled beaches, urging the community to understand rip currents to prevent similar tragedies in the future, said the Times of India report. In response to the devastating loss, friends initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support the families of the victims. Ankur Chhabra, the campaign organizer, highlighted the selflessness of the victims and called for solidarity in assisting the families during this difficult time, the Times of India reported.
According to the Times of India report, the Indian High Commission in Australia and the Consulate General of India in Melbourne extended support to the affected families, acknowledging the heartbreaking nature of the tragedy. Bass Coast Mayor Clare Le Serve also conveyed condolences, emphasizing the somber reminder of the ocean's unpredictability. Victoria Police Eastern Region Assistant Commissioner Karen Nyholm reiterated the dangers of unpatrolled beaches, emphasizing the need for caution. Off-duty
lifeguards and emergency services worked tirelessly to rescue the victims, but the incident stands as a poignant reminder of the perils of the sea, reported the Times of India. As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, the community mourns the loss of Jagjeet Singh Anand, Suhani Anand, Kirti Bedi, and Reema Sondhi, emphasizing the importance of beach safety and collective support during times of grief, the Times of India reported.
Pakistan Australia War Memorial inaugurated in Brisbane The inauguration ceremony of the Pakistan Australia War Memorial took place on January 25 in
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Memorial Corner, Roma Street, Brisbane. The ceremony was attended
by dignitaries, politicians, community leaders and was officiated by special guest H.E.
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Mr Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri, High Commissioner for the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to
Commonwealth of Australia.
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Citizenship ceremony hosted in Springfield January 26th, Australia Day, is now synonymous with citizenship ceremonies across the country. Varnam Cultural Society (QLD) hosted various multicultural events and a citizenship ceremony this Australia Day. A Citizenship Ceremony is significant occasion that marks the welcoming of the new citizens to the diverse tapestry of our nation. Traditionally, local councils commemorate Australia Day by orchestrating such ceremonies, uniting individuals from all backgrounds to partake in the solemn recitation of the pledge of commitment – the culminating step in their journey
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towards Australian citizenship. For Varnam Cultural Society, this marks our inaugural hosting of Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony. In the early hours of the January 26 morning, members of the Varnam Cultural Society convened with enthusiasm to meticulously prepare for the ceremony at the local Springfield Lakes State School. They were soon joined by Hon. Milton Dick, Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Federal Member for Oxley and Charis Mullen MP, Minister for Child Safety, Seniors, Disability & Multicultural Affairs, State Member for this Jordan
electorate. The distinguished ministers were accompanied by Hon. Teresa Harding, Mayor of Ipswich, Cr. Paul Tully, representing Division 2 as an Ipswich Councillor, and Cr. Nicole Jonic, also from Ipswich City Council, serving as Councillor for Division 2. By approximately 8:15 AM, the atmosphere was imbued with joy as the new citizens arrived to partake in the final stage of their journey towards Australian Citizenship. The ceremony commenced with a vibrant opening by Rajarajan Thennavan, President of the Varnam Cultural Society,
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extending a warm welcome to all attendees on their joyous occasion. Hon. Milton Dick MP, as the Presiding Officer, adeptly presided over the ceremony with grace and dignity, elevating the experience into a truly memorable occasion for our new citizens. Guiding the proceedings, he administered the pledge to the new citizens. Hon. Charis Mullen MP delivered an inspiring speech, instilling a sense of unity and pride among all present. The pledge-taking ceremony reached its culmination with a rendition of the Australian National Anthem, skilfully led by the talented Lakhsheeny M Parasuraman, whose mesmerising voice resonated throughout the gathering. Following the ceremony, the presiding officer
COMMUNITY NEWS and the guests generously participated in photo sessions, creating lasting memories for the new citizens, and contributing to the overall significance of the day. Varnam Cultural Society and its dedicated members take pride in orchestrating yet another successful debut in hosting a government event, underscoring their unwavering commitment to the Greater Springfield community service. Congratulations to all new citizens of this magnificent land, our home, Australia. By Rekha N Swamy Public Relations Officer Varnam Cultural Society
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Indian consulates in Melbourne & Perth lead ‘Swachhta Pakhwada’ Melbourne/Perth, January 17 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The Consulate General of India in Melbourne initiated the 'Swachhta Pakhwada' campaign from January 16 to 31, 2024, under the guidance of Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar. Officials of the Consulate took part in administering the 'Swachhta pledge' to uphold cleanliness standards within the Consulate premises. 'Swachhta,' or cleanliness, has
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been a paramount mission in India since Indian Prime Minister Modi's inauguration in 2014, reflecting a relentless pursuit of national sanitation. In Perth, the Consulate office embraced the Swachhata Pakhwada by organizing clean-up drives in various areas, including the multifunction area, outdoor galleries, and kitchen within the Chancery premises. These efforts, while upholding high cleanliness standards, also prepared the
Consulate for the Vishwa Hindi Diwas celebrations. In a recent development, Dr Parwinder Kaur, Associate Professor at the University of Western Australia (UWA), and a distinguished figure in biotechnology, delivered an enlightening talk in Perth. Dr Kaur shed light on the detrimental effects of plastic and plastic waste on human health and the environment. She advocated for sustainable
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alternatives, the eradication of single-use plastic, responsible recycling, and support for plasticfree initiatives. Carina Robb from the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science, and Innovation accompanied her, amplifying the discourse on environmental sustainability. Furthermore, as part of the ongoing Swachhata Pakhwada at the Indian Consulate in Perth, Dr Valerie Monterio, an Indian-origin Naturopath and environmentalist, conducted
an interactive session on handwashing, disease prevention, and hygiene promotion. Dr Monterio's talk underscored the importance of cleanliness and its direct impact on public health. A slideshow presentation emphasizing environmental protection, tree plantation, waste management, and recognition of exemplary initiatives in cleanliness complemented the insightful discussions, fostering a collective commitment to cleanliness and sustainability.
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Makar Sankranti celebration illuminates Canberra Canberra, January 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The Navya Andhra Telugu Association (NATA) recently organized a vibrant celebration of Makar Sankranti in Canberra, drawing in a jubilant crowd.
High Commissioner-Designate Gopal Baglay graced the occasion, hailing Makar Sankranti as "a vibrant and joyous festival" in his inaugural community engagement, shared on Facebook. Baglay emphasized Makar
Sankranti's profound significance, highlighting its enchanting portrayal of India's rich cultural tapestry. The event resonated with enthusiastic participation from Australia's Indian diaspora alongside distinguished Ministers
and Parliamentarians from ACT, amplifying the festival's cultural resonance. Makar Sankranti, a Hindu festival, traditionally observed on January 14 each year, marks the transition of the sun from Sagittarius
to Capricorn. It embodies a celebration of new beginnings, renewal, and the vibrant spirit of Indian traditions, captivating hearts and minds across the Canberra community.
Tamil Association organizes Australia Day Brisbane, January 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The Tamil Association (QLD) Inc.organized the celebration of Australia Day, recently. Many dignitaries and guests from the Indian diaspora were
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enthusiastically present on the occasion. Some of the dignitaries addressed the audience and talked about the importance of celebrating Australia Day. Games and contests, one of them being the Carrom Board
contest, were also organized on the occasion. Prizes were given to the winners. Children also participated in the Australia Day celebrations with enthusiasm, waving the nation’s flag.
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FICQ organizes annual India-Australia Day celebration Brisbane, January 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland Inc. (FICQ) organized the annual India-Australia Day celebration on 26 January, at Sunpac, Sunnybank QLD, to commemorate a unique double celebration. Shayne Neumann MP, John-Paul Langbroek MP, Charis Mullen MP, Dr Jim Chalmers MP, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner and Cr Angela Owen - Councillor for Calamvale Ward were among the many participants in the IndiaAustralia Day celebrations. About celebrating India-Australia Day, John-Paul Langbroek wrote in a Facebook post, “It’s Australia
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Day… but it’s also the 75th India Republic Day and the dancers from @margam_dance_academy were there to celebrate so was Pinky Singh @lnpqld candidate for Mansfield #shadowMinister #multiculturalism @ queenslandparliament representing Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli MP.” Charis Mullen MP, in her Facebook post wrote, “Australia Day and Indian Republic Day fall on the same day (26 Jan) which is an interesting historical coincidence. The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) | Australia host a special ‘India - Australia Day’ gathering which is a wonderful
opportunity to recognise the strong and enduring relationship between our two nations.” Expressing his feelings about the India-Australia Day celebrations, Milton Dick MP wrote on Facebook, “Last night I joined members from all levels of government and community members from across Queensland for an evening celebrating the ties between the Australian and Indian community. Thanks to the Federation of Indian Communities in Qld for a wonderful celebration. The relationship between our two countries and our two communities continues to grow. Happy Republic Day and Australia
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Day!” Dr Jim Chalmers MP echoed similar feelings for celebrating FICQ’s India Australia Day. He wrote on Facebook, “ Thank you to the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) | Australia for the opportunity to join with so many community leaders and mates to celebrate Australia Day and India Republic Day, and to say a few words about the remarkable possibilities of the Australia-India relationship into the future.” Australia Day is the official National Day of Australia which is celebrated annually on 26 January. On the same day of 26 January, India celebrates becoming a
republic with a constitution of its own that came into force on 26 January 1950. Australia Day marks the anniversary of the 1788 arrival of the first fleet of British ships at Port Jackson, New South Wales, and the raising of the flag of Great Britain at Sydney Cove by Governor Arthur Phillip. From the perspective of today’s Australia, these celebrations offer an insight into the diverse society of the nation. Therefore, these celebrations are marked by community and family events, reflections on Australian history, official community awards, and citizenship ceremonies welcoming new members of the Australian community.
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Australia Day and Indian Republic Day 2024 - dual celebration The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) hosted a dual celebration of India's 75th Republic Day and Australia Day on the 26th of January 2024 at SunPAC, Sunnybank, in Brisbane. In line with the FICQ's tradition, representatives from Australia's First Nations people, three levels of government, and community and business leaders celebrated this annual event. Held under the aegis of the National Australia Day Council, Brisbane City Council (BCC), Lord Mayor of Brisbane Adrian Schrinner, this remarkable day
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was sponsored by Springfield City Group, Southern Cross University, Brisbane City Mahindra, Village Roadshow Theme Parks, and Study Queensland. Mr. Zain Chams served as the master of ceremonies for the evening, executing his role with great skill and confidence. He adeptly engaged the distinguished assembly of dignitaries, community figures, and business leaders who were in attendance, adding to the overall success and ambience of the event. Celebrations commenced with the traditional lighting of lamps by distinguished guests, FICQ
Patron, Advisers, Executive Team, and Presidents of the member organisations, followed by the 'Acknowledgement of the Country' by Ms Taleatha Wright-Morgan. Students of Sargam Music Academy enthralled those present with their musical renditions of the Australian and Indian national anthems. Various distinguished speakers spoke at length, celebrating a truly multicultural Australia and how the Indian diaspora ensured 'Unity in diversity' was the bedrock of community prosperity and harmony. The celebration also involved
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cultural performances: Indigenous dance by Ms Taleatha Wright-Morgan, classical Bharatnatyam dance by Avni, Fusion dance by Let’s Bollywood Dance group, melodious singing by Himadri, Didgeridoo playing by Glenn Barry, a foot-tapping dance performance by Tapori Dance group and an absorbing interactive activity about India and Australia by the Cultural Co-ordinator, Mrs Jyoti-Amarjot Goraya.
Communities of Queensland (FICQ), under the leadership of its President, Mr. Anoop Nannuru, expressed deep gratitude to all attendees for their ongoing participation in uniting the Indian and Australian communities year after year. The executive team of FICQ, alongside the broader Indian and multicultural communities, dedicated immense effort to ensure the resounding success of this event.
The dual celebrations culminated with a vote of thanks delivered by the Vice President, Mr. Mul Chand. The Federation of Indian
By Seema Chauhan Public Relations Officer, FICQ
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Vibrant kite festival soars cultural bonds in Canberra Canberra, January 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The Indian Cultural Association in Canberra organized a kaleidoscopic kite festival, igniting the skies with a tapestry of colours. High CommissionerDesignate Gopal Baglay graced the event, adding his touch to the
vibrant festivities. Expressing his exhilaration on social media, Baglay shared his joy of flying Indian kites against the backdrop of the Australian sky, encapsulating the essence of cross-cultural exchange. The festival, a melting pot of Australian and Indian revelers,
witnessed thousands of attendees embracing the age-old tradition with friends and family. In a heartfelt reflection, Baglay underscored the significance of the event in fostering peopleto-people cultural relations, enriching the fabric of AustralianIndian camaraderie. "Happy to be
part of an event which helps our Aussie friends appreciate Indian culture and further cements India-Australia ties," Baglay remarked, echoing the sentiment of unity woven into the festival's fabric. Embracing the spirit of competition and camaraderie,
COMMUNITY NEWS Baglay invoked the Gujarati expression "Kai Po Che!" in his social media post, symbolizing the competitive fervour that enlivens the traditional Indian sport of kite flying. This spirited exchange not only embodies cultural traditions but also fosters cross-cultural connections, epitomizing the harmonious blend of Indian and Australian cultures.
Sydney commemorates World Hindi Day with cultural extravaganza Sydney, January 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The Consulate General of India in Sydney, in collaboration with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre (SVCC), reverberated with cultural fervour as it commemorated World Hindi Day on January 19, 2024. Attendees immersed themselves in a diverse array of artistic expressions, including poetry recitations, theatrical performances, and
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musical renditions. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message for World Hindi Day resonated throughout the event, underscoring the significance of the Hindi language in global discourse. Consul General Dr S Janakiraman extended gratitude to all participants for their enthusiastic engagement, emphasizing the role of language in fostering cross-cultural understanding.
The SVCC, nestled within the premises of the Consulate General of India in Sydney, stands as a beacon of cultural exchange since its inception in February/March 2015. Initiated in response to Indian Prime Minister Modi's announcement during his landmark address in Sydney on November 17, 2014, the SVCC serves as a hub for activities ranging from yoga sessions to Hindi language courses and
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artistic performances. With a rich repository of books adorning its library shelves, the SVCC serves as a platform for promoting Indian culture and fostering deeper connections between Australia and India. Its doors remain open to all, extending a warm invitation to Australian nationals, members of the Indian community, and expatriates alike to partake in its vibrant offerings.
World Hindi Day celebrations, a cornerstone of the Indian government's outreach efforts, aim to amplify the global resonance of the Hindi language, nurturing linguistic pride among Indians and the diaspora worldwide. As Hindi continues to weave its cultural tapestry across borders, events like these serve as catalysts for linguistic and cultural enrichment on an international scale.
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Absolutely sensational, awesome! Brisbane Heat are the champions! 2024 Big Bash Champions Brisbane Heat's Exclusive Interview
Australia India News had the privilege to get exclusive access to the Brisbane Heat, the champion team which lifted the premiership this year in 2024. Dr Ashutosh Misra, Project Multicultural Lead, Queensland Cricket, and Chief Editor, Australia India News met the champions, the coaches, and the players, and then talked to them about a number of things, including how they motivated themselves after last year's disappointment in the finals. How did they strategize their entire season this year, which they played like champions? What are their own key takeaways from the season? What do the coaches think about it? And what is their message for Brisbane Heat fans? Here are the responses of some of the key personalities, who were instrumental in making Brisbane Heat the champions this year. Dr Misra: Boys slogging day in day out at Allan Border field. After last year's heartbreak, this is something which has swept everything, everyone. What have you to say about it?
Darren Lehmann (Performance Coach): Obviously last year, as you said, we had a disappointing result. We played quite well last year in Perth and away from home and we came with a train really in the back end of last year with some great victories to get into the final and just fell short. So this was a bit of sweet for us. It's fantastic to play the first two home finals, albeit we lost the first home final at home to the Sydney Sixers, but then we played really well from there and obviously there's Josh Brown’s 140 in the final, but everyone played well and did their part. And then the final, we just played almost the perfect game as a group on a wicket that was a bit slow, so a little bit of a redemption story from last year for us. But, you know, the lads bought into the plans that Wade Seccombe and the coaching staff put in place, and really bought into the way we wanted to play. And it was just great to see come to fruition in a great game last night. Dr Misra: Darren, I'll just take you to last year, when we lost in Perth. I want to know, what was the mood in the dressing room, and how did you, sort of, deal with that heartbreak, and what did you say to the boys last year? Darren: Well, last year was so different for us, becauseobviously
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we got into the finals easy enough, but we had this unbelievable run at the back end. And then Perth were an unbelievable side, so to lose that one at the final hurdle was disappointing, but we were also proud we got there and played in Perth. But then also you saw the way they enjoyed the moment, and it sort of drove us to get better and strive for excellence, if you like, even to a next level this year, which we've done exceptionally well. Our players have been fantastic, though. They put up with all the pressure that the coaches put them under, but also the way they performed in front of 43,000 people and millions of people watching. So, yeah, pleased for them. Dr Misra: If you have to define this experience and win in a couple of words, what would that be, Darren? Darren: If I describe it in a couple of words, the win, I'd just say extremely proud of a fantastic bunch of humans, both on and off the field. Dr Misra: Describe the feelings in two words about what happened last night.
Xavier Bartlett, (bowler): Simply incredible. Yeah, obviously with the way last year was, it was really heartbreaking to get so close but then also so far away. Obviously having a similar group of players that we had from last year that played in the final to this final, we just knew that the learning from last year to try and really take away from that and just try and play as a team and just sort of win the key moments was a big one for us. The SCG has got so much history in cricket. The Sydney Sixers have been one of the dominant sides for pretty much the whole of the Big Bash. So I guess that challenge of playing the Sydney Sixers at the SCG was massive for us and it's going to get us up for the occasion. So lucky enough to beat them there on the home paddock was an amazing feeling and something I'll never forget. The coaching staff, Wade, our coach, has been amazing. Just his calm and coolness. Our overseas players, just how they've bought into our sort of environment. Even today at our function we've got friends and family here. We're just a tight-knit group. Yeah, it's been amazing to be a part of and yeah, hopefully many more years like this to come.
Wade Seccombe (Head, Male Performance, Head Coach, Queensland Cricket): I don't think we had to motivate the boys. I think it was very much, they were motivated and the pain and the disappointment of losing a final sits deep and I just had conversations now the obvious conversation is, you know, winning a final is much better than losing a final, but there's still those scars there from losing a final, so the motivation is very high to perform and these guys are driven, they're athletes, so they want the best, so they're driven, they'll do whatever it takes to go to the next level. Yeah, we've got a really good thing going right at the minute, so we've had, you know, a close season last year where we came second, this year we've got one better, we've come first and I can only say that we're going to be a consistent side for a long period of time.
Spencer Johnson (bowler): Unbelievable feeling! Yeah, to lift the cup is something that we've all dreamed about this year. We played well the whole year, we deserve to lift it, so to do it was an unbelievable feeling. Well, yeah, I think obviously it was quite tough last year. We went to Perth. I think for me, coming in this year, there was going to be new challenges. Last year I sort of burst onto the scene and was a bit of an unknown. But this year I sort of had a bit more responsibility, had a, I guess, a different role this year. With, I guess, myself, Xavier Bartlett, Michael Nesser and Tall Paul (Paul Walter), we all led the attack. But, yeah, to back up last season and then finish the season well this year was quite, I guess, yeah, pretty cool.
Matthew Kuhnemann (bowler): Amazing, and champions! So, no, the whole tournament has been like a massive success for the
franchise. I love playing with this bunch of boys, and the coaches especially, so, no, it's been a fantastic season. Yeah, last year was very tough, so I think we sort of used that as like a burn in the stomach really to get us going for this year. No, Usman, he's been fantastic off the field, so for him to put in a good plan and coach Wade, the two working together has been really well, so. The off-field stuff has been really a big success for us, so, which has shown on field as well. Thank you for supporting us all year long, so, we're the best fans in Australia.
Joseph Dawes (Head, High Performance, Queensland Cricket): Ah, mate! Winning anything is brilliant for me, just starting with Queensland Cricket. To see the rewards for the players and the staff who have put in the planning and the work that's gone into this has been exceptional, and, you know, it's brilliant. A lot of it's just been understanding where we're at and where the teams are at and making sure we've got some of the direction and that we've got a plan. The change will come as we move forward, but just making sure, working with the coaches, understand the players they want. We've had five or six local replacement, local replacement players come in this year, so make sure we've been able to fill those gaps and have the right players and the right people. You know, the Heat family is about good people being in positions, and we think all of the players we've brought in this year from outside the squad have been good people, primarily, that are very good cricketers. Dr Misra: Describe your experience and the win in two words.
Brisbane Heat fans…
Jordan Buckingham: Stick by us, and we'll be back next year.
Paul Walter (bowler): Absolutely sensational ! It was awesome, yeah. From the first day we got here, it was clear that the ambition was to win the tournament, so to get over the line and do that I think is hugely satisfying for everyone. Yeah, it's been a great six weeks or however long it's been. The boys have been exceptional and everyone's just done their jobs and worked hard all the way through. So yeah, to get over the line and win the tournament, obviously, yeah, really satisfying. I've been doing it on and off, I think, for a little while. To be honest, I don't know why I do it. It just came out and then got a bit of media attention, so I thought I'd keep it going. I think my main strength is kind of changing the pace. I don't have the pace of a Spencer Johnson, so I just have to rely on my skills a little bit. So yeah, luckily it's gone well for me this tournament. As soon as we kind of walked in and started winning, especially the fans that got behind us, the crowds at the Gabba have been unbelievable, always above 30,000. So it's been an awesome experience and one year I'll remember forever.
Joseph Dawes: Two words! Bloody brilliant! Jordan Buckingham (bowler): Yeah, it was unbelievable. Obviously, the boys have done a good job all year. Yeah, to go out there and win a Big Bash final is obviously the ultimate goal. We've trained hard, we've put together a good squad. So, to go out there and get the job done. Yeah, I think we've put together a good group. We've got a good group. We're really close friends. We hang around on the outside. We train hard. The reward was bound to come. So, at the end of the day, it was always going to happen. Yeah, I guess when you put together such a good group of guys who, yeah, all strive towards the one goal, I think at the end of the day, it was going to be achieved.
Andy Bichel (Assistance CoachPerformance, Coach-bowling): Absolutely amazing! Oh, look, many, many copies. And obviously, you know, I'm trying to look for those moments when we do something wrong, or we're not getting it right, and then just recording it in time. And you haven't got very long to reflect a match, so you have to move pretty quickly. And sometimes it can be done five minutes after the game, sometimes it's done the
Dr Misra: Any message for the
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next morning. But you've sort of got to make sure that you're across it. I've always done it. Even when I was at Chennai, I was still doing it the same way. And it's my way of doing it, and recording information, and then hopefully getting back to the players. I think it was pretty easy. You know, those experiences in front of 54,000 at the Scorchers’ stadium last year, it was a bit uncomfortable. There were not many Heat fans in the crowd. We were in front of the game, and we probably looked like we were in a position to win the game.
Nathan McSweeney (All rounder): I think I have been lucky this year to have such an experienced bowling attack, and I got given the team after having lost no games with Colin Munro done a fantastic job, so the plan was already set out for me so all I had to do was stick to that plan and pretty easy job really captaining the bowlers like Spencer Johnson, Michael Neser, Xavier Bartlett, our spin twins,
Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13 Mathew Kuhnemann and Mitchell Swepson so I was very lucky to get my first hands on the trophy but I would not have done it without the obviously really experienced team we've got. Yeah I think when you get so close and you lose it definitely adds to the hunger and wanting to learn and keep getting better and train a little bit harder so no doubt that last year's game was definitely on our minds and that made us train that little bit harder and very happy that we got the job done at the end. Our fans, unfortunately we couldn't get a home final at the Gabba this year but for those fans that came out to the Gabba, thank you very much for coming, thanks for supporting us all the members sponsors really appreciate all the work you do and hopefully, we can win again next year. Dr Misra: After last year's heartbreak, how did you boys and the entire dressing room motivate yourselves for this year's amazing job you guys have done?
Will Prestwidge( bowler): I
think the big thing that we took away from that loss last year was still the learning from the finals. I think if you look at the team, there are a lot of folks who played in that grand final last year that played in the game yesterday, and it was really to take in their positives from last year, and also the negatives of what we did wrong and what we had to work on and fix as groups come collectively and work on that to win the final this time around. The fan base every year is absolutely phenomenal. I've only been here for a couple of years, but transitioning from, going from the crowd into the dugout onto the field is unbelievable.
Michael Neser (All rounder): Yeah, that was a tough one. Losing last year really hurt. I think as a team, we sat down at the end of the season and looked hard at things we needed to improve on. Areas where we can get better. On the positive note, we ended up getting to the finals for a certain reason. We were sticking to a game plan that worked. On the night, obviously it didn't come off. We were very close. So we trusted
our process and this season just really paid off. I think this season was almost a build-up of the last 24 months. To win was very special. From this season and last season, it was just to trust the process and trust my skills. Into the age now where I know what works and what doesn't. Where my strengths are and where my weaknesses are. I'm just trying to keep things simple and enjoy the game for what it is. I'm proud. Proud to be a Brisbane Heat player. Proud of the players, of what we've accomplished. Not just on the final, but what we did throughout the season.
Mitchell Swepson (bowler): I think the mood is always easier to be lifted when you have a group of guys like we've got in this team, and it starts with obviously, the captain, and I think Colin Munro did a great job this year captaining our team. He's a great fellow, and he galvanized this group really well this year so credit has to go to him now. Obviously these guys were really good. They came in and just fit in
SPORTS seamlessly to this team, so that helped the vibe of the group,, and we knew we were good enough given that we got to the final last year; that if we stuck together and stuck to the processes that we'd go one better, and that's what we did. I definitely tried to bowl a little bit more defensively. I was used in different ways, sort of bowling a little bit more defensive overs. Bowled the serves a little bit last year as well and this year my role sort of changed to going back to that wicket taking role where we want you to come on and just try and take wickets and be effective that way. So I think that's a role that suits me better, and then obviously, you still have to execute that role, and I was glad I was able to do that and take some wickets for the Heat this year, and do some damage through those middle overs. And yeah, I think a leg spinner that can take wickets through the middle that is what every team sort of wants in their side. So that's what I tried to do for the Heat this year. Dr Misra: How would you describe this experience and win in two words? Mitchell Swepson: Two words, surreal and happy!
am barely 18, faced so much How does India compare with rest ‘Ihatred...’: Divya Deshmukh calls out sexism and misogyny in Chess of the world? A SWOT Analysis with Jadeja at fifth place and fast-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah at sixth place. In terms of the all-rounders rankings, Jadeja, Ashwin and Axar are at first, second and fifth places, respectively. No other country boasts of allrounders who are fine spinners, can decimate the opposition on their own and chip in with the bat to bail the team out of tricky scenarios. New Delhi, Jan 28 (IANS) The five-match Test series between India and England is on in Hyderabad and after the first two days of the opening Test, one can safely say that the visitors’ are well and truly on their way of giving the Bazballers a reality check. One can’t predict if England can come back into the series or India would steamroll them in the next four games at Visakhapatnam, Rajkot, Ranchi and Dharamsala. But it does tell one thing -- India are again proving to be a hard and intimidating team to beat at home. As teams have found out season after season, it is almost impossible to beat Indian on their home turf, especially given their high-quality and world-class spin attack and batters who know how to deal with the opposition and
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bowlers get runs. IANS looks at how the Indian Test team, who are back-toback World Test Championships runners-up and currently ranked two in the ICC rankings, compares with the rest of the world: Strength K.L. Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal coming good in Test cricket has been a huge boon for India. Rahul has moved from being the opener to an adept middle-order batter, while Jaiswal with his ebullient and attacking style of batting, is turning out to be a once-ina-generation talent for India. The spin trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, with Kuldeep Yadav on the bench, have been India’s biggest strength. Ashwin is currently leading the Test bowling rankings,
Weakness As compared to the other nations, the Indian batting is slowly moving towards a transition period, which means it would need time to become rock-solid. Shubman Gill is new to the number three spot in Test cricket and is yet to offer the solidity and dependability which Cheteshwar Pujara did for more than a decade for the team. Shreyas Iyer is still needing time to get himself accustomed to the middle-order batting role, especially when the conditions are in favour of the bowlers. With Rishabh Pant still recovering from injury post the car accident in December 2022 and no word yet on how he would progress on return to the game, especially in terms of wicketkeeping, it is also a point of concern.
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New Delhi, Jan 30 (IANS) Indian chess star Divya Deshmukh has called out the issue of sexism and misogyny in the sport following her participation in the Tata Steel Chess Tournament in Wijk aan Zee, the Netherlands. The International Master finished 12th with a score of 4.5 out of 13 in the tournament that had players like Hans Niemann and Harika Dronavalli. In her social media post on Sunday, Deshmukh expressed her disappointment at the way female players are often treated by spectators. She revealed that despite her strong performance and pride in her games, the focus of the audience was diverted to irrelevant aspects such as her clothes, hair, and accent. "I have been wanting to address
this for a while but was waiting for my tournament to be over. I got told and also myself noticed how women in chess are often just taken for granted by spectators," Divya wrote in her Instagram post. "I played a few games which I felt were quite good and I was proud of them. I got told by people how the audience was not even bothered with the game but instead focused on every single possible thing in the world: my clothes, hair, accent, and every other irrelevant thing. "I was quite upset to hear this and I think is the sad truth that people when women play chess they often overlook how good they actually are, the games they play and their strength. I was quite disappointed to see how everything was discussed about in my interviews (by the audience) except my games, very few people paid attention to it and it is quite a sad thing. "I felt it was unfair in a way because if I go to any guy’s interview there would be way less judgment on a personal level, actual compliments about the game and the player. I feel women are underappreciated, and every irrelevant thing is focused on and hated on while guys would probably get away with the same things.”
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INDIA NEWS
Meta documents show 100K kids sexually harassed daily on FB, Insta “What specifically are we doing for child grooming (something I just heard about that is happening a lot on TikTok)?”
San Francisco, Jan 19 (IANS) A recent court case concerning child abuse on Meta's Facebook and Instagram apps claimed that an internal company estimate from 2021 indicated that up to 100,000 children were subjected to sexual harassment on the platforms on a daily basis, including images of adult genitalia. This was disclosed in recently unsealed sections of a complaint filed by the attorney general of New Mexico in an ongoing legal battle against the social media giant regarding the company's efforts to safeguard minors on the internet as the platforms gained enormous traction among youth, reports CNBC. In the complaint, a description of a 2020 Meta internal company chat was also included, in which one employee asked a colleague:
“Somewhere between zero and negligible. Child safety is an explicit non-goal this half," the colleague responded. According to the newly unredacted filing, Meta executives hurriedly responded to a complaint made by an Apple executive, whose 12-year-old child had been solicited on Facebook that same year, the report mentioned. As per a Meta spokesperson, the company has fixed many of the issues identified in the complaint. In one month alone it disabled over a half million accounts for violating child safety policies, the company said. “We want teens to have safe, ageappropriate experiences online, and we have over 30 tools to support them and their parents. We’ve spent a decade working on these issues and hiring people who have dedicated their careers to keeping young people safe and
supported online," the company was quoted as saying. According to the lawsuit, Facebook and Instagram failed to protect underage users from predators online, and Meta employees urged the company to make safety changes but failed to do so. The lawsuit filed on December 5, 2023, claimed that the company failed to make the recommended changes because it placed a higher priority on social media engagement and advertising growth than child safety. Mark Zuckerberg, Meta's founder and CEO, is named as a defendant, the report said. Meanwhile, a US judge has ruled that Zuckerberg must participate in a deposition as part of an ongoing lawsuit in Texas concerning the company's face recognition technology. According to a ruling made by Justice Jeff Rambin, the state court has rejected Meta's recent appeal "seeking relief from an order compelling the oral deposition" of Zuckerberg at an undisclosed date.
JetSetGo signs $1.3 billion deal for 280 hybrid-electric aircraft
Hyderabad, Jan 18 (IANS) Air service operator JetSetGo on Friday signed a deal with three global aviation tech firms for 280 hybrid-electric aircraft worth over $1.3 billion. The company is set to acquire 150 aircraft for an aggregate deal value of $780 million.
The agreements include further options to acquire additional aircraft for a potential fleet size of 280, raising the overall deal value to above $1.3 billion.
aviation technologies like electric and hybrid-electric propulsion to enable air taxi-style services for short distance travel between and within cities.
JetSetGo announced strategic partnerships with three global aviation technology leaders Electra.aero, Horizon Aircraft and Overair - to bring Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions to India.
JetSetGo intends to pioneer AAMs' application starting with hybridelectric planes from Electra. aero and Horizon that can utilize existing infrastructure, followed by Overair’s Butterfly advanced electric eVTOL aircraft for future urban air mobility applications as the infrastructure to support that develops in India’s cities.
The partnerships were unveiled during the first-ever AAM conference held at Begumpet Airport as part of Wings India 2024. The hybrid-electric aircrafts can be used for airport transfers, regional connectivity, intercity commute, intra-city shuttles, and urban air taxis. AAM utilises new
The company said these agreements will revolutionise India’s aviation sector by introducing solutions, which promise to significantly improve mobility and connectivity across urban and regional landscapes.
Elon Musk’s $56 bn pay package is unfair, deeply flawed: US judge San Francisco, Jan 31 (IANS) A US judge has ruled that Elon Musk’s $56 billion pay package is unfair and the Tesla board will need to come up with a new pay proposal. The decision, issued in the Delaware Court of Chancery by Judge Kathaleen McCormick, means that Musk can’t keep the 2018 compensation package. In her ruling, McCormick wrote that Tesla “bore the burden of proving that the compensation plan was fair, and they failed to meet their
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burden.” “Never incorporate your company in the state of Delaware,” Musk posted on X after the ruling. He later posted a poll asking whether Tesla should change its state of incorporation to Texas. “Should Tesla change its state of incorporation to Texas, home of its physical headquarters?” according to the poll. The compensation plan approved by shareholders in 2018 consisted of 20.3 million stock option awards broken up into 12 tranches of 1.69 million shares.
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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Social media use triggers stress, unhappiness among materialistic users: Study once a week. On average, the participants stated that they spent just over two hours a day on social media.
London, Jan 21 (IANS) The use of social media is associated with risks, especially for people with a highly materialistic mindset, as scrolling down content posted by others can increase stress and unhappiness in such users, say researchers. At the same time, the social media platforms attract materialists anyway, as they are a perfect way to satisfy many materialistic needs, according to the study published in the journal Telematics and Informatics Reports. The researchers headed by Dr Phillip Ozimek from the Faculty of Psychology at Ruhr University Bochum, Germany, recruited 1,230 people for the study. In order to participate, respondents had to use at least one social media channel at least
The research team used six different questionnaires to determine the extent to which the participants had a materialistic attitude and tended to compare themselves with others, whether they used social media more actively or passively, whether they were addicted to social media, how stressed and how satisfied they were with their lives. “The data showed that a stronger materialistic approach goes hand in hand with a tendency to compare oneself with others,” said Ozimek. This comparison is very easy to make on social media, primarily through passive use — by looking at the content posted by other users. Materialism and passive use were also linked to addictive use of social media. “By this we mean, for example, that users are constantly thinking about the respective channels and fear that they are missing out on something if they are not online,” Ozimek added.
1st human gets brain implant from Neuralink, recovering well: Musk New Delhi, Jan 30 (IANS) Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has announced that his braincomputer interface company Neuralink has successfully achieved its first human implant, and the test subject is recovering well. Musk said that the company's first product, called Telepathy, would bring control of a phone or computer just by thinking. Neuralink last year received the US Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) approval for human trials and said in September it was looking for its first test subjects for the six-year initial trial. "The first human received an implant from @Neuralink yesterday and is recovering well," Musk posted on X late on Monday. "Initial results show promising neuron spike detection," he added. The first Neuralink product is called Telepathy, informed Musk. According to the billionaire, it will enable control of your phone or computer, and through them almost any device, just by thinking. "Initial users will be those who have lost the use of their limbs. Imagine if Stephen Hawking
could communicate faster than a speed typist or auctioneer. That is the goal," Musk further said. In November last year, the braincomputer interface company raised an additional $43 million in venture capital, according to a filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The filing showed that the company raised its previous tranche, led by Peter Thiel’s Founders Fund, from $280 million to $323 million in early August. Thirty-two investors participated in the round, as per the filing. Neuralink, which was founded in 2016, has developed a sewing machine-like device capable of implanting ultra-thin threads inside the brain. The threads connect to a customdesigned chip with electrodes that can read data from groups of neurons. "The PRIME Study (short for Precise Robotically Implanted Brain-Computer Interface) aims to evaluate the safety of our implant (N1) and surgical robot (R1) and assess the initial functionality of our wireless brain-computer interface for enabling people with paralysis to control external devices with their thoughts," the company had said in a statement.
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Religious people coped better with Covid pandemic: Study existing struggles.
against increased distress and reduced wellbeing during times of crisis, such as a global public health emergency.
London, Jan 30 (IANS) People of religious faith may have experienced lower levels of unhappiness and stress than others during the Covid-19 pandemic induced lockdowns in 2020 and 2021, claims new research. Economists at the University of Cambridge, UK, argue that religion may act as a bulwark
They found that while lockdowns were associated with a universal uptick in unhappiness, the average increase in feeling miserable was 29 per cent lower for people who described themselves as belonging to a religion. "Selection biases make the wellbeing effects of religion difficult to study," said Prof Shaun Larcom from Cambridge’s Department of Land Economy. "People may become religious due to family backgrounds, innate traits, or to cope with new or
"However, the Covid-19 pandemic was an extraordinary event affecting everyone at around the same time, so we could gauge the impact of a negative shock to wellbeing right across society. This provided a unique opportunity to measure whether religion was important for how some people deal with a crisis." The team analysed survey data collected from 3,884 people in the UK during the first two national lockdowns, and compared it to three waves of data prior to the pandemic. The researchers also analysed the data by "religiosity": the extent of an individual’s commitment to religious beliefs, and how central it is to their life.
Intermittent fasting may help slow brain ageing, boost longevity: Study extension seen with dietary restriction and is essential for healthy brain ageing. OXR1 gene is an important brain resilience factor protecting against ageing and neurological diseases, said the researchers in the study, published in the journal Nature Communications.
New York, Jan 16 (IANS) If you want to help slow down your brain from ageing and increase your lifespan than follow diet patterns like intermittent fasting or restrict your calorie intake, suggests a study, led by researchers one of Indian-origin. A team of scientists at the Buck Institute for ‘Research on Ageing’ in California have found a role for a gene called OXR1 that is necessary for the lifespan
"When people restrict the amount of food that they eat, they typically think it might affect their digestive tract or fat buildup, but not necessarily about how it affects the brain," said Kenneth Wilson, postdoctoral student at the Institute. "As it turns out, this is a gene that is important in the brain."The team additionally demonstrated a detailed cellular mechanism of how dietary restriction can delay ageing and slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
The study, done in fruit flies and human cells, also identifies potential therapeutic targets to slow ageing and age-related neurodegenerative diseases. "We found a neuron-specific response that mediates the neuroprotection of dietary restriction," said Professor Pankaj Kapahi from Buck Institute. "Strategies such as intermittent fasting or caloric restriction, which limit nutrients, may enhance levels of this gene to mediate its protective effects," he added. The team began by scanning about 200 strains of flies with different genetic backgrounds. The flies were raised with two different diets, either with a normal diet or with dietary restriction, which was only 10 per cent of normal nutrition.
Thyroid imbalance may raise menstrual problems, affect fertility in women: Experts Thyroid disease encompasses a range of conditions affecting the thyroid gland's function, with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism being the most common disorders.
New Delhi, Jan 20 (IANS) Women with thyroid imbalance are likely to face menstrual and fertility problems, according to health experts on Saturday. January is observed as thyroid awareness month The thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces hormones such as triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxin (T4) that play a crucial role in regulating the body's metabolism, energy production, and overall growth and development.
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Thyroid disorders are known to increase the probability of having menstrual irregularities by approximately 30.62 per cent in hypothyroidism -- when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones -- and 7.5 per cent in hyperthyroidism -when the thyroid gland produces too much. “Thyroid disease can hurt one's menses by disrupting hormone levels. Irregular periods are a common issue associated with thyroid disease, with hypothyroidism potentially causing heavy or prolonged bleeding and hyperthyroidism leading to light or infrequent periods,” Dr Sweta Lalgudi, gynaecologist, at Zynova Shalby
Hospital, Mumbai, told IANS. “In addition, thyroid dysfunction can result in amenorrhoea, where menstruation ceases entirely, either as a primary condition in young women or as a secondary occurrence in those who previously had regular cycles,” she added. Lalgudi said thyroid imbalances can also affect women’s fertility. It can cause anovulation, the failure of the ovaries to release an egg during the menstrual cycle, and cause difficulties in conceiving. Another problem with thyroid imbalance may be polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a prevalent endocrine disorder in women. While PCOS is not directly associated with thyroid disease, some research indicates a potential link between PCOS and autoimmune thyroid disease, potentially worsening menstrual irregularities.
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HEALTH
Dancing effective way to lose fat for overweight, obese people: Study New Delhi, Jan 21 (IANS) Dancing is an effective way to lose fat for people with overweight and obesity and has a significant improvement on body composition and morphology, a new study has shown. In the study published in the journal PLOS ONE, the researchers looked at ten randomized controlled trials that compared the effects of dance interventions versus normal lifestyles or other physical activities on body composition in overweight and obese individuals. They discovered that dancing significantly reduced body mass, body mass index, waist circumference, body fat percentage, and fat mass when compared to the control group. However, dancing had no significant effect on the waist-tohip ratio, which is a measure of central fat distribution. The researchers also noted that dancing can enhance physical and mental health, as well as social well-being, in people with overweight and obesity. "Growing evidence indicates that the benefits stemming from
dance are in both physical and mental dimensions, and these advantages are not limited to specific people. Compared to the non-exercise group, dance can ease blood pressure, insulin sensitivity, physical fitness, cognitive disorders, and mental health," they said. Moreover, the study looked into factors that could influence the effectiveness of dance interventions, such as age, dance form, comparison group, and intervention duration. Dance was found to be more effective for younger individuals (<45 years), creative dance forms, normal lifestyle groups, and interventions lasting more than three months. The researchers acknowledged some of the study's limitations, including the diversity of dance forms, the predominance of female participants, and a lack of data on dance adherence and enjoyment.
Sitting at work for long? 1530 mins of extra exercise can cut high death risk may be beneficial in mitigating the elevated risks of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease associated with prolonged occupational sitting, the authors said. New Delhi, Jan 21 (IANS) People who predominantly sit at work would need to engage in an additional 15 to 30 minutes of physical activity per day to mitigate an increased risk of mortality, new research has revealed. The study involving 481,688 individuals over a mean followup period of 12.8 years found that individuals, who predominantly engaged in sitting at work, exhibited a higher risk of mortality from all causes (16 per cent) and cardiovascular disease (34 per cent) compared with those who predominantly did not sit. Modern lifestyles have become increasingly sedentary, with prolonged sitting now pervasive as an integral part of normal life, despite the fact that, with some exceptions, the scientific literature agrees on its deleterious effects. The study, published in the journal JAMA Network Open, suggests that reducing prolonged sitting in the workplace and/ or increasing the volume or intensity of daily physical activity
The cohort study included participants in a health surveillance programme in Taiwan who were followed-up between 1996 and 2017. Data on occupational sitting, leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) habits, lifestyle, and metabolic parameters were collected. Data analysis was performed in December 2020. The all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality associated with three occupational sitting volumes (mostly sitting, alternating sitting and non-sitting, and mostly nonsitting) were analysed. The study recorded 26, 257 deaths during a mean follow-up period of 12.8 (5.67) years. After adjusting for sex, age, education, smoking, drinking, and body mass index, individuals who mostly sat at work had a 16 per cent higher all-cause mortality risk and a 34 per cent increased mortality risk from CVD compared with those who were mostly non-sitting at work.
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Saudi Arabia designates 2024 as the Year of Camel As the national animal of Saudi Arabia and a traditional source of livelihood, the camel underpins a vast cultural heritage that has been expressed through art, crafts, literature and the Kingdom’s way of life
emblematic desert animals and call their flocks, represents the strong bond between animal and herder. Additionally, the traditions of camel racing and beauty pageants instill pride in camel owners and excite the imagination.
By IANSlife
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or time immemorial, the camel has held a deep-rooted presence and unique role in the lives of Saudis and in shaping the Kingdom's cultural heritage. As the national animal of Saudi Arabia and a traditional source of livelihood, the camel underpins a vast cultural heritage that has been expressed through art, crafts, literature and the Kingdom’s way of life. Throughout 2024, a series of events, exhibitions, educational programs and activities organized by the Saudi Ministry of Culture will highlight camel-inspired activities in a multitude of sectors, such as arts, fashion, quality of life, food production, culinary traditions and sustainability practices. The Kingdom's designation of the Year of the Camel coincides with the United Nations' designation of 2024 as the International Year of Camelids. The combined recognitions underline the significant heritage and strength of the bond between humans and camelids. Across cultures, the camel has been part and parcel of people's daily lives worldwide. The global focus on celebrating camelids' place in society across
geographies also represents an opportunity to highlight their importance for sustainability. As the planet tackles the challenges of climate change, food security and fragile biodiversity, the camel, capable of traveling up to 150 km in the desert without water, is an enduring emblem of resilience. As a symbol of patience, perseverance and adaptation, the camel has been a faithful companion to humans as they have acclimatized to various environmental landscapes. Throughout history, camels have forged new trails, which earned them the title of the ships of the desert. By bridging distances across arid lands, camels connected people from different cultures together. The traditions and heritage formed from these ancient human interactions with the camel run very deep. Life-size camel carvings have been found on the desert rocks of Al-Jawf, in the Kingdom’s northern region, dating back 2,000 years. Inscribed on UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the special oral tradition called “Alheda’a” used by camel herders to communicate with these
The new cultural year offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the cultural significance of camels in Saudi society across generations. Having traversed time as a bedrock of national identity, the camel represents a vital link between Saudi heritage, values and modern aspirations. Blending tradition and modernity, the Year of the Camel events will support and feature the participation of local artists, writers and artisans actively contributing to the preservation and continuity of camel-themed ancestral traditions. This priceless heritage is preserved for future generations by safeguarding and furthering these cultural practices. It will also offer multiple avenues to shine a light on Saudis' long history and companionship with the camel and serve as a platform for cultural collaboration and dialogue. Cultural preservation is foundational in transmitting the ancient legacy and heritage inspired by the Saudis' unbreakable bond with the camel. The designation of cultural years provides a critical platform to share the greatness and beauty of Saudi Arabia's culture with local and global audiences. They are a chance to celebrate and shine a spotlight on countless valuable tangible and intangible cultural elements through a series of events and initiatives.
Amitava Kumar and the curious case of ‘The Yellow Book’ give to the sequel," says Kumar, whose latest 'The Yellow Book: A Traveller's Diary', published by HarperCollins India recently hit the stands. By Sukant Deepak
H
e calls it a happy accident. Author Amitava Kumar had already finished work on 'The Blue Book: A Writer's Journal', but had not stopped drawing or keeping a journal.
In his latest, the author allows the reader to see how a writer observes the world.
One day, his colleague at Vassar College in the US asked him to visit his class on creativity. The colleague had given his students two journals joined together with a thick rubber band: one was blue and it was meant for writing down one's thoughts, while the other, which was yellow, was for writing other people's words. "He gave me the same bound journals as a gift too. I immediately told the class that I had found the title I would
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he wants his students on a study tour to follow in London, like taking a picture of the first coffee, going for a run...artist Krishen Khanna's painting on Gandhi's death...notes from his visit to his hometown (Motihari) in India. Again, the book is a journal.. allowing all the multiple possibilities in its reading. From the attack on Rushdie to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the writer, with his words and artwork, continues making notes, stressing the need to mark memories and to keep believing. He says the practice of keeping a journal has been hugely important for his work and that he uses his old ones as material all the time.
There are entries --- the death of the legendary writer and journalist Joan Didion, the rituals
"I always like to quote a friend who has written that if journalism is the first rough draft of history, then perhaps a journal is the first rough draft of literature," Kumar says.
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ARTS & CULTURE
Delhi Literature Festival 2024
By IANSlife
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ave the dates for the 12th edition of the Delhi Literature Festival, a weekend dedicated to the magic of profound wisdom of Literature and vibrant cultural celebrations awaits! Embark on a literary journey spanning three days from January 19th to 21st, 2024 at the ecologically designed India Habitat Centre in the heart of New Delhi for a celebration of words and culture. The Delhi Literature Festival includes best sellers authors, famous poets and light musical performances. The opening session on January 19th January will start from 5 pm to 8 pm. The first day of the festival will have Gurcharan Dasin conversation with Sonia Singh discussing his memoir "Another Sort of Freedom and Dr. Anand Ranganathan exploring "Hindus in Hindu Rashtra" with Pavan K Varma. The session will be followed by Vipul Rikhipresenting "Drunk on Love: The Life, Vision & Songs of Kabir" with a live performance and conversation featuring Dr. Amna Mirza. The second day is scheduled from 12 noon till 8 pm, with the Inaugural Session featuring distinguished speakers, including Smt. Meenakshi Lekhi, Author & Hon'ble Minister of State for Culture & External Affairs, Govt. of India; Dr. Sonal Mansingh, Member of Parliament (Padma Bhushan & Padma Vibhushan); H.E. Ms Capaya Rodriguez Gonzalez Ambassador. Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Shri Sanjay Mayukh, MLC, Shri R C Bhargava, Hon'ble Chairperson of Maruti Suzuki, Shri K.S.RaoSecretary, Sahitya Akademi, and Milee Ashwarya, Publisher for Penguin Random House India, Adult Publishing. The inauguration will also have a book discussion on Krishna by Author Kevin Missel in conversation with Ms. Nagma PK Celebrating the best of literature, the second day will feature renowned publishers for a panel discussion on "Content & Communities: The Publishers Dilemma in the Digital Age" with Anuj Bahri, Ajay Mago, Manish Khurana, Yamini Chowdhuri, Aditi Maheshwari and Swati Chopra to be moderated by Ajay Jain.
Following this, audiences will be able to delve into "Modi & India: 2024 & The Battle for Bharat," where Rahul Shivashankar and Siddhartha Talya discuss the political landscape. Additionally, book lovers can experience the magic of "Sur Sandhya," a live performance by Saqib Khan and Ameen Khan presented by Dr. Amna Mirza. The day unfolds with "Kavi Sammelan: Words, Wisdom & Celebrating Life," featuring poets Nityanand Tiwari, Dildar Dehlvi, Dr. Banga, Dr. Umesh Pathak, Rajeev Dwivedi, Pankaj, and Tejinder Luthra, presented by Dr.Rama Pandey. The day concludes with the literary exploration of "Antim, The Last Avatar" by Dr. Neetika Modi in conversation with Vinita Sharma Bakshi. The 3rd and penultimate sessions of the enchanting literary event commences on Sunday, January 21, from 5 pm to 8 pm, promising an engaging discussions and performances. Starting with a captivating exploration by writer-poet & bureaucrat Mukul Kumar on "Lost in the Love Maze," In fetching conversation with Meenu Agrawal, and a book discussion on the book “ Afternoon” by the author and Industrialist Mr. Nidhi Dalmia. The day continues with the journey with Sharmistha Mukherjee's touching narrative "Pranab, My Father: A Daughter Remembers," in conversation with Smita Prakash as well as a live and intense solo thematic performance by Dr. Himanshu Srivastava on the epic character “Shikhandi” presented by Dr. Rama Pandey. The last day of the event will also showcase the power of women's poetry at Kavyitri Sammelan, featuring Anuradha Pandey, Nandini Shrivastava, Prof Charu Kapoor, Kavita & Tanvi, Nirupama Kotru & Ketki, presented by Amit Sharma. This will be followed by a thought-provoking panel discussion on "Ayodhya Unravelled" with authors Neena Rai, Priya Arora, Saksham Garg, Dr. Swadesh Singh, Kevin Missal, and Prof. Geeta Singh, moderated by Lipika Bhushan, as they delve into the depths of this timeless epic.
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
5 US destinations to watch in 2024 Explore ever changing landscapes and discover diverse communities
TRAVEL
Discover the enchanting allure of Lakshadweep A perfect escape for Indian travel enthusiasts
By IANSlife
P By IANSlife
T
he USA is home to so many incredible experiences from coast to coast and rural to urban. Travellers are invited to explore ever changing landscapes and discover diverse communities. GoUSA spotlights five U.S destinations that should be on the radar for 2024. Kansas City, Missouri: Swiftmania set to drive record numbers Kansas City is now firmly on the map thanks to one of the hottest new relationships to emerge in 2023. Queen of American pop and country music singer, Taylor Swift and Kansas City Chiefs tight end, Travis Kelce, has everyone rushing to the City of Fountains. Featuring over 200 water installations throughout the metro, it is a true sporting mecca, home to everything from soccer to pickleball. Preparations are underway to host Triple Crown Sports’ inaugural ‘PickleCon’ competition this August, one of America’s fastest growing sports, as well as the hotly anticipated FIFA World Cup in 2026. The city is also set to welcome the National Women’s Soccer League, Kansas City Current, for their debut at the new CPKC Stadium in 2024. The 11,500-seat venue will be the world’s first stadium purposebuilt for a women’s professional sports team and is set to be the new tailgating hotspot. Off the field, visitors can enjoy the city’s thriving barbecue scene, with restaurants smoking everything from pork, beef and chicken to jackfruit, mushrooms and fish. For those visiting in autumn, The American Royal is the largest BBQ competition across the globe, with more than 600 teams competing and tens of thousands of spectators/tasters! Santa Fe, New Mexico: America’s melting pot of creativity With the breathtaking backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe is both mystical and eclectic. The land has become renowned for its healing qualities and is a spiritual haven while its varied terrain has lured artists from all over the world. Native
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American, Spanish and AngloAmerican cultures seamlessly blend forming a thriving creative community. Santa Fe is home to the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum (showcasing the ‘Making a Life’ exhibition until March 2024) as well as the fantastical Meow Wolf – which is a completely immersive art experience called 'House of Eternal Return' which has over 70 rooms created by local and community artists. The city is also home to eight Native American pueblos and the Santa Fe Indian Market, one of the largest and most prestigious Native American art shows in the world featuring artists from over 200 tribes (taking place on 17 - 18 August 2024). However, to truly appreciate the arts, culture and culinary landscape, look no further than the Art + Sol winter festival. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: where old meets new The birthplace of the U.S. and the first World Heritage City, Philadelphia is steeped in history, yet equally exudes a contemporary and vibrant culinary and arts scene. The Michelin Green Guide hails Philly as “an open-air museum” thanks to the 600+ sculptures and statues and over 4,400 outdoor murals. In late 2024, the Calder Gardens Museum is set to open, celebrating the impact that three generations of Calder family have had on Philadelphia. The city also has a strong culinary stake dubbed a true epicurean’s heaven - foodies can find everything from street food, markets, fine dining to BYOB restaurants. Famed for its iconic cheesesteaks, hoagies, soft pretzels and water ice, the roast pork sandwich is arguably the real deal with DiNic’s Roast Pork drawing a line around its Reading Terminal Market outpost (one of the oldest and largest public markets in America) every day. For those with a sweet tooth, the Philly Tastykake comes in every flavour, from butterscotch to peanut butter. St. Pete/Clearwater, Florida: From endless beaches to street art
Tucked away on a sun-drenched peninsula between Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico lies St. Pete / Clearwater - a collection of 24 communities which perfectly weaves the great outdoors with an incredible art scene. Visitors are spoilt for choice with an award-winning 35 mile stretch of coastline on which to kick back and relax including National State Parks: Honeymoon Island (ideal for nature lovers looking to spot eagles, great horned owls and gopher tortoises or hike the three mile trail through one of the last remaining virgin slash pine forests) and Caladesi Island (one of the few untouched islands along the Gulf Coast and only accessible by boat). St. Pete is also an artistic enclave which is home to eight museums and 532 pieces of stunning street murals with Downtown St. Pete preparing for the 10th anniversary of the SHINE Mural Festival in October 2024. Visitors can also check out The Dali Museum’s unparalleled collection of Salvador Dali’s works, including the recently launched, Dali Alive 360° Dome, a multi-sensory immersive experience enveloping visitors in 360 degrees of light and sound. Another must-visit is the Imagine Museum which features contemporary glass art exhibits from around the world or the Chihuly Collection, the first installation of Dale Chihuly’s art. Asheville, North Carolina: The majestic mountainous city Nestled in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, surrounded by more than a million acres of protected wilderness and the tallest peaks in the East, Asheville prides itself on its Appalachian history and heritage. Combining music and the great outdoors, each summer, the Folk Heritage Committee invites visitors and locals alike to join in celebrations at ‘Shindig on the Green’, a free festival to support the preservation of traditional bluegrass music, dance and storytelling of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. For those looking to connect with nature, the mountain city boasts spectacular hiking,
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icture a necklace of emerald isles scattered across the azure Arabian Sea – that's Lakshadweep, a place that has captivated the imaginations of Indians for years. Long considered a distant dream due to its remote location, this idyllic paradise is now more accessible than ever, beckoning travellers to explore its wonders. Let's delve into why Lakshadweep should be your next travel destination, and how recent developments, coupled with better connectivity, have made this hidden gem easier to access. Unrivalled Beauty: Imagine yourself on pristine beaches, the gentle waves caressing the shore, vibrant coral reefs teeming
with life, and coconut palms swaying in the salty breeze. Lakshadweep offers all this and more, untouched by the hustle of mass tourism. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to swim with dolphins, kayak through mangroves, or simply relax on the tranquil shores – nature's symphony awaits your presence. Cultural Marvel: Beyond the breathtaking beaches, Lakshadweep boasts a vibrant culture woven with ancient traditions and warm hospitality. Experience the graceful movements of the Maldivian folk dance, savour the delectable flavours of locally spiced fresh seafood, and discover unique fishing techniques passed down through generations.
Intrepid Travel tie-ups with Pride Circle and Atypical Advantage
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ntrepid Travel, the world’s leading provider of adventure travel experiences, has announced tie-ups of Intrepid Travel, India with Pride Circle and Atypical Advantage to hire candidates from the LGBTQ+ and people with disabilities to add diversity to its workforce in India. Intrepid aims to add 50 such employees over the next three to four years. Speaking about the collaboration, Rama Mahendru, Country General Manager of Intrepid Travel, India, said, “It’s a very happy moment for us. With this tie-up, we want to bring out the importance of diversity in the workforce, as Intrepid Travel believes in incorporating all forms of diversity to create a workforce that is genuinely varied and offers equal chances that encompass the LGBTQ+ community as well as those with disabilities. We would love to
double the numbers after seeing the impact of this.” With this partnership, Intrepid Travel India aims to promote and create awareness about the importance of a diverse workforce in an organisation. Headquartered in Australia, Intrepid Travel offers sustainable and immersive travel experiences across all seven continents, with a focus on enriching journeys that connect travellers with local communities. As per the latest report, India’s adventure tourism industry is growing fast and is expected to cross $2.0 billion by 2028. Also, India is developing as a popular adventure travel destination for Intrepid’s travellers from across the world, from countries like Australia, the USA, North America, the UK, and European nations, etc.
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
Coffee deserves a spot in your skincare routine An excellent ally in the fight against aging for youthful skin
those fighting against dark circles. Using such skincare products infused with caffeine content particularly caffeine in skincare may temporarily help reduce the look of dark circles.
By IANSlife
T
he chase after glowing, radiant skin in our busy lives is sometimes complicated by bewildering beauty skincare regimens and bags full of products. But what if getting healthier skin is as easy as your morning cup of coffee? Coffee as an ingredient has slowly turned into a skincare buddy with advantages that are not limited to making you feel refreshed. Ganesh Kamath, Founder, Earthraga has shared with IANSlife the benefits of coffee for your skin: Natural Exfoliator: Coffee grounds, because of their grainy nature make a great natural exfoliant. The granules aid in the removal of dead skin cells,
unclog pores, and stimulate cell turnover. Regular exfoliation automatically leads to softer, brighter skin, and using coffee grounds can offer you one more gentle option which is friendly towards nature. The dual effects of Coffee: Coffee is found to be an excellent ally in the fight against aging for youthful skin. It is loaded with antioxidants like chlorogenic acid that neutralize free radicals therefore making the aging process slower. In addition, coffee containing caffeine stimulates blood circulation leading to the delivery of necessary nutrients to cells on the skin promoting a revitalised complexion. Revitalize Under Eye appearance: The vasoconstrictive effects of caffeine may save the day for
Reduces Puffiness: When coffee is used as a topical, the presence of caffeine helps eliminate puffiness. Working by a reduction in blood vessels, caffeine assists in reducing puffiness and dark circles therefore it plays an important role as part of your skincare regime for looking refreshed. As we explore the beauty and brew, it becomes clear that this dynamic duo offers a quick morning fix and numerous advantages for the skin. Coffee has an antioxidant protection that may transform your skincare regimen from a basic ‘routine’ to the finest one with improved circulation and natural exfoliation.
is the key to this minimalist approach. Glossy Eyelids: Step away from matte eyeshadows and embrace glossy eyelids. Apply a clear gloss or a balm over your eyeshadow for a dewy and youthful look. This simple hack adds dimension and draws attention to your eyes.
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s we step into 2024, it's the perfect time to shake up our beauty routines and embrace some innovative hacks that promise to elevate our skincare and makeup game. From timetested tricks to emerging trends, here are 12 beauty hacks shared with IANSLife by Dr. Blossom Kochhar, Chairperson of Blossom Kochhar Group of Companies to incorporate into your regimen for a fresh and fabulous start to the year. Multi-Masking Magic: Upgrade your skincare routine by embracing the power of multimasking. Different areas of your face have different needs, so use targeted masks on specific zones for a customized treatment that addresses various skin concerns simultaneously. The areas under your eyes and neck are susceptible so they need to be dealt with differently. DIY Facial Massage Techniques:
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Explore the world of facial massage techniques to stimulate blood flow, boost collagen production, and achieve that coveted radiant glow. Incorporate tools like jade rollers or gua sha for a spa-like experience at home. You can take regular face steam which will do deep cleansing. Sustainable Beauty Swaps: Make 2024 the year of sustainable beauty. Opt for eco-friendly packaging, cruelty-free products, and brands that prioritize sustainability. Being conscious of your beauty choices not only benefits the planet but also enhances your overall beauty routine. Skinimalism Trend: Embrace the "skinimalism" trend by focusing on a simplified skincare routine. Streamline your products to the essentials, allowing your skin to breathe and naturally showcase its beauty. Use products that have hyaluronic acid which suits all skin types. Quality over quantity
Mindful skincare Psychodermatology is a philosophy that recognizes the complex relationship between our skin and mental health
A great remedy for acne: Coffee’s natural anti-inflammatory effects can make it an ally in the fight against acne. The use of coffee-based skincare products or homemade masks can aid in calming the irritation on the skin and subsiding redness resulting from acne breakouts.
Beauty hacks to try in 2024
By IANSlife
BEAUTY
Double Cleansing Routine: Ensure your skin is thoroughly clean by adopting a double cleansing routine. Start with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, then follow up with a gentle foaming or cream cleanser to purify the skin. Haircare Overnight Treatments: Give your hair some extra love with overnight treatments. Apply a nourishing hair mask or oil before bedtime, allowing it to work its magic while you sleep. Wake up to revitalized and hydrated locks. Monochromatic Makeup Looks: Simplify your makeup routine with monochromatic looks. Use a single shade for your eyes, cheeks, and lips to achieve a harmonious and effortlessly chic appearance. This time-saving hack is perfect for those busy mornings. Nail Art with Negative Space: Upgrade your nail game by embracing negative space in your nail art. Allow some of your natural nails to peek through for a modern and minimalist look. Experiment with geometric designs or intricate patterns for added flair.
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By Malvika Jain January 05, 2023 (IANSlife) In a world that seems fast-paced and chaotic, the pursuit of beauty goes beyond mere appearances. As self-care takes centre stage, the beauty industry is experiencing a transformative shift towards holistic approaches that combine skincare rituals with mental health. The new trend of mindful skin care is encouraging people to change their beauty routines and not only take care of their skin but also cultivate peace of mind. “Mindful skin care is more than just applying products”. Psychodermatology is a philosophy that recognizes the complex relationship between our skin and mental health. It acknowledges the connection between emotions, stress, and skin conditions, offering treatments that combine traditional skincare with psychological techniques to improve overall skin wellness. This approach aims to manage skin issues by considering their psychological roots, providing a holistic approach to beauty and skincare. One of the cornerstones of mindful skin care is incorporating mindfulness techniques into your daily life. Rooted in ancient practices like meditation and deep breathing, mindfulness involves being fully present in the present moment. By incorporating mindfulness into their skincare routine, individuals can transform their routine into a therapeutic experience that not only addresses external skin concerns but also promotes mental clarity. Moreover, cleansing is more than just removing impurities. It is also an opportunity to purify your mind. You can begin or end your daily routine peacefully by taking a deep breath, inhaling the soothing scent of natural detergents, and consciously releasing the stress of the day. This meditative approach allows individuals to move from the chaos of daily life into moments of introspection and renewal.
is also an important aspect of mindful skin care. Your skin absorbs much of what is applied to it, so the chemicals in many conventional products can affect both your skin and your overall health. Mindful skin care focuses on using clean, non-toxic ingredients that not only benefit your skin but also align with a holistic approach to health. Aromatherapy, an ancient practice that utilises the therapeutic properties of essential oils, is becoming increasingly important in mindful skin care. Incorporating certain scents into your products, such as relaxing lavender or invigorating citrus scents, can enhance the emotional and mental aspects of your skincare routine. Because the olfactory system is directly connected to the brain, aromatherapy can be an effective tool for influencing mood and promoting a sense of balance. Mindful skincare also incorporates the concept of slow beauty, which counters the prevailing culture of quick fixes and quick fixes. This approach encourages individuals to enjoy the process and evaluate each step of their skin care routine, rather than viewing skin care as a means to an end. The goal is to create a space of mindfulness that promotes self-love and acceptance and reinforces the idea that beauty is a journey, not a destination. To conclude, in a world where external pressures and societal expectations can take a toll on mental well-being, mindful skincare acts as a sanctuary, a space where individuals can reconnect with themselves and prioritise their inner balance. As the beauty industry continues to evolve, it is heartening to witness a shift towards practices that not only enhance our external glow but also nurture the radiant beauty that comes from a mind at peace. Mindful skincare invites us to embark on a journey of selfdiscovery, where the pursuit of beauty becomes a celebration of both our outer and inner selves.
Choosing skin care products that emphasise natural ingredients
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
Forecasting fashion trends for 2024
FASHION
Sarees for the festivities
Embrace a year where tailored elegance converges with A symbol of our rich heritage and the multi effortless ease, redefining the essence of power dressing cultural environment we are surrounded
By IANSlife
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to them. It is a symbol of our rich heritage and the multi cultural environment we are surrounded with.
Sarees are such a beautiful medium to celebrate these festivities through, each saree having so much meaning attached
With festivals like Makar Sankranti, Pongal and Lori commencing, here are our top five saree recommendations from Straavi to embrace the festivities in its full spirits.
Bandhani Sarees
Banarasi Sarees
Bandhani sarees are a beautiful representation of traditional Indian craftsmanship and are cherished for their cultural significance and aesthetic appeal. They remain popular choices for women who appreciate the artistry and vibrant colors associated with this traditional tie-and-dye technique.
Banarasi silk sarees are known for their rich and intricate zari work. The festive and vibrant colors, along with the gold or silver brocade, make them a perfect choice for Makar Sankranti and Pongal celebrations.
s a new year dawns, the spirit of festivities surrounds us with new aspirations and joys to unfold in terms of new beginnings. By IANSlife
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tepping into the fresh canvas of 2024, fashion unfurls a tapestry woven with bows, rosettes, and the allure of 'stealth wealth.' Embrace a year where tailored elegance converges with effortless ease, redefining the essence of power dressing. The Soft Power Suit: Bows adorn everything, and their popularity is set to soar as 2024's fashion trends evolve. Countless rosettes, ribbons, and ruffles also caught our eye. Preppy Plus: Welcoming the new year with enthusiasm, we're diving into the relaxed, affluent aesthetic by embracing striped
button-downs, polo shirts, academic blazers, and outdoorsy sandals. Fluidity in Design: A resurgence in tailored dressing marks a shift from recent trends dominated by coordinated sets. Blazers and trousers take the spotlight, blending sartorial elements with a laid-back vibe. Our focus is on crafting ensembles that exude efficiency and sophistication while ensuring comfort remains integral. Quiet Luxury & Stealth Wealth: The buzz phrases of 2024, "quiet luxury" and "stealth wealth," resonate deeply in the realm of new power dressing. Tailored separates stand as the core
aesthetic, offering wearers a refined yet relaxed silhouette. This narrative shift mirrors the pursuit of sophistication without sacrificing comfort. C-Suite Chic: Industry sentiments affirm the enduring presence of tailored dressing. Blazers and trousers reign supreme, infused with an effortless, relaxed aura. The power suit transcends traditional office boundaries, seamlessly transitioning from boardroom to bar, blurring the lines between work and leisure. Shades of Green: Green emerges as the season's 'it' colour, already making its mark across the fashion landscap
The Return of The Muse
By IANSlife
T
he Return of the Muse' by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla is a behind-the-scenes documentary in which the designers reunite with top supermodels of the past to discuss fashion, inspiration, ambition and life. It showcases their extraordinary journey in the glamorous, yet gruelling world of haute couture. Directed by Neha Sharma, the documentary was shot while filming a fashion-inspired music
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video titled 'Jogi'. It features supermodel extraordinaries Arjun Rampal, Nayanika Chatterjee, Sheetal Mallar, Carol Gracias, Laxmi Rana, Dino Morea, Dayana Erappa and RikeeChaterjee. The models and Abu Sandeep reminisce about the early days of their careers and recall moments that have delightfully become a permanent part of their memory. The atmosphere on set was one of exuberant chaos - a marvellous marriage of fun and fabulosity.
A 350-year-old generational property in Goa was the location for this project. Its original Portuguese aesthetic is flawlessly maintained to this day, making it the ideal companion for AJSK couture which is always a love letter to history. AlilaDiwa made a picturesque vision in the poolside shots seen in the film. More than 100 people worked tirelessly over 3 days for 'The Return of the Muse' and 'Jogi'. is slated to be launched soon".
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Organza Sarees Kanjeevaram Sarees Kanjeevaram sarees are characterized by their lustrous silk and intricate zari work. These sarees often feature vibrant colors and traditional motifs, making them an excellent choice for Pongal festivities.
Organza sarees are elegant and lightweight traditional Indian sarees that are crafted from organza fabric. Organza is a sheer and crisp material, often made from silk or a synthetic blend, which gives the saree a delicate and luxurious appearance. These sarees are popular for various occasions due to their sheer elegance factor and versatility.
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Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
INDIA NEWS
LAAPATAA LADIES RELEASE DATE: 1 March 2024 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles) DIRECTOR: Kiran Rao
MERRY CHRISTMAS RELEASE DATE: 8 December 2023 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles) PRODUCER: Ramesh Taurani,
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CAST: Atishay Jain Akhil, Shivam Ghawariya, Nitanshi Goel SYNOPSIS: It’s a jolly mess when two young brides get lost from a train. Set in 2001, somewhere in rural India.
Sanjay Routray, Kewal Garg
FIGHTER RELEASE DATE: 25 January 2024 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles) PRODUCER: Mamta Anand, Ramon Chibb, Anku Pande, Kevin Vaz, Ajit Andhare
MAIN ATAL HOON
DIRECTOR: Sriram Raghavan CAST: Vijay Sethupathi, Katrina Kaif, Radhika Apte
RELEASE DATE: 19 January 2024 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
NEW RELEASES
DIRECTOR: Siddharth Anand CAST: Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone, Anil Kapoor, Karan Singh Grover, Akshay Oberoi
Legend Studios DIRECTOR: Ravi Jadhav CAST: Pankaj Tripathi
PRODUCER: Bhanushali Studios Limited and
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INDIA NEWS
Bhopal: Speaker Of The Madhya Pradesh State Assembly Narendra Singh Tomar And BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma Inaugurate A Model Of Ayodhya’s Shri Ram Temple Ahead Of The Consecration Ceremony
Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
New Delhi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi Interacts With Beneficiaries Of The Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra Via Video Conferencing
London: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh With His British Counterpart, Grant Shapps During The India-UK Defence Industry CEOs Roundtable
Ayodhya : Prime Minister Narendra Modi After The Pran Pratishtha Ceremony At The Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple
Amritsar: Young Women With Their Face And Hands Painted In The Indian Tricolours Pose For Photos On The Eve Of Republic Day
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Kolkata : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee During The Inauguration Of 47th International Kolkata Book Fair
Tehran : External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar With Minister Of Foreign Affairs Of Iran H.Amirabdollahian
Ayodhya : Prime Minister Narendra Modi Breaks His Fast After The Pran Pratishtha Ceremony At The Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple
Ayodhya : Directors Rohit Shetty And Rajkumar Hirani, Actors Madhuri Dixit Nene, Alia Bhatt-Ranbir Kapoor, Katrina Kaif-Vicky Kaushal And Ayushmann Khurrana Pose For A Photograph At The Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple
PHOTO FEATURE
Ayodhya : The Idol Of Ram Lalla After The ‘Pran Pratishtha’ Ceremony At The Shri Ram Janmaboomi Temple
Ayodhya: Actress Kangana Ranaut At The Ram Mandir Ahead Of The Consecration Ceremony
Jaipur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi And French President Emmanuel Macron During A Roadshow
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Hyderabad: Cricketers Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, Mohammed Siraj, Axar Patel, Shreyas Iyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravichandran Ashwin, Avesh Khan, and others during a group photograph session at the BCCI Awards 2024 in Hyderabad on Tuesday, Jan 23, 2024.
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Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
INDIA NEWS
ENTERTAINMENT
‘Yaars’ Akshay, Tiger go all Alia-Ranbir, Vicky-Katrina pose for starstudded selfie with Subhash Ghai in Ayodhya guns blazing in new ‘Bade in the internet, we can spot Miyan Chote Miyan’ poster Vicky Kaushal, Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, Rajkumar Hirani, Ayushmann Khurrana, Madhuri Dixit, and her husband Shriram Nene, who is seen capturing the momentous occasion along with the renowned producer Mahaveer Jain. The pictures also give a glimpse of Katrina Kaif.
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s the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Temple was held in Ayodhya on Monday, several stars from the Hindi and southern film industries were seen attending the event. To make occasion memorable, Bollywood stars Ranbir Kapoor, his wife Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal,
his wife Katrina Kaif, Ayushmann Khurrana, and directors Rohit Shetty and Subhash Ghai posed for a selfie during the ceremony. The selfie was clicked by Subhash Ghai, which also captures Akash Ambani and Sholka Ambani. In another picture doing rounds
As for attire for the special occasion, Ranbir and Alia opted for their ethnic best. Vicky Kaushal chose an ivory kurta pyjama, while Katrina wore a gold-hued silk saree. Several other prominent film personalities, including Vivek Oberoi, Sonu Nigam, Anuradha Paudwal, Madhur Bhandarkar and Kangana Ranaut, were present at the event.
Rashmika reacts after arrest of main accused in deepfake video case
Rashmika’s deepfake video, which went viral on social media platforms, was arrested from Andhra Pradesh by a Delhi Police team, an official said on Saturday.
I
n the new poster of their upcoming film ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’, Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff look everyinch serious to save the world as they fire a machine gun amid an action-packed background. In the poster, Tiger and Akshay are flaunting their muscles and standing back-to-back like having two faces of a coin and firing bullets at bad guys. In the background, missiles and
choppers can be seen. Akshay captioned the poster: “When it comes to saving the world, tere piche tera yaar khada hai!” Tiger shared the same poster and the caption. The teaser drops on Wednesday at 10 a.m. The film is directed by Ali Abbas Zafar and releasing in April on EID.
Kangana’s political period drama ‘Emergency’ to release on June 14
The accused, identified as Eemani Naveen, 24, a resident of Andhra Pradesh's Guntur district, was responsible for creating, uploading and circulating the deepfake video through various social media platforms.
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community that embraces me with love, support and shields me.
Th actress took to X (formerly Twitter) and wrote: “Expressing my heartfelt gratitude to @ DCP_IFSO. Thank you for apprehending those responsible. Feeling truly grateful for the
The main accused behind
ctress Rashmika Mandanna has reacted after the main accused, who created her deepfake video, was arrested.
“Girls and boys - if your image is used or morphed anywhere without your consent. It is wrong! And I hope this is a reminder that you are surrounded by people who will support you and action will be taken!”
Deputy Commissioner of Police, IFSO, Hemant Tiwari said that a complaint was received alleging that a deepfake video of a noted film actress is being circulated on social media platforms. During the preliminary analysis it was found that the original video was uploaded by a British Indian girl on her Instagram account in October 2023 and later on, the deepfake video of the actress was created and circulated on various social media platforms.
Sofia Vergara: I don’t need a man H
ollywood star Sofia Vergara, who has split from Joe Manganiello, says she doesn't "need" a man. The 51-year-old actress split from Joe Manganiello last year, and although she'd love to find another romance. The Hollywood star -- who was married to Joe between 2015 and 2023 -- told HELLO! magazine: "I don't feel as though I need a man. I want one, but I don't need one." Vergara is perhaps best known for playing Gloria Delgado-Pritchett in the hit sitcom 'Modern Family', reports femalefirst.co.uk. The actress welcomed the challenge of playing a real-life drug trafficker in her new Netflix show 'Griselda'.
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ctress-filmmaker Kangana Ranaut's political period drama 'Emergency' will finally hit the screens on June 14. Sharing her thoughts on the film, Kangana said: “Emergency is my most ambitious project and second directorial post Manikarnika, we have the best of Indian and international talent come together for this big budget, grand period drama.”‘Emergency’, which stars Kangana as former
Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, had been delayed several times. In October 2023, Kangana announced that the political drama had been postponed to 2024 due to the 'jam-packed' second quarter of 2023. Produced by Zee Studios and Manikarnika Films, ‘Emergency’ is a mega budget depiction of the most controversial spectacle in the history of Indian Democracy.
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
Akshay, Tiger evoke feeling of patriotism as they sprint with Tricolour Jai Bharat. and Tiger Shroff celebrated Republic Day on Friday by holding the Indian flag and sprinting, evoking a feeling of patriotism. The actors took to their Instagram and shared a video of them running in Jordan, where they are currently shooting for a song from their upcoming film ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, by Pooja Entertainment.
Mumbai, Jan 26 (IANS) Actors and proud Indians Akshay Kumar
The two actors gave the same caption for the video, which read: “New India, new confidence, new vision, our time has come. Happy Republic Day. Jai Hind….
ENTERTAINMENT
Kanye West shares racy photos of wife Bianca Censori
In the clip, the two stars are holding the flag and sprinting.
A.R. Rahman’s ‘Maa Tujhe Salaam’ is heard in the background. In the clip, Akshay is seen dressed in a black shirt and pants, while Tiger chose an off white outfit. ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’ promises to be a package filled with entertainment, thrill and a lot of high-octane action scenes. It also stars Prithviraj Sukumaran in a villainous role. Sonakshi Sinha, Manushi Chhillar, and Alaya F have significant parts. It is slated to release on Eid 2024.
7 OTT Shows that Ignite Sense of Patriotism India's diverse and remarkable cultural heritage. WATCH Sardar Udham Platform: Amazon Prime
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earing up for Republic Day, India comes alive with a kaleidoscope of festivities that extend beyond the iconic parades and flag-hoisting ceremonies. As gullies and mohallas are adorned with tricolour flags in the spirit of patriotism, we bring you a selection of audio shows, web series, and films to elevate your sense of national pride and unravel the rich fabric of our country's history. This Republic Day, let these engaging audio shows and films deepen your connection with India's glorious past and inspire renewed patriotism in you. Enjoy the festivities and the remarkable stories that make our nation truly extraordinary. Jai Hind! LISTEN Malabar Rebellion Platform: Audible Step back in time with ‘Malabar Rebellion,’ a podcast narrated and directed by Sashi Kumar, with a poetic touch by P. Bhaskaran, which brings to life the sacrifices and heroism of a pivotal moment in Indian history. It is a fascinating story that captures the six months of intense struggle by Muslim peasants against British colonial rulers and feudal landlords. A must-listen for those seeking a vivid portrayal of the resilience and courage displayed by the citizens during challenging times. Ambedkar's Preamble Platform: Audible
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Have you ever pondered over the visionary mind behind the Constitution's preamble? This audiobook establishes Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's crucial role in crafting it. It sheds light on the six central concepts—justice, liberty, equality, fraternity, dignity, and nation—unveiling Ambedkar's revolutionary political thought. It is an interesting and insightful listen to understand the foundational principles that shape the democratic fabric of India. The Origin Story of India's States Platform: Audible Deep dive into the roots of India's political map with this on Audible. This meticulously researched audiobook explores the historical circumstances surrounding the birth of India's states and union territories. It is a must-listen for those wanting a deeper understanding of how the geographical boundaries of modern India took shape, offering insights into the nation's complex and interconnected history. Long Story Short S1 and S2 Platform: Audible Take a journey into India's rich and unforgettable past with ‘Long Story Short.’ Each episode unveils lesser-known stories with lasting legacies, offering a unique perspective on our nation's past. The stories will transport you to distant lands, making history come alive! It is the perfect podcast for those curious about untold tales that have shaped
Embark on an emotional journey as it unravels the heartwrenching story of Udham Singh in the aftermath of the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy. Fleeing to the mountains of Afghanistan, he eventually finds himself in London, reigniting the flames of revolution. Udham Singh takes a historic step by assassinating Michael O'Dwyer, the influential figure at the helm of affairs in Punjab during the tragic events of April 1919. This film unfolds the powerful story of resilience, retribution, and the unwavering pursuit of justice. Indian Police Force Platform: Amazon Prime Dive into the adrenaline-fueled world of the ‘Indian Police Force’, a riveting series crafted in, signature Rohit Shetty style. The series follows the relentless journey of Delhi Police Officer Kabir Malik as he confronts insidious adversary Zarar, who has chosen the path of terrorism. This high-octane cop drama unfolds a gripping tale in the pursuit of justice and the sacrifices made in the line of duty. Make sure to add this electrifying experience to your must-watch list for an exhilarating ride through the challenges and triumphs of the law enforcement world. Sam Bahadur Platform: Zee 5Directed by Meghna Gulzar, this Vicky Kaushal-starrer, chronicles the life of Sam Manekshaw, India's first Field Marshal and most revered military figures. The film explores the highs and lows of Manekshaw's career, offering a glimpse into the remarkable leadership that defined crucial moments in Indian military history. If you are interested in biographical films and the stories of iconic figures who shaped the destiny of a nation, this is for you. You can stream it on ZEE5 from January 26.
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apper Kanye West has posted racy photographs of his wife Bianca Censori wearing black mask with boots, and distinctly revealing the derriere. The pictures have been coldly received by the Netizens. The rapper had a few new pictures he wanted to share of his wife on Instagram, reports ‘Mirror.co.uk’. One photo showed Bianca in a kitchen as she wore little to nothing. The Australian architect donned black knee-high heeled boots and a sheer barely there bodysuit. She wasn't fully facing the camera, revealing the back of the body suit was just string keeping it tied around her neck, torso, and bottom. As per ‘Mirror.co.uk’, on her
head was a black leather face mask. Other photos included a close-up of Bianca's side profile in the mask and her standing in a doorway with her back to the camera. In one photo she donned a black leather coat as she kept her back to the camera, slightly covering up. Fans of the rapper were not impressed by the sexy snaps. One fan commented: "Bro what the f*** are you doing?" Some people were worried about Bianca's safety. "She seems so unhappy and defeated. She’s enslaved to him and it’s really sad," one person wrote. Other fans pleaded for Kanye to release new music instead of posting pictures of his wife. "This ain’t Bianca's only fans drop the album pls Kanye", someone pleaded in the comment section.
Mithun Chakraborty’s fascinating journey from ‘Mrigaya’ to Padma Bhushan
a fascinating odyssey, and he is celebrated for his versatility, seamlessly transitioning between various genres, including drama, action and dance.
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rom making his debut playing a Santhal rebel in a Mrinal Sen film to being emblazoned in public memory as the Disco Dancer, from Communist to BJP bhakt, and hospitality industry baron based out of Ooty, Mithun Chakraborty has lived a crowded and colourful life that has finally been acknowledged by the President confirming upon him the prestigious Padma Bhushan. Born on June 16, 1950, in Kolkata, Mithun marked his acting debut with the critically acclaimed Mrinal Sen film 'Mrigayaa' in 1976. His big screen journey is
Mithun's filmography, in fact, is a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal. Here's the IANS selection of his most memorable films: 'Mrigayaa': The actor's foray into cinema began with the 1976 historical film set in the British Raj, 'Mrigayaa', directed by Mrinal Sen. The young and muscular Mithun's portrayal of a Santhal rebel earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor. 'Mera Rakshak': In this 1978 action-packed film, Mithun displayed his versatility by playing a vigilante, showcasing his prowess in the realm of action cinema. Directed by Tamil director R. Thyagarajan of 'Hathi Mere Sathi' fame, the movie also stars Rameshwari, Rakesh Pandey and Gayatri in pivotal roles, along with a goat who acts as the 'Rakshak' in the film.
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 1-15, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 13
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