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One nation, one election: Committee recommends two-step approach to simultaneous elections

New Delhi, March 14 (IANS)

The High level Committee (HLC) on Simultaneous Elections constituted under the Chairmanship of Ram Nath Kovind, former President of India, met President Droupadi Murmu, and submitted its report.

The Report, comprising 18,626 pages, is an outcome of extensive consultations with stakeholders, experts and research work of 191 days, since its constitution on September 2, 2023.

After careful consideration of all suggestions and viewpoints, the Committee recommended a two-step approach to lead to the simultaneous elections.

As the first step, simultaneous elections will be held for the House of the People and the State Legislative Assemblies. In the second step, elections to the Municipalities and the Panchayats

will be synchronised with the House of the People and the State Legislative Assemblies in such a way that Municipalities and Panchayat elections are held within 100 days of holding elections to the House of the People and the State Legislative Assemblies.

The Committee also recommended that there should be a single electoral roll and Electoral Photo Identity Cards (EPIC) for use in elections to all the three tiers of government.

The Committee held extensive consultations to understand the

President Murmu, PM Modi extend wishes on International Women’s Day

New Delhi, March 8 (IANS)

President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on

Friday extended their greetings on the occasion of International Women’s Day.

International Women's Day is celebrated worldwide every year on March 8, to highlight women's accomplishments, rights, equity, empowerment, and other issues.

“My greetings to all on Women’s Day! It is an occasion to celebrate Nari Shakti. A society’s progress is measured by the progress made

by its women,” the President wrote in a post on X.

“India’s daughters have been excelling in all walks of life, from sports to science, and making the nation proud. Let us work together to remove the remaining hurdles from the path of young women, and give them wings, for they will shape tomorrow’s India,” she added.

Former K’taka CM Yediyurappa refutes charges of sexual harassment

Yediyurappa on Friday refuted the charges of "harassing a minor girl" and said that he was ready to face any case.

Reacting to the development of an FIR filed against him, he said, “I came to know that a woman has filed a complaint against me. I will face everything according to law.

I have not expected this and won’t say that it is politically motivated at this stage.”

“About one-and-half-month

ago, a mother and daughter were found near my residence. We did not entertain them out of suspicion. But, once I saw them sitting near my house with tears in their eyes. I called them and asked why they were weeping. They claimed that they were going through a big crisis. I called up Bengaluru Police Commissioner B. Dayanand and asked him to help them out. The woman and

New Delhi, March 15 (IANS)

Political parties received more than Rs 12,769 crore as donations from corporates and individuals through electoral bonds since 2019.

New Delhi, March 11 (IANS)

Ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Union Home Ministry on Monday notified the rules for the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) -- a major highlight of the BJP’s manifesto during the 2019 Lok

New Delhi, March 9 (IANS) The first Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) celebrated its first festival -- Maha Shivratri --

The Election Commission (EC) on Thursday made public the data on electoral bonds provided by the State Bank of India (SBI).

According to the data, political parties encashed a total of 20,421 electoral bonds in the last five years. Of these, 12,207 bonds were of Rs 1 crore each; 5,366 bonds (Rs 10 lakh each); 2,526 (Rs 1 lakh each); 219 bonds (Rs 10,000 each); and 103 were of Rs 1,000 each.

Sabha polls -- paving the way for granting citizenship to people of certain faiths facing persecution in countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, who moved to India before 2015.

Here is a timeline of the new law:

* The CAA, passed on December 11, 2019 by Parliament, seeks to amend the Citizenship Act of 1955.

* The CAA facilitates expedited pathways to Indian citizenship for migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, specifically those belonging to

its inauguration.

While the countrymen thronged Shiva temples to pay their obeisance to the Lord on Friday, the Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi also saw a large number of devotees converging from various parts of the Gulf nation to offer prayers at the BAPS temple. The temple constructed and run by the Bochasanwasi Akshar

Bengaluru, March 15 (IANS)

Former Chief Minister B.S.

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PM Modi to lay foundation stone for Rs 91,000 crore TataPSMC chip plant in Gujarat

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President Murmu, PM Modi extend wishes on International Women’s Day

Continued from Page 1

The theme of Women's Day 2024 is 'Invest in women: Accelerate Progress'.

“Greetings on International Women's Day! We salute the

strength, courage, and resilience of our Nari Shakti and laud their accomplishments across various fields,” PM Modi wrote on X.

“Our government is committed to empowering women through

initiatives in education, entrepreneurship, agriculture, technology and more. This is also reflected in our accomplishments in the last decade,” he added.

Centre notifies Citizenship Amendment Act: Here’s a timeline

Continued from Page 1

Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Parsi, Buddhist, and Christian communities.

Eligibility extends to people, who entered India on or before December 31, 2014, fleeing religious persecution in their countries of origin.

The amendment also relaxed the residence requirement for the naturalisation of these migrants from eleven years to five.

The Union Home Minister Amit Shah in 2019 said that the grant of citizenship would be from the date and year of entry into India and all the cases and legal proceedings against them would be closed, besides protecting their business and trade interests on an equal footing.

President Ram Nath Kovind on December 13, 2019, gave his assent, officially constituting it as the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA).

Muslim community members held widespread protests in December 2019 across the country following the misunderstanding about the CAA.

The protests started in Assam on December 4, 2019, after the bill was introduced in parliament.

Protestors stated that the move would cause a loss of their "political rights, culture and land rights" and motivate further migration from Bangladesh.

On December 15, 2019, major protests took place near Jamia Millia Islamia in New Delhi and protesters gathered at the Shaheen Bagh road and sat on a dharna blocking the traffic movement.

An FIR was registered by the Delhi Police on December 16, naming seven students as instigators including Asif Iqbal Tanha and Sharjeel Imam.

A petition was filed in the Delhi High Court in January 2020 by social activist-advocate Amit Sahni seeking directions to the Delhi Police chief and area DCPs to withdraw the closure of the stretch and the Okhla underpass.

A plea was filed in the Supreme Court on February 3, 2020, seeking the removal of Shaheen Bagh protestors, saying they are causing hardship to people by blocking arterial roads connecting Delhi to Noida.

Acknowledging that people have a fundamental right to protest, the Supreme Court on February

18, 2020, appointed two senior advocates Sanjay Hedge and Sadhana Ramachandran as interlocutors with the mandate to persuade anti-CAA protesters at Shaheen Bagh in Delhi to end their blockade of a public road. The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns suppressed the protests and discussions around the CAA.

During Covid-19, the Delhi government on March 16, 2020, announced that any gathering –religious, family, social, political or cultural – of over 50 people will not be allowed.

Home Minister Amit Shah on December 27, 2023, asserted that no one can stop the implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act as it is the law of the land and accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of misleading people. Among the many opponents of CAA, one is Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo Mamata Banerjee. On January 3, 2024, reports emerged suggesting that rules for the CAA are prepared by the Central government and will be notified "much before" the announcement of the Lok Sabha elections in 2024.

Former K’taka CM Yediyurappa refutes charges of sexual harassment

Continued from Page 1

daughter started talking against me there itself and they were sent out."

"Now, the matter has taken a different turn. If we come forward to help, these are the consequences to be faced. I had even given them money after hearing their woes. I will face everything,” the former Chief Minister said.

On Thursday, a complaint was registered with the Sadashivanagar police station in Bengaluru. The complainant claimed that a sexual harassment

incident had taken place in February. The case has been registered under the provisions of the POCSO Act and IPC Section 354 (A).

The complainant has alleged that "when the victim had gone to meet Yediyurappa seeking help on February 2, the offence of sexual harassment was committed".

Following the development, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar met state Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara at his residence on Friday and held a discussion. Shivakumar said that he just came to know about the development and had no further information. "As the matter was sensitive, the Home Minister will speak and give details about it," he said.

Home Minister Parameshwara stated, "Yediyurappa is a senior politician. There is no political motive behind the development.

Yesterday (Thursday) night, a woman filed a police complaint

BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi celebrates its first Maha Shivratri festival

Continued from Page 1

Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) was inaugurated on February 14 in the presence of thousands of Hindu saints, Mahant Swami ji Maharaj and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

On Friday, the temple was adorned with vibrant colours for the occasion of Shivratri with thousands of devotees gathering there to celebrate the revered day.

The festivities at the temple began with prayers for Lord Shiva and concluded with a 'havan'. Throughout the day, the temple

saw a rush of devotees lined up at the gates to get a 'darshan' of the deity.

After offering prayers at the temple, many of the devotees said they were left overwhelmed by the grandeur and magnificence of the recently-built BAPS Hindu mandir.

Maha Shivratri, an annual Hindu festival, is considered the most sacred day to worship Lord Shiva.

On this day, devotees collect water from River Ganga and offer it to the deity.

Political parties received Rs 12,769 crore through electoral bonds since 2019

Continued from Page 1

The BJP received maximum Rs 60,60,51,11,000 as donations through electoral bonds, which is almost half of the total amount.

The party encashed 5,854 bonds of Rs 1 crore each and 1,994 bonds of Rs 10 lakh each. Apart from bonds of Rs 1 lakh and Rs 10,000, it also encashed 31 bonds worth Rs 1000 each.

The Trinamool Congress secured

the second spot and redeemed 3,275 electoral bonds worth Rs 16,09,50,14,000, of which 1,467 were of Rs 1 crore each and 1,384 bonds were of Rs 10 lakh each.

As per the data available on the EC's website, the Congress encashed 3,141 electoral bonds worth Rs 14,21,86,50,000 crore, which included 1,318 bonds of Rs 1 crore each and 958 bonds of Rs 10 lakh each.

One nation, one election: Committee recommends two-step approach to simultaneous elections

Continued from Page 1

and the police registered the case. The police are carrying out the investigation as per the law,” he said.

"Until the investigation is done, more details can’t be divulged. This is a matter concerning a former chief minister.

This is a sensitive issue. If necessary, the victim would be given protection. The decision to take him into custody will be made depending on the investigation. The matter has been discussed with the CM Siddaramaiah and DyCM Shivakumar," Parameshwara said.

"The officers are telling that the complainant was also facing mental challenges.

The complaint copy is typed, it is not written. This case is connected to a former CM. Anything related to this matter should be spoken with caution," he said.

views of different stakeholders. A total of 47 political parties submitted their views and suggestions, out of which 32 supported simultaneous elections. Many political parties had extensive discussions with the HLC on this matter. In response to a public notice published in newspapers in all the states and Union territories, 21558 responses were received from citizens from all over India. Eighty per cent of the respondents supported simultaneous elections. Experts on law such as four former Chief Justices of India and 12 former Chief Justices of major High Courts, four former Chief Election Commissioners of India, eight State Election Commissioners, and Chairman, Law Commission of India were invited by the Committee for interaction in person. Views of the Election Commission of India were also sought. Apex business organisations like the CII, FICCI, ASSOCHAM and eminent economists were also consulted to present their views on the economic repercussions of asynchronous elections. They advocated the economic imperative of simultaneous elections on account of the effect

of asynchronous elections on fuelling inflation and slowing down the economy. The Committee was briefed by these bodies that intermittent elections had adverse consequences on economic growth, quality of public expenditure, educational and other outcomes, besides upsetting social harmony.

In tune with its mandate to explore the mechanism for simultaneous elections, and keeping in view the existing framework of the Constitution, the Committee has crafted its recommendations in such a way that they are in accordance with the spirit of the Constitution of India and would require bare minimum amendments to the Constitution. Upon all-inclusive deliberations, the Committee concluded that its recommendations would significantly enhance transparency, inclusivity, ease and confidence of the voters.

Overwhelming support for holding simultaneous elections would spur development process and social cohesion, deepen the foundations of our democratic rubric, and realize the aspirations of India, that is Bharat, the report said.

Gautam Adani shares five key success mantras for young entrepreneurs

Mumbai, March 13 (IANS) As more and more young Indians aim to become entrepreneurs, Adani Group Founder and Chairman, Gautam Adani, has laid out five mantras for them to succeed in life, hoping that “these will mean something for all of you”.

Speaking at a YPO (Young Presidents’ Organisation) Bombay chapter event this week, Gautam Adani said that all the success will come with its challenges and challengers.

"The greater your success, the bigger will you be as a target, and the true measure of your success will not be in your achievements, but in your ability to rise through the adversities that will come your way along with your achievements,” the Adani Group

Founder told the gathering. Gautam Adani then elaborated with the recent example of the shorting that the Adani Group had to go through.

“As most of you will be aware, last year on January 24, we were subjected to a massive attack by a US short-seller. The objective was not just to destabilise us, but also to politically defame India’s governance practices. But despite the efforts to shake our foundations, we stood firm, not just safeguarding our reputation, but also ensuring that we remained focused on our operations,” emphasised Gautam Adani. “While there were several learnings, this episode also gave us confidence in our resilience. Our recovery highlights the essence of bouncing back stronger, symbolising the spirit of rising after every fall,” he added.

The second mantra is that “we live in a complex world and it’s easy to be sold on the theory of simplicity”.

“While simplicity may be the goal, it is the ability to manage

complexity that will differentiate you and make you the ones that can navigate the deep waters as against those that remain on the shallow shores,” said the Adani Group Founder.

“Every business that I have built has been far more difficult than I had anticipated, and over the years, I have become wiser in my belief that only if I can embrace complexity better than others will I be able to differentiate."

The third principle is that “the dynamic model of a fast-growing nation like ours requires a flexible approach that is rooted in local models as against models that often emphasise specialisation and core competencies".

“The crux of strategic differentiation often lies in recognising the limitations of bookish knowledge and Western-centric models. While it is important to source ideas from books and literature, keep in mind that these are after all opinions of brilliant storytellers with a great ability to influence,” Gautam Adani noted.

Gautam Adani, Qualcomm CEO discuss India’s potential around chips, AI, mobility

New Delhi, March 11 (IANS)

Adani Group Founder and Chairman Gautam Adani on Monday said he met chip maker Qualcomm’s President and CEO Cristiano Amon, and had a detailed discussion around semiconductors, AI, mobility and edge appliances -- area in which India is taking bold steps with big investments flowing in.

In a post of X, Gautam Adani said that it was a great meeting with the Qualcomm CEO and his leaders.

“Inspiring to hear his vision for semiconductors, AI, mobility, edge appliances and much more across different markets,” said the Adani Group Founder.

“Exciting to hear about his plans and commitment to India's potential,” Gautam Adani added.

India has embarked on its ambitious semiconductor journey with a likely groundbreaking ceremony of three new semiconductor projects worth $15.14 billion, including two from the Tata Group, soon.

The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Modi, recently approved the establishment of these units that are set to generate direct employment of 20,000 advanced technology jobs and nearly 60,000 indirect jobs.

In a big push to the vision of

'Making AI in India' and 'Making AI Work for India', the Union Cabinet led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last week approved the comprehensive national-level IndiaAI Mission with a budget outlay of Rs 10,371.92 crore.

On the mobility front where the requirement for high-end chips for next-gen vehicles is constantly increasing, the Adani Group and Uber may soon announce a joint venture (JV) to help the global ride-hailing major expand its fleet that runs on alternative and renewable energy, which is a thrust to the government's green energy goals.

The Adani Group is likely to explore partnerships with major Indian vehicle manufacturers to further build the fleet in the key sunrise sector.

India’s growth acceleration unstoppable, journey towards 2050 to be even transformative: Gautam Adani

Mumbai, March 13 (IANS) The India growth story is unstoppable, and within the next decade, the country will begin adding a trillion dollars to its GDP every 18 months, setting us on the path to become a $25-30 trillion economy by 2050, said Adani Group Founder and Chairman, Gautam Adani.

Addressing a YPO (Young Presidents’ Organisation) Bombay chapter event this week, Gautam Adani said that while the past three decades were about opening India to the world, the upcoming three decades will see the world opening up to India.

“Keep in mind that following our Independence, it took us 58 years to reach our first trillion

dollars of GDP, 12 years to achieve the next, and just 5 years for the third trillion. This acceleration is unstoppable,” Gautam Adani told the packed house.

The digital age has democratised the playing field. It has thrown open opportunities to a far greater number of companies, he said.

“This is the age of exponential growth. The most striking manifestation of this digital revolution is the emergence of new disruptive tech billionaires. An interesting statistic shows that in the 1990s, India had just two billionaires. Today, the number is 167,” Gautam Adani noted.

If the last three decades since the 1990s have laid the foundation for India to become the world’s fifthlargest economy, “the journey towards 2050 will be even more transformative and disruptive”, he said.

Adani Group completes first phase of ‘twinning’ of international terminal at Thiruvananthapuram Airport

Thiruvananthapuram, Mar 6 (IANS) The Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, run by the Adani Group, has successfully completed the first stage of "twinning" of its international terminal (T-2).

This is perhaps the first time that such an attempt has been made for a brownfield airport in the country.

A ‘digital twin’ has been created in BIM (Building Information Modeling) with a Scan to BIM strategy.

The entire T2 building, the service utility building, and a site spanning around 10 acres were

scanned using LIDAR and GPR devices, while a team of architects and engineers worked round-theclock for three months to create the digital twin – also called the Airport Asset Information (AIM). The existing buildings, utilities, and the buried services of the legacy infrastructure have been recreated digitally.

The AIM will now be used by the designers for the renovation and upgrading of the present infrastructure. These digital models capture the real world down to the minute details, enabling future-ready tech to be deployed for planning, facility management, and sustainability. These high-fidelity models are embedded with rich data, which can seamlessly integrate with all the airport systems – enhancing security, improving passenger experience and operating efficiencies of the airline operators.

Springfield City Group provides opportunity to unlock critical CBD block

One of the nation’s most successful city builders says longterm thinking is vital to realising the potential of urban spaces as a key parcel of land in a southeast Queensland CBD is offered for the first time.

Springfield City Group is offering a 12.7-hectare landmark holding known as City West to a partner to add the next chapter to one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions.

Springfield City Group Chairman Maha Sinnathamby said the land was a critical part of the wider 400-hectare CBD that had been carefully curated for decades with the focus of “growing human and social capital”.

Since 1992, Greater Springfield, a masterplanned city which since its very early days has enjoyed bilateral support at all levels of government, has been transformed from almost 3,000 hectares of largely unused land on Brisbane’s doorstep into a booming community of more than 55,000 people featuring 12 schools, a university campus, a hospital, train stations, a stadium and a championship golf course. Springfield City Group is planning for a population of more than 145,000 people, making it

comparable to the size of Darwin.

City West is the next step in that growth and Mr Sinnathamby said the opportunity was available to a partner who understands the value of a long-term approach in a wider development that has benefited from patience and vision.

“This is not about waiting for a community to grow around this project, because that community exists already, so demand will be immediate,” Mr Sinnathamby said.

“But that doesn’t mean that the successful partner should think about this from a short-term viewpoint.

“The best development in Australia is still characterised by long-term thinking and patience. The full realisation of the City West project may not come for 1015-plus years but that’s not saying that there can’t be returns in the short-term.

“That’s been our whole driving force here in Greater Springfield. It has never been about the vacant land and the commercial opportunity. It’s about how you grow human and social capital because that’s what underpins great communities.

“City West presents an opportunity for a partnership that will add more depth to this community, supporting Greater Springfield’s role as a Regional Activity Centre. And we’re looking forward to the vision of those partners who would like to express interest.”

A 174-bed Mater public hospital, which forms part of an overall approval for 1,200 beds, is under construction and will complement the Mater Private Hospital which opened in 2015. Springfield City Group’s Knowledge Precinct, focused on health, education and innovation, has been among the most important parts of the growth.

Leading architect Phil Schoutrop, Director of Buchan, said cities had been improved by long-term vision that sparked projects that continued to grow as destinations.

“Some of these projects have become iconic and cities have grown around them and embraced them,” Mr Schoutrop said.

“The sense of place and the value for the community are the keys to these projects. And the community must feel some ownership of these areas. They

have to feel as though they’re destinations.”

Mr Sinnathamby said Springfield City Group would carefully assess offers for City West to understand the vision of possible buyers and its alignment with the vision for Greater Springfield.

“A lot of the heavy lifting has already been completed over the past 32 years with billions of dollars of social and physical infrastructure projects completed to date including the $1.2 billion Springfield Rail network with two stations, the $80 million Brighton Homes Arena and the $85 million Mater Hospital, just to name a few,” Mr Sinnathamby said. “It’s now time to offer this unique City West site to the market to inject a new wave of activity into Greater Springfield and to provide further amenity to this rapidly growing region.”

The City West landholding is listed for sale with the Colliers team of Lachlan MacGillivray and Harry Dever in conjunction with the Stonebridge Property team of Julian White and Philip Gartland representing Springfield City Group in the sale.

Mr MacGillivray said: “New retail floorspace needs to grow by 2.2 million square metres across Australia in order to service the population growth over the next decade. Hence, key retail development sites such as City West are becoming critical as retail demand outweighs supply.”

Mr Gartland said: “From a planning perspective, Greater Springfield is like no other city; the entire City West precinct already benefits from development rights of up to 281,560m2 of GFA with an array of permissible uses.”

Orion Hotel presents THROWBACK FRIDAYS! We’re making old new again every single Friday night

Join us on Friday, March 15 for a spectacular show from the BRIT BEAT MANIA band!! Performing all your favourite British hits from the 60s & 70s from 7:30pm until late

ON THE LINEUP

4pm – Rick Saunders live duo 7:30pm – Brit Beat Mania

9:00pm – Throwback DJ

11pm – Back to our house party DJ Groove into the weekend on the Orion Hotel dancefloor! We’ll see you there

PM Modi to lay foundation stone for Rs 91,000 crore Tata-PSMC chip plant in Gujarat

New Delhi, March 12 (IANS)

In a major fillip to India's semiconductor journey, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually lay the foundation stone for Rs 91,000 crore mega semiconductor fabrication facility in Dholera, Gujarat on Wednesday that is being built by Tata Electronics in partnership with Taiwan's Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (PSMC).

The laying of foundation stone is happening shortly after the Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Modi, approved the establishment of

three new semiconductor units with an investment of about Rs 1.3 lakh crore.

Union Communications and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw will be present at the Tata-PSMC event, along with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and other dignitaries.

The fab construction will generate over 20,000 direct and indirect skilled jobs in the region. This fab will have manufacturing capacity of up to 50,000 wafers per month and will include next generation factory automation capabilities deploying data analytics and machine learning to achieve industry-best factory efficiency.

The new semiconductor Fab will manufacture chips for applications such as power management IC, display drivers,

microcontrollers (MCU) and highperformance computing logic, addressing the growing demand in markets such as automotive, computing and data storage, wireless communication and artificial intelligence.

"Tata Group has a tradition of pioneering many sectors in the country, and we are confident that our entry in semiconductor fabrication will add to this legacy," according to N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons.

India's entry in semiconductor manufacturing will significantly de-risk global supply chains and will make the country a very important player in the global semiconductor industry. India already has deep capabilities in chip design. With these units, the country will develop capabilities in chip fabrication too.

CAA rules decoded: How refugees will acquire citizenship & Constitutional immunity in India

New Delhi, March 12 (IANS) The Central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi notified the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) on Monday, five years after it was passed in Parliament.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has said that the implementation of CAA would enable minorities persecuted on religious grounds in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan to get citizenship in India.

Definitely, it is a big relief given by PM Modi-led government to the refugees who have been in the state of uncertainty ever since they migrated to India from the aforesaid nations due to religious persecution.

The CAA is going to achieve the objectives that were set by the government when it had got the bill passed in Parliament on December 11, 2019.

In fact, The Citizenship Act, 1955 (57 of 1955) was enacted to provide for the acquisition and determination of Indian citizenship.

Historically speaking, transborder migration of population has been happening continuously between the territories of India and the areas comprising Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.

Millions of citizens of undivided India belonging to various faiths were staying in the said areas of Pakistan and Bangladesh when India was partitioned in 1947. What is worth noting is that the constitutions of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh

provide for a specific state religion.

As a result, many persons belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities faced persecution on grounds of religion in those countries.

The situation was so worse that some of them also had fears about such persecution in their day-to-day life where the right to practice, profess and propagate their religion has been obstructed and restricted.

As a result, several such persons fled to India to seek shelter.

The problem was that they continued to stay in India even if their travel documents expired or they had incomplete or no documents.

Under the provisions of the previous act in which amendment was done by the government in Parliament, the migrants from Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi or Christian communities from Afghanistan, Pakistan or Bangladesh who entered into India without valid travel documents or if the validity of their documents has expired are regarded as illegal migrants and ineligible to apply for Indian citizenship under section 5 or section 6 of the Act. 4.

Considering their problems, the Central government exempted the said migrants from the adverse penal consequences of the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920 and the Foreigners Act, 1946 and rules or orders made thereunder vide notifications, dated 07.09.2015 and dated 18.07.2016.

Subsequently, the Central government also made them eligible for long term visa to stay in India vide orders dated 08.01.2016 and 14.09.2016.

Meet Ranveer Allahbadia who bagged ‘National Creators Award’

New Delhi, March 8 (IANS)

Social media entrepreneur Ranveer Allahbadia has won the 'Disruptor of the Year' award for 'The Ranveer Show' podcast in the first-ever National Creators Award on Friday.

The National Creators Award were presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital. Allahbadia is also a YouTuber, motivational speaker, leadership coach, and podcast host.

He has founded BeerBiceps Pvt Ltd, a firm that provides selfimprovement content in a variety of formats and currently has six YouTube channels with over seven million online followers or subscribers.

The YouTuber, who graduated in engineering in 2015, teamed up with a junior from his college, Viraj Sheth, to create Monk Entertainment.

But PM Modi-led government has now made the said migrants eligible for Indian citizenship.

The CAA says that the illegal migrants who have entered into India up to the cut off date of 31.12.2014 can acquire Indian citizenship.

PM Modi-led government will now begin granting Indian nationality to persecuted nonMuslim migrants -- Christians, Parsis, Buddhists, Jains, Sikhs and Hindus -- from the above said countries who arrived in India up until December 31, 2014.

The government or an authority specified by it, shall grant the certificate of registration or certificate of naturalisation subject to such conditions, restrictions and manner as prescribed.

Since many of them have entered into India long back, they may be given the citizenship of India from the date of their entry in India if they fulfil conditions for Indian citizenship specified in section 5 or the qualifications for the naturalisation under the provisions of the Third Schedule to the Act. 6. Remarkably, the CAA further grants immunity to the migrants of the aforesaid Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities so that any proceedings against them regarding their status of migration or citizenship do not bar them from applying for Indian citizenship. This is being seen as a big relief for the citizenshipseekers. The competent authority shall not take into account any proceedings initiated against such persons regarding their status as illegal migrants or their citizenship matter while considering their application under section 5 or section 6 of the Act, if they fulfil all the conditions for grant of citizenship.

Monk Entertainment began as a talent management company and quickly began to work as a branding and content marketing agency.

As per his LinkedIn profile, BeerBiceps originally created only fitness content, but Allahbadia quickly pivoted into general lifestyle content. The successful switch into developing men's style and grooming content eventually led to the creation of other kinds of content. In 2018, BeerBiceps diversified into creating regional content online. Presently, their Hindi YouTube channel, 'Ranveer Allahbadia' has over 2 million subscribers while their English YouTube channel has over 3 million subscribers. In July 2019, the BeerBiceps team launched their podcast, The Ranveer Show. BeerBiceps was also featured in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list 2022.

Rs 7,000 crore sanctioned in last 3 months under PM JANMAN scheme for tribal hamlets

New Delhi, March 8 (IANS) An amount of more than Rs 7,000 crores has been sanctioned in the last three months under the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM JANMAN) with the first instalment being released on January 15 this year, according to data compiled by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs Ministry.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the mission on Nov 15 with an outlay of Rs 24,000 crores which is spread over 3 years. Most of the projects to be implemented under the scheme required availability of land, preparation of detailed project reports (DPRs), sanctioning by respective state departments and approvals by the respective ministries.

In most of the states, the Centre’s share of the budget outlay has been released, and construction works in projects related to housing, water, road, electricity, telecom and multipurpose centres have started. In many states mobile medical units and anganwadis sanctioned in January 2024 have become functional and vocational training in Vandhan Kendras has started.

The scheme provides the following benefits to eligible households and habitations:

*Road Connectivity for village/ habitation with a population of 100 or more

*Telecom connectivity for every habitation

*Pucca house as per locally preferred design with toilet and clean drinking water

*Electricity by on-grid and solar for left-out households

*Improved access to education and health by setting up a dedicated Hostel attached to the school and Mobile Medical unit where the health centre is not present

*Improved access to vocational education/ skilling

The data of 30,000 habitations has been gathered by States through a mobile application was developed on Gatishakti Portal and habitation level surveys were done by State Governments / UT Administration/departments to estimate various infrastructural gaps at habitation level.

More than 10,000 camps have been organised starting from 25th December 2023 in more than 100 districts to complete the collection and validation of data.

The gaps identified through the habitation level survey are the starting points for all 9 Ministries associated with PM JANMAN.

The respective line ministries after verification of the gap through their state department are inviting and sanctioning proposals from the states. In last 4 months, more than 2 lakh Aadhar, 5 Lakh Ayushman card, 50,000 Jan Dhan Account have been issued.

More than 5 lakh tribal families who have got FRA pattas were given the benefit of PM Kisan Saman Nidhi.

Notable achievements under the scheme include a tribal hamlet in Mysuru gets power connection 75 years after independence and MSEDCL started supplying electricity to 2,395 tribal homes in Maharashtra in 12 days.

Delhi Police file FIR against TN minister for ‘threatening’ PM Modi

New Delhi, March 14 (IANS)

Delhi Police have registered an FIR against Tamil Nadu Minister T.M. Anbarasan for allegedly threatening Prime

Minister Narendra Modi. The TN Minister stirred controversy after his purported video, in which he was seen threatening the Prime Minister, went viral on Wednesday. Subsequently, a Supreme Court lawyer filed a complaint against the DMK minister following which the Delhi Police registered an FIR at the Parliament Street police station. The FIR has been filed

under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including 153, 268, 503, 505, and 506. "The instant complaint is regarding an incident that took place during a public rally/ procession held by the Minister of Rural Industries, Cottage Industries, Small Industries, Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board, Tamil Nadu, T.M. Anbarasan.

Indian women beyond borders - a formidable force in world politics

New Delhi, March 8 (IANS)

Women serve as heads of state and government in only 31 countries with less than one in four serving as cabinet ministers, and just 26.5 per cent of them as MPs in a 21st-century world that speaks of gender equality.

Despite the not-so-impressive numbers, based on a 2023 UN study, women across the world have been emerging as a formidable force in political fora that has long been overpowered by men.

While in India, Ministers Nirmala Sitharaman, Smriti Irani, and many of their colleagues in the PM Narendra Modi government put in assiduous work to make governance more responsive to women’s interests and needs, their fellow Indian women beyond borders are not far behind.

In the US, Vice President Kamala Devi Harris -- born to a Jamaican father and an Indian mother -- is

President Joe Biden's running mate in this year's crucial election and could well script history by becoming America's first woman President, as well as the first of Indian descent.

Till two days back, two-time former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley -- born Nimrata Nikki Randhawa to Punjabi Sikh parents -- was the last woman standing against Republican frontrunner Donald Trump in the 2024 race to the White House. She was also the US Ambassador to the UN under then-President Trump.

Chennai-born Pramila Jayapal is among the five IndianAmerican lawmakers in the US Congress and represents the 7th Congressional District of Washington. Last year, her sister Susheela Jayapal, launched her congressional bid from the state of Oregon.

Assemblywoman Jenifer

Rajkumar, the first Hindu American elected to New York State Office, won the Diwali school holiday in just one legislative session, winning the hearts of the South Asian community in the state.

Last year, Andhra Pradesh-born Aruna Miller scripted history by becoming the first IndianAmerican politician to be sworn

in as the Lieutenant Governor in the state of Maryland.

In Australia, Labour MP Zaneta Mascarenhas became the first person of Goan origin to be elected to the country's lower house of representatives in 2022 from Swan. In Australia's closest neighbour to the east, Priyanca Radhakrishnan became the first person of Indian roots to be named minister for Diversity, Inclusion and Ethnic Communities in New Zealand. Her great-grandfather, Dr C.R. Krishna Pillai, had reportedly been a left-wing leader with the Communist Party and played a key role in Kerala politics.

In January 2021, Radhakrishnan, who is a Labour MP right now, was conferred a Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award for public service.

Indo-Canadian Anita Anand, promoted as the President of the Treasury Board in a last year Cabinet reshuffle, was the former Defence Minister of Canada and also served as the Minister of Public Services and Procurement in the past. Born in 1967 in Nova Scotia to a Punjabi mother and a Tamil father, both physicians, Anita -- having worked as a scholar, lawyer and researcher -- was first elected as the MP for Oakville in 2019.

Bengaluru cafe blast case: Bomber tracked, identity being ascertained, says K’taka Minister

Bengaluru, March 11 (IANS)

Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara said on Monday that the agencies have almost tracked the suspected bomber in the Bengaluru cafe blast case.

Speaking to reporters here, Parameshwara said, "The identity of the bomber has been almost

tracked. The special wing CCB and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) sleuths are further ascertaining it."

The NIA on March 9 released photos and videos of the suspected bomber and declared Rs 10 lakh reward for any clues and information leading to the arrest of the suspected bomber.

The CCB has formed seven to eight teams to track and nab the accused.

The incident took place on March 1 at the Rameshwaram Cafe located in Brookfield on the International Technology Park Limited (ITPL) Road in Bengaluru. Reacting to a statement of BJP MP

PM Modi lays foundation stone of 3 chip projects in big leap to become a global hub

Ahmedabad, March 13 (IANS) In a huge boost to India’s dream of becoming a global semiconductor hub, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday virtually laid the foundation stone of three semiconductor projects worth Rs 1.25 lakh crore, which took just 15 days to kick-off after the Union Cabinet’s approval.

Addressing the gathering, especially thousands of students from across the country at ‘India’s Techade: Chips for Viksit Bharat’ programme, PM Modi said that today, we are not only rewriting history but also taking a big leap towards a bright future.

“This historic day will help India become a global semiconductor hub. I congratulate all the citizens on this momentous occasion. More than 60,000 colleges, universities and institutions are virtually part of this programme,” PM Modi told the audience. “The 21st century can’t be thought of without high-end chips and India will play a crucial role in providing semiconductors across the spectrum in the Industry 4.0 revolution,” the Prime Minister added. Union Communications and IT

Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that this momentous moment has been made possible under the decisive and visionary leadership of PM Modi.

“Since 1962, the planning to manufacture semiconductors has been going on in the country but to no avail. Now, within a year, we have seen groundbreaking ceremonies of four semiconductor plants (including the Micron plant in Sanand, Gujarat in September last year).

This was only possible with PM Modi’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ mission,” said the IT Minister. In line with the Prime Minister's vision, the foundation stone was laid for the semiconductor fabrication facility at the Dholera Special Investment Region (DSIR), Gujarat; the Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facility at Morigaon, Assam; and the Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facility at Sanand, Gujarat.

The fabrication facility at the DSIR is being set up by Tata Electronics Private Limited (TEPL) under the Modified Scheme for setting up Semiconductor Fabs in India. With a total investment of more than Rs 91,000 crore, this will be the first commercial semiconductor fab in the country.

Arunachal Pradesh is ‘integral and inalienable part’ of India: MEA responds to China

New Delhi, March 12 (IANS)

Ananth Kumar Hegde proposing to change the Indian Constitution, he stated that PM Modi has appreciated the Constitution. He has even stated that if not for the Constitution, he would not have become the PM. “Mere distancing from the statements is not enough for the BJP, action must be initiated against MP Hegde,” Parameshwara urged.

Talking about the finalization of tickets to the Lok Sabha polls, he said that the list of Congress candidates is going to be finalised by the evening. "The process will have to be expedited. The list of 21 candidates will get a nod and by evening a clear picture will be there," said Parameshwara.

Stating that Arunachal Pradesh will always remain its "integral and inalienable part", India on Tuesday rejected comments made by China on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the northeastern state to inaugurate the strategically important Sela tunnel.

China, which claims Arunachal Pradesh as South Tibet, said it "strongly deplored" PM Modi's last week's visit and India's move would "only complicate" the boundary issue.

"We reject the comments made by the Chinese side regarding the visit of the Prime Minister to Arunachal Pradesh. Indian leaders visit Arunachal Pradesh from time to time, as they visit other States of India," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, said in a statement released on Tuesday. Asserting that objecting to such

visits or India's developmental projects does not stand to reason, Jaiswal said: "It will not change the reality that the State of Arunachal Pradesh was, is, and will always be an integral and inalienable part of India".

The Spokesperson further added that the Chinese side has been made aware of "this consistent position on several occasions".

Following PM Modi's visit, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said at a media briefing that Beijing "never recognised the so-called Arunachal Pradesh illegally set up by India and firmly opposes it".

"Relevant moves by India only complicate the boundary question. China is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposed to the leader's visit to the eastern section of the China-India boundary," Wenbin had said. Situated at an altitude of 13,000 feet, the Sela Tunnel -- the world's longest twin-lane tunnel -- was inaugurated by PM Modi in Arunachal Pradesh on March 9. The strategically important tunnel will ensure all-weather connectivity to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh.

More Australians in favour of becoming independent middle power than US ally

Canberra, March 12 (IANS)

More Australians believe the nation should aim to become an independent middle power than primarily an ally of the US, a poll has found.Published by

the online Australian edition of British newspaper 'The Guardian' on Tuesday, the poll found that 38 per cent of Australians said the country's role in global affairs should be as an independent middle power, Xinhua news agency reported.

Twenty-five per cent said the nation should do its best not to engage in world affairs and 17 per cent were unsure.

The poll found that 63 per cent of Australians described themselves as concerned about Israel's military action in Gaza.

Thirty-seven per cent of Australians said Israel should withdraw permanently from military action in Gaza, twice as many than 18 per cent who supported it continuing. Two thirds of participants in the poll said they believed the world is either very or somewhat divided and 10 per cent described it as united.Sixty-eight per cent agreed that global instability makes trade more expensive and 57 per cent said it would undermine efforts to solve problems including climate change.

Queenslanders urged to prepare beforehand for bushfire season

Sydney, March 13 (IANS) The state government of Australia's Queensland on Wednesday urged local communities to prepare for the upcoming bushfire season, as a wet summer contributed to major vegetation growth.

According to a statement released by the Queensland government, widespread heavy rainfall has led to increased bushfire fuel loads across large parts of the state. With drier-than-average weather conditions expected in autumn, vegetation can dry out quickly, Xinhua news agency reported. Under above-average temperatures, grasslands in the western parts of northern and central Queensland are forecast

to see a peak in fire activity in mid-autumn.

While autumn is not likely to bring significant bushfire activity across the majority of the state, the Queensland government suggested landholders start preparing their properties beforehand.

Meanwhile, the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) is working on plans to conduct hazard-reduction burns in the coming weeks.

"Bushfire mitigation is a yearround process and QFES is actively working with its partner agencies to strategise for the cooler months, ahead of the start of bushfire season in August," said

Nikki Boyd, the state's minister for fire and disaster recovery.

Rural Fire Service Queensland acting chief officer Ben Millington noted that his agency is also busy undertaking preparation

for crucial mitigation work to be completed during the cooler months ahead of the bushfire season.

"While we are expecting a normal level of bushfire activity in autumn for most of the state, there is a significant amount of fuel on the ground which will dry out over the coming months," Ben Millington added.

The fire season in Queensland usually kicks off in July and can extend through to February in southern and far south-western areas. However, the timeframes can vary significantly from year to year, depending on fuel loads, long-term climate, and shortterm weather conditions in each area.

For the far North and far North West regions, the warm and sunny winter and spring become most susceptible to bushfires when grasses are dead and fuels

Majority of women face bias, discrimination in healthcare

Canberra, March 14 (IANS) A

experienced bias or discrimination in the health system, a national survey has found.

The federal government on Thursday released the results of the first End Gender Bias survey, revealing that two thirds of Australian women reported health care related gender bias or discrimination, Xinhua news agency reported.

It found that women from diverse backgrounds and those with a disability were more likely to

experience bias or discrimination in healthcare settings.

The survey of 2,800 women, healthcare professionals and stakeholder groups was led by the National Women's Health Advisory Council and launched by Ged Kearney, assistant minister for Health and Aged Care, at Australia's first National Women's Health Summit in Canberra on Thursday.

"For the first time, the Australian government is addressing the complex and systemic bias against women in health care," Ged Kearney said in a statement. "This is the turning point for women's health in Australia and I'm glad we've finally arrived here."

Disrespectful and demeaning interactions often occurred

Hyderabad woman murdered in Victoria

Hyderabad, March 10 (IANS) A young woman from Hyderabad, who had been living with her family in Australia, has been found murdered, according to reports.

The body of Chaitanya Madhagani alias Swetha was found in a bin on the side of a deserted road

in Buckley, west of Geelong in Victoria on Saturday.

Swetha was living with husband and their three-year-old son in Melbourne.

Local police suspect that the two parties involved are known to one another, and the offender may have fled overseas. Police established a second crime scene at a residential address on Mirka Way, Point Cook in southwestern Melbourne.

They suspect that the woman was murdered at home and her body was dumped in a bin some 82 km away.

Swetha's husband, Ashok Raj Varikuppala, reportedly flew back to India recently with the couple's son.

Measles cases triggers alert in Victoria

Sydney, March 8 (IANS) The health authority in the Australian state of Victoria issued a public warning on Friday after five cases of measles were identified in the state capital Melbourne.

Between February 19 and March 1, the five patients attended several public venues while infectious, including Melbourne Airport, Craigieburn Post Office, and Monash University, Xinhua news agency reported.

One of the newly confirmed cases also traveled to New South Wales and visited Sydney's central business area during a one-day stay, triggering another health alert for local communities.

during intimate examinations and childbirth, the report said.

In one case an Indigenous woman aged 18-24 who participated in the survey said she was "bullied" into accepting long-term contraception in order to have surgery for endometriosis.

Consistent themes of bias or discrimination included women feeling dismissed, disbelieved or stereotyped being regarded as hysterical by healthcare professionals, particularly in cases with symptoms related to pain.

More than 70 per cent of respondents said they experienced bias in visits to their general practitioner (GP) compared to 50 per cent who reported bias in hospital settings.

"Measles is a highly infectious viral illness that can lead to uncommon but serious complications, such as pneumonia and brain inflammation," the Victorian Department of Health warned in a statement.

Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, sore or red eyes, runny nose, and a red maculopapular rash. They may appear between seven and 18 days after an exposure.

People who had been exposed to the listed sites during the specified dates and times were urged to monitor for any related symptoms.

The health authority also noted that overseas travels could lead to exposure to measles at the current time, as outbreaks of the highly infectious disease have been recently reported in Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and the US.

New envoy to Australia submits copy of credentials amid appointment row

Seoul, March 13 (IANS) South Korea's new ambassador to Canberra Lee Jong-sup has presented a copy of his credentials to Australia, the foreign ministry said on Wednesday, amid controversy over his alleged influencepeddling case related to the death

of a young marine last year. Lee Jong-sup, who served as defence minister from 2022 to 2023, left for Australia on Sunday without receiving the original letter of credence from President Yoon Suk Yeol.

The foreign ministry said Lee Jong-sup submitted a copy of the letter Tuesday during his meeting with Arthur Spyrou, chief of protocol at the Australian department of foreign affairs and trade.

As he has submitted the copy, Lee Jong-sup can carry out his diplomatic activities as the ambassador before presenting the original letter.

majority of Australian women say they have

‘Big win for human rights’: Hindus in Canada, US, UK laud CAA implementation

New Delhi, March 12 (IANS)

Calling the government's decision to offer Indian citizenship to persecuted minorities a "big win for human rights", Hindu organisations across the US, the UK, and Canada on Tuesday hailed the announcement of the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

The CAA -- an integral part of the BJP's 2019 Lok Sabha polls manifesto -- will enable the granting of citizenship to people from Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Buddhist and Parsi communities, who had migrated to India before December 31, 2014, from neighbouring countries because of religious persecution.

"The government's decision to offer Indian citizenship to persecuted minorities from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan is a commendable move... India, as a signatory to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and various other international conventions, has an obligation to provide asylum to persecuted individuals regardless of their religion," the Hindu Forum Canada said in a statement.

The group hoped that "Pakistan and Bangladesh will consider implementing a similar Citizenship Amendment Act to foster brotherhood among Indian nationals".

US-based advocacy group, Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), called the move "a big win for Human Rights for the persecuted

religious minorities of Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. It further said that CAA has no impact on existing Indian citizens of any faith and that it simply fast-tracks the Indian citizenship process for nearly 31,000 religious minorities who fled to neighbouring nations "in the face of extreme and systemic persecution".

CoHNA pointed out that each year in Pakistan, thousands of minor girls from minority communities are kidnapped, forcibly converted and "married" to their abductors, with support from police and judicial authorities.

"As a result, petrified families with young kids have been fleeing to India for basic safety," the group, which had run an education and advocacy campaign on CAA in 2020 to counter false narrative on the topic, said.

Hindu American Foundation (HAF) Executive Director Suhag

Shukla said that CAA was "long overdue and necessary", as it protects some of the most vulnerable refugees in India, granting them the human rights they were denied in their home country.

Shukla said that CAA mirrors the long-established Lautenberg Amendment in the US, in place since 1990, which has provided a clear immigration path for persons fleeing a select group of nations where religious persecution is rampant.

"I'm proud to see both the oldest and largest secular democracies

in the world -- the US and India -- be a beacon of hope by extending a pathway to freedom and a new life to those who have suffered gross human rights violations simply because of their religion," she added.

London-based Hindu advocacy group said: "This is a reflection of India's commitment to religious freedom and equality, integral to its secular fabric."

The CAA was enacted by the Parliament in December 2019 amid large-scale demonstrations from the Muslim community, backed by Opposition parties, demanding a rollback of the law calling it discriminatory.

They claimed that the Muslim community had been excluded from the CAA.

"The CAA does not alter the rights of any Indian citizen nor does it establish any religious test for general immigration or exclude Muslims from immigrating to India, as is sometimes wrongly said and reported," HAF said in a statement.

"Muslims often have more rights in Islamic countries such as Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, where there are constitutional discriminations against non-Muslims," the Hindu Forum Canada said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah had reiterated in Parliament that Indian citizens of the Muslim community do not need to fear anything, as this Bill would not affect their citizenship in any way.

Requesting the Opposition not to do politics on this issue and divide people on communal lines, Shah said that "this Bill aims at granting rather than taking away someone's citizenship".

New Zealand recognises global, regional leadership role that India plays: Minister

New Delhi, March 5 (IANS)

Recognising India's leadership role on the global stage, New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters said on Tuesday that his country is determined to build a "broader, deeper, mutually beneficial relationship" with the South Asian nation.

Beginning his visit to New Delhi and Ahmedabad on March 10, Peters will also be highlighting the shared interest of the two nations in helping the

development of the Pacific Islands region.

“India is a country with which New Zealand can, should, and will be doing more. New Zealand recognises the global and regional leadership role that India plays, and we are determined to build a broader, deeper, mutually beneficial relationship,” Peters said in a statement released on Tuesday.

The minister's three-nation tour will also see him visiting Singapore, and Indonesia to reinvigorate New Zealand’s relations with South and South East Asia.

The centrepiece engagement of the trip will be his extended meetings with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi and Singapore's Vivian Balakrishnan respectively.

“It will be a privilege to spend

Overseas care workers can no longer bring dependants to UK

London, March 11 (IANS) As part of the UK government's plan to bring down unsustainable levels of legal migration and tackle visa abuse, overseas care workers coming to the country will now be restricted from bringing dependants, starting from Monday itself. The implementation of the move means a total of 300,000 people eligible to come to the UK last year, will not be able to do so now, a Home Office statement said on Monday.

In addition, care providers in England acting as sponsors for migrants will also be required to register with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) -- the industry regulator for Health and Social Care -- to crack down on worker exploitation and abuse within the sector.

As 120,000 dependants accompanied 100,000 workers on this visa route last year, British Home Secretary James

Cleverly said: "...we cannot justify inaction in the face of clear abuse, manipulation of our immigration system and unsustainable migration numbers".

"Our plan is robust but fair – protecting British workers while ensuring the very best international talent can work and study here, to add value to our society and grow the economy," he said.

According to the Home Office, there is "clear evidence" that care workers have been offered visas under false pretences. This includes travelling thousands of miles for jobs that simply don’t exist or exploiting them by paying far below the minimum wage required for their work while undercutting British workers. These changes came into effect with the government set to lay rules in Parliament on March 14 to prevent the "undercutting of British workers".

Further, Cleverly will also commission a review of the graduate route for international students to prevent abuse and protect the integrity and quality of higher education in the country.

"He will ask the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to ensure that demand for the graduate route, through which a total of 175,872 visas have been granted since it was established, is fit for purpose and focused on attracting the best and brightest to the UK," the Home Office said.

Hamas demands ceasefire, Israeli withdrawal as prerequisites for prisoner exchange deal

further time with three such experienced and accomplished Foreign Ministers whose views on the issues facing the world and the Indo-Pacific in particular carry considerable weight," Peters said.

"If New Zealand wishes to maximise our influence and impact in the region, we need to lift our game with all three of India, Indonesia, and Singapore,” he added.

Calling Gujarat "an engine of Indian economic growth" with significant connections to New Zealand’s Indian diaspora, a government release said that Peters will also meet state Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel.

"In Delhi, he will be highlighting the shared interest that New Zealand and India have in helping the development of the Pacific Islands region," the release said, adding that his India visit will conclude on March 13.

Gaza, March 9 (IANS) The Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, said in a statement that a ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza are essential conditions for any prisoner exchange agreement.

The Brigades' spokesperson, Abu Ubaydah, emphasised in the statement on Friday that there would be no compromise on these demands, Xinhua news agency reported.

Ubaydah accused the Israeli government of "deceit" in the negotiation process, which he described as marked by

"confusion and bewilderment".

Ubaydah also highlighted the plight of Gaza's residents, particularly children suffering from malnutrition, adding that the hostages taken by Hamas are also affected by the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. "Some of them are suffering from illness due to lack of food and medicine," he said.

On Thursday, Hamas announced that its delegation had left Cairo to consult with the movement's leadership on ceasefire negotiations, reaffirming its commitment to negotiations aimed at ending hostilities, assisting displaced individuals, and providing humanitarian aid to Gaza's residents.

Talks have been ongoing in Egypt, with representatives from Qatar, the US, and Hamas aiming to establish a ceasefire in Gaza before Ramadan, which begins around March 10 this year.

Food prices in New Zealand see smallest annual increase in

Wellington, March 13 (IANS)

New Zealand's food prices increased 2.1 per cent in the 12 months to February 2024, the smallest increase since May 2021, according to the statistics department Stats NZ on Wednesday.

Lower fruit and vegetable prices are welcome news for New Zealanders who have been doing it tough at the supermarket, said Finance Minister Nicola Willis, Xinhua news agency reported.

The 2.1 per cent increase is noticeably lower when compared with the 12 per cent increase in the 12 months to February 2023, Stats NZ said, adding the

almost 3 years

lower annual increase was due to cheaper fruit and vegetable prices, down 9.3 per cent in the 12 months to February 2024.

Cheaper prices for fresh produce such as tomatoes, broccoli, and lettuce drove the decrease in fruit and vegetable prices, said Stats NZ consumer prices manager Will Bell.

"Lower fruit and vegetable prices are a step in the right direction for Kiwi families who have been pulling in their belts to cope with rising prices and rising pressures across the board," Willis said, adding inflation continues to be tracking down in the right direction and people can start feeling more in control of their own finances.

All other broad food groups increased in the 12 months, with restaurant meals and ready-toeat food prices up 6.7 per cent, grocery food prices up 3.9 per

cent, non-alcoholic beverage prices up 4.3 per cent, and meat, poultry, and fish prices up 0.2 per cent, statistics show.

"Going out for a meal or grabbing takeaways was more expensive in February 2024," Bell said.

Meanwhile, the cost of accommodation both internationally and domestically has increased in the 12 months to February 2024, he said.

Prices for international accommodation increased 24.5 per cent during the period, after a decrease of 6.3 per cent in the 12 months to February 2023.

"The cost of staying at accommodation while abroad, is more than 40 per cent more expensive than five years ago," Bell said, adding domestic accommodation increased 6.1 percent in the 12 months to February 2024.

Biden, Trump clinch nominations, stage set for presidential election rematch

Washington, March 13 (IANS)

US President Joe Biden and his predecessor Donald Trump have secured enough delegates to become their respective party's 2024 nominee, setting the stage for a presidential rematch.

With his win in Georgia's primary, Joe Biden has cleared the 1,968 delegate mark out of 3,934 total to lock up this year's Democratic nomination and represent the party on the ballot in November, the US media reported.

Joe Biden will also win the Democratic primaries in the states of Mississippi and Washington, US media outlets projected Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Donald Trump has secured enough delegates to become the Republican Party's presidential nominee after winning primaries in the states of Georgia, Mississippi and

Washington.

Joe Biden and Donald Trump have ratcheted up rhetoric against each other after the "Super Tuesday" primaries earlier this month, when they both won by a landslide in their own party's face-offs. The lengthy, bitter battle for the White House -poised to deepen the US political divides -- enters a new phase, Xinhua news agency reported.

"Trump and I have a very different value set," Joe Biden recently told supporters in Atlanta, Georgia, noting that if Donald Trump returns to the White House, the US will be filled with "resentment, revenge and retribution."

Additionally, Joe Biden criticised Donald Trump's positions on issues such as abortion, taxes, and immigration.

During a rally in Rome, Georgia, Donald Trump attacked Joe Biden on immigration and border security, accusing him of allowing illegal immigration from the southern border of the US, saying that Joe Biden's "crime" will never be forgiven. At the rally, Donald Trump also mocked Joe Biden's mannerisms.

Joe Biden unseated Trump in the 2020 election but the Republicans

refused to acknowledge defeat and alleged massive voter fraud.

The Washington Post noted that the 2024 general election, which has kicked off in earnest, is promising to be "the longest, most expensive and, perhaps, most divisive presidential race in recent memory."

A report from AdImpact, an ad tracking company, predicted the current election cycle will be the most expensive one in US history, as candidates spend an overall 10 billion US dollars, up 13 per cent from the previous record set during the 2019-2020 election cycle.

Americans are split on who they trust to do a better job leading the country, according to a new ABC News/Ipsos poll, with 36 per cent trusting Trump, 33 percent trusting Biden, and 30 percent trusting neither.

The US presidential primaries, extending through June, precede the Republican National Convention in July, where the party's presidential nominee is officially selected by delegates, followed by the Democratic National Convention in August, leading up to the 2024 Election Day on November 5.

Imran warns of Sri Lanka-like crisis in Pakistan amid high inflation

Rawalpindi, March 13 (IANS)

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan has warned of a looming financial crisis and public unrest in the country akin to that faced by Sri Lanka, a media report said. Khan insisted that his previous predictions had come true, reiterating concerns

over a Sri Lanka-like scenario unfolding in Pakistan, with inflation rising and the populace bearing the brunt, The Express Tribune reported. Speaking to the media at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, where he is presently lodged, Khan criticised what he described as the ongoing “deception” within the country, condemning the

US court orders Byju’s to freeze $533 million owed to lenders

New York, March 15 (IANS) The steering committee representing term-loan lenders of Byju's $1.2 billion loan on Friday said that a US judge has ordered to prohibit further movement or use of $533 million by the edtech company, which is owed to lenders.

According to the steering committee's statement, the company's co-founders Byju Raveendran and Divya Gokulnath are prohibited by the judge from further transferring or using any of the $533 million in loan proceeds previously held by Camshaft Capital Fund, and subsequently transferred to an unnamed and unknown offshore trust. The court also found that Raveendran and Gokulnath "are working in concert with the defendants and ordered them to comply with its ruling".In its ruling, the court confirmed that the transfer of funds from Byju's

Alpha, the edtech firm's US subsidiary, and their continued concealment, "likely constitutes a fraudulent conveyance".

"The fact that the parent company is attempting to hide where the assets are is huge. It shows that they are engaged in what appears to be a potential fraud," the judge said in its order.

"Raveendran... either was being untruthful or he's the most incompetent officer or director of a company in Delaware history.”

Additionally, the court ordered the arrest of William Morton, the founder of Camshaft Capital Fund, following his repeated refusal to appear in court and provide any of the requested information regarding the transfers of the $533 million in loan proceeds and the current status and location of the funds.

The ruling confirms that “Byju Raveendran himself is acting in concert with, among others, his brother, Riju, his wife, Divya, and fugitive William Morton, and that these individuals are continuing to intentionally defraud Byju's lenders," claimed the lenders' steering committee.

Asif Ali Zardari takes oath as 14th president of Pakistan

Islamabad, March 11 (IANS) Asif

Ali Zardari took oath as the 14th President of Pakistan during a ceremony held at the President's House on Sunday, according to a statement from the President's Office.

Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa administered the oath of office to the newly-elected President at the ceremony attended by the outgoing President Arif Alvi, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, chiefs of the armed forces, politicians and foreign dignitaries.

Earlier on Saturday, Zardari, Co-chairperson of the Pakistan Peoples' Party Parliamentarians,

won the election by taking 411 against 181 votes from all the electoral colleges, including the parliament and four provincial assemblies, the Election Commission of Pakistan said. Ruling coalition candidate Zardari received 255 votes in a joint session of the two houses of the parliament, including the Senate and the National Assembly, 43 votes from the eastern Punjab province, eight from the northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, 47 votes from the southwest Balochistan province and 58 votes from the southern Sindh province, Xinhua news agency reported.

This is 68-year-old Zardari's second term as President after he served as the country's 11th President from 2008 to 2013. He is also the first civilian who reached this position for the second time in the country's history.

Japan’s Space One rocket explodes after lift-off

recently-held general elections as fraudulent and alleging compromise within institutions.

"Institutions have been destroyed.

The PTI was not allowed to compete in the elections.

Although voters expressed their discontent on polling day, they did not accept the change through votes.

first attempt from the country's private sector to put a satellite

Shortly after 11:00 a.m. local time (0200 GMT) at the launch site in Wakayama Prefecture, western Japan, smoke and fire were seen following the take-off of the 18-meter, four-stage solid-fuel rocket, multiple local media live streams showed, Xinhua news agency reported.

Tokyo, March 13 (IANS) The inaugural rocket launch of Japanese company Space One failed on Wednesday as the Kairos rocket exploded seconds after lifting off, marking the

into orbit.

Indian American women a powerhouse in US politics, business, society

New York, March 8 (IANS)

Former UN ambassador Nikki Haley's tenacious battle for the presidency of the US is a symbol of Indian American women's emergence as a powerhouse in politics and society even though she dropped her sisyphean quest two days before International Women's Day.

On the other side of the political divide, US Vice President Kamala Harris is set for another run for the vice presidency alongside President Joe Biden, having notched the record of the first woman elected to the position that is just a heartbeat away from the world's most powerful job.

While the two women have the highest profiles in politics, many Indian American women shine across the spectrum of politics, government, business and beyond.

They have soared into space, headed multinational corporations, led universities, and showing their versatility, served undercover for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and even took the Miss America crown.

Although overrun by former President Donald Trump, Nikki Haley made her mark by standing up to him while other competitors folded and she struck out a line of Republican politics that could have a wider appeal.

Women’s

She put her stamp on politics by getting a significant chunk of votes - estimated at about 25 per cent of those cast in the Republican primaries till she quit - winning in one state, Vermont, and in Washington, the federal District of Columbia.

She also has the distinction of being elected twice as the governor of South Carolina, the first woman and the first nonWhite person to head the state, and the first Indian American to be a member of the US cabinet when she was the permanent representative to the United Nations, a post with cabinet rank.

Kamala Harris made her mark as California's attorney general lofting her to the Senate where her work got her national recognition, paving the way to the second most powerful job in the US, the vice president. She is the first woman to become vice president and she was also the first person of Indian descent elected to the US Senate.

Pramila Jayapal, who heads the Progressive Caucus in the House of Representatives, is the other politically powerful Indian American woman.

What helps them shatter glass ceilings despite their being women and, on top of that, women of colour with immigrant backgrounds is a society that values merit as it steadily tries to bring down barriers to women's advancement.

And they are not dynasts or nepobabies, either, and they got to where they are through their own merit.

As Nikki Haley said on Wednesday while announcing she was ending her race, "Just last week, my mother, a first-generation immigrant, got to vote for her daughter for president - only in

America".

In business, Indra Nooyi created a legend of her own as the CEO of Pepsico, a multinational corporation with over 300,000 employees operating in over 200 countries having a revenue of $62 billion in her final year heading it.

By the time she left in 2018 after 12 years as CEO, she boosted its annual profits from $2.5 billion to $6.7 billion as she chartered a new, more diversified course for the company.

Revathi Advaithi is the CEO of Flex, a global diversified company that is the third-largest globally in electronics manufacturing services.

She also serves on the US government's Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations.

Padmasree Warrior, who blazed a trail as chief technology officer for marquee technology companies

Motorola and Cisco and as the US CEO of the Chinese electric vehicle company Nio, is now the CEO of a startup Fable.

In academia, there are scores of Indian American Women heading departments and schools.

Among them are heads of large universities, Neeli Bendapudi, the president of Pennsylvania State University and Renu Khator, the chancellor of the University of Houston System.Asha Rangappa, a former Federal Bureau of Investigation agent-turnedacademic, has served as an associate dean of Yale University Law School.

Indian American women have soared into space as astronauts.

Kalpana Chawla, a mission specialist and robotic arms operator, was killed on her second mission when the space shuttle Columbia broke up as it reentered the earth's atmosphere in 2003.

Day: Female Gamers carving their niche in Indian

New Delhi, March 8 (IANS)

Esports, which was once a maledominated domain, is witnessing a significant shift as female gamers are carving their own space within the landscape by challenging stereotypes. With talent, resilience, and a supportive community, women are proving that Esports is a platform where skill and passion determine success, regardless of gender.

Esports

According to the 'Female Gamers in Asia' report by Niko Partners, the female gamers market in Asia represents 37% of total gamers, with an annual growth rate of 11%, nearly double that of new male gamers. Female gamers contribute about 23.5% of total revenue in the Asian games market and have the potential to double in size in the coming years.

As more women step into roles as developers, CEOs, designers, writers, and coaches, there is a noticeable increase in female representation across various facets of the video games industry. The latest FICCI-EY report titled ‘#Reinvent: India’s media & entertainment sector is innovating for the future’, forecasts an increase in the female fan base of the overall Esports audience, rising from 23%

Women’s Day: How gender barriers collapsed in the man’s world of hotel kitchens

New Delhi, March 8 (IANS) There was a time when a woman in a five-star hotel's kitchen was such an oddity, as a senior chef remembered some years ago, that she and a couple of new female inductees decided to do exactly what the men did: use foul language and light up a cigarette during breaks.

Seeing women just like them, that too women who used English profanities, the male chefs grudgingly accepted them, but also gave them some friendly advice: If they wanted to get married and have children, like all good women should do, they should quickly seek a transfer to the patisserie, which was airconditioned and the duty hours were regular.

You could imagine their utter shock when these 'achche ghar ki ladkiyan' told them bluntly that they had come to become chefs and the hot kitchen was their way forward.

Unlike the case in people's homes, kitchens in five-star hotels and restaurants were a man's world where generous dollops of suspicion and contempt used to be heaped upon women who 'trespassed' into them.

That was the world that Veena Arora walked into in 1994, after having grown up in Bangkok and trained in London, when she joined the Thai restaurant named Silk Orchid at the then Holiday Inn (now known as The Lalit in New Delhi). Arora left The Imperial, where she presided over the iconic Spice Route restaurant, last year to turn a chef-entrepreneur, satisfied that pioneers like her have made a difference to their industry's old mindset.

in 2023 to 25% by 2024.

"As a female gamer, witnessing the progressive influx of female talent across various domains within the video game industry fills me with immense pride.

Women choosing their passion over societal norms play a pivotal role in reshaping the narrative around gender representation in gaming. With more female gamers continuing to assert their place in this dynamic industry, they will inspire budding gamers and create an inclusive and welcoming space for players of all backgrounds to thrive,” noted Payal Dhare aka PayalGaming who is a part of 8Bit Creatives and stands one of India’s leading female gamers with more than three million followers on Youtube.

Less than two decade after Arora's entry into Silk Orchid, author and Parsi cuisine exponent Anahita Dhondy can happily remembers how as an industrial trainee from IHM Aurangabad, she was pushed into the banquet kitchen of New Delhi's Taj Mahal Hotel by the executive sous chef, who wanted them rise and shine by burning their hands and scalding their skin. The gender barrier was finally coming down, but old attitudes continued to persist, as chef and restaurateur Chiquita Gulati, discovered much after she was running her own show. A relative of hers (she grew up in a well-to-do Gujarati family in Mumbai and studied at the prestigious hospitality school at Les Roches, Switzerland) met her in a chef's uniform and (obviously, she had been conditioned by cookery shows!) exclaimed: "Kya baat hai, aaj toh tum chef bane

hue ho! (My, my, you are dressed up like a chef today!)" To quote Gulati: "It was a subtle reminder of the gender stereotypes that continue to linger even in my own circles."

Of course, the transition has been physically demanding. As Dhondy says, remembering her days at the Taj banquet kitchen, "Honestly I hated it at first. It is loud and hot, it is noisy and hectic, quite the opposite of the air-conditioned pastry room where ambient music is played just to keep you in the right frame of mind."

Talking about her decision to stay put in the hot kitchen (she earned her spurs with the Irani-Parsi restaurant chain, Soda Bottle Opener Wala), she mentions her Le Cordon Bleu batch. "Most of the Indians in my batch in London became pastry chefs, except three: Vanshika Bhatia, Urvika Kanoi and I. And I am so glad we did that because we are all successfully running our own businesses."

Fortunately for women chefs, as Arora points out, families too have changed the way they view the profession.

"Over time, as women proved their strength and dedication, perceptions shifted," Arora said. "Educated women emerged stronger, more independent and confident, breaking free from traditional constraints. Families now recognise the positive impact of women working in the industry, supporting their roles as providers and caretakers."

Life, indeed, has changed for women in the profession. "From being the underdogs who had to work extra hard to getting noticed, getting the big-ticket opportunities, to the present, it's been a journey full of ups and downs," Gulati said.

Despite being married into the family that owns the established and popular Gulati restaurant at Pandara Road in New Delhi, Gulati launched the Spice Route, a pan-Indian eatery in Saket, and then, during the Covid lockdown, the Call Chotu food delivery service. With 30 years to look back upon -- 30 years that have seen trail-blazing chefs such as Nita Nagaraj, Madhu Krishnan, Manisha Bhasin and Ritu Dalmia -- Arora sees the change in the right perspective. She said: "The evolution is evident in today's kitchens, where women are not only accepted but celebrated. Specialised kitchens with an all-female staff highlight the capability of women to successfully run restaurants and manage kitchens independently. It reflects the resilience, strength and competence of women in large-scale industrial kitchens, and their success in challenging and redefining traditional gender roles."

Lyrical to empowering, messages from stars light up Women’s Day

Mumbai, March 8 (IANS) A galaxy of actresses, some of whom are better-known for being reality TV stars, have extended their greetings to fans and followers on the occasion of International Women's Day.

These stars who sought to "inspire and empower" were Tejasswi Prakash, Mouni Roy, Gauahar Khan, Surveen Chawla and Pavitra Punia.

Taking to Instagram, 'Bigg Boss 15' winner Tejasswi shared a string of pictures where she can

be seen wearing a green backless dress and flaunting her curves. She went all glammed up with the makeup and tied her hair in a ponytail.

The post's captioned waxes lyrical. It reads: "Woman I am, Bleed I do, Scars I bear, Tolerance I need, Voice I have, Brave I feel, Strong I stand, Love I share, Life I create, Woman I am - Vasiliki."

Mouni of 'Naagin' fame, who appears in the web series 'Showtime', shared pictures from her dance performance at some event on Thursday night.

The pictures show the diva wearing a white and golden Anarkali suit and a red lehenga, giving a classical dance performance. Her caption reads:

"Last night doing what I love doing the most ... Happy Mahashivratri & Women's Day ... Om Namah Shivay #stagelove".

After completing her duties as host of 'Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 11', Gauahar was celebrating International Women's Day. She

shared a montage video that showed her looking resplendant in a white and golden outfit. Her message for the day matched her outfit: "Golden hour! Happy Women's Day. Be gold for yourself!"

Pavitra, who was last seen on 'Bigg Boss 14', shared some pretty pictures of her wearing a sleeveless orange tulle dress. She accessorised it with a black belt.

The caption for the pictures read: "This 'woman' the other day ... Our day today pretty ladies ya all out there on my feed and on this beautiful living universe, Love Love Love".

Surveen, known for her roles in 'Kahin To Hoga', 'Rana Naidu' and 'Sacred Games' shared her sunkissed pictures wearing a white dress with a deep neckline.

The post is captioned: "I see Daylight! I see me! And I see each one of you beautiful women around me! Do you see you? #happywomensday".

Women’s Day: Iconic Bollywood dialogues that define courage and pride of women

Mumbai, March 8 (IANS) Hindi cinema has always been known for impactful dialogues, and despite its old male bias (which is tilting in the right direction lately!), it is no longer the men who deliver a punch in the lines they mouth.

The women of Hindi cinema have delivered some of its iconic dialogues over the years that have left an indelible mark on the subconscious of the audience.

IANS takes a look at some of the most iconic dialogues by Bollywood women that have defined power, resilience and pride.

The first dialogue on the list is by Sonam Kapoor from her film 'Neerja' in which she says, "Haunsla rakh, usse saari samasya hal ho jaati hai." The dialogue beautifully conveys that when the going is tough, courage is what gets people going. Courage changes the character of a person and makes them better equipped to deal with any situation.

The next is by Rani Mukerji from her 2014 cop action-thriller film 'Mardaani'. At one point in it, she says, "Kuchh karne ke liye kaayde ki nahi, irade ki zaroorat hoti hai."

The dialogue subtly touches upon cutting through red tape and bureaucratic rules in the pursuit of justice.

The Vidya Balan-starrer 'Dirty Picture' has become a cult film over the years. Directed by Milan Luthria, it had several punchy dialogues, but the one that stands out is by Vidya. She says in it, "Jab zindagi ek baar milti hai to do baar kya sochna." The dialogue speaks volumes about living a life with no regrets.

Next on the IANS list is a dialogue by Priyanka Chopra Jonas from 'Bajirao Mastani' in which she shared the screen with Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone. banaye toh kala hai, aurat banaye

Women’s Day: I had no expectations from myself, nor the theatre world from me, says Neelam Mansingh

Delhi, March 8

She remembers the time when women were only actors, and never in the decision-making machinery like the director's chair. She smiles that she had no expectations from herself, neither the theatre world from her.

Theatre director Neelam Mansingh Chowdhry, recipient of the Padma Shri and Sangeet Natak Akademi honours, who studied at the National School of

Drama (NSD) under the legendary Ebrahim Alkazi, recalls, "One started working, slowly and built up her skill set. As women directors, we had a unique space to us, considering we had nothing to lose as no one expected anything. We could break all norms, approach the play in different ways, and experiment as much as we wanted to."

She recalls that while there were few women directors initially, a certain silent revolution happened and directors like Anuradha Kapur, Maya Krishna Rao, Usha Ganguli, Anamika Haksar, Kirti Jain and Tripurari Sharma emerged.

"And all of us worked in our own spaces and unique styles. A new

Women ‘pilot’ India’s aviation industry to new heights

New Delhi, March 8 (IANS)

"Flying does not rely so much on strength, as on physical and mental coordination," once said Raymonde de Laroche, the first lady to solo an airplane and the world's first licensed women pilot. These words, echoing through the annals of aviation history, are finding new resonance in India's contemporary skies.

In a groundbreaking stride towards gender equality and representation, India's aviation industry is witnessing a historic surge in the number of female airline pilots. Recent data released by the Directorate General for Civil Aviation (DGCA) revealed that women now constitute a remarkable 14 per cent of airline pilots in India, surpassing the global average by more than twice the margin. Aviation watchdog, DGCA, claimed to have issued a decadehigh commercial pilot licences (CPLs) in 2023, with 18.12 per cent of them granted to women pilots, marking a remarkable upswing of 22.5 per cent compared to 2022 figures.

According to the DGCA, 294 CPLs were issued in 2023, compared to 240 in the previous year.

"This is the second consecutive year where the number of

licences issued reached a decade high," said a senior DGCA official, emphasising the sustained momentum driving this transformative shift.

With the expectation that this trend will continue, India's aviation industry is poised for further advancements in gender inclusivity and representation.

The surge of women in aviation not only reflects a narrowing gender gap but also underscores the country's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce.

As India celebrates International Women's Day, this milestone serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of women breaking barriers and charting new territories in traditionally male-dominated fields. Captain Pearl Varma, the first woman Type Rating Instructor at Akasa Air, expressed her pride in being part of India's aviation growth story.

"Our country is among the global leaders in empowering women professionals in aviation, and there is a noticeable increase in women's representation in the industry, including frontline roles," she remarked.

Varma highlighted Akasa Air's efforts in promoting gender diversity, with over one-third of its overall workforce and roughly half of its non-frontline comprising female employees. Amid this celebration of progress, the story of Divya Nancy Tirkey, a resilient and determined woman, shines as an inspiration.

Women’s Day: Here’s how organisations are moving the needle on gender inclusivity

language started emerging. Of course, we had a familiar family of ideas." While the proverbial glass ceiling was broken by women like Norah Richards, Sheila Bhatia and Shanta Gandhi, Chowdhry observes that the ones 'created' by men were the women's versions of how men looked at the gender.

“While Sheila Bhatia and Vijaya Mehta did excellent work, however, they could not break the structures that had long been embedded," points this Professor Emeritus at Punjab University, whose well-known plays include 'Kitchen Katha', 'The Suit', 'Yerma', 'Nagamandala', 'The Mad Woman of Chaillot', 'Little Eyolf', 'Bitter Fruit', 'Naked Voices', 'Stree Patra', 'Gumm Hai' and 'Black Box'

New Delhi, March 8 (IANS) An occasion like International Women's Day continues to evoke mixed reactions in society. While the world has shed a lot of dogma which had prevented women from exploring and succeeding in roles considered to be male bastions, there is still a long way to go before women get to experience the liberating feeling of emancipation in all walks of life.

In the past few years, organisations have assiduously worked towards building a gender-inclusive culture to ensure women professionals get the chances they deserve and are not hamstrung by prejudices.

For instance, Sun Life Global Solutions has unique initiatives in place to ensure an inclusive working environment. "At Sun Life Global Solutions, we recognise the importance of fostering an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of gender or orientation, can thrive. Our Employee Resource Groups, such as SunStree, have been instrumental in providing a platform for women employees to address challenges, access developmental opportunities, and prioritize their well-being. By expanding our ERGs to include initiatives like WomenInTech and WorkingFamilies, we aim to advance inclusion and amplify diverse voices across our organisation," says Rajeev Bhardwaj, Vice President & CHRO, Sun Life Global Solutions. Caspian Debt, meanwhile, has managed to achieve the distinction of seeing its women

New

(IANS)

From the editor’s desk

Embracing inclusion on International Women’s Day

Each year, on March 8th, the globe unites to commemorate International Women's Day—an occasion devoted to honoring women's accomplishments, advocating for gender equality, and raising awareness about women's rights. This year, the theme of International Women's Day 2024 is "Promoting Inclusion," emphasizing the significance of embracing diversity and ensuring the inclusion and appreciation of women from all walks of life. Inclusion goes beyond being a mere catchphrase; it represents a foundational principle at the core of gender equality and empowerment. Inclusion means forging a world where every woman, irrespective of her background, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or beliefs, has the opportunity to flourish and thrive. It's about dismantling barriers and creating a society where every voice is heard and every experience is respected.

At the heart of advancing inclusion lies the recognition and celebration of the varied experiences of women. Women come from a multitude of backgrounds, and their encounters are influenced by elements like race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, disability, and beyond. By acknowledging and respecting these diverse experiences, we guarantee that every woman is included and afforded the opportunity to actively participate in society.

Promoting inclusion also entails addressing the intersecting forms of discrimination and inequality that women encounter. Women from marginalized communities— such as women of color, indigenous women, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities—often face unique challenges and obstacles to equality. An intersectional approach to gender equality ensures that our efforts are inclusive and responsive to the needs of all women.

Education serves as a potent tool for promoting inclusion and empowering women. Access to quality education enables women to seize economic opportunities, participate in decision-making processes, and advocate for their rights. However, millions of girls worldwide still face barriers

to education due to factors like poverty, discrimination, and conflict. On International Women's Day, we must reaffirm our commitment to providing every girl with a quality education and the chance to fulfill her potential.

Apart from education, economic empowerment plays a crucial role in nurturing inclusion and gender parity. With access to economic resources and opportunities, women can sustain themselves and their families, make meaningful contributions to their communities, and engage actively in the economy. However, women often face substantial obstacles to economic empowerment, such as unequal pay, restricted access to credit and financial services, and limited entrepreneurial prospects. On International Women's Day, it's imperative to work towards dismantling these barriers and cultivating a more inclusive economy that enables all women to prosper.

Representation also plays a pivotal role in promoting inclusion. Women remain underrepresented in leadership positions across various sectors, from politics and business to academia and media. When women lack representation in positions of power and influence, their voices are marginalized, and their needs are often overlooked.

On International Women's Day, let's advocate for increased representation of women in leadership roles and work to cultivate more inclusive and diverse institutions.

Eliminating violence against women is crucial for promoting inclusion and gender equality. This pervasive issue affects women from diverse backgrounds and represents a violation of their fundamental human rights, hindering their complete engagement in society. On International Women's Day, let us reaffirm our dedication to eradicating all forms of violence against women and guaranteeing that survivors access the assistance and resources necessary for their recovery and empowerment.

Ultimately, promoting inclusion requires collective action.

Whether it's advocating for policy reforms, supporting grassroots organizations, or challenging discriminatory attitudes, each of us has a role to play in creating a more inclusive and equitable world for women.

On International Women's Day, let's pledge to champion inclusion and empower women everywhere. Together, we can build a world where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and succeed, regardless of her circumstances or background.

By Rabindra Mukherjee

The recent enforcement of India's Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) has ignited intense debate and raised significant questions about its implications and repercussions. Despite being passed by the Indian Parliament in 2019, the law remained inactive until recently, prompting extensive discussions both domestically and globally.

Prior to the enactment of the CAA, acquiring Indian citizenship through naturalization was a stringent procedure, mandating individuals to have lived in India for a minimum of 11 years.

However, the CAA brings about significant alterations by fasttracking citizenship applications for certain religious minorities - including Hindus, Parsis, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, and Christians - who escaped religious persecution in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan before December 31, 2014. Under the CAA, these individuals are eligible for citizenship in only five years, irrespective of their present immigration status.

While supporters of the CAA argue that it offers refuge and security to persecuted minorities, critics have voiced concerns about its potential to discriminate against Muslims and marginalize other vulnerable communities.

The law's focus on particular religious groups has been

criticized as a deviation from India's secular principles and has led to accusations of violating constitutional principles of equality and non-discrimination.

Furthermore, sceptics view the timing of the CAA's enforcement, coinciding with the upcoming general elections in India, as politically motivated. They contend that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leveraging the CAA for electoral gains, thereby exacerbating religious polarization within the country.

The enforcement of the CAA has sparked extensive protests throughout India, as demonstrators voice concerns about its potential impact on the nation's societal cohesion and secular principles. These protests highlight larger anxieties regarding the potential erosion of democratic ideals and the marginalization of minority groups within Indian society.

Furthermore, there are apprehensions about a potential link between the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC), aimed at identifying undocumented immigrants in India. Critics are concerned that the integration of the CAA and NRC could further marginalize Muslim communities and escalate communal tensions.

In the midst of these controversies and debates, it is

imperative for India to uphold its commitment to pluralism, secularism, and constitutional values. The implementation of the CAA should adhere to principles of inclusivity, non-discrimination, and respect for human rights.

While the CAA endeavors to address the plight of persecuted minorities, it is essential to ensure that it does not inadvertently discriminate against other vulnerable groups, including Muslims and indigenous communities. Any legislation pertaining to citizenship must be meticulously crafted to uphold the principles of equality and justice for all individuals, irrespective of their religious or ethnic backgrounds. Moreover, the implications of the CAA for India's international reputation and diplomatic relations cannot be overlooked. The law has drawn criticism from human rights organizations and foreign governments, raising concerns about India's commitment to secularism and pluralism.

As India faces these multifaceted challenges, constructive dialogue and inclusive policy making are indispensable. The CAA should be contextualized within a broader discourse on citizenship, identity, and inclusivity in contemporary India. Only through equitable and inclusive policies can India realize its aspiration of a diverse and cohesive society.

India’s pursuit of UNSC reforms: Rationale and implications

By Snehashish Bandyopadhyay

India's persistent advocacy for reforms within the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is underpinned by its aspiration for a more inclusive and representative global governance framework. As one of the world's largest democracies and a significant contributor to global peacekeeping efforts, India argues that its burgeoning geopolitical stature warrants a seat at the UNSC's decision-making table. While critics may question the urgency of such reforms, citing existing power dynamics and geopolitical rivalries, India's stance is firmly grounded in principles of equity, democracy, and global justice.

India's advocacy for reforms within the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is rooted in the principle of sovereign equality among nations. Despite India's status as the world's second-most populous country and a significant economic force, it perceives a lack of adequate representation in the current UNSC structure. The UNSC's composition, dominated by five permanent members with veto power, does not adequately capture the diversity of voices and perspectives in today's multipolar world. India's push for expanded permanent and non-permanent membership aims to address this disparity and empower emerging powers to contribute more

substantially to shaping global security agendas.

Moreover, India's advocacy for UNSC reforms is informed by its steadfast commitment to upholding democratic values and norms on the international stage. As a staunch proponent of multilateralism and the rule of law, India contends that an inclusive and representative UNSC is essential for effectively addressing complex global challenges, ranging from terrorism and climate change to pandemics and humanitarian crises. By amplifying the voices of diverse nations and regions, India believes that the UNSC can better reflect the interests and aspirations of the international community as a whole, thereby fostering greater consensus and cooperation in tackling shared threats and vulnerabilities.

However, India's diplomatic endeavours in the realm of international relations have been complicated by domestic controversies, notably the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). While the Indian government maintains that the CAA is a humanitarian measure aimed at safeguarding persecuted minorities, critics argue that it undermines India's secular ethos and constitutional principles of equality and nondiscrimination. The controversy surrounding the CAA has drawn scrutiny from human rights

organizations and foreign governments, casting a shadow over India's image as a champion of pluralism and diversity on the global stage.

In this context, India's emphasis on UNSC reforms assumes added significance, as it seeks to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to democratic governance and inclusive policy making. By championing reforms within the UN system, India aims to reaffirm its credentials as a responsible and progressive member of the international community, capable of navigating complex geopolitical dynamics while upholding core values of justice, equality, and human rights.

India's pursuit of UNSC reforms is not merely a quest for geopolitical influence or prestige, but a principled stance rooted in its deep-seated commitment to democratic ideals, global justice, and inclusive diplomacy. As the world grapples with unprecedented challenges and uncertainties, the imperative for a reformed and revitalized UNSC has never been more pressing. By advocating for reforms within the UNSC, India seeks to catalyze a more equitable and effective system of global governance, one that reflects the diversity and dynamism of the 21st century world.

The Third Eye: Munich tests India’s foreign policy

D.C. Pathak

New Delhi: In the background of India's clear stand on the Hamas-Israel conflict denouncing the "terror" attack of Hamas on Israel on October 7 last year and endorsing the support of the US for the initial Israeli response to the same, and the country's independent line on the much older Ukraine-Russia military confrontation which led India to even abstain from voting on the anti-Soviet resolution moved early on by the US in the UNGA, it was no surprise that at the Munich Security Conference held from February 16 to 18, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar faced some searching questions on India's foreign policy, in one of the interactive sessions.

The EAM did extremely well in detailing India's policy approach in clear convincing terms, which is a tribute to his grip on India's international relations as much as it is a confirmation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's successful stand that India's foreign policy essentially rested on bilateral -- and even multilateral -- bonds meant to serve mutual security and economic interests without prejudicing the cause of world peace and global advancement of human development.

S. Jaishankar chose the words

"smart policies" to describe India's handling of international relations in this light and in reply to a reference to "non-alignment" made by the convener of the session, explaining that the global security environment is not "static" and that ideologically "fixed positions" could only come in the way of evolving a pathway of progress towards solutionfinding for complex geopolitical and geoeconomic problems of today.

He indicated that being "smart" is being "positive" about serving the country’s national interests without hurting anybody else's and embracing transparency in policy formulation.

Munich Security Conference is the world's largest gathering of its kind debating pressing security concerns of the times under its mission of 'Peace through Dialogue'.

This time it brought together

heads of state and government of a large number of countries, foreign and defence ministers, security experts, military leaders besides defence industry captains and provided a venue for important diplomatic initiatives and interactions. Its membership cuts across BRICS and G7, and includes representatives of NATO and EU countries.

S. Jaishankar, in a brilliant exposition, explained that India was not "anti-West but nonWest" and affirmed that India's relationship with the US and Europe was getting strengthened constantly.

He highlighted the positive role of India in BRICS and the country's contribution towards the expansion of G7 into G20 -- all through the process of discussions and meetings -- and succeeded in presenting India as a major independent power helping the cause of world peace and economic development.

He interacted with the Chinese Foreign Minister on the sidelines and had a separate extensive discussion with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken to review the situation in West Asia, Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific.

The Munich Security Conference confirmed that India's participation was acknowledged by the world as being of crucial importance and that it helped to evolve shared perspectives for leveraging the collaborative effort of India and the US to address common challenges and harness mutual benefits.

In today's unsafe world environment and an uneven trajectory of the global economy, India is registering rapid growth, moving towards self-reliance in various spheres including defence and security and pushing up a sense of nationalism among Indians based on India’s civilisational strength that unites rather than divides the people.

India and the US, the two largest tested democracies of the world, recognise the importance of working together to save the 'rules-based order' at a time when forces of Marxist dictatorship and 'fundamentalist' dispensations were joining hands to destabilise the world.

The strategic alliance between China and Pakistan now

developed to the point where these two adversaries are collaborating in conducting covert operations against India, particularly in the border states of J&K and Punjab, which is a prime security threat for India and validates India's policy of strengthening Indo-US relations generally and stepping up its association with the Quad.

Terrorism resulting from the spread of radicalisation in the Islamic world is another common concern that binds India and the US together in leading the democratic world against this new global threat.

An important task before India is to get policymakers of the US to see Pakistan without tinted glasses and overcome the legacy of the Pentagon’s commitment to the Pak generals.

It would do them good to recall that Pakistan was a reluctant partner of the US in the 'war on terror' and that it managed to keep an equation with Al Qaeda, Taliban and ISIS.

Pakistan helped the installation of the Taliban Emirate at Kabul in 1996 and ensured the subsequent return of Taliban rule to Afghanistan in 2021 on the conclusion of Doha peace talks that were held to facilitate the withdrawal of American troops from the messy Afghan territory.

Pakistan had pretended to be a mediator in these talks but was in fact advancing its duplicitous policy of remaining on the right side of the US without giving up on its faith-based commitment to sustaining Islamic radical outfits.

The US is hopefully coming out of the flawed old policy of trying to create a balancing interface between Indo-US and USPakistan relationships.

Pakistan has made the PakAfghan belt a home ground for Islamic radical forces and supported China’s ingress into Afghanistan through the latter’s Belt& Road Initiative (BRI).

It had already allowed the ChinaPak Economic Corridor (CPEC) to pass through the Northern Areas of POK against strong protestation by India.

The Sino-Pak axis is influencing the current geopolitics in a major way and the American administration must take a call on

this as a shared concern of India and the US.

In the recent election in Pakistan, the Army came in the way of Imran Khan who had consistently condemned the US and who was compelled to fight the election from prison without availing of any party symbol.

This, however, should bring no comfort to America because in the uncertain political scene in Pakistan that prevailed through the polls, 'radicalism' in the Khyber PakhtunkhwaAfghanistan region did become stronger.

Both the US and India realise that the Israel-Hamas conflict sparked off by the planned attack of radicalised Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023, drew attention to a worrying new factor in the Middle East - the constant advance made by Islamic radical forces wedded to 'faith-based' terror, in the Muslim world. The old 'political' dispute between Israel and Palestine is now overtaken by a confrontation driven by 'religion and Jehad' -this should cause serious concern to the world at large.

India under Prime Minister Modi has been exceptionally successful in countering this trend by pushing up economic development in West Asia to the top of the regional agenda and pitching on the "connectivity" of the Middle East with the rest of the world as a means of furthering that project.

Again, India’s initiatives in this regard rest on the fundamental policy of forging bilateral bonds for mutual security and economic benefits.

As a consequence of this, there is now a dividing line between close US friends like Saudi Arabia and UAE with their approach of moderation towards Israel and the radical states like Yemen, Syria and Qatar who supported Hamas' stand of refusing to recognise the very existence of the Israel state.

There is also a new level of Shia-Sunni conflict in West Asia because the fundamentalist regime of Ayatollahs in Iran with its total antipathy towards the US and Israel was actively encouraging its 'proxies' in the region to fight for Hamas and

against Israel.

India has done the right thing in denouncing the terror attack of Hamas on Israel and calling for caution on the part of Israel so that in its pursuit of Hamas, civilian casualties of the Palestinian population did not throw up a 'human' crisis.

India also made it clear that it favoured the "two-state solution" in Palestine.

India has joined hands with the US and Europe to launch the India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor to promote the cause of global economic growth and check the spread of Islamic radical forces in the region.

India understands the US anxiety about the release of hostages captured by Hamas for using them as a "weapon" against Israel and hopes that with the mediation of a country like Egypt, a pause in the military drive of Israel would strengthen the prospect of the release of hostages.

India has taken an independentlooking stand on the Middle East just as it had shown an upright response to the Ukraine-Russia military conflict, with Prime Minister Modi declaring at the beginning of that confrontation itself that "this is not an era of war" and calling for a cessation of hostilities in favour of talks for peace in which security concerns of both sides would be given due attention.

The stand of India has been understood by the world at large. At the Munich Security Conference, S. Jaishankar convincingly reiterated how India's responses to the UkraineRussia and the Israel-Hamas conflicts best served the cause of global peace without letting the old political constructs of "alignment" come in the way.

For India, the priority was to constantly seek the betterment of its people through the pursuit of bilaterally useful economic benefits that did not hurt anybody else.

Munich has helped -- because of the interventions of S. Jaishankar -- to project India's foreign policy as the voice of sanity in today's conflict-prone global scenario.

(The writer is a former Director of the Intelligence Bureau. Views are personal)

It was India that first banned Chinese app TikTok over security concerns

As the US House of Representatives passed legislation that could lead to a ban on TikTok that is being used by over 170 million Americans, it was the Indian government which first took the decision to block the

Chinese short-video making platform in the world.

On June 29, 2020, TikTok, controlled by Chinese giant ByteDance, was banned in India.

The country then was one of the largest markets for the social media platform outside of China.

The government blocked TikTok along with 59 other Chinese apps citing security concerns.

Since then, the country has banned more than 300 Chinese

apps, including WeChat, Shareit, Helo, Likee, and others. The government has also blocked several betting and loan apps in the last few years, which were traced to Chinese links.

All these apps were found violating Section 69 of the IT Act and contained materials which were deemed as a threat to India's sovereignty and integrity.

After the ban, TikTok sacked its entire India staff -- about 40 employees.

In 2020, the Indian Army also asked its personnel to delete 89 mobile apps, that included several Chinese apps, from their smartphones to curtail leakage of information.

TikTok is considered a security threat because of its links to the Chinese government and lawmakers and officials have said that Beijing can access data on people through the app. TikTok has argued that the data on Americans is stored in the US.

In November last year, Nepal announced a ban on TikTok , saying that its content “were detrimental to social harmony”.

Meanwhile, India now has reached more than 250 million users on short-form video platforms, with around 70 per cent of them coming from tier-2 cities and other semi urban and rural centres — often from middle and high-income backgrounds, according to latest reports.

India has 8,000 startups led by women with $23 bn in funding: Report

New Delhi, March 7 (IANS)

India is now home to more than 8,000 startups that have women founders with a cumulative funding of nearly $23 billion till now, a report showed on Thursday.

Women entrepreneurs' share of startups in the Indian tech industry exceeds 18 per cent, and among funded companies, the share is more than 14 per cent, according to the report by Tracxn, a leading market intelligence platform.

One

Women-led startups represent a significant 14.8 per cent share of the overall Indian tech funding pie at nearly $155 billion.

The Delhi-NCR region takes the lead in terms of the number of women-led startups formed till now, followed by Bengaluru and Mumbai.

More than 2,000 startups led by women have received funding till now, leaving around 6,000 unfunded companies, of which 590 have revenue of more than $30,000, the findings showed. The share of funding raised by women-led startups in the country has risen in the past decade, accounting for more than 15 per cent of the overall startup funding in India from 2020 till 2022.

The first two months of 2024 in this space have witnessed $100 million in funding.

There are 2,300 funded womenled startups, of which 13.4 per cent have progressed to the Series A stage and 3 per cent have gone on to the Series C stage or beyond.

The Indian tech startup ecosystem ranks second after the US, in terms of funding raised by companies with women founders.

The B2C e-commerce space takes the lead with 3,434 companies, followed by internet-first brands with 1,355 companies and software-as-a-service with 1,181. LetsVenture, Wellfound and Venture Catalysts are the most active investors in this space, said the report.

third of all new jobs created by womenowned MSMEs went to female employees: Study

New Delhi, March 7 (IANS)

Women-owned MSMEs hired 11 per cent more women employees than male-owned MSMEs, as per a data analysis of women-owned MSMEs by Kinara Capital.

The analysis further revealed that 1/3rd of all new jobs created by women-owned MSMEs went to women employees, thus boosting local economies.

Hardika Shah, Founder & CEO, Kinara Capital, said, “Women entrepreneurs demonstrated better repayment of their business loans, created more jobs for other women, and

experienced an income increase for themselves.”

As per the analysis, women employees constituted over 32.4 per cent of all jobs created by women-owned MSMEs.

Outperforming male-owned MSMEs by 11 per cent, women entrepreneurs contributed to increased female employment and economic development in their local communities. Women entrepreneurs across all three MSME sectors of Manufacturing, Trading, and Services, exhibited a higher degree of acceptance as women-owned MSMEs are evidently more receptive to women employees than their male counterparts.

Women MSME entrepreneurs exhibit a higher ability to optimise costs and drive income, the analysis said. When supported with resources, particularly

formal credit, women-owned MSMEs showcased a 12 per cent rise in their organisation’s monthly revenue. What stood out even more was their ability to drive income growth. Womenowned MSMEs registered a 19 per cent increase in monthly net income, compared to 18 per cent by men-owned MSMEs, indicating better utilisation of resources and control over costs.

Women entrepreneurs demonstrated higher loan repayment diligence. According to the analysis, while only 3.4 per cent of the women entrepreneurs defaulted on loan repayment, the rate among men was higher at 4.6 per cent.

The study analysed data from 44,821 MSMEs across six states: Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana, and the Union Territory of Puducherry.

India nears record Rs 20 lakh crore worth mobile phone production in last 10 yrs

New Delhi, March 7 (IANS) India is close to achieving the target of Rs 20 lakh crore worth mobile phone production in the last 10 years, while crossing Rs 1.20 lakh crore worth phone exports in the current fiscal year (FY24) -- a whopping 7,500 per cent increase in exports over a decade -- top electronics industry body India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA) said on Thursday.

The industry had set itself a target of Rs 20 lakh crore worth mobile

phone production over the last 10 years (2014-2024).

"It finished the decade at Rs 19,45,100 crore cumulative production. In terms of volume, India produced 2.45 billion units of mobile phones during the last decade, against a goal of 2.5 billion units," according to the ICEA.

At the end of the decade (20142024), India now stands as the world's second largest producer of mobile phones, and 30 per cent of production in FY24 will now be meant for exports.

The mobile phone sector has transitioned from being 78 per cent import dependent in 2014 to 97 per cent self-sufficient and just 3 per cent of the total mobile phones sold in India are now imported.

Industry leaders hail govt’s ‘IndiaAI Mission’ initiative

New Delhi, March 8 (IANS) The industry leaders on Friday hailed the government's IndiaAI Mission initiative, the country's first artificial intelligence (AI) mission that was approved with an outlay of Rs 10,371.92 crore.

The IndiaAI Mission will establish a comprehensive ecosystem catalysing AI innovation through strategic programmes and partnerships across the public and private sectors.

"The focus on funding deep tech AI startups, developing open source databases, as well as domain-specific large language models will play an instrumental role in fueling AI innovation in the country, making India a global leader in harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence," said Tilakraj Parmar, Co-Founder &

CEO, QX Lab AI. He also mentioned that the government's move to provide financial support and a strategic roadmap for AI integration will act as a catalyst for economic growth and innovation.

Prashanth Kaddi, Partner, Consulting, Deloitte India, said that this move gives a fillip to the startup ecosystem "to drive innovation helping India leapfrog into areas such as text summarisation, video/ image generation, and nextgen chatbots etc., including enablement across Indian languages".

The Mission will be implemented by 'IndiaAI' Independent Business Division (IBD) under Digital India Corporation (DIC).

According to an official, the approved IndiaAI Mission will propel innovation and build domestic capacities to ensure the tech sovereignty of the country. It will also create highly skilled employment opportunities to harness the demographic dividend of the country.

Govt to invest Rs 17 lakh crore in power sector in next 5 years: Power Minister

New Delhi, March 7 (IANS) The government has invested about Rs 20 lakh crores in the power sector during the last 9 years and another Rs 17 lakh crores will be invested in the next 5 to 7 years, Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy R. K. Singh said on Thursday.

added 200,000 circuit kilometres to transmission lines; our transmission system today is the largest integrated transmission system in the world,” the Power Minister R. K. Singh said.

“We can transfer 116 GW from one corner of the country to another. During my tenure, we spent about Rs 2 lakh crores in constructing about 3,000 new substations, upgrading about 4,000 substations, adding 8.5 lakh circuit kilometres of HT and LT lines and 7.5 lakh transformers,” he pointed out.

In 2014-15, mobile phone exports from India were a mere Rs 1,556 crore.

"It is believed that the doubling of India's GDP from the current $3.7 trillion to $7 trillion by 2030 will be led by growth in the digital sector and trade. In both these areas, electronics manufacturing led by mobile production will play a critical role," said Pankaj Mohindroo, Chairman, ICEA. Mobile phone production also surged from Rs 18,900 crore in 2014-15 to an estimated Rs 4,10,000 crore in FY24, registering an increase of 2,000 per cent, said the ICEA.

Cumulative exports of mobile phones during the period 201424 reached a total estimate of Rs 3,22,048 crore - a new era in India's exports.

Speaking at a media event here, the minister said that the fast growth of the power sector is creating demand and the government wants that demand to be met by ‘Made in India’, for which the manufacturing capacity required is huge.

“We have already put in place policy instruments, such as a tariff barrier of 40 per cent on solar modules, and a barrier of 25 per cent on cells, so that industry is protected. We have put quality barriers so that externally manufactured equipment takes time to qualify. Today, our module manufacturing capacity has gone up from 20 GW to 50 GW, and cell manufacturing capacity from 2 GW to around 12 – 13 GW,” the Power Minister R. K. Singh said. He said that in the last 10 years, the government has added 190 GW of power generation capacity, increasing it to around 436 GW, nearly doubling it. “This required a lot of thermal and renewable equipment. We

The Power Minister said that the expansion is going on in the power sector and we need to double the size by 2030, given the quantum of power we need.

“The power demand grew by 60 per cent from 2013-14, it grew by 9 per cent last year, but we were able to meet it due to the expansion and upgradation in infrastructure. We are adding about 85 GW of thermal capacity and have 14 GW of hydro under construction. Another 14-15 GW of hydro capacity is under clearances,” the Power Minister R. K. Singh said.

He exhorted the Indian manufacturing industry to embrace the challenge of being able to compete globally, to make in India not only for India but for the world.

The Minister recalled that the viability of discoms was an issue which earlier stood in the way of the addition of power capacity.

“Earlier, we had about 60 GW under NCLT, but today, all power sector companies have doubled

Sant Nirankari Mission Australia leads campaign to keep Australian beaches clean

On 3rd March 2024, The Sant Nirankari Mission Australia (SNMA) joined the Clean Up Australia campaign to advocate for the preservation and cleanliness of water bodies by organising beach clean-up events across Australia.

On this day, close to 1000 volunteers from the SNMA, simultaneously gathered at the beaches across 7 different cities to help contribute to keeping the country clean.

1. Adelaide – Semaphore Beach

2. Brisbane – Redcliffe Beach

3. Canberra – Lake Burley

4. Melbourne – Aspendale Beach

5. Perth – Hillarys Beach

6. Sydney – Manly Beach

7. Tasmania – Bluff Beach

The Sant Nirankari Mission is a Global spiritual and social welfare movement advocating the importance of unity amongst all humankind. The catalyst for SNMA’s participation in this wonderful event is the teachings of Satguru Mata Sudiksha Ji Maharaj, the Spiritual Head of the Sant Nirankari Mission. Satguru Mata Sudiksha Ji has often said in her discourses that: ‘While maintaining the cleanliness of surrounding, it is equally important to maintain the cleanliness of the Mind’

A Global Initiative

This initiative by SNM Australia is part of a Global initiative by the Sant Nirankari Mission known as Project Amrit which is an inspiring move towards global environmental stewardship.

The term ‘Amrit’ a Hindi term symbolizes that water is an elixir for living beings.

Taking inspiration from the slogan 'Swachh Jal, Swachh Man' (Clean Water, Clean Mind), Project Amrit’s initial launch saw more than 1.1 million volunteers participate in waterway cleaning programs across 1500 locations in India. Similar waterway conservation campaigns have also

been organised in 70 countries all over the globe.

The activities under Project Amrit are complemented by the Sant Nirankari Mission's ongoing commitment to social welfare, including blood donation drives, tree planting, and environmental awareness programs. Each of these welfare programs encourages volunteers to manifest the principle of ‘Think Global, Act Local’.

Her Holiness to undertake a spiritual tour across Australia and New Zealand

This drive for social service stems from the guidance of Her Holiness

Satguru Mata Sudiksha Ji Maharaj. Mata Sudiksha Ji has devoted her life to encouraging all humans to lead a life full of spirituality, love, and service to humanity.

Her Holiness Satguru Mata Sudiksha Ji Maharaj, along with her spouse, Nirankari Rajpita Ramit Ji will be embarking on a Spiritual Tour across Australia and New Zealand throughout April 2024. Her Holiness will be visiting 7 cities during her tour, and will be sharing the message of ‘Know One, Be One’.

Details of Her Holiness’ tour can be found at www.nirankari.org/ news/salvationtour_202404aunz

Women’s Ethnic Network hosts International Women’s Day breakfast in Brisbane

Brisbane, March 9 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Women's Ethnic Network (WEN) recently hosted a vibrant breakfast event in celebration of International Women's Day. The event, held under the theme "Count Her In: Invest in Women Accelerate Progress," brought together approximately 300 women from diverse cultural backgrounds. These women, who

are leaders and advocates in their respective fields, gathered to commemorate the contributions of women in Queensland and beyond.

The breakfast event featured a lineup of distinguished speakers and leaders who echoed the theme of inclusivity and empowerment. Prominent figures from the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland, including

board members Dr. Ram Mohan, Elijah Buol, Surendra Prasad Serge Voloschenko, and CEO Lisa Ward, graced the occasion.

Elijah Buol, Surendra Prasad Serge Voloschenko, and CEO Lisa Ward were lauded for their tireless efforts in championing women's rights and amplifying the voices of women across communities. Their dedication to gender equality and advocacy

for women's empowerment was highlighted as integral to the progress and advancement of women in Queensland. The event served as a platform for networking, dialogue, and reflection on the challenges and achievements of women in society. Attendees were inspired by the stories and experiences shared by the speakers, reinforcing the importance of solidarity and collaboration in

advancing gender equality.

As International Women's Day continues to gain momentum globally, events like the WEN breakfast serve as reminders of the ongoing work needed to achieve full gender parity and inclusivity. By investing in women and recognizing their contributions, societies can accelerate progress and create a more equitable and just world for all.

Holi festival celebrated in Gold Coast

The ICGC Indian community of Gold Coast celebrated their 5th annual Gold Coast Colour Festival Holi on March 2 at Broadwater Parklands.

More then 3000 people attended the event and enjoyed non-stop performances from around various multicultural community

groups.

The vivid colors and festive atmosphere brought Indians and wider community together, creating a memorable community event with traditions and joy. Holi symbolises a fresh start to new season, encouraging people to welcome spring with enthusiasm.

There was foam pit, 45mtr inflatable obstacle course, food trucks and many other free activities.

Among the dignitaries who joined in the celebration were Sam O Connor MP, Angie bell MP, Mark Buthon MP, Cr. Hermann Vorster, Gold Coast Police representative,

and many other community leaders.

The ICGC thanked their sponsors and supporting partners, which included TMC organisation, Dosa Hut, Gold Coast , Big Belly and others.

Patron: Pushpinder Oberoi

President: Manish Saini

Vice president and Treasurer: Venkat Rao

Secretary: Senthil

PRO: Ree Ali

Councillor: Dinesh Balsara

Joint Secretary: Seema Sharma

Joint Treasurer: Sadhana

Community development: Naren Chavda

Student ambassador: Devika, Dhruv and Mohit

Volunteers: Rahul and Bheem

Tamil Association Queensland Inc hosts THINKUKNOW online child safety program

Brisbane, March 11 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Team FICQ (Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland) actively participated in the THINKUKNOW national online child safety program organized by the Tamil Association Queensland Inc on March 9, 2024, at Griffith University. The session, led by law enforcement authorities, provided invaluable insights into online safety for young people in today's digital age.

With the proliferation of

internet usage among youth, understanding the dynamics of online interactions and ensuring child safety online has become paramount. The THINKUKNOW program sought to empower parents, educators, and community members with essential knowledge and tools to safeguard children in the virtual realm.

The interactive session delved into various aspects of online behavior, including what young people encounter, express, and

engage in while navigating the digital landscape. Participants gained valuable insights into the potential risks and challenges faced by children online, equipping them with the awareness and resources to address such situations effectively.

Key topics covered during the session included strategies for identifying online threats, fostering open communication with children about their online experiences, and mechanisms for

reporting and seeking assistance in case of emergencies or harmful encounters.

The collaboration between Team FICQ and the Tamil Association Queensland Inc underscored the collective commitment of community organizations to prioritize child safety and promote responsible online behavior among youth.

Through engaging and informative initiatives like the THINKUKNOW program, communities are empowered

to proactively address the evolving challenges of online safety, ensuring that children can navigate the digital world with confidence, resilience, and awareness.

As technology continues to shape our daily lives, initiatives that promote online safety and digital literacy play a crucial role in safeguarding the well-being and security of children, empowering them to harness the benefits of the internet while mitigating potential risks and vulnerabilities.

Rahul

R

Vellal - child prodigy, record holder in India Book of

Rahul R. Vellal started learning Carnatic Music, at the tender age of 4. He has already performed Carnatic Music Concerts at several prestigious places across India and abroad and won prizes in many music competitions. His talent has won him accolades, including important awards from nationally and internationally recognized institutions.

He is learning Carnatic vocal music under renowned musicians Vidushi’s Ranjani & Gayatri. He has earlier learnt Carnatic vocal music from Vidushi Kalavathy Avadhoot & Vidwan Suchethan Rangaswamy. He was learning to play the Mridangam from Vidwan Kulur U Jayachandra Rao.

He is currently pursuing his Grade 8 in Western Piano from the Trinity School of Music (London) under the guidance of Sri Abhishek N. Rahul has been mentored by Kuldeep M Pai for the “Vande Guru Paramparaam” Series. Apart from his musical achievements, he also excels in his academics, has scored 97.5%

in the recent 10th grade Board Exams.

Rahul has already performed Carnatic classical concerts in 8 countries UAE, Singapore, Nigeria, Malaysia, Hong Kong, South Africa, United Kingdom & Kenya.

Alongside his passion for music, Rahul also excels in academics having scored 97.5% in his 10th board exams.

Rahul is the son of Sri. Ravishankar Vellal & Smt. Hema Suryanarayana.

Rahul can be found here on the web:

• facebook.com/RahulVellal

• instagram.com/rahulvellalofficial

• twitter.com/RahulVellal

• youtube.com/RahulVellal

Indian diaspora rallies behind ‘Chalo India - Global Diaspora Campaign’

Perth/Sydney, March 8 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Indian diaspora community in Australia has come together in solidarity to support the 'Chalo India - Global Diaspora Campaign', a recent initiative launched by the Indian Prime Minister. In Perth, members of the diaspora gathered at the Consulate, pledging their commitment to encourage and facilitate the travel of their West

Australian friends to India for tourism and business endeavours within the current year.

Meanwhile, in Sydney, the Consulate General of India orchestrated an exclusive event titled 'Chalo India - Global Diaspora Campaign' on March 7, 2024, at the Consulate premises. The event was designed to empower the diaspora as ambassadors for 'Incredible India' and to highlight the diverse

tourism opportunities and destinations across India.

Dr. S. Janakiraman, the Consul General, delivered an inspiring address during the event, emphasizing the pivotal role of the diaspora in fostering stronger ties between India and Australia. The program also featured presentations by experts showcasing the vibrant landscape of Indian tourism, capturing the attention and imagination of

attendees.

A significant highlight of the event was the live streaming of the inauguration of the 'Chalo IndiaGlobal Diaspora Campaign' from India, connecting participants in Sydney with the larger movement unfolding across the globe. The 'Chalo India - Global Diaspora Campaign' signifies a concerted effort to harness the enthusiasm and support of the Indian diaspora worldwide to

promote tourism, strengthen cultural exchanges, and deepen economic engagements between India and its global partners. As the campaign gains momentum, it is expected to not only boost tourism but also foster a sense of belonging and shared heritage among members of the Indian diaspora, reaffirming their enduring bond with the land of their roots

ANZ India Business Chamber hosts ‘Connect India Conference’ in Melbourne

Melbourne, March 1 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The ANZ India Business Chamber, in collaboration with the Consulate in Melbourne, orchestrated the highly anticipated 'Connect India Conference', a dynamic platform aimed at fostering economic partnerships and exploring business opportunities between Australia and India. The event, held with great enthusiasm, brought together a diverse array

of stakeholders, including Lee Tarlamis MP, Indian delegation members, local businesses, and members of the ICAI Melbourne Chapter.

The conference served as a catalyst for dialogue and collaboration on the theme of 'Doing Business with India', delving into the myriad opportunities and challenges inherent in bilateral trade and investment relations between the two nations. Participants

engaged in insightful discussions, exploring avenues for enhancing economic cooperation and leveraging the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement to mutual advantage.

Lee Tarlamis MP, along with other distinguished speakers, shared valuable insights and perspectives on harnessing the untapped potential of the Australia-India economic corridor, emphasizing the importance of forging robust partnerships grounded in shared

values and mutual respect.

Following the informative sessions, attendees had the opportunity to network and forge meaningful connections with industry peers, government officials, and business leaders, paving the way for future collaborations and ventures in the dynamic Indo-Pacific region. The 'Connect India Conference' underscored the pivotal role of business chambers and

diplomatic missions in facilitating cross-border trade and investment, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable economic growth.

As Australia and India deepen their engagement on the economic front, initiatives like the 'Connect India Conference' serve as vital platforms for nurturing dialogue, fostering partnerships, and unlocking the immense potential of bilateral cooperation across diverse sectors.

Adrian SCHRINNER Lord Mayor

Cr Angela OWEN Calamvale Ward

Cr Sandy LANDERS Bracken Ridge Ward

Cr Danita PARRY Marchant Ward

Cr Tracy DAVIS McDowall Ward

Indian higher education delegation engages at APAIE Conference in Perth

Perth, March 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Representing the robust educational ties between India and Western nations, a 16-member Indian higher education delegation actively participated in the Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) Conference held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre from March 4 to March 8, 2024.

The delegation's presence underscored India's commitment to fostering global partnerships in education and enhancing collaboration across borders. Led by Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi, the Indian contingent inaugurated the India Education Pavilion, providing a platform for networking and dialogue with visiting delegates from around the world.

During the conference, delegates

engaged in discussions on key issues shaping international education, including academic mobility, student exchanges, and collaborative research initiatives.

The Indian delegation highlighted the diverse academic offerings and research opportunities available within India, showcasing the country as a premier destination for higher education.

In a significant announcement, it was revealed that APAIE 2025 will

be hosted in New Delhi in March next year. The coordination of the event will be led by O.P. Jindal Global University, further solidifying India's position as a leading hub for international education and academic exchange.

The upcoming APAIE conference in New Delhi presents a unique opportunity for stakeholders in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond to explore avenues

for collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing in the dynamic field of higher education. As India continues to emerge as a global knowledge destination, initiatives like APAIE serve as catalysts for building bridges between nations, fostering mutual understanding, and nurturing a culture of academic excellence and cooperation.

Bunbury Southwest Multicultural Festival showcases Incredible India tourism

Perth, February 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Consulate, in collaboration with SWIG Bunbury, showcased the diverse tourist destinations of India at the Bunbury Southwest Multicultural Festival 2024, captivating the hearts and minds of attendees with the allure of 'Incredible India'. The festival, held in Bunbury, Western Australia, provided a platform for cultural exchange and celebration of diversity.

Distinguished guests, including

Don Punch MLA, John Castrilli, former Minister for Multicultural Interests of Western Australia and former Mayor of Bunbury, and Heather Reid, graced the event with their presence. They were among the many members of Bunbury's multicultural community who visited the festival, embracing India's vibrant culture and its myriad tourist attractions.

The Consulate's initiative to promote tourism to various Indian states resonated with festival-goers, who were

enthralled by the diverse landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant traditions showcased during the event. Attendees had the opportunity to explore India's iconic landmarks, from the majestic Himalayas to the sunkissed beaches of Goa, igniting their wanderlust and fostering a deeper appreciation for India's cultural tapestry.

Furthermore, the Bunbury Southwest Multicultural Festival served as a platform to acknowledge the significant contributions of the Indian

community to the social fabric of the southwest region of Western Australia. Their enduring commitment to enriching local society was lauded by community leaders and attendees alike, highlighting the spirit of inclusivity and cooperation that defines Bunbury's multicultural landscape.

As the festival drew to a close, the resonance of 'Incredible India' lingered in the air, inspiring attendees to consider India as a premier destination for their next cultural and adventure-filled

journey. The collaborative efforts between the Consulate and SWIG Bunbury underscored the power of cultural diplomacy in fostering mutual understanding and strengthening ties between nations.

The Bunbury Southwest Multicultural Festival 2024 served as a testament to the vibrant tapestry of cultures that enriches the Australian landscape, embodying the spirit of unity, diversity, and celebration that defines multiculturalism in the region.

Ramadan: A sacred month of fasting, reflection, and spiritual renewal

As ECCQ family wishes Ramadan Kareem to all, it is time to reflect on the holy month.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide. It is a period characterized by spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and communal solidarity. Lasting for either 29 or 30 days, contingent upon the sighting of the moon, Ramadan marks the anniversary of the Quran's revelation to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and is observed

through fasting from dawn until sunset.

Fasting as a pillar of Ramadan

At the heart of Ramadan lies the practice of fasting, known as "sawm" in Arabic. Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib). Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is obligatory for all adult Muslims, with exceptions made for those who are ill, elderly, pregnant, nursing, menstruating, or traveling.

The fast serves as a means

of fostering self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and spiritual growth. It fosters gratitude for the blessings of sustenance and encourages contemplation on one's relationship with God and fellow human beings. Furthermore, fasting instills patience, resilience, and mindfulness as individuals endeavor to restrain their desires and focus on spiritual nourishment.

Prayer, charity, and reflection

In addition to fasting, Ramadan is a period of increased devotion, prayer, and acts of charity.

Muslims engage in additional prayers, called Taraweeh, performed after the evening prayer (Isha). These prayers, often involving recitation of lengthy portions of the Quran, offer an opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation and connection with God.

Charitable giving, or "Zakat," is also emphasized during Ramadan. Muslims are encouraged to

contribute a portion of their wealth to those in need, particularly to support the less fortunate in their communities. Moreover, there is a heightened emphasis on performing acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion throughout the month.

Furthermore, Ramadan is a time for profound reflection and self-assessment. Muslims strive to purify their hearts, seek forgiveness for past transgressions, and set intentions for positive change in their lives. It is a period for introspection, repentance, and striving for spiritual excellence.

Community and celebration

Despite the solemnity of fasting and reflection, Ramadan is also a time of joy, celebration, and community bonding. Families gather to share special meals before and after the fast, known as Suhoor and Iftar, respectively. These gatherings foster a sense of unity, camaraderie, and

hospitality among Muslims. Mosques and Islamic centers host communal Iftar dinners, inviting people of all backgrounds to break bread together and experience the essence of Ramadan. These gatherings promote interfaith dialogue, mutual understanding, and solidarity across diverse communities.

In essence, Ramadan transcends mere fasting; it is a sacred period of spiritual purification, renewal, and connection with God. It is a time of profound devotion, self-discipline, and acts of kindness and charity. Through fasting, prayer, and reflection, Muslims seek to deepen their faith, fortify their character, and cultivate a greater sense of compassion and empathy for humanity. As Ramadan unfolds each year, it serves as a reminder of the universal values of mercy, generosity, and love that transcend cultural and religious boundaries.

Basant Panchmi

Melbourne, March 8 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Namdhari Sikh Society of Australia reverently commemorated the birth anniversary of His Holiness Sri Satguru Ram Singh Ji during the Basant Panchmi celebration held at the Jagjeet Mandir in Koo Wee Rup, Victoria, on March 2.

Graced by the presence of Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar, the celebration served as a tribute to the revered spiritual leader, drawing together a diverse tapestry of community members, faith leaders, and local dignitaries. The event witnessed a significant number of people, with attendees gathering to pay homage to His Holiness Sri Satguru Ram Singh Ji and honor his enduring legacy

celebration

honours His

of compassion, wisdom, and spiritual guidance. Amidst the vibrant atmosphere of devotion and reverence, participants immersed themselves in prayers, hymns, and rituals, symbolizing the spiritual significance of Basant Panchmi.

The presence of Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar underscored the importance of preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions that unite communities across borders. His participation in the festivities served as a testament to the strong bonds of friendship and mutual respect between India and Australia.

The Basant Panchmi celebration served as a platform for fostering unity, harmony, and understanding among individuals

Holiness Sri Satguru Ram Singh Ji in Victoria

of diverse backgrounds, reaffirming the values of compassion, tolerance, and inclusivity championed by His Holiness Sri Satguru Ram Singh Ji.

As the echoes of prayers and devotional chants filled the air, the Jagjeet Mandir became a sanctified space where devotees gathered to seek blessings, find solace, and renew their commitment to the path of spiritual enlightenment and service to humanity.

The Basant Panchmi celebration at the Jagjeet Mandir stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of His Holiness Sri Satguru Ram Singh Ji and serves as a beacon of light, inspiring individuals to walk the path of righteousness, compassion, and selfless love.

Perth celebrates diaspora women’s contribution to India-WA ties

Perth, March 12 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Consulate and the WA Chapter of Australia India Business Council (AIBC) came together to honor the pivotal role of diaspora women in enhancing trade and investment, education, skilling, and innovation ties between India and Western Australia. The celebration, held in collaboration with Dr. Jags MLA and Cr Raj Doshi of the City of Perth, highlighted the significant contributions of

women entrepreneurs within the community.

An all-women panel, comprising distinguished professionals, engaged in discussions regarding the challenges and opportunities for community entrepreneurs in strengthening this vital relationship. Moderated by VP of AIBC-WA Paritosh Mishra, the panel discussion was followed by a Q&A session, providing attendees with valuable insights and perspectives.

Dr. Parwinder Kaur, another

Committee Member of AIBCWA, delivered a vote of thanks, emphasizing the importance of mentoring fellow community women and promoting diversity and inclusion. The event was further enriched by a captivating cultural presentation by Deepti Shukla and the Jhankar Group. In commemoration of the International Day of Women, the Consulate honored diaspora women entrepreneurs for their remarkable contributions across various sectors. Among

those felicitated were Rohini Modgill, Founder & CEO of Keystone College of Business & Technology - RTO Code 41183; Mansi Zaveri, Founder & Head of Sustainability Services at Circular Fibres; Premila Jina, Strategic Transformation Advisory; Dr. Sadhana Bose, Senior Project Officer at the South Metropolitan Health Service; and Asha Bhat OAM, CEO of Southern Aboriginal Corporation. These women were recognized for their significant impact on indigenous communities, empowerment

through education, sustainability, digital innovation, and community health and wellbeing. The discussions emphasized the importance of fostering women's empowerment, cultivating mentorship opportunities, and nurturing role models and community champions. To facilitate mentorship in key areas, community women interested in providing or seeking mentorship are encouraged to communicate their interest, along with relevant details, to com.perth@mea.gov.in.

Bhartiya Samaj hosts “Health & Wellbeing for Senior Migrants” workshop

Brisbane, March 4: Bhartiya Samaj, a prominent community organisation, hosted a groundbreaking "Health & Wellbeing for Senior Migrants" workshop at APSQ (Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland) Hall on March 3. Tailored for senior migrants, the event aimed to provide crucial insights into their health and wellbeing. The workshop featured an engaging session with distinguished medical professionals as keynote speakers. Notable guests included Councillor Angela Owen, President of FICQ Mr Anoop Nannuru, and renowned doctors such as Dr Tarun

Sehgal(Psychiatrist), Dr Raji Parangad(Audiologist), Dr Suhasini Singh(Cardiologist), Dr Rajesh Jawajiwar(General Physician), Dr Thuy Nguyen(Optometrist), and Dr Ram Mohan(ECCQ - Board Director, President of MCCQ & Advisory Board Member of Bhartiya Samaj).

With over 150 attendees, the Q&A segment provided a platform for the audience to interact with the experts, creating an informative and inclusive atmosphere.

In addition to the workshop, the event showcased a Curtain Raiser for Bhartiya Samaj's next Mega Event, the "Empowering Migrants - Expo," scheduled for August 4, 2024, at Brisbane

City Hall. Distinguished guests, keynote speakers, and over 30 community organisation leaders previewed the upcoming Expo, set to be a monumental event in Queensland.

The "Empowering MigrantsExpo" aims to build an inclusive and thriving multicultural Australia. The event will feature educational pop-ups, cultural dance performances, migrants' achievement awards, and various inter-community engagements.

Beyond cultural integration, the Expo will provide essential information on educational pathways and job employment for migrant community members.

Bhartiya Samaj expresses

gratitude to APSQ for hosting the workshop and looks forward to continued collaboration for future impactful events.

Bhartiya Samaj is a not for profit, non-political and non-religious charity incorporated in June 2022 in Australia. Our objective is to contribute to building a more inclusive Australia by undertaking activities that establish unity in the diversity amongst the migrants through; empowering with knowledge; building confident identities; and facilitating interactions with the larger community. Since 1995, the Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust has been actively helping the South Asian community in New

Zealand and trying to improve the varied communities.

Bhartiya Samaj is a leading community organisation committed to fostering cultural integration and supporting the welfare of migrants in Australia. Through various initiatives, Bhartiya Samaj aims to create a vibrant and inclusive community for individuals of diverse backgrounds.

For more information, please contact Mrs Manshu Sharma, Public Relations Officer, Bhartiya Samaj Media Relations at BSBrisbane@outlook.com or call 0415 684 027.

Felicitation dinner organised

Brisbane, March 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Indian Diaspora Leaders Dinner was organized recently.

Shadow Assistant Minister for Multicultural Engagement Senator Paul Scarr, and Jim Varghese AM for AIBC’s Life

membership were felicitated on the occasion. It was also an opportunity to recognize Pinky Singh OAM as a member of the

Indian diaspora in her selection as the LNP for Mansfield. Commenting on Pinky Singh’s elevation, Cultural-Coordinator

FICQ Jyoti-Amarjot Bains Goraya in her Facebook post, wrote: “As a Community Worker within the Punjabi community, I extend my heartfelt best wishes to Pinky Singh for this endeavour. Rest assured, Pinky Singh, you will have the support of many many of us”

Cricket is soaring to new heights

New Delhi, March 15 (IANS) The most wonderful development in sports, at present, revolves around the game of cricket.

Cricket lovers, from the relatively few cricket-playing countries in the world, have now moved to every nook and corner of the globe. It is through these cricketloving followers that the game is growing and soaring to new heights.

India has become the centrepoint of the game's popularity and has now touched and crossed all genders, castes, religions and any other adverse taboos related to it. Cricket has become the focal point on which Indians rich or poor, old or young, from streets to farms, cities to villages have taken it to be the sport to revel in.

Cricket, as one says is a religion in India. This may have been an understatement earlier, but it has soared to such heights to give it a true meaning now.

Red-ball cricket was the sole proprietor of the game, the whiteball brought in a change and now the hard tennis ball has come to stay. The five days of cricket are gradually moving towards a 10 overs affair, one in which one's strength, hand-eye coordination and aggression, play a far greater importance than the skills and technique required earlier.

The television and digital screen has Indian cricket being showcased in all forms of its avatar. The screen had India playing Test cricket against England which they won with style and flair.

The Indian and International women cricketers are playing the popular WPL T20. The last stage of the domestic Ranji Trophy was also in progress and has now been won for the 42nd time by Mumbai.

The Indian actors were playing a serious Celebrity Cricket League amongst themselves. Not to be missed even in their old age, former cricketers are playing the Legends League. The new entrant that has taken the street players to the stadium in Mumbai has been the Indian Street Players League (ISPL), the T10 tennisball cricket league. With Sachin Tendulkar playing and endorsing it, the tournament has sowed the seeds of another form of cricket that could see a huge rise in the popularity of the game. Especially, as it is far safer to play it, rather than facing a hard leather cricket ball. Tennis ball cricket is not a novel idea, every cricketer and cricket-lover has in his cricket journey been a part of it. In India, it was the cheapest form of the game, in which one required just a ball and a wooden bat to play.

The cricket battles between buildings in Mumbai, streets, villages, and local establishments around India have been as seriously fought as one sees in stadiums in an international match. For it to now transcend into the stadiums around the country will be quite a journey.

James Anderson becomes first pace bowler to pick 700 Test wickets

Dharamshala, March 9 (IANS)

Veteran England pacer James

Anderson on Saturday became the first-ever pace bowler to pick up 700 Test wickets during the third day of the fifth match against India at HPCA.

The legendary fast bowler became only the third man after Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan (800) and leg-spinner Shane Warne (708) to achieve the feat in the longest format of the sport. With 698 wickets in his account going into the fifth Test in Dharamsala, Anderson's start with the ball was less than ideal as he was the victim of Shubman Gill's masterpiece. Ultimately, though, the seasoned pacer prevailed over the youthful Indian player to bag his own 699th victim.

Anderson dismissed Kuldeep Yadav on Day 3 of the fifth Test against India on Saturday to reach

Alex Carey stars as Australia beat New Zealand in World Test Championship thriller

Christchurch, March 11 (IANS)

A brave innings from Alex Carey alongside Mitchell Marsh's 80 and Pat Cummins' late heroics helped Australia beat New Zealand by three wickets in the second Test, here on Monday.

Carey finished on 98* as Pat Cummins (32*) struck the winning runs off New Zealand debutant Ben Sears (4/90), whose doublewicket over to collect Mitchell Marsh and Mitchell Starc earlier looked to bring the Blackcaps back into the match.

In the end, Cummins' and Carey's partnership of 61 pushed the Australians to a three-wicket win, handing the tourists 12 points on their road to defending the World Test Championship mace, and completing a 2-0 series clean sweep against their trans-Tasman rivals, reports ICC.

Australia were in precarious spots at 34/4 and then 80/5 in the chase of 279 before the partnership of 140 between Carey and Marsh (80), with the pair travelling at almost five runs an over.

Sears claimed Marsh after Marais Erasmus gave the Australian No.6 lbw, before a shorter delivery on Starc's hip was hit to Will Young in close on the leg-side next delivery.

Cummins survived the hat-trick

ball, albeit streakily, before hitting four boundaries in his 44-ball stay, the last of which completing the chase.

Claiming 10 catches on top of his match-winning knock, Carey was named Player of the Match, and explained Australia's plan of attack at the post-match presentation.

"The message this morning was let's go out there and play our way if you see an opportunity, take it. (It was) backs against the wall this morning, they came out last night and really put us under the pump so it's nice to chase those runs down.

"We knew they were the threats early, the ball was nipping around and I thought Mitch Marsh’s intent was outstanding and sort of got us going a little bit but, it was certainly tough early," said Carey. Also speaking after the victory, Carey's batting partner and captain justified the attack with the bat by looking at it from the bowling side's perspective.

"If the scoreboard is not moving, you always feel in the game (from the bowling side), but if they're just chipping away at it seems like it's all happening pretty quickly.

"So that was a goal today - just always be busy out there. Just keep the run rate ticking over, bit by bit getting closer," Cummins said.

Looking back on the beginning of the Test, the skipper praised

his men for keeping their cool as wickets tumbled on both sides, taking a crucial first-innings lead into the latter stages.

"That day one moved really quickly. And then after that the pitch flattened out and it was a bit tougher going for the bowlers. But yeah, the first innings lead was always key.

"I think the story of this series was in key moments one guy stood up, and we didn't necessarily play complete games but you know, someone stood up and made themselves a match-winner. (We) keep finding ways to win. It's a pretty awesome squad.

"Amazing win, bit by bit, the boys were fantastic today," he added. New Zealand captain Tim Southee praised the work of Australia's batters. "Yeah it was a great partnership (between Marsh and Carey). That sort of broke the back of our attack, but then obviously, a great little exciting into the end of the day," Southee reflected in his 100th Test match.

"When you're playing the No.1 side in the world you just need to go that little bit further, but I think it was a great Test match, obviously turning up to day four with both results in play and then the flow throughout the whole match."

Australia are now at No.2 in the World Test Championship standings with a point percentage of 62.50, just below India (68.51%) at No.1.

Women’s Day: How Women’s Premier League is helping women’s cricket in India come of age

the milestone. An off-cutter from around the wicket lured Kuldeep into the drive. The ball took the outside edge and Ben Foakes did the rest behind the stumps.

As Warne and Muralitharan were both under 40 when they became members of the enigmatic 700-wicket club, the 41-year-old Anderson is the oldest bowler to reach the milestone.

Warne, meanwhile, was the one who kicked off the elite club on December 26, 2006, when he got the wicket of Andrew Strauss in the Boxing Day Test against England. A year later Muralitharan joined him on the list, meanwhile, it took around 17 years for any player to join the two greats on the list.

For England, off-spinner Shoaib Bashir took his second five-wicket haul in Tests as England bowled out India for 477 in their first innings early on Day Three. India now have a lead of 259 runs over England, with Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma making 100 and 103 respectively. The hosts’ were also helped by a fine 65 from debutant Devdutt Padikkal and 56 from Sarfaraz Khan.

New Delhi, March 8 (IANS) For a multitude of reasons, 2023 can be considered a pivotal year for women's cricket in India. Under the captaincy of Shafali Verma, India secured a remarkable achievement by winning the inaugural Women's U19 World Cup in South Africa.

Later in the year, the senior women’s team won a historic gold medal in T20 debut of the Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. It then played Tests at home after a gap of 11 years with back-to-back wins over England and Australia. Not to forget, the BCCI announced match-fee parity for the men’s and women’s international players.

But if there’s one moment which takes the top spot, it is the debut of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) at Navi Mumbai on March 4. The fulfilment of a long-standing cherished desire

shared by many cricketers and followers of women's cricket had finally become a reality, garnering widespread attention and eyeballs from all quarters.

The matches in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai during WPL 2023 were filled with a capacity crowd, underscoring the overwhelming support for women's cricket in India. This year’s WPL has seen the BCCI take the tournament into two new venues – Bengaluru and New Delhi, with 11 games hosted by each venue.

Unlike the previous year, where female spectators were granted free entry, tickets are now mandatory to watch any match at the venues. The first half saw matches in Bengaluru getting great footfall for all the games it hosted, reinforcing the fact that there’s a strong audience for WPL.

The M Chinnaswamy Stadium was packed to the brim when the games featured the Royal Challengers Bangalore, with the home crowd supporting Smriti Mandhana & Co the way they would do for the men’s team in the IPL.

"It’s like a dream come true, to see where the game is today. This

is where the game should be and it should have always be here. To see the game taking its rightful place, it’s a really nice feeling.

"So many of my friends from Chennai and Hyderabad came to watch matches in Bengaluru and after I finished my work, I went to the WPL games to catch up with them and has been a great feeling to meet former cricketers while watching the games in the stadium,” recalled Mamatha Maben, the former India captain, to IANS.

Though Delhi has been a little slow in catching the vibe and frenzy associated with the WPL, there’s a school of thought that it will come into its own during the weekends. Besides the bustling crowd, the WPL has played a crucial role in giving domestic players the opportunity to mingle with top cricketers in the world.

"WPL has changed not just my life, but it has changed so many lives of domestic players. It is going to change many more lives and it put a thought in every body’s head that you can also dream and can play alongside an Ellyse Perry, Sophie Devine or Smriti Mandhana.

Women in Tech’ to empower 5mn women & girls by 2030 worldwide

New Delhi, March 11 (IANS)

Paris-based 'Women in Tech' aims to empower five million women and girls in the field of science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics (STEAM) by 2030 worldwide, including in India.

The international organisation working to advance women in technology, which on the International Women’s Day on March 8 announced the launch of its India chapter, aims to achieve the mission through mentorship programmes and skill-building initiatives.

“The formal launch of the India Chapter marks a pivotal moment in Women in Tech Global’s collective effort of empowering 5 million women and girls in STEAM by 2030 while also tailoring our local activation outreach and programmes to address India's pertinent issues,” said Radhika Iyengar, Country Head, Women in Tech India, in a statement.

“That the dropout rate of girls in STEAM careers, the gender paradox in India is high -- are all alarming. We know the problem, but also see that global partnerships have helped generate mediums that can retain women in STEAM. In pursuance of this, we would want girls and women to traverse the growth path in tech, be it in academia, careers and into decision-making roles, in more empowering yet

simpler ways and have more enriching & enjoyable journeys,” she added.

The new Women In Tech India announced its collaboration with Girls4Girls (G4G), a global project originating from Harvard University, US. Together, the organisations will introduce a mentoring initiative in India to help young women and girls achieve their leadership potential.

Further, Women In Tech India aims to launch targeted efforts to support women from the northeast region by giving them access to digital resources beneficial for their daily lives and small businesses. Women In Tech Global boasts a membership of over 2,00,000 individuals and operates chapters in nearly 50 countries spanning six continents.

Deepfakes can help sway public opinion, discredit people or politicians: Experts

New Delhi, March 10 (IANS)

As billions of people will vote in elections around the world this year, growing threats from artificial intelligence (AI) technology such as deepfake videos and voice synching can be used to help influence public opinion, discredit people or politicians, experts said on Sunday.

This year, elections will be held in more than 50 countries around the world, including India.

"Deepfakes pose a significant threat to democracy, as they are frequently weaponised to manipulate opinions, influence stock prices, and create misinformation," Harish Kumar GS, Head of Sales, India and SAARC, Check Point Software Technologies, told IANS.

Chennai, March 9 (IANS) Private rocket maker Agnikul Cosmos Private Ltd is planning a suborbital mission for its Agnibaan rocket sometime this monthend and is waiting for official permission, said officials in the space sector.

"These deepfake videos and voice synching can be used to help sway public opinion, discredit individuals or politicians, especially during salient timing such as elections, disrupting the political party and destroying the politician’s image and reputation and disturbing the democratic system," he added.

The proliferation of deepfake content surged in late 2017, with over 7,900 videos online. By early 2019, this number nearly doubled to 14,678, and the trend continues to escalate, according to experts.

Recently, deepfake videos of former US President Bill Clinton and current President Joe Biden were fabricated and circulated to confuse citizens during the presidential elections.

Similarly, a deepfake video of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urging soldiers to surrender in their fight against Russia was shared on social media, creating panic and confusion.

The Indian government has

The company will launch its rocket from its launch pad in Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. The launch pad is located inside Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) rocketport in Sriharikota.

“Agnikul’s application for the permission to launch its rocket in a suborbital flight is under our consideration,” a senior official of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) told IANS preferring anonymity.

“The company’s rocket is on its launch pad here. The company

‘Sangam:

to help India become most developed country by 2047:

New Delhi, March 10 (IANS) Government's 'Sangam: Digital Twin' initiative to propel India towards becoming the most developed country by 2047, experts have said.

During the second outreach programme for the 'Sangam: Digital Twin' initiative by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) conducted at IIIT Bengaluru, Telecom Secretary Dr Neeraj Mittal noted that the initiative stemmed from the Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for futuristic infrastructure, aiming to break down silos in planning across the ministries.

issued directives to social media platforms such as X and Meta (formerly Facebook), urging them to regulate the proliferation of AIgenerated deepfake content.

Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, the Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY) has issued an advisory to such platforms to remove AIgenerated deepfakes from their platforms.

To combat these threats, experts said that organisations must defend themselves against deepfake attacks.

"As AI continues to advance, it becomes imperative to manage its dual role by harnessing its capabilities to combat deepfake threats while mitigating the risks associated with potential misuse," said Vishal Salvi, CEO of Quick Heal Technologies.

He also mentioned that despite the numerous potential drawbacks, AI is anticipated to advance cybersecurity and aid organisations in establishing more robust security measures.

is looking for a launch sometime towards this month-end,” an official of ISRO in Sriharikota told IANS, not wishing to be named.

The rocket Agnibaan SOrTeD (SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator) is expected to fly between March 22 and March 28.

The company just mentioned on X: “March 22 - 28, 2024.”

According to Agnikul, Agnibaan is a two-stage rocket with a capacity to carry up to 300 kg to a height of 700 km. The rocket engines are powered by liquid oxygen/ kerosene.

The initiative by DoT offers a collaborative leap towards reshaping infrastructure planning and design, combining the prowess of 5G, IoT, AI, AR/VR, AI native 6G, 'Digital Twin' and next-generation computational technologies.

B. V. R. Subrahmanyam, CEO, NITI Aayog, emphasised on the transformative potential of Digital Twin.

At the programme, he discussed the role of AI in shaping the future landscape and expressed optimism about India's position at the forefront of technological advancements.

The 'Sangam: Digital Twin' initiative is one of a kind and is expected to usher in a new era of digital empowerment and technological advancements, experts mentioned.

"The subject resonates deeply with our ongoing research in 6G and advanced telecommunications, IOT, Digital twin, AI, ML and various other cutting-edge areas," said Prof. Debabrata Das, Director of IIIT Bengaluru.

The initiative will leverage unified data and collective intelligence to anticipate the real-world effects of implementing innovative infrastructure planning solutions. This will also assist in formulating a future roadmap for the sustainable and scalable development of infrastructure projects.

New Delhi, March 10 (IANS)

India, which is now the fifth largest export nation for mobile phones as an individual commodity, would have faced a hefty import bill of more than Rs 14.3 lakh crore, had it not achieved self-sufficiency in the last 10 years.

Since 2014, the cumulative exports of mobile phones have reached a total estimate of Rs 3,22,048 crore, according to the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA).

“In absence of such selfsufficiency, and if India had remained import dependent to the levels it was in 2014, the import bill on account of mobile phone imports alone during the 10-year period would have been

Rs 14,34,045 crore,” the ICEA revealed in its latest data.

This exponential growth in production, exports and self-sufficiency stems from a conducive policy environment, and a close working relationship between industry and key government ministries.

As a next step, we have to ensure that we can shift electronics global value chains (GVCs) to India to create large-scale manufacturing jobs and increase domestic value addition, said the ICEA.

“This, in turn, requires unprecedented competitiveness and factories that can operate at scale of the kind that has never been witnessed in India,” it added.

Beware of endometriosis, a silent killer of ovaries: Experts warn women

Bengaluru, March 8 (IANS)

Women should be aware of the rare disease endometriosis, regarded as a silent killer of ovaries and a slow killer of fertility, experts warned on International Women’s Day, as March is also considered the Endometriosis Awareness Month.

Once a rare disease, it is commonly diagnosed these days and the prevalence of endometriosis is on the rise in Karnataka, experts pointed out. Endometriosis is an inflammatory condition where endometrial tissue (tissue similar to the lining of the uterus) grows outside the uterus.

Endometriosis can make organs like the uterus, bladder, or the bowels stick together at certain points, and this condition is called 'adhesions'.

Dr Usha BR, Consultant, Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Fertility and Laparoscopic Surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru, explained that approximately 70 per cent of women visiting the outpatient department with complaints of painful menstrual periods and dyspareunia are diagnosed with endometriosis, with some cases being asymptomatic.

“I see a minimum of 25 cases per month. It also causes painful intercourse leading to sexual dysfunction, interpersonal conflicts and later on infertility. Endometriosis is a silent killer of

ovaries and slow killer of fertility,”

Dr. Usha explained.

“Endometriosis that afflicts 10 to 15 per cent of women in their reproductive years and 70 per cent of those with chronic pelvic pain, often remains veiled by misdiagnosis, prolonging needless suffering,” said Dr Ramesh B, Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Chief laparoscopic surgeon, Endometriosis Specialist, Altius Hospital, Bengaluru.

“It usually presents as severe dysmenorrhea, manifested as intense pain during periods, which is frequently dismissed as normal. These women endure not only physical agony but also mental anguish, as their severe pain is often attributed to a presumed lower pain tolerance by their peers,” Dr. Ramesh stated. With an average diagnostic delay of 6.7 years, the journey is marred by persistent pain and compromised well-being.

Early detection, particularly in adolescence, offers a glimmer of hope, potentially mitigating anguish and preserving fertility, he explained.

In Bengaluru, Karnataka, akin to many regions, the hurdles in diagnosing and managing endometriosis endure, compounded by obstacles like cost and symptom complexity.

Yet, the prospect of early intervention remains a beacon of hope, promising relief from pain, halting disease progression, and safeguarding the fertility of women throughout the region, Dr. Ramesh stated.

Dr. Sharvari Mundhe, Consultant, Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist, Motherhood Hospital, Sarjapur, Bengaluru, explained, "Endometriosis poses a significant health challenge for

women worldwide, significantly impacting their daily lives and reproductive health. With approximately one in ten women globally affected by this condition, its prevalence is substantial. In India alone, it is estimated that 25 million women are grappling with endometriosis.”

Despite its widespread occurrence, endometriosis remains a perplexing puzzle in the medical domain, often evading detection during diagnosis and leaving women to endure its burdensome effects in silence, she said.

“Urgent attention is needed to develop effective treatment options, given the profound toll it takes on physical, emotional, and reproductive well-being.

Empowering women to better manage symptoms and safeguard their reproductive health requires increased investment in research, education, and access to specialised treatment options,” she added.

Dr. Usha said that endometriosis, affecting 1 in 7 women, often manifests with pelvic pain, heavy periods, and infertility.

“Yet, many sufferers may be asymptomatic, unaware of the condition's presence. Diagnosing endometriosis involves reviewing medical history, conducting pelvic exams, and often requires laparoscopic surgery for definitive confirmation and to remove endometrial tissue outside the uterus,” she said.

Lifestyle changes, such as diet modifications and stress reduction, may complement medical treatments. Early detection and comprehensive management improve outcomes, offering relief and enhancing the quality of life for those affected, concurred the experts.

Beware of endometriosis, a silent killer of ovaries: Experts warn women

Mumbai, March 4 (IANS) In a rare case, a man from Madhya Pradesh underwent a 12-hour long ‘bilateral hand transplant’ surgery at the Global Hospitals in Mumbai and is now on his way to regaining near-normal movements of his upper limbs, and look forward to marriage, officials said here on Monday.

The patient, Jeevesh Kushwah (32), sustained a high-voltage electric shock in December 2020 while working at a steel fabrication factory in the pilgrim town of Ujjain.

The bachelor suffered severe electric burns on both his arms and legs and was initially treated at an Ujjain hospital and later in Indore, where the family was given a grim medical verdict.

The medicos said that in order to survive, the patient’s right leg and both hands would need to be amputated, leaving the family devastated.

However, to save Kushwah's life, the family agreed and within days, his right leg was amputated at above knee-level, and a couple of weeks later, both his arms were amputated at below elbow-level.

Subsequently, the distraught family managed to procure artificial limbs for him and he could stand and walk with the artificial leg.

However, the artificial hands were of little or no use as they were not

Faridabad docs ace ‘bloodless’ liver transplants in 2 young girls

Faridabad (Haryana), March 8 (IANS) In a medical marvel, doctors in Haryana's Faridabad have successfully conducted liver transplants in two young girls with rare diseases, using a bloodless technique. The girls, aged 10 and 11 years, suffered from Wilson’s disease, an inherited disorder that accumulates copper in the body; and an autoimmune liver disease, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the liver. Their livers were transplanted using the bloodless technique -- the most advanced technique applied in high-end surgeries, including organ transplants. In the technique, the blood spillage from the patient is transfused back into the body, rendering the requirement of the transfusion of external blood unnecessary, said the doctors at Marengo Asia Hospitals, who pioneered the technique in India and South Asia. "I have witnessed the resilience of these young patients. Despite their small stature, their courage and strength in facing such a challenging surgery inspire hope not just in their families but in all

of us," Dr Punit Singla, Director & HOD, Liver Transplant, Marengo Asia Hospitals, told IANS.

"Every transplant is a testament to the power of medicine, teamwork, and the generosity of organ donors. Today, we have not just given them a new liver; we have given them the chance to embrace life with renewed vigour and optimism," he added.

Baby Lachyn, 11, suffering from Wilson's disease, was admitted to the emergency with abdominal distension in an unconscious state. She had severe jaundice and hepatic encephalopathy.

In individuals with Wilson's disease, the defective protein impairs the body's ability to eliminate excess copper, leading to its accumulation in the liver and subsequent release into the bloodstream.

While the complex surgery lasted for 12 hours, the bloodless technique helped the surgeons overcome significant risks.

The second patient, Aruuzatym,11, from Kyrgyzstan was presented to the hospital with decompensated liver disease, along with low platelet count and recurrent bleeding from the nose.

In both cases, the girls’ fathers were the donors, and were discharged after a week, while the girls were discharged after three weeks, the hospital said.

Why are US kids dying due to the flu?

New Delhi, March 9 (IANS) The flu season in the US, this year, has claimed more than a hundred children's lives, according to latest estimates from the country's Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The US has recently been facing a tripledemic of flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and Covid-19 infections. While RSV and Covid cases have come down, flu cases are still rising.

Data shows that just over 50 per cent of children took the flu vaccination this year.

fully functional, and he remained dependent on his family members or brothers to carry out his routine daily tasks.

Around a couple of years ago, the Kushwahs heard about the Global Hospitals in Parel, Mumbai, and decided to consult Dr. Nilesh Satbhai, HoD, Plastic, Hand, Reconstructive Microsurgery & Transplantation, for the first time in June 2022. “I examined Jeevesh Kushwah and discussed the feasibility of a bilateral hand transplantation with him and his family. He and his brother went and returned again in January 2024. Kushwah was highlymotivated and wanted to go ahead with the transplant surgery,” said Satbhai. After a detailed case assessment and planning, the hospital registered him for a hand transplant and then the wait began for a suitable donor.

“Seasonal influenza activity remains elevated and is increasing in some areas of the country. Covid-19 activity is decreasing in many areas of the country. RSV activity is decreasing in all areas of the country,” the CDC said in its weekly FluView update.

H1N1 strain (Swine flu) was the most reported influenza virus, followed by H3N2. About 10 kids died in the period between December and March, and raised the season's total to 103, the CDC said.

Of the 10, six died due to influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2 strain), four due to influenza B. According to experts, lack of vaccination, and mistaking it for another cold virus are the major reasons for flu deaths among kids.

“There is a popular misconception among families that flu is just another cold virus, and that it’s no big deal,” Dr Kristina Bryant, a paediatric infectious disease physician at Norton Healthcare in Louisville, Kentucky, was quoted as saying by NBC news.

The contagious respiratory illness that infects the nose, and throat, affects children badly. It raises the risk of compromising breathing as the kids have smaller airways.

As the virus spreads and inflames the airways, breathing becomes difficult, increasing the risk of hospitalisation and death.

The CDC recommends annual flu shots for everyone six months and older, which can halve the risk of hospitalisation and even curb the risk of death.

Meet the powerful women shaping pop culture trends

India experiences a fascination with anime characters, particularly females, marking

Mitsuri Kanroji (Demon Slayer)

Mitsuri Kanroji charms with her cheerful demeanor and exceptional swordsmanship, adding depth to the Demon Slayer Corps.

Nezuko Kamado (Demon Slayer)

Nezuko Kamado captivates audiences with her unwavering determination and loyalty to protect her brother, Tanjiro while battling demons in a world of darkness.

a departure from the days dominated by fictional figures like Wonder Woman and

Lady Tsunade (Naruto)

Known for her unparalleled strength and wisdom, Lady Tsunade embodies resilience and leadership as the Fifth Hokage of the Hidden Leaf Village.

Anya Forger (Spy X Family)

Anya Forger along with Yor Forger, navigates a world of espionage with humour and heart, showcasing the strength of family bonds.

Catwoman. In this evolving cultural landscape, it's incredible to see iconic figures such as Lady Tsunade from Naruto and Usagi Tsukino from Sailor Moon have captured the hearts of fans with their unwavering strength and resilience.

Through meticulous cosplay, dedicated enthusiasts not only pay homage to these characters but also embody the qualities of courage and empowerment they represent. Here are some of the standout characters that we have seen women cosplaying at Comic Con India:

Hinata Hayuga(Naruto)

Evolves from a timid ninja to a fierce warrior, showcasing determination and loyalty as she fights alongside Naruto and marries her

Usagi Tsukino (Sailor Moon)

Usagi Tsukino, also known as Sailor Moon, symbolises hope and courage as she battles evil forces to protect the world with her fellow Sailor Guardians.

Women’s Day: I had no expectations from myself, nor the theatre world from me, says Neelam Mansingh

By Sukant Deepak

She remembers the time when women were only actors, and never in the decision-making machinery like the director's chair. She smiles that she had no expectations from herself, neither the theatre world from her. Theatre director Neelam Mansingh Chowdhry, recipient of the Padma Shri and Sangeet Natak Akademi honours, who studied at the National School of Drama (NSD) under the legendary Ebrahim Alkazi, recalls, "One started working, slowly and built up her skill set. As women directors, we had a unique space to us, considering we had nothing to lose as no one expected anything. We could break all norms, approach the play in different ways, and experiment as much as we wanted to."

She recalls that while there were few women directors initially, a certain silent revolution happened and directors like Anuradha Kapur, Maya Krishna Rao, Usha Ganguli, Anamika Haksar, Kirti Jain and Tripurari Sharma emerged.

"And all of us worked in our own spaces and unique styles. A new language started emerging. Of course, we had a familiar family of ideas."

While the proverbial glass ceiling was broken by women like Norah Richards, Sheila Bhatia and Shanta Gandhi, Chowdhry observes that the ones 'created' by men were the women's versions of how men looked at the gender.

“While Sheila Bhatia and Vijaya Mehta did excellent work, however, they could not break the structures that had long been embedded," points this Professor

Emeritus at Punjab University, whose well-known plays include 'Kitchen Katha', 'The Suit', 'Yerma', 'Nagamandala', 'The Mad Woman of Chaillot', 'Little Eyolf', 'Bitter Fruit', 'Naked Voices', 'Stree Patra', 'Gumm Hai' and 'Black Box'

In fact, Chowdhry's latest 'Hayavadana', written by late Girish Karnad will be staged during the upcoming META in the national capital. It is after almost more than a decade that she is working with a bound script. The director, known for her devised productions who has staged the same playwright's 'Nagmandala' thrice has made certain changes in 'Hayavadana'.

"In the end, the woman asks whose pyre would I commit sati after both the men die. I could not relate to this in 1973, how do you expect me to in 2024? And I am sure Karnad would have welcomed the change. Also, I wanted to make the play more playful. We have such a set image of Padmini and Devdutt. It was important to break that and look at the characters with a fresh perspective. I wanted to animate them, pull them into the now."

Stressing that the reason she prefers devised productions -- not work with a text within a definite structure -- beginning, middle, and end -- is because she had done enough of that and likes to explore newer realms by pulling texts, images and experiences from various sources. "This way one reads more from a story. Bringing contradictory elements together helps to imagine newer realities and meanings. Of course, it is always a struggle and not just an adventure. But then art is always hard."

Navigating the music industry & rights

To raise awareness of IP rights in the music industry and educate music creators and independent artists on the critical

aspects of the music business and publishing, the Indian Performing Right Society Ltd. (IPRS), the representative body of authors, composers, and publishers of music dedicated to safeguarding their rights has recently launched a pan India campaign ‘My Music My Rights’ in association with Dolby India,

In its inaugural workshop in Chandigarh as part of the My Music My Rights campaign, the IPRS marks a significant milestone in its mission to support and empower music creators nationwide. Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Pune are some of the cities that will witness similar workshops to highlight the aforementioned objectives

of the campaign to independent creators in the coming days.

According to a study conducted by EY titled 'The Music Creator Economy: The Rise of Music Publishing in India,' India generates 20,000 original songs annually, contributing over Rs. 12,000 crore in revenues. Despite this, financial challenges

are common among creators. Among the 500 respondents surveyed, 87% wished to make a living solely from music, but only 60 percent achieved it. The majority felt the need to enhance their music production skills and improve monetization, while only 56 percent had the necessary equipment.

For the adventurous woman solo travelling Vibrant cities and emerging tourist destinations

Solo travel has evolved into a profound journey of selfdiscovery, empowerment, and liberation, particularly for women. As the world opens up to adventurous souls, tropical beach destinations stand out as idyllic havens for solo female travellers seeking sun, sea, and serenity. From the azure waters of the Caribbean to the palm-fringed shores of Southeast Asia, these paradises offer a sanctuary for women to explore, reflect, and rejuvenate.

Immerse yourself with the curated range of packages, both domestic and international, specifically designed for the adventurous solo woman traveller.

Dubai

Immerse yourself in the dazzling metropolis of Dubai. Indulge in a luxurious 4-night women's getaway starting only at just Rs. 24,995, inclusive of visa fees and insurance. Explore the wonders of Dubai with a captivating city tour and unwind on a mesmerising Dhow cruise. Experience exclusivity like never before! Explore the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, and marvel at the architectural marvels like the Palm Jumeirah. Stroll through the vibrant souls, experience the thrill of a Desert Safari, and unwind on the pristine beaches. Dubai offers a unique blend of modern luxury and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for solo female travellers.

Thailand

Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of nature or succumb to the captivating allure of the cabaret stage at an exciting women’s special getaway starting at just Rs.12,495. The Land of Smiles beckons with its stunning beaches, delicious cuisines, and rich cultural heritage. Island hop in the turquoise waters of Phuket, explore the ancient temples of Chiang Mai or learn the art of Thai cooking in Bangkok. Thailand is known for its warm

hospitality and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a comfortable and enriching solo travel experience.

Thailand's Koh Samui, with its palm-fringed beaches and luxury resorts, offers a blend of relaxation and indulgence for solo female travelers. From indulgent spa treatments to exhilarating water sports, Koh Samui caters to every whim and fancy, inviting women to unwind and embrace the island's tropical allure.

Singapore

This tiny island nation packs a big punch when it comes to things to see and do. Stroll through the futuristic Gardens by the Bay, visit the iconic Marina Bay Sands, or indulge in retail therapy on Orchard Road. Singapore is a haven for solo travelers with its efficient public transport system, diverse cultural experiences, and abundance of safety measures. Experience a serene getaway to Sentosa Island including a spectacular night show against the majestic open sea, or enjoy indoor Skydiving at the iFly Singapore for the more adventurous ones. Indulge in all of this and much more in Singapore with women’s special packages starting at just Rs. 27,495 for 4 nights.

Kerala

Take a trip to Kerala, a place to experience peace and tranquillity. Also known as God's Own Country, it is a must-visit place for those who admire natural beauty and are interested in spending a peaceful vacation. From sightseeing in Munnar to adventure activities in the Periyar National Park, this place has a lot to offer to its visitors. Paddy fields, beautiful backwaters, and palm-fringed beaches of Alleppey are sure to spellbound visitors. Enjoy a relaxing getaway in Kerala with women’s special solo packages starting at just Rs. 24,290 for 3 nights.

Northeast India: A taste of the hills

Embark on a tranquil and soothing 4-night solo women's retreat to India’s North-East. Standing high in the Himalayas at an altitude of 2134m, Dorje Ling (Darjeeling), or place of the Thunderbolt, offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountain peaks, with the Kanchendzonga rising higher than all the others.

Often referred to as the Queen of the Hills, it remains just as alluring with its tiny waterfalls, little villages, and a narrow gauge railway track. Surrounded by World Famous Tea Gardens and snow-capped mountains, Darjeeling remains one of the most exotic destinations.

Graeme Westlake in his book

‘An Introduction to Hill Stations in India’ refers to Darjeeling as having ‘A view Scarcely Unrivalled on Earth’.

Gangtok, a resting ground for people traveling to North Sikkim is truly a travellers delight.

Surrounded by Monasteries and Orchids, Gangtok became the state capital in the mid-19th century 35 Km from Gangtok, and at an altitude of 12,400 feet is Changu lake which derives its waters from the melting snow of the surrounding mountains. Legends say that lamas could forecast the future by studying the color of the lakes waters.

Indulge in a women’s special solo package to the northeast with packages starting at Rs. 51,290 for 4 nights.

For solo female travellers, tropical beach destinations offer more than just sun and sand; they provide a canvas for self-discovery, empowerment, and growth. Whether it's finding solitude in a secluded cove, forging connections with fellow travellers, or embracing new experiences, these paradises inspire women to embrace their independence and embrace the world around them. On the other hand, the massive mountains offer the opportunity to conquer your fears, with exciting treks, paragliding, river rafting, and an excursion through the mesmerising valleys.

The outstanding performance of Cygnett in 2023 has set a new benchmark for the company. The year witnessed a significant 15.6 percent increase in Average Daily Rate (ADR) and a remarkable 15.1 percent growth in Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR). These figures underscore the brand's resilient operational strategies and its ability to adapt to market demands. With occupancy rates reaching around 80 percent in most hotels, the brand's popularity and the effectiveness of its sales and marketing networks are evident. Central to Cygnett's success is its unwavering focus on customer satisfaction, with an impressive 90 percent of guests being repeat visitors.

In a strategic move for the next 2 years, Cygnett aims to expand its presence strategically, targeting regions with high tourism potential and robust business activity. This expansion initiative is designed to cover the entire nation. Key markets for this expansion include vibrant cities and emerging tourist destinations, ensuring a diverse and inclusive hospitality experience for travellers.

Currently, Cygnett Hotels boasts a portfolio of 45 hotels and is on track to reach a milestone of over 33 operational hotels by the end of 2024.

including Guwahati, Barpeta, Nagaon, and Galahad, are set to welcome Cygnett hotels, further broadening the brand's reach within the region.

Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder, of Cygnett Hotels & Resorts said, “I am thrilled to witness our brand's phenomenal growth in 2023, setting the stage for an even more ambitious 2024. It's incredible to realize that it has been 10 years since I started the company in 2014, and time truly flies when you're passionate about your work. Our expansion strategy not only underscores our commitment to establishing a pan-India presence but also highlights our unwavering dedication to redefining hospitality standards. I am happy that Cygnett continues to evolve, and we are particularly excited to introduce our new wellness brand, 'Ayurvyaas.' At Cygnett, we believe in offering not just accommodations but transformative experiences, with wellness taking centre stage.”

In a move to diversify its offerings, Cygnett is all set to unveil its new wellness and lifestyle brand, Ayurvyaas with an 80-room property coming up in Chail, Himachal Pradesh, within the year. This brand is dedicated to delivering a comprehensive wellness experience that blends ancient Vedic wisdom with

The hospitality company is poised to enhance and solidify its footprint in North-Eastern India, with the launch (2025 March) of its Cygnett Inn brand in Tawang. This marks a distinctive presence, being the only brand alongside Taj to establish a presence at an elevation of 3048 meters in the Himalayan region of Arunachal Pradesh. Additionally, the economic hubs of Assam,

modern practices, aiming at holistic physical, cognitive, and spiritual rejuvenation for its guests.

The hospitality brand is keen on strengthening its footprint in major second and third-tier cities in the country. Kicking off 2024, Cygnett is excited to announce the launch of Cozzet in Sonipat in February, signalling a promising start to the year.

Rihanna’s beauty brand enters Indian market

Rihanna who painted Gujarat's Jamnagar city red with her performance during the prewedding celebrations of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant has now made an iconic move by launching her Fenty Beauty brand in India.

The beauty brand which was developed in 2017 with a vision of inclusivity and global reach at its core will now become even more accessible to consumers at Nykaa’s Cross Border Store on March 7th, 2024

“Fenty Beauty was created so that people everywhere would be included. Expanding to India is so exciting because the more people that can feel beautiful, recognised, and empowered, no matter their ethnicity, culture, skin tone, or style the better," said Rihanna.

Fenty Beauty envisions bringing a carefully curated and easily accessible selection from Rihanna’s beloved beauty brand.

Nykaa will offer a line-up of Fenty Beauty’s best-selling products,

including the iconic Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation, Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter, Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer, and much more.

"We are thrilled to begin our partnership with one of the most innovative and disruptive beauty brands in the world, Fenty Beauty. The brand's ethos of diversity and inclusivity is a perfect fit for Nykaa's mission of democratizing beauty for all Indians. We look forward to working closely with Fenty Beauty to bring the best of global beauty into our consumers' hearts and homes," said Anchit Nayar, Executive Director and CEO, of Nykaa Beauty.

Fenty Beauty offers a wide range of artistry-quality products designed with Rihanna’s vision of making sure people everywhere feel represented, with a focus on traditionally hard-to-match skin tones, formulas that work for all skin types, textures that love to be layered, and universal shades for all to enjoy.

Biotin a vital nutrient beyond beauty

In the realm of health and wellness, certain nutrients often take the spotlight, while others remain in the shadows, awaiting their moment to shine.

Biotin, a member of the B-vitamin family, has long been associated with promoting healthy hair, skin, and nails. However, its significance stretches far beyond the realm of beauty.

"Biotin emerges as a vital nutrient with implications far beyond its traditional association with beauty. Its roles in metabolism, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function underscore the importance of adequate intake for overall well-being. By recognizing the multifaceted benefits of biotin and taking steps to optimize intake, individuals can harness

the full potential of this essential nutrient to support their health and vitality," says Ayush Aggarwal, Founder Rasayanam.

Emerging research is shedding light on the multifaceted roles of biotin in supporting overall health and well-being:

Biotin and Metabolism: One of the primary functions of biotin is its involvement in metabolism.

As a coenzyme, biotin plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes, including the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. By facilitating enzymatic reactions within the body, biotin contributes to the production of energy and the maintenance of metabolic balance. This essential role underscores the importance of adequate biotin intake for overall health.

Beyond Beauty: Biotin's Impact on Health: While biotin has long been touted for its benefits for hair, skin, and nails, its influence extends far beyond cosmetic

concerns. Research suggests that biotin may play a role in supporting cardiovascular health by helping to regulate cholesterol levels and supporting healthy blood sugar metabolism. Furthermore, biotin is believed to support cognitive function, with studies indicating its potential in promoting brain health and cognitive performance.

Biotin Deficiency: Risks and Implications: Despite its importance, biotin deficiency remains a concern for certain populations. Individuals with conditions such as malabsorption disorders, pregnant women, and those on long-term antibiotic therapy may be at increased risk of deficiency. Symptoms of biotin deficiency can manifest as hair loss, skin rash, neurological symptoms, and metabolic disturbances. Recognizing these signs and ensuring adequate biotin intake is crucial for maintaining optimal health.

Spring cleaning for your skin

Having a unique set of habits for our skin for all seasons is just as vital as any other routine we use to attain certain goals. As each season brings different weather conditions, it is important to tailor our skincare routine to safeguard that featherlike skin against fluctuations in weather.

The onset of the spring season calls for deep cleansing and detoxifying your skin. The shift

from the cold, dry winter to the vibrant ambience of spring can impact your skin health and moisture levels. Hence, you need to revive your skin and follow a skincare routine with a special focus on hydration and rejuvenation.

“Spring brings with it higher humidity levels and increased exposure to the sun, which means it's time to tweak our skincare regimen accordingly. During the winter months, many of us shy away from exfoliation to avoid further drying out our already parched skin. However, as the weather warms up, our skin becomes more tolerant to stronger formulations of active

Dermatologist’s take on the 5 hottest trends!

Spilling the tea on the importance of nourishing your skin from the inside out

Embarking on a journey towards flawless skin involves not just diligence, but also staying abreast of the latest trends and innovations in skincare. In today's fast-paced world, where self-care reigns supreme, understanding the insights straight from the dermatologist's desk is paramount. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of skincare with expert guidance, exploring the top five trends curated by dermatologists at Cureskin. From the personalized allure of customized skincare to the transformative powers of exfoliation and the science-backed benefits of niacinamide, get ready to discover the secrets to radiant, healthy skin.

Let's delve into the dermatologist's take on the secrets of skincare:

Customized Skincare: Embrace the era of personalized skincare with tailored skincare routines crafted by expert dermatologists. In a rapidly evolving industry, one-size-fits-all solutions are a thing of the past. Leading dermats recognize the importance of individualized approaches, harnessing advanced technology and comprehensive analysis of genetic and lifestyle factors to formulate curated regimens for each individual. From addressing specific concerns to enhancing natural skin, personalized skincare ensures that every product and treatment is meticulously selected to meet unique skin profiles.

ingredients. This makes spring the perfect time to reintroduce exfoliation into our routines, helping to slough away the dull, dead skin cells that have accumulated over the winter," says Rajat Mathur, DGM, Learning Academy, of The Body Shop India.

"One of my top recommendations for springtime skincare is incorporating liquid peels enriched with ingredients like Edelweiss and Vitamin C. Not only do these peels deliver quick and effective exfoliation, but also boast the added benefit of stimulating collagen production, leaving your skin looking brighter, smoother, and more radiant.

The Role of Exfoliation in Skincare: Let's talk about the magic of exfoliation in skincare! It's like giving your skin a refreshing makeover with a gentle touch. Dermatologists are totally on board with the gentle approach, opting for mild exfoliants to gently buff away those pesky dead cells. Whether you're into chemical wonders like AHAs and BHAs or prefer a little scrub-a-dub with eco-friendly particles, there's something out there to make your skin sing with joy!

Niacinamide and Ceramide: Meet the dynamic duo of skincare superheroes – niacinamide and ceramide! These powerhouse ingredients, tackle everything

from pesky pores to skin inflammation. Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, renowned for its versatility, works wonders by improving skin texture, reducing the appearance of pores, and combating inflammation. On the other hand, ceramides serve as essential building blocks for your skin's protective barrier. These lipid molecules work tirelessly to lock in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated and plump. Additionally, they act as a shield against environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV rays, helping to maintain your skin's overall health and resilience. When combined, these dynamic duo ingredients create an unstoppable force, ensuring your skin remains healthy, supple, and ready to conquer the world!

Nutraceuticals for the Win: Dermatologists are spilling the tea on the importance of nourishing your skin from the inside out. Introducing nutraceuticals – the latest craze in skincare supplements! These powerhouse products are packed with essential nutrients that work wonders for your skin from the inside out. From collagen boosters that help maintain skin elasticity and reduce fine lines to antioxidant-rich supplements that combat free radical damage and promote youthful skin, nutraceuticals are like a daily dose of nourishment for your skin. It's like treating your skin to a delicious feast of all the goodness it craves, resulting in healthy skin.

Holistic Approaches to Skincare:

Last but not least, let's redefine skincare – it's not just about the potions you apply; it's a lifestyle revolution! Dermatologists are emphasizing the vital link between overall well-being and skin health. Beyond creams and serums, they advocate for dietary balance, stress management, and quality sleep as essential components for beautiful skin. With the guidance of skincare gurus leading the charge, achieving your #skingoals has never been more fun, fabulous and accessible! It's all about celebrating individuality and embracing the journey to healthy, vibrant skin. Here's to a radiant you, inside and out!

Wardrobe essentials inspired

Tiger Shroff Shraddha Kapoor looks stunning in a saree, radiating poise

TSarees have traditionally represented elegance and grace in Indian fashion, and Bollywood superstars such as Shraddha Kapoor have been spotted wearing exquisite saree ensembles that inspire millions. With her impeccable style and flair, Shraddha effortlessly carries off sarees with poise and charm. Check out the top five saree styles of the actress from the film 'Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar'

that you may replicate to add a touch of Bollywood glitter to your wardrobe.

Traditional Elegance: Shraddha Kapoor's traditional saree looks often feature timeless elegance and grace. She has been spotted in classic silk sarees adorned with intricate embroidery or rich zari work. To recreate this look, opt

for a silk saree in vibrant colors like red, green, or royal blue. Pair it with traditional jewelry such as jhumkas, bangles, and a statement necklace to complete the regal ensemble.

Contemporary Chic: Shraddha Kapoor also embraces contemporary saree styles with panache. She experiments with modern silhouettes, unique drapes, and unconventional fabrics. To channel her

contemporary chic vibe, try a predraped saree or a saree gown in soft pastel hues or monochrome tones. Accessorize with sleek accessories and minimalist jewelry for a sophisticated yet trendy look.

Floral Fantasy: Floral sarees are a favorite among Bollywood celebrities, and Shraddha Kapoor is no exception. She often opts for sarees featuring delicate floral prints or intricate floral

embroidery. To recreate her floral fantasy look, choose a lightweight georgette or chiffon saree or a saree made of a Liva Fabric adorned with floral motifs. Pair it with subtle makeup, soft curls, and floral accessories for a feminine and romantic vibe.

Fusion: Shraddha Kapoor effortlessly blends Indian and

Western elements to create fusion saree looks that are both stylish and unconventional. She has been seen pairing sarees with crop tops, blazers, or even denim jackets for a contemporary twist. Minimalistic Magic: Sometimes, less is more, and Shraddha Kapoor's minimalistic saree looks are a testament to that. She opts for simple yet elegant sarees in muted tones like ivory, beige, or blush pink.

iger Shroff, the epitome of fitness and style, turns heads wherever he goes. Known for his

impeccable fashion sense and effortless charm, Tiger's wardrobe is a treasure trove of inspiration

for fashion enthusiasts. Let's take a closer look at five must-have wardrobe essentials inspired by the actor himself.

Denim Jacket: A denim jacket is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, making it a staple in Tiger's wardrobe. Cop the look from Lee Cooper denim collection. Pair it with a plain white tee and chunky denim jeans for a casual yet stylish look that is sure to turn heads.

Classy Sunglasses: Sunglasses are a must-have accessory for any fashionista, and Tiger is no exception. Opt for a pair of classy

Comfy Formal Trousers: Tiger effortlessly blends comfort with style, and his choice of comfy formal trousers is a testament to that. Invest in a pair of welltailored formal trousers that allow you to move freely while looking sharp and polished.

Sports Wear: Tiger's love for fitness is well-known, and his wardrobe reflects that. Invest in some stylish sports wear that not only keeps you comfortable during your workout but also allows you to make a fashion statement while hitting the gym.

Chunky Denim Jeans: Tiger is often seen sporting chunky denim jeans that perfectly complement his muscular physique. Invest in

a pair of well-fitted denim jeans that hug your curves in all the right places for a look that is both comfortable and stylish.

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Caption: How Indo-Pacific strategy grew from strength to strength under PM Modi

Actor Ajay Devgn, director Amit Sharma and others at the trailer launch event of upcoming film ‘Maidaan’ in Mumbai on Thursday, March 07, 2024

Caption: Srinagar: Locals arrive to attend the ‘Viksit Bharat, Viksit Jammu & Kashmir’ programme, in Srinagar, Thursday, March 7, 2024

Members of various farmer unions gather at Ramlila Maidan for ‘Kisan Mazdoor Mahapanchayat’, in New Delhi, Thursday, March 14, 2024

Indian cricket team palyers pose with the winning trophy after they won the fifth test match against England in Dharamshala on Saturday, March 9, 2024.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses during the ‘Viksit Bharat, Viksit Jammu & Kashmir’ programme, in Srinagar, Thursday, March 7, 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi being presented a memento by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, in New Delhi, Thursday, March 14, 2024

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar with South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo during a meeting, in Seoul, Tuesday, March 5, 2024.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge with party leader Rahul Gandhi at a public meeting during the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, in Banswara, Thursday, March 7, 2024.

Ram Nath Kovind, Chairman of the High-Level Committee (HLC) on ‘One Nation, One Election’, presents the report to President Droupadi Murmu, in New Delhi, Thursday, March 14, 2024. Union Ministers Amit Shah and Arjun ram Meghwal, DPAP leader Ghulam Nabi Azad are also seen.

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Monday, March 11, 2024.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar with South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo during a meeting, in Seoul, Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Actors Vijay Varma, Karisma Kapoor, Sanjay Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan, Tisca Chopra and Suhail Nayyar at the trailer launch event of upcoming film ‘Murder Mubarak’ in Mumbai on Tuesday, March 5, 2024

CREW

RELEASE DATE: 29 March 2024

LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English

Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Ekta Kapoor, Rhea

Kapoor, Anil Kapoor and Digvijay Purohit

DIRECTOR: Rajesh Krishnan

CAST: Tabu Kareena, Kapoor Khan, Kriti Sanon and Diljit Dosanjh

BASTAR

RELEASE DATE: 15 March 2024

LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)

DIRECTOR: Sudipto Sen

CAST: Adah Sharma, Indira Tiwari, Vijay Krishna, Yashpal Sharma, Raima Sen, Shilpa Shukla

JATT NUU CHUDAIL TAKRI

RELEASE DATE: 15 March 2024

LANGUAGE: Punjabi (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Desi Melodies, Dremiyata

DIRECTOR: Vikas Vashisht

CAST: Gippy Grewal, Sargun Mehta, Roopi Gill

TEHRAN

RELEASE DATE: 26 April 2024

LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Bake My Cake Films, Maddock Films

DIRECTOR: Arun Gopalan

CAST: John Abraham, Manushi Chhillar, Hadi Khanjanpour

Ajay Devgn ends silence on upcoming boxoffice clash between ‘Maidaan’, ‘BMCM’

and 'Bade Miyan Chote Miyan' which features Bollywood

superstar Akshay Kumar and action star Tiger Shroff in the lead.

Both the films are set to square off against each other at the box-office as they have booked a festival release on the occasion of Eid in April.

Ajay spoke with the media on the occasion of the trailer launch of 'Maidaan' at a multiplex in the Juhu area of Mumbai.

The actor was asked to speak on the clash between two films, he responded in a heartbeat as he said, "I was waiting for this question. See, first of all, I won't call it a clash. I would never want 2 films to release together for obvious reasons of both films suffering in terms of collections but, there are certain

situations wherein you don't have a choice but to release your film with another film. Such things are sometimes not under our control."

He continued, "Both the films belong to different genres.

Akshay, I and everyone is like a family and we are best of friends. We don't look at it like a clash, our perspective is different. For us, it's a big weekend, a festival time which will surely benefit our film.

And I hope, rather I'm confident that both the films will do good business." 'Maidaan', which also stars Priyamani, Gajraj Rao and Bengali actor Rudranil Ghosh, is set to release in theatres in April on the occasion of Eid. The exact release date of the film is yet to be announced by the makers.

DocuBay’s latest film shows how Americans are scammed by illegal call centres from India

The upcoming streaming documentary ‘Bogus Phone Operators’ unravels one of the biggest call centre scams in India.

The documentary exposes the ‘Thane Call Centre Scam’ and goes behind the criminal networks operating from India that swindled the American citizens while sitting in India.

A group of 600 deceptive call centre employees in Maharashtra's Thane, allegedly collaborated to pull off a fraud involving over 15,000 Americans, resulting in estimated losses exceeding $50 million.

The documentary provides an in-depth exploration of this scam, which prompted collaboration between the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Indian Police to uncover the ‘Thane Call Centre Scam’.

The investigative crime

documentary will be available to stream on IN10 Media Network’s global premium membershipbased OTT platform, DocuBay. Girish Dwibhashyam, COO of DocuBay, explained the motive behind producing the documentary, as he said: “The shocking ‘Thane Call Centre Scam’ compelled us to act. The story of hundreds of employees in a seemingly legitimate call centre in Mumbai suburbs allegedly swindling thousands of Americans needed to be shared with global audiences.”

“ ‘Bogus Phone Operators’ aims to uncover the masterminds behind these crimes. The filmmakers have investigated and explored the complexities of this scam industry, which appears to be just the tip of the iceberg,” he added.

Despite law enforcement efforts, the documentary showcases how

96th

Academy Awards: Cillian

Murphy is a ‘very proud

Irish

man’ on winning Best Actor

Hollywood star Cillian Murphy was feted with the Oscar for best actor for Christopher Nolan's 'Oppenheimer' and he said that he is a 'very proud Irish Man' on bagging the honour.

Murphy played J. Robert Oppenheimer, the theoretical physicist and “father of the atomic bomb” in the film and while accepting the honour, he thanked the Academy and Nolan.

“It’s been the wildest, most exhilarating, most creatively

these criminal networks persist with impunity, highlighting the necessity for international cooperation and heightened awareness.

The documentary is helmed by Nation Award-winning filmmaker Satya Prakash Upadhyaya.

Satya said: “As someone who has fallen victim to scam calls, this documentary serves as my urgent plea to safeguard our digital world. We must educate citizens before these scams pose an insurmountable threat to society.”

During the research and filming process, the team collaborated with experts, media, lawyers, and call centre employees to navigate challenges. Months of research and collaboration with Indian Police and the FBI were crucial in establishing communication with victims, who shared first-hand accounts of the scam’s impact on their lives.

“The documentary serves as a reminder of the pervasive threat of cybercrime and the importance of remaining vigilant in an increasingly connected world,” said Yule Kurup, producer at Nirvaan Entertainment.

“Through our examination of the ‘Thane Call Centre Scam’, we aim to raise awareness and empower viewers to protect themselves from similar fraudulent schemes.”

Jimmy Kimmel answers Trump’s nasty post by asking, ‘Isn’t it past your jail time?’

live telecast, right before Al Pacino presented Best Picture, to read aloud the Republican Party's presumptive presidential candidate Donald Trump's latest social media post. It bashed Kimmel as this year's Oscars host, reports 'Variety'. "Has there EVER been a WORSE HOST than Jimmy Kimmel at The

Oscars. His opening was that of a less than average person trying too hard to be something which he is not, and never can be. Get rid of Kimmel and perhaps replace him with another washed up, but cheap, ABC 'talent', George Slopanopoulos," Trump thundered.

satisfying journey you’ve taken me on over the last 20 years, I owe you more than I can say,” he said. “Thank you so much (to) every single crew member, every single cast member on ‘Oppenheimer,’ you guys carried me through. All my fellow nominees, I remain in awe of you guys. Truly.”

Murphy added: “My two boys, who are sitting up there, I love you so much, and I’m a very proud Irishman standing here tonight… We made a film about the man who created the atomic bomb, and for better or for worse, we’re all living in Oppenheimer’s world, so, I would like to dedicate this to the peacemakers everywhere.” The film revolves around Oppenheimer as he grapples with the need to create an atomic weapon to counteract the German threat in World War II.

Women’s Day: Kanika Dhillon says female characters still stuck in narrow spectrum

Writer-producer Kanika Dhillon says the way Indian cinema views female empowerment, female characters end up getting stuck in a narrow spectrum.

The screenwriter-producer, who has penned films such as 'Dunki', 'Haseen Dilruba' and 'Manmarziyaan', notes that female characters in Indian cinema are either righteous, or they exist only to be the male protagonist's source of motivation, when there can be many shades to these characters on screen.

Dhillon spoke to IANS and shared her vision of female empowerment in the film industry and the means to achieve it.

"Female empowerment in Indian cinema has been stuck in a spectrum of either righteous, holier-than-thou characters, or existing to be the male protagonist's sole source of motivation, the black and white," she said.

"As a writer and producer I believe their empowerment comes from depicting them in their nuanced glory, exploring the depth of their psyche, their imperfections and their conflicts," Dhillon added. Going deeper into the idea of a nuanced portrayal of women, she said: "The women I have been blessed to see are deeply flawed and embrace their flaws without being ashamed of them. That is how I try to write my characters as well, whether it's Rumi from 'Manmarziyaan' or Rani in 'Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba' (my upcoming film)."

Talking about her goals for the female artiste community, and how she wishes to contribute to it, she said, "The community has recently started flourishing with the rise of female-centric stories. These artistes would do wonders if they are given the opportunity to bite into complex characters rather than being stuck with embodying a placeholder in a man's world." She concluded by saying: "As a producer and writer I want to contribute to this growth by writing and backing more such dynamic female characters who tend to question the inherent biases that exist in our audiences, whether it comes from their conditioning or morality."

Bollywood superstar Ajay Devgn, who is awaiting the release of his upcoming theatrical film 'Maidaan', broke his silence on the box-office clash between 'Maidaan'

Oscars host Jimmy Kimmel took a moment during the

96th Academy Awards: ‘Oppenheimer’ dominates with 7 wins, ‘Poor Things’ gets 4 honours

world to me.”

Emma Stone earned her second best actress Oscar for 'Poor Things'.

Best Director, Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor.

“We made a film about the man who created the atomic bomb, and for better or for worse, we’re all living in Oppenheimer’s world,” Cillian Murphy said while accepting the honour.

For Nolan, who took home the Best Director, the Oscar win is a first despite being nominated seven times previously for directing 'Dunkirk', as well as for his work on movies like 'Memento' and 'Inception'.

During his acceptance, he said: “Movies are just a little bit over 100 years old."

“I would imagine being 100 years into painting or theater. We don’t know where this incredible journey is going from here, but to know that you think that I’m a meaningful part of it means the

She thanked her director Yorgo Lanthimos, with whom she has just made another movie, 'Kinds of Kindness', as well as the rest of the film’s team.

Da’vine Joy Randolph was feted Best Supporting actress for her role as a grieving cafeteria manager grappling with the death of her son in 'The Holdovers'.

Robert Downey Jr. won the Best Supporting actor for the Cillian Murphy-starrer.

He said: “Here’s my little secret: I needed this job more than it needed me.”

The actor, who struggled with drug addiction for much of the 1990s and early aughts before getting sober and launching his comeback, thanked Tom Hansen, his lawyer of 40 years, “half of which he spent trying to get me insured and bailing me out.”

Jonathan Glazer, director of the best international feature winner 'The Zone of Interest', a drama set in Auschwitz, spoke about violence in the Middle East and to draw parallels with the message of his searing look at the Holocaust.

'American Fiction', a satire that explores race and art, won Best Adapted Screenplay, while 'Anatomy of a Fall', earned Best Original Screenplay.

'20 Days in Mariupol', won Best Documentary, its director Mstyslav Chernov drew attention to the human costs of Russia’s invasion.

Billie Eilish shattered records, becoming the youngest two-time Oscar winner at age 22 after earning best song for her 'Barbie' ballad 'What Was I Made For?' This year’s Academy Awards, honouring the best films of the previous year, arrived at a tumultuous moment for Hollywood, which didn’t have a whole lot to celebrate in 2023, reports variety.com.

The major studios spent much of that time locked in labour disputes with the leading actors and writers unions, which led to two costly strikes that ground film production to a standstill.

Much of the debate centered on how the streaming revolution that changed the way movies and shows are made and distributed has disrupted the way that talent profits from their work.

Jimmy Kimmel returned to host the Oscars for the fourth time. He started the ceremony with jokes about the Academy snub of 'Barbie' filmmaker Greta Gerwig, the excessive lengths of many of the nominated films and Robert De Niro’s much younger girlfriend.

Shannon K, Bappa Lahiri pay musical tribute to late Bappi Lahiri by revamping ‘Jimmy Jimmy’

71st Miss World: Czech beauty Krystyna Pyszkova is crowned Miss World

Krystyna Pyszkova of the Czech Republic has been crowned the 71st Miss World, here on Saturday.

Krystyna edged out Yasmina Zaytoun of Lebanon, Ache Abrahams of Trinidad and Tobago, and Lesego Chombo of Botswana.

India, meanwhile lost out on the title after Miss India Sini Shetty failed to make it to the Top 4.

Krystyna was crowned by the winner of Miss World 2023, Karolina Bielawska of Poland. The event, hosted by Bollywood producer-director Karan Johar and the winner of Miss World 2013, Megan Young, was held at the Jio Convention Centre in the BKC area here.

India hosted the coveted beauty pageant after a gap of 28 years.

‘RRR’ trends again as glimpses of ‘Naatu Naatu’ showcased twice at Oscars

legendary composer Bappi Lahiri by recreating 'Jimmy Jimmy' from the 1982 movie 'Disco Dancer'. Shannon, who has collaborated with Bappa Lahiri, son of Bappi Lahiri, for the track, said: "When I met Bappi uncle on his birthday, he promised to call me soon for a song recording. Unfortunately, he fell ill shortly after, leaving us all in shock."

Turning grief into a tribute, Shannon K collaborated with Bappa to honour Bappi Lahiri through 'Jimmy Jimmy' remake.

"Recording this song and filming the music video was an incredible experience. 'Jimmy Jimmy' has always been one of my favourite songs of Bappi, and to pay homage to him through this project is truly special,” she added.

The song is now out on Saregama.

Stars Jr NTR and Ram Charan’s exhilarating song ‘Naatu Naatu’ and glimpse of ‘RRR’ made it to the Academy Award stage once again.

Soon after ‘RRR’ was shown twice at the 96th Academy Awards on Monday, the hashtag #RRRMovie started trending on X (formerly called Twitter).

The official X handle of the film, shared the clip and wrote: “And again, a sweet surprise for us…. Glad that @TheAcademy included #RRRMovie action sequence as a part of their tribute to the

world’s greatest stunt sequence in cinema."

When Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt were presenting a special tribute to stunt performers, the first glimpse of ‘RRR’, directed by S.S. Rajamouli, was shown. It featured an action scene featuring Ram and Jr. NTR was shown among many international films. The video of ‘Naatu Naatu’, which was feted with the Oscar statuette in the 2023, played in the background, when Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande made their entry on stage to present the award for this year’s Best Score, which went to Ludwig Goransson for 'Oppenheimer'.

‘RRR’ is a Telugu-language epic period action drama film. It also stars Ajay Devgn, Alia Bhatt, Shriya Saran, Samuthirakani, Ray Stevenson, Alison Doody, and Olivia Morris.

A

ctor-singer Shannon K, who is the daughter of veteran singer Kumar Sanu, paid a soul-stirring tribute to the late

Los Angeles, March 11 (IANS)

Christopher Nolan's film 'Oppenheimer' dominated the 96th Academy Awards, as it took home seven trophies including Best Picture,

Buyers Like What They See at Brookwater.

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.

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- The wider Springfield Growth Corridor including Springfield and Greater Springfield is currently home to 145,300 people.

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- Represents an annual growth rate of 5.6% over the 20 years to 2041.

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