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Delhi fortifies borders: Sound cannons, trenches added amid farmers’ protest Singhu and Tikri borders. In an effort to deter farmers from entering the city, Delhi Police has dug 10-foot trenches along link roads connecting to Delhi through various villages. New Delhi, Feb 14 (IANS) Despite the ongoing struggles of farmers attempting to breach barricades at the Shambhu border in Haryana's Ambala, the Delhi Police on Wednesday heightened the security measures at the
In addition to these trenches, the police have deployed Long Range Acoustic Devices (LRAD), commonly known as sound cannons, to disperse farmers should they approach Delhi. Developed by the United States military in the early 2000s, LRADs
are specialised loudspeakers capable of emitting high-powered sound waves. These waves, reaching up to 152 decibels, produce an irritating noise unbearable for humans. A big territorial signage installed at the Delhi-Haryana Singhu border was also taken down by JCB machines. Police officers present at the spot told IANS that it is to ensure that the signage does not obstruct the way when
UAE won hearts of 140 cr Indians: PM Modi after inaugurating Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, Feb 14 (IANS) In a proud and historic moment for Hindus from across the world,
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Mandir, the first Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), saying that the UAE has written a golden chapter and won the hearts of 140 crore Indians. With Sanskrit shlokas and vedic
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14,000 projects worth Rs 10 lakh Asif Ali Zardari likely to become Pakistan president cr to roll out in UP on Feb 19 the second time, local media reported.
Islamabad, Feb 15 (IANS) As PML-N, PPP, MQMP, PML-Q, IPP and BAP have announced to form a coalition government at the Centre, PPP co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari is likely to become the President of the country for
On Tuesday, the abovementioned parties had announced to form a government in the Centre on the lines of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government, Geo News reported. PML-N leadership has agreed to support Zardari for the post of president in return for PPP's support to Shehbaz Sharif for the Prime Minister's post, sources said. Meanwhile, PML(N) leader
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Rana Sanaullah said that PPP did not not demand the top constitutional post of president. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had on Tuesday announced Zardari as PPP candidate for the President's post. "I am not saying this because he is my father. I am saying this because the country is in a huge crisis at the moment and if anyone can douse this fire, it is Asif Ali Zardari," Bilawal had said.
BJP will win 370 seats in LS polls: PM Modi He said that even the opposition leader say that BJP will win 400 seats in the upcoming Lok Sabha election.
Bhopal, Feb 11 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said the BJP -- without its alliance partners -- will win 370 seats in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. “The NDA will return to power for the third consecutive term with 400 seats,” Modi said while addressing a rally in Madhya Pradesh’s Jhabua.
“I have not come to Jhabua to campaign. The kind of support BJP has received in Madhya Pradesh shows that the people have trust in BJP's double-engine government,” he said. He also took jibe at Congress saying the grand-old party and its allies have already accepted their defeat and they have started using their last tactic -- ‘loot and divide’. “Knowing the results, the Congress and its allies are
Breaking Ceremony (GBC) 4.0 in which MoUs worth Rs 10 lakh crore, covering 14,000 projects, will be rolled out on February 19 in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Lucknow.
now using their last weapon to divide the people in the name of religion, caste and creed. But, the people of this country will not let them succeed,” Modi said.
These projects are expected to create 33.50 lakh employment opportunities in the state. Lucknow, Feb 11 (IANS) The Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh is all set to kick-start another phase of development in the state with the Ground
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LK Advani to be conferred Bharat Ratna, announces PM Modi Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP).
He said that after losing the state assembly election recently, the Congress has witnessed a major crisis and many of them are willing to run away from the party. He said that people of Madhya Pradesh have given a befitting reply to the Congress during the assembly election however their (Congress) sins will be cleansed after the Lok Sabha elections.
According to the official spokesman, the projected investment rollout for GBC 4.0
New Delhi, Feb 3 (IANS) Former Deputy Prime Minister Lal Krishna Advani will be conferred the Bharat Ratna, announced Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday. A BJP stalwart, Advani is also the founding member of
Born on November 8, 1927, 96-year-old Advani served as the 7th Deputy Prime Minister of India from 2002 to 2004. He is the longest serving Minister of Home Affairs serving from 1998 to 2004. He is also the longest serving Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha. He was the prime ministerial candidate of the BJP during the 2009 general election. The Prime Minister took to his personal X handle to announce the highest civilian award for LK Advani and informed that he also Continued on Page 3
INDIA NEWS
Feb 16-29, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 14
EDITORIAL BOARD Amrita Deshpande, Community News Editor Paras Sharma, Assistant Editor Dr Uttam Kumar Sinha, Senior Fellow, Nehru Memorial Museum & Library, India Mr Shaun Star, Director, Centre for Australia India Studies, Jindal Global University, India
INDIA EDITOR
Indian-origin barrister Varun Ghosh appointed to Australian Senate
SC Constitution Bench strikes down electoral bonds scheme 2018 as ‘unconstitutional’
EDITORIAL TEAM Dr Ram Mohan, Chairman Dr Ashutosh Misra, Editor-in-Chief
INDIA NEWS TV Mr Karthik Pratap Singh, News Director Mr. Agastya Yeturi, Cinematographer Mr Nishit Chandan, Special Correspondent
CONTENTS
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News from India
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High Commissioner Baglay meets Governor Chris Dawson to enhance India-WA relations
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Harpreet Bhagrath
Community News
Indian diplomatic team visits Sikh Gurudwara, extends praise for community contributions
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Ms Kriti Bharadwaj WRITERS Mr Rabindra Mukherji PHOTOGRAPHER Vinoraa Photography facebook.com/vinoraaphotography
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Special Features
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Sports Shankar Mahadevan on Grammy win: ‘Dreams do come true’
Romantic getaway resorts for Valentine’s Day
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Delhi fortifies borders: Sound cannons, trenches added amid farmers’ protest Continued from Page 1
tear gas shells are fired by security personnel towards the protesting farmers. Police officers told IANS that these measures were taken to prevent the sign from obstructing the path for the security personnel to fire tear gas shells at the protesting farmers. Meanwhile, a senior traffic police official said that the Singhu Border on NH-44 is currently inaccessible for traffic. As a result, several diversions have been put in place to manage the flow of vehicles:
Interstate buses and heavy goods vehicles (HGV) destined for Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, etc., are directed to take a diversion on the Outer Ring Road at Majnu Ka Tilla. From there, they should proceed towards Signature Bridge to Khajuri Chowk via Loni Border, heading towards Eastern Peripheral Road. Trucks originating from Azadpur Mandi and bound for Sanjay Gandhi Transport Nagar are instructed to take a diversion from Azadpur Mandi. They should then utilise the
Continued from Page 1
hymns reverberating across the Abu Dhabi skyline, PM Modi arrived at the temple premises at 6 p.m. (IST) and was welcomed by BAPS' Ishwarcharandas Swami and other delegates. “This temple will be a symbol of communal harmony and unity of the world,” he said. “The UAE has written a golden chapter. The inauguration of the temple took years of hard work and the dreams of many are connected with the temple,” the prime minister added. On behalf of the entire India and millions of Indians living around the world, the PM expressed his "heartfelt gratitude" to President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the UAE government. "I am confident that a large number of devotees will come here in the coming times. This will also increase the number of people coming to the UAE and people-to-people connections will also increase," he said. Asserting that the Gulf nation has written a golden chapter in human history, the PM said: “This temple will be a symbol of unity and harmony...The role of the UAE government in the construction of the temple is commendable..." He ended his speech by requesting the attendees to give a standing ovation to President Al Nahyan. Dressed in a light pink silk dhoti and kurta paired with a sleeveless jacket and stole, PM Modi participated in rituals to dedicate
the temple to the people. Offering flower petals at the feet of Lord Swaminarayan, PM Modi proceeded to perform rituals, which began with offering the holy Ganges water, as part of the inauguration ceremony, which coincided with the auspicious Basant Panchmi festival. Seated alongside Mahant Swami Maharaj, who arrived in the Gulf nation on February 5 to preside over the historic inauguration, PM Modi performed the 'global aarti'. The 'aarti' was conducted simultaneously at over 1,200 temples of the Swaminarayan sect worldwide built by BAPS. Following the inauguration, PM Modi gracefully bowed and sought Mahant Swami Maharaj's blessings as he was garlanded by the seer. He proceeded to offer holy water to the idol of Maharaj Swami Narayan and inscribed the message of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' -- the world is one family -- on a stone at the temple. UAE's tolerance and coexistence minister, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, who was also present at the ceremony, welcomed PM Modi and thanked him for strengthening ties between the two nations. PM Modi interacted with members of the Indian diaspora and also met volunteers and key contributors, involved in the creation of the temple from its inception to its completion. The inauguration of the iconic
“Congress has always considered the tribals as their vote bank. We do not consider them a vote bank. They are the pride of our country. Our main motto is to uplift the community by providing them their rights. They have been deprived of their rights for several decades,” Modi said. He said that by making changes
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in the Forest Property Law, the BJP government has returned the rights related to forest land to the tribal society. During his first visit to Madhya Pradesh ahead of the Lok Sabha election – Modi who is seeking a third term -- also announced several projects and also laid the foundation stones of some of the projects.
“The unidentified gang has received huge money from each Indian national and later brought them to Nepal on pretext of sending them to the U.S,”a senior Nepal Police official told IANS. He said that police have also arrested seven individuals involved in human trafficking.
“Only DTC Buses and Cars/fourwheelers allowed from Mukarba Chowk towards NH-44 to take Exit No. 2 on NH-44 at DSIIDC Cut to go towards Narela and Safiabad Border. Commuters are advised to follow the above routes to avoid inconvenience,” said the official.
temple was celebrated through the 'Festival of Harmony' -- a series of uplifting programmes and community events focussed on strengthening faith, mobilising community service, and inspiring harmony among people of all generations and backgrounds. Ahead of PM Modi's arrival, the entire campus had been decorated with auspicious symbols, including messages of 'Welcome' in Sanskrit, Arabic, English, and Gujarati. "The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi serves as a spiritual oasis for global harmony that celebrates the past and recalibrates the future. It is a timeless testament to the spirituality of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj and the generosity, sincerity and friendship of the leaderships of the UAE, India and BAPS," Brahmaviharidas Swami, who has been overseeing the Mandir project, said earlier. Spread over a 27-acre piece of land, gifted by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the iconic stone temple is located in Abu Mureikhah, near Al Rahba off the Dubai-Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Highway. Featuring the traditional Nagar style of architecture, the temple stands tall at 108 feet and is crowned with seven shikhars (spires) each representing one of the seven emirates of the UAE. With two central domes, 'Dome of Harmony' and ‘Dome of Peace', the temple's entrance is marked by eight idols, which symbolises the eight values foundational to Sanatana Dharma.
BJP will win 370 seats in LS polls: PM Modi Continued from Page 1
11 US-bound Indian nationals taken hostage in Nepal rescued
service road towards Outer Ring Road, passing by Haiderpur Water Plant, and take a U-turn for Rohini Jail Road Sector-18. Finally, they should proceed to Badli Metro Station and continue to Sanjay Gandhi Transport Nagar.
UAE won hearts of 140 cr Indians: PM Modi after inaugurating Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi
“Congress comes to you (tribals) to seek your support during the elections only. The BJP has set an example by appointing a tribal, Droupadi Murmu, as the President. Congress -- which claims to be sympathisers of the tribals -- had put in all efforts not to let it happen,” Modi said in Jhabua -- a tribal dominated area of the state.
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“It was found that each individual had paid 4.5 million Indian rupees to the racketeers who promised them to traffic to the U.S,” the police official said.
Kathmandu, Feb 14 (IANS) Nepal Police on Wednesday said that they have rescued 11 U.S. bound Indians, who were taken hostage by a gang in Kathmandu. The police said that they raided a house in Ratopul area and rescued the Indian nationals who were taken hostage by an unidentified gang last one month.
The officials said that the Kathmandu Range of Nepal Police will also organise a press conference on Thursday and will share the details about the incident. The officials said that the racketeers were trying to send them to the U.S. via Nepal. “Upon investigation, we came to know that some people were taken hostage in the house. Most of those Indians are from Delhi and Haryana,” officials said.
14,000 projects worth Rs 10 lakh cr to roll out in UP on Feb 19 Continued from Page 1
is five times greater than the cumulative investment of over Rs 2.10 lakh crore implemented in the previous three groundbreaking ceremonies. Over 52 per cent of these projects this time will be launched in western Uttar Pradesh. Around 29 per cent of the MoUs (memorandums of understanding) will be implemented in the Purvanchal region, which comprises eastern parts of the state. Besides, 14 per cent MoUs will be implemented in Madhyanchal, and 5 per cent in Bundelkhand. These MoUs were signed at the Uttar Pradesh Global Investors’ Summit-2023 organised in
Lucknow in February 2023. Around 3000 people, including eminent industrialists, representatives of 500 companies, foreign investors, ambassadors, high commissioners and other distinguished guests will attend the February 19 event. A major slice of investment of 19.24 per cent is in the housing sector, according to the state government spokesman. In addition, 15 per cent investment is in the renewable energy sector, 13 per cent in manufacturing, 10 per cent in IT and IT-enabled services, 7.83 per cent in logistics and warehousing, 7.5 per cent in energy and 6.01 per cent in food processing.
LK Advani to be conferred Bharat Ratna, announces PM Modi Continued from Page 1
congratulated the party veteran on being conferred with the nation’s highest civilian honour. "I am very happy to share that LK Advani will be conferred the Bharat Ratna. I also spoke to him and congratulated him on being conferred this honour..," PM Narendra Modi tweeted. Notably, Bharat Ratna is the nation’s highest civilian award, given as a mark of recognition for exceptional & distinguished service. Showering praises on the towering stature & exemplary leadership of BJP patriarch, PM Modi wrote, “One of the most respected statesmen of our times, his contribution to
the development of India is monumental. His is a life that started from working at the grassroots to serving the nation as our Deputy Prime Minister. He distinguished himself as our Home Minister and I&B Minister as well.” Advani is widely credited as one of the tallest leaders who scripted BJP’s rise from ‘oblivion to prominence’. It was after his Rath Yatra in 1990s that catapulted the saffron party into national politics. For the unversed, LK Advani is the second BJP stalwart to be conferred with Bharat Ratna. Prior to him, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was also honored with Bharat Ratna in 2015.
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Feb 16-29, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 14
ADVERTORIAL
Adani Total Gas inks pact with INOXCVA Adani Green Energy links 551 MW solar capacity plant to national grid to strengthen LNG ecosystem in India homes annually.
Ahmedabad, Feb 5 (IANS) Adani Total Gas Ltd (ATGL), India's leading city gas distribution company and INOX India Ltd (INOXCVA), one of the world's leading cryogenic liquid storage, have joined hands for boosting the LNG ecosystem in the country. The two leading firms entered into a mutual support agreement, under which ATGL and INOXCVA shall mutually accord a "preferred partner" status for the delivery of LNG and LCNG equipment and services for identifying and exploring possible collaboration opportunities for strengthening the LNG ecosystem in the country. As "preferred partners", ATGL will have certain inherent project level benefits, which includes preferential treatment
to ATGL and access to advanced scheduling, and consideration for collaborative opportunities for establishing LNG/LCNG stations, LNG satellite stations, transitioning to LNG as a transport fuel, LNG logistics, as well as developing small-scale liquid hydrogen solutions for the industry.
long-haul heavy vehicles, buses currently using HSD/diesel to LNG, thereby helping over 30 per cent reduction in CO2 and GHG emissions. ATGL will also fasttrack setting up of LNG stations across the country for boosting the confidence of fleet operators to embrace LNG as transportation fuel."
The mutual support agreement covers role and obligations on either side to leverage expertise of both the parties to develop the LNG Infrastructure including small-scale LNG plants, LNG stations, bringing economy of scale for conversion of heavy vehicles on LNG, developing best practices towards HSE, fuel efficiency, high quality conversion and services.
INOXCVA Promoter and NonExecutive Director Siddharth Jain said: "As our economy prepares to go an overdrive, it is imperative that we also maintain a focus on ensuring that the transition happens in a sustainable manner. We are, therefore, excited about our cooperation with ATGL, which would look to strengthen the LNG ecosystem and building and promoting LNG as a transport fuel. Our combined synergies, backed by expertise and scale of both the Parties will truly benefit the stakeholders in the economy in reducing emissions, and make significant contributions towards the green transition."
Speaking about the collaboration, Suresh P. Manglani, Executive Director & CEO, ATGL said: "Air pollution and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are on the rise. With the ongoing rapid industrial growth and huge increase in heavy vehicles for transportations of goods, challenges will become even more formidable going forward. This partnership with INOXCVA shall help ATGL in furthering phased transition of
Notably, ATGL, authorised in 33 Geographical Areas, plays a significant role in nation's efforts to enhance the share of natural gas in its energy mix, a statement noted.
The park is poised to become the largest renewable energy installation globally, with a planned capacity of 30 GW over the next five years. Mumbai, Feb 14 (IANS) Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) has successfully operationalised 551 MW solar capacity plant in Gujarat’s Khavda renewable energy park which has now started supplying power to the national grid. "AGEL achieved this milestone within 12 months of commencing work on the Khavda RE park, starting with the development of basic infrastructure, including roads and connectivity, and creating a self-sustaining social ecosystem. AGEL also transformed the challenging and barren terrain of the Rann of Kutch into a habitable environment for its 8,000-strong workforce," the company stated in a BSE filing. The energy generated from the Khavda RE park is projected to power approximately 16.1 million
Mumbai, Feb 13 (IANS) The Adani Electricity Mumbai Ltd has launched the country’s first stateof-the-art Advanced Distribution Management System to fix power supply glitches within a short time for its 31.50 lakh consumers, officials said here. The Network Operations Centre (NOC) -- which can locate a power disruption within seconds in its entire jurisdiction before it can lead to a large power outage
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The NOC can also predict and prevent power outages to help quick remedial actions, and help balance the flow of power across the entire network which can reduce the amount of energy that is lost and potentially reduce electricity bills. The ADMS-power NOC collects data from a network of sensors, which is then analysed in realtime to give a complete picture of the city’s electricity infrastructure, and helps pinpoint and address problems even before they become significant issues for the customers and complaints pour in. The ADMS will help identify the precise location of the
fault that arises between two customer sub-stations (CSS) -- equipment generally found in housing complexes that ‘steps down’ electricity voltage before supplying to the users in the vicinity. There are 7,100 CSS’ in the Adani Electricity’s jurisdiction in Mumbai, and the new system will prove particularly beneficial in the coming summer months when there are frequent power issues which would henceforth be resolved quickly within 15-20 minutes instead of the average 34 minutes now. situational awareness and quick response to the events in the network.
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“Through bold and innovative projects like the Khavda RE plant, AGEL continues to set higher global benchmarks and rewrite the world’s planning and execution standards for gigascale renewable energy projects. This milestone is a validation of the Adani Group’s commitment and leading role in accelerating India’s equitable clean energy transition journey towards its ambitious goals of 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 and carbon neutrality,” he added. The AGEL share price increased by nearly 4% to Rs 1,882 in Wednesday's trade on BSE after the stock exchange filing.
Adani Electricity taps in sunshine, wind & AI to reduce Mumbaikars’ power bills
Adani Electricity unveils India’s First Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) in Mumbai -- has come up at Powai.
"Adani Green Energy is creating one of the world’s most extensive renewable energy ecosystems for solar and wind,” Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani said.
is simple – that “the key to competitive and stable tariffs lay in renewable sources of energy like solar and wind power” to keep monthly electric bills affordable, and within reasonable ranges. Mumbai, Feb 5 (IANS) The Adani Electricity Mumbai Ltd is in its endeavour to ease the consumers' power-related woes in Mumbai is making good use of abundant bright sunshine, free-flowing winds all while incorporating 'Artificial Intelligence' to reduce the power bills of the residents of the country's commercial capital.
With this mantra clear in the mind, the AEML went hammerand-tongs to increase its renewable energy penetration in a big way for Mumbai – from just 3 per cent in 2021 to an astounding 35 per cent by 2024.
This in contrast to the volatile market forces that impact traditional sources like coal and gas, resulting in unpredictable price fluctuations, leaving the citizens to grapple rising fuel costs and hike in tariffs.
“We procure renewable energy with a 50 per cent Capacity Utilisation Factor (CUF), significantly higher than the typical 30 per cent for intermittent sources like solar and wind energies,” said an official.
AEML officials claim the game
The strategy deployed was also unique and unprecedented anywhere, the officials claimed.
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Feb 16-29, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 14
ADVERTORIAL
The greater springfield heritage East Queensland. Stemming from humble beginnings, Greater Springfield is now home to 12 schools with 15,000 students, a TAFE, the University of Southern Queensland and Mater Springfield Private Hospital. And that’s not all – “My friends, you haven’t seen anything yet.” Maha Sinnathamby and his business partner Bob Sharpless had a dream when they negotiated the purchase of a forest tract somewhere between Brisbane and Ipswich more than 30 years ago. They wanted to build a city – and build they did. In 1992, a 7000-acre parcel of land was purchased in a location which no other developer wanted to touch. It was a corridor deemed as economically and socially depressed, with only 10 percent of the land zoned for residential development. It had no access,
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• Robelle Domain is a recreational hub that offers staff immediate access to 24 ha of landscaped parkland and lagoon. • $1.2 billion Springfield Rail connects Springfield Central to Brisbane and beyond. • Dark fibre optic network connectivity between Springfield Central’s commercial, office and retail buildings, companies can connect to the internet or interstate offices using high-bandwidth services. The Polaris Data Centre designed to Tier 3+ standards is one of Australia’s most advanced ICT facility – offers high availability, high-security data storage and co-location hosting services, and forms the ICT Hub in Greater Springfield.
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Feb 16-29, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 14
SC Constitution Bench strikes down electoral bonds scheme 2018 as ‘unconstitutional’
New Delhi, Feb 15 (IANS) In a unanimous verdict, a 5-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court on Thursday struck down the electoral bonds scheme 2018 as unconstitutional. Saying that financial contribution to a political party may potentially lead to quid pro quo arrangements, the judgment authored by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Chandrachud said the electoral bonds scheme by anonymizing contributions to the political parties infringe upon the right to information of the voter provided under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution. Asking the State Bank of India (SBI) to forthwith stop the issuance of electoral bonds, CJI Chandrachud ordered the Election Commission of India (ECI) to publish on its official website by March 13 the details of the political parties which have received contributions through electoral bonds since April 2019.
CJI Chandrachud’s opinion, concurred by Justices B.R. Gavai, J.B. Padriwala and Manoj Misra, added that the infringement of the right to information of voters cannot be justified for the purpose of curbing black money in the electoral process. “The right to information under Article 19(1)(a) can only be restricted based on the ground stipulated in Article 19(2). The purpose of curbing black money is not traceable to any of the grounds in Article 19(2),” the top court said. Further, it said that the electoral bond scheme is “not the only means for curbing black money” in electoral financing and there are other alternatives which substantially fulfill the purpose and impact the right to information minimally when compared to the impact of electoral bonds on the right to information. Saying that the political contributions give a seat at the table to the contributor, i.e., it enhances access to legislators and this access also translates into influence over policy making, the apex court added that the information of funding of political parties is essential for effective
exercise of the choice of voting. It said, “There is also a legitimate possibility that financial contribution to a political party would lead to quid pro quo arrangements because of the closed nexus between money and politics. Quid pro quo arrangements could be in the form of introducing a policy change or granting a license to the person making financial contribution to the political party in power. The electoral bond scheme and the impugned provisions to the extent that they infringe upon the right to information of the voter by anonymizing contributions through electoral bonds are violative of Article 19(1)(a).” The Supreme Court held it “manifestly arbitrary” to permit unlimited political contribution by the companies, saying that contributions made by companies are purely business transactions made with the intent of securing benefits in return. In sum, the apex court declared the amendment to the Income Tax Act introduced by the Finance Act, 2017, the amendment to the Companies Act, 2013 and the amendment to the Representation of People Act as unconstitutional.
Adani Electricity taps in sunshine, wind & AI to reduce Mumbaikars’ power bills anywhere, the officials claimed.
Mumbai, Feb 5 (IANS) The Adani Electricity Mumbai Ltd is in its endeavour to ease the consumers' power-related woes in Mumbai is making good use of abundant bright sunshine, free-flowing winds all while incorporating 'Artificial Intelligence' to reduce the power bills of the residents of the country's commercial capital. This in contrast to the volatile market forces that impact traditional sources like coal and gas, resulting in unpredictable price fluctuations, leaving the citizens to grapple rising fuel costs and hike in tariffs. AEML officials claim the game is simple – that “the key to competitive and stable tariffs lay in renewable sources of energy like solar and wind power” to keep monthly electric bills affordable, and within reasonable ranges. With this mantra clear in the mind, the AEML went hammerand-tongs to increase its renewable energy penetration in a big way for Mumbai – from just 3 per cent in 2021 to an astounding 35 per cent by 2024. The strategy deployed was also unique and unprecedented
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“We procure renewable energy with a 50 per cent Capacity Utilisation Factor (CUF), significantly higher than the typical 30 per cent for intermittent sources like solar and wind energies,” said an official. This was done by analysing the demand curve of its 12-million consumers, and ‘strategically matching’ solar-wind energy to cater to the peak demand hours in the country’s commercial capital. The benchmark ‘peak demand’ during 2023-2024 was established at 2,161 MW, with an average peak of 1500MW and off-peak at 1200MW daily. “At sunrise, the solar power kicks in, catering to the morning surge in demands and at sunset, when the winds pick up, meeting the evening peak pressures on power needs,” explained the official. The AEML has leveraged AI to achieve a ‘near-perfect power forecasting accuracy’ and further optimize the power-purchase costs and seamlessly integrate renewables. Of the 700 -MW hybrid energy contracted, during morning hours solar plus wind generate around 500MW-700MW, and during the evening time wind-power generates around 100MW400MW, though these figures can vary monthly and seasonally, according to the official.
This approach has ensured reliable energy supply to the power-hungry Mumbaikars during peak hours - usually the most expensive period - courtesy the fixed-rate renewable tariffs. The AEML flaunts results to prove how its strategy has paid off handsomely for the consumers, and by 2027, it hopes to supply 60 percent of Mumbai’s power needs through ‘clean’ or renewable energy sources. In the past three years, the AEML’s average residential tariffs have increased by around 4 percent, compared with the steep hikes proposed by other suppliers in Mumbai. For instance, at least one power major has proposed a staggering hike of 201 percent in tariffs for its low-end users, while favouring sections of high-end consumers and even reduced bills for certain huge public service clientele. In Diwali 2023, AEML achieved an unprecedented major milestone when it supplied three million homes and establishments (comprising 12 million customers) with 1,200 MW of ‘clean energy’ for 4 hours on a Sunday (10 am-2 pm) to dodge a whopping 9.84 millon-kg Co2 emissions. The officials say with pride that while other utilities struggle with outdated models, the AEML consumers can breathe freely without needless power-shocks, to enjoy reliable, affordable and green energy at all times.
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NEWS FROM INDIA
Possible Kerala candidates for LS polls Congress is yet to finalise the names of the candidate for Kannur constituency and Alappuzha, which they lost in 2019. Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 12 (IANS) With only a few months left for the Lok Sabha elections, there are speculation that many political bigwigs may contest from the coastal state. Here is a list of candidates of various political parties who are likely to contest Lok Sabha election from Kerala. Rumours are rife that Prime Minister Narendra Modi may contest from Thrissur constituency seat while other BJP senior leaders Nirmala Sitharaman, S. Jaisankar, V. Muraleedharan and Rajiv Chandrasekhar may also contest from Kerala. For Lok Sabha 2024, the CPIM-led Left is considering giving tickets to the following members: two-time former Finance Minister Thomas Isaac; A.K. Balan; P.K. Sreemathi; K.K. Shailaja; Kadakampally Surendran; K. Radhakrishnan; and Raju Abraham. Reportedly, the Congress has finalised the names of at least 13 constituency seats, who are all sitting MPs.
There are also rumours that CPI may field former Chief Secretary K. Jayakumar from Thiruvananthapuram constituency. However, the seat is currently held by Shashi Tharoor, who aims for a fourth straight win. From Thrissur, the CPI is considering fielding two former state ministers K.P. Rajendran and V.S. Sunil Kumar. The coastal state has 20 Lok Sabha seats. In the 2019 general election, the Congress led UDF won 19 seats while CPI-M won one seat. The BJP came second in the Thiruvananthapuram Lok Sabha seat and was relegated to a distant third in the rest of the seats across the state. In 2019, in the Congress-led UDF, Congress had fielded its candidates on 15 seats, the IUML had fielded four candidates and RSP had fielded one candidate. Likewise, from CPI-M-led Left, the CPI-M had fielded candidates on 15 seats, and CPI had fielded candidates on four seats while the Kerala Congress (M) had fielded only one candidate.
PM Modi likely to visit J&K on Feb 20
Jammu, Feb 12 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit J&K on February 20 to address a public rally in Jammu and inaugurate/lay the foundation stone of many developmental projects. In addition to addressing a large public rally in Jammu, PM
Modi will inaugurate a series of developmental projects, including All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Vijaypur in Samba, the highest Railway bridge, which will link Kashmir with the rest of the country by this year, in Reasi district, Devika Rejuvenation project at Udhampur, IIM Jammu and Shahpur Kandi. The Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone of various other development works in Jammu and Kashmir. The visit of the Prime Minister is expected to boost BJP’s prospects in J&K ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.
Lal Bahadur Shastri’s grandson quits Congress Bahadur Shastri, has resigned from the Congress in what is being viewed as yet another setback to the grand old party.
He has tendered his resignation to the party’s national president Mallikarjuna Kharge.
New Delhi, Feb 14 (IANS) Vibhakar Shastri, grandson of former Prime Minister Lal
“Hon’ble Congress President Shri Khargeji! Respected Sir, I hereby tender my resignation from the primary membership of Indian National Congress,” Shastri has posted this message on X.
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NEWS FROM INDIA
Sonia files nomination for Govt announces National Creator’s RS polls from Rajasthan Awards for new-age influencers These include the names of Abhishek Manu Singhvi from Himachal Pradesh, Akhilesh Prasad Singh from Bihar and Chandrakant Handore from Maharashtra. Jaipur, Feb 14 (IANS) Congress President Sonia Gandhi filed her nomination for the Rajya Sabha polls from Rajasthan on Wednesday. She arrived at the Rajasthan Assembly with senior Congress leaders, including former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot. Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were also present during her nomination filing. The party had formally announced her name only after Sonia reached Jaipur this morning. Along with Sonia Gandhi, the names of three more leaders were also announced.
Sonia Gandhi will go to Rajya Sabha from the seat vacated by former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. In the Congress Legislative Party meeting called to welcome her and team in Jaipur, state President Govind Singh Dotasra said that Sonia Gandhi's entry into the Rajya Sabha will boost the morale of the workers. "This is a matter of pride for Rajasthan," said Dotasara. After Dotasra, Leader of Opposition Tika Ram Jully and former CM Ashok Gehlot also spoke. All the leaders welcomed the Gandhi family and talked about the high morale of the workers.
Jio asks out Airtel users on a Valentine’s date: A playful nudge or a serious challenge?
New Delhi, Feb 11 (IANS) The government has announced the ‘National Creators Award’ to recognise new-age influencers and creators and celebrate India’s digital creator economy. The ‘National Creators’ Award’ aims to spotlight the diverse voices and talents that are shaping India’s growth and cultural narrative, driving positive social change, and fostering innovation and creativity in the digital sphere, said Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY). “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently acknowledged the transformative power and
impact of the creator economy. In line with this vision, MyGov India has announced the launch of the National Creators Award, celebrating digital innovators and content creators for their impactful contributions to India's digital landscape,” the minister said in a statement. The award recognises exceptional creativity and innovation across more than 20 categories, including storytelling, social change advocacy, environmental sustainability, education, gaming, and more. The ‘Disruptor of the Year’ award recognises a creator who has challenged the status quo, bringing about significant change or innovation in their field. The ‘Celebrity Creator of the Year’ recognises a high-profile creator who has leveraged their celebrity status to influence positive change and set a precedent for
creative and impactful online content. The 'International Creator Award’ honours creators based abroad who are helping augment India’s culture and soft power. The ‘Tech Creator Award’ is for those who demystify technology, offering insights, reviews, and recommendations on the latest gadgets and innovations. The selection process includes a nomination phase, screening of the nominations, followed by a combination of public voting and review of a jury. Winners will be announced based on a combination of jury and public votes. “The National Creators Award aims to inspire, recognize and celebrate the transformative potential of digital media in building a more inclusive, participatory, and empowered society,” said the ministry.
of reactions across social media platforms, blurring the lines between a marketing stunt and a genuine challenge to its rival. This creative approach by Jio not only capitalises on the spirit of Valentine's Day but also nudges a competitive edge over Airtel, suggesting that never ignore the Red flags in love and network choices. The inclusion of a direct contact number, alongside playful hashtags, adds a personal touch to the challenge, inviting users to reconsider their current New Delhi, Feb 14 (IANS) Jio continues the tradition of Valentine’s day banter with competition. In a bold and cheeky move this Valentine's Day, Jio has extended an unexpected invitation to Airtel ‘Ex’stream' users, playfully asking them to "switch to love" implying moving on to JioAirFiber. Under the guise of a romantic proposition, Jio's tweet cleverly uses the love language to propose that heart is where the home is and home is where JioAirFiber is. “Dear @airtelindia users,This Valentine's, don't ignore the 'RED' flags in your relationship. It's time to move on from your 'Ex'-stream. Here's my number 60008-60008. Call me maybe. #HappyValentinesDay #WithLoveFromJio”, the company posted. Needless to say the ‘RED’ flag in the tweet implies the red
network provider in favoir of Jio's services. Last year, with 5G being the talk of the town, Jio’s cheeky tweet on Valentine’s Day was about choosing ‘True’ love and not settling with a ‘Plus’ one. The industry observers watch closely the evolving dynamics of telecom rivalry and customer engagement strategies. Is it merely a playful jest, or does it signify a deeper strategic challenge? Either way, Jio's Valentine's Day tweet has undoubtedly added an intriguing twist like always in the past to the tale of telecom giants, blending romance with rivalry in the spirit of competition and choice. In addition, RIL posted Valentine’s Day invitation inviting social media users to show love by liking, following and subscribing to RIL on YouTube, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
colour of Airtel nudging its users to make Airtel its ‘Ex’ and choose JioAirFiber over Xstream. The tweet has sparked a flurry
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NEWS FROM INDIA
India’s EAM Dr Jaishankar attends 7th Indian Ocean Conference Perth, February 9 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The External Affairs Minister of India (EAM), Dr S Jaishankar, received a warm welcome upon his arrival in Perth to participate in the 7th Indian Ocean Conference held from February 9-10. The conference aimed to address key issues concerning the Indian Ocean region. During his visit, Dr Jaishankar held significant meetings, including a discussion with FM Senator Penny Wong of Australia, focusing on the comprehensive
strategic partnership between India and Australia. The discussions also touched upon matters related to the IndoPacific, the situation in West Asia, and other regional and global topics of mutual interest.
conference, Dr Jaishankar engaged in a morning discussion with FM Senator Penny Wong, emphasizing India-Australia ties, Indian Ocean architecture, and shared interests in the IndoPacific region.
Joined by esteemed colleagues including President Ranil Wickremesinghe and FM Vivian Balakrishnan, Dr Jaishankar participated in the conference's opening ceremony, welcoming ministerial counterparts from across the Indian Ocean region.
Dr Jaishankar also paid a visit to Sailani Avenue in Perth, named after Nain Singh Sailani, an Indian-origin soldier honored in Australia. During his visit, he met with veterans and Indian community leaders, acknowledging their contributions to strengthening
On the second day of the
the friendship between Australia and India. Further strengthening regional ties, Dr Jaishankar met with FM Maneesh Gobin of Mauritius, highlighting positive progress in their bilateral relationship and expressing optimism for deeper cooperation. In a bid to intensify ties with Western Australia, Dr Jaishankar engaged with Parliamentarians Zaneta Mascarenhas, Varun Ghosh, and Dr. Jagadish Krishnan of Australia, appreciating their insights and perspectives.
Addressing the Indian community in Perth, Dr Jaishankar expressed gratitude for their efforts in bolstering the friendship between Australia and India, recognizing their vital role in fostering stronger bonds. Additionally, Dr Jaishankar met with Premier Roger Cook of Western Australia, acknowledging his support for hosting the 7th Indian Ocean Conference and his commitment to building robust India-Australia ties, further enhancing bilateral relations between the two nations.
India’s relationship with Australia is growing, deepening, says Jaishankar Perth, February 10 (Australia India News Newsdesk) Addressing members of the Indian diaspora in Perth recently, India’s External Affairs Minister said that it was apt that a conference like the Indian Ocean Conference was taking place in Australia. “I think, very important that such a conference should be taking place in Australia, not to invest in Australia and not to invest. And it's important because what it has done in many ways is it has focused the attention of the entire Indian Ocean region on the partnership with Australia and in turn it has actually given a certain perspective in Australia towards the Indian Ocean,” he
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said. He underscored the point that as a foreign minister since he took over the office, it was his fifth visit to Australia in five years. “It is actually reflective of this great change that is taking place in front of your eyes in our relationship. And this change started ten years ago, a decade ago, when Narendra Modi became Prime Minister in India. And he personally initiated an outreach to Australia,” he said. “So, the first message I bring to you today is that the relationship is doing great. There's an enormous commitment from India, starting with the Prime Minister, to build on this partnership. And it is something
which we regard today. Yesterday, when I addressed the Indian Ocean Conference, I said I regard this as the most consequential relationship we have in the Indian Ocean, “ Dr Jaishankar said. ‘We provide great support to each other. So, this is today very much a relationship that is growing, that is deepening, that is getting new content, new substance, and a higher profile. I would say every passing month, every passing year” he further said. “And it isn't only in Australia, today this is a very different India that we are talking about. This India is also developing a global footprint and that footprint has actually brought us much deeper
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into this broader region itself. So if one looks at Fiji or you look at Papua New Guinea, in fact look at all the Pacific Islands which are close to Australia, there is again today an Indian presence, an Indian project, an Indian contribution, an Indian collaboration in some form. And last year when we had a meeting of Pacific Islands, Prime Minister Modi committed that in key areas like health and education and space, we will be doing very much more with the Pacific Islands. And I mention that to you because when we do more in this larger region, that also contributes, that is part of our partnership with Australia as well. So I can very confidently predict that a country
which today is such a strong partner of Australia, where other than Prime Minister, Foreign Ministers, or Defence Ministers may take it on, in pretty much every domain today that level of contact is growing. But having said that, I know to the Indian community, your minds are always focused, he further said. About the changes taking place in India since Narendra Modi took over the reins of the country, Dr Jaishankar said, “this country, India, is in a position to regularly feed a population the entire size of Europe and North America. It is able to give free healthcare to more people than those who Continued on next page...
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NEWS FROM INDIA
India’s Prime Minister inaugurates historic Hindu Temple in Abu Dhabi New Delhi, February 14 (Australia India News Newsdesk) India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi on February 14, concluding his two-day visit to the United Arab Emirates, said media reports. The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) Hindu Mandir, a grand symbol of harmony and tolerance, was officially opened by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The temple stands as a testament to the enduring values shared by India and the UAE, media reports said. Before the inauguration, Prime
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live in Europe. It is able to give houses to people larger than the population of Japan. Which is able to free women from firewood in their kitchens and give them gas cylinders which is more than the population of Germany. It gives loans to people, small people who would normally never get those loans from banks, to allow them to stand on their own feet. And this would be larger than the population of South Africa. I think you people would not have believed me. That is exactly what has happened in the last 10 years. “ In these 10 years, we have built 8 new airports every year. So, people start thinking. We have,
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Minister Modi participated in a symbolic ritual, offering water in the virtual Ganga and Yamuna rivers within the temple premises. He then proceeded to offer prayers inside the magnificent structure, said media reports.
stands as one of the largest in the Middle East. Despite Islam being the official religion of the UAE, the country is home to approximately 3.6 million Indian workers, making the inauguration of the temple a significant milestone.
"This temple will stand as an enduring tribute to the values of harmony, peace, and tolerance, which both India and the UAE cherish," Prime Minister Modi expressed in a statement prior to his visit, said media reports.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of Indian government officials, Bollywood celebrities, members of the Ambani family, and senior Abu Dhabi officials. Former Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Navdeep Suri, emphasized the symbolic significance of the day for the Indian community, underscoring the spiritual and religious importance attached to the
According to media reports from Abu Dhabi, situated on a sprawling 27-acre plot in Abu Dhabi, the pink sandstone temple
every 2 years, 3 cities that have got metros. Every day, 30 kilometers of national highways are being built, “he said. “And for the last 10 years, every day, I repeat, every day, two new colleges are being opened. So, when we first informed, and then I told them what I told you before, that a country which is today in a position to provide nutrition to two-thirds of its population, provides health care, because these are problems everybody in the world has,” he said. Talking about the new India of today, Dr Jaishankar said, And I am sure many, some of you at least at some point, would have experienced it. You will lose your passport. 10 years ago, 20 years
ago, it would have taken two weeks in a good case for you to get some kind of replacement document. Today, because we are digital, there is a database. I mean, you will probably get it the same day or the next day.” Talking about the importance of leadership and how it has helped, Dr Jaishankar said, ” But you needed a leader who said, yes, I will do it. So, it could be China, it could be 370, it could be COVID. And sometimes, you know, this is a tough world. I know, it looks sometimes like a program, but it's very complicated. And the example I will give you, because that has really kept me occupied over the last year, was how we conducted the G-30. But when we
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temple's establishment, media reports said. Renowned singer-composer Shankar Mahadevan, echoing the sentiments of many, expressed jubilation over the historic event, praising Prime Minister Modi for his vision and execution, said media reports. This milestone marks the second major religious inauguration by Prime Minister Modi in recent weeks, following the consecration ceremony of the grand Ram temple in Ayodhya last January. According to media reports, the temple, built by the BAPS society, occupies a prime spot in Abu Dhabi, showcasing a unique blend
took over the G-30, the countries of the West had problems with Russia. So we actually had to take charge of the most important grouping of the world. At a time when actually it was very divided. And frankly, very few people expected us to put everything together and find a common ground. So it is this India today, an India which can carry other countries, which in the eyes of the world, if people look at us today, they look at the achievements, the digital achievements of India, the health achievements of India, the better governance practices, the infrastructure of India. “ In his concluding remarks, Dr Jaishankar said, “But I want to say two things to conclude my
of Indian culture and the UAE's identity. Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude towards UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed for facilitating the realization of the temple, emphasizing its significance for millions of Indians. Featuring intricate marble carvings and a blend of traditional and contemporary architecture, the BAPS Mandir promises to be a spiritual haven for devotees from around the world. With its eco-friendly construction and innovative design, the temple has already earned recognition and accolades for its excellence in engineering and architecture, said media reports.
talk. One, that there's just been a fall, a foreign policy fall, done in India. And Australia ranks among the three most trusted partners in India. So, I think the Australian Indian community should appreciate it. And my last point is, I have travelled maybe to more than a hundred countries in the world. I have never seen a community center like this. So, I compliment all of you. Even as I came in, I asked the High Commissioner, I said, look, what is his thinking? How did it come about? So, I think it's a tremendous achievement for the community. I hope you serve as an example to many others, both in Australia and outside. So, once again, really, thank you. It's a pleasure to be with you.
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NEWS FROM AUSTRALIA
Indian-origin barrister Varun Ghosh In a first, Indian-origin appointed to Australian Senate Australian senator takes oath on Bhagavad Gita Senator Varun Ghosh to represent Western Australia in the Senate of the Federal Parliament," the Legislative Assembly of Western Australia announced on X.
Melbourne, Feb 3 (IANS) Indianorigin barrister Varun Ghosh will take his position in the Australian Senate next week with the Labour Party officially confirming him as their pick to represent Western Australia (WA). A joint sitting of WA Parliament on Thursday selected the 38-yearold Ghosh, a barrister at Francis Burt Chambers, to replace present senator Patrick Dodson. "The Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council have chosen
Ghosh joined the Labor party in Perth at the age of 17 after his parents moved from India in the 1980s and began working as neurologists, news website WAToday reported. He said his preselection was an honour he won’t take for granted. “I have had the privilege of a good education and believe strongly that high-quality education and training should be available to everyone,” he said in a statement. "Varun has spent the last few years working as a barrister with both WA business & on the international stage with the World Bank. I look forward to working with him as part of our
@walabor Senate team in CBR (Canberra)," Minister for Veterans' Affairs, Matt Keogh, wrote on X platform.
New Delhi, Feb 10 (IANS) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Indian community leaders as he visited Sailani Avenue, a street in Australia's Perth city named after Shimla-born soldier Nain Singh Sailani. Sailani was one of 12 known Indian Anzacs (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) who served with the Australian Imperial Army during World War I. Enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force in 1916, he was killed in Belgium while on active duty in June 1917. "Visited Sailani Avenue in Perth. Named after Nain Singh Sailani,
"Glad to meet some of our veterans and Indian community leaders there." The minister earlier joined his counterpart Penny Wong to discuss India-Australia ties, Indian Ocean architecture, and the shared interests of both countries in the Indo-Pacific. Sailani Avenue was earlier known as Nelson Avenue and was renamed in honour of the Sikh war hero in 2023, following a personal request from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Sailani Avenue will act as a tangible reminder of the role Anzacs from the Indian community played in shaping our state’s history and paving the way for future generations," Basil Zempilas, Lord Mayor of Perth,
The PM earlier wrote on X: "Welcome Varun Ghosh, our newest Senator from Western Australia. Fantastic to have you on the team".
At the 2019 federal election, Ghosh was placed in fifth position on the Australian Labour Party's Senate ticket in Western Australia but was not elected.
Ghosh is the second Indian-origin Australian in the Senate after Dave Sharma who was sworn in as a senator for New South Wales (NSW) in December.
He received degrees in Arts and Law from the University of Western Australia and was a Commonwealth Scholar in Law at the University of Cambridge. He previously worked as a finance attorney in New York and as a consultant for the World Bank in Washington, DC. Ghosh returned to Australia in 2015 as a senior associate with King & Wood Mallesons, representing banks, resource companies, and construction companies in dispute resolution.
Jaishankar visits Sailani Avenue, named after Indian-origin soldier in Australia an Indian-origin soldier honored in Australia," Jaishankar, who is on a two-day visit to Australia to attend the 7th Indian Ocean Conference, wrote on X.
The Sydney Morning Herald.
had said. Born in Shimla in 1873, Sailani migrated to Australia in 1895 as a 22-year-old and initially lived in the town of Geraldton, about 400 kilometres north of Perth, where he found work as a labourer. He was 43 when he volunteered for the Australian Imperial Force in 1916 and was allotted to the 44th Battalion as the First World War broke out. He served with his unit in France and was one of two IndianAustralian soldiers, the other being soldier Sarn Singh, killed in action on June 1, 1917. Sailani was buried at the Strand Military Cemetery in Belgium alongside other Australian soldiers, and a plaque was put in Kings Park, Perth, in 2017 to honour his sacrifice. He received the British War Medal, Victory Medal, and the 1914/15 Star in recognition of his service.
Melbourne, Feb 8 (IANS) Indianorigin barrister Varun Ghosh has become the first-ever Australian Senator to take the oath of office on the Bhagavad Gita. The 38-year-old took his position in the Australian Senate with the Labour Party officially confirming him as their pick to represent Western Australia (WA), replacing present senator Patrick Dodson. Welcoming Ghosh in his new role, Penny Wong, Minister for Foreign Affairs and South Australia senator wrote on X: "Senator Ghosh is the first ever Australian Senator sworn in on the Bhagavad Gita. I have often said, when you're the first at something, you've got to make sure you're not the last". Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Ghosh, a barrister at Francis Burt Chambers, will be a "great voice" for WA. "I was so pleased to support your candidacy and I say this as well, you've got big shoes to fill,” Albanese was quoted as saying in
Melbourne, Feb 6 (IANS) Indianorigin employment lawyer Giridharan Sivaraman has been appointed Race Discrimination Commissioner by the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC). Sivaraman is currently the Chair of Multicultural Australia, and
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"I'm honoured to be appointed Commonwealth Race Discrimination Commissioner. And excited, and slightly terrified! But there is so much work to be done and I can't wait to work with the team at the @ AusHumanRights," Sivaraman wrote in a post on X on Monday. According to the AHRC, he has run numerous state and national race discrimination cases and led the pro bono compensation scheme for underpaid 7-eleven
workers, many of whom came from migrant backgrounds. In addition, he provides advice and legal representation in all areas of employment law including workplace bullying, employment contracts, redundancy, restraint of trade, workplace discrimination, sexual harassment, adverse action, and unfair dismissal. Welcoming the appointment, AHRC President, Emeritus Professor Rosalind Croucher said that the fight for systemic equality and speaking truth to power have been at the heart of Sivaraman’s work.
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"I have had the privilege of a good education and believe strongly that high-quality education and training should be available to everyone," he said in a statement issued earlier. At the 2019 federal election, Ghosh was placed in fifth position on the Australian Labour Party's Senate ticket in Western Australia but was not elected. He received degrees in Arts and Law from the University of Western Australia and was a Commonwealth Scholar in Law at the University of Cambridge. He previously worked as a finance attorney in New York and as a consultant for the World Bank in Washington, DC. Ghosh returned to Australia in 2015 as a senior associate with King & Wood Mallesons, representing banks, resource companies, and construction companies in dispute resolution.
Relatives pay last respects to 4 Indian victims of Australia beach tragedy mourners, including family members, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.
Indian-origin lawyer appointed Australia’s Race Discrimination Commissioner a Principal Lawyer at Maurice Blackburn where he is head of the firm’s Queensland Employment Law department.
Ghosh, who joined the Labor party in Perth at the age of 17 after his parents moved from India in the 1980s, said his preselection was an honour he won’t take for granted.
Sydney, Feb 1 (IANS) Grieving relatives travelled from India on Thursday to bid final adieu to four of their family members who died last week on Phillip Island in one of the worst drowning tragedies in the Australian state of Victoria since 2005. Siblings Jagjeet Shivam Anand, 23, and Suhani Anand, 20, along with Kriti Bedi, 20, and Reema Sondhi, 43, died after the tide turned at the unpatrolled Forrest Caves beach in Newhaven. The four victims were cremated on Thursday after a service that combined Sikh and Hindu rites and was attended by about 200
Remembering his late nephew, niece, sister, and sister-in-law, Ankur Chhabra said his young relatives came to Australia for a better future, and "in a few seconds, we lost everybody”. He recalled Jagjeet as a "goldenhearted boy”, Suhani as “the most beautiful girl”, Reema as the "bravest girl” and Kirti as “an animal lover”. While Jagjeet was a dedicated aged care worker and sister Suhani was studying nursing, Kirti had arrived six months ago from Punjab to study psychology. She stayed with Jagjeet and Suhani in Clyde alongside Chhabra, the report said. Reema, a mother of two teens, was two weeks into her Australian holiday when the tragedy struck.
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WORLD NEWS
Celebrating PM Modi’s visit, Burj Marriage agencies going Khalifa lit up with Indian Tricolour bankrupt in Japan as
Dubai, Feb 14 (IANS) Sheathed in the hues of the Indian Tricolour, Dubai's iconic Burj Khalifa was lit up with the words ‘Guest of Honour – Republic of India’ ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's keynote address at the 2024 World Governments Summit scheduled to take place in the emirate on Wednesday. Modi is on a two-day visit to the
UAE, his seventh in ten years, to deepen bilateral relations and inaugurate the BAPS Mandir, the first Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi.
as a model for international cooperation and that it is a "pleasure to have India as a distinguished guest" at the event.
Taking to his X on Wednesday, the Prime Minister said that in his address he will strengthen conversations around building a better planet.
"The @WorldGovSummit has evolved into one of the world’s leading platforms for sharing governance best practices, success stories and initiatives, and envisioning the future of government," he wrote in a post on X. "It is a pleasure to have India as a distinguished guest at this international event, where it will showcase its innovations, initiatives and projects across diverse sectors that are a model for accelerating development for government service delivery," the Crown Prince said.
"It is an honour to be speaking at the @WorldGovSummit later today. I shall be elaborating on a wide range of subjects, which will strengthen the conversations around building a better planet," he said. Extending a "warm welcome" to Modi, Dubai's Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum shared on X two images of the Burj Khalifa, lit up with colours of the Indian flag and logo of the World Governments Summit. He said that the strong ties between the two nations serve
The Burj Khalifa was last lit up with the Indian Tricolour on India's 77th Independence Day on August 15, 2023 with the national anthem ‘Jana Gana Mana’ playing in the background.
dating apps use surge
Tokyo, Feb 10 (IANS) As people resort to dating apps rather than marriage consultation agencies, the number of bankruptcy filings has risen to a record level in Japan over the past year. A total of 11 marriage agencies filed for bankruptcy over the past year in the country, while another 11 closed, suspended operations or were dissolved, The Mainichi newspaper reported. According to data published by the research firm Teikoku Database, this is a record high for services that have traditionally assisted individuals in finding their mates and tie the knot. This trend has been attributed to declining birth rates in Japan and people marrying later in life, but dating apps are viewed as the decisive factor.
According to a survey conducted by Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance in November 2023, one in every four couples who married in the previous year met using matching applications. The same amount claimed to have married persons they met at work. The report said that the marriage consultation industry is trying to attract new clients by offering services like online interviews and marriage hunting parties. However, the Teikoku Databank report states that "it's difficult for them to differentiate from other companies with basic services, and it's very easy to fall into competing just on price. High advertising costs are putting pressure on the firms' businesses". Meanwhile, dating apps are looking for ways to capture even more market share, including a more focused focus on privacy, which marriage consultation services normally pay more attention to.
Stubb narrowly wins Finnish presidential election
Helsinki, Feb 12 (IANS) The presidential candidate for the National Coalition, Alexander Stubb, narrowly won the Finnish presidential election on Sunday night. With all the votes counted, Stubb got 51.6 per cent of support in the final round, while Independent Green candidate Pekka Haavisto obtained 48.4 per cent, according to figures released by the Finnish Ministry of Justice. "I can promise that I will do my best every single day for this task," Stubb said after being confirmed Finland's next President, Xinhua news agency reported. Commenting to the media, Stubb added that Finland is now entering a new era. "I would like to continue along the lines of Niinisto, but it is understandable that a new era is starting, " he said. Stubb will be sworn in as the Nordic nation's 13th President on March 1, replacing Sauli Niinisto. Sami Borg, an election analyst for national broadcaster Yle, said the
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result is the tightest in the era of a direct popular vote. During the election evening, Haavisto's share kept increasing as the count progressed, but he was not able to catch up with the difference. The voter turnout was 70.7 per cent, down from 75 per cent in the initial round. Stubb, 55, had worked as a member of the European Parliament, member of the Finnish Parliament, Finnish Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, and Deputy Director General of the European Investment Bank. He holds a Ph.D. in international politics and speaks Swedish, Finnish, English, French and German. A presidential election is held in Finland every six years. The election is conducted through a direct popular vote. Nine candidates competed in the initial round on January 28 this year, with the top two advancing to the final round.
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WORLD NEWS
Philippine landslide Qatar court releases 8 ex-Indian Navy death toll rises to 54 personnel; 7 back in India: MEA The Qatar court on Monday released all eight former Indian Navy personnel in its custody, out of which seven have returned to India, said a statement by the MEA.
The Maco town disaster prevention office said at least 32 people were injured but survived the tragedy.
Manila, Feb 12 (IANS) The death toll from a landslide in the southern Philippines has risen to 54, the government said, as rescue workers comb mud and rubble in search for 63 missing people. The landslide hit the mountain town of Maco in Davao de Oro province on the evening of February 6, burying several homes, vehicles, and dozens of people, Xinhua news agency reported.
Local authorities said that the landslide has affected 1,347 families, or 5,431 people, in four villages in the municipality of Maco.
The MEA said in a statement, "The Government of India welcomes the release of eight Indian nationals working for the Dahra Global company who were detained in Qatar. Seven out of the eight of them have returned to India. We appreciate the decision by the Amir of the State of Qatar to enable the release and homecoming of these nationals."
The World Risk Index 2022 put the Philippines at the number one spot for the most disaster-prone countries in the world. Located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, the archipelago is frequently battered by powerful typhoons, triggering flash floods and landslides, and rocked by earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
Amid political uncertainty, Pak biz tycoons shift business to Dubai
New Delhi, Feb 12 (IANS) India on Monday has welcomed the decision of the Qatar court to release the eight former Indian Army personnel, who were previously sentenced to death, said the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement.
Earlier, the capital punishment for the jailed Indian Navy veterans was commuted to an extended prison term after diplomatic talks between Qatar and India. Out of the total eight former Indian Navy officers imprisoned in Qatar, seven have returned to India, said MEA in its statement. Arrangements are being made
to bring the last released veteran home. The eight Indian nationals, formerly Indian Navy personnel, were imprisoned in Qatar in October 2022 after being accused of allegedly spying on a submarine programme. The Indian nationals were deemed guilty of espionage by the Qatari court, and were sentenced to death on charges not yet made public.
The MEA expressed that the ruling of the court was "deeply shocking", and said that they would explore all legal options to get the charges against the former Indian Navy personnel dropped. The Dahra Global case saw a major development last year when the court in Qatar commuted the death sentence of the Indian nationals after intervention by the Indian government. The sentence was reduced to jail terms.
uncertainties along with the deteriorating law and order situation frightened the business community who regularly pay ‘extortion money’ to one or another group in Karachi, Dawn reported. Karachi, Feb 11 (IANS) During the past 20 months, Pakistani businessmen and rich individuals have not only been investing heavily in Dubai’s real estate but also establishing export-import trading houses there, media reported. “This is not a surprise that the Pakistanis have been investing in the real estate of Dubai but important is the establishment of trade and business houses by Pakistanis,” said Anwar Khawaja, a Karachi-based investor having businesses in Dubai also. “Many big business tycoons in Pakistan have partially or fully shifted their business to Dubai depriving the country of income and jobs,” he said. However, he said many have justification. The political and economic
He said top business families are permanently living in Dubai, purchased houses and established trade with foreign countries. They also operate as a base for the trading of Pakistani goods; exports and imports to other countries, Dawn reported. “This is easy to do trade from Dubai since there is no problem with opening accounts for exports or imports. They earn and invest in Dubai particularly the real estate is the paradise for making money,” he said. While several analysts suggested for immediate formation of a new government in Islamabad, as the only way to get rid of uncertainties, others said the new government would have to work on war footing to improve economic indicators, Dawn reported.
Israel’s heavy strikes on Gaza’s Rafah: Death toll exceeds 100
Gaza, Feb 12 (IANS) The death toll in the Israeli army's heavy strikes on the southern city of Rafah and surrounding areas of the Gaza Strip exceeded 100 on Monday, Palestinian news agency WAFA said. About 40 airstrikes on the Rafah area in the early hours of Monday were conducted by the Israeli army, with intensive ground shelling, it said. The Israeli army said in a statement that it conducted "a series of strikes on terror targets" in southern Gaza on Monday, but
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did not provide other details. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip has risen to 28,176 since October 7, 2023, with 67,784 others being injured, the Gaza-based Health Ministry said in a statement. Since the start of the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, about half of the residents there have fled to Rafah, adjacent to Egypt, in search of safety, Xinhua news agency reported.
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From the editor’s desk Modi’s leadership shines as diplomacy wins Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Prime Minister Narendra Modi has once again showcased his dedication to the welfare of all Indians, irrespective of their circumstances or whereabouts. He stands as a leader who views every Indian as an integral part of the national fabric. A hallmark of exemplary leadership lies in the readiness to make decisions that serve the country and its people. The Indian diaspora holds a special place in Modi's heart, evident in his efforts to connect with them on various occasions. Modi's leadership shone brightly during the Covid-19 pandemic, notably with his decision to provide free vaccination to all Indians, a monumental task by any standard. This move highlighted his unwavering commitment to ensuring the health and safety of every citizen, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographic location. He did not shy away from taking tough decisions such as the abrogation of Article 370, which was the need of the hour, given the fact that terrorism was out of control and the valley was set ablaze by the acts of Pakistanbacked terrorists. There are not many leaders in the world that would embark on an arduous path to fight terrorism in the country. Of course, Modi has the cushion of a comfortable number of seats in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha to support him. Both Modi’s domestic and foreign policies are decisive. He takes on the opposition anywhere, within the country or outside it, with the confidence of a seasoned leader who knows what he is doing for the people of his country. He has shown maturity and responsibility in dealing with international issues. The recent success of the Narendra Modi government in securing the release of eight former Indian Navy personnel from the Qatar government is a testament to effective diplomacy and leadership. This diplomatic achievement, coming just before the general elections, highlights Modi's commitment to safeguarding Indian citizens abroad. The release of these veterans, whose death sentences were overturned by Qatari courts in December last year, reflects the proactive approach of the Modi government in protecting its citizens' interests globally. The timing of their release, ahead of Prime Minister Modi's visit to the UAE and Qatar, underscores the strategic importance of diplomatic engagements in achieving favorable outcomes. Modi's interactions with Qatar's
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Thani, along with the persistent efforts of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, played a crucial role in facilitating this diplomatic breakthrough. While the specifics of the negotiations remain undisclosed, it is evident that India's behind-the-scenes diplomacy and legal assistance from the Ministry of External Affairs were instrumental in persuading the Qatari government to reconsider its stance.
The change in the Qatari government's attitude may have been influenced by Modi's meeting with Al Thani during the COP28 summit in Dubai, followed by Indian Ambassador Vipul's consular access to the detained individuals. The Ministry of External Affairs' announcement of the veterans' release underscores Modi's personal involvement and the government's proactive approach. The gratitude expressed by the veterans towards Prime Minister Modi upon their return underscores his pivotal role in securing their freedom. Their ordeal, detained on charges of spying for Israel, serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by Indian nationals abroad. The relentless efforts of the Indian government, supported by Modi's personal intervention, ensured justice and protection for its citizens. As India celebrates the safe return of the naval veterans, it underscores the significance of effective leadership and persistent diplomacy in safeguarding national interests. Modi's diplomatic success not only enhances India's influence on the global stage but also reaffirms its commitment to protecting its citizens worldwide. Looking ahead, India must continue prioritizing the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad while upholding the principles of diplomacy, cooperation, and mutual respect in its international engagements. Modi's leadership in navigating complex diplomatic challenges serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the nation as it navigates the global arena. Modi ‘s recent visit to the UAE and Qatar was to emphasize the importance India gives to the Middle East. Within the country, Modi is facing many challenges, the farmers’ agitation being one of them. Since India faces general elections this year, Modi’s leadership will once again be tested as to how he and his government manage to deal with the farmers’ agitation. Going by Modi’s brand of leadership, he keeps a watch on the developments and acts decisively in everyone’s interest as and when it is needed.
EDITORIAL
India’s Interim Budget 2024-25: A path to economic resilience & inclusive growth The White Paper on Indian Economy- a reflection
By Rabindra Mukherjee India's economic journey has drawn both international attention and admiration. In light of global economic challenges and domestic imperatives, India’s Interim Union Budget for 20242025, presented by India’s Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, outlines a strategic framework aimed at fostering economic resilience, driving sustainable growth, and promoting inclusive development. Capital expenditure & economic expansion A significant feature of the budget is the substantial increase in capital expenditure, witnessing an 11.1% rise to Rs 11,11,111 crore, constituting 3.4% of the GDP. This increased allocation underscores the government's commitment to bolstering infrastructure, enhancing productivity, and stimulating employment generation across various sectors. It builds upon the substantial tripling of capital expenditure outlay observed over the past four years, stimulating economic growth and job creation. Resilient economic fundamentals & growth projections Despite facing global headwinds, India's economy has displayed remarkable resilience and maintained robust macroeconomic fundamentals. The projection of a 7.3% Real GDP growth rate for FY 202324 reflects strong economic momentum, buoyed by robust growth in key sectors. Reputable institutions such as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have revised their growth forecasts upwards, indicating growing global confidence in India's economic capabilities. Global recognition & projections India's economic progress has earned international recognition, with the IMF projecting India to become the third-largest economy by 2027. Various global agencies, including the World Bank, IMF, OECD, and ADB, have forecasted India's growth trajectory, with estimates ranging between 6.1% and 6.7% for 2024-25. This widespread acknowledgment underscores India's emergence as a significant driver of global economic growth and stability. Revenue collections & fiscal discipline The buoyancy in economic activity has resulted in robust revenue collections, with GST collection surpassing the Rs 1.6 lakh crore mark for the seventh time. The budget estimates for 2024-25 reflect a balanced approach between receipts and expenditures, focusing on fiscal consolidation. Despite the estimated fiscal deficit of 5.1% of GDP for 2024-25, the government remains committed to reducing it below 4.5% by 2025-26, aligning
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with the path of fiscal discipline. Empowering states & driving reforms A notable announcement in the budget relates to the continuation of the fifty-year interestfree loan scheme for capital expenditure to states, totalling Rs 1.3 lakh crore. This initiative underscores the government's dedication to empowering states and supporting reforms aimed at fostering inclusive growth and development. Additionally, strategic initiatives like the PM Awas Yojana and rooftop solarization aim to address housing and energy needs while spurring economic activity. Focus on inclusive development & social justice At the core of the budgetary vision lies a steadfast commitment to inclusive development and social justice. The government's focus on empowering marginalized sections of society, including the 'Garib' (poor), 'Mahilayen' (Women), 'Yuva' (youth), and 'Annadata' (farmer), reflects an inclusive approach to governance. Development programs targeting each household and individual, coupled with efforts towards 'Sabka Saath', underline the government's commitment to leaving no one behind. Stimulating innovation & infrastructure development The budget provisions earmarked for stimulating innovation and infrastructure development underscore a forward-looking approach to economic growth. Initiatives such as establishing a corpus of Rs 1 lakh crore with a fifty-year interest-free loan aim to incentivize research, innovation, and private sector participation in emerging sectors. Additionally, investments in critical sectors such as railways and aviation demonstrate a concerted effort towards building a modern, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure ecosystem. Charting a path towards Viksit Bharat India's Interim Budget 202425 reflects the government's unwavering commitment to steering the nation towards progress, prosperity, and equity. As stakeholders across sectors collaborate and innovate, India is poised to realize its aspirations of becoming a global economic powerhouse while ensuring inclusivity and sustainable growth. The Interim Budget lays down a comprehensive roadmap for India's transformation into a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047, characterized by economic vibrancy, social equity, and sustainable development. As the government continues its agenda of nation-building with renewed vigour, the budgetary proposals set the stage for a new era of growth and prosperity for all Indians.
The White Paper tabled by India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stands as a comprehensive testament to India's economic journey over the past decade. Through its candid assessment of the pre2014 era and the subsequent strides made under the Narendra Modi government, the document offers invaluable insights into the nation's economic evolution, triumphs, and tribulations. The White Paper paints a vivid picture of the economic landscape inherited by the Modi government in 2014—a landscape marred by fragility, financial indiscipline, and widespread corruption. It sheds light on the formidable challenges faced, including a mountain of bad loans, fiscal deficits, and doubledigit inflation, all of which cast a shadow on India's economic prospects. Amidst this turmoil, the imperative to restore hope, attract investments, and institute much-needed reforms loomed large—a clarion call for decisive action and unwavering commitment. The document serves as a stark reminder of the legacy of the previous regime, characterized by policy misadventures, scandals, and a systemic erosion of trust. From the banking crisis to the specter of retrospective taxation, the UPA government's tenure was fraught with challenges that undermined India's economic resilience and global standing. The White Paper's candid appraisal underscores the magnitude of the task at hand—a task compounded by a legacy of missed opportunities and flawed policies. However, amidst the gloom, the White Paper heralds a narrative of resurgence and renewal under the leadership of the Modi government. Armed with political and policy stability, the government embarked on a trajectory of bold reforms and strategic interventions aimed at nurturing sustainable economic growth. From addressing the banking crisis to recalibrating fiscal policies, the government's approach has been defined by pragmatism, foresight, and a steadfast commitment to national interests. Central to this narrative of resurgence is a paradigm shift in economic governance—one marked by a focus on long-term sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience. Unlike its predecessor, the Modi government prioritized investments in the foundations of the economy, laying the groundwork for sustained growth and prosperity. The results speak volumes—India's ascent to becoming one of the top five economies, its robust foreign exchange reserves, and the tangible reduction in inflation underscore a narrative of tangible progress and economic resilience.
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Defending India’s borders Ocean as well as our air power.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's regime is noteworthy for giving full attention to both security and economic development and in particular for building the defence capacity of India to deal with the adversary on land and sea, ensuring at the same time that the air power is blended suitably on these two fronts - apart from the independent capability that the Air Force had of delivering blows to the enemy behind the battle lines. The military build-up on the LAC is strengthened by our troops being prepared to engage the adversary also in a mountain warfare with suitable air support. On LoC, a message has already been delivered to Pakistan that India would not hesitate to inflict a 'surgical strike' deep in its hinterland to neutralise any militant bases used for crossborder terrorism against India in Kashmir or elsewhere. After the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution, the situation in Jammu & Kashmir has been effectively controlled and the process of development given an unprecedented boost. Meanwhile, in the emerging areas of missile development and space, India has registered a phenomenal advancement enhancing the status of the country as a nuclear power. The Centre has been engaged for quite some time now in upgrading at the strategic level, both our capacity for effectively handling maritime defence of the Indian
Developments in the Maldives leading to the advent of an unfriendly regime there under President Mohamed Muizzu, fall out of the Israel-Hamas military conflict producing targeted attacks of pro-Hamas militant outfits in Syria-Iraq region on the cargo ships in the Red Sea as also an acceleration of operations of sea pirates linked to drug mafia in the area and the moves of China to increase its outreach and influence in the Indian Ocean, have all lent urgency to India's marine defence plans and warranted adoption of proactive measures by this country to counter the adversarial activities of the Sino-Pak axis in the region. India has rightly stepped up its association with Quad - the multilateral forum working for rules-based order in the IndoPacific region in the backdrop of the Chinese expansionist designs there. This helps the Indian strategy of checking the Chinese ingress into the Indian Ocean as well. Security of the 11,000 km-long coasts of India and of over 13,00 off-lying Islands, called for a comprehensive marine defence strategy for the Indian Ocean and beyond and India is doing the needful in this regard. While outlining this strategy at the UN in 2021, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the peaceful resolution of maritime disputes, protection of maritime environment and trade rights and collective action against the threat of terrorism. A lot of work is being done in the Modi regime to strengthen maritime defence and create necessary infrastructure on the land to facilitate the Navy’s task of safeguarding coastal security in coordination with the security set up on the ground.
In a far-sighted policy approach, the Centre is investing in improving the lives of the families in coastal areas, particularly those of fishermen to get them to play their role in the wider coastal look-out network for the cause of security. A three-tier system of Navy, Coast Guard and Marine Police is in operation. The Union Home Minister has in May last year laid the foundation stone of the National Academy of Coastal Policing at Dwarka in Gujarat. Earlier, Prime Minister Modi spelt out the vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) to define India's leading role in the Indian Ocean. In October 2022, the National Maritime Domain Awareness project was launched and 51 Nodal points of the Navy and Coast Guard have since been established as a part of the Coastal Surveillance Network. A National Maritime Security Coordinator has been appointed under the National Security Advisor (NSA) to strengthen the coordination at the national level in the sphere of maritime defence and security. It may be mentioned that 'defence' is protection against an open attack while 'security' is meant to safeguard the country against the covert offensive of the enemy. 26/11 remains a point of reference for how to prevent surreptitious attacks planned through the sea route. What stands out in the strategy of the Modi government is that a much-needed integral approach to national defence, border management and internal security has been adopted on an understanding of the interlinks that joined them and the coordinated effort that was
needed to sustain their constant advancement. This has been in evidence in the area of maritime defence more than elsewhere, for good reasons. While the Indian Navy has been diligently safeguarding our marine borders, the Central Armed Police Forces including the Coastal Security Police Force operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs are entrusted with the task of securing the coastal areas. Coastal states have been provided with a total of 120 Coastal Police stations and six Marine Police Operation Centres. In September last, the Coast Guard conducted Operation 'Sajag' along the western coast involving 48 ships, customs, marine police, ports and the Indian Navy. It revalidated coastal security mechanisms and helped to raise the level of awareness among fishermen at sea. Incidentally, some three lakh boats have already been registered and the colour coding process of fishermen's boats has been completed as part of the plan to create an integral security system on the marine front. The defence strategy of India rests on self-dependence, bilateral or multilateral relationships based on mutual benefits relating to security and economic advancement, special attention to ASEAN and the South, measures to counter the hostile activity of the Sino-Pak axis particularly in the Indian Ocean, strategic friendship with the US in recognition of the need for the two largest democracies of the world to work together, without diluting the importance of India's bonds with Russia, and an independent stand on issues of global peace and human development. This has paid rich dividends. India has consistently denounced terrorism at all international forums and
SPECIAL FEATURES identified growing ‘radicalisation’ in the Islamic world as a global threat, especially to the democratic order. The external threats to internal security have become deeper on account of the collaboration between China and Pakistan in carrying out covert operations on Indian soil, clandestine funding of narco-terrorism and resort to narrative building and 'influence warfare' by anti-India lobbies often in concert with civil society groups hostile to the present regime. After Kashmir, the border state of Punjab now needs close attention in view of the attempts being made - mostly outside of India - to revive the separatist Khalistan movement. There is a new-found realisation that if the democratic state has to protect the nation and its people, the citizens also have to be aware of the dangers facing the country and be willing to contribute their mite to the safeguarding of national security. Acts of terrorism, drug peddling and hate crimes occur where people live and logically therefore both information seekers and action takers - Intelligence and Police - have to go closer to the ground so that the gap between 'information' and 'action' is minimised. Also, channels for the security-related information flowing from the public to the concerned authorities have to be put in place. The Homeland Security in the US is said to have provided for this. In the era of 'proxy wars' and 'covert' offensives, a developed sense of nationalism and willingness of conscientious people to act as the eyes and ears of the nation in the interest of internal security, would be of great help in keeping the nation safe. (The writer is a former Director of the Intelligence Bureau. Views are personal)
RG’s regressive caste politics won’t take off with youth
New Delhi, Feb 11 (IANS) Is Rahul Gandhi cutting himself off from the youth with his caste politics? For some time, he has been consistently talking about caste and each of his public speeches is heavily loaded with references, often in a clear provocative style. He may be believing that by talking about caste blatantly, which his party never exhibited so openly, he will jitter a sensitive nerve in the society and break the BJP’s ‘Hindu’ spell. But he seems to be overlooking the fact that this period is different. For a majority of the young population in India, the priorities are good education, a paying job,
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a sound social circle, a mobile phone, laptop and enough space to enjoy and explore. For them, the circle includes those with whom the ‘vibe’ gets matched and which often transcends caste and religion. More youths want and aspire for a cosmopolitan life and caste seems to be the least concern for many of them. The political hawks may say that the population of such youths is not that big and caste continues to remain one of the top societal concerns. It may be true in certain pockets and regions, but the recent state elections have proven that caste is no longer the basis for voting a candidate. Had it been so, the electoral results in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan would have been different. Even before these three, the electoral results would not have been so in 2014 and almost every election after that. Had elections in India only been
caste-influenced, then Mayawati’s Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) would not have been in such a bad state in Uttar Pradesh. So would not have been Akhilesh Yadav’s Samajwadi Party. The truth is that the Congress has been going down consistently and the BJP’s vote share is ever on rise. The Congress party won 52 seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, just eight seats more than its 2014 tally. Its vote share -- 19.5 per cent -- was almost the same as 2014. On the other hand, the BJP increased its seat tally and vote share in consecutive elections, since its defeat in 2009. After winning a majority with 282 seats in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP further extended its lead by 21 seats to 303 in the 2019 polls. Even in the Assembly elections, the Congress performance has been dismal. Except Telangana and Karnataka, where the victory was more because of the efforts of the local facebook.com/indianewsaustralia
leaders, the party is nowhere else to be seen. The Congress has not only lost elections, big or small, it has also lost a number of its leaders, both young and veterans, and even those whose families for generations had been with the Congress. Most were disillusioned with the top leadership, including Rahul Gandhi, and directly or indirectly blamed him for a lot of ills that have crept within the party. Rahul Gandhi’s sudden interest in caste-based politics stems from the fact that it has been losing out heavily since 2014 in wooing the OBCs since the advent of Narendra Modi, who is himself from the backward caste, on the national scene. With Modi’s kind of politics, almost all castes are voting for him. And this is proven by the increasing vote share of the BJP. The saffron party’s all-India
vote share in the 2019 Lok Sabha election -- 37.6 per cent -- was almost double that of 2009 --18.6 per cent. This was largely due to the party’s inroads in the OBCs, Adivasis and Dalits. While BJP seems to be growing beyond the caste-dynamics, Rahul Gandhi has pushed his party into regression. Whether inside Parliament or outside, he has been systematically making pinpointed references to caste equations. During discussion on the Women Reservation Bill in Lok Sabha last year, he pushed for a separate quota for OBCs in the bill and also pushed for the Caste Census data to be released. In 2023 also, he said in a conclave, "I was shocked that out of 90 people (Secretaries) who controlled the government of India, only three are from the OBC community." (Deepika Bhan can be contacted at deepika.b@ians.in)
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INDIA NEWS
Mukesh Ambani ranked No. 1 Indian & No. 2 globally in Brand Guardianship Index 2024 wider society. In the 2023 ranking as well Mukesh Ambani was placed at world’s number 2 position.
New Delhi, Feb 5 (IANS) Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries Limited, was ranked 1st among all Indians and 2nd globally in the Brand Guardianship Index 2024 compiled by Brand Finance. The Brand Guardianship Index is a global recognition of CEOs, who are building business value in a sustainable manner, by balancing the needs of all stakeholders -- employees, investors, and the
This year Ambani was ranked number 1 in Brand Guardianship Index 2024 among the ‘Diversified’ conglomerates. Ambani was ranked ahead of global majors like Satya Nadella of Microsoft, Google’s Sundar Pichai, Apple’s Tim Cook and Tesla’s Elon Musk, and fellow Indians such as N. Chandrasekaran of Tata Group, Anish Shah of the Mahindra Group among many others. Brand Finance’s survey gave Mukesh Ambani a BGI score of 80.3, just below 81.6 of Huateng Ma of China based Tencent.
Brand Finance constructs a balanced scorecard of measures designed to identify the factors that best capture the ability of CEOs to act as a steward of their company’s brand and steward long term value. This year’s analysis reveals that ESG has become the single most important driving force in determining CEO reputation. Being regarded as ‘a sustainability champion’ accounts for 14 per cent of variation in reputation scores, ahead of factors such as perceived trustworthiness (12.5 per cent), having ‘a strong strategy and vision’ and global recognition.
Indian toy makers get $10 mn worth export orders at global fair in Germany number of orders at the fair that concluded on February 3. There were more than 55 participants from India this year who showcased their products.
New Delhi, Feb 5 (IANS) Indian toy makers, who participated in the five-day international toy fair at Nuremberg in Germany, claim to have received huge orders worth more than $10 million, the Union Commerce Ministry said on Monday. According to the toy exporters, buyers from countries such as the US, the UK, South Africa and Germany showed interest in their products and placed a good
The Indian manufacturers at the Nuremberg International Toy Fair stated that there was a considerable shift in the buyers’ approach and behaviour. India is now being recognised as a lucrative alternative sourcing destination as high-quality products are being rolled out after Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Toyeconomy policy. The Indian toy industry highlighted that the government Initiatives like mandatory quality
norms, increase in Customs duty and a National Action Plan on Toys (NAPT) have helped in the manufacture of high-quality products, which have garnered appreciation at the international platform. The Indian toy sector is growing at a healthy rate and competing with global players. Among the most popular categories at the fair were those pertaining to wooden toys and educational learning toys.The Indian toy makers also said that the prestigious platform opened the doors for international joint ventures with the Indian manufacturing ecosystem gaining global acceptance.
Microsoft to skill 2 mn Indians in AI, to further invest in country: Satya Nadella
Bengaluru, Feb 7 (IANS) Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella on Wednesday announced that the company will train more than two million people in India in generative AI skills, to address talent shortage in the AI era.
Addressing an event in the country, Nadella said that making sure that youth has the necessary skills in order to be able to thrive in this new AI age is the most important thing that we should be doing. "We are happy to play our role in it. But it's not just the skills but also the jobs that will get created with AI," Nadella told the gathering. He said that India has the best
software developers and has a robust AI engineering community on Microsoft-owned developer platform Github, second only to the US. "In rural India, people are now participating in the AI economy," he added. Nadella said that it is very exciting in a country like India, where there is so much investment and so much capital going into the core basic sciencedriven industries to be able to really come to help India leapfrog even some of the scientific
BUSINESS & TRADE
Bengaluru-based EV startup River raises Rs 335 cr led by Yamaha Motor for its future lineup of electric scooters.
New Delhi, Feb 6 (IANS) Bengaluru-based EV startup River on Tuesday said it has raised $40 million (about Rs 335 crore) in a Series B round led by Yamaha Motor Co. The round also saw participation from existing investors AlFuttaim Automotive, Lowercarbon Capital, Toyota Ventures and Maniv Mobility. Existing investors Al Futtaim Group, Lowercarbon Capital, Toyota Ventures and Maniv Mobility also participated in the round, the EV startup said in a statement. The funds will help scale River’s distribution and service network across the country and it will also use those to invest further in R&D
“The investment is a significant boost for our plan to build a billion-dollar global utilitylifestyle brand by 2030. We have built a great base in R&D and manufacturing over the last two years and now, it's time to grow,” said Aravind Mani, Co-founder and CEO, River. River started selling its first product called ‘Indie’ in October 2023. Indie was fully designed and developed at its R&D facility in Bengaluru and manufactured at the outskirts of the city. “We are impressed by the progress that River has achieved in such a short span of time, especially with the strong focus on design and technology,” said Hajime “Jim” Aota, Chief General Manager of New Business Development Centre, Yamaha Motor. This round takes the cumulative fund raised by the company to $68 Million (Rs 565 crore) since its inception in March 2021.
Spain trip useful, agreements for investments worth Rs 3,440 crore signed: Stalin Chennai, Feb 7 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said on Wednesday that his eight-daylong visit to Spain was fruitful and agreements for investments to the tune of Rs 3,440 crore were signed during the trip. Stalin, who was addressing media persons at Chennai international airport, said he was expecting an inflow of more investments into the state. The Chief Minister said that the German shipping and container transportation major HapagLloyd AG had signed agreements to invest Rs 2500 crore. He added that the Spainbased Edibon that designs and manufactures technical teaching and research equipment has also inked a pact to invest Rs 540 crore. He said that Spanish sanitary major Rocato would invest Rs 400 crore in the state.
Stalin said that he held separate meetings with representatives of a number of other companies including Acciona, Abertis, Gestamp and Talgo and he also had the opportunity to meet industry leaders and officials of Spain’s Finance and Commerce Ministries. Responding to a question on the statement of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the NDA would win 400 seats in the 2024 General Elections, Stalin said that it would not be surprising if the Prime Minister claimed of an NDA victory on all the 543 seats. He also welcomed actor Vijay’s decision to float a political party and join politics and said that he feels happy whenever anyone enters politics to serve the people.
Disney to invest $1.5 bn in Epic Games to create games, entertainment universe
San Francisco, Feb 8 (IANS) Entertainment giant Disney has said that it will invest $1.5 billion to acquire an equity stake in the 'Fortnite' maker Epic Games and work with the game developer to create a "games and entertainment universe". The universe will allow
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consumers to "play, watch, shop and engage with content, characters and stories from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, Avatar and more".
"This marks Disney’s biggest entry ever into the world of games and offers significant opportunities for growth and expansion," he added.
"Our exciting new relationship with Epic Games will bring together Disney’s beloved brands and franchises with the hugely popular Fortnite in a transformational new games and entertainment universe," Robert A. Iger, CEO, The Walt Disney Company, said in a statement.
The partnership comes after Disney's successful licensing of characters such as Spider-Man for blockbuster video games. Disney also collaborated with Epic to bring characters from Marvel, Star Wars, “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “Tron,” and more to Fortnite. facebook.com/indianewsaustralia
"Disney was one of the first companies to believe in the potential of bringing their worlds together with ours in Fortnite," said Tim Sweeney, CEO and Founder, Epic Games. "Now we’re collaborating on something entirely new to build a persistent, open and interoperable ecosystem that will bring together the Disney and Fortnite communities," he added.
giant mentioned that the two companies have already engaged hundreds of millions of players through Fortnite content, including the Marvel 'Nexus War with Galactus', which drew over 15.3 million concurrent players. Apart from Fortnite, Epic Games is well-known for challenging Apple and Google in court to force them to reduce their app store fees.
Moreover, the entertainment
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Indian High Commissioner meets MPs in High Commissioner Perth, discusses boosting bilateral ties Baglay meets Governor exist for bilateral cooperation. Airport. They exchanged insights Chris Dawson to enhance on the flourishing Australia-India According to the website of the relations and the significant Ministry of External Affairs, India-WA relations contribution of the Indian Government of India, India and diaspora to these ties and the Australian society.
Perth, February 11 (Australia India News Newsdesk) India’s High Commissioner to Australia, Gopal Baglay, recently held discussions with MPs Josh Wilson and Sam Lim at Perth
Australia and India enjoy robust bilateral relations, marked by strong trade relations supported by the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement. Additionally, both nations share deep defence ties and vibrant cultural exchanges among their people. Apart from trade, defence, and culture, numerous other avenues
Australia are members of various international forums including the G-20, Commonwealth, IORARC, ASEAN Regional Forum, and Asia Pacific Partnership on Climate and Clean Development. They have actively participated in the East Asia Summits and collaborated as members of the Five Interested Parties (FIP) in the WTO context.
High Commissioners of India and Singapore hold introductory meeting in Canberra Canberra, February 1(Australia India News Newsdesk) High Commissioner of India to Australia, Gopal Baglay, recently met with the High Commissioner of Singapore to Australia, Anil Kumar Nayar, during their introductory session in Canberra. The meeting was marked by cordial discussions as both representatives acquainted themselves with their roles. Gopal Baglay assumed his responsibilities as the High Commissioner of India to Australia in January 2024, following his tenure as the High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka from May 2020 to
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December 2023.
Perth, February 8 (Australia India News Newsdesk) High Commissioner of India to
Australia Gopal Baglay recently met with Chris Dawson AC APM, the Governor of Western Australia (WA), to discuss the close cooperation and strengthening relationship between India and Western Australia. During the meeting, High Commissioner Baglay expressed gratitude to the Governor for supporting activities of the Indian diaspora, such as hosting weekly Yoga sessions organized by the Consulate General of India in the gardens of Government House Western Australia.
The close and longstanding friendship between India and Singapore is underscored by strong trade, cultural, and people-to-people connections that span centuries. According to the Indian High Commission in Singapore, Singapore stands as India's 8th largest trade partner. Bilateral trade in 2022-23 surged to USD 35.59 billion, marking an 18% growth over 2021-22, with exports to Singapore amounting to USD 12 billion and imports from Singapore totaling USD 23.59 billion.
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Indian diplomatic team visits Sikh Gurudwara, extends praise for community contributions Perth, February 11 (Australia India News Newsdesk) High Commissioner Gopal Baglay, along with Consul General of
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India in Perth Amarjeet Singh Takhi and members of the High Commission of India in Canberra, recently visited a Sikh
Gurudwara in Canning Vale to offer prayers and seek blessings. During their visit, the High Commissioner commended the
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Sikh community for its valuable contributions to both the host country and to strengthening the ties between Australia and India.
The delegation engaged with the sangat, participated in langar, and contributed to seva in the community kitchen.
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Soaring to New Heights: Greater Springfield Kite Festival 2024 at Woodcrest Oval Ground Commencing at 12 PM and continuing until 6 PM, the Woodcrest Oval Ground became a bustling center of activity. Attendees were captivated by the enchanting sight of kites in various shapes and sizes gracefully dancing in the sky, embodying themes of unity and joy.
Indian food stalls offered delectable flavors. Vibrant stalls showcasing exquisite jewelry and local spiritual stores contributed to the mystical atmosphere, providing attendees with opportunities for spiritual and recreational activities.
Diverse cultural experiences
Local businesses actively engaged in the festival, creating a vibrant marketplace within the event grounds. Representatives and businesses from Greater Springfield showcased their
The festival featured not only a mesmerising kite display but also a blend of cultural experiences. A live DJ provided a lively soundtrack while traditional
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Community unity and engagement
offerings, fostering a strong sense of community bonding and camaraderie.
support for future community events.
Commendations from esteemed guests
More than just an event, the Greater Springfield Kite Festival 2024 became an immersive experience celebrating diversity, unity, and the rich tapestry of cultures within the community. The soaring kites reflected the elevated spirits of attendees, creating enduring memories for all.
Honorable Shane Neumann, Member of Parliament, expressed appreciation for GSIA and President Mukesh Dubey's efforts in organising the event. Other distinguished guests, including Honorable Milton Dick, Honorable Charis Mullen, Mayor Theresa Harding, and Councillor Paul Tully, applauded the festival's success and pledged ongoing
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A triumph of unity and diversity
Expressions of gratitude and future plans GSIA President Mukesh Dubey
conveyed heartfelt thanks for the enthusiastic participation of the community and the unwavering support from local leaders and lots of hard work and efforts by GSIA team. With the resounding success of this festival, GSIA eagerly anticipates organising more vibrant and communitycentric gatherings in the future. The Greater Springfield Kite Festival 2024 stands as a testament to the strength of community bonding and shared celebrations, solidifying its status as a hallmark event in the Greater Springfield calendar.
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High Commissioner & Lord Mayor of Perth discuss bilateral ties Perth, February 8 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
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High Commissioner Gopal met with Lord Mayor of Perth Basil Zempilas, recently. They
discussed the growing people to people, economic and education ties. They also conversed on
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enhancing connectivity and institutional ties, including through possible sister city
agreement.
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‘Issues of peace, stability, sovereignty & territorial integrity part of China factor in Australia-India relations’, says Prof Kondapalli Australia India News Newsdesk Eminent person's oration was organized by the Institute for Australia-India Engagement in Brisbane, recently. Prof Kondapalli Kondapalli was in Australia to attend the Indian Ocean Conference at Perth. Prof Kondapalli Kondapalli from Jawaharlal University, New Delhi was invited to deliver his speech on the issue of the impact of the Chinese factor on Australia-India relations. Kondapalli Kondapalli is Professor in Chinese Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University. He wrote two books (China’s Military: The PLA in Transition in 1999 & China’s Naval Power in 2001), two monographs, co-edited five volumes (Asian Security & China in 2004; China and its neighbours in 2010; China’s Military and India in 2012, China and the BRICS: Setting up a Different Kitchen in 2016, and One Belt One Road- China’s Global Outreach in 2017) and a number of articles in journals and edited volumes – all on China. He received the K.Subramanyam Award in 2010 for Excellence in Research in Strategic and Security Studies. Calling himself a student of China, Prof Kondapalli said that his presentation would be focused on China, because the China factor figures in AustraliaIndia relations. “This has become not really central in nature for the bilateral relations between Australia and India, but it has become one of the main forces. For example, China is the largest trading partner for Australia at around $267 billion, and about $136 billion with India. So it has become the largest trading partner, which means basically China has the leverage to control various aspects of the bilateral relations. Once you become the largest trading partner, there are many ways that you can fiddle with the bilateral equations. For instance, in relation to Australia, there is the weaponization of trade, weaponization of tourism, weaponization of FDI”, Prof Kondapalli said in his speech. He went on to elaborate further on how China uses ‘weaponization’ technique in its relations with Australia. Highlighting how China ‘coerces’ nations when its policies or acts of omissions or commissions are questioned, Prof Kondapalli said, “In many areas, China started doing this. For example, Australia raised the genuine issue of the origins of the virus. We all suffered from the virus, right? Many of our dear ones have passed away or had a very tough time between 2020 and 2022. So Australian leaders asked the Chinese to investigate, which is a very genuine concern, which is expressed in the international forum. Soon after Australia raised this issue on where the virus originated, China began restricting trade. Some 73% tariff
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increases took place on various products, and this resulted in the reduction in trade between Australia and China. Even today, Australian trade has not been restored to the previous levels when China used to trade. So China weaponized trade between the two countries.” However, he said that this has not happened between China and India so far in terms of the weaponization. “That is partly because India-China trade is just about 1% for the Chinese, so it's not really much for the Chinese. Second, there is a huge trade deficit in favor of China in the India-China trade. Out of $136 billion, some $89 billion is the trade deficit that India has towards China. In the past 15 years, India has lost about $1.4 trillion in trade deficits to China. So there is no reason for China to weaponize trade because they were having surplus trade with India. India is exporting iron ore. 60% of the entire Indian exports is composed of iron ore, and the Chinese were exporting all the manufactured goods and the power equipment and various other goods and services. So they were earning a lot of money out of the India trade, and this has happened compared to what East India Company used to trade in the 19th century. East India Company used to export a lot of opium to Burma when Burma was part of the British Indian domains. And they had a surplus at the time, but now it is reversed. For the past, say, 20 years, India has run into huge trade deficits. Trade is one area where they have been able to really put pressure on various countries.” But he cautioned that China can adopt similar tactics of ‘weaponization’ with India also. “Supposing if China weaponizes trade with India, we import something like 360 items which are high-valued, and if China blockades the API (application programming interface), the pharmaceutical ingredients, essential ingredients, then most of the generic drugs that Ranbaxy or other companies are producing, we will go into huge problems because the essential ingredients are coming from China at a very cheaper rate. Because it is coming at a cheaper rate, India has shut down many of these companies and given these contracts to China. But if China does the same thing as it did to Australia, there will be a tough time for the Indian economy because during COVID, China exported a lot of these oxygen concentrators because we were running out of oxygen in many hospitals during the peak time of COVID. So we imported some $82 billion worth of oxygen concentrator machines that were imported by India at that time during the COVID pandemic. So if there is a weaponization
that China does, which is quite possible because the Chinese Communist Party decides when to switch off the tap and when to switch on the tap. And so there is a concern that India had in relation to the China trade.” “As far as Australia is concerned, $120 billion worth of goods and services like wine, beef, timber, lobsters, many of these were banned by China or tariff rates have been increased substantially. Anti-dumping duties were imposed on Australian products. So Australia suffered in the immediate aftermath of the ban in April 2020. So China became a kind of central piece here. For both Australia and India, peace and stability are major areas of concern. If there is uncertainty, the stability issues are problematic because Australian and Indian economies are dependent on how much peace, how stability issues can be furthered. So that is the primary goal for both Australia and India,” Prof Kondapalli said. Referring to the pressing issues in India’s relations with China, Prof Kondapalli said, “Peace and stability are essential for maintaining the economic growth rates. Second area more concerned with India is sovereignty and territorial integrity. We have the Doklam incident in 2017, which is actually a Bhutanese land but chased by the Chinese in Chumbi Valley, which is closer to the West Bengal, Nepal, Bhutan border areas. And this has become a concern in 2017. Now in 2020 there was a clash between Indian soldiers and Chinese soldiers and 20 Indian soldiers were killed by the Chinese. The Chinese never gave accurate figures of how many of them were killed. But incidentally, the TASS news agency, which used to be the KGB, Russian KGB publication, gave a figure of 45 Chinese soldiers killed. The official figure that the Chinese gave was only four soldiers killed. So there is the obfuscation here on the figures. But most importantly, since June 2020 when the incident took place, till now we have had no bilateral relations between India and China. So this has become a very major problematic area. Sovereignty and territorial integrity issues meant there are no bilateral relations.” He highlighted the extent to which India’s relations with China have deteriorated. “We (India and China) used to have about 30 dialogue processes between India and China, including strategic dialogue between two foreign ministries, strategic and economic dialogue between NITI AAYOG and NDRC, (National Development Reform Council ) in Beijing. There is also the youth dialogue, there is the financial dialogue, there is the steel dialogue, iron and steel
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dialogue. We used to have about 30 dialogue processes. So these were all shut down and as of now, we have had a stalemate between India and China in the last three and a half years since June 2020. So sovereignty and territorial integrity issues are very important.” Talking about an aspect of Australia-China relations, Prof Kondapalli said, “But I also wanted to connect here with Australia. Some of you may have gone to the Australian War Memorial. You may have come across a Chinese publication there, which says that Chinese started coming to Australia in 1788. There is no evidence to show that. Yet the book which is placed in the Australian War Memorial mentions this. But most importantly, Hu Jintao, the former president of China, addressed the Australian Parliament in Canberra, where he said that the Ming dynasty expeditions have come to Australia. This is 1327-28-29 during that time. So what the Chinese were driving
at and what President Hu Jintao, although he did not use the word that the Chinese have discovered Australia, like Vasco da Gama did of India or Columbus did to South America or other islands, other areas, the tone that Hu Jintao had was, we were the ones who first discovered Australia. And this has become a discourse within the Chinese-Australian community in Australia.” Talking about the basic contours of China’s foreign policy, Prof Kondapalli said, “ So what it basically means is that the Chinese have a five-pillar foreign policy strategy. First is relations with major powers, with neighbouring countries, developing countries, multilateral forums, and soft power. So the second one, relations with the neighbouring countries. Australia is a neighbour for China. They have considered, they have in their classified documents, considered Australia as a neighbour. By being a neighbour, probably here maritime neighbour, by being a
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neighbour, they wanted to also control the narrative in Australia. So this is the agenda that China had, which affects the sovereignty and territorial integrity issues in relation to Australia as well. In other words, China is trying to say that we are the original, not the British, not the other settlers that came during the James Cook, or others, during several centuries ago, but we are the ones, the Chinese are the ones who discovered you. Which means that we (the Chinese) have, even compared to the Europeans, European settlers, we have more right here in controlling resources, land, and other issues. So this is the narrative that the Chinese have built up over a period of time. And this is where the major concern for Australia has been. So issues of peace and stability, issues of sovereignty and territorial integrity, are also part of the China factor in AustraliaIndia relations.” Then Prof Kondapalli talks about other issues in bilateral relations with China, which are important for both Australia and India. “There are issues of trade. There are issues of FDI, foreign direct investment. There are also issues of tourism, people-topeople contacts, which in recent times have become problematic in relation to China. Then there is also the issue of the broader developments that are coming up in recent times. For instance, there is a Taiwan invasion scenario. I do not know how many of you are aware of this. In 2027, the Chinese military will celebrate its 100th anniversary. They were established in 1927. So as a part of this, there is the reunification or unification with Taiwan. And every day, if you look at the newspapers, they are sending these balloons, which act as cyber attack devices or snooping onto the island in Taiwan. The Taiwanese president Tsai Ing-Wen was calling up her troops. She is the commanderin-chief of our troops, like in every other system, the president. So the Chinese intercepted and said, we are listening to you. That is the kind of sophistication the Chinese have now in the Taiwanese armed forces. And since Nancy Pelosi, the U.S. leader, the Senate leader, had gone to Taiwan in August 2022, there has been a major People's Liberation Army (PLA), exercises just about a few kilometers away from Taiwan, six to seven nautical miles away from Taiwan. They have been conducting these
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exercises. Very intensive, very intimidating exercises have been conducted. And hundreds of fighter aircraft, transports, electronic warfare and ships, they have two aircraft carriers now, which have surrounded the entire island of Taiwan. So there are the intimidatory tactics that the PLA has. So the speculation is that by the 100th anniversary of the PLA, they will be able to invade Taiwan.” Prof Kondapalli also talked about the economic prowess of China and its defence budget. “And as you know, China is now a $17.8 trillion GDP country. India is about $3.9 trillion. So you can imagine the economic prowess of China. China spends nearly $300 billion on its defense budget. India spends about $72 billion. And Australia, I think in just double digits, has a very low defense budget, because Australia doesn't find the kind of threats that most other countries find in terms of invasion. And Australia being an alliance partner with the United States, much of this is taken care of by the United States.” “For India, for instance, 45% of India's trade is passing through the South China Sea. So something happens in the South China Sea, it means India's rise is going to be problematic. And this is one reason why India joined the quagmire. India joined the bilateral equations with several countries, Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, and other countries. So there is the issue of sea lanes of communications, and the South China Sea broadly impacts on this. This is one of the reasons why QUAD has been formed. It is not to contain China, but it is to gather together and protect each other's rights, each other's maritime commerce. So that is the key feature of the QUAD, Quadrilateral Security Dialogue between the U.S., Japan, Australia, and India, “Prof Kondapalli said. Talking about other alliances, he said, “In between, we also have the AUKUS, Australia, U.K., U.S. security arrangement, which basically means that the Americans are going to supply Australia with about eight submarines, nuclear submarines, nuclear power submarines. These are not nuclear missile submarines. There is a difference between SSN and an SLBM. So China started criticizing this AUKUS deal, even though China has more nuclear submarines than anybody in this region. So
what the Chinese are saying is, we will have those submarines, but Australia should not have those submarines. So that is the key problem in terms of the AUKUS for the Chinese. So they have been very critical and trying to influence the narrative in terms of what is happening in the maritime zones here.” Talking about China’s Belt and Road initiative, Prof Kondapalli said, “There is also the larger issue of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Now China spent about $956 billion in terms of the road, railway, energy pipelines, fiber optics, shipyard construction, or other infrastructure projects. They have held three Belt and Road Forum meetings, and one of them is to influence the global community through these infrastructure projects. Now Victoria State has concluded an MOU. Australia as a whole did not conclude an MOU on the Belt and Road Initiative. The reason being that 93% of the projects in BRI are handled by the state-owned enterprises in China.” Explaining the Chinese economic model, Prof Kondapalli said, “These are not by the private sector. There is no private sector in China. Even under Chinese law, if there is a firm which employs more than seven people, it should have a Communist Party cell. In 1992, they passed this law. So even if you have a small restaurant which employs more than seven people, it will have a Communist Party cell. Communist Party cell provides for what is happening in the restaurant area and beyond because they can listen to a lot of conversations. So all this goes to the central committee of the Communist Party, and that is how the so-called private enterprises in China operate. It doesn't happen in Australia like this. They don't belong to the Liberal Party, and they don't belong to the Labour Party. Any one of those private enterprises that are present in Australia, it doesn't happen in India. If there is the Adani Group, Adani Group is not responsible for the BJP or the Congress or the ARC or other political parties. Under the Constitution, their rights are protected, their investments are protected. Under law, they are protected, the constitutional guarantees that are provided. In the case of China, this is problematic. You may have heard about Jack Ma, the Alibaba chief. He is now living in Japan. He ran first to Thailand. What he did
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was he said the Chinese banks are not providing enough credit to the private sector. This is what he said. And there is a lot of pressure on him, and his IPOs were cancelled. He is on the run now. So you can imagine. By the way, Jack Ma is a Communist Party member. Still, he has to run from his own country. That is what happens to those who have an independent view. But what he actually was suggesting is true, because much of the state-owned banks in China were giving credit to the state-owned enterprises, not to the private sector. And 52% of the GDP of China is run by the private sector, private entrepreneurs. Although they have party companies, etc., they are the ones who are generating so much of GDP.” “ So the Belt and Road Initiative has also come to Australia. What has happened in the aftermath of the BRI announcement is that many Chinese-Australian community leaders started giving political donations to both the Labour Party and the Liberal Party. And this has become a key issue, and you have many scandals that I will just mention in a while in this. So China has become central to the domestic politics of Australia, and this is a major issue that is of significance. India never joined the Belt and Road Initiative, because BRI is passing through the Kashmir regions, the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir regions. So as a result, the Indian government, Prime Minister Modi himself had raised this issue whenever there was a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, or any time where the Chinese leader was also present. He himself had raised this at the highest level on India's opposition to the BRI projects. So this is one issue as well,” he said. Prof Kondapalli also talks about the historical position of Australia vis-à-vis India and China conflicts. “There is also, Australia has taken a position whenever a territorial dispute has occurred between India and China. For example, in 1962, when India and China fought, Australia took the position which is pro-India. Australia criticized the Chinese government for the kind of clashes that happened in 1962. Likewise, in the Doklam incident, also Galwan incident in 2020, the Australian foreign minister made a statement which basically mentioned that there should be stability in relations, which then meant it is an indirect criticism of
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the Chinese role in this borderrelated issue, sovereignty-related issues. I wanted to focus on Australia-China relations. So, as I was mentioning, since 1788, they (the Chinese) started saying that they were present in Australia, and so they should be given a special role, like the indigenous communities, or like the settlers who came to Australia four or five centuries ago. So this is one where we find a political problem between Australia and India. Who is going to seize history? That is the key factor here. It is sometimes like the Pakistanis claiming the Mughal dynasty as theirs, although Pakistan did not exist before 1947. So it is something of that sort that we hear in this. So we have Australia having diplomatic relations with Taiwan before, and subsequently a normalization after Henry Kissinger's visit to China in 72, 71, and then the Australians agree that Taiwan is part of China, but they have non-diplomatic relations such as commerce, investments, and various other areas. Australia and China were in different camps. There was a Korean War between 1951 to 1953, and Australia joined the United Nations forces led by the U.S. during the Korean War. During the Vietnam War as well, there was the, and recently the Australian army was present in the ISAF in Afghanistan. The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Zhao Lijian, put up on Twitter saying that the Australian soldiers were maltreating the Afghans.” Prof Kondapalli also talked about China’s ambition to become a hegemon replacing the US, though China’s President Xi Jinping had denied any such intention of the Chinese, in his talks with American President Biden. Prof Kondapalli also said that Australia and India relations are improving and strong. This is owing to the fact that both Australia and India are democracies, so they understand how the systems work in their respective countries. In reply to a question asked during the question and answer session, whether there is truth in the news making rounds on social media that China is getting weaker in terms of its trade, investment, etc, Prof Kondapalli said that though there is an economic slowdown in China, they are still strong in terms of trade, investment, and other areas.
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Football roundtable explores Australia & India collaboration Melbourne, February 7 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The Sports Industry Chapter of AIBC kicked off the month with a high level football roundtable in Melbourne on potential collaboration opportunities for Australia with India. Some friendly matches, player exchanges, more diaspora
participation and increasing support from businesses to football are expected. A roundtable was organized which was led by Molina Asthana GAICD, AIBC's National Chair for Sport, Art and Culture. It coincided with the visit of Rupak Saha, a senior official of India's famed East Bengal Club, India's
oldest football Club, which is also a part of the Indian Super League. The East Bengal Club is keen to explore collaboration opportunities with 'A' League Clubs in Australia. Key stakeholders from football and government joined the discussions, including Football Victoria, Melbourne Victory
Football Club, Western United Football Club, Bruce Media, Victorian Government, Consulate General of India in Melbourne, some key businesses and AIBC's Victoria Chapter President, Rob Thomason. Molina said, "There was great interest from all participants in this first of its kind initiative
in football between Australia and India. We are committed to establishing a working group to facilitate tangible outcomes in this direction." The law firm Moray & Agnew, Managing Partner Bill Papastergiadis OAM and partner Radhika Kanhai hosted the roundtable at their offices.
AIBC welcomes India’s news High Commissioner Perth, February 12 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) to welcomed India's new High Commissioner to Australia Gopal Baglay on his inaugural visit to Perth. On the
occasion, AIBC Western Australia Chapter organized a very engaging business roundtable, which underscored Baglay's dedication to strengthening bilateral collaboration and engagement. AIBC is looking
forward to supporting the High Commissioner's efforts and taking the Australia-India partnership to a new high. AIBC is the leading business council, dedicated to promoting the bilateral trade and investment
relationship between Australia and India. AIBC was established in 1986 by the governments of Australia and India. It now has chapters in six Australian state capitals and a presence in India. AIBC helps
shape policy and advocacy to promote the bilateral business corridor, raising awareness about Australia-India trade and investment and facilitating business to business outcomes.
Australia India Business Council hosts interactive roundtable Perth, February 8 (Australia India News Newsdesk) The Australia India Business Council - Western Australia, in collaboration with Perth-based companies, recently hosted an interactive round table discussion. High Commissioner Gopal Baglay and Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi were among the distinguished attendees. During the round table, High Commissioner Baglay emphasized the long-term implications of the growing Australia-India partnership for the people of both nations. The discussion delved into various sectors including trade, investment, technology, innovation, mining, agriculture, education, research, and tourism, exploring existing and potential avenues for cooperation..
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I am pretty certain Cummins will lead SRH in IPL 2024: Gavaskar game-changer for SRH, citing Cummins' leadership qualities and all-around skills as pivotal for the team's success. "I think Pat Cummins was a smart buy, maybe a little overexpensive. Smart buy because he will bring the leadership aspect to their team, which was lacking the last time around," said Gavaskar.
New Delhi, Feb 13 (IANS) Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar backed Pat Cummins to lead Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season 2024. SRH bought Cummins for a whopping Rs 20.50 crore at the auction last December last year. Travis Head (Rs 6.80 crore) was their other expensive buy at the auction. Gavaskar, speaking on Star Sports, hailed the move as a
"Last time around, some of the bowling changes that we saw in crucial games were just head-scratching, and that cost them matches. So now with Pat Cummins coming in, I am pretty certain that he will be the captain of the team and that will make a huge difference," the former India captain added. Cummins' ability to deliver with both bat and ball adds an extra dimension to SRH's arsenal. Gavaskar referenced Cummins' blistering 14-ball half-century for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2022 as a testament to his prowess as an all-rounder. SRH's overhaul didn't stop with Cummins. They also splashed Rs
6.80 crore on Travis Head, the explosive Australian batsman known for his ability to singlehandedly change the course of a game.
readiness to lead in the upcoming edition of the tournament. The announcement of Yuvraj's leadership role has elevated the excitement surrounding New York Superstar Strikers' participation in the Legends Cricket Trophy Season 2, igniting enthusiasm among fans and cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
February 14 (IANS) Former India star all-rounder Yuvraj Singh joined New York as the captain and icon player for the upcoming Legends Cricket Trophy Season 2. Yuvraj's addition enriches the squad with a depth of expertise, skill, and leadership, fortifying New York Superstar Strikers'
With a skilled roster comprising Babar Azam, Rashid Khan, Keiron Pollard Imam Ul Haq, Naseem Shah, Matheesha Pathirana, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Asif Ali, and Mohammad Amir, New York Strikers not only emerge as formidable contenders but also demonstrate the team's dedication to ongoing improvement and triumph. Tam owner Sagar Khanna expressing his enthusiasm about Yuvraj joining the team, shares, "We are thrilled to have Yuvraj Singh on board as our captain and icon player. His unparalleled
New Delhi, Feb 15 (IANS) Former world no. 1 tennis star Rafael Nadal has further delayed his comeback after pulling out of the upcoming Qatar Open. The 22-time Grand Slam winner was due to compete at the event
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"I would have loved to play in Doha, where the tournament team, as well as the amazing Qatar fans have always supported me greatly. Unfortunately I am not ready to compete and I won’t
Ravindra, who is coming fresh from his successful return to the Test arena against South Africa. Selector Sam Wells said the unavailability of Williamson and Mitchell presented opportunities for others.
"Travis Head is the kind of batter who can take the game away from you. He did that in the World Cup finals. He is just the ideal No. 1 in a 20-overs game for the SunRisers Hyderabad." "So, he and whoever opens with him, whether it's Mayank Agarwal or whether it's Rahul Tripathi, who started as an opener and then went in the middle, if he comes in the opening slot again, then it will be entertaining batting for sure," Gavaskar stated.
Christchurch, Feb 14 (IANS) Experienced pacer Trent Boult has been recalled to New Zealand's T20I setup as the BlackCaps named a 14-man squad for the three-game series, starting from February 21 at Sky Stadium in Wellington.
Agarwal and Tripathi, both underwhelming in IPL 2023, will be looking for redemption, while Abhishek Sharma presents another opening option for SRH.
Josh Clarkson and Rachin Ravindra have been selected in the squad led by Mitchell Santner to face Australia next week.
talent and proven leadership will undoubtedly elevate the performance of the team." He further emphasising on the team's mission, shared: "Our mission with New York Superstar Strikers is to become the most formidable team ever, both in gameplay and skill. With Yuvraj Singh leading the charge and the talented lineup we've assembled, we are prepared to make this vision a reality"
Boult, who is set play his first T20I since November 2022, has been selected for second and Third T20I, as Test captain Tim Southee will play on the first match and then rest for the remainder of the series to manage his workload between the South Africa and Australia Test series. A foot injury to Daryl Mitchell and Kane Williamson’s paternity leave, has elevated Clarkson, who is uncapped in T20Is, and rising star
be able to come to Doha where I really wanted to be and play again after that unforgettable win in 2014. "I will focus on keep working to be ready for the exhibition in Las Vegas and the amazing Indian Wells tournament," the Spaniard wrote on X. Nadal made his long-awaited return after almost a year out with injury at January's Brisbane International. He reached the quarterfinal but sustained a muscle tear near his hip during his encounter against Jordan Thompson.
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“It’s never ideal missing two of your best players for such a big series, but in saying that, we do have a lot of faith in the guys coming in. Both Josh and Rachin have been in our white-ball squads this summer and it’s really exciting for them to now get this opportunity," said Wells. The remainder of the T20 squad is the same as defeated Pakistan 4-1 in January, with just Ben Sears making way for Lockie Ferguson, with the latter returning for the Auckland Aces in the Ford Trophy this Sunday, before joining up with the squad on Monday in Wellington, Newzeland Cricket said in a release. Jimmy Neesham was unavailable for selection while Michael Bracewell is still out with a finger injury. New Zealand T20I squad: Mitchell Santner (c), Finn Allen, Trent Boult (games 2 & 3), Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway (wk), Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Adam Milne, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Seifert (wk), Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee (game 1)
India women upset China 3-2 to enter Badminton Asia Team Championships quarterfinals Open last October.
In adherence to the innovative rules of the Legends Cricket Trophy Season 2, New York Superstar Strikers are gearing up to adapt their strategies to the unique LCT90BALLS format. With guidelines mandating 5 bowlers, each permitted to bowl 3 overs, and a strategic twist allowing the bowling captain to select one bowler for 4 overs by the 60th ball, New York Strikers are prepared to showcase their tactical prowess on the field.
Nadal withdraws from Qatar Open, says ‘not ready to compete’ in Doha which begins on February 19. But, the 37-year-old said he is won't be able compete in Doha and targeting in an exhibition match against Carlos Alcaraz in Las Vegas in March, and Indian Wells later in the month.
Boult returns as NZ name squad for Australia T20Is; Williamson on paternity leave
Gavaskar identified Head as the perfect fit for the opening slot, envisioning an electrifying partnership with either Mayank Agarwal or Rahul Tripathi.
Yuvraj Singh joins New York Strikers as captain for Legends Cricket Trophy season 2
SPORTS
Sindhu secured victory in the first match of the tie, defeating Yue Han 21-17, 21-15 in straight games within 40 minutes. However, the Chinese team swiftly equalized the score to 1-1 as Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto, the doubles pair, lost in straight games with scores of 19-21, 16-21.
Shah Alam, Feb 14 (IANS) Indian women's team upset pre-tournament favourites China 3-2 in the group stage tie on Wednesday to enter the quarterfinals of the Badminton Asia Team Championships (BATC) after six years. Two Olympic medallist PV Sindhu, reigning national champion Anmol Kharb and women’s doubles duo TreesaGayatri helped Team India register this remarkable win. The BATC saw Sindhu making comeback to competitive badminton for the first time since she was sidelined due to a knee injury she suffered at the French
In the third rubber, Ashmita Chaliha suffered a straight games defeat to Zhi Yi Wang with scores of 13-21, 15-21. This put China in a favourable position to secure the win in the tie. However, the dynamic pair of Gayatri Gopichand and Jolly Treesa turned the tables with an impressive performance as they triumphed 10-21, 21-18, 21-17 in three games against Yi Jing Li and Xu Min Luo, levelling the tie at 2-all. Then, the onus was on 16-yearold Anmol Kharb, who emerged victorious in a thrilling threegame contest against Wu Luo Yu, with scores of 22-20, 14-21, 21-18. The intense battle lasted for an hour and 18 minutes, ultimately securing a sensational win for India.
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INDIA NEWS
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Microsoft to help India become Deepfakes, GenAI amplifying romance scams in India, an AI world leader: Satya Nadella warn researchers in the AI era.
Mumbai, Feb 7 (IANS) As India embarks on its Artificial Intelligence (AI) journey, Microsoft will help the country become self-reliant by fostering a skilled AI workforce and empowering every sector and industry to transform with AI, the company’s Chairman and CEO, Satya Nadella, said on Wednesday. During his address, Nadella announced that Microsoft will provide 2 million people in India with AI skilling opportunities by 2025, to help close skills gaps and strengthen India’s ability to thrive
"India is uniquely positioned to make the promise of AI a reality. We are committed to partnering broadly across the public and private sector to help close the nation's AI skills gap and create new opportunities throughout the country,” Nadella told the gathering. Nadella highlighted how Microsoft Copilot, along with the company’s other AI solutions, is driving measurable productivity gains for people and organisations by helping them complete work faster and with superior quality. Many organisations in India are already accelerating innovation using Copilot for Microsoft 365 and GitHub Copilot, like Axis Bank, Infosys, HCL Tech, LTIMindtree and others.
Microsoft said that organisations in India are seeing an average $3.86 return for every US dollar spent on AI projects, and more than 150 organisations are already innovating with Azure OpenAI Service across industries such as agriculture, aviation, ecommerce, and fast-moving consumer goods. Air India, the flag carrier airline, deployed a generative AI virtual agent called AI.g. It has successfully answered over half a million customer queries since its launch in March 2023, and manages over 6,000 queries a day in four languages. With its fourth data centre region set to go live soon, and data centres in collaboration with Jio, Microsoft boasts more datacenter regions than any other cloud provider in the country.
India well positioned to use AI to make software development more productive: Google computer science. He emphasised the importance of education and skill development in AI for students and software developers. New Delhi, Feb 5 (IANS) India is well positioned to use artificial intelligence (AI) to make software development more productive in the country, Google said in a blogpost on Monday. The post detailed the recent between fireside chat, Dr. Jeff Dean, Chief Scientist, Google DeepMind and Google Research, and Dr. Pramod Varma, CTO of EkStep Foundation and former Chief Architect Aadhaar & India Stack. The experts delved into unique opportunities and ethical considerations for AI in India, and the country's position as a leader in responsible AI innovation. According to Dean, India can capitalise on AI due to its strong foundation in engineering and
"Young students in India are eager to understand the shift from more traditional computer science to learned based approaches for solving all kinds of problems. You're going to see more students wanting to enter this kind of study and field of endeavor," Dean said. "AI is going to make software development much more productive, and India is especially well positioned in this space," he added. Dean noted that AI also has the potential to bridge gaps in underserved communities. AI also has a big role in healthcare and education -- from its ability to personalise education and provide greater access, to enabling doctors to make more informed medical decisions, Dean said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Varma emphasised the importance of leveraging AI to address the diverse linguistic and cultural landscape of India, aiming to increase productivity, efficiency, and address literacy gaps, while lowering costs. He also called the need to democratise AI tools and bridge gap between people and the technology with more availablity and accessibility. "You have to bring people and AI together to drive their productivity and ability to access information and knowledge which they don't have. There’s a huge divide even today. AI tools, compute, and expertise all need to be democratised," Dr. Varma said. He also stressed on the need for checks and balances as AI becomes increasingly widespread. Dr. Varma advocated for a focus on regulating the quality of services powered by AI, rather than attempting to regulate the technology itself.
X to let advertisers run ads next to ‘curated list’ of creators San Francisco, Feb 13 (IANS) Elon Musk-run X has announced that advertisers will soon be able to run ads next to certain content creators on the platform via the Creator Targeting programme.
"This means giving advertisers more control to be able to use the self-serve X Ads Manager to run ads against the content of their chosen creator(s)," it added.
This move will allow advertisers to prevent their ads from appearing next to controversial or offensive content.
The new development comes after numerous brands pulled their ads from X last year after their ads appeared next to proNazi content.
"Soon, advertisers on X can run ads against a curated list of premium content creators via Creator Targeting," the company said in a blogpost.
The microblogging platform also plans to add the ability to serve ads only on an individual creator’s profile -- completely eliminating the unlikely event
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of unwanted adjacencies while aligning your brand to creators you love most. Creator Targeting is an extension of X's powerful and brand safe video offering, according to the company. Last year, notable companies like Apple and Disney paused their ad spending on X after Musk endorsed an antisemitic post on the platform. However, he later apologised for that.
convincing personas in romance scams. “I strongly advocate for heightened vigilance when coerced away from established platforms into private conversations, where the protective layers of the initial site are forfeited. Regardless of the involvement of generative AI or deepfakes, the watchword is caution,” said Chris Boyd, staff research engineer at Tenable. New Delhi, Feb 12 (IANS) As Valentine's Day approaches, cyber-security researchers on Monday said that romance scams are on the rise in India and 66 per cent of people in the country fell prey to an online dating scam. In 2023, 43 per cent of Indians became victims of AI voice scams and 83 per cent of those who were scammed lost money. In recent years, romance scams have undergone a chilling transformation, merging traditional tactics with advanced technologies like generative AI and deepfakes, according to a new report by Tenable, the exposure management company. “AI-generated deepfakes have become sophisticated enough that more than two-thirds (69 per cent) of Indians say they cannot differentiate between AI and a person’s real voice,” the findings showed. Scammers are now leveraging generative AI and deepfake technologies to create more
These scams often originate on platforms like Facebook, tricking victims into a false sense of security, the report mentioned. “A troubling trend emerging is one where scammers routinely target older individuals, especially those who are widowed or suffer from memory loss,” the report added. According to researchers, requests for money from newfound connections should sound immediate alarm bells. It's crucial to scrutinise photographs and videos that deliberately conceal background details, hindering online verification, they advised. “Awareness and vigilance are our best defences against these heartless manipulations, ensuring that love seekers don't fall victim to the tangled web of AI-enhanced deception,” said Boyd.
Google announces $27 mn funding to boost AI training for people in Europe London, Feb 12 (IANS) Google on Monday announced the 25 million euros ($26.98 million) funding from Google.org to support artificial intelligence (AI) training and skills for people across Europe, with a particular focus on vulnerable and underserved communities.
people across Europe develop their knowledge, skills and confidence around AI, ensuring that no one is left behind," he added.
The company announced the funding as part of its AI Opportunity Initiative for Europe. Google will start by dedicating 10 million euros to equipping workers with the skills they need to avoid being left behind.
"The equity-free programme is to support startups using AI to solve society’s biggest challenges, in health, education and cybersecurity," Google said.
"AI has enormous potential to transform the world for the better. Yet research shows that the benefits of AI could exacerbate existing inequalities -- especially in terms of economic security and employment," Adrian Brown, Executive Director, Centre for Public Impact, which is running the nonprofit scheme alongside Google, said in a blogpost. "This new programme will help
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Celebrity impersonations, particularly targeting older demographics, have become widespread.
The initiative will also include a new series of Google for Startups Growth Academies across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
The company is now open for applications for the Growth Academy: AI for Health. Under the AI Opportunity Initiative, the tech giant is also expanding its AI foundational courses to 18 languages. The courses are free of charge and available to everyone, offering a series of modules on introductory AI skills to help people and businesses get practical skills and knowledge
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HEALTH
First endo-robotic surgery performed Study decodes how childhood at Kochi hospital on 75-yr-old woman trauma affects brain
Kochi, Feb 6 (IANS) Doctors at the VPS Lakeshore hospital here successfully conducted the first ever endo-robotic surgery on a 75-year-old woman. Robotic technology can play a significant role in reducing the morbidity of head and neck surgery. However, robots cannot be used for cancer below the voice box, because the robotic arms cannot reach below it. But the doctors at the hospital came up with a new surgical method to solve this problem. Endo-robotic surgery is the name
of the procedure in which the lower part of the head and neck cancer reaching the food pipe is removed using a combination of endoscopic surgery and robotic surgery.
The part of the cancer that the robot couldn't reach within the food pipe was incised using a gastro endoscope, while the upper part was approached from the oral cavity using robotic surgery.
The woman was diagnosed with cancer in the beginning of the food pipe (post-cricoid region). Initially, she took radiation treatment, but the cancer did not respond.
The whole cancer-affected area was removed en bloc and intra operative pathology reports were used to confirm the completeness of cancer removal.
Subsequently, a comprehensive examination revealed no signs of the disease elsewhere in the body. Typically, surgical removal of the voice box and food pipe is the course of action in this condition, followed by the reconstruction of the food passage using tissue from other parts of the body. This surgery is known to pose significant challenges to the patient, including loss of the natural ability to speak and eat.
Post-surgery, the defect of surgery was reconstructed using tissue from the inner part of the cheek with the help of the robot. This was also a novel approach to reconstruct such defects. The hospital informed that the patient is currently recovering, having regained the ability to talk and drink water. The doctors are optimistic that with some more days of rehabilitation, the woman will be able to eat more comfortably.
Improving fitness may lower risk of prostate cancer by 35%: Study
London, Feb 4 (IANS) Increasing annual cardiorespiratory fitness by three per cent or more might lower the risk of developing prostate cancer by 35 per cent, suggests a new study. The findings, published in the journal British Journal of Sports Medicine, prompted the researchers to conclude that men should be encouraged to improve their level of fitness to help lower their chances of getting the disease. In the study, the researchers collected data on physical activity, lifestyle, perceived health, body mass, and height measurements,
and the results of at least two cardiorespiratory fitness tests, which were measured by peddling on a stationary cycle, for 57,652 men out of a total of 181,673.
for potentially influential factors, including age, education level, year of test, weight (BMI), and smoking status," the researchers said.
The men completed at least two fitness tests to determine how much oxygen they used during vigorous exercise; more oxygen equalled better fitness.
"When participants were grouped according to whether their cardiorespiratory fitness had increased, remained stable, or had fallen, those whose fitness had improved by 3 per cent or more a year were 35 per cent less likely to develop prostate cancer than those whose fitness had declined, after accounting for potentially influential factors," they added.
The findings were compared to those of men who later developed the disease. During an average period of nearly 7 years, 592 men (1 per cent of the total sample) were diagnosed with prostate cancer, and 46 (0.08 per cent) died of their disease, the study mentioned. "An annual percentage increase in absolute cardiorespiratory fitness was associated with a two per cent lower risk of prostate cancer, but not death, after accounting
The researchers highlighted that this is an observational study, and as such, can’t establish causal factors, added to which genetic factors have a major role in both a person’s cardiorespiratory fitness and cancer risk.
Everyday household items behind rising cancer cases, say experts
New Delhi, Feb 4 (IANS) Everyday items used in households such as plastic bottles, tea bags; beauty products, and e-cigarettes and hookahs are contributing to the escalating danger of cancer, warned health experts on World Cancer Day on Sunday.
reaching over 35 million cases annually.
World Cancer Day is observed on February 4 each year. The theme this year is ‘Close the Care Gap'.
According to Dr J.B. Sharma, Senior Consultant in Medical Oncology at Action Cancer Hospital, several commonly used items at home are potentially increasing the risk of cancer.
Earlier this week, the World Health Organization's cancer agency, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), in a stark warning said that new cancer diagnosis is projected to skyrocket by 77 per cent by 2050,
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The agency attributed the alarming to a combination of lifestyle and environmental factors, with tobacco, alcohol, obesity, and air pollution identified as the key culprits.
"Plastic bottles used for drinking water may contain microplastics, and the habit of drinking hot tea from plastic bags or using
white-coloured mayonnaise in food items can introduce harmful chemicals, such as epichlorohydrin, into the body, raising the likelihood of cancer," he told IANS. Moreover, modern technologies, while making life easier, pose risks. Using plastic utensils in ovens or consuming food cooked in non-stick cookware can expose individuals to harmful chemicals like endocrine-disrupting agents, potentially leading to cancer. Awareness of these factors is crucial in mitigating the risk and promoting a healthier lifestyle,
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those under age 18 who have experienced abuse will likely struggle with emotions, empathy and understanding their bodies.
London, Feb 6 (IANS) Researchers have found how childhood trauma affects brain development and rewires vital pathways, a finding that may pave the way for treatments. The team from University of Essex in the UK uncovered a disruption in neural networks involved in self-focus and problem-solving. The findings, published in the journal Biological Psychiatry: Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, suggests that
Difficulties in school caused by memory, hard mental tasks and decision making may also emerge. "Currently, science-based treatments for childhood trauma primarily focus on addressing the fearful thoughts and avoidance of trauma triggers. This is a very important part of trauma treatment. However, our study has revealed that we are only treating one part of the problem," said Dr. Megan Klabunde at the varsity-s Department of Psychology.
255 test tube babies in Lucknow come together for a meet Lucknow, Feb 5 (IANS) It was a unique get together on Sunday at a local hospital here. The "guests" were all test tube babies, born through In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) technique. The test tube baby meet was attended by 255 children born through IVF, including Lucknow's first IVF baby, Prarthna, who is now a young adult who gave birth to Pavani normally two years ago. Dr Gita Khanna, veteran IVF expert and director of Ajanta Hospital said: “With treatment becoming affordable, a large number of working women from the middle class are now
opting for freezing of their eggs for future delivery. This allows them to experience the joy of motherhood at their convenience and this is fast becoming a popular trend.” “Earlier we used to get one or two such cases but now their number is in the hundreds and rising,” said Dr Khanna, insisting that gone are the days when egg freezing for future delivery was restricted to celebrities and affluent class. Dr Khanna, who named of both Prarthana and Pavani, said that they are an inspiration for all would-be IVF parents.
Preservatives used in food have unexpected effects on gut microbiome: Study San Francisco, Feb 3 (IANS) Researchers have found that common preservatives used in food have unexpected effects on the gut microbiome, a new study has shown. An investigation into a common preservative used to kill pathogens in food revealed that it also has an impact on beneficial bacteria, threatening the healthy balance of the gut microbiome, according to the study published in the journal ACS Chemical Biology. Food manufacturers often add preservatives to food products to keep them fresh. The primary purpose of these preservatives is to kill microbes that could break down and otherwise spoil the food. Bacteria create chemicals called bacteriocins to kill microbial competitors. These chemicals can serve as natural preservatives by killing potentially dangerous pathogens in food. Lanthipeptides, a class of bacteriocins with especially potent antimicrobial properties,
are widely used by the food industry and have become known as "lantibiotics", the study said. Scientists from the University of Chicago found that one of the most common classes of lantibiotics has potent effects both against pathogens and against the commensal gut bacteria that keep us healthy. Nisin is a popular lantibiotic that is found in a variety of foods from beer to sausage to cheese and dipping sauces. It is produced by bacteria that live in the mammary glands of cows, but microbes in the human gut produce similar lantibiotics too, the researchers explained. "Nisin is, in essence, an antibiotic that has been added to our food for a long time, but how it might impact our gut microbes is not well studied," said Zhenrun 'Jerry' Zhang, PhD, a postdoctoral scholar. "Even though it might be very effective in preventing food contamination, it might also have a greater impact on our human gut microbes," he added.
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ARTS & CULTURE
4th India Fashion Awards to be From concepts held in Mumbai on March 7-8 to creations This edition features over 30 award categories, such as Designer of the Year, Fashion Stylist of the Year, Model of the Year, Makeup Artist of the Year, Fashion Influencer of the Year, and Fashion Photographer of the Year
India Design ID brings the best of design with its 12th Edition in Delhi!
Awards, said: “India Fashion Awards is a movement that aims to change the dynamics of the fashion industry. We plan to bring together every individual from the fashion fraternity transcending their distinct roles in the entire ecosystem, along with the ‘farm to fashion’ approach which talks about adding value in each step of the process– reflecting the true essence of sustainability.”
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he fourth edition of India Fashion Awards (IFA), will be held on March 7th and 8th at St. Regis Hotel, Mumbai. IFA is the only fashion award in the country that recognizes and celebrates the creativity and innovation of the fashion industry players. Embracing the theme "Fashion for Good" in partnership with WION, IFA will explore the different facets of sustainability that resonate with the forwardthinking ethos of the fashion realm. The upcoming fourth edition of IFA promises an engaging two-day conclave, accompanied by an array of other exciting additions. IFA acknowledges the unsung
heroes behind the scenes as well as the artisans who play a vital role in sustaining the fashion ecosystem. Beyond the spotlight of designers and models, the awards recognize the invaluable contributions of show directors, stylists, makeup artists, backstage managers, and all the other stakeholders who collectively shape the vibrant tapestry of the fashion industry. The spirit of IFA imbues excellence and champions the ongoing evolution of Indian fashion, propelling the nation's style quotient to unparalleled heights. Expressing his excitement about the upcoming edition, Sanjay Nigam, Founder, India Fashion
The fourth season of IFA will hold conclave sessions, panel discussions, and gala award ceremonies, all designed to foster growth and innovation within the fashion ecosystem and make a positive impact. This edition features over 30 award categories, such as Designer of the Year, Fashion Stylist of the Year, Model of the Year, Makeup Artist of the Year, Fashion Influencer of the Year, and Fashion Photographer of the Year. The distinguished jury includes Lubna Adam, Candice Pinto, Leena Singh, Rochelle Pinto, Anaita Shroff Adajania, Raghavendra Rathore, Tarun Khiwal, and Aditi Srivastava. In addition to the jury, Daman Chaudhary will serve on the advisory panel.
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ndia Design ID is set to unveil its grand spectacle of creativity from February 15th to 18th, 2024, at the NSIC Grounds in New Delhi. This four-day celebration promises to be a melting pot of design, ideas, and trends, spotlighting the brightest minds in architecture and interior design on a global scale.
are merely keeping up with the huge strides that the India design industry is making. An exciting part of the show is the ideas exchange forum which is going to see some brilliant and talented design voices from around the world.”
This year's edition is poised to captivate enthusiasts with an exceptional lineup of homegrown and international design experts, providing an exclusive platform for participating brands to explore emerging trends, share innovative ideas, and engage in conversations that pave the way for the design community.
adds “The 12th edition of India Design ID is curated to spotlight the best in design, craft and techniques from India and across the globe. Every segment of the show highlights a different aspect of design and innovation, it’s all about discovery this year.”
Aashti Bhartia Vice-chairperson, Ogaan Media says, “We are very excited about the showcases and the speakers at ID 2024. There is so much that’s new this year — Ankon Mitra’s curation of paper artists from across the country in ‘On Paper Of Paper’ is a first of its kind paper art and decor exhibit. This is our second time presenting the Collectibles pavilion with great additions — Rooshad Shroff’s design studio, Samuel Barclay’s Case Goods will be in the show for the first time, and Ashiesh Shah, DeMuro Das and others return with exciting new pieces. Pritzker prize winning Peter Zumthor’s conversation with Bijoy Jain at ID Symposium is something any architecture and design enthusiast wouldn’t want to miss.”
ID Exhibit: Showcasing renowned Indian and international brands
Misha Bains, Head of Strategy and Curator, India Design ID,
The K-Art exhibition booth at India Art Fair
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ndia Art Fair, the Indian subsidiary of Angus Montgomery Arts, an art exhibition consulting firm based in London, is one of the largest fairs hosted by the company around the world. Artists, galleries, and institutions from major developed nations like the United States, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Australia, Singapore, and Indonesia, among others, will be present at the 2024 Expo,
The work ‘Chochungdo’ is based on the two works of ‘Chochungdo’ by Shin Saimdang, a female artist who excelled in poetry and calligraphy during the mid-Joseon Dynasty. The author tried to show
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which opened on February 1. Participated in the institutions' section on behalf of Korea, the K-Art exhibition booth featured three representative works by media artists such as Lee Lee Nam, Chochungdo, and Kim Hong Do. Lee Lee-nam is a worldrenowned media artist who presents works combining digital technology with famous paintings from the East and the West. The work, Cartoon-Folding Screen 1
a new painting method by adding modern digital techniques while preserving the painting quality of the original as much as possible. To fully express the existence of still grass and insects, the artist
is a digital folding screen work created in collaboration with the works of Korea's leading cartoonists, Lee Doo Ho's Mudori, Shin Mun Su's Robot Jiibba, Park Soo Dong's DolmenGobau, and Yoon Seung Woon's Stubborn Frog School were held at an exhibition hosted by the Korea Cartoon Museum and other Asian classical paintings. The artwork digitally transcends the boundaries of monitor frames, eras, and countries, satirizing the power dynamics in contemporary art through the metaphor of cannonballs flying through art history and modern issues. It aims to critique the cartoon-like nature of the real world by encapsulating stories from ancient times to the present within the beauty of the four seasons.
tried to express Shin Saimdang's delicate expressiveness with a modern sensibility by adding vitality to the paper.
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Preeti Singh, Brand Director of India Design ID says, “This year ID is even bigger and better. We
The event comprises several key elements:
ID Symposium: Featuring talks, discussions, and presentations by industry luminaries, including Pritzker prize-winning architect Peter Zumthor, Odile Decq, Joe Doucet, Sumayya Vally, Ambrish Arora, Raghu Rai, Sunil Munjal, and Kate Malone, among other creative icons. ID Honours: Recognizing and awarding 50 of India's top architecture and design projects. ID Collectibles: A segment showcasing contemporary design with traditional craftsmanship, offering a glimpse into the everevolving design scene of India. Excitingly, the ID Collectibles pavilion introduces new additions, promising to elevate the visitor experience.
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 16-29, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 14
Romantic getaway resorts for Valentine’s Day FROM KERALA TO GOA
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mbark on a journey to passion-filled escapes with these five resorts that redefine romance. Nestled in picturesque settings, each destination offers a
perfect blend of luxury, intimacy, and breathtaking landscapes, promising an unforgettable romantic getaway. From secluded beachfront paradises to lush
The rich tradition of hospitality in Jaisalmer Interview with Vinay Khosla, MD Fort Rajwada
mountain retreats, these resorts set the stage for love to blossom amid unparalleled beauty and tranquility.
VYTHIRI RESORT, WAYANAD, KERALA
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or centuries, Rajasthan tourism has been synonymous with imperial luxury, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, making it a jewel in India's tourism landscape. In this vibrant tapestry, Jaisalmer has beckoned travelers for centuries, its windswept sand dunes and majestic forts weaving tales that endure through time. Vinay Khosla, MD, Fort Rajwada speaks with IANSlife about rich tradition of hospitality in Jaisalmer. In what ways has Fort Rajwada honored and sustained the rich tradition of hospitality in Jaisalmer?
Nestled amidst the rich landscapes of Wayanad, Vythiri Resort offers unique treehouse accommodations, creating a romantic escape for couples in the tranquil Western Ghats. This exquisite jungle retreat is located
in Wayanad, a predominantly mountainous district in northern Kerala, South India. Set beneath a vast canopy of lush tropical rainforest, immerse yourself in nature's beauty alongside amphibians, birds, fish,
mammals, reptiles, flowering plants, and butterflies that inhabit the dense Vythiri rainforest. The allure of exploration, joy, and elevation awaits, promising a captivating experience for your body, mind, and soul.
EVOLVE BACK’S CHIKKANA HALLI ESTATE, COORG
Evolve Back’s Chikkana Halli Estate in Coorg offers a luxurious romantic retreat amidst 300 acres of lush coffee and spice farms. The Kodava-inspired villas with private pools provide an intimate escape, complemented by activities like guided nature
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walks, spa treatments, and outdoor adventures. The restaurant goes beyond typical accommodations, offering a range of activities and dining experiences that cater to diverse preferences. For an added touch of romance, special dining
TRAVEL
experiences under the stars or by the lake are available, making Evolve Back Coorg the perfect destination for a blissful Valentine’s Day getaway for couples seeking luxury, nature, and culture in one idyllic location.
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Vinay: The renowned slogans 'Padharo Mhare Desh' and 'Atithi Devo Bhava' have originated from the vibrant state of Rajasthan, and are reflective of the ingrained hospitality that still permeates the region. Even today, the people of Rajasthan uphold the tradition of considering guests as equivalent to God, providing them with exceptional service. Amidst this historical backdrop, Fort Rajwada proudly stands as a torchbearer of Jaisalmer's hospitality legacy. With roots in Rajputana royalty, the fort seamlessly intertwines the essence of Jaisalmer's hospitality into its narrative. Nestled within the Mahal, the luxurious premises of the property boast a range of accommodations, comprising 4 suites, 4 junior suites, and 90 rooms, including 6 with exclusive weather-controlled plunge pools. This luxury resort and spa provide an unparalleled opportunity to personally experience the Golden City and savor the unique charm of Jaisalmer and the Thar Desert. Located just five minutes away from the iconic Jaisalmer fort, Fort Rajwada invites guests to partake in the regal lifestyle that has endured for centuries. Nestled in the tranquility of the Thar Desert, Fort Rajwada is surrounded by wind-sculpted dunes resonating with the melodies of desert tribes, creating an exclusive oasis. Through its commitment to preserving Jaisalmer's heritage, Fort Rajwada
encapsulates the genuine spirit of Rajasthan's hospitality. What attributes contribute to Fort Rajwada's popularity among young travelers, making it a desired destination in Rajasthan? Vinay: Established in 1998, Fort Rajwada stands as a luxurious haven in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, known for its personalized experiences catering to international celebrities and dignitaries. The resort caters to the preferences of young travelers and families, offering activities ranging from croquet, badminton, cricket, weathercontrolled plunge pools, a courtyard featuring a musical fountain, private lounges, a fully equipped gym, and a spa offering yoga, steam, sauna, a spacious swimming pool with a toddlers’ pool and jacuzzi, along with various other indoor and outdoor options. Evenings at Fort Rajwada undergo a magical transformation with the presence of skilled folk musicians and dancers, puppeteers, magicians, pottery artisans, bangle makers, and various other local craftspeople. Fort Rajwada, adorned with handcrafted paintings and murals by local artisans, serves as a vibrant living canvas, turning the property into an immersive art gallery, inviting guests to appreciate the desert's texture, gaze at the expansive horizon, and indulge in a sensory experience under the starlit sky. The property seamlessly integrates tranquility, opulence, and adventure, offering camel safaris, explorations of Jaisalmer Fort, royal cuisine, and diverse indoor and outdoor pursuits. Beyond its walls, guests can explore historical landmarks like the Longewala War Memorial, the Pokhran fort, and the haunted village of Kuldhara. In essence, the property emerges as the quintessential destination for young travelers, inviting them to immerse themselves in the spirit of Jaisalmer amidst unparalleled style, extravagance, and comfort.
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 16-29, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 14
Tips to avoid dry skin during the winter
The combination of cold wind, low humidity, and indoor heating can strip our skin of its natural moisture, leaving it dry, tight, and flaky
By Dr Jyoti Aneja
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uring the winter months, many individuals experience the discomfort of dry skin. The combination of cold wind, low humidity, and indoor heating can strip our skin of its natural moisture, leaving it dry, tight, and flaky. However, there are often overlooked factors that may exacerbate this issue, as well as simple steps that can be taken to alleviate it. Avoid hot showers and baths While hot showers might feel heavenly during the chilly winter days, they contribute to dry skin. Hot water strips away the natural oils from the skin, leading to moisture loss and increased dryness. Switch to lukewarm water and limit your shower or bath time to retain the skin's natural moisture. Moisturization is key A good moisturizer is essential in combating dry skin. Choose a hydrating product that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramide, and glycerin, which help attract and retain moisture in the skin. Apply your moisturizer immediately after showering or washing your face to lock in hydration. Additionally, take advantage of the overnight hours. Before going to bed, apply a thick layer of moisturizing lotion or body butter to your skin. This will allow the product's hydrating ingredients to penetrate deeply into your skin while you sleep, resulting in soft, moisturized skin in the morning. Exfoliation to remove dead skin cells Exfoliating regularly is essential for removing dead skin cells that can accumulate on the surface, leading to a dull and flaky complexion. However, it's crucial to choose a gentle exfoliator, especially during winter when your skin is more sensitive. A physical exfoliant with fine particles or a chemical exfoliant like salicylic acid can effectively
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Vitamin C, known for its antioxidant properties, serves as a potent defender against free radicals while promoting collagen synthesis. This dual action not only revitalizes the skin but also imparts a natural radiance. On the other hand, retinol, derived from Vitamin A, addresses dryness at its roots by promoting cellular turnover, unclogging pores, and stimulating collagen production. Adding a retinol product to your nighttime routine can help fight dryness while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Also, pampering your skin to masks weekly or bi-weekly, with ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, aloe vera, and honey, provides a potent moisture boost.
Although you might not feel as thirsty during winter as you do in the warmer months, it's crucial to stay adequately hydrated. Water helps nourish your skin from within, keeping it plump and reducing the risk of dryness and flakiness. Besides, consider enhancing your skin's moisture retention through advanced treatments like bio-remodeling and hydroboosters. Profhilo, a groundbreaking bio-remodeling treatment, employs hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and remodel the skin from within, resulting in improved elasticity and radiance. Conversely, the Viscoderm Booster, a hydrostretch procedure, blends stabilized hyaluronic acid with essential nutrients to revitalize and hydrate the skin, promoting a smoother and more youthful appearance. These treatments offer a comprehensive solution for women looking to address both hydration and fine lines.
Humidify your living space
A balanced diet
Indoor heating can contribute to dry air, which further dehydrates your skin. Invest in a humidifier to add moisture back into the air inside your home. This will help prevent excessive drying of your skin, keeping it hydrated and healthy. Place the humidifier in your bedroom or living room to provide maximum benefits while you sleep or spend time indoors.
Lastly, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables will contribute towards overall skin health. Include foods with omega-3 fatty acids, like fish, flaxseeds, and nuts, and lots of colorful fruits and veggies full of vitamins A, C, and E such as grapefruit, lime, avocado, carrot, pumpkin, red pepper, cucumber etc. Foods with protein, like chicken and beans, help your skin heal and stay healthy. Choose whole grains as they are rich in nutrients and fiber. Try not to eat too many processed foods and sugary treats. Too much smoking and consuming alcohol can change the skin’s thickness, cause dry skin, and change pigmentation.
slough away dead skin and reveal a smoother, more radiant complexion. Vitamin C and retinol for the boost
Protect your skin from harsh weather When venturing outdoors in the winter, protect your skin from harsh weather conditions. Wear a scarf, hat, and gloves to shield your face, head, and hands from the cold wind and low humidity. Also, consider using a moisturizing lip balm to prevent chapped lips, which can worsen dryness and discomfort. Hydrate from within Maintaining well-hydrated skin is a year-round essential, with water consumption playing a pivotal role in achieving this goal.
(Dr Jyoti Aneja is a Dermatologist, Founder and Medical Director of La Grace Luxury Skin Clinic in Mumbai)
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BEAUTY
5 ways to use rose water for skin Unlock the potential of rose water for healthy, glowing skin with this in-depth guide
Rose water has long been used as a beauty remedy. It is made from the aromatic petals of the rose flower. With several advantages for all skin types, its natural qualities make it a flexible component for skincare products. Unlock the potential of rose water for healthy, glowing skin with this in-depth guide, Deepali Bansal, CEO and Founder of Suroskie shares with IANSlife five ways to add it into your skincare routine. Hydrating Toner: As a hydrating toner, rose water is one of the most widely used and traditional applications. Rich in antiinflammatory and antioxidant qualities, it calms, hydrates, and refreshes the skin. Rose water toner is suitable for all skin types because it balances the pH of the skin. The delicate scent also offers a pleasant sensory experience. To use, just cleanse your face, put a small bit on a cotton pad, and gently swipe it across. DIY Face Masks: Make your own healthy face masks by combining various all-natural ingredients with rose water. Rose water helps to brighten and revitalise your skin by lowering redness and inflammation. Below we are sharing 2 DIY masks for a radiant, healthy-looking complexion. Mix aloe vera gel, honey, and rose water for a revitalising and hydrating mask. This mixture can calm sensitive skin, lessen swelling, and give your face a refreshed appearance. Let the mask sit for 15 to 20 minutes, and then rinse it off with lukewarm water. For the second face mask mix two tablespoons of rose water and one spoonful of honey. The skin is cleansed and moisturised by the natural antibacterial qualities of honey and the calming benefits of rose water. Evenly apply the mixture to your face, let it remain for ten to fifteen minutes, and then rinse with warm water.
Aromatherapy for Stress Reduction: The fragrant scent of rose water has healing properties for the mind and emotions in addition to its physical advantages. The soft scent of rose water calms the senses and encourages relaxation, which releases tension from the day. Take a moment to inhale deeply as you apply the rose water to your skin, letting the natural essence surround you. Your sense of smell is stimulated by the delicate flower scent, which promotes calmness. The Anti-Acne Remedy: To calm and cure imperfections, add rose water to your anti-acne regimen. Because of its inherent anti-inflammatory qualities, it relieves inflamed skin and lessens the redness and swelling that come with acne. Its antimicrobial qualities fight bacteria that cause acne and stop new breakouts. Rose water's moisturising qualities also aid in preserving the proper moisture balance of the skin, avoiding extreme dryness.Use a cotton pad or mist to apply rose water to clean skin in order to utilise this cure. Relief from Sunburn: Rose water is a great treatment for sunburned skin because of its soothing and anti-inflammatory qualities. Its inherent antiinflammatory qualities aid in lowering sun-induced redness and inflammation. Using a cotton pad or spray, gently apply cold rose water to the afflicted regions. Rose water is an all-natural skincare solution that works on many different skin issues. Rose water has several uses, including as a toner, moisturising mask, face spray, and focused treatment for acne and the eyes. Uncover the secrets of its timeless beauty by including this flowery elixir into your skincare routine on a regular basis.
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Feb 16-29, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 14
FASHION
Bollywood actresses who rock the pant suit Gaurav Gupta at Paris Couture Week
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he pant suit spells power dressing like no other outfit, and our Bollywood divas are as adept at slaying this style. Check out these celebrities who rock the look.
Deepika Padukone Deepika Padukone looks stunning in a sporty crimson pantsuit teamed with a pair of sneakers.
Kangana Ranaut
Katrina Kaif
Kangana Ranaut's monochromatic black pantsuit works the "I mean business" look like no other.
In this white trouser suit outfit, Katrina Kaif exudes a fierce sense of femininity.
esigner Gaurav Gupta presented his collection at ongoing Paris Couture Week. The designer has made inroads on the International red carpet with many a pop icons and Hollywood stars choosing to wear his designs for prestigious movie awards and galas.
A careful observation of the flame reveals colours that weave the collection together. Black is a metaphor for the absolute nothingness of being. Agni orange reflects the rising of a flame. Sand represents light, reflection. The ether blue is indicative of the infinity that ascension brings.
This collection, Aarohanam is ascension. A Sanskrit word that has a deep spiritual significance marking the journey of a being from the gross to the subtle, from solid to sublime, from darkness to light. This phenomenon
Silhouettes play with volume in a way that shows the flickering dance as a flame rises to dissolve into limitless space.
inspires the collection. It portrays elevation from reason to innocence, letting go of every construct to become one with the natural design of existence. Much like the movement of a snake’s journey as it sheds old skin to emerge anew, reborn. It is reflective of the concept of kundalini - the coiled snake that rests dormant at the base of our spines till it is awakened by the power of deep meditation and intent. That is when the curtain of illusion lifts, the chakras open and the flame ignites.
together to paint the surrealism which breathes in ancient Indian texts like the Vedas. Chiffon, woolen suiting’s, tailored textiles are made richer with indigenous techniques like Badla, Mukaish and Zardozi peeping through multi dimensional crystals greeting luminescence. The couturier’s signature sculpting art meanders throughout the collection.
Cropped jackets, exaggerated capes, fluid trench coats and sculpted metal structures come
Aarohanam is a trip beyond the horizon, a serpentine move from electricity to light.
Nargis Fakhri Nargis Fakhri's blue semi-formal outfit featuring golden sleeves and a plunging neckline is all glam. Nargis looked stunning that evening with her hair tied up in a neat ponytail and little makeup on.
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Vaani Kapoor Vaani Kapoor's playful take in this polk dotted pant suit is fun and flirty.
Sonam Kapoor Ahuja Sonam is a real fashionista who gives every ensemble she wears a unique touch.
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Feb 16-29, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 14
INDIA NEWS
LAAPATAA LADIES RELEASE DATE: 1 March 2024 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles) DIRECTOR: Kiran Rao
EE VE SOHNEYA JEE RELEASE DATE: 16 February 2024 LANGUAGE: Punjabi (With English Subtitles)
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CAST: Atishay Jain Akhil, Shivam Ghawariya, Nitanshi Goel SYNOPSIS: It’s a jolly mess when two young brides get lost from a train. Set in 2001, somewhere in rural India.
PRODUCER: Sunny Raj, Varun Arora, Amit Juneja, Dr. Prabhjot Singh Sidhu
TERI BAATON MEIN AISA ULJHA JIYA RELEASE DATE: 9 February 2024 LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles) PRODUCER: Dinesh Vijan, Jyoti Deshpande & Laxman Utekar
THE BUCKINGHAM MURDER RELEASE DATE: TBC
DIRECTOR: Thaparr
LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
CAST: Simi Chahal, Imran Abbas, Mintu Kapa
DIRECTOR: Hansal Mehta
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NEW RELEASES
DIRECTOR: Amit Joshi & Aradhana Sah CAST: Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, Dharmendra, Dimple Kapadia
CAST: Kareena Kapoor Khan & Others
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INDIA NEWS
New Delhi: Railway Protection Force During Opening Ceremony Of Various Activities To Honour Martyrs Who Lost Their Lives
Feb 16-29, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 14
Nagpur : Members Of Rashtra Sevika Samiti Participate In ‘Path-Sanchalan’
New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu Attends The Valedictory Function Of Commonwealth Attorneys And Solicitors General Conference 2024
Caption: Rajkot: India’s Rohit Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja on the first day of the third cricket test match between India and England, at Niranjan Shah Stadium, in Rajkot, Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024.
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New Delhi: Gathering At The Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024 At Bharat Mandapam
New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu Attends The Valedictory Function Of Commonwealth Attorneys And Solicitors General Conference 2024
Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Along With Assam Chief Minster Himanta Biswa Sarma Arrives At Venue To Dhanbad: Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi During ‘Bharat Inaugurates The Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony Of Jodo Nayay Yatra’ In Dhanbad Various Developmental Projects
Mumbai: Actors Vidyut Jammwal, Nora Fatehi And Arjun Rampal During An Promotional Event Of Their Upcoming Film ‘Crakk’
PHOTO FEATURE
New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal And Delhi Education Minister Atishi Singh During The Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony Of A Government School At Kirari
Mumbai: Singers Badshah, Armaan Malik, Neeti Mohan, Nikhita Gandhi And Ikka Singh Pose During The Announcement Of The Second Edition Of Seagram’s Royal Stag Boombox
Caption: Moradabad : Women pose for photos on the occasion of ‘Basant Panchami’ in Moradabad on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024.
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Caption: Patiala: Farmers gather at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu border during their ‘Delhi Chalo’ march, in Patiala on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024.
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Feb 16-29, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 14
INDIA NEWS
ENTERTAINMENT
Shehnaaz Gill, Kusha Kapila show ‘Fighter’ gets legal notice over Hrithik-Deepika’s kissing scene how singles spend Valentine’s week A
ctress Shehnaaz Gill and social media influencer Kusha Kapila have revealed what a Valentine’s week is like for single people, and it is hilarious. As Valentine’s week commences with Rose Day on February 7. Following it is Propose Day, Chocolate Day, Teddy Day, Promise Day, Hug Day, Kiss Day and then on February 14 is Valentine’s Day. Shehnaaz and Kusha took to their Instagram accounts and shared a reel video, where they are seen looking for their Valentine’s day partner. The clip ends with both going back to bed in an angry mood as they don’t find anyone. The clip has “Mere Khwabon Mein” sung by late legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar from the film ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jaayengay’ starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol. The video has the title: “Singles during Valentines week” written on it. For the caption, they wrote: “Sab theek ho jayega behen.” Shehnaaz and Kusha were recently seen sharing screen space in the film ‘Thank You For Coming’, which focusses on the topic self pleasure. It also stars Bhumi Pednekar, Dolly Singh and Shibani Bedi.”
Sofia Vergara keeps a nude pic of herself from when she was ‘young, fresh’
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he recently released Hrithik Roshan-starrer action film ‘Fighter’ has landed in legal trouble. The makers of the film have been served a legal notice over a kissing scene between the film’s lead pair of Hrithik and Deepika Padukone both of whom essays Indian Air Force officers in the film. As per reports, the notice against the makers of the film has been issued by an Air Force officer from Assam, Saumya Deep Das. Saumya Deep Das has claimed that the scene was an insult to the Indian Air Force as the lead characters are seen kissing while donning their IAF uniforms. In his complaint, the officer has said that the IAF uniform is a powerful symbol of commitment to duty, national security and selfless
service. He further said that the film misrepresents its inherent dignity by utilising the uniform for a scene promoting personal romantic entanglements. ‘Fighter’, which was released a day prior to the Republic Day in India, follows the dramatised events after the Pulwama attack on CRPF personnel, and how India retaliated by conducting an airstrike at a terrorist camp. The story develops through the events following a terrorist attack. As the story progresses, they fall in love. The film is written by Ramon Chibb, who was commissioned in the Indian Army in 1990 and is the son of an Air Force Officer. He served in the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army until 1995.
Shankar Mahadevan on Grammy win: ‘Dreams do come true’
“This is where I spend most of my time. This is like a girl’s girl’s dream.” Vergara shares that the objects on the room’s large marble-topped center island hold particular significance. “All this stuff on the counter is very special for me,” she says, showing off an antique find from a shop in Paris and a treasured photo of her late brother and late cousin, reports people.com. Then Vergara holds up a framed black-and-white, nude boudoirstyle photo of herself, explaining wistfully, “And this picture, it was when I was young and fresh.” The actress previously flaunted her space while spending some quality time there with her former 'Modern Family' co-stars Julie Bowen and Jesse Tyler Ferguson in October.
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ctress Sofía Vergara revealed that she keeps a nude photograph of herself from when she was ‘young and fresh’ in her closet.
in an accompanying video, the actress invites viewers into her home, which houses racks of clothing and handbags, and several walls of shoes.
While giving a tour of her luxurious walk-in closet, Vergara
“This is where I actually really live — in my closet,” she said.
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In an Instagram photograph, Vergara shared, fans got a glimpse of a framed photo showing the castmates’ re-creation of Sophia Loren's infamous side eye toward Jayne Mansfield in 1957 as Bowen stared down at Vergara’s cleavage at the 2014 Emmy Awards. Vergara purchased the home in 2020 while she was still married to Joe Manganiello. After seven years of marriage, the pair announced their split in July 2023 and Manganiello filed for divorce two days later.
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usic composer and singer Shankar Mahadevan has expressed his gratitude with a heart-felt note after his and Zakir Hussain's Shakti band Shakti won the Best Global Music Album award at the Grammys 2024. He said that this is the moment from which he can say that dreams do come true. Mahadevan took to Instagram, where he shared a string of pictures from Grammy 2024 and said that he never imagined that a band from where he learnt his music would eventually win a
Grammy. He wrote alongside a picture where he is seen posing with a golden gramophone: "WE DID IT. I never imagined that a band from where I have learnt my music and my musical aesthetics would be the band with whom I would eventually perform and win a Grammy. This is the moment from which I can easily say that dreams do come true. “Shakti was a dream which came true! Thank you Almighty for making this happen! It's truly ‘THIS MOMENT.’”
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 16-29, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 14
ENTERTAINMENT
Akshay Oberoi says his ‘bromance’ Ahaan Panday to make with Karan Singh Grover is ‘genuine’ Bollywood debut with is not limited to the screen but is a genuine connection. In ‘Fighter’, Akshay embodies Squadron Leader Basheer Khan, a character he recently unveiled on social media. Karan, on the other hand, steps into the shoes of Squadron Leader Sartaj Gill.
Mohit Suri’s love story
Both actors, sharing common interests in gadgets and automobiles, found common ground beyond the script. Commenting on their camaraderie, Akshay told IANS: "Working with Karan on Fighter has been an absolute delight. Our shared interests, both on and off the screen, translated into an organic chemistry that I believe audiences will truly appreciate.” “We connected on various levels during the making of Fighter. The bromance we've developed is not just limited to our characters; it's a genuine connection that I think will resonate with the audience."
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ctors Akshay Oberoi and Karan Singh Grover developed
their “bromance” on the sets of ‘Fighter’, which the former claims
A source from the set revealed that: "Akshay and Karan bring an incredible energy to Fighter. Their on-screen chemistry and camaraderie are integral to the storyline, adding depth and authenticity to their characters."
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haan Panday, cousin of Bollywood actress Ananya Pandey, is all set to make his Bollywood debut with filmmaker Mohit Suri’s yet-untitled young love story. The nephew of actor Chunky Panday, Ahaan was signed as a YRF Talent about five years back to go through intense training programmes devised personally by Aditya Chopra. A source said: “Ahaan has been shaped by Aditya Chopra personally for years. He has been kept under wraps by YRF so that
he can focus on bettering his craft.” “To the industry, Ahaan Panday’s launch is by far the biggest debut by a youngster in the Hindi film industry in years and YRF is showing its intent to create a star out of him. The massive project that he has been signed on for is the Mohit Suri love story!” The source added that Ahaan was introduced to Mohit Suri so that the director could assess if he was the right actor to headline his film and be the quintessential romantic hero.
Kanye West compares himself to Elvis Presley for not being allowed to perform Taylor Swift threatens legal action against student who tracks celebrity jets YEAR. FEELS LIKE THE ELVIS PRESLEY MOVIE.”
He seemingly was making a reference to Elvis being banned from gigs due to his provocative performances.
social media accounts cause “direct and irreparable harm, as well as emotional and physical distress.”
Shortly after sharing the post, West appeared to have been contacted by many to offer him some help. He released screenshots of his text exchanges with a number of people, who assured him that they could help in booking venues, via Instagram Story. Upon learning that many have ran to help, the "Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1" spitter issued a follow-up statement on the same social media platform. He penned, "Please reach out to Cara Lewis Group for all bookings -YE." Earlier that same day, Kanye let out a video to talk about his struggles to book arenas for his shows.
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apper Kanye West while opening up about his struggles he has been facing when it comes to holding concerts and compared himself to Legendary musician Elvis Presley. The rapper compared himself to
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Presley on social media for not being allowed to perform, reports aceshowbiz.com. He uploaded a black-and-white photo featuring a message that read, "I HAVE NOT BEEN ALLOWED TO PERFORM IN A
In the footage, he could be heard saying, "We just sold out the United Center in seven minutes, and I just want to express to everybody out there to see if it's anyone that can help with this. It's the only arena that I had access to in the past year." The "Flashing Lights" rapper said: "And when I call, people say there's no avails for me and you know why that is," while seemingly referring to his controversial remarks.
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Unless Sweeney stops the “stalking and harassing behaviour,” Swift would “have no choice but to pursue any and all legal remedies.” “I think it’s important to note that nowhere do I intend for harm. I actually think Swift has some good songs. I believe in transparency and public information,” Sweeney told The Verge.
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inger-songwriter Taylor Swift, who recently fought an uphill battle against her deepfake porn images, has threatened legal action against Jack Sweeney, a college student who tracks celebrity jets and faced Elon Musk’s ire in the past. Musk had banned him from Twitter (now called X) and accused the student of posting “assassination coordinates.” Now, an attorney for Swift has sent a cease-and-desist letter to Sweeney, a University of Central Florida junior, reports The Washington Post.
Sweeney's accounts share information publicly available through the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and signals that private jets broadcast. Sweeney also posts estimates of the associated fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions of the flights. In late 2022, Sweeney returned to X with an account that shares data on Musk’s private jet but with a 24-hour delay. He moved to Instagram Threads after Musk banned him. Sweeney runs multiple accounts across Threads, Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky and other social media platforms.
The letter alleged that Sweeney’s
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INDIA NEWS
Feb 16-29, 2024 - Vol 4, Issue 14
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