India News - November 1-15, 2022

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KEEPING YOU AHEAD

FICQ hosts Diwali celebrations at King George Square

London, Oct 24 (IANS)

Conservative party’s Rishi Sunak will become the first Hindu and the first person of colour to become Britain’s Prime Minister.

At the age of 42, he is also the youngest person to take the office in more than 200 years.

The result of Monday’s contest caps a spectacularly rapid rise to the pinnacle of British politics, CNN reported.

Sunak was first elected as an MP in 2015 and spent two years on the backbenches, during which Brexit dominated the political agenda. Sunak supported leaving the EU during the 2016 referendum.

He subsequently became a junior minister in former Prime Minister Theresa May’s government.

It was another former Prime Minister Boris Johnson who gave Sunak his first major government role when he first appointed

him as the Chief Secretary to the Treasury in 2019, and as the Chancellor in 2020.

Sunak won popularity during the early weeks of the pandemic when he unveiled an extensive support plan for those unable to work during lockdown.

But the “Partygate” scandal that took down Boris Johnson also tarnished his reputation, and he became archrivals with Johnson after quitting his government earlier this year.

Sunak has remained tight-lipped on his policy plan in the last few days but he was widely seen as the more moderate of the two candidates in the last leadership contest over the summer. Compared to Liz Truss, he took a softer line on matters like Brexit and the economy, CNN reported.

More wishes pour in for ‘K’taka’s son-in-law’, UK PM

Bengaluru, Oct 25 (IANS) Congratulatary messages continued to pour in for Karnataka’s son-in-law and first UK’s Prime Minister of Indian origin, Rishi Sunak.

Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Mines and Coal Pralhad Joshi stated on Tuesday that he feels it a proud moment as Rishi Sunak hails from India. He further stated that he wishes him all the success.

Rishi Sunak is taking over responsibility at a time when the whole of Europe is going through a difficult time, said Union Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, Skill Development, Electronics and Technology, Rajeev Chandrasekhar.

Rajeev Chandrashekhar, who is also a member of Rajya Sabha from Karnataka, further stated

that he knew Rishi Sunak personally and he is a highly competent person.

Former Infosys Chief Finance Officer V. Balakrishnan stated that it is a historic moment.

“Britain shows to the world that a migrant can also become the Prime Minister of their country. It is a sign of mature democracy,” he added.

Jacob Crasta, former chairman of the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI), stated that the development is good for India. It will pave the way for UK technology to come to India. He also stated that the development also helps India and UK to sign the Free Trade Agreement.

“Hearty Congratulations to Rishi Sunak, senior Conservative party leader and Britain’s Prime

The crowd at the FICQ Diwali event

Diwali celebrations were launched with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp

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Bengaluru, Oct 28 (IANS)

Software giant Infosys on Friday declared an interim dividend of Rs 16.50 per equity share for shareholders for the year 2022-23, while Akshata Murthy, wife of UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, will get a dividend of Rs 64.27 crore.

Akshata, daughter of Infosys cofounder Narayana Murthy, holds 3,89,57,096 shares of the company,

which is 1,07 per cent of total paid up capital of the tech giant.

As per the announced interim dividend of Rs 16.50 per equity share, she would get a dividend of Rs 64,27,92,084 crore.

Akshata Murthy married Sunak in 2009. She holds an Indian citizenship and her nondomiciled status, which allows her to earn money abroad without

paying taxes in England for a span of up to 15 years, has been debated.

Infosys, in its submission to the Indian stock market exchanges about the record date for dividend payment, stated: “We wish to inform you that the Board of Directors of Infosys Limited at its meeting declared an interim dividend of Rs 16.50 per equity share. Fixed October 28, 2022 as record date for interim dividend and November 10, 2022 as payout date.”

The investors who own Infosys shares on its record date (October 28), would be eligible for the payment of Rs 16.50 per share and dividend is payable on November 10.

Infosys is one among the best dividend paying companies in India.

More wishes pour in for ‘K’taka’s son-in-law’, UK PM

Minister-elect. He is connected to our Karnataka,” stated former Karnataka Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy.

“I am overwhelmed with the election of Sri Rishi Sunak, son

in law of Infosys founder Sri N.R. Narayanamurthy & Smt Sudha Murthy. I am confident that Sri Rishi Sunak will effectively lead Britain & help to bring its economy back on track,”

Kumaraswamy stated. Rishi Sunak is married to Akshata Murthy, who is daughter of Infosys Co-founder Narayanan Murthy.

UK gets B’luru ‘damad’ PM, India’s Silicon Valley erupts in joy

Bengaluru, Oct 24 (IANS)

Bengaluru, India’s Silicon Valley, was overjoyed after Rishi Sunak, the son-in-law of tech giant Infosys founder N.R. Narayana Murthy, made it to the post of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom on Monday.

The first Indian-origin Prime Minister in waiting has a Bengaluru connection in the form of his wife Akshata, the daughter of Narayana Murthy.

Bengaluru and Karnataka which is celebrating the festival of lights with fervour, erupted in joy after Sunak’s historical victory.

T.V. Mohandas Pai, former Director of Infosys and current Chairman of Manipal Global Education, said that this is a time that every Indian should be happy as a person of Indian-descent is becoming the Prime Minister of the UK.

He, however, stressed that Sunak’s prime loyalty would be towards the UK, and for him, India is another country. “India should not think that it will be benefitted. Rishi is the citizen of the United Kingdom.”

“We should see the development, feel proud and respect it, and we

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should be silent,” Pai stated.

Niraj Patil, former Mayor of the London Borough of Lambeth, told media that it is a matter of pride for every Indian. It is a great day, historical day for Karnataka as Sunak is the son-in-law of Infosys founder Narayana Murthy.

Sunak’s in-laws Narayana Murthy and Sudha Murthy are celebrities in their own right. Narayana Murthy is the founder of Infosys and Sudha Murthy commands huge respect for her philanthropy and literary pursuits.

Kharge takes over as first nonGandhi Cong prez after 24 yrs

New Delhi, Oct 26 (IANS)

Mallikarjun Kharge has officially taken over as the Congress president and became the first non-Gandhi after a gap of 24 years to be the party chief.

Ahead of his official takeover as the Congress president on Wednesday, Kharge paid

tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at the Rajghat, and also visited the Samta Sthal and Shakti Sthal. Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi were present along with other senior leaders of the party. Rahul Gandhi took a break from his ongoing Bharat Jodo Yatra to attend the Kharge takeover.

Indian Community attends dinner with Premier at Parliament House

The Indian community celebrated Diwali along with the premier of Queensland Annastacia Palaszczuk, MP on 27 October.

Nearly 400 community leaders were invited to attend the event.

Community leaders, presidents, secretaries, treasurers, and volunteers of various community organisations of the Indian Community attended the function. Members of the parliament also attended the event. Deputy Premier Steven Miles, Treasurer, Dr James (Jim) Edward Chalmers, Minister Sterling Hinchliffe, Minister for Tourism, Innovation and Sport and Minister Assisting the Premier on Olympics and Paralympics Sport and Engagement, came together with the Indian community leaders to forge long term meaningful relations. Minister for Children and Youth Justice and Minister for Multicultural Affairs Leanne Linard was the Master of Ceremony.

On the occasion premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, Consul Archana Singh, Maha Sinnathambi, and FICQ President Anoop Nannuru addressed the audience present. On the recent

developments in the UK, all the dignitaries said that Australia must reflect the UK in terms of increasing the visibility for the Indian community, having equal and prominent representation in the parliament. Rishi Sunak was congratulated for his appointment as the UK Prime Minister and paving the way for every Indian to dream big. Australia and India relationship have come a long way over the years. Both the countries have come closer for trade agreements, education, critical technology, health, agriculture, minerals, and sustainable solar as well as wind energy.

Also, being the second largest group born overseas, the Indian diaspora now enjoys the benefits of the people to people links that have been established for easing foreign trade. In March 2022, the Australian Government announced the establishment of a new Centre for Australia-India Relations to build on the work of the Australia India Council, and help strengthen new ties between the two countries.

Diwali offers an opportunity for

Infosys declares interim dividend of Rs 16.50 per equity share; Akshata Murthy to get Rs 64.27cr

FICQ hosts Diwali celebrations at King George Square

Diwali celebrations organised by the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) at the iconic King George Square on Oct 28 was a muchawaited calendar event, especially for the growing Indian diaspora in Brisbane.

For the past couple of years, due to COVID-related restrictions, it has been challenging to celebrate the Diwali festival on a larger scale. But with life bouncing back to normal earlier this year, the Indian community thronged in large numbers to celebrate the festival of lights.

‘Unity in diversity’ is an integral part of the Indian community’s ethos. FICQ, true to its mission, has paved the way year after year since 2010 to bring the Indian diaspora and the extended community together.

All three levels of government officials attended the FICQ Diwali celebrations. Hon. Peter Dutton,

MP, Leader of the Opposition, addressed the audience. Hon. Grace Grace MP, Minister for Education, Minister for Industrial Relations and Minister for Racing, energised and motivated the crowd with her speech. Mrs Archana Singh gave a motivational speech making the attendees feel at home and proud of their rich cultural heritage. Councillor Angela Owen represented the Hon Lord Mayor of Brisbane.

Over 15,000 people of Indian descent and the broader South East Queensland community attend the event annually, signifying the festival’s success over the years.

A Dhol Tasha honour was extended to the dignitaries while the large crowd thoroughly enjoyed and celebrated the festivities. Culinary and cultural entertainment were integral to the celebrations and ran right through the day with food, songs

and dance performances from various parts of India.

Acknowledging the tireless work over months by FICQ committee members, Mr Anoop Nannuru, President FICQ, said, “Diwali is a big event and festival for the Indian community. Organising this event is a mammoth task.

From organising funds to ensuring the financial viability, to executing it and later cleaning the mess created after the event, each step is a huge effort and must be executed meticulously, taking care of every minute detail to make it a grand success. It is a pleasure to see the Indian community support and come together as one during this Diwali function. We thank all committee members, advisors, member organisations, volunteers, sponsors, dignitaries and community members for their continued support.”

Bravus backs ‘home away from home’ for sick kids and their families

Seriously ill North Queensland children and their families will continue to have a home away from home at Townsville University Hospital thanks to the support of Bravus Mining and Resources.

Bravus Mining and Resources this week announced Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia as a recipient of its Community Partnership Program, to support the Ronald McDonald Family Room and provide invaluable in-hospital kitchen, laundry, play, and other facilities to families of children receiving inpatient or outpatient care.

More than 22,000 people utilised the Ronald McDonald Family Room in Townsville in 2021.

Bravus Mining and Resources Chief Operating Officer Mick Crowe said the team was delighted to be able to support such an important service for regional Queenslanders.

“No parent or guardian likes seeing their child unwell, and those difficult circumstances are made all that much tougher when you’re a long way from the comforts of home,” Mr Crowe said.

“In regional Queensland that ‘long way’ can mean hundreds and hundreds of kilometres and that’s why we think it’s so important to support the service the Ronald McDonald Family Room provides.

“There, families can enjoy a home-cooked meal together, freshen up with a shower, and do a load of washing – all while being only moments away from their child’s hospital room.

“We hope it’s a service your family never needs but we’re glad to help make it available if you do.”

Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia CEO Tamara South said: “Local families turn to us in times of great need, and it’s with thanks to our incredible community of supporters and generous contributions like that from Bravus Mining and Resources, that we are well placed to care for families when they need it most.”

Mr Crowe said applications for the final round of funding for the 2022 Bravus Mining and Resources Community Partnerships Program were now open.

“What we do is create jobs and

prosperity for Queenslanders by safely and responsibly mining high quality coal for export to countries that want to lift their people out of energy poverty,” he said.

“Our people are enormously proud of the job they do. But they are also proud that through their hard work we are able to support not-for-profit organisations and community groups like Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia to provide opportunities locals wouldn’t otherwise have.

“Applications for the Community Partnership Program close on 1 December 2022.

“There are clear guidelines and criteria your initiative or event must meet, but, if you qualify, we’re keen to hear from you and help where we can.” Contact: media@bravus.com.au +61 438031780 2

Interested parties can read the Bravus Mining and Resources Community Partnership Program guidelines, apply online, or learn more at www.bravusmining.com. au/sustainability/communities/ community-partnerships/

About Bravus Mining & Resources

• The Carmichael mine is producing high quality coal for export to nations around the world that want to lift their people out of energy poverty.

• The mine continues to safely and efficiently ramp up to its constructed level of production which is in the order of 10 million tonnes per annum.

• Townsville and Rockhampton are the primary employment hubs for the Carmichael Mine.

• More than 2,600 were employed and more than A$1 billion paid to regional Queensland contractors and businesses since construction began on the Carmichael Mine and Rail Project in 2019.

• Carmichael coal is high quality 5,000-5,400 kcal/kg coal with low sulphur, low trace elements and low ash which will meet the import requirements of many international markets, including those in the Asia-Pacific region.

• Carmichael coal is sold into the international seaborne export market and its ultimate destination depends on market demand.

About the Bravus Mining & Resources Community Partnerships Program

• Bravus Mining and Resources has a long and proud history of supporting the communities in which we operate through long-term partnerships that make a positive and sustainable contribution.

• Our Community Partnerships Program assists not-for-profit organisations and community groups with initiatives and events within our project footprint.

• Since 2018 the Program and our sponsorships have invested more than $2 million into more than 100 different organisations across the Burdekin, Central Highlands, Charters Towers, Gladstone, Isaac, Livingstone, Mackay, Rockhampton, Townsville, and Whitsunday council areas.

Photo caption: Bridgette Gatfield, Community Engagement Executive RMHC and Ally Foley, Community Manager Bravus

Photo caption: Aliyah, Michael, Ally, Bridgette, Judi (RMHC volunteer), Jessie and Blaze

Mental Health Foundation of Australia Gala Dinner

October marks the mental health month. This year the theme was ‘Building Resilience: Communities and Connections’. Being Resilient is not easy and it takes months to understand, as well as implement the strategies to be resilient. Communities need to come together, help out, empathise, and together build capacities to help someone be resilient and cope with the mental stressors in their lives. The connections are very important but most important are the significant adults, those who facilitate the connections.

For a month the Mental Health Foundation organised various events around Brisbane to create

awareness around mental health wellbeing. The concluding event was the Gala Dinner which was held in Newnham Hotel and function Centre. Ms. Susan Warby, was the main organiser, Dr. Sudipto Roy hosted the event and director of MHFA Ms. Kirrily Dutton expressed the thank you note.

Many stakeholders, well wishers, sponsors, attended the function. Miss Charity Australia, Ms Haley Cobb graced the occasion with her presence. Mr. James Martin MP, member for stretton also was in attendance and supported the cause.

It was a two course dinner with cultural dances, entertainment,

speeches and a fundraising event. Watercolour Society of Queensland Inc. Donated artworks of their Artist members; Yuko Sherry, Paquita Fadden, and Juana Bernardo for the auction and raffle fundraisers. Yuko’s Painting was acquired by the Director of MHFA Ms Kirrily Dutton sold for $150, where as Paquita’s paintings were picked by Mr. James Martin MP, member for Stretton and Juana Bernardo’s painting grabbed by Haley Cobb, Miss Charity Australia as raffle prize. President of the Watercolour society of qld, Mrs. Amrita Deshpande facilitated the raffles along with Ram Mohan of Star Promotions.

Cricket Australia donated a Brisbane Heat Bat with signatures of players, which raised $400 whereas the Cyrus Rugs Persian Carpet fetched $900. Mr.Hussain Goss was a fabulous auctioneer, motivating patrons to bid higher. He is one of the financial sponsors of MHFA representing the Goss refrigerated transport and ICare (Islamic Care). Other sponsors present at the function were Ms. Preeti Suraj who represented Gandhi Salt March Ltd. and Nasrin Vaziri from Gold Coast Multicultural Arts Group In Collaborations.

Business and Community organisations supporting MHFA present at the function were Bindara Children’s

Daycare Centre, Australia Malaysia Business Council Qld,and Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland. To talk about mental health problems is often considered a stigma but to be bold and voice those concerns are extremely important. Attendees became emotional listening to stories from Jahmarley, Sonu, Olivia, Sukhbir, Rudrodipto, Natalja, Hussin and Vera. But the mood soon changed because of the uplifting entertainment by dancers, Shona Leppanen -Gibson, Natalja Solntseva, and singer, Vera Pottinger.

Overall the event was well organised and executed.

Ayodhya lights UP on 6th ‘Deepotsav’ with PM Modi

is special for all of us because it comes in 'Amrit Kaal', which marks 75 years of independence," he said.

Modi added that Lord Ram, Ram Lila, Deepotsav and research on Lord Ram was spreading the message of Lord Ram worldwide. He said that cultural development was leading to all-round development.

PM Modi, Indian leaders congratulate Sunak for becoming UK PM

Ayodhya, Oct 23 (IANS) As more than 17 lakh earthen diyas lit up, presenting a mesmerising view on the banks of Saryu river at Ayodhya, it seemed like heaven on earth. The reflection of the diyas in the Saryu river provided a breathtaking view while the laser show lit up the skies. Ayodhya rose in unison to chant 'Jai Shri Ram'.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lit five 'diyas' of ghee at the Ram Janambhoomi temple where he offered prayers on his arrival. The lighting of diyas was symbolic of 'Deepotsav'.

Soon after his arrival in Ayodhya on Sunday evening, Modi went to the Ram Janambhoomi temple where he offered prayers and then inspected the construction work at the temple site. He was accompanied by Uttar

He also lit a 'diya' here and then interacted with the team involved in temple construction.

The Prime Minister then proceeded to the Ram Katha Park where he performed 'abhishek' of Lord Ram.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said that Lord Ram belonged to the entire country and it was the duty of every countryman to follow the path shown by Lord Ram.

He added that one should learn from Lord Ram on how to get and give dignity and take everyone together.

"Our constitution also talks about inclusiveness and of fundamental rights and duties. This Diwali

"The Nishad Raj Park and Queen Hoe Memorial are examples of this. This kind of development will not only strengthen ties between people but will also generate employment," he added.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that it was with the inspiration of the Prime Minister that he started the Deepotsav programme in 2017 and the event has become bigger with each passing year.

He added that the Kashi Vishwanath Dham corridor and the upcoming Krishna corridor in Mathura were also projects that were being completed with the inspiration of the Prime Minister.

Modi then performed 'aarti' at the banks of Saryu river after which the people were treated to a scintillating display of green fireworks and laser show.

Lord Ram takes everyone along, says PM Modi

Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh), Oct 23 (IANS) "Ram does not leave anyone behind, he does not turn away from anyone. We have a lot to learn from him because he truly believed in 'Sabka saath sabka vishwas, sabka prayas," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday as he began his speech with 'Jai Shri Ram' and then went on to detail the character of Lord Ram. While inaugurating the Deepotsav

in Ayodhya on Sunday, he said, "The lamp burns too and lights too."

The Prime Minister recalled the pandemic and said that every Indian stood with one lamp in hand and we are defeated the darkness of illness.

Amidst chants of 'Modi Modi', the Prime Minister reiterated that the character of Lord Ram should be emulated by all since he was a role model for all.

We are proud of him: Narayana Murthy on son-in-law Rishi Sunak

Reacting to son-in-law Sunak's victory, Murthy on Tuesday said that "he was proud of him and wished him success".

"Congratulations to Rishi. We are confident that he will do his best for the people of United Kingdom," he said.

Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai expressed his happiness over Rishi Sunak's elevation.

Bommai said the Britishers ruled India for over 200 years and they would have never expected such a big development.

"Today, Indians are on all fronts and have got elected as MPs in several countries. Now, Rishi Sunak has got elected as the new Britain PM. The wheel of fortune has turned completely," he said.

New Delhi, Oct 24 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders across the political spectrum on Monday congratulated Rishi Sunak, who is set to take over as the first Indian-descent Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

"Warmest congratulations @ RishiSunak! As you become UK PM, I look forward to working closely together on global issues, and implementing Roadmap 2030. Special Diwali wishes to the 'living bridge' of UK Indians, as we transform our historic ties into a modern partnership," Modi said in a tweet.

"Congratulations and good wishes @RishiSunak on becoming UK PM," tweeted Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

"Great News. Indians setting their mark all over the globe. My best wishes to Mr @RishiSunak on becoming the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Wishing him wisdom and strength to lead the country successfully", Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said in a tweet.

"Truth is always stranger than fiction. #Sunak, only one ever 2lose #PM contest & then bcome PM in 90 days. First indian origin #PM of #UK. Reverse imperialism of nicest kind. First ever indian 2head a foreign govt on #Deepawali!!" tweeted leader Congress Abhishek Manu Singhvi. TDP leader and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu posted:

"Absolutely delighted that @ RishiSunak is all set to become UK's new Prime Minister! I extend my best wishes to him as he prepares to steer his country ahead as its first Indian heritage PM. This is indeed a joyous moment for Indians across the globe."

"India scored a glorious hat trick this Diwali week! After Aman Sehrawat's wrestling Gold and Virat Kohli's heroic knock,now it's Rishi Sunak's turn to bring glory to India! Congratulations to @ RishiSunak who is set to become the first Indian-origin Prime Minister of UK", wrote Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal.

Congress' Karnataka unit President D.K. Shivakumar tweeted: "Congratulations to Mr. @RishiSunak on becoming the new Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.The first ever Indianorigin man to occupy the chair of PM in UK.

"Hoping that your tenure will mark a new beginning for India-UK ties which will bring prosperity to both the nations. However, Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, tweeting before Sunak's win was announced, said: "If this does happen, I think all of us will have to acknowledge that theBrits have done something very rare in the world,to place a member of a visible minority in the most powerful office. As we Indians celebrate the ascent of @ RishiSunak, let's honestly ask: can it happen here?"

Girl ends life after mother scolds her for chatting on phone

her residence in the Gangapur colony area.

Station House Officer ( SHO) Yogesh Kumar Singh said the body has been sent for postmortem and further action would be taken based on the postmortem report.

According to the family members, the girl returned home from school and started chatting on the mobile phone.

Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh), Oct 23 (IANS) A 16-year-old girl ended her life by hanging after her mother scolded her for constantly chatting on her mobile phone.

The girl, identified as Deeksha, was found hanging in a room at

Her mother scolded her and later in the night, when she went to her daughter's room, she found her hanging. The girl was rushed to the nearby hospital where she was declared brought dead.

Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Bengaluru, Oct 25 (IANS) Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy wished Rishi Sunak on being

appointed as the UK prime minister.

Melbourne, Oct 23 (IANS)

Reiterating why he is considered one of the best chasers in world cricket, Virat Kohli on Sunday produced a masterclass of batting, slamming an unbeaten 82 off 53 balls to power India to an incredible four-wicket victory over Pakistan in a thrilling Super 12 match of Men's T20 World Cup at iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, here.

Kohli, along with all-rounder Hardik Pandya added 113 runs for the fifth wicket after a difficult start for the side with the team being 31/4 after six overs.

After the right-left fast-bowling duo of Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh picked three wickets each to restrict Pakistan to 159/8 in their 20 overs, Kohli along with Hardik Pandya (40) shared a match-winning fifth wicket stand of 113 off 77 deliveries.

The former India skipper remained not out and along with Ravichandran Ashwin (1 not out off 1), led India to a sensational victory in their campaign opener. Following the historic game, celebrities from different spheres hailed Kohli's knock and India's win on social media.

"The KING is back .. Take a bow, Virat Kohli," tweeted ICC along with Virat's picture, where he is seen sitting like a king.

"@imVkohli, it was undoubtedly

the best innings of your life. It was a treat to watch you play, the six off the back foot in the 19th over against Rauf over long-on was spectacular! Keep it going," said Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar in a tweet.

For Virender Sehwag, Kohli's knock was one of the most brilliant T20 Innings he has seen ever.

"YaayyyyeHappyyy Deepawali. What an amazing game. High on emotions, but this is probably the most brilliant T20 Innings I have ever seen, take a bow, Virat Kohli. Chak De India," tweeted Sehwag.

Home Minister Amit Shah said the win against Pakistan has started the Diwali celebration.

"A perfect way to start the T20 World CupeDeepawali begins :) What a cracking innings by @ imVkohli. Congratulations to the entire team,'' Shah said in a tweet.

For former Indian women's cricket team captain Mithali Raj, Kohli displayed terrific skills and temperament.

"Cometh the hour, cometh the man! @imVkohli, what a terrific display of skills and temperament! That partnership with @hardikpandya7 changed the game. Spectacular win for India against the arch-rivals, Pakistan. Great start to the World Cup campaign. Well done," tweeted Mithali.

"Turning back time! The chase

master @imVkohli is back and what a match to showcase his skills. What a game we have witnessed today! Congratulations #TeamIndia," said BCCI secretary Jay Shah in a tweet.

Former India pacer RP Singh reminded everyone of Kohli's class.

"If the eagle does not fly for two days, the sky does not belong to pigeons! #ViratKohli #indvspak," said Singh in a tweet.

"So good to see a great game of cricket. So wonderful to see India win. So brilliant to see @imVkohli battinge.and so inspiring to see him cry and smilee.and the background score of Chak de India!! Happy Diwali starts right now!!!,'' tweeted Shah Rukh Khan.

Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan also celebrated a great game of cricket.

"This is why I love this sport What an exciting game of cricket between two great teams Top performance @imVkohli bhai," said Rashid in a tweet.

Former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi also praised Kohli's knock.

"The game of nerves today but we had it on our side by 95% and then @imVkohli showed what a worldclass match-winning innings looks like. Well played by both teams, great match!," said Afridi in a tweet.

After playing an emotionally and physically draining knock at the iconic MCG, Virat said it was his best T20I knock.

"Till today I have always said Mohali was my best innings, against Australia: I got 82 off 52 (51). Today I got 82 off 53. So they are exactly the same innings, but I think today I will count this one higher because of the magnitude of the game and what the situation was," Kohli said at the post-match presentation.

India's next assignment in the T20 World Cup is in Sydney on Thursday against the Netherlands.

Permanent appointment of teachers begins in DU affiliated colleges

over 5,000 teachers would be appointed on permanent basis.

The appointments are also being made to the post of Assistant Professor in Shivaji College that has a total of 101 vacancies.

Interested applicants can apply online through Delhi University website till November 7.

Association (DTA) had sent a proposal to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia that a special Assembly session be called to discussion the issue of the permanent appointment of teachers in the 28 colleges funded by the Delhi government.

UP gets nod for its second Elephant Reserve

New Delhi, Oct 24 (IANS) The process of giving permanent appointment to teachers working on ad hoc basis in colleges affiliated to Delhi University that are funded by the Delhi government has started, an official said on Monday, adding

There has been a demand for permanent appointment of teachers in the Delhi University colleges since a long time. In many colleges of the varsity, more than 50 per cent of teachers had been appointed on an adhoc basis. The Delhi Teachers'

The AAP government in Punjab has already issued a notification to ensure regularisation of the working of teachers. In view of this, the teachers in Delhi have also demanded adopting the formula of the Punjab government on the stabilisation of job.

Lakhimpur Kheri (Uttar Pradesh), Oct 23 (IANS) Decks have been cleared for the Terai Elephant Reserve (TER) in Lakhimpur Kheri district after the Union ministry of environment, forest and climate change (MoEFCC) gave its clearance for the same.

The proposal for it was drafted by Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR) authorities in April this year and forwarded to the Union ministry on October 11.

Ramesh Pandey, director, Project Elephant and inspector general, forests in MoEFCC, said, "The TER would be the 33rd in the country and second in Uttar Pradesh."

The first elephant reserve in Uttar Pradesh was notified in Shivalik in Saharanpur and Bijnor districts in 2009.

"The TER would be set up in an area of 3,049.39 square kilometre comprising forest areas of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (PTR), Dudhwa National Park (DNP), Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary (KWS), Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary (KGWS), Dudhwa buffer zone and parts of south Kheri forest division," Pandey added.

"The new TER will start functioning after the Uttar Pradesh government issues notification in this regard soon," he said.

With the TER coming into existence, Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR) will earn the credit of protecting and conserving four iconic wild species -- tigers, onehorned rhinos, Asian elephants and swamp deer.

Dudhwa field director Sanjay Kumar Pathak said, "The establishment of an elephant reserve in Dudhwa will not only boost the eco-tourism but will also help adopt elephantcentric approach towards their conservation under the Project Elephant besides managing camp or captive Dudhwa elephants. It would also help effectively handle man-elephant conflicts which are presently state-dependent."

Elaborating upon the TER, Project Elephant director Ramesh Pandey said, "The need for an elephant reserve in Dudhwa area was felt after a study on wild tuskers revealed that migrant elephants

which earlier visited Dudhwa, Katarniaghat, Pilibhit and other Terai areas from neighbouring areas, including Nepal, and returned to their original destinations, have tended to stay here permanently."

"Whether be it the impact of habitat disturbances or disturbance in their migration corridors, the fact remains that number of wild tuskers in DTR has risen to more than 150 and their status has changed from migratory to resident," Pandey said adding that "this urgently required conservation of these tuskers and their corridors and this could be ensured through establishment of Terai Elephant Reserve."

"After the establishment of TER, all financial and technical aid and assistance would be available for the reserve which would give impetus to the conservation of wild lives in general and wild elephants in particular," he said.

Pandey added, "Elephant reserve in Terai region assumed much more significance as it was located on India-Nepal border where trans-national migration of wild tuskers was a routine, giving rise to man-elephant conflicts."

Dudhwa field director Sanjay Pathak said, "With financial and technical assistance under the Project Elephant, the TER would enable to effectively handle the man-elephant conflicts."

"Besides, more and more locals would be engaged in elephant conservation and ecodevelopment," Pathak added.

The DTR has always been an ideal destination for migratory wild elephants for decades through various domestic and transborder corridors.

The DTR has attracted wild elephants for decades through various domestic and transborder corridors, including Basanta-Dudhwa, Laljhadi (Nepal)-Sathiyana and the Shuklafanta (Nepal)-DhakaPilibhit-Dudhwa buffer zone corridor. "The Terai Elephant Reserve under the Project Elephant would help revive or restore these corridors, which have been left disturbed," Pathak said.

T20 World Cup: ‘If eagle does not fly for two days, sky does not belong to pigeons’Kohli’s masterclass hailed on social media

Far from maddening crowd, Gujjar student from Anantnag makes it to IIT

Srinagar, Nov 1 (IANS) No coaching and no interent facilities available, yet a Gujjar student from a remote village of South Kashmir’s Anantnag is set to wear an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) badge after cracking allIndia level JEE Advanced exam.

Tufail Ahmad of Pannad village of Bijbehara teshil in district Anantnag has set an example for the tribal community by achieving an extraordinary feat after cracking IIT exams.

Pannad is among the many remote areas of Kashmir where internet, access to roads and modern facilities are yet to be made available. Given their remote location and topography, government is planning to reach out to these areas through rural development and tribal affairs departments.

Tufail’s family and the whole villagers are feeling up above the sky by their son’s feat.

Cracking IIT exam may sound usual for others in metro cities where flourishing coaching centres and online education have made writing such exams easy. But for Tufail, it is an extraordinary feat given the lack of resources and money for these

tribal youth to study.

Jammu and Kashmir’s Gujjar population is mostly nomadic and migrates from Jammu to Kashmir with their sheep. This population is still far behind than others in the Union Territory given the remoteness of their localities and their neglect.

Tufail’s family is among the few non-migrant Gujjars who don’t shepherd sheep but their father does manual labour to educate his children and run the family chores.

“I did self study from books. My father bought me a smartphone on which I would download videos and PDF by walking 10 kilometers to an Khirram village to avail interent,” Tufail said.

Tufail is set to study engineering in IIT Mandi (in Himachal Pradesh) for four years. This young boy got his primary education from a government school in his locality and now his next goal is Indian Administrative Service by preparing for UPSC exams while completing his engineering at IIT Mandi.

Tufail’s father Muhammad Yaqoob said that he laboured hard to educate his children.

“My hardwork and Tufail’s focus have enabled him to crack this exam. I feel very proud of my son,” Yaqoob said.

Tribal activist and author Javaid Rahi said youths like Tufail are role models for tribal population whose literacy rate is extremely low as compared to the national and state average.

As per Census 2011, literacy rate in India is 73 per cent and for Scheduled Tribes at national level it is 59 per cent only.

“In J&K, only 50 per cent tribals are shown literate as per 2011 Census which has not yet shown much upward improvement. The main reasons of the low literacy among tribes are poverty, conflict, topography and superstitions.

The female literacy rates are extremely lower as compared to the national average,” Rahi said.

Zahid Parwaz Choudhary said that the government and Tribal Affairs department have to work together with tribal youth and students to hammer out a solution for increasing literacy rate and access to education.

“If government schemes and plans are implemented sincerely, every Gujjar home will produce Tufail-like IITains,” he said.

Report says Canada exploiting Indian students for ‘cheap labour’

New Delhi, Nov 1 (IANS) Some Indian students in Canada are accusing the country of using them as a cheap source of labour and discarding them once they’re no longer needed, a media report said on Tuesday.

Amid labour shortage and high unemployment rate, which fell to 5.2 per cent this September, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced a new temporary measure aimed at reducing severe labour shortages in Canada, a Bloomberg report said.

According to the report, PM Justin Trudeau’s government introduced the permit extension move to over 5,00,000 international students already in Canada to potentially work more hours, and stay for 18 months after graduation to seek employment.

However, after more than a year, some of these permanentresident hopefuls have been left without status to work or remain in the country.

“I’m basically sitting at home and living off of my savings... Canada should appreciate foreign students more, not just use them as a form of cheap labour,” Daniel D’Souza, an accountant and former student at Seneca College near Toronto, told Bloomberg.

With 1.83 lakh Indian students pursuing education at various levels in the country, Canada is the second most popular destination for Indians pursuing

academic degrees at foreign shores.

Canada has processed more than 4.52 lakh study permit applications since January -- a 23 percent increase compared to the 3.67 lakh processed over the same period last year, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser said.

In 2021, Canada had over 6.20 lakh of which one-third were from India.

Many graduates who were part of the 2021 program, had to leave their jobs when their work permits expired with no guarantee they’ll gain permanent residency.

Even if their applications are eventually successful, students face months in limbo with no job, income, or health and social benefits, Bloomberg reported.

“When they needed us, they exploited us. But when we need their help or support, nobody shows up,” Anshdeep Bindra, a former consultant at Ernst & Young in Toronto, told Bloomberg.

Indian graduates, who hoped that the permit extension would give them more time to gain Canadian work experience, got mired in a backlog of applications that led to a 10-month shutdown of the system to allow the government to process them.

Once the system was activated, the students found themselves competing with pools of

immigrants with much higherthan-normal scores, reducing their chances of gaining permanent residency, the report said.

International students contribute more than C$21 billion ($15.3 billion) annually to the Canadian economy, according to the government data.

Canada is a popular choice among students moving abroad due to its quality education, friendly visa and immigration rules, and better life prospects.

Most Indian students are interested in remaining in Canada as permanent residents after completing their studies.

According to Statistics Canada, international students who get permanent residence tend to integrate quickly into the Canadian labour market due to their previous experience of living in the country on visas.

MEA data show that in the first six months of 2022, as many as 64,667 Indians going abroad for education named the USA as their destination, followed closely by Canada (60,258).

Before the pandemic, in 2019, 1,32,620 Indian students had chosen Canada. In 2020, after Covid-19 broke out, the number dipped to 43,624, before rising sharply to 1,02,688 in 2021, according to the MEA.

Expert shares immigration-friendly countries for Indian students

New Delhi, Oct 24 (IANSlife)

In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of students who have pursued higher education outside India, especially, in some of the top immigrant-friendly nations such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland. As per the records, in the last 14 years, the number of students who moved to immigrant-friendly nations has increased four times.

Reasons why Indian students immigrate

Ajay Sharma, President, and Founder, of Abhinav Immigration Services Private Limited, said: "These immigration-friendly countries have world-class universities, courses, teaching staff, and facilities. They offer excellent education and provide them with a platform for global exposure and opportunities for employment with attractive salaries. After completing their education, students can even apply for permanent residency, a pathway to citizenship. Having a permanent resident status in these nations means you have access to free universal education for your children at publicfunded schools till the age of 18, including healthcare facilities and medical services. A variety of social security perks range from pension to unemployment allowance, disability allowance to child aid and support care, and more. Countries like Canada, the US, and Australia are some of the top contenders when it comes to Indian students choosing a place for long-term residence. Presence of a large Indian diaspora. Recent changes in immigration policies prefer overseas Indian students over the skilled labour workforce." Here are some of the top Immigration-friendly countries for Indian students shared by Ajay: Canada

As per IRCC data, Indian students comprise one of the largest populations of overseas students in Canada. The number of Indian students in Canada pursuing higher education has increased by 350 per cent between the academic years of 2015 to 2016 and 2019 to 2020. From January to November 2021, near to 1,30,000 Indian students were permitted to study in Canada.

Australia

Recently, Australia has gone ahead to increase post-study work rights for Indian students from two to four years for some bachelor's degrees, to three years from five years for Master's degrees, and to four years from six years for PhDs. Official data suggests that over 90 per cent of Indian students have returned to Australia to continue their education on campus.

New Zealand

New Zealand has started offering scholarships to Indian students, a reason why it has become one of the most preferred study destinations in the world. Be it world-class facilities for innovation and research, globally recognised qualifications, or affordability, a significant number of Indian students have moved to Australia in recent years. There has been a 400 per cent surge in the number of Indian students admitted to universities and colleges in NZ. It also offers student-friendly policies like post-study work permits, parttime work options, and hasslefree admissions.

Ireland

Studying in Ireland means that once you become a resident, you get access to the European Union. Their world-class study institutions, impressive courses, and some of the top global companies housed there with exciting employment potential make it a top choice for Indian students.

Germany

Indians have been, for the longest time, the greatest source of highly skilled immigrants and overseas students for Germany. More than 33,000 Indian students have chosen Germany for studies making them the second largest community at many German study destinations, as per the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).

(N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe can be contacted at lothungbeni.h@ians. in)

New online portal to drive India-Australia internship opportunities

and the benefits that hosting interns can bring.”

Internships hosted through the portal are primarily aimed at helping non-government organisations (NGOs) with work focussed on the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), developing skills in the growing area of corporate social responsibility.

Dr Jain said smaller NGOs needed help but didn’t often have the resources to support internship opportunities.

Deakin international student

Kelly Vijaykumar Soni is from Gujarat state. Interning with the Goa Institute of Management, she worked alongside a Deakin student from a non-Indian background and saw it as a great opportunity to practice teamwork and help her partner with cultural insights.

Kelly is in her final year of a business analytics degree and was keen to concentrate on applied learning subjects, so jumped at the chance to take part in the internship program.

achieve the goals of the United Nation’s Agenda 2030.

Dr Singhal said the internship program was a fantastic way to collaborate and learn from each other.

“This program is beneficial at many levels. It provides participating organisations opportunity to network with each other, it can result in sharing best practices beyond the agreed project, and students also learn about other countries’ perspectives and situations,” she said.

Wednesday, 2 November 2022

A new online portal will facilitate and promote student internships across Australia and India to increase ties in education, research, trade, and sustainable development between the two countries.

Deakin University ViceChancellor Professor Iain Martin and Melbourne’s Consul General of India Dr Sushil Kumar presided over the formal launch of the portal at a special event today.

Deakin Business School senior lecturer Dr Ameeta Jain has spearheaded the establishment of the internship program, alongside colleagues Honorary Associate Professor Harsh Suri

and Professor Alex Newman, with funding from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

Dr Jain said the portal would offer both virtual and face-toface internship opportunities for Australian and Indian students across both countries.

“Host organisations can post internships on the portal and universities can access these to find opportunities that are relevant for their students,” she said.

“The portal website also includes resources for organisations that are interested in offering internships, so they can better understand the options available

The Australia and India SDG Internships program aims to bridge that gap, bringing together Australian and Indian students to work on projects and build positive cross-cultural relationships that may continue through their careers.

“The capacity for virtual internships is especially important in enabling us to connect with a wide range of collaborators across both countries,” Dr Jain said.

“We saw how virtual internships worked well, in part out of necessity, during the pandemic. But they can also offer a low-cost option for students who want to build international experience and connections.”

“I wanted experience that was practical to apply to the real world, and being from India, it was great to meet Indian clients and help them find solutions,” she said.

“I helped my host organisation look at data to analyse progress around the Sustainable Development Goals, and I built new analytics dashboards. It was my first time working with data that wasn’t numbers, so it was a great practical experience to solve that problem.”

Kelly’s internship supervisor Dr Divya Singhal is Chair of the Centre for Social Sensitivity (CSSA), created by the Goa Institute of Management to promote social responsibility and

“It’s now seven years since the UN Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 launched. So, it’s the right time to understand how organisations have been able to make contributions towards these targets. Programs like this that are focused on SDGs are helpful in preparing future graduates.”

Media contact: Elise Snashall-Woodhams Communications Lead, Deakin University

M: 0455 789 961

E: e.snashallwoodhams@deakin. edu.au

T: @DeakinMedia

Canada to welcome record 500,000 new immigrants in 2025

increased its 2023 immigration target to 465,000 and its 2024 target to 485,000, up 4 per cent and 7.5 per cent, respectively.

Toronto, Nov 1 (IANS) In order to address acute labour shortage, Canada plans to welcome a record 500,000 new permanent residents in 2025, the government said while announcing the Immigration Levels Plan for 20232025 on Tuesday.

The North American nation

Canada’s immigration goals include growing the economy, reuniting families, and offering asylum to refugees fleeing hardship abroad, CIC News reported.

In 2021, Canada broke its all-time immigration record by welcoming over 405,000 immigrants.

The majority of new permanent residents immigrate through economic class programs such as

those within the Express Entry system or through Provincial Nomination Programs (PNPs).

According to the new plan, there will be 82,880 Express Entry landings in 2023, 109,020 in 2024 and 114,000 in 2025.

The PNP will remain Canada’s leading admissions program for economic class immigrants with 105,500 PNP landings in 2023, 110,000 in 2024 and 117,500 in 2025.

According to CIC News, Canada will continue to look to welcome some 80,000 new immigrants per

year under the Spouses, Partners and Children program.

Targets for the Parents and Grandparents Program will rise to 28,500 in 2023, followed by 34,000 in 2024, and 36,000 in 2025.

The most recent job vacancy data showed there were 958,500 open roles in Canada in August and 1 million unemployed people.

The economy lost almost $13 billion over the past year due to a nationwide labour and skill shortage in the manufacturing sector, the Canadian Manufacturers and

Exporters’ labour survey of 563 manufacturers in 17 industries across the country found.

Labour shortages are further impacted by Canada’s low birth rate of 1.4 children per woman, one of the lowest globally, according to media reports.

According to a CIC News report, nine million people, or nearly a quarter of Canada’s population, will reach retirement age by 2030, which will create an urgent shortage of workers throughout all sectors of the economy.

Prof Divya Singhal, Dr Ameeta Jain, Dr Sushil Kumar and Prof Iain Martin

MAKE IN INDIA

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

The smoothest chocolate in the world is made in India

the product.

Indian Aviation Market: Travel Demand to be Robust

By Bhakti Jain and Ishita Dhar, Strategic Investment Research Unit (SIRU)

New Delhi, Oct 20 (IANSlife)

The smoothness of a chocolate is the fundamental sensory attribute that elevates consumer experience. A breakthrough technological innovation by ITC Ltd. has made it possible for Fabelle Exquisite Chocolates, the in-house luxury chocolate brand from ITC Ltd. to create chocolates as fine as seven microns.

Known for crafting unrivalled chocolate experiences, Fabelle Finesse is the smoothest chocolate ever made, and it is made in India. It offers an unrivalled smoothness and melt-in-your-mouth feel. The chocolate was unveiled by Fabelle in collaboration with Chef Adriano Zumbo, renowned Australian patissier and TV personality.

The pioneering technology is a result of months of research done by ITC Life Sciences and Technology Centre (ITC LSTC) and close collaboration with Fabelle Master Chocolatiers, crafting an exquisite chocolate in India that rivals the best in the world. In a cutting-edge neurological testing method conducted by Neurons Inc, consumers found in thte chocolate to be significantly smoother than benchmarks and the sheer delight of consumption even helped consumers in alleviating stress in the test conditions. It has been created using cocoa sourced from Ghana & Colombia. Each bite envelops

the rich aroma, delectable smooth texture and rich cocoa flavoursin milk and dark variants.

The cocoa finesser, a cuttingedge technology, was used to create the chocolate. By using this technique, it is feasible to reduce chocolate particle size to a new standard that cannot be reached with only the traditional refining method. The machinery operates at pressures greater than those found in the deepest tunnels on Earth, which helps to produce chocolate with unparalleled smoothness and an incredible melt-in-your-mouth sensation that unleashes a heavenly experience.

Limited-edition boxes of chocolate thins produced with Fabelle Finesse are being introduced by the company and will be sold in a few brand boutiques inside ITC Hotels. Future versions of the chocolate will be incorporated into the company's entire chocolate line and sold at brand boutiques all throughout India.

Chef Adriano Zumbo, renowned Australian pastry chef and TV host known for his specialty croquembouche, attended the Mumbai launch, invited for his extensive culinary skills, to sample the new chocolate.

Chef Adriano issued a challenge to chocolate manufacturers worldwide to produce a more exquisite commercially available chocolate than this after tasting

Expressing his delight on setting benchmarks for the global luxury chocolate market from India, Anuj Rustagi - Chief Operating Officer - Chocolates, Confectionary and Coffee, Foods Division, ITC Ltd. said, "At Fabelle, it is our constant endeavour to craft products that are best in the World. We are pleased to introduce the result of our innovative chocolate processing technology to the world, manifest in Fabelle Finesse, which gives an unmatched sensorial delight for chocolate connoisseurs. Fabelle Finesse is an artisanal masterpiece crafted with love, passion and pride that brings this innovation to market. I am sure our Fabelle Master Chocolatiers will continue to create even more delightful chocolate creations with Fabelle Finesse. This launch highlights ITC's commitment to cutting edge innovations in order to create world class Indian brands."

Sharing his experience Adriano Zumbo, said, "I am both exhilarated and excited to be present here with Fabelle Chocolates on such an ambitious project. I was completely intrigued by the technology that ITC Ltd. has been able to build through their relentless enthusiasm, in a bid to provide the world with a superlative luxury chocolate experience. It has been an enriching journey for me to work with Fabelle Master Chocolatiers, who possess the knowledge and understand intricacies of the art of chocolate making. I wish it a very successful innings in its commitment to provide consumers world-class chocolates."

"Judging from the quality of the chocolate I have tasted, I am happy to challenge any chocolatemaker in the world to come up with a better quality of chocolate in terms of the fineness," he added.

With this launch, Fabelle Chocolates recreates an iconic moment of global recognition for a home growth Indian brand leveraging R&D done in India.

The civil aviation industry in India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing industries in the nation and is undoubtedly among the fastest-growing in the world. This can be said in terms of domestic traffic; the Indian civil aviation industry has expanded to become the third largest in the world. It is anticipated that by 2024, India’s domestic aviation market will rank third internationally, contributing $ 30 Bn yearly to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Even though the Covid-19 pandemic’s effects have been adverse to human beings, and so is for the world’s aviation sector, India has shown no signs of giving up on its ambition to become a leader in everything, including aviation, over the next ten years. The aviation industry is making the much-needed development leap thanks to its tenacity and the government’s consistent measures to support and transform it.

The aviation industry has seen demand due to an increasing share of middle-class households having accessibility and affordability to air travel, strong competition among low-cost, efficient carriers, infrastructure development and a supportive governmental environment for its growth. To point out the growth and demand in commercial air travel through numbers, it is observed that passengers who travelled either to or from or within India increased from 79 Mn in 2010 to 158 Mn in 2017, which is more than double the previous number. By 2037, it is projected to reach 520 Mn. Passenger traffic growth has thus increased by 11 per cent. To satisfy the growing demand, by 2038, the country’s aircraft fleet is anticipated to grow fourfold to about 2500 aircraft. The government has also pledged to build 100 additional airports by 2024 of the Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme. The air fleet number is also expected to increase from 600 to 1200.

India also has a strong potential to be a global drone hub by 2030. For the same, Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, authorised the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for drones and drone components as of August 2021. As part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, the plan aims to

create a competitive and selfsustaining drone manufacturing market in the nation. According to the most recent PLI for the auto and drone industries, INR 120 Cr has been sanctioned for the drone market to spur supernormal growth in this emerging industry. One of the digital projects the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has undertaken to track and promote drone industry growth is called DigiSky. The DigiSky internet site expedites registering drones and their operators while certifying their flight path and offering post-flight analysis.

*freight traffic expected to cross 11.4 MT by 2032 in Indian airports

The Indian civil aviation, maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) market is currently worth around $ 900 Mn. After the pandemic, a projected expansion of India’s commercial and business fleet is seen as an essential factor influencing the demand for MRO services in the nation. As a result, it is projected to increase at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of roughly 14– 15 per cent to $ 4.33 Bn by 2025.

India’s MRO facilities would need to increase in size to accommodate the growing number of airports and aircraft in the nation. MRO is the umbrella term that refers to all aspects of maintaining and restoring aircraft. In addition to planning to satisfy these demands, the incumbent government wants to make India a centre for aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul. Since the tools used by MRO services in India are no longer subject to customs duties, larger and foreign fleets can be serviced more quickly. The Tirupati airport was recognised by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) for development as a national hub for aircraft MRO in April 2022. The MRO facility is to be provided on a design, build, operate, maintain and transfer basis.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) in the aviation sector is crucial as it helps increase the number of operational airports and aircraft, in manufacturing and operations, as well as in the research and development (R&D) for improvement and growth of the aviation sector. In scheduled air transport, regional air transport, and domestic scheduled passenger airlines, the government has authorised 100

Indian Aviation Market: Travel Demand to be Robust

per cent FDI under the automatic route. However, government clearance would be needed for FDI above 49 per cent. In the upcoming four years, investments totalling $ 4.99 Bn are anticipated in India’s aviation sector. By 2026, the Indian government intends to spend $ 1.83 Bn on expanding airport infrastructure and aviation navigation services. The aviation sector in India achieved a few milestones in terms of development, better connectivity with far-off regions, sustainability and reduced carbon footprint. Cochin International Airport was the first “green airport” in the world with a low carbon footprint, which inspired the world to move towards sustainability. India has also operationalised around eight greenfield airports, namely, Shirdi and Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, Durgapur in West Bengal, Pakyong in Sikkim, Kannur in Kerala, Orvakal in Andhra Pradesh, Kalaburagi in Karnataka and Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh as of Nov 2021.

Connectivity between east India and the rest of India has also been increased through airlines flagging off direct flights, for example, from Guwahati (Assam) to Pune (Maharashtra)

Government initiatives in the aviation sector

> The UDAN scheme is the government’s multifaceted approach to making air travel affordable and accessible while simultaneously increasing job opportunities and improving the connectivity between the urban centres and the underdeveloped regions within the country (i.e. Himalayan and North Eastern areas in the hills). This will ensure accessibility during medical emergencies and search-andrescue operations. Furthermore, under the UDAN scheme, the government is keen to introduce more low-cost carriers into the market and cap airfares that are to be subsidised in uncompetitive areas

> The International Air Connectivity Scheme (IACS), announced by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, aims to improve air connectivity between some states in India and a few international locations to spur socio-economic development. For example state governments of Assam and Manipur have identified routes to connect Guwahati and Imphal with international locations like Bangkok, Dhaka, Yangon and others

> Seven airports have collaborative ventures with the Airports Authority of India (AAI), where the ones in Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Guwahati, Thiruvananthapuram, and Mangaluru received awards for operations, management, and development under Public Private

Partnership (PPP) for 50 years. 25 AAI airports have been designated for asset monetisation between 2022 and 2025following the National Monetisation Pipeline (NMP).

> Several foreign aviation corporations have invested in the subcontinent’s aviation market due to the rapid economic transformation in India’s aviation industry. AAI is collaborating with companies like Airbus (France), Boeing (United States of America), Etihad Airways (United Arab Emirates), and Fairfa (United Kingdom), to mention a few.

Opportunities for investment in the aviation sector in India

> As the demand for MRO facilities in India increases, airports and aircraft will also increase. Indian carriers are projected to increase their fleet size to 1,100 aircraft by 2027. This expands the scope of investment and growth in the sector

> The PPP model Greenfield airports are expanding from seven to nine, including Mumbai and Goa. This brings in investment opportunities worth $ 3 Bn in the sector

> Indian airports are emulating the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) aerotropolis model to enhance revenues (involves the development of an airport-based city with accessibility to air travel surrounded by educational, healthcare, hospitability and entertainment centres). The model focuses on sales of goods and services, advertising, parking for automobiles, and security tools and services

> Over the next five years, AAI has committed to development projects worth around $ 3 Bn for new terminal construction, terminal extension and modification, runway and apron strengthening, air navigation services, control towers, technical buildings, etc.

Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, the Indian aviation sector has been back on track. The government supports this industry and is prepared to take any necessary step to establish India as a global leader in aviation-related needs. One could say that we are laying the groundwork for a future in which the average Indian citizen has accessibility and ease to flying, thanks to the restoration of airports, the doubling of the national aircraft fleet, and a shift toward a public-private partnership model. The amount of foreign investment, like Airbus (France), Rolls Royce (UK), and GE Aviation (US), is a sign that the world is aware of the changes taking place in the Indian aviation industry.

India Industrial land bank: Investor’s First Avenue to Land of Opportunities

nodes, zones, etc. across the country to help investors identify their preferred location for investment. This is a step towards developing a platform to map the resources available in the nation including raw materials, terrain, and connectivity to ports to enhance cost efficiency and thereby, improve resource optimization across the country to help investors identify their preferred location.

To date, the portal provides access to information on over 4500 industrial parks mapped across 5.06 lakh hectares of land out of which 1.12 lakh hectare of land is presently available for industrial use. To ensure the

information gets updated on real time basis, the system has been integrated with industrybased GIS systems of 34 States and UTs. The portal provides investors the most accurate, comprehensive, real-time updates on the following: raw material availability (agricultural and horticultural crops, minerals); sectoral parks (such as chemicals and automobiles) and types of parks (plug and play, private, and public); land available for allotment by state and sector; and view on key utilities and infrastructure (such as a park, plot, urban infrastructure, terrain, connectivity via road, rail, air and port network, and sectoral clusters)

The IILB portal provides free login access to the users. Since its launch, the portal has undergone significant enhancements/ upgrades. It is constantly evolving to provide information to stakeholders through user-

friendly interface. The land bank can be accessed via website or a mobile application available on both android and iOS. The platform will serve as a powerful tool as it will continuously be updated and share the most

relevant information with all potential investors across the globe.

Authored by IILB & IPRS, SIRU.

Source: Invest India

By Nikhil Gandhi DPIIT in collaboration with teams from Invest India and MeitY has developed the India Industrial Land Bank (IILB) - a GIS (Geographic Information System) enabled database of industrial areas including clusters, parks,

Snapshot of Pithampur-3-(Sagore & Bagdoon)

Website

Floods to harm Australian GDP growth forecast: Treasurer Aus govt boosts funding for Great Barrier Reef protection

the impact of higher electricity prices.

The ruling Labor government said its first budget since winning May's election will have a focus on addressing the rising cost of living.

Canberra, Oct 21 (IANS)

Australia's Treasurer Jim Chalmers on Friday said the ongoing floods in the southeast region will harm the country's projected economic growth.

Ahead of handing down his first federal budget on October 25, Chalmers said modeling suggests floods in Tasmania, New South Wales and Victoria will wipe 0.25 per cent off gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the final quarter of 2022, reports Xinhua news agency.

Thousands of homes and businesses have been affected by the floods, with more rain expected over the weekend.

The Treasury forecasts the floods will drive the price of fruit and vegetables up by 8 per cent over the next six months.

However, inflation is still expected to peak at 7.75 per cent.

Chalmers said the big ongoing contributor to inflation increasingly will be the impact of these natural disasters and

It will include about A$1.5 billion ($877 million) in previously announced emergency payments for flood victims and a A$3 billion reserve fund to respond to future disasters.

"We don't know yet whether that A$3 billion will be sufficient but we consider it prudent," Chalmers said in a press conference in Canberra on Friday.

"This is just an initial estimate. The costs could be even more significant, but responding to natural disasters and building resilience in our economy will be absolutely central features of the budget that I hand out next Tuesday (October 25) night."

Australia’s inflation expected to peak towards end of year, persist for longer: treasurer

33 billion Australian dollars (20.8 billion U.S. dollars) higher than previously forecast.

Earlier this week, the treasurer confirmed the ongoing flooding in Australia's southeast will harm the country's projected economic growth.

Canberra, Oct 21 (IANS) The Australian government on Friday announced a funding boost for the conservation of the iconic Great Barrier Reef.

Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek outlined the federal government's plan to protect the reef from the impacts of global warming, reports Xinhua news agency.

It includes an additional A$204 million ($128 million) in funding to address critical gaps in the long-term reef sustainability funding.

The extra commitment takes Australia's total investment in the Great Barrier Reef to A$4.4 billion from 2014-15 through to 2029-30.

In a joint statement with Nita Green, the special envoy for the Great Barrier Reef, Plibersek said the plan would reduce sediment run-off and restore mangrove and seagrass beds.

"If we protect the reef, we protect our future. This new investment

will bring forward actions that have been long overdue," they said.

"Under the previous government, the Reef 2050 Plan was allowed to drift off course. We're bringing it back on track. This funding will deliver stronger monitoring to ensure water quality targets are met, improve our understanding of blue carbon ecosystems and support traditional owners to manage land and sea country."

The funding includes A$20 million to assist corals in evolving more quickly and adapting to a changing environment.

A A$15.3 million grant has been awarded to the Central Queensland University to establish the Coastal Marine Ecosystems Research Centre.

The Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef, is also one of Australia's biggest tourist attractions.

In March, it experienced its sixth mass coral bleaching event as a result of marine heatwaves.

Friday's announcement came ahead of Plibersek meeting with state and territory officials for the first time since the federal government won power in May. The meeting will set the agenda for the national response to environmental challenges.

Gadkari discusses investment opportunities with Aus Minister

Canberra, Oct 23 (IANS)

Australia's treasurer has warned that inflation in the country is expected to peak towards the end of the year and it will persist for a little bit longer because of the impact of the natural disasters and energy prices.

Jim Chalmers, who will on Tuesday night hand down his first federal budget, on Sunday said inflation is the primary influence on this budget, which guides the approach to cost of living relief, Xinhua news agency reported.

"On the current Treasury

forecasts, inflation will persist for longer than we'd like," he told Australian Broadcasting Corporation television.

Treasury forecasts inflation will peak at 7.75 per cent in December.

"This will be a family-friendly budget which recognizes that our pressures on the economy come from around the world, but they're felt around the kitchen table," Chalmers said.

As a result of inflation, government spending on social security payments including the pension is expected to be about

Thousands of homes and businesses have been affected by the floods, and the treasury forecasts the floods will drive the price of fruit and vegetables up by 8 per cent over the next six months.

Chalmers said the key elements of the strategy have two parts.

"First of all, how do we get wages moving again in this country, and the budget will be about that," he said on Sunday.

"But also how do we help inflation moderate over time. You do that by making sure your cost-ofliving relief is responsible and that your investments in the economy don't push up inflation.”

Australia to increase fines for data breaches

Canberra, Oct 22 (IANS)

Australian companies that fail to protect customers' data will face fines worth tens of millions of dollars under new laws proposed by the government, Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus said on Saturday. In a statement, Dreyfus said he would introduce legislation to Parliament that will increase the maximum fines for serious or repeated data breaches from the current limit

of A$2.2 million ($1.3 million), reports Xinhua news agency. Under the changes, the maximum penalty will become whichever is highest A$50 million, 30 per cent of a company's turnover in the relevant period, or three times the value of any financial benefit obtained through the misuse of data. It comes after a series of high-profile data breaches in Australia. Telecommunications giant Optus in September disclosed a major cyber attack that compromised the data of approximately 10 million current and former customers. On October 13, health insurance provider Medibank revealed

hackers stole 200 gigabytes of data including details of customers' medical procedures. "When Australians are asked to hand over their personal data they have a right to expect it will be protected," Dreyfus said on Saturday. "Unfortunately, significant privacy breaches in recent weeks have shown existing safeguards are inadequate. It's not enough for a penalty for a major data breach to be seen as the cost of doing business." If passed by Parliament, the amendments to the Privacy Act would also give the national information commissioner greater powers to resolve data breaches.

Promoting India-Australian bilateral trade and investments, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari emphasised on the investing opportunities in India including the transport infrastructure sector.

Among various meetings in New South Wales, Sydney, Australia Gadkari had a fruitful interaction with Australian Senator Tim Ayres, Assistant Minister for Trade and Manufacturing.

Gadkari and Ayres discussed the "excellent investment opportunities" for Australian Investors in the Roads and Transport sector in India.

The Minister said the trade relations between the two nations are upbeat and win-win for both

the countries with technology and innovation being the key drivers for future growth.

Gadkari visited the Research Centre for Integrated Transportation Innovation (rCITI) at University of New South Wales, Sydney.

rCITI in collaboration with IAHE and Indian Mobility Industries will work together to build the Centre for Advanced Transportation Technology and Systems (CATTS) in India.

A testimony of the IndoAustralian Partnership, CATTS will serve as the Centre of Excellence to build capacities in the fields of smart transport systems.

The Minister had a meeting with the Team of AustraliaIndia Infrastructure Forum (AIIF) in Sydney, hosted by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).

Gadkari had a meeting with John Hopkins, CEO of Export Finance Australia.

Discussions pertained to effects of India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) on trade and bilateral investments between the two countries.

The Minister said India's export of goods and services to Australia will increase in the coming years with the fostering of a strong India-Australia Partnership.

New Delhi, Oct 21 (IANS)

Give a lot of credit to Allen for destroying Australian bowlers’ reputation: Conway

pressure with his power hitting.

Allen's short-and-belligerent stay at the crease lasted just 16 deliveries but he wreaked havoc, cracking 42 runs with the help of five boundaries and three sixes at an amazing strike rate of 262.50.

Sydney, Oct 23 (IANS) The way New Zealand opener Finn Allen went about the task of destroying the Australian bowlers in their ICC T20 World Cup Super-12 Group 1 match at the SCG here on Saturday unnerved the likes of stalwarts Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, said Devon Conway following the 89-run win against the defending champions. Conway, who himself struck a superb unbeaten 92 in New Zealand's morale-shattering win, when reminded that not many batters had got the better of the three best bowlers in the world, said they certainly form a "classy bowling attack" but Finn Allen put them under immense

Speaking about Allen's blitzkrieg, Conway said, "I think we certainly know they (Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood) are the big three there. Classy bowling attack, the three of them together. I have to give a lot of credit to Finn the way he played because the way he played and the way he put them under pressure allowed me to get those balls that were slightly looser. In T20 cricket, if you put bowlers under pressure, no matter how good you are, it's obviously quite a tough gig.

"Like I say, I think a lot of credit has to go to Finn for the way he played from ball 1. I think ball 2 he hit one for a boundary, and we were away. Yes, again, massive

credit to Finn," added Conway. With Steve Smith not in the playing XI to drop anchor once the Australian slide began, Conway was asked if the absence of the Australian stalwart made his task to score runs easier, given that there is always a comparison when the two best batters in the world are in opposite sides. Conway replied, his job was to score runs and it didn't involve "identifying opposition batters".

"Not necessarily, to be honest. Personally I just sort of look at who the bowlers are I'm playing against. My role doesn't really involve sort of identifying opposition batters. Yes, I am involved in the scouting, and we sort of talk about where the other players are going to bat, but we just saw the 11 that they picked, and we just sort of played whoever they presented to us. So we didn't really look too much into it," said Conway.

Relief efforts in Aus states to minimise flood impact

Sydney, Oct 24 (IANS) Australian middle-order batter Marcus Stoinis has said his side revels when the chips are down and promised a comeback following the defending champions' massive 89-run defeat against New Zealand in the ICC T20 World Cup Super-12 game at the Sydney Cricket Ground on October 22.

Riding on a flourishing start from Finn Allen (42) and Devon Conway

(92 not out), New Zealand blazed to 200 for the loss of just three wickets and then demolished the last edition's champions for 111 runs in 17.1 overs to complete the rout. "I saw 'Wadey' (Matthew Wade) spoke about that as well," Stoinis was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au, referring to the wicketkeeper-batter's comments he had always performed at his best when the chips were down.

"At the end of the day this is what we love to do -- we know that we've performed under pressure. We know that when our backs are against the wall we can pull out the performances we want. We trust ourselves and we trust each other. I think sometimes the environment helps create a bit of that." Australia now face a do-ordie scenario in Group 1 against Asia Cup champions Sri Lanka in Perth and the allrounder said his side thrives under pressure. In the event of New Zealand and England -- in the same group

as Australia -- don't drop points against Ireland, Sri Lanka or Afghanistan, Australia will need to win against the three sides and also defeat England if they are to stand a chance of progressing into the last-four.

Australia were the underdogs going into the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE but won their maiden Cup despite being soundly thrashed by England in the group stages. In the semifinal, they defeated Pakistan in a thriller where Stoinis and Wade snatched victory from the jaws of defeat with a 81-run partnership off 40 balls. That win was followed by a massive eight-wicket win against the Black Caps in the final.

"We still feel as though we have the right structure of team and we've got the right players to win the World Cup," Finch said.

"Whether you go in with an extra spinner or an extra quick, that's the only real decision to be made," added Stoinis.

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Melbourne, Oct 22 (IANS) Some eastern states of Australia have started recovery measures to minimise the negative impacts of the ongoing flood crisis.

The state government of New South Wales (NSW) has announced a new agricultural commodities permit, under which farmers can apply to have heavy vehicle access to all local roads, reports Xinhua news agency.

Noting that the recent rain wreaked havoc on the feed supply network and damaged pastures, NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said this initiative will better ensure access for heavy vehicles carrying larger loads to efficiently move fodder supplies to the farming community.

In Victoria, the state government rolled out specialized funding on Thursday to improve the healthcare staffing levels in the affected areas, noting that 200 hospital staff would be assigned to flood-affected areas for three months, 20 locum pharmacists to support small local pharmacies, and extra air ambulance transfers for patients and staff.

"Inundation isn't the only risk a

flood brings, it poses a serious threat to human health, so we're supporting our flood-affected communities to stay safe now and in the months of recovery to come," said Victoria's Minister for Emergency Services Jaclyn Symes. Meanwhile, the island state of Tasmania has waived the waste levy for 17 affected areas until December 31, to ensure the timely disposal of flood waste and the health of local communities.

While the relief efforts have been carried out, residents are still warned to prepare for widespread rain, thunderstorms and flood emergency in the coming days.

Currently, there are more than 90 flood warnings stretching across NSW, while Victoria and Tasmania have around 70 and 10, respectively.

Local authorities said on Saturday that a severe thunderstorm with heavy rainfall is forecast for northern Victoria, including its famous tourist destination Bendigo.

As river rises are expected, regions along rivers in parts of NSW and Tasmania may also face renewed flooding on the weekend.

Law takes effect in Aus state to better protect emergency workers

services and supporting those who selflessly serve in these critical roles," the state's Premier Dominic Perrottet said in a statement released on Thursday.

Sydney, Oct 20 (IANS) A new law aimed at better protecting frontline health and emergency services workers from assaults and violence has come into force in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW). Assaulting these workers will be met with tough new penalties, ranging from up to 12 months in prison and/or a fine of A$2,200 ($1,378), to a maximum of 14 years in jail for the worst offenders, Xinhua news agency reported.

"These new laws reinforce the NSW government's commitment to strengthening frontline

NSW Attorney General Mark Speakman said the new legislation is part of the state government's response to the report of the Assaults on Emergency Services Workers from NSW Sentencing Council, which had found a range of offences against emergency services workers across the state.

"The NSW government has ensured that firefighters from the NSW Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue NSW and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, pharmacy staff, community health workers and NSW State Emergency Service frontline workers are covered by the new offences, in recognition of the significant work they do for our community," Speakman added.

We thrive in pressure situations, says Stoinis as Australia face do-or-die situation against Sri Lanka

Xi Jinping shows he prizes loyalty over expertise and experience

The group sits at the very top of the CCP and is the Chinese equivalent of the presidential cabinet.

Apart from two men -- anticorruption chief Zhao Leji and political theorist Wang Huning -the rest are new to the team.

Premier Li Keqiang, the country's number two leader, was not seen -- he is among four men who have retired from the committee, BBC reported.

Li Qiang is currently the party secretary of Shanghai and oversaw the city's controversial lockdown where tens of millions experienced significant food shortages.

Some believe that by making him premier, this sends a signal that Xi does not prioritise economic activity.

Diwali to be public school holiday in NYC starting 2023

the world, and signifies victory of light over darkness and good over evil.

Beijing, Oct 23 (IANS) China's leader Xi Jinping has moved into a historic third term in power, as he revealed a new leadership team stacked with loyalists, the media reported.

On Sunday the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) unveiled its Politburo Standing Committee, with Xi re-elected as general secretary, the BBC reported.

Observers say the line-up, handpicked by Xi, shows he prizes loyalty over expertise and experience, BBC reported.

No other party leader besides CCP founder Mao Zedong has ever served a third term.

On Sunday, a day after the congress closed, Xi strode onto a stage in Beijing's Great Hall of the People trailed by the six other men of the Politburo Standing Committee.

Significant reshuffles of the standing committee after a term are common. But observers have noted that by getting rid of Li Keqiang and others, Xi has ensured he is now surrounded by a group where nobody with a different perspective to him has been included.

"He felt no need to assign a spot to an alternative faction, which shows his priority is projecting dominance over magnanimity, when he is facing international pushback," said Wen-ti Sung, a lecturer at the Australian National University.

Observers say the line-up shows that loyalty to Xi trumps ability and experience, flying in the face of the Communist Party's credo that it is a meritocracy.

But many believe that Li Qiang -- who walked out right behind Xi during the highly-choreographed ceremony - will become Premier and therefore the one to manage China's economy, BBC reported.

"This promotion alone is significant for us to reconsider the power structure of China under Xi's third term," said Professor Yang Zhang of the American University, pointing out that Li Qiang is the first official to be promoted without any working experience in central government.

Another standing committee appointment that has raised eyebrows is Cai Qi, the mayor of Beijing.

He was seen to have performed well when the capital successfully hosted the Winter Olympics earlier this year during the pandemic. But he also attracted controversy when he launched a plan in 2017 to reduce Beijing's population that ultimately forced out many low-income earners from the city, BBC reported.

"Cai was not even among the Communist Party's top 370 leaders before the last party congress. Now he is the fifth most powerful person in China," said Neil Thomas, senior China analyst of the Eurasia Group.

Biden-Speak lost in transit to Pakistan’

New York, Oct 21 (IANS) Diwali will be a public school holiday in New York City starting next year, Mayor Eric Adams announced at a press conference on Thursday with state assembly woman Jenifer Rajkumar.

They were joined by Department of Education chancellor David Banks. The announcement comes two days before the festival of lights, which falls on October 24.

“We are going to encourage children to learn about what is Diwali,” he added. “We’re going to have them start talking about what it is to celebrate the Festival of Lights, and how do you turn a light on within yourself,” Adams said. The festival is celebrated by more than a billion people around

“The time has come to recognise over 200,000 New Yorkers of the Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain faiths who celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights,” Rajkumar, who introduced legislation to recognise Diwali, said in the press conference. For over two decades, South Asians and IndoCaribbeans in New York have been fighting for a school holiday on Diwali.

“People have said that there’s simply not enough room in the New York City school calendar to have a Diwali school holiday,” the assemblywoman said. “Well, my legislation makes the room,” said Rajkumar, the first South Asian American woman elected to state-level office in New York.

The new school schedule will still have 180 school days, as is required by the state’s education laws, Rajkumar added.

Adding Diwali to the school calendar replaces the little-known Brooklyn-Queens Day -- which originated as a Protestant holiday celebrated in the 1800s.

Nationwide demonstrations in Iran continue for 33rd straight day

So, it is hardly surprising when a fleeting, off-the-cuff remark of US President Joe Biden was greeted with hysteria.

The US envoy in Islamabad was summoned for a dressing down at the Foreign Office. Political parties vied with each other in denouncing Biden for describing Pakistan as one of the "most dangerous nations" in the world. These theatrics looked like a bad joke because for the past few months Pakistan has been sending its senior ministers and the Army Chief to Washington for "resetting ties". The US has since issued a clarification on Biden's statement which said nothing about the country being among the "most dangerous nations", but expressed satisfaction about

Pakistan's capability to make its nuclear arsenal safe from the hands ofterrorists. The clarification is an indication of US desire to let bygones be bygones and not to continue with the controversy over the safety of Pakistani nukes. the fourth largest in the world. Like always, the naive Americans have conveniently overlooked the fact that while the Pakistan army may have the keys to the nuclear stockpile, many Pakistani scientists working on its nuclear programme (as also the middle order in the Army) are sympathetic to Islamists and their extreme views. In fact, soon after the US invasion of Afghanistan at least two top pro-Taliban nuclear scientists of Pakistan were sacked to please the White House. Pertinent to point out that America's inability not to look beyond the nose is paving the way for Pakistan's exit from the 'grey list of the FATF, the UN agency on money laundering and terrorism financing. The number of religious extremists in the Pakistan army can be assumed to be large. For one thing, the so-called professional army of Pakistan has Jihad in its curriculum. A clearer indication has come from the on-going tussle between former

Prime Minister Imran Khan and the establishment, which is a euphemism for the GHQ. Although Khan is depicted as a critic of the army the fact is that he has problem only with the top brass. Reports in public domain say middle level officers and the soldiers are pro-Imran because of his anti-American rhetoric. Some of these officers would soon be elevated to higher posts and be able to have a decisive say in matters that the army decides, including the destiny of the civilian rulers. It is not difficult to guess as to whether the promotion of the pro-jihad army officers would make Pakistan less or more 'dangerous'. It will certainly mean a step closer to Islamisation of Pakistan Army, a project initiated by dictator, Zia-ul-Haq, in the wake of Afghan jihad against the Soviet Army, and in pursuit of his own plan to make India bleed for its sin of facilitating the Bengali speaking East Pakistan emerge as a sovereign Bangladesh. Pakistan appeared to be wilting after ties with the US had plummeted to the bottom, following 9/11 but it was a short phase. Because, post-pullout of Afghanistan with bruised ego, the US has begun to again see Pakistan as an indispensible ally in the region.

Washington, Oct 20 (IANS) Nationwide demonstrations in Iran following the death of a young woman in police custody continued for 33rd consecutive day on Thursday, with overnight protests in Tehran, Sanandaj and Dehgolan, as citizens chanted ‘Death to Khamenei’, and students held rallies at several universities, local media reported.

U.N. human rights officials denounced the Islamic Republic’s violent crackdown on antigovernment protests as a violation of international law and called on Iranian authorities to end their deadly crackdown against peaceful demonstrators.

The protests started in midSeptember after the arrest and death days later of 22-year old Mahsa Amini. She had been held by Iran’s morality police for failing to properly cover her hair with a hijab.

The group Human Rights Iran said this week the death toll from the crackdown on the ongoing nationwide protests has so far reached at least 215, of which 27 were children, VOA reported.

Iran’s government has claimed Amini suffered a heart attack and was not mistreated. Her family said she had no history of heart trouble and that her body bore bruises and other signs of beating.

Meanwhile, citizens of 14 countries have been detained in connection with protests in recent weeks by Iran, a media outlet close to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reported on Wednesday. The report said those arrested include people from United States, Russia, Austria, France, the United Kingdom and Afghanistan.

Islamabad/New Delhi Oct 21 (IANS) Exaggeration and dramatics are Pakistans traits.

WORLD THIS WEEK

Ukraine: UN deems Russia’s referendums illegal

What does it mean?

First increasing support for Ukraine. Several countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE which have been seen trying to maintain good relations with Russia on bilateral levels even amidst the war voted for the resolution, thus indicating their support for Ukraine’s territorial sovereignty. From the BRICS grouping, even though only Brazil voted for the resolution and the other three states abstained, both India and China criticized Russia’s recent escalation in Ukraine and Russia’s targeting of civilian infrastructure, marking a shift in their neutral stances.

and training exchanges.

Will ensure Afghanistan never again serves as a safe haven for terrorist attacks, says President Biden; President Putin calls for working with the Taliban government.

On 12 October, the Biden Administration in its National Security Strategy said: “We will ensure Afghanistan never again serves as a safe haven for terrorist attacks on the United States or our allies and we will hold the Taliban accountable for its public commitments on counterterrorism.”

Separately, President Vladimir Putin, speaking at the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries, stated that Moscow will work with the current Afghan government to fight terrorism in the region. He said: “Cross-border relations of jihadists is a threat for all of us. Of course, we need to work with the current authorities of Afghanistan.”

Israel-Lebanon: Maritime border dispute reaches cessation after historic deal

presidential adviser. Al-Sudani rose to prominence within the Shia political leadership following the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. In advance of the muchanticipated session, at least nine rockets targeted the parliament building inside the Green Zone, wounding at least five people. The attack was swiftly condemned by the US and UK ambassadors to the country, with UK envoy Mark Bryson-Richardson tweeting the “violence has no part in the political process and state institutions must be allowed to operate.”

The US: IMF director calls for urgency and unity in dealing with financial risks looming across the globe

What happened?

On 12 October, the UN General Assembly voted on a resolution to deem the recent referendums conducted by Russia as illegal. 143 member states voted in favour of the resolution, 5 voted against and 35 members abstained. The countries supporting Russia were North Korea, Nicaragua, Syria and Belarus. South Africa, Vietnam, Thailand, Cuba, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, India and China were among the countries that abstained. This has been the biggest show of support by the UNGA to Ukraine so far.

Ahead of the vote, Russian UN Ambassador Vasily Nebenzia told the General Assembly that the

IN NEWS

China: UN representative calls for an investigation of human rights violation in the US

On 14 October, China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations Dai Bing took part in a participative dialogue with the Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights Ilze Brands Kehris at the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly. While addressing the institution, he called on the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to investigate the US for its violation of human rights in the country. Dai listed out “the genocide of Native Americans, systemic racial discrimination and police brutality against ethnic minorities, and unilateral coercive measures against developing countries” as the crimes of the US and a few other states.

South Korea: Russian immigrants denied entry into Korea

On 12 October, four yachts carrying 23 Russians were denied entry into South Korea. Out of 23, 21 were rejected by the Korean coast Guard. Two out of the 23 Russians were allowed access into

resolution was "politicized and openly provocative," and "could destroy any and all efforts in favor of a diplomatic solution to the crisis."

In a statement following the vote, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his gratefulness to the countries that supported the “historic UNGA resolution” and said: “The world had its say – [Russia’s] attempt at annexation is worthless and will never be recognized by free nations.” The US President Joe Biden said: “The stakes of this conflict are clear to all, and the world has sent a clear message in response – Russia cannot erase a sovereign state from the map.”

Second, the legitimacy of the referendum and resolution. The annexation of Crimea can serve as the perfect precedence for the 2022 annexations done by Russia. Like in the case of Crimea, the international community does not recognize Crimea as Russia’s part, but in the Russian consciousness, Crimea is an extension of their territory. Since a UNGA resolution is not legally binding, it remains to be seen whether Russia will accept the UNGA’s vote or continue to claim the four territories as rightful parts of Russia and continue.

the country due to prior travel. The others were denied because they couldn't provide any travel documents. Their reason for the visit was ambiguous. The first yacht was sighted on 01 October near Busan port. The migration resulted from Putin's decree of partial mobilization of 300,000 reservists. There is a high possibility that South Korea would send off any Russians entering the country on diplomatic and human rights issues.

Japan: Travel restriction lifted in Japan

On 11 October, the ban on visas to Japan was lifted. The ban was placed due to COVID-19 restrictions, which were recently taken off. People were allowed to travel for short-term business visits and tourism in Kyoto, Fukui, Osaka and Tokyo. People were also travelling to visit festivals in Japan. The ban on visas restricted travellers from entering Japan for two years. This measure drastically reduced the count of COVID-19 infections.

Myanmar: Aung San Suu Kyi gets imprisonment for another three years

On 12 October, A court in Myanmar sentenced Aung San Suu Kyi to three years additional in jail for corruption, extending her total prison term to 26 years. Suu Kyi was found guilty of receiving 500,000USD in bribes from a local businessman, a charge which was denied. It’s the first time she has been sentenced to hard labor since the 2021 coup. She was given the same punishment in a separate trial in 2009 but that sentence was commuted.

The Philippines: Indian Army agrees to provide cyber security and operational training to Army

On 11 October, the Indian Army agreed to sign with the Philippines to provide cyber security and operational training to the Philippines Army as the two nations further deepen their defense engagements. Indian Ambassador to the Philippines, Shambu Kumaran extended this offer during his courtesy call on the department of national defense meeting. He highlighted the importance of sustaining defense engagement between the two countries, particularly the high-level dialogue, education,

On 12 October, Lebanon’s deputy speaker revealed that Lebanon and Israel have reached a “historic” deal to end a longrunning maritime border dispute in the gas-rich Mediterranean Sea. The United States-brokered final draft of the deal which resolve a territorial dispute in the eastern tip of the Mediterranean Sea in an area where Lebanon aims to explore for natural gas, and near waters where Israel has already found commercially viable quantities of hydrocarbons. The US text has not been made public but under terms leaked to the press all of the Karish field would fall under Israeli control, while Qana would be divided but its exploitation would be under Lebanon’s control. Total would be licensed to search for gas in the Qana field, and Israel would receive a share of future revenues.

Iraq: Parliament elects new president after a year of deadlock

On 13 October, during her press briefing, IMF managing director, Kristalina Georgieva recalled shocks to world economy, from covid 19 to Russian invasion of Ukraine and climate disasters on every continent and posed question on whether the world economy is moving through fundamental shifts and from predictability to uncertainty and volatility. She gave example of India as a remaining hope and said: “India deserves to be called a bright spot on this otherwise dark horizon because it has been a fast-growing economy, even during these difficult times, but most importantly, this growth is underpinned by structural reforms.” Separately, as part of IMF and World Bank annual meetings, Maldivian president infirmed the meeting that twenty countries most vulnerable to climate change are considering halting their repayment of USD 685 billion in collective debt, loans that they say are an “injustice.”

The finance ministers are calling instead for a debt-for-nature swap, in which part of a nation’s debt is forgiven and invested in conservation.

On 13 October, lawmkers in parliament elected Kurdish politician Abdul Latif Rashid as the country’s new president and Shia politician Mohammed Shia al-Sudani was quickly named prime minister-designate, assuming the task of reconciling feuding Shia factions and forming a government after a year of deadlock. Rashid was the minister of water resources from 2003 to 2010 and has since served as a

About the Authors

Ankit Singh and Akriti Sharma are PhD Scholars in the School of Conflict and Security Studies at the National Institute of Advanced Studies. Avishka Ashok, Abigail Miriam Fernandes, Apoorva Sudhakar, Padmashree Anandhan Rishma Banerjee, Sai Pranav, Joel Jacob, Anu Maria are Research Associates at NIAS. Sethuraman Nadarajan, Bhoomika Sesharaj, and Madhura Mahesh are research interns at NIAS.

Contributed by A publication of the National Institute for Advanced Studies, Bengaluru Compiled by Ankit Singh, Akriti Sharma, Avishka Ashok, Abigail Miriam Fernandes, Apoorva Sudhakar, Padmashree Anandhan Rishma Banerjee, Sai Pranav, Joel Jacob, Anu Maria, Sethuraman Nadarajan, Bhoomika Sesharaj, and Madhura Mahesh

Free entry tests for Queensland Police Service enrolment

who may have previously been discouraged to apply because of the costs involved,” Minister Ryan said.

“This is just another example of how the Palaszczuk Government is acting to reduce the cost of living pressures.

“With a record $3 billion dollar police budget – the biggest investment in police in Queensland’s history - and free entry exams, there has never been a better time to join the Service.”

recruits to check out the driver training track, scenario village and indoor firearms range.

“For budding police in our north, come and see the North Queensland Police Academy, where you would complete your police training.”

Both events will provide a chance for attendees to chat to officers and see demonstrations from specialist areas such as Dog Squad, Water Police, Public Safety Response Team, Polair and more.

Shout out for schoolies volunteers

Brisbane, 25 October: Prospective police recruits will temporarily have their entry exam fee waived in an exciting proposal to encourage enrolment, create good jobs, and help aspiring recruits achieve their goal.

Police Minister Mark Ryan and Commissioner Katarina Carroll today announced the $215 Queensland Police Service Entry Assessment and the $20 Physical Fitness test will be free for the next six months for all recruithopefuls

Pre-employment medical screening and assessment costs will remain applicable.

Minister Ryan said he was confident the decision to remove $235 of testing fees would further enrolment and create opportunities for more Queenslanders.

“Waiving entry testing fees is a great motivator for people

Commissioner Carroll said removing the fees would give more people the opportunity to join the Service, as she revealed the QPS will soon host the biggest Open Day events in the Service’s history.

“We want to encourage every single person who is considering a career in policing to come forward and realise their potential,” Commissioner Carroll said.

“Removing potential barriers, such as the costs of cognitive and physical testing will certainly make it easier for people to apply, while our Wacol and Townsvillebased Open Days on November 5 will give potential recruits a real taste of what it’s like to be a police officer.

“The facilities at the Bob Atkinson Operational Capabilities Centre in Wacol are world-leading and this is a chance for potential

Minister Ryan said the events were a fantastic opportunity to see the breadth and variety of a career in policing.

“Whether you’re curious about this career or you’re ready to get signed off on your free physical testing and kick start your application on the day, there will be something for everyone at this event.

“Policing can be a lifelong career with many different pathways. For anyone out there seeking real purpose, direction and meaning from their career, I really encourage you to join us on November 5 for a sensational day.”

Registration for the QPS Open Days is free. To find out more, visit: QPS_Recruiting.eventbrite. com

For more information about a rewarding career with the Queensland Police, visit: policerecruit.com.au

Tough new laws introduced to crack down on child sex offenders

target children. “It is a very alarming and disturbing trend,” Minister Ryan said.

“Currently advanced anonymising software exists, such as virtual private networks and hidden phone applications, allowing these predators to remain invisible online, hiding evidence of their child sex offending.”

who have been convicted of failing to comply with their reporting obligations to report those details to police within seven days. Police Minister Mark Ryan said the new laws were another tool the Queensland Police Service could use to pursue child sex offenders.

Brisbane, 20 October: Preparations for the country’s biggest end of school celebrations are gearing up, with the Palaszczuk Government today putting out the call for volunteers to help soon-to-be graduates celebrate their achievements safely.

Youth Affairs Minister Meaghan Scanlon said hundreds of volunteers were needed on the Gold Coast to give a helping hand at the free schoolies entertainment hub and writsband centre, as well as provide support for graduates through food preparation, roving street patrols, a safe escort to their accommodation and other support services.

“Schoolies is a time for celebration – of the hard work of our amazing students, and of the bright future they have ahead of them – and the last thing we want is for those celebrations to turn sour,” Minister Scanlon said.

“Schoolies is a rite of passage for so many Queenslanders and a huge boon for local tourism providers, supporting good jobs and promoting our great lifestyle.

“As someone who celebrated Schoolies just over 10 years ago, I can remember seeing the important work the vollies did to help us have not just a good time, but also a safe time.

Ballin, who is preparing for his fifteenth year of assisting schoolies, authorities and other volunteers at the Gold Coast, says he loves helping out.

“It started back in the nineties when I was a groundsman at the Palm Beach State School and a couple of parents had some of their high school children attending Schoolies,” Mr Ballin said.

“They asked if I would like to assist them, and we made up the team and it was great to see that many young people having a good time.

“I worked closely with the parents who actually met their teenagers during our rounds and I was very happy to see that Schoolies was well run with all the support teams.

“It is an important time for schoolies, for the Gold Coast and for the parents and the volunteers who work hard to make sure the schoolies are looked after and can enjoy themselves.”

Palm Beach volunteer Jodie Smith joined the Safer Schoolies Response Team in 2021 because she lived in Surfers Paradise at the time and acts as a mentor to lots of young educators.

Brisbane, 23 October: The Palaszczuk Government will introduce even tougher measures to hunt down child sex offenders. The new laws will support police efforts to stop reportable offenders using the latest online technology to offend against children. Police will have expanded powers to enter the residence of a reportable offender to undertake a digital device inspection. Disturbingly, police advise there has been an increasing trend in child sex offenders using new web technology and the anonymity of on-line offending to harm children. Police Minister Mark Ryan said since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, police keep discovering child sex offenders using new web technology to

The Child Protection (Offenders Reporting and Offender Prohibition Order) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2022 to be introduced to Parliament this week targets technologybased offending. In a first for Australia the new measures will seek to prevent and seriously disrupt these practices by:

> expanding police powers to enter the residence of a reportable offender to undertake a digital device inspection;

> requiring reportable offenders to disclose their use of anonymising software, vault and black hole applications and their media access control (MAC) address;

> introducing a new offence with penalties of up to five year imprisonment for failing to comply with a requirement to produce a digital device for a device inspection; and requiring reportable offenders

“These offenders are the lowest of the low, and I am determined they’ll have nowhere to hide,” Minister Ryan said. “As technology changes, it is critical police are given the tools they need to keep the pressure on child sex offenders.

“The QPS has been doing an outstanding job in its seemingly never-ending quest against this despicable behaviour. “It is incredibly complex, and stressful, for the officers and any way in which the Government can help legislatively we absolutely do that.

“I have the utmost admiration for the police who identified the need for these changes to further protect children in our community." Crime and Intelligence Command Detective Acting Chief Superintendent Denzil Clark welcomes these laws as an additional mechanism to monitor, disrupt and prevent repeat offending by reportable offenders.

“As a vollie, you’ll be the first point of contact for many school leavers who need assistance meeting up with their friends, getting to the entertainment, accessing support services or even just being a listening ear.

Minister Scanlon said the response volunteers will work closely with community organisations, local and state government agencies to deliver vital safety and support services to those celebrating on the Gold Coast.

“Safer Schoolies volunteers provide a friendly face that young people can trust, to give advice and support when needed. Volunteers also occasionally help emergency service personnel.

“This is a rewarding way for people to help keep young Queenslanders, and the broader community, keep safe while learning new skills and gaining community service experience.”

Long-term volunteer Manfred

“I received a high level of support and communication across the whole experience, and new volunteers such as myself were teamed up with experienced volunteers who were willing to share their knowledge and experience on the ground,” Ms Smith said.

“The level of support for the school leavers completely exceeded my expectations and I saw firsthand the hugely positive impacts the Safer Schoolies Response Team has.

“This could be as simple as handing out a bottle of water, or providing advice or directions, and I’m looking forward to returning this year with lots to give and even more to learn.”

This year’s event will run from Saturday 19 November to Friday 25 November 2022 and volunteers at Schoolies must be aged 19 or over, undergo training, be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and hold a valid Blue Card.

To register visit: MyImpactPage - Application Form - Safer Schoolies Gold Coast Response (betterimpact.com)

K’taka gears up for Global Investors Meet; Modi to inaugurate event

Gadkari," Karnataka's Minister for Large & Medium Industries, Murugesh R. Nirani said at a press conference here on Thursday.

The Global Investors Meet will be a platform to join industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers from all over the globe to explore new growth possibilities. This year's meet will focus on getting intellectuals, political leaders, and business leaders to carve out the development agenda.

the globe.

"With the key themes of resilience, innovation, sustainability, and equity, we are committed to setting Karnataka's development agenda in line with global best practices and showcasing our strong ability to 'Build for the World'.

Female participation in organised workforce registers rise

rejoined EPFO by changing their jobs within the establishments covered by EPFO and opted to transfer their funds from previous PF account to the current account instead of submitting claims for final settlement. This may be attributed to various e-initiatives taken by EPFO for seamless and uninterrupted service delivery.

Bengaluru, Oct 20 (IANS) The Basavaraj Bommai-led Karnataka government is making all preparations to make 'Invest Karnataka 2022-Global Investors Meet' -- which is just 10 days away from now -- a successful one, officials said on Thursday.

The event would be virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 2.

"It would be attended by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Ministers Smiriti Irani, Bhagwanth Khuba and Nitin

"The Global Investors Meet will showcase the robust industrialfriendly ecosystem, attract investments from global players, and spread industrialization across the state. The state is expecting over Rs 5 lakh crore in investments and the generation of 5 lakh jobs through the event," Nirani said.

The minister said that the state was looking at forging partnerships with various business houses across India and

"We have recently completed international roadshows in Japan, South Korea, the US, and Europe and domestic roadshows in Delhi, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. Our aim is not only to get investments but to bring the industry giants under one platform. We are expecting around 5,000+ global delegates to attend the Meet. The GIM with contemporary themes will be an opportunity to connect, collaborate and network with global leaders," he added.

For the Global Investors Meet, a total of 50,000 acres of land -- 20,000 acres in Bengaluru and 30,000 acres across the state has been earmarked.

Air India moves forward on fiveyear transformation roadmap

ground, engineering and airport services, rostering and operations control, talent will be added to all the sections.

New Delhi, Oct 20 (IANS) Female participation in the organised workforce has recorded a rise in the month of August as net membership of women in organised workforce has increased by 22.60 per cent in August 2022 as compared with the corresponding period last year.

The provisional payroll data of EPFO released on Thursday showed an increase of 14.40 per cent in net membership addition in August 2022 as compared to the corresponding month during last year in 2021. Employee provident fund organisation has added 16.94 lakh net members in the month of August 2022.

Of the total 16.94 lakh members added during the month, around 9.87 lakh new members have come under the ambit of EPFO for the first time. Out of 9.87 lakh new members added, approximately 58.32 per cent are from the agegroup of 18-25 years of age.

Gender-wise analysis of payroll data indicates that enrolment of net female members has been 3.63 lakh in August, 2022.

State-wise payroll figures highlighted that month-onmonth growing trend in net member addition was observed in states of Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar etc. During the month, the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Gujarat and Delhi continue to remain in lead by adding approximately 11.25 lakh net members during the month, which is 66.44 per cent of the total net payroll addition across all age groups.

The classification of industrywise payroll data indicates that mainly two categories including 'Expert services' (consisting of manpower agencies, private security agencies and small contractors etc.) and 'TradingCommercial establishments' constitute 47.03 per cent of total member addition during the month.

New Delhi, Oct 20 (IANS)

Moving forward on its five-year transformation roadmap, Air India, which had not recruited in the non-operations areas for more than 15 years, has started adding talent in all spheres of its business.

The airline's aggressive expansion plan, which has already seen 17 long-grounded aircraft return to the skies with 12 more to follow, and the lease-in of 30 narrowand wide-body aircraft over the next 12 months, also necessitates a significant expansion in flying crew. The first phase of this initiative to augment talent has received an overwhelming response. Over 1,752 applications for pilots and 72,000 applications for cabin crew have been received in the last two months, which are in the process of assessment.

Interest from management post-graduates with three years' experience to fill ground based-business roles has been similarly strong, with over 25,000 applications received in little more than one week. On appointment, those selected will be placed in various functions in Air India, including airport operations, commercial, engineering and human resources among others, and will form an important part of Air India's internal talent and future leadership pipeline.

Whether it is commercial functions like revenue management, sales, distribution, network planning and marketing or Business Support Services, including HR, finance, IT and analytics; as well as Operations, spanning inflight product design,

Placing high priority on becoming a world leader in information technology, Air India has received more than 2,000 applications for a New Tech centre at Kochi, Kerala, including developers, architects, cyber security professionals, programme managers and UX/ visual designers among others.

Commenting on the focus on next-gen talent acquisition, Suresh Dutt Tripathi, Chief Human Resources Officer, Air India, said, "An entire generation of workforce has missed the opportunity to work for Air India due to limited recruitment over the years. We are seeking to make up for this organisational gap as we work to make Air India the world's leading airline with customer focus at the heart of its operations.

"Our talent acquisition initiative is focused on identifying and recruiting the right talent in order to ensure that our human resource capabilities keep pace with the growth momentum and evolving needs of the organisation."

This age-group signifies a crucial stage for an individual's potential in terms of earning capacity and joining organised workforce in large numbers following their education.

The data shows that during the month, approximately 7.07 lakh net members exited but

Comparing industry-wise data with that of previous month, higher enrolments have been noticed in industries namely, 'Electrical, Mechanical or General Engineering Products', 'Electronic Media Companies in Private Sector', 'University', 'Financing Establishment', etc.

‘Vast GST system needs trained tax professionals with practical skill’

New Delhi, Oct 20 (IANS) While the government pays special attention to tax management for resource mobilisation, there is a huge need for skilled tax professionals to support the government's GST (Goods and Services Tax) system, as per experts. The scope of GST has widened over the years, however, a gap has been observed in skilled tax professionals to cater to the demand. In this context, E-learning platform Tax4Wealth has prepared various training courses related to GST with a special focus on imparting practical skill training in the line of Skill India Mission. Himanshu Kumar, CEO, Tax4Wealth said that the GST is a revolutionary step by the government and its scope has increased over the

period. "In such a situation, there will be a huge demand for expert tax professionals in the context of GST in the near future. We have found that most of the professions have only theoretical training about the tax system. But, there is a need for proper practical training given the wide applicability of the GST."

About the skilling model of the E-learning platform, he said: "Our focus is more on learning through practical training so that tax professionals could get firsthand knowledge of the GST system and its working. Employment opportunities for trained tax professionals have been rising. But, the truth is that only skilled and trained professionals will be able to avail the opportunities."

He said that resources are needed for the smooth functioning of government systems. There were many discrepancies in the context of indirect tax in India. The GST i.e. Goods and Services Tax system was brought in to remove which and to implement 'One Nation One Tax System' in India.

New Delhi, Oct 20 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Thursday asked the Base Hospital, Delhi Cantonment, to provide adequate treatment to an ex-defence personnel who alleged that he contracted HIV from the blood transfusion given to him at a military hospital in 2002, and now has AIDS.

The petitioner-in-person submitted before a bench headed by Chief Justice U.U. Lalit that as per lab report and the NACO guidelines, he is an AIDS patient. He contended that he is not

getting treatment, although he has brought on record all documents, and pointed out that the blood transfusion took place in 2002 at a military hospital.

The bench, also comprising Justice Bela M. Trivedi, asked the petitioner to visit Base Hospital for medical examination to avail adequate treatment. It asked the doctors at the Base Hospital to check the petitioner's present medical status and provide him with medical assistance, and asked the authorities concerned to submit a report to the court.

It was argued before the apex court that petitioner did not get medical facilities for his condition, when he earlier reported at Base Hospital, Delhi Cantonment. In 2014, the authority concerned conducted the HIV test, however the test results established that the petitioner was not HIV positive.

The petitioner contended that the same year, he went through

another test where he was found positive for HIV. The top court was informed that the concerned authority does not have the entire record of the matter, in view of the policy of not retaining documents beyond a certain period. The top court also allowed the petitioner to bring on record all documents related to his medical expenses so that it could be reimbursed by the concerned authority after verification.

It noted that earlier the respondent authority was asked to submit the material indicating the source or name and details of the person who had donated the blood, which was used for transfusion. The top court asked the authorities to test the donor and submit the report to it.

The Centre's counsel assured the top court that the petitioner will be provided the medical assistance. The top court has scheduled the matter for further hearing on November 22.

3rd Covid vax dose highly effective in patients with cirrhosis: Study

should be encouraged to receive a third dose for effective protection because it appears to be highly effective against severe outcomes of Covid-19.

"Patients with cirrhosis are particularly vulnerable to the impact of Covid-19, presenting higher hospitalization and mortality rates compared to those without liver disease," said lead author Binu V. John from the University of Miami in the US.

1273 vaccines at the Veterans Health Administration between December 18, 2020 and February 11, 2022, when the delta and omicron variants were active.

Around 13,000 participants who received three doses of the vaccine were propensity-matched with 13,000 controls who had received two doses.Patients who received three doses were evaluated for the development of Covid-19 and disease severity.

Jakarta, Oct 20 (IANS) Indonesia has temporarily suspended the circulation of all liquid medicines after 99 children died of acute kidney injury, while 206 cases were detected in 20 provinces, the Health Ministry said.

"The number of cases has increased in children since late August, especially those aged less than six years. Some cases are

accompanied by symptoms such as diarrhoea, coughing, nausea, or vomiting," Ministry spokesman Mohammad Syahril told reporters here on Wednesday.

The spokesman emphasised that the cases were not related to Covid-19 vaccines, reports Xinhua news agency.

Recently, about 70 children in Gambia died from acute kidney injury, which were allegedly related to the diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol content in four Indian-made cough syrups. But Indonesia's food and drug regulatory agency BPOM confirmed these drugs were not registered in the country.

The authorities said an investigation is underway.

However, the Indian Medical Association, Andhra Pradesh chapter, has opposed the decision of the Madhya Pradesh government to teach MBBS courses in the Hindi language.

New York, Oct 20 (IANS) Among cirrhosis patients, receiving a third dose of the vaccine was associated with an 80 per cent reduction in overall Covid-19 and a 100 per cent reduction in the severe course of the infection or death, says a new report.

The study, published in the Journal of Hepatology, suggested that patients with cirrhosis

"These findings inspired us to focus on the next question: What is the additional benefit of booster doses in cirrhosis, and particularly against the delta and omicron variants," John added.

For the study, the team performed a retrospective cohort study of patients with cirrhosis who received two or three doses of either the Pfizer BNT162b2 mRNA or Moderna mRNA-

The findings showed that the receipt of the third dose of either the BNT162b2 mRNA or the mRNA-1273 vaccines is associated with an 80 per cent decrease in the development of Covid-19 and symptomatic Covid-19, and a 100 per cent reduction in severe or critical Covid-19 and Covid19-related death, compared to participants with cirrhosis who received only 2 doses.

Tobacco consumption causes osteoporosis, say experts

those above 40 years of age.

Prof Shah Waliullah, senior faculty at the orthopaedic department of King George's Medical University (KGMU), said, "Bones have two types of cells called osteoclasts and osteoblasts. They are responsible for making and breaking bones. Osteoclasts are the cells that break bones in so that they can be remodelled, while osteoblasts form new bones after breakage done by the prior and this procedure keeps going on continuously."

osteoblasts decrease. Eventually, it causes Osteoporosis because bone density goes down.

Another orthopaedic surgeon at KGMU, Dr Mayank Mahindra said, "We see this tobacco-induced osteoporosis among middle aged patients. They often start consuming tobacco in their teens and by the age of 35-40 years, they get this disease."

Bhopal, Oct 19 (IANS) Even though the pilot project of MBBS courses in Hindi is yet to take off in Madhya Pradesh although three text books (translated version) have been released, doctors in some government-run hospitals have started giving prescriptions in Hindi. One such prescription was made by a doctor in Damoh district hospital.

In a press release, its president Dr C Srinivasa Raju said that despite the National Medical Commission's (NMC) earlier warning of not recognising MBBS education imparted in Hindi, the MP government has announced introducing the same in Gandhi Medical College, Bhopal from the next academic session i.e. from 2022-2023. The confirmation regarding this was given by the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister, he said.

As dengue cases rise, no leave for UP doctors

Pathak, who also holds the health portfolio, has asked health officials to set up dedicated desks to handle patients complaining of fever. "Cases of fever should be attended to separately. Such patients should not be made to wait in long queues," he said.

Lucknow, Oct 20 (IANS) The Director General (DG) of medical health office has issued a directive stating that leave of doctors and paramedical staff associated with government hospitals in Uttar Pradesh should not be approved.

This has been done in view of dengue outbreak and the upcoming festival season.

The Minister asked officials to facilitate easy registration and check-up for fever cases and provide such patients with seven to 15 days of medicines as per the need. He also pointed out that the state is reporting lesser number of dengue cases this year as compared to the last year.

According to medical experts, prolonged tobacco consumption reduces bones' ability to maintain and repair and they get weak and prone to fractures, especially

However, it is seen that in those who consume tobacco for a long time, be it in the form of smoking or chewing, the number of osteoclasts increases while

Prof Vikram Singh of Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences (RMLIMS) said, "Quitting smoking and other forms of tobacco consumption while maintaining a healthy lifestyle can prevent osteoporosis."

A letter sent by the DG to chief medical officers, additional directors, and heads of all government hospitals states: "Keeping in view dengue cases and upcoming festivals, leave to doctors and paramedical staff should not be allowed unless the circumstances are unavoidable."

Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh

"Hospitals have reserved beds for dengue cases. All measures should be taken to prevent the spread of the mosquito-borne disease," he directed. Earlier, a high-level team from the Union Health Ministry was sent to Uttar Pradesh for instituting measures with regards to dengue management in Firozabad, Agra, and Etawah districts

Indonesia temporarily suspends liquid medicines after 99 kids die of acute kidney injury

Ex-defence personnel says got HIV in blood transfusion, SC directs adequate treatment

MBBS in Hindi yet to take off, but doctors in MP start using it in prescriptions

Iran to export 40 homegrown gas turbines to Russia

Salehabadi announced that the Tehran Stock Exchange had launched the rial-ruble trading, official news agency IRNA reported.

About a month later, he said Tehran and Moscow will expand the use of national currencies in transactions to other areas of bilateral trade, semi-official Fars News Agency reported.

Weekly storage of natural gas in US increases: EIA

decreased by 3.1 per cent from this time last year, or down 5.2 per cent from the five-year average, Xinhua news agency reported, citing the EIA's Weekly Natural Gas Storage Report.

The storage of working gas in the US usually turns to decrease in November and continues to drop in April when heating season ends in the country, according to previous data.

Tehran, Oct 24 (IANS) Iran has signed a contract with Russia to export 40 homegrown gas turbines to the country. Iran is now capable of meeting 85 per cent of its domestic needs for gas equipment and facilities, and its gas production has doubled despite the severe US sanctions, Shana news agency quoted Reza Noshadi, head of Iran Gas Engineering and Development Company, as saying.

Iran and Russia have in recent years expanded their cooperation in different areas.

In July, the two countries signed a memorandum of understanding, according to which Russia is expected to invest about $40 billion in Iran's petroleum industry, Xinhua news agency reported, citing the Shana's report.

In late July, Governor of the Central Bank of Iran Ali

In late August, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Russia and Iran are finalising a comprehensive document on their cooperation.

"We are satisfied with the way our bilateral relations are developing. They are reaching a new qualitative level, which will be fixed in a large agreement between the two countries," Lavrov said at a joint briefing following his meeting with his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in Moscow.

Houston, Oct 21 (IANS) Working gas storage in the contiguous US was 3,342 billion cubic feet in the week ending October 14, a net increase of 111 billion cubic feet from the previous week, the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) has said in a latest report.

The total working gas storage

Working gas is defined as the amount of natural gas stored underground that can be withdrawn for use. Its storage capacity can be measured in two ways: design capacity and demonstrated maximum working gas capacity.

The contiguous US consists of the country's 48 adjoining states, plus the District of Columbia, and excludes the non-contiguous states of Alaska and Hawaii, and all off-shore insular areas.

is becoming more prevalent throughout the world. Due to the potential for AI to fundamentally alter the nature of the current state of international security, India is also undertaking the necessary preparations for its military forces.

Spain, France and Portugal agree on gas pipeline link

Ahmedabad, Oct 23 (IANS)

Humanoid robots armed with lethal weapons or unmanned tanks and submarines may have seemed like a realm of pure science fiction, just a few years ago. But now with advances in artificial intelligence (AI), arms control is a challenging but very promising application. India is prioritising AI as a key component of its national security strategy given US & China's significant advancements in AI-based research. India is well promoting its AI-based innovation and building infrastructure that is AI-ready in order to secure its strategic and national security interests. The country's defence establishment is now working towards harnessing the expertise of the information technology industry and are advancing also in the field of small arms that have always been limited to mechanical or technical improvements.

There haven't been any gamechanging improvements in technology of small arms in the last few years. But taking a cue from countries like the US and China that are focusing on AI and MI (machine learning) to develop lethal autonomous weapons systems (LAWS), Adani Defence

and Aerospace, along with its partner Israel Weapon Industries (IWI), have unveiled India's first AI based firing system 'ARBEL", the next-generation small arms solution at the DefExpo 2022 being held at Gandhinagar.

Soldier lethality and survivability are increased by ARBEL, a weapon-embedded Intelligent Fire Control System (IFCS) based on motion sensors. It contains a rechargeable (field-level changeable) battery, control unit, motion and trigger sensors, and microprocessor. The system doesn't need a particular optical component to work and can be mounted on and combined with a variety of assault rifles and machine guns, including the TAVOR, ACE, and NAGEV.

The user can choose the upper receiver and optic combination that best suits the mission at hand. It offers a range of capabilities, including rapid, accurate, and lethal fire, increased hit probability and lethality in stressful combat situations and from less-thanideal shooting positions, quick strikes on the enemy, proven effectiveness in all terrains of conflict, and environmental adaptability. AI-driven warfare

Additionally, Ashish Rajvanshi, CEO of Adani Defence & Aerospace, said that ARBEL is the next-generation small weapons solution for enhancing the dismounted operator's lethality and survivability by correctly engaging targets in a condensed window of opportunity while under stress and exhaustion.

Simply put, the AI system reads and records the target, position, and recoil of the weapon as the user fires the first round. When the subsequent rounds are fired at the same target, this information is then utilised.

The method gives the user total flexibility in addition to being prepared for fight. In other words, the user has the option to deactivate it during a battle. The weapon will also function correctly even if the ARBEL battery runs out.

It doesn't require much training, and the weapon doesn't need to be reconfigured. With zero adaption time, it aids in the creation of fully customised weapon profiles. Considering the evolving dynamics and today's modern warfare, it is necessary to ensure that our soldiers possess such leading technologies to safeguard the nation. Through this platform, Adani Defence & Aerospace continues to demonstrate its dedication to developing cuttingedge technology that will assist defend the country and safeguard our troops.

Spain, France and Portugal have agreed to cooperate on the project, Sanchez was quoted as saying by Xinhua news agency.

Speaking on his return to Spain on Thursday after attending an EU summit on the energy crisis,

Sanchez said that the pipeline will hugely increase the volume of the two existing links between Spain and France. It will also help to transport green hydrogen and gas during the transition period Europe needs until it increases its capacity for renewables.

The "Green Energy Corridor" will connect Barcelona to Marseilles in southern France. It replaces the "MidCat" scheme, which was dropped in 2019 due to concerns over costs and regulations.

The ongoing energy crisis, caused by the conflict in Ukraine and uncertainties over supplies from Russia, has led to the revival of plans to ship gas through Portugal and Spain (which is connected by pipeline to Algeria).

Spain has spent several months pushing for the project, which is also supported by Germany. As well as its Algerian pipeline, Spain also has a high capacity for converting liquid natural gas (LNG), with 6 LNG terminals.

BMW adds EV battery capacity in Germany

London, Oct 23 (IANS) After releasing plans to scale EV and battery production in the US, BMW has announced it would also be adding a new battery assembly line and new cell varnishing lines at its plant in Germany's Leipzig.The luxury automaker says the batteries will be used for its fully electric Mini Countryman crossover, reports the auto-tech website Electrek. Earlier, a report said that BMW was moving production of its

electric Mini models from the UK to Germany and China to streamline production. Now, the luxury automaker is announcing adding additional battery capacity ahead of several highly anticipated Mini EV launches. The 100 per cent electric version of the Mini Countryman is expected to debut in 2023, and will also be produced at the Leipzig plant. The investment includes $1 billion to prepare for producing electric vehicles at the company's existing US manufacturing facility in South Carolina and $700 million to build a new high-voltage battery assembly facility near Woodruff there.

Madrid, Oct 21 (IANS) A gas pipeline is to be built connecting Iberia to France and the rest of Europe, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has confirmed.

Adani Defence and Aerospace, Israel Weapon Industries unveil India’s first AI-based futuristic firing System

From the editor's desk Cricket Combines Us!

Sunak’s first speech shows that many challenges ahead

By Asad Mirza

Cricket is not just a sport, it is no less than religion in India. The festivity and emotions around cricket are palpable in almost every Indian state during major cricket tournaments. The fanfare that cricketers command in India is tremendous. Names like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan and Hardik Pandya among many others are larger than life and need no introduction. The love for the sport has gained even more traction in India with the advent of the T20 format that is quick, eye-catching and even more glamourous. While India versus Pakistan was scheduled for the 23rd of October, just a day before Diwali, India’s biggest festival, it was no wonder that Diwali celebrations were contingent on the outcome of the match. And it was indeed a Happy Diwali for India! The streets in India are testimonies to India’s victories and defeats. Streets swelling with people singing and dancing with joy means India’s won a match and vice-versa.

Transcending oceans and borders, there is a very similar craze for cricket that grips Australia, one of the nations that has hitherto performed much better than India in the T20 format. It is a delight to watch Steve Smith, Glenn Maxwell, David Warner and Tim David among other Australian cricketers adorn and perform on their home turf at iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground and Sydney Cricket Ground among others. The excitement around cricket can be easily felt here in Australia

with pubs, bars and restaurants witnessing a spike in their businesses whenever Australia wins a match.

The green stadiums are glittering with even greater euphoria with Diwali and other major India festivals converging with Halloween. Sports is indeed consolidating the bond between the two nations attested by the visit of India’s Foreign Minister earlier this month. With Australia hosting the second-most number of international students and the second-highest proportions of diasporas from India vis-à-vis other countries, the camaraderie between the two nations is then not just limited to cricket. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue is a cornerstone partnership for our economic, energy and educational ties, common interests in securing the IndoPacific region and deepening diplomatic relations. When it comes to finding common ground between two vastly different countries, the cult of cricket is forever uniting and amalgamating India and Australia. Cricket is a topic that can be an icebreaker for a common Indian frequenting a venue full of local Aussies in Australia and viceversa, just as it is the starting point of dialogues between the leaders of the two nations. With social media accounts of both Modi and Albanese abuzz with congratulatory messages with regards to the World Cup, the game of cricket goes beyond just sports and holds the key to the fortune of the relationship between the two countries.

The Conservative Party of the UK showed a lot of grit in finalizing the name of Rishi Sunak, as the new prime minister of the country very quickly, bringing an end to Liz Truss's short tenure as the prime minister riddled with bad decisions.

Rishi Sunak has become the UK's 57th prime minister, the first prime minister to be a British Asian, the first Hindu, and the richest person to have held the office.

Former prime minister David Cameron had exuded confidence in 2014 when he had prophesied to see a British Asian taking on his role his lifetime.

Lo and behold, the words came true in just eight years.

The Conservative Party selected the newest British prime minister in just four days, after the previous prime minister Liz Truss's resignation on October 20.

Her shortest 44 days tenure left behind a trail of rising inflation, rising borrowing costs and predicted deficits on a massive scale, which will likely require either significant tax increases, spending cuts or both.

The last chapter of Liz Truss's tenure unfolded on the same lines as it happened during the last days of the previous prime minister Boris Johnson.

In BoJo's case the crisis was precipitated by the resignation of his then Chancellor of Exchequer, Rishi Sunak and in Truss's case it snowballed after the resignation of her Home Secretary Suella Braverman.

Rishi Sunak after getting an invite from King Charles III to form the next government tweeted that he'll fulfill promises listed in the Conservative Party's election manifesto in 2019, saying: "I

will deliver on (our manifesto's) promise. A stronger NHS, better schools, safer streets, control of our borders, protecting our environment, supporting our armed forces, leveling up, and building an economy that embraces the opportunities of Brexit where businesses invest, innovate and create jobs."

Sunak acknowledged that in light of everything that has transpired, he still has work to do to rebuild confidence.

He declared: "I'm not daunted." He also said he understands the strain of the high position and that he'll not leave the next generation with a "debt to settle that we were too weak to pay ourselves".

In his first speech as UK prime minister, Sunak declared that his administration would uphold integrity, professionalism and accountability at every level and pledged economic stability and increasing public's confidence in the government.

But his most important task would be to unite a governing party that is riven with divisions, apart from tackling a mounting economic crisis, a warring political party and a deeply divided country.

The Conservative Party, despite having suffered a series of recent by-election defeats, still maintains a working parliamentary majority of 71, meaning that Britain's next

general election could conceivably come as late as January 2025. Apart from the demands of the opposition's Labour Party, other voices are also increasing in intensity demanding the Conservatives to go in for a general election. In fact, Sunak has become a prime minister without the public support, as he was voted to be an MP not a PM.

Meanwhile in India, the news of Sunak becoming the prime minister on the auspicious day of Diwali was greeted with joy. The social media exploded in a series of accolades for Sunak, his family and his in-laws.

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted: "As you become UK PM, I look forward to working closely together on global issues, and implementing Roadmap 2030," referring to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) struck between the two countries and which was expected to be signed and delivered last week, before Diwali.

Meanwhile, India's arch rival Pakistan's public also laid claim to Sunak, describing him as a Pakistani, as his parents belonged to Gujranwala, now in Pakistan. Twitterati even urged the Pakistani government to lay claim to him as a Pakistani.

India has high hopes from Sunak to change the dimensions of the bilateral relationship. But Indian politicians need to understand that Sunak is not an Indian by birth and his outlook is more attuned to being a British citizen.

His Britishness helped him to achieve professionally as a banker and as a politician, what he is today. So his total outlook towards India would be a pragmatic one, not an emotional one.

One can't see him undoing what his predecessors had done in the past. But perhaps a new king and a new prime minister might be able to start a new chapter in the bilateral relations and may change the overall view of the British policy towards India and Indians in the UK.

Only time would tell.

(Asad Mirza is a political commentator based in New Delhi. He writes on Indian Muslims, educational, international affairs, interfaith and current affairs. He can be contacted on www. asadmirza.in)

7 effective ways to cope with anxiety and depression

With World Mental Health Day recently observed on the 10th of October and T20 World Cup around the corner, the world also lately witnessed one of the numero unos of Indian Sport, Virat Kohli, opening up about his struggles with mental health. Here are 7 effective ways to cope with anxiety and depression. Acknowledge the fact that you are not feeling okay

The earlier you acknowledge the fact to yourself that you are not feeling okay, the better it is for your recovery and rehabilitation. Not feeling okay should necessarily correspond to symptoms that are impairing you physically and impeding your ability to lead your daily life. For instance, loss of sleep leads to physical symptoms like body aches, headaches, heartaches, high pulse rate, and foul-smelling skin among many others. Sleep loss can mentally impact you by limiting your capacity to think clearly and inhibiting you socially because of visible signs of the physical symptoms on your face and body. One of the earliest signs is dark circles under your eyes. In case symptoms like the above are disabling you and impacting your professional and personal life, it is time to pause and reflect. On the other hand, if your general mood is getting impacted and you feel that you can cope by talking to a friend or loved one and there is nothing that is impacting your day-to-day life, then you can perhaps postpone seeking professional help. In that case, you can probably focus more on the last five ways to cope with the mental unrest that is bothering you. In any case, professional help is the most recommended option as it offers you a platform to talk to an unbiased medical practitioner without any inhibitions and saves the time and effort that you would spend with a friend or loved one who might be unable to help professionally and neutrally. You also might not be willing to share many things with a friend vis-à-vis a counsellor.

Seek professional help

Muster courage, rise above the social stigma attached to mental health, speak for your better future and get in touch with a psychiatrist. Remember, most of the battle is won once you decide to seek support. Although it can be daunting and overwhelming in the beginning, make sure to

be absolutely honest with your counsellor. Start from scratch and dissect the triggers bothering you. The more you simplify things and get to the bottom of them, the easier it will be for you to heal. Speak up your mind and slowly you will realize the importance of talking therapy. Remember, it will be therapeutic only if you address these issues with the counsellor and avoid discussing them with anyone else. Addressing and discussing with a counsellor can be extremely soothing and nourishing for the mind. Make the most of the counselling sessions and once you trust your counsellor, trust the forms of treatment proposed by them. There is a general stigma around medication for mental health and it is difficult to take them if you don’t trust your counsellor. Talk at length about the medication as well with the counsellor in the sessions and clarify all your doubts. Remember it is most important to heal and lead a better life than to be bothered about people’s perceptions of the treatment. Don’t let yourself feel bogged down by the baggage of other people’s opinions about mental health. Trust yourself and your counsellor and work in tandem with them to get better.

Support yourself with alternative forms of treatment

Alternative forms of treatment can include treatments other than allopathic medicines. These may include counselling, Ayurveda not least Ayurvedic Panchkarma Massage, Yoga, Pranayama, and Meditation among others. Counselling is a powerful tool to let out your deepest thoughts and find solutions and ways to cope with repetitive thoughts. Counselling at a regular frequency can prove wonders for someone stuck with obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety and depression. It is at the same time a generic medium to express oneself at the right platform i.e. in front of a qualified mental health counsellor and seek answers from the same expert rather than relying on hearsay and half-knowledge. Ayurvedic Panchkarma Massage is another form of remedy that can help people cope with symptoms of mental ailments. It rejuvenates the mind and body and strengthens the patient. It improves blood circulation tremendously and regular

sessions can be extremely therapeutic. Yoga is an ancient form of exercise that strengthens the body and the soul. It has innumerable asanas that are meant to treat different regions of the body and empower the individual practising it. It has a whole range of body postures specifically designed for people with mental ailments. One of the most common and comprehensive forms of yoga is the sun salutation which focuses on nearly everything. Pranayamas are breathing techniques that are performed to acquire peace of mind alongside miraculous benefits for the body. Various forms of inhalation and exhalation calm the mind and nourish the body. One of the most common is anulom vilom. Meditation is practised to tame the mind and visualise goodness and positivity. There are numerous meditation techniques to focus your thoughts for some time. One such is guided meditation which asks the meditator to visualise their body and the world around them getting enlightened in methodical steps.

Journaling

Journaling is a powerful technique to let go of whatever bothers you throughout the day. Preferably it should be done before sleeping in a diary where you should pen down thoughts/ triggers bothering you. When you write things out, your mind becomes relaxed and your quality of sleep improves. There is no particular limit to journaling per night but should be realistic and should not overwhelm you. If you feel you have written enough, things can always be postponed for the next night. Regularity is the key here. Try to be as regular as you can. Although you can skip sometimes depending on your circumstances. But consistent journaling and reading through the pages on a night you decide to not journal can be extremely healing and can give direction to your thoughts. Alongside writing about the thoughts that bother you, you should also write about positive stuff. Things that made you feel better. This way slowly and gradually your journaling will move from negative to positive. As far as writing about your triggers is concerned, do make it a point to offer solutions to them and reiterate the solutions more than the problems. Constant reiteration of solutions will make you feel empowered and calm. You might not have solutions to many of your thoughts that might be left for the counselling sessions but gradually you will have solutions to most of your thoughts. Eventually, your mind will become powerful enough to offer solutions to most triggers and your power of discretion will develop with the right knowledge imparted in the sessions and your journal will become a powerful tool that can boost your

confidence.

Be conscious of content consumption

In these times where there is a spurt of content every second and access is right in our hands, it becomes hard to be conscious of content consumption. Most users consume content unchecked which becomes the root cause of most mental illnesses. Content can be segregated into content that you can read, watch, see, hear and listen to. You should be mindful of the content that you are reading, watching and listening to at all times. Only reliable content should be consumed and trusted. As munching food all day leads to physical health complications, scrolling through unrestricted content all day can lead to mental complications. Staying away from phone whenever possible is something that helps a lot to control unchecked content consumption. Leave your phone at home when you go for a run. Keep your phone upside down when you are doing important stuff. Put your phone of DND mode as much as you can. Acknowledge the fact that phone does lead to spending valuable time mindlessly and cut its consumption. Slowly and gradually, the build-up of past trash will deplete and wisdom will emerge. It is equally important to check the company of the people you are in. That is another way you consume a lot unchecked. Reading a book, although tedious can be much more beneficial in the long run than consuming social media and being in the company of wrong people. It might not give you satisfaction instantly but it will help eventually. So start living mindfully now.

Adopt good habits

If not phones, then what? Exercise, read, cook, clean, wash and listen to music. Exercising is a great way to stay active and benefits the mind and the body both. With people experiencing anxiety and depression, exercising needs to be constantly tailored to suit their day-today state of mind and body. But always remember, something is better than nothing. If you cannot do 50 push-ups in a day, then not going for even a simple walk is even worse. Make your own exercise routine and let the routine be flexible enough to suit your needs. Reading something useful daily is a great way to feel accomplished. It is a great way to enhance your knowledge and is a much better learning tool than watching visual stuff. Reading

a book is even better. Cooking, doing the dishes, washing clothes and cleaning your surroundings are great ways to stay engaged. They are not only therapeutic but are important life skills that are inevitable. Other than satisfying your mind in unfathomable ways, these household chores keep your body functioning and fit in the long run. With people coping with anxiety and depression, doing household duties can be immensely rewarding as it can break the cycle of guilt of wriggling in bed all the time. Seeing dishes cleaned in front of your eyes can offer instant relief just like scrolling through those aesthetic social media pages. Listening to good music can be a great source of entertainment while allowing you to do other important stuff like taking a shower or brushing your teeth. Music helps break the cycle of pessimistic thoughts and revitalises your soul.

Stay in touch with loved ones Last but not least is staying in touch with loved ones. Your loved ones can act as people who can keep a constant check on you throughout your treatment and beyond and keep reminding you to stay on track. They can be a source of motivation that people going through anxiety and depression can often feel short of. Texting, calling or interacting in person can be great ways to halt your noisy mind and get a dose of delectable conversations. Be wary and keep the conversations that you have with the counsellor separate as they can derail your treatment and flood your mind with too many perspectives. You should also dutifully check on your loved ones for signs and symptoms of mental ailments and offer help. Staying in touch with loved ones will strengthen your relationships and you will not feel alone. Their stories might inadvertently help you in your treatment and offer answers to many questions that bug your mind. They can also help you with being consistent with the medication and at the same time rescue you from being overly dependent on medication at times when you are not in a state to take decisions for yourself. In the end, you might often find yourself not being able to follow through with many things stated in this article but it is okay to break the rules sometimes as long as you are able to convince yourself to be back on track again and again. Happy healing!

By Paras Sharma, Assistant Editor, India News

Spring is in the air with Ravishing Fashionistas’ Fashion Show 2022

For the fourth year in a row, Ravishing Fashionistas has continued to spread the RF message of female empowerment by encouraging women to embrace their body confidence, irrespective of their age, body type, background, skin colour or culture. Upma and her team have once again exceeded expectations, showcasing some stunning Spring Themed fashions on a diverse array of gorgeous models in all shapes and sizes once again proving that all women can be a model in their own right.

The heritage columned entrance of Brisbane’s Old Government House, located in the center of QUT Gardens Point, were elegantly lit with cherry blossom trees where guests were photographed in front of exquisite flower and media wall displays. VIP guests were treated to an extraordinary exclusive pre party event in QUT’s top floor event venue Room Three Sixty, where guests enjoyed unlimited champagne and canapes while soaking in panoramic city views while being treated to live entertainment, media interviews and photo opportunities.

350 guests attended, with local politicians, celebrities and influencers including VVIP guests Brisbane City Council’s Councilor Vicki Howard and Damien Anthony Rossi all gathering under one roof for a one night only spectacle, Ravishing Fashionistas is more than overwhelmed by the response received.

Ravishing Fashionistas opened the runway with a collection of mesmerizing spring themed looks showcasing a number of designers whose show stopping garments and millenary dazzled their guests with beautiful floral

themes. Guests were immersed in the runway that weaved its way through the stunning halls of Old Government House, RF went on to showcase an abundance of both emerging and renowned designers whose looks will inspire this Spring's fashion trends, challenging the boundaries of fashion and working to break the stereotypes in the industry.

Working day and night, Upma Kite has proved again that with passion and determination anything is achievable, as commented by Councilor Vicky Howard in a heartfelt speech highlighted at the show opening. Her mission of creating a space that encourages women of all shapes, sizes, ages & backgrounds to embrace themselves has again been perfectly portrayed through the 12 designers and 35 models involved in this year’s unforgettable show.

Although Upma Kite is the woman who made this event happen, she couldn’t have done it without her incredible RF team consisting of people from all walks of life, volunteering their time, their expertise and their passion for change, who all worked together to create this magical event.

As another RF Fashion Show closes, the RF team are again left speechless and inspired to continue promoting and enforcing her message of empowering women to embrace their beauty and body irrespective of their age, body type, background, skin color or culture.

With the volume of support and compassion she continues to receive, Upma is determined to come back to again provide a space for every woman regardless of their background to celebrate confidence and empowerment.

FICQ hosts citizenship ceremony in Brisbane

Oct 28 The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) hosted a citizenship ceremony at the FICQ Diwali event on Friday, October 28.

Cr. Angela Owen, Councillor for Calamvale Ward was the presiding officer for the citizenship ceremony and read the Minister’s message.

Dr Ram Mohan, FICQ - Advisor, and Department of Home Affairs officials also assisted to facilitate the citizenship ceremony.

The event consisted of the conferees’ pledge, certificate presentation, affirmation ceremony, singing of the National Anthem and entertainment.

Taleatha’s beautiful dance highlighted her indigenous cultural heritage, giving the

new citizens a glimpse into the aboriginal culture of the land.

Sudheshna Paul and Arpita performed a beautiful Indian classical bharatnatyam dance and finally, the Gold Coast AustraliaChina Sunday Fashion Show Group Association performed a mesmerising Chinese cultural dance and fashion show.

Ms Seema Chauhan concluded the ceremony with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of sponsors, volunteers, and committee members who tirelessly worked to make the event a success.

FICQ has welcomed the new Australians and congratulated them on being part of the multicultural community of Queensland and Australia.

Indian Community attends dinner with Premier at Parliament House

Continued from Page 3

further strengthening bilateral relations between Australia and India. It is an occasion for Australian and Indian leaders to reaffirm their commitment towards finding more areas of cooperation and to work towards developing cultural exchange between the two countries. Key areas related to culture that have often been highlighted comprise Indian cuisine and Bollywood films that have always been as popular in India as outside it. However, other areas related to culture such as cultural artefacts, fine arts, and the folk arts are becoming increasingly popular in Australia. One area that India is yet to explore fully is to trace historical connections with the

aboriginal inhabitants of Australia and create new connections with them in a bid to help grow and preserve the cultural legacies of both countries. Moreover, India being a country that still makes use of traditional techniques in agriculture along with modern means, will find many areas of similarity between them and the Australian aboriginal communities insofar as the traditional ways of seed cultivation, water management, and mental health are concerned.

A cultural exchange with them will help both the countries to utilise from each other’s traditions for augmenting economic growth as also in disaster management, saving lives, and building communities.

Funding Welcomed for Centre for Australia India Relations

Relations (CAIR) with an allocation of $44 million in today’s Budget.

The commitment comes at a critical time in the relationship between the two nations, with the signing of the Australia India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI ECTA) in April and negotiations progressing on a broader free trade agreement.

world and is recognised as a key strategic partner for Australia.

Two way trade between the two countries is currently $25 billion and is forecast to grow to $45 billion within the next five years,” Ms McKay said.

“The Centre will play a key role in helping India and Australia meet those aspirations.”

to India.”

“The Centre will provide a focus on Australia’s Indian diaspora as a “living bridge” between the two countries, which until now has been missing from Australia’s strategic approach to India,” said Ms McKay.

NSW President, Irfan Malik, said there was great support for the Centre to be established in Parramatta, which is NSW’s second city and a thriving commercial hub.

The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) has welcomed the Albanese Government’s commitment to establishing the Centre for Australia India

National Chair of the AIBC, Jodi McKay, said the Centre would become a key institution in deepening the dialogue between the two countries and working closely with business and industry to explore and capture the emerging opportunities in India Australia trade.

“India is the fifth largest and fastest growing economy in the

According to Ms McKay, the Centre’s focus on promoting policy dialogue and strengthening industry and business links is important, but so too is engaging Australia’s rapidly growing Indian diaspora.

“AIBC has long championed business-to-business links, but also believes there must be greater emphasis on the growing India diaspora and its connection

“Our connection to India must be more than a transactional relationship. There is an opportunity for the Centre to play a critical role in developing genuine relationships by growing cultural understanding and business literacy to ensure long term, sustainable success.”

With funding now secured, AIBC is advocating for the Centre to be established in Western Sydney, which is home to a large Indian diaspora.

“As well as making sense from a business perspective, establishing the Centre in Western Sydney would also send a message to the Indian Australian community that the Federal Government understands their importance in advancing the business and cultural ties between India and Australia.”

“AIBC congratulates the Albanese Government on the funding commitment over four years and looks forward to supporting the Centre’s crucial work.”

DFAT announces $44mn Centre for Australia-India Relations

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) invited Australia India Business Council (AIBC) Qld chapter committee members for the meeting to announce $44 million Centre for Australia-India Relations (CAIR). The meeting was held on 27 October at the DFAT office in Brisbane.

Director of the CAIR, Ms Susan Moore, and colleague Mr Kris McCaffery sought views and were briefed on the key priorities and activities of the centre. The center will focus on delivering activities and programs to advance the Australia-India policy interchange.

Consul General Sarah Kirlew visits Mithra kids in Chennai

Children from Mithra School in Chennai, for children and young people who are mentally and physically challenged, were thrilled to have a visit late last month from the Australian Consul General in Chennai, Ms Sarah Kirlew.

Ms Kirlew was keen to see firsthand the amazing work that is being done to educate and care for the residents of the school. She visited all the class rooms as well as the craft and vocational groups, and she was pleased to see how much work is being done in the Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy areas.

"Mithra is eternally grateful for the continuing connection with the Australian Consulate which was initially established by Brisbane nun, Sr Mary Theodore, when she first established Mithra in the late 1970s," Mithra said in a statement.

Damini celebrates Diwali showcasing Punjabi culture

Diwali for Damini is an occasion for enjoying being together with friends and relatives, enjoying festive foods, Bollywood dances, and lots of gift exchanges.

Being an all women’s organisation, Damini celebrates the Diwali and organises the diwali function with a difference. Each year they have a cultural theme. This year, the Punjabi culture was highlighted. The coordinator for the Event was Lila Pratap, the president assisted by Sudha Bhalla. SudhaJi organised the Punjabi cultural items.. She is one the vice-president of the organisation and a Punjabi by cultural heritage.

Ms. Manju Jehu was the Master of Ceremony assisted by Ms. Kirti Raniga. Dignitaries present at

the event were Mr Peter Russo, Member for Toohey and Cr Jon Raven, Deputy Mayor of Logan City Council.

President Ms. Lila Pratap often strives to bring all women together to socialise and celebrate life leaving behind the mundane they often go through in their daily lives. Damini Women’s organisation consists of a group of women motivated to serve the community and invest in good causes. They undertake projects like sewing pillow covers, blouses etc. to engage women from various cultures and walks of life, they celebrate achievements of women,and also raise funds for donation to educational Institutions in destitute areas in Fiji and India.

IAIE hosts Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar

The Institute for Australia India Engagement in conjunction with the Australia India Business Council, Queensland Cricket, Indian Medical Association of Queensland and Bravus Mining hosted the Indian cricket Legend Sunil Gavaskar on 18 October at the Stamford Plaza Hotel in Brisbane to commemorate his 50 years of test debut.

Dr Misra is the CEO of IAIE, National Sports Chair AIBC, ICC T20 Cricket World Cup Champion and leading Project Multicultural at Queensland Cricket.

Dr Misra moderated the event in which Sunil Gavaskar shared memorable insights from his first tour to Downunder Later, Mr Gavaskar was felicitated by the partnering institutions.

On the occasion a bat signed by Mr Sunil Gavaskar was auctioned for a whopping $7,000 and bought by Mr Ashwani Soni, and the proceeds will go to the Queensland Cricket Foundation to support community cricket initiatives.

T20 World Cup: ‘Astonishing’ Kohli leads India to incredible four-wicket win over Pakistan at sell-out MCG

Melbourne, Oct 23 (IANS) In the build-up to the India-Pakistan Super 12 clash of Mens T20 World Cup at a sell-out Melbourne Cricket Ground, rain threatened to disrupt the biggest match of the tournament. But it set the base for one of the most thrilling cricket matches of the year.

With 90,293 fans at the iconic stadium and more than crore fans tuning in from around the world, the stage was set for something surreal to happen on the fourth Sunday of October. There was awesome swing, extra bounce, tearaway speed, momentum shifts, unreal strokeplay and spine-tingling drama on display on the eve of Diwali.

The biggest fireworks for the

match, though, came from Virat Kohli's bat which lit up the Melbourne night sky. The talismanic batter re-iterated why he is one of the best chasers in cricket, slamming an unbeaten 82 off just 52 balls and powering India to an incredible four-wicket victory over Pakistan in their first Group 2 match.

After the right-left fast-bowling duo of Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh picked three wickets each to restrict Pakistan to 159/8 in their 20 overs, Kohli and Hardik Pandya (40) shared a match-winning stand of 113 off 77 deliveries, lifting India from 31/4 to chase 160 on the last ball to get their campaign off to a winning start. As India scored 55 runs in 11-15 overs, Pakistan

brought back Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah, who gave away just six runs each in the 16th and 17th overs respectively. With 48 needed off the last three overs, Kohli brought up his fifty by fetching a short ball from outside the off-stump to pull Shaheen Shah Afridi through mid-wicket for four and ended the over with another four, swivel-pulled over short fine leg. Kohli then smacked back-to-back sixes off Rauf in the 19th over -- a straight loft down the ground was followed by using the pace of the ball to flick off wrists over fine leg - to make it 16 runs needed off the final over. Mohammad Nawaz dealt a huge blow on the first ball of the final over when Pandya miscued the slog and the thick edge went to cover-point. On the fourth ball, Kohli smacked a waist-high full toss high over a deep square leg fence for six, which was on a no-ball. After Nawaz conceded a wide, Kohli and Dinesh Karthik ran three byes on the free-hit delivery before the latter was stumped on the fifth ball. Nawaz conceded a wide yet again and Ashwin finished off the chase with a loft over mid-off to win a thriller for India. In pursuit of 160, India had a shaky start when K.L Rahul chopped onto his stumps off Naseem Shah in the second over. Two overs later, Haris Rauf had Rohit Sharma poking tentatively at a 145kph length ball and a thick edge flew to the first slip, who

T20 World Cup: Miller, Markram fifties lead South Africa to top of Group 2 with five-wicket win over India

(52 off 41 balls) rescued South Africa from a shaky 24/3 with a 76-runs stand off 60 balls for the fourth wicket to complete the chase with two balls to spare.

Chasing 134, Arshdeep Singh struck on his first ball of the second over, finding the outside edge of Quinton de Kock's drive on a full, swinging away delivery and was caught at second slip.

Perth, Oct 30 (IANS) David Miller and Aiden Markram smashed fifties to lead South Africa to top of Group 2 points table in Super 12s with a five-wicket victory over India in a thrilling win at the Men's T20 World Cup at Perth Stadium on Sunday.

After Suryakumar Yadav slammed a brilliant counter-attacking 68 off 40 balls to help India post a decent 133/9 after Lungi Ngidi led a fine Proteas bowling performance with 4/29, Miller (59 not out off 46 balls) and Markram

On the third ball, the left-arm pacer hit Rilee Rossouw on the back leg after missing a flick, which captain Rohit Sharma reviewed and replays showed ball hitting top of leg and middle stump, giving Arshdeep his second wicket in three balls.

Captain Temba Bavuma never looked comfortable at the crease and in a bid to make room and lap Mohammed Shami in the final over of power-play, he gave an inside edge to the keeper diving to his left. Despite Markram finding delightful boundaries, twice off Arshdeep and one against Hardik Pandya, India's bowlers kept the run-rate tight and were flawless with their lengths as well as extracting extra bounce as South

Africa reached 40/3 in ten overs. After the drinks break, Markram and Miller showed signs of changing gears as the duo took a four each off Pandya in a 16run 11th over. Markram then danced down the pitch against Ravichandran Ashwin in the 12th over and smashed a four over the bowler's head. He had a huge slice of luck at 35 when a juggling Virat Kohli dropped a simple catch at deep mid-wicket, leaving Ashwin shocked. In the next over, as Miller called for a tight single, Markram had another reprieve when Rohit missed an underarm direct hit at striker's end. With the ball getting softer, Miller cleared his front leg and lofted Ashwin over long-off for six on the first ball of 14th over, followed by Markram dispatching a carrom ball for six over long-on in a 17run over. Brief Scores: India 133/9 in 20 overs (Suryakumar Yadav 68; Lungi Ngidi 4/29, Wayne Parnell 3/15) lose to South Africa 137/5 in 19.4 overs (David Miller 59 not out, Aiden Markram 52; Arshdeep Singh 2/25, Mohammed Shami 1/13) by five wickets

dived low for a sharp catch. Suryakumar Yadav sweetly punched a drive off Rauf and then pulled off the front foot over midwicket to collect a brace of fours.

But the right-arm pacer had the last laugh as his back of the length ball on stumps cramped Suryakumar for room, who looked to cut the ball away.

All he could do was to nick behind to the keeper, leaving India at 26/3 in 5.3 overs. Things went from bad to worse for India as a mix-up in the middle for a non-existent single resulted in run-out of Axar Patel. Kohli and Pandya took some time before the latter drilled a straight drive off Shadab and smacked two sixes over long-on and deep mid-wicket off Nawaz, sandwiched between Kohli launching a glorious six over long-on to make it 20 runs off the 12th over. Apart from collecting plenty of twos with Pandya, Kohli brought out his deft touch with a fine glance off Shaheen, cutting off his wrists past deep cover off Shadab and flicking past a diving short fine-leg off Shah to collect three quick fours, thus paving the path for him to be smiling with his arms aloft. It was a masterclass in chasing in front of a packed MCG.

Earlier, electing to bowl first, Bhuvneshwar Kumar found some swing in the opening over. Arshdeep bowled a perfect first delivery in his T20 World Cup debut by trapping Babar Azam lbw for a golden duck and then

cramped Mohammad Rizwan for room on the hook, hurrying him for pace and extra bounce as the top edge was caught by fine-leg.

From 15/2 in four overs, Ahmed (51) and Masood (52 not out) set about resurrecting Pakistan's innings, sharing a 76-run partnership for the third wicket. The change in gears came when Ahmed hit four sixes off six balls between the 11th and 12th overs -- once off Ravichandran Ashwin and thrice against Axar Patel -- to reach his fifty in 32 balls.

But Shami came back in the 13th over trap Ahmed plumb lbw. Pandya then took over to have Shadab and Haider Ali holing out to the outfield within five balls. He followed it up by cramping Nawaz for room and nick behind to the keeper. Arshdeep struck on the fourth ball of his second spell, bouncing out Asif Ali and giving the keeper a simple catch off the glove edge. Masood cracked consecutive fours off Shami to bring up his third T20I fifty. Though Shaheen and Rauf applied finishing touches with some boundaries, 159 proved to be insufficient for Pakistan to keep Kohli and India away from victory.

Brief scores: Pakistan 159/8 in 20 overs (Shan Masood 52 not out, Iftikhar Ahmed 51; Hardik Pandya 3/30, Arshdeep Singh 3/32) lost to India 160/6 in 20 overs (Virat Kohli 82 not out, Hardik Pandya 40; Haris Rauf 2/36, Mohammad Nawaz 2/42) by four wickets.

Perth, Oct 31 (IANS) Former India captain Virat Kohli and his actor wife Anushka Sharma have reacted strongly to a fan allegedly breaching the cricketer's hotel privacy in Perth and taking a video of his room while the charismatic batter was playing the ICC T20 World Cup Super-12 game against South Africa here on Sunday evening. Kohli posted a video on social media, which was originally posted on another social media app by an unidentified user with a caption, 'King Kohli's hotel room'. The short video scans through the

room where Kohli was staying. "I understand that fans get very happy and excited seeing their favourite players and get excited to meet them and I've always appreciated that," Kohli wrote on Instagram, while also posting the video taken by the unidentified fan. "But this video here is appalling and it's made me feel very paranoid about my privacy. If I cannot have privacy in my own hotel room, then where can I really expect any personal space at all?? I'm NOT okay with this kind of fanaticism and absolute invasion of privacy. Please respect people's privacy and not treat them as a commodity for entertainment," Kohli added. "Exercising some self control helps everyone. Also if this is happening in your bedroom then where is the line?" Anushka questioned. Reacting to Kohli's post, actor Urvashi Rautela said on her verified account, "Absolutely!! Immoral, unscrupulous imagine they did same with a girl's room #unprincipled #dishonourable," while Australian batting stalwart David Warner wrote, "This is ridiculous, totally unacceptable. Was this @crownperth (name of hotel)."

Virat’s hotel room privacy breached; cricketer expresses anger on social media

Verstappen claims record 14th victory of 2022 season in Mexico; breaks Schumacher, Vettel record

bring the race back to the Silver Arrows in the closing stages -- a stop for soft tyres with two laps to run at least yielding the fastest lap. Ferrari endured a lacklustre race as Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc claimed distant P5 and P6 finishes, ahead of McLaren driver Daniel Ricciardo, who charged his way to seventh with soft tyres late on and kept the position despite a 10-second time penalty for a clash with Yuki Tsunoda.

French Open badminton: Satwik, Chirag win men’s doubles title

Mexico City, Oct 31 (IANS) Dutch Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen made history as he beat Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton to claim his 14th victory of the 2022 season in the Mexican Grand Prix after an intriguing strategic battle at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez here on Sunday.

Verstappen, who has already clinched the world title, finished ahead of former world champion and fiercest rival Hamilton and Red Bull team-mate Sergio Perez. It secures another record for the young Dutchman, as he now boasts the most wins in a single F1 campaign, moving one clear of the 13 achieved by Germany's Michael Schumacher (2004) and

Verstappen, whose Red Bull team opted for a soft-medium tyre strategy, took the chequered flag some 15 seconds ahead of Hamilton, who was left to question why Mercedes swapped their starting set of mediums for hard tyres, according to formula1. com. Perez gave the home fans something to cheer about in third, having threatened to challenge Hamilton late on, while Mercedes' George Russell -- who lost out to his team-mate at the start -- took a distant fourth.

Russell was also unhappy with his strategy, repeatedly asking Mercedes to pit again and ditch the hard tyres, which failed to

Esteban Ocon placed eighth, after a late retirement for Alpine team-mate Fernando Alonso, as the other McLaren of Lando Norris and Alfa Romeo's Valtteri Bottas -- not quite able to repeat his qualifying performance -completed the points.

AlphaTauri driver Pierre Gasly picked up a five-second penalty for an early, aggressive move on Aston Martin rival Lance Stroll and ultimately missed out on a point by just half a second, with Alex Albon 12th for Williams.

Zhou Guanyu got his Alfa Romeo to the line ahead of Aston Martin pair Vettel and Stroll, followed by the Haas cars of Mick Schumacher and Kevin Magnussen.

Nicholas Latifi was the final finisher in his Williams.

Hotel apologises to Virat Kohli, removes people who breached cricketer’s privacy

“But this video here is appalling and it’s made me feel very paranoid about my privacy. If I cannot have privacy in my own hotel room, then where can I really expect any personal space at all?? I’m NOT okay with this kind of fanaticism and absolute invasion of privacy. Please respect people’s privacy and not treat them as a commodity for entertainment,” Kohli added.

Paris, Oct 31 (IANS) India's Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty clinched the French Open Super 2022 badminton tournament men's doubles title after defeating Chinese Taipei's Lu Ching Yao and Yang Po Han in straight games 21-13, 21-19 in final, here on Sunday.

This is Satwik and Chirag's firstever super 750 and second BWF World Tour title this year. They are also the first ever Indian doubles pair to win a BWF Super 750 tournament.

The first game was a one sided affair as the World No 8 Indian pair dominated the court, making it difficult for their opponents to catch up. However, the second game saw Yang and Lu come up and force Rankireddy and Shetty to make mistakes. Eventually, it was the experience of the India duo, which came in handy at crucial moments and led them to victory. Satwik and Chirag had earlier beaten South Korea's Choi Sol Gyu and Kim Won Ho 21-18, 21-14 in the semifinals.

India show nerves of steel to beat Australia and win the Sultan of Johor Cup

went into the first break leading 1-0.

Looking to build on the lead in the second quarter, India began on the front foot, with most of the contest being played in Australia's half.

Perth, Oct 31 (IANS) Crown Perth hotel has reportedly apologised to charismatic India batter Virat Kohli for the alleged breach of the player’s privacy by a fan, who took a video of the cricketer’s room while he was playing the ICC T20 World Cup Super-12 game against South Africa here on Sunday evening.

Kohli and his actor wife Anushka Sharma reacted strongly to the alleged breach, with the former India skipper posting a video on Instagram -- which was originally posted on another social media app by an unidentified user with a caption, ‘King Kohli’s hotel room’ -- and saying, “I’m NOT okay with this kind of fanaticism and absolute invasion of privacy.”

The short video scans through the room where Kohli was staying. The hotel apologised “unreservedly” to Kohli and said it had removed the individuals involved in the act.

“We unreservedly apologise to the guest involved and will

continue to take the necessary steps to ensure this remains an isolated incident,” a Crown Perth spokesperson said in a statement, according to perthnow.com.au.

“We have zero tolerance for this behaviour, and it falls well below the standards we set for our team members and contractors. Crown has taken immediate steps to rectify the issue. The individuals involved have been stood down and removed from the Crown account, and the original video was swiftly removed from the social media platform.

“Crown is conducting an investigation with the thirdparty contractor and will take any further steps necessary to ensure an incident of this nature does not happen again,” said the statement.

Kohli wrote on Instagram after noticing the breach of privacy that, “I understand that fans get very happy and excited seeing their favourite players and get excited to meet them and I’ve always appreciated that.

Anushka too took to social media to express her anger over the alleged video of the hotel room, saying, “Incidents where some fans have shown no compassion or grace in the past but this really is the worst thing. An absolute disgrace and violation of a human being and anyone who sees this and thinks ‘celebrity ho Toh deal karna parega (if you are a celebrity you have to deal with such things)!’, should know that you’re also part of the problem. “Exercising some self control helps everyone. Also if this is happening in your bedroom then where is the line?” Anushka questioned.

Reacting to Kohli’s post, actor Urvashi Rautela said on her verified account, “Absolutely!! Immoral, unscrupulous imagine they did same with a girl’s room #unprincipled #dishonourable,” while Australian batting stalwart David Warner wrote, “This is ridiculous, totally unacceptable. Was this @crownperth (name of hotel).”

Johor (Malaysia) Oct 29 (IANS)

The Indian junior men's hockey team put in a fine display on a nervy evening against Australia to win the 10th Sultan of Johor Cup after a tense penalty shootout.

The teams were tied at 1-1 in regulation time, following which nine penalty shots were needed to decide the winner.

India won the shootout 5-4 and clinched their third Sultan of Johor Cup title.

Australia controlled proceedings in the early exchanges while captain Uttam Singh and Boby Singh Dhami tried to push India forward.

The efforts paid off as India broke the deadlock through Sudeep Chirmako (14th minute). India

As the quarter progressed, Australia's hunt for the equaliser intensified, and even though India were absorbing the pressure well, Jack Holland (29th min) scored. India and Australia went into the half-time break with the score reading 1-1.

Both sides came back out for the second half with a cautious approach, not keen to allow the opponent any space. Midway through the quarter, India almost edged ahead with Sudeep Chirmako, but neither side were able to outsmart the other, as the quarter ended with the score at 1-1.

In the final quarter, which was played in the presence of the Sultan of Johor, both India and Australia turned up the heat by a few notches, making it a very entertaining phase in the game. However, as the final six minutes began, the score still read 1-1. Both sides gave it their all, but weren't able to find the winner in regulation time, as the final went into a penalty shootout.

Sebastian Vettel (2013).

The future of travel is intention Goa, a new spot for adventure sports?

Travel is once again on the rise as restrictions loosen up all over the world. But now that those formative years are passed, travelling is about more than just getting away and having a good time. The Global Wellness Institute asserts that "the future of travel is intention." But what exactly does it mean to travel deliberately imply? When we travel with purpose, we can have a more profound and transforming experience that enables us to connect with our inner selves, our families, and larger communities. What do you want to get out of your vacation experience? Is there a part of my life that would benefit from a trip to a different location? And what advantages might I anticipate?

Listed below are some growing travel trends that may inspire your next trip as shared by Dr. Jason Culp, Research & Development Director, ChivaSom.

young, the former offering new perspectives and vitality, and the latter sharing wisdom and experience.

Travelling to destinations that offer intergenerational activities can strengthen the bonds between all family members, which in turn will promote the mental, emotional and social wellbeing of a family.

REDEFINING PURPOSE

The last two years have been challenging and have left many questioning their goals, priorities and what brings meaning to life. Enforced lockdowns and accompanying soul searching have ignited the urge to travel and seek purpose through new experiences.

The wellness industry has embraced this intention by offering various retreats that guide guests through a constructive process of redefining and rebuilding. Meditation, quiet contemplation, and time to plan can reorient your life around the things that give it meaning, whether spending more time on your health, your family or your interests outside of work.

REGENERATIVE TOURISM

they’ve visited.

FAMILY BONDING

There is no doubt that travelling with family and/or friends helps to foster strong relationships. Positive memories are built around shared experiences. In fact, there’s research to show that positive family interactions have health benefits for both old and

You’ve likely heard of ‘ecotourism’ – an effort to conserve the environment and prevent any detrimental impact to destination hotspots. The latest trend in travel has shifted to regenerative tourism, wherein travellers not only do no harm but leave a positive impact on the environment and community that

PRESCRIPTION NATURE

If the past two years have taught us anything, it is the importance of our health, both physical and mental. Nature continues to be one of the most powerful influences on wellbeing. For example, forest walks have been shown to lower inflammation and reduce blood pressure. The microbiome of soil impacts our own internal microbial ecosystem and can promote healthy immune function. Sunlight exposure supports vitamin D production, enhances mood and helps regulate the sleep cycle.

Listed below are some tips to be kept in mind when you do travel again as shared by Dr. Rubia Afza Shariff, Health & Wellness Advisor, Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som:

Adjust your body clock: Your body takes a while to get accustomed to new changes. Speed up the process by exposing yourself to sunlight, thereby boosting your melatonin to help you sleep.

Keep yourself hydrated: Hydration is essential for detoxification, as well as the many vital systems and functions that keep us healthy.

Boost your immunity: Increase your intake of vitamin-rich foods to replenish your system after a long flight.

Exercise: Even small amounts of exercise promote the endorphins that boost mood and wellbeing.

Reduce your caffeine intake: As tempting as it is, especially when you are jetlagged, caffeine disrupts the sleep cycle.

At present, there has been a growing trend of people willing to engage in adventure sports while they travel to their favorite tourist destinations. Considering this upward trend, different states in India have started exploring more options to give tourists an overall package.

Goa is exceptionally better than all other states in this regard, as it not only offers pristine and calm beaches but an adrenaline rush as well, through exciting adventure sports.

The latest addition to the adventure segment in Goa is Bungy Jumping in North Goa. Niharika Nigam, Director, Business Development at Jumpin Heights, what Goa has to offer to adrenaline junkies or even those who want to try adventure sports for the first time:

Bungy jumping: People usually preferred Rishikesh for a thrilling bungy jumping experience, but Goa has come up with its own 55 meters high bungy jumping station, overlooking Mayem lake and its surrounding greenery in association with Goa Tourism. The platform is built by the same operator who gave India its highest bungy jumping station at 83 meters in height, in Rishikesh. The Goa platform has been constructed keeping in mind the same safety measures and is

being run under the supervision of trained instructors and exArmy officers.

Parasailing: Flying above water can be very exciting and Goa surpasses all other destinations in India that offer this adventure activity. The beaches also offer multiple water sports like jet skiing and flyboarding.

Trekking: Goa has more than a dozen trekking trails that are ideal for spending some thrilling time in nature. These trails are bound to quench your thirst for some quality adventure. Some of the well-known treks are Sonsogor trek, Satregad Fort trek, Netravali Waterfalls trek and Udaan Dongor trek. The trekking experience offers mesmerizing views and a refreshing experience.

Hot Air Balloon: Float over the green fields, while having a bird’s view of the surroundings, with a Hot Air Balloon ride in Goa. This adventure sport will let you experience the ambiance of Goa’s sea cliffs as you flow with the wind in the tranquility of the atmosphere.

Scuba diving and snorkeling: A perfect destination for water sports lovers, Goa is widely popular for its scuba diving experience that allures all visitors to try this at least once in a lifetime. Baga, Candolim, and Calangute are some pick-up points for this activity.

Apart from that, Goa also offers windsurfing, white water rafting, and kayaking adventure, while many new activities keep coming up to give the travelers an experience of a lifetime. While the best time to enjoy water sports in Goa is between October and May, bungy jumping is open around the year.

Making start-up boutique hotels Insta-worthy destinations

to be communicated through Instagram more than other social media platforms. Here are things that boutique hotels can do to make their hotels shine on Instagram and gain an edge, says Roop Pratap Choudhary, Executive Director, Noor Mahal and Founder Colonel Saab, London (UK)

customised experience as per their preferences. Syncing the hotel’s offering to best suit the taste and expectations of the guests guest a long way in making them feel welcomed. Understand what they prioritise, what they expect and what they desire. Translate the same things through your Instagram to stay connected with them.

In a crowded hospitality sector with big chains offering luxury and aspiration, starting an independent boutique hotel is a brave step and a risky one. But, if done right it is a huge opportunity. In the current scenario, travellers look increasingly for ‘experience’ but choose on the basis of photos and videos online while choosing

an accommodation. Instagram has become one of the major platforms for this splash.

Boutique properties are a way to create something so beautiful and define success in your own unique style. Keeping in line with the way travellers consume, the class and the exquisite experience that is exclusive needs

Establish your brand – A brand is beyond comfort, luxury, logo and colours. It is the personality and identity that differentiates the boutique hotel from competitors. It is important to not just attract potential guests but also strive to create aspirations. It is important to build a unique selling point. The whole packaging needs to be such that the boutique hotel becomes a fascinating option that guests feel they should not miss. Know your guests – It is important to understand your guests and curate the most

Highlight themed spaces –capture beautifully the themed spaces that you have created and share them on Instagram. Highlight not just the space but also encourage guests to share their happy moments enjoying the novelty.

Inspire with food– Food should be delicious but the presentation should be inspiring. Build plates that not only invite appetite but also are photographic delights. Food images are a great share for Instagram, beautiful and

interesting plates encourage guests and dinners to also post on Instagram and share their moments with their connections. Lighting for effect – a very basic yet underrated idea to enhance Instaworthyness is to focus on lighting at the hotel. A professional photoshoot can amplify décor elements by adjusting light and even using extra lights. But, for the photos that guests take need the assistance of good lighting that would give good results. The lighting used to enhance the look of the hotel may not necessarily translate into good lighting for photographs. So make changes to support that requirement.

By following these simple steps, one can easily win the hearts of the new Millennial and Gen Z Guests who are seamlessly setting new rules for Indian Hospitality.

Rushdie lost sight in an eye, use of one hand after Aug attack

the nerves in his arm were cut. And he has about 15 more wounds in his chest and torso. So, it was a brutal attack." The agent declined to say whether Rushdie was still in hospital, saying the most important thing was that the writer is going to live, The Guardian reported. Wylie also said he and Rushdie had talked about the possibility of such an attack in the past. "The principal danger that he faced so many years after the fatwa was imposed is from a random person coming out of nowhere and attacking (him)," he said. "So, you can't protect against that because it's totally unexpected and illogical. It was like John Lennon's murder.

British Indian writer Preti Taneja wins Gordon Burn Prize

a convicted terrorist who spent eight years in prison and went on to kill two people, Saskia Jones and Jack Merritt.

Taneja realised she had taught Khan creative writing when he was in prison, and Jack Merritt, one of the victims, was her colleague.

London, Oct 18 (IANS) Indianorigin British author and academic Preti Taneja has won the 2022 Gordon Burn Prize for "Aftermath", her "unflinching work of narrative non-fiction".

"Aftermath" is a profound attempt to regain trust after violence and rebuild faith in human compassion: a powerful recommitment to activism and radical hope.

Rushdie has lost his sight in one eye and the use of one hand after the attack he suffered while preparing to deliver a lecture in the US' New York state two months ago, his agent has confirmed, the media reported.

The 75-year-old author, whose received death threats from Iran in the 1980s after his novel 'The Satanic Verses' was published, was stabbed in the neck and torso as he came on stage to give

Until now, the full extent of Rushdie's injuries had been unclear. But in an interview with Spain's El Pais, Andrew Wylie explained how serious and lifechanging the attack had been.

"(His wounds) were profound, but he's (also) lost the sight of one eye," said Wylie. "He had three serious wounds in his neck. One hand is incapacitated because

The man accused of stabbing Rushdie pleaded not guilty to second-degree attempted murder and assault charges when he appeared in court on August 18.

Hadi Matar, 24, was arraigned during a brief hearing in Chautauqua county district court on an indictment returned by a grand jury that charged him with one count of second-degree attempted murder and one count of second-degree assault.

International Booker Prize winner ‘Tomb of Sand’ in shortlist for Rs 25 lakh JCB Prize for Literature

saidunveiled the shortlist. From exploring new content and deploying various literary devices, authors constantly try to push the boundary. while unveiling the shortlist at the Glenburn Penthouse in an intimate gathering of authors, translators and the literary community of the city, adding: "Every step is crucial and every innovation is precious." "However, when the final evaluation happened, these wonders of the mind gave space to the power of the heart, where empathy became the criteria for creating the shortlist. All the novels in the shortlist exemplify the idea of empathy, concern for fellow humans, and in a sense a worldview in which the head does not subsume the heart," Panneerselvan said.

The Gordon Burn Prize celebrates the year's most dazzlingly bold and forward-thinking fiction and non-fiction written in English.

"Aftermath" was selected by a panel of judges, made up of sportswriter and columnist Jonathan Liew, author Denise Mina (chair), broadcaster Stuart Maconie, artist and poet Heather Phillipson, and writer Chitra Ramaswamy.

The book strives to make sense of the London Bridge stabbing in 2019, when Usman Khan, 28, was

Taneja is a professor of World Literature and Creative Writing at Newcastle University. Her first novel, "We That Are Young", a translation of "King Lear" set in contemporary India, won the Desmond Elliott Prize 2018.

Taneja receives 5,000 pounds as cash prize, and is offered the opportunity to undertake a writing retreat of up to three months at Gordon Burn's cottage in Berwickshire in the Scottish Borders.

She has been shortlisted for several awards, including the Republic of Consciousness Prize, the Prix Jan Michalski, and the Shakti Bhatt Prize.

AWWA brings its 3-day literary festival to Jaipur for first time

Kolkata, Oct 21 (IANS)

International Booker Prize winner Geetanjali Shree's "Tomb of Sand" is among the five translations shortlisted for the Rs 25 lakh

JCB Prize for Literature, India's richest literary award, it was announced here on Friday.

The shortlisted novels are:

* "Imaan" by Manoranjan Byapari, translated from Bengali by Arunava Sinha (Eka)

* "The Paradise of Food" by Khalid Jawed, translated from Urdu by Baran Farooqi (Juggernaut)

* "Valli" by Sheela Tomy, translated from Malayalam by Jayasree Kalathil (Harper

* "Tomb of Sand" by Geetanjali Shree, translated from Hindi by Daisy Rockwell (Penguin Random House India)

* "Song of the Soil" by Chuden Kabimo, translated from Nepali by Ajit Baral (Rachna Books)

Sheela Tomy and Chuden Kabimo are debut novelists. The winner of the prize will be announced on November 19. Following the unveiling, Jayant Kriplani, Paramita Saha and Sandip Roy read passages from the shortlisted titles.

"Judging literature is a challenge," Jury Chair A.S. Panneerselvan

Mita Kapur, Literary Director of the JCB Literature Foundation, said: "The fact that in the 5th year of the JCB Prize for Literature we have the most diverse shortlist yet, fills us with hope. This is a list that brings forth the many Indias across time and geography. This is truly representative of the spectrum of languages, authors and publishers that make up our industry, but most of all it represents the quality of excellent writing that India has to offer."

Each of the five shortlisted authors will receive Rs 1 lakh; and the translator an additional Rs 50,000. The translator of the winning work will receive an additional Rs 10 lakh.

Jaipur, Oct 18 (IANS) Jaipur, for the first time, shall play host to the 'Abhivyakti' Season 2', - three-day literary festival, which will be organised by the Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA) from November 12-14 at Jawahar Kala Kendra. The event shall see writers, storytellers, artists, entrepreneurs, stand up comedians and poets from all over India gather under one roof and exchange their thoughts and ideas on books, literature and entrepreneurship, said Ravneet Bhinder, Regional President, AWWA. Speaking to IANS, she said that the 'Abhivyakti Season 2' aims at creating a platform for women talent who shall share their stories, showcase their flair for entrepreneurship and display their writing skills while meeting other established authors and scribes and talents from diverse fields. The first season of the event was organised in Delhi a year back in offline and online mode. However, post pandemic, this event is being organised in the physical form for the first time, she said. "Workshops to be organised on the occasion shall discuss trending topics like social influencing, kavad art, creative

writing, entrepreneurship, publishing your work, eco parenting, life coaching and many more. Celebrity entertainers including Neeti Palta and Harpriya Bains shall also present their talent on the occasion," she added. Also, there will be poetry sessions, stand-up comedy, cultural performances, musical symphony, other attractions like counselling sessions, open sessions, food stalls and entrepreneurs stalls.

'Abhivyakti Season 2' will be a pan-India event, which can be described as 'by the women, of the women and for the women'. It will witness book launches which include Kab Tak by Meenu Tripathi, Amaltas by Nidhi Khyali Dhyani, Yeh Na Thi Hamari Kismat by Lily Swarna and The Birth of My Nation by Sutapa Basu, among others.

"In the changing world, women need to get newer opportunities and newer platforms and hence we have organised this event to showcase the creative perspective of Army personnel's wives and war widows who shall be organising workshops on different topics, present interesting entrepreneurship sessions, participate in book launching, dance shows etc," Ravneet Bhinder stated.

The celebrities who will present on the occasion include MP Diya Kumari, Femina Miss India 2022 First Runner up Rubal Shekhawat, actor Kumud Mishra and VJ Rannvijay Singh.

Madrid, Oct 23 (IANS) Salman

a talk on artistic freedom at the Chautauqua Institution on August 12, The Guardian reported.

Perennial)

Actress Parineeti Chopra, who will be seen working with Amitabh Bachchan in the upcoming film 'Uunchai' directed by stalwart filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya, feels over the moon to be working with megastar and says that her journey would have been

incomplete if she didn't get to work with him.

Parineeti says, "It is just amazing that I am getting to work with Mr Bachchan this year, which happens to be his milestone 80th birth year. Even after he has accomplished possibly everything, it was amazing to see him approach every day on the sets like it was the first day of his career."

"The dedication, the drive and the passion he has for cinema is incomparable and that's what sets him apart. He is an institution and I have ticked off working with him from my bucket list, thanks to Uunchai! My journey in cinema would have been incomplete if I didn't get to work with Bachchan sir."

She adds, "The time I got to spend with him on the sets of Uunchai is one of the most precious moments of my career."

"He taught me the true meaning of being humble in spite of being a megastar that he is and that is what my biggest learning was from him. What I connected with him the most on is that, he is so inquisitive and is always enthusiastic to learn! He is a beautiful person and it was a treat to work with him on the same film." In Barjatya's 'Uunchai', Parineeti will be seen with the legendary Amitabh Bachchan and brilliant acting icons like Anupam Kher, Boman Irani, Danny Denzongpa, Sarika and Neena Gupta. The film is releasing on November 11 in the theatres.

2 Punjabis in a frame: Shehnaaz poses with Vicky Kaushal

Shehnaaz took to Instagram, where she shred a motley of pictures. In one image she is seen hugging Vicky as the two pose for the camera. For the caption, she wrote: "Hun bani na gal... 2 Punjabi ek frame vich."

The two were attending producer Ramesh Taurani's Diwali bash, which also saw the who's who of Bollywood including Katrina Kaif, Riteish Deshmukh, Rakul Preet Singh and Shilpa Shetty among many others.

On the acting front, Vicky has just wrapped up a schedule for the film 'Sam Bahadur'.

'Sam Bahadur' is the story of

India's greatest war hero and first Field Marshal, Sam Manekshaw. Sam Manekshaw's Army career spanned over four decades and five wars. He was the first Indian Army officer to be promoted to the rank of Field Marshal and his military victory in the 1971 IndoPak war led to the liberation of Bangladesh.

The film, which features Vicky in the titular role, also stars Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Shaikh. 'Sam Bahadur' is set to arrive in theatres in 2023.

Shehnaaz, on the other hand, will be seen in Salman Khan-starrer 'Kisi Ka Bhai... Kisi Ki Jaan'.

Neha Kakkar shakes a leg to ‘O Saathi Chal’ on ‘Indian Idol 13’

ActressLara Dutta, who was last seen in the streaming show 'Hiccups and Hookups', feels that women in India particularly don't have proper access to healthcare facilities, especially reproductive health.

Menopause can significantly impact a woman's everyday life.

Yet, conversations about this topic are limited. The actress recently attended an event organised to raise awareness around menopause.

She said in a statement, "Being on stage and listening to the panel of doctors has been an eye-opener for me as well. I know this even when I was a goodwill ambassador for the UN -- that women's health and wellness is barely discussed in the way that it should. In our country, unfortunately, the majority of women don't even have access to proper physical and medical healthcare facilities to even reproductive health, forget about anything else."

The event was organised by pharma company Abbott.

The actress added, "Menopause is so back on the burner as a priority that I think it is really fantastic that big Pharma companies like Abbott today are taking these initiatives and making information accessible.

As we discussed today - it's about the 'Next Chapter' and not the 'Last Chapter'. Stories are what drives conversations - shows and movies on such topics should definitely be made".

Singer Neha Kakkar appreciates 'Indian Idol 13' contestant Shivam Singh's rendition of the hit number 'O Saathi Chal' from the 1972 film 'Seeta Aur Geeta' featuring Hema Malini and the late Sanjeev Kumar.

Shivam also creates a sweet moment by requesting Neha to shake her legs along with him on the stage.

Neha says: "You sang it so very well, you performed so cutely. When you sing, you deep dive into the performance and remind us of our adorable moments in life through your singing. It was an amazing performance. I liked it."

Judge Vishal Dadlani also joins them, along with hosts Aditya Narayan and Harsh Limbachiyaa. Shivam's parents also talk about his liking for Sanjeev Kumar's

films and how his portrayal of father on screen influenced him. Bollywood star Govinda along with his wife Sunita Ahuja and daughter Tina Ahuja will be appearing on the show as celebrity guests. The singing reality show judged by Himesh Reshammiya, Neha Kakkar and Vishal Dadlani airs on Sony Entertainment Television.

Well, now after being in a relationship for so long, the 'Dulhe Raja' actor has expressed his gratitude towards his wife and called her 'innocent' on the sets of a singing reality show.

The actor, who is known for his dance moves and comic

roles, has worked in a number of blockbusters like 'Hero No 1', 'Raja Babu', 'Coolie No. 1', 'Haseena Maan Jayegi' and so on.

Govinda revealed what made him fall in love with Sunita and said: "Sunita was my first love and I fell in love with her innocence."

He recalled how he finally decided to settle down with her and expressed his gratitude to the Almighty for having her as a partner.

"We were shooting for a song in Kashmir and looking at fate's play I did not even know what was happening to me. There were signs but I did not get it, then one day I realised, she is the one. I am thankful to God that I met you," he added.

Govinda along with his wife Sunita and daughter Tina Ahuja are appearing on 'Indian Idol 13' as celebrity guests. The singing reality show is judged by Himesh Reshammiya, Neha Kakkar and Vishal Dadlani.

'Indian Idol 13' airs on Sony Entertainment Television.

Govinda reveals what made him fall in love with his wife

Parineeti on Big B: My journey in cinema would have been incomplete if I didn’t get to work with him

Lara Dutta says menopause is not given due importance

Bollywoodactor Govinda and his wife Sunita Ahuja's love story is quite filmy and the common thing between them was their love for dance which finally made them fall in love with each other.

Actress and online sensation Shehnaaz Gill shared a frame with fellow Punjabi boy Vicky Kaushal.

Sidharth Malhotra says he shows his funny side in ‘Thank God’

Moreover, he finds the overall experience of doing the film quite exciting and especially because it is something he is doing for the first time.

He told IANS: "Doing a commercial comedy film is very challenging but it was fun because of director Indra Kumar as he has been doing such films. But for him also it was different as it is not just a pure comedy and a film with a strong message."

Sidharth got his first lead role in Karan Johar's 'Student of the Year'. But reaching till here was never easy for him and his parents had a lot of apprehensions when he told them about his planning to shift Mumbai and make a career in acting.

Karan Johar to host the Friday special episode of ‘Bigg Boss 16’

and taking them to task when needed.

Bollywoodactor Sidharth Malhotra, who was seen in a complete action mode in 'Shershaah' is all set to make everyone laugh with his comical skills He talks about his film 'Thank God' and says people will connect with the film and it will make them laugh and think.

Later, he adds how the theme of this movie connects with many individuals and him too.

"This movie gives a lesson that we growl up.listening to. It is all about karma and how if you do good to others you get it back. My grandmother taught me the same."

He further recalls his initial years of acting and adds: "When I came to Mumbai my parents stopped me saying a lot of things. Like we are taught in middle class family. It will need a lot of money and not easy to get a break.

"All these typical apprehensions and fear were there in my parents' mind and it's all karma that things worked out for me. I got good projects. So, here also I will say 'Thank God'.

AfterUrvashi Rautela posted about he travel to Australia, dancer and social media influencer Dhanashree Verma shared photos of herself from inside a plane as she left for Australia to join her cricketerhusband Yuzvendra Chahall at the

T20 World Cup.

Dhanashree shared a post as she left for Australia to join him for the T20 World Cup.

Her Instagram caption its seems she took an indirect dig at actor Urvashi Rautela, who had been

sharing cryptic posts with similar captions from Australia.

Dhanashree wrote on Instagram: "My (heart) led me to Australia, literally. (tongue out emoji) Got to be there for my man."

She is seen with a knee cap as she has been recovering from a knee surgery.

Her husband Yuzvendra dropped two heart emojis.

Urvashi has been making headlines over her posts from Australia, which a section of social media users think are for Rishabh Pant.

She had earlier shared a flight selfie on Instagram and wrote: "Followed my (black heart emoji), and it led me to Australia (movie camera emoji)."

Taapsee Pannu hosts Diwali party for industry friends

celebrate with our friends who are our extended family here in this city. It just gave us all time to connect and celebrate which otherwise in our busy lives we don't. This Diwali is truly one of its kind for me."

Couples in attendence, RiteishGenelia, Rakulpreet-Jacky, and Neha Dhupia-Angad Bedi, looked gorgeous. Pratik Gandhi also came in with his wife.

Bollywood actress Taapsee Pannu celebrates new beginnings as a producer with her production house Outsiders Films by hosting a Diwali party. The party was attended by industry friends and family.

Talking about the celebration,

Taapsee shared: "This has been long due. We started work under our production house and finished shooting 2 films over the last 2 years but just didn't get time and occasion to celebrate so much that has happened in the last 2 years."

"What better than Diwali to

Also, putting their best fashion foot forward were young stars Sanjana Sanghi, and Adarsh Gourav. Popular Directors from the industry Anubhav Sinha, Sudhir Mishra, and Aneez Bazmee were also present, along with Outsider Films Co-Producer Pranjal Khandhdiya, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Elli Avram, Singer Papon, Saqib Saleem, and more.

Salman will appear on Saturday's episode of Weekend ka Vaar. Karan also hosted the 'Bigg Boss OTT' and it will be interesting to see how he is going to deal with the contestants and roast them on the show.

Filmmaker

Karan Johar will be seen hosting the Friday special episode of 'Bigg BOSS 16' in place of Bollywood star Salman Khan.

During the Weekend ka Vaar episode, Salman is often seen discussing with contestants, guiding them on their game plan

Furthermore, the three nominated contestants for this week are Sumbul Touqeer Khan, Manya Singh and Shalin Bhanot. Meanwhile, Tina Datta and Shalin have taken the name of Sumbul as the least performing contestant on the show. But in the previous episode Shalin was seen talking to Sumbul and blaming Tina for his behaviour with her.

'Bigg Boss 16' airs on Colors.

Ayushmann’s ‘Dream Girl 2’ shifts its release date to June 23, 2023

and Kiara Advani in the lead roles. 'Dream Girl 2' was supposed to be released on the same day as 'Satya Prem ki Katha' on June 29, 2023.

On learning that 'Satya Prem ki Katha', produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, is slated to release on the same day, the producer of 'Dream Girl 2', Ektaa R Kapoor agreed to shift the date of 'Dream Girl 2' from June 29 to June 23, 2023.

Bollywood star Ayushmann Khurrana's sequel to his 2019 hit 'Dream Girl' has set an early release date. The film, which also stars Ananya Panday, will now drop a week early in theatres on June 23, 2023.

The reason behind the move is to avert a clash with 'Satya Prem ki Katha', which stars Kartik Aaryan

The makers of 'Dream Girl 2' had recently dropped a teaser and announced the second instalment of the film.

Meanwhile, Ayushmann's recent film 'Doctor G' is garnering love from the audience. The actor again chose an off-beat role of a gynaecologist this time with 'Doctor G'.

Tahir jets off to Delhi for Diwali celebrations with family

Tahir said: "Celebrating festivals with the family is always exciting and overwhelming. I am so glad that this year I can manage to take out sometime and go back home. My family is absolutely thrilled that I am finally able to be with them during this time."

"Due to work and then the pandemic, I wasn't able to go to Delhi for Diwali. So this year, I was very keen to be with them," he added.

"Though it is a short trip of just three days, I am really looking forward to having a good time with my family and indulging in some festivities and good food back home.”

Dhanashree cryptically takes a dig at Urvashi Rautela with caption of her new pic

Actor Tahir Raj Bhasin is all set to ring in the festival of lights with his family in Delhi. Tahir decided to take off to the capital city this year, despite his hectic schedule.