IA – May 16-31, 2024

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New Delhi, May 15 (IANS) Amid the high-decibel campaign and fierce competition between BJP and the INDIA bloc to woo new voters, the free ration to the country’s 80 crore citizens has become a new rallying point for the latter.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, addressing a joint press conference with Samajwadi Party

Cricket Australia to set up India Fan Zones at all venues for Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 Fight over free ration: Kharge promises 10 kg against NDA’s 5kg if INDIA bloc forms govt

Melbourne, May 14 (IANS) Cricket Australia have announced that there will be dedicated seating areas for Indian fans across

Mumbai

(SP) supremo Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday, said that the INDIA bloc will provide 10 kg free ration to people, as against NDA’s 5 kg.

“You are giving 5 kg ration to poor, we will provide 10 kg free ration,” Kharge said while scoffing at Modi govt’s assertions on feeding the poor.

Kharge cited the examples of Karnataka and Telangana and said that Congress governments have implemented the same, there.

He also accused the Modi government of taking ‘undue credit’ over free ration and said that this was brought out by the Congress-led UPA government

under the Food Security Act.

Notably, the Congress manifesto for the 2024 elections didn’t mention free ration and now has suddenly popped up after the culmination of the fourth phase of elections.

The major thrust of the Congress poll manifesto was on empowering women with Rs 1 lakh yearly assistance and apprenticeship to unemployed youth, under which they can avail assistance upto Rs 1 lakh.

Interestingly, the Congress President’s promise comes a day

Jaipur, May 15 (IANS) Eight of the 15 employees, including vigilance officers and workers of Hindustan Copper Ltd, who were trapped at 1,875 ft in a mine at Kolihan near Khetri in Rajasthan's Neem Ka thana district, were rescued on Wednesday, said officials here, adding that the operation was underway and soon others will be taken out.

all five venues for the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which include the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

"Aligned with Cricket Australia's Multicultural Action Plan, the fan zones will foster an inclusive environment for Indian cricket fans and create an electrifying atmosphere," Cricket Australia

hoarding

Mumbai, May 14 (IANS) The overnight death in the Mumbai hoarding crash climbed to 14, with four more persons succumbing to their injuries in hospital, the BMC Disaster Control said here on Tuesday.

release read.

Further details on the India Fan Zones will be shared shortly, it said.

The men's Test series between India and Australia will kick off on November 22 in Perth, followed by a thrilling Day-Night Test in Adelaide on December 6.

crash toll mounts

Besides, another 43 were injured, including some who were critical, while more than 30 injured victims were discharged after treatment.

After a sudden duststorm accompanied by strong winds and followed by rains wreaked havoc in the city on Monday noon.

A gigantic advertising hoarding erected by a private party was uprooted and collapsed onto several homes, and a petrol pump in Pant Magar around 4:15 p.m., injuring and trapping scores.

to 14 Rajasthan mine accident: Eight of 15 trapped employees rescued Indian Army veteran on UN assignment killed in Gaza attack

Till late Monday night, the Mumbai Fire Brigade, MDRF, and MMRDA teams managed to rescue more than 60 people trapped under the debris of the crashed hoarding.

Besides, in another tragedy, a multi-storeyed vertical steel parking lot crashed near Shreeji Towers in Wadala crushing a dozen vehicles.

At least two more persons were killed in other duststorm-related tragedies that disrupted road

United Nations, May 14 (IANS)

An Indian security official with the UN, killed in an attack on his vehicle, became the first foreigner working for the world organisation killed during the

The 15 employees were trapped in the mine late Tuesday night. The first three people were evacuated at around 7 a.m. and were referred to Jaipur Hospital. In the second round, five people were taken out at around 9.10 a.m. Those rescued were in healthy condition, the officials added. Medicines and food packets were being sent to the people trapped inside. Teams of doctors and ambulances have been kept on alert near the site. A dozen ambulances and doctors were sent to the spot with police teams for the rescue operation soon

current Gaza official, according to a UN source.

Colonel Waibhav Anil Kale (retd) had started working a month ago as a security coordinator for the UN Department of Safety and Security (DSS) in Gaza on Monday, the UN official told IANS.

Kale was a 46-year-old father of two teenage children who had retired from the Army and joined

India surpasses Australia, Japan, Hong Kong in data centre capacity

New Delhi, May 15 (IANS) India has surpassed major countries like Australia, Hong Kong SAR, Japan, Singapore, and Korea becoming the country with the highest data centre capacity of 950 MW in the Asia-Pacific region

(excluding China), according to a private report released on Wednesday.

India is also likely to record the highest capacity addition of 850 MW during the 2024-2026 period, higher than major APAC countries, according to the report published by real estate consultancy CBRE.

“India's data centre sector, with its resilience and potential for

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Fight over free ration: Kharge promises 10 kg against NDA’s 5kg if INDIA bloc forms govt

Continued from Page 1

after Home Minister Amit Shah’s assertions that the BJP has already won 270 seats and the next three phases will only add numbers to its kitty.

The free ration to people started during the Covid pandemic to feed the poor and needy, has continued since then. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also

declared before the polls that this scheme would continue for another five years, in his third term.

According to estimates, the average yearly cost of this scheme comes at around Rs 2 lakh crore. If Congress forms the next government and implements it, the budget will shoot up and by rough estimates, it would accrue

an expense of Rs 4 lakh crore per year.

The slew of promises in Congress' Nyay Patra including assistance to women and the unemployed and the formula to achieve it has already come under scrutiny from experts. If free ration also gets included in the list, it will add further burden on the taxpayers.

Cricket Australia to set up India Fan Zones at all venues for Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

Continued from Page 1

Both teams will then battle it out for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

at the Gabba on December 14, followed by the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, and then finishing up

with the Pink Test at the SCG on January 3.

Mumbai hoarding crash toll mounts to 14

Continued from Page 1

traffic and hit airport operations for 66 minutes.

Taking serious cognisance, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde ordered the BMC

Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani and Mumbai Police to conduct a thorough investigation into the tragedy.

"I have also ordered the BMC authorities to carry out a special

Rajasthan mine accident: Eight of 15 trapped employees rescued

Continued from Page 1

after the incident came to light. On Tuesday, the Vigilance team, including the Khetri Copper Corporation (KCC) Chief, descended into the mines. The accident was reported while they were leaving the mines at 8.10 p.m. The vigilance team from Kolkata and senior officials of the Khetri Copper Corporation (KCC) were in the lift when the chain broke.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma said, “Information was received on this accident due to the breaking of lift chain in Kolihan mine of Hindustan Copper Limited in Khetri, Jhunjhunu. The concerned officials were instructed to immediately reach the spot and conduct relief and rescue operations expeditiously and

audit of all the hoardings in Mumbai and remove all the illegal ones from the city," Shinde told media persons while announcing an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of all the deceased.

India surpasses Australia, Japan, Hong Kong in data centre capacity

Continued from Page 1

attractive returns, has emerged as a beacon of opportunity for investors. The sector's allure is further enhanced by the fact that between 2018 - 2023, India secured investment commitments of more than USD 40 billion

from both global and domestic investors,” the report states. In 2023, there was an addition of 255 MW of new supply compared to 200 MW in 2022, resulting in a total stock of approximately 1,030 MW by the end of the year. This accelerated growth is

expected to continue in 2024, with planned supply of over 330 MW across various cities, potentially increasing the stock by 30 per cent annually to reach around 1,370 MW, the report added.

Odisha: Rahul Gandhi urges people to save Constitution

Bhubaneswar, May 15 (IANS)

Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday urged the voters in Odisha to save the Constitution by voting in large numbers for the INDIA bloc.

While addressing a public gathering at Bolangir constituency, Gandhi said that the biggest issue in this election is to save the Constitution and the ideas propounded by B.R. Ambedkar, and Mahatma Gandhi. He said if the constitution ends then the rights of common people, their land, the reservation system, and public sector firms will also come to an end.

Gandhi warned the people that the country would be controlled by 22 billionaires following the “destruction” of the Constitution.

“For the first time, a political

party has said to the country that if it wins then it will destroy the Constitution. Whatever the poor, Dalits, minorities, tribals, farmers and labourers have secured, it was given because of the Constitution. BJP senior leaders are saying that they will tear this book (Constitution). I want to say to every BJP worker and leader that none in the world can dare to touch the Constitution,” said Gandhi.

He said that the BJP leaders also boast about ending reservation, the weapon provided to Dalits, Adivasis, and backward people by Ambedkar, Mahatma Gandhi, and Jawaharlal Nehru.

Gandhi said that as soon as the INDIA alliance forms the government at the Centre on June 4, wages under the MGNREGS will be increased to Rs 400, salaries of Anganwadi and Asha workers will be doubled, 30 lakh vacant government sector posts will be filled by the Congress.

He also reiterates the party’s promise to ensure a guaranteed job to every fresh graduate and diploma holder in the first

year. Besides, a total of Rs 1 lakh, Rs 8500 every month, will be deposited in the account of unemployed youths along with world-class skill training facilities, and the loans of farmers will be waived off.

“After the INDIA bloc forms government, a list of poor people including Dalits, Adivasis, minorities, poor general caste people, farmers, and labourers will be prepared. One woman member will be selected from each of the poor families from the list and the woman member of the family will find Rs 8,500, as monthly instalments of a total of Rs 1 lakh, deposited in their bank accounts from July 4 onwards,” he said.

The senior Congress leader said that the 50 per cent backward class people, 15 per cent Dalits, eight per cent adivasis, 15 per cent minorities, and five per cent poor general caste people don’t have any share in any sector, business, media, or government.

He said the government in Delhi is run by 90 IAS officers out of which only three are Dalits and one belongs to the Adivasi tribe.

provide all possible help and health facilities to the affected people.”

“I pray to God for the safe coming out of the people trapped in the mine,” he said.

Earlier, Deputy CM Diya Kumari said, “There was no loss of life in the accident that took place in the Kolihan mine of Hindustan Copper Limited in Khetri, Jhunjhunu. So far three people have been evacuated. I wish for the people trapped in the mine to come out safely and the rescue operation to be completed soon,” she said.

Her tweet came when three people were rescued in the first round. However, in the next round, five more people were rescued.

Officials said that the remaining six people will be evacuated soon

Indian Army veteran on UN assignment killed in Gaza attack

Continued from Page 1

the UN, the official said.

He joins the roster of more than 200 Indians who have died in the service of the UN. The majority of them - 179 - are peacekeepers but many other Indian civilians, who like employees of the DSS are not peacekeepers, have died working for the UN in various capacities in trouble spots.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack and called for a full investigation, his spokesperson Farhan Haq said. He said that the DSS staffers were in the vehicle, with clear UN markings, that was in a convoy engaged in "their regular work (for which) they go to different locations to assess security conditions. And this was the European Hospital in Rafah".

DSS provides security for UN installations and personnel and often works under warlike conditions across the world.

The UN provides food and humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza, where its infrastructure has been destroyed in Israeli attacks and the UN has warned a famine is imminent.

The UN has not fixed blame for the attack on the UN convoy because the situation remains murky in Rafah where more than a million people fleeing Israel’s incursion into Gaza are sheltering, but now face an attack by Israel’s forces that have begun operations there.

But Jordan’s Foreign Ministry said that Israel had carried out the attack in its expanding military operations in Rafah.

It said that a Jordanian woman working for the UN in the vehicle was injured.

Israel Defense Forces said that according to an initial inquiry, Monday's attack happened in an active combat zone and that it was not made aware of the vehicle's

movement. Al Jazeera broadcast clips showing windows with bullet holes on the attacked vehicle flying UN flags and bearing large UN markings. From the nature of the damage, it did not appear to have been an air or heavy artillery attack, but surface firing.

Haq said that Monday's victim was the first international employee of the UN killed in Gaza since October 7, although 188 Palestinian employees of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), the UN arm for humanitarian services for Palestinians, have been killed.

"We will be working with the authorities on the ground to get restitution for all of those who have been killed," Haq declared.

Asked what the UN was doing to seek justice for the UN employees killed in the conflict, Haq said: "In all cases, we are going to set up measures for accountability".

"A lot of that, as you know, requires ultimately for an end to the conflict so that we can work these out," he said.

Guterres reiterated his call for a humanitarian ceasefire and the release of the hostages taken by Hamas, which sparked the conflict with an attack on Israel in which about 1,200 people were killed and 128 were kidnapped. Israel's retaliation on Gaza, from where Hamas launched the attack, has killed about 34,000 Palestinians, most of them women, children or the aged. Last month, four foreigners and three Palestinians working for a non-profit organisation, were killed in Gaza.

(Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @ arulouis)

Bollywood star Kumar Sanu visits Springfield City Group in Australia, promoting harmony and community

Kumar Sanu's visit showcases the unifying power of music and his support for Springfield City Group's community-focused initiatives.

The Springfield City Group welcomed legendary Bollywood singer Kumar Sanu, creating a significant event for the organization and its community.

The visit to Australia celebrated the theme of unity and transformation, emphasizing how music can connect different cultures and promote positive change.

With a career spanning over 40

years and more than 20,000 songs in multiple languages, Kumar Sanu's visit to Springfield City Group inspired everyone involved. While there, he met with Dr Maha Sinnathamby AM, the driving force behind the Springfield City project, and commended him for his efforts in building bridges between nations.

In his comments, Kumar Sanu expressed admiration for Dr. Sinnathamby's dedication to community development and nation-building. He noted that this work transcends individual

achievements, representing a commitment to a brighter and more unified future. His endorsement of Springfield City Group's mission underscored the importance of collaborative projects that unite people and create lasting positive effects.

Kumar Sanu's visit was marked by warmth and connection as he mingled with fans and shared stories about his journey in the music industry. During an interview with Kriti Bhardwaj, a host for the Springfield City Group event, Sanu discussed his

experiences, his outlook on life, and the significance of remaining grounded despite his fame.

Throughout the interview, Sanu reflected on the values his father instilled in him, highlighting the importance of treating everyone with respect and equality. He also provided insights into his creative process and the dedication required to succeed in the music industry.

The event concluded with Kumar Sanu's expression of support for the Springfield City Group's community-oriented nation-

building initiatives and his willingness to return for future engagements. His heartfelt appreciation for the Springfield City project’s charitable approach resonated with the audience, who were moved by his genuine humility and passion for giving back.

The Springfield City Group's community-building project, recognized for its contributions to Australia's nation-building efforts, continues to attract support from prominent figures

Joint

military exercise ‘Shakti-2024’ kicks off in Meghalaya as India

New Delhi, May 13 (IANS) The seventh edition of the joint military exercise between the Indian and the French Armies, 'Shakti-2024' kicked off on Monday at the Eastern Command's Joint Training Node in Meghalaya's Umroi.

Held alternately in India and France, this year's exercise

- which will last until May 26focuses on training for ground control operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrain under United Nations mandate besides including for the first time Air Force assets as well as Navy and Air Force observers.

It marks a new level of complexity compared to previous editions

Son

and France intensify defence ties

as it has fielded twice as many troops as before and began with a brigade-level command postexercise.

The French contingent comprises 90 personnel from the Legion etrangere (Foreign Legion), an elite corps of the French Army.

On January 26, another contingent from the Legion etrangere had taken part in India’s Republic Day parade with France as the guest of honour.

This year's Shakti exercise is also taking place in the framework of an intensification of Indo-French defence ties following French President Emmanuel Macron's State Visit to India on January 25-26. Recently, CDS General Anil Chauhan paid an official visit to France, while the French Navy and Army Chiefs visited India.

A French frigate, FNS Bretagne, made a port call in Kerala last week as part of an Indo-Pacific deployment. The bilateral 'Varuna'

naval exercise will take place later this year, and the French Air Force will take part in India's multi-nation Tarang-Shakti exercise scheduled in August. Defence and security cooperation is an essential component of the Indo-French strategic partnership. It was enshrined as the first pillar of the Horizon 2047 Roadmap, which charts the course of the partnership’s next 25 years, and was adopted during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's landmark 2023 visit to France on the occasion of Bastille Day.

Indo-French defence cooperation aims to strengthen both nations' sovereignty and strategic autonomy and to advance peace in the region.

"The aim of this cooperation is to strengthen both our nation’s sovereignty and strategic autonomy, and together advance peace and security in the IndoPacific," he added.

moves home, leaves ailing father behind in Kochi

Kochi, May 11 (IANS) It’s normal for people to leave behind unwanted things when they move home, but in Kochi’s suburb Eroor, a man and his family moved out from their rented accommodation and left behind his old and ailing father.

Locals were aghast on Saturday morning when they found out that 70-year-old Shanmugham, who had been ailing for a long time, had been left behind by his driver son Ajith and the family

had shifted to an undisclosed new location.

Ajith’s former landlord said that he had not been getting rent for a while and had approached the police for a solution.

“Ajith told the police that he would vacate the house but he needed some more time. It was only yesterday that someone informed me that they had vacated my house. But I was also told that his father has been left behind. When I reached my house I saw that the entire home had been cleared but his old and helpless father was lying on the bed. I immediately informed the police about this,” said the owner of the house.

SI at the Tripunithura Police

Station, Reshma said on Saturday that there were issues between Ajith and his two sisters about the way he had been keeping their father.

“We were told that one of the daughter’s was willing to take her father with her, but Ajith was not allowing her to do that. We spoke to Ajith and he said that he was at Vagamon. However, he has given different locations to different people who have been calling him.

“We will locate him soon with the help of the Cyber Police. We will be registering a case against him,” said SI Reshma.

Meanwhile, the police have moved the ailing father to a state-run hospital for treatment.

Population increased but quality dipped, Muslim community should introspect not react: Sudhanshu Trivedi

New Delhi, May 9 (IANS)

While the debate intensifies over 'Hindus on decline and Muslims on uptrend' in terms of population, as depicted in the EAC-PM report, BJP national spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi on Thursday sought to give 'valuable insight' into the raging controversy and also left a piece of advice for the minority community.

Sudhanshu Trivedi said that the widespread rise in the Muslim population was indeed true. However, the surge in population led to 'decline in the quality' of

the populace. He said that in 1951 the population of Muslims was less but at that time, there were many talented people among the Muslim community who were their voice.

He also asked "where have they all gone now?"

He said this while speaking to IANS on the findings of EACPM report, which outlined the decreasing population of Hindus and increasing population of Muslims in the country from 1950 to 2015.

"Earlier, their icons were people like Ustad Bismillah Khan, Ustad Zakir Hussain, Ghulam Ali and more. But, due to secular politics, who has become the representative of Muslim society now? They are Zakir Naik, Ishrat Jahan, Yakub Memon, Abu Salem, Chhota Shakeel, Mukhtar Ansari, Atiq Ahmed and more. It should also be seen that their population

Chennai, May 9 (IANS) In the wake of a Rottweiler dog attacking a five-year-old girl in Chennai, the Tamil Nadu Animal Husbandry Department on Thursday banned any import, breeding, or sale of 33 breeds of dogs that have been termed "dangerous" for people.

According to the Animal Husbandry Department statement, the dog breeds that are banned are Tosa Inu, Fila Brasileiro, American Bulldog,

has increased, but the quality declined," Trivedi said.

"I think the Muslim society should also do introspection about this, instead of reacting," he said, leaving a piece of advice for the community.

Speaking on Article 370 revocation, the BJP spokesperson said: "There were many parties which used to say that Article 370 can never be removed. Some people used to say that if Article 370 is removed, Kashmir Valley will be on fire. However, due to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision and determination and Amit Shah's role as Home Minister, Article 370 has become a part of history, and Kashmir is moving forward on the path of prosperity." He also said that many stories of misery are coming from PoK and if the community hears voices from this side of the border, there will be pain in their hearts.

Jaipur, May 13 (IANS) Thirtyfive schools in all received bomb threats on Monday, at a time when Jaipur is observing the 16th anniversary of serial bomb blasts that rocked Rajasthan's capital, killing scores of people and injuring many more.

The principals of renowned schools like DPS and MPS received bomb threats through email in the morning. It mentioned about the installation of bombs in the school buildings.

All the schools were evacuated in a hurry.

After getting the information, police teams and bomb disposal squads reached the spots. All schools have been evacuated and police are searching the information of the person who sent the mail.

On Sunday, 12 airports across the country, including Jaipur, received bomb threats.

On receiving information about a bomb in Vidyaashram School,

Caucasian Shephard, Kangal Shepherd Dog, Terriers, Mastiffs, Tornjak, Cane Corso, Wolf Dogs, Akbash, Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Boerboel, Central Asian Shepherd Dog, South Russian Shepherd Dog, Japanese Tosa and Akita, Rottweiler, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Canaria, Moscow Guard, and Bandog.

It stated that the dogs in the above list should undergo sterilisation surgery immediately to prevent reproduction.

The Union Animal Husbandry Department has already recommended bans on various dog breeds, including Rottweilers, Pitbulls, American Bulldogs and others considered dangerous. It has directed the state governments and Union Territories to ensure that licenses are not given for the sale, breeding, and keeping as pets of such dogs that are dangerous to human lives.

Tamil Nadu bans 23 ‘dangerous’ dog breeds 35 schools in Jaipur receive bomb threat on 2008 blasts anniversary

teams reached the spot at around 9:30 a.m. Keeping safety in mind, the children and staff of the school have been evacuated.

After the threatening email to MPS School, located in Tilak Nagar, police from Moti Dungri police station and Adarsh Nagar police station reached the spot and evacuated the staff from the school.

As summer vacation has commenced, only the staff was present at the school.

Meanwhile, officials are probing if the threats on the 16th anniversary of the Jaipur blasts are a coincidence or a conspiracy. A series of nine synchronised bomb blasts took place on May 13, 2008, within fifteen minutes at different locations in Jaipur, leaving 63 dead and at least 216 injured.

Police swung into action and different teams were dispatched to different schools as soon as information was received.

Rajasthan DGP U.R. Sahu said: "So far, 35 schools in Jaipur city have received the email. After receiving the mail, all the teams were alerted. The search is going on since 6 a.m. in different schools. There is no information about any suspicious thing being found anywhere.

Cyber teams have been deployed to detect the mail. The government is being updated on this entire incident. There is no panic."

Hindu population

decline is

most worrying, govt should be serious about it: Union Min Joshi

Bengaluru, May 10 (IANS) Union Minister Pralhad Joshi on Friday said that the trend of decline of the Hindu population in the country is the most worrying development.

Speaking to the media, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi said that the state and central governments should wake up and initiate action

immediately to prevent this trend.

He said that there should be a comprehensive study regarding the decline of the Hindu population in the country. “If the number of Hindus decline then over a period of time the democratic system itself will change. Bharat is the only secular country in the world. It is a secular state in true spirit. Secularism is in the blood of Indians and it is also ingrained in their character. It is going to be affected in future,” Joshi said.

He said that the country has found unity in diversity while the country has ensured freedom to practice all religions and cultures

and this heritage should continue.

“Though the nation is predominantly Hindu country, it has sheltered people of all religions. As the population of Hindus is on the decline it is a matter of utmost concern and the society and governments must contemplate over it,” Joshi said.

According to the study titled ‘Share of Religious Minorities – A Cross-Country Analysis (1950-2015) by a three-member committee, from 1950 to 2015, the Hindu population dipped from 85 per cent to 78 per cent while the Muslim population rose to 14 per cent from 10 per cent.

Voting a right, privilege and responsibility, says Gautam Adani

New Delhi, May 7 (IANS) Gautam Adani, Founder and Chairman of Adani Group, said on Tuesday that voting is a right, privilege as well as responsibility, as he cast his vote in Gujarat, along with family members, during the third phase of the 18th Lok Sabha elections.

In a post on X social media platform, Gautam Adani posted pictures of him with family members after casting the vote, and said: “Proud to have voted with my family today. Voting is a right, a privilege, and a responsibility we all share as citizens of this great nation”.

“Every vote is a powerful voice in our democracy. Cast your vote for shaping the future of India. Jai Hind,” Gautam Adani added. Voting across 25 Lok Sabha

constituencies in Gujarat began on Tuesday morning.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi exercised his franchise in Ranip, Ahmedabad, urging people to cast votes in record numbers.

Amit Shah, Union Home Minister and BJP candidate from Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat also cast his vote.

He appealed to voters to "accept voting as a duty towards contributing to nation-building".

SC orders release of NewsClick editor in UAPA case

New Delhi, May 15 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered the release of NewsClick founder and editor-in-chief Prabir Purkayastha, who was arrested by the Delhi Police under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act over allegations that the media outlet received money to spread pro-China propaganda.

“There is no hesitation in the mind of the court to reach a conclusion that a copy of remand application in the purported exercise of communication of grounds of arrest in writing was not provided to the accusedappellant or his counsel before the passing of remand order dated October 4, 2023, which vitiates the arrest and

the subsequent remand of the appellant. As a result, the appellant is entitled to a direction for release from custody… Accordingly, the arrest of the appellant followed by the remand order and the impugned order passed by the Delhi High Court are hereby declared to be invalid in the eyes of law and are quashed and set aside,” said a bench presided over by Justice B.R. Gavai.

“Though we would have been persuaded to direct the release of the appellant without requiring him to furnish his bonds of security since the charge sheet has been filed, we feel it appropriate to direct the release of the appellant from custody on furnishing the bonds to the satisfaction of the trial court,” added the bench, also comprising Justice Sandeep Mehta.

The apex court clarified that none

of its observations will be treated as a comment on the merits of the case.

In October last year, Justice Gavai-led Bench issued notice to the Delhi Police on the special leave petition filed by Purkayastha against the decision of the Delhi High Court upholding the police remand.

The Delhi Police arrested Purkayastha and Human Resources head Amit Chakraborty on October 3, 2023, after multiple raids, including at the NewsClick office, and residences of editors and reporters of the news portal. It was contended that the arrests violated the Supreme Court’s judgement in the Pankaj Bansal case, which had made it compulsory for the police to supply "written" grounds of arrest to the accused at the time of being arrested.

Manish Sisodia’s judicial custody extended till May 30 in excise policy case

Delhi,

May 30 the judicial custody of AAP leader and former Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi Manish Sisodia in the liquor policy case.

Special Judge Kaveri Baweja of the Rouse Avenue Court passed the orders upon the expiry of the previously granted judicial custody.

On Tuesday, a bench of Justice

Lucknow, May 14 (IANS) While the country speaks of women's rights, there is a political party that claims to fight for men's rights.

The party is called Mera Adhikar Rashtriya Dal (MARD) and was formed in 2009 by a group of men facing legal issues related to the Dowry Prohibition Act and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act.

Since its inception, the party has contested seven elections, including the 2019 Lok Sabha polls from Varanasi and Lucknow, a by-election in Bangarmau in 2020, and Assembly election from Bareilly, Lucknow North, Bakshi Ka Talab (Lucknow), and Chauri Chaura in 2022.

However, their candidates performed poorly each time, forfeiting their deposit.

Despite these setbacks, MARD is ready for the 2024 general elections, with candidates vying for the Lok Sabha seats in Lucknow, Gorakhpur, and Ranchi.

One of their founders and party president Kapil Mohan Choudhary, who is contesting polls from the Lucknow Lok Sabha seat, is facing a dowry case since 1999 that remains

unresolved after 25 years.

"I have two kids from my first marriage, both taken away by my ex-wife. Later, I was falsely accused in dowry and domestic violence cases. While fighting these cases in Lucknow, I met many others facing similar charges in similar situations," says 52-year-old Kapil.

"I got divorced, but the dowry case is still ongoing. To highlight men's rights, we formed a political party," says Kapil, who remarried in 2011.

The party's tagline is 'Mard ko dard hota hai' (Men feel the pain). Party candidates Sonu Rai and Dhananjay Kumar are in the fray from the Gorakhpur and Ranchi constituencies, respectively.

The party 'MANifesto' has interesting promises, including a 'Ministry of Men's Welfare' and a 'National Commission for Men'.

They also aim to pass a 'Men's Safety Bill' to prevent unfair treatment of men due to laws favouring women and establish a 'Men's Power Line' to assist them with family issues.

The members also want to establish a 'Family Welfare Committee' to handle family issues, implementing laws for child custody after divorce and immediately "halting live-in relationships".

But are they open to women joining their party? "By all means," says Kapil.

"Our aim is to protect men's rights, not infringe on women's."

Swarana Kanta Sharma of the Delhi High Court reserved its verdict on the bail plea filed by Sisodia, who remains behind bars on corruption and money laundering charges.

During the hearing, ED counsel advocate Zoheb Hossain submitted before the high court that the probe agency will soon

Chennai, May 13 (IANS) Tamil Nadu has registered a 98.47 pass percentage in the Class 12 examinations conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). The national pass percentage is 87.98. Chennai region stood third in the country in the examinations after Trivandrum and Vijayawada regions.

file a supplementary charge sheet in the excise policy case arraying the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) as an accused.

The CBSE class 12 exams began on February 15 and concluded on April 2.

The supplementary exams for students who failed will be conducted from July 15.

In the class 10 exams, Tamil Nadu registered a 99.3 per cent pass rate, a slight increase from last year’s 99.14 per cent.

The national pass percentage for class 10 results stands at 93.6 per cent.

The class 10 exams commenced on February 15 and concluded on March 13.

In its probe, the probe agency found that the proceeds of crime to the tune of Rs 45 crore, which was part of the 'bribes' received from the 'South Group', were used by the AAP for campaigning in the 2021-22 Assembly elections in Goa.

Earlier, the trial court had refused to grant bail to the former deputy CM. Sisodia’s bail application has been pending since February.

New

May 15 (IANS) A Delhi court on Wednesday extended till

BJP aims to retain all 13 LS seats in 4th phase in UP, Oppn hopes for a few

Lucknow, May 10 (IANS) As the countdown begins for the fourth phase of polling in Uttar Pradesh on May 13, the BJP faces the challenge of retaining all the 13 seats it had won in 2019, while the opposition is struggling to wrest, at least, some of the seats from ruling party.

Polling in the fourth phase is scheduled to be held in Shahjahanpur, Lakhimpur Kheri, Dhaurhara, Sitapur, Hardoi, Misrikh, Unnao, Farrukhabad, Etawah, Kannauj, Kanpur, Akbarpur and Bahraich.

In 2019, the BJP won all seats in Avadh and Bundelkhand regions. Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav's wife Dimple Yadav had suffered a shock defeat at the hands of BJP's Subrat Pathak in Kannauj.

This time, all eyes are again on Kannauj and it is Akhilesh Yadav who is contesting the seat against Subrat Pathak.

In 2019, SP had secured second position in Lakhimpur Kheri, Hardoi, Unnao, Etawah, Kannauj and Bahraich while the BSP had ranked second in Shahjahanpur, Dhaurhara, Sitapur, Misrikh, Farrukhabad and Akbarpur. The Congress had ranked second in Kanpur.

The BJP, in the fourth phase, has repeated its sitting MP except in Kanpur and Bahraich where it has opted for new faces.

In Shahjahanpur, this time, voters will witness a three-way contest between Arun Kumar Sagar of BJP, Jyotsana Gond of the SP, and Daudram Verma of BSP.

The Lakhimpur Kheri constituency has BJP’s Ajay Mishra ‘Teni’, Union Minister of State for Home, locked in a direct fight with Utkarsh Verma of the SP.

Dhaurhara will witness a showdown between sitting BJP MP Rekha Verma and Anand Bhadauria of the SP.

In Sitapur, Rajesh Varma of the BJP is challenging Rakesh Rathore of Congress. BSP candidate Mahendra Yadav is making the contest triangular.

Jai Prakash Rawat of the BJP will face Usha Verma of the SP in the Hardoi Lok Sabha constituency.

The BSP candidate here is Bhimrao Ambedkar.

The Misrikh constituency will see BJP’s Ashok Kumar Rawat against Sangita Rajvanshi of the SP while the BSP candidate is B.R. Ahirwar. Interestingly, the BSP candidates in Hardoi and Misrikh will not be able to vote for themselves on

Monday.

Bhimrao Ambedkar is listed as a voter in Etawah while B.R. Ahirwar is listed as a voter in the Bithoor Assembly segment in Akbarpur Lok Sabha constituency.

Unnao is witnessing a three-way battle between Sakshi Maharaj of the BJP, Annu Tandon of the SP and Ashok Pandey of BSP.

Farrukhabad will see Mukesh Rajput from the BJP challenging Naval Kishore Shakya of the SP and Kranti Pandey of the BSP. In Etawah, it is Ram Shankar Katheria of the BJP contesting against Jitendra Dohre of the SP and Sarika Baghel of the BSP.

Kannauj will witness a straight and keenly contested battle between Subrat Pathak of the BJP and Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party. The BSP candidate here is Imran.

Kanpur's election is marked by a contest between first-time contestants. The BJP candidate is Ramesh Awasthi and is being challenged by Alok Mishra of the Congress. The BSP candidate is Kuldeep Bhadauria.

Akbarpur constituency will see sitting MP Devendra Singh ‘Bhole’ from the BJP, Raja Ram Pal of the SP, and Rajesh Kumar Dwivedi from BSP in a triangular fight. Bahraich is another constituency after Kanpur where the BJP has replaced its sitting MP. The party has fielded Anand Gond -- son of sitting MP Akshaywar Lal Gond. The SP candidate is Ramesh Gautam while the BSP has named Birjesh as its candidate.

Kejriwal holds roadshow a day after walking out of jail; BJP sharpens attack on Delhi CM

New Delhi, May 11 (IANS) A day after walking out of Tihar Jail on interim bail, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday held a roadshow here during which he targeted the BJP-led Central government, accusing it of trying to put brakes on all the amenities reaching the residents of the national capital.

Kejriwal, who was arrested on March 21 in connection with the Delhi excise policy case, was on Friday granted interim bail till June 1 by the Supreme Court. The Chief Minister participated in the roadshow along with his Punjab counterpart Bhagwant Mann in the Mehrauli area to garner support for AAP candidate from South Delhi Lok Sabha constituency, Sahiram Pehalwan.

Addressing the gathering, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor said: "When I was in jail, all the time I was wondering what wrong I did? The party in power has even jailed a leader like Manish Sisodia who brought a major turnaround in Delhi's schools. They even put Satyendar Jain behind bars, who provided facilities like Mohalla Clinic and a better healthcare system for the people of Delhi."

"I missed being with all of you... every time my wife (Sunita Kejriwal) and (Punjab CM) Bhagwant Mann came to meet me in jail, I used to ask if the residents of Delhi were facing any problems. Are they still getting free electricity and have access to other amenities," Kejriwal said.

The party also launched its theme song for the elections titled 'Bandey Mein Hain Dum' on the occasion.

Earlier in the day, the BJP dismissed Kejriwal's "Prime Minister Narendra Modi retiring from politics after turning 75 in 2025" remark.

Reacting to Kejriwal's remarks, BJP General Secretary Manjinder

Punish Congress for Pitroda’s ‘racial’ comments: PM Modi

Rajampet (Andhra Pradesh), May 8 (IANS) Terming Sam Pitroda’s 'racial' comments as shameful, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday urged people to punish the Congress for such remarks.

On Wednesday morning, Congress leader Sam Pitroda stirred a major controversy by saying during an interview that Indians in the East resemble the Chinese, while those in the South look like Africans, drawing instant criticism from the BJP. Facing fire over his controversial statements, Pitroda stepped down as the Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress on Wednesday evening.

Addressing a public meeting here in support of NDA's Lok Sabha candidates, the Prime Minister said the Congress should not be spared for the remarks made by a top leader of the party close to the Gandhi family.

Alleging that the Congress' mindset is to see the country break into pieces, he said its leaders refuse to accept India as one nation, and even talk of dividing the country.

“Another big leader of the Congress displayed this divisive thinking of the party. He is close to the Gandhi family and the biggest advisor to the 'prince',” he said.

“The Congress feels people in the

Singh Sirsa said, "One often loses sanity to a certain extent after spending time in Tihar Jail."

Referring to the duststorm in Delhi-NCR on Friday evening coinciding with Kejriwal's release from jail, Sirsa told IANS: "Whenever someone as corrupt as him steps out, a storm happens. No doubt about that."

Addressing his first press conference after walking out of prison, Kejriwal said on Saturday afternoon: "These people ask INDIA bloc about the prime ministerial face. I am asking the BJP, who will be their prime minister? PM Modi is turning 75 on September 17 next year. He himself made the rule in 2014 that people aged 75 will be retired. They made L.K. Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, Sumitra Mahajan go into retirement..."

However, asserting that PM Modi will continue to be the country's Premier in the third term of NDA, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that "the BJP Constitution has no rule that a leader who reaches the age of 75 should not hold the post".

northeast look like Chinese. It also says south Indians look like Africans,” PM Modi said, as he asked Karnataka Chief Minister Siddarmaiah and Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy if they accept what Pitroda said.

The Prime Minister also asked Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin if he would sever his ties with the Congress for Tamil pride and Tamil people.

Stating that the Congress feels the people of western India resemble the Arabs, he asked if this was acceptable to Uddhav Thakrey and the people of Maharashtra.

“Congress divided India for power and it has now stooped to the level of making racial comments on Indians. What has happened to Congress,” he asked the gathering.

PM Modi also claimed that the Congress leaders are in panic after their surrender in the third phase of Lok Sabha elections.

Stating that he is on a nationbuilding mission and is working day and night to take the country forward, the Prime Minister alleged that Congress wants to take the country in reverse gear.

"The Congress is continuously threatening to scrap all the big works carried out in the last 10 years. It wants to bring back Article 370, repeal CAA, stop free ration and free medical treatment for the poor, and lock the Ram Temple," he said.

Taking a dig at the ruling YSR Congress Party in Andhra Pradesh, PM Modi said its countdown has begun.

Congress will win from both Amethi and Raebareli: KC Venugopal

Thiruvananthapuram, May 10 (IANS) AICC General Secretary (Organisation) K. C. Venugopal, on Friday, said that the Congress party will win from both Amethi and Raebareli seats in Uttar Pradesh.

“I have been to both the constituencies and the response is hugely positive. The Congress party will win from both the seats,” said Venugopal.

“K. L. Sharma, contesting as the Congress candidate from Amethi, is a person who knows both these constituencies like the back of his palm, as for the past 35 years, he has been working there,” added Venugopal.

“The reason Rahul is contesting from Raebareli is on account of the deep-rooted emotional

attachment he has with that constituency. At the appropriate time, he will take the call after interacting with people from the two constituencies,” said Venugopal.

“We have seen in the past leaders that like Modi, Vajpayee, Advani and Indira Gandhi contesting from more than one seat and hence, there is nothing wrong in Rahul contesting from two seats,” he added.

Venugopal, after taking over as Organisation General Secretary, has been the closest aide of Rahul Gandhi.

Despite having two more years of his present term in the Upper House, Venugopal decided to contest the Alappuzha Lok Sabha seat, after Rahul wanted him to retain his seat which he won in 2009 and 2014.

For the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, Venugopal decided to keep away from the contest and that was the only seat that the Congress-led UDF lost then.

Narendra Modi will continue to be PM even after turning 75, clarifies Amit Shah

Hyderabad, May 11 (IANS)

Asserting that Narendra Modi will continue to be the Prime Minister in the third term of NDA, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday sought to clarify that the BJP Constitution has no rule that a leader who reaches the age of 75 years should not hold the post.

“Modiji is not only going to complete this term but will continue to lead the country in future. There is no confusion in BJP. They want to create confusion,” he said when asked to comment on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s statement in which he said that PM Modi should be retiring after turning 75 on September 17.

"I want to say this to Arvind Kejriwal and company and the entire INDI alliance you need not rejoice over Modiji turning 75. It’s not written anywhere in the BJP's constitution,” he said at a Press conference here.

Amit Shah slammed Telangana

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy over his remarks that nobody knows if surgical strikes took place or not.

“Their greed for minority vote bank has increased so much that they are criticising surgical strikes,” he said.

Asserting that the surgical strike was a key event in Indian military history, he claimed that India became the third country in the world after the United States and Israel which can go into the enemy territory to strike back at those messing up with its borders or armed forces.

“The entire country is proud of surgical strikes. Revanth Reddy will not say this publicly but if you meet him personally, he may say so,” Shah remarked.

He also lashed out at Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar and National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah for reportedly stating that India should not talk about PoK as Pakistan has an atom bomb.

“I strongly condemn this approach. BJP believes that India will never give up its right over PoK as it is an integral part of India,” he said.

On Revanth Reddy’s allegation

that Tesla wanted to invest in Telangana but was pressured not to invest in the state, he said that no one will invest in Telangana because of the environment of corruption.

"The way he is running the government in Telangana, I don't think anyone is going to invest. No one will invest in Telangana because of the environment of rampant corruption in the state,” he remarked.

Amit Shah also said that if Revanth Reddy had a problem, he could have met the Prime Minister and sought his help.

To another question, he said that the Supreme Court has given only interim bail to Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal.

"Arvind Kejriwal has been given interim bail for the election campaign. He prayed in front of the Supreme Court that his arrest was wrong, but the Supreme Court did not agree to it. He filed a petition for bail which was also rejected. The court has given only interim bail till June 1 and on June 2 he has to surrender in front of the agencies. If Arvind Kejriwal considers this as a clean chit, then his understanding of the law is weak,” he said.

PM Modi serves langar at historic Patna Sahib Gurudwara

Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed

and

served 'langar' (community kitchen meal) at Takht Sri Harmandir Sahib Gurudwara here on Monday.

This followed Sunday's mega roadshow in the city.

Patna’s Harmandir Sahib, popularly known as Patna Sahib, is the birthplace of the 10th Sikh Guru, Sri Guru Govind Singh. This brings a large number of Sikh

pilgrims from across the world to worship here every day.

The pilgrims and members of the Gurudwara greeted the Prime Minister. PM Modi donned a saffron turban and reached there amid tight security. He also consumed prasad in the langar and served it to the pilgrims in attendance.

The Prime Minister will address three rallies in Bihar later in the day in Hajipur, Saran and Muzaffarpur.

Arvind Kejriwal announces 10 guarantees amid ongoing LS polls

New Delhi, May 12 (IANS) Delhi

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday announced 10 ‘Kejriwal ki guarantee’ amid the ongoing Lok Sabha polls, saying that these guarantees will lessen the country from inflation and unemployment.

“Today we are going to announce 10 Kejriwal guarantees. We are late in doing so, it got delayed due to my arrest. I have not yet discussed this with the INDIA alliance but I am confident that the INDIA alliance will not face any difficulties with these guarantees,” Arvind Kejriwal said while addressing

a press conference at the AAP headquarters along with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, AAP MP Sanjay Singh, and Delhi ministers Saurabh Bharadwaj and Atishi.

“After the formation of the INDIA alliance government, I will ensure that all these guarantees are fulfilled by all our colleagues,” said Kejriwal, adding that these 10 guarantees are the vision of a new India. He said that many of these tasks should have been done in the past 75 years but now on a war scale, these tasks will be completed in five years. “Among these guarantees is one that will alleviate the country from inflation and unemployment,” said the AAP National Convenor.

Taking a dig at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Kejriwal said

Modi wave has now become a tsunami: Yogi Adityanath

Barabanki (UP), May 13 (IANS)

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has said that with the fourth phase of voting, the Modi wave has now become a tsunami. He said that the voice of the Modi government, once again is resonating in the entire country.

“Today's new India is a witness to the changes taking place in the country and the world. Our respect in the world has increased, borders have been secured, and development work has progressed at a rapid pace,” he said.

The Chief Minister was addressing an election rally in Haidergarh in Barabanki district here on Monday.

Targeting Congress and SP, he said that these parties have a history of scams.

“They make claims but the truth is that during their time people used to die of hunger, farmers used to commit suicide and youth used to migrate. But we are all

witnesses to the change which we have witnessed in the last 10 years under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi. For the last four years, 80 crore people have been getting free ration, 12 crore farmers have got the benefit of Kisan Samman Nidhi, Ujjwala Yojana, Har Ghar Nal Yojana, toilets, work of providing houses to four crore people has been done. Modi ji has given so much without looking at face or caste. Modi ji has set an example before everyone of how benefits of governance are given without discrimination,” the Chief Minister said.

The Chief Minister said that the BJP is working to preserve the heritage along with the development of the country. "SP and Congress used to oppose Ram Mandir. People of Congress and SP say that the construction of the Ram temple has been useless. It has been the behaviour of Congress and SP to play with the Hindu faith and sentiments. These are the people who opened fire on Ram devotees. There are people who are withdrawing the cases filed against terrorists. The entire election has narrowed down between Ram devotees and Ram traitors.”

NDIA bloc will double the quantity of free ration: Kharge

that recently, there has been talk about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guarantee in the country. “The public will decide whether to trust PM Modi's guarantee or Kejriwal's guarantee. PM Modi had guaranteed that Rs 15 lakh would be deposited in everyone's account, which he did not fulfil. PM Modi guaranteed that two crore jobs would be created every year, which he did not fulfil. PM Modi guaranteed the implementation of the Swaminathan report to ensure fair prices for farmers' produce, which he shelved after becoming PM. He also guaranteed that every household in the country would have 24-hour electricity by 2022, but many cities still face electricity issues with prolonged power cuts,” the Delhi Chief Minister said.

Lucknow, May 15 (INAS) Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday announced that if the INDIA bloc is voted to power it will increase the ration quota for the poor from 5 kilograms to 10 kilograms.

“It was the Congress that brought in the Food Security Act and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is now taking the credit for it. INDIA bloc government will double the amount of free ration for the poor,” he said while addressing a joint press conference with Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav here on Wednesday.

He further said that the INDIA bloc would implement the Panch Nyay and guarantees mentioned in the manifesto and the state would be free to add on anything they want for their areas.

The Congress President said that while the INDIA bloc is with the poor and weaker sections of society, the BJP-led NDA is with the rich.

He said that the ongoing elections are important because it is a fight between ideologies and to save the future of the country and the constitution.

He further alleged that opposition leaders are being stopped from filing nomination papers and election agents are being threatened.

“For an election to be free and fair, a level playing field must be ensured,” he added.

Addressing the media, Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav said that the BJP is getting embroiled in its negativity.

“They are not asking for votes on the work they have done in the last ten years.

It is a new language that they are using. People want change and farmers have not forgotten the atrocities,” he said.

Replying to a question, he said that it was the BJP that is communalising the campaign by talking about mutton, machhli, and mangalsutra.

He appealed to the people of Bahujan Samaj not to waste their vote and support the INDIA bloc candidates.

Patna, May 13 (IANS)

'seva' (service)

LS

polls: PM Modi held 8 public meetings, 2 roadshows in MP; Rahul Gandhi addressed 5 rallies

Bhopal, May 15 (IANS) In the last two months, BJP and Congress leaders have campaigned extensively in Madhya Pradesh for the Lok Sabha elections. Now as the voting in the state has concluded, everyone is waiting for the results to see whether the ruling BJP will repeat its performance of the previous two parliamentary elections or the opposition Congress will manage to increase its seat tally in the state.

The state witnessed high-voltage campaigns by both national parties to seek the support of over 5.6 crore eligible voters in the elections.

In 57 days (from March 16 to May 13), Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the state seven times and addressed eight public meetings for BJP candidates in different constituencies. He also held two mega roadshows -- one in Jabalpur and another in Bhopal.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP President J.P. Nadda

addressed four public meetings each in the state. Besides them, Union Ministers Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari and Chief Ministers of BJP-ruled states also campaigned in Madhya Pradesh.

"BJP's campaign was focussed on Prime Minister Modi's guarantee and the government's achievements in the past 10 years. We are hopeful to make a clean sweep in Madhya Pradesh," said state BJP media cell chief, Ashish Agrawal.

On the other hand, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who led the party's Lok Sabha poll campaign from the front, addressed five public rallies while his sister and Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra addressed just one public meeting in Madhya Pradesh.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also addressed just one public rally in the state.

The state leadership of both parties proactively participated in the campaigning.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav topped the list of leaders who addressed maximum public meetings in the state. He held 139 public meetings and 49 roadshows.

Former Chief Minister and BJP's Vidisha candidate Shivraj Singh

‘Deras’ in Punjab,

Chouhan addressed 66 public meetings and held 16 roadshows while state BJP chief V.D. Sharma, who is contesting from Khajuraho, addressed 72 rallies and held 18 roadshows.

State Congress chief Jitu Patwari, who replaced former Chief Minister Kamal Nath after the party's stunning defeat in the Assembly elections in November last year, addressed 130 public rallies.

Kamal Nath, who campaigned extensively for his son Nakul Nath from Chhindwara until the first phase election on April 19, remained out of the scene in other parts of the state. Veteran Congress leader and former Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh, who was also a candidate, campaigned in a couple of Lok Sabha seats.

"Low voter turnout despite extensive campaign indicated that people have voted for a change in Madhya Pradesh and the Congress will give a good fight in nearly a dozen Lok Sabha seats," said Abbas Hafeez, the Vice President of Madhya Pradesh Congress media cell.

Polling in Madhya Pradesh was held in four phases between April 19 and May 13 to elect 29 members of the Lok Sabha. Results will be declared on June 4.

Haryana play decisive role in final outcome of polls

Chandigarh, May 15 (IANS)

As electioneering for the parliamentary polls in Punjab and Haryana is yet to enter the crucial phase, almost all major players, the Congress, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Shiromani Akali Dal, the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) and the debutants to politics, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP), have turned to religious sects, seeking votes in the name of religion, caste and creed.

In Punjab, religion is nothing new to politics. Rather, it has always been an integral part of state politics. Sikhs, the majority community, believe the Akal Takht, the highest temporal seat of the Sikh religion, draws its inspiration from the sancta sanctorum, the Golden Temple.

The Akali Dal, once the major partner of the BJP, also controls the Sikh religious Parliament called the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC).

The Akali Dal claims itself to be the ‘panthic’ party, meaning the

Sikh religious voice.

The Chief Ministers of Punjab, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh are among the prominent leaders who frequent ‘deras’ several times, especially during the elections -- be it parliamentary or the assembly.

‘Dera’ is a term used to refer to the guru-led religious organisations.

There are six major ‘deras’ in Punjab. They are Dera Sacha Sauda, Radha Soami Satsang Beas, Noormahal Dera (Divya Jyoti Jagriti Sansthan), Sant Nirankari Mission, Namdhari Sect and Dera Sachkhand Ballan.

However, major deras like Radha Soamis, Nirankaris and Namdharis generally stay away from politics and elections. But politicians keep on calling their heads to woo their followers.

Unlike them, Dera Sacha Sauda’s controversial self-styled godman, Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, is known for issuing a public appeal, officially or unofficially, to vote for a particular party. Gurmeet Ram Rahim has been released on parole or furlough on multiple occasions in the recent past by the state BJP government before important polls in Haryana or adjoining states.

Headquartered near Sirsa town in Haryana, Dera Sacha Sauda wields influence in Punjab’s Malwa belt

No one can defeat PM Modi, says Assam BJP MP

Guwahati, May 15 (IANS) Rajya Sabha MP and BJP candidate in Assam’s Kaziranga Lok Sabha seat, Kamakhya Prasad Tasa has said that no leader in the country can challenge and defeat Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He told reporters here on Tuesday, “No one can defeat PM Modi. In India, the Prime Minister does not have any challengers. No other political leader in the country can contest against him.”

Tasa fought the recently concluded polls from the Kaziranga parliamentary constituency.

This Lok Sabha seat was formed after last year’s delimitation exercise for redrawing the boundaries of Assembly and Parliamentary constituencies in the state.

The senior BJP leader contested the Jorhat Lok Sabha seat in 2014 and won it. In the 2019 general elections, he was not given a ticket and was instead sent to the Upper House of Parliament. Tasa accused the opposition of not having any agenda in the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. “They do not have any vision for development. The opposition party's only agenda is to oppose PM Narendra Modi,” he added. Tasa further said that the BJP has performed exceptionally well in Assam and the party is set to win majority seats in the state.

LS polls: UP fifth phase to witness high-profile contests

Lucknow, May 15 (IANS) As Uttar Pradesh inches closer to the fifth phase of polling on May 20, the prestige of several high-profile candidates will be at stake.

-- the state’s largest region that accounts for 69 of the state’s 117 assembly seats.

Ram Rahim, a convict in rape and murder cases, is currently lodged at Rohtak’s Sunaria Jail.

In Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan too, its followers run into several lakhs.

Several top politicians from the region had been calling the selfproclaimed godman before his conviction to seek blessings and support. Even on parole, they used to flock to seek blessings.

Ram Rahim has been serving a 20-year sentence for the rape of his female disciples since August 25, 2017, and two subsequent life sentences for the murder of journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati and former Dera manager Ranjit Singh.

In January, Ram Rahim Singh walked out of jail for the seventh time in the past two years, and the ninth since his conviction. In 2022 and 2023, he came out of jail on six occasions. “No election in Punjab and Haryana is complete without the sects that influence the votes of followers. Be it the Akali Dal, Congress or the BJP, everyone lines up to seek blessings of sect chiefs owing to their political influence, despite drawing the ire of Sikh hardliners to a particular sect,” a political observer told IANS.

In the fifth phase, voting will be held on 14 Lok Sabha seats including Mohanlalganj, Lucknow, Raebareli, Amethi, Jalaun, Jhansi, Hamirpur, Banda, Fatehpur, Kaushambhi, Barabanki, Faizabad, Kaiserganj and Gonda.

In 2019, the BJP won 13 of the 14 seats in this phase while the Congress won the Raebareli seat.

Union defence minister Rajnath Singh is seeking a third term from Lucknow. Backed by a strong party organisation, Rajnath Singh is on a safe wicket and the candidates pitted against him -- Ravidas Mehrotra of SP and Sarwar Malik of BSP -- are comparatively ‘weak’.

Union minister Smriti Irani is contesting against K L Sharma of the Congress in Amethi. Sharma is seen as a minor threat to Irani who is working for a second term from Amethi.

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi is contesting from Raebareli in the fifth phase and is pitted against BJP's Dinesh Pratap Singh.

Raebareli is the second seat for the Gandhi scion. He is also contesting from Wayanad in Kerala. Another high-profile seat that will be going to polls in the fifth phase is Kaiserganj where the sitting MP and former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan

Sharan Singh has been denied a ticket and his son Karan Bhushan Singh is in the electoral fray. Karan Bhushan Singh is pitted against Bhagat Ram Mishra of SP and Narendra Pandey of BSP. Union minister Kaushal Kishore is seeking his third term in the Mohanlalganj Lok Sabha constituency. He is facing tough competition from former UP minister R K Chaudhary who is the SP candidate. The BSP candidate is Rajesh Kumar. In Jhansi, former Union minister Pradeep Jain Aditya is contesting on a Congress ticket and is being challenged by the sitting MP, Anurag Sharma, of BJP. The BSP candidate is Ravi Prakash Maurya, a local student leader. Union minister Bhanu Pratap Singh Verma (BJP) is seeking his sixth term as Lok Sabha member in Jalaun. He is facing first-time candidates from SP and BSP.

In Hamirpur, sitting BJP MP Pushpendra Singh Chandel is seeking his third term and is being challenged by Ajendra Singh Rajput of Samajwadi Party. In Banda, sitting BJP MP R K Singh Patel is seeking re-election. He is being challenged by Samajwadi Party’s Krishna Devi Patel and BSP’s Mayank Dwivedi -- son of former BSP leader late Purushottam Naresh Dwivedi. In Fatehpur, Union minister and sitting BJP MP, Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti, is also seeking her third term. She is being challenged by former SP state chief, Naresh Uttam Patel. The Kaushambhi Lok Sabha seat has sitting BJP MP Vinod Sonkar seeking a third term while Pushpendra Saroj, a 25-year-old, is contesting on an SP ticket. Pushpendra is the son of SP leader Inderjit Saroj.

INDIA bloc will form govt at Centre on June 4: Rahul Gandhi

New Delhi, May 13 (IANS) As voting is underway for the fourth phase on 96 Lok Sabha seats across 10 states and union territories on Monday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi urged people to exercise their right to vote and exuded confidence that India bloc winning the elections.

Rahul said voting for the fourth phase is underway, and "it has already been clear from the first three phases that the INDIA bloc will form a government at the Centre on June 4."

Emphasising the significance of voting and urging people to participate in large numbers, he wrote: "Remember, your one vote will not only protect your

democratic rights but will also change the fate of your entire family."

"One vote is equal to the first job of Rs one lakh per year guaranteed for youth. One vote is equal to Rs one lakh per year in the bank account of poor women," he added, highlighting his election promises.

Reiterating that voting could bring about significant changes, the Congress leader added: "So come out in large numbers and vote and show that the country will now vote on its issues - it will not get distracted!"

The voting is underway in 25 Lok Sabha seats in Andhra Pradesh, five in Bihar, one in Jammu and Kashmir, four in Jharkhand, and eight in Madhya Pradesh, 11 seats in Maharashtra, four in Odisha, 17 in Telangana, 13 in Uttar Pradesh, and eight in West Bengal.

With the completion of the third phase of the general elections, voting has taken place in 283 parliamentary constituencies across 20 states/union territories.

The counting of votes is scheduled for June 4.

Large voter turnout in Srinagar marked biggest celebration of democracy by Kashmiris

Srinagar, May 14 (IANS) For the first time since militancy began in Kashmir, and in the first elections after the abrogation of Article 370, people voted in large numbers in the Srinagar Lok Sabha constituency on Monday.

Against 14 per cent voter turnout in 2019, more than 38 per cent polling was recorded on Monday. The most encouraging was the number of people who came out to vote in the Old City areas of Srinagar. These areas were known as the cradle and bastion of separatist sentiment in Kashmir. In fact, all eight Assembly segments in Srinagar district have been part of a near-total poll boycott in the past.

It is against this background that 1.77 lakh voters turned out to vote in these 8 Assembly segments on Monday.

That this was the biggest celebration of democracy in Kashmir has been acknowledged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and BJP President J.P. Nadda.

“The basic spirit of democracy is not who gets defeated and who gets elected. The basic spirit of democracy is that the people trust the system and the Election Commission to safeguard their right to choose or reject," said Umar Rashid, an advocate in the J&K and Ladakh High Court.

India Votes: Amid chaos, conflicts, and character, democracy’s drama unfolds

Political violence strikes again in

The post-poll violence in Andhra Pradesh, with TDP candidate Pulivarti Venkata Mani Prasad being attacked, underscores the intense competition and polarization in the state. The incident reflects the high stakes and tensions prevailing in the political landscape.

NDA's confident assertion of victory

A local businessman, Rafiq Ahmed, displayed his finger to prove that he had cast his vote in one of the interiors of old Srinagar city, and said, “Nobody can remain out of a democratic system that gives him the power over his political destiny."

The voter turnout in Srinagar is likely to have a ripple effect on the polling in Baramulla and Anantnag Lok Sabha constituencies, which will go to the polls on May 20 and May 25, respectively.

The Election Commission has proved that despite having remained without the right to vote after 2019, the people of Kashmir have unshakable faith in the country’s democracy.

Incidents of separatist violence might continue as sporadically as they have been during the last five years, but the larger picture is that the people of Kashmir have re-affirmed their faith in Indian democracy.

There are differences of opinion and approach between different sections of people and political parties in Kashmir, and yet none of them has any misgiving about the fact that they can vote any party in or any party out of power.

Pictures of fathers standing in queues outside the polling stations whose children joined militant ranks in the past have confirmed the paternal disapproval of violence by Kashmiris.

Also, the first-time voters participated in the poll process with enthusiasm this time.

the fervour and aspirations associated with electoral contests.

.CAA and allegations against Mamata Banerjee

The CAA debate in West Bengal, coupled with allegations against Mamata Banerjee, showcases the ideological battles and narrative warfare characterizing Indian politics. Such controversies influence voter sentiments and shape political discourse.

Marathi Manoos and Mumbai South's political chessboard

India’s Home Minister's declaration of NDA securing a majority reinforces the narrative of a confident ruling coalition. Such assertions contribute to the charged atmosphere of electoral competition, shaping public perceptions and expectations.

PM Modi's emotional nomination from Varanasi

PM Modi's emotional appeal during his nomination from Varanasi connects with voters on a personal level, highlighting the significance of emotional resonance in political messaging. His nomination symbolizes

The Shiv Sena's emphasis on the Marathi identity in Mumbai South highlights the intricate dynamics of regional politics and identitybased mobilization. This narrative resonates with voters and reflects the party's strategic calculations.

Claims and counterclaims in Telangana

The competing claims of electoral victory in Telangana exemplify the hyperbole and posturing inherent in electoral contests.

Such rhetoric shapes public perceptions and contributes to the charged atmosphere of political competition.

Karnataka's political verbal duel

The verbal sparring between political leaders in Karnataka underscores the confrontational nature of electoral politics and the fluidity of alliances. Such exchanges reflect the underlying

power struggles within the political landscape.

Kangana Ranaut's political foray

Kangana Ranaut's entry into politics highlights the convergence of celebrity culture and electoral politics, shaping public discourse and perceptions. Her candidacy reflects the evolving nature of political participation and identity politics.

PM Modi's transparent declaration

PM Modi's transparent declaration of assets underscores the importance of accountability and integrity in public life, setting a precedent for ethical conduct in politics. Such actions resonate with voters and enhance trust in democratic institutions. Discipline and dissent in Assam BJP

The disciplinary action threatened against dissenting leaders in Assam BJP reflects the internal power struggles and ideological fissures within political parties. Such developments impact party cohesion and electoral strategies. These stories collectively illustrate the multifaceted nature of Indian democracy, characterized by fierce competition, ideological battles, and personal narratives. While they highlight the vibrancy of electoral politics, they also underscore the challenges and complexities inherent in the democratic process.

‘BJP can’t cross 200 mark without irregularities in EVM,’ Cong leader stirs row

New Delhi, May 15 (IANS) While the electoral machinery of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) remains in top gear to achieve the ‘400 paar’ target, Congress leader Rashid Alvi stirred a row on Wednesday as he claimed that the ruling party will find crossing past ‘200 mark’ difficult, without irregularities in the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).

“Forget 400, they can’t even cross the 200 mark. It can be possible only if they do any game with EVMs, in which they are masters,” said Alvi hinting that the ruling party would resort to tampering with voting machines for staying in power.

His controversial comment came in response to Home Minister Amit Shah’s assertions that the party had already won 270 seats by the fourth phase of Lok Sabha elections and now the fight was for taking it to the 400 mark. Congress leader, apparently miffed over Shah’s assertions, said that the latter should also get the Election Commission to officially declare these numbers.

He also accused the ruling party of ‘befooling and misleading’ the electorate for electoral gains.

Notably, Alvi is the not the only leader to forecast BJP’s ‘dwindling’ numbers in the 2024 elections, below the 200 mark.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, speaking to the Press along with SP supremo Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday, said that the BJP won’t cross the 200 mark and added that it’s out of ‘nervousness’ that top BJP leaders are making tall claims about its Lok Sabha numbers.

“According to the numbers of the fourth phase, the INDIA bloc has taken the lead ahead and BJP-led NDA is trailing,” Kharge boasted before the newsmen.

Compiled by Australia India News Newsdesk

Andhra Pradesh

Australian PM unveils

$372 mn mapping plan to boost mineral, energy exploration

Sydney, May 8 (IANS) Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Wednesday that the federal government would deliver an investment of 566.1 million Australian dollars (about $372 million) to fully map the country's resources.

"Next week's Budget will invest in a new era of mineral exploration," Albanese added while delivering a speech in Perth.

"We will fund the first comprehensive map of what's

under Australia's soil and our seabed, meaning we can pinpoint the new deposits of critical minerals and strategic materials we need for clean energy and its technology, as well as traditional minerals like iron ore and gold and potential storage sites for hydrogen," the Prime Minister said as quoted by Xinhua news agency report.

As part of a big focus on resources in next week's federal budget, the funding package will be provided over the 10-year medium term from 2024-25 to deliver data, maps, and other tools for use by the resources industry.

Led by Geoscience Australia, the long-term investment stressed the federal government's plan

to put the resources industry at the heart of its "Future Made in Australia" policy. Through this investment, the Resourcing Australia's Prosperity (RAP) programme will be fully funded for 35 years, setting Australia's resources industry up for decades of exploration and future economy-making discoveries.

RAP will also map offshore areas of Australia for the first time, pointing the way for sites for carbon capture and storage, as well as possible sites for clean hydrogen projects. It will provide a deeper understanding of the resource potential by mapping out all of Australia's groundwater systems.

Australia commits to gas beyond 2050 under future strategy

Canberra, May 9 (IANS) The Australian government has committed to the extraction and use of gas as a power source beyond 2050.

The governing Labor Party on Thursday announced Australia's Future Gas Strategy, setting out the role gas will play as the country pursues a net zero carbon emissions target by 2050, Xinhua

news agency reported.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the strategy is a necessary component for Australia to achieve net zero emissions.

"We support net zero, and gas and its firming capacity is part of assisting with that pathway to net zero," he said at a press conference.

The strategy highlights the need for ongoing exploration, investment and development in the sector to avoid a shortfall in gas supplies.

Gas currently supplies 27 per cent of Australia's energy needs and represents 14 per cent of the

country's export income.

Revealing the strategy, Resources Minister Madeleine King said gas would play an important role in firming renewable power generation and in sectors where carbon emissions are hard to abate, such as manufacturing and minerals processing until alternative power sources are viable. "Gas plays a crucial role in supporting our economy, with the sector employing 20,000 people across the country, including remote and regional communities," she said in a statement."The Strategy makes it clear that gas will remain an important source of energy through to 2050 and beyond, and its uses will change as we improve

India holds talks for closer ties on critical minerals, shrimp farming with Australia

New Delhi, May 5

India has discussed the issues of pharmaceutical pricing control in generic drugs and the need for closer cooperation in critical minerals with Australia, the Union Commerce Ministry said on Saturday.

The need for closer collaboration for establishing disease-free zones for shrimps and prawns in India also came up for discussion at the first Joint Committee Meeting (JCM) in Canberra under the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (Ind-Aus ECTA), the ministry said.

Besides, the JCM meeting also addressed certain critical services issues, including the consideration of India's request for facilitation of crossborder e-payments and mutual recognition of qualifications in professions like nursing and

dentistry.

India and Australia are looking at joint investments to build new supply chains underpinned by critical minerals processed in Australia that will help India's plans to lower emissions from its electricity network and become a global manufacturing hub, for electric vehicles and smartphones.

Critical minerals are a key raw material in these hi-tech products. Currently, China has a near-monopoly on critical minerals. India and Australia are both keen to set up a strong alternative supply chain to break China's dominance of the market.

"The two sides have decided to work closely on timely resolution of market access issues, deepen people-to-people contacts, and create an institutional mechanism for sharing of preferential import data," according to the ministry statement.

India and Australia have already signed an Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) that came into effect on December 29,

Australia police shot dead teenager who stabbed man

Sydney, May 5 (IANS) Western Australian (WA) Police Force announced on Sunday that a 16-year-old boy who stabbed another man with a kitchen knife in Perth was shot dead by police.

WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch said at a press conference that police received a call at about 10.10 p.m. local time from a male that indicated he was going to commit acts of violence. But he didn't provide his name or a location, Xinhua news agency reported.

Some minutes later, police received another call from a person stating that a male with a knife was running around a car park. Police immediately responded to that call, and three officers attended that location. When they exited their vehicle, the officers were confronted by a male alone, with a large kitchen

knife on Saturday night. Blanch said that the officers challenged the male to put down the knife, but he did not comply and rushed one of the officers. Two officers deployed their tasers but both of them didn't have the full desired effect. The male continued to advance on the third officer with a firearm, who fired a single shot and fatally wounded the male.

The deceased male was a 16-yearold Caucasian man. He was taken to hospital and declared deceased at approximately 11.00 p.m., the police commissioner added. "There was a report and we didn't know that until after the shooting, that a male had been stabbed in the back in the car park where police did respond," Blanch said. "That male is currently in hospital with a stab wound to the back. He's in a serious but stable condition." State media Australian Broadcasting Corporation quoted WA Premier Roger Cook as saying that there were indications that the boy had been radicalised online.

Defence chiefs of US, Australia, Japan decry N. Korea-Russia military cooperation

2022.

"Both sides while acknowledging the smooth implementation of the ECTA, briefly elaborated on ECTA implementation issues including MRAs (mutual recognition agreements) on organic products, market access issues related to products like okra, pomegranate, grapes, cottage cheese, .pharmaceutical pricing control in Australia particularly on generics, progress made by the working group on whisky and wine," the ministry said.

The meeting also touched upon the WTO issues wherein both sides appreciated the Commerce Secretary's stand on the importance of the support of Australia for early resolution of the long pending issue of a permanent solution to public stock holding (PSH).

Australia sought the support of India for the plurilateral arrangement for domestic support for services. Both sides agreed to discuss these matters intersessionally if required.

The defence chiefs of the US, Australia, and Japan denounced growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, including their weapons transactions, during their trilateral talks in Hawaii this week.

US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin and his Australian and Japanese counterparts, Richard Marles and Minoru Kihara, held the meeting on Thursday to discuss a range of regional and global issues, including North Korea, Russia's war in Ukraine, the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait, Yonhap news agency reported.

"The ministers strongly condemn the increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, including North Korea's export and Russia's procurement of North Korean ballistic missiles in violation of UNSC resolutions, as well as Russia's use of these missiles against Ukraine," the statement read.

Austin, Marles and Kihara also expressed concerns over Pyongyang's unceasing weapon developments.

"The ministers are deeply concerned about North Korea's nuclear and missile development," it said.

"They strongly condemn North Korea's repeated launches of missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles and other launches using ballistic missile technology, which are serious violations of UNSC resolutions."

In addition, they reiterated their commitment to working with the international community to address Pyongyang's "serious" threat to the region.

They renewed their call on North Korea to "immediately" resolve the abductions issue and cease its human rights violations.

On China, the defence chiefs stressed their "strong" opposition to any attempts by Beijing to "unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion in the South and East China Seas."

"This includes concerning and destabilising actions in the South China Sea, such as unsafe encounters at sea and in the air, the militarisation of disputed features, and the dangerous use of coast guard vessels and maritime militia...and efforts to disrupt other countries' offshore resource exploration," the statement read. Moreover, they emphasised the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait while calling for the peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues.

(IANS)

Washington, May 4 (IANS)

Climate change made extreme April temperatures hotter affecting billions in Asia: Study

New Delhi, May 15 (IANS)

Extreme temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius that impacted billions of people across Asia in April were made hotter and more likely by human-caused climate change, according to rapid attribution analysis by an international team of leading climate scientists from the World Weather Attribution group.

The study highlights how heatwaves intensified by climate change are making life much tougher for people living in poverty across Asia and the 1.7 million displaced Palestinians in Gaza.

Asia was hit by severe heatwaves this April. In South and Southeast Asia, Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam broke records for their hottest April day, and the Philippines experienced its hottest night ever.

In India, temperatures reached as high as 46 degrees.

The heat was also extreme in West Asia, with Palestine and Israel experiencing temperatures above 40 degrees. The month was the hottest April on record globally and the eleventh consecutive month in a row a hottest month record was broken.

One

Heat-related deaths were widely reported, with at least 28 in Bangladesh, five in India and three in Gaza during April, while surges in heat deaths have also been reported in Thailand and the Philippines this year.

These are only preliminary figures and because heatrelated deaths are notoriously underreported, it is likely there were hundreds or possibly thousands of other heat-related deaths in Asia during April.

The heat also led to crop failure, loss of livestock, water shortages, mass die-off of fish, widespread school closures, and the heat has been linked to low voter turn-out in Kerala.

Climate change, caused by burning oil, coal and gas, and other human activities like deforestation, is making heatwaves more frequent, longer and hotter around the world. To quantify the effect of humancaused warming on the extreme temperatures across Asia, scientists analysed weather data and climate models using peerreviewed methods to compare how these types of events have changed between today’s climate, with approximately 1.2 degrees of global warming, and the cooler pre-industrial climate.

The analysis focused on the periods when the heat was most dangerous in two regions: the three-day average of maximum daily temperatures in a region

of West Asia that included Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Palestine and Jordan, and the 15-day average of maximum daily temperatures in the Philippines.

The scientists also analysed the possible influence of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation, a naturally occurring climate phenomenon that shifts between El Niño, neutral and La Niña conditions.

The study also analysed historical weather data for a region of South Asia that includes India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia. The researchers did not carry out a full attribution analysis for this region as the World Weather Attribution conducted similar studies in 2022 and 2023, and the data from weather observations showed that the attribution results would not be significantly different.

In West Asia, the scientists found that April heatwaves with temperatures above 40 degrees are more frequent due to warming caused by human activities.

In today’s climate, with 1.2 degrees of warming, similar heatwaves are expected to occur about once every 10 years.

Climate change made the heat about five times more likely and 1.7 degrees hotter.

In the future, extreme temperatures in West Asia could become even more frequent and intense.

year after violent protests shook Pakistan, military and Imran’s PTI still at loggerheads

Islamabad, May 9 (IANS)

Thursday (May 9) marks one year to the time when supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) expressed their anger against the country's powerful military establishment by engaging in violence, riots, attacks on military installations and a 'call for resistance' -- a narrative that Khan successfully injected in his supporters since his ouster from power in April 2022.

Today, both PTI and the military establishment mark May 9 as a 'black day' by labeling each other as the victim and an aggressor. The current ruling federal government -- along with its coalition political partners who control the provincial set-ups in Sindh, Balochistan and Punjab -- condemn PTI and Imran Khan for brainwashing supporters who carried out targeted violent attacks on sensitive military

installations across the country, last year.

The military establishment also remains vocal on the issue.

"The Armed Forces of Pakistan, along with Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) and Services Chiefs, strongly condemn the criminal acts perpetrated on May 9, 2023. On this one of the darkest days in our national history, politically motivated and brainwashed miscreants in an act of rebellion, deliberately resorted to violence against state institutions and vandalised sacred symbols of the state and the sites belonging to national heritage," read a statement issued by the InterServices Public Relations (ISPR).

The military establishment maintains that it showed "utmost restraint" during the orchestrated violence, highlighting that the malicious attempt to trigger confrontation between the protesters and the armed forces was thwarted.

The ISPR has made it clear that the culprits behind the riots and attacks will not be spared.

"It is precisely for this reason there can neither be any compromise with the planners,

US refutes allegations of meddling in Indian elections

Washington, May 10 (IANS) The US has denied any involvement in India's ongoing Lok Sabha elections, saying that it has adopted the same policy for such events taking place anywhere in the world.

"Of course, we don't involve ourselves in elections in India, as we don't involve ourselves in elections anywhere in the world. Those are decisions for the people of India to make," US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said during a media briefing in Washington on Thursday.

Miller was responding to a

question asking for his reaction on Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova's comments on Wednesday where she had said that the US is trying to "complicate" the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in India, by making "regular unfounded accusations" on threats to religious freedom in the country. The US State Department official also refused to react to the ongoing investigation on the alleged plot to assassinate Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

"There is a publicly-returned indictment that contains alleged facts. They're allegations until they're proven before a jury that anyone can go and read. I won't speak to them here because, of course, it's an ongoing legal matter. And I'll leave it at that," said Miller.

Sri Lanka to hold presidential election between Sep 17 and Oct 16

Colombo, May 9 (IANS) The election commission of Sri Lanka on Thursday announced that it will hold the presidential election between September 17 and October 16.

The election commission in a

facilitators and executors of May 9 tragedy nor they would be allowed to hoodwink the law of the land.

Bringing the real culprits to justice is paramount to ensure that in the future, no one dares to desecrate memories of our heroes and the symbols of our unity through such an unwarranted conduct in the future," an ISPR statement stated.

The PTI and the military establishment's rigid stance against each other is quite visible even after one year as both sides are not willing to concede ground.

"The PTI needs to acknowledge that it acted in an extremely irresponsible manner by leading its supporters towards such an unacceptable reaction. Thousands were targeted in reprisals by the state, and the events of the day accelerated the expansion of unelected forces and their influence in the state's legislative and administrative apparatus," said senior political analyst Javed Siddique.

"On the other hand, the state too, is not innocent. Rather than acting with restraint, it responded with extreme measures that reminded us of the past dictatorships," he added.

notice signed by its chairman R.M.A.L. Ratnayake said it will call for nominations to hold the Presidential election within the specified timeframe in terms of the provisions of the Constitution, Daily Mirror reported.

"By virtue of the powers vested with the Election Commission to fix the date for the election, it will hold the Presidential election between 17 September 2024 and l6 October 2024," the notice said. Sri Lanka last held its presidential election in November 2019.

Several Sri Lankan parties have declared their candidates for the election, Xinhua news agency reported.

Former Fijian PM, police commissioner face jail sentences

May

Bainimarama has been sentenced to one-year imprisonment after being charged with one count of attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Suspended Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho has been sentenced to two years imprisonment for the charge of abuse of office, according to local media reports

on Thursday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Reports said Bainimarama had directed the suspended police commissioner to stop an investigation into a police complaint on a University of the South Pacific matter in 2020. They have 30 days to appeal, said acting Chief Justice Salesi Temo. Bainimarama, who is also the leader of FijiFirst Party, will not be able to contest in the next general election, but his party leadership does not change, FijiFirst's Acting Secretary Faiyaz Koya told the media. According to the 2013 Fijian Constitution, individuals are barred from contesting an election if they have been convicted of any offence in the eight years prior to being nominated, for which the maximum penalty under the law is a prison term of 12 months or more.

Suva,

9 (IANS) Former Fijian Prime Minister Voreqe

India showcases its progress in Green Hydrogen at World Summit in Netherlands

Rotterdam (Netherlands), May 14 (IANS) India has set up one of the largest pavilions at the World Hydrogen Summit 2024, being held here, to showcase the country's progress in the field of Green Hydrogen.

The India Pavilion, set up by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy is at the Summit and has been inaugurated by Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Bhupinder S. Bhalla on May 12.

The World Hydrogen Summit, being held in Rotterdam in Netherlands from May 13 to 15, is

a prestigious event in the global green hydrogen ecosystem. Around 15,000 delegates from around the world are attending the Summit.

The Indian delegation headed by Bhalla also comprises officials from the Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and from private sector companies as well.

In addition to various government-government interactions, the summit provides a platform for Indian industry to engage with companies from around the globe.

India launched its National Green Hydrogen Mission in January 2023 with an overall outlay of Rs 19,744 crore and has set an ambitious target to achieve a green hydrogen production capacity of 5 million metric tonnes by end of 2030. Till date, the Ministry

of New & Renewable Energy has awarded tenders for setting up of 412,000 tonnes of Green Hydrogen production capacity and 1,500 MW of electrolyser manufacturing capacity.

India has also notified scheme guidelines for use of Green Hydrogen in steel, transport/ mobility and shipping sectors. The Department of Science and Technology has initiated Hydrogen Valley Innovation Clusters to foster innovation and promote Green Hydrogen ecosystem in India.

A dedicated portal for the National Green Hydrogen Mission has been launched recently, to serve as a one-stop location for information on the Mission and steps taken for the development of the green hydrogen ecosystem in India. The portal can be accessed here: https://nghm. mnre.gov.in/.

Palestinian death toll in Gaza tops 35,000: Health authorities

Gaza, May 13 (IANS) The Palestinian death toll from ongoing Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip has exceeded 35,000,

health authorities in Gaza said in a press statement.

During the past 24 hours, the Israeli army killed 63 Palestinians and wounded 114 others, bringing the total death toll to 35,034 and injuries to 78,755 since the Palestinian-Israeli conflict broke out last October, it said on Sunday as quoted by Xinhua news agency report.

The statement noted that several victims were still under the rubble, and ambulance and civil defence crews could not reach them.

Israel has been launching a largescale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on October 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and around 250 were taken hostage.

Death toll from Afghanistan’s floods exceeds 330

Kabul, May 11 (IANS) More than 330 people have been killed as rainstorms and flash floods hit major parts of the provinces of Baghlan, Takhar, Badakhshan and

Ghor of Afghanistan, according to the Afghanistan office of the World Food Programme and local Afghan officials, Xinhua news agency reported.

The UN agency said Saturday on social media that more than 300 people have been killed in northern Baghlan province alone, with more than 1,000 houses destroyed.

"WFP is now distributing fortified biscuits to the survivors," it said.

Local officials said on Saturday that at least 160 people have been killed and 117 others injured as rainstorms and flash floods hit major parts of the provinces of Baghlan, Takhar, Badakhshan and Ghor of war-ravaged Afghanistan. Afghanistan has been experiencing heavy rain and floods in the past month, leading to casualties and property damage.

EU member states to finalise overhaul of migration and asylum law

Brussels, May 14 (IANS/DPA)

Ministers from the member states of the European Union will meet in Brussels on Tuesday to finalise a massive overhaul of the bloc's migration and asylum laws. The new body of law is the product of years of fierce debate, which came to a head in a tense European Parliament vote on

April 11. Protesters disrupted the vote, throwing paper aeroplanes across the chamber and chanting, "This pact kills, vote no!"

The new law requires all 27 EU member states to take some responsibility for managing asylum applications but also makes the rules stricter for applicants.

Therefore, it has been attacked by both those who want to reduce immigration and campaigners who want to make it easier for people to come to the EU.

For the latter group, the most contentious part of the package involves establishing border

It is in our common interest that we reach an understanding to take our relationship forward, EAM Jaishankar tells Maldives Foreign Minister

New Delhi, May 9 (IANS) India on Thursday reminded Maldives that it has been a key provider of development assistance to the island nation and several projects funded by New Delhi have benefited the lives of thousands of people in the country.

"India has been a key provider of development assistance to the Maldives. Our projects have benefited the lives of people of your country; contributed directly to the quality of life. They range from infrastructure projects and social initiatives to medical evacuation and health facilities," External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said during his meeting with Moosa Zameer, Foreign Minister of Maldives, who is on his first official visit to India since assuming office.

In his opening remarks, Jaishankar mentioned India extending financial support to Maldives "on favourable terms" in the past and also mentioned New Delhi being the "first responder" on numerous occasions.

"Our cooperation has also enhanced the security and wellbeing of your country through shared activities, equipment

provisioning, capacity building and training. It is in our common interest that we reach an understanding on how best we take our relationship forward," said the EAM.

The meeting, Jaishankar stated, was an opportunity to discuss the mutual relationship and chart out future directions.

"As close and proximate neighbours, the development of our ties is obviously based on mutual interests and reciprocal sensitivity. As far as India is concerned, these are articulated in terms of our 'Neighbourhood First' policy and 'SAGAR' vision," he said.

In spite of the recent sour ties between the two neighbouring countries after President Mohamed Muizzu came to power in Maldives last year, India recently announced limited exports of essential goods including sugar, wheat, rice, onions and eggs as a goodwill gesture.

"A pleasure to meet with Dr. S. Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs of India, in New Delhi. We reflected on our long history of bilateral partnership shared by mutual respect and understanding. We exchanged perspectives on increasing engagement and exchanges between Maldives and India, both bilaterally and in the international arena," Zameer posted on X after the meeting with Jaishankar.

US agency releases preliminary report on Baltimore bridge collapse

Washington, May 15 (IANS)

facilities in the EU to host asylum seekers and to screen and quickly send back applicants found to be ineligible. Applicants will spend up to 12 weeks in reception centres, waiting for a decision.

On the other hand, EU member states experiencing significant spikes in asylum applications may call for the applicants to be distributed to other EU countries. The relocation mechanism has drawn opposition from leaders trying to reduce migration to their countries, such as Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who are seldom found on the same side of major EU political debates.

The cargo ship Dali that hit and destroyed the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, in March had experienced a loss of electrical power and propulsion before the incident, according to a preliminary report released by the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

The report pieces together a detailed timeline of the events that occurred in the time leading up to the Dali striking pier no. 17 of the Key Bridge, the bridge's subsequent collapse and initial search and rescue and recovery efforts for the road maintenance crewmembers, reports Xinhua news agency.

The Singapore-flagged steelhulled general cargo vessel was 0.6 miles (0.96 km) -- or three ship lengths -- from the Key Bridge when electrical breakers that fed most of the vessel's equipment and lighting

unexpectedly opened.

This caused the first blackout to all shipboard lighting and most equipment, including the main engine cooling water pumps and steering gear pumps, said the report, adding that the loss of electrical power stopped all three steering pumps, and, therefore, the rudder was unable to be moved.

The Dali crew was able to restore electrical power to the vessel, but when the ship was 0.2 miles (0.32 km) from the bridge, a second electrical blackout occurred.

The Dali's starboard bow struck pier no. 17 of the Key Bridge at 6.5 knots. Six spans of the bridge subsequently collapsed into the water and across the ship's bow, it said.

On March 25, about 10 hours before leaving Baltimore, the Dali experienced a blackout during in-port maintenance when a crewmember mistakenly closed an inline engine exhaust damper. According to the report, the crewmembers restored vessel power before a second blackout occurred, which was related to insufficient fuel pressure for the online generator.

From the editor’s desk

Why Modi’s return to power matters

Indian Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi's quest for a third term in office signifies more than just a political ambition; it embodies a collective aspiration of millions who find resonance in his leadership across the diverse fabric of Indian society. As PM Modi filed his nomination papers from the Varanasi parliamentary seat for the Lok Sabha elections, the event not only symbolized his personal journey but also underscored the unwavering support he commands from various sections of the population.

PM Modi's proposers, hailing from diverse backgrounds and social strata, exemplify the broad appeal he enjoys.

From Pandit Ganeshwar Shastri, Lalchand Kushwaha, Baijnath Patel to Sanjay Sonkar, each representing different communities, their unified endorsement underscores PM Modi's ability to transcend traditional divides and foster inclusivity within his political realm.

His long standing connection with Varanasi, where he is contesting for the third consecutive term, further amplifies his stature as a representative deeply ingrained in the local ethos. Despite the demands of his role as the Prime Minister, PM Modi has consistently prioritized the concerns of his parliamentary constituency, reflecting his unwavering commitment to grassroots governance.

Critics may attempt to paint PM Modi as a Hindu hardliner, yet such accusations fail to acknowledge his track record of fairness and impartiality towards every segment of society. His detractors, uncomfortable with his decisive leadership and bold decision-making, often resort to unjust criticism, overlooking the tangible progress and development initiatives spearheaded under his stewardship.

The transformative impact witnessed in Varanasi under PM Modi's tenure serves as a testament to his vision and resolve. The Kashi-Vishwanath Corridor stands as a tangible testament to his commitment to revitalizing cultural heritage and infrastructure alike. The city's metamorphosis from neglect to rejuvenation exemplifies PM Modi's governance philosophy, where no challenge is too daunting to overcome.

PM Modi's appeal extends far beyond partisan lines, transcending political

affiliations to embody a beacon of hope for a brighter future. His leadership has instilled a sense of optimism and aspiration among millions, inspiring confidence in India's trajectory of growth and development.

As PM Modi seeks a historic third term, his candidature represents not just continuity but a reaffirmation of the transformative agenda he espouses. His vision for India transcends mere electoral politics, embodying a holistic blueprint for inclusive growth and prosperity.

In contrast to his predecessors, PM Modi's tenure has been marked by proactive governance and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His unparalleled dedication to service has set a benchmark for leadership, challenging conventional norms and raising the bar for political stewardship.

The overwhelming support witnessed during PM Modi's nomination filing reflects the deep-seated faith and trust reposed in his leadership. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life, coupled with his unwavering commitment to their welfare, underscores the significance of his continued tenure as Prime Minister.

In the face of adversities and naysayers, PM Modi's resilience and determination remain unwavering. His journey from a humble tea-seller to the helm of the world's largest democracy epitomizes the transformative power of perseverance and dedication.

As India stands at the cusp of a new era, PM Modi's leadership offers a beacon of hope and inspiration for millions. His return to power is not just a political mandate but a reaffirmation of the collective aspirations of a nation poised for greatness.

Moreover, when the world looks at India as a country with tremendous potential to do good for the global population, they also look for a leader who understands the importance of global progress. Modi thinks about the wellbeing of the people of India; but in doing so, he also thinks about the welfare of other people of the world. India under the leadership of Modi does not shy away from asserting itself on the global platform. But when India asserts itself in any of the international forums, it also talks about other countries of the world, especially about the interests of the developing countries. This has been a key difference from the past that Modi’s presence brings to the country, and to the world.

Vibrant democracy: Tamil Nadu’s electoral chronicle unfolds

Tamil Nadu, the southern bastion of Indian politics, witnessed a kaleidoscope of electoral fervour during the third phase of the Lok Sabha Elections 2024. As the state emerged as a pivotal battleground, each constituency etched its unique narrative in the annals of democratic history. With a resounding voter turnout of 65.19% across all 39 constituencies during the first phase, Tamil Nadu showcased its unwavering commitment to the democratic process. Notably, the bustling metropolis of Chennai witnessed a remarkable surge in voter participation, marking a historic milestone with the highest turnout recorded since 1980 across its three Lok Sabha parliamentary constituencies. The crescendo of civic engagement reached its zenith in the final hours of polling, as citizens

embraced their role in shaping the nation's destiny.

However, amidst the electoral euphoria, allegations of malpractice surfaced, casting a shadow over the electoral landscape. Vinoj P Selvam, the BJP candidate from central Chennai constituency, raised concerns regarding alleged malpractice by the DMK, citing the deletion of approximately 70 to 80 names from each booth. These accusations underscore the intricacies and challenges inherent in the electoral process, highlighting the need for vigilance and transparency to uphold the sanctity of democracy.

Despite the contentious backdrop, the polling process unfolded with remarkable tranquility and orderliness. From the bustling streets of Chennai to the serene hamlets of rural

Tamil Nadu, voters exercised their franchise with diligence and determination, underscoring the ethos of peaceful coexistence and democratic ethos ingrained within the state's cultural fabric. The absence of significant incidents disrupting the voting process reaffirmed Tamil Nadu's reputation as a beacon of electoral integrity and harmony.

As the electoral saga of Tamil Nadu continues to unfold, each phase bears witness to the collective aspirations and voices of its diverse populace.

Amidst the cacophony of political rhetoric and fervent campaigning, the essence of democracy thrives in the hearts and minds of every Tamilian, transcending barriers of caste, creed, and ideology.

In the mosaic of India's electoral landscape, Tamil Nadu emerges as a vibrant canvas where the hues of democracy paint a story of resilience and fervor. Here, amidst the bustling streets and tranquil villages, every vote becomes a brushstroke, shaping the destiny of the state and echoing the collective aspirations of its people. As the electoral saga unfolds, Tamil Nadu stands as a beacon of democratic fervor, where the spirit of civic engagement transcends barriers and resonates with the essence of freedom and empowerment.

Inspiring the youth: Lessons from the legendary Kumar Sanu

In the fast-paced world of today, where trends come and go, and fame is often fleeting, there's something timeless about the allure of legends like Kumar Sanu. His recent visit to Brisbane, Australia, served as a reminder of the enduring impact of his artistry and the invaluable lessons he imparts, especially to the youth of today.

Embracing humanity

One of the most striking aspects of Kumar Sanu's persona is his humility and grounded nature. Despite achieving unparalleled success, he remains firmly rooted in his principles and values instilled by his upbringing. His belief in treating everyone with respect and dignity, irrespective

of their social status, serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing humanity above all else.

Upholding integrity

In an industry often marred by opportunism and exploitation, Kumar Sanu's commitment to integrity stands as a shining example. His refusal to engage in unethical practices, such as leveraging his position for personal gain, underscores the significance of upholding moral values even in the face of temptation. His emphasis on honesty and fairness resonates deeply in a world where integrity is often compromised for shortterm gains.

Striving for excellence

Kumar Sanu's unparalleled dedication to his craft exemplifies the essence of perseverance and diligence. His world record of singing 28 songs in a single day, borne out of sheer determination and commitment, serves as a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence. His journey reminds us that success is not merely a product of talent but is achieved through unwavering hard work and perseverance.

Fostering inclusivity

One of the most endearing qualities of Kumar Sanu is

his ability to connect with his audience on a personal level. His inclusive approach, characterized by humility and accessibility, creates a sense of camaraderie that transcends barriers. By actively engaging with his audience and encouraging their participation, he breaks down the barriers between artist and audience, fostering a sense of unity and belonging.

Cultivating ideals

In an era dominated by instant gratification and superficial fame, Kumar Sanu's journey serves as a beacon of hope for the youth of today. His emphasis on cultivating ideals and principles, grounded in humanity and integrity, offers a timeless blueprint for success. By prioritizing character over celebrity, he exemplifies the transformative power of embodying noble ideals in one's journey towards greatness. As we reflect on Kumar Sanu's illustrious career and the profound impact he continues to have on generations, let us heed the invaluable lessons he imparts. In a world fraught with challenges and uncertainties, his legacy serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path towards a future defined by integrity, humility, and excellence.

A watershed moment in Pakistan’s history

New Delhi, May 8 (IANS) Since its inception in 1947, the Pakistani Army has been a dominant force in the nation's affairs. Over the course of nearly eight decades, it has wielded power directly or indirectly, morphing into the most formidable economic and political entity in Pakistan.

The Pakistani military has built an expansive economic empire, leveraging its deep-seated political influence. Despite its engagement in significant wars and its role in the partition of the country in 1971, the Army has largely been insulated from overt criticism, shielded by its profound political clout.

However, the events of May 9, 2023, mark a pivotal chapter in Pakistan's history.

For the first time, the Pakistani populace boldly confronted the army's political meddling.

In response, the military resorted to severe measures to quell opposition, detaining hundreds of civilians and political activists under draconian legislations. What was once perceived as impregnable military sanctity was breached on that day, highlighting growing anti-military sentiment across the nation.

In the past seven decades of its existence, Pakistan has been under direct martial law for more than three decades. Even

the Pakistani political leadership have in general ruled the country in connivance with the military, often placing their personal gains above Pakistan's national interests.

Pakistani politicians, due to their own vulnerabilities, have frequently ceded their authority, allowing the military to overstep institutional boundaries. Even the Pakistani intelligentsia, who critique the military's ongoing political interference, have consistently faced harsh suppression by the military, resulting in a domestic media that predominantly promotes promilitary narratives.

In the past decade, the Pakistani military's overt meddling in the nation's affairs has often been masked by ostensibly civilian governance, however, its covert political influence persisted relentlessly.

This interference is largely driven by the need to maintain its vast, extra-constitutional business empire. As Pakistani writer Ayesha Siddiqa outlines in her book 'Military Inc.: Inside Pakistan's Military Economy', the Pakistan Army has built a comprehensive commercial network spanning from manufacturing to real estate, becoming Pakistan's largest business conglomerate. She details how the army has commandeered national resources, detrimentally impacting the state economy. Particularly alarming is the robustness of this military economy, known as 'milbus', which thrives independently of Pakistan's economic crises

and operates outside the state's accountability structures.

This system has been manipulated for the personal gain of military officers, exacerbating the economic challenges being faced by Pakistan.

The military's encroachment into Pakistan's political realm has been widely acknowledged, yet its extensive security apparatus has stifled public dissent against its constitutional manipulations and violations.

Since the late 1970s, following the execution of Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto by General Zia-ul-Haq, Pakistani political leaders had conceded the political arena to the Army, effectively adopting a secondary role in the governance of the country.

However, Imran Khan's ascent had shaken this longstanding arrangement.

Ironically, Imran Khan's rise in 2018 Pakistan elections was aided by Pakistani military however, the relationship between Khan and the military establishment quickly deteriorated in first two years.

Unlike his more accommodating predecessors, Nawaz Sharif and Asif Zardari, Khan presented a formidable challenge for the military leadership to control, marking a shift from the usual dynamics of political compliance. Imran Khan's tenure had marked a distinctive chapter in Pakistan's political history when Pakistani military's political meddling came in forefront of public debate.

He has been openly blaming key military figures, including former Army Chief Qamar Bajwa, current Army Chief Asim Munir, ISI

Chief Nadeem Anjum, and Major General Faisal Naseer, for not only orchestrating his removal from the PM office but also for undermining Pakistan's civilian institutions.

Significantly, this accusation was validated by none other than Qamar Javed Bajwa himself, who in his November 2022 farewell address, had confessed to the Pak Army's "constant meddling in politics over the past 70 years, which is unconstitutional".

In such circumstances, the events of May 9, 2023, assume profound significance in Pakistan's history especially for Military Establishment.

The arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan by the military on May 9, 2023, catalysed a remarkable shift in Pakistan's socio-political landscape.

Imran Khan was taken into custody by Pak military forces under the charges for sedition, an action that sparked a nationwide uproar.

For the first time in Pakistan's history, the unrest did not just manifest in widespread protests; it escalated dramatically as hundreds of demonstrators targeted military installations from Lahore to Quetta to Peshawar. This unprecedented response severely dented Pakistan Military's long-held image as an inviolable and sacrosanct institution.

Historically, the Military has been revered as the protector of Pakistan's ideological foundation and as a pivotal unifying force in a country rife with ethnic divisions.

Pak Military establishments

had effectively elevated their status to one beyond ordinary scrutiny, where any criticism of the military was often seen as tantamount to criticising the essence of Pakistan itself.

The events of May 9, therefore, signify a critical juncture, indicating a possible shift in public perception and the beginning of a new chapter where Pak military's actions and its role in governance might face increasing scrutiny from the public it vows to protect.

While Pak Military might have temporarily managed to quell dissent using its typical suppressive tactics, such as imprisoning hundreds of civilians and political activists affiliated with Imran Khan, the fact that ordinary Pakistanis have become aware of the military establishment's schemes indicates that the public can no longer be easily subdued or deceived.

This sentiment became particularly evident during Pakistan's general elections on February 8, where the military establishment deployed every tool at its disposal to manipulate the outcome.

Despite these manoeuvres, the strong electoral support for Imran Khan deeply unsettled the Military leadership. Although the Military Establishment eventually managed to orchestrate the installation of a government led by Shehbaz Sharif, this act only served to further tarnish its image among the Pakistani populace. Consequently, the events of May 9 seem to have inspired a renewed push towards the democratic aspiration of extricating the Pak Military Establishment from the country's political sphere.

Despite objections from Opposition parties, PoK becoming part of India is reality: HM Shah

Kolkata, May 15 (IANS) Despite opposition from a section of political parties in the country, the event of Pakistan-Occupied

Kashmir (PoK) becoming an integral part of India is now a reality, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Wednesday. “Rahul Gandhi might oppose it. Mamata Banerjee might oppose it. But now it is a reality that PoK will be a part of India,” HM Shah said while addressing an election meeting.

HM Shah was in Serampore Lok Sabha in Hooghly District on Wednesday in support of BJP candidate Kabir Shankar Bose.

According to HM Shah, it is to the credit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that “azadi (freedom)”

slogans are now raised in PoK instead of Jammu & Kashmir.

“Previously ‘azadi’ slogans were raised in Jammu & Kashmir. Now those slogans are being raised in PoK. Previously stone-pelting incidents took place in Jammu & Kashmir, those things are now happening in PoK. So, however the Opposition parties might oppose it, no power can stop PoK from becoming a part of India,” HM Shah said.

He added that the current Lok Sabha elections were a contest between dynastic parties on one side and a dedicated and honest

politician coming from a humble background on the other.

“Mamata Banerjee wants her nephew to succeed her as the chief minister. Sharad Pawar wants his daughter to be the chief minister. Even Stalin wants to see his son as the chief minister.

Above all Sonia Gandhi wants Rahul Baba to become the prime minister of the country. On the other side, there is an honest and dedicated leader born in the family of a tea-seller,” he said.

HM Shah drew a comparison between Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and PM Modi.

“On one hand Rahul Gandhi makes frequent trips to Bangkok, on the other hand, the Prime

Minister spends his Diwali in the midst of the Indian Army jawans and has sweets with them,” he said.

Taking a swipe at the Mamata Banerjee-led government, he referred to the legendary Indian movie, ‘Hirak Rajar Deshe (In the land of diamond king)’, directed by the iconic film-maker late Satyajit Ray, which depicted the rise and fall of an autocratic and oppressive ruler.

According to HM Shah, had Ray been alive now he would surely have directed a movie titled ‘Hirak Ranir Deshe (In the land of diamond queen).’

Democra-crazy: The joyful chaos of Indian elections

In India, elections aren't just a civic duty; they're a full-blown extravaganza, complete with drama, humour, and everything in between. From the chaiwallah on the street corner to the seasoned political leaders, everyone gets swept up in the whirlwind of democracy. Months before the big day, the air crackles with excitement as parties unleash their campaigns. Politicians don their finest khadi kurtas and hit the road, armed with catchy slogans and promises as grand as a Bollywood blockbuster. Meanwhile, the streets transform into a carnival of colors, with vibrant rallies and spirited debates at every turn. Chaotic yet exhilarating, it's democracy in its rawest, most unfiltered form.But it's not just the politicians who

steal the show; the common folk have their moments of glory too. Whether it's the elderly aunties fiercely debating politics over their morning tea or the local vendors doling out electionthemed snacks, everyone plays a part in this democratic spectacle.

And when the dust finally settles and the votes are cast, India celebrates in true desi style—with fireworks, street dances, and endless cups of steaming chai. After all, in the world's largest democracy, every election is a reason to party!

India’s data centre capacity to double to 2,000 MW by 2026, green energy is the key

Mumbai, May 8 (IANS) India's data centre capacity is set to double to reach 2000 MW by 2026, as the country transitions towards a developed market economy amid a rise in 'green energy' solutions, a report showed on Wednesday. The growth plans have also created substantial investment prospects, with a likely capex of Rs 50,000 crore in this space over the next three years till 2026, according to the report by CareEdge Ratings.

The data centre industry is expected to clock a revenue growth of 32 per cent during

FY24-FY26.

While India generates about 20 per cent of global data, in terms of data centre capacity, it has a share of just 3 per cent.

However, the wave of digitisation, driven by the expansion of e-commerce, fintech platforms, online streaming, and gaming services, is anticipated to increase the number of internet users and boost internet penetrationgenerating a robust demand for data centres.

"The capacity addition of 1.1 GW in data centre space needs to be corroborated with increased absorption in future/medium term, as cashflow stability is an important consideration for the debt-funded investments," explained Puja Jalan, Associate Director, CareEdge Ratings. In India, AdaniConneX aims to

build an environmentally and socially conscious 1GW data centre infrastructure platform by leveraging the complementary capacity of the Adani Group and EdgeConneX, one of the largest private data centre operators. Last month, AdaniConneX established the country's largest sustainability-linked financing to raise up to $1.44 billion.

According to the report, the adoption of technologies such as 5G, IoT, and artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to significantly augment demand for data and, in turn, data centres.

"Per MW cost in India for setting up data centres has witnessed escalation due to incremental land, equipment and other soft costs with new capacities now being set up at a cost of Rs 60-70 crore/MW," the report mentioned.

India-Taiwan trade may reach $25

billion via investments,

tech sharing

Mumbai, May 8 (IANS) As IndiaTaiwan economic partnership grows significantly in recent years, the trade between the two countries may reach $25 billion via investment and technology sharing, industry leaders have said.

Peter Huang, specialist of South Asia section (Market Development Department), Taiwan External Trade Development Council, who led a high-level delegation here, said that India is a friendly and hospitable country for Taiwanese industry.

"Our commercial relation is

growing from strength to strength and this is our 15th business delegation to India," Huang said.

"India is still an untapped market for Taiwanese firms and there is huge trade and investment potential in India, especially in electronics, auto-components, machineries, food processing, medical devices and other sectors," he emphasised.

Taiwan has considered India as a critical partner under its 'New Southbound Policy' and both countries have also signed migration agreements to allow Indian workers to be employed in Taiwanese industries.

Vijay Kalantri, Chairman, MVIRDC World Trade Center Mumbai, said that India-Taiwan economic relation is at an inflection point.

"For the first time, India conferred Padma Bhushan award to CEO of Foxconn, Young Liu, which is testimony to the strengthening of our bond," he mentioned.

The Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre (TECC) is also planning to set up a third office in India.

"Both the countries should grow bilateral trade to $25 billion, from the current level of $8 billion through partnership in investment and technology cooperation," industry leaders noted.

Of the $8 billion bilateral trade, Taiwan exports $6 billion and imports hardly $2 billion from India.

"In future, we are committed to facilitating our commercial partnerships in electronics, shipbuilding, and other sectors of mutual interests," Kalantri said.

Indian airlines poised to capture 50% of country’s global passenger traffic: CRISL

New Delhi, May 6 (IANS) The airlines in India are poised to capture 50 per cent share of the country’s international passenger traffic by 2027-28 with a 7 per cent jump in market share from 43 per cent at present, according to a CRISIL report released on Monday.

The report points out that Indian airlines, such as Air India and IndiGo, are strategically adding new aircraft to their fleets and launching new international

routes which are cutting travel time.

According to the CRISIL report, Indian airlines have the advantage of superior domestic connectivity compared to their foreign competitors, which serve only select Indian cities. This enables Indian carriers to offer end-toend international connectivity on a single ticket to travellers from tier 2 and tier 3 cities.

"Increasing disposable incomes, easing visa requirements, growing number of airports and enhanced air travel connectivity are boosting international travel," said Manish Gupta, Senior Director and Deputy Chief Ratings Officer at CRISIL Ratings.

How India is set to beat China in overall GDP growth sooner than expected

New Delhi, May 9 (IANS) A robust gross domestic product (GDP) growth, continuous thrust on manufacturing with global giants (like Apple) strengthening their local supply chains, top American corporate honchos praising the overall development under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and political stability ensure that India is in a position to pip China on most economic parameters faster than expected.

If we look at the economic growth, India’s GDP growth has been exceeding China's for a few years now.

While India clocked GDP growth at around 7.5 per cent in 2023, China's growth hovered around 5 per cent. For the first quarter (Q1) this year, China’s GDP grew 5.3 per cent. On a quarter-onquarter basis, it grew a mere 1.6 per cent.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has pegged India's growth projection to 6.8 per cent this year, an increase of 0.3 per cent over its January update, while China’s GDP growth has been pegged at 4.6 per cent in 2024 and is expected to slow down further to 4.1 per cent in 2025.

The IMF even projects China's growth declining towards 3.5 per cent in 2028 and estimates that by 2027, India will become the world’s third-largest economy, after the US and China.

On Thursday, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that PM Modi’s government will be formed again for a third term and India's economy will reach third place globally (behind the US and China) from fifth place in the coming year or so – faster than what is being projected. According to the government's Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) V. Anantha Nageswaran, there is a high possibility of India's economic growth even touching 8 per cent in 2023-24.

RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das said recently that India's GDP growth for 2024-25 is projected at 7 per cent – way ahead than China’s growth which is faltering. The world has also acknowledged India’s growing economic clout.

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon recently praised PM Modi for having "done an unbelievable job" and billionaire investor Warren Buffett said that India holds “unexplored” opportunities for Berkshire Hathaway. Apple CEO Tim Cook called the country “an incredibly exciting market while Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk look forward to visiting India later this year.

According to IMF data, India's per capita GDP in 2024 has increased to $2,850 which works out to 42 per cent of the $6,770 for its peer countries. It means that the gap has been narrowed, with India's economic performance being better than the other emerging economies in the last 10 years.

A decade ago, India was the 10th largest economy, with a GDP of $1.9 trillion.

Startup hiring surges in India, freshers to grab 53 pc jobs: Report

The government's focus on making India a hub for tourism is also expected to provide a fillip to inbound traffic.

“To capitalise on the growth in international travel, Indian airlines are investing in widebody and long-range narrowbody aircraft for network expansion, adding new international routes and introducing long-haul nonstop flights to key destinations., said Ankit Kedia, Director, CRISIL Ratings.

Thus, international passenger traffic is likely to clock a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10-11 per cent over the next four fiscals, against a mere 5 per cent CAGR in the four years before the pandemic, he added.

Bengaluru, May 9 (IANS) The Indian startup ecosystem saw a 37 per cent increase in the number of new companies in April, leading to a 14 per cent surge in the number of jobs, a report showed on Thursday.

Nearly 53 per cent of all startup jobs are directed towards freshers, according to the report by talent platform foundit (formerly Monster APAC & ME).

Overall hiring activity witnessed a 9 per cent monthly uptick and a 9 per cent yearly increase.

“Additionally, the production and manufacturing sector has witnessed a remarkable 31 per cent year-on-year surge in hiring,” said Sekhar Garisa, CEO, foundit.

Startups in the IT (information technology) services sector noticed a steady increase in jobs, from 20 per cent to 23 per cent between April 2023 and April this year.

In contrast, startups in the internet, BFSI/fintech, and media and entertainment industries witnessed a slight decline in hiring.

Meanwhile, startups in the education/e-learning/edtech industries reported stable growth in April, suggesting a period of stability within the industry, the report mentioned.

Bengaluru, Delhi-NCR and Mumbai are leading as startup hubs.

“However, India’s startup ecosystem is rapidly expanding beyond these metros, with nonmetro locations increasingly emerging as entrepreneurial hubs,” said the report.

Jaipur leads the growth metrics with a whopping 24 per cent yearly increase in hiring, followed by Kolkata.

Commerce Secretary of India leads productive business roundtable in Sydney

Sydney, April 30 (Australia India Newsdesk)

Commerce Secretary of India, Sunil Bhartwal, spearheaded a high-level delegation to Australia, culminating in a series of productive business roundtable discussions held at the Consulate in Sydney. The engaging dialogues brought together key stakeholders from both nations with the

aim of identifying avenues for overcoming challenges and maximizing opportunities in bilateral trade and investment.

Amidst a backdrop of growing economic ties between Australia and India, the roundtable discussions served as a platform for robust exchanges of ideas and insights. Participants explored strategies to enhance

collaboration across various sectors, leveraging each other's strengths to drive sustainable economic growth and prosperity.

Led by Commerce Secretary Bhartwal, the delegation underscored India's commitment to fostering closer economic cooperation with Australia. Their discussions focused on identifying key areas of mutual

interest and devising innovative solutions to address shared challenges, laying the groundwork for deeper engagement and partnership between the two nations.

From exploring opportunities in trade facilitation and investment promotion to fostering innovation and technology exchange, stakeholders deliberated on a

wide range of issues aimed at unlocking the full potential of the Australia-India economic relationship. By fostering an environment of openness and collaboration, the roundtable discussions sought to pave the way for mutually beneficial partnerships that would drive prosperity and progress for both countries.

AIBC explores opportunities for enhanced trade and investment

Brisbane, May 14 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

In a bid to bolster economic ties between Australia and India, the Australia India Business Council (AIBC) recently convened a meeting with Neetu Bhaagotiya and her team to discuss avenues for fostering trade and investment collaborations. Led by Nik Senapati, AIBC’s Queensland Chapter president, and Namrata Datt, Queensland Committee Member, the meeting delved into various initiatives aimed at strengthening the bilateral relationship.

Central to the discussion was the Australia India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement, along with anticipation surrounding the forthcoming Australia India Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement. Additionally, participants explored the Queensland India Trade and Investment Strategy 2023-27, as well as

other collaborative efforts by governmental bodies at both federal and state levels to catalyze partnerships.

Highlighting the significance of the Indian market, particularly in Queensland, where India stands as a major trading partner, the meeting underscored the substantial presence of Indian organizations within the state.

With an estimated Indian diaspora of around 130,000 individuals and counting, Queensland continues to witness a surge in economic and cultural exchanges between the two nations.

The AIBC, operating in close coordination with the High Commission of India in Canberra and the Indian Consulate Generals in Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, plays a pivotal role in facilitating business-to-business engagements. With a new chapter of cooperation on the horizon, spurred by the establishment of the Consulate General in

Brisbane, the AIBC aims to create a conducive environment for Australian and Indian enterprises to thrive and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Queensland Telugu Association hosts spectacular Ugadi event in Brisbane

Brisbane, May 5 (Australia India New Newsdesk)

The Queensland Telugu Association showcased the vibrant culture and traditions of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana as they hosted a captivating Ugadi event on April 20. The celebration, held in Brisbane, featured a lineup of mesmerizing performances that left an indelible mark on all

attendees.

Attendees were treated to enchanting performances by a variety of talented artists and groups, including Kundani Kasari, Lakshmi Garudampalli, Mango Hill Kids group, Palakabalapam kids, Aravi School of Dance, Violin, The Rhythms Dance group, Natanam School, and Dancing Feet Dance group.

Each performance showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Telugu-speaking regions of India, captivating the audience with traditional music, dance, and theatrical displays.

One of the highlights of the event was a special musical tribute to the legendary playback singer SP Balasubrahmanyam (SPB) by talented overseas singers

Sreesutha Nampally and Ravi Muthumanickam. Their soulful renditions of SPB's iconic songs resonated deeply with the audience, evoking nostalgia and admiration for the late maestro.

The event was expertly emceed by Siddharth Nagpurkar, Ramya Raparty, and Padmapriya Nori, who guided attendees through the program with their engaging

commentary and stage presence. Overall, the Ugadi event hosted by the Queensland Telugu Association was a resounding success, bringing together members of the Telugu community in Brisbane to celebrate the joyous occasion of Ugadi and showcase the rich cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Consulate General of India hosts roundtable discussion on net zero initiatives

Sydney, May 1 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

In a concerted effort to address the pressing global issue of climate change, the Consulate General of India, in collaboration with New Land Global, convened a thought-provoking roundtable

discussion on "Net Zero: Opportunities and Challenges."

The engaging dialogue brought together a diverse array of stakeholders to explore strategies and solutions aimed at achieving carbon neutrality.

High Commissioner Gopal

Baglay and Consul General Dr. S Janakiraman lent their insights and expertise to the discussions, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action in combating climate change. Their remarks underscored the critical role of partnerships and collaboration

in driving meaningful progress towards a sustainable future.

Throughout the roundtable discussions, participants delved into the multifaceted aspects of achieving net-zero emissions, examining both the opportunities and challenges inherent in this

ambitious endeavour. From harnessing renewable energy sources to implementing innovative technologies and fostering sustainable practices, stakeholders exchanged ideas and best practices aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Bhagat Sain’s 524th birth anniversary celebrated with reverence in Perth

Perth, May 6 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The timeless teachings and spiritual legacy of Bhagat Sain, a revered saint of the Bhakti movement whose bani resonates within the sacred verses of the Guru Granth Sahib, were honoured and celebrated in Perth, recently. Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi and Smt.

Takhi graced the commemorative event, joining devotees in paying homage to the revered saint.

Hosted by Shri Ram Katha Sansthan at the Perth Bala Murugan Temple, the event unfolded with reverence and devotion as Dr. Yatendra Sharma, president and founder of Shri Ram Katha Sansthan Perth, illuminated the life and teachings of Bhagat Sain through

captivating narratives. As devotees immersed themselves in the spiritual ambiance, they gained deeper insights into the profound wisdom and enduring legacy of the saint.

A highlight of the event was the launch of the book "Shri Lalita Sahasranam Stotram," authored by Dr. Yatendra Sharma, which was inaugurated by Smt. Takhi. The book launch

marked a significant milestone in the dissemination of spiritual knowledge and enlightenment, further enriching the spiritual journey of devotees.

In a soul-stirring display of devotion and reverence, devotees from the Vedic Training and Cultural Services (VTCS) collectively recited the Sanskrit shlokas from the "Shri Lalita Sahasranam Stotram," fostering

an atmosphere of spiritual rejuvenation, inner peace, and tranquility.

Guiding the proceedings with grace and eloquence, Rajshri Malviya emceed the spiritual event, ensuring a seamless flow of devotion and reverence throughout the commemorative celebrations.

Australia India Chamber of Commerce hosts CEO networking at Executive Lunch in Melbourne

Melbourne, May 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Australia India Chamber of Commerce (AICC) recently played host to an exclusive Executive Lunch, providing a platform for business leaders to foster meaningful connections and explore avenues for collaboration.

Against the backdrop of Melbourne's vibrant business landscape, CEOs from diverse sectors converged to engage in fruitful discussions aimed at enhancing bilateral trade and investment between Australia and India.

In a video message, Indian High

Commissioner Gopal Baglay underscored the importance of leveraging the opportunities presented by the AustraliaIndia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) to bolster the already robust trade and investment ties between the two nations. Highlighting

the immense potential for growth and mutual benefit, High Commissioner Baglay urged businesses from both countries to capitalize on the conducive environment for economic cooperation.

The event also witnessed insightful addresses from

distinguished guests, including Victorian parliamentary secretary Nick Staikos MP and Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar. Their remarks emphasized the significance of fostering stronger business linkages and harnessing the synergies between Australia and India to drive sustainable economic growth.

Maharashtra Mandal Perth hosts inaugural business expo to celebrate Maharashtra Day

Perth, May 8 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

In a vibrant celebration of Maharashtra Day, the Maharashtra Mandal Perth made history by organizing its firstever business expo, showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit and cultural richness of the local Maharashtrian community. The auspicious event, inaugurated

by Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi, provided a unique platform for diaspora businesses and entrepreneurs to exhibit their diverse array of products and services.

From traditional delicacies to exquisite handcrafted artifacts, the business expo offered a tantalizing glimpse into the rich tapestry of Maharashtrian

culture and commerce. Attendees were treated to a sensory feast as they explored a wide range of offerings, including traditional food, spices, and sweets, along with intricately designed sarees, apparels, and jewelry, reflecting the essence of Maharashtra's vibrant heritage.

As an expression of the community's entrepreneurial

spirit, the expo also featured a showcase of engineering products, handmade paintings, and portraits, as well as captivating performances of Marathi theater and Bollywood dances, captivating the audience with their dynamic energy and cultural flair.

Furthermore, the expo served as a melting pot of cultures, with exhibitors showcasing

a diverse range of products from across India, including ODOP brass products from Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh, ethnic wear from Odisha, and ethnic Potli bags from Rajasthan. Additionally, services such as building construction and various financial solutions were also highlighted, offering attendees a comprehensive insight into the multifaceted offerings of the Indian diaspora community.

Indian High Commission commemorates Rabindranath Tagore’s birth anniversary with cultural extravaganza

Canberra, May 9 (Australia India New Newsdesk)

The Indian High Commissioner, Gopal Baglay, along with dignitaries from the Indian High Commission, paid heartfelt floral tributes today to mark the 163rd birth anniversary of the revered poet, Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore. The solemn event

witnessed the active participation of the Bengali community and the broader diaspora, coming together to honor Tagore's enduring legacy.

Addressing the gathering, High Commissioner Baglay underscored the profound impact of Gurudev's teachings, emphasizing his unwavering

commitment to humanism and internationalism. He expressed elation over the younger generation's fervent engagement in preserving and promoting Tagore's ideals, a testament to the enduring relevance of his message in today's world.

The commemorative event also celebrated Tagore's artistic

brilliance, with captivating cultural performances by members of the Bengali community, featuring soulstirring renditions of Rabindra Sangeet, poignant poem recitals, and captivating dance performances.

In recognition of Tagore's profound love for nature and artistic expression, a painting competition was organized on the theme 'Tagore and His Love

for Nature'. High Commissioner Baglay felicitated the winners and participants of the competition, lauding their creativity and deep understanding of Tagore's ethos. As a token of appreciation for the mesmerizing performances, certificates of acknowledgment were presented to the talented artists, further cementing Tagore's enduring influence on the cultural tapestry of both India and the global community.

Dr Preethi Suraj becomes first female president of FICQ Inc.

Communities of Queensland Inc. (FICQ Inc.) recently concluded its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday, April 28, 2024, marking the transition of leadership and the commencement of a new chapter for the organization.

During the AGM, elections were held to select the new Executive Committee that will lead FICQ Inc. for the term 2024 to 2026.

Dr Preethi Suraj, a distinguished Bio Technology Scientist with nearly two decades of experience, emerged as the newly elected President of FICQ Inc. This historic appointment makes Dr. Suraj the first female president in the 26-year history of FICQ Inc.,

a significant milestone for the organization.

Dr Suraj will be supported by a team of seasoned Indian community leaders, each bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to their respective roles.

The new Executive Committee includes Abhishek Sharma and Pradip Gorasia as Vice Presidents, Krishnan Menon as Secretary, Sunita Avadhani as Assistant Secretary, Parul Mehta as Treasurer, Pankaj Agarwal as Assistant Treasurer, Jyoti-Amarjot Goraya as Festival and Cultural Coordinator, and Mokhtiar Singh as Public Relations Officer.

Expressing gratitude to the outgoing Executive Committee for their dedication and hard work over the past two years, the new team emphasized their commitment to working collaboratively with member organizations, community groups, and government stakeholders. Their shared vision is to strengthen ties within the Indian community of South East Queensland and enhance FICQ Inc.'s role as a leading advocate and representative body.

With Dr Preethi Suraj at the helm, FICQ Inc. looks forward to a period of growth, innovation, and inclusivity, aiming to address

the needs and aspirations of the Indian community while fostering unity and collaboration across diverse groups and sectors.

Brisbane, April 29 (Australia

India New Newsdesk)

The Federation of Indian

Satsang Oceania commemorates 136th birth anniversary of Thakur Anukulchandra

Perth, May 6 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Satsang Oceania and its devoted community members came together in Perth to honour and celebrate the 136th birth anniversary of the revered spiritual leader, Thakur

Anukulchandra. Amidst a backdrop of serene devotion and spiritual fervour, Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi graced the occasion, joining devotees in paying homage to the revered Guru.

The devotees gathered to

sing praises of their spiritual master. They also delved into the profound wisdom and transformative vision imparted by Thakur Anukulchandra, inspiring countless individuals on the path of spiritual enlightenment and self-realization.

The Satsang Movement, founded by Thakur Anukulchandra, stands as a beacon of hope and guidance for millions worldwide, serving as both a socio-spiritual mission and a man-making institution. With its noble objective of reforming and transforming human beings into ideal-centric personalities imbued with vigour and vitality, the movement has flourished, boasting over 2000 centers and a following of 30 million devoted followers globally.

UMQ organize world record certificate distribution

Brisbane, May 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

United Malayalees of Queensland (UMQ) conducted World record certificate distribution and a panel discussion about collective flourishing, at Parliament house, Queensland, recently.

India offers unprecedented opportunities for economic partnership, says Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay

High Commissioner Gopal Baglay, in his inaugural visit to Brisbane underscores the vibrant Indian diaspora's contributions to Australia and emphasizes the significance of nurturing ties between the two nations. In an exclusive interview with Kriti Bhardwaj of Australia India News, he outlines his top priorities, including community engagement, fostering economic partnerships, and enhancing opportunities for Indian students in higher education and skilling. Baglay stresses the importance of leveraging India's transformative growth and entrepreneurial spirit to attract Australian investment, positioning the partnership for mutual benefit and regional advancement. The dialogue concludes with optimism for future collaborations and the promise of a strengthened relationship between India and Australia. Following is the excerpt of the interview.

Kriti Bhardwaj: It is a great evening for us to have the new High Commissioner from India to Australia, in Brisbane, for the very first time. And we've just come out of a beautiful evening that we've managed to spend as part of the FICQ event. Thank you so much, Mr. Gopal, for joining us in Brisbane. I think you can just see the energy that was there in the room, the beautiful questions that we got. And I think it just makes me proud as an Indian. I've been in Australia for almost half my life, 17 years now. And to hear also the mention of chemistry, I think my eyes lit up because I also have a Bachelor's only in double major chemistry. And just to see how far Indians have come in the last few decades in Australia, and how proudly that was being represented in your speech. I think it's a privilege for us at India News. Thank you to Dr. Ram Mohan as well for giving us the opportunity. I obviously just want to take a few moments to take some additional questions that we couldn't cover upstairs. I think firstly, obviously, as Indians, we are proud of our

nation, of our culture, but we do leave our country to come to lands like Australia to make our new home. With that comes many challenges, but if I had to zoom out and understand, what are the three top challenges that you have been maybe handled by the Prime Minister as you step into your new role? What would you say are the three top priorities for yourself?

High Commissioner Gopal Baglay: Namaste and good day to all of your viewers. It's really a privilege, a great privilege for me to be in Brisbane, Queensland, the sunshine country, world famous for its Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast and what not, but also a great honour for me to be the High Commissioner of India in Australia. I've just been in Canberra in my new role for two months. This is my first visit to Brisbane, and therefore, it's a delight for me to be talking to you and talking to the vibrant Indian diaspora over here. Now I agree with you that it's a matter of great pride for all of us to see the progress Indian diaspora has made in Australia and not for just themselves, achieving success, not only material success, but also keeping the Indian values, Indian culture alive in their festivals, in languages, in learning the music, in learning the dances, travelling to India, encouraging their Australian friends to travel to India, contributing to the Australian community, Australian society, and acting, as you said, as a bridge between the two countries. As for myself, I think you asked me what the three challenges are. I would say that there are many opportunities, because every challenge is also an opportunity. And if I were to restrict those opportunities only to three, it may not be full justice. But in the areas, the priority areas are, first of all, is the engagement with the community, with the Indian diaspora, the Indianorigin people, the Indians who live in Australia, and to look after them, look after their wellbeing, look after their welfare,

as the Government of India’s representative here. And also to help them connect with one another, help them connect with their goals, anything we can facilitate for them by talking to the local authorities, and also help them connect with India. So the people are the first priority. Another priority is economic partnership between Australia and India, because today India is growing like never before. It's a transformation underway. And the reason for that transformation is the policies of the Government and the technology that is being employed for empowering the people. It's a very rapid transformation. You blink and you miss. So it's one of our responsibilities, important responsibilities, to create awareness about the opportunities that India presents for trade and investment, and partnerships. And Australia is a multicultural, diverse country, with a diverse democracy. So is India. So naturally, Australia and India are partners, and can be even closer partners, and strengthen their economic partnership in all these new areas, like artificial intelligence, cyber, clean energy, critical minerals, and also agriculture, and all these products, which are mutually beneficial for the people of both the countries.

A third priority, I'm not saying it in number 1, 2, 3 terms of importance, but just enumerating them, is to enhance the opportunities for Indian students in the realm of higher education and skilling, and also encourage Australian institutions to enter into partnerships with Indian institutions, so that the benefits of human resources that India has, and the technological and educational levels which Australian institutes have achieved, they can be shared for the benefit of people in both countries.

Kriti Bhardwaj: That's amazing to know. Obviously a lot of work, as Indians we can keep putting in continually; so it's great to have your leadership and guidance in this space. I think the second question that comes to mind, obviously there's a lot of other things that I'm thinking through right now, but the main would be reverse migration as well. You hear these buzzwords that there are countries like Poland, for example, and other European countries where people will go get education, and then eventually they want to go back to their home country to take their skills back. Is that somewhat of a trend, and what benefits could there be between countries like India and Australia, where students coming out of India into Australia is going to continue to be a trend, I believe, but how do we make sure that that talent acquisition sort of

retains for both countries? How can we benefit?

High Commissioner Gopal Baglay: It's a very, very important question that you have asked. If you look at the example with the United States and Europe, for example, Indian corporates, Indian corporate leaders of global giants, and many, many thousands of Indians who went there in the 1970s, 80s, 1990s, they have led the effort to bring back the benefits of their achievements at a global scale, the achievements that they have, bring the benefits back to India, both in terms of technological expertise, resources, as well as the networks. Many of them have invested back in India, and many of those global giants are now operating in India, working in India, manufacturing in India. So I would say that what was considered brain drain in the 1980s in India is a brain gain now. With Australia, we are now seeing an interest with India, and in India, we are seeing interest in Australia like never before. So this partnership is, for this, the sky's the limit, and we are just beginning to see the real potential. As the years will progress, I'm sure those young students who are coming to Australia to study last year, today, who will come tomorrow, as the years go by, I'm absolutely sure that their achievements will create the foundation for even greater success in a number of areas, which I mentioned earlier, for both the countries. And I'm absolutely sure that their expertise and the affection and the bond that they retain with India, that will be of immense benefit, not only for India, but also for Australia, and not only for these two countries, but for the entire region in which we are situated.

Kriti Bhardwaj: Thank you for that great insight into, obviously, I love the term brain gain, so I will be referring to that in future. I think the next one is, as you rightly alluded to earlier, India's economy is rightly upwards. We obviously have a great potential in terms of the percentage of youth that's in India and together with the skill set that we talk, but I think the question that comes to mind is, in terms of encouraging Australian businesses to invest into India, Australia has obviously had very close ties with other superpowers around the world, the likes of China and the U.S. What is the differentiating factor that India can offer and vice versa for Indians as well to consider Australia not as a country that's far away from them, but to your points, many similarities that exist. How do we encourage that confident investment into each other's countries?

High Commissioner Gopal Baglay: Again, you have asked a

very, very important question. As I said, one of our main priorities over here is to strengthen the economic partnership and promoting investment in both directions, particularly from Australia to India, is something that I would like to work very actively for. Now, see, one advantage that India offers is the advantage of the scale. The depth and the breadth of transformation which is happening in India is amazing. It is unprecedented. And the speed at which the transformation is taking place is also unprecedented. You know that India is going to be the third largest economy in the world, and India is the most populous country. It's not only the largest democracy, but the mother of democracy. Why is democracy important? Because it gives you the rule of law, gives predictability, sustainability, security for the business, which is very important. So the advantages which India offers, I think I'm of course an Indian and the Indian High Commissioner here, but I would say that those advantages at one place are perhaps not available like that anywhere else in the world. Together with that is our entrepreneurial skill. You know that India is now the third largest innovation hub. Startups have made a huge difference. The youth who were seeking the job are today job providers. This is a revolution. How has this revolution come about? And what can further fuel this revolution, this transformation? It is an investment. It is providing them the needed capital, the venture capital. And I think the Australia-India partnerships in this sphere are going to be extremely important. So there are all these areas in which a number of initiatives can be taken to create awareness for the opportunities, to create more mutual understanding of each other's systems, of how the businesses are benefiting, what the success stories of Indian investment in Australia are, of Australian investment in India. And I think already we see a number of successful ventures from India into Australia and from Australia into India.

Kriti Bhardwaj: Well, thank you so much for your time. We look forward to having you again in Brisbane soon. And thank you for the great news of having our own consulate in Brisbane. I think it's going to solve a lot of issues for the community, but more so it is an opportunity for us, as you say. I love positivity as well. It's an opportunity for us to showcase the potential that we have of taking our Australian friends to India. And each of us is going to take that responsibility. So thank you once again, and hopefully we'll see you again soon.

Consulate General and Study Melbourne host welcome reception for new Indian students

Melbourne, May 2 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Consulate General of India, in collaboration with Study Melbourne, organized a warm welcome reception on May 1st at the Victoria Investment Centre to assist new students from India as they begin their educational journey in Melbourne.

The event, attended by Consul

General Dr. Sushil Kumar, and Acting Director of Study

Melbourne Caroline Hartnett, aimed to provide essential support and guidance to incoming Indian students, offering valuable information on various aspects of student life in Melbourne.

During the reception, officers from Victoria Police, Life Saving

Victoria, Water Safety Victoria, and Fire Rescue Victoria delivered informative presentations to raise awareness among students about safety and security measures in the state. Students were briefed on emergency services and urged to register with the Consulate for assistance when needed.

Dr. Sushil Kumar and Caroline Hartnett addressed the students,

emphasizing the importance of educational cooperation between India and Australia, particularly highlighting Victoria's role as a leading destination for Indian students pursuing higher education abroad. The event underscored the commitment of both the Indian and Victorian governments to support and

nurture the academic aspirations of international students.

The reception also provided an excellent networking opportunity for new students, allowing them to connect with fellow peers and student ambassadors who shared their experiences and offered insights into academic and social life in Melbourne.

Western Gujju Inc. celebrates Gujarat Day in Melbourne, showcasing cultural heritage

Melbourne, May 6 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Western Gujju Inc., a prominent Indian community organization, recently organized a vibrant celebration in Melbourne to commemorate 'Gujarat Day,' showcasing the rich cultural heritage and spirit of Gujarat.

The event, attended by Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar, along with Cr Jennie Barrera, Mayor of Wyndham City Council, esteemed guests, and community members, was a joyous affair filled with cultural performances, traditional

cuisines, and interactive activities that highlighted Gujarat's diverse traditions and customs.

Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar commended Western Gujju Inc. for its efforts in organizing the celebration and emphasized the significant role played by the

Gujarati community in fostering cooperation between Australia and India across various fields. He acknowledged their invaluable contributions to Melbourne's multicultural landscape, enriching the fabric of society with Gujarat's unique cultural tapestry.

Expressing his commitment to promoting social cohesion and community harmony, Dr. Sushil Kumar assured the attendees of all possible support from the Consulate General to further strengthen the bonds between the Indian diaspora and the wider Australian community.

Celebrating diversity: Indian traditional New Year comes alive in Brisbane

Brisbane, April 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Indian Council of Australia, Queensland Inc. (ICAQ) marked a historic milestone by organizing its inaugural event to celebrate the Indian Traditional New Year on April 27, at the picturesque Roma St Parklands. The event, a first of its kind in Brisbane, brought together a tapestry of cultures to commemorate the diverse traditions and customs associated with the Indian New Year.

While Brisbane has played host to various Indian festivities such as Diwali, Holi, and Onam, the absence of a dedicated celebration for the Indian traditional New Year underscored the significance of this inaugural event. The occasion provided a unique opportunity for

individuals from different backgrounds to come together and immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of India. India, Nepal, and other South Asian countries celebrate their New Year on dates dictated by their respective lunar calendars, adding to the global mosaic of traditional new year observances. Known by different names in different regions across India, including Chaitra Navaratri, Vaisakhi, Gudhi Padwa, Ugadi, Puthandu, Vishu, NabBarsha, Navreh, Bihu, Cheti Chand, Mesha Sankranti, and Sajibu Cheiraoba, these celebrations serve as a testament to the country's cultural diversity and unity in plurality.

The inaugural event, spearheaded by the ICAQ, attracted a distinguished gathering of

multicultural community leaders, elected representatives from all tiers of government, and officials from various government departments. Vibrant displays of Indian culture, including traditional attire, music, dance, and culinary delights, illuminated the festivities, highlighting the intrinsic connection between cultural heritage and community cohesion.

Dignitaries, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese MP, premier of Queensland Steven Miles MP, and Councillor for Coorparoo Ward Cr. Fiona Cunningham conveyed their heartfelt congratulations to the ICAQ on hosting the landmark event.

The event commenced with a stirring Welcome to Country and Didgeridoo performance by

Uncle Billy Cummings, paying homage to the indigenous heritage of Australia. ICAQ president Parminder Singh, along with ICAQ Patron Ashish Katta and ICAQ Advisor Pinky Singh, extended warm greetings to all attendees, emphasizing the organization's commitment to promoting cultural exchange and understanding.

A diverse array of dignitaries attended the event, which included Consul General of India in Brisbane Neetu Bhagotia; Member for Oxley Queensland & Federal Speaker Milton Dick MP; Minister for Child Safety, Seniors, Disability Services, and Multicultural Affairs Charis Mullen; Representing David Crisafulli MP, Qld leader of opposition John-Paul Langbroek MP; Minister for Transport and

Main Roads and Minister for Digital Services Bart Mellish; Cr Vicky Howard, Central Ward, Representing the Brisbane City Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner; Mayor Teresa Harding, Ipswich City; Mayor Jos Mitchell, Redland City; Mayor John Raven, Logan City; Cr. Trina Massey, Councillor, The Gabba Ward; Wayne Briscoe Executive Director, Multicultural Affairs; Heath Goldfinch, COO at Multicultural Australia; Inspector Mat Ryan, Patrol Group Inspector, Inner West Patrol Group, North Brisbane District; Dr Anil Dalsania; Dr Ram Mohan; Gati Krushna Mishra, and Sushil Kumar Goel.. Their presence underscored the significance of the event in fostering dialogue, cooperation, and mutual respect among diverse communities.

Funding boosted for Australian Institute of Sport ahead of 2032 Brisbane Olympics

Canberra, May 10 (IANS) The Australian government has announced a funding boost for the nation's high-performance sports institute ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Friday that a 249.7 million Australian dollar (165 million U.S. dollar) upgrade for the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) in Canberra will give Australian athletes the best chance of winning gold at the 2032 Games. An independent review of the

AIS handed to the government in February recommended that it should remain in Canberra rather than relocate to Brisbane in the lead-up to the Olympics but found its facilities were in need of an upgrade before the Games.

The new funding will go towards building a new high-performance training and testing center, new accommodation and a multisport indoor training facility at the existing AIS site in Canberra's northern suburbs, reports Xinhua.

"The upcoming Budget will ensure the Australian Institute of Sport remains in the Capital, where it belongs, and ensure it once again becomes the world-leading high-performance center it was designed to be," Albanese said in a statement.

"What is crystal clear is that under my Government - Canberra will always get the support, investment and respect that Australia's national capital deserves."

An additional 10 million AUD (6.6 million USD) will go towards developing a master plan to ensure the AIS site is fit for purpose.

Anika Wells, the Minister for Sport, said that the funding boost would help prepare Australia's athletes for the highest levels of competition.

Australian athletes won zero gold medals at the Montreal Olympics in 1976. Since the AIS was opened in 1981, Australians have won at least three gold medals at every Summer Olympics, including an equal record-high 17 in Tokyo.

Women’s cricket: India to host South Africa for multi-format series between June & July

Mumbai, May 14 (IANS) The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday announced the fixture of South Africa's visit to the country for three T20Is, as many ODIs, and a women's Test match. Chennai will host a women's Test match for the first time since 1976 after West Indies played a red-ball match against India. After hosting England and

Australia last year in Mumbai, the Indian women will play a Test match against South Africa in the home series in June. South Africa previously played a Test match in India back in 2014, when India recorded an innings victory.

The home series will start with ODIs in Bengaluru, scheduled for June 16, 19, and 23, as part of the 2022–2025 ICC Women's Championship while Chennai’s M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chepauk will host the one-off Test and the three T20Is.

The Test match has been scheduled for June 28 to July 1. It will be India’s third Test in six

months and South Africa’s third Test ever. The T20Is are likely to be held on July 5, 7 and 9.

Fixtures:

June 16: 1:30 PM, Bengaluru: 1st ODI

June 19: 1:30 PM, Bengaluru: 2nd ODI

June 23: 1:30 PM, Bengaluru: 3rd ODI

June 28 to July 1: 9:30 AM, Chennai: Only Test

July 5: 7:00 PM, Chennai: 1st T20I

July 7: 7:00 PM, Chennai: 2nd T20I

July 9: 7:00 PM, Chennai: 3rd T20I

IPL 2024: RR v PBKS overall headto-head; When and where to watch

Guwahati, May 15 (IANS)

Rajasthan Royals (RR) will host Punjab Kings (PBKS) in match 65 of the IPL 2024 on Wednesday. RR are currently second in the standings with 16 points and a net run rate of +0.349 and are already qualified for the playoffs. Meanwhile, PBKS are last in the table with eight points and an NRR of -0.423.

In the RR vs PBKS head-to-head, the two teams have played each other 27 times in the IPL with the Royals winning 16 of those matches and the Kings ending victorious in 11.

RR vs PBKS head-to-head 27Rajasthan Royals: 16 Punjab Kings: 11

RR vs PBKS match time: The match starts at 7:30 PM IST (2:00 PM GMT) with the toss taking place half an hour before the match i.e., 7:00 PM (1:30 PM GMT)

RR vs PBKS match venue: Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati

RR vs PBKS Live broadcast on television in India: The RR vs PBKS match will be broadcast live via Star Sports Network. Live stream in India: The live

A

cricket symphony that has gone wrong amongst the press, commentators and players

The recent spat between the two greats of Indian cricket, Sunil Gavaskar and Virat Kohli has brought to light a very interesting issue that exemplifies the trend and relationships that exist presently between the press, commentators and cricket players.

In the past, one never questioned or derided a senior cricketer on his comments verbally or through the press. A word of advice from the likes of Vijay Hazare, Professor Deodhar, Chandu Borde, Tiger Pataudi, Vinoo Mankad and several others was taken with seriousness. Whether one followed it, thereafter, was up to one's discretion.

Criticism is something that no individual in the world reacts well to. No matter how one perceives or discards it from one's mind, the thought lingers forever. The famous line of "listen before you speak or write", is one that is drilled into every individual, however, following it for most is a difficult task. Words once spoken or written cannot be retrieved and many incidents of despair and disharmony have arisen due to a thoughtless response.

streaming of RR vs PBKS is available on JioCinema Squads:

Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Sanju Samson(w/c), Riyan Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Shimron Hetmyer, Ravichandran Ashwin, Trent Boult, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Sharma, Yuzvendra Chahal, Rovman Powell, Nandre Burger, Keshav Maharaj, Tanush Kotian, Kuldeep Sen, Donovan Ferreira, Abid Mushtaq, Shubham Dubey, Kunal Singh Rathore, Navdeep Saini

Punjab Kings: Jonny Bairstow(w), Prabhsimran Singh, Rilee Rossouw, Shashank Singh, Jitesh Sharma, Sam Curran(c), Ashutosh Sharma, Harshal Patel, Rahul Chahar, Arshdeep Singh, Vidhwath Kaverappa, Harpreet Brar, Nathan Ellis, Chris Woakes, Rishi Dhawan, Harpreet Singh Bhatia, Tanay Thyagarajan, Shikhar Dhawan, Atharva Taide, Shivam Singh, Prince Choudhary, Vishwanath Singh

Sunil Gavaskar is one of the most astute thinkers about the game of cricket. His knowledge and depth of it, having played, watched and commented for over 5 decades at the highest level makes him a true guru of the sport. Virat Kohli’s response to his comment, however indirect it may have been, was quite unnecessary, especially as it related to Gavaskar not having an understanding of the T20 format of the game. It referred to the fact that most older critics and former players have not played or played this format, sufficiently.

Gavaskars analysis and thoughts have proven to be correct. The modern T20 batters in order to be successful have to be like a Formula 1 sports car. The accelerator is on full pedal from the very first ball that one faces. The recent match in the IPL, wherein, Travis Head and Abhishek Sharma chased 165 runs scored by Lucknow Super Giants against Sunrisers Hyderabad in less than 10 overs is a good example of it. The strike rate

needs to be as high as possible throughout one's innings and not one where one lingers on initially and then soars upwards.

One gathers that the present Indian players shun journalists, commentators and former cricketers who happen to pen or verbally criticise individual or team performances. That’s sad, as cricketers today are professionals and they need to take in their stride the good with the bad. This takes one back to the days when dune bashing of the Indian team and individuals was at its peak. India did not boast of being a formidable side then and the press and journalists had a field day criticizing, whenever the side performed badly.

The irony of it was that most of the cricket writers and journalists were friends as well. The evenings were spent together, however, one was mature enough to understand that they were doing their job. There was criticism but not malice in their reporting. As a cricketer, if one failed to perform one quite understandably was the target of their piece, however, if one did well it was the same journalists who made one into a hero.

Indian journalists then were as poorly looked after as the Indian cricketers. One assisted them in every way possible, in their travel, stay, food and inside stories. Sharing and caring was the order of the day.

Several journalists were as much a part of a touring Indian side as the players themselves. Many who did play cricket were welcome to bowl at the nets, as with a squad of 15 players, an extra hand was always acceptable.

There are a few funny tales that one can relate to and laugh about now, however, I was livid with the journalist friend at that moment. Rajan Bala was a journalist who enjoyed belittling and debating on cricket and a cricketers’ performance.

He once sent me a lovely photograph of my getting out against Bengal, with the words “You do like outswingers”. In the second innings I proved him wrong by getting runs with a message, “ Yes, especially when they hit the middle of my bat”. Rajan Bala, remained a good friend and one who even in Test matches gave me a few throw downs on the morning of the match.

I looked at it as a lucky ritual whenever he was around, as it had proved successful in my domestic cricket journey and finally when I played for the country.

Rajan never failed to praise or criticize me and that was the close bond then that we shared between a player and a journalist. A similar bond also existed with many of the other players as well.

1st human implanted with Neuralink brain chip completes 100 days: Musk

New Delhi, May 9 (IANS) Elon Musk on Thursday said his braincomputer interface company Neuralink has achieved 100 successful days with the first human implanted with a brain chip.

Noland Arbaugh, the first participant of the ‘PRIME' study, received a Neuralink implant over 100 days ago at Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, Arizona, in the US.

“Successful 100 days with the first human implant of Neuralink,” the

tech billionaire posted on X social media platform.

Neuralink said in a separate blog post that the aim of the ‘PRIME’ study is to demonstrate that the brain chip is safe and useful in daily life.

“We will monitor its technical performance remotely and quantify any benefit it provides by timing the duration of independent use and assessing how it affects study participants’ quality of life,” the company informed.

Prior to having the brain chip, Arbaugh’s primary digital interface was a mouth-held tablet stylus (mouth stick) that had to be put in place by a caregiver. With prolonged use it can lead to discomfort, muscle fatigue, and pressure sores; it also prevents

normal speech.

After surgery, Arbaugh used the Neuralink implant to control his laptop from various positions, including while lying down in bed.

“He plays online computer games with friends (Chess, Civilization VI), browses the internet, live streams, and uses other applications on his MacBook, all by controlling a cursor with his mind,” the company said.

He even used the brain chip to play Mario Kart on a Nintendo Switch console.

“It has helped me reconnect with the world, my friends, and my family. It's given me the ability to do things on my own again without needing my family at all hours of the day and night,” said Arbaugh.

Ex-Tesla executives-led DG Innovate enters India in joint venture with EVage Motors

New Delhi, May 8 (IANS) DG Innovate, a UK-based advanced research and development company led by former executives of Tesla, on Wednesday announced its entry in India through a joint venture (JV) with the electric truck firm EVage Motors.

The JV will allow DG Innovate to tap into the strategic Asian

market and significantly accelerate the commercialisation of its proprietary Pareta electric drive system.

"Asia is a critical market for the EV industry, and India, in particular, benefits from a leading manufacturing platform that will allow us to deploy our products at top speed and competitive costs," DG Innovate CEO Peter Bardenfleth-Hansen said in a statement.

DG Innovate will partner with EVage to manufacture its Pareta electric drive system in Punjab as part of the agreement.

Moreover, the company said that together, the companies

will target the Asian EV market, offering far more efficient electric trucks, resulting in longer life and a reduced cost of ownership for fleet owners, with an average range increase of 5-7 per cent on the same charge.

The JV will be 60 per cent owned by DG Innovate and the remaining (40 per cent) by EVage, with both parties investing in the project in a show of confidence in the Indian market, it added.

"Together with DG Innovate, EVage will produce world-class products aligned with Prime Minister Modi's vision of Make in India, Make for the World," said Inderveer Singh, EVage Founder and CEO.

Sundar Pichai bets big on future of AI with Google Gemini

New Delhi, May 15 (IANS) As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes the buzzword across industries and relevant stakeholders inducing governments, Indianorigin CEO of Alphabet and Google, Sundar Pichai, has revealed a new roadmap for the new technology with Google

Gemini AI models.

Stressing that the company has been investing in AI for more than a decade, and “innovating at every layer of the stack: research, product, infrastructure,” Google is fully in “our Gemini era”.

At the company’s flagship ‘I/O’ conference in the US, Pichai announced Gemini's breakthrough capabilities across products — Search, Photos, Workspace, Android and more.

“Still, we are in the early days of the AI platform shift. We see so much opportunity ahead, for creators, for developers, for startups, for everyone,” Pichai noted.

Over 1 million people have signed up to try Gemini Advanced, which provides access to Google’s most capable models, in just three months.

More than 1.5 million developers use Gemini models to debug code, get new insights and build the

5 big announcements from Apple’s ‘Let Loose’ event

New Delhi, May 8 (IANS) Apple has made big announcements at its 'Let Loose' event in which it unveiled the new iPad Pro, M4 chip, redesigned 11-inch and all-new 13-inch iPad Air with M2 chip, Final Cut Pro for iPad 2, and the all-new Logic Pro for iPad 2 and for Mac 11.

The company launched the new 'iPad Pro' in a thin and light design, in two sizes -- 11-inch and 13-inch. The new device comes available in silver and space black finishes, featuring the new Ultra Retina XDR display with state-ofthe-art tandem OLED technology in order to provide an impressive visual experience.

Now comes the 'M4' chip, which the tech giant launched with the all-new iPad Pro. Built using second-generation 3-nanometer technology, the M4 chip advances the industry-leading power efficiency of Apple silicon and enables the incredibly thin design of the iPad Pro, according to the company.

Another big announcement made by Apple includes the redesigned 11-inch and all-new 13-inch 'iPad Air', powered by the M2 chip. The new 11-inch and 13-inch iPad Air comes available in blue, purple, starlight, and space grey, with 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB configurations.

The tech giant has introduced Final Cut Pro for iPad 2, bringing huge updates that unleash the impressive capabilities of the new iPad Pro and take creativity to the next level.

"Final Cut Pro for iPad 2 transforms the iPad into a multicam production studio with Live Multicam, giving users the power to speed up their shoot by allowing them to connect and preview up to four cameras all at once, all in one place," Apple said. Lastly, Apple unveiled the allnew Logic Pro for iPad 2 and Mac 11, delivering breakthrough professional experiences for songwriting, beat-making, producing, and mixing.

Powered by artificial intelligence, the new Logic Pro introduces incredible studio assistant features that augment the musicmaking process and provide artists help right when they need it -- all while ensuring they maintain full creative control.

AWS to invest additional $9 bn in Singapore to grow its cloud infrastructure

next generation of AI applications, Pichai informed.

Gemini AI could reason across text, images, video, code, and more.

Gemini 1.5 Pro is delivering a big breakthrough in the long context.

The Google CEO said it can run 1 million tokens in production, consistently, more than any other large-scale foundation model yet.

“We’ve introduced new experiences too, including on mobile, where people can interact with Gemini directly through the app, now available on Android and iOS,” said Pichai.

One of the most exciting transformations with Gemini has been in Google Search.

“We will begin launching a fully revamped experience, AI Overviews, to everyone in the US this week. And we’ll bring it to more countries soon,” he said.

New Delhi, May 7 (IANS) Amazon Web Services (AWS) on Tuesday said it will invest an additional $9 billion in Singapore over the next five years to grow its cloud infrastructure and services in the country.

As mentioned by Priscilla Chong, country manager of AWS Singapore, the investment will support the development and expansion of the DC capabilities in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) Singapore region, reports CNBC. Amazon’s cloud computing arm launched its first APAC region in Singapore in 2010 -- its first foray outside of the US and Europe.

Since then, AWS has invested over $8 billion into Singapore’s cloud infrastructure and ecosystem.

"Starting with our investment in Singapore in 2010, AWS has continued to strengthen their commitment to the ASEAN region, sharing the uplift (in) digital skills across the nations, providing secure and resilient infrastructure consistently across the region,” Chong was quoted as saying.

She further mentioned that the company has trained more than 400,000 people in Singapore in cloud skills since 2017 and will continue to invest in upskilling and improving productivity across the country, the report noted.

In recent years, AWS has expanded its footprint outside of the US, with a large portion of that investment focused on Asian markets. This year, the company revealed plans to spend over $35 billion outside of the US, including Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Mexico.

In May last year, it announced plans to invest Rs 1,05,600 crore ($12.7 billion) into cloud infrastructure in India by 2030 to meet growing customer demand for cloud services in the country.

Premature menopause may raise risk of early death: Study

New Delhi, May 12 (IANS) Women who enter menopause before the age of 40 are more likely to die young, finds a study.

The study presented at the 26th European Congress of Endocrinology in Sweden, however, showed that the risk can be lowered with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) -- the most common treatment.

While most women experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, about 1 per cent

experience menopause before the age of 40 years, known as premature menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). It increases the risk of long-term health problems such as heart disease.

The reason behind this remains largely unknown but can be brought on spontaneously or by some medical treatments such as chemotherapy or by surgically removing the ovaries.

The team from the University of Oulu, in Finland, examined 5,817 women who were diagnosed with spontaneous or surgical premature ovarian insufficiency in Finland, between 1988 and 2017, and compared them with 22,859 women without POI.

The results revealed spontaneous premature ovarian insufficiency more than twice raised the risk of dying of any cause or heart disease, and more than four times from cancer.

On the other hand, the risk of all-cause and cancer mortality halved in women who used HRT drugs for more than six months. Further, women with early menopause from surgery were not found to have any added mortality risk.

“Our findings suggest specific attention should be paid to the health of women with spontaneous premature ovarian insufficiency to decrease excess mortality,” said Hilla Haapakoski, a doctoral student at the University of Oulu, in Finland.

Heart failure patients who have taken Covid vaccine likely to live longer: Study

New Delhi, May 11 (IANS)

Patients with heart failure who are vaccinated against Covid-19 are 82 per cent more likely to live longer than those who are not vaccinated, a new study said on Saturday.

The study presented at Heart Failure 2024, a scientific congress of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC), used the Korean National Health Insurance Service database to obtain information on vaccinations and clinical outcomes.

Participants who received two or more doses of the Covid-19 vaccine were described as "vaccinated", and those who were not vaccinated or had received

just one dose were defined as "unvaccinated".

Heart Failure is a life-threatening syndrome affecting more than 64 million people globally.

“In this large study of patients with heart failure, Covid-19 vaccination was associated with a lower likelihood of contracting the infection, being admitted to hospital because of heart failure, or dying from any cause during a six-month period compared with remaining unvaccinated,” said study author Dr Kyeong-Hyeon Chun of the National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Republic of Korea.

The study comprised 651,127 heart failure patients over the age of 18. The average age was 69.5 years, and 50 per cent were female. Of the whole study population, 538,434 (83 per cent) were classified as vaccinated, and 112,693 (17 per cent) as unvaccinated.

The researchers found that vaccination was associated with an 82 per cent lower risk of all-cause mortality, 47 per cent lower risk of hospitalisation for heart failure, and 13 per cent reduced risk of Covid-19 infection compared with no vaccination. Regarding cardiovascular complications, vaccination was associated with significantly lower risks of stroke, heart attack, myocarditis/pericarditis, and venous thromboembolism compared to no vaccination, the researchers mentioned.

"The study provides strong evidence to support vaccination in patients with heart failure. However, this evidence may not be applicable to all patients with heart failure, and the risks of vaccination should be considered in patients with unstable conditions," Chun said.

How smoking raises premature menopause risk in women?

New Delhi, May 13 (IANS)

Increasing tobacco smoking rates among women is a significant contributor to early menopause, which poses a significant health risk, warned doctors on Monday. Premature menopause is the cessation of menstruation before the age of 40 and can have profound implications for a woman's health and quality of life.

Jaishree Gajaraj, Senior Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, MGM Healthcare, told IANS that smoking accelerates premature menopause, which further

raises the risk of developing osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and psychological issues like depression and anxiety in women. Nicotine, a primary component of tobacco, exerts detrimental effects on ovarian function by reducing the number of viable eggs and hastening the decline of ovarian reserve.

This premature depletion of follicles leads to an earlier onset of menopause. It not only impacts fertility but also contributes to the overall decline in ovarian function.

"Oestrogen has cardio-protective effects, and its abrupt reduction can lead to adverse changes in cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and vascular function," Dr Jaishree said.

Obesity, metabolic syndrome raises breast cancer-related death risks: Study

New Delhi, May 13 (IANS)

A higher score of metabolic syndrome (MetS), defined as being obese along with high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, or abnormal cholesterol, can raise mortality risk among women suffering from breast cancer, according to a study on Monday.

The findings, published by Wiley online in CANCER, a peerreviewed journal of the American Cancer Society, indicate that MetS and obesity each have different associations with breast cancer subtypes and mortality risk.

The analysis was based on 63,330 postmenopausal without prior breast cancer, as well as normal entry mammograms and MetS scores (0-4). After a median follow-up of 23.2 years, there were 4,562 incident breast cancers and 659 deaths from breast cancer (breast cancer mortality).

Researchers found that a higher MetS score (3-4), regardless of obesity, raised the risk of poor prognosis, oestrogen receptor (ER)-positive, progesterone receptor (PR)-negative breast cancers, and a 44 per cent higher risk of breast cancer mortality. On the other hand, obesity, regardless of MetS score, led to more good prognosis, ERpositive, and PR-positive cancers.

Only women with severe obesity had an elevated risk of death from breast cancer.

"Postmenopausal women with higher MetS scores are a previously unrecognised population at higher breast cancer mortality risk," said lead author Rowan T. Chlebowski, The Lundquist Institute in California, US.

Rowan noted that MetS scores can easily be determined during routine visits at any healthcare facility by checking "cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension history as well as waist circumference and blood pressure measurements," and can be treated.

Just 3 night shifts can raise your risk of diabetes, obesity: Study

New Delhi, May 10 (IANS) Just three-night shifts may be enough to raise your risk of several diseases like diabetes, obesity, and other metabolic disorders, finds a study.

Research shows that women who smoke go into menopause about a year earlier than non-smokers and as much as two years earlier for heavy smokers.

"It has been observed that smokers who are currently smoking will experience a younger menopause than smokers who have never smoked,"

Vidyashri Kamath C, Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecologist, KMC Hospital, Mangalore, told IANS. The doctor noted that "smoking by-products decrease the quantity or quality of the ovarian follicles; it also causes changes in reproductive hormone levels during reproductive years; and smoke exposure during the intrauterine period may also affect the follicle pool and influence menopausal timing."

Researchers from Washington State University, the US revealed that night shifts can cause the body's protein rhythms related to blood glucose regulation to go haywire.

It also hampers energy metabolism and inflammation -- influencing the development of chronic metabolic conditions.

In the study published in the Journal of Proteome Research, the team explained about a "master biological clock in the brain," which makes the body follow rhythms by day and night. When this gets "dysregulated," it leads to stress that causes longterm health consequences, said Hans Van Dongen, Professor. Additionally, Van Dongen notes that just three-night shifts are enough to disrupt the rhythm and raise the health risks, which

suggests that early intervention to prevent diabetes and obesity is possible.

Using blood samples the team identified proteins present in blood-based immune system cells, some of which had rhythms closely tied to the master biological clock and showed no change in response to the night shifts.

However, most other proteins showed change. Analysing proteins involved in glucose regulation, the team found a nearly complete reversal of glucose rhythms in night-shift participants.

Further, they found that processes involved in insulin production and sensitivity were found to be out of sync in nightshift workers.

In addition to this, previous studies have shown evidence that shift work has an additive negative effect on blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke -- elevated in night shift workers.

‘Beyond The Frames’ dwelled in artistic flair

With a forte of realistic art and thematic portraits, renowned figurative artist Kamal Devnatha will showcase his latest art piece, "Beyond The Frames" in his 15th solo exhibition. The exhibition will commence from 1st May to 5th May at the Visual Art Gallery, India Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, Lodhi Estate, New Delhi. Devnatha’s 15th solo showcase promises to captivate art enthusiasts with a distinctive

semi-figurative style that is uniquely his own.

With the knack of blending traditional techniques with modern sensibilities, Devnatha’s style deeply resonates with his understanding of the artistic medium.

Featuring over 55 captivating artworks, each a testament to his mastery of both acrylic and oil colours, the exhibition will display

the artist’s figurative work and contemporary art, characterized by delicate, feminine figures rendered in pastel colours, all within his signature unique style. The exhibition will allow the guests to delve deeper into the world where art transcends traditional boundaries, inviting intense interpretation and introspection where his commitment shines through in each meticulously crafted piece, offering a glimpse into his creative process and boundless imagination.

Devnatha’s artistic journey is permeable with a deep musical influence that echoes his oeuvre. Drawing inspiration from nature and the rhythms of life, the art genius infuses his canvases with vibrant colours and fluid strokes, creating a visual symphony that resonates with joy and happiness.

Trees take on myriad unique forms in Ompal Sansanwal’s solo exhibition

Trees take on myriad forms -- Krishna holds aloft the Govardhan hill, Christ's Last Supper and Shiva as Nataraja, for instance -- at National Awardwinning artist Ompal Sansanwal's solo exhibition of 60 paintings that opens in the national capital on Friday.

The exhibition, titled 'Jiva', showcases Sansanwal's intricately crafted paintings of trees that he has worked on for the past 15 years. The paintings comprise mostly acrylic and pen and ink on canvas or watercolours and pen and ink on canvas.

Curated by Uma Nair, the weeklong exhibition opens on April 27, and continues till May 3, at Bikaner House. 'Jiva' is being

hosted by Black Cube Gallery, which marks its debut at Bikaner House with Sansanwal's collection of paintings. For the artist, it will be his first solo outing after a hiatus of 15 years.

The painting bear Ompal's trademark style -- with the long, sinuous tree roots and the dense foliage merging to give shape to the stories he tells -- whether of gods and goddesses, or from Indian mythology, or just take on human-like forms as they clasp each other in an embrace, or even dance.

"When I draw the trees, they come out in a meditative form," Sansanwal said. "As I begin drawing, I have no idea what form the painting will take. It

just takes shape on its own. I am unconscious of what I am doing, and always get too absorbed in the work.

Referring to his painting of Rabindranath Tagore, he says: "Like Tagore gave enlightenment to the world, the tree too is giving enlightenment to the world from eons ago."

Trees have fascinated Sansanwal from his childhood and he would spend hours gazing at the peepul, banyan, mango, guava and jamun trees in the 'baghichi', or garden, behind his house in south Delhi's Mehrauli neighbourhood. And as he gazed at them, the trees would take on the shape of humans and he would try to look for the eyes and mouth.

"In my trees you will find faces, human figures. I have not copied any tree; these shapes come from within me," Sansanwal adds.

Sansanwal's works have been featured in several solo exhibitions previously, including at the Museum Gallery, Mumbai, and the LTG Gallery and Shridharani Gallery, New Delhi, and in group shows held at the Nehru Centre in London and in the former Yugoslavia.

Breaking Free from Professional Habits

As seasoned professionals, we often pride ourselves on our expertise and accumulated knowledge. However, what if some of that knowledge is holding us back? What if the habits we've developed over decades are actually hindering our progress rather than propelling us forward? My own journey in unlearning, particularly through the lens of my experience with swimming, sheds light on the importance of breaking free from ingrained habits and embracing change in our professional lives.

Allow me to share a personal anecdote that resonates deeply with the concept of unlearning. Despite my passion for swimming, I found myself struggling to improve for over four decades. It wasn't because of a lack of effort or determination, but rather because I had learned the wrong techniques at an early age. Swimming alongside friends in a river, I absorbed habits that stuck with me throughout my life, hindering my progress despite my best intentions.

Finally acknowledging the need for change, I enrolled in a beginner's swimming course. The process of unlearning was arduous; it required me to confront not only physical challenges but also the mental resistance to change. Watching others progress while I struggled to undo years of ingrained habits was a humbling experience. Yet, with perseverance and dedication, I began to see incremental improvements.

The parallels between my swimming journey and professional life are striking. Just as I had unknowingly absorbed detrimental habits in swimming,

so too can we pick up negative behaviours in our careers. Our first job, our initial experiences with bosses and colleagues— they all shape our professional identity. Yet, over time, some of these habits can become obstacles to growth and success.

Too often, we attribute our professional challenges to external factors—the current workplace culture, our managers, or the industry itself. Yet, true growth requires introspection and a willingness to unlearn ingrained behaviours that no longer serve us. It's about challenging the status quo, breaking free from the comfort of familiarity, and embracing the discomfort of change.

Unlearning is not a one-time event but an ongoing process— one that demands resilience, humility, and self-awareness. It requires us to confront our own limitations and biases, to question long-held assumptions, and to embrace new perspectives and ways of working. It's about recognizing that the path to success is not always linear, and that failure is an essential part of the learning process.

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, the ability to unlearn and relearn is more critical than ever. The skills and knowledge that brought us success in the past may not be sufficient to navigate the challenges of tomorrow. By embracing the art of unlearning, we open ourselves up to new possibilities, innovation, and growth.

Business leaders, I urge you to reflect on your own professional journey.

‘Plays were part of the air we breathed’: Amal Allana remembers Ebrahim

As his daughter, he treated her with the utmost care and was loving and protective. As a student, he was a hard, even harsh, taskmaster and pushed her to give her very best. But when she designed costumes for some of his productions, he treated her

as a professional and gave her complete freedom to express her creative ideas.

Former Chairperson of the National School of Drama (NSD) Amal Allana, who recently wrote 'Ebrahim Alkazi: Holding Time Captive' (Penguin), told IANS that in all these associations, her relationship with the father of modern Indian theatre altered, thus giving her an insight into different aspects of his character, personality, and sense of

aesthetics.

Alkazi was not just the founding director of NSD but also someone who lent new metaphors to Indian theatre and metamorphosed it through his unique vision, as through his production of Girish Karnad's 'Tughlaq' at Delhi's Purana Qila in 1972, which is considered to be one of the finest theatre productions till date, and trained a generation of theatre persons who have been instrumental in breaking new

grounds in every sense of the word.

Allana said that in writing this biography, she has had the opportunity to study her father's life and work in greater detail, albeit more dispassionately.

"Also, yet another aspect of my research included studying his artworks, leading me to curate several projects on him," she said. "Working on these projects has helped me clarify and gain a fuller, overall perspective of

what he aspired for and set out to achieve throughout his life."

One wonders if the daughter was under any 'pressure', considering she was writing about such a towering personality. She confessed that unconsciously she may have felt the pressure, though her father allowed her the greatest freedom to find herself as a theatre artiste.

"Once I left NSD, he never offered any criticism of my work but was supportive of it from a distance.

Luxury brand Anantara debuts in India with flagship property Anantara Jaipur Hotel

Minor Hotels' growth strategy in India is part of an ambitious global expansion plan for the Bangkok-based group, which is targeting to add more than 200 hotels in the next three years.

The global hotel owner and operator with more than 540 properties in 56 countries, is set to intensify its presence in the dynamic Indian hospitality market, targeting 50 new openings within the next decade. The group will focus its strategy on the upper-upscale and luxury hotel segments, where it expects strong interest from owners in its well-established Anantara, Avani, and NH Collection brands.

Hotels & Resorts, particularly in rapidly developing tier two cities and airport locations.

Eyeing hotel management contracts and with an emphasis on greenfield developments, Minor Hotels will look to identify opportunities in up-and-coming locations, continuing a strategy of destination creation that has been the foundation of the group's 46year history.

Amir Golbarg, SVP for Middle East, Africa and India for Minor Hotels, said: "We are bullish on the potential of India, and have already been overwhelmed with owner interest, but are proceeding with a 'partnerships over properties' approach. It

Minor Hotels has been present in the India market since 2017, when it launched Oaks Bodhgaya in the northeast Indian state of Bihar. But the group will mark a significant milestone later this year with the opening of Anantara Jaipur Hotel, the debut of its flagship luxury brand in India. The group recently appointed Vijay Krishnan as Vice President of Operations for India, overseeing a growing team on theground. By establishing a permanent strategic presence in Bengaluru, it has positioned itself at the forefront of emerging opportunities in southern India, anticipating significant growth potential in the region.

For Anantara Hotels & Resorts, the group is building on core brand differentiators by targeting opportunities in Ayurvedic wellness retreats, wilderness lodges, and historical palaces. It also believes Avani Hotels & Resorts is well positioned to fill a significant gap in the lifestyle hotel space across India, while NH Collection Hotels & Resorts will prove attractive for upper-upscale conversion opportunities.

It has also identified strong potential for the upscale NH

means we are being very selective in the hotels that we add to our portfolio, with our focus on cultivating meaningful alliances with partners who align with our values and vision. Minor's strength has always been in our ability to think globally while acting locally, meaning we are well versed at adapting our standards and operations to suit the unique characteristics of each market we operate in – a trait we believe will give us a strong advantage in India."

Extraordinary travel experience from world’s greatest icons

Airbnb introduces Icons, a new category of extraordinary experiences hosted by the greatest names in music, film, television, art, sports, and more. Presenting the first 11 Icons on Airbnb, the new experience drops worldwide throughout the year.

Icons let guests step into worlds one can only ever dream of. Drift off in the Up house. Spend the night in the Ferrari Museum. Hang out with Kevin Hart. Brian Chesky, Co-Founder and CEO of Airbnb said, “Icons take you inside worlds that only

You’ll join Kevin and his friends in this secret speakeasy, where they’ll treat you to a tequila tasting and live stand-up by the best comedians in the game.

Wake up in the Musée d’Orsay: Stay in the Paris art museum’s iconic clock room, which has been transformed into a luxurious bedroom by Mathieu Lehanneur, designer of the Paris 2024 Games torch and cauldron. From the terrace, you'll witness the historic Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games along the River Seine.

existed in your imagination—until now. As life becomes increasingly digital, we focus on bringing more magic into the real world. With Icons, we’ve created the most extraordinary experiences on Earth.”

The first 11 Icons: Drift off in the Up house: Sleep inside one of Disney and Pixar’s most iconic homes—and yes, it floats. You’ll explore Carl’s world in this detailed re-creation of his home, complete with more than 8,000 balloons, and located in the scenic red rocks of Abiquiu, New Mexico.

Join a living room session with Doja Cat: Fresh off a tour performing on the world’s biggest stages, Doja is hosting you for a much more intimate experience. You’ll enjoy an unforgettable living room performance from the Grammy-winning artist, including her favourite songs and tracks from her latest album.

Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of its parent company Minor International (SET:MINT), said: "We believe in India. We believe in its potential as a worldclass inbound destination. And we believe in the enormous opportunities that lie in its surging domestic market. It's why we have made substantial investments in establishing our operations there, and will continue to invest there to realise our growth ambitions.

Spend the night in the Ferrari Museum: Immerse yourself in the world of racing with a stay at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, Italy. You’ll sleep on a bed crafted from the same leather as Ferrari seats, take a lap with Scuderia Ferrari ambassador driver Marc Gené, and head to EmiliaRomagna’s premier race as a VIP.

Step into X-Men ‘97: Live like the X-Men as you stay in a 2D animated re-creation of Marvel Animation’s X-Mansion in Westchester, New York. You'll discover your mutant abilities and even train in the Danger Room.

Go VIP with Kevin Hart: Kevin Hart is taking you inside his members-only Coramino Live Lounge for an A-list evening.

Stay in Prince’s Purple Rain house: Prince purchased the Minneapolis, Minnesota home featured in the legendary film Purple Rain, but it’s never been available to the public until now. Explore the home and go crazy for rare and special tracks from Prince's world in an exclusive studio session.

Game with Khaby Lame: TikTok sensation Khaby Lame invites you to his hometown of Milan, Italy for an epic, overnight gaming experience. You’ll stay in a one-of-a-kind gaming loft that Khaby designed himself, where you’ll #learnfromkhaby and face off with him in a Fortnite Battle Royale.

Go on tour with Feid: Join the reggaeton superstar on his FERXXOCALIPSIS World Tour for an entire week. You’ll join the crew for rehearsals, ride along on the tour bus, and get backstage access for every show.

Sara Tendulkar, social media sensation and youth icon and the new face of Laneige, one of the most popular Korean beauty brands in the world. Known for her authenticity, charm and influential presence on social media, Sara has embarked on this new venture with the brand to support the its mission in the country.

She gracefully represents the brand's values of natural and sustainable beauty, while bringing to life the brand belief that everyone should shine with a unique inner and outer glow that is as distinct as their individuality. Along with the announcement of a new Brand Ambassador, the brand unveiled its Bouncy and Firm Sleeping Mask.

An elated Sara Tendulkar, Brand Ambassador, Laneige India, commented, “I am thrilled to be part of Laneige's family. As

someone with a biomedical background that makes way for a keen understanding of quality as well as a personal passion for skincare, I admire the brand's commitment to innovation and have been using their products for quite a while. It brings me immense excitement and humility to partner with Laneige, as their core belief in the radiance of each person's unique individuality resonates deeply with me."

At the launch, Paul Lee, Managing Director & Country Head of Amorepacific India, added, "Laneige proudly announces Sara Tendulkar as its Brand Ambassador, embracing her vibrant energy. Sara symbolizes the modern, self-assured youth advocating that beauty transcends mere appearances. With Sara onboard, Laneige aims to connect with a broader audience."

Mini Sood Banerjee, Assistant

Hydration is Key Combat the drying effects of summer heat by regularly applying moisturising lotion or oil to your nails and cuticles. This simple step will help maintain their strength and flexibility, reducing the risk of breakage.

Director & Head of Marketing and Training Amorepacific India said, "As Laneige's journey evolves, we are thrilled to welcome Sara Tendulkar into our family as the embodiment of timeless grace and modern elegance. Her vibrant spirit and innate charm perfectly resonate with Laneige's commitment to empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty. Together, we embark on a new chapter, celebrating authenticity and the transformative power of skincare."

Social media sensation Sara Tendulkar for Korean Beauty Brand Laniege Summer nail care secrets

Summer is all about fun in the sun, beach outings, and showing off those fabulous nails! With the sunny season upon us, it's essential to step up our nail care game to keep our nails looking fresh and vibrant.

Experts in nail care from Tip and Toe Salon share with IANSlife

Protect from the Sun

Protect your nails from the sun's harmful UV rays, just as you would protect your skin. Consider using a nail polish with UV protection or applying a clear topcoat containing SPF. When engaging in outdoor activities, wearing gloves can also provide an additional layer of protection against sun damage.

"We are delighted to announce Sara Tendulkar as the new Brand Ambassador for Laneige," said Sally Lee, Brand General Manager of Laneige India. Sara's luminous charm and timeless elegance resonate deeply with our brand's values. Sara's deeper integration into the Laneige experience marks a remarkable milestone, fostering deeper connections with a burgeoning generation of consumers."

Laneige is a brand that specializes in moisture research. They have developed advanced water complexes that are dedicated to creating intelligent skincare solutions for all skin types. With a range of products developed to address different skin concerns due to stress and a hazardous environment, Laneige offers solutions that awaken your skin’s ultimate moisture potential.

the importance of maintaining healthy and beautiful nails, especially during the summer months. Don't let the sun and heat take a toll on your nail health; follow these expertrecommended tips to keep your nails looking fabulous.

Use the Right Tools

Using the right tools is crucial for maintaining nail health. Avoid metal cuticle pushers, as they can cause damage and increase infection risks. Instead, opt for wooden or rubber cuticle pushers. Additionally, always use sharp, clean nail clippers and files to prevent nail splitting and peeling.

not

As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, many of us eagerly embrace the warmth of summer. However, the need for diligent skin care comes with the joys of outdoor activities and beach vacations.

Before diving into skin care tips, it's essential to understand the damaging effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to many skin concerns, including sunburn and premature ageing.

"One of the most effective ways to shield your skin from sun damage is sunscreen. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating to ensure comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of skin, including your face, neck, and ears, and remember to reapply every two hours, especially if you're swimming or sweating," says Mansi Sharma, founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess.

Hydration is key. Summer heat can take a toll on your skin, leading to dehydration and a loss of moisture. Mansi recommends

to combat the heat by staying hydrated from the inside out. She says, "Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and plump. Additionally, incorporate hydrating skincare products into your routine, such as lightweight moisturizers and serums formulated with hyaluronic acid or glycerin."

While sunscreen provides crucial protection, it's not the only line of defence against the sun's rays. "Consider covering up with lightweight, breathable clothing, hats, and sunglasses to provide additional protection for your skin and eyes. Opt for tightly woven fabrics and dark colours for optimal sun protection," adds Mansi. "When possible, seek shade during the sun's peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This is when UV radiation is at its strongest, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Take breaks from direct sunlight by relaxing under a beach umbrella or finding shelter in a shaded area."

The founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess also suggests that while selecting skincare products for summer, opt for formulations that cater to the specific needs of sun-exposed skin. Mansi says, "Look for products enriched with antioxidants like vitamins C and E, which help neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure. Incorporating a gentle exfoliant into your routine can also help slough off dead skin cells, revealing a fresh, radiant complexion."

Beauty addicts can now get Kylie Cosmetics in India

Iam so excited to launch Kylie Cosmetics in India – I created Kylie Cosmetics to give my fans access to the makeup products that I use and love, and I can’t wait to share my collection with all my fans in India.", said Kylie Jenner, Founder of Kylie Cosmetics.

In 2015, Kylie Jenner embarked on her beauty business with the launch of Kylie Lip Kits - a collection of three liquid lipsticks with corresponding lip liners. Since then, Kylie supported by Global beauty powerhouse Coty, have continued to expand her beauty empire around the world in over 50 countries, and across eye, complexion, and countless innovations in lip. The beauty line is carefully crafted with clean formulations and vegan ingredients that deliver on trend, high-quality, high-pigment, and

high-performance formulations that fans around the world have come to love.

In a significant milestone in the brand’s global expansion Kylie Cosmetics, launches in India. Partnering with House of Beauty, the leading beauty specialty company which brings coveted international beauty brands to India, Kylie Cosmetics’ arrival has been long awaited by Indian beauty consumers. This partnership marks the first time the brand has partnered with an Indian omnichannel specialist like House of Beauty.

The launch collection includes the best-selling Matte and Velvet Lip Kits, as well as recent must-have launches such as Precision Pout Lip Liner, Power Plush Longwear Foundation, Kylash Volume Mascara, Power Plush Longwear Concealer and Tinted Butter Balm.

Starting 25th April 2024, Kylie Cosmetics will be available exclusively in 25 Sephora India stores nationwide and online on www.sephora.in

Exploring the timeless allure of heritage Indian clothing

India's cultural diversity is vividly reflected in its traditional attire, showcasing a myriad of styles, colours, and techniques. From the opulent ghagra choli of Rajasthan to the refined grace of Kerala's Kasavu sarees, each garment encapsulates centuries of tradition and craftsmanship.

Though related, Traditional and modern wear represent divergent approaches to Indian fashion.

Traditional wear reveres the past, preserving ancient techniques and motifs with meticulous care, while modern wear embraces innovation and global influences, reinterpreting classic styles for

contemporary tastes.

Despite their differences, both categories contribute to India's vibrant sartorial landscape, offering a tapestry of options for self-expression and cultural celebration. Together, they form a dynamic fusion of heritage and modernity, embodying the enduring allure of India's rich cultural heritage in the everevolving world of fashion

Traditional wear in India is more than just clothing; it is a tangible expression of the country's rich cultural heritage and identity. Spanning across regions and communities, traditional attire serves as a unifying force, transcending geographical boundaries to embody the essence of panIndian culture. Whether adorned with the intricate embroideries of Banarasi sarees or the reflective brilliance of Rajasthani lehengas, each garment tells a story of craftsmanship and tradition passed down through

generations. These garments are not mere fabric; they are living testaments to India's historical legacy, carrying within them the artistry and skill of centuriesold techniques. From the vibrant hues of Gujarat's Bandhani to the graceful drapes of South India's Kanjeevaram sarees, traditional wear celebrates the diversity of Indian craftsmanship while preserving the cultural nuances that make each region unique. What distinguishes traditional wear in India is its unwavering commitment to authenticity. These garments act as guardians of cultural heritage, carefully

the realm of fashion. Unlike traditional wear, which draws inspiration from the past, modern wear embraces contemporary aesthetics and global influences, transcending cultural boundaries to create a fusion of styles. It thrives on pushing limits, experimenting with unconventional silhouettes and materials to redefine traditional motifs in refreshing ways. From the fusion of Eastern and Western elements in couture to the avant-garde designs that defy categorization, modern wear embodies a spirit of experimentation and individuality. It reflects a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, where designers constantly seek to anticipate and respond to shifting tastes and trends. In a world characterized by rapid change, modern wear serves as a mirror of society's evolving values and aspirations, celebrating diversity, creativity, and the limitless possibilities of self-expression. A blend of traditional and modern wear in India complements each other, creating a vibrant tapestry of

conserving ancient techniques and motifs originating from eras long past. From the intricate handloom textiles of Varanasi to the elaborate weaving traditions of Kanchipuram, traditional wear pays homage to the craftsmanship of yesteryears with unparalleled precision. In an era marked by rapid modernization, traditional wear serves as a timeless link to the past, offering a sense of continuity in an ever-changing world. It embodies a profound reverence for heritage, not merely as clothing but as tangible embodiments of cultural identity and legacy. The revival of ancient techniques and motifs in modern fashion highlights the lasting significance of traditional wear, demonstrating that amid the pursuit of innovation, the treasures of history continue to serve as invaluable wellsprings of inspiration and admiration. Modern wear in India epitomizes innovation and adaptability, charting a bold new course in

Redefining urban exploration

Marking an exciting fusion between the worlds of motorcycling culture and high street fashion, creative powerhouse Huemn has inked a unique collaboration with Royal Enfield- creators of iconic motorcycles - to introduce ‘A Shot of Mumbai’ - a vibrant collection of apparel and helmets inspired by the Royal Enfield Hunter 350.

As the muse of this first-time collaboration, the Hunter DNA is evident across a collection of avant-garde designs synonymous with the Huemn aesthetic. From electric blues and fiery reds to an array of peppy hues, each design echoes the soul of Mumbai and the kaleidoscope of art and energy that it is.

‘A Shot of Mumbai’ symbolises the spirit of exploration and a venture into unchartered territories whether it’s personal style or the pursuit of life on two

wheels. Evoking the dynamism of Mumbai, a city renowned for its bustling streets and magnetic culture, the collection also serves as an ode to this vibrant metropolis.

Commenting on the launch, Mohit Dhar Jayal, Chief Brand Officer, Royal Enfield, says “At Royal Enfield, we’re constantly working with talented, likeminded brands that have design at their core. This collaboration with Huemn celebrates our shared passion for creativity, selfexpression and a disruptive sense of style. Our mission is to invite new riders and subcultures into our ever-expanding community; and with the Hunter 350, we’ve been able to do that exceptionally well. The Hunter 350 offers all the intense flavours of pure motorcycling, packed into a fun, stylish, new machine that appeals to millennials and GenZ across the globe.”

Fashion Entrepreneur Fund opens up for pre registrations

fashion that celebrates both heritage and innovation. While traditional wear preserves cultural authenticity, modern wear provides a platform for selfexpression and liberation from conventional norms. Together, they offer diverse avenues for individuals to express their identity, bridging the gap between tradition and contemporary style. This harmonious coexistence underscores the dynamic nature of Indian fashion, where the past and present converge to shape an evolving sartorial landscape. From the classic allure of a traditional Kanjeevaram saree to the modern sophistication of a designer Chikankari lehenga, each garment resonates with tales of resilience, creativity, and cultural pride, serving as steadfast reminders of tradition amidst rapid change. They embody the story of India's rich cultural heritage, inspiring generations with their profound connection to the past.

Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF), a one-of-a-kind venture studio committed to nurturing creativity in the fashion industry, is offering a gamechanging opportunity to fashion entrepreneurs to build selfsustaining businesses. With an initial investment of Rs 20 crores, FEF seeks to empower emerging talents through mentorship, networking, and financial backing.

Highlighting the role of FEF in the journey of aspiring fashion entrepreneurs, Sanjay Nigam, Founder of Fashion Entrepreneur Fund, stated, "FEF fosters a dynamic ecosystem for talent, mentorship, and networking in the fashion entrepreneurship universe. We are committed to shaping the future of fashion innovation and empowering individuals to showcase their creativity on a global scale." Nigam additionally emphasised

the belief in the potency of groundbreaking concepts and enthusiasm to invest in the next generation of fashion startups and businesses, both in the existing as well as upcoming generations.

The fund has garnered visibility and substantial support from influential successful business leaders across diverse sectors. Investors who recognise and support the vision of FEF include : Karan Johar (Renowned Indian film director and producer) Vinod Dugar (Honorary Consul of Malawi and Co-Promoter of RDB Group)

Naveen Jindal (Chairman of Jindal Steel & Power Limited)

Sandeep Jain (Director of Vega Industries Pvt. Ltd.)

Gaurav Dalmia (Chairman of Dalmia Group Holdings.)

Sukhraj Nahar (Founder,

:

as

Ahmedabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi after casting his vote at a polling station during the third phase of Lok Sabha elections, in Ahmedabad, Tuesday, May 7, 2024.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, left, meets with Israeli President Isaac Herzog in Tel Aviv, Israel Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

Moradabad

Students flash victory signs

they celebrate their success after the announcement of ICSE Board Examination results, in Moradabad on Monday, May 06, 2024.

Mumbai: Indian actor Kartik Aaryan at Bollywood Hungama Style Icons Summit & Awards, in Mumbai,Thursday, May 02, 2024.

Patna: Prime Minister Narendra Modi serves ‘langar’ at the Takhat Sri Harimandir Ji Patna Sahib, in Patna, Monday, May 13, 2024

Chhindwara: Indian Air Force personnel carrying the mortal remains of martyred CPL Vicky Pahade upon their arrival in Chhindwara on Monday, May 6, 2024. Pahade was killed in a terror attack in the Poonch region of J & K.

Mumbai: Indian actor Ajay Devgan at Bollywood Hungama Style Icons Summit & Awards, in Mumbai,Thursday, May 02, 2024.

Hyderabad: People stand in a queue to cast their vote in the fourth phase of the Lok Sabha elections in Hyderabad on Monday, May 13, 2024.

New Delhi: Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar With Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar And Sukhbir Singh Sandhu Addresses Foreign Delegates From Election Management Bodies

Mumbai: Indian actress Pooja Hegde at Bollywood Hungama Style Icons Summit & Awards, in Mumbai,Thursday, May 02, 2024

Bengaluru: Spectators during the IPL match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, in Bengaluru,Sunday, May 12th, 2024.

Ahmedabad: Union Home Minister Amit Shah accompanied by wife Sonal Shah, son Jay Shah and daughter-in-law Rishita Patel shows his ink-marked finger after casting vote for Lok Sabha elections, in Ahmedabad, Tuesday, May 7, 2024.

Israel: U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, right, meets with the families and supporters of the hostages held by Hamas, outside of a hotel, in Tel Aviv, Israel, Wednesday, May 1, 2024.

ROSE ROSY TE GULAB

RELEASE DATE: 24 May 2024

LANGUAGE: Punjabi (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Aashu Munish Sahni and Gurnam Bhullar

DIRECTOR: Manvir Brar

CAST: Gurnam Bhullar, Maahi Sharma and Pranjal Dahiya

NI MAIN SASS KUTTNI 2

RELEASE DATE: 7 June 2024

LANGUAGE: Punjabi (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Yoodle Films

DIRECTOR: Mohit Banwait

CAST: Gurpreet Ghuggi, Karamjit Anmol, Nirmal Rishi, Anita Devgn, Tanvi Nagi, Mehtab Virk

MANSARRA

RELEASE DATE: 3 May 2024

LANGUAGE: Nepali (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Shailendra K

DIRECTOR: Upendra Subba CAST: Dayahang Rai, Miruna Magar, Praveen Khatiwada, Menuka Pradhan

DIRECTOR: Maneesh Bhatt

E JATT VIGARH GYA

RELEASE DATE: 17 May 2024

LANGUAGE: Punjabi (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Daljit Thind

CAST: Jayy Randhawa, Pawan Malhotra, Deep Sehgal

From Deepika-Ranveer to Priyanka, celebs who’ve amped up temple visit style

F

inding the right outfit for a temple visit is not an easy task as we find it for other occasions. Balancing religiosity with style can present a unique challenge, so here's a complete guide to the temple outfit ideas of your favourite celebrities for you to exude grace and elegance effortlessly.

Deepika Padukone and Ranveer

Singh

The celebrated Bollywood power couple is known for their impeccable fashion sense. When the star of 'Bajirao Mastani', renowned for his eclectic style, and his beloved wife, the actress

who's set to star in the upcoming film 'Singham Again', visited the Lord Venkateswara temple on their first wedding anniversary, fans couldn't help but admire their style statement.

Shilpa Shetty

Known for her dedication to fitness, Shilpa Shetty is frequently seen visiting temples -- Mumbai's Siddhi Vinayak Temple is a regular haunt -- and even when she's at home, she maintains her deep-rooted belief by performing pooja rituals. While keeping up with fashion trends is significant, comfort is equally essential. Take cues from Shilpa's iconic Laxmi

Puja style with her elegantly adorned two-piece kurta set, perfect for your next temple visit.

Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma Beyond their individual achievements, the star cricketer and his actress wife are renowned for their deep-rooted spiritual convictions. During Ganesh Chaturthi's festivities last year, Virat was dressed in a white kurta-pyjama, while Anushka elegantly draped herself in a saree of a golden hue. A perfect ethnic outfit style inspiration to pin for a temple visit.

Priyanka Chopra

Our desi girl who has won the hearts of millions at home and abroad looked beautiful draped in a stunning yellow sheer saree at Ayodhya's Ram Mandir. The actress, who visited the temple with husband Nick Jonas and daughter Malti Marie, was truly a delight for her fans. This real-life image serves as a perfect guide for those seeking inspiration for a subtle saree look.

Sara Ali Khan

The dazzling Gen-Z star keeps celebrating not just for her acting prowess, but also her profound devotion to her beliefs. Donning a traditional rich pink three-piece salwar kurta and dupatta ensemble, she gracefully engages in rituals. To ensure an uninterrupted ceremony during your next temple visit, consider mirroring her style.

Deepak Tijori recalls how he was made to ‘cycle like a maniac’ for Aamir Khan’s ‘Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar’

As his film 'Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar' starring Aamir

Khan is set to complete 32 years in Hindi cinema on May 22, actor Deepak Tijori took a trip down memory lane and recalled how he was made to "cycle like a maniac" for one of the most "unusual films" he did back then.

Describing it as an "experience", Deepak, who played the antagonist Shekhar Malhotra in the film, told IANS: "It was a new genre, a new thought, a comingof-age subject for me, and the complete setup, the style of (director) Mansoor Khan working itself, was unique.” He revealed it was not about working with a star, Deepak said about Aamir.

“Aamir was of course known to me, so it wasn’t about working with a star, as we were senior

juniors from the same college, and we had done work before too, where I had played a small role as his friend."

Deepak played a sports champion of his college competing against Aamir in the film, which also stars Pooja Bedi and Ayesha Jhulka.

“I wasn’t into diet and stuff, but yes, I was made to cycle like a maniac. I remember the first day when Aamir and Mansoor Khan and all the national cyclists were shocked, as I was nothing close to being a sportsman who could ever be a cyclist,” he said.

“I was so far from that, so I was handed over to some national champions who were in the race with us, as contestants, and they started coaching, which was when I used to do nothing but cycle in the gym, and wherever and whenever.”

Alia attends MET Gala in Sabyasachi saree that took ‘collective effort’ of 163 individuals

Alia Bhatt attended the prestigious MET Gala wearing a saree by renowned Indian designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee, meticulously crafted by 163 "dedicated individuals" investing “1965-man hours” to make the “ethereal ensembles”.

Alia shared her MET Gala look on Instagram, radiantly donning the saree on the carpet. The saree's colour palette paid homage to "nature’s beauty."

Describing her look, Alia said it’s called the "Garden of Time - an ode to art and eternity."

"Timelessness is endless, and we acknowledge that things crafted with time and care, can last forever. In our journey for an Indian interpretation of this universal theme, the outfit took on a life of its own," she added.

“Nothing embodies tradition and innovation like the saree; in the skilled hands of #SabyasachiMukherjee, this vision found its fullest expression. We

looked to the past as a guide for the future, drawing inspiration from the timeless sophistication of Indian nobility.”

The actress added: “We focused on intricate craftsmanship, incorporating hand embroidery, precious stones, along with elegant beadwork and fringes, distinctive of the 1920’s fringe style. Our colour palette pays homage to nature's beauty, echoing the earth, sky, and sea.”

Talking about the look, Alia said she chose a delicate nostalgia for “hair and makeup - an elevated coiffure embellished with intricately woven braids and soft freckles - a homage to time's gentle caress.” “Creating this has been quite an experience… fun and stressful in equal parts. It has taken a collective effort of 163 dedicated individuals, including master craftspeople, embroiderers, artists, and dyers, investing a total of 1965-man hours to create this ethereal saree.”

Rashmika Mandanna will now be seen with Salman Khan in ‘Sikandar’

With all the workouts for the film, Deepak recalls that his thighs “had become like rocky mountains”.

“But thanks to ‘Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar’ I found a new me, as an actor, and as in also a new character, that became ‘The Shekhar Malhotra’, who is still remembered, thanks to Aamir for recommending me to Mansoor.”

Deepak also talked about the director Mansoor, whom he described as intriguing “as he wasn’t a typical Bollywood director breed."

Sharing an anecdote, the actor said: "I remember before my fight scene with Mamik Singh (Aamir’s elder brother in ‘Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar’). Mansoor called Aamir and me in his room, the evening before we were going to shoot.”

“Asked us, 'so, tomorrow is Mamik’s fight sequence with Deepak, so Aamir in your opinion what should be happening, as should it be a one-way fight where Deepak gets beaten, or Mamik and Deepak should be fighting as equals, or what do you think.”

Actress Rashmika Mandanna, who is currently experiencing a dream run in the movies, will be portraying the female lead in the upcoming Salman Khan-starrer film 'Sikandar'.

This marks the first collaboration between Salman and Rashmika. 'Sikandar' is directed by A.R. Murugadoss, who is known for films like 'Ghajini' and 'Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Duty'.

On Thursday, the makers of the film made the announcement about Rashmika joining the cast. They posted on X: “Welcoming the fabulous @rashmika_ mandanna to star opposite @ beingsalmankhan in #Sikandar!

Can’t wait for their on-screen magic to unfold on EID 2025! #SajidNadiadwala’s #Sikandar Directed by @a.r.murugadoss Releasing in cinemas EID 2025." The film is produced by Sajid Nadiadwala of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, marking the reunion of Salman with Sajid after 'Kick', which was released in 2014. The film, which is currently in pre-production, will soon go on floors and is scheduled for release on Eid 2025. Meanwhile, Rashmika, who last appeared in the blockbuster ‘Animal’ alongside Ranbir Kapoor, also has the Allu Arjun-starrer ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ in which she will reprise her role of Srivalli.

Janhvi Kapoor shimmers in golden outfit and flaunts tiara to add to the oomph

Tulsi Kumari' on Monday dropped mesmerising glimpses of her new photoshoot,

looking like a goddess.

Taking to Instagram, Janhvi, who has 24.1 million followers, shared a string of pictures wearing a golden outfit posing against a golden backdrop.

For the makeup, she went all glam -- brown glossy lips, with a hint of golden glitters on it, golden eyeshadow and heavily blushed cheeks.

Her hair is styled in soft curls and accessorised the look with a golden tiara and matching earrings.

The post is captioned: "In the garden of Eden".

A fan commented: "Beauty on duty", and another wrote: "queen".

A fan said: "My kinda golden hour". Meanwhile, in 'Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari', Janhvi is reuniting with Varun Dhawan after their last outing 'Bawaal'.

She also has a romantic sports drama 'Mr. & Mrs. Mahi' alongside Rajkummar Rao, an action thriller 'Ulajh', starring Gulshan Devaiah, Roshan Mathew and Rajesh Tailang.

Janhvi is also the part of Telugu action drama 'Devara', starring NTR Jr in the lead.

Undying love for supernatural stories sustains TV universe of

‘dayans’ & ‘chudails’

In the forever-changing canvas of television, the fascination of viewers with mystical creatures such as 'Naagins', 'Chudails' and 'Daayans' is timeless, and it is fed continually by serials that keep climbing up the popularity charts.

Mrinal Jha, the writer of 'Naagin', the popular supernatural

series based on shape-shifting serpents, noted that these stories work because of their very high relatibility -- all of us, irrespective of where we live or our station in life, have grown up listening to stories about these characters.

This fascination cuts across

geographical boundaries and has fed such big cultural moments such as the explosion of Harry Potter mania or the comeback of J.R.R. Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings' universe.

Closer home, 'Naagin', which first aired in 2015, has kept coming back for six seaons and seen its lead actresses -- notably Mouni Roy, Surbhi Jyoti, Nia Sharma and Tejasswi Prakash -- attain instant celebrity status.

In fact, it wasn't just a coincidence that the most successful Bollywood film immediately after the Covid lockdown was 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2' -- and a third addition to the series is on the cards.

In a conversation with IANS, Jha said: "I have always been fascinated by the supernatural genre and one of the things that has struck me is how it is so hugely popular around the world, which the success of the 'Twilight' series and vampire films/TV serials have amply demonstrated. Today, there are so many variants of the supernatural genre -- it hasn't happened in a long time."

Talking specifically about the cult of 'naagins', 'dayans', 'pisachinis', Jha said: "We have our own folklore, we have our 'daayans' and 'chudails' and their appeal is pan-Indian. These stories have been around for a long time, we did not have to do much with them.

Actress Nargis Fakhri desires to live in the woods, as she says there is nothing better than spending days in nature. Nargis took to her Instagram stories and shared a video of her trekking through the woods. Without sharing details about her whereabouts, Nargis wrote: "I want to live in the woods, there is nothing better than waking up to this and spending your days in nature. I feel so grateful and blessed, nature heals us."

Talking about her work,

who made her

in 2011 with the Ranbir Kapoorstarrer 'Rockstar', was last seen in the Hindi comedy film 'Shiv Shastri Balboa' starring Anupam Kher and Neena Gupta.

The actress will next be seen in the Telugu period action adventure film 'Hari Hara Veera Mallu Part 1 - Sword vs Spirit' starring Pawan Kalyan and Bobby Deol.

The film is reportedly set in the Mughal Era.

Ananya Panday is back on ‘Call Me Bae’ set: ‘Can’t wait to show you guys’ Nargis Fakhri wants to live in the woods, says nature heals us

Ananya Panday on Tuesday shared a sneak peek into her next project, 'Call Me Bae', as she is back for the shoot of the upcoming streaming series. Taking to Instagram stories, Ananya shared a glimpse of her vanity van with "BAE" written on it.

The actress shared the picture with the caption: "Look who's back... Can't wait to show you guys," followed by a red heart emoji.

The show follows the story of a billionaire fashionista, Bae (portrayed by Ananya), who is disowned by her ultra-rich family due to a salacious scandal. Left to fend for herself for the first time, she overcomes stereotypes, confronts prejudices, and explores her true self on this

journey.

A Dharmatic Entertainment production with Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra serving as executive producers, 'Call Me Bae' is directed by Collin D'Cunha.

The series will soon be streaming on Prime Video.

Meanwhile, Ananya was last seen in the movie 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan', directed by Arjun Varain Singh and written by Arjun, Zoya Akhtar, and Reema Kagti.

The film was produced by Ritesh Sidhwani, Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, and Farhan Akhtar under the banners of Excel Entertainment and Tiger Baby Films.

She also has 'Control' and 'The Untold Story of C Sankaran Nair' in the pipeline.

A

ctress Janhvi Kapoor, who has recently started shooting for her upcoming film 'Sunny

Sanskari Ki

Nargis,

Bollywood debut

Buyers Like What They See at Brookwater.

Your 5 minute neighbourhood:

Just 35 minutes away from Brisbane CBD, the interest among buyers has been at a record level, according to Narendran Sinnathamby, the General Manager of Brookwater Residential. Brookwater’s current land release, The Dress Circle, is situated around the first nine holes of the championship golf course designed by Greg Norman. It is the only integrated golf community near Brisbane. “Discerning buyers are recognising that Brookwater is a premium lifestyle destination,’’Mr Sinnathamby said.

“The Dress Circle, Brookwater is situated within Springfield City, one of Australia’s fastestgrowing regions. Springfield City sets the standard for world-class master-planned urban environments in the 21st century and has become a blueprint for nation-building,” he added.

“The area boasts outstanding schools, and state-of-the-art health facilities, and is now home to the Brisbane Lions AFL Club. Everything you need is within reach.”

Within the Springfield City area, there are 12 schools, 22 childcare facilities, and the University of Southern Queensland providing a remarkable array of options for both private and public amenities, making it an ideal choice for growing families.

Springfield City is positioned as the gateway to the western corridor of Southeast Queensland. With an expansive area of 2,860 hectares, it is Australia’s largest master-planned city and the first of its kind since Canberra.

CALL US NOW AND VISIT THE SALES CENTRE: 07 3814 5177 3 Birchwood Crescent, Brookwater. Open daily 9am – 5pm

SOURCE: ECONISIS

- The wider Springfield Growth Corridor including Springfield and Greater Springfield is currently home to 145,300 people.

- This is expected to grow rapidly to almost 200,000 people in 2026 and over 435,000 in 2041.

- Represents an annual growth rate of 5.6% over the 20 years to 2041.

St Peters Lutheran College offers Prep to Year 12 Christian co-education.

Health City Springfield Central – home to Mater Private Hospital Springfield, Aveo Springfield and Quest Apartment Hotel.

Orion Springfield Central offering major retail shops, restaurants, a movie theatre and food court.

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