India News – Oct 1-15 2022, Vol 3 Issue 5

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Oct 1-15, 2022 - Vol 3, Issue 5

Modi’s ‘rebuke’ of Putin heard in US

also help in a “peaceful resolution and a ceasefire”.

Earlier the same day in New York, a senior White House official pointed to the new Indian position as testimony to the Biden administration’s strategy of just laying out the facts on Ukraine for other countries to see and judge for themselves instead of forcing them to change their stand.

Washington, Sep 23 (IANS) The “abrupt and unheralded change” in India’s stand on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, as reflected in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “public rebuke” of Russian President Vladimir Putin earlier this week, has been heard in official Washington DC with some relief and satisfaction.

Prime Minister Modi made it “clear to Putin’s face that the invasion is wrong”, said Ro Khanna, an Indian American lawmaker who has been critical of India’s refusal to condemn the invasion. Speaking at a community event on Wednesday, he went on to suggest Modi could

“The US strategy has borne fruit insofar as you are seeing increasing signs of countries that did abstain, to include countries like India speaking out in a different way, including directly in front of Putin,” the official said. “And, you know, we’d like to see more than that, obviously, in the days ahead.”

Continued on Page 3

NIA arrests PFI’s Delhi chief, detains 105 activists

of India (PFI) on Thursday, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has detained 105 activists of the front, and arrested its Delhi chief Pravez Ahmed.

The raids were being conducted by the NIA and Enforcement Directorate (ED) in 11 states. PFI's Chairman OMA Salam in Manjeri, Malappuram district has also been searched.

"20 persons were held in Karnataka, 10 persons were held in Tamil Nadu, three in Puducherry, two in Rajasthan, five were held from Andhra Pradesh, nine were held from Assam, 20 from Maharashtra, four from Madhya Pradesh, eight from Uttar Pradesh, three from Delhi and 22 from Kerala," said an NIA source.

New Delhi, Sep 22 (IANS) In a latest development in connection with pan-India raids at various premises of the Popular Front

Sources have claimed that more than 100 leaders of the PFI have been detained by both the agencies.

The PFI workers were also staging protests against the raids. As of now no official comment has been made by any agency.

"There were multiple cases and it

Continued on Page 3

Muslim organisation welcomes NIA-ED action against PFI

New Delhi, Sep 22 (IANS) The All India Pasmanda Muslim Mahaz (AIPMM) has critised the activities of Popular Front of India (PFI), saying that it supports the actions by the agencies against PFI members.

In a major crackdown on the PFI, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday raided premises linked to PFI in

15 states across the country and arrested several of its top leaders and functionaries.

"We welcome the move by the government. We deem that this action has been taken to safeguard the country. The views expressed by the PFI are dangerous. The rallies of PFI and its uniform remind us of Hezbollah, a terrorist organisation," said Muhammad

Phone: 1300 859 066

Russia backs India for permanent seat on UNSC calling it

of the countries from Africa, Asia and Latin America," he said. "We know to add India and Brazil, in particular, as key international actors and worthy candidates for permanent membership within the council," he added.

United Nations, Sep 25 (IANS) Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has endorsed India for a permanent seat on the Security Council calling it a key international actor.

"The Council and UN have to be aligned to contemporary realities," he said on Saturday at the high-level meeting of the General Assembly.

"We see the prospect of making the Security Council more democratic exclusively, through broadening the representation

While Russia has indicated willingness to back India's candidacy, this is the first time that it has done so categorically in public.

India is the only country to have the endorsement of all three Western permanent members and Russia - which amounts to the backing of all the permanent members except China.

Brazil does not have the backing of the US, while Germany and Japan, the other front-runners for permanent seats, don't have Russia's.

Continued on Page 3

Quad FMs meet on UNGA sidelines, hope to make it annual fixture

Chinese influence.

The four countries also signed Quad Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Partnership for the Indo-Pacific, which was discussed and agreed upon at the Tokyo summit of the Quad.

Washington, Sep 24 (IANS)

Foreign Ministers of the Quad countries -- India, Australia, Japan and the US -- met on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly meetings in New York on Friday and said they hoped to make it an annual affair, taking another major step towards further institutionalising the platform focused on keeping the Indo-Pacific free and open from

The Quad -- which started out in 2004 as the AustraliaIndia-Japan-US Tsunami Core Group and later turned into the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue -- has witnessed intense engagement in recent years after it was resurrected in 2017 by the Trump administration from its 2008 collapse.

US President Joe Biden took it to the summit level with a virtual meeting in 2021, which was

Continued on Page 3

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Ms Priyadarshini Rana, Bureau Chief, Victoria

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Professor Prasad Yarlagadda, Queensland University of Technology

Dr Uttam Kumar Sinha, Senior Fellow, Nehru Memorial Museum & Library, India

Mr Shaun Star, Director, Centre for Australia India Studies, Jindal Global University, India

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Mr Karthik Pratap Singh, News Director

Mr. Agastya Yeturi, Cinematographer

Mr Nishit Chandan, Special Correspondent

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Cup at the iconic Allan Border Field

Modi’s ‘rebuke’ of Putin heard in US

from

India was among 34 countries that abstained in an UN general assembly vote in March that deplored Russia for invading Ukraine. China had also abstained.

New Delhi came under significant pressure from the US and its western allies to condemn the invasion and either stop buying Russian oil or not ramp it up, as it would enable Moscow to withstand the economic sanctions imposed on it to force it to end the war and leave Ukraine.

India did neither. Until last week. “Today’s era is not of war,” Prime Minister Modi told Putin in public remarks ahead of their bilateral meeting on the sidelines

of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization’s meeting in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. That went much further than India’s expression of ‘grave concern’ over the killing of civilians in Ukraine’s Bucha, and call for respecting the UN charter that protects the sovereignty and integrity of all member nations.

US frustration with India’s refusal to condemn Russia and stop oil from it, had led to a rather unfortunate outburst from a senior White House official sent to New Delhi for these talks. He had warned India of “consequences”.

“I’ve been clear about India, and I think India ought to be condemning Putin and India ought not to be getting oil from Russia or China. We ought to

rally the world to isolate Putin,” Khanna said on Fox News in days after the UN general assembly vote.

Khanna had gone on to say that it was time for India to choose between the US and Russia. “First, India should condemn Putin in the UN for the blatant human rights violations. Second, they need to realise, they have to pick sides,” he said, adding, “We, the United States, were with them when China invaded India. Putin wasn’t there. And it’s time for them to buy weapons from the United States, not Russia. We’ve got to look at how we can facilitate that and make that easier. We need India as an ally ultimately to contain China.”

Quad FMs meet on UNGA sidelines, hope to make it annual fixture

Continued from Page 1

that this will become a regular feature of these meetings,” said US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, who called the meeting and hosted it, in public remarks ahead of the signing of the agreement and their meeting.

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar agreed.

today, the HDR (humanitarian and disaster relief) Partnership, which we discussed and finalised in Tokyo is I think, extremely timely,” he concluded.

Russia backs India for permanent seat on UNSC calling it key international actor

Continued from Page 1

Lavrov criticised the US IndoPacific strategy as an attempt to "subjugate" Asian countries and to undermine ASEAN.

India figures in the Indo-Pacific strategy as a member of the Quad, the four-nation group that also includes Japan and Australia.

"Under the slogan of IndoPacific strategies, closed formats are being created and they undermine what has been built on the ASEAN for decades," he said.

NATO has now declared as "indivisible" the security of EuroAtlantic and Indo-Pacific, he said (although the interpretation said India and Pacific).

The US was trying to make the whole world "its backyard", he asserted, and the West "is introducing dividing lines everywhere along the lines of a confrontation between blocs: You're either with us or against us," he said

in Kyiv that brought down the elected government of Viktor Yanukovych in 2013.

He said the rights of the Russianspeaking minority were restricted in Ukraine and, egged on by the West, President Volodymyr Zelensky began the confrontation to which his country responded with what he euphemistically called "special operations".

He said that Russia had compromised at the dissolution of the Soviet Union when the constituent republics were free to leave and allowed the reunification of Germany.

After it dissolved the Warsaw Pact, the Soviet bloc's equivalent of NATO, he asserted that there was no need for the Western military alliance, much less for it to encircle his country, he added.

quickly followed by one in person. Their four summit -- and second in person -- took place in May this year in Tokyo.

Though the leaders have had two in-person summits in the two years since their first in 2021, there has been no decision for them to meet every year. But Quad Foreign Ministers will meet every year now, as they announced at their meeting on Friday on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly meeting in New York.

“This is the first time that the Foreign Ministers from the Quad countries have gotten together at the United Nations General Assembly, so my hope is

“I think it’s a great idea that we meet regularly on the sidelines of the UNGA but in our respective countries as well,” he said.

The Minister then emphasised the importance of the Friday meeting, saying it has come at a time the world is passing through “a very difficult period” and mentioned the “global repercussions” of the Ukraine conflict and “climate events and emergencies”.

“So given the turbulent times, I think it’s particularly important that we go further in the constructive agenda that we have set for ourselves, that we work together on the delivery of public goods, that our efforts and particularly what we are signing

Blinken, who called and hosted the meet, said, “We’re looking forward to continuing to explore the many ways that the Quad enables us to deepen our cooperation. Our leaders have set out a very significant agenda for us when they met. We are following through on a lot of that work. So are our colleagues today is one more manifestation of that.”

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said, “We do know our region is being reshaped, economically and strategically. And we are here because we want to work with the countries represented before you to better navigate this period of change together. So this is the heart of the Quad to create the region we all aspire to and it’s a great honour and privilege to be here with my counterparts today.”

PM Modi set to gift 5G services to Indians on Oct 1

New Delhi, Sep 24 (IANS) The National Broadband Mission (NBM) under the Ministry of Communications on Saturday tweeted (and later deleted) that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially roll out the 5G services in India on October 1 -- the same day when the India Mobile Congress (IMC) kicks off which will heavily focus on 5G and related domains.

All the top telecom honchos -including Reliance Industries Chairman and Managing Director Mukesh Ambani and Founder and Chairman of Bharti Enterprises Sunil Bharti Mittal -- are scheduled to join the keynote address at the sixth edition of the IMC that will take place at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, from October 1-4. "Taking India's digital transformation & connectivity to new heights, Hon'ble PM, @ narendramodi, will roll out 5G services in India; at India Mobile Congress; Asia's largest technology exhibition," read the

screenshot of the tweet (now deleted from the NBM handle).

The event will see participation from telecom gear manufacturers and other industry stakeholders, in the presence of IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. According to sources, the government may showcase some successful 5G testbeds being run in the country by Reliance Jio, Airtel and Vodafone Idea at the IMC 2022, jointly organised by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI).

During his Independence Day address from the ramparts of the Red Fort, the Prime Minister had said that the 5G services will be launched in India soon.

Vaishnaw last month said the government expects 5G services to be rolled out in the country by October 12, and the Centre will make sure that the prices are affordable for the consumers.

Vaishnaw said that installations are being done and telecom operations are busy with the seamless rollout of 5G services.

The government will ensure that the 5G plans remain affordable for the public, the minister said.

The 5G services would be rolled out in a phased manner and during the first phase, 13 cities are likely to get the 5G internet services. The cities are Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, Gandhinagar, Gurugram, Hyderabad, Jamnagar, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai and Pune.

Just like 3G and 4G, telcos will soon announce dedicated 5G tariff plans and according to industry experts, consumers may pay more to access the 5G services on their devices. An immediate tariff war with the launch of 5G is unlikely, but it "will be competitive as India continues to be a price-conscious market".

"There is no third option possible, there are no compromises," he added.

He reiterated President Vladimir Putin's uncompromising hardline position against Ukraine.

Lavrov blamed the West and Ukraine for the invasion, starting with what he called the "Maidan coup" -- the protests at that venue

He also referred to the interventions by the US in other countries and said, "Name, a country where Washington interfered by force and as a result of that life improved (there)".

Lavrov spoke shortly before India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who appeared to distance New Delhi from Moscow over the invasion saying that India was on "the side that respects the UN Charter and its founding principles".

Muslim organisation welcomes NIA-ED action against PFI

from Page 1

has the right to express his views, but the way the PFI was carrying out its activities was highly condemable.

Yunus said the PFI put every Muslim of this country under the lens of agencies due to its activities. He also said that PFI has insulted Isalam and its teachings with its activities.

Yunus, executive director, AIPMM.

He said that every citizen of India

"PFI was fooling the poor and uneducated Muslim youth. We strongly condemn its acts," he said.

NIA arrests PFI’s Delhi chief, detains 105 activists

Continued from Page 1

was found that they were running karate camps where they were allegedly giving terror training. They were allegedly running Ghazwa-e-Hind. We have learnt that PFI used to receive donations and other foregin funds, which were later used in suspicious activities," said a source.

The people, who used to withdraw cash in small amounts, have been detained. The agencies knew that they could face hurdles and hence

the whole operation was kept secret as per the instructions of the Ministry of Home Affairs. The local police were assisting the agencies in the raid.

The agencies have recovered a few incriminating documents and digital evidence during the raid.

The ED is investigating the money laundering case whereas the NIA is questioning the PFI leaders in connection with the terror related case.

Inaugural Arts Magic 2022 ignites creative

flair in Springfield’s next Gen artists

any region in Australia,” Dr Eden said.

This week, free paint and mosaic workshops are being held by the internationally renowned SWELL Sculpture, which presents Queenslandʼs largest outdoor sculpture festival annually on the Gold Coast.

Southeast Queenslandʼs premier arts organisations will spark an unearthing of Greater Springfieldʼs next generation of creatives at the opening of the inaugural Arts Magic Festival this month.

The innovative festival in Greater Springfieldʼs 30th year culminates in a showcase event on October 14 at Robelle Domain.

The likes of Queensland Ballet, QPAC, Circa Zoo, Australasian Dance Collective, Prospero Arts and SWELL Sculpture into the

growing city.

Dr Richard Eden PSM, Springfield City Groupʼs Executive General Manager – Education and Smart City – says Arts Magic seeks to stimulate and activate the local arts and culture ecosystem and embed the important role that arts play in the past, present, and future of Springfield city.

“Weʼre aiming to leave a lasting impression and to stimulate and ignite a love of arts in the hearts and minds of the region, which is part of the booming western corridor, the fastest growing of

SWELL Sculpture Festival Executive Director Dee Steinfort said her organisation, along with Monte Lupo, were focussed on growing artistsʼ abilities and creative exploration throughout several festival workshops at Orion Shopping Centre and in schools across Greater Springfield.

“Springfield is turning 30 and SWELL is turning 20 this year, making it an important milestone for both organisations and it is now more important than ever to provide this platform for artists to dive into their imaginations and experiment outside of their dayto-day lives,” Ms Steinfort said.

“Art is cross-generational making the festival a great way to connect the community. It is a way for people to come from babes in arms to great grandparents to

collectively create memorable experiences. There is also an element of recovery to the festival.

“Throughout time, forever, art has always brought joy and inspiration to communities.

During tough times and through crisis, the arts help recovery, connecting people and boosting social cohesion. We witnessed the transformative effects of arts and culture through SWELL Sculpture Festival during COVID.

“We are extremely happy to be partnering with Springfield City

Group and the other leading arts organisation that have thrown their support behind the first Arts Magic, which we want to see get bigger and better with every year.”

SWELL Sculpture hosted free Pop-Up Workshops at Orion Springfield Central during the school holidays before the Arts Magic in-school workshops commence in the lead up the free showcase event on October 14 in Robelle Domain.

Goodwill Cup at the iconic Allan Border Field wins hearts

Brisbane, 18 September (India News Bureau) The Multicultural Community Inclusion and Engagement Goodwill Cricket Cup (T20) between the Institute for Australia India Engagement (South Asia XI) and Queensland Police Commissioner’s XI was held at the Allan Border Field, Albion in Brisbane on Saturday, 17 September. Pristine conditions and fine weather welcomed the players and officials and provided an ideal setting for the inaugural match, after the refurbishment of the AB Field was complete a few weeks ago.

The proceedings kickstarted started with Brother Adrian Coolwell of the Queensland Police performing the Acknowledgement to the Country, followed by welcome remarks from IAIE Goodwill Ambassador to India Matthew Hayden, QPS Acting Inspector Wayne Clayton and former Australian cricketer Ryan Harris, who also did the toss.

The toss was won by IAIE XI Captain Amila Withthesingha who asked his counterpart Paul Bonney to bat first. Batting first, QPS XI scored 129 for the loss of 5 wickets. Jake Coolwell who was adjudged the man of the match in 2021, was again the top scorer for QPS scoring 41 (39), followed by Captain Bonney 33(23), Justin Kersey 27(25) and Raymond Atkinson 18(21). For IAIE XI

Chintaka Gunawardana took 2 wickets, whereas Rabin Khadka, Rohit Haldar, Oshane Perera and Krishna took one wicket each.

In response, IAIE XI got off to a blazing start with former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden scoring a blistering 74(39) including 5 sixes and 4 fours. But the QPS XI made a good fight back, taking the game to the penultimate over and preventing IAIE from having an easy win. It was a hard fought match which IAIE XI won by 4 wickets in which Ash Loganathan, Amit Lohani and captain Amila also played a key role in ensuring victory in 18.4 overs.

Matthew Hayden received the Man of the Match award, while Jake Coolwell received the best batsman award and Chintaka the best bowler award, adjudged by match referee John Bell, former Queensland Bulls coach.

Commentary for the match was provided by Dr Rajesh Khunjeri of the Indian Medical Association of Queensland.

A note of acknowledgement goes the groundsmen —Tony Potter, Sam Raymond, Sean Brackin and Luke Wilmot for preparing an international standard ground and pitch, and Queensland Cricket offering the new swanky digital scoreboard, live streaming and historic dressing rooms and facilities for the two teams.

Goodwill Cup also saw a large number of community champions, dignitaries and legends of the game participating including the Chief Guest Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Innovation and Sport and Minister Assisting the Premier on Olympics and Paralympics Sport and Engagement Stirling Hinchliffe MP, who spent four 4 hours at the event to lend his stellar support. Other dignitaries included Assistant Minister for Hydrogen Development and the 50% Renewable Energy Target by 2030 Lance McCallum MP who delivered the message from Hon Leanne Linard—Minister Minister for Children and Youth Justice and Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Jess Pugh MP for Mount Ommaney, Jim Madden MP - Ipswich West, James Martin MP for Stretton, Goodwill Cup Ambassador Henry Palaszczuk, Councillor Charles Strunk (Forest Lake ward) , Vicki Howard (Central Ward) and David McLachlan (Hamilton ward), AIBC immediate past National Chair Jim Varghese, Dr Ram Mohan India News Chairman, Mr Samir Vora, COO Bravus mining, and Dr Nik Senapati AIBC Queensland president.

The presentations ceremony was emceed by Ms. Ree Ali of the Indian Communities of Gold Coast, with inputs and assistance from Mrs. Clayton and Sweta

Misra. Matthew Hayden, former Australian seamer Carl Rackemann, John Bell also gave away the key awards along with other dignitaries. Federal Parliament Speaker Hon. Milton Dick provided Commonwealth certificates for the players and key officials and staff. Dr Neeraj Khanna, Dr Sunil Sharma and Dr Cyril Fernandez also felicitated Hon. Minister Stirling Hincliffe, QC CEO Terry Svenson and IAIE CEO Dr Ashutosh Misra.

The Goodwill Cup made a huge impact with the invaluable support of QPS officials representing First Nations and Multicultural Affairs Unit, Police Recruiting Team, Members of the Police, Mounted Unit, the Police Dog Squad, North Brisbane District Crime Prevention Unit and the North Brisbane District Police Liaison Unit.

A special vote of thanks goes to Terry Svenson, CEO of Queensland Cricket, who led a team of outstanding QC staff and professionals including Adam McDonald, John Butterworth, Nathan Spencer in ensuring a first class experience to players and guests at the Field. Similarly, a big thank you to Mr. Michael Hennessy, Cricket Australia T20 World Cup representative for flying in from Sydney to support the event.

Ms. Nayda Hernandez was of immense help in coordinating the raffles, painting auction and

cultural performances by Torres Strait Islander Group, Samoan Dance Group, Bollywood Dance Group led by Ms. Anu and the Aboriginal Group led by Jahmarley Brown Dawson which also performed the smoke ceremony and didgeridoo.

The event would not have been possible without the generous support of Rostron Carlyle Rojas Lawyers (Platinum Sponsor), Energex and Ergon Energy, Rise01, Hall Chadwick and Mahindras Automotive (Gold Sponsors), Sip N’ Dine (Silver sponsor) and Sankalp restaurant, Sustainable Homes and Nabropure (Bronze sponsors). Amongst the community partners a special acknowledge must be made for the Multicultural Australia, Bengali Society of Queensland, Kshatriya Society of Brisbane, Australia Pakistani National Association, Women Empowerment and Leadership, Nepalese Cricket Club Brisbane and Wolston Park Cricket Club, whose head coach Anu Perera was not only a co-coordinator of the Goodwill Cup but also coach of IAIE XI. Musical entertainment by DJ Peter was very special in keeping the crowd entertained. The trophies were made by Boomerang trophies, Camira. At the end, the Goodwill Cup was presented by Hon Stirling Hinchliffe to the IAIE XI, followed by Dr Ashutosh Misra delivering the vote of thanks.

Won’t contest Cong prez poll, Sonia Gandhi to decide Raj CM issue: Gehlot

He said, “In this environment I don’t want to contest and the issue of Chief Ministership will be decided by high command. Whether I remain the CM or not that will be decided by Madam... I am a loyal soldier of the Congress from Indiraji’s time, whatever happened in Jaipur I have expressed regret and sadness.”

And, ahead of this meeting, Sonia Gandhi’s emissary Mukul Wasnik had met Gehlot.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Digvijaya Singh will file nomination for the post of the party president for which election is scheduled to be held on October 17.

New Delhi, Sep 29 (IANS) After over an hour-long meeting with Sonia Gandhi at her residence here, Ashok Gehlot said that he was not going to contest the Congress presidential poll and the issue of Rajasthan Chief Ministership will be decided by her.

Earlier, while entering Gandhi’s residence at 10 Janpath, Ashok Gehlot was seen carrying a set of papers. Written on one of the papers was, “Whatever has happened is sad and he is also hurt.”

The meeting came a day ahead of the last date of nomination for the Congress presidential poll.

Sources close to Singh have said that the decision to contest the polls was his personal one, and none from the Gandhi family has asked him to do so.

Congress’ initial plan was to field Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot for the top party post but the high-octane drama in Rajasthan has miffed the Gandhis.

UP reiterates ban on using barbed wires

Lucknow, Sep 23 (IANS) The Uttar Pradesh government has passed an order, re-enforcing an earlier decision that no barbed or blade wire should be used to fence farm fields.

Instead of these, the order states that farmers should use plain wire or rope to secure their farmland.

The original decision, for which two orders had been issued earlier, WAS taken after a meeting of the Go Sewa Ayog where it was discussed that barbed wired fencing was injuring animals.

Sources in the Animal Husbandry Department denied knowledge of the previous orders, an official said that the implementation of the order had not been up to the mark and nor was it published. That is why, he said, it had become necessary to reissue the directions.

In a letter to all district magistrates by additional chief secretary (Animal Husbandry) Rajneesh Dubey, it has been said that subsequent to a Go Sewa

Ayog meeting on August 7, 2017, two directions were issued to all district magistrates, first on March 16, 2018 and then on July 13, 2021, directing them to ensure that farmers did not use blade wires or barbed wires for fencing their fields to prevent animals from entering them.

Instead, they were to use ropes or ordinary wires for this purpose.

"In view of cattle protection, the use of blade wires and barbed wires by farmers has been prohibited. These should be replaced with a system which does not harm the animals.

District magistrates should take exemplary action against those who violate the order," the new

order says.

"Use of these wires has been prohibited under cruelty to animals as they were giving cuts and bruises to animals which were then developing secondary infections."

A month ago, BJP MP and animal activist Maneka Gandhi had also written a letter in this regard.

She said that there are about 3 lakh stray cattle still in the open and the government is running a parallel campaign to bring them into animal shelters by March 2023.

There are about eight lakh stray cattle in these shelters already.

The notice further adds a 24hour veterinary hospital should be functional in all district headquarters. Veterinarians and staff should be deputed at these hospitals in rotation.

The responsibility for ensuring that these hospitals are staffed and functional rests with the district magistrates, who are the chairpersons of the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Defence Ministry inks Rs 1,700 cr deal for surface-to-surface BrahMos missile

Indian Category," the ministry said in a statement.

The induction of these dual-role capable missiles is supposed to significantly enhance the operational capability of Indian Navy.

New Delhi, Sep 22 (IANS) The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which is the key driving force behind the country's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is a prominent organisation which has ardent followers and staunch critics in equal proportion.

However, the recent meeting of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat with Muslim intellectuals and his Tursday's meeting with the head of All India Imam Organisation at a mosque in Delhi, which was followed by a visit to a madrasa here, have drawn everyone's attention -- in the political as well as apolitical circles.

Bhagwat on Thursday visited a madrasa in the old Delhi area where he interacted with the teachers and students. Earlier, he met the chief of the All India Imam Organisation, Imam Umer Ahmed Ilyasi, at a mosque in Kasturba Gandhi Marg.

On August 22, the RSS chief had met a group of Muslim intellectuals.

The recent developments are being termed as RSS' attempt to strengthen the communal harmony in the country.

Also, the meetings, interactions and the deliberations have been happening in the backdrop of allegations by the Opposition leaders, including former Congress chief Rahul Gandhi, that the BJP and the RSS are trying to fan communal tension in the country.

Several questions have been popping up of late following Bhagwat's hobnobbing with the key personalities of the Muslim community. The prominent among them are:

* Is RSS' stance towards Muslims changing?

collective responsibility."

"RSS never had any problems with anyone's ways of worship or offering prayers," he added.

Responding to questions doing the rounds around Bhagwat's meeting with the Muslim intellectuals, Ambekar said: "The RSS is always ready for holding discussions for the betterment of the society and the nation. The Sangh has always kept its doors open for this purpose. Even on the Ayodhya issue, we had held discussions with everyone."

"To promote cordiality, we always insist on holding discussions with various sections of the society. There is nothing new in this. It's part of a routine process," he said.

RSS leader and patron of Muslim Rashtriya Manch (MRM), Indresh Kumar, said that right from former RSS chief K.S. Sudarshan's tenure, the members of Muslim and Christian communities have been trying to understand the Sangh not through any religious or political leaders, but on their own.

"That is why an organisation like MRM came into existence," he said.

Meanwhile, sources in the know of things also said that in the coming days, the RSS chief may hold deliberations with the Christian religious leaders as well as intellectuals of the minority community.

It is being said that to communicate seamlessly with the religious leaders and intellectuals of both Muslim and Christian communities, the RSS has set up a committee of four senior Sangh leaders. Besides Indresh Kumar, the panel comprises senior leaders Krishn Gopal, Manmohan Vaidya and Ram Lal.

New Delhi, Sep 22 (IANS) The Defence Ministry on Thursday signed a Rs 1,700 crore deal for acquisition of additional dualrole capable surface to surface BrahMos missiles.

"Providing further impetus to Aatmanirbharta in defence

production, the Ministry of Defence signed a contract today with BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd (BAPL) for acquisition of additional dual-role capable surface to surface BrahMos missiles at an overall approximate cost of Rs 1,700 crore under Buy-

The BAPL is a joint venture between India and Russia making crucial contribution to augment the new generation surfaceto-surface Missiles (SSMs) with enhanced range and dual role capability for land as well as antiship attacks.

This contract is going to give further boost to indigenous production of critical weapon system and ammunition with active participation of indigenous industry, said the ministry.

* What could be the agenda of RSS behind these meeting?

* What exactly Mohan Bhagwat is trying to achieve?

To get a deeper insight into the recent developments, IANS reached out to RSS Prachar Pramukh Sunil Ambekar, who maintained that the Sangh has always opposed terrorism and separatism.

He said: "Everyone should strive to create a spirit and environment of cordiality by opposing extremism. This is everyone's

In fact, the RSS had initiated an effort to bring a change in the mindset of the Muslim community since the era of former Prime Minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee. However, the overall scenario was much different then as key issues such as Ram Janmabhoomi was yet to see any solution.

Also, several matters were pushed into the cold storage since the government was functioning on the back-up of alliance parties.

Bhagwat’s Madrasa visit & meeting with Imam: Is RSS changing its stance?

Delhi LG orders probe into ‘irregularities’ as salary paid to ‘ghost’ teachers in govt schools

LG Secretariat has asked the Chief Secretary to advise Director (Education) to immediately verify the engagement, physical attendance, drawl of salaries of all guest teachers engaged by AAP Government in Delhi government schools.

The LG Secretariat has also asked to submit the status report within 30 days.

mechanism of internal audit should be strengthened so that such instances do not go unnoticed and unpunished," the LG office note reads.

Nitish Kumar, Lalu Prasad to meet Sonia Gandhi on Sep 25

several leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Sitaram Yechury, D. Raja, Arvind Kejriwal, Mulayam Singh Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav and others. As Sonia Gandhi was not present at that time, he did not meet her.

New Delhi, Sep 22 (IANS) Delhi

Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has ordered an internal inquiry into the alleged irregularities in engagement of guest teachers in Delhi government schools and embezzlement of funds as salary paid to non-existent or 'ghost' guest teachers.

"LG has observed that the instances of non-existent guest teachers and embezzlement of funds are of 'serious concern' and cannot occur without 'connivance of the principals/vice principals/ accounts staff," the note from the LG Secretariat to the Chief Secretary reads.

"Such instance of fraudulent drawl of government funds should be met with exemplary and deterrent action. The

The LG had earlier granted permission to the AntiCorruption Branch (ACB) for conducting investigation against four serving and retired vice principals for fraudulently drawing guest teachers' salary in the name of 'non-existent guest teachers' in Govt. Boys Senior Secondary School (GBSSS-I) in Mansarovar Park, Delhi.

The case pertains to the payment of Rs 4.21 lakh to three persons namely Samiksha Arya - Rs 1,35,900; Uma Shastri - Rs 1,42,078 and Chottey Lal- Rs 1,43,678, despite the fact that "neither of the three names were appointed in the school, a source said.

How PFI spread its wing across the country

E. Abubacker, the chairman of PFI, is also a resident of Kerala.

The organisation established its headquarters in Kozhikode, which was later changed to Delhi.

PFI national general secretary Nasaruddin Elamaram is also a founding member of the outfit.

New Delhi, Sep 22 (IANS) In a major crackdown on the Popular Front of India (PFI), the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday raided premises linked to PFI in 10 states across the country and arrested more than 100 top PFI leaders and functionaries.

An official said that the agency had learnt that the PFI was indulging in terror funding besides imparting training to the youth in order to radicalise them.

"We have seized incriminating documents, digital devices, cash to the tune of Rs 10 lakh along with weapons. We have learnt that camps were organised where conspiracies were hatched to carry out terror-related activities in the country," said a source.

What is PFI?

The Popular Front of India was established in 2006 in Kerala.

A number of radical groups, which were active in southern India, wanted to form a group.

These highly-radicalised groups decided to come on a single platform.

"The National Development Front of Kerala, Karnataka Forum for Dignity, and Manitha Neethi Pasari of Tamil Nadu came together to form the PFI after dismantling their individual outfits," the official said.

According to sources, the PFI has now spread its network to twodozen states across the country.

The sources said that in the name of fighting for Muslim rights, the PFI won the trust of many Muslim youth who joined the outfit in different capacities. It rapidly started opening office in different states where further recruitments were made.

The PFI has also spread its netwrok overseas. The agencies have learnt that PFI receives funds from Muslim countries

in the name of donation. While the PFI members claim that they use these funds to fight for the rights of Muslims and Dalits, the agencies have found that they use these funds to carry out terror activities.

The action of agencies

Central agencies NIA and ED on Thursday conducted raids across 11 states, including Assam, Bihar, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan, and arrested more than 100 suspected PFI activists for allegedly supporting terror activities in the country.

"Twenty persons each were arrested from Karnataka and Maharashtra, followed by Tamil Nadu (10), Assam (9), Uttar Pradesh (8), Andhra Pradesh (5), Madhya Pradesh (4), Puddicherry (3), and Rajasthan (2)," said an NIA source.

What next?

Sources have claimed that the Centre has decided to ban PFI for its alleged involvement in terror activities. A high-level meeting was held between Union Home Minister Amit Shah and top agency officials on this count on Thursday.

Muslim scholars seek ban on singing ‘bhajans’, ‘Surya Namaskar’ in Kashmir schools

Srinagar, Sep 25 (IANS) A body of local Muslim scholars has demanded that the Jammu and Kashmir administration should ban the singing of Hindu 'bhajans' and 'Surya Namaskar' in schools of the Valley.

The Islamic scholars are part of the 'Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulema' (United body of religious scholars) which is a body of around 30 Islamic and educational institutions in the Valley.

The religious leaders have sought

a ban on the singing of bhajans and Suriya Namaskar in schools of Kashmir division saying that the practice hurts the religious sentiments of the local Muslims.

The leaders met on Saturday at the Jamia Masjid in old Srinagar city Nowhatta area and passed a resolution alleging that "The practice of asking school children to sing bhajans and do Surya Namaskar has created anguish among the local Muslims".

The body of Muslim scholars

have also said that the practice is aimed at undermining the identity of Kashmir.

"We strongly resent the practice of furthering the Hindutva agenda through schools and educational institutions," the resolution said.

Former chief minister and president of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti triggered the row by posting a video of school children singing bhajans and doing Surya Namaskar.

Patna, Sep 22 (IANS) Bihar

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and RJD national President Lalu Prasad Yadav will meet Congress chief Sonia Gandhi in Delhi on September 25.

Both the leaders of Bihar will go to New Delhi for the meeting.

Nitish Kumar is currently flexing his muscles to unite opposition parties in the country. He went to Delhi for the three days and met

Following the meeting with Sonia Gandhi, Nitish Kumar will go to Haryana's Fatehabad for former Deputy Prime Minister Chaudhary Devi Lal's birth anniversary. It is expected that leaders of opposition parties of the country will assemble there during the rally.

The Indian National Lok Dal (INLD), headed by Om Prakash Chautala, used to organise a rally every year on the occasion of the birth anniversary of "Tau" Devi Lal.

PM Modi to visit Japan to attend Shinzo Abe’s funeral

his counterpart, Fumio Kishida during the visit, it said.

Abe, Japan's longest-serving Prime Minister, was assassinated on July 8 after a gunman had opened fire at him from behind when he was delivering an election campaign speech in Nara prefecture.

New Delhi, Sep 22 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Japan on September 27 to attend the state funeral of assassinated former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday. He will also separately meet

US Vice President Kamala Harris, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and several other world leaders would be attending Abe's funeral.

According to reports, more than 6,000 people are expected to attend Abe's state funeral at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo.

Bharat Jodo Yatra will provide oxygen to Congress: Jairam Ramesh

now criticising the Bharat Jodo Yatra.

Ahmedabad, Sep 25 (IANS) Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh said on Saturday that the party's ongoing Bharat Jodo Yatra will provide muchneeded oxygen to the party. Attacking the BJP, Ramesh said that those who did not participate in the Quit India movement are

Clarifying on not including Gujarat in the route of the yatra, Ramesh said that many routes were discussed, but in some routes the yatra would have had to cross rivers using boats or trains. So the party opted for a straight route from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, he said.

Also, given that the Assembly elections are round the corner, the party functionaries would be busy by the time the yatra arrives in this part of the country, Ramesh clarified.

Australia’s east coast sees flash floods, rescue ops underway

Gold Coast to be evacuated in the middle of the night.

NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York said ithat they are preparing for all scenarios.

"We have pre-deployed personnel, high clearance vehicles and aviation assets to the Port Macquarie and Lismore areas and local units are on the ground ready to help their communities."

School holidays, bad weather disrupts understaffed Sydney airport

Sydney, Sep 23 (IANS) Australian states of Queensland and New South Wales (NSW) have witnessed flash floods with severe weather warnings issued, with emergency services conducting multiple rescues.

The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has been conducting rescues in the northern part of the state where flash floods occurred after over 200 mm of rainfall fell overnight, reports

Xinhua news agency.

The NSW SES conducted 14 flood rescues since Thursday morning, with over 190 calls for assistance.

Meanwhile, Queensland has seen parts of the Gold Coast receive over 300 mm rainfall with the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) issuing multiple flood warnings throughout the state's southeast.

The heavy rain also forced a campground in Helensvale near

"The number of flood rescues continue to rise with people being trapped in their vehicles. We are again reminding people to monitor road conditions and if you should come across floodaffected roads, make the safe decision, turn around and find an alternate route," York said.

The rain appears to have eased as of Friday morning, with the BOM cancelling its severe weather warnings.

However, it is still monitoring the situation closely, advising people to stay clear of any creeks or rivers, and be aware of possible debris on the road.

Aus state to introduce new ‘no body no parole’ law

Sydney, Sep 20 (IANS) Dominic Perrottet, Premier of Australia's New South Wales (NSW), on Tuesday announced that offenders in the state who refuse to provide information on the location of their victims' remains will be ineligible for parole under new laws.

Perrottet said that the government's proposed bill would mean criminals must cooperate with investigators and disclose the location of remains for any chance of release on parole, reports Xinhua news agency.

"Being unable to locate a loved one's body is extremely distressing and traumatic for the families and friends of victims and it denies a victim the dignity of being laid to rest appropriately.

"These laws are to stop inmates convicted of murder or homicide

offenses from getting parole unless they cooperate with police to end the torment of families and return to them the remains of their loved ones," he added.

The law, which is still under proposal, will mean the State Parole Authority is obliged to refuse parole unless it receives written advice from the Commissioner of NSW Police Force as well as other relevant

information to determine whether the offender has cooperated satisfactorily to identify a victim's location.

The change in law is receiving much attention as it followed the high-profile case of Chris Dawson, who was convicted last month of murdering his wife, Lynette, over 40 years ago, with the body never found.

Corrections minister Geoffrey Lee said the reforms are modelled on laws in other jurisdictions and would apply to all current and future inmates in NSW to capture convicted offenders who have not yet been considered for parole.

"Any offender in prison coming up for parole should really think hard about maintaining their refusal to cooperate with police if they want to retain their prospects of getting parole," Lee said.

school bus-truck collision in Melbourne

College on board the bus along with the driver were all taken to the hospital.

One of the students was airlifted due serious injuries, while the rest are said to be in stable condition.

The truck driver was also taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Loreto College, a Catholic school for girls aged 12 and up located in Ballarat, said in a statement that the bus was heading to the airport for a school tour.

Sydney, Sep 23 (IANS) With millions of Australians heading away for school holidays, an understaffed Sydney airport has seen mass flight cancellations due to severe weather.

Severe thunderstorms saw more than 40 flight cancellations as heavy rain hit Sydney and much of the state of New South Wales (NSW), as well as parts of Queensland, reports Xinhua news agency.

While the Bureau of Meteorology has downgraded its severe weather warnings as of Friday, heavy rainfall is expected to continue in the following days.

As school holidays are set to begin on Saturday in most states around the country, and some are already on holiday since last week, Sydney's airport anticipates that almost 2.4 million passengers will pass through, with 1.65 million flying domestically and 720,000

internationally, in the period from this Monday to October 9. All of this is on top of the airport struggling to fill job vacancies left by the Covid-19 pandemic.

In anticipation of this busy week, it held a second jobs fair to try to fill labour shortages.

Sydney Airport CEO Geoff Culbert said all of the organisations across the airport have been working hard to rebuild the workforce and operational performance is improving, but labour shortages are an ongoing challenge with around 4,000 open roles across the airport.

Meanwhile, flag carrier, Qantas, has scheduled larger-than-usual aircraft between the country's two largest cities, Sydney and Melbourne, as well as extra staff available in terminals, to manage the large influx of passengers to be brought by the upcoming holiday.

Return of int’l migration drives Aus population growth to 2-yr high

109,600 -- or 45.7 per cent.

Melbourne, Sep 21 (IANS) At least 33 people, some with serious injuries, were hospitalised on Wednesday after a collision between a school bus and a truck in Victoria, authorities said.

The collision occurred at about

3.15 a.m. on the Western Highway, near the intersection of Condons Lane, causing the bus to roll down an embankment, reports Xinhua news agency.

Twenty-seven female students and four adults from Loreto

Victoria Police said they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision and urged anyone who witnessed the crash to contact Crime Stoppers, an information receiving service.

Canberra, Sep 21 (IANS) The return of international migration has driven Australia's population growth to its highest level in two years, official data revealed on Wednesday.

According to data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), the country's population was 25,912,614 people as of the end of March 2022, reports Xinhua news agency.

It represents an increase of about 239,800 people -- or 0.9 per cent -- from March 2021. That figure marks Australia's highest population growth over a 12-month period since September 2020.

By comparison, in the 12 months to March 2021, the population grew by 0.15 per cent amid strict Covid-19 border restrictions. Of the 239,800 people added to the population, net overseas migration (NOM) accounted for

"After two years of mostly low or no population growth, overseas migration is again a significant contributor to Australia's population increase, accounting for almost half of the growth in the year to March 2022," Beidar Cho, Demography Director at the ABS, said in a statement.

The number of migrant arrivals to Australia increased 183 per cent from the previous year to 320,000, driving a strong turnaround in NOM.

However, the net migrant intake remained lower than prepandemic levels, which ranged from 238,000 to 260,000.

There were 309,300 births and 179,100 deaths in Australia in the year to March 2022.

The number of deaths was 10 per cent higher than in 2020-21.

Separate data from the national census also released by the ABS on Wednesday revealed Australia's Indigenous population has hit almost one million.

As of June 2021, the country's Indigenous population was 984,000 -- up 23.2 per cent in over five years.

Matthew Hayden named Pakistan team mentor for T20 World Cup

T20 World Cup in Australia and can't wait to join the culture again and feel the spirit of One Nation One Passion. I have seen how Pakistan have been performing in the ACC T20 Asia Cup and Sunday's win over India was brilliant.

the T20I tri-series also involving Bangladesh and hosts New Zealand.

Punjabi singer Nirvair Singh dies in freak car crash near Melbourne

Lahore, Sep 9 (IANS) Australia batting great Matthew Hayden on Friday was named as Pakistan's team mentor for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup in OctoberNovember, said the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

This will be Hayden's second stint with the Pakistan side after being their consultant batting coach during last year's T20 World Cup in the UAE, where the side reached the semifinals after defeating India, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia in the Super 10 league matches.

"I am extremely excited to be reuniting with the Pakistan team as their mentor for the ICC Men's

"I think this Pakistan side has got what it takes to excel in Australia and the conditions will really suit them, both from a batting and bowling perspective. This team has all of its bases covered and I am sure it will light up the World Cup as it did in the UAE last year.

"I feel privileged to be given an opportunity to pass on all my experience and knowledge about all conditions in Australia and can't wait to be back in the Pakistan dressing room," said Hayden in an official statement.

Hayden will join the Pakistan side in Brisbane on October 15, on the day when the Babar Azam-led side arrives in the country from Christchurch after competing in

Pakistan are scheduled to play two warm-up games against England and Afghanistan before their tournament opener against India on October 23 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

“I welcome Matthew Hayden back in Pakistan colours. He is a proven performer with his credentials acknowledged and recognised world-over. He brings with him wealth of knowledge about Australia conditions and I am confident his involvement will significantly benefit our extremely talented cricketers for the World Cup and future tours Down Under.

“I would like to offer my gratitude to Bank AlFalah who have once again partnered with us on this appointment and hope they will remain connected with the PCB,” said PCB chairman Ramiz Raja.

Mumbai, Sep 1 (IANS) Punjabi singer Nirvair Singh, who was known for his number 'Tere Bina' from the album 'My Turn', was killed in a car crash in Melbourne's north-west on Tuesday evening (Australian time).

According to media reports, Nirvair was driving in his lane when a speeding car lost its control and crashed into a jeep, which flipped into the singer's lane. The collision was so intense that the singer died on the spot.

The police said Nirvair, who had moved to Australia nine years ago, was in the wrong place at the wrong time, according to dailymail.co.uk.

It was alleged that a car was seen

being driven erratically in the area before hitting two vehicles in an area known as Diggers Rest. A man and woman were arrested at the scene and remain under police guard in hospital. No charges have been laid.

Nirvair's death has shocked Melbourne's Indian community and led to an outpouring of tributes from friends. The singer gained fame with the song 'Tere Bina' from the album 'My Turn'. Other hits include 'Je Russgi', 'Ferrari Dream' and 'Hikk Thok Ke', a 2018 duet with Gurlez Akhtar.

Fellow Punjabi singer Gagan Sandhu Kokri, who also worked on the album 'My Turn', reacted to Nirvair's death with these heartfelt words: "Your song was the best song in our album 'My Turn', from which we all started our careers. You were a very good person and your departure was a shock for everyone in Melbourne. RIP bro.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner

Portland set to be major housing supplier for the region

Melbourne, Sept 29: The Andrews Labor Government is backing more jobs in regional Victoria with a new housing manufacturing hub to be set up in Portland.

Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing today announced the $800,000 investment from the Labor Government’s Portland Diversification Fund. The funding will enable Geelong-based manufacturer Form Flow to transform the unused Portland airport hangar into a housing manufacturing hub.

The $2. 35 million housing manufacturing hub will be capable of producing up to 200 relocatable houses a year for the Glenelg Shire and surrounding regions. The project will create 50 full time jobs and an estimated 150 indirect jobs, and once complete will establish a new

industry for the Portland district. The hub will have the capacity to manufacture housing for key workers and seasonal workers, as well as housing for National Disability Insurance Scheme participants, and for emergency responses. The manufacturing hub is one of a range of initiatives the Government is investing in to address workforce shortages and housing availability across south west Victoria.

This investment is drawn from the $1 million allocated from the $7. 5 million Portland Diversification Fund to fast-track projects that create more housing for workers.

The Fund forms part of the $17. 4 million Portland Economic Diversification Plan which supports investment to create sustainable long-term jobs growth and better opportunities for locals.

Shining the spotlight on Victoria‘s top exporters

Melbourne, Sept 21: Fourteen export success stories have been recognised for their achievements, innovation and leadership in international trade at the 43rd Governor of Victoria Export Awards (GOVEAs). Minister for Trade Tim Pallas joined award patron and Governor of Victoria, the Honourable Linda Dessau AC, in congratulating the winners who represent key industries including agribusiness, food and beverages, resources and energy, manufacturing and advanced materials, sustainability and professional services. Specialist dental materials manufacturer SDI Limited – which produces Riva Star Aqua, a patented silver fluoride that stops tooth decay – won the international health award and was named Victorian Exporter of the Year. With almost 90 per cent of all sales made overseas, the company’s products have helped advance minimal intervention dentistry around the world by enabling dentists to treat tooth cavities faster using less invasive means. Rebecca Jefferd and Ava Chandler-Matthews, co-founders of skincare startup Ultra Violette, received the

Global Victoria Women’s Award for their company’s expansion into 20 countries, including New Zealand, the United Kingdom, 12 countries across Europe and five countries in South East Asia. Launched in 2019, Ultra Violette’s products are a mix of skin care and sunscreen. All products are made in Australia using native ingredients such as Kakadu Plum. Other award winners were Spee3D (manufacturing and advanced materials), Green Eco Technologies (small business), BroadSource (advanced technologies), The Natural Patch Company (emerging exporter), Envirofluid (regional), Swisse Wellness (e-commerce), Acclime (professional services), Coolon (resources and energy), Native Tongue Music Publishing (creative industries), OET (international education and training), Rubicon Water (sustainability) and Bubs Australia (agribusiness, food and beverages). Exports play a critical role in Victoria’s economy, contributing more than $45 billion annually and helping to support more than 330,000 jobs in sectors ranging from food and agribusiness to technology, health and international education.

Zoos Victoria celebrates 160 years

Melbourne, Sept 17: Victoria’s Zoos are celebrating 160 years of wildlife conservation with school holiday activities free for kids, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government. Minister for the Environment and Climate Action Lily D’Ambrosio today launched the exhibition at Melbourne Zoo, which depicts Zoos Victoria’s history and its transformation into a world-leading conservation organization. All children under 16 can join in the 160th celebrations at Melbourne Zoo, Werribee Open Range Zoo and

Healesville Sanctuary for free this Victorian school holidays, as well as weekends and public holidays, thanks to the Labor Government’s $20 million Kids Go Freeinitiative. Melbourne Zoo has erected a pop-up maze and 160th anniversary-themed photo opportunity for visitors to record special memories, while Werribee Open Range Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary have exciting opportunities for children to join in nature play and art-inspired activities. Melbourne Zoo is Australia’s oldest, still retaining the same 55-hectare footprint as when it opened its gates on 6 October 1862. It originally housed mostly domestic and wild animals, such as deer, boar and birds that had been imported to Australia from overseas. From its origins, Zoos Victoria has grown

to include Werribee Open Range Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary and, later this year, Kyabram Fauna Park in northern Victoria. All engage the wider community in wildlife conservation, educating and empowering visitors to take positive action for wildlife. Together, Victoria’s Zoos currently care for more than 4,500 animals across 350 species, with a focus on fighting wildlife extinction here in Victoria and across Australia with a focus on 27 local threatened species, as well as internationally. The Labor Government has invested more than $305 million in Zoos Victoria since 2014. Over the same period, the Government has invsted more than $560 million in protecting biodiversity – more than any other in Victorian history.

Melbourne Food And Wine Festival bound for the regions

Melbourne, Sept 26: The Andrews Labor Government is backing the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival’s Regional Edition, celebrating the best in culinary talent and local produce while attracting thousands of visitors to regions across the state.

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos today joined Food and Drink Victoria CEO Anthea Loucas Bosha to unveil the program and encourage Victorian and interstate tourists to get along to

the festival. The Regional Edition kicks off with The Village Feast in Thorpdale transforming the small Gippsland town into a weekendlong celebration of Gippsland produce and Victorian chefs. The Village Feast includes pop up food stalls, a five course lunch cooked over campfire from Farmer’s Daughters chef Alejandro Saravia, a celebration of Gippsland’s rich dairy history, pub favourites at the Travellers Rest Hotel, and entertainment on the main stage curated by Always Live. One of the

Festival’s much-loved traditions, Crawl and Bite, will take small groups of diners on progressive dinners through venues in Victoria’s High Country towns including Alexandra, Bright, Beechworth, Milawa, Mansfield and Rutherglen. Festival goers will have the opportunity to dine in reimagined settings and historical buildings as part of Ballarat Unlocked, featuring some of the region’s best chefs in a unique program of dinners.

Sensible changes to mask settings on public transport

Melbourne, Sept 21: In a sensible step to ensure national consistency, and with COVID case numbers well below their winter peak, masks will no longer be mandatory to wear on public transport. From 11. 59pm on Thursday, 22 September, face masks will no longer be required on public transport or in taxis, rideshare services or tourism vehicles and will instead be strongly recommended, in line with the existing indoor mask recommendations.

Masks continue to be strongly recommended in indoor settings, in situations where people can’t physically distance, for people who have any COVID symptoms and for anyone who

may be immunocompromised or vulnerable to COVID. The requirement to wear face masks will remain in some circumstances – like visiting a hospital, care facility or any other indoor space that is publicly accessible in a healthcare setting, including allied health providers.

Masks are also required if you have COVID or are a close or household contact and are not required to quarantine – for example, because you have tested negative on a rapid antigen test.

The decision brings Victoria in line with mask requirements in most other states, and will provide more national consistency on the approach to mask wearing. Face masks remain

a low-cost and highly effective tool to help reduce transmission and protect the most at-risk members of the community.

With more Victorians becoming eligible for their fourth dose of the COVID vaccine, it is important that people continue to stay up to date with their vaccinations to help protect themselves and the community. People should also maintain good ventilation indoors, get tested if they have symptoms and speak to their doctor about COVID treatments. For further information on mask requirements, visit the coronavirus website at coronavirus. vic. gov. au/facemasks, which will be updated to reflect the changes once they are in effect.

Liberals and Nationals must come clean on which hospital projects they’ll cut

Melbourne, Sept 28: Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas today called on Matthew Guy’s Liberals and Nationals to come clean on the future of 10 already jeopardised promises – which are at risk of being cut after the Opposition’s embarrassing backflip on regional hospital funding.

It was only last month that Matthew Guy and Peter Walsh were crowing about the $8 billion they would spend on

regional hospitals, with Mr Walsh stating: “There was $35 billion locked into one city project, but under a Liberal and Nationals Government $8 billion of this will be redirected to our regional hospitals to address our health crisis.” But today it’s been revealed Matthew Guy’s Liberals and Nationals will break that promise, slashing $5-6 billion from regional hospitals.

The Opposition has promised the following projects:

• West Gippsland Hospital

• Mildura Hospital

• Albury/Wodonga Hospital

• New Shepparton Cancer Centre and Health School

• Upgraded Daylesford Hospital

• Redevelopment of St Arnaud Hospital

• Daylesford Hospital• Mansfield District Hospital

• Cobram Hospital

• Dialysis unit for Benalla Hospital

State Government’s clean energy plan to power $740 billion resources boom

Jobs Plan will also be the catalyst for more large-scale renewable energy projects throughout the state’s north and north-west.

“Independent analysis shows Queensland will need an additional 22GW of large-scale wind and solar capacity by 2035 to achieve our decarbonisation ambitions,” he said.

Queensland Police pay tribute to fallen officers

2022 marks the anniversary of the deaths of the following police officers:

Brisbane, 29 September: The Palaszczuk Government will connect Queensland’s resourcerich North West Minerals

Province to the newly announced electricity Super Grid, delivering a $740 billion resources boom for the state.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said building transmission infrastructure from Townsville to Hughenden and eventually Mount Isa would unlock hundreds of billions of dollars and thousands of jobs.

The new transmission link has the potential to plug into the proposed $1.7 billion Copperstring 2.0 network, the Premier said.

“Our plan for a clean energy economy means lower electricity costs for Queensland’s remote mining and industrial operations,” the Premier said.

“This will spur new investment in rare earth minerals mining such as the copper, zinc, vanadium and cobalt that are so important for renewable energy generation and battery storage systems.

“And that will drive even more good, secure jobs in new industries.

“Right now, mining is the most energy-intensive industry in Queensland.

“But it’s also one of our most important, employing 77,000 Queenslanders and contributing greatly to our economy.

“Our plan provides miners with access to more affordable, more reliable electricity, while allowing them to decarbonise their operations.”

Energy Minister Mick de Brenni said the Queensland Energy and

“The State Government will link renewable energy generators in North West Queensland to the national electricity market.

“We will provide certainty that large-scale wind and solar farms already planned for the Northern Queensland Renewable Energy Zone will be able to feed their clean electricity into the national grid.

“This new link will spark significant investment in new clean energy projects along the transmission corridor, like the $2.6 billion Mount James Wind Farm already proposed for Hughenden.

“This means thousands of jobs for Queensland.”

Minister for Resources Scott Stewart said mining activity currently consumes around 20 per cent of Queensland’s electricity, yet most mines operate off the electricity grid through gas and diesel generation.

“Access to the national electricity market will mean lower energy costs for large mining and industrial operations which typically pay higher electricity prices than their grid-connected competitors,” he said.

“The mining sector also has a very high exposure to energy price shocks, such as those we’ve witnessed through global instability this year.”

The Copperstring project is currently subject to regulatory and commercial processes.

“We’ll continue to work with the Copperstring 2.0 proponents on a delivery model to ensure Queenslanders benefit from clean energy opportunities for generations to come,” Mr de Brenni said.

Brisbane, 29 September: Acting Minister for Police and Corrective Services and Acting Minister for Fire and Emergency Services the Honourable Mark Furner MP, joined Commissioner Katarina Carroll to pause and pay tribute to fallen Queensland Police Service (QPS) officers in honour of National Police Remembrance Day at a candlelight vigil last night.

The vigil was held at the Police Memorial in the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, where serving police sat alongside the families of officers killed as a result of their duty.

The sombre event, lit by the glow of candlelight, is an honoured tradition on the eve of National Police Remembrance Day.

Today, Commissioner Carroll joined fellow officers for the first National Police Remembrance Day march in Brisbane since 2019.

“The importance of us as a Service coming together to recognise the greatest sacrifice that can be made by our colleagues cannot be overlooked,” she said.

“September 29 is a very important date in our calendar to pause, honour and remember as well as thank those police officers whose lives have been lost in the line of duty.”

As she paused to remember those who have fallen, Commissioner Carroll also acknowledged the inherent risk faced by police officers every day as they come to work facing uncertainty for what the coming shift may bring.

“Each year I have the same wish, just as you all, that no further names are added to the Police Remembrance Honour Roll,” she said.

“On behalf of the Queensland Police Service, I would like to acknowledge the families, friends and colleagues who are with us today.

“Our thoughts are with you and I hope that you find some comfort

from our blue family today.

“National Police Remembrance Day not only honours those who have lost their lives in the line of duty but also recognises the commitment, dedication and bravery of all past, present and future police officers.”

Acting Police Minister Furner said he was honoured to continue the tradition of lighting a candle for the eternal memory of fallen officers.

“Since the first QPS officer was killed in the line of duty in 1861, there are now 148 officers whose names appear on the Police Memorial,” Mr Furner said.

“I am proud we have come together as a community to pay tribute to their work, courage, commitment, loyalty and dedication.

“By continuing this tradition, we make it known to these officers and their loved ones that they are not - nor will they ever beforgotten for their sacrifice.

“And today, I also thank the Queensland Police Union President Ian Leavers for their unwavering commitment to this cause.

“It was the Union and Ian’s initiative to create a modern Queensland Police Memorial, where we are able to gather and pay our respects on important days such as today.”

Mr Leavers said Police Remembrance Day is a solemn day.

“Today, we honour those who gave everything protecting our community,” Mr Leavers said.

“We gave a commitment to forever remember the sacrifice and never forget the names of our colleagues, mates and friends who have died.

“Today is also important for the families left behind as they carry the burden of loss forever.

The State Police Memorial has become a beautiful place in the Botanic Gardens to reflect and remember.”

30 years

In 1992, Constable Sondra Lena died after being struck by a motor vehicle while on traffic duty on the Bruce Highway near Rockhampton.

40 years

Senior Constable Robert Moody was killed in a traffic crash near Wullumbilla in 1982.

50 years

In 1972, Senior Constable Graham Ball was killed instantly when his police car plunged 60 feet off the road and into a creek bed near Rockhampton.

60 years

Constable Douglas Wrembeck of the Brisbane Traffic Branch was killed in a hit and run in 1962

Constable First Class Gregory Olive of Kelvin Grove Police Station was shot and killed while investigating a neighbourhood dispute in 1962.

70 years

In 1952, Constable James Ward collapsed and died from a heart attack on his way to work at Woolloongabba.

120 years

Constable George Doyle was killed in 1902, shot by fugitives at Lethbridge Pocket (Upper Warrego).

150 years

In 1872, Constable Abraham Wood was bitten by a snake while on gold escort duty at Glendhu, west of Cardwell.

Blue ribbons and memorial pins are available from police stations around Queensland for a small donation to Queensland Police Legacy and Community Supporting Police.

Further information on National Police Remembrance Day is available at https://www.police. qld.gov.au/national-policeremembrance-day.

With Honour They Served.

Toowoomba in the top 5 rooftop solar postcodes in Queensland

Brisbane, 27 September:

Postcodes across Queensland have been compared to determine which areas have the most residential rooftop solar, with Toowoomba the fourth highest in Queensland.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said over 722,000 Queensland homes have solar.

“Together, Queensland’s homes account to over 3.5 GW capacity, that’s more generation capacity than Qld’s 2 largest power stations combined (Gladstone 1,680MW, Stanwell 1,460MW),” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“I want to thank every

Queenslander who has helped lower electricity prices and our carbon footprint by installing solar panels on their home – your home is powering the state.”

Energy Minister Mick de Brenni said a new solar system is connected every 11 minutes in Queensland.

“Toowoomba’s 4350 postcode has the fourth highest number of residential rooftop solar customers in Queensland with over 12,250,” Mr de Brenni said.

“Nearby 4352 postcode came in at number 33 on the list.

“Queensland not only leads the nation but also the world in

rooftop solar.

“While rooftop solar supplied 8.9 per cent of Queensland’s total energy needs last financial year, in the middle of the day it can represent more than 40 per cent of generation.

“Bundaberg’s 4670 postcode again tops not only Queensland, but the national solar stakes, with over 15,600 solar PV customers.

“This is followed by the 4655 postcode at Hervey Bay, which has over 14,000 solar PV customers.

“Caloundra is in third position.”

Overall Queensland continues to be the nation leader in rooftop solar, outstripping the other

states with almost 88,000 more installations than its nearest rival, New South Wales.

Mr de Brenni said the Clean Energy Regulator data shows the southern states are starting to catch on to the important role household systems can play in providing clean energy into the grid.

Queensland Top 10 solar postcodes

1st 4670 (Bundaberg) = 15,600 solar households

2nd 4655 (Hervey Bay) = 14,000 solar households

3rd 4551 (Caloundra) = 12,800 solar households

4th 4350 (Toowoomba) = 12,200 solar households

5th 4740 (Mackay) = 11,600 solar households

6th 4300 (Springfield) = 10,300 solar households

7th 4207 (Beenleigh/Logan Village) = 10,200 solar households

8th 4211 (Nerang) = 10,200 solar households

9th 4209 (Coomera) = 9,390 solar households

10th 4305 (Ipswich) = 9,350 solar households

Source: Facebook

G4 Ministers meet to strategise UNSC reform as world leaders express support

"This includes permanent seats for those nations we have long supported," -- India, Japan and Germany, Biden added.

Several leaders from around the world have clamoured for reform and expansion of the Council.

For example, Portugal's Prime Minister Antonio Costa said at the Assembly around the time the G4 was meeting that the Council should be reformed so that the African continent, and at least Brazil and India, have permanent seats.

United Nations, Sep 23 (IANS)

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and his G4 counterparts met to discuss and strategise the reform of the UN Security Council (UNSC) which has been getting wide support from leaders at the high-level meeting of the General Assembly.

Besides Jaishankar, the other participants at Thursday's meeting were Foreign Ministers Carlos Franca of Brazil, Annalena Baerbock of Germany, and Yoshimasa Hayashi of Japan.

Known as the G4, the four countries lobby for reform of the Council and mutually support each other for permanent seats to be added through the reforms. They received a boost when US President Joe Biden told the Assembly on Wednesday that Washington "is committed to this vital work", reforming the Council and "increasing the number of both permanent and nonpermanent representatives on the Council".

Jamaica Prime Minister Andre Holnes said that the "critical organ" should "be more representative of the world of today".

Uganda's Vice President Jessica Alupo said the need for reform is "now more urgent" and pointed out that "Africa with more than one billion citizens, and with over 70 per cent of issues on the agenda of the Council, continues to suffer the historical injustice of having no representation in the Permanent category of the Security Council".

China blocks action against Pakistanbased terrorist in ‘favour’ to close ally

London, Sep 25 (IANS)

Demonstrations have spread to most of Iran's 31 provinces and almost all urban centres, pitting anti-government demonstrators against regime forces, including the military, and posing the most serious test to the hardline state's authority in more than 13 years, local media reported.

The demonstrations have evoked images of an anti-government protest in 2009, known as the green revolution, that followed contentious presidential elections and marked the last time citizens faced off against security forces on a large scale.

Firuzeh Mahmoudi, executive director of human rights NGO United for Iran, said the recent unrest followed months of Iranians being prepared to hold smaller protests on an array of issues. "The uprising in 2009 in some ways was more expansive in certain cities," she said.

"We had millions of people protesting in certain cities during the biggest day of that protest. It was the biggest thing since the [1979] revolution. They did not see it coming and were very surprised.

sisters and women, life, liberty", had been heard around the country.

"This is unprecedented for us. We have never seen women take their hijab off in mass like this. Burning down the police centres, running after their cars, burning down the pictures of [supreme leader Ayatollah Ali] Khamenei," she said, The Guardian reported.

Drawing on lessons learned over the past decade in antigovernment uprisings elsewhere in the Middle East, smartphones have been used as organising tools, with messages and places of demonstrations widely circulated, despite widespread cuts to the country's internet.

Substantial numbers of Iranians have long been opposed to unflinching societal rules and the reach of the state's security forces, which have enforced one of the region's most formidable theocratic states over more than four decades.

New York, Sep 22 (IANS) China has again blocked action in UN Sanctions Committee against Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leader and 26/11 Mumbai attacks accused Sajid Mir, drawing strong criticism from India.

China's move to stymie the proposal, tabled by the US and co-sponsored by India, in the UN Security Council's 1267 Committee for subjecting Mir to an assets freeze, travel ban, and arms embargo, comes soon after Chinese President Xi Jinping met Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the sidelines of the recently-concluded 22nd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Uzbekistan.

Sources said China again provided a big favour to Pakistan, as the Sajid Mir matter was

discussed there with both countries' top officials well aware of the proposal coming up in the upcoming UNGA Sanctioning Committee meet on September 17.

After his arrest in May this year, Mir was sentenced to 15-and-ahalf years in prison along with a fine of Rs 420,000 in June, after which he is currently serving his sentence at the Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore. But sources said that he is somewhere else in safe custody.

China's veto in the Mir matter was the third time such an action has been taken by it in recent times.

In the meeting of the Sanctions Committee in June, the joint resolution of India and the US to ban Abdul Rehman Maikki of the outlawed LeT was not allowed to be approved by China on technical grounds. He was accused of receiving money and helping terrorists.

Then, in August, a proposal co-sponsored by the US to ban Jaish-e-Mohammed's Abdul Rauf Asghar for his involvement in the 1999 hijacking of a US airliner, plotting the attack on the Indian Parliament in 2001 and the Pathankot airbase attack in 2015, was again blocked.

National security experts said that the arrest of Sajid Mir was related to FATF and was necessary for Pakistan to get off its grey list.

Jaishankar strongly decried the move, and said that politics is coming in the way of sanctioning terrorists, allowing them impunity.

"Regrettably, we have seen this of late in this very Chamber, when it comes to sanctioning some of the world's most dreaded terrorists," he said in a reference to China blocking sanctions against the three.

"Now we're seeing not only big cities, but smaller cities that we've never seen before. We're now also seeing unprecedented ways in which people are showing up, in the messaging and the boldness.

Things are a lot more unified."

Mahmoudi said chants heard at rallies, such as "We'll support our

As long as the protesters continue agitation on the streets and wear out the security forces, they will sustain and maybe expand the momentum. In at least one small city, Oshnavieh, in north-west Iran, the regime has lost effective control and retreated to the outskirts.

Internet provider Starlink has announced that it will activate its satellite so the internet can be accessed inside Iran, The Guardian reported.

Demonstrations in Iran pose biggest threat to hardline regime in 13 years

Hundreds march through Leicester amid violent clashes between Hindus and Muslims

in Leicester.

Temporary Chief Constable Rob Nixon told LeicestershireLive that local officers had previously been deployed to help cover the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II - which is expected to lead to a million people travelling to London to pay their respects to the late monarch.

However, a review was then carried out after violence and disorder broke out again in the east of Leicester on Saturday night.

was dispersed quickly, Daily Mail reported.

Nixon on Sunday night said there will continue to be a strong police presence on the streets of the city.

He said: "This continues to be a fast-moving situation, linked with a large-scale policing operation.

We are still using stop and search powers and any outbreaks of disorder will be dealt with positively. I am repeating my call for calm."

violence and disorder then broke out across the east of the city, Daily Mail reported.

Footage has since emerged of police wielding batons shouting at people to get back as bottles were thrown, narrowly missing officers.

Leicester, Sep 19 (IANS) A group of masked men marched through Leicester with one seen armed with a 2x4 foot piece of wood amid violent clashes between Hindus and Muslims, media reports said.

Fifteen people were arrested during a policing operation in east Leicester "to deter further disorder" on Sunday evening after another night of violence, which has continued to plague the city in recent weeks, Daily Mail reported.

Footage has emerged showing the brewing tensions between the two groups with mass marches showing hundreds of people encroaching upon Green Lane Road - with very few police officers in sight to control the situation, the report said.

Many officers were deployed to London for the Queen's 's funeral on Monday - but the chaos taking place in Leicester has led chiefs to redivert them back to the east midlands to be on hand to deal with any further potential unrest

Some Leicestershire officers were recalled from the capital as a result and extra officers have been drafted in from other forces to help.

Leicestershire Police had a 'large presence in Belgrave Road' on Sunday afternoon, as a crowd gathered for an unauthorised protest.

A large number of people wearing masks then attempted to march down the city's golden mile, but the road was closed and the group

There were ugly scenes across the east of the city on Sunday night, which began after police received reports of an unauthorised protest involving up to 200 people marching towards Highfields.

All available local officers were sent to the scene immediately in an attempt to engage with the crowd, while extra officers were called in. But the protesters continued their march before the extra officers arrived.

An opposing group then gathered. Police issued a dispersal order, but several other incidents of

Video of fights breaking out on the streets surfaced Sunday with police breaking up the two groups -- just hours after two arrests were made when disturbances broke out at an unplanned protest on Saturday night and the early hours of Sunday morning, Daily Mail reported.

The trouble in the city came after a period of unrest between Hindi and Islamic communities in Leicester.

Violence first flared following the India v Pakistan Cricket match on August 28, which led to a number of incidents in the days that followed. However the situation appeared to be calming until last night.

From the editor's desk

Batting for a Multicultural Australia

To further expand the Foundation’s outreach, QC in strategic alignment with CA has now created a dedicated project called Project Multicultural espousing the following key priorities:

enhancing engagement with the diverse multicultural communities, especially during the ICC T20 world cup, and beyond;

partnering with the Usman Khawaja Foundation to deliver Woolworths Cricket Blast Programs;

establishing social formats such as tape ball leagues; rolling out Queensland Cricket’s Nations Cup; and developing multicultural network for promoting diversity and inclusion by engaging with the diverse multicultural community organisations and clubs.

Permanent Capital: Answer to India’s $10 Trillion Economy

The development and expansion of Indian enterprises, especially in terms of improving capital use efficiency, can benefit from understanding global trends in money management and business efficiency.

The one trend that has been in focus throughout the asset management industry, especially the private equity world, is "permanent capital". This is broadly defined as access to funds for long periods instead of the usual seven to ten-year fund horizon that has been the norm in the private equity industry.

economic planning platforms, such as the development of GIFT City and the International Financial Service Centre (IFSC) in Gujarat, have already been created. There is a significant push to create a more open and conducive regulatory scheme and simpler tax structure. With Permanent Capital, India will have the advantage of accessing global investments while generating long-term returns for investors.

Australia’s demography has undergone a rapid transformation in the last couple of decades, wherein one in four Australians and 47% parents have been born overseas. In a state like Queensland, one in five Queenslanders and one in three parents have been born overseas.

One in ten speak language other than English and overall, 220 languages are spoken across the state and over 100 religious beliefs practiced.

This changing demography is more pronounced during cricketing events when a team from the Indian subcontinent is visiting Australia, bringing more diverse and multicultural fans to the stadium than white Australians. This transformation has not gone unnoticed at Cricket Australia, which champions cricket as an instrument of positive social change. CA released the National Multicultural Cricket Strategy in 2014 which reflects CA’s vision for

enriching cultural diversity and leaving a legacy that helps unify and connect all Australians. Now CA is passionately promoting more engagements with young people, and encouraging local clubs into becoming more welcoming and culturally inclusive.

Queensland government too, has galvanised its multicultural connect after passing the Multicultural Charter in 2017. Responding to this demographic transformation, Queensland Cricket (QC) has created the Queensland Cricket Foundation to fundraise and create initiatives for a positive change. The Foundation rests on four broad pillars:

1) Indigenous health & wellbeing;

2) female and all-inclusive program & initiative;

3) developing infrastructure and facilities; and

4) supporting experiences for disadvantaged youth.

Dr Ashutosh Misra, who has been appointed as Project OfficerMulticultural says, “It is a double delight and pride for me to be associated with Queensland Cricket and the project as a longtime cricket tragic and also a passionate member of the Indian community. It is an opportunity to utilise cricket as an icebreaker for not only building a more resilient society but also building a lasting legacy for QC as a champion of social change and inter-community understanding. Multiculturalism is not only his, but everyone’s business”.

Such sentiments are also shared by Geoff Teys, GM - Government Relations, Infrastructure & Community Cricket. He observes, “This is an exciting period for cricket, and Queensland Cricket in particular.”

“Our purpose is to promote and grow cricket to ensure all Queenslanders can play, participate and enjoy this great game, and Project Multicultural will play a prominent role in achieving our vision of being Queensland’s leading sport.”

QC CEO Terry Svenson has been engaging with Dr Misra for some time in promoting the India vs Australia women’s cricket series and also the Goodwill Cup involving the Institute for Australia India Engagement XI and Queensland Police Commissioner’s XI which was held on 17th September at the Home of Cricket in Queensland, the iconic Allan Border Field. Dr Misra is the CEO of IAIE, National Sports Chair with the Australia India Business Council, and Editor-in-Chief, India News Australia which engage with QC in promoting multicultural engagements around cricket. Mr Svenson believes, “Strong ties within our community, especially through existing networks which support and promote cricket, are vital. We are delighted to have Dr Misra providing his insights and expertise and look forward to delivering our goals during the summer.”

Permanent capital funds focus less on exiting investments in a defined period - and the emphasis is more on generating potential long-run investment returns.

Investors have generated permanent capital through a variety of strategies. Some large investors, such as Blackstone, Apollo & KKR, have utilised Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) to generate capital they can invest strategically. Apollo has also generated permanent capital through investing, and managing assets for a retirement solution focused annuity business called "Athene", which, through its annuity business, generates significant cash that Apollo has utilised to generate returns.

Permanent Capital Vehicles' (PCVs) growing popularity, in large part, was inspired by Warren Buffett. As the head of one PE firm was quoted by Financial Times, "everyone is suffering from Warren Buffett envy". Specifically, Berkshire Hathaway's buy-andhold investment strategy, wherein every investment is viewed as an acquisition in a company rather than a mere trade. As such, the investment is considered a vote of confidence in the company's prospects and a long-term commitment to helping it achieve the same. As Buffett himself once famously noted, his "favourite holding period is forever".

While Berkshire Hathaway may be the most celebrated name in the PCV space, it is by no means the only one. Markel Corporation, Danaher, Apollo, ThermoFisher, KKR and Johnson & Johnson are other examples - and the list is growing.

So how will Permanent Capital help India in the next decade?

The success of nations/economies depends on access to highquality growth and low-cost capital. While India will enjoy high growth due to favourable demographic and economic factors, access to the low cost of capital will be critical. As the world heads toward high inflation and high-interest rates, the ability to make India an attractive destination for global capital is a must. The Indian government has been making a huge push in this direction. Government-led

- Permanent capital allows prioritising value and steady long-term returns over risky one-time buyouts that may be adversely impacted by unpredictable market cycles.

Long-term value creation will help generate significant returns.

- With higher degree of permanent capital, it will allow Indian businesses and investors to access opportunities for longer periods, ride out periods of high market volatility and, most importantly, acquire assets at attractive valuations when rivals cannot do so due to unfavourable market conditions or internal distress.

- With permanent capital, Indian companies can pursue essential high-growth-high-return projects that may yield significant investment returns in the future.

- For investors looking toward emerging markets such as India, PCVs are essential, especially in the context of relatively lesser secondary market liquidity, longer investment horizons for value generation and smaller size of debt capital markets. Using PCVs to hold on to investments longer for value creation could be a vital factor.

- Most importantly, stable cash flows via permanent capital can help shield India from adverse market conditions and businesses from the adverse funding conditions and assist a company in acquiring valuable assets across the industry. Over the past decade, long-term investing has garnered more takers, especially in the aftermath of the Great Recession, following which economic growth, especially in developed countries, was muted. The usual buy-and-sell-quickly strategy was becoming less viable. Case in point: a quarter of buyout firms worldwide never raised a fund post-2008.

As the capital markets and businesses in India evolve, winners and losers in highly competitive markets will be determined by various factors, including sources of funds. Both the quality and quantity of funding available will be one of the fundamental factors determining long-term winners.

Permanency of capital offers some essential insights into improving one's competitiveness.

Dr Ashutosh Misra

Geoff Teys

Terry Svenson

UK’s Queen Elizabeth II laid to rest after grand farewell

Queen Elizabeth leaves behind assets worth $88bn of the monarchy

London, Sep 19 (IANS) Britain's Queen Elizabeth II on Monday afternoon began her last journey a 25 mile stretch westward from Westminster Abbey in central London to Windsor Castle in the county of Berkshire, where she spent much of her time in recent years. There she was to be laid to rest at the royal chapel next to her beloved husband Prince Phillip, who predeceased her in 2021.

Only members of the British royal family, led by her successor King Charles III, attended the private ceremony. Earlier, in an hour long church service at the Abbey, which has existed and expanded since 960 AD and is located in central London, Elizabeth, who reigned for 70 years, was given the grandest of final farewells. She had got married at the same Abbey 75 years ago.

President of India Droupadi Murmu was present at the proceedings. Compared to other Commonwealth heads of government or state, she unassumingly arrived early at the venue, wearing a dark blue silk sari and a cardigan. She took her appointed seat in the midst of 2,000 assembled invitees. On Sunday evening, she attended a reception hosted by Charles and Queen Consort Camilla for 500 foreign dignitaries. Charles greeted the President warmly and was seen engaged in a brief conversation with her.

In an Anglican Christian service, with leaders of multiple religions in the audience, Baroness Patricia Scotland, Secretary General of the

Commonwealth - an organisation near and dear to Elizabeth - read the first lesson from Paul's first letter to the Corinthians about the ressurrection of Jesus Christ. She was followed by the British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who read a passage from John, which said: 'Let not your heart be troubled...'

Then spoke the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, who is the global head of the Church of England. He said: "She (Elizabeth) was present to so many, touching a multitude of lives."

Emperor Naruhito of Japan, President Joe Biden of the US and President Emmanuel Macron of France were among a galaxy of foreign dignitaries seated either side of the south and north aisles. "I'll miss her terribly," said Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Canada, Australia and New Zealand, among other territories, were among the "realms" where Elizabeth was head of state and Charles now is.

All living former British Prime Ministers and their spouses were noticeable attired in black, like most others. On what was declared a Bank Holiday, there was no Monday morning traffic in the British capital. Sniffer dogs, though, were busy in the area around the Abbey to prevent any untoward incident. The live television coverage by BBC was projected on big screens at spacious locations around Britain. Tens of thousands camped overnight in such places to ensure they got a ringside view of the state adieu to Elizabeth. 125

cinemas in the country reportedly showed the ceremonies live as well. 200 other nations, including India, watched simulcasts of the coverage via the BBC World News channel or bbc.com. Foreign TV networks like PBS, CNN and Fox of the US and ABC of Australia, with their own anchors and studio commentators, covered the event in parallel. The scale of global interest was unprecedented. Increasingly, from 8 a.m., accredited reporters hovered around the Abbey. This day was inevitable and had been planned for years by the royal household. Nevertheless, the organisers gave themselves 11 days' time between Elizabeth's death to her funeral to get it right.

At 6.30 a.m., the last of the estimated three quarter of a million mourners filed past the coffin lying in state at Westminster Hall in the Houses of Parliament opposite the Abbey. Disruptions on trains arriving in London and parts of the city's underground system inconvenienced commuters.

15 minutes before the service commenced, the coffin was ceremonially moved in a gun carriage with soldiers in accompaniment from Westminster Hall to the Abbey. Charles, his brothers Andrew and Edward, sister Anne and sons William and Harry followed the body on foot.

Finally, the coffin, with Elizabeth's crown placed on it - as it has been for days - was carried away from the Abbey on the shoulders of soldiers in bright red tunics into a sunny courtyard, which faces London's Parliament Square, the centrepiece of which is a statue of Mahatma Gandhi. Back on the gun carriage, Charles and family and soldiers of various armed forces marching around it, Elizabeth embarked on her triumphant last journey via Buckingham Palace, her London home, to the green and pleasant fields of Windsor.

Twitter breaks all records with over 30 mn tweets on passing of Queen Elizabeth II

New Delhi, Sep 20 (IANS) Twitter on Tuesday said that the platform saw a record number of tweets and conversations after the passing away of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8 at the age of 96.

Since the Queen's passing, there have been over 30.2 million tweets about the Queen, said the company.

The day of the announcement on September 8 was the highest volume of conversation ever seen on the micro-blogging platform.

"On September 8, there were over 11.1 million tweets about the Queen, with @RoyalFamily being the 4th most globally

mentioned handle," said the micro-blogging platform. There were over 1 million Tweets about queues and the #1 hashtag within this conversation was #queueforthequeen.

"The top Retweeted Tweet so far has been The Royal Family's

announcement of the Queen's death," said the company.

Britain's Queen Elizabeth II was laid to rest on September 19 at the royal chapel next to her beloved husband Prince Phillip, who predeceased her in 2021.

Only members of the British royal family, led by her successor King Charles III, attended the private ceremony. Elizabeth, who reigned for 70 years, was given the grandest of final farewells.

Prince Charles, 73, who had been heir to the crown for 70 years -- the longest in the country's history -- has ascended the British throne.

Washington, Sep 10 (IANS) Queen Elizabeth II, who died on Thursday at Balmoral Castle in Scotland at age 96, leaves behind assets worth $88 billion of the British Monarchy as estimated in 2017. Where it now goes is the question. The British Monarchy was valued at roughly $88 billion in 2017, according to brand valuation consultancy firm Brand Finance. The Queen's personal wealth is closer to $500 million from investments, art, jewels and real estate, according to a 2021 estimate from Forbes. But the queen's true net worth has never been disclosed. The Guardian reported last year that the queen successfully lobbied the British government in the 1970s to change a draft law in order to conceal her private wealth from the public, claiming the disclosure would be embarrassing. A spokesperson for Buckingham Palace told BBC that "any assertion that the sovereign has blocked legislation is simply incorrect". The castle is just one of the assets the queen leaves after 70 years on the throne. Her personal assets from investments, real estate, jewels and more have an estimated worth of $500 million, according to Forbes magazine. The entire royal family was estimated to be worth at least $88 billion as of 2017. The financing that makes up the wealth behind the crown is complex. Here's a breakdown of how much her majesty was worth, where the money came from and where it may go, USA today said in a report here.

How rich was the queen? What happens to the other royals under King Charles III and his new slimmed-down monarchy? How much is the British royal family worth?

These are questions often asked not just by just Britons but engaging the minds of the populations of the world especially the commonwealth countries of which she was the head. King Charles III is now officially the new monarch and head of the commonwealth after his installation by the privy council. Brand Finance reported in 2017 that the British Monarchy's worth has grown "every year" since it began tracking in 2012.

The $88 billion figure includes the Crown Estate, the Royal Collection (including the crown jewels) and other assets.

Who inherits the queen's fortune? King Charles III inherits the

majority of the Queen's $500 million, according to Forbes. How did Queen Elizabeth get the money? The royal family collects fees from The Sovereign Grant Act, a taxpayer fund that is used to maintain royal palaces and royal duties such as receptions and travel. The Sovereign Grant for 2022 to 2023 is just under $100 million. Payments are based on profits from the Crown Estate, a property business that is owned by the monarch but runs independently, according to the BBC. Starting in 2017, the queen began receiving 25 per cent of the Crown Estate profits from the previous two years, a deal that was set to last 10 years to help pay for the refurbishment of Buckingham Palace. The remainder of the money goes to the government. The Crown Estate is also part of a $28 billion empire run by "The Firm," or a group of members of the House of Windsor.

Along with the Queen, members included King Charles and his wife the Queen Consort Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall; Prince William and his wife Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge; Princess Anne, the queen's daughter; and the queen's youngest son, Prince Edward, and his wife Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, Forbes says. The crown holds, but cannot sell, various assets including:

* The Crown Estate ($19.5 billion)

* Buckingham Palace ($4.9 billion)

* The Duchy of Cornwall ($1.3 billion)

* The Duchy of Lancaster ($748 million)

* Kensington Palace ($630 million)

* The Crown Estate Scotland ($592 million).

The Firm, or "Monarchy PLC," pumps hundreds of millions of pounds into the United Kingdom's economy every year through tours of Commonwealth countries and other displays.

Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex's 2018 royal wedding, for instance, was expected to benefit the British Economy by over 1 billion pounds, according to Brand Finance. The royal family doesn't personally benefit from the business, but Forbes reports that they do receive other financial benefits such as free media coverage, the USA today reported. How much money did the queen get from taxpayers? The Sovereign Grant was set at 86.3 million pounds (about $99 million) for 2021 to 2022, or about 1.29 pounds (about $1.50) per person in the UK, according to the BBC. This does not include security costs. How much property did Elizabeth own?

Forbes reports that the queen's personal real estate assets include two castles: Sandringham House and Balmoral Castle.

WORLD THIS WEEK

Contributed by A publication of the National Institute for Advanced Studies, Bengaluru Compiled by Akriti Sharma, Harini Madhusudan, Rashmi Ramesh, Ankit Singh, Avishka Ashok, Abigail Miriam Fernandes, Apoorva Sudhakar, Padmashree Anandhan, Rishma Banerjee and Arshiya Banu

SCO Summit 2022: Who said what

Raytheon over their involvement in Washington's latest arms sales to Taiwan. US State Department approved the sale of military equipment to Taiwan worth USD 1.1bn earlier this month, involving 60 anti-ship missiles and 100 air-to-air missiles. China in February sanctioned Raytheon and Lockheed Martin following the announced sale of USD 100m in upgrades to Patriot missiles for Taiwan. The announcement marks the first time Beijing identified and imposed sanctions against individuals from these companies.

China: State Council objects to "Taiwan Policy Act of 2022"

On 15 September, a Chinese spokesperson from the State Council Taiwan Affairs office, Zhu Fenglian expressed China's objection to the passing of the "Taiwan Policy Act of 2022" by the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Zhu said: "The move breached the solemn commitment made by the US side, and was a flagrant provocation against China's sovereignty and territorial integrity." He further asked the US lawmakers to adhere to the one-China principle and stop its malicious activities in Taiwan.

targeted disbursements of that $3.5 billion to help provide greater stability to the Afghan economy."

Meanwhile, the Taliban's Ministry of Economy has asked the US to move the frozen assets of Afghanistan to the Da Afghanistan Bank (Central Bank).

Ukraine: Mass burial site found in de-occupied Izyum

On 16 September, Ukraine's Defence Ministry said that torture chambers and a mass burial site with at least 440 graves had been found in the Izyum region. Izyum is the town that has recently been de-occupied by Ukraine as a part of their counteroffensive. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy compared it to Bucha, where during the initial stages of the invasion, war crimes had been recorded. He said that the bodies in the graves show signs of abuse like broken bones and ropes tied around their necks and blamed Russia for its "cruelty and terrorism."

Germany: Israeli anti-ballistic missile system on the cards over the US made THAAD

On 15 and 16 September in Uzbekistan, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation met in two years to discuss bilateral cooperation and strengthening mutual confidence. The Summit was attended by India, Russia and China, along with seven other members. The summit welcomed Iran as a permanent member.

Promising peace and security, the SCO primarily focused on mutual trust in the military sphere when it first came into existence through the Shanghai Five, a political association when the People's Republic of China, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Russian Federation, the Republic of Tajikistan, were a part of the Agreement on ConfidenceBuilding in the Military Field in the Border Area (Shanghai, 1996) and the Agreement on the Mutual Reduction of Armed Forces in the Border Area (Moscow, 1997).

The accession of Uzbekistan in 2001 led to the renaming and establishment of the Shanghai Five as the Shanghai Corporation Organisation (SCO). The Charter was signed at the St. Petersburg Summit in June 2002, stipulating the SCO's primary cooperation and shared objectives.

Under a similar purview, the heads of the SCO signed a 20-year programme of Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation. Citing the programme to establish free trade zones & favourable commerce activities comprehensively. After 14 years, in another historic meeting of the SCO in Kazakhstan, India and Pakistan were granted permanent status as Heads of State Council which led to the holistic completion of the SCO.

China

The SCO marked one of the first meetings attended by President Xi Jinping after the outbreak of COVID-19. Urging the SCO members to strengthen practical cooperation among themselves, China said that it is ready to work with other stakeholders to elevate global development through the BRI. Pledging humanitarian assistance and cooperation documents in areas of trade and investment, infrastructure and supply chains, China consistently called out "colour revolutions" and urged the group to stay far from the West's perception of Asia. Xi warned against the "obsession with forming a small circle" and reiterated the importance of capitalising on multilateralism.

Russia

On the Ukraine war Russia maintained that it would only get worse if the opposition would not back down. Russia urged closer ties with China on the basis of the realisation of common goals and objectives as SCO member states. Russia also acknowledged the rotating presidency of India for next year's summit of 2023 and pushed free visa travel between India and Russia. It promised pipeline gas supplies to Pakistan, as well. Crediting Iran for its permanency in the SCO, Russia seemed to play the role of a supportive ally to the SCO while also upholding its stance on the Ukraine crisis.

India

Prime Minister Modi attended the summit with intentions set to achieve credible support for his energy security and transit rights agenda. He urged the

members to set a balanced approach against climate change as well. Modi said to Putin that "it is not an era of war" and pushed Russia to delve into food, fuel and fertiliser security issues. Modi also underlined the transit trade and connectivity between the SCO member states, saying that transit rights between the states would boost communication and dialogue between the members.

India also held sideline talks with Iran to boost bilateral ties and connectivity, speaking about the Chabahar Port development and foreseeing potential maritime cooperation involving Oman, Iran and India. They also discussed the state of Afghanistan and prevented speculation of any bias. Pakistan and Iran Pakistan and Iran saw a separate progression of dialogue in this year's SCO Summit of 2022. Iran was granted permanent membership to the SCO by signing an MOU on 16 September. Pakistan pledged to remove regional terrorism from its land and focused on fighting climate change by asking for humanitarian aid and help from its member countries. Pakistan was hesitant to comment on its participation in next year's summit to be held in India.

ALSO IN NEWS

China: CEO of Boeing and Raytheon sanctioned over arms sale to Taiwan

On 16 September, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson maintained that China had announced sanctions on the CEOs of Boeing Defense and

Japan: Tokyo and Washington to work together to counter Chinese weapons

On 14 September, Japan's Defence Minister Yasukazu Hamada met with the US Defence Minister Lloyd Austin to discuss joint technological research on countering hypersonic weapons. Japan and the US are concerned over the rise of China in the east. Russia and China are observed to be disrupting the rules-based world order. Japan is increasingly worried about its neighbour China's action in the South China sea following the exercise near Taiwan. The US and Japan agreed to bolster the defence system of Japan to deal with its neighbouring threat. The Japanese Defence Ministry asked the government to increase its funds to raise its counteroffensive capabilities during its budget request.

Afghanistan: US establishes 'Afghan Fund' with USD 3.5 billion of frozen assets

On 14 September, the United States created an "Afghan Fund" through the Departments of the Treasury and of State, cooperating with international partners including the government of Switzerland and Afghan economic experts to assist the Afghan people. A statement from the US Treasury department said: "Pursuant to Executive Order (EO) 14064, President Biden set a policy of enabling $3.5 billion of Afghan central bank reserves to be used for the benefit of the people of Afghanistan while keeping them out of the hands of the Taliban and other malign actors. The Afghan Fund will protect, preserve, and make

On 12 September, the Israeli Prime Minister revealed that Germany is in talks to buy the Arrow 3 missile defence system from Israel as part of Berlin's efforts to strengthen its armed forces after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Yair Lapid described their talks as leading to a "future possible deal" but declined to outline the cost. Scholz said Germany would strengthen its defences by buying more air defence systems in the future and called the Arrow 3 system a "highperformance offer" but declined to go into specifics. Arrow 3 interceptors are designed to fly beyond the earth's atmosphere, where their warheads detach to become "kamikaze" satellites or "kill vehicles" that track and slam into the targets. Such high-altitude shoot-downs are meant to safely destroy incoming nuclear, biological or chemical missiles.

The US: Lockheed Martin delivers its highest-powered laser to date to the US Department of Defense

On 16 September, as part of the High Energy Laser Scaling Initiative (HELSI), Lockheed Martin handed over a new tactical electric 300kW-class laser, a high-energy directed weapon. The company noted that the 300kW-class, high-energy laser development resulted from major investments in directed energy technology. Currently, US Army uses a 20-kW laser weapon, and Navy uses a 30-kW laser weapon. High-energy lasers engage at the speed of light and provide a solution to constantly evolving threats while reducing the logistics tail associated with conventional kinetic weapon systems.

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).

‘Make in India’ completes eight years, annual FDI nearly doubles to $83 bn

boosting the export potential.

The PLI scheme is expected to generate significant gains for production and employment, with benefits extending to the MSME eco-system.

Recognising the importance of semiconductors in the world economy, the government has launched a $10 billion incentive scheme to build a semiconductor, display and design ecosystem in India.

Focus on achieving netzero target for 2070, PM Modi tells states

should not be seen in a restricted manner.

He lamented the fact that for a long time the environment ministries got shaped more as a regulator.

However, the Prime Minister said, “I think that the role of the Environment Ministry is more as a promoter of the environment rather than as a regulator.”

New Delhi, Sep 24 (IANS) Annual Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) nearly doubled to $83 billion as 'Make in India', the flagship scheme of the government to facilitate investment and foster innovation, completed eight years.

As per the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, FDI inflows stood at $45.15 billion in 2014-2015. The year 2021-22 recorded the highest ever FDI at $83.6 billion.

According to the ministry, to attract foreign investments, the government has put in place a liberal and transparent policy wherein most sectors are open to FDI under the automatic route.

"The year 2021-22 recorded the highest ever FDI at $83.6 billion. This FDI has come from

101 countries, which has been invested across 31 states and UTs and 57 sectors in the country. On the back of economic reforms and 'Ease of Doing Business' in recent years, India is on track to attract $100 billion FDI in the current financial year," the ministry said on Saturday.

It said the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme across 14 key manufacturing sectors was launched in 2020-21 as a big boost to the Make in India initiative.

The PLI scheme incentivises domestic production in strategic growth sectors where India has comparative advantage. This includes strengthening domestic manufacturing, forming resilient supply chains, making Indian industries more competitive and

Complemented by sincere efforts of domestic toy manufacturers, the growth of the Indian toy industry has been remarkable in less than two years despite the Covid-19 pandemic.

The import of toys in FY21-22 reduced by 70 per cent to Rs 877.8 crore. There has also been a distinct improvement in the quality of toys in the domestic market.

Simultaneously, the efforts of the industry have led to an export of toys worth Rs 2,601.5 crore in FY21-22, which is an increase of more than 61 per cent over Rs 1,612 crore in FY18-19.

India's toy export registered tremendous growth of 636 per cent in April-August 2022 over the same period in 2013, said the ministry.

New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the focus of the country is on green growth and green jobs.

Addressing a conference of state environment ministers in Gujarat, he underlined the significance of achieving the net-zero target for the year 2070.

He highlighted the role of the environment ministries of the states in achieving these goals.

“I urge all environment ministers to promote a circular economy as much as possible in the states,” he said.

Modi supplemented his statement by mentioning that it will significantly strengthen the solid waste management campaign and will free us from the clutches of single-use plastic.

Talking about the role of the environment ministries, the Prime Minister said that this role

Modi asked the states to own the measures like vehicle scrapping policy, and biofuel measures like ethanol blending and strengthen them on the ground.

He asked for healthy competition as well as collaboration among the states to promote these measures.

Giving examples of the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and LiFE movement, the Prime Minister remarked that India is not just taking huge strides in the field of renewable energy, but also guiding other nations of the world.

“Today’s new India is moving ahead with new thinking, new approach.” The Prime Minister further went on to add that India is a rapidly developing economy, and it is continuously strengthening its ecology as well.

“Our forest cover has increased and wetlands are also expanding rapidly”, he added.

At 264%, India logs fastest growth in global IoT module market

growth in the second quarter this year, a report showed.

Although growing on a lower base, the growth in IoT modules in India was driven by smart meters, telematics, point of sale (POS) and automotive applications, according to Counterpoint Research.

Global cellular IoT module shipments grew 20 per cent (year-over-year) in Q2 2022.

"The IoT module market is going through a critical phase where the Chinese brands have become bigger, making it very difficult for international brands to grow in silos," said senior research analyst Soumen Mandal.

The global cellular IoT module market continued to recover despite a tighter supply chain,

Covid-19 lockdowns in China and macroeconomic headwinds. The growth was driven by the ongoing digital transformation involving potential applications around critical infrastructure and logistics catered by some key fast-growing low-tier cellular technologies such as Cat-1 and NB-IoT.

"Further, module players modified their product offerings, striking partnerships across the value chain, from newer connectivity solution providers to acquiring some key competitors, as the IoT industry enters a very exciting growth phase," the report noted.

China retained its position as the world's largest IoT market, contributing to more than half of the demand despite the

lockdowns.

"With six out of the top 10 IoT module vendors being from China and with the rising geopolitical competition and data privacy concerns, international players see an opportunity to consolidate and carve out a dichotomy in this segment," said Mandal.

The 5G IoT module shipments remain steady with prices still high and many projects still in pilot stages.

"It will take at least a couple of years to reach an inflection point. We expect the second half of 2023 to see a ramp-up for the 5G IoT modules with good pan-country 5G coverage and scale," said Associate Director Mohit Agrawal.

New Delhi, Sep 24 (IANS) India was the fastest growing Internet of Things (IoT) module market with more than 264 per cent

Reserve Bank of Australia Guv expects ‘unwelcome’ rate hikes

times", the Governor made clear in his speech that the bank board expects further rate rises, but the pace of increase may slow down at some point.

During the hearing, Lowe expounded on several global factors that drove up inflation in Australia, including the disruption of energy markets due to the Russia-Ukraine war, ripple effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on global supply chains, and domestic demand for goods being relatively high compared to the economy's ability to meet it.

Australian Treasurer announces budget improvement

and iron ore prices.

"And what we know from the Final Budget Outcome is that this substantial improvement is welcome, but the bulk of it is driven by temporary factors," he told reporters here.

Chalmers and Finance Minister Katy Gallagher said at the same press conference that Australians should expect a "bread and butter" budget including a "substantial but temporary" lift in taxes.

Canberra, Sep 21 (IANS)

Canberra, Sep 16 (IANS) The Reserve Bank of Australia's Governor Philip Lowe said on Friday that further increases in interest rates, though "unwelcome" for many people, are needed to bring inflation back to the 2-3 per cent target range.

Lowe made his remark at a public hearing when Australia's House

of Representatives Standing Committee on Economics probed the central bank's recent interest rate policy, as well as its approach to tackling inflation, reports Xinhua news agency.

Knowing that higher rates are "unwelcome for many people, especially those who have borrowed large sums over recent

"Over the year to June, the headline inflation rate was 6.1 per cent. It is expected to increase further over the months ahead to peak at around 7.75 per cent later this year," said Lowe.

"Inflation is then expected to start declining, to be back around 3 per cent late in 2024."

Australian unemployment rises for 1st time in 2022

The participation rate in August was 0.7 per cent higher than before the pandemic.

There were 13.6 million Australians employed in August, including 9.5 million on a fulltime basis.

The monthly hours worked by Australians increased by 0.8 per cent in August following a similar fall in July due to school holidays and higher Covid case numbers.

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers announced that the country's budget deficit has improved by tens of billions of dollars.

Ahead of the final budget outcome slated to be released later this month, Chalmers said the budget deficit for the financial year 202122 has come in A$50 billion ($33 billion) lower than projected by the government in March, reports Xinhua news agency.

He said A$28 billion of the improvement came from higher-than-expected revenues -- mostly a result of high global commodity prices -- A$20 billion from payments that were lower than expected.

However, the deficit will still be "a little bit north" of A$30 billion and Chalmers warned it could worsen as a result of a downturn in coal

"And we've come in, and we're telling you that there are enormous pressures and the Budget is in structural deficit," said Gallagher.

"And we're doing what we can in the October Budget to go through the previous measures, the waste audit, having a look at making sure that the spending that's currently being provided is going where we need it the most."

The government's tax on petrol will be reinstated at its full rate on September 29 after it was cut earlier in 2022 in response to a global spike in fuel prices.

Chalmers said deciding not to extend the relief measure was "difficult" but projected fuel prices would not spike overnight.

"We're under no illusions that this will be difficult for people. It's a difficult decision for us to take as well," he said.

Rupee hits new all-time low as dollar index rises to 20-year high

Canberra, Sep 15 (IANS)

Australia's unemployment rate has increased for the first time this year as more people are searching for work.

According to labour force data published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) on Thursday, the official unemployment rate in August was 3.5 per cent, up from 3.4 per cent in July, reports Xinhua news agency.

Bengaluru, Sep 24 (IANS)

E-commerce major Amazon saw the single largest day of Prime sign-ups -- 1.9 times higher than last year with 68 per cent coming from tier 2 and 3 cities in India -- in the first 36 hours of its Great Indian Festival sale.

More than 500 million Indians had access to cash back and EMI offers on Amazon.in with 50 per cent more customers opting for EMI or Pay later over last year during the festive sale, the company said in a statement.

“We are humbled by the increase in new Prime member sign ups and customers shopping across categories as they trust

It represents the first month-tomonth increase since October 2021.

ABS data showed the economy added 33,000 jobs between July and August but the increase was offset by the participation rate growing from 66.4 to 66.6 per cent.

In order to be counted towards the ABS's unemployment measure, a person must be actively looking for work.

Amazon as their preferred online shopping destination”, said Manish Tiwary, Vice President and Country Manager, India Consumer Business, Amazon. In the first 36 hours, small and medium businesses, startups, artisans, women entrepreneurs sold around 10 lakh unique products to customers across the country. Amazon.in saw single largest day of Prime sign ups; 1.9X higher than last year with 68 per cent coming from Tier 2 & 3 cities

More than 500 million Indians had access to cashback and EMI offers on Amazon.in with 50 per cent more customers opting for EMI or Pay later over last year

"Covid-19 and other illnessrelated worker absences continued to be reflected in hours worked in August," Lauren Ford, head of labour statistics at the ABS, said in a media release.

"The number of people working reduced hours due to being sick remained elevated in August, at around 760,000 people. This is around double the number we typically see at the end of winter."

The underemployment rate, which measures the proportion of those with jobs who want to work more hours, fell slightly from 6 to 5.9 per cent.

Mumbai, Sep 22 (IANS) The Indian rupee has depreciated to the record low since the morning trade after the dollar index surged to 20-year high and 75 basis points rate hike by the US Fed, and hint at more rate hikes in the future. Rupee’s previous record low against the greenback was 80.12 reached late in August.

Smartphones, consumer electronics, fashion and groceries categories attracted most new customers and Amazon saw high demand for laptops and 5G smartphones. “More than 60 per cent sales for Amazon Fashion came from Tier 2 and 3 cities.

Amazon Business witnessed 50 per cent growth in customers and 100 per cent orders in the last 36 hours,” said the company. The overall sales in the first festive week is likely to touch $5.9 billion this year. Bengaluru-based Redseer has predicted $11.8 billion worth gross merchandise value (GMV) during the entire festive month up to Diwali.

At the interbank foreign exchange market at 12.30 p.m., rupee was trading at 80.71 against the dollar, which was sharply lower than its previous close.

“With the US Fed increasing rates by 75 bps and hinting at more rate hikes in the future, we believe the dollar index can see a significant increase, implying that most major market currencies, including INR should be under pressure. If we start seeing INR depreciating, then from a USD returns perspective for FPIs, India becomes unattractive,” said Naveen Kulkarni, Chief Investment Officer, Axis Securities PMS. The US dollar index hit a fresh 20-year high on Thursday after the US Fed warned about aggressive rate

hikes in the future. The dollar index jumped to 111.530 on Thursday during the afternoon trade. The local currency as well as dollar index also got hurt due to escalating geopolitical tensions after Russia ordered a partial mobilisation of military forces in Ukraine. Kulkarni also added that we could also witness a reversal of FPI flows in the near to medium term, which will increase market volatility. Higher interest rates in the US will force major central banks, including India, to increase interest rates to stem the pressure on their domestic currencies and with increased interest rates and cost of capital, market multiples can contract. We believe in the near term, Indian equity markets can witness increased volatility. Kunal Sodhani, Vice President, Global Trading Center, Shinhan Bank in a note said that considering the technical charts DXY can test 112.50, EURUSD can test 0.9720/50 levels, GBPUSD can test 1.1180 levels, USDJPY can test 145.20 levels. “For USDINR, 79.60 acts as a good base while a break of all-time high of 80.13 on a closing basis, can open doors for 80.50 levels as a lot of option sellers may trigger stop losses,” Sodhani added. After the rate hike by the US Fed, overseas stocks tumbled which was followed by domestic equities.

Amazon India sees record Prime sign-ups, 68% from small-town India

Climate change threatens nearly 10% trees in Aus cities: Study

Australian govt announces funding for biggest hydrogen plant

Canberra, Sep 20 (IANS) Trees in Australian cities are expected to be among the hardest hit in the world as climate change intensifies during the coming decades, according to a new international study released on Tuesday. The study, published in the Nature Climate Change journal, estimated that between 90 to 100 per cent of all trees and shrubs throughout Australia's urban centres would be severely impacted by the rising temperatures within the next three decades, reports Xinhua news agency. Lead author and bioclimatologist Manuel Esperon-Rodriguez from Western Sydney University said the team looked at the predicted

impact of the deteriorating environment on 3,129 urban tree species throughout more than 160 cities around the world by 2050 and 2070. According to the researchers, an average of 65 percent of species in each city will be at risk by 2050, with Australia's being at a higher risk.

"A surprising finding was that about half of the tree species in each city examined are already experiencing climate changes that put them at risk," EsperonRodriguez said in a statement.

"This study is globally important because it identifies species at risk and also indicates which species are likely to be climate resilient," he said.

Esperon-Rodriguez said the trees and shrubs in cities provide benefits to about 4.2 billion people by absorbing carbon dioxide and providing natural shade in urban environments. In an article in the Conversation, also published on Tuesday, the researchers explained that trees cool their surroundings thereby reducing people's use of air conditioning, as well as absorbing city noise, providing habitat for wildlife. "With all these benefits, increasing urban forest cover is a key climate action and liveability strategy for many governments and communities around the world," they wrote. The researchers said that in addition to selecting climateresilient plant species for urban spaces, city planners should concentrate on "water-sensitive designs to allow rainfall to soak into the ground and reach root zones, instead of going down the drain". "The urban heat island effect will exacerbate increased temperatures, but more tree and shrub cover in urban areas helps to reduce this effect, so leaving large trees and shrubs in place to perform these roles is really important."

Australians encouraged to put their food waste to good use as compost

Sydney, Sep 21 (IANS) Residents in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) have been encouraged to transform their household food and garden waste into compost with the extension of an environmental program.

Announcing the ongoing rollout of a recycling scheme on Wednesday, NSW environment minister James Griffin said the new food organics and garden organics (FOGO) collection service would ultimately help the state towards its target of netzero carbon emissions by 2030, reports Xinhua news agency.

"When FOGO waste ends up in landfill, it rots and generates damaging greenhouse gases," Griffin said.

"Go FOGO will divert half a million tonnes of waste and instead see it processed into compost and used in large-scale agriculture, parks or gardens where it can improve soil health and boost yields."

He said the government would spend A$46 million ($30 million) in grants in the latest stage of its program. More than 40 councils have become involved since 2013.

Griffin said the latest council grants could lead to about

2 million more households going FOGO. "FOGO is helping households and councils in NSW reduce emissions, make the most of a valuable resource, and save money on landfill disposal costs," Griffin said. The Minister said the government would spend A$69 million during the next five years on a range of related environmental projects.

Among those initiatives is a program to build or upgrade 30 FOGO waste-processing facilities aimed at processing up to 600,000 tonnes a year.

New programs are also being developed to increase food donations and support businesses in recycling food waste.

Canberra, Sep 16 (IANS) The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) on Friday announced funding for the nation's biggest hydrogen plant.

ARENA approved A$47.5 million ($31 million) in funding for the company -- ENGIE Renewables Australia's hydrogen and ammonia project in the Pilbara region of Western Australia (WA), reports Xinhua news agency.

Plans for the project, construction of which will begin in October, including a 10 megawatt (MW) electrolyzer to produce renewable hydrogen and an 18 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) system to power it. Once completed in 2024, the electrolyzer will be capable of producing up to 640 tonnes of renewable hydrogen every year, making it one of the world's largest plants, according to a media release of the ARENA.

Chris Bowen, the Minister for Climate Change and Energy, said the project would help Australia become a "hydrogen exporting powerhouse".

"As we move to a more renewable economy, hydrogen will become

an increasingly important part of our energy mix, and will be important in supporting industrial and hard-to-abate sectors," he told reporters.

Electrolyzers use energy to split water into its composite parts -hydrogen and oxygen.

The hydrogen produced can then be used for electricity generation, zero-emissions transport fuel, or as a feedstock for chemicals such as ammonia. That produced at ENGIE's Yuri project will supply hydrogen and electricity to the neighbouring ammonia facility.

"The Yuri project is Australia's first really substantial renewable hydrogen project, and it is one of the largest so far in the world," ARENA chief executive Darren Miller said in a media release.

"Renewable hydrogen will be vital to reducing emissions in socalled hard-to-abate sectors. It is also a huge export opportunity for Australia to provide clean energy and emissions-free materials to the rest of the world. This is going to be important if we are to achieve zero net emissions in the decades ahead."

Coal India to ink pacts with Indian Oil, BHEL, GAIL to set up 4 gasification projects

New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) Coal India Ltd (CIL) will be inking three major pacts on September 27 with BHEL, Indian Oil Corporation and GAIL India for setting up four surface coal gasification projects in the country.

These pacts will help in facilitating setting up of coal-tochemical projects through surface coal gasification route, official sources said.

Through the surface coal gasification route, coal is converted into syngas that can be subsequently processed for downstream production of value added chemicals. These are otherwise produced through imported natural gas or crude oil. End products which would be produced through this process are di-methyl ether, synthetic natural gas, and ammonium nitrate. The major advantages of the proposed projects are reduced forex outgo and direct and indirect employment generation to the tune of 23,000, the sources said. With the twin objectives of self-reliance and energy independence, Coal Ministry has set a target of achieving 100 million tonnes coal gasification by 2030, they added.

India among 23 nations to deliver 221 clean energy projects

Pittsburgh, Sep 23 (IANS)

Twenty-three national governments, including India and the UK, and the EU, collaborating through Mission Innovation (MI), on Friday announced that they

will coordinate to deliver 221 demonstration projects globally in this decade to accelerate clean energy technologies in the hardest to abate sectors.

The announcement, made at the Seventh MI ministerial meeting in Pittsburgh, will drive public-private investment in technologies which need to be commercialised by 2030, including at least 50 large-scale demonstration projects to decarbonise energy-intensive industries like steel, cement and chemicals; five projects on five continents to demonstrate the integration of up to 80 per cent renewable energy into energy grids; and the identification of 100 'hydrogen valleys' worldwide.

The goal is to achieve tipping

points in cost by 2030 to accelerate the delivery of technologies to decarbonise sectors responsible for more than 52 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

These demonstration projects are a direct response to analysis by the International Energy Agency that at least $90 billion of public funding is required by 2026 to demonstrate technologies necessary to decarbonise global energy systems, such as renewables, battery storage, and hydrogen-based fuels.

This is contingent on international coordination to prove solutions quickly at scale in multiple configurations and in various regional contexts. These technologies must be commercially viable by 2030 to be deployed at scale to achieve net zero by 2050 (a target that has now been adopted by 104 countries).

Mission Innovation is the leading global initiative to catalyse public-private coordination of research, development and the demonstration of clean energy technologies.

India consolidate their T20I team ranking at the top following thrilling

by one point to 268 overall, which is a seven points clear of England (261 points).

It was England’s narrow loss in the fourth game of their sevenmatch series against Pakistan on Sunday that helped India increase their lead at the top of the charts, with Moeen Ali’s side falling to a dramatic three-run loss in Karachi.

win one of those contests, while South Africa will get the chance to stake their claim when they take on India in a three-match series that commences on Wednesday, according to ICC.

Won’t ‘mankad’ a player unless I am really angry with someone: Moeen Ali

Dubai, Sep 26 (IANS) India’s thrilling six-wicket win with just one ball to spare against Australia in the series-deciding third T20I in Hyderabad has helped Rohit Sharma’s side extend its lead at the top of the ICC Men’s T20I Team Rankings, and they are now seven points clear of secondplaced England.

Half centuries from Suryakumar Yadav and Virat Kohli helped the hosts clinch a final-over thriller on Sunday and that helped India improve their T20I team ranking

The series between England and Pakistan is tied at two games each, with plenty of rankings points still at stake with three more matches to go in Lahore ahead of the T20 World Cup in Australia next month.

Pakistan are currently tied with South Africa for third place on the team rankings with 258 points, but could rise as high as second by winning the remaining three matches against England.

England will maintain second place on the rankings should they

New Zealand remain in fifth place on the T20I team rankings with a total of 252 points, with Kane Williamson’s side next in action just prior to the start of the T20 World Cup when they host Pakistan and Bangladesh for a triseries on home soil.

Sixth-placed Australia drop one point to 250 overall following their series loss to India, with the reigning T20 World Cup champions still scheduled to play six matches -- against West Indies, England and India - before they get the chance to defend their trophy at home.

Lahore, Sep 29 (IANS) England stand-in skipper on the T20I tour of Pakistan Moeen Ali has said he will never dismiss a batter backing up too far from the crease, throwing his weight behind his country’s cricketer Charlie Dean who was ‘mankaded’ by India offspinner Deepti Sharma in the third Women’s ODI at Lord’s on September 24.

Since the day Deepti Sharma ran out Dean in the 44th over at the non-striker’s end to get a 16-run victory for India over England to complete a 3-0 sweep, the cricketing world has been divided on whether the Indian team should have warned the rival team batter before effecting the run-out.

Deepti, who stopped in her delivery stride to run-out Dean from the non-striker’s end, has revealed that prior warnings were given to the batter before she was finally run out for backing up too far from the crease.

Moeen said, dismissing a batter backing up too far from the crease was not his thing, and he won’t do it unless he is “really angry with someone”.

run-out at the non-striker’s end refuses to die down.

The dismissal is currently listed in the MCC’s ‘Unfair Play’ section of the laws (41.16.1), where the non-striker is to be adjudged run out “if he/she is out of his/her ground when his/her wicket is put down by the bowler throwing the ball at the stumps or by the bowler’s hand holding the ball, whether or not the ball is subsequently delivered.”

The section in the laws is to be moved to the ‘Run Out’ section from October 1, when an update to the ICC Playing Conditions comes into effect.

As the “guardian of the laws of the game” the MCC recently re-iterated its position after the dismissal which handed India a narrow 16-run win, according to ICC.

London, Sep 25 (IANS) The cricketing world has been left divided after off-spin all-rounder Deepti Sharma ran out England’s Charlie Dean in the 44th over at the non-striker’s end to get a 16-run victory for India over England at Lord’s to complete a 3-0 sweep.

Only last week, in the changes made by the International Cricket Council (ICC), the method of effecting a run out from the non-striker’s end was moved from Law 41 of ‘Unfair Play’ to Law 38 of ‘Run out’ section, making it no longer an unfair mode of dismissal.

With a majority of England cricketers, both men’s and women’s, disagreeing over the mode of dismissal, Deepti has found people speaking in her favour of running out Charlie from non-striker’s end on Saturday.

Ace India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who had famously ran out England whiteball skipper Jos Buttler in the same manner during the 2019 IPL, backed Deepti. “Why the

hell are you trending, Ashwin?

Tonight is about another bowling hero @Deepti_Sharma06,” wrote Ashwin on Twitter.

When England wicketkeeperbatter Sam Billing pointed out that veteran pacer James Anderson could have got more wickets with this mode of dismissal, Ashwin joined the debate by tweeting that a bravery award be constituted for the bowlers for effecting the run-out from non-striker’s end.

“In fact that’s a great idea. How about awarding that wicket to the bowler for “presence of mind” under immense pressure and of course knowing the social stigma that he/she would have to deal with post doing it. How about a bravery award to go with it too @ ICC.”

England opener Alex Hales, currently featuring in the T20I series against Pakistan, replied to Billings tweet by typing, “It shouldn’t be difficult for the non striker to stay in their crease til (till) the ball has left the hand.”

In his other tweet, Hales further said, “The ball didn’t leave the

hand though...I’m not talking necessarily about this incident, but just the ‘mankad’ issue in general. It wouldn’t be an issue if batters simply remained in the crease until the ball has left the hand.”

Former India batter Virender Sehwag lashed out at England cricketers showing their anger towards Deepti. “Funny to see so many English guys being poor losers. #Runout,” wrote Sehwag on Twitter.

Former India opener Wasim Jaffer commented in Deepti’s favour on Twitter. “It’s actually quite simple. Ball comes into play when bowler starts run up. From that moment on as a batter or non striker you’ve to keep your eyes on the ball, if you’re a bit careless, opposition will get you out. And you can get out at either ends.”

The wording of MCC Law 41.16.1 says, “If the non-striker is out of his/her ground at any time from the moment the ball comes into play until the instant when the bowler would normally have been expected to release the ball, the non-striker is liable to be Run out.”

“In these circumstances, the non-striker will be out Run out if he/she is out of his/her ground when his/her wicket is put down by the bowler throwing the ball at the stumps or by the bowler’s hand holding the ball, whether or not the ball is subsequently delivered.”

“No, it’s not my thing,” Moeen was quoted as saying by The Telegraph. “I don’t think I’ll ever do it unless I was really angry with someone. It’s in the (ICC) laws and there’s nothing illegal so people that do it have the right, but I just hope it doesn’t become a common thing, or something that’s regularly done.

“You’re not really working to get a wicket. At least with a run-out, there’s a bit of work that has to be done, and with all the other dismissals. This is just waiting for the guy and taking the bails off. Even when I played cricket as a kid in the garden, it’s not my thing to do,” added Moeen.

The MCC statement has clearly stated that a non-striker run out is within the laws of the game, according to ICC, but the controversy surrounding Dean’s

“Whilst (the dismissal) was indeed an unusual end to an exciting match, it was properly officiated and should not be considered as anything more,” the statement from the MCC read. “Where one person sees the bowler as breaching the spirit in such examples, another will point at the non-striker gaining an unfair advantage by leaving their ground early.

“The Law is clear, as it needs to be for all umpires to be able to easily interpret throughout all levels of the game and at all moments in the game.”

England white-ball skipper Jos Buttler indicated he would instruct an opposing batter to return, should they fall to the dismissal. “No, I am calling the batsman back,” Buttler told TalkSPORT.

“No one wants to see them in the game because they always create such a talking point when it should be about the battle between bat and ball and watching great games of cricket. They always seem to happen at unsavoury times,” he added.

IND v SA: Arshdeep Singh’s newball burst augurs well for India on road to T20 World Cup

New Delhi, Sep 29 (IANS) The recent T20I series between India and Australia was a typical illustration of how the batters took the bowlers to the cleaners consistently on flat pitches. But, on Wednesday, at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, a twopaced green carpet greeted both India and South Africa in the T20I series opener.

With a good amount of grass cover on the pitch, it meant that fast bowlers would make the ball talk for the entire duration of the game. Suddenly, the environment was more of a Test match than a T20I game as Deepak Chahar and Arshdeep Singh scythed through the top-order to leave

South Africa at 9/5 in the space of 15 balls, thereby deciding the outcome of the match long before the actual game was over.

The right-left pace duo, playing after not featuring in the series against Australia, made merry on a pitch tailor-made for them to swing the ball both ways and rattle the South African batters. Chahar set the tone for the carnage by feeding Temba Bavuma with three outswingers before castling the visiting captain with an inswinger and had Tristan Stubbs caught at third man via extra bounce.

But it was Arshdeep, who broke the back of South Africa’s innings with triple strike in his opening

Ashwin, Sehwag, Hales speak in favour of Deepti’s run out of Charlie from non-striker’s end

over -- Quinton de Kock chopped one swinging away from him to his stumps, Rilee Rossouw was sucked into driving away from the body to give a healthy nick behind and David Miller was clean bowled by a beautiful inswinger.

Though conditions like Wednesday’s match will be very rarely found in Australia where the T20 World Cup will happen, India will be delighted with Arshdeep’s performance with the new ball with less than a month now left for the showpiece event.

For the young left-arm pacer, who has been doing all things right since making his international debut in July, it is a good chance for him to push his case for a slot in India’s playing eleven for the tournament opener against Pakistan at the MCG on October 23.

Arshdeep’s new-ball burst comes at a time when Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been given a break

after a gruelling schedule of playing T20Is this year apart from unimpressive returns in the death overs and Harshal Patel is still trying to gain rhythm after comeback from rib injury this month.

Though Arshdeep has shown the smarts of being India’s best death overs bowler this year, as seen from an economy rate of 7.38 in this phase in T20Is, he proved on Wednesday that he can be fantastic with the new ball too.

The young left-arm pacer first got an India call-up based on his abilities to bowl yorkers and keep himself calm in the death overs.

“In the first over DC bhai (Deepak Chahar) set the tone and we knew there was plenty of help from the surface. The plan was to keep it simple and bowl in the right areas. I enjoyed (David) Miller’s wicket as I thought he was expecting an outswinger but I bowled an inswinger instead (to get him out for duck),” said Arshdeep after the match ended.

Wednesday’s match at Thiruvananthapuram showed that he can proficiently swing the ball away from the righthander and also cause discomfort with his inswingers too. In an Indian line-up, where flexibility and adaptability have been the keywords, Arshdeep’s new-ball performance augurs well for the side in their quest to win the silverware.

Jasprit Bumrah among Mark Waugh’s Top-5 T20I players in the world

reports Xinhua news agency.

"Given reinfections may occur as early as 28 days after recovery from a previous COVID-19 infection, the AHPPC advises that the reinfection period be reduced from 12 weeks to 28 days," it said.

transmission of both COVID-19 and influenza, which is placing real stress on our community and health system," the AHPPC said.

Canberra, July 9 (IANS): The Covid-19 reinfection period or Australians has been advised to be reduced to 28 days, according to a statement from a medical expert committee.

The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC), which is made up of federal, state and territory chief health officers, made the recommendation,

That means people who test positive for Covid more than 28 days after ending isolation due to previous infection should be reported and managed as new cases.

It warned that Australia was at the beginning of a new wave of infections driven by the BA.4 and BA.5 Omicron sub-variants.

"This winter, we are experiencing significant community

"We expect that this wave will lead to a substantial increase in infections, hospitalizations and sadly, deaths, at a time when our communities and health systems are already under strain."

On Saturday, Australia reported more than 35,000 new Covid cases and over 70 deaths.

The country's overall caseload and death toll now stood at 8,413,831 and 10,225, respectively. There were 3,977 cases being treated in hospitals, including 141 in intensive care units.

IND v SA, 1st T20I: Rahul, Suryakumar slam fifties to give India eight-wicket win over South Africa

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 28 (IANS) Vice-captain K.L Rahul and Suryakumar Yadav slammed unbeaten fifties to give India an eight-wicket win over South Africa in the T20I series opener at the Greenfield International Stadium on Wednesday.

On a pitch which was made for fast bowlers to make merry, as seen from the five-wicket burst provided by Arshdeep Singh and Deepak Chahar earlier in

the match, South Africa bowlers too were able to take out Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli early.

With the required run rate not much high, Rahul hung in and with Suryakumar in stellar touch, they put on an unbeaten stand of 93 off 63 balls to chase down 107 with 18 balls remaining, giving India 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

A pacy full toss from Nortje was lofted over cover by Rahul for

six while Suryakumar placed a slower ball through point for four as India started to coast towards victory.

Brief Scores: South Africa 106/8 in 20 overs (Keshav Maharaj 41, Aiden Markram 25; Arshdeep Singh 3/32, Deepak Chahar 2/24) lost to India 110/2 in 16.4 overs (KL Rahul 51 not out, Suryakumar Yadav 50 not out; Kagiso Rabada 1/16, Anrich Nortje 1/32) by eight wickets.

Queensland Cricket organises Color Blast for girls

Queensland Cricket organised the Woolworths Cricket Color Blast for girls aged 5 to 12 on September 30 at Limestone Park in Ipswich led by Adam Paroz to ignite interest in young girls in cricket in a fun way.

The program involved playing with colors and also playing and doing activities amidst water and powder colors flying all around. The children were given their white t-shirts which they themselves designed using their imagination and then wore through the training.

Activities like responding

accordingly to yes, no and wait calls and running through colors being thrown from all sides was an early introduction to mastering calls that batters make to take runs. Similarly, batting and bowling drills through flying colors and evoking interest in cricket is an amazing idea.

The program is a very clever concept for entertaining kids, imparting cricketing skills and also building interest in cricket in the long run.

Ashutosh Misra, Project Manager, Multicultural, also joined the program.

India wins UN award for initiative against hypertension

New Delhi, Sep 21 (IANS) In a significant achievement and recognition to country's efforts against hypertension, India on Wednesday won a UN award for its 'India Hypertension Control Initiative (IHCI)'.

A collaborative initiative of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), State Governments and World Health Organization-India, IHCI has won the '2022 UN Interagency Task Force and WHO Special Programme on Primary Health Care Award' at the UN General Assembly side event held on September 21 in New York.

The IHCI is a large-scale hypertension intervention under National Health Mission which has been recognized for its exceptional work within India's existing primary healthcare system, Health Ministry said in a statement. Complimenting the healthcare initiative, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya tweeted, "IHCI has strengthened PM @NarendraModi Ji's mission to ensure health & wellness for all." We are committed to building

a healthy & fit India, he further noted. The award recognizes outstanding commitment and action of India to: (i) prevent and control Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and (ii) deliver integrated people-centric primary care. The UN Task Force has identified organisation which has multisectoral approach in prevention and control of NCDs and multisectoral action with demonstrated results at primary care for prevention and control

of NCDs and related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

IHCI has been able to leverage and strengthen the existing healthcare delivery system, hypertension control interventions under National Health Mission and improve the linkages between populationsbased screening initiative with health care. The initiative was launched in 2017 and expanded in a phased manner to cover more than 130 districts across 23 states.

Under the initiative, more than 34 lakh people with hypertension are taking treatment in government health facilities, including Ayushman Bharat Health Wellness Centres (HWCs). The strategies include a simple drug-dosespecific standard treatment protocol, ensuring adequate quantity of protocol medications, decentralization of care with follow-up and refills of medicines at Health Wellness Centres, task sharing involving all health staff and a powerful real-time information system which can track every patient for follow-up and blood pressure control.

India reports 4,777 fresh Covid infection, 23 deaths

Australian govt announces additional Covid funding

"These investments also provide ongoing support and protection for our frontline health and aged care workers, and people living in residential aged care homes, as well as those people supporting the most vulnerable to severe illness from Covid-19."

Canberra, Sep 19 (IANS) Australia's Health and Aged Care Minister Mark Butler on Monday announced that the government will spend an additional A$1.4 billion ($941 million) over the next three months on preventing the spread of Covid-19 in aged and disability care and hospitals.

Federal funding for coronavirus testing and protocols was due to end on September 30, but Butler said the extension would ensure vulnerable Australians remain protected, reports Xinhua news agency.

"This action will provide Australians with effective testing, medical care and treatments to protect themselves and those most vulnerable in the community," he said.

According to the Department of Health, average Covid-19 cases in the country were still more than 7,000 each day.

The majority of the additional funding -- A$840 million -- will go towards the Aged Care Support Program, including A$35 million on onsite polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing at aged care facilities.

A further A$235 million will boost the National Medical Stockpile to guarantee supply of personal protection equipment (PPE) and testing equipment for aged care, primary care, disability care and First Nations health services and frontline healthcare workers.

More than A$100 million will be spent on rapid antigen tests (RATs) for workers and care recipients over the next three months.

Teachers, experts report rising behavioural issues in school kids post pandemic in India

New Delhi, Sep 25 (IANS) India on Sunday reported 4,777 fresh Covid infection in the last 24 hours, against 4,912 Covid cases reported on previous day, said the Union Health Ministry. In the same period, the country

has recorded 23 more Covidrelated deaths, taking the national fatalities tally to 5,28,510 as per the report. Meanwhile, the active caseload of the country presently stands at 43,994 cases, accounting for 0.10 per cent of the country's total positive cases. The recovery of 5,196 patients in the last 24 hours took the cumulative tally to 4,39,95,610. Consequently, India's recovery rate stands at 98.72 per cent. Meanwhile, India's Daily Positivity rate has been reported to be 1.58 per

cent, while the Weekly Positivity Rate in the country currently also stands at 1.63 per cent. Also in the same period, a total of 3,02,283 tests were conducted across the country, increasing the overall tally to over 89.36 crore. As of Sunday morning, India's Covid-19 vaccination coverage exceeded 217.56 crore. Over 4.09 crore adolescents have been administered with a first dose of Covid-19 jab since the beginning of vaccination drive for this age bracket.

India achieves significant landmarks in child mortality reduction

New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) In a significant milestone, India has achieved landmark achievement in further reduction of child mortality rates. As per the Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2020 released by Registrar General of India (RGI), the country has been witnessing a progressive reduction in IMR, U5MR and NMR since 2014 towards achieving the Sustainable Development

Goals (SDG) targets by 2030.

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has congratulated the nation on this achievement and thanked all health workers, caregivers and community members for relentlessly working towards reducing child mortality.

"There has been sustained decline since 2014, as revealed by SRS 2020. India is poised to meet 2030 SDG targets of child mortality under leadership of Prime

Minister Narendra Modi with focused interventions, strong Centre-State partnership and dedication of all health workers," he stated. Under 5 Mortality Rate (U5MR) for the country has shown significant decline of 3 points (Annual Decline Rate: 8.6 per cent) from 2019 (32 per 1,000 live births in 2020 against 35 per 1,000 live births in 2019). It varies from 36 in rural areas to 21 in urban areas. U5MR for Female is higher (33) than male (31). There has been a decline of 4 points in male U5MR and 3 points in female U5MR during the corresponding period.

The highest decline of U5MR has been observed in the state of Uttar Pradesh (5 points) and Karnataka (5 points). The Neonatal Mortality Rate has also declined by 2 points from 22 per 1,000 live births in 2019 to 20 per 1,000 live births in 2020 (Annual Decline Rate: 9.1 per cent).

New Delhi, Sep 21 (IANS) As schools across the country now open after two years of online education, principals, teachers and behavioural experts on Wednesday reported a significant rise in behavioural issues among schoolchildren like aggression, attention span deficit, sleeplessness, and emotional disturbances, especially among those who lost their near and dear ones in Covid. Stressing upon the need to introduce social emotional learning programmes and counselling sessions across schools in the, they said the situation is delicate and will need at least a year or so to bring affected kids back into the normal course of life. "Post-pandemic, there have been huge changes in children, in terms of how they view their teachers, their schools, their peers and so on. Their attention span has reduced and writing skills have taken a toll for sure. Their sleep patterns have also gone for a toss, leading to irritability," Nikita Tomar Mann, Principal at Indraprastha Global School in Noida, told IANS.

Several school children have gone through a lot of trauma as their parents went through financial distress in the last two years, resulting in deep emotional issues creeping in among them.

"Children do understand that their parents faced financial issues like unable to pay school fees or house rent as some of them lost jobs or faced pay cuts. They came back to school with that kind of understanding, which changed the way they look at life as well. I think for each kid, it's a different story and the intensity of it also varies from child to child so we need to handle this situation very, very carefully," Mann elaborated.

The concerns are real as a latest survey by the government has revealed that a majority of school students' mental health has declined in the country. The survey findings were based on the responses of 3.79 lakh students in 36 states and Union Territories. The 2022 NCERT survey found that changes in the schooling system like prolonged school closure, online classes, changes in Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) exams and postponement of exams directly affected lakhs of students.

According to Dr Sameer Malhotra, Director, Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences, Max Hospitals, they have seen an increase in behavioural issues in kids due to increase in internet usage, gaming, and excessive mobile use.

GAQ organises Garba night

Gujarati Association of Queensland Inc organized the Garba nights with a lot of fanfare with a live band performed by Samir Vora, Hemant Naik, Nimisha, Mittal, Bharat, Mithun and others. A large number of Garba enthusiasts including children, women, youth and seniors participated in the event.

The Graba nights were held on 16th, 23rd and 30th September at the Centenary State High and Calamvale Community College.

GAQ would like to thank the

Queensland government and the representative of Hon. Leanne Linard MP Minister for Children and Youth Justice, Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Jess Pugh MP for Mount Ommanney who attended the night on 16th September. GAQ also extends its gratitude for the Lord Mayor Community Fund - Jimboree Heights Ward , Councillor Sarah Hutton for attending on 23rd September and Councillor Angela Owen of Calamvale Ward on 30th September.

Multicultural Fiesta held at Gold Coast

The Multicultural Fiesta was held at the Hellenic Function Centre in Gold Coast on 27 August. It was an afternoon which showcased music and dance performances in traditional costumes over an afternoon tea.

HCA organises Ganesh Festival

At the Ballarat Ganesha festival held recently, the Hindu Council of Australia (HCA) organised Ramayan Dolls exhibition in Golu tradition, the festive display of dolls and figurines in South India during the autumn festive season, which was well received and appreciated. Students from local schools visited and took interest in Ramayan.Ballarat mayor Daniel Moloney and local MP Catherine King also visited the exhibition .

Seva Dharma Mission distributes free food

Seva Dharma Mission distributed free food on 4th September 2022 at 7am in Woodridge (near train station) Logan Brisbane . Fresh fruits,vegetables, varieties of bread and normal essentials were distributed . This time zukini, sweet potatoes, apples, avocado,mandarin and nuts and nuts powder were also

distributed. Needy people like the poor, the disabled and low income people came to get food. The community group has also been serving lunch in Loganlea community centre on the 2nd Saturday of every month at 11.00 am. The next one is on the 10th of September.

ATA organises Ganesh Festival

Aussie’s Telugu Association (ATA) organised their first ever Ganesh Festival in Brisbane on September 3.

The event was graced by RK Roja Selvamani Garu, Minister of Tourism, Culture & Youth Advancement from Andhra Pradesh, India, R.K Selvamani Garu - the legendary Film Director, Sri Madhavaneni Raghunandan Rao Garu, Member of Telangana Legislative Assembly and Sri Modugula Venugopal Reddy Garu, Ex Member of Parliament,Andhra Pradesh,India.

Cultural heritage is the legacy of physical artefacts and intangible attributes of a group or society that are inherited from past generations, maintained in the present and bestowed for the benefit of future generations.

It reflects and shapes values,

beliefs, and aspirations, thereby defining people’s identity. It is very important to preserve it, because it keeps our integrity as a people. It also creates a certain emotion within us, or because it makes us feel as though we belong to something - a country, a tradition, a way of life. The importance of intangible

cultural heritage is not the cultural manifestation itself but rather the wealth of knowledge (such as folklore, traditions, language, oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, festive events, practices concerning nature) and skills that are transmitted through it from one generation to the next.

Sydney Sanskrit School students win laurels

It was a historic day for the Sydney Sanskrit School as one of its senior students, Pranav Rajeev Jairam was recently awarded the 2022 Minister’s Award for Excellence in Student Achievement -Community languages schools for the study of ,by the NSW Department of Education.

Also, a few other students were awarded the following recognition.

Harden Patel - Highly Commended Award

Swastik Brijeshbhai Patel- Highly Commended Award

Aarna Bhutada- Highly Commended Award

Kunal Kaushal- Highly Commended Award Shraddha Rao - Commended Award

Keynote Address and Minister’s award was presented by Sarah Mitchell, MLC, Minister for Education and Early Learning. Community Languages Ambassadors awards were presented by Mark Coure, MP, Minister for Multiculturalism, and Minister for Seniors.

Maharashtra Mandal Perth organizes Ganesh Festival 2022

Maharashtra Mandal Perth celebrated Ganesh Festival 2022 at Perth, Western Australia on 3-4 September. YazMubarakai MLA, Sam Lim MP, Consulate General of India, PerthCounsel General of IndiaAmarjeet Singh Takhi, Dr Jags MLA,Indian Society of Western AustraliaPresident Satish Nair, andCouncillor of Radford Ward, City of ArmadaleKeyurKamdar were among the guests present at the event. TheOffice of Multicultural Interests and Lotterywestwere supporting this event.

The celebrations began on September 3 with Ganesh arrival procession which was with dholtasha and followed by the idol’s Prathisthapana. Morning Aarti was followed by Atharvashirsha recital and Mahaprasad distribution. A multicultural programme was organized later. The evening saw Aarti being performed and Mahaprasad distribution for the evening. On September 4, morning Aarti was followed by a cultural programme and Mahaprasad distribution. A multicultural programme was also organized. This was followed by Ganesh departure procession with dholtasha and Ganesh Visarjan.

About his experience at the event YazMubarakai MLA said, “I was honoured to represent the Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Interests, Dr. Tony Buti MLA, at Maharashtra Mandal Perth 2022 Ganesh Festival. I was joined by some WA Labor

colleagues in the new member for Tangney Sam Lim MP, and the Member for Riverton Dr Jags MLA as well as a number of dignitaries from the Indian community in WA. As some of you may know, I’m from the town of Dahanu, just outside Mumbai in Maharashtra state, so it was a great night with lots of joy.”He thanked Maharashtra Mandal Perth for putting the event together and to all who attended.

Ganesh Festival is an annual event and one of the most important festivals that celebrates Lord Ganesha by worshipping the deityevery year in India. The communal festival lasts for 10 days and ends with the Ganesh Visarjan. The festival was started by freedom fighter LokmanyaBalGangadharTilak in 1894 with a small idol.Todayit has become a major social festival and tourist attraction focusing on the community worship of LordGanesha, who is said to remove all obstacles and bring luck to his devotees.

Maharashtra Mandal of Perth (MMP) was incorporated on January 1, 2000 as a non-profit organization. The goal of MMP is to serve the cultural and social needs of Maharashtrian community in Perth, Western Australia. The mission of the organization is to promote, preserve, and cherish the Maharashtrian culture, their beliefs and traditions. It offers a platform for the Maharashtrians to participate, socialize and build a community together.

Fine Food Australia pavilion inaugurated

Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar inaugurated the India Pavilion of the “Fine Food Australia” at the Melbourne Conventions & Exhibitions Centre, which was organized from 5-8 September 2022.

Spices Board INDIA and India Trade Promotion Organization participated in the exhibition. A total of 20 Indian exhibitors/ exporters of food items including spices displayed their wide range of products, which would help in promoting Indian food products in Australia.

Gandhi Jayanti celebrations

Seva Dharma Mission organizes free vegetarian lunch

Seva Dharma Mission organizedits monthly-free vegetarian lunch program, which is organized on every 2nd Saturday of a month, at LoganleaCommunity Centre, recently.Rice, pea dal, Zukini, potato, cheek peas, beans curry, bread,fruit juice and herbal tea were served on the occasion.

The participants enjoyed and appreciated the tasty meal. Some people showed interest for the yoga and meditation class.

The next free lunch will be served on 8th of October.

The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland has announced that Gandhi Jayanthi will be celebrated on 2nd October at Roma Street Parklands, Brisbane. The guests have been asked to arrive at 08:30 am for 09:00 am start of the celebrations at Roma Street Parklands.

Gandhi Jayanti is celebrated

on 2nd October every year to mark the birth anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who was famously known as Mahatma Gandhi.

Father of the Nation, as he was called, he led India’s freedom movement along with many other national leaders against

the British rule in India. His method of non-violence inspired many civil rights movements across the world. To celebrate his contribution to the nation, 2nd October is celebrated every year. The day is also celebrated as the International Day of NonViolence by the United Nations.

Brisbane Maharashtra Mandal celebrates Ganesh Utsav

The Brisbane Maharashtra Mandal celebrated the Ganesh Utsav recently. The entire community of Brisbane participated in the Ganesh Utsav. Dignitaries present at the event were James Martin MP, member for Stretton, Max ChandlerMather, MP, member for Griffith, Hon. Consul Archana Singh, Ram Mohan, Parminder Singh, AnoopNannuru, Krishnan Menon, SunitaAvadhani, JyotiGoraiya, Parul Mehta and Kirti Patel. The sponsors of the celebrations were Mahindra Automotive, Migration Guru, Cornerstone Law offices, Lee and Associates, Future Now, Relianz Home Loans, Mahendra's Indian Cuisine, Century 21, Ganesh Grocery Store, and Oz Kirana.

Some of the participants of the cultural program during the event were Nupoor Dance Studio, Sargam Music Academy, Sharad More and his group of Bhajan singers, ShardaKolekar group, MrunaliniKolhe group, and Apali Marathi Shala children and Parents.

Rhythm Drums Group was instrumental for the wonderful multicultural experience for VisarjanMiravnook. An art competition was also organized on the occasion. The art competition participants were KalpanaAghnihotri, PrajaktaKulkarni, RujutaAtre, ShashiShirsat, JidnyasaSapkale, GojiriSapkale, BhumiSapkale, AnoshKulkarni, VeenaOze, ShardaKolekar.

Ravishing Fashionistas Fashion Show organized

The Brisbane Ravishing Fashionistas Fashion Show 2022 was organized recently, at Old Government House, Queensland. The 2022 Spring Themed show such was made a success with beautiful garments and perfectly fit the theme.The runway was a colourful explosion of elegance, innovation and fun with positive feedback coming from the guests.

The mission of Ravishing Fashionistas is to create the legacy to empower women. They are setting a new standard where any woman can be a model in their own right and own their confidence irrespective of body types, background and beliefs. Their vision is to help the average women from disparate cultural backgrounds to reach their maximum potential and find their uniqueness to be a better version of themselves.

It’s official, all-women team to lead AIBC Jodi McKay is AIBC’s National Chair and Ravneet Pawha the National Vice Chair

The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) announced recently the election of Jodi McKay as the National Chair of the AIBC and Ravneet Pawha as the National Vice Chair of the AIBC. It augurs well for the future of the organization as the country’s leading Australia India business chamber will be led by former NSW Leader of the Opposition, Jodi McKay and RavneetPawha, Vice President (Global Alliances) and CEO (South Asia) at Deakin University. Both Jodi and Ravneet were elected unopposed in the absence of any other candidate seeking to nominate for election to these positions. Incidentally, it is the first time in the history of the AIBC that the two most senior elected AIBC leadership positions are occupied by two highly accomplished and experienced women. It demonstrates once again the ABC’s commitment to gender equity, inclusiveness and diversity. Jodi and Ravneet will be supported in the AIBC national leadership team by Irfan Malik, CEO and Managing Director inQ Innovation Global and Ashok Mysore, Vice President Delivery and Operation at Infosys.

McKay and Pawha’s election as National Chair and National Vice Chair of the Australia India Business Council Ltd comes at a

momentous time in the history of Australia-India relations, with the two countries agreeing on an interim free trade agreement and negotiations underway for an Australia India Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement.

“India is the fastest growing major economy in the world, and Australia has been positioning itself to realise the mutual benefits of growing trade ties,” McKay said.

“However, the relationship between Australia and India is not solely a government responsibility - business must be prepared to step up and it is AIBC’s role to support and facilitate opportunities. Ravneet and I lead the AIBC at a crucial time in the bilateral relationship. We are excited about the opportunities

for Australia and the role of AIBC as the voice for business and an advocate for strengthening economic, social and cultural ties,” she added.

In her first comments after her election as National Vice Chair of the Australia India Business Council Ltd Ravneet said, “I’ve had the opportunity of being a voice in building robust government-to-government, business-to-business and people-to-people linkages between India and Australia for almost three decades in various roles, including as the President of the AIBC Victoria chapter for the past two years. India is Australia’s seventh-largest trading partner and fifth-largest export market, and the signing of the historic India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement has given significant

Hindi Day 2022 celebrated

India's Prime Councilavas in Perth celebrated Hindi Day 2022 with participation of over 300 Hindi servants and Hindi lovers from Western Australia at the Indian Community Centre (ICC) on September 17. Two Indian origin MPs of Western Australia - YazMubarakai, MLA and Parliamentary Secretary to Minister of Citizenship and Multicultural Interests; and, DrJagdish (Jags) Krishnan, MLA were present at the program. The highlight of the program was presentations by primary and senior high school children and Swang art performance by JyotiRana. Winners of three contests in Hindi language - essay writing, calligraphy and manuscript - were awarded by the Prime Council and dignified guests. All participantsparticipating in each competition were awarded consolation prizes. Hindi language teachers as well as the Chief Advisor werehonoured in the 'School Curriculum & Standard Authority' (SCSA) of Western Australia. From the next academic year starting January 2023, two Indian languagesHindi and Tamil - will be taught in all Western Australian schools, for which the required curriculum has been finalized by SCSA.

Hindi Samaj of Western Australia (HSWA), School, Hindi Language

Teachers Association (HLTAWA), Arya Hindi Vidyalaya, Sanskriti Teaching Center, KalamDawat Group, and Vishwa Hindu Parishad of Western Australia contributed to the success of this event. Many sociocultural organizations such as Maharashtra Mandal, Bhairavi Dance School and Academy of Classical & Bollywood Dance fascinated all participants and guests with their cultural presentations based on Indian philosophy.

The Indian Society of Western Australia (ISWA) extended its full support for the hosting of the event.

momentum to the deepening of the bilateral relationship.

Both governments recognise there is significant potential in cooperation in areas of trade and business, AIBC is well-positioned to advance this engagement by facilitating, nurturing, and promoting industry, business, start-ups ecosystem through commercial and economic development between India and Australia.”

“I look forward to working with Jodi in strengthening AIBC’s role as a platform for leaders of businesses in both countries to transform and influence decisions that promote mutual awareness and understanding that makes it easier for Australian businesses to operate in India and vice versa,” she added.

McKay and Pahwa thanked the outgoing leadership team of Jim Varghese and SanushkaSeomangal. Acknowledging the contribution of the outgoing leadership teamMcKay said, “Jim and Sanushka have placed AIBC in a strong position to champion the India Australia trade cause.

Ravneet and I hope to build on that work for the mutual benefit of our two great nations.”

In recent times the AIBC has made rapid strides in the

establishment of a digital platform to connect members, key stakeholders and businesses. It has launched AIBC’s Australia India Business Enterprises to translate business dialogue into business outcomes that help directly increase trade and investment between Australia and India. Progressing further it has established national industry chairs and selected national advisors to specifically target trade and investment areas between India and Australia. Further, it has initiated the appointment of five members by the AIBC board in every state and territory nine-member chapter composition. This development has eliminated chapter stacking and enhanced the organization’s business focus. Also, the AIBC has elevated itself to become an organization with significantly improved corporate and financial governance, including well established procedures and protocols to ensure that member interests are at the forefront of all decision making. The organization has ensured as it goes along in its activities to encourage its future leadership to embrace continuous improvement and promote a culture of outcomes focused collaborative leadership.

Jodi McKay Ravneet Pawha

CGI Sydney outreach in Newcastle

The Consul General had a warm interaction with the vibrant Indian community and Indian students in Newcastle. He commended their achievements and contribution in strengthening India-Australia relationship.

The Consul General said he was glad to visit various facilities of research and innovation in University of Newcastle and upcoming precincts in Newcastle. He emphasized that it was a big opportunity for India and Australia to collaborate further for mutual benefit.

Music maestro Zubin Mehta honoured

Legendary Maestro Zubin Mehta was awarded Honorary Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) byGovernorGeneral of AustraliaDavid Hurley in recognition of his eminent service to the AustraliaIndia bilateral relationship in the fieldof classical music and philanthropy at iconic @ SydOperaHouse in the presence of an audience at the end of the Australian World Orchestra’s Concert.

Session on business opportunities in India

A briefing session on business opportunities in India was held in collaboration with KPMG Newcastle. It was attended by prominent industry leaders of Newcastle. The Consul General highlighted the opportunities available under #IndAusECTA and advancing trade investment ties between the two nations. #IndAusECTA has been hailed as an Australia-India unity ticket to the future.

Harbhajan Maan Show in Melbourne

HarbhajanMaanShow was organisedat Craigieburn, in Melbourne.Maanis an eminent Punjabi singer and has been singing Punjabi songs for the last 30 years. It was a memorable evening.

$23000 laddu auction at Melbourne’s Ganesh Festival

Australia Alludu Indian Students organisationorganised a grand Ganesh Mahotsav celebration recently, in which a laddu auction raised $23000for the organizers.

The celebration wasattended by thousands of devotees from Melbourne and other places from across Australia. For the occasion of Ganesh Utsav, a majestic five-foot eco-friendly idol of Ganapathi, specially made in Hyderabad, was installed.

The Ganesh Mahotsav celebration began with Ganesh puja and a special arathi. Lord Ganesh's idol was decorated with rich adornments, artistic décor, lavish flowers, and fruit garlands. Rituals and Archana were performed during the day, and shlokas and Ganesha mantras were chanted by the priest. As part of the celebrationAyyapaSevaSamithi Melbourne performed Ganesh Bhajans. Entertainment and dhol performances continued all through the day amidst a spiritual fervor. More than a thousand devotees and visitors participated in the celebrations.

The organizers conducted ladduauction at the Ganesh immersion.

The auction raised $23000which was won by Malik, Phani, Siddu family andAbhilashfriends.

Speaking about the celebration organizers Pallavi and Charan said, “This is the most incredible GanapatiChaturthi celebration in Southeast Melbourne. I feel spiritually uplifted when attending these celebrations. The vibrant ambience with colour, festive spirit and coming together of the community is incredible. My special thanks to Carina Garland, MP for Chisholm, Julian Hill MP For Bruce, MengHeangTak MP, State Labour Member of Parliament for Clarinda.”

Remembering Parmesh Chand, a humanitarian and a karm yogi

There are very few luminaries who leave such an impression on others that their passing leaves a vacuum impossible to fill as life goes on. The passing away of Parmesh Chand on September 21, 2022, in Brisbane, has left the Indian community in a state of utter shock and disbelief.

Late Mr Parmesh Chand was a karm yogi who became wellknown as an lndian community leader and solicitor. He was a prominent leader of the Indian community and hosted the Indian Bazar, the most significant and first Indian festival to bring all Indian communities together in Brisbane.

Parmesh Chand had a Juris Doctor Law graduate degree from Bond University, Diploma in Legal Practice from Griffith University; and Diploma in Education USP. As a solicitor, he had served the interests of the community. He also contributed as part of a team of professionals who developed a course in International Migration with the assistance and input from relevant stakeholders. It is written in simple and plain English so that it can be accessed internationally. Parmesh strongly believed that education is an integral part of any migration program and the program he had helped in preparing would meet the challenge of making an informed decision.

His demise is a great loss to the

Indian community in Brisbane. There were many instances where he stood firm and selflessly for the Indian causes. Renowned for his integrity and honesty, he

will be dearly missed and loved forever. Heartfelt condolences have poured in from the grieving family and his friends.

GOPIO Gold Coast announces new executive body

The GOPIO Gold Coast announced its new Executive Committee for 2022-2023 at its annual general meetingwhich was held on 11 September at the Indian Place Surfers Paradise.The following are the new Executive Committee members:

President – PradipGorasia

Vice President – Mokhtiar Singh

Vice President 2nd –ShrutiThakkar

Secretary – Arash Singh

Joint Secretary – Padmanabhan Krishnan

Treasurer – JessyKaurah

Assistant Treasurer –VarshaBadhe

Patron - PushpinderOberoi

In a statement the new team has said that it will look forward to uniting and connecting the Indian diaspora on the Gold Coast and it is committed to working together with all its members and volunteers to bring onboard a wonderful experience through networking, social/cultural events, and seamless feedback from all to help improve and grow as a team throughout its tenure.

GCQ organizes trip for senior citizens

The Gujarat Community Queensland (GCQ) organized a one-day trip for senior citizens on 3rd September. The one-day trip was thoroughly enjoyed by the senior citizens and joyous time spent together has become a memorable event for all the attendees.

The GCQ distributed disposable masks, hand sanitizer, water bottle, and cap at no cost.

This one-day trip was taken at spectacular places covering Glass House Mountains and Pine River Dam. The arrangement of the journey along with morning teabreakfast, lunch and afternoon tea-snacks was arranged at a muchsubsidized cost. The GCQ volunteers worked hard to make this day special, successful and memorable. With all of your support and companionship, GCQ would like to continue organizing more community activities/events with excitement and happiness.

GCQ One-day Senior Citizen Trip was supported monetarily and with support in kind by all the below businesses/individuals

Hindi Day celebrated in Sydney

Hindi Day celebration was organized by Councilavas in cooperation with IABB School, Sydney. The ceremony had several dignitaries from New South Wales State in attendance. School students introduced rich expression by presenting many good poems, and cultural programs

MAWA organizes Jalolsavam 2022

The Malayalee Association of Western Australia (MAWA) organized Regen Power Jalolsavam 2022 on 17th September at Champion lakes Regatta centre. One of its attractions was the Dragon Boat Race which was organized with the assistance of Fremantle Swan Dragon Boat Club and Dragon Boat Western Australia, who have led the effort since the very outset. Participants enjoyed the boat race and the procession at the event.

MAWA thanked its community leaders especially G Venugopal, ArvindVenugopal, AkhilaAnand, RafeeqRahman, and Francis Kollannur, and sponsors for providing the Perth Malayaleesthe opportunity to enjoy the event. A musical extravaganza was also organized on the occasion. Many of the songs enthralled the audience as they provided them several nostalgic moments. Others were rhythmic and exhilarating, making it difficult to

not tap along with beats.

MAWA provides support and assistance to the Malayali community to come together and rejoice in a faraway land. Celebrations of Onam, X’Mas, Mother’s Day, Music Nights etc. provide opportunity for families to mingle and both children and parents to express their artistic talents. This keeps alive a strong bond with Kerala. MAWA also endeavours to promote sports and games. The Bluegum community centre is accessible every Sunday for Shuttle Badminton and Volleyball practice. Every year MAWA also conducts competition in junior and senior categories in various sporting activities. The felicitation and certificate distribution to winners take place during the Onam function. This is a great way to channel the energy and sprit of youngsters of the community in a positive and competitive manner.

Rotary Club organizes dinner meeting

The Rotary Club of Brisbane International organized a dinner meeting recently. Thedinner meeting was attended by the Club’s District Governor (DG) Tim Keeler AM. The DG inspired the members of the Club with his very powerful messages and talk on leadership and tips on running a successful club. This was followed by dinner and rehearsals for the upcoming Gala event on the 24th of September.

Five must haves for a Travel Photographer

Travel photographers must also carry external storage. The important point to keep in mind while selecting a portable storage option is that it should be lightweight, fast, and rugged.

New Zealand provides an incredible array of targets for your lens

While it would be ideal to travel with a large selection of cameras in order to get the one great shot, let's be honest, its not fun to lug around suitcases while taking pictures. Thus, when packing your ideal travel bag, weight and size are crucial. These are your essentials for the best travel photographs.

Lenses:

tested in harsh conditions, and is temperature, water, shock, and x-ray proof. It comes in up to 1TB1 capacities. With SanDisk® Quick Flow™ Technology2, this card optimizes performance for timesaving media offloads with quick transfer speeds up to 200MB/s3. Pair with the SanDisk Professional PRO-READER SD and micro SDTM to achieve maximum speeds. If your camera is UHS-II compatible, go for the SanDisk Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-II card. This card can deliver extremely fast transfer speeds of up to 300MB/s3 and can seamlessly capture uninterrupted cinema-quality 8K, 4K, and Full HD video.

Extra batteries:

We are not focusing on the camera, assuming you own one, DSLR or mirror less, with interchangeable lenses. It is common knowledge for any good photographer that while the body of the camera provides the basis for stunning photography, the entire experience hinges on the lens. No wonder, the options for different kinds of lenses are so many that it can easily confuse even the best professional travel photographer out there. While your heart might implore you to carry different lenses, you should carry just about two that could cover most of the photographs. Although we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, carrying a walk around and a fast prime lens is a good policy. When choosing a walk around lens, go for the one with a wide aperture. A wide aperture lets in more light making the lens suitable for a range of photography situations.

On Camera Storge:

Well, it is just unimaginable for any photographer to travel without additional batteries as backups in case of eventualities. It is always better to carry backup batteries to overcome the hassle of charging, in case you are at a remote location, or staying outdoor in a tent. If you are traveling by air, then you should be aware of any restrictions by specific countries or airlines.

Generally, the rule allows you to travel with lithium-ion battery cells; one can carry multiple batteries of less than 100Wh, in a protected case. For international flights, it is safer to carry 95Wh batteries, as the lithium-ion batteries come in 95Wh, 130Wh, 160Wh, and 190Wh variations.

Fast, Portable Storage:

For example, SanDisk Extreme PRO Portable SSD V2 that offers lightning-fast read/write speeds of up to 2000MB/s3 and comes in up to a massive 4TB1 capacity. You can take this drive anywhere with you, as it has up to two-meter drop protection and IP55 water and dust resistance. It also has a handy carabiner loop so it can be easily secured to your belt or backpack. With this lightweight drive on you, don’t worry about deleting any shot, good or bad, they are all memories.

Lightweight Tripod:

From magnificent mountain peaks to wild coastal beaches and vibrant urban centers, New Zealand is a photographer’s dream in every way. Year-round, majestic vistas and evergreen forests present numerous possibilities for capturing stunning imagery. The diversity of the landscapes that can be captured here is unlike anywhere else on earth – the photo opportunities are endless. In summer, take advantage of the long days and warm, golden light. As summer turns to autumn, the crowds disappear leaving open countryside with clear crisp blue skies. Snow-capped mountains, misty landscapes, and flowing waterfalls are the hallmarks of winter. In spring the return of warmer weather brings a stunning display of wildflowers mixed with frolicking wildlife.

Here are some great tips for photography in New Zealand through their majestic seasons:

Capture the warmth of the pleasant summer breeze during spring (Sep - Nov)

Summer in New Zealand sees the Fiordland crested penguin returning to Milford Sound on the South Island’s lower West Coast. New Zealand fur seals and several species of dolphin can also be spotted there at this time of year, so it is recommended to grab your camera and test out your eye for a wildlife snap in Fiordland National Park. The great thing about photography in a setting as beautiful as Milford Sound is that if the wildlife aren’t playing ball, or you can’t get close enough, the sheer cliffs of granite, plunging into the dark depths of the sound make for some incredible and equally rewarding captures. In picturesque Queenstown, keep an eye out for the warm light of the long days in the Wakatipu Basin, sunsets there are often amongst the most impressive on the planet. For those who like their subjects a little more adventurous, why not go find the rope swing at Lake Hayes, or ‘Little Thailand’ on Lake Wakatipu, and snap people throwing themselves bravely into the refreshing waters of the lakes around the Queenstown area?

Frame the auburn leaves captured during Autumn (MarMay)

On-camera storage or an SD card is as important as a camera or lens. Choosing the right storage can be pretty tricky. You would want a high-capacity SD card that is purpose-built for photographers. For example, SanDisk Extreme PRO® SDXC™ UHS-I card. It is built for and

For travel, you must have a strong, compact yet lightweight tripod. It should fit easily into a compact travel bag. So, the requirement for travel tripods is a bit different from the conventional ones. It should make the shooting experience efficient but most importantly enjoyable instead of weighing you down. Go for carbon fiber built which is a superior material to aluminumand offers a stronger and lighter body, but on the downside, it may be costly. Also, it makes sense to pick a tripod that is suitable both for photography and videography. You must know what the musthave features you want in your tripod, and which one are you willing to make a concession and buy accordingly.

There are moments when we regret not bringing a specific lens or tripod. With practise, we become more adept at bringing the right equipment for the type of photos we will be taking. The most crucial thing, though, is to appreciate every moment of our journey as we advance in our art.

Spring is one of the perfect seasons to click images that carry a pleasant summer breeze. Spring in New Zealand is a great time for photography, and there are a number of different interesting subjects to point your camera at.

Photos of New Zealand in spring will often feature the lupin – a beautiful blue/purple flower abundant in many of our national parks. New Zealand has around 200 species of fern, the fern ‘koru’ is often photographed – this is the tightly rolled spiral shape of new fronds or leaves. Another popular subject amongst photographers visiting in spring, is the Aurora Australis, or Southern Lights. The phenomenon is visible quite often in winter and spring, and with the temperatures rising, spring is a more pleasant time to stand outdoors with your camera late at night.

Photograph sunshine and playful wildlife during summer (DecFeb)

Autumn in New Zealand is a beautiful time of year to capture some beautiful tones of red and yellow. The deciduous trees turn from green to red, orange, and yellow, and the ground is blanketed in different shades of autumn leaves. The small gold mining settlement of Arrowtown, in the Wakatipu Basin near Queenstown, is arguably the best spot in the country to capture the changes in the autumn season. Beautiful, traditional wooden storefronts characterize the main street of Arrowtown, alongside the majestic poplars shedding their spring and summer leaves as the temperatures fall.

With New Zealand’s borders being opened to all, it’s time to visit New Zealand and discover the photographer in you.

6 lesser-known landmarks to add to your travel list

Temple, Sugavaneswarar Temple, and Arulmigi Alagirinathar Temple. A visit to Salem will fill you with admiration for our country.

Take a memorable holiday over the upcoming long weekend

As India celebrates its 75th anniversary of independence, it's time to look back and explore the lesser-known places that epitomise India's patriotic zeal. Booking.com has compiled a list of locations that played an important role in India's freedom struggle but have since faded to the margins or been lost in the pages of history. Visit these places and celebrate this national holiday with zeal and glory, from Mahatma Gandhi's memorial atop a hill in Vijayawada to Rani Laxmi Bai's land in Jhansi.

Pazhassi Tomb, Wayanad, Kerala

The green paradise of Wayanad, which adorns the northern hills of Kerala, is the setting for the inspiring story of Pazhassi Raja. Thousands of people come to pay their respects to the legendary Lion of Kerala, Kerala Varma Pazhassi Raja, at the Pazhassi Tomb. A ferocious king known for his glorious military victory over the British and his unwavering love and allegiance to his subjects until the end. This destination is also well-known for its numerous camping and trekking trails, spectacular waterfalls, caverns, bird-watching spots, and an abundance of breathtaking vistas. From verdant valleys and cascading waterfalls to crystalline lakes and wildlife sanctuaries, the area has a lot to offer nature lovers and those looking for peace and quiet.

Gandhi Hill, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh

Another recommended destination by Booking.com to

relive the chapters of the freedom movement is Gandhi Hill, located in the Land of Victory, Vijayawada. It is the first Gandhi memorial atop a hill in India, built in honour of the Father of the Nation. You will feel proud while visiting this landmark since it will remind you of India's glory, which was brought about by one man, Mahatma Gandhi, who is revered not only in India but across the world for his non-violent approach in combating the British. The view from the hill is spectacular. Visit Bhavani Island, Victoria Museum, Mogalarajapuram Caves, Kondapalli Fort, and Kolleru Lake to get a glimpse of Vijayawada's affluent legacy and heavenly touch amid the calm of its natural settings. The place is also known for its luscious mangoes, a variety of sweet delicacies, and serene waterfalls.

Sankagiri Fort, Salem, Tamil Nadu

The Vijayanagar Empire established Sankagiri Fort in the 15th century, which was later expanded by Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan, and the British. The fort contains a number of historically significant relics, such as weapons and handguns, as well as sites such as a death well, granary, masjids, and temples. Salem, Tamil Nadu's mango city, welcomes you with quaint beauty and lush greenery. Salem is an idyllic and elegant blend of pilgrimage, natural beauty, and heritage. If you enjoy nature, visit Mookaneri Lake, Oothumalai Hill, and Kiliyur Falls; if you are religious, visit Kalangi Siddhar

Mubarak Mandi, Jammu Mubarak Mandi, located in the heart of Jammu's old walled city and overlooking the Tawi River, was the Dogra kings' residence for nearly 200 years. The palace combines several architectural styles, including Baroque, Rajasthani, European, and Mughal. Jammu, Kashmir's winter capital, is a sacred and serene city with several religious sites to seek the almighty's blessings and postcard scenery of gurgling brooks, blossoming gardens, snow-capped peaks, pretty meadows, apple orchards, and calm lakes with the distinctive shikaras. Tourist attractions in Jammu include Raghunath Temple, Bahu Fort, Peer Kho Cave, Bhimgarh Fort, Baag-eBahu, and Amar Mahal Palace.

Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh

Talk about patriotism and how can we forget Jhansi, the historic city of Uttar Pradesh. Located in the heart of Bundelkhand and famous for the tales of the unrelenting courage of its queen, Jhansi is a city unlike any other in the country. The fierce bravery and courageous stories of Queen Laxmi Bai fill your heart with pride. As an Indian, visiting her land on this Independence Day to live her story is one of the most fulfilling experiences to have.

One can visit Jhansi Fort, Rani Mahal, and Jhansi Museum to pay tribute to the warrior queen, who fought tooth and nail with the British forces and succumbed to death while fighting for her kingdom. The city’s architecture is an absolute treat for history aficionados. At the same time, those looking for some solitude, or a chance to get closer to mother nature, can head to Barua Sagar Tal, Herbal Garden, or Orchha Wildlife Sanctuary. Jhansi is sure to bring out the patriot in you.

Qantas launches new direct flight to India

On September 14, Australian airline Qantas introduced a brand-new service between Bengaluru and Sydney. The first direct flight linking South India and Australia departed Kempegowda International Airport at 6:35 p.m. It took more than 11 hours to get nonstop to Sydney. The September 14 return flight from Sydney touched down in Bengaluru at 4:55 PM. The Bengaluru-Sydney and the return flights will be operated by Qantas four times each week on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday using an A330 aircraft.

With IndiGo, Qantas has a codesharing arrangement.

Given that it is the first-ever non-stop service from South and Central India to Australia, he declared, “This is a historic event.”

According to Australia’s national airline, the direct trip will reduce the distance between the two cities’ travel times by approximately three hours. The route has experienced high demand since the launch of the new service earlier this year, with both the outward and inward maiden flights completely sold out, according to a statement

from Qantas.

“Bengaluru’s inclusion on our route map strengthens our links with India and comes after the introduction of direct services from Australia to Delhi last year, which were also well-received. The only airline now operating direct flights between the two main cities in Australia and the north and south of India is Qantas” Andrew David, CEO of Qantas Domestic and International, remarked.

The Independence Day long weekend is coming up soon and you can make the most of it by planning a quick getaway to a gorgeous destination near you. Check a place off your bucket list, have an enriching experience, and come back rejuvenated. If this sounds like your ideal weekend, then read on for some cool suggestions from Airbnb.

Villa in the hills, Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Set against the backdrop of the river Beas, the breathtaking mountains, and lush green lawns, this stay is perfect for a short holiday in Manali. This fivebedroom, two-story, minimalistic stay is great for taking some time off, stepping away from the daily hustle, and focusing on yourself.

You never know, the soothing mountain breeze, home-cooked pahadi meal, and a view that dreams are made of may just be what an enervated soul needs.

Staycation near Delhi, Gurugram, Haryana

Not up for a grand holiday? Then head to Goa, a place that can make any holiday feel like the grandest! And if you choose to holiday at this Portuguese-style boutique villa, it comes with its own private pool! What’s more, the ethnically designed stay with all the modern amenities, overlooks the bright and blue Baga river, a feast for sore eyes. For a quick getaway, say goodbye to all the busyness, feed your belly, and you will come out of it super content.

A designer duo's Shipping Container Home, Two Equals Living, Dehradun, Uttarakhand

You can gather your friends and family and spend some quality time together to make the most of a weekend. If you’re looking for a luxurious getaway, then this Airbnb, beautifully designed, airy & thoughtfully equipped is just what the doctor ordered.

Rock and Stone Villa with SeaView, Ko Pha-ngan, Surat thani, Thailand

A short holiday usually does the trick. For further motivation, check into this unique Shipping Container stay. Designed carefully by two design studios, the stay gives a lovely twist to living outdoors. For the backdrop, there is the lush and lovely mountainscape of Dehradun. The stay is kid-friendly and offers all the amenities to keep them busy and entertained.

Luxury stay in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

If you’re clubbing holidays together, take a trip to Thailand, a country that’s pretty much on every traveler’s wish list. In about four-five hours you can be in this gorgeous country that has so much to offer.

There’s nothing quite like a quick trip to the city of gold. And the larger the group, the better! Besides shopping, the city has much to offer, from world cuisine to unmissable attractions and excursions. If you’re looking for a luxurious getaway, opt for the BLVD stay with an enviable view of Dubai’s skyline including the Burj Khalifa. Check-in and choose to stay in or go out.

Vacation with friends or family in Goa

Round Brushes: The best kept hairdresser secret

because you will probably have to remove them and replace them later. Before continuing, divide your hair into four parts.

Alter your angles

Haircare in your 40s

Since forever, round brushes have been the hairdressers' best-kept secret. You probably have no concept how difficult the job of a hairdresser is unless you were one of those people who picked up a round hair brush by accident when they were young and made the decision to never look back.

Tangled hair, achy arms, and a fair lot of impatience and swearing are all symptoms of this difficulty.

So, having spent years trying to properly use a round brush, we've made the decision to start over.

Eventually, we understood where we had been going wrong for so long. Discover how to use a round brush like a pro by reading on.

Air-Dry is the key

It is inefficient to blow dry your hair before it is 80% to 90% dried.

Before you begin blow-drying, make sure that your hair is mostly dry. Otherwise, it will take too long to complete the style, which will tyre out your arms and make

you quite frustrated. The secret is to let it air dry completely before styling.

Choose a Round Brush

The brush's size, bristle type, and density are all variables that affect the outcome. While boar bristle brushes are frequently stiffer and denser and produce greater stress while pulling the hair, which ultimately results in enhanced volume and lift, ventilated metal round brushes are useful for heat reinforcement while styling.

Similar to a curling iron, a round brush's diameter and curl size are inversely correlated; the larger the brush, the larger the curl.

Avoid using little brushes if you're not an expert since you run the danger of tangling your hair in the bristles.

Part Your Hair

The fastest way to dry your hair is to take your time and use a round brush. You won't save any time by wrapping too-large components around the circular brush

When styling your hair, movement must never stop. Apply the round brush starting at the base of your roots, rolling it down to the ends, and drying the brush as you go. You should always keep the blow-nozzle drier parallel to the ground and angled downward, regardless of how you move the brush, in order to spread heat uniformly across the hair section rather than fluffing it up.

Change the heat settings

Although utilising only high heat and high air may seem like the greatest option, doing so may result in frizzy and twisted hair.

Reduce the settings to medium (or low, if you have curly hair) around your hairline and rely on the pressure you apply to the brush to smooth the hair.

Give it a cool air blast

Reduce the heat setting for a cold air blast after finishing a section while the hair is still wrapped around the brush. This should help your hair retain its shape. Although skipping this stage could seem like an extra step that is not necessary, the outcomes might not be as substantial.

(Rayed Merchant, Director Marketing (Global) & Head Brand Procurement, SSIZ International)

Make-up on the go and in under 10 mins

at all. If you love bling, then go with gold or rose gold shimmer shadow on your eyes. Just make sure it is not over the top and yet it manages to steal the limelight. You can use champagne coloured shimmers on your lid area and soften it with brown eye shadow in the crease. This jazzes up the look. You can team it with a perfect pink lips keeping your cheeks soft pink.

Everybody experiences awful hair days, right? Even more so than others are some.

As you get older and your body changes regularly, ones may suffer hair loss, dandruff, split ends, frizzy hair, and balding. Is there a fix for these issues? Yes, all of these issues can be resolved by using Ayurveda. Ayurvedic therapies also have no negative effects, for hair loss repair hair follicles and increase hair durability.

But before you jump right into it, it is very important to Know Your Hair Type.

According to Ayurveda, our body functions are governed by three vital energies: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Each person consists of a "tridosha" combination, with one or two doshas predominating. The state of your hair's health and type are determined by this combination.

Vata Hair Type

You will have a Vata hair type if your Prakriti is Vata-dominant.

By giving your hair follicles the correct nutrients they require, you may maintain and balance your Vata dosha. The typical Vata hair type is porous, thin, and straight. Your scalp and hair get dry when the Vata dosha in your body is elevated because your body produces less sebum as a result. This results in split ends, frizzy, dry hair, and hair loss.

Pitta Hair Type

curly. Any imbalance in the kapha causes your scalp to produce too much sebum, which invariably results in greasy dandruff, an oily scalp, itching, hair loss, and other issues.

Every person has unique needs. Therefore, it's critical to comprehend your hair type and the state of your dosha levels in order to implement the most efficient Ayurvedic hair care regimen.

The greatest Ayurvedic hair care techniques are listed here for you to effortlessly incorporate into your daily life. These routines will help you achieve internal dosha equilibrium as well as long, healthy hair:

Eating Healthy Eating healthy is essential for strong and long-lasting hair. Healthy diets need to have nutrients that nourish and strengthen the hair follicles from within. Eating dosha-specific fruits and vegetables can help keep the body healthy and robust while also keeping the doshas in balance.

Hair Oiling and Washing

Hair oils replenish the follicles and scalp while also aiding in moisture retention, which is critical in avoiding hair loss.

Always fully oil your hair before washing it, and make this a part of your hair care regimen.

Everyone is excitedly anticipating Navratri and the festive season soon approaching, with preparations for Navratri, Durga Pooja, and the forthcoming Diwali festival underway in various regions of India.

So many festive occasions, means a countless number of beauty looks to try. Kajol R. Paswwan, Celebrity make-up artist discusses her go-to holiday looks that you can create in under 10 minutes, even on the go

The Classic Smoky Eye - The Classic Smokey eye craze never goes out of style and if you are confused about your eye makeup look, then make this one has to be your go-to makeup look. You can

give a fresh touch to the smoky eye look makeup by using brown as the base color for a smoky eye instead of black. This look uses a smudged light brown kohl on the lower lash line and a subtle brown eyeshadow mixed with black shadow on the crease area to soften it. Don’t be afraid to smudge a bit of kohl pencil on your lids and lower lash lines. You can also go minimal with the rest of the face and pair this look with nude lipstick or a gloss and soft flushed cheeks. It is the ideal makeup look to match all your outfits, making you look hot and sultry this festive season.

Golden glam - Is any festive season makeup complete without glitter or shimmer? Nope, not

Bronze Glimmer - If you love to experiment and go all out with your eye makeup, then you should watch out for the metallic trends that are in this festive season. You can experiment with silver or bronze hues this season but bronze glimmer is my personal favorite. You can use a transition shade on your lids and a brown eyeshadow stick on the outer corners of your lids. Blend properly and go over your lids with a bit of gold glitter pigments and follow it up with a brown kohl on the lashlines and finish it with a good mascara. Keep your face really subtle because the eyes will catch most of the attention. You can pair this look with light bronzed cheeks and a subtle lipstick while keeping your eye looking super attractive.

Once more, Pitta hair is characteristic of a Prakriti that is Pitta-dominant. Pitta is in charge of the production of hair proteins, colours, and metabolic activity in the hair. Pitta hair is often wavy and average in thickness. Premature greying, itchy scalp, hair loss, clogged follicles with bacteria buildup, and other indications of a pitta imbalance.

Kapha Hair Type

Last but not least, having a Kapha hair type is a sign of a Kapha dominating Prakriti. Your body's kapha energy is responsible for preserving the structure and lubrication of your hair. A healthy head of hair is thick, lustrous, and

You can either use a good extra virgin coconut oil or purchase a herbal hair oil that contains a mix of several Ayurvedic herbs like amla, rose petals, reetha, etc. It is recommended that you wash your hair twice a week with a natural powder and condition them with an organic root-strengthening hair mask.

Scalp Massages

According to Ayurveda practices, you should always massage your scalp with warm hair oil before washing your hair. Massaging the scalp gently with herbal oil stimulates hair development and strengthens the hair from root to tip.

(Amritha Gaddam, Founder and CEO, The Tribe Concepts)

Caring for your diamonds

A new athleisure brand

Diamonds can be as old as the earth itself and are one of the hardest gems on earth, however, they still need to be treasured and cared for to keep them sparkling. De Beers Forevermark shares their bestcurated tips and tricks to care for your diamond jewellery to ensure that it will keep shining Forever.

Protecting your diamond jewellery: Your diamond jewellery may become exposed to harsh chemicals or abrasive solutions. Whether it is wearing perfume, applying sunscreen, washing up, or simply using hairspray, these chemicals can erode or dull metal settings. It is sometimes best to remove your jewellery or wear protective clothing.

Handling your diamond ring: Specifically, when removing rings, you should always ensure to pick it up by its band, not by the stone or setting. This will help to keep the diamond secure in its setting as well as prevent natural oils

from your hands from building up around the stone.

> For a simple way to clean your diamond ring at home, use hot soapy water and gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

> Use a solution of one-part ammonia to six-partswater, rinsing well to renew the brightness.

> Shop-bought non-abrasive jewellery cleaners are a good alternative to brushing. Make sure the cleaner is safe to use on your ring metal, as well as on the diamond itself. After cleaning, rub gently with a soft cloth to accentuate your diamond's shine.

> It's recommended that you take your diamond to an authorised jeweller for professional cleaning once every six months. The jeweller can also inspect your ring for any weakness or trauma, making sure that the diamond remains safe in its setting.

Storing your diamond jewellery

Due to their natural hardness, diamonds can damage other gemstones, metals, and even other diamonds. To keep the best diamond quality care, if you need to take your diamond jewellery off, it's always best to store it separately from your other jewellery. Where possible, always store your diamond jewellery correctly in its box. Alternatively, keeping your diamond jewellery in individual soft cloth pouches will also protect them from any harm. It’s important to protect your jewellery box so that it can continue to keep your diamond safe. We recommend you store your jewellery box in a dry, cool, and secure location.

Keeping your diamond jewellery safe: From the moment you receive it, your diamond holds a lifetime of memories to be made and dreams to be had. Whilst nothing can replace the sentimental value of your diamond jewellery, you can protect its monetary value by insuring it (Link to DER Certification page) against loss, theft, or damage. Many insurers offer specific insurance policies for jewellery, which offer many benefits over other types of coverage. A promise of Forever: Caring for your diamond jewellery is more than just keeping your diamond’s sparkle shining bright. Set to last a lifetime, it shows your commitment and care. A promise of your future and your Forever.

An outfit for your body type

with the appropriate styling.

Want

to exercise while sporting a stylish look?

Leading European young women's apparel company ONLY has entered the athleisure clothing market with the introduction of a new category dubbed "ONLY PLAY." With the introduction of ONLY PLAY, ONLY strengthens its position as a fashion-forward brand that meets the whole wardrobe requirements of today's modern millennial girls. ONLY has always been at the forefront of bringing exclusive, different, and trend-setting collections.

The classic "ONLY girl" is constantly on the go. Her life is vibrant and always changing, whether it's an exhilarating morning workout, a fast coffee run, or a fun girls' night out.

Enter ONLY PLAY, which supports all play styles and paces. The category, which is marketed as a one-stop shop for all things fashionable and comfortable, offers an interesting mash-up of sporting and casual wear items.

of creative and entertaining outfits in vibrant colours and cosy designs, with the goal of bringing excitement back to everyday activities. The collection also includes a selection of expressive and contemporary prints that are likely to make your day better and boost your level of everyday

If

you have knowledge of your body type and are ready to dress accordingly, then there is absolutely no limitation to your inner diva.

Many people remain unsure of their body shapes and it makes them perplexed about their dressing decisions. In these circumstances, keeping oneself perfectly dressed could be quite challenging. Dressing in the right manner requires an understanding of your body type.

Let's explore more with Nidhi Yadav, Co-Founder of AksClothings about the different body types and the clothing that suits them.

Pear shape body

If your butt and thighs look bigger than your upper body, then you have a pear-shaped body. You either had this figure naturally or may work out to achieve it.

The positive of having this body type is that you may produce the appearance of an hourglass shape

For those with this body type, A-line skirts, wide-legged clothing, or dresses, along with patterned or ruffled shirts that define the upper body, are ideal selections. Moreover, slim bottoms and shirts can help to create a more realistic hourglass shape. Crop shirts, sweetheart, V or deep-V, scoop, or boat necklines will balance off your bottom.

Inverted triangle shape body

The inverted triangle is the shape that appears to be most athletic.

Your shoulders are considerably wider than your hips. Therefore, we must make the most progress feasible with our shoulders and arms. Straight-cut jeans and clothing with an inverted V shape will flatter your physique.

Since your hips are much smaller than your shoulders, any top will look great with a pencil skirt, slim jeans, etc. Though neither is necessary, you should be careful to avoid over-layering or overdefining your upper body. The V-neckline should be your go-to neckline because it performs well and makes shoulders appear smaller.

Rectangular Body Shape

The rectangular body type

frequently has a proportionate balance from the shoulders to the hips. As a result, your silhouette is really undefined and uncomplicated. Well, your arms and legs are your best attributes, so focus on making that better. It has an hourglass form, yet there is no distinct waistline.

Consider wearing tops that are A-line, ruffled, and layered and dresses with distinct necklines and bottoms to accentuate the upper torso's muscles. Additionally, enhance the look by including capes, long jackets, and blazers to it.

Apple-shaped body

If your upper body weight is higher than your lower body weight, then you have an appleshaped body. It seems like the weight is focused on the stomach because people with this body shape typically have broad shoulders and a bigger bust line.

Because the majority of the weight and attention is above the hips, the midriff seems broader than the rest of the body and has a thin waistline. Therefore, you must wear a dress with a V or deep V neckline or expose your legs.

Empire or a-line shapes will suit you best. To change the focus, put on patterned or printed

ONLY PLAY delivers exceptional functionality, excellent quality, and feminine accents that are integrated in a potent mix of the newest fashion & sportswear trends. ONLY PLAY offers a strong mixture of training and pleasure.

Benefits including removable and non-removable padding for vital support, racer back styles to provide stability, adjustable straps and hook closures, practical pockets, and windproof & breathable technology are included in the collection's technical specs.

The collection, which consists of tops, tights, shorts, training bras, jackets, tank tops, and yoga mats, is made to provide for countless styling options for your workout.

The collection features a variety

clothing that adds a layer. It will be helpful to wear dark colors, flowing shirts, dresses with full or 3/4 sleeves, and monochromatic outfits. You could also style flared bottoms, palazzos, etc., to create balance. Additionally, because of your broad shoulders and perhaps larger bustline, wear the proper bra.

Hourglass Body Shape

Speaking on the launch, Vineet Gautam, CEO & Country HeadBESTSELLER India says, “With the introduction of ONLY PLAY, we further extend the brand’s product offering by adding performance wear/ athleisure styles. This truly makes ONLY the one-stop-shop for the fashion conscious modern millennial girls. The range stays true to ONLY’s design ethos with popcolors, functional designs and comfortable styles. Internationally ONLY PLAY has been successful with positive customer feedbacks, repeat purchases and business success. We are positive that ONLY PLAY will have a similar success story in India.”

ONLY PLAY combines the best of performance and design because each piece is incredibly versatile and can easily go from outside to inside activities. It is perfect for yoga sessions, supermarket runs, comfortable travel, or even a girls night in.

The collection launched on August 16th, 2022, and will be sold in a few places and online at www. only.in.

With proportionate top and bottom halves and a sharply defined waistline, this body form is the most harmonic. Because you have a well-balanced body, choose dresses that should stay beautifully at the right curves and follow the outline of these curves.

Dresses that constrict the waist will fit you the best. The best necklines for you are sweetheart and V or plunging V necklines.

Online art galleries: The recent innovation for the artists community

the galleries, the audience can have a closer and deeper look at the masterpiece. However, online galleries are not far behind. They enable audiences to cherish the aesthetics from different angles. Leveraging the power of technology, online art galleries allow 360-degree view and 3D realistic models of the artwork via virtual tours. Audiences can zoom, rotate, see animated addons, and much more with the online setup.

September 11, 2022 (IANSlife)

The world of artists has always included art galleries in it.

People used to travel far to see actual exhibitions in galleries.

In contrast, virtual exhibitions have become the new standard as a result of the global pandemic.

Online art galleries were created as a result of art galleries following suit.

With the advent of both physical and online galleries, art enthusiasts can now experience the complexity of creativity. Virtual art galleries are advantageous in this situation in a number of ways according to Manya Roongta and KrishNawal, Founders of Childrens Art Museum of India.

An innovative way for artists to showcase their work

Amidst the pandemic-induced lockdown and social distancing norms, museums and galleries had to hit the pause button.

The artists had to come up with innovative ways to showcase their work. During this time, digitization came as a blessing in disguise. The artist community suffered a setback but was able to revive it with the assistance of online art galleries. It is due to

them that people have been able to pursue their love for art despite the restrictions.

Foster a hybrid culture

As normalcy gradually returned, art galleries started opening up while adhering to the COVID-19 protocols. However, virtual galleries did not lose their charm. Neither have they nor will they replace the physical galleries.

However, they have been growing more than ever before and have fostered a hybrid culture where both physical and online galleries coexist. Admiring art is a personal experience. Today, audiences can witness creativity not only physically but also virtually if they wish to.

Meet the growing demand

In today’s modern world, not only mature art enthusiasts but even millennials are inclined to pursue their love for art. Whether it is revamping their homes or decorating their workspaces, they prefer to go for creative pieces.

Due to this, the demand for art is growing further, and virtual art galleries are helping fulfill the same.

Enhanced customer engagement Of course, by physically visiting

Surpass geographical barriers

Virtual galleries do not require a physical location. For the artists, they allow flexibility and are a cost-efficient way of renting a physical space to display art at zero cost. In fact, you can also have a global presence and share your creativity with the world. You won’t be restricted to a particular area and can reach a larger audience, eventually boosting sales.

Virtual art galleries have not only helped the artist community to thrive during these testing times but have also helped in bridging the physical-digital gap. Embracing their love for art from their homes’ comfort zones, the audience can engage better with the aesthetically crafted pieces at their convenience with the help of technology and virtual tours. Online art galleries have proven to be a boon as they are relieved from the additional costs and the hassle of on-ground management. Even though they are a new trend, online art galleries have significantly impacted the artist community and brought many benefits to the table for both the audience and the creator.

Jodhpur Riff to be held from October 6 to 10

Lalu Prasad’s works on exhibit from Sep 16 to 25

September 10, 2022 (IANSlife)

The music festival, Jodhpur RIFF is back after a two-year interval and will be held from October 6 to 10 at Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fort. Playing host to over 250 performers, it aims to showcase Rajasthani, Indian, and global roots music and collaborations between their creators.

This will be the 13th edition of the festival and mark its fifteenth year. Owing to the Pandemic, the festival could not take place in the years 2020 and 2021.

Apart from music from Rajasthan’s Meghwal community, Shabad and Nirguni Bhajans and Kabir Vani in Madhya Pradesh’s Malwi Folk style, one of this

year’s Jodhpur RIFF dawns will be ‘A Khasi Dawn’ with traditional music from Meghalaya. Sawan and Kachara Khan, of the Langa and Manganiyar communities, will — through a mix of performance and conversation — enlighten audience members on the strand of Sufi poetry in Langa and Manganiyar musical traditions, through an interactive session. The main stage will witness Hebrew and Arabic Soul meeting Acoustic Rock at Jodhpur RIFF, courtesy Riff Cohen. Born in Tel Aviv, Israel, Cohen is a singer-songwriter, performer and composer who lives and performs across Israel and Europe. She juggles and experiments with

various genres including French Pop, Avant-Garde, traditional North African music and classic rock. “After a two-year hiatus, Jodhpur RIFF’s comeback this year will explore exciting new acts, new genres and new kinds of collaborations,” said Festival Director Divya Bhatia. “‘Citadels of the Sun’, for instance, is a unique collaboration which began between musicians in Ireland and Jodhpur three years ago, but which ripened online, during the pandemic. “Folk music is the music of the people, across generations. Jodhpur RIFF’s collaborations, in India as well as in other countries, have grown to evolve into an idiom of sorts for this genre,” said Gajsingh II of Marwar-Jodhpur, Chief Patron of the festival. “More importantly, Jodhpur RIFF has played a key role in building a focal point for and nurturing this part of the country’s vibrant ecosystem of cultural heritage by providing opportunities, inspiration and livelihood for traditional Rajasthani artists.”

September 12, 2022 (IANSlife)

Gallery Art Exposure will present ‘Lalu Prasad Shaw -Early and Recent Works’, an exhibit featuring early and recent works of the master printmaker and artist in graphics, crayon, and tempera from September 16 to 25.

Often, visual imagery and internal identities in Indian art are influenced by other cultures, especially the West. Lalu Prasad Shaw’s art, right from the early formative years, pursues a distinctly Indian focus.

“We focus on strengthening the ties that bind modern and contemporary art. In this retrospective exhibition that celebrates the art of Lalu Prasad Shaw, we have drawn from his earliest work – from his brilliant printmaking to his contemporary portrayals of people from the city of Kolkata,” says Somak Mitra, Director of Gallery Art Exposure.

Shaw’s oeuvre famously portrays a variety of people occupied in various pursuits, including romantic dalliances, the Babu’s regular forays to the market to buy fish and vegetables or the Bibi, depicted reading or gazing into space, a caged bird by her side.

Through these images, one gets an insight into the artist’s practice as well as his gently satirical approach toward life and its diversity. People can be differentiated by their ethnicity, religion, profession, and class, giving rise to a sense of plurality. Deeply affected by political issues throughout his life, Shaw in his septuagenarian years chooses to reflect on his environment with humor and irreverence. The retrospective pays a tribute to the veteran by showcasing the range of his art that is as contemplative as it is humorous.

"As a printmaker and painter, Lalu Prasad Shaw is remarkable for his contemporaneity and stylistic expression. Gallery Art Exposure brings to the capital a meticulously curated selection of his most outstanding works from the earliest time to the present day offering the viewers an intimate look at the veteran artist’s vast oeuvre." says curator Ina Puri.

Lalu Prasad Shaw, Still Life, Oil on Masonite Board, 24 x 18 inches, 1958

Lalu Prasad Shaw, Etching, 17 x 13 inches

Varun Dhawan and Anil Kapoor dish out marriage wisdom

owing to a new addition to his life who can alert his wife about his wrongdoings.

"If I cheat on my wife, my dog will bark and let her know!" said the star with an animated woof in the end.

The episode was rife with marriage advice for viewers as the two stars, one a newly minted husband and another with over 40 years of marriage, shared pearls of wisdom.

"You have to praise your wife and do things that make her happy. It is also important to consider how she makes you happy," said Anil Kapoor.

Kriti Sanon starts acting workshop for her next

Bollywood stars Varun Dhawan and Anil Kapoor, who will share the couch on chat show 'Koffee With Karan', will be seen discussing marriage, relationships and competition in the industry.

The guests were seen broaching the controversial subject of emotional and sexual infidelity.

The two stars vehemently opposed both with Varun reminding Karan Johar that he has no room for such misconduct

The duo also turned into agony aunts in a special show segment.

They received calls from maritally aggrieved people and shared their smart tips to help them out of their hurdle.

'Koffee With Karan' airs on Disney+ Hotstar.

Arjun Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar head to London for their romantic comedy

The untitled romantic comedy features both in supremely fun and entertaining roles.

According to sources, the project is set to be directed by Mudassar Aziz. While there has been no confirmations about this project, industry has been speculating that this is a project to watch out for because it has an interesting cast and dabbles in a genre that is a huge crowd pleaser.

Arjun and Bhumi will start shooting this project post September 12 and will be shooting in and around London for about 30 days straight.

Actors

The film will also be shot in Mumbai and maybe a few more cities of India.

Salman announces ‘Bigg Boss 16’; Munawar Faruqui among likely contestants

it. At the end , Salman is heard saying: "Because this time Bigg Boss will play the game."

Bollywood

actress Kriti Sanon has started prepping for her next, an action drama directed by Anurag Kashyap.

Under the guidance of ace director Kashyap, Kriti has already embarked upon acting workshops and dialogue and language coaching for her next.

According to close sources, it's one of the fiercest female characters that's ever been written in Hindi Cinema by Kashyap.

The sources add that "it's an extremely emotional film and the vengeance unleashed by Kriti's character is like never seen before

on screen. It is absolute brute raw power".

Nikhil Dwivedi, who had turned producer with another multiwomen drama 'Veere Di Wedding' and had struck gold with it at the Box Office, is producing the said film.

It was rumoured that the said film is a remake of the cult Hollywood film, 'Kill Bill' but Kashyap has always denied it.

"It is an original" was his cryptic reply when asked. The shooting of the film starts in November.

On the work front, Kriti also has 'Bhediya', 'Ganapath', 'Adipurush' and 'Shehzada'.

Shweta Tiwari left awestruck with daughter Palak’s photoshoot

Palak took to her Instagram, where she shared a reel of her posing in a pink-gold Kanjeevaram saree for the first time. She completed her look with gold jewellery and tied her hair into a braid.

Reacting to the video, Shweta Tiwari wrote: "Oh my god! My Babyyyy," with heart emojis. She then shared Palak's video on her Instagram story and wrote: "Kitni sundar meri bacchi!! (My daughter is so beautiful)."

Bijlee

On the acting front, Palak will be seen in Salman Khan-starrer 'Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan'. She also has an upcoming film titled 'Rosie'. Shweta will be seen sharing screen space with actor Manav Gohil after twenty years in the upcoming 'Main Hoon Aparajita.'

Shruti Haasan’s ‘She is a Hero’ focuses on the triumphs of women

to shine a light on the struggles and triumphs of women. A true musical collaboration, the track brings together MC Altaf's unique flavour of music which complements Shruti's singersongwriter energy beautifully.

Salman

Khan will be back again with the 16th season of his reality show 'Bigg Boss', it was officially announced on Sunday night.

The announcement made on Instagram carries the caption: "Inn 15 saalon mein sabne khela apna apna game, lekin ab baari hai Bigg Boss ke khelne ki.

Dekhiye #BiggBoss16 jald hi, sirf #Colors par!" (In 15 years everyone had played their games, but this time, it will be the turn of Bigg Boss to play it)."

The promo begins by peeping into the previous seasons and showing a few video clips from the past.

Later, it gives a glimpse of the 16th season's look and introduces

Many names that are going around about the possible Big Boss 16 participants. They include 'Bigg Boss OTT' winner Divya Agarwal, comedian and 'Lock Upp' Season 1 winner Munawar Faruqui and TV actress Kanika Mann. Tejasswi Prakash, now better known as Naagin, was the Bigg Boss 15 winner. The season also saw popular faces, mainly from television, such as Karan Kundrra, who is said to be romantically linked with Tejasswi, Simba Nagpal, Shamita Shetty, Pratik Sehajpal, Nishant Bhat, Akasa Singh, Vishal Kotian and Donal Bisht.

After the success of her first single 'Edge', actress-singer Shruti Haasan has now released her next track titled 'She Is A Hero'.

"'She Is A Hero' brings together varied artists and a mix of genres

"The track has been produced by Karan Kanchan and Karan Parikh while visual artist Santanu Hazarika has donned the creative director's hat for this special track. Screenwriter and lyricist Niranjan Iyengar has penned the additional Hindi lyrics for Shruti's part," said a source.

Arjun Kapoor and Bhumi Pednekar, who have recently wrapped shooting for an edgy thriller 'The

Ladykiller', have signed another film that pairs them together. The actors have left for London to begin work on this new film.

Bijlee' fame Palak Tiwari shared a glimpse from her ethnic photoshoot which left her actress-mother Shweta Tiwari in awe.