IN Sept 1-15, 2023

Historic moment for us, says PM Modi as Chandrayaan-3 lands on Moon

accomplishment.

No exact timeline for restoration of J&K statehood: Centre in SC

for the restoration of statehood in Jammu and Kashmir.

New Delhi, Aug 23 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and its team for the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon.

PM Modi, who watched the landing live from Johannesburg, where he is currently participating in the BRICS summit, said: "I congratulate the ISRO team and scientists from the core of my heart for this

"It's a historic moment for us as Chandrayaan-3 lands on the Moon. I am in South Africa but like all Indians, my heart has sunk in the celebrations of Chandrayaan-3," he added. The Prime Minister further said: "Usually we would say, Chanda Maama Door Ke (Moon is far) but the future generation will say Chandra Maama Tour Ke (Moon is for a tour). Our mission is based on the same human-centric approach. This success belongs to humanity. I am confident all countries in the world are capable of achieving such feats."

Moonstruck! From US to South Africa, a ‘proud day’ for Indian diaspora

New Delhi, Aug 31 (IANS) The Central government on Thursday told the Supreme Court that it cannot give any exact timeframe

“We are progressively proceeding to make J&K a complete state. But, I am unable to give the exact time period right now about the complete statehood, as per my instructions,” submitted Solicitor General Tushar Mehta before the Constitution Bench hearing pleas against abrogation of Article 370.

President, PM, Stalin greet people on Thiruvonam

New Delhi, Aug 24 (IANS) It was a 'proud and historic day' for India's 32 million-plus strong diaspora, which stood in unison

with their mother country amid chants of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' and 'Vande Mataram', as the nation conquered the moon on Wednesday with its historic Chandrayaan-3 mission. From holding special screenings of the landing event, to saying prayers and distributing sweets, loudest cheers on the mission's success could be heard from the community that is far away, yet

not away from India. Capturing the excitement of Indians in South Africa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is in the country for BRICS Summit, shared pictures of community members meeting him and celebrating.

"Feeling the fervour all the way from Johannesburg for

Chinese army constructing bunkers, tunnels at Aksai Chin: Reports

Chin, according to reports citing data from satellite imagery. As per the reports,construction activities are taking place in Aksai Chin, a territory held illegally by China, but historically claimed by India.

Thiruvananthapuram, Aug 29 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a host of other leaders greeted people on Onam, the traditional harvest festival besides the homecoming of King Mahabali in Kerala. Among others who wished Kerala include Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K.Stalin, Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan,

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and many others.

"Greetings to all fellow citizens and our brothers and sisters in Kerala on Onam! On this auspicious occasion we express our gratitude to Mother nature for the countless bounties. May this harvest festival usher in prosperity and the spirit of harmony among all," said Murmu.

New Delhi, August 30 (IANS)

Chinese forces are learnt to have ramped up construction of reinforced bunkers and underground tunnels in Aksai

The reports further said that Chinese forces have started carving tunnels and shafts alongside a narrow river valley, to construct bunkers and shelters.

The development has come on the heels of China releasing a "standard map" showing parts of Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh under its jurisdiction, on Monday.

Reacting to the map, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Tuesday that "China has put out maps with territories (that are) not theirs. (It is an) old habit. "Just by putting out maps with parts of India... this doesn't

New Delhi, Aug 24 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday hailed young Indian Grandmaster Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa for his runnerup finish at the FIDE Chess World Cup in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Praggnanandhaa’s sensational run at the prestigious tournament

came to an end after he lost to world No.1 Magnus Carlsen in the tie-break after the classical games in the final ended in a stalemate.

“We are proud of Praggnanandhaa for his remarkable performance at the FIDE World Cup! He showcased his exceptional skills and gave a tough fight to the formidable Magnus Carlsen in the finals,” PM Modi wrote on ‘X’, formerly Twitter.

“This is no small feat. Wishing him the very best for his upcoming tournaments.”

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Moonstruck! From US to South Africa, a ‘proud day’ for Indian diaspora

Continued from Page 1

Chandrayaan-3! The enthusiasm of our diaspora in South Africa for India's achievements in the space sector is truly gladdening,"

PM Modi posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Wednesday. Taking to X, member of the House of Lords of the UK Parliament, Lord Rami Ranger, said, "Indians are literally over the moon with the smooth landing of the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft!

Congratulations ISRO. India becomes the only nation to land on the South Pole of the Moon."

"Congratulations to India on the #MoonLanding -- this is a national, regional and global success story. Everyone involved has played their personal part in a national victory.Chandrayaan3 is a win for everyone," Virendra Sharma, Member of British Parliament, posted.

Indians from across the UK joined the High Commission in London where people chanted 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and 'Vande Mataram' slogans.

Calling it a "moment of immense

pride", the Friends of India Society International (FISI), a UK-based diaspora group, celebrated India's expanding prowess in the realm of technology.

"The successful soft landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the lunar surface is a moment of immense pride for the 1.4 billion people in India and the global Indian diaspora. This achievement serves as a powerful testament to India's unwavering dedication to scientific progress, poised to ignite the aspirations of forthcoming generations of explorers and scientists within the nation," FISI said in a statement.

Singapore's Indian-origin Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan also dropped a congratulatory message to Indians. "Congratulations India for landing on the South Pole of the Moon. This is indeed a proud achievement that will resonate across the world!"

M A Yusuff Ali of Emirates-based Lulu Group and Second Vice Chairman of Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry,

President, PM, Stalin greet people on Thiruvonam

Continued from Page 1

said, "It is a historic moment not just for India and Indians but for the entire mankind.

May this landmark landing of #Chandrayan3 pave for many more achievements in the science and technology field".

Chandrakanth 'Chandra' Arya, a powerful Indian-origin voice in the Canadian parliament, who visited India in July this year and met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, attributed the success to 'India's mastery of advanced technologies'.

"India is now on the Moon”.

Congratulations to India on Chandrayaan-3 becoming the first space mission to land near the south pole of the Moon and joining the exclusive club of just three other countries in the world to land on moon," Arya, who hails from Karnataka, wrote on X.

"This is proof of the sophistication of India's space programme and India's mastery of advanced technologies. This is a great moment for the people of India and all those of Indian heritage across the world," he said.

Chinese army constructing bunkers, tunnels at Aksai Chin: Reports

Continued from Page 1

change anything. Our government is very clear about what our territory is. Making absurd claims does not make other people's territories yours," he added. Also on Tuesday, India lodged a strong protest with China on the release of a so-called "standard

map".

"We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so called 2023 ‘standard map’ of China that lays claim to India’s territory,"

External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.

"We reject these claims as they have no basis. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question," he added.

The release of the map comes just days before the G20 summit, which is scheduled to take place in New Delhi on September 9 and 10.

Last week during his informal conversation with China's President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit in South Africa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had conveyed New Delhi's "concerns over unresolved issues along LAC and other areas along the India-China border".

52 dead in Johannesburg building inferno

In a series of tweets, emergency services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi said multiple people were being treated and some had been transported to health care facilities, reports CNN.

In Modi’s post on X, he said, "Onam greetings to everyone! May your lives be showered with good health, unparalleled joy and immense prosperity." "Over the last many years, Onam has become a global festival and it

beautifully showcases the vibrant culture of Kerala,".

Stalin, taking a political posture on Thiru Onam, said just like King Mahabali who didn’t differentiate between people, wished Onam and expected that all should stand together to have a government that sees all as one.

Onam is the ‘mother’ of all festivals in Kerala and a truly secular one and the highlight irrespective of caste,creed or religion is the traditional 26 dish Onam 'sadhya' (feast).

The sadhya especially, during Onam, has to be served on the banana leaf and in some places it’s partaken while sitting on the floor, reminiscing the olden style. Alcohol also forms a part of the celebrations which can be gauged by the sale of liquor. As per figures from the sole wholesaler of liquor and beer in the stateBevco, and on First OnamSunday the sales touched a record Rs 116 crore.

Johannesburg, Aug 31 (IANS) At least 52 people were killed and 43 others injured on Thursday after a massive fire ripped through a five-storey building in Johannesburg, according to the city’s emergency services.

Meanwhile, South African state broadcaster SABC said that emergency services and firefighters are working to douse the raging inferno.

The emergency services said the fire was reported at around 1.30 a.m. on Thursday.

“At this stage the cause of the

fire incident is still a subject of investigations. Officials from City of Johannesburg Disaster Management have been activated to start facilitating relief for affected families,” CNN quoted the services as saying in a statement.

Videos circulating on social media show huge orange flames engulfing the lower floor of a building, and scores of people who appear to have fled outside. The cause of the fire is not yet known.

New Delhi, Aug 28 (IANS)

President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated Neeraj Chopra for winning a gold medal at the World Athletics Championships and said he exemplifies excellence.

In a series of tweets, the President said, "Neeraj Chopra adds yet another golden page to the history of Indian sports by becoming the first ever Indian to win a gold medal in World Athletics Championships. His superlative performance in the javelin throw finals at Budapest will inspire millions of our youth."

She said, "India is proud of Neeraj Chopra. I convey my heartiest congratulations to him. I wish his legend grows with more such feats. It is a matter of great national pride that three Indians,

Neeraj Chopra, D.P. Manu and Kishore Jena together competed in the final round of the World Athletics Championships 2023 javelin event and they finished in the top six. I congratulate each one of them. They have taken Indian athletics to unprecedented heights. I wish them many more laurels in the future."

In a tweet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "The talented Neeraj Chopra exemplifies excellence. His dedication, precision and passion make him not just a champion in athletics but a symbol of unparalleled excellence in the entire sports world. Congrats to him for winning the Gold at the World Athletics Championships." The remarks came after India's Olympic champion Chopra won a historic maiden gold medal for the country in the World Athletics Championships on Sunday. Chopra, who has been bothered by an injury in the last few months, killed the competition in the Hungarian capital with a massive throw of 88.17 in his second turn,

No exact timeline for restoration of J&K statehood: Centre in SC

Continued from Page 1

Mehta added that the Central government is ready for elections at any time as updation of the voter list is substantially over by the Election Commission. He said that the call for election will be taken by the State Election Commission and the Election Commission of India.

On Tuesday, the Constitution Bench headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud asked the

Attorney General and Solicitor General to seek instructions from the Central government over the timeframe to restore statehood of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir which was downgraded into two union territories in 2019. During the hearing, the top court had stressed that the erstwhile state cannot be a “Union Territory in permanence", adding that restoration of democracy was very important.

‘Symbol of unparalleled excellence’, Prez Murmu, PM Modi congratulate Neeraj Chopra

Artificial intelligence helping researchers hear the call of the black-throated finch

species and open the door for better surveillance of other rare birds.

In a new scientific article published in the international journal Ecological Informatics, the researchers detailed the use of machine learning to make major advances in the technology used to analyse bioacoustics data.

Bravus Mining and Resources Chief Operating Officer Mick Crowe said this latest research and innovation built on the company’s comprehensive work to protect the local finch population.

“We developed a targeted Management Plan to protect local Black-throated Finches and their habitat as part of the strict environment conditions our Carmichael mine operates under,’’ Mr Crowe said.

“Research undertaken over many years now shows those plans are working and the finches are thriving.

“However, our work is also contributing a new understanding of the species and this exciting development to unlock new monitoring technologies will help to improve the management of finch populations more broadly in Queensland.

“Innovations like this help ensure our Management Plan remains world's best practice and that we continue to mine in a way that is responsible and creates jobs and business opportunities for regional Queenslanders for generations to come.”

E2M Senior ecologist John van Osta said the research was developed in consultation with the Queensland Department of Environment and Science and would support the development of automated recognisers for other rare and difficult-to-survey bird species.

“The publication of this work in a respected scientific journal shows our commitment to scientific rigour and supports research and management of Black-throated Finch throughout their range,’’ he said.

insights for others working to study and protect this species around Queensland.”

Machine learning is a type of artificial intelligence and computer science where computers use data and algorithms to improve the accuracy of their performance, imitating human learning.

The innovation comes only months after world-first research into the Black-throated Finch found populations of the bird are thriving at Bravus Mining and Resources’ Carmichael mine.

To support the management of the finch population, Bravus uses bioacoustics recordings to help track bird movements and to identify individual bird's home ranges, providing insights into their day-to-day behaviour.

While bird calls can be recorded and later manually analysed, automated recognisers can instantly detect the target bird call and are a more accurate way to detect bird species than even visual surveys.

However, they typically require many examples of bird vocalisations to accurately train. To produce a more accurate automated recogniser for the Black-throated Finch, researchers used more than 9000 hours of audio recordings of the species in the Carmichael mine conservation area.

Using machine learning methods more common in medical imaging analysis and natural language processing, the program was taught how to target data to improve the finch model and manage ambiguous bird calls. The result was an automated recogniser with a library of more than 1000 Black-throated Finch calls and a model that can successfully identify the birds as well as human experts in the field.

to improve remote monitoring of

Researchers from E2M created an automated recogniser to capture the birds’ calls, which will support best practice monitoring of the

“This research will support best practice monitoring for the species and will provide valuable

Members of the E2M research team downloading data from one of the 10 bioacoustics recorders installed on the Carmichael Mining Lease and 33,000 hectare conservation area

Bravus Mining and Resources has partnered with Queensland scientists to use cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology

the Black-throated Finch at the Carmichael mine near Clermont in central Queensland.

“Research undertaken over many years now shows those plans are working and the finches are thriving.

Springfield, August 25: The Springfield Anglican College is excited to celebrate Book Week on Friday, 25 August 2023, which featured a workshop by Australian author, Sarah Armstrong, and marked the launch of a captivating book of short stories authored by 16 talented students. The Springfield Anglican College's Book Week celebration was an inspirational event that brought together studentsfrom Kindergarten to Year 12, educators, and literature enthusiasts alike.

Sarah Armstrong is an accomplished author whose first book for young readers, Big Magic, was awarded Notable for the 2023 CBCA Book of the Year

Awards, by the Children’s Book Council of Australia. Its sequel, Magic Awry, was launched in early August.

Mr Steven Morris, Principal at The Springfield Anglican College, says, “This year, The Springfield Anglican College marks its 25th year of educating young people in Springfield. Book Week is a fun way to reintroduce the power of reading to all our students.

“In an age when streaming, social media and television are the mainstream way for young people to consume information, we strongly encourage reading as a way to help students improve their mastery of language, boost their communications skills, increase their creativity, and

develop their imaginations. As importantly, reading is a fantastic way to relax and look after your mental health.”

This year, The Springfield Anglican College is excited to launch Unleashed: A Collection of Short Stories authored by 16 Secondary students. These stories and poems, carefully crafted by the students, cover a wide range of genres and themes and reflect their unique perspectives and literary prowess.

Mr Steven Morris, College Principal, says, "We are thrilled to celebrate the literary achievements of our students. The Unleashed short story collection shows the boundless potential of our students’ literary minds. Each author takes you on a journey and demonstrates extraordinary courage to explore themselves and their stories.”

Olivia Harding is the College Captain and a contributing author. She says, “I love books because they are different for everyone. No one person will ever read a book and feel the same way about it or understand it in the same way. They are what you make of them. I enjoy writing in my spare time and like to write about situations and feelings I can relate to. I am proud to have my two works displayed because I worked really hard on them, and I'm pleased with how they turned out.”

The youngest author to contribute a story to the collection is Olivia Stephenson, in Year 7. She says, “I enjoy writing in my spare time and creating fantasy short stories for pleasure. I love that you can

enter a universe within a few moments and go on adventures with characters. You can be someone completely different and be transported somewhere else completely. I feel incredibly proud that my story got into the College's short story collection and hope I can make a difference with my writing.”

Fans of literature on the Secondary Campus were also excited to join a writing workshop with renowned author Sarah Armstrong. Known for her captivating storytelling and thought-provoking narratives, Sarah Armstrong shared insights into her writing journey and the power of literature to ignite imaginations and inspire change.

The Book Week celebration is part of The Springfield Anglican College's ongoing efforts to promote literacy and a lifelong appreciation for literature within the College and the wider community. This year, the College has again raised funds for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.

“We believe that fostering a love for reading and writing is vital for all young people, and are excited to support the ILF’s vital work in remote Indigenous communities to shape the direction of young people’s literacy future,” Mr Morris adds.

The College’s Unleashed short story collection is available from The Springfield Anglican College.

TSAC celebrates Book Week with author Sarah Armstrong and launch of students’ Short Stories Collection The

The Springfield Anglican College is a non-selective, Christian College dedicated to nurturing academic excellence, character development, and creative expression in students from Kindergarten to Year 12. With a focus on fostering a love for learning, the College empowers students to reach their full potential and become lifelong learners. Through its engaging curriculum and supportive environment, The

Prime large homesites from $615,000

Springfield Anglican College prepares students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

This year the College celebrates its 25th anniversary of educating students in Springfield. Since the College’s foundation, it has grown to educate almost 1,100 students on two expansive Campuses.

Amit Shah holds meeting with Manipur delegation

New Delhi, Aug 25 (IANS) Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday held a meeting with the delegation of the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), a conglomerate of several civil society organisation of Manipur, here on Friday.

During their meeting at the official residence of the Home Minister, Shah discussed a wide range of issues pertaining to the strife-torn state.

Shah emphasised a firm stance against all forms of infiltration into Manipur's territory, as per the communique issued by the

COCOMI.

He appealed for peace in the state and urged COCOMI to convey this message to the people.

Among others, COCOMI was encouraged to initiate dialogues with responsible Kuki leaders and groups to facilitate "problemsolving and peace-building".

The 13-member delegation during the meeting also submitted a representation to Shah suggesting various measures to be taken for restoring peace in the Northeastern state.

Among the measures, the

Two-day conference on national security concludes in Delhi

COCOMI proposed includes initiatives for restoration of internally displaced persons in their original settlements.

On Thursday, Shah also held a meeting with Chief Minister N Biren Singh. The Chief Minister briefed about the current situation in the state.

Ethnic clashes erupted in Manipur on May 3 and since then hundreds of people have lost their lives whereas thousands have been forced to take refuge in the relief camps.

Congress has been blaming the BJP government for the current situation and demanded dismissal of the Chief Minister.

Terror module busted in J&K’s Bandipora

joint party tried to flee but was apprehended," it added.

One pistol, a pistol magazine, eight rounds and other incriminating material were recovered from the possession of Shafayat Zubair Rishi of Nesbal Sumbal.

remained associated with the Hizbul Mujahideen and later with the Al-Badr terror outfit," the police said, adding that Shafayat was also involved in burning an Army vehicle in Sumbal in 2009 and was out on bail in the said case.

New Delhi, Aug 26 (IANS) The two-day National Security Strategies Conference-2023 concluded with the address of the Union Home Minister Amit Shah, an official spokesperson said. Shah on Friday stressed upon the need to provide timely justice to the citizens and ensure a system that would guarantee constitutional rights to them. An official spokesperson added, "The Union Home Minister urged the top police leadership to transform their approach in dealing with country's internal security problems."

official said.

He urged the police officers that when the new laws are passed by the parliament, they should be ready to implement them at the grassroots level to revamp the criminal justice system.

Shah underscored the significance of the use of digital technology in the entire process of investigation and prosecution.

Srinagar, Aug 26 (IANS) In a joint operation, the J-K Police along with the Assam Rifles and CRPF busted a terror module in North Kashmir’s Bandipora and successfully foiled the nefarious designs of Pakistan-based terror handlers in reviving militancy in the district, officials said on Saturday.

Based on specific information generated by J&K Police about the movement of a hybrid terrorist, a checkpoint was established in the Dardgund area on Friday, the police said.

"At the checkpoint, a suspicious person who on noticing the

"During questioning, the accused disclosed that he was on his way to collect a cache of arms and ammunition from Munira Begum, the wife of slain terrorist and area commander Yousuf Choupan, in Pazalpora area," the police said.

"Pertinently, the accused was in touch with Pakistan-based terror handler Mushtaq Ahmad Mir who exfiltrated to the neighbouring country in 1999 and was working on reviving terrorists in the district.

"He was also involved in the 2000 Kothibagh IED blast in which 14 people, including 12 police personnel, were killed and had

On the disclosure of Munira Begum, a cache of arms and ammunition, including one Krinkov AK-47 rifle, three magazines, 90 rounds and one pen pistol that was to be delivered to Shafait Resh,i was recovered from the nearby forest area.

"During questioning, it was also revealed that Munira has also gone to Pakistan twice," the police said.

"Shafayat also admitted that he was about to receive Rs 47 lakhs for the revival of terrorists. Later, this money was to be handed over to someone as per the requirement and directions of his across handler Mushtaq Ah Mir."

Miss World 2023 to be held in Kashmir

He laid emphasis on the use of modern technology in policing and suggested the implementation from lower police ranks of Constabulary to the higher formations.

"Quoting the recent introduction of new laws in the Parliament, the Union Home Minister laid down a vision for revamping the entire criminal justice system," an

"Union Home Minister advocated new initiatives for ushering technology-led policing for meeting the future demands of a revamped criminal justice system. He flagged the emergence of technological advancement in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and termed it as a "threat as much as an opportunity". He urged the police to learn to use AI to its advantage while preparing to deal with its adverse effects," the official spokesperson said. Shah exhorted the participants to work hard in the next 25 years for achieving the vision of Prime Minister Modi to build India into a developed nation by 2047. While suggesting the importance of learning from other countries, he urged the participants to set an example in the next 25 years so that people from other countries learn from the precedent set by India.

China releases new map; shows Aksai Chin, Arunachal as its territory

according to reports quoting local Chinese media.

The map was released on Monday by China's Ministry of Natural Resources, the reports said. The latest development has come four months after Beijing had announced in April that it will "standardise" names of 11 places in Arunachal Pradesh.

Srinagar, Aug 29 (IANS) 71st Miss World 2023 contest is set to be held in Kashmir later this year with 140 participating countries, thanks to the G20 meet held here in May.

This was disclosed at a breakfast press briefing in Srinagar on Tuesday.

The press briefing was attended by Miss World, Karolina Bielawski, Miss India, Sini Shetty, Miss World Caribbean, Emmy Pena and Miss World England Jessica Gagen and Miss World America Shree Saini and Miss Asia Pricilia Carla Saputri Yules.

“Kashmir has everything and it is the best place to host an event like

Miss World. I am so grateful to see the beautiful place in India, the beautiful lakes here, everyone has welcomed us nicely.

“The hospitality we got was wonderful. It would be exciting to see 140 countries participating in the event. Every place has its own beauty, but the pleasant hospitality here has been overwhelming”, Karolina Bielawski said.

Miss India, Sini Shetty said, “It is a proud moment that Miss World 2023 is going to be held in Kashmir. This moment would be like Diwali as 140 countries are coming to India and participating as a family”.

All pageant winners had breakfast with other dignitaries at a local five-star hotel.

Rouble Nagi of Rouble Nagi Art Foundation and Chairman PME entertainment in India, Jamil Saidi were also present at the breakfast meeting.

Miss World America, Shree Saini and Julia Morley, chairperson and CEO of the Miss World Organisation have joined the pageant winners’ Kashmir tour. India would be hosting the pageant after nearly three decades. The last time the country hosted the event was in 1996.

New Delhi, August 29 (IANS) In what could lead to yet another diplomatic flare-up, China has released what it called the "2023 edition of the standard map" of the country showing Aksai Chin -- one of the two large disputed border areas between India and China -- and whole of Arunachal Pradesh within its territory,

Also the release of the map has come at a time when the New Delhi G20 summit is less than a fortnight away, which the Chinese President Xi Jinping is also expected to attend.

The G20 summit is scheduled to be held between September 9 and 10.

India has always asserted that Arunachal Pradesh has "always been" and will "always be" an integral part of the country.

Soujanya rape & murder: Petition in K’taka HC seeks direction for reinvestigation

Bengaluru, Aug 29 (IANS) A petition seeking reinvestigation into the Soujanya rape and murder case has been filed in the Karnataka High Court.

The petition filed on Monday has sought direction from the court to the state government to order reinvestigation of the case. The petition was submitted by the regional director of Shree Kshetra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project, Sheenappa and another person, named Nandeeshkumar Jain.

The high court is yet to take up the petition.

The petitioners have also sought legal action against Mahesh Shetty Thimarodi for allegedly issuing abusive statements against famous Dharmastahala Manjunatha temple and judiciary.

Mahesh Shetty Thimarodi has been organising agitations and protests demanding justice in the Sowjanya case. He is also making allegations against powerful temple management in the case. The petition has made the Chief Secretary, Additional Chief Secretary of Home Department, Mahesh Shetty Thimarodi and six others as parties in the case.

17-year-old Soujanya was

kidnapped on October 9, 2012 on way to her home in Ujire near Dharmasthala. She was studying in Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara College. The next day her body was found near Nethravathi River, close to her house in the forests. The body was found half naked. One of her hands was tied with her dupatta to a tree. The police found that her genitals were soiled.

The news spread like wildfire and thousands of people gathered to demand justice. The fingers were pointed towards the family members of the powerful religious leader of the region.

Amid the furore, the police arrested one Santhosh Rao on October 11 and claimed that he had raped and killed Soujanya.

It is alleged that the police after coming under political pressure had not bothered to videograph the spot or the body. No experts were brought to comb the area and no samples were collected from the dead body.

The protesters and family members of Soujanya raised suspicions against Malik Jain, an accountant with the Dharmasthala Trust, Dheeraj, son of a senior manager in the Annapoorna Trust and Nischal Jain, the nephew of Rajyasabha member D. Veerendra Heggade. However, Veerendra Heggde claimed that Nischal Jain was in New York when the incident took place. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) took the three men into custody and

interrogated and released them later.

Though the family of Soujanya approached courts challenging the release of the three men along with the accused, the higher courts did not allow the petition. The case was later handed over to the CBI for further investigation.

On June 16, the CBI Special Court acquitted the arrested accused Santhosh Rao of all the charges and the court also ordered a probe against those who investigated the case for turning a blind eye towards collecting crucial evidence in the due course of time. The judgment raised concerns among the public. The suspicion was raised as an eyewitness Ravi Poojari, a security guard, who saw Soujanya alighting from the bus and walking towards home, had died suspiciously. Though it was concluded as a case of suicide, it is alleged that he was killed. The CBI charge sheet mentioned Santhosh Rao as the lone accused. The issue has now come to the forefront again in Karnataka.

Rajya Sabha BJP MP Veerendra Heggade reacting to allegations of hushing up the case had stated that attempts are made to bring disrepute and defame the Hindu pilgrimage center Dharmasthala, which is taking giant strides in terms of development by the invisible hands. The issue is taking a political turn with BJP organising a massive protest demanding the arrest of culprits in the case.

RIL and Oberoi to comanage three iconic hospitality projects

Anant Vilas seeks to augment the hotel footprint of the business district with an iconic experience for the discerning visitors.

New Delhi, Aug 24 (IANS)

Reliance Industries on Thursday announced that it has entered into an understanding with The Oberoi Hotels and Resorts (Oberoi) to jointly manage three properties across India and the UK.

The properties include the upcoming Anant Vilas Hotel in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), the iconic Stoke Park in the UK, and another planned project in Gujarat. Oberoi Hotels was voted the World’s Best Hotel Brand at the Travel + Leisure, USA World’s Best Awards, 2022.

Anant Vilas, Mumbai

Anant Vilas has been conceived as the first metro-centric property as part of the iconic luxury ‘Vilas’ portfolio run by Oberoi. Anant Vilas is located in the bustling business district of Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai, which is fast becoming a mixed use destination for business, hospitality, shopping, F&B, arts and culture, educational and residential activities for the high footfall of citizens and visitors to the city.

Stoke Park, the UK Stoke Park Limited, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited, owns sports and leisure facilities in Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire. The facilities include a hotel, sports facilities and one of the highest rated golf courses in Europe.

Oberoi will assist with RIL to upgrade the facilities and make it an iconic world-class destination and to deliver an unrivalled experience for guests. The plans that will include a comprehensive upgrade of Stoke Park, including golf and other sports facilities, are under preparation.

New Project, Gujarat Envisaged as another iconic hotel project to augment the tourism potential in the state of Gujarat, the yet unnamed project is under implementation.

Oberoi has an unparalleled track record of providing outstanding customer service in the hospitality industry globally. Oberoi has in its portfolio several palaces and other historic properties that have been enhanced while preserving the character and vision of the historic properties.

Bengaluru voted best place to live in, but its citizens reel under inflation

politics of freebies, helped the grand old party to register a thumping victory in the elections. The Congress and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah made inflation a major issue in the elections which struck a chord with the people. However, the IT sector is giving a boost to this scenario by helping the economy of Karnataka, according to experts.

few years, the city and its various submarkets have not only seen an uptick in rentals but also a considerable rise in the per sq. ft rate, resulting in rising property prices.

Bengaluru, Aug 27 (IANS) The people of Karnataka despite it being one of the most prosperous and contributing states in the country are worst affected by inflation in every sector.

The results of the assembly elections in Karnataka showed how ordinary people suffered due to the rising prices of staples, and veggies and the overall cost of living index.

The guarantee schemes of the Congress, which were rubbished by the BJP leadership as the

Bhavesh Kothari, Founder and CEO of Property First, told IANS that, “The cost of living in Karnataka is 1.29 times more expensive as compared to the rest of India, thus putting the state in the 4th spot in the most expensive places to live. But at the same time, this higher CLI has a positive bearing and this is evident from the fact that the state is ranked as the best place to live in India."

"Owing to the region’s overall vibrancy of business and economic activities, the standard of living in Bengaluru is also going through a major transformation.

Being a global tech centre with a lot of opportunities, the city is attracting talent from other cities thus raising the cost of accommodation.”

Kothari said that over the last

Since the region offers good prospects and people have jobs, high salaries and disposable income, the focus has also shifted towards the upgradation of life. As a result, the luxury property market in Bengaluru witnessed a steep growth and owing to the continued demand, the overall cost of living is on an upward trajectory. It is anticipated that inflation might ease, but the city’s future growth chart will strike the balance between rising costs and overall quality of life, he maintained.

However, unaffordability has affected the middle class, lower middle class and the poor sections to a great extent. Post the Covid pandemic, most families are opting for health insurance. But, the cost of annual premiums has been hiked by Rs 4,000 to Rs 6,000. The price of tur dal which was Rs 70 to Rs 90 per kg has gone up to Rs 120 to Rs 140 per kg. In shopping complexes and malls, the price of tur dal is

fixed at Rs 180 to Rs 200. The guarantee schemes such as free electricity, free travel for women, and free rice which have already been implemented by the Congress government have given relief to the masses. Buoyed by this success, the Congress is all set to launch an allowance for unemployed youth for two years and a monthly allowance for women heads of families. Officials in the power department said that most of the families including the upper middle class, have enrolled in the free power scheme to cut down on their monthly bills.

On the other hand, one of the major concerns of families in Karnataka is the rising prices of LPG gas cylinders.

The price shot up to Rs 940 in October 2022 and touched Rs 1,105 for a cylinder by March 2023. This had a cascading effect on the prices of food items in hotels, making it difficult for people to dine out.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwalla Yojna (PMUY) Scheme which is aimed at providing free LPG connections to economically disadvantaged women in the rural

areas, the number of connections on March 31, 2017, was 15,840. These rose to 28.36 lakh by May 22, 2019 while 37.59 lakh free LPG connections were distributed in Karnataka till January 2023 as per the statistics of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.

The Congress government led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had announced the Mukhyamanthri Anila Bhagya (MMABY) Scheme in the state budget 2018 to provide a free gas connection with twin burner stoves, two refills to 30 lakh beneficiaries who are excluded from the PMUY. However,

the Central government objected that the Karnataka scheme for free LPG had no approval from it.

NSW state closes beaches after shark attack

was hospitalised due to serious injuries to his leg and foot following a shark attack earlier in the day.

beaches in the area would remain closed until further notice, with signs erected at the site to warn local residents to stay out of the water.

Sydney, Aug 25 (IANS) Authorities in Australia's New South Wales (NSW) state on Friday ordered the closure of beaches in Port Macquarie town after a man

Surf Life Saving NSW said in a statement that at around 10 a.m. on Friday, the man in his 40s was attacked by the shark in waters off Port Macquarie located in the state's mid-north coast, reports Xinhua news agency.

According to the statement,

The type of shark involved has yet to be confirmed.

Australian Shark-Incident Database revealed that there has been eight shark attack incidents so far this year, of which two were fatal.

Australia expects to revive FTA talks with EU at G20 summit

trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) as his priority at the G20 trade and investment ministerial meeting.

Prior to departing for India's 'Pink City' Jaipur on Wednesday, Ayres said EU officials have so far "offered too little and asked too much" in negotiations, Xinhua news agency reported.

Talks on the landmark deal broke down in July amid a dispute over Australian farmers' export access to the vast EU market.

3 US marines killed in aircraft crash off Australia’s coast

develops."

and Friday, said a deal would only be possible with major changes to the EU's import quotas for meat. Despite the ongoing dispute, ministerial officials from both sides have expressed optimism that a deal will be reached.

Canberra, Aug 27 (IANS) Three

US Marines were killed and 20 injured in an aircraft crash during a training exercise off Australia's north coast.

According to the Marine Rotational Force (MRF) Darwin, three personnel have died and five more are in hospital in a serious condition after the MV-22 Osprey crashed with 23 personnel on board at approximately 9:30 a.m. local time on Sunday (2330 GMT on Saturday).

The aircraft went down on Melville Island approximately 60 km north of Darwin, capital of the Northern Territory (NT), in the Timor Sea during a routine training exercise.

Earlier, NT Police Commissioner Michael Murphy told reporters at a press conference that 23 Marines were injured in the crash.

"Those injured are 23 US Marine Corps soldiers and we are doing everything we can to return them safely to Darwin for treatment," he said.

Canberra, Aug 23 (IANS)

Australia's Assistant Trade Minister Tim Ayres has identified reviving stalled talks on a free

Ayres, who will meet with his European counterpart as Australia's representative at the G20 trade and investment ministerial meeting on Thursday

Don Farrell, the minister for trade, said in July that negotiations would be concluded with goodwill, hard work and perseverance. His sentiment was echoed by Annalena Baerbock, Germany's minister for foreign affairs, who on Tuesday night told a webinar run by Australian think tank the Lowy Institute that both sides should now strive to finalize an FTA.

Over 1.7 mn Australians sexually harassed in 2021-22: Survey

According to the ABS data, men were responsible for 97 per cent of all sexual harassment incidents against women, with inappropriate comments about a person's body or sex life as the most common form of harassment.

Canberra, Aug 23 (IANS) More than 1.7 million Australians were sexually harassed in 2021-22, a national survey has found.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) on Wednesday published the results of the 2021-22 Personal Safety Survey, revealing an estimated 1.7 million people -- 8.7 per cent of the population -- experienced sexual harassment in the survey period from March 2021 to May 2022. Of those victims, 1.3 million were women and 426,800 men, Xinhua news agency reported.

The PSS survey, the first conducted by the ABS since 2016, found 7 million Australiansmore than one-third of the adult population - have experienced physical violence since turning 15. Men were more likely to experience physical violence but only 42 per cent knew the perpetrator, compared to 87 per cent of women.

"We found that an estimated 4 million men and 3 million women have experienced physical violence since the age of 15," Will Milne, Head of Crime and Justice

statistics at the ABS, said in a media release.

Both men and women were three times more likely to experience physical violence by a male perpetrator than by a female perpetrator, it said.

"In the 12 months after the assault, nearly two-thirds of women and just over a quarter of men experienced anxiety or fear for their personal safety."

The survey found that an estimated 2.2 million Australian women have experienced sexual violence -- defined as any incident involving the occurrence, attempt, or threat of sexual assault -- since the age of 15. Women were three times more likely to experience sexual violence by a man they knew than a stranger.

Testosterone shows promise to treat endometrial cancer: Study

Sydney, Aug 27 (IANS)

Hormone testosterone may play an important role in the development of endometrial cancer, according to a study.

The discovery, by QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute in Australia, raises exciting new possibilities for screening, preventing and fighting this increasingly prevalent disease.

Treatment options for the cancer are limited, with a hysterectomy often the first line of defence.

"Everyone has testosterone, but our research suggests that women with higher levels of the hormone are at greater risk of developing endometrial cancer," said Associate Professor Tracy O'Mara, from the Institute.

"In establishing an independent relationship between testosterone

"Three have been confirmed deceased while five others were transported to Royal Darwin Hospital in serious condition," it said in a statement.

"Recovery efforts are ongoing. The cause of the incident is under investigation. Further details will be provided as the situation

"Additional police and defence personnel have been deployed to Melville Island to support operations, triage injured people and return them to Darwin and also maintain the crash scene while investigations continue." Australia's Department of Defence had previously confirmed that all personnel on board the aircraft were Americans.

and endometrial cancer, the study opens up potential new avenues for treatment.

"We're really excited by these findings and hope that with further research, we might be able to treat endometrial cancer by targeting or inhibiting testosterone with existing drugs," O'Mara said.

Sydney, Aug 29 (IANS) In a world's first such case, a team of Australian neurosurgeons has removed an eight cm-long parasitic roundworm from a patient who complained of forgetfulness and depression.

The world's first case of a new parasitic infection in humans was discovered by researchers at The Australian National University (ANU) and the Canberra Hospital after they detected a live roundworm from a carpet python in the brain of a 64-year-old Australian woman.

The Ophidascaris robertsi roundworm was pulled from the patient after brain surgery -- still alive and wriggling. It is suspected larvae, or juveniles, were also present in other organs in the woman’s body, including the lungs and liver.

"This is the first-ever human case of Ophidascaris to be described in the world," said Sanjaya Senanayake, leading ANU and Canberra Hospital infectious disease expert in a paper published in the journal Emerging infectious diseases.

"To our knowledge, this is also the first case to involve the brain of any mammalian species, human or otherwise. Normally the larvae from the roundworm are found in small mammals and marsupials, which are eaten by the python, allowing the life cycle to complete itself in the snake," Senanayake added.

Ophidascaris robertsi roundworms are common to carpet pythons. It typically lives in a python's oesophagus and stomach, and sheds its eggs in the host's faeces. Humans infected with Ophidascaris robertsi larvae would be considered accidental hosts.The researchers say the woman, from southeastern New South Wales in Australia, likely caught the roundworm after collecting a type of native grass, Warrigal greens, beside a lake near where she lived in which the python had shed the parasite via its faeces. The patient used the Warrigal greens for cooking and was probably infected with the parasite directly from touching the native grass or after eating the greens. She initially developed abdominal pain and diarrhoea, followed by fever, cough and shortness of breath."In retrospect, these symptoms were likely due to migration of roundworm larvae from the bowel and into other organs, such as the liver and the lungs. Respiratory samples and a lung biopsy wto he said.

8-cm live worm removed from woman’s brain in world’s 1st discovery

Remains of US Marines killed in Australian chopper crash recovered

the Royal Darwin Hospital, but a third was in a critical condition and has been moved more than 3,000 km to Melbourne for treatment, reports Xinhua news agency. "The cause of the incident remains under investigation," the statement added.

Australia to hold historic Indigenous vote on Oct 14: PM

not had a successful referendum in almost 50 years.

Canberra, Aug 30 (IANS) Remains of the three US Marines killed in a helicopter crash on an island off Australia's north coast have been recovered, the US Marine Rotational Force Darwin (MRF-D) said in a statement on Wednesday.

The MRF-D statement said the remains have been transported to Darwin, capital of Australia's Northern Territory (NT), reports Xinhua news agency.

Corporal Spencer R. Collart (21), Captain Eleanor V. LeBeau (29) and Major Tobin J. Lewis (37) were

among 23 Marines on board the MV-22B Osprey when it crashed on Melville Island around 9.30 a.m. on Sunday during a training exercise.

Collart was the Osprey crew chief, LeBeau a pilot and Lewis the executive officer of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 363 (VMM-363), their unit said on Monday.

The MRF-D said that, as of Tuesday night, two of the Marines who were injured in the crash remained in a stable condition in

The helicopter that crashed was one of two US Marine Osprey aircraft that left Darwin on Sunday morning and flew towards the Tiwi Islands, about 80 km away, according to Northern Territory Police Commissioner Michael Murphy.

The crash comes just a month following the death of four Australian army aircrew members after an MRH-90 Taipan helicopter crashed into the sea near Hamilton Island off the east coast of Australia during an exercise that was part of joint drills with the US.

US military aircraft crashes off Australia’s coast

three injured passengers, one of whom was in critical condition, to the Royal Darwin Hospital.

In a statement, Australia's Department of Defence said that all personnel on board the aircraft were Americans.

"Initial reports suggest the incident involves US defence personnel and that Australian Defence Force members were not involved," a spokesperson said.

Canberra, Aug 30 (IANS)

Australians will vote in a historic referendum on October 14 to decide whether to enact an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Wednesday.

Announcing the poll date at a rally in Adelaide, Prime Minister Albanese called the vote "a oncein-a-generation chance to bring our country together and to change it for the better", the BBC reported.

"The Voice will be... a committee of Indigenous Australians, chosen by Indigenous Australians, giving advice to government so that we can get a better result for Indigenous Australians," he said.

"You're being asked to vote for an idea, to say yes to an idea whose time has come - to say yes to an invitation that comes directly from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people themselves." The issue has been a fierce topic of debate for years as country has

If approved, the vote would recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the country's constitution, and establish a permanent body for them to give advice on laws. For it to succeed, a majority of Australians need to vote yes. There also needs to be majority support in at least four of Australia's six states, the BBC reported.

The composition, functions and powers of the body, whose advice would not be binding, would then be designed and debated by Parliament. Australia is the only Commonwealth country that has never signed a treaty with its Indigenous people.

The Voice was recommended by a historic document in 2017 called the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

Drafted by more than 250 Indigenous leaders, the statement is considered the best, though not unanimous, call to action for reforms which affect First Nations Australians.

Canberra, Aug 27 (IANS) A US military aircraft crashed off the coast of Australia's Northern Territory on Sunday when it was participating in a training exercise.

The Boeing V-22 Osprey was participating in a training exercise at 9:43 a.m. local time

on Sunday when it went down on Melville Island, approximately 60 km north of Darwin, Xinhua news agency reported.

As of Sunday afternoon, there had been no confirmed fatalities, but the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported air medical service CareFlight transported

"At this critical early stage, our focus is on the incident response and ensuring the safety of those involved."

More than 2,000 troops are participating in the annual Predator's Run training exercises in the Tiwi Islands.

10-week-old lion cubs get names at Australia zoo from over 360,000 votes

wild lions are found and the names align with the newborns' individual personalities.

"The name Mwezi, meaning moon in Swahili, has been given to one of the male cubs because the litter was born during the evening of a full moon," said Gulli.

World’s first drug to target untreatable and deadly ‘sticky’ cholesterol

Canberra, Aug 18 (IANS)

Australia's Werribee Open Range Zoo announced on Friday that three 10-week-old African lion cubs got names after over 360,000 participants cast their votes in an online naming competition. According to the results of the competition, Mwezi, Kianga, and Jango were the highest polling monikers, reports Xinhua news agency.

Werribee Open Range Zoo African River Trail Keeper Ben Gulli said the names are from languages used in the African regions where

"The name Kianga -- meaning sunshine in Swahili -- has been given to the female cub because she's very bright and picks things up really quickly.

"The name Jango -- meaning brave in Xhosa -- has been given to the second male cub because he's extremely confident in exploring on his own," he added.

Gulli noted that the cubs are continuing to take opportunities to explore beyond the comforts of their den, venturing into their pride's habitat.

"This is now extending up to one hour a day. Like many other newborns, they tire very quickly but the amount of time they explore and play will increase as they build their strength and resilience in the coming weeks and months," said the keeper. Lions are listed as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List, with their population decreasing to 23,000-39,000 in the wild.

In June, Werribee Open Range Zoo welcomed the birth of three cubs -- the first of this threatened species to be born at the Zoo in almost six years.

The cubs, which each weighed approximately 1.5 kg, were born in the evening on June 4 to 11-yearold mother Nilo and five-year-old male Sheru.

Sydney, Aug 29 (IANS) A new drug offers a breakthrough world first treatment for Lipoprotein(a) -- a largely genetic form of ‘sticky’ cholesterol that increases the risk of deadly heart attack and stroke, according to a study. High levels of Lipoprotein(a), is similar to LDL cholesterol, sometimes called ‘bad cholesterol’, but is more sticky, increasing risk of blockages and blood clots in arteries. It impacts one in five people globally with no approved treatment currently on the market.

The first human trial led by Monash University in Australia demonstrated the success of Muvalaplin.

The first oral drug ever developed to target Lp(a) effectively lowered its levels by up to 65 per cent. It works by disrupting the ability for Lp(a) to form in the body.

The findings were presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress in Amsterdam and also published in JAMA.

“This drug is a gamechanger in more ways than one. Not only do we have an option for lowering an elusive form of cholesterol, but being able to deliver it in an oral tablet means it will be more accessible for patients,” said

study lead Professor Stephen Nicholls, Director of the Monash University’s Victorian Heart Institute and Victorian Heart Hospital.

Common LDL lowering drugs such as statins don’t have the same lowering effect on Lp(a). Being largely genetic, Lp(a) is also difficult to control through diet, exercise and other lifestyle changes.

Although Lp(a) was discovered nearly 60 years ago there still aren’t any widely accessible treatments available to lower levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.

“When it comes to treating high Lp(a), a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, our clinicians currently have no effective tools in their kit,” Nicholls said. “Lp(a) is essentially a silent killer with no available treatment, this drug changes that,” he added.

Muvalaplin was not associated with tolerability concerns and lowered lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) levels following daily administration for 14 days in the first-in-human phase 1 study involving healthy participants.

Another $2.5 million in grants give Queensland small businesses a helping hand

Brisbane, 28 August: The Business Boost grants program provides support to businesses to improve their efficiency and productivity through organisational development.

The grants can be used for activities that will create growth, such as strategic business planning, design and

implementation of sophisticated cloud platforms and online management systems, and, planning and systems for staff management and development.

Business Boost Grants are a vital pillar of the Queensland Government’s Big Plan for Small Business Strategy 2021-23.

Major construction finished on busy Bruce Highway stretch

The Business Boost Grants Guidelines have been updated for this round and are available online now and businesses will be able to register their interest from 9am on 6 September 2023 until 5pm on Friday 12 September 2023. For more information go to www. business.qld.gov.au/businessboost

Palaszczuk Government to invest $151M to GROW FOGO in QLD

Brisbane, 25 August: The Palaszczuk Government will invest $151 million to help Queensland councils implement food organic and garden organic (FOGO) waste collection services.

The GROW FOGO Program will support Queensland councils to roll out more than 1 million lime-green lidded organics bins to support Queensland’s progress towards its 2030 waste targets. The funding will also help to deliver kitchen caddies, to help households keep food organics (such as food scraps and leftovers) separate from general waste.

The GROW FOGO program supports the implementation

of the SEQ Waste Management Plan - a collaboration between the Palaszczuk Government and Council of Mayors (SEQ)as well as the outcomes of the Queensland Organics Strategy and Action Plan.

The Council of Mayors (SEQ) SEQ Waste Management Plan identifies that up to 50% of general kerbside waste collected is organic waste. Organic waste is one of the biggest drivers of greenhouse gas emissions from landfill but can be converted into re-usable products like mulch or compost.

Recent statewide data indicate that of the 2 million plus

Queensland households that have a general kerbside waste service, 92 per cent have a recycling bin, while just 17 per cent currently have an organics bin.

Enabling organics collection is a vital step in propelling Queensland towards state and national resource recovery targets and will substantially reduce waste going to landfill, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and create jobs.

Gold Coast City Council, Ipswich City Council and Brisbane City Council are expected to be the first Councils to benefit from the GROW FOGO Program.

Additional $37 million investment in women and girls sport

Brisbane, 20 August:Australia’s Matildas have inspired the nation with their FIFA Women’s World Cup success and the Queensland Government will back that in with a $37 million funding injection to support women and girls’ sport and active recreation. The new funding will build on the extensive support already provided for grassroots sport and active recreation across the state, support inclusive participation, and boost the newly announced Queensland Women’s Football Legacy Fund.

Today’s additional announcement includes:

• Increasing the Queensland Government’s Inclusive Facilities Fund from $10 million to $30 million

• Increasing the Queensland Government’s contribution to $6 million under the Queensland Women’s Football Legacy Fund, bringing the total funding available to $10 million

• An additional $15 million round in the Activate! Queensland’s Active Clubs program to ensure a quality inclusive environment for women and girls which could include training for volunteers, purchasing of equipment and targeted programming.

Over the past five weeks more than 350,000 fans have packed into Brisbane Stadium with millions more watching and cheering from live fan sites, sporting clubs and homes around Queensland.

Today’s funding boost is aimed at turning that inspiration into participation.

In the 2023-24 State Budget, an additional $10 million has been allocated to support new and upgraded changerooms and amenities that meet universal design principles - including female facilities.

Today’s announcement triples this funding to $30 million for the Inclusive Facilities Fund –with the funding opening for applications on 27 September 2023 along with Round 2 of the $15 million Minor Infrastructure Program.

Because of the huge community response to the FIFA Women’s World Cup, last month the Premier and Football Australia Legacy ’23 Ambassador announced the $8 million Queensland Women’s Football Legacy Fund, of which the Queensland Government was contributing $4 million.

Today’s announcement adds $2 million, taking the Queensland Government’s contribution to $6 million towards the now $10 million fund.

The other funding will be leveraged through various sources including Football Australia, Football Queensland, Local Government, clubs and associations with the aim of maximising the investment and outcomes.

Since 1 January 2015, the Palaszczuk Government has

approved over $43 million in funding to support grassroots participation in football and futsal across the state.

As part of hosting the FIFA Women’s World Cup the Palaszczuk Government provided $17 million in upgrades at Suncorp Stadium and $2.634 million to support projects as part of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Legacy funding initiative. These include upgrades to facilities in Queensland that were training sites or base camps for competing teams:

• Perry Park - $150,000 for pitch and site facility upgrades

• Spencer Park - $150,000 for pitch upgrades

• Lions Stadium, Richlands$1 million towards universal change rooms and field irrigation

• Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex - $248,004 for pitch upgrades, viewing platform and ancillary facilities.

The Government also made a $15 million financial contribution towards the recently completed Ballymore Stadium redevelopment, which includes the newly opened National Rugby Training Centre of Excellence.

This is a game changer for women’s sport – as Ballymore provides a major boost to women’s rectangular sport in Brisbane and the home of the

Brisbane, 24 August: The Bruce Highway Upgrade – CabooltureBribie Island Road to Steve Irwin Way (Exit 163) has reached another key milestone, with three lanes now open to north and southbound traffic between Caboolture-Bribie Island Road and Pumicestone Road, Elimbah. The $662.5 million upgrade is jointly funded, with the Australian

Government committing $530 million and the Queensland Government committing $132.5 million.

The entire 11-kilometre upgrade is expected to be completed in early 2024, weather and construction conditions permitting. An average of 664 direct jobs will be supported over the life of the project.

More industry partnerships for Queensland thanks to $53.5 million boost

Brisbane, 23 August:The Palaszczuk Government has boosted the highly successful Industry Partnership Program (IPP) by a further $53.5 million, to support more new industries and jobs.

The announcement of the additional funding means the IPP will support more key projects that are focussed on growing Queensland’s priority industries, strengthening our local supply chains, encouraging collaboration between all levels of government and industry, and leveraging private sector investment.

Deputy Premier Steven Miles announced that this allocation will focus on the following key priority areas:

• critical minerals processing, manufacturing and product development

• renewable energy manufacturing

• battery industry development

• green hydrogen

• bioeconomy including biofuels and sustainable aviation fuel

• circular economy including resource recovery and recycling

• biomedical

New vaping campaign to target young Queenslanders

Brisbane, 24 August: The Palaszczuk Government has launched a new $1.3 million public health campaign designed to inform young people of the harms of vapes and e-cigarettes.

Targeting adolescents aged 12-17, the There’s Nothing Sweet About Vapes campaign will begin on August 23 and has been codesigned with the assistance of 50 young Queenslanders from regional, rural and city areas. The campaign will target platforms such as TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, Twitch and Spotify.

The campaign will highlight the health effects of harmful chemicals and ingredients found in vapes, such as lead, arsenic, and formaldehyde.

A new website will provide young Queenslanders with information

Wallaroos who will train here, alongside the Queensland Reds. The Palaszczuk Government also contributed $18 million towards Brighton Homes Arena the home of AFLW Lions in Springfield, and the first dedicated women’s AFL stadium built in Australia.

Since 2021, the IPP has been at the forefront of supporting projects in industries including green hydrogen, bioeconomy –including biofuels and sustainable aviation fuel – battery industry development, renewables, material recovery, biomedical and the critical minerals supply chain. The program has approved 18 projects with a value of around $1.1 billion and with the potential to create over 1,850 ongoing operational jobs. on what goes into vapes, the dangers they present, and how to quit, as well as advice for parents and guardians on how to start a discussion about vaping with their children.

Last year, the Australian Bureau of Statistics revealed more than one in five (22 per cent) young people aged 18-24, and 14 per cent of those aged 15-17, had tried vapes. The ABS said that number was expected to increase. The campaign follows a recent $5 million investment by the Palaszczuk Government to roll out an anti-vaping program, developed by Griffith University, in government and nongovernment secondary schools. A Queensland Parliamentary Inquiry into vaping and e-cigarettes is due to hand down its report on 31 August.

The additional funding to support women and girls in sport is another example of the government’s commitment to getting more Queenslanders moving more often and to ensure participation opportunities are available for everyone.

MAKE IN INDIA

As world economies restart their engines in a bid to regain lost ground due to the Covid-19 pandemic, India too shows signs of economic buoyancy and promise. India’s Make in India initiative holds a key to the global economic revival, something that should interest Australian government ministries, corporate sector, entrepreneurs, institutions seeking R&D collaborations and Australia Inc in general, among others. India assumes greater importance as several major world economies including American, Japanese, German, British and South Korean look to move out and diversify their businesses from China. India has jumped to 63rd rank in the World Bank’s Ease of Development 2020 report, and has also been ranked as the 9th largest recipient of Foreign Direct Investment destinations in 2019 by the World Investment Report 2020 of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

India has earned its place in global space powers club, say experts

has evolved -- from being primarily focussed on the needs or development of the country, it is now “more serious” and the country is “working at par with whatever is happening around the world”.

India has earned its place in global space powers club, say experts

on the lunar surface.

In April, a software glitch prevented Japanese lunar exploration company ispace’s Moon lander from making its historic touchdown on the lunar surface.

New Delhi, Aug 27 (IANS) With Chandrayaan-3 scripting history by becoming the first to land on the South Pole of the Moon, the Indian space sector has made a successful mark globally, experts have said.

The Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO)

Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft consisted of a propulsion module (weighing 2,148 kg), a lander named Vikram (1,723.89 kg) and a rover named Pragyan (26 kg). It landed near the South Pole of the Moon on August 23 after travelling about 3.84 lakh km for over 40 days.

Earlier in August, the Union Minister for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh told Parliament that India is fifth among spacefaring nations having end-to-end capabilities in space research and development.

Amit Kumar, a faculty at Department of Aerospace Engineering, IIT Madras, said that space research in India

“I think there are many areas where India is working on a par with whatever is happening in space”, he said referring to manned missions by space agencies of China, US and others, and making things in space. We also see these kinds of activities happening in India,” added Kumar, who is also the co-principal investigator of extra-terrestrial manufacturing research group at IIT Madras. With the success of Chandrayaan-3, India has also become the fourth nation to make a soft landing on the Moon after the erstwhile Soviet Union, the US and China.

The soft landing has been a tricky issue as it involves a series of complex manoeuvres consisting of rough and fine braking. Recently, Russia had aimed to land on the Moon, after 47 years, with its Luna 25 mission.

However, on August 20, the country's space agency Roscosmos announced on Telegram that Luna 25 crashed while entering a pre-landing orbit

Earlier in 2019, two attempted lunar landings, by India’s Chandrayaan-2 and Israeli nonprofit SpaceIL's Beresheet had crashed. In those landing attempts, the trajectory and speed data went awry before the signals were lost.

“Chandrayaan-3 is an excellent technical demonstration where we have achieved what a very limited number of countries around the world have been able to achieve,” astrophysicist Prof. Varun Bhalerao at IIT Bombay, told IANS.

Dr Subba Rao Pavuluri, Founder and CMD of Ananth Technologies (ATL) India, also hailed the low-cost “frugal engineering technology”, with which the cutting-edge lunar mission was aced with minimal resources.

The firm, which has been a long standing partner of ISRO in launch vehicles and satellites, has contributed to the launch vehicle (LVM3) for Chandrayaan-3.

*Edited for space considerations (Rachel V Thomas can be contacted at rachel.t@ians.in)

Bengaluru, Aug 26 (IANS) With the success of Chandrayaan-3 mission, India will emerge as a global leader in space technology and giant strides in the field will help the country emerge as a modern, developed nation by 2047, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said here on Saturday. The Prime Minister was addressing the gathering of scientists at the Command Centre of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in Bengaluru in a programme organized against the backdrop of the Chandrayaan-3 mission success.

“You have the people's trust and blessings of mother earth to carry out this mission,” he said, referring to the scientists of the national space agency.

"The youth is ready for the challenge. In the last four years, there were four start-ups in the field of space science. Presently the number has gone up to 150.” The space industry has expanded from 1 billion dollars to 16 billion dollars. The government has taken serious note of this and wants to reform and invest in space science. The spirit of science and innovation in this country was trampled by slavery. This spirit needs to be unleashed and the world should know the

capabilities of India, PM Modi underlined .

The youth should explore the depths of the sea and reach the sky and beyond to the solar system. Make next-generation computers focus on genetic engineering, the new windows of opportunity have opened in India, he said.

Underlining that the Chandrayaan-3 mission is not only India's success but of humanity, the PM said, “Our mission will be explored by all countries. It will help face the challenges of the earth. Our Pragyaan rover is leaving its traces on the Moon. The pictures taken on the Moon are wonderful. First time in the history of the world, since the earth evolved, humans are seeing those pictures. India has done the job. You (ISRO scientists) have done the job. The whole world believes in the Indian scientific spirit, technology and capabilities of scientific temperament, PM Modi stated. Expressing his longingness to meet the scientists after the successful landing on the Moon, he said that this rare happiness fills the body and soul by such events. “Though I was in South Africa, and Greece, my mind and heart were with you (ISRO scientists).

Miles to go: India’s share is 2-3%, but ISRO is now an end-to-end player

a mere two-three per cent.

The advantage, though, is that the principal player, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has established itself as an end-toend operator.

India has to go a long way to catch up with other major spacefaring nations in terms of rocket and satellite capabilities.

That process has begun with the opening up of the sector in 2020 to allow private players to make/ own/launch/operate satellites and rockets.

amounted to $9.6 billion, which was 0.5 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) in the country.

As per the EY report, out of the 5,465 satellites operational by the end of April 22, the US has the highest share of 63 per cent, followed by China-10 per cent, Russia- three per cent and others accounting for 24 per cent.

Last year, the Indian government said the country has about 53 operational satellites that includes communication/ navigation/earth observation and science satellites.

Chennai, July 23 (IANS) India may be sending spacecraft to orbit the Moon and Mars, and plans to send one to study the Sun and Venus, and finally, humans to space in the last four decades of this century, but its presence in the global space sector market is

A recent EY report has put the global market size of the space sector at $447 billion in 2020 and is estimated to touch $600 billion by 2025.

According to the EY report, the Indian market size in 2020

Between 2022 and 2023, the number of Indian satellites up in the sky has not increased drastically.

In terms of rocket's carrying capacity, India's heavy lift rocket LVM3 can carry a maximum of

four tonne whereas the rockets of the US, China and Europe can carry several times higher.

As a matter of fact, India uses the services of Arianespace's Ariane rockets to orbit heavier communication satellites.

"From a regional perspective, the US, China and the European Space Agency (ESA) collectively accounted for approximately 81 per cent of government space spending in 2020. It is not surprising that the US leads in the share of total active operating satellites at 63 per cent," EY said.

The Indian government allocated about Rs.12,543.91 crore for the country's space sector.

The Indian government, citing a 2020 study done by a global consulting firm, told the Parliament that the revenue

generated by the global space industry may increase to over $1 trillion by 2040.

In order to increase India's share in the global space market, the government opened up the space sector in 2020, which an industry official had termed as "the surgical strike".

Things are changing with the private sector players marking their presence.

(Venkatachari Jagannathan can be reached at v.jagannathan@ ians.in)

Rachel V. Thomas

India endorses Commonwealth roadmap on fast-tracking gender equality

New Delhi, Aug 26 (IANS)

Women’s affairs ministers from Commonwealth countries, including representatives from India, have committed to a roadmap, designed to scale up efforts to achieve gender equality and empower women and girls, especially in climate action.

The roadmap was the result of three-day deliberations among ministers at their triennial Commonwealth meeting in The Bahamas this week.

It was also shaped by input from a range of stakeholders, including domestic violence survivors, civil society representatives and women with disabilities.

As part of this roadmap, the women’s affairs ministers pledged to enhance efforts to address inequality in several Commonwealth priority areas over the coming years. Specific provisions include an enhanced role of women in climate finance, increased support for women with disabilities, more economic opportunities for women, better representation in decisionmaking and greater protections from gender-based violence.

The roadmap encapsulates the outcome statement issued by ministers, representing 2.5 billion Commonwealth people, at the conclusion of their meeting. Next year, this roadmap will be considered by leaders at the Commonwealth Heads of

Government Meeting in Samoa. Speaking after the meeting, the Commonwealth SecretaryGeneral, Patricia Scotland, said the roadmap was “incredibly important” because millions of women and girls “are disproportionately impacted by injustice, climate change, violence and discrimination”.

“The outcomes of the meeting send a clear message that the Commonwealth is determined to lead by example towards ensuring women and girls are not left behind in our efforts to achieve sustainable development and climate justice.

“What we achieved here will enable us all to deliver today and it will help to shape a better tomorrow for the benefit of the 2.5 billion people living in our Commonwealth,” she added.

To support the roadmap’s implementation, ministers endorsed a framework for reporting on Commonwealth priorities for gender equality.

The Commonwealth Secretariat will use this framework to regularly assess progress based on set indicators and coordinate necessary measures through a ministerial action group, aimed at tackling challenges disrupting the positive momentum.

Acknowledging that climate change disproportionately affects women and girls, ministers shared good practices that supported women and girls in overcoming the impacts in their respective countries.

Ministers and senior officials also called on the Commonwealth to advocate for an inclusive ‘Loss and Damage Fund’ that supports

the needs of women and girls equitably.

India’s Preetam B. Yashvant, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Child Development, endorsed the roadmap on achieving gender equality.

The meeting was chaired by Obediah Wilchcombe, Minister of Social Services and Urban Development of The Bahamas. Reflecting on the meeting in a press conference, minster Wilchcombe expressed his appreciation for the substantive outcomes.

“We have a roadmap coming out of this meeting which we (The Bahamas) and other countries will follow. Because it would not make too much sense three years from now to return saying the same old thing. What we want to do is to make a real difference. We are pleased that this meeting sets us up on a higher plane and at a faster pace to follow this roadmap," he said.

Recognising the significance of engaging men and boys in preventing and combating gender-based violence, ministers welcomed the launch of Secretary-General Scotland’s ‘For the Women in my Life’ campaign.

To be rolled out across the Commonwealth, the campaign will take a culturally sensitive approach towards involving men and boys in addressing violence against women and girls as active allies.

In their statement, ministers also highlighted the need for collecting and analysing sexdisaggregated data in order to develop evidence-based solutions and target them more accurately.

Iranian lawmakers say BRICS membership

improve economy, offset sanctions impact

Trump’s mug shot puts brake on his poll prospects

heavy toll on his general election prospects, though he is still the frontrunner in the party for nomination in 2024.

Majority of Americans are not none too happy with the fact that he has set an unhealthy unprecedented trend of having the high office of a president being mug shot and they are now taking the cases against him very seriously, with the DOJ ones topping the list of concerns, media reports said.

to

and an important step toward neutralising the US and European sanctions".

Shahriar Heidari, a member of the Iranian Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, told IRNA on Friday that Iran's membership in the BRICS will contribute to the ongoing effort to de-dollarise the world economy, Xinhua news agency reported.

Washington, Aug 26 (IANS)

Former US President Donald Trump is virtually painting the country red releasing his angry mug shot of surrender at Atlanta, in an effort to unleash a 'Red Tsunami' to build up his profile as a 'martyr'.

According to analysts, Trump is unaware that his heroic theatrics is boomeranging on him as latest polls calls for "Lock Him UP" cries from the public.

Trump, as indefatigable and indomitable in spirits as he may be despite four indictments and 100 counts of felony by juries of various courts on cases ranging from tax fraud, to hush money to election meddling, has nevertheless earned the ignominy of being the first president in the US history to be fingerprinted and mugshot like any ordinary accused criminal. The mug shot that has gone viral on the social media after Trump deliberately released has invoked a backlash as an new Politico/ IPSO poll turns in bad news as the upcoming hurricane of indictments are going to take a

Most people in the US are rather very skeptical of Trump's claim to be the victim of a legally baseless witch hunt or an elaborate, multi-jurisdictional effort to "weaponize" law enforcement authorities against him.

Shockingly for Trump, public sentiment in certain areas of the country is moving at hyper speed on how quickly Trump should be brought to trial and if he should be incarcerated when convicted. This is in sharp contrast to a previous poll by Politico magazine and IPSO polls in June conducted from August 18-21, roughly two-and-a-half weeks after Trump's 2nd federal indictment and several days after he was criminally charged in Fulton County in Atlanta under the notorious RICO act. The numbers were much less then at that time. After his 4th indictment, Trump proudly said at a dinner meeting with friends "I will never surrender".

The poll covered 1,032 adults, age 18 or older, interviewed online; it has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.2 percentage points for all respondents.

China activates emergency response to flooding in 13 regions

Tehran, Aug 26 (IANS) Iranian lawmakers said the country's accession to BRICS will help improve its economy and is an important step to offset the negative impact of US-led economic sanctions.

It was announced on Thursday at the 15th BRICS Summit held in South Africa that six countries, including Iran, Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have been invited to join the bloc, and their

membership will take effect on January 1, 2024.

Speaking to Iran's official news agency IRNA on Friday, Alireza Salimi, a member of the Iranian Parliament's presiding board, said Iran's membership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and BRICS, an acronym for five major emerging economies, namely Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, "is an outcome of the incumbent administration's active diplomacy

The lawmaker said that similar to its admission to the SCO, Iran's membership in the BRICS will have positive political and economic effects on the country and grow its geopolitical influence in the region.

By joining the BRICS, Iran will be able to improve its economic relations with other countries, reduce the impact of the sanctions, curb its inflation to a great extent and increase the national currency's value against the dollar, Heidari added.

Beijing, Aug 25 (IANS) China's Ministry of Water Resources on Friday activated a level-IV emergency response to flooding in 13 provincial-level regions. The regions are Jiangsu, Anhui, Shandong, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Chongqing, Sichuan, Guizhou, Yunnan, Tibet, Shaanxi and

Gansu, Xinhua news agency quoted the Ministry as saying From Friday to Sunday, heavy rain will sharply increase water levels in rivers including parts of the Yangtze and Huaihe river,s the Ministry said, adding that some small and medium-sized rivers in affected areas may see floods exceeding warning levels. It urged relevant water conservancy departments to closely monitor rain situations and strengthen early warning, with focus on ensuring the safety of reservoirs and the prevention of mountain torrents and floods in small and mediumsized rivers.

Russia rejects inclusion of Ukraine conflict in G20 document, China also raises objection

to the G20 mandate”. It however agreed with the rest of the Outcome Document.

New Delhi, Aug 25 (IANS) Russia on Friday rejected the inclusion of the Ukraine conflict in the Chair’s Summary and Outcome Document, which was released at the culmination of the G20 Trade and Investment Ministerial Meeting (TIMM) in Jaipur.

Meanwhile, China said that the meeting was not the "right forum" to discuss geopolitical issues and that it did not support the inclusion of the content in the Outcome Document.

Russia rejected the inclusion of the paragraph which referred to the Ukraine conflict and the G20 nations calling for a peaceful end to the crisis through dialogue, saying “that it does not conform

China on its part stated that the G20 meeting was not the "right forum" to discuss geopolitical issues and did not support the inclusion of the geopoliticalrelated content.

The Outcome Document, said: "This year, we have also witnessed the war in Ukraine, which has further adversely impacted global economy. There was a discussion on this issue. We reiterated our national positions as expressed in other fora, including the UN Security Council and the UN General Assembly." It further said that the forum "deplores in the strongest terms the aggression by the Russian Federation against Ukraine, and demands its complete and unconditional withdrawal from the territory of Ukraine. Most members strongly condemned the war in Ukraine and stressed that

it is causing immense human suffering and exacerbating existing fragilities in the global economy by constraining growth, increasing inflation, disrupting supply chains, heightening energy and food insecurity crisis, and elevating financial stability risks".

"It is essential to uphold international law and the multilateral system that safeguards peace and stability. This includes defending all the Purposes and Principles enshrined in the Charter of the UN and adhering to international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians and infrastructure in armed conflicts. The use or threat of use of nuclear weapons is inadmissible. The peaceful resolution of conflicts, efforts to address crises, as well as diplomacy and dialogue are vital. Today's era must not be of war," the Outcome Document added.

Sudan’s brutal conflict displaces more than 2 mn children: Unicef

limiting the delivery and access of lifesaving services to those in urgent need," it noted.

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin killed in plane crash, Putin tightlipped

ground and was reportedly in the air for less than half an hour.

A Wagner linked Telegram channel 'Grey Zone' reported Prigozhin's death, saying he was "killed as a result of actions by traitors of Russia"

Moscow, Aug 24 (IANS) Wagner mercenary group's chief Yevgeny Prigozhin, who stage a failed mutiny against Russia's military leaders, died in a plane crash in Tver region in Moscow, and a probe has been initiated into the incident, Federal Agency for Air Transport said.

The incident occurred on Wednesday evening when the aircraft, owned by Prigozhin, was flying from Moscow to St Petersburg with seven passengers and three crew, BBC reported. All ten bodies have been recovered and a criminal investigation has been launched.

The ill-fated aircraft Embraer Legacy caught fire on hitting the

Prigozhin was a key ally of Russia President Vladimir Putin but their relationship soured after the Wagner chief staged mutiny against country's military leaders. Charges against Prigozhin were dropped under a deal that he will end the rebellion and relocate to Belarus.

President Putin, who spoke at the BRICS summit in South Africa via video-link on Thursday, did not mention Prigozhin or the plane crash.

Though the Kremlin is yet to confirm whether the Wagner chief died in the plane crash, aviation officials said he was one of the passengers on board.

Geneva, Aug 25 (IANS) The ongoing brutal conflict in Sudan has led to more than 2 million children forced out of their homes -- an average of over 700 kids newly displaced every hour, according to the Unicef.

"As violence continues to ravage the country, over 1.7 million children are estimated to be on the move within Sudan’s borders and more than 470,000 have crossed into neighbouring countries," the UN agency said in its latest report published on Thursday.

The report said that presently, close to 14 million children are in urgent need of humanitarian support, many facing multiple threats and terrifying experiences every single day.

"Apart from conflict hotspots like Darfur and Khartoum, the heavy fighting has now spread to other populated areas, including in South and West Kordofan,

Citing the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification in Sudan (IPC) report, Unicef saod that 20.3 million people will be food insecure between July and September 2023 and expected to further exacerbate close to 10 million children’s health and nutrition status.

The report went on to say that the violence also continues to obstruct the delivery of health and nutrition services, putting millions of children at risk.

"In Khartoum, the Darfur and Kordofan regions, fewer than one-third of health facilities are fully functional. Insecurity and displacement are also preventing patients and health workers from reaching hospitals, with many facilities being reportedly attacked and destroyed."

Health systems in the other 11 states are overwhelmed due to the massive displacement of populations from hotspots to these less-affected states.

According to Unicef sources, all states in Sudan are reporting severe shortage and stockout of

New York, Aug 25 (IANS)

Conservative pundit and author Ann Coulter has been slammed for making racist comments targeting Indian-American presidential aspirants Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy, calling their clash during the Republican primary debate a "Hindu business".

medicines and supplies, including life-saving items.

In areas with high internal displacement and health systems stretched, such as the Blue and White Nile States, disease outbreaks, including measles, are resurfacing with reported associated deaths.

“With over two million children uprooted by the conflict in only a few months, and countless more trapped in its merciless grip, the urgency of our collective response cannot be overstated,” Mandeep O’Brien, Unicef Country Representative in Sudan. was quoted as saying in the report. “We are hearing unimaginable stories from children and families, some of whom lost everything and had to watch their loved ones die in front of their eyes. We said it before, and we are saying it again: we need peace now for children to survive.

Sudan has been witnessing deadly clashes between the country's armed forces and paramilitary forces in Khartoum and other areas since April 15, resulting in at least 3,000 deaths and more than 6,000 injuries, according to official figures.

Wildfires burn 60,000 hectares in Italy this year: Industry Association

Rome, Aug 26 (IANS) Wildfires have so far burned more than 600 square km. (60,000 hectares) of land in Italy, more than in all of 2022, Coldiretti, the country's main agricultural association said.

It said on Friday that the past two unusually dry and hot summers have left water levels in rivers and lakes low, contributing to dry conditions in wooded areas. The areas impacted most by the fires are the islands of Sicily and Sardinia, but other parts of southern Italy also experienced uncontrolled blazes. Most recently, fires torched the eastern part of the Tuscan island of Elba.

The total area impacted by fires is more than three times the size of the city of Milan in northern Italy, Xinhua news agency reported. Even though the summer of 2022 was affected by drought and heatwaves, the weather this year has been even more extreme with record high temperatures in many parts of the country. The back-to-back heatwaves have also

had a cumulative effect, leaving forests more vulnerable.

Police are reportedly conducting multiple investigations into possible arson in some cases of the wildfires, especially those in Sicily and Sardinia. A sevenmetre-tall wooden statue called the 'Dragon of Vaia' in Trentino, northern Italy, was burnt earlier this week and media reports indicate that police are "almost certain" arson was the case. On Friday, authorities in Greece said they had arrested 79 people on suspicion of arson in connection with recent fires in that country. In Italy, no arrests have been made so far.

Coldiretti said that in addition to the land lost to fires, the extreme weather events (windstorms, hail, and floods) that have occurred this summer in Italy have had other far-reaching impacts: grape production is expected to be 14 per cent below last year's already reduced harvest.

"Nikki and Vivek are involved in some Hindu business, it seems. Not our fight," Coulter wrote on X, formerly Twitter, a day after Haley and Ramaswamy sparred over foreign policy and US aid to Ukraine and Israel.

Responding to Coulter's tweet, Ramaswamy’s senior adviser and communications director, Tricia

McLaughlin, told NBC News: "Ann can tweet whatever she wants to.

Vivek shares and lives by the same Judeo-Christian values that this nation was founded on -- and the way Vivek lives his family life offers a positive example for their own children and grandchildren."

Ramaswamy is the nation’s second Hindu presidential

candidate after former Hawaii congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard who ran as a Democrat in 2020. Haley, born Nimrata 'Nikki' Randhawa, was raised by Sikh parents and she later converted to Christianity.

WORLD THIS WEEK

In collaboration with National Institute for Advanced Studies, Bengaluru

Authored by Akriti Sharma, Ankit Singh, Padmashree Anandhan, Anu Maria Joseph, Femy Francis and Rishika Yadav, Genesy Balasingam, Sandra Sajeev D Costa and Dhriti Mukherjeee

Japan-Australia: Building defence cooperation under strategic urgency

Femy Francis

On 08 August, Japan's Foreign Ministry announced that JapanAustralia's Reciprocal Access Agreement is set to kickstart on 13 August 2023. The ministry stated: "On 08 August 2023, diplomatic notes for the entry into force of the 'Agreement between Japan and Australia on Facilitation of Mutual Access and Cooperation between the Self-Defense Forces of Japan and the Australian Defense Force ('Japan-Australia Reciprocal Access Agreement', or 'JapanAustralia RAA')' (signed on 06 January 2022) were exchanged in Tokyo and Canberra. Following this exchange, this agreement will enter into force on 13 August 2023." Japanese Foreign Minister

Yoshimasa Hayashi expressed that the initiative would help strengthen cooperation between the two countries. Post the agreement, Australia is only the second country whose armed forces would be allowed in Japan after the US.

The agreement was framed on 06 January 2022, signed by Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his Australian counterpart Scott Morrison. RAA aimed at facilitating defence cooperation between. In addition to defence cooperation, the agreement removes restrictions and provides easy access to the transportation of weaponry and other supplies to conduct joint exploration and inter-operability, from military to disaster

management initiatives. PM Fumio Kishida called it a: "Landmark agreement that will bring Japan-Australia security cooperation to a new level." At the same time, Scott Morrison stressed that this: "opens a new chapter for advanced defense and security cooperation." The agreement was mooted in 2014, and a broad agreement was reached by 2020 over RAA, after which a lull was observed owing to the issue of Japan's death penalty policy law as Australia stands against capital punishment. To address this, an appendix in the agreement states that Australia will be allowed to refuse the transfer of accused soldiers to Japan.

NEWS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

and technological bullying." On 09 August, Biden signed an order that limits US investment and expertise in semiconductors and microelectronics, quantum computing, and certain artificial intelligence capabilities in China, Hong Kong and Macao.

Singapore: Skips joint defence exercise amid controversy

defence excercises.

Cambodia: Hun Manet appointed Prime Minister

defending the territory. Quoting Security Council Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya emphasized that Ayungin Shoal will not be abandoned by Filipinos, following a recent incident where China fired water cannons at a Philippine Navy vessel escorting civilian boats delivering supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre outpost. The Philippines denounced this action and sent a note verbale to China, asserting that it violates international law.

Pakistan: Iran gas pipeline project shelved by Islamabad

On 10 August, Business Recorder reported that Iran refused to accept the force majeure notice served by Pakistan to suspend work on the multi-billiondollar Iran-Pakistan (IP) gas pipeline project. It is estimated that according to the penalty cause under the Pipeline Project agreement Pakistan has to pay USD 18 billion if the country does not go ahead with the gas pipeline project.

Russia: Roscosmos launches Luna-25 to study Moon's South Pole

excavators. Similarly, Sweden, Finland, and Norway have issued yellow and orange alerts facing the worst floods and storms in 2550 years. On 08 August, Portugal experienced forest fires of 6700 hectares in the south, and the north has been issued a red alert to carry out early evacuations. The government has reported the temperatures to have hit 41 degrees Celsius, with more than 120 municipalities marked highrisk areas.

The US: Army to start integrating kinetic air defense platforms with its laser weapon

On 12 August, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi prompted the Philippines to jointly work in defusing tensions in the South China Sea. He apprised Beijing is willing to address the issues with the Philippines and looks forward to reaching a consensus. China has built artificial islands in the exclusive economic zone of the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia, adding to bilateral tensions.

China: Commerce and Foreign Affairs ministries slam Biden's executive order on limiting US overseas tech investment

On 10 August, the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in his interaction with media, responded to a question on Biden's latest move to limit technological access under US investment. He said: "Under the guise of national security, the US side restricts the investment of US enterprises in China and engages in pan-security and panpoliticization, the real purpose of which is to deprive China of its right to development and safeguard its own hegemonic and selfish interests, which is naked economic coercion and scientific

On 10 August, Myanmar Now reported that Singapore opted out of an international defence ministers' tabletop exercise hosted by Russia and Myanmar's military regime. This marked the first time an ASEAN member skipped such an event. The exercise, involving the ASEAN Defence Ministers' meeting with experts' working group on counter-terrorism, saw the US, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and South Korea boycotting due to concerns over Russia and Myanmar's objectives. Despite parallels to Myanmar's internal conflict, where the junta labels opposition groups as "terrorists," the exercise proceeded.

Singapore's absence was attributed to its request for virtual participation being denied. This decision underscores concerns about ASEAN's stance on Myanmar's junta's participation in

On 08 August, Khmer Times reported that Cambodia's King Norodom Sihamoni officially named Hun Manet as the country's Prime Minister, marking a peaceful transition of power. In a royal decree, the King appointed Hun Manet as the new leader, succeeding long-serving Prime Minister Hun Sen. Hun Manet, who has a strong military and educational background, is the 33rd premier of Cambodia and the first new head of government in nearly four decades. The transition was based on the ruling party's overwhelming victory in recent elections, where the Cambodian People's Party (CPP) received over 82 per cent of the vote.

Philippines: Vows to defend Ayungin Shoal amidst Chinese aggression

On 08 August, Philstar reported that amidst Chinese vessels attempting to block and surround Ayungin Shoal, the Philippines declared its unwavering commitment to

On 11 August, Russia's space agency Roscosmos launched its first lunar mission after 50 years. Luna-25 mission aimed to study the moon's south pole, which is believed to hold water in the form of ice. Such resources will be critical to support life on the moon and help explore the cosmos from the moon's surface. According to the Russian Academy of Sciences spokesperson, "The first goal is to find the water, to confirm that it is there.. to study its abundance." From the geopolitical dimension, the US, China, and India have been consistently working to land on the moon. The ongoing efforts by big space powers to mark their presence are driving a pole race on the moon.

Slovenia, Austria, Croatia, Portugal, and Scandinavia experience climate extremities

On 04 August, deadly floods occurred in Slovenia, resulting in landslides affecting more than 2.1 million people. Following the continued floods, a team from Germany's Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) launched an operation to evaluate the damages and deploy more personnel with equipment for rescue. Slovenia's government announced the execution of a Disaster Response Mechanism, where rescue teams from other EU countries will involve in recovery operations. Apart from this, the German Foreign Ministry will provide USD 767000 for the operation, and France will support it with two special

On 08 August, the head of the US Army Space and Missile Defense Command and the Joint Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems Office director discussed reliability problems associated with directed energy weapons and their integration with kinetic air defence platforms like drones, artillery and missiles.

The US Army is yet to receive the fourth and final Stryker-based 50-kilowatt laser prototype next month. Raytheon has developed the Directed Energy Manoeuvre Short-Range Air Defense system, or DE M-SHORAD, which can take down class 1 to 3 aerial drones and incoming rockets, artillery and mortars.

The US: Nuclear fusion experiment achieves net gain energy; scientists claim it is like making stars on earth

On 07 August, Reuters reported that scientists at a lab in California successfully triggered a fusion reaction resulting in a net energy gain. This feat was achieved for the second time in under a year. Nuclear fusion is the energy source for the Sun's radiance and is deemed a cleaner energy with less radioactive decay. The Energy Department called it a crucial step for advancements in national defence and future of clean power.

About the Authors

Akriti Sharma and Ankit Singh are PhD scholars in the School of Conflict and Security Studies at the National Institute of Advanced Studies. Padmashree Anandhan, Anu Maria Joseph, Femy Francis and Rishika Yadav are Research Associates at NIAS. Genesy Balasingam, Sandra Sajeev D Costa and Dhriti Mukherjeee are Research Interns at NIAS

The report has been modified by Australia India News for space considerations

China: Wang Yi calls Philippines to discuss South China Sea dispute

Roark Capital buys Subway in one of biggest acquisitions in fast-food industry

owns Inspire, which also operates Subway rival Jimmy John’s, CNN reported.

potential, and the substantial value of our brand and our franchisees around the world,”

News organisations can also get a share of X’s ad revenue: Musk

from news articles shared on the platform.

New York, Aug 24 (IANS) Subway has sold itself to private equity firm Roark Capital, ending a sixmonth long search for a buyer.

It brings to an end the sandwich chain’s near six-decade run as a family-owned business, a media report said.

Roark’s deal is one of the biggest acquisitions in fast food history, coming in just under Inspire Brands’ $11.3 billion purchase of Dunkin’ in October 2020. Roark

In a statement, Subway said that the transaction is a “major milestone in Subway’s multiyear transformation journey, combining Subway’s global presence and brand strength with Roark’s deep expertise in restaurant and franchise business models.”

Roark holds investments in a number of large restaurant chains, including Arby’s, Auntie Anne’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Carvel and Sonic, among others, the media outlet reported.

“This transaction reflects Subway’s long-term growth

Subway CEO John Chidsey said in a statement. “Subway has a bright future with Roark, and we are committed to continuing to focus on a win-win-win approach for our franchisees, our guests and our employees.”

Terms of the deal weren’t disclosed. However, the Wall Street Journal reported the purchase price was “around $9.6 billion,” which would be slightly below the chain’s $10 billion asking price. The deal’s closure is “subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions,” Subway said. Subway put itself up for sale in February.

Musk’s X takes on LinkedIn, opens job hiring Beta for verified companies

“Unlock early access to the X Hiring Beta -- exclusively for Verified Organisations,” X said in a post.

“Feature your most critical roles and organically reach millions of relevant candidates. Apply for the Beta today,” the Elon Musk-run company added.

New Delhi, Aug 26 (IANS) X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday finally revealed plans to take on professional networking platform LInkedIn, saying that early access to the X Hiring Beta is now available to verified organisations. The verified organisations (those who pay $1,000 a month for the verification status) can now feature job listings on their X profiles with the new feature.

It’s not yet a LinkedIn killer but surely a step in that direction to make X an “everything app”.

“Sign up for early access to X Hiring, currently available for Verified Organisations. If eligible, we'll enable the Hiring features on your account,” said X. Reports surfaced earlier this week that X will soon roll out a job search feature, allowing users to find jobs directly on the platform.

Last month, app researcher Nima Owji had posted a screenshot detailing the job listing feature which revealed that the company describes the feature as "Twitter Hiring" and it is a "free" feature for "verified organisations to post jobs on your company profile, and attract top talent to your open positions". Moreover, the verified organisations will be able to add up to five job positions to their profiles.

Musk had hinted at this feature in May this year. X's first acquisition since Musk took over was Laskie. So it's possible that the acquisition assisted the platform to create and release the feature.

Ray of hope for 20K homebuyers as work begins in Noida’s ‘ghost

over the next four years.

Noida, Aug 26 (IANS) For nearly 20,000 Jaypee Infratech Limited (JIL) homebuyers, who have been waiting for the hand over of their flats for more than 13 years, a ray of hope has emerged as the work on at least 59 unfinished towers in the erstwhile ‘ghost town' begins to speed up.

In March this year, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) approved the Mumbai-based Suraksha Group's bid to buy Jaypee Infratech Ltd and finish housing units in various stalled projects spread across Noida and Greater Noida.

Suraksha is infusing Rs 250 crore in the debt-ridden Jaypee Group firm, along with a Rs 3,000 crore loan for completion of the flats

Jayashree Swaminathan, a homebuyer who has seen the decade-old agony unfold in front of her eyes, is relieved that the wait will soon be over for most of the buyers. “Despite Jaiprakash Associates Limited (JAL) still making frivolous appeals and the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) officials meeting Suraksha Group to iron out compensation issues and other land dues, homebuyers are upbeat that the work on several unfinished towers is now in progress,” Swaminathan told IANS. “After the NCLT verdict, Suraksha does not need to pay a single penny to YEIDA on legal grounds. Yet, they are willing to compensate farmers to the tune of around Rs 1,689 crore, which the authorities have to take cognisance of and drive the momentum to deliver the pending flats as fast as possible,” she added.

YEIDA wants to recover Rs 1,689 crore from Jaypee Infratech or the takeover company Suraksha as 64.7 per cent hiked land compensation and Rs 6,111 crore as additional land compensation. To protect the interests of the farmers, YEIDA challenged the NCLT’s order in NCLAT, which directed the two stakeholders to settle the issue via meetings.

Suraksha Group recently submitted a proposal to the Yamuna Expressway authority, agreeing to build around 20,000 flats and compensate the farmers, along with certain conditions.

In August 2017, the NCLT kicked off insolvency proceedings against the Noida-based realty major.

As last reported, there were 18,767 active homebuyers who paid a collective principal amount of Rs 8,676 crore. Nearly 413 homebuyers cancelled their bookings and their refund worth Rs 64 crore was still pending.

On X, posts with news articles only included the lead image and the URL, stripping out the headline and text and links displayed only an article’s lead image.

New Delhi, Aug 24 (IANS) Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk on Thursday said that news organisations can also get a share of X's advertising revenue.

In his latest bid to woo journalists after paying creators via his X advertising revenue programme, the X owner has now proposed a new way for media houses to make money.

"Our advertising revenue share programme also applies to organisations (news or otherwise) who wish to participate," he posted.

On Tuesday, the billionaire invited journalists to publish directly on X (formerly Twitter) and earn a higher income, as he started stripping headlines and text

"This is coming from me directly. Will greatly improve the aesthetics," Musk informed via a post.

Earlier, he said that if you're a journalist who wants more freedom to write and a higher income, "then publish directly on this platform!".

A follower reacted: "Then give us better tools."

Meanwhile, Musk has now pushed for X to develop a format for news articles where they only show a lead image and the source URL. The image would still serve as a link to the article.

The new change may be to reduce the height of individual posts so users' timelines display more content.

Thakwani’s gamble with steel in Ghana

New Delhi, Aug 25 (IANS) An Indian man's chance entry into Ghana in Africa, has turned him into a well-respected steel producer.

The man's name is Mukesh Thakwani and he is from Gujarat.

Thakwani, chief executive officer of B5Plus Limited said, "I didn't plan to start a business in Ghana when I arrived in Accra, the country’s capital in 1996 in transit from Liberia."

But 27 years later, his company is producing over 400,000 tonnes a year and employing thousands of Ghanaians.

Since its inception, B5Plus Limited has won over 100 national awards, but Thakwani says, the "one dear to me is the recognition by the Ministry of Health this year, in appreciation for the company's contribution in donating oxygen to over 100 health facilities to avert crisis during the COVID-19 pandemic." Giving a background to his entry to Ghana, he said, "I arrived in Ghana in 1996 in transit from Liberia and fell in love with Ghana and the Ghanaian people."

On this particular visit, Thakwani said he met his uncle who had a business in Ghana and for some reason, he took the decision to spend some time and work for him for a while. Later, he decided to stay and then took the decision to grow a business to produce steel products.

In 2002, he decided to set up his own company. "We started on this very ground where B5Plus is today. It was all bush. When I called a friend to tell him I was

building a steel factory, he asked me who will come to buy steel from the bush. No one used to come around here after 5.00 p.m. I remember I had to come here to cut the bush with a friend and my driver," he said.

The company that started producing only 200 tonnes of nails was able to win over the market as their products became popular because of their price. So, they decided to move into manufacturing galvanised products and later iron rods.

Thakwani said, today, "we are enormously proud to say that B5Plus today is producing 400,000 tonnes of steel a year.

In addition to this we have moved into other types of steel production in Ghana which we export to other West African countries."

It is not only steel that he is producing. He has also started a school, the Delhi (Private) School (DPS) near Tema, in Accra. The school is noted for its academic and non academic activities like Art, Dance, Drama, Football, Volley ball, singing, swimming which is a holistic approach to education under one roof.

Thakwani said DPS was started because education is very dear to his family. "We always believe that giving education is important. If one person is given education, he can help support 10 people in his family. We realised that in Tema there was a great need for quality education, and we also wanted to create future leaders," he added.

town’

Australian states facing increased risk of summer blackouts

much of the national electricity market (NEM) is facing significant reliability problems over the next decade, starting in the upcoming summer in the southern states of South Australia (SA) and Victoria.

high-demand periods coupled with generation outages and low renewable output, but some risk will remain."

SmartIDEAthon: Odisha student wins Rs 2 lakh, trip to Boston for his innovation

Canberra, Aug 31 (IANS) States in southeast Australia are facing an elevated risk of summer blackouts without urgent investment, the energy market operator warned on Thursday.

The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) released its latest 10-year market forecast, calling for "urgent and ongoing investment" to bolster the reliability of the electricity grid, reports Xinhua news agency.

According to AEMO projections,

Approximately 3.4 gigawatts (GW) of new generation and storage has been added to the NEM since 2022 but AEMO chief executive Daniel Westerman said forecast hotter conditions are expected to cause a spike in electricity use.

"We're expecting an elevated level of risk compared to recent years, mostly due to hotter and drier conditions, and coal-fired generation reliability is at historic lows," he said in a statement.

"The entire industry is focused on managing the risks in the summer ahead, particularly during

The report said 62 per cent of the NEM's coal-fired power generators are currently slated to shut down by 2033, creating a shortfall in the grid that must be replaced.

It said electricity consumption is expected to grow over the next 10 years due to population growth, economic activity and the electrification of Australia's economy as the country pursues a 2050 net zero emissions target. "To ensure Australian consumers continue to have access to reliable electricity supplies, it's critical that planned investments in transmission, generation and storage projects are urgently delivered," Westerman said.

India’s moon rover finds oxygen, titanium, aluminium, and other elements on the moon

made the first-ever in-situ measurements on the elemental composition of the lunar surface near the south pole. These in-situ measurements confirm the presence of sulphur in the region unambiguously, something that was not feasible by the instruments onboard the orbiters.

New Delhi, 25 Aug (IANS) In an exhilarating grand finale of the ‘SmartIDEAthon 2023’ -- an annual pan-India mega pitch-fest organised by GITAM Deemed to be university, young entrepreneur Anup Paikaray bagged the winner’s title, a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh and a fully sponsored trip to Boston.

Presenting to an eminent jury, Anup a student of the Odisha University of Technology and Research made a winning pitch for his startup Newrup Tech Solutions.

internationally-trained venture coaches, a sponsored trip to the USA to showcase at Boston Entrepreneurship Week, and cash and grants worth INR 30 Lakh for winners and runners-up.

Shortlisted from over 1000 pan-India entries, the finalists refined their pitches in a series of advanced boot camps and personalised mentoring by internationally trained venture coaches. The finale took place in person at GITAM’s University campus on August 25.

Chennai, Aug 28 (IANS) India’s moon rover has found the presence of oxygen, aluminium, sulphur and other elements near the lunar south pole, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said on Tuesday. Investigation regarding the presence of hydrogen is underway, the Indian space agency added.

According to ISRO, the LaserInduced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) instrument onboard Chandrayaan-3 rover has

LIBS is a scientific technique that analyses the composition of materials by exposing them to intense laser pulses. A highenergy laser pulse is focused onto the surface of a material, such as a rock or soil. The laser pulse generates an extremely hot and localised plasma, and the collected plasma light is spectrally resolved and detected by detectors such as Charge Coupled Devices.

Since each element emits a characteristic set of wavelengths

of light when it's in a plasma state, the elemental composition of the material is determined. According to ISRO, preliminary analyses have unveiled the presence of aluminum (Al), sulphur (S), calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), chromium (Cr), and titanium (Ti) on the lunar surface. Further measurements have revealed the presence of manganese (Mn), silicon (Si), and oxygen (O).

LIBS payload is developed at the Laboratory for Electro-Optics Systems (LEOS)/ISRO, Bengaluru. India on August 23 reached the Moon with its lander safely landing on the lunar soil in a text book style. Later the rover rolled down and started doing experiments. Interestingly, India's first moon mission found the presence of water on the moon.

PM lauds Kakrapar nuclear power plant for becoming fully operational

(formerly Twitter).

The reactor at the Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP) had started commercial operations on June 30, but was operating at 90 per cent of its capacity till now. The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) is building two 700 MW pressurised heavy water reactors at Kakrapar.

He developed heat-powered air blowers to harness excess heat from Chulas or Tandoors, converting it into rotational energy for an internal fan, at just Rs 500.

“It thereby seeks to impact the lives of over two billion women still cooking on traditional chulhas/mud stoves worldwide,” the jury members said. The University said that winners and runners-up won personalised coaching and boot camps by

Pawan Kumar Chandana, Skyroot Aerospace co-founder and ex-ISRO scientist said, “Entrepreneurship gives immense satisfaction and helps create impact and employment. A career in space tech is a very rewarding and satisfying experience for every engineer. Space can sustain trillions of people because of the resources. It is an exciting future for all of humanity.”

Krish Nangegadda, Chief Innovation Officer, GITAM (Deemed to be University) said, “Entrepreneurship education gives you skills that you can use anywhere.

POLYFUELER, which is working on revolutionising waste management by transforming diverse plastic waste into fuel, powered by a proprietary catalyst.

Gadkari unveils world’s first prototype car, says biofuel will eradicate stubble burning almost to nil

"And if we see the pollution graph, 40 per cent of the pollution is generated due to the fuel. I hardly stay in Delhi for two or three days and when I return back to my native place I am down with infections. Everyone knows the condition of Delhi and the level of pollution," Gadkari said.

New Delhi, Aug 29 (IANS) Road

Transport and Highways Minister

New Delhi, Aug 31 (IANS) Prime minister Narendra Modi on Thursday lauded the country's first indigenously-developed 700 MW nuclear power plant in Gujarat's Kakrapar for becoming fully operational.

"India achieves another milestone.

The first largest indigenous 700 MW Kakrapar Nuclear Power Plant Unit-3 in Gujarat starts operations at full capacity.

Congratulations to our scientists and engineers," he posted on X

Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday unveiled the world's first prototype of the BS6 Stage II 'Electrified Flex Fuel Vehicle' which is developed by Toyota Kirloskar Motors. The minister said that the bio fuel will eradicate the problem of stubble burning almost by 100 per cent and it will also help in doubling farmers' income. Speaking at the unveiling ceremony of the prototype of the flex-fuel Toyota Innova Hycross hybrid which can run on up to 85 percent ethanol blend fuel, Gadkari said: "Today is a historic day for the entire world as first prototype is going to unveil. Earlier, Vikram Kirloskar was there and I usually took follow up about the prototype every time from him, but his demise is a big loss for us."

He said that India is currently importing fuel worth Rs 16 lakh crore.

He said that the Haryana's Panipat plant is generating ethanol, which is generated from the bio-waste. He cited the example that how 50 percent bio-aviation fuel is being used in two different flights. The Minister said that 65 per cent of the GDP of our country is coming from agriculture background and he knows about the the condition of the farmers.

"My dream is to transform 'annadatas' (food giver) to 'urjadatas' (producer of solar power)," the Minister said.

He said that he himself belongs to a farmer family and know that how much benefit it will be for farmers. He said that bio fuel will eradicate the problem of stubble burning to almost by 100 per cent.

Praising the vision of the Prime Minister for making farmers Aatmanirbhar, the Minister said that ethanol being an indigenous, eco-friendly, and renewable fuel holds promising prospects for India.

From the editor’s desk

Strong relations with Greece crucial for India’s interests in Mediterranean

When Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Greece’s highest civilian award- the Grand Cross of the Order of Honour, it was the recognition of the strong bond of relationship that the two ancient civilizations- Indian and Greek, have had with each other since ancient times.

The Indian Prime Minister after receiving the honour quite rightly dedicated it to all his fellow countrymen. The occasion was also a reminder that ancient bonds of friendship can form the bedrock for modern relationships also. It is a different matter that Modi’s visit to Greece was the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 40 years. This could be due to the modern compulsions of not being able to look beyond a certain radius while conducting foreign policy, which has always been overshadowed by considerations of either the superpower dynamics or the intentions of the neighbouring powers.

But with the coming of the Modi government in India, foreign policy imperatives have changed, and the country has gone on to embrace the wider world. If India is to become a world power, it has to look beyond its immediate considerations of power equations, rather it should look towards having a better say in matters of the larger world. And therefore, after concluding the BRICS summit, the Indian Prime Minister embarked on his maiden visit to Greece, signaling to the world that India acknowledges and respects past history as much as it is aware of and prepared for the current history in the making. India’s colonial past may seem to have obliterated some of the memories of its glorious past, but India is working on a revival of its rich ancient culture and a power-packed history in the modern international context. So Modi’s Greece visit has a lot of symbolic value as well, besides being valuable in terms of the modern dynamics of trade and power politics. And Modi has always been very careful in choosing the gifts he offers to the leaders and statesmen and stateswomen of other countries. This time the Indian Prime Minister offered as gifts the Meghalaya Shawl and Chhattisgarh's Dhokra Art, along with the Telangana Bidri Art vases, to the President and Prime Minister of Greece with their spouses being equal recipients. The underlying symbolism evoked a sense of recognition of the close relations these two nations had in the past. Greece also

reciprocated honouring the Indian Prime Minister with its highest civilian award.

Modi’s foreign visits have also been about showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage and its awakening in the present as a rising international power. By giving India’s unique gifts to his foreign counterparts and heads of states, Modi familiarizes them with India’s rich culture, if they are not already familiar with it. And when he meets or addresses Indian diasporas, which he invariably does, Modi reminds them of India’s potential and its rich cultural past. Culture builds nations and binds a people to remain a cohesive unit. During his talks with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the Indian Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the Mediterranean region to India's interests. He also conveyed to his Greek counterpart that India would like to build on the foundations of existing relations and also extend its relations to other countries with which it has not yet had much interaction. India’s emphasizing of its relations with Greece can be seen from the perspective that Pakistan and Turkey, along with Azerbaijan comprise a nexus that wants to annex Indian and Greek territories. Moreover Pakistan and Turkey together have the potential to disrupt India and Greece’s maritime strategy. Greece is arguably the greatest naval power in the Eastern Mediterranean. Its presence forces the Turkish Navy to confine itself to the coastline of Asia Minor. Also the Port of Piraeus allows entry into European markets. Therefore from India’s point of view, it is imperative that it should expand its influence into the Mediterranean basin, which will, of course, be unwelcome from Turkey’s perspective. But Greece will not mind it if India pursues the policy of forging strong relations with it.

In concrete terms, Modi’s recent visit to Greece will strengthen India-Greece relations, with the added benefit of helping India in extending its reach to the Mediterranean region, which must be viewed as a sign of India’s growing confidence in matters of international importance. India wants to extend its influence in Asia, Africa and Europe in a legitimate manner, showcasing its culture, its growing economic power, and its intention to build a peaceful and just world order where every country, irrespective of the size of its economy and population or its military strength, will benefit from a level playing field.

Tracing ISRO’s space exploration missions

By Rabindra Mukherjee

When Chandrayaan-3 lander succeeded in making the softlanding on the surface of the moon recently, the Indian Space Research Organisation(ISRO) entered the league of premier space agencies in the world. India became the first country in the world to land close to the moon's South Pole, a feat that would take Indian space exploration to a new level altogether in the years to come. The whole nation and Indian diaspora everywhere erupted in joyous celebrations after India became the fourth nation in history to land on the lunar surface, after the US, former USSR, and China. It was quite a bold decision on the part of the Indian space scientists to decide to land on the dark side of the moon where no man had gone before, especially after the unsuccessful attempt by Chandrayaan-2 in 2019 to land on the moon’s surface. This shows the kind of confidence Indian scientists have on their ability, as also the support they got from the Modi government. Normally governments would be wary of funding another similar project once a previous one had failed in its mission. But it goes to the credit of the Modi government that it kept boosting the scientists to prepare themselves for the next Chandrayaan mission undeterred by what had happened before. And ISRO must be commended for the good work they have done this time, and in taking all possible measures and safeguards to ensure this Chandrayaan mission does not disappoint the Indians wherever they may be in the world. In an effort to understand the trajectory of ISRO’s elevation to this premier status, a peep into its history briefly may be of immense help to those who now look upon this institution with respect and admiration. Scientists come and go, but their legacy accumulates and remains intact in the very institution they nurture throughout their respective tenures while working for the institution. ISRO’s notable milestones can be studied under three categories: satellites, launch vehicles, and planetary exploration.

It all began for ISRO with the launching of the Aryabhata satellite in 1975 to conduct experiments in X-ray astronomy, aeronomics, and solar physics. The 360 kg spacecraft Aryabhata was entirely designed and fabricated by ISRO. The erstwhile USSR offered to launch the satellite for the Indians free of cost, and it did so, though Aryabhata remained operational for only about five days in space and then lost power which resulted in a loss of communication. Then the two experimental remote-sensing satellites - Bhaskar-1 and Bhaskar-2 were sent into space in 1979 and 1981, respectively. These satellites were followed by the

launch of the IRS-1A into a polar sun-synchronous orbit in 1988.

After that the era of INSATs came in 1992. Initially it was built in the US and then the subsequent INSATs were indigenously built in India. The launch of KALPANA-1 in 2002 ushered in an era of ISRO-built exclusive meteorological satellites.

Since India did not have a viable launch vehicle programme, this was precisely what ISRO’s scientists wanted to kick-start without much delay. The first Indian launch vehicle to arrive on the scene was the SVL-3 in 1980. The previous attempt to send the SVL-3 into space in 1979 had proved to be a failure. Since SLV-3’s payload capability wasn’t much, to say the least, the next development in the series was that of the Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV). But ASLV also did not prove successful, necessitating a new generation of launch vehicles called the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). PSLV proved to be the most reliable launch vehicle at that time, sending many Indian and foreign satellites into space, including Chandrayaan-1 in 2008, and Mangalyaan, the Mars Orbiter Mission, in 2013. But technology does not remain static and launch vehicle technology was no exception. The next classes of rockets that have entered the scene are the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). GSLVs use a better technology, unlike the previous classes of rockets. It uses cryogenic engines which use liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen. This technology helps in providing greater thrust to the engines than the previous engines in use. Interestingly, ISRO was left with no choice but to develop cryogenic engines indigenously after the US decided not to transfer the technology to India in the 1990s. So it must go as a tribute to Indian space scientists, for they rose to the occasion and built cryogenic engines within the country itself. Using the cryogenic engine technology ISRO’s heaviest launch vehicle LVM-3 accomplished its first successful mission in 2017, when it carried the communication satellite GSAT-19 satellite into space. Incidentally, this launch vehicle carried Chandrayaan-2, weighing 3,850 kg, to space in 2019. LVM-3 also has the distinction of taking Chandrayaan-3 into space recently, a mission that has proved successful so far.

Following the building of a strong infrastructure that ISRO has done, the focus naturally shifted to more ambitious projects. Space exploration is of immense interest to most countries and India does not want to lag behind in this endeavour.

The stories of space missions and explorations are always very interesting from the perspective of the expectations they carry with them. In the initial years of

ISRO, space missions catered only to fulfil direct benefits to India.

But as India gained confidence in its space programmes, it became ambitious. Chandrayaan-1 was India’s first attempt to reach the moon. The Chandrayaan-1 mission was launched on October 22, 2008, which entered the lunar orbit on November 8. After six days, the Moon Impact Probe, carrying Indian colours on its sides, crash-landed on the moon’s surface making India the fifth country in the world to have reached the surface of the moon. Significantly, the orbiter of Chandrayaan-1 found evidence of water on the moon.

The real breakthrough for ISRO came in 2013, when it launched Mangalyaan successfully reaching the milestone of becoming the fourth space agency in the world to reach the mars orbit after Russia’s Roscosmos, NASA, and ESA. The mission proved successful despite a shoestring budget. Following Mangalyaan’s success, which gave a tremendous boost to ISRO’s confidence, the Indian space agency was pretty much upbeat about its Chandrayaan-2 mission. Chandrayaan-2 began its lunar journey on July 22, 2019. Much was expected of its lander, Vikram, which was planned to make a soft-landing on the moon’s surface on September 7. But as is now known, minutes before the planned touchdown, ISRO lost contact with the spacecraft. Vikram could not reduce its speed and instead of soft-landing it crashed into the lunar surface. Though Vikram had failed to accomplish softlanding, the Chandrayaan-2 orbiter continued to work without any glitches and gathered a lot of new information about the environment on the moon. Now that Chandrayaan-3 has accomplished soft-landing on the moon and that too on the difficult dark side near the moon's South Pole, India is assured of its scientific capabilities. Chandrayaan-3 is just the beginning as ISRO has many other plans to accomplish through its space missions. India has been preparing to send its first astronaut mission, which is being called Gaganyaan. This mission aims to send three Indian astronauts to space on India’s own spacecraft. However, ISRO has so far not announced any date to launch the mission. But ISRO is launching its solar observatory Aditya-L1 early next month. This mission will be followed by an earth observation satellite, which has been built in collaboration with NASA. ISRO has also plans to follow up on its Mars orbiter mission, which has concluded recently. In fact ISRO chief S Somnath is confident that India will land on Mars, Venus and other planets, even on asteroids, if it is possible. The successful moon mission is just the beginning.

Demystifying the idea of leadership

By D.C. Pathak

New Delhi: The current literature on 'Leadership' mostly deals with individual paradigms of what is essentially an integral concept and it often does this in a manner that overemphasised at best only a particular facet of leadership presenting it as the exclusive hallmark of the success of the leader.

Nothing illustrates this better than the expansive writings on VUCA -- a term said to have been used by the US Army post-Cold War -- to describe the challenge leaders faced in handling a situation that was marked by volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity.

In the world of business as also in the area of security concerns of the nation, it is now acknowledged that the success of the Information Technology revolution, with 1991 as its cut-off year, created a new world called the Age of Information where 'change was the only constant'.

The advent of VUCA was a reinforcement of the fundamental plank of leadership in the new world whose mandate was that 'knowledge-based decisionmaking' was a prime determinant though not the only one -- of a leader’s success.

A leader has to be a decisive person and his decisions are based not on 'charisma' or 'inheritance' but on information that bridged the gap between a 'decision' and a 'guess'.

The added demand now is that a decision may have to be taken on knowledge that was not as complete as the leader would have liked it to be and this puts primacy on the leader's 'imagination' which is a gifted trait that enabled the leader to see beyond the information available in the present and visualise what would be the 'shape of things to come'.

Being well-informed on various relevant spheres in any context is therefore a basic requirement of a successful leader. Corporates recognise the importance of knowledge-based decisionmaking and employ professional teams to collate and analyse what

is called ‘business Intelligence’ available externally as well as from within the organisation.

Correctly interpreting what looked complex and ambiguous in an environment of volatility and uncertainty, is of great help in reaching the right decisions.

A successful CEO today uses the totality of information available to him and also derives benefit from his or her own experience of the world -- not only of a particular line of business -- in taking the judgement call.

If a good decision is based on knowledge, decentralisation of decision-making -- the hallmark of a successful corporate entity -- would also be logically rooted in that idea particularly when relevant information available in the organisation, was all supposed to be shared down the line. It is this emphasis on being wellinformed that has given newfound importance to 'feedback from below' - 'machine learning' is a gift of modern technology serving the same cause.

All business is human activity and the content of leadership is synonymous with the ability of the leader to interact with the 'followers' as well as with the people at large.

The persona of a leader must satisfy three fundamental requisites -- authenticity, understanding of human nature and responses and impartiality about awarding credits to others.

Authenticity is measured by the self-confidence of the leader, reputation about the fulfilment of promises made and adoption of the organisation’s value system in thought and deeds. Leadership is thus a combination of inherent merits and acquired learning.

More specifically, a leader can task the people while leading them in pursuit of an initiative but he or she must constructively be in a position to give guidance on any matter brought to the leader’s notice.

A leader does not have to fish for credits -- whatever the achievement of any teams under him, he gets praised for the same

of his seniority. It should come easy to a leader to establish inner transparency, follow a methodology of work that was not ‘coterie’-based and create an acceptable code of ethics for the organisation. He must ensure a tension-free environment within, encourage the members to follow the tradition of ‘seeking and giving help’ and enhance productivity by letting people work with greater concentration -not weighed down by the 'worries' of the office. A leader promotes an aura of 'participative management' by presenting the corporate goal in a manner that emphasised the contribution of one and all within the organisation.

him -- he can in fact even 'create' an opportunity through a vigorous pursuit of the market if he wanted to enter the business world or of polity if he was inclined to take to the path of public life.

A leader no doubt has to work to further enhance his hold and efficacy and keep the initiative with him. Digitisation and the resultant globalisation have created a kind of competition that could arise from any part of the world and enable a less resourceful but ‘smarter’ player to take on the stronger rival. Moreover, a successful leader today has to reckon with sudden unforeseen shifts in the business environment that would test him for the capacity to handle the 'challenge of change'.

at the hands of the world outside his responsibility is to ensure an even-handed distribution of awards internally.

A leader has to be sensitive to human situations- this flows from the leader’s understanding of the human psyche and behaviour. On the work front, a boss should be a good leader too and must know his people well even to the extent broadly of being aware of the situation of a subordinate at home that might be causing personal stress and anxiety to the latter.

A leader should know all about teamwork and the factors that enhance the team’s productivity. An understanding of the cultural diversity of the workforce -that made a difference even in a simple matter like the idea of what ‘leisure’ is -- becomes crucial.

The leader knows that a multicultural team can be the storehouse of energy and productivity. In the final analysis, the success of a leader has to be measured by the ability to attract followers, hold on to them and push them ahead towards a mission.

It is the cross-spectrum responsibility and accountability of the leader that needed to be defined and understood by all stakeholders of the organisation, corporate entity and the nation as the case may be -- this often is the least discussed aspect of leadership.

A leader can be evasive about his share of responsibility but only for a while because within the organisation this negative trait would not remain hidden for long and lead to an irreversible loss of reputation for the individual.

A senior -- in one particular case -- used the tactic of saying 'please speak' on the file and after the discussion with the junior was over, returning the file to the latter with the comment 'as discussed' - thus maintaining the scope for complete deniability in the event of something going wrong with the decision.

He came to be known as 'Please discuss, As discussed Boss' and never made it to the top in spite

Army's management combines the power of command with the message that the success of an operation was the success of the entire vertical hierarchy ranging from the battlefield to the High Command.

In the final analysis, the position of a leader is one of 'responsibility' not merely of ‘status’ and this responsibility includes a 'nurtural' role of mentoring those who were working for him.

Leadership ultimately is a measure of what the person in that position ended up doing for others -- not merely for his or her own 'enrichment'. This is a somewhat spiritualsounding mandate but it is true. When you end your innings in your leadership position, that measure will be reflected in the esteem that your former team members will hold you in. This is comparable to the abstract definition of ‘education’ as something that was left behind when you finished a book and forgot about it.

Will a leader emerge on the horizon if there was no opportunity coming his or her way? Does a leader have to work for his leadership? Is there a challenge of competition in building yourself as a leader? Can a leader stay on when everything else around was prone to shifting? And does a leader stand on a higher pedestal on the scale of human quality than ordinary mortals?

As mentioned earlier, leadership combines some inherent qualities of a person with the experiencerelated growth achieved by the individual. Sensitivity towards human beings, a healthy curiosity that produces the spirit of inquiry which in turn was conducive to making the potential leader a well-informed person and the gift of a 'macro' vision, are a few of the traits built into the persona of the man who would lead others successfully. A leader observes what he sees, absorbs what he observed and uses what he absorbs for perceiving what lay ahead- he does not miss the wood for the trees. These three competencies can be built through the application.

A potential leader equipped with all of this does not miss an opportunity that is presented to

A well-informed, confident and decisive leader would visualise the need for 'course correction' and ride the change instead of getting bogged down in it. A true leader is adept at handling human interactions since he understands human psychology and carries an adequate degree of 'emotional Intelligence' required for this purpose. A leader therefore is gifted with qualities that made him somewhat special in relation to the average crowd.

To sum up, leadership does not come to everybody simply because the individual has to measure up to certain wellconceived paradigms that define it. These attributes can be summarised in the acronym DRINKS -- denoting Decisiveness, Reliability, Initiative, Nerves, Knowledge-based decision making and awareness of the importance of Saving time considering that 'time' had emerged as the new 'resource' beyond funds, manpower and information.

Nerves here refer to that intrinsic courage of conviction that a leader can not do without. There can be many adds on for sprucing up one's leadership profile but the six intellectual traits enumerated above represented the foundational qualities that would make for a formidable leadership.

Leadership, significantly, was never ‘static’ as it had to cater for a fast-changing business environment, breaks in supply chains and even geopolitical developments.

A leader rises above the details to quickly evaluate what was going on within the organisation and outside that was of lasting significance and has the inner strength to produce the right responses. In this, he has the advantage of being a good communicator who could convince his men of the merit of his decisions. In the final analysis, however, the power of ‘authenticity’ describes in one word the defining attribute of a successful leader.

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

I am delighted to wish our Indian brothers and sisters a wonderful Independence Day and the culmination of the vibrant Azadi

On

this historic milestone let us pause to remember the values and principles that form the core of India’s universal appeal and conduct. It is time to reminisce about Mahatma Gandhi’s resolve and unwavering faith in nonviolence and peace and his fortitude to take on the mighty British Empire and with no money and army and yet change the course of human history.

India’s Independence Day is an occasion to draw inspiration from Gandhian values and philosophy and help shape a better world for all. Stay safe, dream big, and never give up. Jai Hind.

We Team "Aigiri" from Kannada Sangha Queensland want to take a moment to extend our warmest greetings to you and your loved

ones.

Indian Independence Day stands as a proud reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals who fought valiantly for the freedom we enjoy today.

It serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of our nation, as we continue to progress and flourish.

Let us also renew our commitment to the ideals of justice, equality, and freedom that

our forefathers fought for. We at Kannada Sangha are proud to showcase our culture, commitment towards a progressive community and nurturing young minds to participate in events upholding Indian sentiments. The speciality of Kannada Sangha Queensland is we had two female committees till now and this year we have the youngest president within all Kannada Associations in Australia.

MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME MINISTER INDIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY 2023

Happy Indian Independence Day to our fantastic Indian community here in Brisbane!

Brisbane is an inclusive and multicultural city, with more than 32% of residents born overseas.

Over 35,000 India-born residents call Brisbane home, making India the fourth highest country of origin for Brisbane residents outside of Australia.

From businesses, to music and events, to amazing food, we are

so lucky to experience the many wonderful parts of Indian culture here in Brisbane.

Today we acknowledge the independence of the Indian people and their contribution to making Brisbane even better. May today be an opportunity to gather with friends and family and have a safe and happy celebration.

Message from Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner

MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME MINISTER INDIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY 2023

On India’s Independence Day, I’m delighted to send my best wishes to communities across Australia that are celebrating.

At the dawn of independence, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru called for the people of India,

‘… to labour and to work, and work hard, to give reality to our dreams. Those dreams are for India, but they are also for the world …’

In 2023, India can reflect with pride on its success in pursuit of Nehru’s dreams. Whether as students, entrepreneurs or professionals, building families and communities, Australia is grateful for all the experiences, knowledge and ideas you have shared. We are a richer country because you have made Australia your home.

As I said during my visit to India in March, the warm friendship between Australia and India reflects the deep bonds between our people. My aim is to bring our two nations even closer together in the future. We will do that through the strength of Australia-Indian communities.

On the 77th anniversary of India’s Independence, let us celebrate our shared democratic heritage

I wish all those celebrating a happy Independence Day

India’s Independence Day is significant not just for the fact that India gained freedom from the oppression and exploitation of colonial rule, but also for the lessons it taught the world. Wedded to the ideals of Ahimsa or Non-Violence, Mahatma Gandhi showed the world that moral force and commitment to Truth were crucial for the success of a cause. It is no wonder that India’s independence was a catalyst for many independence and civil liberties movements and continues to inspire democracies

around the world! 15th August 1947 was the culmination of the efforts and painful sacrifices made by countless Indians and to them, we pay tribute. With every passing year, we also reinforce our commitment to the democratic ideals of India that go back to antiquity; to the unity in diversity that sustains its life force and to being a responsible member of the global family.

JAI HIND!

Hon. Consul Mrs. Archana Singh

Mr. Maha Sinnathamby, Chairman Springfield City Group

Ka Amrit Mahotsav.

PRIME MINISTER

The Hon Anthony Albanese MP Prime Minister of Australia 15 August 2023

The greatest fear women have is that they are ‘not good enough’

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Fostering Enhanced Relations: 11th edition of Australia-India Youth Dialogue to Take Place in New Delhi and Bengaluru, Delving into the Dynamics of Global

Megatrends!

National, 24th August 2023: The upcoming Australia-India Youth Dialogue (AIYD) is gearing up to bring together young leaders from both nations for an enriching exchange of ideas and insights. AIYD 2023 is scheduled to take place in New Delhi and Bengaluru, from the 19th

to the 22nd of September. The AIYD aims to foster deeper understanding, collaboration, and lasting connections between the youth of Australia and India. This year’s theme explores the impact of global megatrends and in a post-pandemic world.

The AIYD is a platform that recognizes the importance of engaging young minds in shaping the future of bilateral relations between Australia and India. With a focus on leadership, diplomacy, innovation, and cultural exchange, the event promises to be a transformative

experience for all participants. Established in 2012, AIYD has encouraged young leaders from both countries to actively participate to promote this bilateral relationship between both countries. Each year 30 exceptional leaders from different sectors come together to explore the challenges and opportunities for both countries.

Over the course of four days, delegates will explore how the two countries can collaborate to respond to the growing concerns and opportunities raised by megatrends that affect the entire globe, ranging from demographic shifts to future industries and rapid technological advancements in AI and innovation. The dialogue will feature panel discussions, workshops, and interactive sessions led by experts, thought leaders, and mentors from various fields. The delegates will have the

opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations, share perspectives, and collaborate on projects that address common challenges. There will be cultural experiences too, particularly exciting for Australian delegates visiting India for the first time. Distinguished delegates of this year's event comprise actor and comedian, Urvi Majumdar; ABC News reporter, Stephen Dziedzic; Silambam champion, Aishwarya Manivannan; Congress spokesperson, Aiyshwarya Mahadev; and business figure, Shrivatsa Somany. Previous participants have included Grammy award winner, Ricky Kej; co-founder and CEO of Sirona, Deep Bajaj; Olympic swimmer, Hakim Habibulla; Muthoot Finance executive, George Alexander; industrial company CEO, Madhavkrishna Singhania; Members of Parliament, Hibi Eden and

Tejasvi Surya; and Australian government ministers, Anika Wells, Matt Keogh, and Tim Watts. Commenting on the event, Dr. Bodean Hedwards, Co-Chair, AIYD, said, “I firmly believe that the engagement of young people is paramount as our nations redefine their strategies to tackle shared challenges on both a national and global scale. As our two countries draw closer than ever, initiatives like the AIYD, which promote the exchange of knowledge, leadership development, and cultural understanding, stand as positive exemplar for others to follow.”

Fellow Co-Chair, Sandeep Chandra, said, “The AIYD brings together young leaders from Australia and India to engage in powerful cross-cultural conversations and to identify opportunities to collaborate on real-world, pressing issues that represent the top priorities

UK MP for inquiry into study under which Indian-origin women were fed

a city in central England.

Taiwo Owatemi, Labour MP for Coventry North West, said this week that she would be calling for a parliamentary debate on the issue in September, followed by "a full statutory inquiry".

"I am appalled and concerned about the information shared regarding the 1969 'Chapati' study using South Asian women from Coventry. My foremost concern is for the women and the families of those who were experimented on in this study," Owatemi said in a statement.

English, local media reports said. According to Owatemi, a researcher from the University of Warwick seeking to identify these women, told her that neither their consent was sought nor any proper information was given to them at the time they took part in the experiment.

"This is horrifying, and I am deeply disturbed that a community here in Coventry was targeted for research without them being able to give informed consent," she said.

for young people. the ideas and issues of previous conferences have resulted in partnerships and initiatives that benefit both countries. It is a remarkable experience for participants. Young people today understand, more than any previous generation, the importance of representing the youth voice during times of great global change.”

The event will bring together a diverse group of young leaders, entrepreneurs, academics, and changemakers passionate about positively impacting their societies. AIYD is supported by Founding Partner, the Victorian State Government, Distinguished partners Monash University, Deakin University, University of Sydney, and Macquarie University; and Associate Partner, Bluescope Steel. AIYD will be hosted by HCLTech, OP Jindal Global University, and other leading companies.

‘radioactive chapatis’

An inquiry report was commissioned in 1998 in response to a 1995 Channel 4 documentary, which raised concerns about participants, including pregnant women, being able to consent to the experiments, the BBC reported.

"A serious attempt was made to inform study participants effectively. (However) it is possible that, despite the best intentions of the research team, full details of the study were not grasped by the women involved," the inquiry report stated.

medical effects on the women," the Labour MP said.

In an online statement posted on Wednesday, the MRC said it remained committed to the highest standards, including "commitment to engagement, openness and transparency".

"The issues were considered following the broadcast of the documentary in 1995 and an independent inquiry was established at that time to examine the questions raised," the MRC said.

London, Aug 27 (IANS) A UK MP has demanded an inquiry into a 1969 medical study on iron absorption under which 21 Indian-origin women, many of them pregnant, were fed chapatis containing radioactive isotopes in

Under a nutrition experiment funded by Britain's Medical Research Council (MRC) in 1969, chapatis containing Iron-59 (an iron isotope with a gamma-beta emitter) were delivered every morning to the women who were then recent immigrants in Coventry.

Most of them were from Punjab and Gujarat, and spoke very little

The researchers conducted the study after they suspected that South Asian diets were to blame for widespread iron deficiency in these women.

These women were then taken to the Atomic Energy Research Establishment in Oxfordshire where their radiation levels were measured after consuming chapatis.

It was reported in 1995 that about 21 women were involved in the experiment conducted by Prof Peter Elwood from Cardiff University and funded by the MRC.

"I am equally appalled that it seems no follow-up morbidity study was performed by Dr Elwood on the participants of the research to look at the long-term

Owatemi said she will be calling for a debate on this as soon as possible after Parliament returns in September followed by a full Statutory Inquiry into how this was allowed to happen.

In addition, she will ask why "the recommendation of the MRC report to identify the women was never followed up".

Indian-origin candidate qualifies to contest Singapore presidential election

that Mr Tharman has met the public sector service requirement under Article 19(3)(a), having held office for a period of 3 or more years as Minister," the statement added.

Tharman, who had formally launched his presidential campaign last month with a pledge to evolve the country's culture, filed his application for a certificate of eligibility on August 7.

reasons for rejecting them.

However, it added that the PEC will not publish the names of the unsuccessful candidates and the reasons for rejecting them. The decision was taken after concern was expressed in the Report of the Constitutional Commission 2016 that potential applicants may be dissuaded from stepping forward to

contest the elections for fear of embarrassment.

Tharman announced his intent to run in the city-state’s presidential election in June, after giving 22 years to active politics.

Prior to joining politics, Tharman was an economist and a civil servant at the Monetary Authority of Singapore.

Singapore, Aug 18 (IANS) Indianorigin former minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam and two others have been issued the certificates of eligibility for Singapore's presidential election slated to take place on September 1, the Elections Department said in a statement on Friday.

At the close of applications for a Certificate of Eligibility on Thursday, the Presidential Elections Committee (PEC) received a total of six applications. Out of these, the PEC qualified 66-year-old Tharman, former GIC investment chief Ng Kok Song,

75, and former National Trades Union Congress Income chief Tan Kin Lian, 75.

The committee, headed by Public Service Commission chairman Lee Tzu Yang and two Supreme Court judges, found that all three men were of integrity, good character and reputation.

"Based on the information available to the Committee, it is satisfied that Mr Tharman is a man of integrity, good character and reputation," the Election Department said in a statement.

"The Committee is also satisfied

In Singapore, candidates must apply for the Certificate of Eligibility if they wish to enter the presidential contest.

It is given to those who meet public or private sector requirements, among other criteria.

In addition, there is a community declaration, which allows candidates to declare if they are from the Chinese, Malay, Indian or "Other Minority" communities. The ELD said it has notified all individuals on the outcome of their applications, and also told the unsuccessful applicants the

Cracking the Code: Brisbane School Catchments and Property Value Power

is that the catchment area encompassing Canungra State School takes second place on the list. The houses within this zone command a higher median price of $950,000, indicating its popularity and premium status within the market.

Brisbane’s suburb for primary schools

roads, schools, jobs, and shops. Some areas seeing rapid price hikes might not actually have the things needed to sustain that growth.

Considering the substantial annual fees of up to $28,230 per child that elite private schools in Brisbane are charging, it's no surprise that there's a strong demand for high-performing public schools.

In this article, I'm going to delve into Brisbane's top 10 school zones. My goal is to understand why these areas are experiencing such a high demand for housing and what factors are driving

people to pay premium prices for rentals or real estate purchases in these neighborhoods.

Based on the 2023 School Zones Report by Domain Group, it's interesting to note that the most sought-after school catchment areas are spread throughout both inner, middle, and outer suburbs, offering a variety of price points. What stands out is that there seems to be a dominance of more affordable options in the outer suburbs on the list.

south of Brisbane, has witnessed the largest increase. House prices in this zone skyrocketed by an impressive 37.9%, resulting in a new median price of $910,000.

Another noteworthy contender is the catchment zone of Beaudesert State High School, which closely followed with a remarkable 32.6% price surge, leading to a new median of $570,000 for houses in the vicinity.

Equally impressive is the performance of houses within the Woodridge State High School catchment area. This zone saw a substantial 32.4% increase in house prices, resulting in a fresh median price of $450,000. This achievement secures its position in third place within the top 10 list of catchment areas with the highest price appreciation.

Brisbane’s suburb for primary schools

OK then … let’s just buy in these suburbs.

The incredible price hikes we're seeing in these emerging areas might seem like a golden investment opportunity at first glance. However, when I look closely, I realize that these rapid increases in property prices might not necessarily mean they're the best places to invest. There are a few reasons behind this that I've thought about:

1. Sustainability of Growth: I'm wondering if these skyrocketing prices will last in the long run. It's important to figure out if the current surge is just a temporary thing caused by certain factors, like people buying properties without a clear plan.

2. Market Stability: When prices shoot up really fast, it can actually be a sign that the market is unstable. Rapid growth might be a sign of an "overheated" market, which can lead to sudden drops in prices, wiping out any gains.

6. Smart Buying: Paying a lot for a property just because prices are shooting up might not be smart. I believe in buying properties that make sense based on their real value and potential, rather than just what others are paying.

7. Balancing Investments: It's risky to put all my eggs in one basket. If I only focus on areas with big price jumps, I might end up with a lot of risk. Spreading my investments across different places can help me manage the risk better.

8. Goals Matter: I need to remember what I want from an investment. If I'm looking for the value of my property to increase over time, then these areas might work. But if I want steady rental income, I need to think if these areas match that goal.

*Schools are ranked by the annual house price growth of the school catchment.

Median: This is the middle sale price of the total number of houses sold within the school catchment over the 12-months to July 2021.

YoY: This is the annual change in the median house price within a school catchment. It compares the median sale price from August 2020 - July 2021 to the median

sale price from August 2019 - July 2020.

Source: Domain, Powered by APM

Over the past 12 months leading up to July 2021, it's fascinating to observe the catchment areas that have experienced the most significant surge in median house prices. Notably, the area surrounding Tamborine Mountain State High School, located approximately 80km

Among Brisbane's primary schools, I've noticed some impressive trends in the data. For instance, houses situated within the catchment zone of Walloon State School saw an astonishing price surge of 43.9% during the 12 months leading up to July 2022. This is truly remarkable.

As a result of this increase, the suburb's median price has now reached $626,000, reflecting the substantial demand in the area. Another interesting finding

3. Rental Demand: Buying a property for investment is often about renting it out. But just because an area's prices are going up doesn't mean people are clamoring to rent there. If there's not much demand for rentals, it might be tough to find tenants and get consistent rental income.

4. Supply and Demand Balance: If everyone's rushing in to invest in these areas, we might end up with too many properties for the number of people who want to buy or rent. This oversupply can drive prices down, leading to slower growth or even losses.

5.Infrastructure and What the Area Offers: For growth to last, an area needs more than just rising prices. It needs things like good

9. Thinking Long-Term: Investments should be about the long haul. Smoother, steady growth might be more reliable in the long term, even if it starts off slower than these rapid jumps. Considering all these factors, it's clear that the allure of price surges should be approached with caution. Rushing into investments without careful consideration might lead to undesirable outcomes. I believe it's crucial to take a step back, conduct thorough research, seek advice from experts, and ensure that any investment aligns with your longterm goals and capabilities.

If you're seeking personalized guidance to navigate these investment decisions effectively, I'm here to help. My name is Anna Khandhar, and you can reach me at 0424164980. Feel free to get in touch so we can discuss your investment aspirations and chart a path that's right for you. Your financial future deserves careful planning, and I'm here to assist you every step of the way.

Regards Anna Khandhar

Lyra Homes Pty Ltd 0424 164 980

anna@lyrahomes.com.au

4th AGM of GOPIO held

Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) Gold Coast Inc. held their 4th AGM.

The event, which took place at Sankalp Restaurant, was attended by the organisation's committee members who discussed ways to help the future growth of the organization.

The elected new team for 20232025 is as follows:

President - Pradip Gorasia

Vice President - Mokhtiar Singh

2nd Vice President - Preetham

GOPIO celebrate Independence Day

On the 15th of August, it was "Har Ghar Tiranga" at Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tates’ office as Indian independence was celebrated with the committee members of Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) Gold Coast.

GOPIO help distribute meals to the homeless in Gold Coast

Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) Gold Coast Inc. was instrumental in the delivery of 200 meals to the homeless in Gold Coast.

Krishna

Secretary - Madhuri Soni

Joint Secretary - Paddy Krishnan

Treasurer - Jessy Kaurah

Asst. Treasurer - Varsha Badhe

Cultural Coordinator - Shrey

Baluja

Youth Coordinator - Janvi

Makanjee

Appointed Advisors - Pushpinder

Oberoi & Seema Chauhan

Appointed Auditors - Thiel Partners

The organisation thanked the Gurdwara Sahib Gold Coast for assisting in making the meals. They also thanked Mok Sandhu, Varsha Badhe and Pradip Gorasia for packing and delivering the meals to Show The Way, who will distribute them to those in need.

BAPS hosts conference ‘Timeless Wisdom’ in Brisbane

Brisbane, August 20: In the pursuit to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary living, the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute (BSRI) hosted a thoughtprovoking educational conference titled 'Timeless Wisdom' on August 20, 2023, at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Brisbane. The event aimed to shed light on the enduring relevance of Hindu scriptures in the modern world, illustrating how these ageold teachings can serve as guiding lights in today's intricate and fast-paced society.

Over 40 prominent community leaders representing 25 diverse Hindu organizations gathered to partake in the conference, underscoring the significance of this event within the Hindu community. The conference opened with a solemn puja ceremony, a Vedic ritual dedicated to venerating the scriptures, setting a spiritual and intellectual tone for the proceedings.

The keynote speaker, Pu. Aarshpurush Swami, set the stage for the conference by outlining the broader vision of the BAPS Research Institute, which established itself in Australia and New Zealand in 2022. The institute's establishment fulfilled the visionary ideals of Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj, who envisaged it as a platform to facilitate collective and respectful scholarly dialogue. The event lived up to this noble vision by bringing together scholars and enthusiasts alike for a day of insightful reflection.

Apart from Pu. Aarshpurush Swami, four distinguished speakers graced the evening with their erudition:

Sakhirai Prabhu Ji (ISCON):

Sakhirai Prabhu Ji delved into the profound teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, presenting its timeless insights and applicability to the challenges of modern living. His discourse emphasized the Gita's universal truths that transcend temporal and

geographical boundaries.

Mr. Krrishna Kanduri (HOTA Queensland): Mr. Kanduri offered a comprehensive perspective on the Vedas, shedding light on their spiritual depth and philosophical breadth. He highlighted the Vedas' role in fostering a holistic understanding of life and existence.

Dr. Sadashivam Suresh (Chinmaya Mission, Brisbane): Dr. Suresh, representing the Chinmaya Mission, eloquently explored the teachings of the Bhagavat Gita. His discourse focused on the practical application of the Gita's wisdom to navigate the complexities of contemporary life.

Prof. Sarva Dhaman Singh (author and writer): Prof. Singh's insights into the Upanishads enriched the conference by delving into the profound metaphysical concepts present in these ancient texts. His discourse illuminated the Upanishads' potential to inspire introspection and self-realization.

A notable highlight of the evening was the insightful discourse by Pu. Aarshpurush Swami.

He eloquently delved into the profound significance of 'Satsang Diksha,' emphasizing its potential to guide individuals towards righteous living amidst the complexities of the modern era.

The discourse resonated with attendees as Swami elaborated on how cultivating virtuous associations and nurturing one's inner virtues can lead to a fulfilling and purposeful life.

The conference garnered distinguished attention with the presence of VIP guest Mr. John-Paul Langbroek, the Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Member of Parliament for Surfers Paradise. Mr. Langbroek's attendance underscored the event's significance beyond the Hindu community, recognizing the value of ancient wisdom in fostering a harmonious and culturally rich society. The event brought together a constellation of diverse

organizations, including FICQ, GOPIO, Hindu Council, VHP, HSS, Bhartiya Samaj, ISCON, Chinmaya Mission, Basava Samithi, Kashmiri Pandit Association, and Shri Chenna Jiyar Swami (JET) representatives, alongside Hindu priests. The collective presence of these organizations highlighted the communal unity and shared interest in exploring the depths of Hindu scriptures.

In conclusion, the 'Timeless Wisdom' conference organized by the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute illuminated the enduring relevance of Hindu scriptures in our contemporary lives. By embracing the insights from the Bhagavad Gita, Vedas, Upanishads, and other sacred texts, attendees discovered the profound guidance these teachings offer for navigating the complexities of the modern world. The event marked a significant step towards fostering intellectual growth, interfaith understanding, and cultural enrichment.

Timeless Wisdom - Hindu Scriptures Conference

India News Newsdesk:

Timeless Wisdom, Hindu Scriptures Conference at BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, Brisbane, last Sunday. The BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute

(BSRI) & Jaynesh Brahmbhattji organized the event which helped young children discover valuable insights into Hindu Scriptures and relevance in modern times.

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha

is a spiritual, volunteer-driven fellowship that strives to improve society through individual growth by fostering the Hindu values of faith, service, and global harmony.

“True spirituality speaks the language of love.” – Pramukh

Swami Maharaj

Keeping with this true spirituality

the BAPS organized the Timeless Wisdom event to discuss and

disseminate the teachings and learning in the Hindu scriptures. Youth living in Brisbane who regularly attend the classes presented the scriptures and learnings from it.

San Francisco, Aug 26 (IANS)

Several top news publications like The New York Times, CNN, and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) have blocked Microsoft-backed OpenAI from accessing their content to train its

AI models.

The NYT blocked OpenAI's web crawler, meaning that the Sam Altman-run company can't use content from the publication to train its AI models, reports The Verge.

OpenAI's web crawler called GPTBot may scan web pages to help improve its AI models.

"Allowing GPTBot to access your site can help AI models become more accurate and improve their

general capabilities and safety," according to OpenAI.

The NYT updated its terms of service at the beginning of this month to prohibit the use of its content to train AI models.

CNN confirmed to Guardian Australia that it blocked GPTBot across its digital assets. Some other news publications like the Chicago Tribune and Australian Community Media (ACM) brands have also

reportedly blocked OpenAI's web crawler.

The NYT is also exploring legal options on whether to sue Microsoft-backed OpenAI and protect the intellectual property rights associated with its reporting.

The publication and OpenAI are in tense negotiations over reaching a licensing deal in which OpenAI would pay NYT for incorporating its stories in its

artificial intelligence (AI) tools, NPR reported.

However, the discussions "have become so contentious that the paper is now considering legal action".

A lawsuit against OpenAI would set up the most high-profile legal battle yet over copyright protection in the generative AI era.

Bookworms back for more with record library visits in Brisbane

From Lord Mayor’s Desk: Brisbane libraries are starting an exciting new chapter after experiencing a massive increase in visitor numbers over the last 12 months.

New figures reveal Brisbane’s network of 33 libraries recorded more than 5 million visitors in 2022-2023, or about 14,000 residents every day. The 2022-23 visitor numbers were 1.2 million more than the previous year and the biggest recorded since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said his Council team is committed to investing in Brisbane’s libraries, which offer free and affordable fun for residents of all ages.

“Brisbane residents clearly love our libraries and that’s why we have a plan to continue to invest in them,” Cr Schrinner said. “I don’t think it’s a coincidence that this massive increase in visitor numbers to our libraries also coincides with rapidly rising living costs.

“Our Council is committed to delivering free and affordable fun

for residents and our libraries offer far more than just a great range of books to borrow.

“Our libraries also have music, magazines, and movies and offer a great range of services such as book clubs, reading programs, computer training, events, and workshops.

“With costs continuing to increase, our libraries will play an increasingly important role in helping keep residents entertained and connected for free.”

The Schrinner Council is delivering record investment into Brisbane’s libraries, including a new state-of-the-art library in Everton Park.

The new library will include an undercover car park, multipurpose meeting rooms, a new children’s space, and a computer lounge for residents to enjoy.

It comes after the recent completion of the Zillmere Library which now offers an enhanced experience with a dedicated young adult area, upgraded toilet amenities, and a

vibrant new children’s area that complements the library’s fresh native landscaping.

Along with planning a new library in Indooroopilly, the Council has installed new 24/7 smart library lockers in Holland Park, Carina, and New Farm with more to come.

“Brisbane is the fastest growing capital city in Australia right now so it’s important that we improve and expand our library services for all of our residents,” Cr Schrinner said.

“Our new easy-to-use lockers provide 24-hour collections for busy readers and will soon be up and running in the Grange, Mitchelton, and Bracken Ridge.

“Since June, we’ve seen more than 570 loans collected across the three lockers, and know this number is only set to grow with the busy school holiday period fast approaching.

“With 6.4 million physical loans and 2.5 million digital loans undertaken in 2022, we look forward to seeing even more residents enjoy our vast collection of materials across the network.”

Brisbane libraries are open seven days a week and offer hundreds of free and low-cost activities yearround for residents of all ages.

“Whether it’s mums and bubs story time, creative writing workshops, author talks or social media tips for seniors, there is always something to see and do at our libraries,” Cr Schrinner said. “We are excited to see the number of residents enter our libraries in person grow as we continue to provide fantastic facilities, programs, and community events for everyone to enjoy.”

Statistical analysis shows that Most visited libraries FY22-23

Chermside Library – 458,647

Brisbane Square Library – 441,181

Garden City Library – 407,982

Sunnybank Hills Library –350,641

Carindale Library – 345,259

Top Junior titles borrowed 20222023

The Baby-sitters Club - Mary Anne's bad luck mystery: a graphic novel by Cynthia Yua Cheng

Wings of fire, Book six, Moon rising: the graphic novel by Tui T. Sutherland

Elementary, My Dear Mob by Zack Zombie Mouse vs wild by Geronimo Stilton

Felicia the Fidget Toy Fairy by Daisy Meadows

Top Adult Titles Borrowed 20222023

Spare by Prince Harry

The Seven Moons of Maali Almeida by Shehan Karunatilaka Bulldozed: Scott Morrison's fall and Anthony Albanese's rise by Niki Savva

Private Beijing by James Patterson and Adam Hamdy

I Will Find You by Harlan Coben.

For more information about the Council’s libraries, visit www. brisbane.qld.gov.au and search ‘libraries”.

Aussie state introduces sign language syllabus to primary, secondary schools

Sydney, Aug 23 (IANS) The Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) has announced that an Australian Sign Language (Auslan) syllabus was released to primary and secondary schools, which would be taught in classrooms at the beginning of 2026.

The NSW state government said in a statement on Tuesday that the new syllabus was developed in consultation with the deaf community, teachers, students, and parents, Xinhua news agency reported.

According to the statement, Auslan is an optional course, and decisions about teaching the syllabus will be made by schools and education sectors in consultation with the deaf community. Teachers will have up to a year of extra time to plan and prepare before 2026. Deaf Australia, a not-for-

profit organization for deaf communities, estimated that there are 30,000 signing deaf people in Australia who may need an Auslan interpreter. However, only 300 qualified and accredited practicing interpreters across the country can provide their help, and not all of them work full-time, according to Deaf Australia.

"As well as beginning learners of Auslan, this new syllabus will give students who are first language Auslan users the opportunity to formally study the language of their community," said Prue Car, NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning.

She also hoped that allowing more children to learn the course would break the back of the shortages of Auslan interpreters.

GOPIO organise the Independence Day event Global Fair- a colorful affair showcasing Indian Culture!

India News Newsdesk: Gopio

Brisbane organized its flagship event the Global India Day Fair at the Roma Street parklands. Diginatories, known community leaders, the Indian diaspora, and

entrepreneurs were present at this event. Lord Mayor Adrian Scrinner and Hon, Consul Archana Singh unfurled the flags of Australia and India respectively. Hon. Treasurer Jim

Chalmers, Cr. Shayne Neuman, Multicultural Minister Leane Linard, and Opposition Leader Queensland David Crisafulli were the government officials present at the function.

The event gives the diaspora one day of patriotic pride, through their Bollywood dance talents, and the cultural pride of India. It was an extravaganza of music, dance, cultural programs, and food.

Followed by the cultural events during the day was a foot-taping show of music with Bally Sagoo. A reminiscence of the yesteryears mixed with contemporary music.

Iskcon Brisbane’s Janmastami is back in 2023!

Brisbane’s largest Janmastami festival is set to attract devotees and guests from all around the city at The Croatian Club,Rocklea to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna.

On Thursday,7thSeptember, the Croatian Club Brisbane 164 Dunn Road, Rocklea will be transformed into a spectacular arena enabling festival goers to experience the magic of Janmastami. From 5pm onwards, visitors can look forward to an enthralling stage program with dramas, live music and dance; experience the cuisine of India; shop from the bazaar; and keep children entertained with fun and engaging activities.

“2022, Janmastami was mainly celebrated at The CroatianClub with good presence of peoples across the Brisbane. Devotees can stay until the midnight arati ceremony - celebrating the exact time of Lord Krishna’s birth,” explains festival organiserMr Sheth.

“With a bigger venue, and years of experience, we’ve started working earlier to make this festival even bigger and better than previous years,” Mr Sheth said. For more than 8 years, the Janmastamiorganised by the Hare Krishna community has been headed and organised by the youth of the society. They bring innovation and dynamism to the traditional event - making it fun and appealing for people of all ages. From the decor, to the stage program, and even the different engaging activities - all aspects of

the festival have a unique flavour. The festival will begin at 5pm and go on until midnight - which is the exact time of the birth of Lord Krishna - in whose honour this festival is celebrated. The stage program will consist of live music, arati ceremonies, the abhishek (ceremonious bathing of the Lords), dramas and spiritual discourses. For those that want something more interactive - they can check out the many stalls on offer, grab a sumptuous bite to eat or watch as their children engage in various fun activities at the kids stall.

“We’ve really tried hard to keep making the festival better than previous years - we want it to be an event that everyone looks forward to - not something that people are dragged along to come because of cultural obligations,” explains JalajGuwalani who has co-organised the festival for more than 5 years in a row.

“And we’ve begun to see that over the past few years - with increasing numbers, and more people attending the festival for longer periods of time. Guests are engaged with each aspect of the festival - and it’s great to see their enthusiasm and appreciation for the whole event,” comments Mr Guwalani.

Several dignitaries and prominent personalities have confirmed their attendance for this year’s Janmastami, lending their support to the Hare Krishna community and all its initiatives

Indian-American curator sues Worcester Art Museum for discrimination

Parikh resigned from her job as associate curator of the arts of Asia and the Islamic world with the museum last fall, radio service WBUR reported.

she “zhush up” her look and “wear makeup, perhaps little earrings, a necklace, a ruffled blouse” to work.

A public relations firm shared a statement from Waschek in which he called the accounts of his and his husband’s actions in the complaint “patently false” and “staggering”.

waiting for a comment to be made or something to happen,” Parikh said.

New York, Aug 22 (IANS) An Indian-American curator, who worked with the Worcester Art Museum, is suing the establishment for "mocking" her brown skin tone and subjecting her to a "hostile" work environment.

Rachel Parikh filed a 64-page lawsuit in Worcester County Superior Court last month, alleging that she was “mocked and ridiculed because she is a brown-skinned South Asian” Indian woman and “subjected to a hostile and offensive work environment”.

In the civil lawsuit, Parikh detailed a slew of allegations against Director Matthias Waschek, as well as Parikh’s supervisor, Claire Whitner.

The complaint said Parikh endured “racism and unwelcome and offensive behavior” on multiple occasions, including while she worked inside the museum and attended social gatherings at Waschek’s invitation, and as she sought to report the alleged incidents.

The complaint further said that Whitner, at Waschek's request, allegedly also told Parikh about a year after she was hired to “look the part” of a curator, suggesting

“WAM’s (Worcester Art Museum) employee handbook does not require curators to do any of the things that Ms. Whitner stated she and Mr. Waschek felt Dr. Parikh must do,” the complaint read. Parikh said comments were also made over brunch with Waschek and his husband in November 2021 and at a dinner at the pair’s home in March 2022. She said both men asked intrusive questions about her cultural heritage, referencing a ‘90s British television show that featured an Indian family. More than once, Parikh alleges, the two white men imitated an Indian accent while discussing the show, WBUR reported.

An outside consultancy firm hired to probe Parikh’s claims of harassment and retaliation said in its final report in July 2022 that it could not substantiate Parikh's claims with other colleagues, but found her statements “credible".

“I believe the museum did its due diligence in investigating Dr Parikh’s claims. She did not bring any of these allegations to me until the day she resigned,” WBUR quoted Whitner as saying. She called her work experiences mentally exhausting and said the stress took a physical toll.

“I buried myself in my work because I really enjoy being a curator... But the day-to-day was incredibly difficult because I was constantly on edge. I was just

Parikh quit shortly after the investigation, saying in her notice that the museum failed to uphold its own policies, according to the complaint.

“It took me back to a place where I was, you know, a kid and being bullied for being brown, basically,” she told WBUR.

The complaint describes Parikh as “an expert in South Asian and Islamic art with a focus on works on paper as well as arms and armor”. Her parents emigrated to the US from India in 1979, and she was born and raised in Chicago.

The Uluru Statement from the Heart In Hindi 70 Indians suing US govt for denying them

H-1B visas: Report

New York, Aug 13 (IANS) Nearly 70 nationals have filed a lawsuit against the US government for denying them H-1B visas because of fraud committed by their employers, a report by Bloomberg Law said.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) denied the Indian graduates H-1B specialty occupation visas despite their subsequent employment at legitimate businesses, a lawsuit filed in federal district court in Washington state said this week.

According to the complaint, the Indian graduates -- employed via a training programme for foreign graduates of US colleges and universities -- were unfairly punished for their association with those businesses without a chance to respond.

The Indians in the suit worked for four IT staffing companies -- Andwill Technologies, AzTech Technologies LLC, Integra Technologies LLC, and WireClass Technologies LLC. Each of the companies was approved to participate in OPT (Optional Practical Training) and certified through the E-Verify employment verification program.

Many international graduates participate in the OPT programme to start careers in the US while attempting to secure an H-1B visa or other longer-term status.

According to the lawsuit, DHS later uncovered the companies' scheme to defraud the government, schools, and foreign national students.

"Rather than protecting the students, however, DHS later sought to sanction them as if they were co-conspirators who knowingly participated in the fraudulent operation," the Bloomberg Law said, citing the complaint.

"The agency assumed that anybody who had touched these companies was somehow guilty of fraudulent misrepresentations to the US government in an attempt to get a visa or immigration benefit," said Wasden Law attorney Jonathan Wasden, who's representing the plaintiffs.

"DHS has to go through the

process of actually giving the affected parties notice and the ability to respond," Wasden said. The complaint mentioned the case of Siddhartha Kalavala Venkata, who said he was in "complete pain" after learning he couldn't enter the US.

Venkata worked at Integra through OPT after completing a master's degree in 2016 at the New York Institute of Technology. The company, listed as one of the largest participants in the OPT program, employing more than 700 student visa holders as recently as 2019, told students they needed to pay for training to further upgrade their skills.

Venkata left within months for a position with another IT firm and later attempted to change status from an F-1 visa to an H-1B visa last year. But DHS denied his H-1B visa, deeming him inadmissible because of fraud or willful misrepresentation, the news report said.

"If I made a mistake, I would accept it. It was a mistake made by someone else. The US has given me a lot of opportunities that now I cannot use," Venkata was quoted as saying in the report.

Venkata and others are asking the court to set aside the DHS' decision on their visa applications and order that the agency allow them to respond to any fraud allegations before making a determination on their admissibility to the US.

The complaint stated that the DHS violated the Administrative Procedure Act by exceeding its authority and deeming the plaintiffs as inadmissible without a full record of the evidence. The agency's actions were also procedurally deficient because it didn't notify the visa applicants of the action against them, the complaint said.

More than 1,17,000 people participated in the programme in calendar year 2022, according to Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the DHS component that runs the OPT program.

10-yr-old Mumbai boy becomes world’s youngest PADI-certified scuba diver

who is a professor of Accountancy in H.R. College of Commerce & Economics.

Scuba Diving is regulated by the Australia-based Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI), works in 186 countries, and issues certification to divers which makes them qualified to dive around the world.

The first level certification is called 'Junior Open Water Diver' (12 meters), followed by 'Open Water Diver', then 'Advanced Open Water Diver' (30 meters), 'Deep Diver' (40 meters), and then the professional ‘tech-diver’ categories for greater depths.

Health Minister Mandaviya meets Australian counterpart, Mark Butler

was immersed deep in the preparations for his global record, undergoing swimming coaching at a club in Borivali, and then for the PADI-certified Temple Adventures diving center in Pondicherry.

Mansukh Mandaviya held a meeting with Australian Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler here on Monday. During their meeting, they discussed a wide range of issues pertaining to the health sector.

Mumbai, Aug 25 (IANS) In a significant achievement, a city student has become the world’s youngest PADI-certified Junior Open Water Diver, a day after his 10th birthday, his family members said on Friday.

The boy, Dwit A. Nandu, studying in Class 4 in St. Francis D'Assisi High School, celebrated his 10th birthday on Thursday (August 24) and the new laurel was proclaimed on Friday at Temple Adventures, Pondicherry, said his joyous father Dr. Amit Nandu,

“As per PADI rules, the minimum age for a certified diver is 10 years. At 10 years one can begin the course and then get certified. Dwit's 10th Birthday was on 24 August. He had started preparing for the course well in advance and he completed it today, creating a world record,” gushed Dr Nandu.

He explained that the rigorous course involved learning advanced swimming, the ability to swim 200 meters without any aid or support, studying five modules, cracking a written exam based on them, finishing confined water training in a swimming pool, and then completing four open water dives.

For the past year, Dwit

In a certificate issued by the instructor Riyas Jalal, the East Coast Watersports Pvt Ltd said: “Dwit has completed his Scuba Diver Course on his 10th birthday on 24 August 2023, diving to the depth of 40 feet and finished his PADI Junior Open Water Diver Course on 25 August 2023 around 0800 hrs. Thus, he attained the position of youngest Junior Open Water Diver in the world by completing the course at the age of 10 years and 18 hours.”

Incidentally, scuba diving practically runs in the family for years with Dr. Nandu himself a Certified Deep Diver, his elder son Jinay, 21 -- studying at IIT Bombay -- is an Advanced Open Water Diver, and now Dwit has become a world record-holder Junior Open Water Diver (12 meters).

The divers’ family is looked after by Charmi Nandu, a former banker turned housewife, who ensures her sons, Jinay and Dwit, are on their toes both -academically and in the diving arena.

"Wonderful meeting with Mark Butler, Minister for Health and Aged Care, Australia," Mandaviya wrote on X (formerly Twitter) along with the photographs of his meeting with the Australian counterpart.

New Delhi,

Aug

21 (IANS) Minister for Health and Family Welfare

Mandaviya added, "Discussed ways to enhance collaboration in digital health, medical education, innovation, research and training and manufacturing and supply of generic medicines."

Kerr waxes lyrical about home Women’s World Cup experience

Sydney, Aug 19 (IANS) Australia captain Sam Kerr said that she has had the most amazing four weeks of her career being part of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.

"Not only what has happened on the pitch, but what has happened off the pitch has been amazing," Kerr said at a press conference in Brisbane ahead of their thirdplace playoff against Sweden.

"When we first started at this World Cup, we could have never dreamed that this would happen - the way the country got behind us, the way we've been playing. It's been an amazing journey to be part of," the 29-year-old star noted.

Kerr told reporters that despite the disappointment of the Matildas' 3-1 semifinal loss to England, they had already switched focus to the next game and had a burning desire to claim the tournament's bronze medal.

"For us, there is extra motivation to end on a high and really leave an amazing legacy. Coming third at a Women's World Cup is something that you can only dream of as a kid," Kerr said.

Kerr described her 2023 Women's World Cup experience as a "rollercoaster," as a calf injury had seen her left on the bench throughout the group phase. "At some points in the tournament, I was thinking I might never play in this World Cup. But I was lucky enough that I was able to get back and now it's just the icing on the cake that I could step on the park and help the girls," said Kerr.

In Kerr's eyes, what makes the quadrennial tournament so special is that "teams are forever changing and women's football is changing quicker than people could have ever imagined."

"I hope to still be here. I'm only 29," she said, eyeing the 2027 Women's World Cup. "Most of us will still be here if we have the opportunity to be. We have to play at our clubs, play well, and stay injury-free."

"At the moment, I haven't heard of any talks of anyone retiring or anything like that. So I think as long as there are 23 spots, everyone here will be fighting for them in four years to come," she added.

‘NATIYA-LAYAM’ an exquisite performance of joy and divinity

The Nadananjali School of Dance conducted an Indian classical dance programme on Saturday, 26th August 2023 at the St.John’s Performing Arts Centre in Forest Lakes, Queensland. The event was held in support of the Vedanta Centre’s Fundraising efforts to conduct welfare activities, especially the Vedanta Soup Kitchen which serves food to the needy.

‘Natiya-Layam’ as the programme was aptly titled, provided the students of Smt.Chitra Yogi Srikanta the platform to exhibit their talents. Preservation of culture plays an important role in a community’s furtherance of moral and spiritual values. To this end, the dance programme acted a catalyst in ensuring that the future generation is soaked in the hoary traditions of Indian culture. The dance programme mostly revolved around the theme connected with the personality of Sri Krishna. While dance items like prayer to Lord Ganesha, Shiva tandava nrityam etc delighted the audience during the first half of the programme, the second half was dedicated to the description of the life and glories of Sri Krishna. A dance drama on the life of Sri Krishna depicting the scenes of the baby Sri Krishna killing Pootana -the emissary of evil king Kamsa, destroying the pride of the poisonous snake Kaaliya, the sweet mischief caused by the child Krishna when he stole the dresses of the

Gopis who had entered the river Yamuna for their bath (thereby teaching them a lesson about surrendering one’s identity to the Divine), the episode of wicked Kaurava Duryodhana disrobing Draupadi and Sri Krishna’s assurance to her by supplying yards of cloth to cover herself (showing that God will never forsake His devotee), killing of wicked king Kamsa and Sri Krishna in disguise obtaining the protective gear (Kavacha kundala) to help win the war by Pandavas –transfixed the audience.

The dancers gave their very best to perform highly complicated steps with ease. The dance items were choreographed by Smt. Chitra Yogi Srikanta. Dr.Preethi Suraj coordinated the event very ably.

Samskruthi Queensland – a voluntary organisation – came forward to cook excellent dinner which was sold at the venue as part of the fundraising event.

The Big Belly Indian Restaurant, Goodna supported the event with some snacks as their contribution towards the event.

The programme was sponsored by the Brisbane Indian Times, The Leadership Company, More Than House Loans, SSK Entertainment, the Springfield City Group, Asmi, Brookwater Residential, Target Travels and Tours, Tulsi Spice and Indian Street Food and Dr.Ashim Majumdar. The Vedanta Centre is very grateful to the supporters of this event.

ICGC organise Independence Day kite festival in Gold Coast

By Pushpinder Oberoi

Indian Community in Gold Coast (ICGC) hosted and celebrated the 77th Independence Day of India with multi-cultural dance festival amidst hundreds of multi-cultural kite-enthusiasts flying colourful kites on the bright, beautiful, sunny day of 26th of August.

The 4th Kite Festival of ICGC was held at the Broadwater Parklands in Gold Coast, and the parklands

ground was full of colourful kite lovers, dais was full of dazzling dancers from different countries residing in Gold Coast, sky was colourful with many kites, and came alive with live music from 9am onwards.

ICGC president, Manish Saini, inaugurated the event. ICGC counsellors Pushpinder and Dinesh hoisted the Indian flag with notable dignitaries like

Angie Bell (Federal Member for Moncrieff), Rob Molhoek (State Member for Southport).

ICGC event coordinators – Ree, Devika and Seema, wonderfully managed the dance competition with the support of Mohit and Naren and Garry. Everyone could feel the pulse of unity as kites from every person from different parts of the world adorned the skies, celebrating harmony and

togetherness. Not to forget that the delicious flavours from food stalls, ice creams, juices increased the joy of the revelers listening to the live music and watching the great dance performances. News coverage was done by several media outlets from Queensland and abroad. The event completed successfully at 3pm, with many still asking what will the next event from ICGC be.

In suicide note, NRI woman who ended life in K’taka accuses Australian authorities of harassing her family

Dharwad (Karnataka), Aug 25 (IANS) The NRI woman from Australia, who recently committed suicide in Karnataka's Belagavi district, in her death note had accused the Australian authorities and some residents of a locality in Sydney of harassing her family, police said on Friday.

Priyadarshini Lingaraj Patil (40) from Dharwad had committed suicide on August 20 near Saundatti in Belagavi district. She had ended her life by jumping into the Malaprabha river in Goravanakolla village. Her body was found in Naviluteertha village of the district.

She had arrived in Bengaluru from Australia and from there she had reached Hubballi and then Belagavi by bus.

Priyadarshini’s family was waging a legal battle with the Australian

authorities regarding the custody of her children.

Her son Amartya had faced a health problem. During treatment at a local hospital, the child allegedly started showing in some side-effects. When Priyadarshini questioned, the hospital did not respond, following which she had submitted a complaint to the government against the hospital.

Priyadarshini had claimed that the hospital authorities accused her of unable to take care of her children and subsequently, the government had taken custody of her two children. Though Priyadarshini protested against the move, she could not get back the custody of her children.

Priyadarshini had even asked the Australian government to withdraw the citizenship of their children and let her take them

to India for treatment but had not got any response from the government.

Her family has alleged that the suffering after her children were taken away and her health problems pushed Priyadarshini to take the extreme step.

In her death note addressed to her father, Priyadarshini stated, "Our lives are threatened. I am compelled to end my life for the survival of my children and husband Lingaraj. I am accepting my death for the good of my family. From 2021 to the present day DCJ (Australia's Department of Communities and Justice) has ruined my family. The residents of Verlie Street in Sydney have harassed us."

ICGC treasurer / marketing manager, Venkat, and ICGC secretary, Senthil, unveiled the ICGC membership card that provides advantage of discounted business transactions in and around Gold Coast with several merchandises. First 80 membership cards were subscribed in a matter of 3hrs from the announcement. More about this event can be seen in the https://www.incgc.org.au.

says World champ Neeraj Chopra

Vadlejch retained the bronze he won in Oregon last year, with a distance of 86.67.

was placed third with 84.18m throw in his second attempt.

Budapest, Aug 28 (IANS) World Champion Neeraj Chopra on Monday thanked Indian fans for staying up late and watching his event. Neeraj won a historic maiden gold medal for India in the World Athletics Championships, claiming the top spot in the men's javelin throw competition here. His event started at 11:45 PM IST (On Sunday) and went on till 1 AM at night.

Speaking to the reporters after the event, Chopra thanked the Indian fans and said that it was a medal for the country.

"I want to thank the people of India for staying up late. This medal is for all of India. I'm Olympic champion now I'm world champion. Keep working hard in different fields. We have to make a name in the world," Neeraj said.

Neeraj, who has been bothered by an injury in the last few months, killed the competition in the Hungarian capital with a massive throw of 88.17 in his second turn, Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem took the silver medal, the first World Championship medal for his country, with a distance of 87.82 while Czech Republic's Yakub

The two other Indians in the fray too did their best but could not finish on the podium -- Kishore Kumar Jena, who had to overcome visa problems to reach Budapest, finished fifth with a personal best throw of 84.77 while D.P. Manu finished sixth with 84.14. But India had the most hopes from Neeraj Chopra and the 25-year-old from Haryana did not disappoint as he came up with a superb throw on his second turn and secured his first World Championship gold.

Before Sunday, no Indian male or female had won a gold medal in the World Championship with Anju Bobby George claiming bronze in women's long jump at Paris in 2003 while Neeraj Chopra won a silver in Oregon, US, last year.

Chopra, who usually aims to start with a big first throw and had done just that in the qualifying stage with a stunning 88.77 metre, opened with a foul on his first attempt on Sunday.

But his next throw straight away catapulted him to the top of the standings as the 25-year-old Tokyo Olympic gold medallist from Haryana hurled the spear to 88.17 to take the lead.

Germany's Julian Weber was placed second with 85.79 on his second attempt while Yakub Vadlejch of the Czech Republic

Chopra could manage only 86.32 metre in his third attempt while Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem jumped into the fray with a superb throw of 87.82 metre on his third turn.

Nadeem, who had surgery on his shoulder earlier this year following an injury, started with a gentle loosener of 74.90m and followed that up with 82.81m before unleashing a rip-roaring 87.82 in his third turn, a seasonbest for the Pakistan thrower.

India's DP Manu also came up with his best effort of the first half of the competition with 83.72m in his third attempt and was placed fifth while Kishore Kumar Jena came up with 82.82m in his second attempt to remain in seventh position.

Chopra could manage only an 84.62m throw in his fourth attempt while Nadeem came up with 87.15m while Julian Weber of Germany remained in the third position thanks to his 85.7 attempt.

Arshad Nadem made a final attempt in the sixth round with a big one but it was still short of what he wanted and Chopra sealed the gold medal.

It has been an indifferent year so far for Neeraj Chopra in 2023 as he has participated in only two competitions with the 88.67m at Doha Diamond League, his best for the season.

Asia Cup: Sri Lanka open campaign with 5-wicket victory over Bangladesh

fours and a six, while Sadeera Samarawickrama made 54, laced with six fours.

On their way to making their respective half-centuries, the duo shared a 78-run partnership for the fourth wicket to complete the chase with 11 overs remaining.

New Delhi, Aug 29 (IANS) Star India batter Virat Kohli has expressed his deep affinity for one-day cricket, emphasising how the format rigorously tests a player's all-around skills while highlighting the technical challenges, strategic decisionmaking, and adaptability required throughout the game.

In the realm of 50-over cricket, Kohli boasts an exceptional track record. His ODI journey is adorned with an impressive tally of 46 centuries. The 34-yearold scored 427 runs across the 10 ODIs he played in 2023, maintaining an average of 53.37, including the high score of 166 not out.

Speaking to Star Sports, Kohli said ODI cricket has always brought the best out in him as it compels him to embrace challenges and adapt my play to the situation to help the team win.

"I love playing ODI cricket. I think for me, ODI cricket is probably the one format that tests your game completely. Your technique, composure, patience,

playing the situation, and playing differently in different phases of the game. So, I think it tests you as a batsman completely, and I feel that ODI cricket has always brought the best out of me because I like to embrace that challenge and play according to the situation to help my team win.

"I have always tried to do that, so yeah, as I said, it gives me an opportunity to test myself regularly, all aspects of my batting, and that’s why I really enjoy playing ODI cricket," said Kohli.

On the other hand, former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif discussed Kohli's remarkable performance in recent tournaments, particularly against Pakistan. He praised Kohli's ability to take charge during chases, noting his substantial impact during the T20 World Cup in Australia.

"Absolutely, in my opinion, his performance in Australia at the T20 World Cup, against Pakistan, he played magnificently. And Virat Kohli is a brilliant batsman when it comes to playing against Pakistan. He takes full responsibility and is a chase master. The form that he had in that World Cup was because of his performances in the Asia Cup (2022), starting from that century he hit against Afghanistan.

vs Pakistan is bigger than the Ashes: Tom Moody

Shanto then struggled to find company from the other end as Pathirana and Theekshana ran through the lower order. Apart from Shanto and Hridoy, only two other batters reached double digits as Bangladesh crashed from 127-4 to 164 all out, losing their last six wickets for just 37 runs.

Kandy, Aug 31 (IANS) Sri Lanka opened their Asia Cup campaign with a convincing five-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their Group B match at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Thursday.

On a two-paced pitch, young pacer Matheesha Pathirana took career-best figures of 4-32, while the ever-reliant Maheesh Theekshana picked up 2-19 as Bangladesh were bowled out for 164 in 42.4 overs.

Spinners Dhananjaya de Silva and Dunith Wellalage kept the Bangladesh batting line in middle overs, never allowing the batters to score freely, though Najmul Hossain Shanto played a valiant hand for Bangladesh with a fine 89.

In reply, Sri Lanka were reduced to 43-3, but Charith Asalanka slammed 62 not out, hitting five

Electing to bat first, Bangladesh openers Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Mohammad Naim departed inside eight overs. Tanzid’s ODI debut ended in him departing for a duck in the second over as Theekshana got the ball to sneak past the bat and hit his back pad to be trapped lbw.

On the other hand, Naim skied one to point off the bowling of Dhananjaya in the eighth over.

Skipper Shakib Al Hasan went for a cut off a short and wide delivery from Pathirana in the 11th over, but nicked behind to the keeper, leaving Bangladesh at 37-3.

Shanto reached his fourth ODI fifty and put on a stand of 59 runs with Towhid Hridoy (20 off 41 balls). But captain Dasun Shanaka trapped Hridoy lbw after taking DRS, followed by Mushfiqur Rahim holing out to the deep third man on a cut-off Pathirana.

In the chase, Bangladesh pacers Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam sent back Sri Lanka openers Dimuth Karunaratne and Pathum Nissanka within the first four overs.

Taskin castled Karunaratne for just one in the third over, followed by Shoriful finding Nissanka’s edge on a short and wide delivery. Kusal Mendis' struggle ended when he was castled by Shakib in the last over of power-play, leaving Sri Lanka in trouble at 433. Samarawickrama and Asalanka hung around to bail Sri Lanka out of a tricky situation, reaching their respective half-centuries. Though Bangladesh took out Samarawickrama and Dhananjaya in quick succession, it was too late as Sri Lanka got their 11th consecutive win in ODIs.

New Delhi, Aug 29 (IANS) As the excitement builds in the leadup to the highly anticipated cricket clash between India and Pakistan at the Asia Cup 2023, former Australian cricketer Tom Moody offered his insights into the dynamics shaping the Rohit Sharma-led side's preparations and the potential challenges they might face.

Speaking to Star Sports, Tom Moody also reflects on the significance of the IndiaPakistan clash, comparing it to the esteemed Ashes series, and discusses the strengths and considerations of both teams as they gear up for this monumental showdown.

He said, "I think this match surpasses the Ashes. It’s always got a lovely story to it, and both are outstanding cricketing

nations. And when you look at that Pakistan squad, it does boast a lot of talent. But one thing that stands out for me is that it also boasts experience. So now they have the combination of experience and talent, they are a real threat. They can match India with their pace bowling; they’ve got genuine pace on their side, and the only issue I see them potentially having is the depth in the quality of their batting which India has got. So that’s going to be the interesting pressure that they put on the likes of Babar Azam at the top of the order."

Tom Moody emphasizes the pivotal role of Pakistan's Shaheen Afridi, particularly with the new ball, in potentially destabilizing India's batting lineup.

I want to thank the people of India for staying up late,

ODI cricket has always brought the best out of me, says Virat Kohli

India

Laser based sensors needed for safe landing of Chandrayaan -3, says ISRO scientist

where velocities drastically reduces, these sensors played an important role for navigation, guidance and control of thrust during final touchdown,” Amit told IANS.

Google tests new tool to watermark, identify AI images

'Vikram' lander.”

San Francisco, Aug 31 (IANS)

New Delhi, 24 Aug (IANS) Amit Kumar Bhardwaj, scientist and member of the Chandrayan-3 team on Thursday said that he joined the esteemed Mechanical Systems Group ISRO, as a scientist, on February 4, 2022.

“This opportunity allowed me to delve into the realm of design, analysis, and realisation of laser based sensors for absolute navigation were needed during the safe landing of ‘Vikram’ for Chandrayaan -3 mission,” he said. Amit said that the role of these became important after the failure of Chandrayaan-2 mission.

“During the final descent of Vikram lander on the lunar surface which includes rough braking and fine braking phase

“This voyage is not mine alone. I am a proud alumnus of Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), Delhi. I was in the mechanical batch in 2019. I along with two other colleagues from JMI had the privilege of contributing to this historic endeavor,” he said.

“On Dec 10, 2021, I joined Mechanical Systems Area, ISTRAC, ISRO as a Scientist SC. Here, my work domain was design, analysis and realization of antenna systems for telemetry, tracking and commanding of a wide variety of satellites. In Chandryan-3 mission support, one of our antenna systems '32m Deep Space Network Antenna' played the major role of tracking and commanding the CH-3 module including the most critical time during landing of

“It is a dream come true for me. I felt profound pride after witnessing Chandrayaan-3 mission success. Messages of felicitation have poured in from family, friends, and colleagues who were aware of my association with the ISRO.”

He said that since joining the ISRO family, I have dedicated myself to the Chandrayaan-3 project.

“Countless hours were invested, day and night, in transforming the mission from concept to reality. My role, focused on crafting navigational sensors, was guided by seasoned mentors who had previously shaped similar missions. Being a part of ISRO has fulfilled a lifelong dream,” he said. “I stand before you with profound pride and honor. I pledge to convey nothing but the absolute truth, ensuring that each word I utter resonates with honesty and sincerity,” he said.

Chandrayaan 3 success a testament of our deep tech capabilities: MoS IT

tech capabilities and that self confidence leads me to believe that the vision of our Prime Minister can be realised where the digital economy will be 20-25 per cent of the total GDP,” he stressed.

seen by countries that have lagged behind, as a way to follow India’s lead, taking the India stack, an open sourced digital infrastructure and then using these to digitize their own governments,” he added.

Google has launched a new tool for watermarking and identifying AI-generated images -- a technology that embeds a digital watermark directly into the pixels of an image, making it imperceptible to the human eye but detectable for identification.

In partnership with Google Cloud, Google DeepMind (Google’s AI research division) has launched a beta version of a new tool -'SynthID'.

SynthID is available to a limited number of Vertex AI (Google’s platform for building AI apps and models) customers using Imagen, one of the company's latest text-to-image models that use input text to create photorealistic images.

"While generative AI can unlock huge creative potential, it also presents new risks, like enabling creators to spread false information -- both intentionally or unintentionally," Google DeepMind said in a blogpost.

"Being able to identify AIgenerated content is critical to empowering people with knowledge of when they’re interacting with generated

media, and for helping prevent the spread of misinformation," it added.

According to DeepMind, SynthID remains in place even after modifications, such as adding filters to images, changing their colours, and compressing them. In order to produce the tool, DeepMind trained two AI models together on a "diverse" set of images, one for watermarking and one for identification. However, SynthID cannot confidently identify watermarked images. The tool distinguishes between images that may or may not have a watermark and images that are highly likely to have one. "SynthID isn’t foolproof against extreme image manipulations, but it does provide a promising technical approach for empowering people and organisations to work with AIgenerated content responsibly. This tool could also evolve alongside other AI models and modalities beyond imagery such as audio, video, and text," Google said.

Zoom’s new feature to let professionals easily create virtual event design

New Delhi, Aug 24 (IANS) India’s capabilities are only increasing and Chandrayaan 3 is a testament that the country has the full potential as a nation to execute deep-tech technologies, Minister of State for Electronics and IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar said on Thursday.

This is an exciting time for India’s tech space as we are building deep tech capabilities, the minister said an an event here.

“We are a highly capable country and Chandrayaan 3 represents how we can execute these deep

Chandrasekhar further highlighted how India is playing a leading role in helping nations that have lagged behind in technology and digitalisation through the India stack.

“The digital public infrastructure (DPI) is an extremely exciting conversation today and has gained momentum in the context of the Indian presidency of the G20.

The fact is that India is now a case study, a nation that has deployed technological tools for progress and growth,” the minister emphasised.

“This is now increasingly being

“Our duty is to create balance between rights of individuals and data protection while boosting innovation in our country,” the minister added.

India’s moon lander successfully set its four legs softly and safely on the lunar soil on Wednesday evening as planned, and became the fourth nation in the world to achieve the feat.

The lander landed near the South Pole of the moon after travelling about 3.84 lakh km for over 40 days.

The Pragyan rover has started moving around on the lunar surface.

Google introduces Workday app for Chat

San Francisco, Aug 25 (IANS)

Google has introduced a new Workday app for the communication service 'Google Chat'.

"We’re adding a new Workday app for Google Chat that allows you to perform quick actions in Workday, such as requesting time off, filing expense reports and looking up colleague's information, all without leaving Google Chat," the company said in a Workspace Updates blogpost on Thursday.

In the Admin Console, admins can specify whether their users can install the Workday app for

Google Chat from the Workspace Marketplace.

"You may also install the Workday app for Google Chat on behalf of users in your domain," the tech giant added.

If allowed by their admin, users will be able to install Google Chat apps using the “New chat” button in Chat.

The new app is available for all Google Workspace customers and users with personal Google Accounts.

On Wednesday, Google had introduced a new feature that allows Chat space members to

see view counts for messages in all spaces. The view counts in spaces will only be available for messages sent on August 1, 2023 and beyond. Last month, the tech giant had introduced a new media viewer for Chat on Android devices, which improved the media browsing experience. The company had also added a shared media option that allows users to quickly browse through all media shared in a Chat conversation, which is accessible from the conversation as well as from the full-screen view of every media item.

New Delhi, Aug 25 (IANS) Video conferencing platform Zoom on Friday launched 'Production Studio' for Zoom Events and Zoom Sessions, a new feature for event professionals to easily create virtual event design elements for polished, professional, and dynamic events. Now available globally, the new Production Studio feature will allow event, marketing, and internal communications professionals to free up their time and budget that is usually spent working with a production agency, the company said.

“Other 'out of the box' webinar solutions don’t allow you to customise the look and feel of your event, which makes for a bland and less engaging experience. With Production Studio, event specialists can curate and customise the attendee experience without needing specialised design skills,” Annika Elias, product manager at Zoom, said in a statement.

Whether planning internal events like an All Hands webinar or external marketing events like product demos -- Production Studio will provide dynamic layout options, custom branding, and presenter management tools to make every virtual event visually engaging and uniquely branded.

Zoom also announced its updated mobile app with access to Zoom Events.

Available globally for Android and iOS, users can access the hybrid event experience from their existing Zoom mobile app.

Through the Zoom mobile app, attendees can join the event, explore, bookmark, and attend sessions, receive important event notifications, navigate the physical space using maps and digital aides, easily switch between in-person and virtual / on-demand sessions, and connect with other in-person and virtual attendees, according to the company.

Moreover, mobile app users can access event sessions, participate in chats, polls, and Q&A, and view recordings of past events during live events.

Zoom has also enhanced its hybrid setup flow for event hosts. As event professionals today struggle with planning hybrid events, feeling like it requires twice as much work, Zoom Events aims to simplify that process with new features.

Now available in the web portal, event professionals can use templates to easily set up hybrid events, including the ability to build out hybrid ticketing, add venue maps, and set up a native hybrid experience via the Zoom mobile app.

Brain implant, AI offers hope to paralysed patients to speak via computer

“When you think of ALS, you think of arm and leg impact,” Bennett wrote in an interview conducted by email. “But in a group of ALS patients, it begins with speech difficulties. I am unable to speak.”

into words on a computer screen at 62 words per minute -- more than three times as fast as the previous record for BCI-assisted communication.

innovation leader at Mass General Brigham.

New York, Aug 24 (IANS)

US researchers have in a breakthrough developed a brain implant system, which when powered by artificial intelligence (AI) helps paralysed patients with speech difficulties communicate via a computer screen.

The speech-aiding brain implant by Stanford University consists of baby-aspirin sized sensors -- square arrays of tiny silicon electrodes -- that are implanted in patients’ cerebral cortex, the brain’s outermost layer.

Each array contains 64 electrodes, arranged in 8-by-8 grids and spaced apart from one another by a distance of about half the thickness of a credit card. The electrodes penetrate the cerebral cortex to a depth roughly equaling that of two stacked quarters. The implanted arrays are attached to fine gold wires that exit through pedestals screwed to the skull, which are then hooked up by cable to a computer. The devices transmit signals from a couple of speech-related regions in patients' brains to state-of-the-art software that decodes their brain activity and converts it to text displayed on a computer screen.

Pat Bennett, now 68, is a former human resources director and onetime equestrian who jogged daily. In 2012, she was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks neurons controlling movement, causing physical weakness and eventual paralysis.

Usually, ALS first manifests at the body’s periphery -- arms and legs, hands and fingers. For Bennett, the deterioration began not in her spinal cord, as is typical, but in her brain stem. She can still move around, dress herself and use her fingers to type, albeit with increasing difficulty.

But she can no longer use the muscles of her lips, tongue, larynx and jaws to clearly enunciate the phonemes -- or units of sound, such as sh -- that are the building blocks of speech.

Although Bennett’s brain can still formulate directions for generating those phonemes, her muscles can’t carry out the commands.

She volunteered to participate in the clinical trial, published in the journal Nature, on the speechaiding brain implant.

On March 29, 2022, Jaimie Henderson, neurosurgeon at Stanford Medicine, placed two tiny sensors apiece in two separate regions -- both implicated in speech production -- along the surface of Bennett’s brain.

The sensors are components of an intracortical brain-computer interface, or iBCI. Combined with state-of-the-art decoding software, they’re designed to translate the brain activity accompanying attempts at speech into words on a screen.

About a month after the surgery, a team of scientists began twice-weekly research sessions to train the software that was interpreting her speech. After four months, Bennett’s attempted utterances were being converted

“These initial results have proven the concept, and eventually technology will catch up to make it easily accessible to people who cannot speak,” Bennett wrote.

“For those who are nonverbal, this means they can stay connected to the bigger world, perhaps continue to work, maintain friends and family relationships.”

Bennett’s pace begins to approach the roughly 160-wordper-minute rate of natural conversation among English speakers, said Henderson, the surgeon who performed the surgery.

“We’ve shown you can decode intended speech by recording activity from a very small area on the brain’s surface,” said Henderson, a Professor in the department of neurosurgery.

An AI algorithm receives and decodes electronic information emanating from Bennett’s brain, eventually teaching itself to distinguish the distinct brain activity associated with her attempts to formulate each of the 39 phonemes that compose spoken English.

It feeds its best guess concerning the sequence of Bennett’s attempted phonemes into a socalled language model, essentially a sophisticated autocorrect system, which converts the streams of phonemes into the sequence of words they represent.

“This is a scientific proof of concept, not an actual device people can use in everyday life,” said Frank Willett, staff scientist at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. “But it’s a big advance toward restoring rapid communication to people with paralysis who can’t speak.”

No activity for hours during childhood may cause heart damage in later life: Study

"All those hours of screen time in young people add up to a heavier heart, which we know from studies in adults raises the likelihood of heart attack and stroke," said study author Andrew Agbaje of the University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.

New York, Aug 23 (IANS) Amid

the growing debate over AI and its side effects, researchers now report that in healthcare settings, ChatGPT is nearly 72 per cent accurate across all medical specialties and phases of clinical care, and 77 per cent accurate in making final diagnoses.

The study led by investigators from Mass General Brigham highlighted potential for generative AI to increase access and efficiency in healthcare. The large-language model (LLM) artificial intelligence chatbot performed equally well in both primary care and emergency settings across all medical specialties, said the study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research.

"No real benchmarks exist, but we estimate this performance to be at the level of someone who has just graduated from medical school, such as an intern or resident. This tells us that LLMs in general have the potential to be an augmenting tool for the practice of medicine and support clinical decision making with impressive accuracy,” said Marc Succi, associate chair of innovation and commercialisation and strategic

Changes in artificial intelligence technology are occurring at a fast pace and transforming many industries, including health care. But the capacity of LLMs to assist in the full scope of clinical care has not yet been studied.

Succi and his team tested the hypothesis that ChatGPT would be able to work through an entire clinical encounter with a patient and recommend a diagnostic workup, decide the clinical management course, and ultimately make the final diagnosis.

The team compared ChatGPT’s accuracy on differential diagnosis, diagnostic testing, final diagnosis, and management in a structured blinded process, awarding points for correct answers and using linear regressions to assess the relationship between ChatGPT’s performance and the vignette’s demographic information.

ChatGPT was lowest-performing in making differential diagnoses, where it was only 60 per cent accurate. It was only 68 percent accurate in clinical management decisions, such as figuring out what medications to treat the patient with after arriving at the correct diagnosis.

ChatGPT’s answers did not show gender bias and that its overall performance was steady across both primary and emergency care.

of age and reported in grams relative to height (g/m2.7).

New Delhi, 24 Aug (IANS)

Researchers of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Delhi University and Institute of Medical Sciences have developed a flavoring compound using coconut coir which the claim to have antioxidant properties as well as antimicrobial and anti-cancerous qualities in it.

that cities like Varanasi, which have great religious and spiritual significance, produce massive amount of temple waste which has large quantities of coconut coir.

London, Aug 23 (IANS) No activity for hours during childhood could be setting the stage for heart attacks and strokes later in life, a new study said on Wednesday. According to the study presented at the European Society of Cardiology, sedentary time accumulated from childhood to young adulthood was associated with heart damage -- even in those with normal weight and blood pressure.

"Children and teenagers need to move more to protect their longterm health," he added.

To investigate, researchers let children wear a smartwatch with an activity tracker for seven days at 11 years of age.

This was repeated at 15 years of age and again at 24 years of age.

The weight of the heart’s left ventricle was assessed by echocardiography, a type of ultrasound scan, at 17 and 24 years

The researchers analysed the association between sedentary time between 11 and 24 years of age and heart measurements between 17 and 24 years of age after adjusting for factors that could influence the relationship, including age, sex, blood pressure, body fat, smoking, physical activity and socioeconomic status.

The study included 766 children, of which 55 per cent were girls and 45 per cent were boys.

At 11 years of age, children were sedentary for an average of 362 minutes a day,

According to the BHU officials, the findings of the study have been published in journals like Bioresource Technology, Food Biotechnology and Applied Food Biotechnology. The work will be highly beneficial for the food processing and pharma industries.

BHU said that the team of researchers in its study used temple waste coconut coir as base material for fermentative production of food flavor.

Dr. Abhishek Dutt Tripathi, Department of Dairy Science and Food Technology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences said

“This waste though biodegradable, if not regulated properly, poses threat to the environment and serves as the breeding ground for numerous microbial diseases. There is a vast scope for using coconut coir as it is rich in lignocellulosic biomass,” he said.

He said that there have been studies describing the different approaches to converting coconut coir waste’s lignocellulosic biomass into value-added aromatics. “We have attempted to take this work a step forward to prepare edible flavoring compound using lignocellulosic biomass of the coconut coir with the help of Bacillus aryabhattai, which has been done for the first time,” he said.

ChatGPT can aid healthcare professionals in decision making: Study

Central universities research says coconut coir has anticancerous qualities

A mouthful of Bitter Chocolate, and why Lushin Dubey wants to talk about it

By Sukant Deepak

August 24, 2023 (IANSlife) For the longest time, theatre actor and director Lushin Dubey was the youngest member in Delhi-based Barry John’s ‘Theatre Action Group’(TAG) where she was part of mega productions by major playwrights. However, when she came back after a Master’s degree from the US where she learned about working with special needs children, she felt a certain pull towards contemporary social issues which demanded to be talked about.

Dubey came across Pinky Virani’s work ‘Aruna Story’ and approached her for the rights, but they had already been sold. “So I picked up her ‘Bitter Chocolate’ -- I found it very relevant considering there was a need to talk about sexual abuse which had for long being pushed under the carpet but was now being talked about.”

The actor approached theatre

director Arvind Gaur of New Delhi-based Asmita theatre group and they teamed up for the production “I had already worked with the talented Gaur who has always given me wings and immense space. The production was a huge success and has been travelling across the world.”

Dubey, who will be performing 'Untitled' (also directed by Gaur) and 'Bitter Chocolate' on August 24 and 25 in Mumbai, on the invitation of Raëll Padamsee's The CREATE foundation’s ‘Rise Up for Equality - A Special Women's Festival’ feels as the world moves forward, women are coming out and talking about issues they have faced. “ The Create foundation is doing a lot of work and it is a pleasure associating with them.”

Padamsee adds, "Working with theatre, and the young over the years, I have learned that this art form can bring about a systematic, sustainable change. Theatre is the perfect mirrorthe post-discussion encourages solutions and the action plan puts it all into perspective.”

Despite the fact that solo performances can be extremely exhausting, the actor prefers them as she believes they can

be instrumental in refining a performer and add to her/his dimensions. “I travel a lot with my work, and with solos, it is more comfortable to do that. Not to mention, they save me from several logistical hiccups that come with handling a big team.” For someone who has been involved in theatre in different capacities for a long time now, she feels over the years, the art form has become more fearless. “I love the way how passionate people are experimenting and breaking templates. They are no longer working in silos and are ready to take risks -- and that is what ascertains growth.

Talk to her about the lack of contemporary original scripts, a complaint by many theatre directors, and she says most of them are not investigating who is writing what. “And that includes me. I am sure if I look hard enough, some potent work is ready to be discovered.”

A follower of Buddhism, she feels the path has taught her to be in a tempered zone. “There is no extreme happiness or disappointment for me. I know when to let things go and not let them affect me.”

Bend it like metal craft of Jandiala Guru

The Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India has appointed NID as one of the 'Knowledge Partners' for the USTTAD scheme. The project was launched for the benefit of minority communities of India who are engaged in the practice of traditional crafts.

By IANSlife

August 22, 2023 (IANSlife)

Today, the art of photography in India transcends beyond the professional photographers and has reached common people. Both Gen-Zs and millennials use cameras with cutting-edge technology, to fuel their passion for framing memories.

If you’re someone who loves to photograph, you can’t miss these trends to ensure your pictures are timeless yet trendy:

AI-Driven capture and enhancement

The fusion of AI with visual photography is revolutionizing the photography culture by offering effortless background removal and natural retouching. Especially for on-the-go travel content creators and vloggers with limited editing time, AI is the savior.

Nikon Z 9 has a very unique feature called “Auto Capture “. It works with AI and helps the camera to understand subject, motion and distance, enabling the camera to capture images and video automatically.

innovative tools to explore new creative horizons, ensures capturing those action shots and ensures every frame is captured and nothing is missed.

Perfecting Portraits with Skin Softening

If you're all about those smooth and flawless portraits, then guess what?

Skin-softening feature has got your back with the magic touch giving perfect tones to the pictures designed especially for photographers who do fancy model shoots to make their pics pop and look elegant. The latest Nikon Cameras have AI driven Skin Softening feature which lets photographers capture soft and glowing portraits. The best part about this feature is that it only affects the skin and doesn’t affect the facial hair etc. Skin Softening feature greatly reduces turnaround time therefore enabling photographers/content creators to immediately post to their social media without spending too much time on postproduction.

Shooting At Unstoppable Frames

By Sukant Deepak

August 16, 2023 (IANSlife) So even they were stunned to witness the final products for they were nothing like the ones they had been making for generations. These 80 articles perfectly fit contemporary lifestyles -- cook wear, serve wear, bar sets, and home decor. Most said that it was hard for them to believe they had made them.

The Thatheras of Jandiala Guru, the only craft of India to be recognized as UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, practiced near Amritsar in Punjab are a community of skilled artisans known for their exceptional craftsmanship in traditional copper, brass, and bronze utensils.

A collaboration with the National Institute of Design (NID) which involved three major Design Development Workshops at Jandiala Guru, with 22 artisans, including two master artisans held recently was nothing short of a revelation for the craftsmen.

For generations, they have honed their expertise in creating a wide range of handcrafted items, such as pots, pans, bowls, and other kitchenware. The art of metalwork among the Thatheras has been passed down through families for centuries, with each generation preserving and perfecting the techniques and designs.

The process involves melting and shaping raw copper, brass, and bronze into exquisite pieces of functional and decorative art. The artisans use traditional tools and methods, eschewing modern machinery to maintain the authenticity of their craft.

The craftsmanship of the Thatheras of Jandiala Guru is not only renowned for its beauty but also its practicality. Their utensils are durable, have excellent heat conductivity, and are often used in Punjabi households for cooking traditional dishes and serving meals during special occasions and festivals.

Speaking to IANS, Tanishka Kachru (Project Co-Head USTTAD), says the most important part of the initiative was to work where the artists were placed as that turns out to be more meaningful. “When you are in their space, it is cocreation. You are also looking at their materials and tools, the designs that emerge, and how they are harnessed.”

The workshop was not just about forms and new things but also how their processes can be streamlined and if any new tools can help them. Not to mention, ensuring their health and safety while working can be improved. “So you see, it goes beyond design,” says Kachru, former Assistant Curator at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London

The workshop's purpose was not only to keep the existing traditions but also to introduce new and contemporary lifestyles in the process. “And to also think about the target consumer and sometimes the artisan is not aware of that,” adds the Discipline Lead of Exhibition Design at NID, Ahmedabad.

Highly advanced cameras like the Nikon Z 8, features highperformance AI-driven autofocus helping to seize the moments seamlessly.

Return of Cinematography

In filmmaking, videographers are reviving cinematic aesthetics with crystal-clear formats like 4K and 8K. This resolution along with HDR (High Dynamic Range), elevates visuals adding intense colors and remarkable contrast. This resolution along with high frame rate, elevates visuals by bringing that intricate detail to life and adding smooth cinematic slow motion.

Cherish

Moments by capturing decisive photos

While it's all about photos, when it comes to pre-release capture, its real magic lies in capturing those critical moments that define a scene. A captured image, let you to re-live the moment, time and time, providing a sneak peek into the scene’s vibe. Likewise, Nikon Z8 preserves ambience by capturing pre- and post-shutter video snippets, adding emotion to shots. This pre-release feature has more to do with capturing those decisive moments.

The Nikon Z 8 promises to be a game-changer while capturing those decisive moments, offering wildlife and sports photographers

Unleash the power of unstoppable shooting with Nikon Z 8 and Z 9, capturing moments at an astonishing 20 frames per second. Freeze time and capture every moment with over 1000 RAW images in a single, relentless burst. Paint stories through each shot, ensuring not a single detail escapes your lens. With the technical trends, the Imaging industry is also witnessing yet another interesting shift. Gen Z’s, especially women are pursuing photography as a profession and form of artistic expression. This trend has emerged with increased access to photography equipment, workshops, and educational resources. Their influence spans Metaverse, NFTs, and unique palettes, injecting freshness into the industry. They redefine photography with their distinct twist and creative vision. Nikon’s unique campaigns like "Through Her Lens," and “Shutterbug” are initiatives to empower professional and amateur women and student photographers in India.

As technology advanced rapidly in the photography arena, the future potential seems massive. This year promises excitement and dynamism for photographers and the field of photography.

High street shopping? Fashionably patriotic

By IANSlife

August 15, 2023 (IANSlife) The spirit of the Indian Independence Day is high, and everyone is keen on outfits that signify our patriotism. Dressing up in outfits dedicated to the spirit of freedom is a small gesture to showcase

one’s cultural pride and patriotic approach.

The colours of the Indian flag - Saffron, White, Green and the Blue charkha hold so much significance individually. Below are our top five picks from these homegrown brands:

By IANSlife

Alongside the new visual identity, the brand has launched a website and a new app and much-awaited new summer styles. The native e-commerce brand, established in 2019, emphasizes that it's not just a makeover; instead, they invite all fans to add their unique flair, nurturing creativity, fun, and style.

Urbanic places great value on authenticity; the brand strives to stay true to its core principles while encouraging others to do the same. As a brand, Urbanic is “Naturally Charming” creating a space where people can confidently celebrate their individuality and embrace their innate charm.

At Urbanic, fashion should allow you to craft your narrative and showcase your natural charm. Our new identity focuses on creativity and inclusivity. While more refined, it still embodies the spirit of our deeply rooted original values," says Rahul Dayama, Head of Marketing at Urbanic, India.

"We are excited to unveil a new brand identity that resonates with our true philosophy and core values. We believe it is a progressive evolution reflecting a broader purpose," states James Wellwood, founding partner at Urbanic.

(This article is website exclusive and cannot be reproduced without the permission of IANSlife)

IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in

Say it with a handloom saree

The Kanjeevaram sarees are a strong representation of our rich heritage and cultural existence. It also promotes the craftsmanship we hold within the country, and the handicrafts we specialise in.

Embrace Sustainability along with traditional values

The white colour is extremely powerful, and speaks volumes for what it represents to be. It brings peace, prosperity and positive vibes just by looking at the same. This pleasing gypsy white saree is a must have for this Independence day.

Drawstring tops

It is the ties that bind us to our cultural rules, and there is no country richer than India in terms of their cultural values and traditions we hold.

Drawstring tops

It is the ties that bind us to our cultural rules, and there is no country richer than India in terms of their cultural values and traditions we hold.

The go-to outfit for this Independence day

An outfit choice speaks a lot about a person’s personality. With the country embracing the Indian Independence Day occasion, let us inculcate our belief that beauty lies in simplicity. The outfit oozes warmth, with soft fabric and simple designs used to shine on the overall outlook of the dress reflecting one’s personality.

August 22, 2023 (IANSlife)

Womenswear brand Urbanic

aims to captivate the affordable premium clothing sector and has also released a fashion film titled

"BLOOM" as part of its rebranding campaign, accompanied by the hashtag #UR.

8 Signs of heat damaged hair The exact order you should apply makeup

Can the damage be reversed?

By IANSlife

August 21 2023 (IANSlife) Can

heat damaged hair be reversed?

Jamien Lim, Senior Hair Research Scientist from Dyson says, “To simply answer the question, heat damage is irreversible. Once the protein bonds are broken and the hair cuticles are cracked, the inner cortex is exposed to all types of damage which makes it weaker and less pliable.”

Due to heat, hair strands start to split at the ends where the hair is oldest and has experienced the most damage, but those splits can move up the hair shaft splitting multiple times, making the damage worse. Because the hair has lost its elasticity, the strands are more susceptible to breakage. When the hair becomes too weak, the ends will snap off, which will eventually lead to fly aways.

While it is irreversible, Jamien Lim, Senior Hair Research Scientist from Dyson answers some important questions about heat damage.

What causes heat damaged hair?

Heat damaged hair occurs when you blow dry your hair,or usea flat iron, or curler at the highest temperature settings over an extended period while styling your hair. Most hot tools reach temperatures of more than 400°F, which affect all types of hair types starting from pin straight to tightly curled.

Why is hair heat damage irreversible?

Each strand of hair is made up of a protein known as keratin that has a natural curve called the alpha helix. This is present in both curly hair and straight hair. High temperatures permanently alter the structures of the protein bonds in one’s hair.

When the keratin is heated to temperatures higher than 400°F, the alpha helix begins melting. Once the alpha helix is melted, the change is permanent, and the hair will retain the shape of the melted keratin bonds.Once the hair starts growing past the

follicle, it's made up of dead cells. Because of this, the cells can't adapt, and when they're changed, it's permanent. There are no active cells that can be sent in to repair the damage. The damage done to the hair is cumulative. The chances to experience heat damaged hair after one blow dry or one straightening session are slim. However, using hot tools at high temperatures on a regular basis prolongs the changes to the protein bonds and moisture levels of each strand. If you continue using hot tools, the damage progresses as well.

Eight Signs of heat damaged hair

Dryness and dullness

The cuticles of your hair are whatmakeit shiny. When the cuticles are damaged, the hair loses its shine. After the hair wash, the hair should look brighter and shinier than it was. If it's dull, that's one of the first signs of heat damaged hair. Dryness also contributes to dull hair. Damaged hair doesn't properly maintain moisture, leaving the tresses dehydrated and prone to breakage.

Split ends & Breakage

Heat damaged hair loses elasticity because applying heat on a regular basis affects the hair’s ability to retain moisture, often resulting in split ends. Split ends weaken the structure of the hair, which increases the chances of hair breakage. Exposing hair to frequent high heat also increases the risk of breakage because it loses its elasticity.

Flyaways

Flyaways are often a sign of breakage and are short hair strands that stand up after breaking off near the roots. Flyaways can be difficult to manage and tame and can affect the overall look of the hair, especially if one is trying for a sleek and polished style. Use the Airwrap multi-stylerTM flyaway attachment to tame those flyaways, especially during the

monsoon season.

Rough or changed texture

To determine if the texture has changed, one can run the fingers through the hair. Heat damaged curly hair may lose its spring and not bounce back the way it did when the hair was healthy. Damaged straight hair can go from feeling smooth and silky to feeling rough and coarse. You may even describe heat damaged hair as feeling frayed or singed at the tips.

Knots and tangles

Hair cuticles are made up of “shingles”. When the hair cuticles become damaged, the shingles begin to stick out, causing strands of hair to easily knot with other strands. Knots and tangles make brushing or combing the hair more difficult and can lead to further breakage.

Incorrect hair colour

Heat damaged hair can't properly retain colour. If your hair has become too porous, it might absorb too much of the dye and make the colour darker than you have desired for. Your hair colour might also fade faster than normal as damaged hair has high porosity, it releases more colourduring hair wash.

Hair loss

The average person has approximately 80,000 to 120,000 hairs on their head. Hair strands grow for 2 to 6 years, and it's normal to shed hairs. During these 2 to 6 years, strands collect damage. If one has heat damaged hair, the strands are weaker therefore, one might witness more hair loss.

As it is established that damaged hair repair isn't possible because the protein bonds and cuticles have been permanently altered. Knowing the signs of heat damaged hair will help you determine if that's what you're dealing with, and it allows you to start taking steps to get your hair in a healthy state once again.

By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

August 18, 2023 (IANSlife) Just as there are certain methods we accomplish certain things, such as making a specific meal. The process of putting on makeup also varies a lot. But, regardless, it is essential to establish the groundwork once and for all, and we can tweak it here and there as we choose. As a result, Mukan Jain, Brand Manager at MARS Cosmetics, discusses the proper order for applying makeup.

Step 1: Primer

If you ask experienced makeup artists for their best advice, most will tell you that the key to great makeup is to prep your skin properly. It helps that there's a primer out there for every type of skin and concern. So whether you're dealing with oily skin and want to control shine, or your skin is dry and needs more moisture, there's a primer designed for it. Primers not only make makeup stick better but also make it last longer. So, if you want your makeup to shine throughout the day, primer is your secret weapon.

Step 2: Brows and Eyes

While this isn't a strict rule, there's a good reason to handle your eye makeup and eyebrows before you get into your complexion products. It's all about having a solid base to work from. Why? It gives you a safety net. You can fix fallout or mascara mishaps under your eyes without messing up your concealer or foundation, especially if you've gone all out on your eye look. However, you're not locked into this order – you can totally switch it up and apply your eye makeup after your complexion products if that suits your style better. The key is to kick off with whatever is going to be the star of your look. If it's all about the eyes, dive into that first. If you're focusing on achieving flawless skin, start there. This way, you've got more flexibility to perfect that focal point before bringing in the other elements like lips and cheeks. It's all about making your final look come together seamlessly.

Step 3: Foundation

Exploring the world of foundations can be

overwhelming. How do you find the right one for you? If you want a light, breathable finish, go for a tinted moisturizer or something with a dewy touch. If you're in the middle, a demi-matte works well. And if you need staying power, full-coverage, matte foundations are your go-to for all-day wear. Remember, the purpose of the foundation is to create an even base for other makeup. To start, match the shade to your skin tone and desired finish. Test three similar shades on your chest to find the closest one – usually, the face is a bit lighter than the rest of your body due to regular washing. To apply, use a Beauty Blender for a natural look or a good foundation brush for a smoother finish. Whichever tool you choose, blend the foundation before adding concealer.

Step 4: Concealer

First things first, figure out where your face needs a bit more love, then bring in the concealer. Concealers are thicker and meant to tackle stuff like pesky dark circles or stubborn blemishes. To get the best bang for your buck, dab on thin layers and gently tap them onto your skin.

If you're uncertain about where to apply concealer, the choice largely hinges on your desired outcomes. Opt for lighter shades to brighten the area beneath your eyes, darker patches of skin, or to accentuate the high points of your face. For covering blemishes and acne scars, select a shade that closely matches your skin tone or the shade of your foundation.

Step 5: Bronzer/Blush/ Highlighter

Now that your base is in place, it's time to add some depth and dimension to your face. Here's the order: bronzer first, then blush, and finally highlighter. Start by using bronzer on your cheekbones and temples to give your face definition and a sun-kissed glow. This lays the foundation for sculpting. Next, swipe blush onto the apples of your cheeks, gently blending it outward for a natural flush. Just be careful about mixing different product textures, especially when it comes to foundation and blush pairings. Putting powder on top of the cream might make things look slightly blotchy.

Places to visit over a long weekend Mystical Getaways to satisfy your Wanderlust

A trip to the holy city of Varanasi is memorable

August 21, 2023 (IANSlife) For both natives and visitors, a long weekend is a great time to either explore or indulge in some rest and rejuvenation. These locations are some of the best ones to visit over a holiday weekend if you're seeking for something to do.

Munnar and Alleppey in Kerala

Consider Kerala's Munnar and Alleppey if you want a combination of a hill station and a beach. Travellers can see the well-known tea estates, the Mattupetty Dam in Munnar, the Alappuzha Lighthouse, and enjoy a houseboat stay in Alleppey in just four days.

Take

Coorg in Karnataka

Bangalore city is around a seven-hour journey from Coorg or Kodagu, commonly referred to as the Scotland of India. You can go to Talakaveri, Abbey Falls, Mandalpatti Peak, Dubare Elephant Camp, Padi Igguthappa Temple, Sri Bhagandeshwara Temple, and the Iruppu Falls. From home stays to luxurious resorts, there are many places to stay.

South Goa

There is perpetual contention between North and South Goa. South Goa is the place to go if you want to get away from the crowds and the nightlife of North Goa. South Goa’s beaches also provide possibilities for beach lodging. Cola Beach (which has a beach on one side and a backwater on the other), Agonda Beach, Butterfly Beach, Palolem Beach, Cabo de Rama Fort, and Mormugao Fort are a few wonderful beaches to explore. You may also decide to visit Dudhsagar Falls during the day.

By IANSlife

August 12, 2023 (IANSlife) You are invited to go off on an enchanted tour by sparkling lakes, grassy slopes, peaceful forests, and breathtaking scenery. Leisure Hotels Group, the nation's top experiential resort company, has unveiled amazing deals at some of its most lovely hotels. Together with their unmatched hospitality, carefully selected immersive activities, and delectable fare, they are sure to make this a trip you and your loved ones will never forget.

The unique travel experiences

include both heart-pounding thrills and equally reviving holistic encounters in eleven locations, including Rishikesh, Haridwar, Corbett, Nainital, Bhimtal, Varanasi, Kasauni, Bareilly, and Dharamshala. Your wanderlust will be satiated by river rafting and safaris at The Riverview Retreat in Corbett, as well as heartfelt evening aartis, yoga classes, and a breathtaking view of Rishikesh from Aloha on the Ganges. There will be additional activities for families travelling with children at all resorts, including cooking classes, archery, and other fun pursuits.

Mahabaleshwar

Mahabaleshwar is well-known for its lovely rivers and towering hills. It is a small hill station in the picturesque Western Ghats. Your senses will be captivated by its natural beauty, adventurous sports like hiking, boating, birdwatching, and rock climbing, elevated vantage places like Arthur’s Seat or the Lingmala Waterfall, Mapro Garden, and

And to make the most of this enchanting weather, the hotels’ bring you a plethora of culinary delicacies to indulge those rainyday cravings. Savour authentic Kumaoni cuisine at The Naini Retreat, Nainital along with some of the most loved street foods –freshly prepared pakoras, bhuna masala bhutta, jhalmuri and peanut chaat. Pair it with a cup of piping hot chai or latte while you soak in the serenity that surrounds you.

With the upcoming long weekend, take a short break from the monotony of the city life and immerse yourself in the lap of nature with Leisure Hotels Group.

What: Mystical Getaways

Date: From 10th August to 16th

August, 2023

Special Pricing at Participating hotels: A one-of-a-kind experience awaits you at,

Atman, Dharamshala- INR 14,000 + taxes onwards

The Earl’s Court, Nainital- INR 17,900 + taxes onwards

Fishermen’s Lodge, Bhimtal- INR 20,000 + taxes onwards

Sun n Snow Inn, Kausani- INR 12,000 + taxes onwards

The Manor, Kashipur- INR 5,600 + taxes onwards

The Manor, Bareilly- INR 8,624 onwards

Bedzzz, Rishikesh- INR 10,800 + taxes onwards

Bedzzz, Varanasi- INR 9,050 + taxes onwards

Aloha On The Ganges, RishikeshINR 22,000 + taxes onwards

The Naini Retreat, Nainital- INR 28,100 + taxes onwards

The Riverview Retreat, Corbett National Park- INR 19,100 + taxes onwards

Haveli Hari Ganga, Haridwar- INR 29,000 + Taxes onwards

Ganga Lahari, Haridwar- INR 28,000 + taxes onwards

Date: 17th August to 30th

September, 2023

Offers: Stay More, Save MoreStay for 3 & Pay for 2 nights Stay Longer, Pay Less: 50% Off 2nd night

Experience More for Less: Enjoy 20% Off on MAP rates (includes accommodation, breakfast and lunch/ dinner)

By Olivia Sarkar

TIGER 3

RELEASE DATE: Diwali 2023

LANGUAGE: Hindi, Tamil, Telugu (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Yash Raj Films

DIRECTOR: Maneesh Sharma

CAST: Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif, Emraan Hashmi

DUNKI

RELEASE DATE: 22 December 2023

LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)

DIRECTOR: Rajkumar Hirani

CAST: Shah Rukh Khan, Taapsee Pannu

PIPPA

RELEASE DATE: TBA

LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: RSVP, Roy Kapur

Films

DIRECTOR: Raja Krishna Menon

SYNOPSIS: About Brigadier Balram Singh Mehta of the 45th Cavalry tank squadron who fought on the eastern front during the Indo-Pakistan war of 1971 along with his siblings.

JAWAN

7 September 2023 | Hindi, Tamil, Telugu

LANGUAGE: Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada (With English Subtitles)

DIRECTOR: Atlee Kumar

CAST: Shah Rukh Khan, Nayanthara, Sanya Malhotra, Priyamani, Yogi Babu

As Chandrayaan-3 creates history, film fraternity celebrates the moment

clip of the control room of ISRO. She wrote on the video, "Waah, what a moment."

Vijay Deverakonda, who is awaiting the release of his upcoming film 'Kushi', also wrote on Instagram, "Those smilesss :) That joy & pride across the country.. Kushiiii."

Vijay's 'Kushi' co-star Samantha Ruth Prabhu also took to social media to express her joy as she wrote, "Yet again, we land on the Moon! Jai Hind. Congratulations @isro.in #Chandrayaan3."

Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan took to X (formerly Twitter) and wrote, "My heart swells with pride a little more today, as I witness my people soar high and give their very best. Congratulations & all my respect to @isro & the geniuses behind #Chandrayaan3's lunar exploration mission. #IndiaOnTheMoon."

Bollywood's action hero

Tiger Shroff wrote, “Mission accomplished…history made. Jai Hind Congratulations @isro.in @ isroindiaofficial."

Allu Arjun becomes first Tollywood star to win ‘best actor’ National Award

India created history on Wednesday after its Chandrayaan-3 successfully softlanded on the Moon's surface at 6.04 p.m. - a feat matched only by erstwhile Soviet Republic, the US and China.

As the historic event opened up new possibilities for mankind, the film folks celebrated India's mark on the lunar canvas as they congratulated the scientists and the brains behind Chandrayaan-3 on their success.

Bollywood superstar Ajay Devgn wrote on social media, "Proud, amazed, excited, honoured to be living this moment of history.

Bharat Mata ki Jai #Chandrayaan".

Another Bollywood icon Akshay Kumar wrote, "A billion hearts saying THANK YOU ISRO. You've made us so proud. Lucky to be watching India make history. India is on the moon, we are over the moon. #Chandrayaan3."

Star actress Shraddha Kapoor took to Instagram as she shared a

Actress Rashmika Mandana, who swayed the nation as Srivalli in 'Pushpa: The Rise', celebrated the moment. She wrote in her Instagram Story, "A proud moment for all of us as #Chandrayaan3 lands on the moon today... Respect and salute to each and everyone who worked on and supported this mission."

Actress Taapsee Pannu wrote in her Instagram Story, "@ isro.in and @chandrayan_3 Congratulations @isro.in We did it #Chandrayaan3."

‘SRK is a very capable artiste,’ says Amitabh Bachchan

Allu Arjun became the firstever Telugu actor to win the national award for best actor after he bagged the honours for his power-packed performance in ‘Pushpa: The Rise’ at the 69th National Film Awards announced on Thursday.

Celebrations broke out in Tollywood circles soon after the announcement, as greetings poured in for the stylish actor from all over the industry. There were celebrations at the house of the elated actor as his father and well-known producer Allu Arvind was among the first to greet him.

Sukumar, who directed the action-drama film, hugged the actor to congratulate him.

Several film personalities congratulated Allu Arjun, who became the first Tollywood actor to win the national award for the best actor in 68 years of the awards’ history.

Popular as 'Bunny' in film circles, Allu Arjun entered the film industry as a child artiste in 1985.

‘Gangotri’ (2003) was his debut movie as the hero. He established himself as a pan-India actor with the blockbuster ‘Pushpa: The Rise’.

The grandson of popular comedian Allu Ramalingaiah and son of Allu Arvind, Allu Arjun is also the nephew of megastar Chiranjeevi. Chiranjeevi’s wife Surekha is Allu Arjun’s paternal

aunt.

Congratulating Allu Arjun, Chiranjeevi tweeted: “Proud moment for Telugu cinema. Heartiest congratulations to especially my dearest Bunny for the coveted National Best Actor Award. Absolutely proud of you."

Leading actor Jr NTR also congratulated Allu Arjun, saying, “You deserve all the success and awards you get for Pushpa."

Allu Arjun’s cousin Ram Charan and Venkatesh have also congratulated the actor. Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy congratulated Allu Arjun for winning the maiden national award for best actor. He also congratulated Devi Sri Prasad on winning the national award for best music for 'Pushpa'.

In his reply, Allu Arjun thanked Jagan Mohan Reddy for his congratulations.

The Chief Minister said the 69th National Awards have proved to be a bonanza for the Telugu film industry.

He also congratulated S.S. Rajamiuli for 'RRR' winning six awards, including best popular film.

Jagan Reddy also congratulated Chandrabose for winning the award for best lyrics for 'Konda Polam'.

Megastar and 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' season 15 host Amitabh Bachchan has humorously shared how he works with superstar Shah Rukh Khan in the movies.

It's not every day that an SRK fan and an AB fan, both from the same family, get a chance

to profess their love for their superstars on Indian television.

In episode eight of the quizbased reality show, contestant Aparna Singh from Lucknow will stand out as she professes her admiration for the 'Badshah of Bollywood' – Shah Rukh Khan to the OG Shahenshah – Amitabh

Bachchan.

In an engaging banter with host Big B, the 28-year-old Aparna detailed her role of nurturing digital growth for small businesses, shedding light on the intricacies of data collection and advertising mechanics of social media platforms.

For the question of Rs 10,000, Aparna was asked: "Which of these movies starring Shah Rukh Khan is not directed by Karan Johar?" The options were: My Name Is Khan, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. Aparna chose the right answer which was 'Jab Tak Hai Jaan'.

She then revealed that she is a

diehard fan of Shah Rukh Khan. Amid these revelations, Aparna's unwavering affection for the 'Badshah of Romance', Shah Rukh Khan, culminated in her heartfelt declaration: "Shah Rukh Ji mere bohot pasandida actor hain. He is my favourite actor."

69th National Film Awards: ‘RRR’, ‘Gangubai Kathiyawadi’ sweep technical awards

stories. Hence, it becomes all the more intriguing to see them battling it out.

While SLB’s ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ was feted with Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Make-up, Best Editing and Best Dialogues, ‘RRR’ bagged Best Choreography, Best Special Effects and Best Stunt Choreography.

National Film Awards: Kriti Sanon was in a meeting, ‘completely unaware’ of her Best Actress win

Aday after Chandrayaan-3’s successful landing on the south pole of the moon, it’s time to celebrate cinema as the 69th National Film Awards were announced on Thursday.

‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ and S.S. Rajamouli’s magnum opus ‘RRR’ locked horns as they sweeped major technical awards.

Both the filmmakers are known for their "larger than life" approach and grandeur in their

However, out of the scope of technical awards, ‘RRR’ edged out ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ as it Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, Best Music Direction (Background Music) and Best Male Playback Singer to Kaala Bhairava for ‘Komuram Bheemudo’. ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ though managed to bag Best Actress award for Alia Bhatt in sharing with Kriti Sanon for ‘Mimi’.

69th National Film Awards: ‘The Kashmir Files’ wins Best Feature Film on National Integration

‘The Kashmir Files’ has bagged the Nargis Dutt Award for the Best Feature Film on National Integration at the 69th National Film Awards here on Thursday. The event took place at the National Media Centre hosted by the jury. It had 280 films across 28 languages in competition for various awards.

‘The Kashmir Files’ presents a storyline centred around the 1990 exodus of Kashmiri Hindus from Kashmir.

The Kashmir Files stars Mithun Chakraborty, Anupam Kher,

Darshan Kumar, and Pallavi Joshi. The plot follows a Kashmiri Hindu college student, raised by his exiled grandfather and shielded from the knowledge of the circumstances of the death of his parents. After his grandfather's death, the student, who had come to believe at college that the exodus was benign, becomes driven to uncover the facts of his family's deaths.

The plot alternates between the student's quest in the present time, 2020, and his family's travails of thirty years before.

Manikandan’s ‘Kadaisi Vivasayi’ wins National Award for Best Tamil Film

Kadaisi

Vivasayi’, directed and produced by M. Manikandan, feted as the Best Tamil Film at the National Film Awards 2023, announced in New Delhi on Thursday. The movie is a story of an 85-year-old farmer who stood up against a property developer.

‘Kadaisi Vivasayi’ was released in theatres on February 11, 2022.

The film features the late Nallandi who played the lead role. Vijay Sethupathi and Yogi Babu played supporting roles in the movie.

The cinematography of the movie was also done by Manikandan.

Manikandan had tried to rope in Tamil super star Rajinikanth to play the role of the farmer Mayandi in the movie but the actor turned down the offer. Later, he found Nallandi to play the role of Mayandi. Nallandi completed the shooting of the movie but passed away soon.

Tamil superstar Vijay Sethupathi played a cameo role in the movie.

Except for Vijay Sethupathi and Yogi Babu, all others were farmers who were acting for the first time in the movie.

Actress Kriti Sanon has won the National Film Award for Best Actress for her work in ‘Mimi’, and the actress is on cloud nine. The actress shared that she was in a meeting at her house when she started getting the calls and was completely unaware about her Best Actress win. She told IANS, “I couldn’t understand what was going on. I usually don't step outside the meetings to take calls but this time I had to, and that's when I really got to know the news. I was so elated and emotional that I had to pause the meeting and run down to give my parents a hug and tell them the news and then everybody was really emotional. It’s a moment that I will never ever forget in my life”. She further mentioned that there are very few films and roles that come in an actor’s life that give them so much to do and touch them so deeply.

Such roles make the actors very passionate and almost obsessed with the role and that’s something that happened with her as well with regards to ‘Mimi’.

“I think as an actor, I was really looking for an opportunity to

dig deep and explore myself as an actor. ‘Mimi’ gave me that platform and that kind of an arc and a screenplay that I could really play with and show my potential as an actor. The emotionally draining scenes, and every little bit, I gave it my all because it brought that creative satisfaction that every actor craves for. The love and the validation that the film has got even though it was released on OTT is beyond words. Getting my first Best Actress Awards and now the most prestigious awards of the National Award is very very special for me and is a moment that I will never forget in my life," the actress added.

She also extended her best wishes to her ‘Mimi’ co-actor Pankaj Tripathi, who also has bagged the Best Supporting Actor Award for ‘Mimi’.

She said: "I am also extremely excited and super thrilled that Pankaj sir also won the Nationak Award for Best Supporting Actor for ‘Mimi’. He truly deserves the Award and he is one of my favourite actors and favourite costars. I just feel so happy that he is getting so much love and

Pankaj Tripathi dedicates Best Supporting Actor award for ‘Mimi’ to his late father

Actor Pankaj Tripathi, who is currently receiving good response to his recent release ‘OMG 2’, has been feted with the Best Supporting Actor award for his work in ‘Mimi’ at the announcement of 69th National Film Awards in Delhi on Thursday.

The actor, who is grieving the loss of his father, has dedicated his award to his late father. He said in a statement: “This is unfortunately a period of loss

and grieving for me. If Babuji was around, he would have been really happy for me. When I first got the National award mention, he was very proud and pleased”.

The actor also congratulated actress Kriti Sanon, who shared the Best Actress Award with Alia Bhatt for her film ‘Mimi’. He further mentioned: "This National Award I dedicate to him and his spirit. I’m who I’m today because of him.

Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s

Director Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri’s runaway success

Buyers Like What They See at Brookwater.

Your 5 minute neighbourhood:

Just 35 minutes away from Brisbane CBD, the interest among buyers has been at a record level, according to Narendran Sinnathamby, the General Manager of Brookwater Residential. Brookwater’s current land release, The Dress Circle, is situated around the first nine holes of the championship golf course designed by Greg Norman. It is the only integrated golf community near Brisbane. “Discerning buyers are recognising that Brookwater is a premium lifestyle destination,’’Mr Sinnathamby said.

“The Dress Circle, Brookwater is situated within Springfield City, one of Australia’s fastestgrowing regions. Springfield City sets the standard for world-class master-planned urban environments in the 21st century and has become a blueprint for nation-building,” he added. “The area boasts outstanding schools, and state-of-the-art health facilities, and is now home to the Brisbane Lions AFL Club. Everything you need is within reach.”

Within the Springfield City area, there are 12 schools, 22 childcare facilities, and the University of Southern Queensland providing a remarkable array of options for both private and public amenities, making it an ideal choice for growing families.

Springfield City is positioned as the gateway to the western corridor of Southeast Queensland. With an expansive area of 2,860 hectares, it is Australia’s largest master-planned city and the first of its kind since Canberra.

-

The wider Springfield Growth Corridor including Springfield and Greater Springfield is currently home to 145,300 people.

- This is expected to grow rapidly to almost 200,000 people in 2026 and over 435,000 in 2041.

- Represents an annual growth rate of 5.6% over the 20 years to 2041.

LARGE REGISTERED HOMESITES FROM $615,000

* Please be advised that the provided outline is intended solely for location reference purposes and is indicative only.

City Springfield Central – home to Mater Private Hospital Springfield, Aveo Springfield and Quest Apartment Hotel.

Springfield Central offering major retail shops, restaurants, a movie theatre and food court. SOURCE: