T20 World Cup: India celebrate after Rohit and Co. end 11-year drought for ICC title
New Delhi, June 30 (IANS) The streets throughout the country erupted in joyous celebrations as thousands of people poured their emotions out after the Men in
Five
ICC Men's T20 World Cup title, beating South Africa by seven runs in a nail-biting encounter in Bridgetown, Barbados on Saturday.
Thousands of fans flooded the streets in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bengaluru, waving flags, lighting fireworks, and singing in unison to mark the monumental win.
As the decisive legal delivery was
bowled by Hardik Pandya, sealing India's triumph, the scenes on the pitch and in the stands were nothing short of euphoric. Players and support staff were overcome with emotion, many bursting into tears. India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, was among those most visibly moved.
Unlike the tears he shed after the 2023 World Cup final loss,
soldiers killed during tank exercises
in Ladakh
Srinagar, June
Five Army soldiers were killed during a tank
the
Ladakh region when the stream through which the tanks were passing suddenly got flooded.
Official sources told IANS from Leh town of Ladakh region that an exercise of tank warfare was going on in the Daulat Beg Ode area near the line of actual control (LAC) on Friday.
A stream which was being crossed by the tanks during this exercise suddenly got flooded due to cloudburst in the higher reaches.
“A tank was caught in the flashflood wherein five soldiers got killed,” sources said. The sources ruled out any sabotage in this accident. Those killed in this mishap include a Junior Commissioned Officer.
NEET row: Govt committed to fair investigation, assures
New Delhi, June 27 (IANS) Amid a nationwide furore over the
National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) "paper leak", President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday asserted that the government was committed to a fair investigation and ensuring strict punishment to the guilty.
Addressing a joint sitting of Parliament, President Murmu
said, "Even earlier, we have witnessed many instances of paper leaks in different states. It is important that we rise above party-politics and undertake concrete measures nationwide."
The Parliament has also enacted a strict law against unfair means in
President Murmu, PM Modi lead nation in hailing T20 WC winners
Mumbai, June 30 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu led Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his cabinet colleagues, fellow politicians, celebrities, sports stars and former cricketers as they all rose in unison to praise Team India following their
thrilling win over South Africa in the final of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, here on Saturday.
South Africa needed 30 runs off 30 balls to win the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup. But Hardik Pandya’s 3-20 and Jasprit Bumrah’s 2-18 helped an unbeaten India clinch their second title in the shortest format with a seven-run win at the Kensington Oval on Saturday. "We are proud of you," President
Budget will see many ‘historic steps’ towards making India the 3rd largest economy: President Murmu
Delhi, June 27 (IANS)
President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday said the upcoming Union Budget will be an effective document of the government's
far-reaching policies and futuristic vision.
Along with major economic and social decisions, many historic steps will also be seen in this budget, President Murmu said during her address to the Parliament.
"The pace of reforms will be further accelerated in tune with
Cracks in INDIA bloc come to fore over resolution against Emergency, BJP rubs it in
New Delhi, June 26 (IANS) The resurgent Congress-led INDIA bloc has been latching on to every opportunity to corner the BJP-led NDA while reiterating that, as the voice of India, they will keep the government on a tight leash. However, unity within the INDIA
bloc seems to be wavering with the group purportedly struggling to put forth a united stand against the Narendra Modi dispensation. Within three days of the commencement of the 18th Lok Sabha proceedings, the Opposition has found itself divided on a couple of issues, including the resolution on Emergency, dissenting voices on the division of votes for the Speaker election, and also the choice of the INDIA bloc’s Speaker Continued on Page 3
New
29 (IANS)
warfare exercise in
Blue clinched their second
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of the greatest, hard to put it in words’: Rohit Sharma on T20 World Cup win
T20 World Cup: India celebrate after Rohit and Co. end 11-year drought for ICC title
Continued from Page 1
these were tears of unbridled joy. Rohit Sharma, along with his teammates, embraced each other in sheer jubilation, their longawaited dream finally realised. This victory marked a poignant moment in Indian cricket history.
It had been eleven long years since MS Dhoni last lifted an ICC trophy for India. Now, under Rohit Sharma's leadership, the team had conquered the T20 World Cup once again, cementing their legacy and igniting celebrations across the nation.
The final at Kensington Oval was a rollercoaster of emotions, with India successfully defending a target of 176 against a determined
South African side. The Proteas, needing 30 runs from the last 30 deliveries, seemed poised for victory. However, the Indian bowlers, led by the formidable trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and Arshdeep Singh, delivered under immense pressure.
Across India, from bustling metropolises to quiet villages, the celebrations were a testament to the deep connection between the nation and its cricketing heroes.
Fans danced in the streets, adorned in blue jerseys, their faces painted with the tricolour, revelling in the shared triumph despite it being past midnight.
In Mumbai, a huge crowd gathered at the iconic Marine
Drive to celebrate India's victory despite rain. Many others took to the streets, honking their cars and bikes, waving flags, singing and shouting, creating a cacophony of sounds last heard in the city in 2011 when India won the ODI World Cup at the Wankhede. For millions of South African supporters, the outcome was heart-wrenching.
Despite their team’s valiant effort and narrow margins, they watched as victory slipped away in the final moments.
The Proteas, having performed admirably throughout the tournament, fell agonisingly short in the grand finale.
President Murmu, PM Modi lead nation in hailing T20 WC winners
Continued from Page 1
Droupadi Murmu said in her message on X.
"My heartiest congratulations to Team India for winning the T20 World Cup. With the neversay-die spirit, the team sailed through difficult situations and demonstrated outstanding skills throughout the tournament. It was an extraordinary victory in the final match. Well done, Team India! We are proud of you!" stated a message posted on her official handle.
Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar said, "Bharat is elated by the spectacular victory of the Men in Blue in the #T20WorldCup2024! "
"The stupendous performance by Team India throughout the tournament is a testament to their dedication and hard work. May they continue to bring glory to the nation. Heartiest congratulations!" the Vice-President said.
PM Modi, in a video message, congratulated the Indian team on its victory. "Congratulations to Team India from all countrymen on this majestic victory in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. Today 140 crore Indians will be feeling proud of your performance. You won the World Cup in the sports field but your performance in the event has captured the hearts of crores of Indian citizens,"
Meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah described it as "a glorious moment for our nation".
"Our players put up a stellar
performance throughout the #T20WorldCup with unmatched team spirit and sportsmanship.
The nation swells with pride at their historic achievement. Well done," he wrote in his message on X.
"With stellar performances from our fearless batsmen, who set the stage on fire, to our relentless bowlers, who defended our honour, this victory is truly historic," wrote Minister of Road Transport & Highways Nitin Gadkari in a post on X.
"Each player brought their A-game, showcasing skill, passion, and unity. You’ve made us proud again—this triumph belongs to every Indian cheering from the stands and beyond!" he added.
"What a performance by our Men in Blue under @ImRo45 (Rohit Sharma) to bring home the #T20WorldCup after 17 years. This dream run at the tournament has been a result of an excellent display of dedication and teamwork.
The entire nation is celebrating this remarkable victory," said Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Piyush Goyal.
"The spectacular Men in Blue have made our country proud," said Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi.
"Congratulations to Team India on a spectacular World Cup Victory and a phenomenal performance throughout the tournament!
Surya, what a brilliant catch! Rohit, this win is a testament to your leadership. Rahul, I know Team India will miss your guidance," Gandhi wrote in his message on X.
Pakistan cricketer Hassan Ali was the first one from across the border to congratulate the Indian team on winning the title.
"What a match, what a final!! Congratulations to India on winning the #T20WorldCup. And hats off to South Africa for an unbeaten run till the final, you guys were just an inch away from it," he wrote on X.
"Congratulations team India! Wonderful victory," expressed former India captain Anil Kumble. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge wrote, "Many Congratulations to the Men in Blue for their impressive display of talent and dedication. Virat Kohli, Axar Patel and Arshdeep Singh shone through the match. Every Indian is proud of this incredible victory."
Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra was not far behind as he congratulated the team on this stupendous victory.
"T20 World Champions again! What a game. Congratulations, #TeamIndia!"
Among the celebrities, Bollywood actors Riteish Deshmukh, Anil Kapoor, Rashmika Mandhana and Huma Qureshi took to social media to congratulate the Indian team for the thrilling victory.
NEET row: Govt committed to fair investigation, assures President Murmu
Continued from Page 1
examinations, she added.
The President said, "My Government is working towards major reforms in examinationrelated bodies, their functioning and all aspects of the examination process."
"It is the continuous endeavour of the Government to provide the right opportunities to the youth of the country to demonstrate their talent. Whether it is competitive
Budget will see many ‘historic steps’ towards making India the 3rd largest economy: President Murmu
Continued from Page 1
the aspirations of people of India for rapid development. My Government believes that there should be healthy competition among the states to attract investors from all over the world," the President mentioned.
In 10 years, India has risen to become the fifth largest economy from the 11th ranked one, she said.
President Murmu said that from 2021 to 2024, India has grown at an average rate of 8 per cent annually.
"And this growth has not been achieved under usual
circumstances. In recent years, we have seen the biggest pandemic in 100 years. India has achieved this growth amid the global pandemic and despite ongoing conflicts in different parts of the world," the President told the Parliament.
Today, India alone is contributing 15 per cent of the global growth, she said.
"Now, my government is striving to make India the third largest economy in the world. Achieving this goal will also strengthen the foundation of a developed India," President Murmu noted.
Cracks in INDIA bloc come to fore over resolution against Emergency, BJP rubs it in
Continued from Page 1 candidate.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), soon after NDA candidate Om Birla won the Speaker’s election by voice vote on Wednesday, called out the ‘myth of Opposition unity’ and said that Congress was being forced to 'hide its face'.
Rubbing in further, BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala said that key allies of the Congress, including DMK, Samajwadi Party, and Trinamool Congress, moved away from it when the former opposed the resolution on Emergency.
Notably, the Congress and its INDIA allies have been taking potshots at the NDA over picking Om Birla as Speaker for a second term while accusing the latter of insulting the mandate by ignoring the longest-serving Congress MP for the top post of the Lower House.
However, the Opposition found itself under the cloud as the differences and dissent within the bloc came to the fore, and its narrative of ‘save the Constitution’ was destroyed by NDA’s resolution against the Emergency. Tussle over Speaker candidate While the BJP and its allies finalised Om Birla as its candidate for the post of Speaker, the Congress-led INDIA bloc saw dissent and differences within on zeroing in on a nominee for the post. The Congress projected K. Suresh, the longest-serving eight-time MP from Kerala, as its candidate but this left the Trinamool sulking as it reportedly wasn’t taken into confidence.
examinations or Government recruitment, there should be no reason for any hindrance. This process requires complete transparency and probity," she said.
Trinamool, being the third biggest alliance partner in the INDIA bloc, didn’t hold back in expressing its displeasure, and the same was conveyed to the Congress high command. Mamata Banerjee herself called it a unilateral decision, following which Rahul Gandhi spoke to the Bengal CM over the phone and sought to
pacify her.
On Wednesday, the animated discussion between Rahul Gandhi and Trinamool MP Abhishek Banerjee in the Parliament complex also gave credence to the speculation of dissent within the bloc.
Speaker’s election
NDA candidate and threetime MP Om Birla enjoyed a comfortable edge over eight-time MP K. Suresh, and was tipped to win the race easily. The election for the Speaker's post was necessitated after the BJP refused to give in to Congress' demand for the Deputy Speaker's post as per the convention. Accordingly, the Congress fielded K. Suresh for the post, but reports suggest that its ally partners, including the NCP and SP, were not keen on the contest as they didn’t want to be seen as the ones breaking the Parliamentary convention of getting the Speaker elected unopposed. When it came to voting, the Opposition camp looked divided as there was no unanimity on whether to go by voice vote or seek division of votes. Multiple partners spoke in multiple voices, leading to chaos. Trinamool preferred a voice vote and so did the Congress. Jairam Ramesh later also put it on record that INDIA bloc parties could have insisted on division of votes but "opted for voice vote to promote the spirit of consensus".
Resolution against Emergency
This again brought the differences between the INDIA bloc allies to the fore, even though the constituents tried hard to give a semblance of unity. As newly elected Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla read out the resolution against the Emergency, it drew loud protests from the Congress but its allies, including Samajwadi Party and Trinamool, the second and third biggest partners in the alliance, came out in support, causing further heartburn.
On Gautam Adani’s birthday, video of Adani Group’s 2023 fight back takes internet by storm
New Delhi, June 24 (IANS)
Gautam Adani, the FounderChairman of Adani Group, turned 62 on Monday, thereby adding yet another year of remarkable accomplishments and milestones for his various companies while contributing to the country’s wealth creation.
Billionaire Gautam Adani also addressed the annual general meeting (AGM) of the flagship company Adani Enterprises on Monday, and told millions of shareholders that his ports-toenergy conglomerate is stronger than ever while its best is yet to come.
Meanwhile, a video showcasing the difficulties and struggles of the Adani Group, particularly in 2023, and the valiant fightback led by Gautam Adani took social media by storm on Monday.
The 4-minute viral video aptly titled ‘Adani – Stronger than ever’ shared by the Adani Group vividly shows how the
Headwinds
leading industrialist built the conglomerate from scratch with his hard work and honesty, while never giving in to tougher times.
It particularly captures the troublesome phase of 2023, when Adani Group faced an unprecedented crisis and suffered heavy losses in the wake of fake and forged reports by a USbased short seller, Hindenburg Research. The motivated report came in January 2023, just days before AEL’s Rs 20,000 crore follow-on public offer.
Summarising 2023 as the tumultuous year and the company’s stellar rise thereafter, the video elucidates, “The conglomerate faced one of its worst crises in 2023. Despite facing fire from all sides, it came back with a bang. And, the one person who turned this crisis into opportunity was none other than Gautam Adani, the man whose life is a testimony of winning battles with purity in heart and smile on the face.”
The Adani Group Chairman also made a mention of the challenge posed by Hindenburg in his AGM speech as he told the shareholders how it not only
failed to undermine the group’s foundations, but rather ultimately resulted in fortifying its resolve for next-generation growth.
"We were faced with baseless accusations made by a foreign short seller that questioned our decades of hard work. In the face of an unprecedented attack on our integrity and reputation, we fought back and proved that no challenge could weaken the foundations on which your Group has been established," said Gautam Adani, addressing the shareholders.
He also said that the world is witnessing the rise of India and it is a ripe moment to seize the opportunity.
“India is no longer at the crossroads. We stand on the brink of our greatest growth phase,” the billionaire said, emphasising India’s emerging role amid geopolitical shifts.
The viral video seeks to give Gautam Adani’s life lessons to the netizens on how to keep oneself calm and composed in tough times and maintain a spirited fight to defeat it, even if the latter is driven by trickery and subterfuge.
that tested us became very ones that made us even stronger: Gautam
Ahmedabad, June 24 (IANS) The headwinds that tested us became the very ones that made us even stronger, Gautam Adani, the Chairman of the Adani Group, told shareholders on Monday, stressing that no challenge could weaken the foundations of the Group.
Addressing the Adani Enterprises' Annual General Meeting (AGM), Gautam Adani said that they were faced with baseless accusations made by a foreign short seller
who questioned their decades of hard work.
"In the face of an unprecedented attack on our integrity and reputation, we fought back and proved that no challenge could weaken the foundations on which your Group has been established," the Adani Group Chairman said. Typical short sellers target gains from financial markets, but this (attack) was different.
"It was a two-sided attack - a vague criticism of our financial standing and, at the same time, an information distortion campaign, dragging us into a political battlefield. The attack was a calculated strike two days before the closing of our Follow-on Public Offer," said Gautam Adani.
Amplified by a segment of vested media, it was designed to defame
Adani
us, do maximum damage and erode our hard-earned market value. "Given the noise, despite successfully raising Rs 20,000 crore through India's largest-ever FPO, we made the extraordinary decision to return the proceeds. This underscored our dedication to our investors and our commitment to ethical business practices," Gautam Adani told shareholders.
It is this perseverance that has "allowed us to become one of the most admired companies in the country. And our perseverance was never more evident than that we demonstrated this past year", Gautam Adani, said.
To further augment the cash reserves, the Group raised an additional Rs 40,000 crore, comfortably covering the next two years of its debt repayment.
24,500 units of blood collected on Gautam Adani’s birthday that can help over 73,500 patients
Ahmedabad, June 25 (IANS)
Around 24,500 units of blood (nearly 9,800 litres) were collected during the blood donation drive to mark the 62nd birthday of Gautam Adani, Chairman of the Adani Group, which can help more than 73,500 patients.
The collection this year surpassed last year’s 20,621 units of blood.
The drive was conducted in 152 cities across 21 states on Monday on the occasion of Gautam Adani’s birthday, said Adani Foundation,
the community engagement arm of the Adani Group.
Organised under the guidance of the Adani Healthcare team, the drive received an overwhelming response from the employees.
“I want to thank every member of our Adani family for their generous contribution to this noble cause. Their dedication, year after year, not only demonstrates their compassion but also reinforces our collective commitment to serve those
Skilling, healthcare among our top priorities to empower millions, says Gautam Adani
Ahmedabad, June 24 (IANS) Gautam Adani, the Chairman of the Adani Group, said on Monday the company strives to do its part to leave a small positive mark on this world by providing skilling, healthcare, nutrition and more.
In an address to its shareholders, the Group Chairman said at the Adani Foundation, each number tells a story of change, of a life empowered and of a community given an opportunity to develop.
“Every evening, my wife and Chairperson of the Adani Foundation, Priti, makes it a point to tell me at least one story of a life that was impacted. These are life lessons both humbling and inspiring at the same time," said Gautam Adani.
The Adani Foundation’s overall reach has now extended to 9.1 million individuals across 6,769 villages in 19 states.
The Adani Saksham skill development initiative has empowered 1,69,000 young individuals with essential skills to help them take the steps to secure a brighter future and potentially become entrepreneurs.
“The health outreach programmes, that include mobile healthcare units and camps, touched 2 million lives delivering essential services to many remote communities,” Gautam Adani informed.
The ‘SuPoshan’ project now reaches 4,14,000 women and children and delivers the necessary nutrition to fortify the foundations of future generations.
“I have always been an optimist, and, as I draw to a close, I want to paint a picture of the future that awaits. India is no longer at the crossroads of destiny – we stand on the brink of our greatest growth phase,” said Gautam Adani.
By the end of this decade, the nation is set to become the world's third-largest economy.
“Given our demographic dividend, we are well on our way to being the largest middle class that the world will ever witness.
And with the government now in its third term, your company is well positioned to continue the economic and social programmes that have driven our spectacular journey over the past decade,” the Group Chairman noted.
Over the period of the last 10 years, the country has seen its GDP double.
"We are now already achieving a GDP growth rate of over 7 per cent, our stock markets are soaring to record highs, and consumption is at an all-time high, signalling robust economic health, as our middle class expands faster than any other in the world.
“The foundation for growth is solidly in place and the next decade promises even greater strides,” Gautam Adani emphasised.
Maharashtra’s Kalpana turns role model for fellow villagers, Adani Foundation behind her success
New Delhi, June 21 (IANS) Kalpana Chaudhari, an erstwhile common resident of Maharashtra's Gondia district, is a popular name today and has rather emerged as an epitome of success.
in need,” said Dr Priti Adani, Chairperson, Adani Foundation. The collected blood can help more than 73,500 patients through the use of different components, such as whole blood, PCV, platelet concentrates, plasma, FFP, cryoprecipitate, and albumin.
The drive was organised in partnership with the blood banks of the Red Cross and government hospitals.
Her fledgling business of lac bangles is making waves in her own and the neighbouring villages and also motivating fellow women villagers to follow in her footsteps.
Interestingly, her success story owes a lot to the women empowerment steps undertaken by the Adani Foundation via promotion of Self-Help Groups (SHGs). Kalpana Chaudhari, a resident of Khairbodi village in
Tiroda taluka, learnt the art of making lac bangles as part of the SHG facilitated by the Adani Foundation and then went to set up her own shop.
Today, she is running her own business of lac bangles and other cosmetic items, thus making herself financially independent and empowered. Her bangle business has given wings to her dreams and, today, she has become an inspiration for many other women who want to become independent like her. Narrating her journey, she says that Adani Foundation inducted her into a project titled 'Sangini', where she learnt the art of making lac bangles and then, with their assistance and advice, opened her own shop.
Kalpana feels herself truly empowered today, as she not only runs her business but has also learnt other skills including operating computer and driving vehicles.
Greater Springfield Indian Association celebrates International Yoga Day
Brisbane, June 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Greater Springfield Indian Association INC (GSIA) recently hosted a vibrant celebration in honour of International Yoga Day at the Springfield Central Libraries, drawing a diverse crowd eager to embrace wellness through yoga.
Local community members gathered to participate in yoga
sessions led by experienced instructors Jyothiba Patil and Hinduja from Springfield Lakes. Their guidance through various yoga poses and techniques was well-received by attendees of all ages and backgrounds.
President of GSIA Mukesh Dubey delivered an inspiring address during the event, underscoring the profound impact of yoga on physical, mental, and spiritual
well-being. He emphasized the role of such communal gatherings in fostering unity and solidarity within the local community. Dubey encouraged participants to integrate yoga principles into their daily routines, promoting overall health and inner peace.
Reflecting on the event's success, Dubey expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic participation from residents of Greater
Springfield. He noted that yoga's popularity continues to grow as a holistic approach to maintaining wellness, stating, "Yoga is not just a physical exercise but a pathway to harmony and tranquility."
The event marked another successful initiative by GSIA to promote cultural exchange and healthy living among residents of Brisbane. Participants left the event rejuvenated and inspired, with many expressing a newfound
appreciation for the ancient practice of yoga.
International Yoga Day, observed globally on June 21st each year, aims to raise awareness about the benefits of yoga and encourage people to adopt healthier lifestyles. The GSIA's celebration in Brisbane exemplified this spirit, uniting individuals from different walks of life under the shared pursuit of well-being through yoga.
Atal Pension Yojana adds record 12.2 million new members in 2023-24
New Delhi, June 22 (IANS) A record 12.2 million new accounts were opened in the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) during 2023-24 taking the total enrolments to 66.2 million under the government’s social security scheme, according to figures compiled by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Authority (PFRDA).
According to APY data, around 70.44 per cent of the total enrolments in the scheme has been done by public-sector banks, 19.80 per cent by regional rural banks, 6.18 per cent by private sector banks, 0.37 per cent by payment banks, 0.62 per cent by small finance banks and 2.39
per cent by cooperative banks.
The government pension scheme achieved a growth of 24 per cent in gross enrolments at the end of FY 23-24 standing at 64.4 million.
APY is rapidly gaining popularity among women and youth, PFRDA chairman Deepak Mohanty said In FY24, out of the total enrolments, 52 per cent were women and out of the total gross enrolment since inception, 70 per cent subscribers are in the 18 to 30 years age group.
Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of over 10 million enrolments among states, followed by Bihar, Maharashtra, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu (5 million each); Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan and Karnataka (3 million each); and Gujarat, Odisha, Jharkhand (2 million each). These 12 states account for more than 80% of enrolments.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasised the need to ‘saturate’ the government’s social security schemes including APY for each and every entitled
person.
As part of this mission, PFRDA has undertaken outreach programs in coordination with all SLBCs (State-level Bankers' Committee) and RRBs across the country. More such campaigns will be conducted in the current Financial Year.
As part of its campaign to expand membership, PFRDA aims to target Jan Dhan account holders and promote a digital mode of enrolment to target the young population, involving other Central ministries, state governments and agencies.
The APY scheme allows any citizen aged 18-40 to join through a bank or post office branch in which a person has a savings bank account.
Under the scheme, a subscriber would receive a minimum guaranteed pension of Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000 per month from the age of 60 years, depending upon their contribution. The same pension would be paid to the spouse in case of the demise of the subscriber.
World is witnessing the rise of India, this is India’s moment: Gautam Adani
Ahmedabad, June 24 (IANS) Amid the geopolitical tensions and uncertainties that are straining global relationships, the world is witnessing the rise of India and this is India's moment, Gautam Adani, the Chairman of the Adani Group, told shareholders on Monday.
Addressing the Adani Enterprises' Annual General Meeting (AGM), Gautam Adani said India is now the force for stability, cooperation and progress in a complex world.
"And it is India's macroeconomic stability and ambitious growth plans that inspire our confidence," the Adani Group Chairman said.
Given the multiplier effect, the union government has rightly focused on infrastructure
development by raising its funding by 16 per cent to over Rs 11 lakh crore for this financial year.
Gautam Adani said that it is worthwhile to note that annual spending has tripled in the last five years.
"What is even more relevant is that, while the national narrative sets the stage for infrastructure spend, large parts of the funding and action are at the state level.
In our case, with our operations spread across 24 Indian states, we are first-hand witnesses to the critical role state governments play in implementing the initiatives," the Group Chairman emphasised. "I am proud to say that our record-breaking achievements in 2023 underscore our alignment to national priorities as well as our ability to execute the most complex, largescale projects with unmatched expertise," Gautam Adani added.
Adani Green Energy Ltd (AGEL) is developing the world's largest
renewable energy project of 30,000 MW on barren land at Khavda in Gujarat.
"I would like you to picture Khavda, set in one of the world’s toughest deserts and now home to the world’s largest Renewable Energy installation spanning several hundred square kilometres.
Already generating 3,000 MW of clean energy, our aggressive timeline aims to develop 30 GW capacity in the next five years," said Gautam Adani. This will be enough to power nations like Belgium and Switzerland.
"Furthermore, visualise the world's largest redevelopment project in Mumbai’s Dharavi as we transform the world’s largest slum over the next decade. Not only will this provide dignity of living to its over one million residents but, at the same time, this will build an unmatched ecosystem of sustainable living and innovation in the heart of Mumbai," the Adani Group Chairman informed.
New Delhi, June 26 (IANS) Delhi Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal, who was produced before the Rouse Avenue Court on Wednesday, was formally arrested by the CBI in the alleged liquor policy scam case.
Permission was granted to the CBI to produce CM Kejriwal in the special court on Wednesday, after he was questioned by the agency in Tihar Jail.
In a related development, CM Kejriwal withdrew his plea filed before the Supreme Court challenging the interim stay
ordered by the Delhi High Court on his release on bail in the money laundering case linked to the same case.
Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the AAP supremo, submitted before a Vacation Bench of Justices Manoj Misra and SVN Bhatti that a fresh plea would be moved before the apex court in view of the latest decision of the Delhi High Court staying the trial court order granting bail to CM Kejriwal in the money laundering case.
In its final verdict pronounced on a plea filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), the Delhi High Court on Tuesday said that the trial court Vacation Bench did not apply its mind to the entire material and it ought to give equal opportunity to the ED to argue the bail application.
Rain submerges Delhi-NCR, breaks 88-year-old record
New Delhi, June 28 (IANS) Heavy rainfall in Delhi-NCR that started on Thursday, led to widespread waterlogging and severe traffic jams on Friday morning.
According to the Meteorological Department, Delhi received 228 mm of rainfall from 8:30 A.M. on Thursday to 8:30 A.M. on Friday, marking the highest 24-hour rainfall in June since 1936, when 235.5 mm of rain was recorded. Typically, Delhi receives an average of 80.6 mm of rain in June.
The deluge significantly impacted daily life in Delhi-NCR, with commuters facing severe waterlogging and traffic jams during their morning commute. However, the downpour provided respite from the intense heat of the past two months, with the minimum temperature on Friday recorded at 24.7 degrees Celsius,
3.2 degrees below normal.
This unprecedented rainfall has highlighted the shortcomings in the city's infrastructure.
Despite claims by Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi on June 18 that the city was prepared for the monsoon, the first significant rain has already caused substantial waterlogging.
Shelly Oberoi had previously assured that the storm drains were clean and ready, promising a hassle-free monsoon for Delhi residents.
Major intersections like ITO saw about two to three feet of water accumulation, causing extensive traffic jams.
The Hanuman Temple Intersection leading to Mandi House was submerged under three feet of water, leading to road closures and disruptions on Ashoka Road, Feroz Shah Road, and Connaught Place. Similar conditions were reported at Moolchand and other areas of Delhi.
In Noida, the situation was equally dire. Despite inspections by the CEO of Noida Authority and officials on Thursday, the rain caused severe waterlogging in many areas, including the Mahamaya Flyover, Sector 62, and Sector 15 and 16.
Maruti Suzuki Swift surpasses 3 mn sales mark in India
New Delhi, June 28 (IANS) The Maruti Suzuki Swift has achieved a new milestone of three million sales in India, the company said on Friday.
The launch of the Epic New Swift in May has created new benchmarks and propelled the revered Swift legacy to its three million sales milestone, according
to the company.
"With each new generation, the Swift has continued to raise the bar, offering cutting-edge technology, contemporary style, and that unmistakable 'Swift DNA' which continues to captivate customers," Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing & Sales, Maruti
Suzuki India, said in a statement on Friday.
"This accomplishment fills us with immense gratitude, and we are thankful to all Swift owners across the country," he added.
Inspired by the iconic Suzuki Hayabusa motorcycle, the Swift was launched in 2005 with segment-first features such as
climate control, airbags and an anti-lock braking system (ABS).
The brand has achieved over 6.5 million sales globally, with India being Swift's largest market.
The Swift surpassed one million sales in 2013 within eight years since its introduction, and the two million sales mark was breached in 2018, the company mentioned.
Gang attacks police convoy, escapes with man arrested for robbery in K’taka
Bengaluru, June 29 (IANS) In a scene straight out of an action movie, a gang of miscreants attacked a police convoy in Gadag District of Karnataka in the wee hours of Saturday and escaped with the accused who had been arrested for robbery.
According to police, the gang attacked a convoy of the Gangavathy police from Koppal
District near Gadag Railway Bridge and escaped with accused Amjad Ali Irani.
Amjad Ali Irani was wanted by the Gangavathy Shahar police, in a case registered against him under IPC Section 392 for robbery.
Superintendent of Police, BS Nemagouda stated on Saturday after visiting the four injured personnel in the hospital that the cops had gone to secure the accused wanted by the Gangavathy Shahar police.
While the cops were taking Amjad Ali Irani to the police station, his associates who had followed the police vehicle attacked it and
helped the convict escape.
Legal action will be initiated based on the complaint by the police. It is being verified how many persons attacked the police vehicle.
The car window was broken and the door of the police vehicle was damaged in the incident.
It is not clear which gang carried out the attack.
SP Nemagouda said, “We know how to instill the fear of the law in them. Strict action would be initiated against the culprits.”
Further investigation to trace the gang is on.
UP CM flags off upgraded PRVs, underlines modernising police force
Lucknow, June 27 (IANS) UP
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday flagged off the upgraded Police Response Vehicles (PRVs) in the second phase of UP-112 and said that the demand for modernising the police force to meet contemporary needs had been long-standing.
The chief minister also distributed air-conditioned helmets.
He remarked that this initiative is part of a campaign to elevate the seven-year process of smart policing to new heights.
Emphasising that the 'Rule of Law' is fundamental to good
governance, CM Adityanath said that ensuring a secure and safe environment is crucial.
"The state bears the responsibility for maintaining security, and our police force excels in this duty," he added.
CM Adityanath stated that in the last seven years, the UP Police have not only forged a new identity within the country, but also played a crucial role in reshaping Uttar Pradesh's image.
"In these seven years, the rule of law has been firmly established in UP. This adherence to the rule of law has made the police a symbol of respect and trust and has ushered in an era of development and employment in the state, opening up new possibilities for investment and business," he pointed out.
The chief minister also emphasised that neglecting modernisation efforts,
particularly in light of societal needs, would jeopardise the safety of ordinary citizens.
"Restoring public trust, once lost, is a lengthy process", he remarked.
"We recruited police officers through a transparent process, free from discrimination, and provided them with proper training" he further said.
The second phase of UP-112 marks a significant expansion with the addition of 1,488 PRVs. This expansion aims to reduce the response time for police reaching those in distress and requiring immediate assistance.
The total number of PRVs in UP112 will now reach 6,288 across the state, enhancing coverage and capacity to handle emergencies.
Previously, PRVs were available at intervals of 50.68 sq km. With this new phase, coverage will improve to 38.75 sq km per vehicle.
Rajasthan’s Bhukia-Jagpura gold mine to generate ‘unprecedented’ job opportunities, revenue
Jaipur, June 26 (IANS) The Bhukia-Jagpura gold mine discovered in Rajasthan's Banswara will attract industrial investments worth crores, and generate employment and revenue, officials have said.
Rajasthan Mines Secretary Anandi said that the state government will receive Rs 500 crore as revenue in three instalments as upfront payment following its auction; the first instalment of the same will be received in 15 days and shall be around Rs 100 crore.
According to rough estimates, the state government will get Rs
1 lakh crore in revenue after the start of mining work in Banswara in the next 50 years. Also, around 50,000 youth will get employment directly and indirectly in the state from gold mining and processing, he said.
Anandi said that along with gold, other co-minerals like copper, cobalt, nickel etc. will also be obtained from this gold mine.
"This will generate unprecedented direct and indirect employment opportunities along with new investments in many industries including aerospace, electronics, air bags and the jewellery industry in the state. New investments in the state's comineral-related industries will also generate huge opportunities for revenue and direct-indirect employment," he added.
The Mines Secretary further said that the state government
Ram temple complex to be completely ready by March 2025: Nripendra Mishra
Ayodhya, June 26 (IANS) The construction of the entire Ram Temple complex in Ayodhya is likely to be completed by March 2025, while the first and second floors of the temple will be completed by July-end and December this year, respectively.
This information was given by Nripendra Mishra, Chairman of the Ram Mandir Construction Committee.
“Construction of the first floor of the temple will be completed by the end of next month. Thereafter, work will begin for the second floor,” Nripendra Mishra told reporters.
“We have set a target to complete the second floor by the end of December this year and the entire temple complex by March next year,” he added.
The statues to be installed at the temple will be carved out of Makrana marble from Rajasthan
and the trust has floated a tender to select four sculptors for the job.
More than 1.75 crore devotees have visited the Ram Mandir till date, after its opening on January 22 this year.
“On an average, one lakh devotees visit the temple every day. Since its opening, around 1.75 crore devotees have visited the temple. This figure will reach two crore by the end of this month,” said Nripendra Mishra.
He added that the work on the Ram Katha Museum was starting now and a concept note had been made for it.
The galleries for the displays would be built according to requirement with arrangements for power and air conditioning.
He added, “Our tourism department has made films on Ram Katha. We will try to open the digital gallery for devotees by July 15 or latest by August 15.”
“With the help of the Union government a film on the life of Lord Hanuman will be made in 7D in a gallery. The work for this will be completed in the next five to six months,” he said.
Delhi airport canopy collapse: One dead, several injured
has completed the process of auctioning the Bhukia-Jagpura mining block for gold and ore mining in Banswara. The licence for the block has been allotted to Madhya Pradesh's Ratlam-based Syed Owais Ali firm, which won the auction with the highest premium of 65.30 per cent.
According to the Geological Survey of India, Banswara's Bhukia-Jagpura mine is estimated to have 113.52 million tonnes of gold ore. During the mining of gold ore, co-minerals will also be found.
Director Mines Bhagwati Prasad Kalal said that Kankaria-Gara mines in Banswara were also explored which gave indications of gold ore during the initial exploration. E-auction has been done for a composite licence for further exploration in the Kankaria-Gara block.
New Delhi, June 28 (IANS) At least one person was killed and eight others injured after a canopy of Terminal-1 at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport collapsed on cars amid heavy rain on Friday.
Many vehicles, including cabs, were damaged in the incident reported to the Delhi Fire Services (DFS) around 5.00 a.m.
The canopy sheet and the support beams collapsed, damaging the cars parked in the pick-up and drop area of the terminal.
During the rescue operations, a driver was taken out from a cab on which an iron beam had fallen.
The NDRF officials, who reached the spot, were involved in the rescue operations.
All departures from Terminal-1 have been temporarily suspended, and check-in counters closed as a "safety measure", a Delhi airport spokesperson said. Terminal-1 has only domestic flight operations.
The spokesperson also said that all departing flights from T1 of IndiGo and SpiceJet are cancelled till 2 p.m.Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) spokesperson said, "Due to heavy rain since early this morning, a portion of the canopy at the old Departure forecourt of Delhi Airport's Terminal 1 collapsed around 5 am. There are injuries reported, and emergency personnel are working to extricate those affected and provide medical attention."
"As a result of this incident, all departures from Terminal 1 are temporarily suspended, and check-in counters are closed as a safety measure. We sincerely regret this disruption and apologize for any inconvenience caused,” the DIAL spokesperson further said.
Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu said on X, "Personally monitoring the roof collapse incident at T1 Delhi Airport. First responders are working at site. Also advised the airlines to assist all affected passengers at T1. The injured have been evacuated to hospital. Rescue operations are still ongoing."
Consistency is the key when practising yoga’s versatile aspects: WHO
New Delhi, June 21 (IANS)
Whether for fitness, stress relief, or holistic wellness, consistency is key when practising yoga's versatile aspects, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on the occasion of International Day of Yoga (IDY) on Friday.
Saima Wazed, WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia, said in a statement that yoga means "to unite", symbolising the harmony between body and consciousness.
“Research highlights yoga’s
mental and physical health benefits -- stress reduction, anxiety relief via deep-breathing and mindfulness, adjunct therapy for depression management, lower back pain relief by improving spinal flexibility and core strength, and enhanced overall quality of life,” she noted.
Stressing on maintaining consistency when practising yoga, she said that on this International Day of Yoga, “let us commit to incorporating this ancient practice into our daily lives”.
Yoga is more than just a form of exercise. Developing mind-body awareness enables resolving imbalances at their source for long-term well-being, she said.
“Yoga also nurtures self-control, mindfulness, and experiential
learning in self-awareness techniques, therapeutic approaches, and assessment abilities. In our stress-laden world, yoga provides a holistic stress-reduction approach, offering tools to overcome inner turmoil and restore balance and serenity,” Wazed emphasised. Meanwhile, people across the world celebrated the International Day of Yoga on Friday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while celebrating the event in Srinagar, said that last year, representatives from 130 countries participated in the yoga celebrations in the US.
“I am happy that over 100 institutions have received world recognition for imparting the training of yoga," the Prime Minister said.
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar leads Yoga Day celebrations at UN in Geneva
Geneva on Friday.
The Yoga Day celebrations are spread over two days, on June 20 and 21, said an official release on Friday.
During the keynote address at the UN, the spiritual guru shared, “It’s time for this ancient art of inner blossoming to be in the spotlight. Yoga has proved to be a boon for humankind. We have seen, that it helps heal illnesses, resolve problems, increase resilience, make the mind happy and sharpen the intellect. Yoga should be done along with pranayamas and meditation, without which Yoga Asanas remain just physical exercises.”
Thousands of participants in Malaysia, Taiwan, Australia, Sweden, Iceland and New Zealand
joined the Art of Living in this global celebration of Yoga. The Indian Embassy in Copenhagen, Tallinn and other European countries also joined the celebrations.
The Art of Living also led the celebrations along with the Ministry of Ayush at many locations across India. From the Sino-Bhutan borders of India to airports in Gujarat; from Nehru Park in Delhi to beaches in Chennai -- throughout the length and breadth of India, millions of Yoga enthusiasts, led by Art of Living’s Sri Sri Yoga teachers, welcomed the dawn of 10th International Yoga Day celebrating this ancient gift of India to the world.
Foreign diplomats hail Yoga as priceless gift from India to entire humanity
New Delhi, June 21 (IANS)
Several diplomats serving their respective missions in India joined the International Day of Yoga celebrations with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi on Friday.
The diplomatic community hailed Yoga as a priceless gift from India to entire humanity.
"Yoga is one of the many precious treasures and heritages given by India to the world. Yoga literally means to join, and its celebration is a celebration of our common humanity. These days yoga is also very popular in Russia," said Denis Alipov, the Russian Ambassador to India.
May-Elin Stener, the Norwegian Ambassador to India and Sri Lanka, who started practising Yoga while serving at Norway's mission at the United Nations in New York - and is currently mastering the headstand - says that she completely agrees with Prime Minister Narendra Modi that Yoga is one of India's greatest gifts to the world.
"Thank you Dr S Jaishankar for the Yoga session this 10th International Yoga Day. Happy Yoga day to everyone and congratulations to India on giving Yoga to the world and creating
‘Yoga symbolises UN’s strivings for world unity’
United Nations, June 22 (IANS) Yoga symbolises the strivings of the world organisation for global unity, according to its leaders celebrating the International Day recognising the ancient discipline.
UN General Assembly President Dennis Francis said on Friday that Yoga is "a powerful metaphor for the United Nations itself".
"Just as yoga brings together various aspects of the human experience to create a balanced whole, the United Nations unites diverse nations and cultures to work towards common goals," he said in a video message to the 10th International Day of Yoga celebrations here.
"In this unity distinct parts come together to form a unified sum greater than its parts, symbolising peace and harmony as we unite today in this celebration," he added.
Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, who attended the event, said yoga's power to unify is visible at the celebrations at the UN.
"Yoga is about unity, the unity of mind, of body, and spirit. It is about you, it is about me and it's about us, and at the UN today, we see how it unites people across cultures and countries," she added.
She recalled last year's celebration with Prime Minister Narendra Modi which made the Guinness Book of World Records for the most nationalities practicing yoga together.
"That achievement was a wonderful and powerful symbol
great enthusiasm," said the Ambassador after attending the Yoga session organised by the Indian government on Friday.
Several missions also organised Yoga sessions at their respective Embassies which saw the participation of several enthusiastic people.
"Few things are as universal and yet as personal as Yoga. It is highly introspective and at the same time, it connects us as mindful human beings. This morning, me & my team had a wonderful session in the garden of my residence. Happy International Yoga Day to everyone!" posted Philipp Ackermann, the German Ambassador to India and Bhutan.
British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron said that she was "delighted" to be celebrating International Yoga Day with EAM Jaishankar in Delhi.
of yoga's global popularity, its universal appeal, and its power to bring people together in their shared interests and their shared humanity," she said.
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a written message, "This year's theme -- 'Yoga for Self and Society' -reminds us of yoga's important role in enhancing people's lives and wider community."
"Now embraced worldwide by people of all faiths and cultures, yoga unites people with its values of balance, mindfulness and peace with people and planet alike," he added.
As a gentle breeze from the East River wafted across the UN Headquarters North Lawn on a blistering hot day, the celebration featured a mass yoga exercise with the participation of diplomats and UN staff from across the world and invitees from the Indian diaspora clad in white and blue T-shirts emblazoned with the Yoga Day logo.
Denise Scotto, the Chair of the UN's International Day of Yoga Committee, said that it was "remarkable" that 177 countries co-sponsored the 2014 General Assembly resolution declaring June 21 the International Day of Yoga.
"It demonstrates the unity from across the globe," she added.
The UN Chamber Music Society performed Rabindranath Tagore's "Streams of Light" in Bengali.
The Indian Raga dance troupe performed classical dances, one of them incorporating "yoga postures".
(Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @ arulouis)
International Yoga Day celebrated across Northeast; CMs, Governors join in
Agartala, June 21 (IANS) With multiple events, the 10th International Day of Yoga was celebrated across the northeastern states on Friday, with Governors, Chief Ministers, students, and people from different walks of life taking part in the annual programme.
In Manipur, the day was celebrated at the Raj Bhavan led by Governor Anusuiya Uikey, who practised yoga along with officials, staff, and security personnel of the Governor’s House.
Chief Minister N. Biren Singh attended the Yoga Day celebrations at the Khuman Lampak Indoor Stadium in Imphal.
Later, he said in a post on X: “Yoga is a powerful way to transform
our lives and bring about a sense of mental peace and harmony within us. I urge everyone to practice yoga and adopt a healthy and balanced lifestyle, contributing to the well-being of our state.”
Nagaland also joined the rest of the country to observe International Yoga Day with plenty of enthusiasm.
The state government, NGOs, and Assam Rifles organised various programmes at different locations. In Kohima, the Department of Youth Resources and Sports in collaboration with the National AYUSH Mission, and the Directorate of Health and Family Welfare organised a yoga session at the IG Stadium.
Bengaluru, June 21 (IANS) Spiritual leader and founder of The Art of Living based in Bengaluru, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, led the International Yoga Day (IYD) Celebrations at the United Nations Office in
Australian govt to penalise supermarkets for anti-competitive behaviour
Australian supermarket chains will face large fines for anticompetitive behaviour under new laws.
The federal government on Monday announced it has accepted all the recommendations of a review into the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct and will impose new obligations on large supermarket chains to treat their suppliers fairly, Xinhua news agency
reported.
Under the new laws, legislation for which was introduced to parliament by Treasurer Jim Chalmers on Monday, the code of conduct will be made mandatory for chains with annual revenue exceeding 5 billion Australian dollars ($3.3 billion) after being voluntary for a decade.
Supermarkets will be required to deal with their suppliers in good faith and prevented from penalising those who complain after the review of the code found that suppliers fear retribution if they raise concerns about a supermarket chain's conduct.
The most severe breaches of the code will be punished with fines worth whichever is greatest out of three times the benefit derived from any misconduct, 10 million
AUD ($6.6 million) or 10 per cent of the chain's turnover in the preceding 12 months.
"This is about getting a fair go for families and a fair go for farmers," Chalmers said in a joint statement with Murray Watt, the minister for Agriculture, and Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury Andrew Leigh on Monday.
"We're cracking down on anticompetitive behaviour in the supermarkets sector so people get fairer prices at the checkout."
The Woolworths Group and Coles Group, parent companies of supermarket chains Woolworths and Coles, were Australia's second and fourth-largest publiclytraded companies by revenue in 2023.
Nurse, security guards injured after knife assault in Sydney hospital
Sydney, June 22 (IANS) A male offender armed with a knife has been arrested after three security guards and one nurse got injured at a Sydney hospital.
At around 11:30 p.m. local time on Friday night, police were called to a hospital in Westmead following reports of a man having assaulted staff, reports Xinhua news agency.
The health precinct is located approximately 20 km west of Sydney's central business district.
Upon arrival, officers were informed that a 39-year-old man had stabbed two male security guards, aged 25 and 24, respectively, with a third male security guard suffering a
dislocated shoulder.
Besides, a 29-year-old male nurse also sustained minor injuries.
New South Wales Police Force confirmed that the male offender remains under police guard at the hospital, and inquiries are ongoing.
As per reports from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, he was a patient of the hospital, and all four staff members sustained injuries while attempting to subdue him.
Australian PM welcomes news of WikiLeaks founder’s release
Canberra, June 25 (IANS)
Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has welcomed the news that WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is set to be released by US authorities.
Assange, 52, on Tuesday agreed to plead guilty to US espionage charges in a deal that ended his imprisonment in the United
15 arrested for ‘illegal’ fishing on Indonesian vessels in Australia
Canberra, June 22 (IANS)
Australian authorities have arrested 15 foreign fishers and seized two Indonesian vessels over alleged illegal fishing activity off the country's north coast.
The Australian Border Force (ABF) and Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) on Saturday said it detected and apprehended the Indonesian vessels allegedly fishing illegally on Tuesday in the vicinity of Deliverance Island in the Torres Strait between Australia and Papua New Guinea (PNG), reports Xinhua news agency.
The crew were transported to Darwin, the capital of Australia's Northern Territory (NT), and were placed in detention while the matter was being investigated and prosecution considered.
In a joint statement, the ABF and AFMA said that the large vessels were equipped with a substantial quantity of fishing equipment.
China,
Kingdom (UK), allowing him to return to Australia pending court proceedings in Saipan on Wednesday, reports Xinhua news agency.
Speaking in parliament on Tuesday, Albanese welcomed the news and said he plans to speak more once the legal process is complete.
"While this is a welcome development, we recognise these proceedings are crucial and delicate," he said.
"We have engaged and advocated Australia's interest using all appropriate channels to support a positive outcome, and I have done
that since very early on in my prime ministership."
He reiterated that the US case against Assange has dragged on so long that there was nothing to be gained by his continued incarceration. Penny Wong, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, said in the Senate that Albanese had raised Assange's case with US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak since coming to office in 2022 and that the government had offered Assange and his family consular support while he was imprisoned in the UK.
Australian PM reveals threat from alleged teen terrorist
Canberra, June 29 (IANS)
Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has revealed he and his family were threatened by an accused teenage terrorist. Albanese said on Friday that he and his family were among those threatened in an extremist manifesto in which 19-year-old
Jordan Patten allegedly outlined his intention to kill Members of Parliament from the governing Labour Party, Xinhua news agency reported.
"There is no place for extremism in Australia. That documentation that was made is very concerning, including threats not just to Labor
MPs but to others, to my family," he told reporters in Canberra. Patten was on Wednesday arrested by the Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT) in the city of Newcastle -- nearly 100 km north of Sydney -- after allegedly entering the office of Tim Crakanthorp.
Both vessels will be disposed of by the AFMA.
Under Australian law, anyone found guilty of illegally fishing in the Australian Fishing Zone (AFZ) faces a maximum penalty of two years' imprisonment.
Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, Commander of the ABF's Maritime Border Command (MBC), said that Tuesday's intercept should serve as a warning to any crews illegally fishing in Australian waters.
"If you fish illegally, you will lose your vessel, your equipment, and you will be placed in immigration detention to face potential prosecution in Australian courts," he said. "Maritime Border Command is deploying multiple assets and utilising whatever powers available to deter, detect and take enforcement action in response to illegal foreign fishing in Australian waters."
Fifteen illegal fishers who were apprehended on board three Indonesian vessels in separate incidents in March were in April issued fines totalling 31,300 Australian dollars ($20,868.9) after pleading guilty to offences against the Fisheries Management Act in the Darwin Local Court.
Australia
ink MoU to restart strategic economic dialogue
Beijing, June 18 (IANS) The Chinese and Australian governments have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to restart strategic economic dialogue with a focus on forward-looking economic issues.
Both countries on Monday agreed to enhance communication and exchange with the aim of fostering practical and effective economic cooperation, according to the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), China's top economic planner.
The signature of the MoU was witnessed by leaders of the two
countries. Liu Sushe, deputy head of the NDRC, and Treasurer of Australia Jim Chalmers represented their respective governments at the signing ceremony.
In the Australian capital Canberra on Monday, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said that China is willing to enhance coordination and cooperation with Australia at regional and international levels, calling for opposing camp confrontation and a "new Cold War". Li made the remarks during the ninth China-Australia Annual Leaders' Meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
North Korea supports Russia’s war with Ukraine as ‘legitimate act of self-defence’
Seoul, June 24 (IANS) North Korea on Monday criticised the US for its military support of Ukraine and supported Russia's actions as a "legitimate act of self-defence," underscoring the growing military ties between Moscow and Pyongyang.
"If the rulers of the US persist in recklessly pushing their war machine into Ukraine for a proxy war against Russia, it will inevitably provoke a stronger response from Russia," Pak
Jong Chon, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission of the Workers' Party of Korea, said in a statement carried by the Korean Central News Agency. Pak further said, "It is Russia's right to self-defence to make a strategic counterattack to defend its security from the ever-aggravating threat posed by hostile forces. Any responsive action taken by Russia will be a legitimate act of self-defence."
Last week, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un expressed "full support" for Russia's war in Ukraine and pledged to strengthen strategic cooperation with Moscow as he held summit talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Pyongyang,
reports Yonhap news agency. "We will always stand together with the Russian army and people in a just struggle to defend sovereign rights, strategic stability, and the territorial integrity of their country," Pak said.
In particular, Pak criticised the US for recently expanding its agreement with Ukraine to strike over the border inside Russian territory wherever Russian forces are engaging in cross-border attacks into Ukraine, not just in the Kharkiv region as was previously signed.
"This time, the US has gone so far as to allow the Ukrainian neoNazis to strike any part of Russian territory at their will," Pak said.
SL thanks India, key bilateral creditors for finalising $10 billion debt deal
Colombo, June 26 (IANS) With a major move to turn around the country's worst-ever financial crisis, Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe thanked India and other key bilateral creditors for finalising a debt restructuring deal valued at a combined $10 billion.
"I extend my gratitude to our creditors, including China and Exim Bank of China, India, Japan, and France, who co-chair the Official Creditors Committee," President Wickremesinghe said in a televised address on Wednesday night.
The debt structuring deal allows Sri Lanka to defer all bilateral loan instalment payments until 2028 and also to repay all the loans on concessional terms, with an extended period until 2043, President Wickremesinghe said. In a major step to rebound from bankruptcy, Sri Lanka on Wednesday concluded negotiations with the Official Creditor Committee (OCC) cochaired by India, Japan, France and China Exim Bank.
The other members of OCC include Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Korea, the Netherlands, Russia, Spain, Sweden, the UK, and the US.
"Each creditor, including the OCC and China Exim Bank, agreed to extend maturity periods, initiate capital grace periods, and reduce interest rates significantly. These measures collectively alleviate Sri Lanka's near-term debt service obligations, freeing up resources for essential public expenditures crucial for economic stabilization and growth," announcing the
success of much-awaited debt restructure negotiation, the President's Media Division (PMD) said.
"This restructuring provides up to 92 per cent relief on debt service payments during the IMF program, offering substantial fiscal breathing room crucial for prioritizing public services and stimulating economic growth," the PMD stated.
As the Sri Lanka President announced the finalizing of debt restricting negations, India’s External Affairs Ministry congratulated Sri Lanka for signing the agreement with the OCC.
"We congratulate the Government of Sri Lanka for the signing of the MoU between the Official Creditor Committee & Sri Lanka on debt restructuring. This signifies the progress made by Sri Lanka in its economic stabilisation & recovery," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced "India is steadfast in its commitment to Sri Lanka's growth and prosperity, demonstrated by the unprecedented assistance of $4 billion as well as the role played by India as the co-chair of the OCC," Randhir Jaiswal, Official Spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs, India wrote in a post on social media platform X.
"This milestone demonstrates the strong progress made by Sri Lanka in stabilizing its economy and moving towards reform and growth. As one of the CoChairs of the OCC, along with France and Japan, India has been steadfast in its commitment to the stabilization, recovery and growth of the Sri Lankan economy," the Indian High Commission in Colombo said in a statement.
"This was also demonstrated by India's unprecedented financial support of USD 4 billion to Sri Lanka. India was also the
Putin says ties with North Korea raised to ‘unprecedentedly high level’
Seoul, June 25 (IANS) Russian President Vladimir Putin has thanked North Korean leader Kim Jong-un for showing heartfelt hospitality during his visit to Pyongyang last week, saying bilateral ties have been boosted to an "unprecedentedly high level", North Korea's state media reported on Tuesday.
In a message to Kim, Putin said his trip to the North has opened ways for the two countries to achieve beneficial cooperation in various fields, Yonhap news agency reported, citing the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
first creditor nation to convey financing assurances to IMF which paved the way for Sri Lanka to secure the IMF program," it stated.
After the IMF approved the Extended Fund Facility (EFF Program) for Sri Lanka on March 20, 2023, the OCC was launched in April 2023 to hold talks among Sri Lanka's bilateral creditors including India to finalize a plan for restructuring Sri Lanka's debt. "India will continue to support Sri Lanka’s economic recovery including by promoting long-term investments in its key economic sectors," the High Commission assured.
In his address to the nation, President Wickremesinghe said that the agreements would provide significant relief to the country's economy.
"In April 2022, Sri Lanka officially declared its inability to meet its debt obligations. Following this declaration, international business transactions with Sri Lanka came to a halt. No country is willing to engage in financial relations with a nation that is bankrupt and unable to pay its debts. Consequently, we were unable to secure loans or even obtain letters of credit. Against this backdrop, all projects in our country funded by foreign loans were halted," President Wickremesinghe described. He said that with the achievement of the crucial milestone in debt restructuring, there are legal opportunities for these countries to resume all projects funded by foreign loans.
"Projects such as the development of Katunayake Airport, the light railway, and the expressway are set to recommence. Moreover, we can look forward to initiating many new development projects," he assured.
"He said that his recent state visit to the DPRK was of special significance as it raised the relations between Moscow and Pyongyang to an unprecedentedly high level of comprehensive strategic partnership," the KCNA said, using the acronym of North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Putin said the North's leader is an "honoured guest" that Russia
always waits for, wishing for Kim's good health and success.
After summit talks on Wednesday, Putin and Kim signed a treaty of comprehensive strategic partnership that calls for providing military assistance without delay if either side comes under attack. It marked Putin's first trip to North Korea in 24 years.
Putin also voiced hope to hold the next summit with Kim in Moscow, according to Russian media outlets.
Meanwhile, North Korea condemned Ukraine troops for "staging attacks on the Russianannexed Crimean Peninsula this week with Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) missiles supplied by the United States". "Puppet groups in Ukraine have been clinging to reckless terrorist acts as the country has faced repeated defeats with military confrontations with Russia," the KCNA said in a separate dispatch, calling the attack the outcome of Washington's "madness against Russia".
In a similar message to show solidarity with Moscow, Pak Jong-chon, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission of North Korea's ruling Workers' Party of Korea, slammed Washington's military support for Ukraine on Monday.
40 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks in Gaza: Health authorities
June 30 (IANS) At least 40 Palestinians were killed and 224 others injured in Israeli attacks across the besieged Gaza Strip over the past 24 hours, according to health authorities controlled by Hamas.
The latest casualties bring the total Palestinian death toll to 37,834, with 86,858 injuries reported since the outbreak of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict in October 2023, the health authorities said on Saturday.
Officials added that rescue teams faced significant obstacles in reaching areas targeted by attacks due to fuel shortages and intense clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian armed factions, particularly in the city of Rafah in southern Gaza and the Shujaeya neighbourhood in eastern Gaza City, Xinhua news agency reported.
Avichay Adraee, an Israeli military spokesperson, said in a press statement on Saturday that the Israeli forces are continuing the attack on "terrorist" targets in the Shujaeya area, fighting simultaneously above and below ground.
During the past hours, the forces eliminated many "saboteurs" in clashes, and the troops found a weapons depot inside a school complex in the area, he added.
In Rafah, the Israeli forces eliminated several "saboteurs" and destroyed many "terrorist" infrastructure, including tunnel openings, according to Adraee. Meanwhile, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East highlighted on social media platform X that hundreds of thousands of Gazans continue to endure severe shortages of shelter, food, medicine, and clean water, exacerbated by restricted access through border crossings.
A temporary floating aid pier operated by the US, anchored off the coast of Gaza to facilitate humanitarian deliveries, has been removed due to adverse weather conditions, the Pentagon announced on Friday. This marks the third interruption since midMay.
"Temporarily relocating the pier will prevent potential structural damage that could be caused by the heightened sea state," said Sabrina Singh, Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary, during a briefing on Friday. The pier is not an end-all solution to getting aid into Gaza, Singh said, adding that land routes are the most effective delivery method.
Gaza,
Biden looked ‘nervous’, ‘panicked’ in first presidential debate with Trump
Washington, June 28 (IANS)
US President Joe Biden looked nervous and panicked during his first presidential debate with his challenger Donal Trump for the run-up to the 2024 elections setting the alarm bells for the Democratic camp, with many calling for a change in the candidate of the party Biden looked lost for words and ideas in his responses to questions and attacks from his opponent former President Donald Trump and often gave the impression he did not know where he was and what he was doing.
The 81-year-old US President had just one point to prove in a debate that he was capable of running the country for another four years.
Biden’s abysmal performance in the debate sent the Democratic party into panic and it was followed by fresh calls for him to step aside and make way for a more able and capable candidate to take on his rival.
The President ambled onto the stage with his usual shuffle. He looked grey, bewildered and confused. His responses to questions were stilted and seemed confused even if excused for his childhood stutter.
There were reports of panic among Democrats as the debate unfolded as President Biden fumbled for answers. And the last straw for many Democrats was that he did not mention the abortion issue in his closing remarks. The party base is
agitated over the loss of abortion rights following the Supreme Court decision overturning decades-old constitutional protection.
The two men faced questions on issues ranging from domestic to foreign but the focus from a very early point in the debate was President Biden. He looked old and out of sync with the pressing issues. And as the debate progressed he seemed increasingly challenged to formulate his responses. He stuttered more than usual which showed he was either nervous or panicky.
This early debate was sought by him, in part to reverse his low poll numbers. The campaigners argued that Americans needed to hear of his administration’s good work. However, Biden’s abysmal performance on Thursday night is more likely to push voters away from the Democrats.
WikiLeaks founder Assange walks out of court as a ‘free man’
Washington, June 26 (IANS) A US federal court in Saipan, the capital of the Northern Mariana Islands, on Wednesday ordered that WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, who pleaded guilty to a single felony count of violating the Espionage Act, should be released immediately.
He will leave the court as a 'free man', Judge Ramona Manglona said.
The judge said that it is fair to accept the 62 months, which he has already spent in a cell in the UK, as his sentence. "You will be
able to walk out of this courtroom a free man," Judge Manglona said.
Earlier in the day, Assange pleaded guilty in court as part of a deal with the US Justice Department to avoid further prison time and end the yearslong legal saga.
The Wikileaks founder on Wednesday morning arrived in the Northern Mariana Islands, a US territory in the Pacific Ocean, after being freed from the UK prison, where he spent more than five years.
Australia's ambassador to the US and former Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, and High Commissioner to the UK, Stephen Smith were also present in the courtroom.
Assange will now fly home to Australia's capital, Canberra.
Bolivia coup attempt fails, army general arrested
S.Korea, US, Japan hold 1st trilateral ‘Freedom Edge’ exercise
Seoul, June 27 (IANS) South Korea, the US and Japan began their first trilateral multi-domain exercise on Thursday, the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said, amid efforts to deepen security cooperation against threats from North Korea, recently emboldened by its deepening ties with Russia.
The three-day exercise, named Freedom Edge, got underway in international waters south of South Korea's southern resort island of Jeju, the JCS said, after the three countries' defence chiefs agreed to launch the drills early this month in line with their leaders' agreement last year, Yonhap news agency reported.
Last August, President Yoon Suk Yeol, US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio
Kishida agreed to hold "annual, named, multidomain" trilateral exercises regularly during their summit at Camp David as part of efforts to deter evolving nuclear and missile threats from North Korea.
The drills mobilised various warships and aircraft from the three sides, including the US Navy's USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier, South Korea's Seoae Ryu Seong-ryong destroyer and Japan's JS Ise helicopter destroyer.
"Freedom Edge expresses the will of South Korea, the US and Japan to promote trilateral interoperability and protect freedom for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, including the Korean Peninsula," the JCS said in a statement.
The exercise will focus on ballistic missile defence, air defence, anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, maritime interdiction and defensive cyber training, the JCS said, adding the three sides
will continue to expand Freedom Edge going forward.
The new exercise takes its name from key bilateral exercises the US holds regularly with the Asian neighbours -- Freedom Shield with South Korea and Keen Edge with Japan.
While the three countries have held combined maritime and aerial exercises, Freedom Edge marks their first trilateral exercise to take place across multiple domains.
Freedom Edge also takes place amid growing concerns over deepening military ties between North Korea and Russia.
Last Wednesday, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a summit in Pyongyang, where they signed a "comprehensive strategic partnership" treaty that calls for military assistance if one of them is attacked.
South Korea, the US and Japan have jointly condemned the expanding military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang.
Saudi Arabia registers 1,301 pilgrim deaths during Haj
Riyadh, June 24 (IANS) Saudi Arabia has announced that it recorded 1,301 deaths among pilgrims during the Haj season, 83 per cent of whom were unregistered individuals.
The Saudi Health Minister Fahd Al-Jalajel said on Sunday that the kingdom's healthcare sector addressed "numerous" heat stress cases, with some individuals still in medical care, the Saudi Press Agency reported. "Among the deceased were
several elderly and chronically ill individuals," the minister said, indicating that the heat affected unregistered pilgrims most as they had walked long distances under direct sunlight without adequate shelter or comfort. All victims have been identified and their families notified, despite the initial lack of personal information or identification documents. Proper processes were followed for identification, burial, and the issuance of death
certificates, he added.
Al-Jalajel praised efforts made by the competent authorities to raise heat stress awareness and preparedness among pilgrims facing high temperatures, as well as the support by first responders and the Haj security forces in handling heat stress cases, Xinhua news agency reported, citing the Saudi Press Agency.
He declared health management during the past Haj season was a success, "with no recorded outbreaks of epidemics or widespread diseases".
La Paz, June 27 (IANS) Armoured vehicles and troops of the Bolivian Armed Forces pulled back from the presidential palace in La Paz on Wednesday evening, hours after an attempted coup.
Bolivian police arrested rebel military commander General Juan Jose Zuniga, who led the failed coup attempt.
Bolivian President Luis Arce condemned the coup attempt and called on citizens to mobilise and defend democracy. He also named
a new army commander who ordered troops to withdraw.
Earlier, soldiers marched on Plaza Murillo, a square outside the seat of government, led by General Zuniga, and forced their way into the old government headquarters, Palacio Quemado.
The presence of armed troops generated a strong response from citizens, who gathered in the streets surrounding Plaza Murillo, the epicentre of Bolivia's political power, to denounce the military move.
Representatives of social organisations in different parts of the country also demonstrated in defence of democracy, joining the President's call to protect the constitutional order.
Record usage of X during US presidential debate: Elon Musk
New Delhi, June 29 (IANS) Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk on Saturday said his social media platform X saw record usage as US President Joe Biden and his challenger, former President Donald Trump, attended their first presidential debate on TV.
According to X, the minute-byminute conversation, about the US presidential debate spiked by “19 times from the start of the broadcast to its peak 90 minutes in.” The company said the scale of the global conversation on X was staggering during the debate.
“We've tracked over 2 billion impressions with over 242 million video views and 2 million posts,” said the social media platform.
The tech billionaire stated that there was a “record usage of X during the US presidential debate.”
A user posted, “X was going crazy during the debate. X live streams during the debate also had huge audiences.” “Amazing result of allowing people to speak about it freely, without the ban hammer of the ‘Censorship Complex’ hovering over them,” another X user commented. Meanwhile, President Biden said he “did well” at the debate with ex-President Trump and dismissed the likelihood of him stepping aside, as being demanded by some Democrats disappointed by his performance.
"I think we did well," President Biden told a reporter. Many Democrats, however, were concerned President Biden may not be able to beat former President Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee.
From the editor’s desk
US report on religious freedom in India: A case of misunderstanding & hypocrisy
The recent report by the US State Department on religious freedom in India has sparked significant criticism from the Indian government, and for good reason. Branded as "deeply biased" and driven by "vote bank considerations and a prescriptive outlook," this report reflects a fundamental misunderstanding of India's social fabric and legal framework. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal aptly pointed out that the report selectively uses incidents and relies on biased sources, thus painting a distorted picture of the situation in India.
Critics argue that this report is a mix of misrepresentations, selective facts, and unjustified imputations. It goes so far as to question the validity of India's constitutional provisions and the legislature's right to enact laws. The report also challenges the integrity of certain legal judgments by Indian courts and targets regulations designed to monitor financial flows into the country, suggesting the compliance burden is unreasonable. These claims not only undermine India’s legal framework but also reveal a profound lack of understanding of India's domestic challenges and the measures it takes to uphold the rule of law.
One of the key issues raised in the report pertains to alleged violent attacks on minority groups, citing the violence in Manipur in May 2023 and the destruction of churches and temples. This portrayal, however, is highly selective and overlooks the broader context of India's efforts to maintain social harmony and protect vulnerable communities. The Indian government has repeatedly condemned such acts and taken legal action against perpetrators, underscoring its commitment to religious freedom and diversity.
The hypocrisy of the US stance becomes evident when considering the numerous cases of hate crimes, racial attacks, and vandalism of places of worship affecting Indians in the US. Just in 2023, India officially raised these issues with the US, highlighting the failures of the American system to protect the lives and rights of Indian nationals and other minorities. Despite these ongoing concerns, the US continues to issue reports that criticize India, which appears to be an attempt to undermine the
From hacker to freedom: The rollercoaster journey of Julian Assange
Indian government and its legal framework.
Moreover, the timing and nature of such reports suggest political motivations aimed at interfering in India's internal affairs. This is unacceptable and disheartening, especially when efforts are being made to strengthen India-US relations. Both countries need each other, particularly in the current geopolitical context. Irresponsible acts like this report threaten to undermine the potential for collaboration and mutual respect.
India's commitment to religious freedom is deeply rooted in its constitution and legal framework.
The country’s diverse social fabric necessitates policies that may not align with external perceptions but are essential for managing its unique challenges. The US must recognize that the India of today is no pushover and that mutual respect and understanding are crucial for maintaining a strong bilateral relationship.
The MEA has called for objectivity and comprehensive, unbiased research in international assessments. The USCIRF report, seen as a flawed document, fails to capture the complexity and reality of the situation in India. Future reports must avoid political biases and instead provide balanced perspectives that respect India's sovereignty and its genuine efforts to uphold democratic values and religious freedom.
While dialogue on human rights and respect for diversity is important, it should not serve as a pretext for foreign interference.
The US must reassess its approach to such reports, recognizing the importance of a strong, respectful partnership with India. The India of today demands and deserves to be understood and treated with fairness and respect on the global stage. The US has a lot of worry about its own domestic policies, and how it conducts its foreign policy. India is a responsible country with a democratic polity. There is none to question the governance of India which is done on the basis of rule of law.
The US knows India is a country that upholds the principles of democracy, and therefore working with India is a much better option than with any other country where democracy is either sham or is altogether absent. Being a diverse country that India is, its laws must be in accordance with the needs of the time, and every care is taken to uphold civil rights of all sections of population in India.
A global dialogue about press freedom, government openness, and the effects of whistleblowing has been reignited by the muchawaited release of Julian Assange. With his freedom restored for the first time in well over ten years, Assange flew back to his native Australia on a commercial flight on June 26, 2024. A turbulent chapter of his life, one that had seen both incredible highs and heartbreaking lows, came to an end at this precise moment.
The rise of WikiLeaks
Born in Townsville, Australia, on July 3, 1971, Julian Paul Assange became well-known in the hacker and whistleblower communities. His early years were marked by a strong interest in computer programming, which later brought him into contact with hacker culture. Assange established WikiLeaks in 2006, a company that would completely alter the way that information is shared.
With the goal of increasing openness around corporate wrongdoing and government acts, WikiLeaks was originally intended to be a forum for the publication of sensitive and classified material. The website immediately became widely recognised for its audacious and unreserved release of material that other media sources were afraid to touch.
2010: The year of infamy
The year 2010, which would forever alter both Assange's life and the worldwide conversation on transparency, saw his ascent to international notoriety as Chelsea Manning’s, a former U.S. Army intelligence analyst, revelations were made public by WikiLeaks. These leaks included:
Footage of a U.S. airstrike in Baghdad: A harrowing video showing a U.S. military helicopter attacking and killing several people, including two Reuters journalists, in Baghdad.
U.S. military logs from the Afghanistan and Iraq wars: Tens of thousands of classified documents detailing the realities of the wars, including civilian casualties and previously undisclosed military operations.
U.S. diplomatic cables: Over 250,000 cables from U.S. embassies around the world, exposing the inner workings of American diplomacy and shedding light on various international relations issues. Assange shot to international
prominence as a result of these releases. Critics charged him with jeopardising lives and national security, while supporters celebrated him as a hero for accountability and transparency.
Legal woes and asylum
In November 2010, Assange's life abruptly changed after Sweden filed a European arrest order for him due to alleged sexual assault. Although Assange refuted the allegations, he was afraid that if he was extradited to Sweden, he would be sent to the US and charged with serious crimes pertaining to the WikiLeaks releases.
Assange applied for asylum at the Ecuadorian Embassy in London in June 2012. He was granted asylum by Ecuador two months later, citing fears of political persecution and possible extradition to the United States. Assange resided in a tiny room inside the embassy for almost seven years, with little connection to the outside world and continual surveillance.
WikiLeaks party and continued influence
Assange continued to have an impact on world events even after being imprisoned. He started the Australian WikiLeaks Party in 2013 with the goal of winning a Senate seat. Even though he was never able to achieve his political goals, the attempt demonstrated his unwavering dedication to his beliefs.
Important data, such as the emails from the Democratic National Committee during the 2016 US presidential election, were still made available by WikiLeaks. There were claims following this revelation that WikiLeaks was helping foreign powers meddle in the election, adding still another level of controversy.
A dramatic turn of events
The political scene changed once more in 2019. Prosecutors in Sweden decided not to pursue the accusations of sexual assault. But in April 2019, Ecuador withdrew Assange's asylum because it had grown tired of his protracted residence. After he was detained by British police, a new legal dispute arose regarding his extradition to the United States.
Assange resisted extradition for the next few years while being held in a UK high-security jail. His followers expressed concerns about him as his mental health deteriorated. He persisted in
his defiance and continued to support press freedom and openness in spite of these obstacles.
The plea deal and release
The turn of events occurred in 2024 when Assange consented to a plea agreement with American authorities. He got out of prison by entering a guilty plea to the charge of obtaining and publishing U.S. military secrets.
Assange submitted his plea in a U.S. federal court in Saipan, the capital of the Northern Mariana Islands, which is an uncommon venue for a criminal case involving international intrigue. Being relatively close to Assange's home country of Australia, this American commonwealth in the Pacific allowed him to fulfil his wish to stay out of the continental United States.
Assange's release was met with mixed reactions. Supporters celebrated the end of his incarceration, while critics argued that justice had not been fully served. His wife, Stella Assange, expressed relief and joy, eagerly anticipating their reunion in Australia. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also welcomed the resolution of the case, hoping it would bring closure to a longstanding diplomatic issue.
A new chapter begins
Now that Julian Assange is returning to public life, a pertinent question arises, and that is, what lies ahead for him. Will he continue to contribute to WikiLeaks? Then, there is also the question of whether all these experiences have an adverse effect on his activism and openness. There is also now a renewed debate on how to walk the delicate path of balancing between public access to sensitive information and national security. Assange’s life story is one of waking up to the potential benefits and dangers of information in the digital age. His story must also remind of the difficulties an investigative journalist faces while reporting corruption. The established powers of the world are in favour of the status quo, and anyone who dares to question it has to face the serious repercussions.
A story far from over
Though Julian Assange has been released marking the end of a significant chapter in his life, his story is still ongoing. Now is the time for him to reunite with his family in Australia. But even as he does so, the world will keep a close eye on him, watching closely all his actions. Will he return to active journalism? The answer to this question will be eagerly sought after. Whatever he does, he has already established his name among those who relentlessly pursued the truth and paid the price for it. However, those passionate about journalism will continue to serve their readers, and the noble profession to which they belong.
The Third Eye: A welcome continuity
New Delhi: The results of the recent Parliamentary election do have the effect of strengthening India's democratic state. They made it possible for a stable coalition government to return to power -- in the absence of any single party securing a majority. India badly needed to have that in the current geopolitical environment. With stability is linked to the factor of continuity that would enable people to further evaluate Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government's performance over its past two terms while providing also an opportunity to Prime Minister Modi of making course corrections if any.
Above all, the polls validate the robust character of this country's electoral democracy built on 'one man one vote' and bring out how an active opposition -- its strength varying from state to state -- helps the citizens in exercising their choices based on the relative appeal of the ruling dispensation compared to those politically opposed to it.
In a vast country of diverse sociopolitical equations like India, it is not surprising that the degree of opposition unity reached in states like Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra this time did impact the prospect of the ruling party -- which had otherwise gone on to acquire new grounds in states like Orissa, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
State-based parties with caste, communal and regional appeals have been a traditional feature of the Indian political scene which makes it important that the country should have allIndia parties working in healthy competition at the national level.
Over the decades after Independence, the Congress once ruled the nation suffered a decline but fortunately, the BJP rapidly rose to become a challenger to the Congress on the strength of its political merit and nationalist appeal.
The recent Parliamentary election saw a natural interplay of the two largest national parties and their state-level allies -- its outcome is to be welcomed in terms of
the advance of democracy that it represents in India.
The BJP is doing well to go into a systematic examination of what caused its tally to fall short of its expectations in certain states. It is only appropriate politically that the Prime Minister should choose to draw strength from the victory of the National Democratic Alliance and express his determination to carry forward the national agenda of governance envisaged by the BJP.
It is natural for him to continue with the same Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) as was in existence before and accommodate the allies in the Ministry honourably but without giving in to any pressure from them.
India needs to be governed with strong hands with a sense of accountability and effective execution of policies flowing top-down and the Prime Minister promises to do that -- his credibility concerning governance is intact in the eyes of the people and this is his main asset.
His contribution to pushing India up in the comity of nations as the acknowledged voice of reason on issues of global conflicts and also on matters of advancement of humanity is well established and so is his policy of zero tolerance towards terrorism and forces threatening national unity and internal security.
These are among the major paradigms of successful governance in India and the Prime Minister would be right in pursuing this path undeterred by any other political factors. For him, the legacy of successfully safeguarding national interests during his rule is all that should matter to him at this stage. He is an astute political combatant, is cognisant of the weaknesses in the opposition camp and is likely to keep NDA rule going as long as this was possible.
The first hurdle faced by PM Modi's government in the election of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha has been crossed over successfully as amid a noisy backdrop of contest, Om Birla, the candidate of BJP was elected by a voice vote -- the strength of NDA demonstratively holding out against the opposition.
However, the fact that there was a contest for Speakership for the first time, reflected the
distrust of the opposition in the ruling alliance and the former's intention of keeping up its pressure on the government. It is to be seen how the Prime Minister goes ahead with legislation that requires only a simple majority, to keep his agenda of governance on the move.
The course of campaigning in the election, content-wise, was of the type that could produce long-term consequences for the politics of the future in as much as the caste, communal and regional divides in the country might get accentuated in the period ahead.
Anti-India forces abroad in possible collusion with antiestablishment civil society groups inside the country had before the election built narratives designed to run down Indian democracy as a system vulnerable to 'majoritarianism', 'authoritarianism' and 'centrifugalism'.
The electioneering revolved around the realpolitik of numbers that convinced the opposition that in a situation of multiple divisions among the Hindu majority of 80 per cent a determined support of the Muslim minority of nearly 20 per cent would prove to be the match-winner.
This aroused an equally strong response from BJP leadership in which it accused the opposition of indulging in 'minority appeasement' at the cost of national interests and tried to arouse a Hindu backlash that did not necessarily happen because of the complex Indian polity playing around the Indian phenomenon of 'caste vs creed' loyalties.
Divisions of Hindus along Backwards and Dalits showed up in the north in a big way and had a bearing on the poll results.
The caste pulls were accentuated by the environment of economic distress. Further, it is relevant to note that the legacy of Partition had created Hindu-Muslim tensions and riots over the decades in Independent India and kept communal politics alive mainly due to the role of many minority leaders -- including the Ulema and the communal elite -who demanded a share in political power based on religion.
The facts of the adoption of universal franchise, grant of absolute freedom of worship and pursuit of policies of development
that would not make any community distinction, seemed to have mattered little for these leaders.
The Hindu-Muslim divide became pronounced in the run-up to the just concluded election and this should be a cause for concern.
All parties in a democratic dispensation must subscribe to the concept of nationalism to keep the state strong.
Nationalism is a perfectly secular call that helps to keep national security above politics and provides a shared sense of purpose to all in a country ridden by cultural diversities and differing political viewpoints.
It is not clear why some opposition parties shunned the idea of nationalism and left the credit for its advocacy to the BJP.
Apparently in a country with a historic majority-minority division, the concept of nationalism was deliberately mixed up with Hindu majoritarianism and by a twisted logic projected as an idea that was against the sensitivities of the Muslim minority.
The expressed view of Islamic fundamentalists opposing the mandate of standing up while the singing of the national anthem was on or saluting the national flag, was not discounted.
Some opposition elements have even endorsed the idea that this mandate should be considered optional.
Moreover, Western lobbies hostile to India do not take kindly to a strong nationalistic country asserting its independent stand on issues of war and peace and trying to be self-dependent in the spheres of development and defence.
Prime Minister Modi's visit to the G7 summit in Rome, on the invitation of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in the middle of Cabinet formation, showed the importance he attached to India's image abroad and could not therefore be faulted.
His first policy announcements at home indicated that his political will in running the country was intact.
It would do India no good if Prime Minister Modi was looked upon as a leader presiding over a weak government.
In the months ahead political campaigns in the country are likely to get intensified as the opposition continues to find fault with Prime Minister Modi's
government on one count or the other.
The appointment of Rahul Gandhi as the Leader of the Opposition will further add to this trend. The external threats to internal security can also mount largely because of the covert operations of Pakistan and China working in concert against India.
Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and the North East apart, it is the communal front that would require a close vigil.
The pro-minority politics of many in the opposition makes India more vulnerable to the plans of its adversaries to inject militancy in communal situations and even instigate faith-based terror.
An example of this in the past was the emergence of Indian Mujahideen (IM) as an offshoot of the Students Islamic Movement of India(SIMI) that indulged in terrorist activity some years ago.
The new Penal codes enacted by the Parliament in December last year have to be put into action in an unbiased manner.
Impartial law and order management is an essence of democracy and issues of internal security being kept above party politics is another prerequisite of a democratic dispensation.
Prime Minister Modi is aware of the organised campaign against the 'arrogant' style of work attributed to him -- which could as well be the impression created by his impatience with mediocrity, high expectations of delivery and notions of leading by example by highlighting the leader's achievements.
He should not, however, while making any course corrections, allow 'the sense of drive' associated with his governance, to get diluted in any manner.
The people of India have that expectation from him as for them this was the prime symbol of stability of any government. The challenge of safeguarding internal security will likely outweigh the task of bringing about economic development in the times ahead and Prime Minister Modi's government will be tested more for its ability to maintain peace at home rather than for advancing the cause of India abroad. The political scene in the months ahead would be keenly watched by strategic analysts.
(The writer is a former Director of the Intelligence Bureau. Views are personal)
Putin says ties with North Korea raised to ‘unprecedentedly high level’
Seoul, June 25 (IANS) Russian President Vladimir Putin has thanked North Korean leader Kim Jong-un for showing heartfelt hospitality during his visit to Pyongyang last week, saying bilateral ties have been boosted to an "unprecedentedly high level", North Korea's state media reported on Tuesday. In a message to Kim, Putin said
his trip to the North has opened ways for the two countries to achieve beneficial cooperation in various fields, Yonhap news agency reported, citing the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
"He said that his recent state visit to the DPRK was of special significance as it raised the relations between Moscow and
Pyongyang to an unprecedentedly high level of comprehensive strategic partnership," the KCNA said, using the acronym of North Korea's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Putin said the North's leader is an "honoured guest" that Russia always waits for, wishing for Kim's good health and success.
After summit talks on Wednesday, Putin and Kim signed a treaty of comprehensive strategic partnership that calls for providing military assistance without delay if either side comes under attack. It marked Putin's first trip to North Korea in 24 years.
Putin also voiced hope to hold the next summit with Kim in Moscow,
according to Russian media outlets.
Meanwhile, North Korea condemned Ukraine troops for "staging attacks on the Russianannexed Crimean Peninsula this week with Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) missiles supplied by the United States".
152 Indian startups on track to turn unicorns over next 5 years: Report
New Delhi, June 21 (IANS) At least 152 Indian startups are on track to turn unicorns from 31 cities over the next 3 to 5 years to its current tally of 67 unicorns, a new report has said.
As per ASK Private Wealth Hurun India Future Unicorn Index 2024, India is presently home to 67 unicorns, 46 gazelles, and 106 cheetahs, as against 68 unicorns, 51 gazelles, and 96 cheetahs in the
2023 index.
The report has classified startups as unicorns -- startups founded after the year 2000 with a valuation of $1 billion, gazelles -- startups that are most likely to go unicorn in the next three years, and cheetahs -- startups that could go unicorn in the next five years.
The fintech sector has the most gazelle companies at eight, followed by SaaS with six. Artificial intelligence (AI) and edtech both have five gazelles.
Some of the top gazelles featured in the index include edtech startup Leap Scholar, fintech startup Money View, and agritech startup Country Delight. Following closely are agritech
startup Ninjacart and SaaS startup MoEngage.
“This year's index saw notable promotions. Online travel aggregator ixigo, a former cheetah, went public with a 48 per cent premium. In 2022, ixigo was predicted to become a unicorn within five years, and it has now leapt directly to an IPO, bypassing the gazelle status," said Anas Rahman Junaid, MD and Chief Researcher, Hurun India.
He further mentioned that Zepto, Porter, and Incred Finance achieved unicorn status, while 10 cheetahs were promoted to gazelles, highlighting the "resilience and dynamism of India’s startup landscape".
India’s innovation ecosystem poised for exponential growth: Industry
New Delhi, June 22 (IANS) India's innovation ecosystem is poised for exponential growth, driven by robust government policies, increased venture capital and a dynamic talent pool, industry experts said on Saturday. The country is likely to have at least 152 unicorns (with a valuation of $1 billion and above) over the next 3 to 5 years. The number of unicorns in the country increased from four in 2015 to more than 100 in 2024, with more than 1.25 lakh startups.
Prime Minister Narendra
Modi has reiterated that the government is committed to providing a conducive environment for startups to flourish, especially from the tier-2 and 3 cities.
“To cultivate more unicorns, India must prioritise substantial investments in research and development, enhancing digital infrastructure, and fostering a startup-friendly regulatory environment,” said Jitendra Patil, Managing Director of Pune-based energy-tech startup ARENQ.
Additionally, streamlining bureaucratic processes and providing tax incentives can further stimulate entrepreneurial ventures.
“The future is bright for Indian startups, and with the right support, we can unlock
unprecedented opportunities and create a thriving ecosystem for unicorns to flourish,” said Patil. Every state will soon have multiple startups and unicorns with amazing business models and innovation.
According to Ritesh Malik, founder of Innov8 and a serial investor, in the next five years, India’s ecosystem, ease of doing business, Startup India and Make in India missions will keep on growing the economy of the country.
"India will continue its strong and resilient growth because of renewed capex, well-capitalised banking system, robust credit growth and digital-driven productivity gains" added Dr Manoranjan Sharma, Chief Economist, Infomerics Ratings.
India electronics component manufacturing to hit $240 bn by 2030, create 2.8 lakh jobs by 2026
As the government doubles down on making India a global manufacturing hub, the demand for electronics components and sub-assemblies is likely to scale to $240 billion by 2030, paving the way for $500 billion worth of electronics production goal while creating at least 2.8 lakhs new jobs by 2026, a report showed on Sunday.
Priority components and subassemblies including PCBAs, are projected to grow at a robust CAGR of 30 per cent, reaching $139 billion by 2030, according to the report by the Confederation
of Indian Industry (CII), which suggested key recommendations to craft a scheme to further help the industry.
Last year, the demand for components and sub-assemblies stood at $45.5 billion to support $102 billion worth of electronics production.
The report identified five priority components/sub-assemblies of batteries (lithium-ion), camera modules, mechanicals (enclosures etc.), displays and PCBs, which are categorised as high priority for India.
They cumulatively accounted for 43 per cent of the components demand in 2022 and is expected to grow to $51.6 billion by 2030, the report mentioned.
These components have either a nominal production in India or are heavily import-dependent.
"Similarly, PCBA is a high potential category for India since
Adani Portfolio stronger than ever and our best is yet to come: Chairman
Ahmedabad, June 24 (IANS)
Gautam Adani, the Chairman of the Adani Group, said on Monday that with record results, robust cash positions and the lowest debt ratios in its history, the Adani Portfolio’s path ahead is illuminated with the promise of even greater accomplishments.
The Group achieved an unprecedented milestone in the fiscal 2023-24.
“We recorded our highest EBITDA of Rs 82,917 crore -- or approximately $10 billion -- a remarkable surge of 45 per cent.
This exceptional performance drove our PAT (profit after tax) to a record high of Rs 40,129 crore, marking a substantial 71 per cent growth. Our net Debt to EBITDA fell from 3.3X to 2.2X over the past year,” Gautam Adani told shareholders at the Adani Enterprises' Annual General Meeting (AGM).
All of this resulted in an all-timehigh level of liquidity for the Group with a cash balance of Rs 59,791 crore.
“These metrics demonstrated our highly stable infrastructure platform and led to a series of rating and outlook upgrades.
Three of our portfolio companies -- Ambuja, ACC, and APSEZ -- are now AAA rated,” said the Group Chairman.
Adani Enterprises, the Group’s incubation engine, had a fantastic year.
most of the demand is met by imports. This segment is expected to grow by 30 per cent, leading to a demand creation of $87.46 billion by 2030,” the report noted. The report recommended crafting a scheme aimed at providing fiscal support for select components and sub-assemblies in the range of 6-8 per cent.
“The fiscal support is to be extended for a period of 6 to 8 years to ensure adequate time for scaling up and enhancement in value addition,” it added.
Additionally, the Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS) 2.0 should be introduced with subsidy support ranging from 25 per cent to 40 per cent to support potential investors across brownfield and greenfield categories.
“Passenger traffic at our airports witnessed strong double-digit growth and came in at 88.6 million. We were also privileged to have Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurate the state-ofthe-art Terminal 3 at Lucknow International Airport,” Gautam Adani told the shareholders.
Kutch Copper Limited, a pioneering project in Mundra within the AEL portfolio, commenced operations at its greenfield copper refinery.
“By the end of this decade, we aim to make it the world’s largest single-location copper smelter with a capacity of 1 MMTPA, thus enhancing India’s self-reliance on a metal needed for our critical industries,” said Gautam Adani. Adani Ports & SEZ also experienced an exceptional year, exceeding 400 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo and handling a record 420 MMT.
“Ten of our ports recorded lifetime high cargo volumes. We also acquired Gopalpur and
Karaikal ports, consolidating our position as India’s premier ports and logistics company,” the Group Chairman informed.
Given renewable energy’s growth potential, Adani Green Energy revised its FY 2029-30 target from 45 GW to 50 GW.
In the year, it added 2.8 GW, 15 per cent of India’s total renewable capacity addition.
“The commissioning of the first 2 GW at the world’s largest renewable energy plant in Khavda within 12 months of breaking ground set a record -- yet another proof point that highlights our execution capabilities,” said Gautam Adani.
Adani Power’s operating capacity increased by 12 per cent to 15,250 MW, with the commissioning of the 1,600 MW trans-national ultra-supercritical thermal power plant at Godda in Jharkhand.
“This makes it the first power plant in India to export all its power to a neighbouring nation,” the Group Chairman informed. Adani Energy Solutions continued to commission the muchneeded critical transmission infrastructure, including two 765 kV lines.
“Our transmission order book stands at Rs 17,000 crore, and our smart metering order book has expanded to 228 lakh units.
“Adani Total Gas expanded its CNG stations to cross 900 stations, and PNG connections rose from 8.45 lakh to 9.76 lakh connections. We also commissioned 606 EV charging points as well as the first phase of one of India’s largest biomass plants in Barsana,” informed Gautam Adani.
Following the acquisition of ACC and Ambuja Cements and other commissioning, the Adani Group’s combined cement capacity has risen from 67.5 MTPA (million tonnes per annum) to 79 MTPA -- and its EBITDA per tonne has more than doubled since the acquisition.
“We are well on the path towards our target of 140 MTPA by 2028. We are also proud that Ambuja Cements was the lead supplier for India’s longest sea bridge -the 21.8-km-long Mumbai Trans Harbour Link,” said Gautam Adani.
The Group's media entity NDTV expanded its presence regionally and scaled digitally, with a 39 per cent increase in global digital traffic.
“Keeping in mind the quality of programmes, we intend to broadcast, we also invested in cutting edge next-generation digital infrastructure, and added new facilities in BKC, Mumbai, and NCR, Delhi,” said Gautam Adani.
New Delhi, June 23 (IANS)
Rajesh’s Travel Story: Navigating the world with Smartraveller.
Meet Rajesh, an avid traveller who loves to explore new destinations. Rajesh shares how Smartraveller has become his trusted companion, helping him master the art of stress-free travel. Discover his personal travel journey.
“I believe travel is essential and fun. So far, I have visited a variety of destinations, including popular tourist spots in Europe, Southeast Asia, and the United States. My trips have ranged from family vacations to solo backpacking adventures, with each journey offering unique cultural experiences and opportunities for personal growth.
My Travel Companion
As part of my planning process
for my trips, I always use Smartraveller, the Australian government website that provides up-to-date travel advice and safety information for over 175 destinations. By using the advice on Smartraveller, I have been able to better prepare myself for challenges I may encounter during my travels. I have used Smartraveller not only as a guide to new destinations, but also use it when travelling back to my hometown in Delhi, India.
Why Smartraveller?
Many of my friends ask why use Smartraveller? The answer is simple - it helps me prepare. I am a person who likes to plan in advance and feel secure when
I understand potential risks or emergencies. This allows me to adjust my plans accordingly and stay safe. Afterall, we travel to enjoy and unwind. I found the regular alerts and notifications from Smartraveller to be invaluable in ensuring a smooth and worry-free travel experience.
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During my travels I encountered a sudden political protest in one of the cities I was visiting. With traffic blocked enroute, I realised I would not be able to reach my booked hotel. Thanks to Smartraveller's subscription service, I received timely alerts and was able to avoid the area and find alternative accommodations, ensuring my safety and
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Travel Advice
I am not a travel advisor, but for reliable travel advice, you have Smartraveller. This is my personal experience, and I hope it will encourage more people to subscribe to Smartraveller. While not everyone will encounter challenging situations, it’s always helpful to be prepared. Having a free, safe, and secure advisory like
Smartraveller will ensure your safety and well-being, whether travelling to familiar places or an entirely new destination. I highly encourage fellow Indian travellers to consider using Smartraveller before making any future trips, it’s reliable support for travel advice and any unforeseen circumstances.”
If you would like to learn more about Smartraveller, check out the official website here: https:// www.smartraveller.gov.au/
As you plan for your travel, don’t forget to subscribe to updates from Smartraveller: https:// subscription.smartraveller.gov. au/subscribe/
Consul General hosts reception to strengthen Australia-India ties
Melbourne, June 20 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar recently hosted a reception attended by numerous dignitaries and leaders from various sectors. The event aimed to bolster the multifaceted ties between Australia and India.
The reception saw the presence of distinguished guests, including
the Speaker of the Victorian Parliament, Maree Edwards MP; Natalie Hutchins MP, Minister for Women of Victoria and Minister for Jobs and Industry; Steve McGhie MP; Eden Foster MP; Emma Vulin MP; Cr. Andrea Metcalf, Mayor of the City of Greater Bendigo; Andrew Cooney, CEO of the City of Greater Bendigo; Cr. Nicky Luo, Mayor of
Monash City Council; Cr. Nicholas Reece, Deputy Lord Mayor of the City of Melbourne; Ms. Danni Jarrett, CEO of Global Victoria; Rob Thomasan, Chairperson of the Australia India Business Council (AIBC); Brett Wood, Head of Government Relations at Cricket Australia; alongside business CEOs, officials, and Indian community leaders.
The gathering provided an excellent opportunity for networking and discussions, focusing on enhancing the already strong relationship between the two nations. Topics of conversation included economic partnerships, cultural exchanges, and collaborative projects that can further cement the bond between Australia and India.
Dr. Sushil Kumar's reception highlighted the ongoing efforts to foster deeper connections and mutual growth, emphasizing the importance of continued cooperation and dialogue across various sectors. The event highlighted the commitment of both countries to building a prosperous and collaborative future.
Darshana Baruah appointed as Director of Security & Geopolitics at AII
Sydney, June 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Darshana M. Baruah has been named the new Director of Security and Geopolitics at the Australia India Institute (AII), Australia’s foremost think tank dedicated to fostering the Australia-India relationship and enhancing understanding of the Indo-Pacific region.
Baruah transitions into this role from Washington D.C., where she previously led the Indian Ocean Initiative at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.
Baruah has made notable contributions to maritime security, the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean, and the role of island nations in the IndoPacific. At Carnegie, she convened the annual Indo-Pacific Islands 1.5-track dialogue, a key forum addressing maritime security, environmental sustainability, and economic development, bringing island nation perspectives to the forefront of global discussions. Among her achievements, Baruah conceptualized the Indian Ocean interactive map, an innovative digital tool that underscores the strategic importance of geographic features, trading routes, and maritime security in the region. This map serves
as a valuable resource for policymakers, researchers, and the public, enhancing understanding and strategic analysis.
Her primary research focuses on the security and geopolitical dynamics of the Indo-Pacific, examining naval strategies, maritime partnerships, foreign policy, and island agency.
Baruah's extensive experience includes tenures at leading think tanks in Delhi and Tokyo, as well as significant research periods in Hawaii and Canberra, where she advanced her expertise in maritime security and the IndoPacific.
“Ms. Baruah’s leadership will undoubtedly strengthen our initiatives and foster deeper collaboration between Australia and India on defence and security issues. As a scholar who has achieved remarkable success in a traditionally male-dominated field, her journey is already inspiring and exemplary,” said AII CEO Lisa Singh.
“As we expand our research capability and policy work addressing ongoing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, Ms. Baruah’s extensive expertise and strategic analysis will make her an invaluable addition to our team.”
Under Baruah’s leadership, AII’s security and geopolitics program will develop new research streams and convene discussions on geopolitics, security, island agency, and the maritime domain. Baruah is also the author of "The Contest for the Indian Ocean: And the Making of a New World Order," set to be published by Yale University Press in August 2024. She will commence her role as Director of Security and Geopolitics on July 1.
GOPIO Gold Coast announces spectacular Charity Gala
Gold Coast, June 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Mark your calendars for the most anticipated event of the year! The Global Organization of People of
Indian Origin (GOPIO) Gold Coast chapter announced its upcoming Charity Gala, which is set to take place on August 3, 2024, at 6 PM at the luxurious Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort Gold Coast.
This year’s Charity Gala promises to be an electrifying evening filled with glitz and glamour, sensational live performances, and an array of culinary delights. Attendees can expect a night of unforgettable moments, all while supporting two worthy causes, one is Life Global Australia, and the other is GC Homeless Youth. Tickets for the GOPIO Gold Coast Charity Gala are limited, and demand is high. Tickets can be purchased online at www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1218174.
GOPIO Gold Coast celebrates I-Yoga Day with transformative event
Gold Coast, June 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) Gold Coast chapter recently hosted a vibrant celebration in honour of International Yoga Day (I-Yoga Day), bringing together community members for a day of revitalization and rejuvenation. The event featured an enriching session led by Radhika Sood from the Art of Living organization, who guided participants through
a sequence of transformative asanas. Her expertise helped attendees explore the physical and mental benefits of yoga, fostering a sense of tranquility and inner peace.
Complementing the yoga session, John Smith from The Heartfulness Institute led an immersive meditation experience. Smith's guidance focused on rejuvenation and cleansing techniques, offering participants a deeper connection to their inner selves
and promoting overall well-being. The celebration was marked by a spirit of unity and wellness, reflecting the essence of International Yoga Day. Participants of all ages and backgrounds came together to embrace the ancient practice, leaving the event with a renewed sense of energy and harmony.
GOPIO Gold Coast's event underscored the significance of yoga in contemporary life, highlighting its role in fostering
physical, mental, and spiritual health. The event aimed not only to celebrate International Yoga Day but also to encourage the community to integrate yoga and meditation into their daily routines.
Reflecting on the event, organizers expressed their gratitude for the enthusiastic participation and emphasized the importance of such gatherings in strengthening community bonds. They reiterated their commitment
to promoting holistic health practices and cultural exchange within the Gold Coast community. International Yoga Day, observed globally on June 21, aims to raise awareness about the myriad benefits of yoga and inspire people to lead healthier lives.
GOPIO Gold Coast's celebration exemplified this mission, uniting individuals in the shared pursuit of wellness and mindfulness.
ANZIBC Technology Conference highlights Generative AI & Cybersecurity
Melbourne, June 19 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia New Zealand India Business Chamber (ANZIBC) recently organized a Technology Conference in Melbourne focusing on the theme “Generative AI & Cyber Security.” The event was also attended by Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar and featured discussions on
technological advancements and challenges in securing the digital environment.
Distinguished speakers at the conference included Chairman of the ICT Committee at ANZIBC, Chetan Mehta; Cognizant Australia head Robert Marchiori; IT Head of Telstra Group, Kieran O'Meara; Head of Sutherland, Ranjit Pisharoty; and Country
Leader of HCL Tech ANZ, Sonia Eland.
The panelists and speakers provided critical insights into Generative AI and its significant impact on cybersecurity. Discussions revolved around the latest advancements in AI technology and the imperative measures needed to safeguard digital environments against
emerging threats.
The conference facilitated a platform for industry leaders to share knowledge and explore collaborative solutions to address the evolving challenges in the tech sector. This event underscored the importance of staying ahead in the rapidly changing landscape of AI and cybersecurity, fostering innovation and resilience in the digital age.
FICQ holds collaborative meeting with member organizations
Brisbane, June 16 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) recently organized a faceto-face meeting with its member organizations. This collaborative discussion aimed to understand the aspirations and goals of each
organization, facilitating a deeper alignment of efforts to support and empower the community.
During the meeting, each member organization shared its objectives, which included enhancing community outreach, increasing program participation, securing additional funding, and improving
service delivery. The discussions revealed common themes such as the need for better resource allocation, stronger partnerships, and innovative strategies to address community challenges.
According to a Facebook post by FICQ, the dialogue was instrumental in helping the
federation align its efforts and set actionable steps towards achieving these collective goals.
This initiative aims to ensure that FICQ continues to effectively support and empower the Indian community in Queensland.
The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration and shared vision in tackling community issues and enhancing the overall impact of the member organizations' initiatives. FICQ's commitment to fostering a unified approach promises to bring about positive change and stronger community ties in the region.
Expo will promote multiculturalism, empower migrants in Queensland: Abhishek Sharma
In an interview to Australia India News, president of Bhartiya Samaj in Brisbane highlighted the mission of Bhartiya Samaj to promote inclusivity and unity among migrants. The following is an excerpt from the interview.
Question: What inspired Bhartiya Samaj to organize the inaugural Empowering Migrants Expo in Brisbane?
Abhishek: Bhartiya Samaj was inspired to organize the inaugural Empowering Migrants Expo in Brisbane due to the significant demographic changes in
Australia, with many migrants seeking better and safer futures.
Question: How do you envision this Expo contributing to the building of more inclusive communities in Queensland?
Abhishek: The Expo is envisioned to contribute to building more inclusive communities in Queensland by showcasing cultural diversity, providing resources and support, empowering migrants, celebrating achievements, facilitating community interaction, providing family-
friendly environment, and promoting multiculturalism.
Question: Can you elaborate on the significance of showcasing the cultures and histories of over 30 indigenous and ethnic groups at this event?
Abhishek: Showcasing the cultures and histories of over 30 indigenous and ethnic groups at the Empowering Migrants Expo holds significance as it helps in culture preservation, providing educational opportunity, community building, celebration of diversity, empowerment and
recognition of various indigenous and ethnic groups.
Question: How do you plan to build on the success of the Empowering Migrants Expo for future events and initiatives?
Abhishek: Bhartiya Samaj plans to implement several strategies for future events and initiatives such as annual Expo expansion, enhanced partnerships with government agencies, educational institutions, businesses, and community organizations, getting community feedback, increased outreach, and showcasing success stories.
Question: What message would you like to convey to the people of Queensland regarding the Empowering Migrants Expo and its significance?
Abhishek: To the people of Queensland, the Empowering Migrants Expo is more than just an event; it is a celebration of the rich cultural diversity that defines our state. This Expo symbolizes our commitment to fostering inclusivity, understanding, and unity among all communities.
Hindu Council Australia celebrates IDY at Federal Parliament
Canberra, June 21 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Hindu Council Australia, supported by the High Commission of India in Canberra, organized a yoga session on the
lawns of the Federal Parliament on June 21 to celebrate the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY).
Yoga experts conducted an invigorating session of asanas and breathing exercises, attended by
numerous yoga enthusiasts.
A similar session was held on June 23 at the Hindu Temple in Florey, Canberra. Both events drew participants from diverse communities, who gathered
to practice yoga asanas and breathing techniques.
Yoga, an ancient practice that promotes physical, mental, and spiritual health, is celebrated globally on June 21 following its
recognition by the United Nations in 2014. These events highlighted the importance of yoga in fostering holistic wellbeing and community unity.
AIBC leads bilateral trade & investment promotion in Regional NSW
Sydney, June 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia India Business Council (AIBC), in collaboration with the Consulate General of India (CGI) Sydney, AUKUS Forum, Gunnedah Shire Council, Business NSW, and the Department of Regional NSW, spearheaded a bilateral trade and investment promotion outreach program in the New
England and North West regions of NSW, encompassing the towns of Gunnedah, Tamworth, and Armidale.
During this visit, the delegation engaged with regional businesses across a variety of sectors, including food processing, agriculture/agri-tech, renewables and net-zero targets, advanced manufacturing, healthcare and medtech, skill development and
education, defence and space, as well as startups and innovation.
The discussions centered on growth stories and significant opportunities for scaling up and investing in India, under the bilateral hashtag #AI-ECTA agreement, which aims to bolster trade and economic ties between Australia and India.
A government-industry roundtable session held in
Tamworth highlighted numerous bilateral industry sector opportunities and provided valuable insights on how regional Australian businesses can leverage partnerships with the Indian market. This session underscored the potential complementarity between Australian and Indian businesses, fostering mutual growth and collaboration.
The outreach program has established several impactful business engagements, setting the stage for ongoing bilateral opportunities. This initiative highlights the significant potential for regional Australian businesses to tap into the dynamic Indian market, promoting sustained economic growth and innovation through strategic partnerships.
The South Asian Genes and Health in Australia (SAGHA) study
AIBC joins hand with CII to host education & learning mission in Australia
Sydney, June 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) recently collaborated with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) to host an education and learning mission in Australia. This initiative brought together several leading universities and educational institutions from the western and central regions of India.
The delegation visited numerous universities in the Sydney
and Western Sydney regions, including the University of Sydney, UNSW, University of Technology Sydney (UTS), and Western Sydney University. These institutions facilitated a series of discovery and exploratory sessions aimed at fostering collaboration in skill development programs, micro-credentials, and industry-focused bilateral partnerships.
Key highlights of the visit included tours of the Sydney Startup Hub, the prestigious
University of Sydney Business School, the UNSW Founders pitch event, SMaRT@UNSW, UTS Tech Lab, and Launch Pad at Western Sydney University. These visits provided the delegation with impactful insights into Australia's strong innovation focus and established institutional and faculty connections for future engagements.
AIBC also co-hosted an industry and business interaction session with the Indian Consulate, CGI Sydney. This session offered the
delegation valuable connections and insights into bilateral collaboration opportunities with AIBC's education sector member organizations. Additionally, AIBC facilitated connections for the delegates with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector organizations, emphasizing specific pathway and skill development programs.
The visiting CII delegation expressed strong interest
in immediate collaboration opportunities, particularly in the vocational training sector. Notable among these was the Signature Training Academy, which focuses on specific industry sectors, highlighting the potential for significant bilateral educational and industry partnerships.
This mission underscores the growing collaboration between Australia and India in the education sector, aiming to enhance skill development and innovation through mutual cooperation.
HCI celebrates 10th International Day of Yoga in Canberra
Canberra, June 24 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The High Commission of India (HCI) in Canberra celebrated the 10th International Day of
Yoga on June 22 at the Hyatt Hotel. The event saw enthusiastic participation from local communities, members of the diplomatic corps, and the Indian
diaspora.
High Commissioner of India
Gopal Baglay addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of incorporating yoga
into daily life for physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. Yoga, an ancient practice for healthy living, is celebrated worldwide on June 21, following its adoption by the
United Nations in 2014. The event highlighted the global significance of yoga and reinforced its role in promoting holistic health and unity.
Curtin University embraces 10th IDY with celebrations
Perth, June 18 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Curtin University recently hosted celebration of the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY), welcoming students, faculty, and staff to participate in a session of yoga and meditation on its
premises. The event, organized by the Consulate General of India, Perth, featured instructors from The Art of Living Perth, who guided participants through various yoga practices aimed at enhancing physical and mental wellbeing.
When asked, the attendees at Curtin University expressed satisfaction with the yoga and meditation session, highlighting the transformative effects of these ancient practices on their overall sense of relaxation and inner peace. The event provided
a valuable opportunity for the university community to engage in mindfulness exercises and embrace the holistic benefits of yoga.
The event showcased the growing interest among students and faculty in integrating yoga into their daily lives to manage stress and enhance productivity.
The 10th International Day of Yoga, observed globally on June 21, continues to resonate as a platform for promoting physical, mental, and spiritual health across diverse communities.
Consulate hosts 10th IDY celebrations at IHNA Perth
Perth, June 19 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India recently organized celebrations for the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY) at the Institute of Health and Nursing Australia (IHNA) in Perth. Nursing students and educators participated
enthusiastically in an engaging hour-long yoga and meditation session led by Yog guru Vishwanath from Art of Living Perth.
The event provided an opportunity for students and faculty at IHNA to experience the physical and mental benefits of
yoga firsthand. Many attendees, already regular participants in the Consulate's weekly yoga sessions at Government House Western Australia, embraced the session as a means to enhance their overall wellbeing and relaxation.
Yog guru Vishwanath's guidance during the session emphasized
yoga's role in promoting stress relief, flexibility, and mindfulness among participants.
The 10th International Day of Yoga, observed annually on June 21 globally, continues to grow in popularity as a platform for promoting holistic health and unity among diverse communities.
Hindu Association of Pilbara celebrates 10th IDY
Perth, June 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Hindu Association of Pilbara, in collaboration with the Consulate, recently hosted a spirited celebration of the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY).
The event, facilitated by teachers from the Isha Foundation, drew significant participation and enthusiasm from the local community in Karratha
Participants gathered to participate in yoga sessions
aimed at promoting physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing.
Community members expressed their enjoyment and appreciation for the yoga practices offered during the event.
The 10th International Day of Yoga, observed globally on June 21, serves as a reminder of yoga's universal appeal and its role in promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle across cultures and communities.
AII to host Indian experts for dialogue on Indian Ocean security
Melbourne, June 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia India Institute (AII) announced on its Facebook page that it will host four Indian think tank and academic visitors for a nine-day visit to Australia in July 2024. Themed "India, Australia and the Indian Ocean," this program aims to enhance
dialogue on Indian Ocean maritime security affairs.
Each visitor brings extensive expertise in Indian Ocean maritime security, facilitating in-depth discussions between Australian and Indian specialists from academia, think tanks, government, and NGOs. The visit will include a roundtable co-hosted by AII and the ANU National Security College in Canberra, focusing on bilateral and multilateral cooperation opportunities in the Indian Ocean region.
This initiative highlights the commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships and fostering collaboration between Australia and India on critical security issues.
Perth celebrates 10th IDY with enthusiastic participation
Perth, June 23 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Yoga enthusiasts in Perth came together to commemorate the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY) through various celebrations hosted by prominent organizations.
At Shakktidhaam, participants gathered for a rejuvenating session led by The Art of Living Foundation. The event focused on
promoting physical and mental wellbeing through yoga practices that enhance flexibility and inner peace.
Simultaneously, the Tamil Association of Western Australia (TAWA) collaborated with Sky Yoga to organize yoga sessions at Mandala Hall. The celebrations, attended by Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi, highlighted the cultural diversity and unity
fostered by yoga.
In another part of Perth, the Isha Foundation led a revitalizing yoga and meditation session, drawing scores of practitioners eager to experience the transformative effects of these ancient practices.
The 10th International Day of Yoga, observed annually on June 21 globally, emphasizes yoga's role in promoting holistic health and spiritual harmony.
Consulate and Chinmaya Mission Perth host IDY celebrations
Perth, June 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India, in collaboration with Chinmaya Mission Perth, recently organized celebrations for the International Day of Yoga (IDY). Held with great enthusiasm, the event attracted
a large number of participants eager to engage in yoga practices.
The celebrations featured various yoga asanas (postures) and pranayama exercises, promoting physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing among attendees. Yoga enthusiasts from
diverse backgrounds gathered to commemorate the day, highlighting its significance as a global event observed annually on June 21, following its adoption by the United Nations in 2014. Yoga, renowned as a science for achieving holistic health, continues to gain recognition worldwide for its profound benefits.
University of Western Australia hosts 10th IDY celebrations
Perth, June 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The University of Western Australia (UWA) recently played host to a lively celebration of the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY) with enthusiastic participation from students, academics, and community members.
Led by Prof. Jennifer Howell, Pro Vice Chancellor (Global Engagement), and supported by Sanskriti - Association for Indian Culture and Student Support at UWA, the event attracted a diverse crowd eager to embrace yoga's physical and mental benefits.
Dr. Renu Sharma and other members of academia joined students in engaging yoga sessions that promoted flexibility, relaxation, and inner peace. The celebrations highlighted the growing popularity of yoga among young Australians and its role in fostering cultural exchange and wellness practices.
The 10th International Day of Yoga, celebrated annually on June 21 worldwide, emphasizes yoga's universal appeal in promoting holistic health and spiritual harmony.
Community members get together to celebrate IDY
Perth, June 23 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India, in collaboration with the Indian Society of WA, The Art of Living, Isha Foundation, Djjs Perth, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, and several other yoga schools, recently orchestrated a vibrant celebration of the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY).
This event drew enthusiastic participation from members of the community, highlighting yoga's positive and transformative effects.
Community members, including children who had their dedicated yoga session, joined in various yoga practices aimed at promoting physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing.
Dr. Jags MLA, Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier, local councillors, community leaders, and prominent diaspora representatives attended the event, experiencing firsthand the benefits of yoga and meditation.
The celebration highlighting the IDY’s global significance, is observed annually on June 21 since its establishment by the United Nations in 2014.
IDY celebrations across Australia highlight unity & wellbeing
Perth, June 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The spirit of yoga resonated across various cities in Australia recently as communities came together to celebrate the International Day of Yoga (IDY) with enthusiasm and dedication.
In Geraldton, the celebrations were organized in collaboration with the Geraldton Yoga Club and the Midwest Indian Cultural Society. Participants from the local community joined in the festivities, engaging in yoga practices aimed at enhancing physical, mental, and spiritual health.
Meanwhile, Swig Bunbury partnered with the Consulate and Yoga Life Studio to host their own IDY 2024 event, attracting participants keen on exploring the benefits of yoga in Bunbury.
Further north, in Darwin, the
Consulate teamed up with the Hindu Council of AustraliaNorthern Territory chapter to organize yet another successful International Yoga Day event. Attendees gathered to practice yoga asanas and pranayama exercises, recognizing the day's global significance in promoting wellbeing and unity.
The International Day of Yoga, observed on June 21 worldwide following its adoption by the United Nations in 2014, highlights yoga's universal appeal as a holistic practice for achieving physical, mental, and spiritual harmony.
Cr Balli Singh meets CG to discuss community development
Perth, June 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Cr Balli Singh, the newly appointed Councillor in the City Council of Gosnells, recently met with Consul General (CG) Amarjeet Singh Takhi to discuss his vision for fostering a cohesive diaspora community and addressing the challenges faced by new immigrants, including students from India.
Cr Singh, who has been actively volunteering for the past 12 years, has contributed significantly to the community by assisting
with business-related matters, providing support during bereavement and domestic violence cases, offering food relief to struggling families and individuals, combating elder abuse, and aiding in bushfire and COVID-19 relief efforts.
As only the second Indian-origin person to serve on the Council of the City of Gosnells, Cr Singh represents a significant IndianAustralian community, which includes numerous cultural associations and spiritual centers, such as the Sikh Gurudwara in
Vale and the Perth
Mayor Terresa Lynes of the City of Gosnells has been a staunch supporter of the Indian-Australian community and their initiatives for community building. The meeting between Cr Singh and Consul General Takhi highlighted the ongoing efforts to improve the integration and support systems for immigrants, highlighting the critical role of local leadership in enhancing the well-being and cohesion of the diaspora community.
Canning
Hindu Temple.
Vasudeva Kriya Yoga celebrates 10th IDY at Victorian parliament
Melbourne, June 19 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Vasudeva Kriya Yoga, in collaboration with the Consulate General of India, organized a special celebration of the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY)
at the Victorian parliament in Melbourne. The event attracted a distinguished gathering, including members of parliament, community leaders, and yoga enthusiasts.
Among the attendees were
prominent figures such as leader of the opposition John Pesutto, Minister for Women of Victoria & Minister for Jobs and Industry Natalie Hutchins MP, Minister for Corrections Enver Erdogan MP, David Southwick MP, Brad
Rowswell MP, Lee Tarlamis MP, John Mullahy MP, and Chris Crewther MP, along with Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar.
The celebration highlighted the significance of yoga as a practice that promotes physical,
mental, and spiritual wellbeing. Participants engaged in a yoga session led by experts from Vasudeva Kriya Yoga, focusing on various yoga postures and breathing exercises aimed at enhancing health and inner peace.
Melbourne, June 24 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Divya Jyoti Jagran Sansthan Melbourne organized a celebration of the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY) at Melton Community Hall. The event attracted yoga enthusiasts,
community leaders, children, and notable guests including Steve McGhie MP, Joe McCraken MP, and Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar.
The International Day of Yoga, observed worldwide on June 21 following its adoption by the
United Nations in 2014, promotes yoga as an ancient practice for physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. Participants engaged in various yoga practices aimed at enhancing health and fostering inner peace.
Melbourne Cricket Ground hosts celebration of 10th IDY
Melbourne, June 21 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India, Melbourne, in collaboration with Vasudeva Kriya Yoga, organized a celebration of the 10th International Day of Yoga
(IDY) at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. A diverse group of yoga enthusiasts from various backgrounds gathered to participate in this auspicious event.
Steve McGhie, MP, and Consul
General Dr. Sushil Kumar delivered inspiring addresses to the participants, emphasizing the profound benefits of yoga for physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. The speeches were followed by a rejuvenating yoga session led by
renowned instructor Rajendra Yenkannamoole, who guided attendees through various yoga postures and breathing exercises.
Yoga, recognized as a holistic science promoting overall health and inner harmony, is celebrated
globally on June 21 following its designation by the United Nations. The event at Melbourne Cricket Ground highlighted the universal appeal of yoga and its ability to unite people in pursuit of a balanced and harmonious lifestyle.
Saravanaa Bhavan opens sixth branch in Upper Mount Gravatt
Brisbane, June 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Shekar Mani, Managing Partner of Saravanaa Bhavan Australia, announced recently the opening
of the chain's sixth branch in Upper Mount Gravatt, Brisbane. Located at Shop 3, No. 9 Tryon Street, this new restaurant further cements Saravanaa
Bhavan's reputation as the world's largest vegetarian restaurant chain.
The expansion is part of an ambitious plan by the group to
open several more restaurants across Australia within the next year, bringing their renowned vegetarian cuisine to a wider audience. The new Brisbane
branch promises to deliver the same high-quality dishes and exceptional dining experience that Saravanaa Bhavan is known for globally.
‘Definitely one of the greatest, hard to put it in words’: Rohit Sharma on T20 World Cup win
Bridgetown (Barbados), June 30 (IANS) India skipper Rohit
Sharma has described the prospect of securing the 2024 T20 World Cup title as the pinnacle of his career and said winning matches and trophies for India has always been his foremost aspiration.
In a battle between two unbeaten sides in the final, Men in Blue sealed T20 World Cup glory after an epic duel against South Africa with a seven-run win on Saturday night. However, after leading his side to ultimate glory, Rohit and Virat Kohli confirmed that they played their final international in the shortest format of the game. In the post-game press conference, when asked if it was the best moment of his career, Rohit agreed it was certainly up there with the highlights thus far.
"This has to be the greatest time, I can say that. It's only because how desperately I wanted to win this. So, all the runs—all the runs that I've scored in all these years, I think it does matter, but I'm not big on stats and all of that.
"I think winning games for India and winning trophies for India, that is what I look forward to all the time. And having this now right beside me probably has to be, I don't know, honestly, I don't know if it's the greatest or what but it is definitely one of the greatest, I can say that.
Emotions were running high after the victory, with Rohit seen sliding onto the ground in the final over as the win was secured, tears of joy streaming down his cheeks. "I wanted this badly. It's very hard to put it in words because that moment, I don't want to say what I was thinking
and what was going in my mind, but it was a very emotional moment personally for me. I wish I could capture that moment myself but not really, you can't do that but I will always remember that.
"Yeah, those are the moments you wait for and then you don't plan these things, it just happens because you're so desperate for certain things in life and I was very desperate for this in my life. So, happy that we eventually crossed the line this time," he added.
Rohit brought the trophy to the press conference and dedicated the T20 World Cup triumph to head coach Rahul Dravid for his contribution to the sport and said "this was the only thing that was missing in his cabinet".
"More than any one of us, I think he deserved that trophy. What he has done for Indian cricket for the past 20-25 years, I think this was the only thing that was missing in his cabinet. I am very happy from all of us on behalf of the entire team that we could actually do this for him. You saw how proud he was and how excited he was. He's done so much for Indian cricket when he played. Over the last three years, he has worked hard with this team.
"He has had to suppress his instincts on many an occasion because it is not that easy for the boys to match his wavelength. So Rahul bhai suppressed himself. He learnt what the boys wanted. He prioritised that. Rahul bhai did that for the whole team. He tried to understand what the boys wanted, and what is needed to be given to the boys. Because eventually we have to do the job, Rahul bhai can't go and bat.
"For three years he has provided the boys role clarity. The boys who are not with the team, he has stayed in touch with them: keep telling him what is up with the team, when they can come ack, what their role will be when they
come back. Rahul is a studious person. He was the first one to take care of this when he came: we have to tell the boys what we want from them," said the Indian skipper.
The 37-year-old further revealed that he had made it very clear that regardless of the pitch conditions, the team must focus on scoring runs and then battle it out.
"I'm a believer of just having runs on the board in big games. That's how my mind works. It is not necessary that everyone thinks like that in the team. But I have a decision to make and I made it very clear that no matter how the pitch is, whatever it is, we have to try and put runs on the board and then fight it out. You have the talent in your bowling and I have seen what the guys have done with the ball. So, I had that confidence that whatever score we have, we can try and defend it," he said.
He added that even if the result had not gone in their favour, he would have fully supported the decision to bat first. "I know the result came in our favour, but even if the result didn't come in our favour, I would have still completely backed the decision of batting first. Although I thought the pitch really played well, throughout the 40 overs the pitch was really good. It didn't grip as such, which we really thought it would after the first half, with the sun beating down so hard, there is no grass on the pitch, it looks a lot drier. "But obviously a lot of rolling and water must have gone in there to make it nice and hard. But, yeah, that was the thought and we were very clear with that decision as well, that we want to put runs on the board and try and defend it later," said Rohit. Rohit signed off, praising a whole host of contributors to the win in the final. "I am very lucky to have players like this in my squad, players who are playing for me and Team India - really, really grateful and thankful as well."
Emotional Team India celebrates T20 World Cup in wholesome fashion
June
South
seven runs
a nailbiting thriller in the men’s T20
final, ending their 17-year wait for the country’s second T20 World Cup. Following the final ball, the ecstatic Indian players broke into tears with emotions pouring out in full flow. Captain Rohit Sharma was seen sliding into the turf, face first,
as he screamed in delight. Tears could be seen on the faces of senior players, especially for the likes of Sharma, Virat Kohli, Mohammed Siraj and Hardik Pandya.
Pandya's nerves of steel in the final over secured India the victory, ending an 11-year wait for an ICC title. The team's emotional celebration reflected the significance of this triumph, with captain Rohit Sharma overcome with emotion, coach Rahul Dravid leaping with joy, and players like Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya having tears of happiness.
This victory marked a historic moment, with India joining West Indies and England as the only
Unleashing Potential: Why motorsports deserves a spotlight in India
New Delhi, June 28 (IANS) India is the largest two-wheeler market in the world with a collective number crossing over 0.35 billion and a whopping 21.4 million units sold in 2023 and a growth rate of 2.43% YoY, yet from a motorsport perspective, we are still evolving. Globally, motorcycle racing is segmented into off-road racing (both either on circuits or open courses), road racing, trials, speedway and track racing. In India, dirt biking, adventure, performance, and track racing are gaining traction, but there is a need for a broader product portfolio beyond the imports that dominate the market today. The high cost of bikes, spares, accessories, tracks, trainers, and physical opportunities remains a significant barrier for many enthusiasts.
One could say that motorsports in India is on the cusp of a revolution. The past few years have seen a significant uptick in interest and participation across various forms of motorsports, from the Indian National Rally Championship (INRC) to the recent addition of MotoGP. The core audience of motorsports in India is the 18-45 age group which is predominantly male but we have been seeing growing enthusiasm among women, both in terms of participation as well as consumption, which is a clear indicator that India is ready to embrace motorsports as a mainstream sporting and entertainment avenue.
The advent of the internet has significantly changed the mindset of riders and enthusiasts, creating a more informed and passionate community according to their likes and dislikes. India has a leading play when it comes to social media platforms, particularly Facebook, hosting some of the largest motorsport communities globally. This digital revolution has connected riders and fans, fostering a vibrant motorsport culture.
worked closely with local promoters and international bodies like the FIA and FIM to foster a conducive environment for motorsports. Their continuous advocacy for better policies and infrastructure has significantly contributed to the growth and recognition of motorsports in India, positioning our country as a burgeoning hub for the sport on the global stage,” he further added.
However, the recent successes, particularly with the Indian Supercross Racing League (ISRL), have been heart-warming. The inaugural season of the ISRL saw a season-total attendance nearing 30,000 enthusiasts cheering for their teams and sports celebrities. It opens a new avenue for brands and partners to cater to the niche audience that directly impacts the financial growth of the league thus, laying a strong foundation for the sport's expansion in India. Packed stadiums in Pune, Ahmedabad, and Bangalore have proven the viability and acceptance of motorsports in India, setting the stage for future growth.
“While ISRL has garnered significant attention, it's essential to highlight the contributions of other motorsports events in India. The INRC has been pivotal in promoting rallying as a sport, consistently attracting top-tier talent and fostering a robust community of rally enthusiasts. Similarly, the Indian Racing League (IRL), has been instrumental in nurturing young driving talent, providing a platform for drivers to compete in high-stakes environments and gain international exposure. Providing a platform for drivers to compete in highstakes environments and gain international exposure,” he concluded.
teams to have won the Men's T20 World Cup twice. The win was not just about lifting the trophy but also about overcoming past disappointments and vindicating years of hard work and dedication. This was India's third ICC final in the past 12 months, and the Men in Blue finally ended their 11-year drought of a major title, winning the Men’s T20 World Cup, a feat they last achieved in the inaugural edition in 2007. This is India's fourth World Cup title overall -- from Kapil Dev's team in 1983 to Dhoni's Young Guns in 2007 T20 WC and ODI champions in 2011. Now Rohit's boys have added another chapter to the annuals of Indian cricket history.
“The Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) has played a pivotal role in promoting and supporting motorsports in the country over the past few years,” Eshan Lokhande co-founder of ISRL told IANS.
“The FMSCI has been instrumental in bringing highprofile international events such as MotoGP and Formula E to India and ensuring their smooth operation by overseeing logistics, safety, and regulatory compliance.
The federation provides resources like trained marshals and medical support, which are critical for the successful execution of any motorsport event.
“Additionally, the FMSCI has
The entry of MotoGP into India marks a monumental step forward. This prestigious event not only boosts the sport's popularity but also contributes to the development of world-class racing infrastructure, further solidifying India's position on the global motorsports map. Despite the large population and growing interest, India has only a few internationally recognized motorsport stars like CS Santosh, Gaurav Gill, Harith Noah, Narain Karthikeyan and Jehan Darukhanwala. For a country with 1.4 billion aspirations, this is a stark contrast. To truly elevate motorsports in India, we must focus on several key areas: developing world-class tracks and facilities to host both local and international events, encouraging corporate investment in motorsport teams and events, creating opportunities for broader participation through an open-door policy, securing increased government support to provide necessary resources and recognition,
Bridgetown (Barbados),
30 (IANS) India defeated
Africa by
in
World Cup
Trees take on myriad unique forms in Ompal Sansanwal’s solo exhibition
By
Trees take on myriad forms -- Krishna holds aloft the Govardhan hill, Christ's Last Supper and Shiva as Nataraja, for instance -- at National Awardwinning artist Ompal Sansanwal's solo exhibition of 60 paintings that opens in the national capital on Friday.
The exhibition, titled 'Jiva', showcases Sansanwal's intricately crafted paintings of trees that he has worked on for the past 15 years. The paintings comprise mostly acrylic and pen and ink on canvas or watercolours and pen and ink on canvas.
Curated by Uma Nair, the weeklong exhibition opens on April 27, and continues till May 3, at Bikaner House. 'Jiva' is being hosted by Black Cube Gallery, which marks its debut at Bikaner House with Sansanwal's collection of paintings. For the artist, it will be his first solo outing after a hiatus of 15 years.
The painting bear Ompal's
trademark style -- with the long, sinuous tree roots and the dense foliage merging to give shape to the stories he tells -- whether of gods and goddesses, or from Indian mythology, or just take on human-like forms as they clasp each other in an embrace, or even dance.
"When I draw the trees, they come out in a meditative form," Sansanwal said. "As I begin drawing, I have no idea what form the painting will take. It just takes shape on its own. I am unconscious of what I am doing, and always get too absorbed in the work.
Referring to his painting of Rabindranath Tagore, he says: "Like Tagore gave enlightenment to the world, the tree too is giving enlightenment to the world from eons ago."
Trees have fascinated Sansanwal from his childhood and he would spend hours gazing at the peepul, banyan, mango, guava and jamun
trees in the 'baghichi', or garden, behind his house in south Delhi's Mehrauli neighbourhood. And as he gazed at them, the trees would take on the shape of humans and he would try to look for the eyes and mouth.
"In my trees you will find faces, human figures. I have not copied any tree; these shapes come from within me," Sansanwal adds. Sansanwal's works have been featured in several solo exhibitions previously, including at the Museum Gallery, Mumbai, and the LTG Gallery and Shridharani Gallery, New Delhi, and in group shows held at the Nehru Centre in London and in the former Yugoslavia.
Elaborating on his style, Uma Nair, the curator, said, "As an artist, Sansanwal is a pilgrim who walks miles to find trees of his own sensibility and sensitivity. When you look at his works you sense a deep spiritual aura that fulfils him. His prowess for branching threaded twigs and leaves and berries and birds all become a rhythm."
Born in 1964, Ompal received the National Award in 2002. The Rajasthan Lalit Kala Academy had also feted him back in 1991. 'Jiva' will be inaugurated by Ratish Nanda, leading Indian conservation architect and CEO of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC). He will also launch Sansanwal's book titled 'Meditations on Trees'.
Qing Imperial Ceramics from the Wang Xing Lou Collection
Christie’s Hong Kong Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art Department presents ‘The Ten Perfections - Qing Imperial Ceramics from the Wang Xing Lou Collection’, a dedicated, single-owner sale to be held on 30 May 2024, featuring 10 exceptional pieces of museumquality porcelain from the most prominent reigns of the Qing Dynasty. The total pre-sale low estimate exceeds US$10 million. The Master of Wang Xing Lou has demonstrated remarkable
foresight in collecting imperial ceramics since the 1980s, concentrating on pieces made during the early Qing dynasty. The 10 bright, jewel-like masterpieces to be offered this season were produced during the reigns of Yongzheng (r. 17231735) and Qianlong (r. 1736-1795), essentially spanning just over 70 years of imperial ceramic production. The Collector and Christie’s have meticulously selected prized pieces from these two periods for their exquisite artistic quality and pristine
‘He-Rose’: When Arjuna meets Achilles, and both are unarmed...
At the heart lies a profound inquiry into the nature of heroism. Drawing parallels between iconic figures such as Arjuna from the Mahabharata and Achilles from the Iliad, the theatre production 'HeRose' challenges conventional notions of heroism, inviting audiences to contemplate the interplay between vulnerability and courage
At the heart lies a profound inquiry into the nature of heroism. Drawing parallels between iconic figures such as Arjuna from the Mahabharata and Achilles from the Iliad, the theatre production 'He-Rose' challenges conventional notions of heroism, inviting audiences to contemplate the interplay between vulnerability and courage. While one may wonder how the Bhagavad Gita and Iliad come together, one of the points of any storytelling -- and particularly the Indian tradition of plural storytelling -- is this expansion of the unspoken.
condition. This specially curated group stands out for their display of brilliant technical skills and upholding the classic tradition of Chinese ceramics production, demonstrating the innovative motifs and techniques popular at the time.
He-Rose, a collaboration between the French school ENSATT and the Indian theatre troupe Adishakti Laboratory (Auroville), the play, being presented by The Cultural French network in India and the National School of Drama (NSD) that premiered in Lyon, France a few months ago will be staged at Tagore Theatre in Chandigarh on April 17.
Written by Nimmy Raphel and directed by Vinay Kumar of Adishakti and assisted by Amaud Guennad of ENSATT, the play depicts the tragic saga of two mythological heroes, Arjuna from Veda Vyasa’s Bhagavad Gita and Achilles from Homer's 'Iliad' is about two personalities from two different cultures in a realm between glory and tragedy.
Talking to IANS, Kumar, who has been doing theatre for around three decades now says, "Why cannot two stories collide, create an argument, like two storytellers from two distinct continents, talking to each other, or exchanging notes, and just looking at the futility of war. Would they not conclude that the collateral is too much to bear? Did Yudhishthira say at the end of the war that he did not want to inherit a kingdom of widows?" he asks.
Interestingly, both Arjuna and Achilles encounter a certain level of non-heterosexual behaviour. Arjuna discovers the
femininity within while Achilles also discovers the masculinity of patriarchal understanding, and both of them break, and that's why they have second thoughts about fighting.
Stressing that war always brings out archetypes, and that is the reason why a nation and pride are all interconnected, Kumar points out that while European culture, which is primarily pegged on the 'Iliad' as a kind of history, consistently goes back to it, "we live in a country where myths hold significant importance".
"While there may be other characters in the play, the spotlight is primarily on Arjuna and Achilles. The most striking point is when Arjuna does not want to fight, seeing who is on the opposite side.
"In Achilles' case, the realisation that killing is not anymore about valour or a masculine archetype, but rather it (killing) is death. It is slow. There is slashing, cutting, killing, heaving, dismembering -- and if that does not move you, then you have a problem. But the moment they both encounter their feminine side, that exact sensitivity, both these archetypal male bodies do not want to continue on the path of bloodbath," he adds.
Considering the production derives from two major works, one wonders if there were any apprehensions in heavily reinterpreting them. "We are not looking at the notions of righteousness from everybody's perspective. In all our plays derived from mythology, what we try to do is draw out the fact that the nature of all mythical stories is to bring a philosophical debate -- which is plural. And that is pragmatically inclusive. The moment that plurality of stories goes, you lose everything. So, our plays are primarily focusing on myth as a kind of starting point for the past. The present does not teach you anything, the future does not hold anything. Only the past teaches you," asserts Kumar.
Sukant Deepak
Discovering Istanbul: A journey through time and flavour
By Dr Ram Mohan, Chairman, Australia India News
My recent five-day trip to Istanbul was nothing short of a captivating exploration into a city where every corner whispers tales of its vibrant history and cultural tapestry. From savouring traditional Turkish delights to cruising along the iconic Bosporus Strait, Istanbul effortlessly weaved together ancient charm with modern allure.
I began my adventure by immersing myself in the rich flavours of Turkish cuisine. From the aromatic Turkish tea
and strong coffee to indulging in mouthwatering meze and succulent kebabs, each dish was a culinary delight. Of course, no visit to Istanbul is complete without tasting the Baklava and delightful Turkish delight, adding a sweet touch to my gastronomic journey.
One of the highlights of my trip was a serene boat tour along the Bosporus Strait, where I marvelled at Istanbul's skyline adorned with minarets, palaces, and bridges that connect Europe to Asia. The shimmering waters offered a unique perspective of the city's landmarks,
blending ancient mosques with contemporary architecture seamlessly.
Stepping into the grand bazaar, I found myself navigating through a labyrinth of over 4,000 shops nestled within one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets. The bustling atmosphere, filled with the aroma of spices and the sparkle of jewelry, immersed me in a sensory feast of colours and textures. Bargaining with friendly shopkeepers added a touch of excitement to my shopping experience, making every purchase a cherished memory.
Exploring the old walled city of Istanbul was like stepping back in time. The triangular peninsula, steeped in over 2,500 years of history, stood resilient amidst the ebb and flow of cultural and imperial influences. From the majestic Hagia Sophia to the intricate designs of the Blue Mosque, each monument spoke volumes about Istanbul's enduring legacy as a crossroads of civilizations.
My journey through Istanbul was not just about sightseeing; it was a profound encounter with a city that has been coveted and cherished for millennia.
Every moment, from savoring local delicacies to admiring architectural wonders, left an indelible mark on my senses and soul.
As I reflect on my trip, I cannot help but recommend Istanbul to fellow travelers seeking an enchanting blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Whether you are strolling through ancient streets or enjoying a sunset cruise on the Bosporus, Istanbul promises an unforgettable experience that beckons you to return, time and again.
Beyond the beaches: Delving into Bali’s culture
Dive beyond the turquoise waves
Tracing the history
The Present Landscape
Nestled in the Indonesian archipelago, Bali has truly earned its nickname "Island of the Gods." This captivating destination offers something for everyone - from serene beaches kissed by turquoise waters to majestic temples steeped in history. No wonder for years, travellers have sought its shores to restore and revitalise their spirits. So what sets Bali apart from the other sought-after spots in the world? CRED Escapes invites guests to take a trip down these bustling, narrow streets to find out.
Tracing the history
The history of the Balinese people reflects a series of migrations. Thousands of years ago, people from nearby islands like Java and Kalimantan sailed over to Bali and made it their home. In the 15th and 16th centuries, as Islam gained prominence in Java, many Hindus, including both nobles and commoners, sought refuge in Bali. This mix of people and beliefs over time shaped Bali's unique culture, visibly evident in Bali's architecture, traditions, and even daily life.
The Present Landscape Bali's rich history shapes its vibrant cultural scene today, with numerous temples dotting the island's landscape. From grand landmarks to intimate household shrines, these temples symbolize resilience and community spirit. Balinese culture is renowned for its warm hospitality, providing a refreshing contrast to the hustle and bustle of contemporary living.
Before ending a trip to Bali, don’t miss out the chance to witness the centuries-old traditions at Tirta Empul's water cleansing ritual, join a family-hosted cooking class and learn the art of creating authentic Balinese dishes. Savour the flavours of these vibrant markets and check out the ancient art of Batik, a renowned dyeing technique. Participate in a hands-on workshop, learn from local artisans, and you can even create your personalised souvenir.
A Winter Honeymoon Paradise!
Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island wins best staycation at BBC Good Food Awards
Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island won big at the BBC Good Food Awards Middle East, where it clinched the Best Staycation in the Northern Emirates. This accolade serves as a testament to the resort’s commitment to excellence in hospitality and guest satisfaction.
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Ras Al Khaimah, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island provides an idyllic
dining options to rejuvenating spa treatments, the resort offers something for every discerning traveller. The expansive Wibit water park, the largest of its kind in Ras Al Khaimah, provides endless aquatic adventures and serves as a playground for guests of all ages.
For adults seeking a serene getaway, Ula Beach Bar offers a tranquil retreat where they can unwind amidst breathtaking
sanctuary not only for tourists but also for residents of the UAE seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of urban centres. Fabien Chesnais, General Manager, Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island said, “We are thrilled to receive this prestigious award, which underscores our dedication to providing unparalleled staycation experiences. Our resort serves as a haven where guests, whether
ocean views and enjoy refreshing beverages and delectable food. The resort’s accommodations cater to every preference, ranging from private chalets with pool and terrace access to rooms boasting stunning beach, pool, or Al Marjan Island views.
With three pools on-site –including a main pool, a dedicated kid’s pool, and an exclusive pool for adults at Ula – guests can
local or international, can escape the stresses of city life and indulge in relaxation and tranquillity.”
At Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island, guests are treated to a plethora of indulgent amenities and experiences. From exquisite
enjoy leisurely swims and soak up the warm Ras Al Khaimah sun. Families and teenagers are also catered to with a dedicated teen zone featuring fun gaming activities, as well as an arcade zone where families can bond over exciting arcade games.
There’s something enchanting about romancing your partner in the lap of nature during the winter season. Imagine being surrounded by the breathtaking
views of the majestic snowcapped Pir Panjal range from the warmth and comfort of your wood-panelled room! Skyview by Empyrean, a cosy mountain
harbour located in Jammu’s Sanget-Patnitop area, is where you get to experience some romantic moments with the love of your life!
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore stuck in space amid Starliner tech glitch
New Delhi, June 26 (IANS)
In a growing concern, NASA
Space Station (ISS)
engineers continue to fix the
Boeing Starliner spacecraft that will take them back to Earth.
Originally slated to spend eight days on the orbiting space laboratory, the astronauts reached the ISS on June 6.
Twenty days later, NASA and Boeing leadership are still adjusting the return to Earth of the Starliner Crew Flight Test spacecraft which suffered a small helium system leak on its way.
Now, according to a Boeing spokesperson, four of the five thrusters that were previously shutting down are operating normally.
"This means only one thruster out of 27 is currently offline. This does not present an issue for the return mission," the spokesperson added.
According to Steve Stich, manager of NASA’s Commercial Crew Programme, "we are taking our time and following our standard mission management team process".
"We are letting the data drive our decision-making relative to managing the small helium system leaks and thruster performance we observed during rendezvous and docking," Stich said in a statement.
According to the US space agency, the spacecraft requires seven hours of time to perform a normal end-of-mission and it "currently has enough helium left in its tanks to support 70 hours of free flight activity following undocking".
Meta AI arrives in India on WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram and more
New Delhi, June 24 (IANS) Tech giant Meta on Monday announced the availability of its artificial intelligence (AI) assistant in India on WhatsApp, Facebook, Messenger, Instagram and meta. ai -- that is built with the latest ‘Llama 3’ large language model (LLM).
Millions of users in the country can apply Meta AI in feed, chats and more across the apps to get
things done, create content, and deep dive on topics, without having to leave the app they are using, the company said in a statement.
“It’s starting to roll out in India in English. You can use Meta AI on WhatsApp, Facebook, Messenger, and Instagram to get things done, learn, create and connect with the things that matter to you,” said Meta.
The company first announced Meta AI at last year’s ‘Connect’ event.
The users in India can ask Meta AI in WhatsApp group chat to recommend restaurants with
great views and vegan options for you and your friends to consider.
“Ask Meta AI to give you ideas of places to stop on a road trip. Cramming for a test? Ask Meta AI on the web to create you a multiple choice test,” said the company. One can also access Meta AI when scrolling through Facebook Feed.
"Come across a post you’re interested in? You can ask Meta AI for more info right from the post. So if you see a photo of the northern lights in Iceland, you can ask Meta AI what time of year is best to check out the aurora borealis,” according to the company.
Elon Musk’s mother wishes him b’day, says ‘Thank you for 53 yrs of joy & excitement’
New Delhi, June 28 (IANS) Elon Musk's mother Maye Musk on Friday wished the tech billionaire
a happy birthday and thanked him for bringing "53 years of joy and excitement" into her life.
"Happy Birthday @elonmusk. Thank you for 53 years of joy and excitement," she wrote on X. Along with the post, she shared a picture of the Tesla CEO from his childhood celebrating his birthday.
"Hoping you smile today as much as you did on your 4th birthday, after seeing the cake your Aunt Lynne made for you. Proud of you," Maye Musk mentioned.
Meet
Tamil Nadu triplets pursuing engineering despite adversity
New Delhi, June 23 (IANS) As the world celebrates International Women in Engineering Day on Sunday, meet Tamil Nadu-born triplets Dhanushree, Dhanush, and Dhanuja who share a love for engineering that is more common than their biology.
International Women in Engineering Day is observed every year on June 23 to celebrate the achievements of women engineers as well as to raise awareness on closing the gender gap in the sector.
More than being bound by blood, the triplets are classmates of the B.Tech programme at Sona College of Technology, Salem, who love discussing the intricacies of mechanics like Ackerman steering geometry, Beale number, Cotter pin, and damping ratio.
The triplets were born to businessman B Murugan and K Kamala, a government employee, in a nondescript Chidambaram town, in Tamil Nadu’s Cuddalore district.
Call it a quirk of fate, they
were born on Engineers' Day (September 15), the birthday of Sir M Visvesvaraya, one of the most renowned engineers in the country, whose legacy left a lasting impact on India's infrastructure and engineering education.
From their early childhood, Dhanushree, Dhanush, and Dhanuja picked up the importance of education and the courage to pursue their dreams.
With their commendable scores in Class XII, the triplets secured admission at Sona College of Technology. Yet financial adversity scuttled their dreams of becoming engineers.
To provide them with a good education, the parents relocated to Salem and had to reestablish their business.
Dhanush loves electronics and is pursuing his dream of becoming a software developer. In addition to mechanical engineering Dhanushree and Dhanuja are also pursuing a credit course in Japanese.
"Dhanuja and Dhanushree are very attentive in the class and participate in discussions. They made friends with classmates quickly and often helped them in their studies. Dhanuja has a natural flair for singing," said B Renuga, Head of Department for the first-year students at the college. Dhanuja, the youngest among the triplets, is excited about getting the highest score not only among the siblings but the entire class.
SpaceX bags $843 million NASA contract to de-orbit ISS in 2030
Steve Jurvetson, Co-founder of Future Ventures, also wished the tech billionaire on his birthday.
"Happy Birthday Elon Musk. And 30 years ago, dreaming the American Dream," Jurvetson wrote.
A lot of users also wished Musk on his birthday in the comment section.
"Happy Birthday Elon sir. Have the best day and enjoy every great thing that is happening in your life. To many more," a user wrote.
India leads global AI research, Bengaluru 7th best AI Hub: Report
New Delhi, June 28 (IANS)
Bengaluru is now ranked seventh on the top 10 list of artificial intelligence (AI) Hubs worldwide, a report showed on Friday, adding that India (tied with Germany) has the highest number of AI research institutions globally.
Bengaluru, with 759 AI startups
has an aggregate score of 4.64, according to Linkee.ai which conducted research to identify the top 10 leading AI Hubs in 2024. When it comes to AI research institutions, India (Bengaluru) and Germany (Berlin) topped the chart, with nine such research facilities each.
China with 518 AI startups has just six AI research institutions, the report mentioned.
The Berlin Institute for the Foundations of Learning and Data (BIFOLD) is one of the prominent AI research institutions. AI Hubs are the cities most invested in AI, where there are several AI-related jobs, AI specialists, number of AI institutions.
New Delhi, June 27 (IANS) Elon
Musk’s SpaceX has won a $843 million NASA contract to prepare for the safe and responsible deorbit of the International Space Station (ISS) in a controlled manner after the end of its operational life in 2030.
As part of the contract, SpaceX will develop and deliver the US Deorbit Vehicle that will provide the capability to deorbit the space station and ensure avoidance of risk to populated areas.
“Selecting a US Deorbit Vehicle for the International Space Station will help NASA and its international partners ensure a safe and responsible transition in low Earth orbit at the end of station operations,” said Ken Bowersox, associate administrator for Space Operations Mission Directorate
at NASA Headquarters in Washington.
While SpaceX will make the deorbit spacecraft, NASA will operate it throughout its mission. In addition to the space station, it is expected to destructively break up as part of the re-entry process.
The ISS has seen astronauts from CSA (Canadian Space Agency), ESA (European Space Agency), JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency), NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration), and State Space Corporation Roscosmos, since 1998.
Each agency was responsible for managing and controlling the hardware it provided.
While the US, Japan, Canada, and the participating countries of ESA have committed to operating the station through 2030, Russia has committed to continued station operations through at least 2028.
The ISS is currently in its 24th year of continuous crewed operations, and more than 3,300 experiments have, to date, been conducted in microgravity.
astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore are stuck at the International
as
Weight loss linked with reduced cancer risk in people with obesity: Study
San Francisco, June 22 (IANS)
Real-world weight loss is linked with a decreased risk of obesityrelated cancers, a new study has said.
The study published in the journal American Diabetes Association comprised 172 patients including 100,143 in the control arm and 5,329 cases.
The median body mass index (BMI at censoring (kg/m2.) was 34.2 for cases and 34.5 for controls, which are considered to have obesity according to the US-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
For each cancer endpoint, logistic regression models were used to assess the association of body mass index (BMI) change with three, five, and 10-year intervals before cancer diagnosis (for cases) versus controls.
The study found that the risk was reduced for renal cell carcinoma (three years), multiple myeloma (10 years), and endometrial cancer (three and five years) among
primary cancer endpoints.
"This study reinforces how crucial it is to treat obesity as a chronic disease," said Kenda Alkwatli, MD, Clinical Fellow at Cleveland Clinic, and author of the study.
"We are hopeful that these results can help us better understand how we can use weight loss to address comorbidities including cancer in patients with obesity," she added.
As per the researchers, obesity is linked to higher risks of at least 13 types of cancer due to excess estrogen and elevated insulin, including breast, kidney, ovary, liver, and pancreatic cancer.
‘Yoga can help women manage stress, anxiety, mood swings more effectively’
New Delhi, June 21 (IANS) Regular practice of yoga offers numerous benefits for women in managing their health, such as it can help manage stress, anxiety, and mood swings more effectively, experts said on the International Day of Yoga (IDY) on Friday.
The International Day of Yoga is celebrated worldwide annually on June 21, following its adoption by the United Nations in 2014.
The initiative for "Yoga Day" was taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his 2014 UN address.
According to experts, yoga promotes physical fitness by
improving flexibility, strength, and balance, which are crucial for overall well-being.
"It also enhances cardiovascular health and supports weight management, which can be particularly beneficial for women at different stages of life. Beyond the physical benefits, yoga cultivates mental clarity and emotional stability through mindful breathing and meditation practices," Dr Jyoti Kapoor, Founder & Director, Manasthali Wellness, told IANS.
This year's theme of IDY was 'Yoga for Self and Society', emphasising yoga's vital role in fostering both individual well-being and societal harmony.
Emerging research showed that yoga can significantly benefit women dealing with neurological issues, the experts mentioned.
"Yoga encourages neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganise itself, which can aid in recovery from neurological disorders and improve cognitive function. Yoga's physical postures and relaxation techniques can reduce chronic pain by improving flexibility, strength, and pain perception," said Dr Rajnish Kumar, Senior Director and Unit Head, Neurology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka. In addition, experts said that whether seeking relief from menstrual discomfort, managing conditions like PCOS or menopause symptoms, or simply striving for greater vitality, the regular practice of yoga provides a holistic approach to "women's health that nourishes both body and spirit".
Urinary incontinence may affect your skin and kidneys, say doctors
New Delhi, June 23 (IANS) Urinary incontinence -- the involuntary loss of bladder control -- can also have a significant effect on your skin and kidneys, said doctors on Sunday.
World Urinary Continence Week is observed between June 17-23 to raise awareness of bladder and bowel problems.
Urinary incontinence causes involuntary loss of bladder control, leading to the accidental leakage of urine. It is a common condition that can range from occasional minor leaks to more frequent and severe issues.
“The combination of hormones and stretched muscles means the muscles that control your bladder are weakened. This can lead
to an accidental leak of urine,”
Dr Ashwin Mallya, Consultant, Urologist, and Robotic, Uro Onco Surgeon, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, told IANS.
“Urinary incontinence doesn't just affect the bladder but it can lead to skin issues like rashes and infections due to constant moisture. Additionally, it can cause urinary tract infections (UTIs), and in severe cases, it may lead to kidney damage,” he added.
The doctor said that it can also lead to mental health problems like “anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Many people may start avoiding social activities or situations where they fear embarrassment, which can lead to social isolation and a reduced quality of life”.
The condition can affect individuals of all ages but is more prevalent among older adults, especially women during pregnancy and childbirth.
Why more Indians are getting head and neck cancers
New Delhi, June 23 (IANS)
Increased consumption of tobacco and related products are driving head and neck cancer cases in India, said health experts on Sunday.
Head and neck cancer includes cancers in the tongue, mouth, and other parts of the pharynx like oropharynx, nasopharynx, hypopharynx, salivary glands, nasal cavity, larynx (voice box), etc.
"The prominent cause of oral cavity cancers is having tobacco and tobacco-related products, betel nuts and smoking, alcohol. Sometimes HPV infections also contribute to it," Pritam Kataria, Consultant, Medical Oncology, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, told IANS.
To cut down the head and neck cancers, the expert called for "strict regulations regarding the tobacco and tobacco-related products and on the intake of alcohol".
"If the tobacco and related
products are taken off, the majority of the head and neck cancer incidents will come down in the end. That's a big challenge, because the awareness among the masses, and changing behaviour are some of the difficult aspects of cancer prevention," Pritam said. Accounting for 30 per cent of all cancer cases, head and neck cancer is the most common in India and its burden is higher in the country than in the US, UK, Australia, Africa and Brazil.
In India, the number of cancer cases is rising. According to GLOBOCAN 2020, there will be 2.1 million new cancer cases in India by 2040, an increase of 57.5 per cent from 2020.
To curb the problem, Prathmesh Pai, Director and surgeon, Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Head and Neck Cancer Institute of India stressed the need to raise public awareness of the harms of tobacco, betelnut, and alcohol.
"Engage the parents and schools to prevent the adoption of these habits by the youth, public campaigns to ban the sale of tobacco, betelnut, and alcohol to the youth, ban production and sale of tobacco, betel nut, and alcohol," he told IANS.
Ultra-processed food, sedentary lifestyle fuelling cancers in Indians under 40: Doctors
New Delhi, June 23 (IANS) Poor lifestyle choices with regular consumption of ultra-processed foods, and a sedentary lifestyle are increasing cancer cases among people under 40 years of age in India, said doctors on Sunday.
Several factors are contributing to the rise in cancer cases among younger people in India.
If it continues for long in women after childbirth and without childbirth is the point of concern that needs to be treated, the health expert said.
Dr Arif Akhtar, Senior Consultant - Urology, Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram told IANS that bladder control declines due to age-related changes such as weakening pelvic floor muscles and excessive or insufficient bladder muscle activity, leading to the condition.
“Stress incontinence can result from pelvic muscle stretches and increased bladder pressure during pregnancy and childbirth. Reduced urethral closure pressure and urogenital shrinkage are the outcomes of menopause-induced oestrogen reduction. Overflow incontinence in males is a result of both benign prostatic hyperplasia and problems following a prostatectomy”.
One of the primary reasons is increased consumption of processed foods, tobacco, and alcohol, sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and stress.
Environmental pollution is another critical factor.
India’s cities are plagued by high levels of pollution, which has been linked to various types of cancer.
Air and water pollution expose individuals to carcinogenic substances, significantly increasing their cancer risk.
"Ultra-processed foods and sedentary lifestyles are emerging as significant contributors to the rising cancer rates among young Indians.
“The high intake of these foods, laden with unhealthy additives, combined with physical inactivity, is creating a health crisis," Dr. Rahul Bhargava, Director and head of the Department of Haematology and BMT at Fortis Memorial Research Institute told IANS.
“It's imperative to adopt healthier dietary habits and an active lifestyle to curb this alarming trend," he added.
According to a recent study by Cancer Mukt Bharat Foundation, a Delhi-based non-profit foundation, 20 per cent of cancer cases in India are now being diagnosed in people below 40 years of age. The study shows that men constitute 60 per cent of these young cancer patients, while women make up the remaining 40 per cent.
The gender disparity may be due to higher rates of tobacco use, occupational exposure, and lifestyle choices among men in India. “In our country, escalating rates of obesity, change in dietary habits, specifically the increase in consumption of ultra-processed food, and sedentary lifestyles are associated with higher cancer rates,” said Dr. Ashish Gupta, principal investigator and senior oncologist at Unique Hospital Cancer Center, Delhi, told IANS. The doctors called for the urgent need for lifestyle interventions to combat the rising cancer rates among young Indians. Dr. Ashish, also heading Cancer Mukt Bharat Campaign in India, emphasised the importance of a “combined effort from the government, healthcare professionals, and the community to tackle the rising cancer rates among young adults”.
7
Bad habits that are damaging your nails
Nail-biting and peeling off polish is only the beginning of many bad habits that can damage nails. If you want healthy, beautiful hands then stop these seven things right now," says Dr. Navnit Haror, Founder & Director of Derma Miracle Clinic.
Nasty Habit #1: Cutting or Playing with Your Cuticles
Stop cutting or playing with your cuticles because it can damage the nail bed and lead to ridges developing on nails.
Bad Habit #2: Wearing Polish for Weeks on End
The health of your nails can depend on how you care for them. If they're not properly looked after leaving nail polish for long periods could lead to Keratin Granulation and rough white patches forming under the surface layer which would eventually get removed with every removal process--leaving behind damaged skin that may break easily or even peel.
Horrible Habit #3: Keeping Your Nails Long
Long nails are more likely to snag and break, which can lead you into a world of pain. They're also prone to bacterial/fungal infections because dirt or debris gets stuck underneath them.
Nasty Habit # 4: Not Eating Right
The best way to keep your nails healthy is by eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein. It's better to choose healthy options high in iron, biotin (a type of vitamin B), calcium, magnesium, and omega 3s. You should also drink plenty of water each day because it will help prevent nail dryness as well as break down keratin quicker so they stay soft!
Bad Habit #5: Getting Gel Manicures and Pedicures
Gel manicures and pedicures are a great way to keep your nails looking good, but the polish itself isn't exactly healthy for you. A gel mani/pedis wipe out onychocytic - which leads not only in dryness
or brittleness due to breaking easily with normal use (as most people put their hands into water frequently), it also causes peeling from harsh chemicals used during the removal process of these Mani/Pedi treatments!
Horrible Habit #6: Choosing Hazardous Nail Lacquer
The chemicals in most nail polish are harmful to your health and can cause brittle nails. Formaldehyde, one such hazardous ingredient that's present in many types of products for beauty like shampoos or lotions (even deodorants!), has been linked with cancer risks by regulatory agencies around the world including here at home - so why put it on your fingers? There are healthier alternatives out there!
Nasty Habit # 7: Picking at Your Polish
Picking at the polish on your fingernails and toenails is one of the top things ruining your nails. When you peel off the paint, you’re also peeling off layers of your nail plate — which leaves your nails weak, dry, and covered in patches. To have beautiful, healthy nails, it’s important to avoid these bad habits. Cuticles should not be cut or played with and nail polish should not be worn for weeks on end. These may seem like small things, but they can damage your nails in the long run. Are you guilty of any of these bad habits? If so, it’s time to make a change!
Steam your face for glowing skin
ByPuja Gupta
People use a variety of methods to hydrate and cleanse their skin. While some people look for the best facial cleansers and moisturisers, others use water vapour and face steaming. Although a simple bowl or pot of hot water will suffice, some people add salt, lemon, tea, dried herbs, and oils to the water for added benefits. So, what are the advantages of steaming your face?
Improved serum absorption, increased circulation, and a sense of relaxation! Beauty expert Gitanshi Dua highlights more of them:
Helps in cleansing- Face steaming opens your pores, allowing dead skin cells, dirt, and other impurities that clog pores to be released. If you have blackheads, a face steam can soften them
and make removal easier. When blackheads and whiteheads remain on the skin for an extended period of time, they can become painful. However, steaming opens up your pores, loosens the gunk inside, and thoroughly cleanses your face. It promotes blood circulationSometimes your skin looks dull and dehydrated even if it has a proper skincare routine. The main reason for this could be poor circulation of blood in the area. But here the steaming of the face is of great benefit to your skin. This helps increase circulation in the area, provides oxygen, and maintains a healthy and young skin appearance. Hydrates skin- Facial steaming increases the permeability of the skin to improve absorption. This means that the moisturiser or
Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds For Hair
By Dr. Blossom Kochhar
Beautiful and healthy hair is a desire shared by many. While there are numerous hair care products available, natural remedies can often be equally effective and gentler on your hair. One such natural remedy that has gained popularity is fenugreek seeds. Known for their potent properties, fenugreek seeds offer a range of benefits for hair health. In this article, we will explore the various advantages of fenugreek seeds for hair and learn how to use them effectively for luscious locks.
Regular application of fenugreek seed paste or oil can help reduce scalp inflammation, itching, and flaking associated with dandruff.
How to Use it for Hair
Fenugreek Seed Hair Mask
Soak fenugreek seeds overnight and grind them into a smooth paste.
Add a tablespoon of coconut oil or yogurt to the paste for added nourishment.
Apply the paste to your scalp and hair, focusing on the roots.
other skin product that you apply penetrates deeper in the skin after a facial vapour. This helps the skin to hydrate and hydrates your face naturally. The look of dry skin is often tired and dull. Face steaming enhances skin flexibility and prevents dryness. It promotes the production of natural oils that hydrate the skin. Helps produce collagen and elastin- The increased blood flow is referred to as improved circulation throughout the face and neck area. This helps to produce more collagen and elastin, two important components of firm skin that can make you look younger years. The skin appears more voluminous and resistant to collagen and elastin. As people get old, their skin appears thin and loose because of the loss of collagen and elastin. Helps heal breakouts- We all despise how a pimple always seems to appear on your face right before a big event. However, one amazing benefit of steaming the face is that it allows you to safely get rid of the breakout without leaving any infection or scar behind. Simply steam your face for three to four minutes, allow the steam to work its magic for about half an hour, and then rub an ice cube on the affected area for about five minutes.
Fenugreek, scientifically known as Trigonella foenum-graecum, is a versatile herb native to the Mediterranean region and South Asia. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and culinary practices. Fenugreek seeds are rich in essential nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These seeds also contain compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins, which contribute to their beneficial effects on hair.
Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds for Hair
Promotes Hair Growth Fenugreek seeds are known to stimulate hair growth by nourishing the hair follicles and increasing blood circulation to the scalp. The proteins present in fenugreek seeds strengthen the hair shaft, reducing hair fall and promoting the growth of new, healthy strands.
Conditions and Moisturizes Fenugreek seeds possess excellent conditioning properties that help in reducing dryness and frizz. Regular use of fenugreek seeds as a hair mask or rinse can make your hair soft, smooth, and manageable. They also provide hydration to the scalp, preventing flakiness and itching.
Prevents Hair Loss Fenugreek seeds contain hormoneregulating compounds that may help in preventing hair loss caused by hormonal imbalances. Additionally, the seeds have antimicrobial properties that protect the scalp from infections, reducing the risk of hair loss due to scalp conditions.
Controls Dandruff The antifungal and antibacterial properties of fenugreek seeds make them an effective remedy for dandruff.
Leave it on for about 30 minutes to an hour and then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Fenugreek Seed Hair Rinse Boil two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in two cups of water for 1015 minutes.
Allow the mixture to cool, strain it, and use the fenugreek-infused water as a final rinse after shampooing.
Gently massage the scalp while pouring the fenugreek rinse over your hair.
Leave it on for a few minutes and then rinse with water.
Fenugreek Seed Oil
Heat a tablespoon of fenugreek seeds in a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil.
Let the seeds infuse the oil for a few minutes until they turn slightly brown.
Allow the oil to cool, strain it, and store it in a clean container.
Massage the fenugreek seed oil onto your scalp and hair, leave it on for an hour or overnight, and then shampoo as usual.
Fenugreek seeds are a natural remedy packed with incredible benefits for hair health.
From promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss to conditioning and controlling dandruff, fenugreek seeds offer a holistic approach to hair care. Incorporating fenugreek seeds into your hair care routine through masks, rinses, or oil treatments can lead to stronger, healthier, and more lustrous locks. Embrace the power of nature and give fenugreek seeds a try to transform your hair naturally.
(Dr. Blossom Kochhar, Chairperson Blossom Kochhar Group of Companies)
Dressing Royalties: A Glimpse into the Wardrobes of the Distinguished Figures of India
Fashion, a mirror reflecting the essence of culture and time, often possesses the remarkable ability to transcend the best of both worlds. It's akin to art, carrying within its folds the stories, traditions, and aspirations of a society. Within this vast tapestry of global fashion, the Indian men's wear segment stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of timeless classics. These classic styles, deeply intertwined with the royalty and heritage of India, have evolved over the centuries to become a symbol of prestige and refined elegance.
Homegrown luxury menswear brand Raghavendra Rathore is
the go to label for distinguished personalities who choose to make a statement with classic silhouettes.
From Inspiration to Icons - A Journey through Heritage
The brand’s journey from its inception has been a profound exploration of the rich cultural heritage, particularly within the princely state of Rajasthan. This enchanting land, with its majestic palaces, bustling bazaars, and timeless narratives, has always been an unceasing source of inspiration. It's within this vibrant cultural crucible that the brand was born, and it's here that we found our distinct identity. At the core of this journey lies the iconic Bandhgala, a garment that reverberates with the very soul of Rajasthan. This classic design, characterized by a high collar and front buttoning, traces its origins back to the princely courts of India. It was the attire of choice for Maharajas and their courts, a symbol of their regal status. Today, Bandhgala has transcended its historical roots to become synonymous with elegance and sophistication,
artisans who breathe life into them.
Unveiling the Wardrobes of Icons with A Narrative of Distinctive Styles
Ensembles created at our atelier are a harmonious blend of regal elegance and contemporary sophistication. Whether it's meticulously crafted bespoke tailored suits or intricately designed ethnic ensembles, each garment exudes a sense of refinement and timelessness.
Unveiling Hyundai India Couture Week 2024
favored not only by Indian dignitaries but also by global style icons.
Craftsmanship That Chronicles Tradition
The beauty of this is reflected in the vastness through which the brand has become associated with the richness of regal and classic menswear. Amongst these are some who stand out in their respective fields creating a sense of aspiration that so beautifully resonates with the brand, while possessing their unique individual styles such as Amitabh Bachchan, Anil Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan, and many others. Ultimately, it is in this ideology
that every garment becomes a canvas, every stitch a brushstroke, and every detail a narrative. Hand-embroidered motifs, reminiscent of our country's royal courts, lush textiles like velvets and silks celebrating our rich textile legacy, and the dhansa technique handcrafted on the Jodhpur Bandhgala are all emissaries of Indian craftsmanship. They echo the classic, transcending ornate details and embroideries. These personalities value creations that are not just about crafting clothes but about crafting stories. Moreover, I strongly believe that true luxury is handmade, and it's the hands of these skilled artisans that bring our creations to life. Collaborating closely with local communities, we stand by creating garments that tell tales of tradition, artistry, and culture. By engaging them in our creative process, the aim is not only to sustain but also celebrate these timeless skills, all while contributing to their socio-economic upliftment. It's a beautiful symbiosis that empowers our designs and the
In the pursuit of contemporary elegance, we've found inspiration in individuals known for their suave and sophisticated styles. They have challenged us to create daring and innovative styles. Together, we've explored unique textiles, daring color palettes, and intricate embellishments, resulting in outfits that set new trends and defy conventions. Our designs have graced the bustling streets of Mumbai, the glamorous vibes of Miami, the historical charm of Delhi, and the cosmopolitan energy of Dubai. It's a proud moment for our brand to see our designs transcending cultural boundaries, reflecting a
universal appeal.
Working with these distinct personalities has also been instrumental in exploring my creative sensibilities at the same time remaining consistent, and unaltered by individual personalities. These icons are a testament to the versatility of RRJ’s couture pieces that have traveled along with time and graced the bustling streets of Mumbai, the glamorous vibes of Miami, the historical charm of Delhi, and even the cosmopolitan energy of Dubai. It is a humbling and rewarding experience to witness the brand and its signature Bandhgala's versatility winning hearts worldwide, transcending cultural boundaries, and reflecting a universal appeal.
As this journey continues, keeping both tradition and innovation alive in the design sketches, we look forward to dressing more distinguished figures and helping them express their unique narratives through our timeless pieces. After all, it is only through these classic styles, deeply rooted in our cultural heritage,
Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) announces the highly anticipated edition of Hyundai India Couture Week in association with Reliance Brands, set to grace the heart of the capital from July 24 to July 31, 2024, at the iconic Taj Palace, New Delhi.
This year marks the continuation of the exciting partnership with Hyundai Motor India Limited and Reliance Brands, promising a fusion of innovation and tradition as India's foremost designers come together to unveil their exclusive collections, celebrating the enchanting realm of artisanal finesse and enduring narratives, each piece lovingly crafted by hand.
Through their unique collections, designers will share stories that pay homage to the rich cultural tapestry of our nation, while highlighting the traditional and handcrafted elements that make each piece truly special.
With a lineup of 14 esteemed Indian couturiers - Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, Amit Aggarwal, Dolly J, Falguni Shane Peacock, Gaurav Gupta Couture, Jayanti Reddy, JJ Valaya, Kunal Rawal, Rahul Mishra, Rimzim Dadu, Roseroom by Isha Jajodia, Siddartha Tytler, Suneet Varma, and Tarun Tahiliani - this edition of Hyundai India Couture Week promises a mesmerizing display spread over 8 days.
Sunil Sethi, Chairman, FDCI commented “We are honoured to partner once again with Hyundai and Reliance Brands for the 17th edition of Hyundai India Couture Week. This event is a testament to the rich heritage and extraordinary craftsmanship of Indian fashion. Through this
edition of Couture Week, we aim to not only celebrate the visionary artistry of our designers but also spotlight the timeless beauty and cultural significance of handcrafted couture. We look forward to showcasing collections that will inspire and set new trends in the fashion industry.”
Commenting on the event, Tarun Garg, COO, Hyundai Motor India Limited, said, “We are thrilled to continue our association with the Indian Couture Week for the second year in a row. Aligned with our parent company, Hyundai Motor Company’s vision of ‘Progress for Humanity’, we aim to create newer and unique experiences for our customers in India. This partnership with ICW is a testament to our commitment of supporting artisans and diverse cultural heritage of India. With ICW, we aim to integrate the essence of creativity and fashion and demonstrate the amalgamation of Hyundai’s magnificent product design and outstanding engineering. We are excited to witness the collection of extraordinary designers at the show.”
Adding to this, Jaspreet Chandok, Group Vice President, Reliance Brands Ltd., commented, “Reliance Brands is delighted to be associated once again with the Hyundai India Couture Week. This event is a celebration of the rich tradition and modern evolution of Indian couture. We believe in fostering the talents of our esteemed designers and providing them with a platform to showcase their impeccable craftsmanship. This year's event promises to be a spectacular display of creativity and tradition.”
at Palace Grounds, also seen are Former CM and BJP leader BS Yediyurappa, in Bengaluru on Saturday 22nd June 2024
New Delhi:Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina,with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a press statement after their delegation level meeting in New Delhi,on Saturday, June 22, 2024.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin hold talks at Kumsusan State Guest House in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024, in this photo provided by the North’s official Korean Central News Agency the following day.
Patna:Yuva Shakti activists stage a protest over the NEETUG and UGC-NET examinations issue. in Patna on Saturday June 22, 2024.
Patna: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar during his visit to inspect the progress of the under-construction Bapu Tower, in Patna, Sunday, June 23, 2024.
Barbados : India’s Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma pose with the trophy after India won the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup Final match against South Africa at Kensington Oval in Barbados on Saturday, June 29, 2024
Bengaluru:Union Ministers Shobha Karandlaje, Pralhad Joshi, HD Kumarswamy and V Somanna during a felicitation programme
New Delhi:Delhi Minister Atishi with Gopal Rai and Imran Hussain during her indefinite fast over water crisis in New Delhi on Sunday June 23, 2024
Barbados : Players of team India pose with the tropy after India won the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup Final match against South Africa at Kensington Oval in Barbados on Saturday, June 29, 2024.
Kolkata:School students participate in an Anti-Drug Awareness rally organised by Kolkata Police in Kolkata on Saturday June 22, 2024.
New Delhi:BJP President J.P Nadda interact with media after pays floral tributes to Dr.Shyama Prasad Mukherjee on his death anniversary at BJP HQ, in New Delhi on Sunday June 23, 2024.
New Delhi: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah meets Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in New Delhi, Saturday, June 29, 2024
New Delhi: Union Minister of External Affairs S.Jaishankar during press statement after delegation level meeting in New Delhi,on Saturday, June 22, 2024.
Barbados : Players of team India pose with the tropy after India won the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup Final match against South Africa at Kensington Oval in Barbados on Saturday, June 29, 2024.
PRODUCER: Aruna Bhatia, Jyotika, Suriya & Vikram Malhotra
DIRECTOR: Sudha Kongara
CAST: Akshay Kumar, Radhika Madan, Paresh Rawal and Seema Biswas
E JATT VIGARH GYA
RELEASE DATE: 17 May 2024
LANGUAGE: Punjabi (With English Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Daljit Thind
DIRECTOR: Maneesh Bhatt
CAST: Jayy Randhawa, Pawan Malhotra, Deep Sehgal
Tara Sutaria recalls how it was ‘quite tough to navigate’ her first Hindi song ‘Shaamat’
Actress Tara Sutaria on Sunday reminisced about her first Hindi song, 'Shaamat', which she recorded for the 2022 action thriller film 'Ek Villain Returns' and said as a trained western classical and pop singer for the last 20 years, she found it challenging to navigate her technique and sound to suit her character.
Taking to Instagram, Tara shared a series of behind-the-scenes pictures from the shoot of the song.
Along with the snaps, she wrote: "A little over two years ago, I recorded my first Hindi song #SHAAMAT which is at 93 MILLION views today.. This was for our film #EkVillainReturns where I play a singer. It felt
serendipitous as one seldom gets to sing for oneself in film.. As a trained western classical and pop singer for the last 20 years it was quite tough to navigate my technique and sound to fit and suit my character's.."
"English and Hindi music are both close to my heart but entirely different when it comes to training, sound and technique! In retrospect, SO glad to have taken a leap and grateful to experience so much love toward the song. Such sweet memories with everyone too!@mohitsuri@ arjunkapoor @ankittiwari@ badboyshah You made it special," added Tara in her post.
Tara's huge fan base took to the comment section, expressing their admiration.
One fan wrote, "And we need a new song," while another said, "It's forever my favourite."
A fan commented, "Currently my looped song," and another remarked, "You looked like a diva here."
The lyrics of 'Shaamat' are penned by Prince Dubey, and the music is by Ankit Tiwari. Directed by Mohit Suri and produced by T-Series and Balaji Motion Pictures, the film, which is a sequel to the 2014 film 'Ek Villain', stars John Abraham, Arjun Kapoor, Disha Patani, and Tara Sutaria.
Meanwhile, Tara was last seen as the lead in the survival thriller film 'Apurva'.
Sara Ali Khan is in New York, says ‘surreal to be back to the city that housed 96 kgs of me’
Actress Sara Ali Khan finds it surreal to be back in the Big Apple, the city she refers to as the place that housed "96 kilos" of her. Sara took to her Instagram stories and shared some pictures from New York.
Flaunting her svelte figure in athleisure, the actress can be seen sipping coffee in a white crop top paired with fiery red shorts and sneakers.
“Surreal to be back to the city that housed 96 kgs of me,” Sara wrote as the caption.
The actress was reminiscing about her student days at New York's Columbia University, where she ended up gaining a lot of weight.
The actress, the daughter of Bollywood stars Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh, has never shied away from talking about her struggles with Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) and obesity.
Sara openly talked about it on the sixth season of 'Koffee With Karan'.
However, before entering the
Sonakshi, Zaheer are officially wife and husband; scene shifts to all-night party
Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal are officially husband and wife, now that they have completed all the legal formalities related to a civil marriage.
The marriage, which was formalised at Sonakshi's sprawling sea-facing, 26-floor apartment in Bandra West, was attended by friends and relatives from both sides, including her parents -- Bollywood veteran and newly-elected Lok Sabha MP from Asansol, Shatrughan Sinha, and his wife, Poonam -- and her close friend as well as 'Double XL' costar Huma Qureshi.
The newly-weds posted their first pictures as husband and wife instantly after their intimate wedding. Taking to social media, the lovebirds dropped the first glimpses of their wedding looks.
industry with the 2018 film 'Kedarnath' starring the late actor Sushant Singh Rajput, Sara got into regular workouts such as cardio, pilates, and yoga followed by a simple diet to shed the extra weight.
The 28-year-old granddaughter of the late legendary cricketer Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and actress Sharmila Tagore then starred in 'Simmba' alongside Ranveer Singh.
Sara, who was named in Forbes India's Celebrity 100 list of 2019, was subsequently seen in films such as 'Love Aaj Kal', 'Coolie No. 1', 'Atrangi Re', 'Gaslight', 'Zara Hatke Zara Bachke', 'Murder Mubarak', and 'Ae Watan Mere Watan'.
The actress will next be seen in 'Metro... In Dino' directed by Anurag Basu. Then she has 'Sky Force', an action thriller directed by Abhishek Anil Kapur and Sandeep Kewlani.
The film reportedly also stars Akshay Kumar, Veer Pahariya, Nimrat Kaur, Sharad Kelkar, and Suniel Shetty, and is a retelling of India's retaliatory attack on Sargodha airbase of Pakistan in the Indo-Pakistani air war of 1965.
Sonakshi can be seen wearing an ivory-and-golden saree. She opted for a minimal makeup look and accessorised with a kundan choker necklace, matching earrings and bangles.
Her hair is tied in a neat bun with gajra on it. She has minimal mehendi on her hands.
Zaheer, meanwhile, looked dapper in a white sherwani.
In the pictures, Zaheer is seen kissing the hand of Sonakshi, while she is smiling from ear to ear.
Another picture shows Shatrughan Sinha holding his daughter's hand, as she signs the wedding papers.
The post's caption reads: "On this very day, seven years back (23.06.2017) in each other's eyes, we saw love in its purest form and decided to hold on to it. Today that love has guided us through all the challenges and triumphs... leading up to this moment ... with the blessings of both our families and both our gods."
It ended with: "We are now man and wife. Here's to love, hope and all things beautiful with each other, from now until forever."
Following their marriage, the newly-weds sent sweets to the paparazzi stationed outside with a heartfelt message that read, "Thank you for showering us with
so much love, happiness and kindness on the most important day of our lives! Your support and wishes mean the world to us. Lots of love, Sonakshi and Zaheer."
With the legal formalities for the civil marriage completed, public attention has moved to the reception venue, Bastian, the Asian-inspired modernist restaurant on Linking Road in Mumbai.
Among the early arrivals at the restaurant were Aditi Rao Hydari ('Bibbojaan'), Sonakshi's 'Heeramandi' co-star, and her fiance (and South Indian star) Siddharth.
Zaheer's 'Ruslaan' cast mate, Aayush Sharma, the brother-inlaw of Salman Khan, who played Cupid to the newly-weds, was among the early arrivals as well. Manisha Koirala, the 'Heeramandi' diva, sent flowers to convey her best wishes because she could not attend the wedding as a result of prior commitments.
For Sunday night's party, the theme is black and red, and a team of decorators at work in Bastian arranged an array of red flowers and rolled out the red carpet.
DJ Ganesh, who's known for his eclectic choice of music, will be performing live at the reception.
The rooftop restaurant, incidentally, was founded in 2014 by Ranjit Bindra, Shilpa Shetty and Kunal Jani, and is helmed by Suvir Saran, celebrity chef and founder of the now-closed Michelin-starred restaurant Devi in New York.
Sonakshi and Zaheer, the man she lovingly describes as her 'personal psycho', have been dating for the past seven years. Salman, who gave Sonakshi her Bollywood break in the action-comedy 'Dabbang' (2010), played Cupid. Zaheer, too, made his debut in a Salman Khan-produced film -- 'Notebook' -- where he was cast opposite another newbie, Pranutan Bahl, daughter of actor Mohnish Bahl, and granddaughter of Nutan.
Big B, Prabhas, Rana Daggubati compete with each other to help pregnant Deepika
Veteran Bollywood icon
Amitabh Bachchan and Telugu stars Prabhas, and Rana Daggubati raced with each other to help Bollywood star Deepika Padukone at an event in Mumbai's Juhu area on Wednesday.
Big B, Prabhas, Deepika, Rana and Tamil cinema legend Kamal Haasan, attended the pre-release event of the upcoming epic film 'Kalki 2898 AD' in the city, and while everyone was called on stage by the emcee to discuss the
movie, Deepika too headed to the stage.
Rana first rushed to help the pregnant actress, and so did Prabhas.
However, Big B was seen asking them to hold off as he wanted to help her on stage.
As Deepika got down from the stage, when Prabhas helped her off, Big B hilariously gestured about Prabhas beating him to it. He pulled him from behind in jest sending the media into a fit of laughter.
Deepika, who is all set to welcome her first baby with actor Ranveer Singh, flaunted her baby bump in a black bodycon dress as she looked ethereal.
Produced by Vyjayanthi Movies, 'Kalki 2898 AD' is set to arrive in cinemas on June 27, 2024.
Marilyn Monroe’s Brentwood house saved from demolition after being declared a landmark
Late Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe's home in Brentwood, Los Angeles, has been approved as a historical cultural monument by the Los Angeles City Council, a designation that is intended to help protect the landmark from demolition.
The Los Angeles Conservancy took to X and wrote: "The Marilyn Monroe Residence in Brentwood is now a Historic-Cultural Monument! Today, L.A. City Council unanimously approved the nomination for Marilyn
Monroe’s final home. Thanks to all who voiced their support, and a HUGE thanks to Councilwoman Traci Park and team!”
Monroe, known for her "blonde bombshell" roles, lived in the 1929 four-bedroom Spanish Colonialstyle house for approximately six months before she died there of a reported overdose in 1962.
The L.A. Conservancy's proposal for landmark status noted that the house was “the first place she sought out and bought for herself
Charli XCX tells fans to stop after they chant ‘Taylor Swift is dead’ at her shows
Popstar Charli XCX asked her fans to "please stop" after they yelled "Taylor (Swift) is dead!" in Portuguese during her 'Partygirl' DJ set at a Sao Paulo nightclub. "Can the people who do this please stop. Online or at my shows. It is the opposite of what I want, and it disturbs me that anyone would think there is room for this in this community. I will not tolerate it," Charli wrote on her Instagram story.
Earlier this month, Charli XCX's fans also attacked Swift when she released a UK-exclusive
and on her own while actively working in 1962,” reports Variety. com.
Owners Brinah Milstein and her husband, reality TV producer Roy Bank, purchased the house in 2023 for $8.35 million and planned to demolish it to expand their property next door. They waged a year-long battle to stop the historical designation, which they said would lead to more nuisance visitors.
The owners have sued the city, accusing officials of “backroom machinations,” and the case is due to get a trial date on August 13.
In the suit, the owners said that the home has been substantially altered and that no evidence remains from Monroe's time there, thus contending that it does not meet the criteria for a historic cultural monument. They also noted that several neighbourhood groups and the Monroe estate did not support the historic designation.
Despite the opposition, the council’s vote was 12 to 0 in favor of adding the house to the list of properties of historical significance. The decision was supported by the City Council’s land use management subcommittee and the Cultural Heritage Commission. While the designation doesn’t completely prevent a property from being demolished, it subjects it to a stringent review process if demolition is proposed.
Ahead of the vote, L.A. City Council member Traci Park said: “We have an opportunity to do something today that should’ve been done 60 years ago. There’s no other person or place in the city of Los Angeles as iconic as Marilyn Monroe and her Brentwood home.”
digital version of her album 'The Tortured Poets Department' because it coincided with the release of Charli XCX’s latest album, 'Brat'.
Fans speculate that it blocked the 'Break the Rules' hitmaker's chance at reaching the top spot on the UK's Official Charts. Rumours also started swirling that the song 'Sympathy is a Knife' on 'Brat' was written about Swift. Charli XCX has hinted before that the song was inspired by an unnamed girl who "taps my insecurities."
‘Tears flowing down’: Big B, Aamir join Bollywood celebrities hailing Team
India
Celebratory
reactions continued to pour in from Bollywood stars much after Team India retired into their dressing room following the historic T20 World Cup win at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Saturday night.
Amitabh Bachchan, writing on X, said it for the nation with his one-sentence comment: "Tears flowing down ... in unison with those that TEAM INDIA sheds ... World Champions India ... Jai Hind, Jai Hind, Jai Hind."
Aamir Khan, smiling from ear to ear, posted a video on X with this congratulatory message that ended with him flashing a thumbs up sign: "Congratulations Team India! What a great match! Loved it. Thank you for some great cricket. You guys really do us proud. Lots of love."
Anushka Sharma, the Bollywood actress now better-known as Mrs Virat Kohli, posted a cute personal experience on Instagram: "Our daughter's biggest concern was if all players had someone to hug them after she saw them cry on TV. ... Yes, my darling ... they were hugged by 1.5 billion people. What a phenomenal victory and what a legendary achievement."
Malayalam superstar Mammootty said it all when he posted on X:
"What a night, what a comeback!! India - The World Champions Again. Congrats to the whole team!"
Manoj Bajpayee, in an Instagram post with a picture of Kohli reacting to the victory on the field, commented: "Kya zabardast jeet hai. Lahra do tiranga. So proud of our boys for this phenomenal win."
In a lengthy post dedicated to the win, Ranveer Singh began by hailing coach Rahul Dravid. "What a way to win. It was all but lost. And then ... the fight back. What a befitting tribute to one of the greatest champions of Indian cricket. Rahul 'The Wall' Dravid." Ranveer mentioned each member of the team who had contributed to the big moment: "The KING dropping the anchor ... What a way to cap an incredible career. @viratkohli BAPU with the clutch combinations @aksharpatel BUMRAH ... cemented as the greatest Indian pacer of all time @jaspritb1 ... SKY with one of the most iconic outfield catches in the history of sport ... frame that @surya_14kumar ... ARSHDEEP the lionheart fought like a warrior @_arshdeep.singh__ HARDIK .. The Ultimate Redemption ... what a story arc! Heroic! @ hardikpandya83
Buyers L ike What They See at Brookwater.
Your minute neighb ourhood:
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 centur y and has become a blueprint for nation-building,” he added.
“ The area boasts outstanding schools, and state-of-the-ar t health facilities, and is now home to the Brisbane Lions AFL Club Ever y thing you need is within reach ”
Within the Springfield City area, there are 12 schools, 22 childcare facilities, and the University of Southern Queensland providing a remarkable array of options for both private and public amenities, making it an ideal choice for growing families.
Springfield City is positioned as the gateway to the western corridor of Southeast Queensland. With an expansive area of 2,860 hectares, it is Australia’s largest master-planned city and the first of its kind since Canberra.
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SOURCE: ECONISIS
- The wider Springfield Grow th 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 grow th rate of 5.6% over the 20 years to 2041.
Prep to Year 12 Christian co-education.
Health City Springfield Central – home to Mater Private Hospital Springfield, Aveo Springfield and Quest Apar tment Hotel. major retail shops, restaurants, a movie theatre and food court.
