India News - Oct 16-31, 2022

KEEPING YOU AHEAD

to make it a $5 trillion economy by 2025, the northeastern region has a great role.

The President said that she is confident that talented, hardworking, innovative, enterprising, aspiring youths of the northeastern region would fulfil India's goal to become $5 trillion economy by 2025.

She said that there is an immense potential of development in the northeastern region, development of which, according to her, is getting a new impetus with various new projects of highways, railways, airways and waterways.

Visa issues will be solved by year-end, Aus tells India

to educational institutions in Australia following the Covid pandemic.

“And I want to tell you that it was something that I took up with different ministers when I was in Canberra. We have a particular problem that students are facing,” Jaishankar, who is on a two-day visit to Australia, said.

Agartala, Oct 12 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday said that India has become the 5th largest economy in the world and

"Tripura has a rich culture and tradition. Connectivity, education and other sectors of the state are getting developed. With 87

man cannot force first wife to live with

Prayagraj, Oct 12 (IANS) The Allahabad High Court has observed that a Muslim man, who marries for the second time against the wishes of his first wife, cannot seek a decree from any civil court to compel the first wife to live with him.

The bench comprising Justice Surya Prakash Kesarwani and Justice Rajendra Kumar, made

T20 World Cup: Indian team unwinds with getaway trip to Rottnest Island

Sydney, Oct 12 (IANS) Before they venture into the tough battles in the Men’s T20 World Cup, the Indian cricket team players unwinded during a getaway trip to Rottnest Island in Perth organised by Tourism Australia.

Continued on Page 3

New Delhi, Oct 12 (IANS) In his address to the Indian community in Australia, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said that he has been assured that the problem of visa backlog, particularly in respect to students, would be solved by the end of the year.

The visa backlog issue is of utmost concern to the Indian students who are trying to return

Jaishankar, who is on his second visit to Australia, said he was assured that the situation has improved and about 77,000 Indian students are back in Australia.

“But you all know that the numbers should be and could be much higher and I was assured that by the end of the year the visa backlog, particularly in respect to students, would be cleared,”

Sydney, Oct 10 (IANS) India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on Monday presented Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles with a cricket bat signed

by former captain Virat Kohli during his visit to Australia.

Marles took to Twitter to share a photo of himself thanking India's

India’s Foreign Minister Jaishankar gifts a signed bat from Kohli to Deputy PM of Australia

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To make India $5 trillion economy, NE has a big role: President

Continued from Page 1

per cent literacy rate, Tripura is now one of the leading states in the country," Murmu said after inaugurating the MLA hostel and laying the foundation stone of seven projects.

The President from the Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan virtually laid the foundation stones for the seven projects and inaugurated the newly-built MLA Hostel having modern facilities.

The MLA hostel has been constructed near the Assembly house at the Capital complex on 3,983 sq metre area at a total cost of Rs 52.15 crore funded by state and Central governments.

The President said that projects inaugurated on Wednesday would not only strengthen the connectivity, education, judiciary and legislature in Tripura but also boost the rich culture of the state.

Noting that she was very happy to lay the foundation stone

of National Law University in Tripura, Murmu said that over the past three decades, NLUs have played a significant role in the field of law education.

Today, with the growth of the economy, the legal profession has also expanded in many dimensions, she said and expressed hope that NLU Tripura would emerge as a major centre of legal education, not only in the northeast but across the country.

The President said that the youth of the country have made a unique identity in the field of Information Technology, all over the world. She was confident that the permanent campus of Indian Institute of Information Technology, Agartala would set new benchmarks in the field of Information Technology.

The President said that a holistic education system is essential for the development of the nation and progress of our youth.

Saying that along with higher education, we should give more emphasis on primary education, the President told the gathering that she was happy to note that the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, in association with Tripura government, has launched 'VidyaJyoti Mission 100' under which 100 existing higher secondary schools would be converted into quality education institutions with state-of-the-art facilities.

Earlier, the President accompanied by Chief Minister Manik Saha and local MLA Krishnadhan Das interacted with the women workers of the Durgabari tea garden and tea processing factory in west Tripura district, and urged them to focus on education of their children, particularly girls. This was her first visit to the northeastern region after assuming the highest office on July 25.

Muslim man cannot force first wife to live with him: Allahabad HC

Continued from Page 1

this observation while dealing with an appeal filed by a Muslim man, challenging a family court’s order dismissing his case for restitution of conjugal rights.

The bench, while dismissing the plea, said as per the mandate of the Holy Quran, a man can marry up to four women but if he fears that he will not be able to deal with them justly then can marry only one.

“If a Muslim man is not capable of fostering his wife and children, then as per the mandate of the Holy Quran, he cannot marry another woman,” the court

observed.

The court also opined that a Muslim husband has the legal right to take a second wife even while the first marriage subsists.

“But if he does so, and then seeks the assistance of a civil court to compel the first wife to live with him against her wishes, she is entitled to raise the question of whether the court, as a court of equity, ought to compel her to submit to co-habitation with such a husband,” the judges said.

The bench also observed that when the appellant has contracted the second marriage

suppressing this fact from his first wife, then such conduct of the plaintiff-appellant amounts to cruelty to his first wife.

“Under the circumstances, if the first wife does not wish to live with her husband, then she cannot be compelled to go with him in a suit filed by him for restitution of conjugal rights. If the contention of the husband for grant of decree of conjugal rights is accepted, then from the point of view of the wife, it would amount to breach of her fundamental rights guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India,” it added.

T20 World Cup: Indian team unwinds with getaway trip to Rottnest Island

The team is already facing some serious issues over the injuries of pacers Jasprit Bumrah and Deepak Chahar, so the break will help the team relax and get acclimatised to the conditions. Taking a break from their preparations for the Men’s T20 World Cup, the team decided to kick back, relax and set off for

an island adventure in Rottnest Island in Perth, Western Australia.

The Men in Blue gave the fans a sneak peek into their day off Down Under by releasing some photographs for The team let loose with a friendly game of lawn bowls, a round of beach volleyball, and a meet and greet with the island’s littlest celebrities, the quokkas!

India will start their T20 World Cup campaign on October 23 with a clash with arch-rivals Pakistan, one of the biggest clashes of the tournament. The two teams have recently met in the Asia Cup in United Arab Emirates (UAE). The Rohit Sharma-led Indian team reached Australia last week and has already have had a training ground in Perth.

Visa issues will be solved by year-end, Aus tells India

Continued from

he said. The minister also said that it’s not just a problem for students but also for many other Indians who want to travel due to family reasons. He also applauded the resumption of tourism in Australia and other countries of the world post-Covid pandemic.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2021 census, Australia’s Indian diaspora numbers approximately 700,000, and Indians are expected to outnumber Chineseborn Australians over the next decade. Significantly, it is the second-highest taxpaying diaspora after the British, making it clear that it is a group making significant contributions to Australia’s economy.

The minister emphasised that there will be a legal framework for talented Indians to move to another country for work.

“Indian skills and talents that are in demand in Australia will have a legal framework, an agreed methodology by which they move from one country to another,” Jaishankar said.

He also underlined the new areas

of focus in our partnership, including education, technology, resources and mobility.

“I think what is really exciting about our relationship today are the enormous possibilities that we are now looking at, and foremost among them is education,” Jaishankar said, adding that education can be the avenue by which India Australia relationship could advance in a much more expansive manner.

“We want our students to understand the world better, and we want our students to be prepared for a global workplace... in this we regard Australia as a particularly important partner,” he added. Roughly, 105,000 students study in Australian universities at the moment. According to Bengaluru-based RedSeer Strategy, the total number of Indian students studying abroad will stand at around 1.8 million by 2024.

The report further added that Indian students would be spending $75-85 billion annually on higher education abroad by 2024.

India’s Foreign Minister Jaishankar gifts a signed bat from Kohli to Deputy PM of Australia

Continued from Page 1

External Affairs Minister for the gift.

"A pleasure to host @ DrSJaishankar here in Canberra. There are many things which bind us, including our love of cricket. Today, he surprised me with a signed bat from cricket legend @ imVkohli," Marles wrote.

Meanwhile, Jaishankar, too, posted photos from his meeting with Marles.

"Pleased to meet DPM and

Defence Minister of Australia @ RichardMarlesMP. Exchanged views on regional and global security. Our growing defence and security cooperation ensures a peaceful, prosperous and rulesbased Indo-Pacific," Jaishankar wrote in the caption of his post on Twitter.

Jaishankar is currently touring Australia to strengthen bilateral ties between the two sides. This is his second visit to Australia this year.

Continued

Inaugural Arts Magic 2022 ignites creative flair in Springfieldʼs next Gen artists

Southeast Queenslandʼs premier arts organisations are sparking an unearthing of Greater Springfieldʼs next generation of creatives at the inaugural Arts Magic Festival this week.

The innovative festival, which has run throughout September and October, in Greater Springfieldʼs 30th year will culminate in a final free showcase event on Friday evening (October 14) at Robelle Domain.

The likes of Queensland Ballet, QPAC, Circa Zoo, Australasian Dance Collective, Prospero Arts and SWELL Sculpture have transformed hearts and minds in the growing city.

Dr Richard Eden PSM, Springfield City Groupʼs Executive General Manager – Education and Smart City – says Arts Magic is seeking 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 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 any region in

Australia,” Dr Eden said.

On Thursday, a group of 24 students in Year Three at Springfield Anglican College will learn from Queensland Ballet Education Teaching Artist Martha Godber as the stateʼs best dancers commit to school workshops as the central part of festival learning across Springfield.

Queensland Ballet has developed the workshops which aim to put the fun into the fundamentals of ballet, coming to schools to deliver safe, educative, and inclusive dance experiences.

The workshops use dance as a vehicle to explore crosscurricular subject areas in Literacy, Numeracy, Physics, STEM and Humanities & Social Sciences, complementing the teaching and learning currently taking place in Queensland classrooms.

Queensland Balletʼs Head of Community Engagement Lily Spencer said she is excited to be sharing the magic of ballet with Springfield City.

“The workshops aim to get students moving and inspire

inner creativity, providing them with the opportunity to experience the physical, social, and emotional benefits of dance. We hope we can bring some sparkle and magic to Springfield City with these school workshops,” Ms Spencer said.

For the showcase performance planned for 14 October, Queensland Ballet Academy Resident Choreographer Paul Boyd has a brand-new piece titled A Twist of Treble Clefs.

This new work celebrates the music of the 1950ʼs as we are taken on a musical journey of this era where heartfelt sweeping melodies and Big Band favourites are intertwined with the dancers.

A series of in-school movement, dance and visual arts workshops have taken place at schools across Greater Springfield during Arts Magic 2022 in September and October.

These have featured Queensland Ballet, Circa Zoo, Australasian Dance Collective, QPAC, SWELL Sculpture and Monte Lupo Arts, leading up to the free festival finale on October 14 in Robelle Domain.

Australian musical theatre star Bobby Fox will take to the stage to perform from his upcoming Singinʼ in the Rain concert at QPAC. The Prospero Arts show is among QPACʼs most exciting events for 2022 and the Arts Magic Festival crowd will get a free glimpse of the show from a performer praised for his performances in shows such as Jersey Boys.

Sharing a 30th birthday is QPACʼs Out of the Box Festival, which is held biennially in Queensland, and is this year staging a ‘dropinʼ workshop of its interactive ‘Wishing Treeʼ art installation, featuring the creations of some of Springfieldʼs youngest artists.

During workshops at schools, students were asked to write and draw their hopes for a creative world on the Wishing Tree, which will be in place at Robelle Domain for the festival finale.

As Queenslandʼs Premier arts venue, QPAC prides itself on connecting arts and education, also a major hallmark of Greater Springfieldʼs planning for the 50,000-plus people who call it home.

Direct from its Australian tour

of its latest creation Aftermath, the Australasian Dance Collective (ADC) have also held workshops at schools in Springfield, offering students a behind the scenes glimpse and the chance to take part in the creative process of Aftermath creators Amy Hollingsworth, Jack Lister, as well as musician Danny Harley of The Kite String Tangle.

Indigenous students at Hymba Yumba Independent School have also had a chance to work with performers from Circa Classes, a public program run by emerging artists within Circa Zoo which has toured in more 40 countries and in front of audiences of 1.5 million people since it was formed in 2004.

Amongst those schools taking part in the workshops are Springfield Lakes State School, Springfield Central State High School, The Springfield Anglican School, Woodcrest State College, Hymba Yumba Independent and Saint Peters Lutheran College Springfield.

Delhi excise policy scam: CBI arrests Hyderabad-based bizman

involving Delhi's Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday made a second arrest.

The CBI said that they have arrested Abhishek Boinpally in the ongoing investigation of the case related to alleged irregularities in the framing and implementation of the excise policy of GNCTD of Delhi.

but to arrest him. He was placed under arrest this morning. He is not named in the FIR," said the source.

The arrested accused will be produced before the Rouse Avenue Court. The CBI will seek his two week's custodial remand.

MP Cong MLAs gets clean chit from party on molestation charges

New Delhi, Oct 10 (IANS) In a latest development in connection with Delhi excise policy scam

"He is from Hyderabad. He is a big businessman there. His name cropped up during the course of investigation. He was called to join the investigation, but he was not cooperating in the questioning and was trying to mislead the CBI. We had no option

Vijay Nair, the Jor Baghbased businessman was the first accused to be arrested by the agency. After him the Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Sameer Mahendru, who is an alleged associate of Nair.

Now, this is the third arrest in the matter and second arrest by the CBI.

2terrorists killed in Anantnag encounter

Srinagar, Oct 10 (IANS) Two terrorists were killed in an overnight encounter in South Kashmir's Anantnag district, police said on Monday.

Confirming the development, the police said that an operation is currently underway in the district's Tangpawa area.

After receiving a tip-off about the presence of terrorists, a joint team of police and security forces cordoned off the area on Sunday night.

Delhi records second highest rainfall since 2007

New Delhi, Oct 10 (IANS) Delhi, with 74 mm of rainfall till 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, has recorded its second highest precipitation on a day in October since 2007, according to the India Meteorological Department data.

Incessant rain since Saturday that continued till late Sunday night in the national capital has also led to significant drop in the temperature. Traffic jams and waterlogging were also seen in many areas of Delhi-NCR.

According to the meteorological department, not much precipitation is expected in Delhi and nearby areas on Monday.

Planes will be manufactured in Gujarat in coming years, says PM Modi

planes. "Don't forget, once even cycles were not manufactured in the state," he said as he kicked off his three day tour from north Gujarat's Modhera village, where he dedicated and laid the foundation stone of projects worth Rs 3,092 crore.

Modhera (Gujarat), Oct 9 (IANS)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed hope that sooner or later, his home state Gujarat will be manufacturing

He also dedicated Modhera solar village, with all houses having rooftop solar facilities to meet domestic demand. He said it will be a double benefit to Modhera villagers - firstly they will be saving money on the electricity bill and the second is they will earn money as the government buys additional power from them.

He reminded people that during

his tenure as Chief Minister, Gujarat had made a lot of progress on development, roads, water and electrification has reached all villages, Now he and Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel are playing a 'doubles game' and that will put the state on a very high growth trajectory. "Suzuki company is manufacturing cars in Gujarat, and if they want cars in Japan, they import from here, this is the change Gujarat and India has witnessed in the recent past. He visited Modheswari Mata temple in Modhera and performed puja.

Bhopal, Oct 10 (IANS) The Congress' Madhya Pradesh unit on Sunday gave a clean chit to two party MLAs - Siddharth Kushwaha and Sunil Saraf, who were booked for allegedly molesting a woman co-passenger in Rewanchal Express.

The party's disciplinary committee maintained that the allegations made against its MLAs were false and fabricated.

Chandraprabash Shekhar, head of the committee, said that the allegations were made at the behest of some political opponents in an attempt to tarnish image of the Congress legislators.

Shekhar also clarified that the no committee has been formed to investigate the matter, and only two MLAs were asked to give their reply on allegations made against them. "See, this allegation was false and thefore there was no discussion over this matter during the meeting of disciplinary committee," he said.

Replying on whether the disciplinary committee gave a clean chit to the MLAs, he said: "Yes, from the party side, they have been given clean chit because they did nothing, it has

been established. An FIR has been lodged against them, let the law do its job."

A woman on Thursday has lodged a complaint at a police station on Friday accusing MLAs Kushwaha and Saraf of molesting her when she was traveling in AC coach of Rewanchal Express from Rewa to Bhopal. Her husband had sought help from railway police through a series of tweets. However, MLAs clamied innocence.

Meanwhile, during the meeting which held on Sunday, the disciplinary committee issued notices to 40 workers, while five district level workers were ousted on disciplinary grounds. Notices were issued to those workers whose activities violated the party line during the uraban body polls held recently.

"Complaints were received against over 80 workers. Thease complaints were made by party's workers and therfore the disciplinary committee during the meeting took decisions. They were accused of supporting the opposite candidates during the elections for their personal benefit, or they did it on behest of political opponents," Shekhar added.

President to make maiden NE visit, flag-off 1st Agartala-Kolkata train

Agartala, Oct 9 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu would visit Tripura on Wednesday, her first visit to the northeastern region after assuming the highest office, and flag-off a new passenger train in between Agartala and Kolkata, officials said on Sunday.

An official of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) said that the President would flag off the Agartala-Kolkata passenger train on Thursday from the Agartala

railway station. Another Tripura government official said that during her two-day stay, Murmu would inaugurate the Judicial Academy and lay the foundation of the National Law University at Narsinghgarh, on the outskirts of Agartala. The Tripura government would also accord a civic reception to the President, who would also virtually inaugurate and lay the foundation of many other projects in Tripura.

Guj police book over 20 Pakistan Marines Security Agency personnel

unprovoked firing on their fishing boat.

The PMSA personnel had allegedly opened fire on Indian fishing boats in the past as well.

Ahmedabad, Oct 10 (IANS) A criminal complaint has been filed against over 20 personnel of the Pakistan Marines Security Agency (PMSA) under attempt to murder, kidnapping, criminal intimidation and other sections of the Indian Penal Code, an official said on Sunday.

This is for the first time, Gujarat's fishermen have filed a complaint against PMSA personnel for

Amarsi Bamaniya in his complaint with the police has stated that on October 6, when he along with six other crew members went out for fishing around 5 a.m., a PMSA boat approached and hit his fishing boat.

After that, they opened fire on the boat. He claimed that around 20 rounds were fired on his boat.

In the complaint, he said that when he tried to return to the Indian coast, a PMSA boat hit his boat again due to which the boat

broke into two parts, after which the PMSA personnel jumped on to the broken part of the boat and began beating him and other crew members with a belt.

The complainant has stated that realising that the Indian Coast Guard personnel were approaching, the PMSA jawans forced his crew members to give a statement on gunpoint: "... 'our boat was sinking when the PMSA boat rushed and rescued us and also gave first aid'. This was recorded by the PMSA personnel on their cell phone and then they fled away."

Later, the Coast Guard team rescued all the crew members.

Space application centre to be used to deal with problems in NE: Shah

of the Northeast by previous governments.

He said: "The present government at the Centre under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made many efforts in the last 8 years to bring peace to the Northeast, for enhancing connectivity and giving priority to the development of the region."

work in the region.

It has been decided in the meeting that each state in North East will appoint a nodal officer for NESAC in their respective states for maximum and better utilisation of the facilities available at the North Eastern Space Application Centre.

Don’t tell white lies to fool farmers in Gujarat, Akali Dal tells Kejriwal

the Food Corporation of India. Similarly, the Cotton Corporation of India procures cotton. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had urged farmers to sow moong and promised to procure the entire crop on an MSP of Rs 7,250 per quintal but did not even procure 10 per cent of this crop. The Punjab government has similarly failed to procure the maize crop leaving farmers to their fate."

Chandigarh, Oct 9 (IANS) The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on Sunday asked Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convener Arvind Kejriwal not to tell "white lies" to fool farmers in the run up to the Gujarat Assembly elections, saying the his government in Punjab had only promised MSP on moong and maize but failed to deliver on both.

Telling Kejriwal not to give false hopes to farmers of Gujarat, Cheema said the farmers should come to Punjab and see the ground reality for themselves.

"The truth is that farmers have been indebted because they believed the AAP government and went in for large scale cultivation of maize and moong."

Guwahati, Oct 9 (IANS) Union

Home Minister Amit Shah presided over the 70th plenary meeting of the North Eastern Council in Guwahati on Sunday.

In the presence of Chief Ministers of northeastern states, Shah said that there have been three major roadblocks to the development of this region for decades - violence by extremist groups, lack of rail, road and air connectivity and dearth of thrust on development

Union Home Minister further said that the whole of India considers the language, culture, cuisine and costumes of the Northeast as its heritage and the Union government is striving to preserve and promote the identity of this region.

Shah also urged the Chief Ministers to make full use of facilities at the North Eastern Space Application Centre (NESAC) situated in Meghalaya for flood control, irrigation, tourism, afforestation and agriculture

An official statement said that the Central government believes that all-around development of the country is possible by taking all the languages of the country together and a provision has been made in the new National Education Policy that primary education should be done in the mother tongue only.

Shah said that the Centre is committed to making the northeast flood and drug-free within the next few years. He has issued an appeal to keep North Eastern states free from the use of single-use plastic for environmental protection.

Prez, PM, extend wishes on Eid Milad-un-Nabi

best wishes on the occasion of Eid Milad-un-Nabi. In a tweet, he said, "Best wishes on Milad-unNabi. May this occasion further the spirit of peace, togetherness and compassion in our society.

New Delhi, Oct 9 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday wished people on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad, which is observed as 'Eid Milad-un-Nabi'.

President Murmu extended her wishes to the people on the occasion in a tweet in Urdu and Hindi, exhorting them to live in peace and harmony and imbibe the teachings of Prophet Mohammad. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended his

Eid Mubarak." Congress leader and Lok Sabha MP from Wayanad Rahul Gandhi extended his greetings on the occasion.

"Eid Milad-Un-Nabi Mubarak! May this auspicious occasion bring peace, harmony, good health, and prosperity to everyone," he tweeted.

CJI UU Lalit names Justice DY Chandrachud as successor

New Delhi, Oct 11 (IANS) Chief Justice of India (CJI) Uday Umesh Lalit has recommended the name of Justice D.Y. Chandrachud as his successor. Chief Justice Lalit will demit office on November 8, after a tenure of 74 days. On Tuesday, Justice Chandrachud was formally named as the 50th CJI at a

gathering of all Supreme Court judges. He will have a tenure of two years and he would demit office on November 10, 2024.

On October 7, Minister of Law and Justice Kiren Rijiju sent a letter to the CJI for sending his recommendations for appointment of his successor.

In a statement here, former minister Daljit Singh Cheema said it was shocking that Kejriwal was claiming in Gujarat the AAP government in Punjab was giving minimum support price (MSP) on five crops and that the same formula would be replicated in Gujarat. "The truth is that the Central government is procuring wheat and paddy on the MSP in Punjab through

The SAD leader said far from giving MSP on all crops, the Punjab government had still not given compensation to farmers whose crops had been damaged due to untimely rains.

He said the government had also not given any compensation to farmers for losses suffered by them due to large-scale attacks of dwarfing virus in the current paddy crop.

Bangladeshi cattle smuggler shot dead by BSF in Bengal’s Nadia

Kolkata, Oct 9 (IANS) A member of a cross-border cattle smuggling racket was killed in firing by the Border Security Force (BSF) personnel at the Indo-Bangladesh border in West Bengal's Nadia district on late Saturday night, officials said. A BSF jawan was also injured in the clash.

The deceased has been identified as Muntaz Hossain, 32, resident of Choto Baldia village under Damurhuda sub- district in Bangladesh. Hossain, along with

others, were trying to smuggle cattle through the porous border in the region, when they were caught by BSF personnel at border gate number 54 in Krishnaganj block of Nadia. Hossain attacked a BSF personnel with a sharp weapon and injured him. In self- defence, the BSF personnel opened fire, killing Hossain. Later the BSF handed over the body to the local Krishnaganj Police Station. His body has been sent to the local

Technology is an agent of inclusion in India, says PM Modi

New Delhi, Oct 11 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that in India, technology is not an agent of exclusion but of inclusion.

Virtually addressing the inaugural session of UN World Geospatial Conference in Hyderabad, Modi said that India is a young nation with great innovative spirit.

"We are among the top startup hubs in the world. Startups in the country have doubled since 2021," the Prime Minister said.

Citing the example of the Centre's Svamitva scheme, he said: "We are using drones to map properties in villages. It helps people in rural areas to receive property cards." Technology brings transformation and India is among the leading nations in promoting in real time digital payments.

"Technology and talent are the two pillars that are key to India's development journey. Technology brings transformation," the Prime Minister added.

Medical body honours three Indian-origin doctors in Australia

Sydney, Oct 7 (IANS) Three Indian-origin doctors were recently felicitated by the South Australian Indian Medical Association (SAIMA) in recognition of their contributions to the field of medicine.

Associate professor Anupam Datta Gupta received SAIMA's President's award in recognition of his research in rehabilitation medicine. He is currently the head of the general rehabilitation unit at Central Adelaide Local Health Network.

Datta Gupta is a recipient of the International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (ISPRM) scholarship and also the Clinical Research Scholar certificate from the Harvard Medical School.

Jaya Pathi received her award

for her work as the longestserving female practitioner - a total of 53 years, including 47 years in Australia. Pathi obtained her MBBS from the Osmania University in Hyderabad in 1967 and started working at a public hospital while pursuing specialist training in paediatrics simultaneously.

SAIMA also honoured resident medical officer Rahul Malhotra, who mentored first-year students and acted as an investigator in a few medical research projects. With a keen interest in anesthesia, he participates in the management of peri-operative patients.

The award function, held after a year's gap due to Covid, was attended by over four hundred invitees.

SAIMA, according to its website, is a member-based organisation of medical practitioners, dentists, allied health professionals, medical students, and international medical graduates based in Adelaide, South Australia.

As of 2021, Indians have overtaken Chinese and New Zealand-born immigrants, numbering over 780,000. Their numbers doubled during 1996-2006, quadrupled during 2006-2020, and were Australia's fastest growing diaspora community in 2020, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics 2021 census.

Australia's Department of Home Affairs has even established a Global Talent Officer for South Asia, eying India as a source of global talent.

Australia’s Sydney sees wettest year on record

extent," the state's Emergency Services Minister Steph Cooke told ABC on Thursday, speaking of the current weather condition.

"We are asking communities at this time to listen to the advice that comes out from the BOM and the advice that comes out from the SES (State Emergency Service) and we will get through what we expect will be another few challenging days," Xinhua news agency reported quoting the minister.

Aus police dismantle large drug lab in Sydney, arrest 5

Sydney, Oct 6 (IANS) With three months to spare, annual rainfall in Australia's Sydney already reached its highest level of 2,199.8 mm as of 3:30 p.m. local time on Thursday, since the Observatory Hill weather station began recording in 1858.

According to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), the

city's previous record was set in 1950, when a total deluge of 2,194 mm poured down for the whole year.

"We are seeing challenges on multiple fronts across the New South Wales (NSW) at present.

Across the western part of the state, we got multiple river systems that are in flood to some

As the country is facing its third La Nina event in a row, BOM warned on Wednesday that a weather system is bringing widespread rain and storms to eastern and southern Australia this week, which can lead to renewed river level rises across many already flooded rivers.

"It will be a difficult week but even more so a difficult summer and significant flooding is expected," NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet told reporters at a flood briefing.

New 10-yr plan to end domestic violence in Australia

Canberra, Oct 17 (IANS) The Australian government on Monday announced a 10-year national plan to end domestic violence.

Amanda Rishworth, Minister for Social Services, and Katy Gallagher, Minister for Women, along with state and territory officials launched the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children, reports Xinhua news agency.

The landmark blueprint for change calls for reforms to how justice systems, the health sector, perpetrators, media, schools and technology companies act, highlighting the importance of engaging with men and boys to target violence at all levels.

It features two five-year action plans, with a separate plan to be

developed for Indigenous women and children.

The plan suggests more funding be made available for men’s behaviour change programs and perpetrator interventions.

Kate Fitz-Gibbon, director of the Monash Gender and Family Violence Prevention Centre, described the plan as “worldleading”.

“It sets the ambition to create whole-of-system responses that not only support victim-survivors to survive, but to thrive beyond their experience of violence,” she said.

“This national plan represents a much-needed decade-long commitment to eliminate the national crisis of domestic, family and sexual violence.” One third of Australian women have

experienced physical violence since the age of 15 and on average one woman is killed by an intimate partner every 10 days, according to the report.

In addition, violence against women and children costs the economy A$26 billion ($16 billion) a year.

“Violence against women and children is not inevitable,” the report said. “By addressing the social, cultural, political and economic factors that drive this gendered violence, we can end it in one generation.”

“We want to make these changes now so the next generation of women and children can live in a society free from violence. We need sustained and collective action across society.”

Sydney, Oct 7 (IANS) Police in Australia have arrested five men, dismantled a large-scale clandestine laboratory in Sydney and seized methylamphetamine ("ice") worth millions of dollars.

The police force of New South Wales announced on Friday that detectives began investigating a syndicate allegedly involved in the large-scale manufacture of the drug "ice" in April and executed a search warrant at an address in Colebee, a suburb in western Sydney, on Tuesday, reports Xinhua news agency.

A drug lab, containing equipment and chemicals consistent with the manufacture and supply of prohibited drugs, was located at

the address, with a 33-year-old man arrested in the premises. Following extensive further inquiries, a fifth man aged 36 was arrested during a vehicle stop at Seven Hills on Friday morning, and he was later taken to Blacktown Police Station and expected to be charged. His four accomplices were already refused bail.

According to the statement, the total estimated street value of the seized drugs exceeds A$21 million ($18 million).

A 33-year-old woman was released pending further inquiries.

Australian govt observing situation in Myanmar since military coup

Aizawl, Oct 6 (IANS) Australian Senator Dean Smith, who is on an official trip to Mizoram, told state Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Thursday that his government is observing the situation in Myanmar ever since the military coup there in February last year. A Raj Bhavan official said that the Governor and the Australian Senator talked about the Myanmar refugee issue and how Mizoram is handling the situation. Kambhampati briefed Smith about the number of Myanmar refugees in the state and how the civil society groups are extending help to them on humanitarian grounds. The Senator shared the views of the Australian government on the refugee issue. He also shared the condition of the Chin community (a tribal community) in Australia and how the Australian

government is observing the situation in Myanmar after the military coup there. The Governor also expressed his delight over the growing partnership between the two countries in trade and other areas. Smith told Kambhampati that India-Australia ties are now stronger than ever. As per official records, the majority of around 30,400 Myanmar refugees are sheltered in Mizoram at over 156 camps in all the 11 districts. The Myanmarese are provided with food, medicines and other relief materials by the state government, NGOs, churches and village authorities. The Myanmar nationals took shelter in Mizoram after the military junta led by army chief General Min Aung Hlaing seized power in the neighbouring country in February last year. Mizoram shares 510 km unfenced border with Myanmar.

University of South Australia delegation departs India after launching industry-led Bachelor of Digital Business

New Delhi/Bengaluru, Oct 3 (IANS) University of South Australia (UniSA) delegation has capped off a successful visit to India with the official Indian launch of its industryled Bachelor of Digital Business degree at the Australian India Business Exchange (AIBX) this morning.

Attending alongside a number of Australian Government representatives, including Austrade CEO Xavier Simonet, as well as key Indian education sector officials, UniSA Chief Academic Officer Tom Steer said that he was pleased with the outcomes of the Indian mission.

Steer said: "We're proud to join forces with Austrade in showcasing our innovative industry designed and delivered

curriculum to India. Whilst we have officially launched here today in Bangalore, this has been part of a bigger global mission to take the Accenture-UniSA partnership to the world. Earlier this week we showcased our new degree in Kuala Lumpur, after launching it on campus in Adelaide and virtually earlier this month, and there are future events scheduled for Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong and Taipei."

The Bachelor of Digital Business is part of a ground-breaking partnership with global professional services firm Accenture in Australia. The degree aims to equip students in India with the necessary knowledge and applied skills to meet future global business needs for the digital economy. Students

can apply now (applications close 16 December 2022) for a February 2023 commencement in Adelaide.

Steer said: "I echo the comments of the Indian Union Minister for Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra Pradhan, who on Tuesday said that there is a new 'digital lifestyle' taking shape in India. UniSA is keen to be part of India's need for filling skills gaps to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes, and doing so at any level: undergraduate, postgraduate and even short course professional development required by Indian Government, industry and education institutions.

We have years of experience in delivering successful transnational education programs as well as the provision of online

learning, plus we've established excellent relationships in India, making UniSA a strong choice in an education partner."

Outside the AIBX launch, the UniSA delegation joined by an Accenture representative also hosted a high-level event for CEOs and senior leadership of leading Indian education agencies as well as officials from the Australian Embassy including representatives of the Australian Trade and Investment Commission and Department of Education, Skills and Employment.

Steer said: "This mission has reaffirmed that we have designed the right degree for the world's changing workforce needs. Because there is industry content from day one of the degree, it

has the potential to be a gamechanger in producing job-ready graduates who will transition seamlessly into employment, armed with practical knowledge and the ability to solve real-world problems. Not only that, but it will also produce future business leaders, capable of leveraging digital technologies to create real business value in the new digital economy."

With intelligence gained from this Mission, the UniSA delegates will now return to Adelaide to consider future innovative offerings under the UniSA-Accenture partnership, which is likely to extend beyond undergraduate level qualifications.

Victoria on the move as our economy bounces back

Melbourne, October 14: Jobs and investment have bounced back to be above pre-pandemic levels as Victoria’s Annual Financial Report reveals a resilient economy and a rapid recovery from the impact of a one-in-100-year event.

More than 600,000 jobs have been created in Victoria since the Andrews Labor Government was elected in November 2014, including more than 80,000 in regional Victoria. Growth in state final demand, a key measure of the economy that combines public and private investment and spending, was 40 per cent higher than the national average in 2021/22.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics has reported that Victoria’s population grew by 0. 6 per cent in the year to March, to a total of 6. 59 million people, while the Commonwealth Budget forecasts that the state will grow faster than any other jurisdiction over the next four years.

The Labor Government used the strength of the state’s balance sheet to respond to the health crisis and shield Victorians from the economic impact of the pandemic, at the same time

developing a medium-term fiscal plan to return the Budget to surplus and stabilise pandemic debt.

The 2021/22 Annual Financial Report published today shows an improvement of $3. 8 billion in the State’s operating deficit compared with the estimate in the May Budget – the final deficit was $13. 8 billion – in part due to lower than expected spending. This included lower consumption of rapid antigen tests and PPE across the health sector, and lower than forecast demand for COVID-19 testing as vaccination rates increased and the impact of the pandemic lessened.

Overall, operational health spending was up 15 per cent yearon-year to get more Victorians the care they need. Revenue was $1. 2 billion higher than forecast as the economy bounced back and the labour market hit record highs. Victoria had a record capital expenditure in 2021/22 of $18. 7 billion, with the state’s pipeline of public infrastructure projects a major contributor to jobs growth and economic activity.

Eureka! Stadium upgrade ahead of Victoria 2026

Melbourne, October 12:

Preparations are getting underway for the Victoria 2026 Commonwealth Games, including an up to $150 million upgrade to Eureka Stadium thanks to the Andrews Labor Government. A new athletics track will be built at the site and the stadium will be expanded to hold an additional 5,000 permanent seats, with improved accessibility access. These upgrades will mean a bigger and better experience for spectators at Eureka Stadium in the years to come, and ensure Ballarat continues to attract major events and live music. For the Games an additional 18,000 temporary seats will be installed as will a competition standard track on the existing playing field.

Eureka Stadium will be host Athletics and Para Athletics, with Ballarat’s action-packed sports program to include the Marathon and Boxing. Mountain Bike (MTB) Racing will be staged within the 60-kilometres of trails in Creswick. Ballarat has a decorated history in long-distance running,

most notably as the birthplace of Steve Moneghetti who won gold in the Marathon at the 1994 Commonwealth Games.

The Games village location has also been locked in at the Ballarat Saleyards and will be a homeaway-from-home for about 1,800 athletes and officials. The local community will see a long-term investment in vital housing and community infrastructure in line with the Ballarat Urban 2040 core strategy. The village will be designed in consultation with the local community and Traditional Owners, celebrating the rich culture of the Wadawurrung people and Ballarat’s iconic attractions, experiences and people.

The Labor Government is also investing $50 million to upgrade Ballarat’s historic train station in a historically sensitive way, with passenger lifts on both platforms and a connecting pedestrian overpass, so spectators of all abilities can enjoy all that Victoria 2026 has to offer.

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Hospital’s new zero-emission cars

fleet conversion is backed by a $15 million investment to add 400 ZEVs and associated charging stations over two years.

Melbourne, October 10: Dhelkaya Health is accelerating the takeup of zero-emission vehicles by accepting delivery of three battery electric cars for use by Maldon Hospital staff as part of a statewide Andrews Labor Government drive.

Nurses, other staff and volunteers will use the Hyundai Kona Electric models to visit and transport patients in the community as Victoria charges towards a target of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) making up 50 per cent of all light vehicle sales by 2030. The Labor Government’s

To help spark community interest in the take-up of sustainable transport, the Government will make the ZEVs available for public purchase at the end of their lease. Replacing existing petrol and diesel cars, the new Konas have a 480km range which will enable staff to make long trips for outpatient work or meetings without the need to charge en route.

The vehicles have dedicated charging stations at Maldon Hospital. Maldon Hospital is a vital part of its community, providing acute medical services, a minor injuries and illnesses clinic, residential aged care, community health services and social support. In addition to

reducing emissions to make our towns, cities and regions more liveable, the ZEVs will also deliver ongoing savings due to having lower maintenance and running costs than their petrol or diesel predecessors. Victorian-based industry expert JET Charge is fast-tracking the government fleet’s transition as the contractor supplying and installing the charging infrastructure.

The 7kW charging stations are manufactured in Victoria. The Government has also invested $19 million in grants to expand the publicly accessible fastcharging network, including several locations in the Maldon region. Under the Government’s $100 million ZEV Roadmap, more than 5,000 Victorians have taken up subsidies of $3,000 on the purchase of eligible ZEVs with sales in 2021 jumping 310 percent.

Howzat! More wickets in Werribee

Melbourne, October 11: Up-andcoming cricketers in Melbourne’s west will be able train and play in any weather at a new Indoor Cricket and Community Centre thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence today joined Treasurer and Member for Werribee Tim Pallas and Wyndham City Council Mayor Peter Maynard at Alfred Road Recreation Reserve in Werribee to announce the Labor Government’s $1. 5 million funding investment towards the new cricket hub from the Community Cricket Program.

The new Centre will deliver state-of-the-art indoor training with six synthetic cricket training

wickets, female friendly change rooms, administration rooms, learning and training area, social space and accessible amenities. It will complement a future cricket oval and multi-use sporting fields for cricket, Australian Rules football and soccer, cricket nets, netball courts and pavilion to be developed at the site.

With more than 260 cricket teams based in the Wyndham area, the new hub will help homegrown talents take their game to the next level. The project will strengthen local cricket in the area enabling a talent pathway and year-round competition. The new cricket centre is expected to be complete in early 2024 and is the latest to be backed by the Labor Government’s investment in community cricket hub

developments of more than $7. 24 million.

New hubs are also on the way to Ringwood’s Jubilee Park, Casey Fields in Cranbourne East and the Hume Community Cricket Hub in Greenvale. Once complete each of these venues will be Metropolitan Cricket and Community Centres, capable of hosting Victorian Premier cricket competition and supporting the growth in cricket participation.

The Community Cricket Program has invested more than $12. 8 million in 63 cricket infrastructure projects across Victoria since 2019. The Program is part of the Government’s investment of more than $1. 6 billion in community sport and active recreation infrastructure

Australian Open trophy tour begins with 100 days to go

Saturday 15 October, the trophies will begin a grand tour to more than 20 locations across the state, taking in the Goldfields, Gippsland, Macedon Ranges, Daylesford, Geelong, the Bellarine and the Murray – drawing crowds and boosting businesses along the way.

a massive $405. 3 million in economic benefit, supporting hotels, restaurants and bars across Melbourne, with this year’s return to provide an even bigger benefit to city traders.

Melbourne, October 8: The Andrews Labor Government is bringing a taste of the 2023 Australian Open to regional destinations across the state, with a trophy tour kicking off the 100 day countdown to the Grand Slam. Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos was today joined by seven-time Grand Slam champion John Fitzgerald to announce that the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup and Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup will travel regional Victoria, visiting tennis clubs and communities as the countdown to the main event begins.

Commencing in Bendigo on

Backed by the Labor Government, the tour provides regional communities the opportunity to connect with the AO, while encouraging participation in tennis, promoting sport initiatives and encouraging participation, while throwing the spotlight on some of the state’s regional destinations.

The economic benefit of the Australian Open for the past 10 years is equivalent to more than $2. 71 billion, with more than 1650 full time equivalent jobs generated, while 1109 were created in 2022 and a further 547 in 2021. During 2020 and 2021 alone the event delivered

The AO is Australia’s biggest sporting event, the largest in the southern hemisphere and will kick off an impressive line up of Victorian major events for 2023. Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said: “Victoria is the proud home of the best Grand Slam in the world and to mark 100 days to go we’re making sure locals get the chance to experience a taste of the event through the trophy tour before we take it to the world stage. ”“The Australian Open will be the first of many spectacular major events in Melbourne during 2023 and only Labor will continue to deliver the events that drive visitation, support businesses and create more jobs. ”

Ready Steady Go for Queensland education exports

Brisbane, 14 October: Study

Queensland’s Indian education team has helped a Queenslandbased sport training and education business hit a six on the Indian sub-continent.

Sport Minister and Minister responsible for Study Queensland, Stirling Hinchliffe today congratulated Roo Sports International and Study Queensland on taking Ready Steady Go Kids to India.

“It’s terrific to see Queenslanders putting runs on the board overseas with the help of Study Queensland,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“Earlier this month, Roo Sports International’s scientifically designed Ready Steady Go Kids program for pre-schoolers and younger, debuted in Mumbai and Rajkot.

“I want to thank the Study Queensland team for helping to broker a partnership between

Roo Sports and emerging Indian academy Sports Gurukul.

“With a Roo Sports franchise agreement in place, Sports Gurukul has launched Ready Steady Go Kids in two Indian cities with nationwide expansion planned.

“Ready Steady Go Kids demonstrates the golden export opportunities possible for Queensland education and training providers on our green

Bells ring for e-scooter reforms

and is an important one for the community, so I look forward to continuing this work with Councils who I thank for working with us on it.

“Further reforms around drink and drug riding are also being finalised and we expect to have those announced next year.”

and gold runway to the Brisbane 2032 Games and beyond.”

Ready Steady Go Kids engages one to six-year-olds in physical education training to build motor skills, teamwork and enthusiasm for lifelong participation in sport. Programs are targeted to specific ages and include physical and social skills, confidence building and fair play.

“We’re grateful for the expert

support and advice of Study Queensland and in many ways, they have become an extension of our team.” Study Queensland works within Trade and Investment Queensland to create Queensland job opportunities by providing international education and training to overseas students.

Tough New Laws for Queensland Casinos

Brisbane, 15 October: The first wave of the Palaszczuk Government’s e-scooter reforms have been revealed.

Applying to e-scooters, e-skateboards and other personal mobility devices, the reforms include speed limit reductions, new fines and mandating warning bells.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey made no apologies for cracking down on reckless e-scooter use.

“The fact of the matter is that many people who use e-scooter are doing the right thing – they are an easy, convenient and environmentally friendly way to get around,” Mr Bailey said.

“From 1 November, these new rules will be in effect. We have flagged that these changes have been in the pipeline, so users have had plenty of notice.

“We want every person who uses our footpaths, bikeways and bike lanes to be safe from harm, and these reforms go a long way in tightening the Queensland road rules around this new technology.”

The changes include:

Reducing speed limits to 12km/h on footpaths and shared paths, unless otherwise signed.

(The 25km/h limit on all other infrastructure, including bike infrastructure and local streets remains).

Increasing fines of up to $1078 for dangerous offences involving speed, illegal road use and holding a mobile phone while riding.

Allowing PMDs to be ridden in bike lanes on roads with a speed limit of 50km/h or less, and all on-road bike lanes which are physically separated.

Mandating bells for PMDs with handlebars.

Aligning PMD riders with bike riders to ensure they are required to follow general road rules, such

as stopping at red lights.

Mr Bailey said one of the biggest changes was a tiered increase to speeding fines, similar to what is used for bikes and motor vehicles to better reflect the risks of increased speeds.

“Speeding fines will range from $143 to $575 depending on how far over the speed limit you are travelling,” he said.

“This reflects the danger posed to those around you, and reflects a suitable deterrent to minimise the risk of reoffending.

“All these changes have been developed in close consultation with key stakeholders, including riders, rental and retail suppliers, police, RACQ, Bicycle Queensland, local councils and disability advocates.

“E-scooters are here to stay and their riders have an equal responsibility to road safety as motorists, cyclist, truck drivers and motorcyclists. It’s important they’re safe for the riders and those they interact with on our footpaths and roads.

“A lot of work has gone into making sure these rules are best practice for the safety of both the rider and other path and road users around them.”

The changes come after the Personal Mobility Action Plan was released in June 2022.

Mr Bailey said more work was to come, including around a safe parking structure.

“A key action item of the roundtable late last year was the safety of parking, and accessibility of our footpaths, as raised by disability groups,” he said.

“We are working closely with councils and hire companies to implement a parking program that keeps e-scooter out of the way of pedestrians and will hopefully have some trial solutions in place shortly.

“This is something I’m passionate about finding a solution for,

The ‘Fine. A Fine.’ Education campaign will kick off on 23 October to show Queenslanders what they should and shouldn’t do when riding a Personal Mobility Device, like e-scooters.

“Queenslanders should keep an eye out for our education materials, which will be online and in your newsfeeds from 23 October,” Mr Bailey said.

“If you own or hire an e-scooter, jump online and get across the changes or it could cost you.”

To view the new campaign and find out more information on PMD rules in Queensland, visit https://streetsmarts.initiatives. qld.gov.au/ from Sunday 23 October.

FAST FACTS

• lower speed limit of 12km/h on footpaths

• Increased fines of up to $1078 for dangerous offences involving speed, illegal road use and holding a mobile phone while riding.

• Mandating bells in addition to helmets and lights

• Allowing access to bike lanes on roads with a speed limit of 50km/h or less, and all on-road bike lanes that are physically separated.

• aligning personal mobility device riders with bike riders to ensure they are required to follow general road rules, such as stopping at red lights.

PENALTIES

• Exceed speed limit by:

• 1-13km/h = $143

• 14-20km/h = $215 20-30km/h = $359 >30km/h = $575

• Not wear a helmet = $143

• Doubling (two or more people) = $143

• Mobile phone use while riding = $1078

• Drink liquor while riding = $431

• Use on prohibited road = $172

Brisbane, 15 October: TThe Palaszczuk Government has introduced tougher laws and stricter oversight of casino operators.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Shannon Fentiman said the strong reforms contained in the Casino Control and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2022 will ensure casinos are operating lawfully and transparently and take their responsibilities to reduce gambling harm seriously.

“These laws aim to improve integrity and deter illegal, dishonest and unethical behaviour in Queensland’s casinos,” Minister Fentiman said. A number of the new laws were recommended by the Honourable Robert Gotterson AO KC in his independent review into The Star Entertainment Group, which was received on 30 September.

“Given the extremely serious and concerning findings of the Gotterson Review, the Government has acted swiftly to prioritise critical reforms that address certain key matters in Mr Gotterson’s report,” the Attorney said.

“The new laws provide for a special manager who could be appointed to monitor and direct casino operations and report back to Government so that further action can be taken where necessary.

“The reforms also remove any requirement for the Government to compensate casino operators for introducing stronger regulatory laws, as has been done in other states.

“In addition, the Government

can now issue a fine of up to $100 million to casino operators as a disciplinary measure.

The Attorney said it was crucial that these reforms were in place as soon as possible in preparation for the potential outcomes of the show cause process in relation to The Star Entertainment Group.

“I announced last week that the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation will be issuing a show cause notice to The Star. These reforms will give the Government more options to respond to the potential outcomes of that process,” she said.

Other new laws include an obligation for casinos to report breaches of the law and cooperate with the regulator or face significantly increased penalties. The reforms also pave the way for a transition to safe cashless gaming which will address some of the money laundering concerns identified in the Gotterson Review.

“The new rules will modernise Queensland’s gambling legislation to allow new payment methods and systems to be considered for use, provided they are safe and reliable,” the Attorney said.

“There are stringent checks and balances in place so any cash alternatives must be considered and approved, including technical evaluations and harm minimisation measures.”

The Attorney said further reforms recommended by the Gotterson Report, including strengthening provisions to reduce gambling harm and money laundering, are continuing to be progressed.

Iran warns US, Europe not to link nuclear talks to ‘internal issues’

issues is related to the (Iranian) government and the people of Iran and we do not allow any other country to interfere in Iran's internal affairs," Kanaani said during his weekly press conference, Xinhua news agency reported.

Tehran, Oct 11 (IANS) Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaani "warned" the US and Europe not to associate Iran's recent "internal problems" with the nuclear talks.

"We believe that the internal

"The positions and views of Iran (on nuclear talks) have been expressed many times, and we are ready to proceed in the same direction and reach a comprehensive agreement that will meet the interests of all parties," he added.

The talks on the revival of the 2015 nuclear deal, formally known

as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), began in April 2021 in Vienna but were suspended in March this year because of political differences between Tehran and Washington. The latest round of the nuclear talks was held in the Austrian capital in early August after a fivemonth hiatus.

On August 8, the EU put forward its final text of the draft decision on reviving the JCPOA. Iran and the United States later indirectly exchanged views on the EU proposal in a process that has so far failed to produce any favorable outcome.

UN chief calls for making mental health global priority

a mental health condition. But mental health remains one of the most neglected aspects of health care, Guterres said on Monday in a message marking the World Mental Health Day, which falls on October 10, Xinhua news agency reported.

young people. Stigma and discrimination must be addressed along with breaking down the barriers that stop people from seeking care and support, he said.

‘Germany sending IRIS-T air defense system to Ukraine’

United Nations, Oct 11 (IANS)

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for making mental health a global priority and urged actions to promote universal quality mental health care.

Nearly 1 billion people live with

"Some countries have only two mental health workers for every 100,000 people. The social and economic repercussions are profound," he said, noting that anxiety and depression alone cost the global economy an estimated $1 trillion dollars per year.

The UN chief stressed the need to strengthen the capacity of health services to offer quality care to those in need, in particular

Guterres also underscored the importance of preventing the root causes of mental health conditions, including violence and abuse, adding that the UN is committed to working with partners to promote mental wellbeing.

"As we mark World Mental Health Day, let us make it a global priority and act urgently so that everyone, everywhere has access to quality mental health care," he said.

World Bank estimates Pakistan flood losses at $40 billion

Speaking about the water-borne diseases being spread in the flood-hit areas of Pakistan, the minister said that the health crisis in the country is now intensifying. She continued to say that the government has to work on the rehabilitation of the flood affectees and their return to their areas, Geo News reported.

The PPP leader urged the international community to help the victims during the humanitarian crisis.

Kiev, Oct 11 (IANS) Germany is sending the first of four IRIS-T SLM air defence systems to Ukraine, Ukrainian media reported, citing the German Defence Ministry.

The recent Russian missile attacks on Kiev and other cities show the importance of air defense capability for Ukraine, the ministry tweeted.

The report carried out by the Ukrinform news agency did not specify when the air defence system would be delivered to Ukraine, Xinhua news agency reported.

IRIS-T SLM is a land-based air defense system that can hit aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, jet artillery, drones, anti-radar missiles and bombs.

6 held after soldier shot dead in Spain

Islamabad, Oct 10 (IANS)

Pakistan Climate Change Minister

Senator Sherry Rehman on Monday said the World Bank has estimated a loss of $40 billion to Pakistan's economy as a result of the damage caused by recent cataclysmic floods, the media reported.

Pakistan has been lashed by unprecedented monsoon rains this year which killed 1,700,

devastated two million homes, and put a third of the nation underwater, Geo News reported.

Taking to Twitter, Senator Rehman said that Pakistan has appealed to the estimated damage to the infrastructure, crops, houses and roads is much higher.

She added that the World Bank report suggests that about nine million Pakistanis will be forced into poverty due to the floods.

Last week, a World Bank report said Pakistan's poverty rate is expected to rise between 2.5 and 4 percentage points as a direct consequence of the floods.

Loss of jobs, livestock, harvests, houses, and the closure of schools -- as well as spread of disease and rising food costs -- threaten to put between 5.8 and 9 million in poverty, it said.

The World Bank said inflation in the country is set to stand at 23 per cent for the financial year 2023.

Madrid, Oct 11 (IANS) Six people have been arrested following the fatal shooting of a member of the Spanish armed forces in the country's North African enclave of Ceuta, Spanish police said.

The shooting occurred early on Monday in a garage in the El Principe neighborhood of Ceuta. The victim, who has been described as a "37-year-old man", was shot "multiple times" in the legs and waist, Xinhua news agency reported.

The emergency services rushed him to the hospital, where he later died of his wounds.

The incident is the latest in a series of violent crimes involving firearms in the neighborhood. Recently, seven police officers suffered injuries as they carried out an arrest in El Principe.

The police said that the solider, who was a resident in Ceuta, had not been involved in any other incident, although a member of his family had previously received threats, which are now being looked at.

It is still not certain if the shooter was among those detained by the police.

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China’s holiday spending plunges to seven-year low on Covid curbs

popular tourist destinations.

Consumer sentiment also took a hit from rising economic woes, which are mainly a result of Beijing's ongoing zero-Covid policy and a deepening slump in the property market, CNN reported.

uncompromising snap lockdowns, CNN reported.

The ruling Communist Party has used the zero-Covid strategy to argue that its political model is superior to Western democracies, and Xi has thrown his weight behind the policy.

Hong Kong, Oct 10 (IANS)

Holiday spending during China's Golden Week has plunged to its lowest level in seven years, as broad Covid curbs discouraged people from travelling or spending, while a darkening economic outlook continues to erode consumer confidence, the media reported.

Tourist spending for the week-

long holiday that started on October 1 declined 26 per cent to 287.2 billion yuan ($40.4 billion) year-on-year, according to figures from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism on Friday. That's the lowest figure since 2014, and less than half of the prepandemic level in 2019, according to government statistics from previous years, the CNN reported.

The National Day break is one of China's longest public holidays and usually a peak season for travel and spending.

But this year, people were deterred from travelling by a resurgence of the virus and stringent Covid restrictions.

Lockdowns and other control measures have intensified in recent weeks, including in some

"The soft pack of holiday data is hardly a surprise with new Covid outbreaks and tighter containment measures ahead of the Party Congress," said Citi analysts in a research report on Sunday, pointing to this month's gathering of Communist Party elites in Beijing at which Chinese leader Xi Jinping is widely expected to break with tradition and be appointed to a third term in power.

China is the world's last major economy still enforcing strict zero-Covid measures, which aim to stamp out chains of transmission through border restrictions, mass testing, extensive quarantines, and

For local officials, doubling down on zero-Covid is a way to toe the Party line, demonstrate their loyalty to Xi, and prevent any large-scale outbreak that could jeopardize their career weeks before the Party Congress.

In this month alone, the entire region of Xinjiang, home to 22 million people, banned all residents from leaving its borders, only weeks after it had begun relaxing restrictions from a stringent extended lockdown. While last week, hundreds of tourists were stranded in an airport in the southwestern province of Yunnan after authorities imposed a snap lockdown, CNN reported.

WORLD THIS WEEK

Contributed by A publication of the National Institute for Advanced Studies, Bengaluru

Compiled by Ankit Singh, Harini Madhusudan, Rashmi Ramesh, Avishka Ashok, Apoorva Sudhakar, Padmashree Anandhan, Rishma Banerjee, Sai Pranav, Anu Maria, BhoomikaSesharaj and Madhura Mahesh

OPEC: The curious case of OPEC’s production cuts

meant to pit one country against another, but was a “pre-emptive measure”. Citing that the move was necessary, the decision was met with criticism by the US which said that OPEC was "aligning” with Russia. This decision was also considered a blow to the European Union, as sanctions on Russian crude oil and oil production are set to take effect starting in December. This said that OPEC+ does not target pricing but strikes “a balance in supply and demand.”

What does it mean?

What happened?

On 5 October, the 13 members of the Organisation of Petrol Exporting Countries (OPEC) and 10 allies of the group forming the OPEC+, which includes Russia, met in Vienna to drop oil production quantities by two million barrels per day (bpd).

Producing about 30 per cent of the world’s crude oil, this decision comes as the world grapples with an undersupply of oil by 1 million barrels per day and creates a tight supply of oil to the West which is already sifting through an energy crisis.

ALSO IN NEWS

China: UN Human Right Council rejects proposal to hold debate on Xinjiang

On 6 October, the United Nations Human Rights Council rejected a motion to hold a debate on the alleged violation of the minority community in Xinjiang, China. The proposal to hold the debate was initiated by the US, Canada, Turkey and Britain. However, 17 countries voted in favour of the proposal, 19 voted against while 11 abstained from voting. The vote resulted in a victory for China while political analysts believe that the decision is a setback to the accountability efforts and moral compass of the West. The council has only rejected one other proposal in its 16-year history until the Xinjiang debate.

The President of the World Uighur Congress Dolkun Isa expressed his disappointment with the council’s decision and said that he had hoped the Muslim countries would act to help the Uighur community.

Taiwan: President Tsai Ing-wen

“A recession is one of the challenges we are looking at. We all know a recession affects supply and demand,” UAE’s Energy Minister Mazrouei said, and said that economic stressors were the key reason why the agency decided to cut production.

The oil quota reduction came as a surprise to the West as they warned the organisation against such drastic measures, but the meeting offered no resolve to countries like the US, the UK, and the EU.

The OPEC defended its stance to say that the cuts were not

says that country will defend itself and not rely on others

On 6 October, Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen virtually addressed the Global Taiwan Institute think tank in the US and said that the country would not depend on any country for its defence. During her speech, she first appreciated and thanked the US administration for upholding the US commitment to Taiwan’s security and the recent arms sale. She then said: “But we will not depend on others to come to our own defence. That is why I want to reiterate that Taiwan is fully committed to protecting our security and maintaining our democratic way of life. We're also working to adapt our defence strategy to the changing threats we face."

India: Free Trade Agreement with the UK

On 4 October, the Home Secretary of the UK during an interview with Spectator (a British magazine) addressed the issue of FTA with India. She said: “I have concerns about having an open borders migration policy

For the US, the cut could lead to a reproaching of a kind, with the US seeking Venezuela and Iran out of its ‘pariah’ state and looking for sustainable options to produce its own domestic oil. For Russia, there is no reduction in output as part of the production cut decision by OPEC, rather it sees a slight balance in its reach. For the global market, the decision would incite a lower energy demand in the long term, with consumers seeking less energy-consuming services in the future.

Mexico, the Netherlands, Paraguay, Poland, and the Republic of Korea.

Afghanistan: UNDP releases annual report on the economic situation

On 7 October, the United Nations Development Program released a new report on Afghanistan’s economic situation titled “One Year in Review: Afghanistan Since August 2021.” The report stated that the already-declining Afghan economy lost nearly USD five billion after August 2021 and is reversing “in 12 months what had taken 10 years to accumulate.”

Following the release of the report, the Assistant SecretaryGeneral and Director of the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific said that even before the Taliban’s takeover, Afghanistan had a small economy of USD 20 billion, saying: “What was already a very small economy. If you think about pre-Taliban, it still was a $20 billion economy but then in a year though, lost about $5 billion.”

Pakistan: COAS Gen Bajwa meets with US Defence Secretary

Kwarteng announced that the government is scrapping the 45 per cent rate of income tax on income over GBP 150,000 tax-cut plan in response to widespread criticism. On 26 September, the pound fell to USD 1.03 as a response to the growth plan announced on 23 September and investors started to demand a high rate of interest. On 23 September, Kwarteng proposed the "Growth Plan" to the parliament to pull up the declining British economy to help address inflation, helping the public tackle the cost-of-living crisis, and helping businesses.

Europe: Member-states submit proposal to impose sanctions on Iran for violent action against growing protests

with India because I don’t think that’s what people voted for with Brexit,” She added: “I do have some reservations. Look at migration in this country — the largest group of people who overstay are Indian migrants. We even reached an agreement with the Indian government last year to encourage and facilitate better co-operation in this regard. It has not necessarily worked very well,” India and the UK are working towards signing the FTA.

Sri Lanka: UNHRC resolution adopted

On 6 October, the UNHRC adopted a resolution on Sri Lanka titled “Promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka.” Twenty countries voted for the resolution, twenty countries abstained from the voting and seven countries voted against the resolution. China and Pakistan were among the countries against the resolution. India, Nepal, Qatar, and Japan abstained from voting. Countries that voted for the resolution include the UK, the US, Argentina, Finland, France, Germany,

On 5 October, Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa met with US Defence Secretary Lloyd J. Austin, National Security Adviser Jacob Sullivan and other officials during his five-day visit to the United States. During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, regional security and bilateral cooperation in various fields were discussed. A statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said: “Both sides had convergence on major international issues, including Afghanistan,” and also on the “need for cooperation to avoid humanitarian crisis and improving peace and stability in the region.” Meanwhile, Secretary Austin via Twitter said: “This year marks the 75th anniversary of relations between the U.S. and Pakistan. It was my pleasure to host Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, to the Pentagon where we discussed our long-standing defence partnership and areas of mutual interest.”

Iran: More US sanctions imposed following Mahsa Amini’s death and curbing protests

On 6 October, the Biden administration has issued more sanctions against Iran officials over the suppression of protests in the country following Mahsa Amini’s death in police custody. The new sanctions target Iran’s interior minister Ahmad Vahidi, communications minister EisaZarepur, and head of Iranian cyber police force Vahid Mohammad Naser Majid. The US Treasury official Brian Nelson said that “the rights to freedom of expression and of peaceful assembly are vital to guaranteeing individual liberty and dignity.”

The UK: Government withdraws the tax cuts plan

On 3 October 2022, The Chancellor of Exchequer Kwasi

On 03 October, new proposals were submitted to the EU to impose sanctions against Iran for its violent response to the ongoing protests. Germany, France, Denmark, Spain, Italy, and the Czech Republic have put forth 16 proposals for new sanctions which are said to target institutions and individuals primarily involved in the suppression of the protests. These proposals will be discussed by the EU foreign ministers on 17 October. Germany’s Foreign Minister AnnalenaBaerbock called the crackdown due to the fear of the power of education and freedom. She also expressed the limitations of their actions in a tweet which said, "It is also difficult to bear that our foreign policy options are limited. But we can amplify their voice, create publicity, bring charges and sanction. And that we are doing." These protests erupted nationwide due to the death of women in police custody over the issue of hijab.

The US: Lockheed and Thales to build advanced missile manufacturing capabilities for Australia

On 4 October, Lockheed Martin along with Raytheon and French defence firm Thales announced a sovereign missile project which will manufacture and transfer to Australia same level of technology and development and advanced programs in cruise missile manufacturing like Hellfire and Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM).

About the authors

Ankit Singh, Harini Madhusudan and Rashmi Ramesh are PhD Scholars in the School of Conflict and Security Studies at the National Institute of Advanced Studies. Avishka Ashok, Apoorva Sudhakar, Padmashree Anandhan, Rishma Banerjee, Sai Pranav, and Anu Maria are Research Associates at NIAS. BhoomikaSesharaj and Madhura Mahesh are research interns at NIAS.

From the editor's desk

Smartphones alright but not humane

Banning of extremist organisations is a right step (Opinion)

Jumma Palli (or The Old Jumma Masjid - 628 - 630 CE) in Kilakarai testifies to the statement.

All these mosques could not have survived if there was hatred and communal tensions between the communities in the past.

This shows that Muslims have always enjoyed peaceful and friendly relations with their other Indian counterparts who have different faiths.

Paras Sharma, Assistant Editor, India News

When I take the bus to work, I see people glued to their phones. They seem so busy with their phones that they seem to have forgotten the charm of looking out of the window and admiring the beautiful landscapes as the bus passes through different roads. Nearly everyone is busy with their phones that almost every time, I feel out of place and an urge to take my phone out of my pocket pricks me. "Am I the only one who is not busy?", "Are these people doing important stuff on their phones or just browsing social media?" and "Do I not have enough things to keep me busy on my phone or why do I not feel the urge to browse social media like others", questions like these cross my mind often when I'm in the bus and FOMO grips me. I feel as if there's something abnormal about me. Phone in the pocket, looking out of the window and travelling without earphones are things about me that make me feel like an alien with almost all people with their headphones and phones on.

Nobody on the bus notices the woman sitting and crying at the next bus station. Nobody hears the sounds of so many other things going on around. It's hard to tell who is in the virtual and who is in the real world. Who is missing out and who is not? The other day I eavesdropped on a tourist couple sitting on the bus trying to understand the route to their destination. They were almost panicking as they were unable to find the correct route on their phones. As we got down I approached them and told them the exact route and they seemed so relaxed and thankful. The happiness on their faces made me feel good about myself. Thank god I wasn't having headphones on. Eavesdropping can sometimes be good. The point that I want to make here is that there is no substitute for google maps and technology but conventional ways of helping people around have and will always have their own place. And people to people contact will only rejuvenate if we give a break to our phones and headphones and make our lives more human.

By Dr. Faiyaz Ahmad Fayzie

In a decisive move, a communal and radical outfit, Popular Front of India (PFI), has been banned for five years by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for its alleged links to terror funding. In addition to this, PFI’s associate organisations -- Rehab India Foundation (RIF), Campus Front of India (CFI), All India Imams Council (AIIC), National Confederation of Human Rights Organization (NCHRO), National Women’s Front, Junior Front, Empower India Foundation and Rehab Foundation, Kerala -- are also banned leading to debate in the media about this.

A leading organisation of Pasmanda muslim named All India Pasmanda Muslim Mahaz has welcomed this move stataing that the Pasmanda Mahaz is against Muslim communalism and believes that such organisations are also against the basic spirit of Islam.

So the extremist and radical organisations must be proscribed in order to maintain peace and harmony in the country, especially those organisations which have been instituted in the name of Islam but fail to follow Islamic principles and teachings. Islam propagates love and compassion for building an idealistic society devoid of fundamentalist organisations and proprietors who incite evil and violent activities.

There is a famous ‘hadees’, which states: “Whosoever of you sees an

evil action, let him change it with his hand; and if he is not able to do so, then with his tongue; and if he is not able to do so, then with his heart and that is the weakest of faith.”

This hadees motivates all Muslims to prevent the wrong doer whether it includes big sins like killing, lynching, mass violence or small sins as abusing, backbiting.

A true Muslim must stop wicked person and organisation.

Such organisations must be banned which encourages a sense of enmity rather than love and compassion; provoking innocent Muslims into violent protests rather than focusing on a peaceful, prosperous community.

The Prophet Muhammad never allowed his companions to create instability and dissonance.

“Whoever wrongs one with whom a covenant has been made, burdens him with more than he can bear or forcibly takes something from him, I will be his adversary on the Day of Judgment,” (Al-Baihaqi).

The Indian Muslim community has been enjoying liberty of religion, equality, for earning livelihood, fraternity for prosperous society and enjoying a peaceful lifestyle.

Islam is as old in India as it is in Mecca.

The great examples of the Barwada Mosque in Ghogha, Gujarat built before 623 CE, Cheraman Juma Mosque (629 CE) in Methala, Kerala and Palaiya

Consequently, if a handful of deviated Muslims form such organisations or institutions that stand against love, peace, brotherhood and Indian Constitution, they must be banned and boycotted immediately.

“None of you (truly) believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself.” (Hadees)

The reliable and applicable Hadees shows the importance of good will for our neighbours and near ones.

Contrasting this Hadees, proprietors and partners of radical organisations like Popular Front of India (PFI) have been trying to snare innocent unemployed Muslims in the organisation and grooming them to develop radical violent approaches and to harass innocent people not conforming to their ideology.

These organisations are working against humanity.

The nationwide ban is expected to force them to quit their unethical work and repent to their flaws; adopt a simple and straightforward path that will lead them to build a prosperous culture and tradition as the following Quranic verse pleads unambiguously.

“Except for those who repent, believe and do righteous work. For them Allah will replace their evil deeds with good. And ever is Allah Forgiving and Merciful. (Quran 25:70)”

(Dr. Faiyaz Ahmad Fyzie, writer is author, translator, media panelist, columnist, socio-pasmanda activist and Medical Doctor by profession)

Sikh man honoured with top Australian award for his brave act

brave. Confronted with danger, they chose to help others,” said Australian Governor General David Hurley, as he presented the awards recently.

Born and raised in Goraya, a small town in Jalandhar, Seehra arrived in Australia as a nursing student in 2007. He completed his education at Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, in 2011.

Occupational violence protection training, according to him, is a part of his work.

Canberra, Oct 6 (IANS)

Jalandhar-born Sukhbir Singh Seehra, a mental health professional, is among 26 recipients of this year’s Australian Bravery Decorations award that honour people who put risk their lives to protect others.

Seehra has been awarded ‘Commendation for Brave Conduct’ for his swift action towards an agitated patient who threatened to blow up the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in Queensland.

The patient had a red-wired explosive-looking device wrapped

around his body, Seehra told SBS Punjabi.

Seehra, who works at the Psychiatric Emergency Centre of the Hospital, immediately dialled emergency services to report the situation, and “intervened immediately to assist in restraining the patient as it was a matter of the safety of other patients and the hospital staff”, SBS Punjabi reported.

Police arrived shortly and took control of the situation.

“The awards I am announcing today recognise people who, in a moment of peril, were selfless and

Two Australian bravery lists are announced every year.

The independent Australian Bravery Decorations Council makes recommendations to the Governor General regarding who should be recognised and at what level of award.

The awards are categorised into four groups -- Bravery Medal, Bar to the Bravery Medal, Commendation for Brave Conduct, and Group Bravery Citation.

India wants Australia to partner in education after NEP

“So, we would certainly welcome Australia doing so in India and look forward to doing the same in Australia, at some point of time. There were some issues, I think which we see a great potential in terms of giving a greater, I would say, quality to our bilateral partnership,” he said.

Jaishankar said India is very encouraged to see that the economic cooperation and trade agreement that was finalized earlier this year is moving towards its ratification and entry into force and is very good development.

Young gamers may be targets of extremist recruitment: Australian police

others to re-watch and share online across social media.

“Our concern is extremist groups are exploiting these platforms to target a very young group of Australia’s population, by creating content to share and encourage far-right/extremist ideologies and abhorrent violence against others,” she added.

Canberra, Oct 17 (IANS) The Australian Federal Police (AFP) have warned parents and guardians to be aware of their children’s online activities after it was found that young gamers may be targets of extremist recruitment.

In a statement, the AFP said that it has seen a concerning trend of members and associates of extremist groups targeting young people to expose them to dangerous content -- including violent recreations of actual terrorist events -- across online gaming platforms, reports Xinhua news agency.

AFP Acting Assistant Commissioner of Counter Terrorism and Special Investigations Command Sandra Booth said spreading extremist content on online gaming platforms was a serious concern for law enforcement agencies in Australia and around the world.

“We know that nationalist, racist and violent extremist content in online games is almost certainly part of a radicalization process for some young people.

“There are a number of popular games that enable users to create scenarios and record them for

According to AFP, far-right terrorism-related investigations have increased from 2 percent prior to 2020 to about 15 per cent in 2022.

Booth said parents and guardians could play a significant role in preventing extremist groups from preying on young Australians via online games.

The AFP encouraged parents and guardians to talk to their children and understand what games they are playing and who they may be interacting with in those games, and observe and interpret their children’s behaviour online.

The authorities also suggested several signs that need to be vigilant for such as using hateful or emotionally-charged language, an increase in the extremist nature of their rhetoric, or developing a fixation on conspiracy theories or contentious social issues.

AFP said it will continue to work with other law enforcement partners, through the Joint Counter Terrorism Teams, to identify and disrupt anyone who attempts to incite violence and spread harmful messages through the community.

Attack on our student in Australia should be taken seriously: India

Canberra, Oct 10 (IANS) Visiting Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar said that India wants Australia to partner in education.

“One of them is a proposal that’s been under discussion for an understanding on mobility, on mobility of talent and skills, how we can grow education and what we could do particularly bearing in mind, India’s New National Education Policy (NEP).

We certainly would like to see Australia, which is one of our major partners in education, also having a stronger presence in India, and that’s something which our Prime Ministers had discussed as well when they had

met in Tokyo,” he said The Minister also said he was delighted the Old Parliament building in Canberra lit up in the Indian Tricolour.

“So, today’s meeting was what we call the Foreign Ministers’ Framework Dialogue. It’s, I think, the 13th of that series and, you know, we spoke about a whole lot of issues -- trade and economy, education, defence and security, clean energy. And among the many agreements and understandings we reached, were really the fact that it’s in our mutual interest to expand our diplomatic footprint in each other’s countries.

“We also note that steps are being taken to amend the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement because that was also a bit of a challenge to growing our business. And then we really looked at areas like critical minerals, cyber, new and renewable energy.”

The two sides discussed the Ukraine war and its repercussions, the progress in Quad, G20 issues, trilaterals, the UN and climate finance, among other.repercussions, the progress in Quad, G20 issues, trilaterals, the UN and climate finance, among other.

New Delhi, Oct 14 (IANS) India on Friday said that the “unfortunate” attack on a 28-year-old student from Agra on October 6 in Australia should be taken seriously and swift action must be taken against the perpetrators.

“The Indian national is in hospital, his treatment is on... Our High Commission in Canberra and Consulate in Sydney are in close touch with the local authorities, and family here. Our officials have met him in the hospital. Our expectation is that the issue must be taken seriously and action must be taken against the perpetrators,” External Affairs Ministry spokesman Arindam Bagchi said in his weekly briefing.

Shubham Garg, 28, who is pursuing PhD in mechanical engineering from the University of New South Wales, was stabbed multiple times on his face, chest and abdomen when he was walking along the Pacific Highway while returning to his place of residence.

A 27-year-old man Daniel Norwood was arrested at the scene and was taken to Chatswood Police Station where he was charged with one count of

attempted murder.

Norwood was refused bail when he appeared in Hornsby Local Court. He will remain in custody with the next court appearance on December 14, The Australia Today reported.

Norwood allegedly threatened Garg while demanding cash and his phone. He refused and was allegedly stabbed a number of times in the abdomen before the assailant fled, The Australia Today quoted local media reports as saying.

While Garg’s family called the attack against his son an act of “racism”, Bagchi said: “At the moment our main focus is that he should be out of danger and the perpetrators must be brought to book.

“We have asked the Australian HC to expedite the visa process so that family members can urgently go.”

The attack comes close on the heels of another Indian, Varun Manish Chheda, a student at the Purdue University in the US, who was stabbed to death by his roommate earlier this month.

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).

Working towards building a healthier India

The Healthcare industry in India comprises of hospitals, medical devices, clinical trials, outsourcing, telemedicine, medical tourism, health insurance, and medical equipment. The industry is growing at a tremendous pace owing to its strengthening coverage, services and increasing expenditure by public as well as private players.

Growing incidence of lifestyle diseases, rising demand for affordable healthcare delivery systems due to the increasing healthcare costs, technological advancements, the emergence of telemedicine, rapid health insurance penetration and government initiatives like e-health together with tax benefits and incentives are driving the healthcare market in India

• The Indian Healthtech industry was valued at $1.9bn in 2020. By 2023, it is expected to reach $ 5B by 2023 at a CGAR of 39%

• The digital healthcare market in India was valued at INR 116.61 Bn in 2018, and is estimated to reach INR 485.43 Bn by 2024, expanding at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of ~27.41% during

the 2019-2024 period

• By 2022, the diagnostics market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20.4% to reach $32 bn from $5 bn in 2012

• During 2015-20, the inpatient healthcare market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 13%

• The Telemedicine market is the maximum potential eHealth segment in India, which is expected to touch $5.4 Bn by 2025, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 31%

• Over the next 10 years, National Digital Health Blueprint can unlock the incremental economic value of over $200 bn for the healthcare industry in India

• India has the world’s largest Health Insurance Scheme (Ayushman Bharat) supported by the government

• India’s comprehensive investment in Medical Education: INR 17,691.08 Cr invested in 157 new approved Medical Colleges since 2014

• Ayush sector has witnessed significant growth from $3 bn in 2014 to $18 bn in 2022

100% FDI is allowed under the

automatic route for greenfield projects. For investments in brownfield projects, up to 100% FDI is permitted under the government route.

Defending the World

“The Indian Defence sector, the second largest armed force is at the cusp of revolution. The Government has identified the Defence and Aerospace sector as a focus area for the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ or SelfReliant India initiative,with a formidable push on the establishment of indigenous manufacturing infrastructure supported by a requisite research and development ecosystem. The vision of the government is to achieve a turnover of $25 bn including export of $5 bn in Aerospace and Defence goods and services by 2025.

India is positioned as the 3rd largest military spender in the world, with its defence budget accounting for 2.15% of the country’s total GDP. Over the next 5-7 years, the Government of India plans to spend $ 130 Bn for fleet modernisation across all armed services. As per Union Budget 2022-23,$ 70.6 bn was allocated to the Ministry of Defence. In line with the selfreliant India initiative, the share of domestic capital procurement,

Bio-Based Economy

for R&D and manufacturing. Having spent more than US$ 1 Bn on R&D in 2021, India has led the fight against COVID-19 on the forefront. India has made a remarkable progress in creating a conductive environment for innovation in the biotechnology industry, housing more than 5300 biotech startups in the country as in 2022.

reached a new benchmark by launching the world’s first DNA vaccine, ZyCOV-D, against COVID-19 in 2021. Recently, India has indigenously developed the cheapest quadrivalent HPV vaccine against cervical cancer. These developments rightly indicate why India has been termed as the ‘Pharmacy of the World’.

which was earmarked at 64% in 2021-22 has been enhanced to 68% of the Capital Acquisition Budget of the Defence Services for FY 2022-23.

To support the domestic defence industry the government aims to ensure transparency, predictability, and ease of doing business by creating a robust eco-system and supportive government policies. Towards this end the government has taken steps to bring about de-licensing, de-regulation, export promotion and foreign investment liberalisation. Ministry of Defence has also notified three ‘Positive Indigenisation lists’ comprising of 310 defence equipments to be manufactured locally. Additionally, to promote export and liberalise foreign investments FDI in Defence Sector has been enhanced up to 74% through the Automatic Route and 100% by Government Route.

The government has also announced 2 dedicated Defence Industrial Corridors in the States of Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh to act as clusters of defence manufacturing that leverage existing infrastructure, and human capital. Further, to enable innovation within Defence & Aerospace eco-system there are supportive government schemes such as iDEX ((Innovations for Defence Excellence) and DTIS (Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme).

For further details, please refer FDI Policy

Amplifying growth

The world’s fastest-growing industry, Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) continues to transform lives, businesses, and economies across the globe. The global electronic devices market is estimated to be $ 2.9 Tn in 2020. India’s share in the global

electronic systems manufacturing industry has grown from 1.3% in 2012 to 3.6% in 2019.

Technology transitions such as the rollout of 5G networks and IoT are driving the accelerated adoption of electronics products. Initiatives such as ‘Digital India’ and ‘Smart City’ projects have raised the demand for IoT in the electronics devices market and will undoubtedly usher in a new era for electronic products.

• India is expected to have a digital economy of $ 1 Tn by 2025

• India committed to reach $300 bn worth of electronics manufacturing and exports by 2025-26

• One of the largest electronic devices industries in the world anticipated reaching $ 300 Bn by FY 2025-26

• India’s exports is set to increase rapidly from $ 10 Bn in FY21 to $ 120 Bn in FY26.

• India’s domestic production in electronics has increased $ 29 Bn in 2014-15 to $ 67 Bn in 2020-21.

• Production of mobile handsets is further slated to increase in value from $ 30 Mn in FY 21 to $ 126 Mn in FY 26.

• India produces roughly 10 mobile phones per second which amounts to ~$ 930 worth of production every second.

• India’s semiconductor market is expected to increase from ~$ 15 Bn in FY20 to ~$ 110 Bn in FY30, growing at a CAGR of 22%. 100% FDI is allowed under the automatic route. In the case of electronics items for defence, FDI up to 49% is allowed under automatic route and beyond 49% through the government approval.

By Raveesh Malik

In the past 8 years, India’s BioEconomy has grown almost tenfold and currently stands at US $ 80 Bn. In the next 8 years, it is expected to nearly quadruple and reach US$ 300 Bn. Stretching over crucial sectors like pharmaceuticals, agriculture, bio-industry, bioIT, and bio-services, India’s biotechnology industry holds the potential to revolutionize the country’s economy and is rightly regarded as ‘India’s Sunrise Sector’. The COVID-19 pandemic provided a major boost to India’s BioEconomy and has placed the country as a leading destination

With the highest number of United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) approved manufacturing plants outside the USA, Indian pharmaceuticals are attracting a higher acceptance rate around the world. This popularity is due to India’s capabilities of providing affordable access to innovative and inclusive healthcare solutions with an efficacy of globally competitive medical products. India is already the largest manufacturer of Diphtheria-Pertussis-Tetanus (DPT), Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG), and measles vaccines globally, and the industry

India has demonstrated its R&D prowess at its fullest in the past few years, and top companies around the world are now looking at India for providing essential bio-services. Currently the 7th largest destination for clinical trials, India holds the proficiency to become a global Clinical Trials hub. To further strengthen this ideology, initiatives such as the National BioPharma Mission support the establishment of clinical trial networks (CTN) for the enhancement of the clinical trial capacities in the country.

India’s IT sector is thriving at its zenith, which is setting up the base for an equally strong bio-IT

sector. Currently at a nascent stage, Government of India (GoI) has launched multiple efforts to enhance this key subsegment of the industry. For example, to better understand the Indian population, the Genome India project has been launched for whole genome sequencing of representative Indian population across various regions. To bring about positive contributions in broader domains of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as defined by the United Nations, India aims to lead transformations in agriculture and industry. This ideology can provide opportunities for the Indian businesses to continue their growth trajectory without creating undue stress on the present resource supply. The industrial and agriculture applications of biotechnology reduce dependency on fossilbased materials and energy, promoting sustainable management of resources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. A very prominent example of extensively using allied side streams could be the National Biofuel Policy, targeting

a 20% ethanol blend in petrol by 2025 and D5 diesel by 2030, which can significantly reduce India’s dependency on fossil fuels’ import, paving the way for an Aatmanirbhar Bharat. With nearly 55% of Indian terrain under agriculture and allied activities, use of biopesticides, biofertilisers and biostimulants in agriculture further enhance the approach of reusing, reducing, and recycling of the waste, promoting sustainable agriculture practices. With the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s announcement of making India a US$ 100 Billion Bio-Manufacturing hub by 2025, the juggernaut of India’s biotech sector is monumentally working towards realizing this goal. With major initiatives by GoI towards capacity building, infrastructure development, and policy development and improvement, India is prospering towards the creation of a robust bioeconomic foothold in the world.

Over 200 Indian ICT companies, startups showcasing futuristic technology at GITEX 2022

Dubai, Oct 11 (IANS) More than 200 Indian ICT (information and communications technology) companies and startups are participating in "GITEX GLOBAL 2022" which is being held between October 10 and 14 in Dubai.

The Electronics and Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) is once again ensuring Indian participation in a big way at the international technology show.

Aman Puri, Consul General of India in Dubai inaugurated India Pavilion at GITEX on Monday.

On the occasion, Puri said, "This year is the largest participation of Indian companies in GITEX and we are proud of it. India and UAE share strong cultural and economic links that have got a further boost with the signing of CEPA earlier this year. He said that Dubai has emerged as the most significant partner for Indian companies from the electronics and IT sector.

GITEX is a playground for Indian Startup companies, who can get international exposure from other parts of the world. This is the platform where 'Made in India' products are showing their strength to the world."

"GITEX is continuing to emerge as the largest and the most impressive ICT event of its kind in the Middle East. Naturally, India has a great stake in the booming Middle East, Africa, Asia (WANA Region), and European markets for which Dubai is the gateway. Thus the event provides the participating Indian ICT companies opportunities for scouting the expanding Middle East market," asserts Gurmeet Singh, Executive Director, ESC.

"ESC has been facilitating Indian participation on a regular basis at GITEX to take advantage of the booming IT market in the Gulf and leveraging that association for getting businesses for Indian IT companies from a multitude of large global corporations, which are executing projects in the region," says Kamal Vachani, Regional Director, Middle East, ESC.

One of the participants, ShreeJee Infosolution Pvt Ltd, Business Head- Zoeb Fatemi said, "GITEX is an international platform, and our company is participating first time here. I have global products and this is the best place to showcase them to the world, where I am expecting a good response and partnerships."

India pavilion is highlighting innovative ICT products & services including Cyber Security Solutions, Mobile Tablets, Software Products on E-Commerce, E-Learning Systems, CMS, CRM, HR & Finance Solutions, Project Management Systems, TailorMade Vertical, Learning Management Systems (LMS), Cloud Computing, Telecommunication Products, Energy Sector, Banking, Financial Inclusions, Digital Signage, Enterprise Asset Management/ CMMS, Web Portal Development, BPO, etc.

India is witnessing very high growth in exports of electronics hardware. It is estimated that the country's electronics goods export to the Middle East during 2021-22 is valued at $3,323 million. UAE is the second top destination for India's electronics export

globally with a share of 16 per cent. In value terms, the electronics export to the UAE is estimated at $2,468 million. The export of software and related services to the Middle East reached $3,300 million in 2021-22.

India's total export of electronics hardware during 2021-22 is estimated to be $15.69 billion up from $11.03 billion estimated in 2020-21 registering a growth of 42 per cent. India's export of computer software and services is estimated to be $172 billion in 2021-22 up from $146 billion in 2020-21 registering a growth of 17.75 per cent.

To further strengthen the electronics and IT relations between India and the Middle East, the Council is inviting a large delegation from the Middle East to visit India for INDIA SOFT 2023 scheduled on March 27-28, 2023 at New Delhi, India.

At INDIA SOFT, the most prominent IT global networking event in India, around 500 software & services and electronics buyers from over 75 countries will be present at this business-to-business (B2B) partnering forum from North America, Europe, the Middle East, Japan, Korea, Latin America, Africa, CIS, ASEAN region, etc.

"Comprising of International Exhibition and Conference, INDIA SOFT 2023 meant to facilitate joint ventures, collaboration and strategic alliances for outsourcing with overseas buyers," says Narula, adding that the event will provide participants an opportunity to broaden their vision and take the business to the growth trajectory.

FM to embark on US visit on Tuesday, to meet US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, World Bank chief

of OECD, European Commission and UNDP.

The Finance Minister will deliver a talk on "India's Economic Prospects and Role in the World Economy" at the Brookings Institution, a non-profit public policy organisation based in Washington, DC.

Sitharaman will also deliberate on the multiplier effects created in India through the interlinkages of 'Technology, Finance and Governance' at the School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), John Hopkins University during the visit.

New Delhi, Oct 10 (IANS) Finance

Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will be visiting the US on an official visit beginning October 11, to attend the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, and also the meeting of the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG).

In a high-level meeting, the Finance Minister will meet the US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen

and David Malpass, President, World Bank separately to discuss issues of mutual interest.

Sitharaman will also take part in bilateral meetings with several countries, including Japan, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Bhutan, New Zealand, Egypt, Germany, Mauritius, UAE, Iran and Netherlands, an official statement said.

She will also hold one-on-one meetings with leaders and heads

During the later part of the visit, she will attend roundtable meetings with USIBC and USISPF on themes to aStrengthen Investment and Innovation in India-US Corridor' and "Investing in India's Digital Revolution".

These meetings are aimed at showcasing India's attractiveness as an investment destination and will have the participation of leading business leaders and investors, official sources.

SIP contribution touched all-time high of Rs 12,976 crore in Sep: AMFI data

New Delhi, Oct 10 (IANS) Systematic investment plan (SIP) contribution of Rs 12,976.34 crore was at an all-time high in September 2022, according to data released by Association of Mutual Funds of India (AMFI) on Monday.

Meanwhile net inflows into equity mutual funds jumped to Rs 14,099.73 crore in September from Rs 6,120 crore in the previous month, mainly due to positive

flows across fund categories.

Open-ended debt mutual funds witnessed net outflows of Rs 65,372.40 crore in September, primarily led by liquid and money market funds.

"SIP numbers look healthy with the highest ever contribution. We are hopeful that we will touch Rs 13,000 crore per month mark in contribution in the coming months," AMFI's Chief Executive, N.S. Venkatesh said.

Automobile sales ‘vroomed’ during Navratri season: FADA

Chennai, Oct 10 (IANS) Navratri 2022 did not give sleepless nights to the automobile dealers as sales went up by 57 per cent compared to corresponding period in 2021, said the Federation of Automobile Dealers Association (FADA).

According to FADA, when compared to Navratri 2019, the sales during the current year went up by 16 per cent.

For the first time, FADA is releasing Navratri Auto Retail figures. Overall retails increased by a massive 57 per cent compared to Navratri'21. All categories also showed extremely high growth with two/three wheelers, commercial/passenger vehicles and tractors sales increasing by 52 per cent, 115 per cent, 48 per cent, 70 per cent and 58 per cent respectively, its President Manish Raj Singhania said.

When compared to Navratri'19

(which was prior to Covid), total retails increased by 16 per cent with all the vehicle segments logging growth, he added.

According to him, the Navratri retails clearly shows that customers were back in showrooms after a gap of three years. In fact, two-wheeler category which was continuously showing weakness when compared to pre-Covid months, also registered single digit growth.

"We now hope that this trend continues till Deepawali, so that apar t from PV (passenger vehicle) dealers who will see a decade high during this festive, the 2W (two wheeler) dealers also have a good season and hence helps them liquidate their stock which they have built in anticipation of a good festive," Singhania said.

Mumbai International Airport switches to Green sources

New Delhi, Oct 10 (IANS) Mumbai International Airport has entirely switched to green sources for its energy consumption needs, making it one of India's 100 per cent sustainable airports. Of the total 100 per cent, Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) procures around 5 per cent of the airport's electricity requirement through its onsite solar generation and the rest 95 per cent from other green sources such as hydro and wind energy. Ushering into a sustainable future, CSMIA witnessed a rise in natural energy procurement with 57 per cent green consumption in April 2022 to a whopping 98 per cent between May to July. And, finally attained the 100 per cent utilisation of renewable sources of energy in August 2022, said a CSMIA spokesperson. The spokesperson said that the airport is committed to continuous reduction in energy consumption and carbon footprint through various initiatives. Moreover, CSMIA initially undertook the measure of installing a 1.06MW rooftop solar power plant,

which the airport eventually strengthened to 4.66 MW. CSMIA was the first in India to launch hybrid technology which solely runs on green energy since April 2022, thus enabling a highly efficient and low carbon future for aviation. This sustainable initiative undertaken by CSMIA is part of the airport's efforts that reduce its carbon footprint which propels its journey towards 'Net Zero' emissions, the spokesperson added. CSMIA implemented a Carbon Accounting and Management System (CAMS) based on ISO 14064-1:2018 to identify, measure & manage GreenHouse Gas (GHG) emissions. CSMIA is the first Indian airport to have participated in Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program of Airports Council International (ACI) in 2012. As CSMIA aspires to become net-zero by 2029, this landmark event further encourages us to stay committed to our efforts in enhancing the operational efficiency of the airport while operating on fully renewable energy".

Project generates power from treated water in Shimla

by using flowing stream of water from any source like a river or even can be operated using reject water from a waste treatment plant. "With decreasing coal reserves and rising levels of air pollution we are more and more inclined towards harnessing natural, renewable resources for generating power."

Shimla, Oct 10 (IANS) To generate power from a stream, state-run Shimla Jal Prabandhan Nigam Ltd (SJPNL) has commissioned a pilot scheme near the Himachal Pradesh capital that is capable of generating up to 3 kilowatts of power.

The pilot project was undertaken at a water treatment plant in

Ashwani Khad by SJPNL where Kirloskar Brothers Limited (KBL) has installed a micro hydropower generator to supply electricity to seven villages.

The PICO generator is a compact and sophisticated version of 'pump as turbine' (PaT) which are small bundled units capable of generating power up to 5 kW

Mandeep Gupta, executive engineer, Jal Shakti Vibhag, said: "We shall be eager to see how this concept can harness maximum potential for the department and the state."

Apart from generating power, these units can also be coupled directly to a pump using a coupling or gear or pulley arrangement which could be used to pump water from remote locations where the availability of power supply is a challenge.

How Samsung has put repurposed fishing nets in new foldables

Ahmedabad University prof discovers novel miRNA in saliva to predict tumour aggressiveness, prognosis of oral cancer

New Delhi, Oct 10 (IANS) As you enjoy the new Samsung foldable devices, do you realise that the blue part you see in Galaxy Z Flip 4 is made of repurposed fishing nets? According to Pranveer Singh Rathore, Materials R&D Manager, Samsung Electronics, the blue part, the side key bracket, basically avoids making your phone waterproof from the side keeper and dustproof. "So it acts as a barrier to water and dust and improves the durability of your phone. Similarly, with the receiver decode that displays connector Cap and other green parts, they act as housing to the crucial components," he told the media during an interaction. "As they are housing the critical components, they act as a barrier

and are durable so that they can withstand all kinds of climatic conditions and all kinds of stresses they are exposed to," Rathore added. Samsung has been in the news for repurposing fishing nets and using them in smartphones. Every year, around 640,000 tonnes of fishing nets end up in our oceans, posing a serious threat to the marine ecosystem. Fishing nets are typically made of nylon materials, which have the basic property of absorbing moisture and water.

"Starting with Galaxy S22 earlier this year and now with the new Galaxy Foldables and Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, we are scaling up the use of this innovative material," said the Samsung executive. By the end of 2022, "we hope to prevent more than 50 tonnes of discarded fishing nets from entering our oceans". According to Rathore, they have been researching and developing sustainable materials for over a decade. "2017 is when we started applying

post-consumer materials in inbox charges and in 2018, we applied this material across all the products and chargers. This was when we started developing a new material solution to replace fossil-based raw materials with bio-based raw materials, which are renewable," he informed. By 2019, the company was able to develop this material, and then we applied this material to A and M series smartphones in the display frames. Galaxy Buds 2 Pro contains mostly recycled materials. More than 90 per cent of the plastics used in Galaxy buds 2 Pro are recycled materials. The repurposed fishing Nets are used in the internal brackets of the charging case, and the postconsumer materials are used in all the exterior parts of the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro. By 2030, Samsung plans to establish system in which minerals extracted from all collected waste batteries can be reused.

Ahmedabad, Oct 10 (IANS) Dr Vivek Tanavde, an Ahmedabad University professor, has led a team that made a breakthrough discovery in human saliva, which promises to alter the invasive method of conventional biopsy in oral cancer patients.

Researchers of the Oral Cancer Cluster at the Biological and Life Sciences division of the School of Arts and Sciences, Ahmedabad University, and doctors from the Department of Head and Neck Oncology, HCG Cancer Centre, Ahmedabad, discovered a novel miRNA in the saliva of patients that will help predict tumour aggressiveness and better prognosis of oral cancer.

Essentially, instead of recurrent invasive biopsies to monitor the growth rate of the cancerous tumour and the efficacy of treatment, oral cancer patients will just need to spit a couple of times into a tube, according to the research published in Switzerland-based International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

Dr Tanavde, Associate Professor, Biological and Life Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences at Ahmedabad University, led the team in collaboration with senior oncologists Dr Kaustubh Patel and Dr Dushyant Mandlik of the HCG Cancer Centre.

According to Dr Tanavde, the treatment of oral cancer has several challenges.

"Patients don't consult a doctor until there is a visible patch which might be too late for therapy. If the tumour is surgically removed, one doesn't know if resistance has developed unless a follow-up

is done, which typically happens only with visible signs of tumour growth, and there is an invasive biopsy needed at every stage," he said.

"Our idea is to move towards non-invasive, definitive methods that would enable accurate monitoring of tumour response to therapy. At the same time, we would like to make this widely accessible and cost-effective," Dr Tanavde added.

He said that the team used commercially available kits to purify salivary exosomes.

"Then, through a simple PCR, which is now available in the smallest of towns, we can measure the expression of miRNA-1307," said the professor.

Oral cancer is the second largest cancer in India, with lip/oral cavity cancers accounting for 10.3 per cent of new cases and 8.8 per cent of deaths, according to a report published by the International Agency for Research in Cancer, an intergovernmental agency part of the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Saliva is a valuable body fluid for liquid biopsies. Still, the challenge of isolating good-quality RNA from saliva has hindered previous efforts to use saliva for liquid biopsy.

Salivary exosomal miRNAs as biomarkers facilitate repeated sampling, real-time disease monitoring, and assessment of therapeutic response.

This study has identified a single salivary exosomal miRNA prognosticator that will aid in improved patient outcomes using a liquid biopsy approach.

Ultrasound can move, break up kidney stones in awake patients: Study

to offer an option to move kidney stones out of the ureter with minimal pain and no anaesthesia, according to doctors from University of Washington School of Medicine (UW Medicine).

In the procedure, the physician uses a handheld transducer placed on the skin to direct ultrasound waves towards the stone.

New York, Oct 8 (IANS) A simple ultrasound technique can be used to move, reposition or break up kidney stones, all while the patient is awake, a new study has revealed.

The technique combines the use of two ultrasound technologies

The ultrasound can then be used to move and reposition the stones to promote their passage, a process called ultrasound propulsion, or to break up the stone, a technique called burst wave lithotripsy (BWL).

Unlike shock wave lithotripsy, which is the standard procedure now in use and requires sedation, this technology doesn't hurt, said lead author Dr M Kennedy Hall, an emergency medicine doctor at UW Medicine.

"It's nearly painless, and you can do it while the patient is awake, and without sedation, which is critical," Hall said.

The research team hopes that, with this new technology, the procedure of moving or breaking up the stones could eventually be performed in a clinic or emergency room setting.

Stones in the ureter, which leads

from the kidney to the bladder, can cause severe pain and are a common reason for emergency department visits.

Most patients with ureteral stones are advised to wait to see if the stone will pass on its own.

However, this observation period can last for weeks, with nearly one-fourth of patients eventually requiring surgery, Hall noted.

Twenty-nine patients participated in the new study.

Sixteen were treated with propulsion alone and 13 with propulsion and burst wave lithotripsy. In 19 patients, the stones moved.

In two cases, the stones moved out of the ureter and into the bladder.

Burst wave lithotripsy fragmented the stones in seven of the cases.

At a two-week follow up, 18 of 21 patients (86 per cent) whose stones were located lower in the ureter, closer to the bladder, had passed their stones.

In this group, the average time to stone passage was about four days, the study noted.

One of these patients felt "immediate relief" when the stone was dislodged from the ureter, the study stated.

Sourav Ganguly to contest for CAB President’s post

captain, Sourav Ganguly is now set to contest for Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President.

This was conveyed to a section of the media by Ganguly himself on Saturday evening. He also confirmed that he will be filing his nomination on October 18.

The annual general meeting of the CAB is scheduled on October 31 and elections, if any, will be conducted on the same day. The last of filing the nomination is October 22.

It is yet to be known if CAB’s present President, Avishek Dalmia, who occupied the chair after Ganguly became BCCI President, will run again or extend his support to Ganguly.

On October 13, participating at a function of Bandhan Bank, where he is the brand ambassador now, Ganguly broke his silence on his forthcoming exit from the BCCI President’s chair and said that all have to face rejections some time or the other.

Kolkata, Oct 15 (IANS) With his exit from the post of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President certain now, former Indian cricket team

However, Ganguly’s close associates said that the panel that Ganguly will represent is yet to be decided. In all probability, his elder brother, Snehasis Ganguly, who is the CAB Secretary now, will also be in the fray for the same chair this time as well.

“No one can continue as the administrator throughout his life. All have to face rejections some time or the other. When you look at quick success it never happens. Remember, one does not become Narendra Modi or Sachin Teldulkar or an Ambani overnight,” he said on that day.

Geelong, Oct 16 (IANS) The great history of spectacular upsets in T20 cricket had another chapter added as Namibia secured a 55-run win over Sri Lanka in the opening match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at Kardinia Park, Geelong, on Sunday.

was next to fall, slog-sweeping straight to deep mid-wicket off Scholtz. When Shanaka fell by top-edging a slog to keeper off Frylinck, a victory for Namibia was just inevitable.

Earlier, electing to bowl first, Sri Lanka made good use of the breeze and tennis-ball bounce offered by a two-paced pitch with some tight bowling to leave Namibia in trouble at 93/6 in 14.2 overs. But Smit (31 not out) joined Frylinck (44) at the crease and the duo added 70 runs in the next 34 balls of their seventh wicket partnership to take Namibia to 163/7.

Hobart, Oct 17 (IANS) Just 24 hours after Namibia kickstarted the Men’s T20 World Cup with a stunning 55-run win over Sri Lanka, Scotland pulled off another major upset in the tournament with a shock 42-run victory over two-time champions West Indies in a Group B first round match at the Bellerive Oval on Monday.

After opener George Munsey carried his bat throughout the innings to slam an unbeaten 66 to help Scotland post an excellent 160/5, left-arm spinner Mark Watt led a fantastic bowling show with his brilliant 3/12 to bowl out West Indies for 118 all out in 18.3 overs.

The 42-run win for Scotland, ranked 15th in men’s T20I rankings, comes exactly a year after they defeated Bangladesh by six runs in their opening first round match of 2021 T20 World Cup at Al Amerat, Oman and entering the ongoing tournament on the back of playing only two T20Is this year.

The Scottish bowlers were spoton with their lengths and change in pace and forced the West Indies to hit towards the bigger areas of the stadium as well as denying them the desirable hitting lengths as well as getting runs through short, square boundaries as only four batters reached double figures.

Chasing 161, West Indies were woeful with the bat and never had any rhythm or momentum

at all. They were also confused over either hitting boundaries or rotating the strike as Watt and off-spinner Michael Leask (2/14) shared five wickets between themselves and bowled 27 dot balls.

Scotland were also backed by their fielders being impressive on the field and took their catches well in the outfield. Kyle Mayers hit the first four boundaries of the West Indies chase, before flicking straight to mid-wicket off a slower ball from Josh Davey.

Evin Lewis (14) and Brandon King (17) hanged around for some resistance, but from the time Brad Wheal took the former in the final over of power-play, West Indies batting order imploded.

Watt cleaned up King while Leask castled captain Nicholas Pooran.

Rovman Powell and Shamrah Brooks holed out in quick succession, followed by Akeal Hosein’s unbelievable run-out and Alzarri Joseph nicking behind to be Watt’s third victim of the night.

Though Jason Holder cut loose for some boundaries in his 33-ball 38, the win was as clear as the Hobart night sky for Scotland, adding another chapter to glorious upsets in T20I cricket as West Indies lost seven wickets in 26 runs from overs 6 to 13.

Earlier, pushed into batting first, Scotland were off to a breezy start, making 54 runs for no loss inside the first six overs,

including nine boundaries hit by Munsey and Michael Jones, before rain interrupted their fine opening partnership.

Post resumption after a 47-minute break, Scotland scored only 16 runs in their next four overs, but lost Jones and Matthew Cross to Jason Holder, who hit the deck hard with his hard lengths to get West Indies back in the match.

But Munsey kept going through to get his first T20 World Cup fifty, even if he was not at his fluent best as he was at the start of the innings, and held one end up to get Scotland a total they would be confident of defending.

He failed to find a single boundary between overs five to 19 before hitting three fours in the last over off Smith for Scotland to reach the 160-mark. Scotland skipper

Richie Berrington chipped in with 16 while Calum MacLeod made 14-ball 23 and Chris Greaves remained unbeaten on 16.

For West Indies, Holder was the pick of the bowlers with 2/14, while Joseph picked up 2/28 while Odean Smith finished with figures of 1/31.

Brief scores: Scotland 160/5 in 20 overs (George Munsey 66 not out, Calum MacLeod 23; Jason Holder 2/14, Alzarri Joseph 2/28) beat West Indies 118 all out in 18.3 overs (Jason Holder 38, Kyle Mayers 20; Mark Watt 3/12, Michael Leask 2/14) by 42 runs.

After big-hitting fireworks from Jan Frylinck (44) and JJ Smit (31 not out) helped Namibia post a competitive 163/7 in 20 overs, the bowlers produced a superb collective show, mixed their fuller and short lengths well to bowl out Sri Lanka for 108 in 19 overs for a historic win over a major cricketing nation.

Frylinck backed up his superb batting performance with a brilliant 2/26 in his four overs to be adjudged Player of the Match in Namibia’s famous victory and ease their path towards a Super 12 qualification while causing a huge dent in Sri Lanka’s net run rate. Apart from him, David Wiese, Bernard Scholtz and Ben Shikongo took two wickets apiece. In defence of 163/7 on a twopaced pitch, Wiese brought the first breakthrough for Namibia, as Kusal Mendis top-edged a pull on his short ball to keeper in the second over. Shikongo broke the back of Sri Lanka’s innings with his back-to-back double strikes in a maiden fourth over.

While Pathum Nissanka holed out to mid-on, Danushka Gunathilaka poked at a nipping away delivery and gave an outer edge behind to keeper to depart for a golden duck. Post power-play, Dhananjaya de Silva was next to depart, mistiming a flick to long leg off Frylinck.

Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Dasun Shanaka added 34 runs for the fifth wicket, before the former mistimed a slog to deep midwicket off left-arm spinner Scholtz. Wanindu Hasaranga

Namibia had a shaky start, losing both of their openers Michael van Lingen and Divan la Cock in the first three overs. Jan Nicol LoftieEaton made a sparkling 20 before falling to a wonderful catch from Kusal Mendis with the score being 43/3 at the end of the power-play.

Stephen Baard (26) and captain Gerhard Erasmus (20) were involved in a fifty partnership but were dismissed in quick succession in the middle overs.

When fast-bowling all-rounder David Wiese perished for a golden duck against Maheesh Theekshana (1/23), it looked like Namibia would crumble before Frylinck and Smit engineered a rescue act.

The duo targeted Sri Lanka’s wayward bowling at the back end of the innings by targeting the shorter side of the ground for boundaries and ran hard for a lot of twos with the help of the longer side.

For Sri Lanka, star leg-spinner Hasaranga (1/27) bowled well during the middle overs. The economy rates of Theekshana and Hasaranga were below seven, while the economy rates of Dushmantha Chameera (1/39), Pramod Madushan (2/37) and Chamika Karunaratne (1/36) were above nine. But what the 2014 T20 World Cup champions would rue the most will be the 68 runs conceded in the last five overs which played a crucial role in a famous win for Namibia.

Brief Scores: Namibia 163/7 in 20 overs (Jan Frylinck 44, JJ Smit 31 not out; Pramod Madushan 2/37, Maheesh Theekshana 1/23) beat Sri Lanka 108 all out in 19 overs (Dasun Shanaka 29, Bhanuka Rajapaksa 20; David Wiese 2/16, Bernard Scholtz 2/18) by 55 runs.

T20 World Cup: Shami stars as India beat Australia by six runs in first warm-up match

Brisbane, Oct 17 (IANS)

Mohammed Shami made a surprise entry and picked up three wickets in the final over as India beat defending champions Australia by six runs in their first warm-up match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup at The Gabba on Monday.

After fifties from KL Rahul (57) and Suryakumar Yadav (50) helped India post a challenging 186/7 in

their 20 overs, Australia needed 16 runs off the last two overs to successfully chase down the total.

But Harshal Patel conceded only five runs in a superb 19th over and picked up the wicket of captain Aaron Finch, who top-scored with a 54-ball 76, apart from a brilliant run-out of Tim David by Virat Kohli’s direct hit.

After Marsh fell to Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Steve Smith was next to

fall, cleaned up by leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. Glenn Maxwell smacked Chahal for four fours in his 16-ball 23, but nicked behind off Bhuvneshwar just as it felt he would last long at the crease.

Though Marcus Stoinis fell cheaply to Arshdeep Singh, Finch and David had kept Australia in the match till they lost their last six wickets for nine runs in the last two overs, something which

will boost India’s confidence in death over bowling ahead of the main tournament.

Brief scores: India 186/7 in 20 overs (KL Rahul 57, Suryakumar Yadav 50; Kane Richardson 4/30) beat Australia 180 all out in 20 overs (Aaron Finch 76, Mitchell Marsh 35; Mohammed Shami 3/4, Bhuvneshwar Kumar 2/20) by six runs.

T20 World Cup: All-round Frylinck helps Namibia kick start tournament with spectacular 55-run win over Sri Lanka

T20 World Cup: Munsey, Watt, Leask help Scotland secure shock 42-run win over West Indies

Indian teenager Arjun Erigaisi shocks world champion Magnus Carlsen

New York, Oct 16 (IANS) Indian young gun, 19-year-old Arjun Erigaisi inflicted a crushing defeat on world chess champion Magnus Carlsen in Round 7, leaving the Norwegian in a spot of bother in the USD 150,000 Aimchess Rapid -- round five of the Meltwater Champions Chess Tour.

It was sweet revenge for Erigaisi who had lost to Carlsen in the Julius Baer Generation Cup final, and earned his first victory against the world No. 1 on Saturday.

The shock defeat happened in Round 7 with Erigaisi breaking through with the brilliant 27.Qf7+ counter-attack, bravely ignoring Carlsen’s apparent queen and rook threat down the b-file. The young Indian star went on to close out the win.

Contrary to the anti-climactic Julius Baer Generation Cup final where Erigaisi virtually collapsed against the world champion, the Indian stayed cool and calm on Saturday.

Erigaisi said afterward, “That (the win) felt really good, I was really happy with the game.”

Carlsen, playing from a log cabin in Are, Sweden, immediately bounced back to beat Erigaisi’s fellow Indian Vidit Gujrathi in Round 8 and end the day in joint-second on 16/24 with the exciting Azerbaijani Shakrhiyar Mamedyarov.

“I thought my performance yesterday (Friday) was maybe the worst I’d played on one day on the

Tour... Today (Saturday) wasn’t great either, but it was a little bit better,” said Carlsen. On Friday Carlsen had a near-miss against Aditya Mittal and on Saturday he found himself in deep trouble again against Erigaisi.

Wonderkid Nodirbek Abdusattorov clung onto a narrow lead, as the Uzbek after dominating Day 1 on Friday, bounced back from a loss in the first game on Saturday to score two more wins and finish top of the leaderboard on 17/24 -- one point ahead of the pack.

The first round of the day -- Round 5 of the Meltwater Champions Chess Tour event’s prelim stage -- was “savage”, according to IM Lawrence Trent in the commentary box, as all eight games ended with wins.

Vincent Keymer got off to a great start with a win against Mamedyarov. Azerbaijan’s No.1 overextended himself by placing his queen deep into Keymer’s position before the young German activated his own queen and went on the attack himself.

The event features 16 players in a round-robin prelim stage before the field is cut to eight and knockouts begin. The Aimchess Rapid is the last “Regular” tournament of the 2022 season with a prize pot of UD 150,000 before the end-of-season final event starts on November 14.

Rudrankksh, Arjun and Kiran win India’s fifth gold at Rifle/Pistol Shooting World Championships

with partners Elavenil Valarivan and Mehuli Ghosh.

They had earlier finished third in qualification stage two to miss out on the gold match by 0.6 points. In stage one, they had shot 947.0 to finish second, a mere 0.1 behind China, among 30 teams.

New Delhi, Oct 16 (IANS) The Indian Men’s 10m Air Rifle troika of Rudrankksh Balasaheb Patil, recently crowned world champion in the individual event, Kiran Ankush Jadhav and Arjun Babuta, won India’s fifth gold medal of the on-going International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Championship Rifle/Pistol campaign in Cairo, Egypt, routing a strong China 16-10 in the gold medal match.

It was also Rudrankksh’s second senior world championship gold in his very first outing.

India have also picked up a silver and two bronze medals on the day to take their tally to five gold, one silver and five bronze medals, to maintain their second place behind China in the medal standings and with the Women’s 10m Air Pistol team also making the gold medal match, that tally is certain to go up further by the end of business in Cairo.

Shooting on competition day four at the Egypt International Olympic City (EIOC) range,

the champion Men’s Air Rifle team raced ahead 14-2 in the final against a Chinese team which had Yang Haoran (double Olympic gold medallist and twotime world champion), Lihao Sheng (Tokyo Olympics silver medallist) and Song Buhan (world championship silver medallist). They mounted a strong comeback to win the next four series and narrow the gap to 14-10, but the Indian’s held their own in the final series to clinch the crown.

In the match that mattered however, it was the Indians who finally stamped their supremacy over the Chinese in Men’s Air Rifle in this world championship edition at least, winning both the individual and team titles.

The Air Rifle Women, who had a heartbreak in the individual event, redeemed themselves with a bronze in the Team event, prevailing 17-11 in a nail-biter against Germany in the medal match. Meghana Sajjanar shot two consecutive 10.9s in the crucial stages to clinch the deal along

Manvi Jain and Sameer won India’s first silver of the championships going down to China’s Feng Sixuan and Liu Yangpan 17-03 in the gold medal match of the 25m Standard Pistol Mixed Team Junior competition. They had come second in stage one of qualification with a score of 564 and then topped stage two with a combined effort of 378 to make it to the title decider.

Payal Khatri and Sahil Dudhane won India’s fourth bronze of the championships in the same event, defeating Ane Torgersen and Hans Noestvold of Norway 16-14 in a close encounter. The pair had finished third in stage one with 563 and then third again in stage two with 368, to qualify for the bronze match.

In the Men’s 10m Air Pistol Team competition, the Indian team comprising Shiva Narwal, Naveen and Vijayveer Sidhu shot 580 in qualification stage two to finish fifth eventually. Also, in the Women’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions Team Junior event, India’s Nishchal, Nikita Kundu and Nupur Kumrawat ended 10th in qualification with a score of 1278.

Kayo Sports announce Hindi and Afrikaans commentary for 2022 ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup

commentary.”

Kayo will offer Hindi commentary for 10 key fixtures and Afrikaans commentary for eight key fixtures during the World Cup, with both options available for semi-finals and finals spectaculars.

Fox Cricket General Manager Matthew Weiss said: “Fox Cricket delivers world class coverage every summer, and we are proud to further strengthen our offering for this year’s ICC T20 World Cup with commentary in additional languages.

Hindi Commentary

Location

Afrikaans Commentary

Kayo Sports has today announced select matches of the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup will offer commentary in Hindi and Afrikaans languages LIVE and on-demand on Kayo, bringing together a world-class team of international broadcasters.

Cricket icons and former players for India Gautam Gambhir, Irfan Pathan, Harbhajan Singh and Aakash Chopra will lead Kayo’s Hindi commentary team, alongside fan-favourite Indian cricket commentator Jatin Sapru and former assistant coach to the Indian cricket team Sanjay Bangar.

The Afrikaans commentary team will be led by South

African cricketing household name Jeremy Fredericks, sports presenter Johnny Davids and former South African cricketers Gerhardus Liebenberg, Henry Davids, Fanie De Villiers, Johan Van De Wath, Shafiek Abrahams and Morne Van Wyk.

Kayo Marketing Director Kim McConnie said: “Kayo is about providing the best experience possible to our 1.3 million customers.

“We know the World Cup has a large multicultural audience, so we are thrilled to provide more options for fans to enjoy this great sporting event, that begins in just over two weeks, with the addition of Hindi and Afrikaans

“The broadcast teams that we have brought together to deliver the Hindi and Afrikaans commentary through our international partners Star (India) and SuperSport (South Africa) are second to none, and we look forward to hearing their unique analysis in their own languages.”

Kayo subscribers can access the Hindi and Afrikaans language feeds via their dedicated tiles in the Match Centres in-app for selected games during the ICC T20 World Cup.

Fixtures that will feature the new linguistic commentary offerings include –

Date

Fixture

South Africa vs. Group B Winner

Africa vs. Bangladesh India vs. South Africa

vs. South Africa

Africa vs. Group A Runner-Up

Watch every match of the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup live and on demand on Kayo Sports from October 16 to November 13.

New to Kayo? Start your 14day free trial today at www. kayosports.com.au and start streaming instantly.

Location

Bellerive Oval, Hobart

Sydney Perth Stadium

Sydney

Sydney

‘Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States’ launched

Health Systems Resource Centre (NHRSC) will provide the technical support.

The Central government aims to open at least one Tele-MANAS Cell in each State/UT.

A toll-free, 24/7 helpline number (14416) has been set up across the country allowing callers to select the language of choice for availing services.

The calls would be routed to TeleMANAS cells in the respective state and union territory.

Light rainfall likely to continue in Capital, cleanest air in three years

recorded at 19.2 degrees.

Meanwhile, most part of the capital city received light rainfall through the night and early Monday morning. The city has recorded moderate to heavy rainfall in the last two days. While it recorded 21.8 mm of rainfall between 8.30 a.m. on Sunday to 8.30 a.m. Monday, 74.3 mm of rainfall was recorded during the preceding 24 hours, and 25.3 mm before that.

New Delhi, Oct 10 (IANS) The Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States (TeleMANAS) initiative of the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare was launched on Monday on occasion of the World Mental Health Day.

The initiative was launched virtually by Thawar Chand Gehlot, Governor of Karnataka at National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru, in the presence of K. Sudhakar, Minister for Health & Family Welfare and Medical Education, Karnataka & VicePresident, NIMHANS.

Acknowledging the mental health crisis in wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and an urgent need to establish a digital mental health network that will withstand the challenges amplified by the pandemic, the Central government announced National Tele Mental Health Programme (NTMHP) in the Union Budget

2022-23.

"Good mental health with Tele MANAS! PM @NarendraModi Ji's Govt launches 'Tele Mental Health Assistance & Networking Across States' to provide all access to affordable mental health care in every State/UT. It will serve as the digital arm of the District Mental Health Programme," Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said in a tweet.

Tele-MANAS aims to provide free tele-mental health services all over the country round the clock, particularly catering to people in remote or under-served areas.

The programme includes a network of 23 tele-mental health centres of excellence, with NIMHANS being the nodal centre and International Institute of Information TechnologyBangalore (IIITB) providing technology support.

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bengaluru and National

Tele-MANAS will be organised in two tier system -- Tier 1 comprises of state Tele-MANAS cells which include trained counsellors and mental health specialists. Tier 2 will comprise of specialists at District Mental Health Programme (DMHP)/ Medical College resources for physical consultation and/or e-Sanjeevani for audio visual consultation.

Currently, there are 5 regional coordination centres along with 51 state and UTs Tele-MANAS cells.

The initial rollout providing basic support and counselling through centralised Interactive Voice Response system (IVRS) is being customised for use across all States and UTs.

Specialised care is being envisioned through the programme by linking TeleMANAS with other services like National tele-consultation service, e-Sanjeevani, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, mental health professionals, Ayushman Bharat health and wellness centres and emergency psychiatric facilities.

The NIMHANS has conducted training for 900 Tele MANAS counsellors from majority of states/UTs.

This diet improves immunotherapy response rates, progression-free survival in advanced melanoma

London, Oct 9 (IANS) Eating a Mediterranean diet, rich in fibre, mono-unsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols, has been associated with improved immunotherapy response rates and progressionfree survival in advanced melanoma patients, says a new report.

The study, presented at UEG Week 2022, has found that diet plays an important role in the success of immunotherapy and trials are being expanded to investigate outcomes for different tumour types, including digestive cancers.

"Our study underlines the importance of dietary assessment in cancer patients starting ICI treatment and supports a role for dietary strategies to improve patient outcomes and survival,"

said researcher Laura Bolte from the University Medical Center Groningen, Netherlands.

For the study, the team recorded the dietary intake of 91 patients with advanced melanoma, who were treated with ICI drugs and monitored their progress with regular radiographic response check-ups.

As well as having a significant association with overall response rate, a Mediterranean diet was

significantly associated with progression-free survival at 12 months.

The study also found that eating whole grains and legumes reduced the likelihood of developing drug-induced immune-related side effects, such as colitis.

In contrast, red and processed meat was associated with a higher probability of immune-related side effects.

New Delhi, Oct 10 (IANS) Delhi is likely to see cloudy skies with light rainfall on Tuesday and Wednesday, while the rest of the week may experience partly cloudy skies according to the India Metrological Department forecast.

The maximum temperature will stay at 24 degrees Celsius on Tuesday and 25 degrees on Wednesday. However, it will be back to around 30 degrees by October 15. The minimum temperature on Monday was

Delhi has recorded 121.7 mm of rainfall in October so far, the second highest in the month in the last 16 years, as per IMD data.

Meanwhile, Delhi on Monday inhaled cleanest air after three days of incessant rain. According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) in the city was 44 at 4 p.m.. It was 48 on Sunday, 56 on Saturday and 55 on Friday. The capital logged a 24hour average AQI of 41 on August 31, 2020.

India reports 2,424 fresh Covid cases, 14 deaths

The recovery of 2,923 patients in the last 24 hours took the cumulative tally to 4,40,57,544. Consequently, India's recovery rate stands at 98.75 per cent.

New Delhi, Oct 10 (IANS) India reported 2,424 fresh Covid cases in the last 24 hours, against 2,756 recorded on the previous day, said the Union Health Ministry on Monday.

In the same period, the country recorded 15 more Covid related deaths, taking the national toll to 5,28,814 as per the report.

The active caseload presently stands at 28,079 cases, accounting for 0.06 per cent of the country's total positive cases.

Meanwhile, India's daily positivity rate has been reported to be 2.65 per cent, while the weekly positivity rate currently stands at 1.27 per cent.

Also in the same period, a total of 91,458 tests were conducted across the country, increasing the overall tally to over 89.70 crore.

As of Monday morning, India's Covid-19 vaccination coverage exceeded 218.99 crore.

Over 4.10 crore adolescents have been administered with a first dose of Covid-19 jab since the beginning of vaccination drive for this age bracket.

Surge in number of children hospitalised for e-scooter injuries: Study

New York, Oct 9 (IANS) The rate of hospital admittance for patients increased from fewer than 1 out of every 20 e-scooter injuries in 2011 to 1 out of every 8 requiring admittance into a hospital for care in 2020.

According to a new research abstract presented during the 2022 American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference and Exhibition, e-scooter injuries are becoming more common and increasingly severe.

"The number of annual e-scooter injuries has increased from 2011 to 2020, likely due in some part to the rise in popularity of rideshare e-scooter apps," said lead author Harrison Hayward from Children's National Hospital.

"Our study has characterised the spectrum of injuries that occur in

children, which helps emergency room doctors prepare for taking care of them and helps parents and families to practice better safety," Hayward added.

For the study, the team examined a national database of pediatric e-scooter injuries seen in emergency departments at over 100 US hospitals from 2011-2020 to find out what kinds of injuries children were sustaining and if any trends existed.

Over 10 per cent of all patients had a head injury, including a concussion, skull fractures, and internal bleeding. The most common injuries were arm fractures (27 per cent), followed by minor abrasions (22 per cent) and lacerations needing stitches (17 per cent).

Deakin leads first Indian governmentuniversity-industry partnership

of young people (aged 15 to 25) in India was ten times the total number of people in Australia, so digital technology and digital capabilities would be vital in helping India deliver on an aspirational National Education Policy.

HCI hosts tributary ceremony on Gandhi Jayanti

High Commission of India (HCI) organised a 'tributepaying' ceremony at Glebe Park, Canberra, on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti on October 2.

Geelong, October 5: Deakin University and the Indian Government’s Ministry of Education and Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship have come together to announce a first-ofits-kind government-universityindustry partnership.

The partnership will offer scholarships, fellowships, skilling, and training programs to strengthen the India-Australia relationship and lead the way forward for innovative knowledge sharing and student exchanges between the two countries.

Deakin Vice-Chancellor Professor Iain Martin said he was pleased to announce the partnership on the 75th anniversary of India's independence.

"This innovative partnership with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India, will bolster the government-university-industry linkages and give back to our Indian partners and the wider Indian community,” Professor Martin said.

“This partnership is Deakin's commitment to India's pursuit of excellence in education and will enrich the communities in both India and Australia with unique perspectives and experiences that expand the horizons of students and make them more competitive in the global economy.”

Four key initiatives have been announced as a part of this unique partnership:

1) Scholarships: Deakin University Vice-Chancellor's Meritorious Scholarships will be offered to ten

meritorious Indian students for studying onshore in Australia at one of Deakin's campuses in 2023. These prestigious scholarships, which cover 100 per cent of the students’ course fees are a part of Deakin’s 'Changing Lives' initiative. The initiative aims to support deserving students with an outstanding academic history and all-round achievements, with a view to give back to India the skills and experience they gain during their study.

2) Research fellowships: Among the top 1 per cent of universities for global research impact, Deakin will provide research fellowships to cover course fees for 20 high-achieving Indian students for the duration of their higher degree research studies. These research scholarships will provide passionate students with an opportunity to study with Deakin's vibrant research community in Australia and pursue meaningful research that can provide solutions to global challenges.

3) Skilling and training: 20 staff members from the Indian Government’s Ministry of Education and Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship will travel to Deakin for skilling and training programs in 2023.

4) Leadership development program: Vice-Chancellors from 20 'Institutes of Eminence' in India will travel to Deakin next year for a leadership development and training program that will focus on developing global university skills to harness the potential of the youth of India.

Professor Martin said the number

India’s Minister of Education, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, said that after India’s National Education Policy 2020 was released, prestigious universities around the world were looking to collaborate with India.

“The youth of India care about becoming employable graduates and we are in talks to develop the infrastructure that will make globally relevant skills accessible to Indian youth,” he said.

"India and Australia have a strong relationship in the key sector of education. Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in the recent Quad meeting, and I have also been on a tour to Australia recently where I visited Deakin and met the team.

“The crux of this partnership is bringing together the strengths of both nations to provide education and employment opportunities to Indian students.”

Ravneet Pawha, Deakin’s VicePresident of Global Alliances and CEO of South Asia, said Deakin was the first international education provider to set up an office in India, which spoke volumes about the university’s commitment to the nation.

"We have always had an 'in India, with India, for India' approach to engagement in the region and this partnership will add new energy to our efforts to deepen the bilateral relationship through enhanced engagement in education and employability, research and innovation, skilling and training,” Ms Pawha said.

“We are grateful to Minister Pradhan for giving us this opportunity and we look forward to a meaningful partnership."

High Commissioner H.E. Manpreet Vohra addressed the gathering recalling the vision and principles of Bapu Gandhi, followed by poetry recitation by Prof. Satendra Nandan.

Top prize for Covax Australia founders at Gold Coast Young Entrepreneur Awards

the outset of the pandemic, managing drive-thru testing facilities, organising the logistics rollout of the vaccine, and more significantly the recent success in manufacturing PPE. In all these endeavoursCovax Australia stayed away from the limelight, though they were right there in strengthening the nation’s response to the pandemic.

Business News Australia report suggests that according to the judges of the award who chose Covax Australia for the top prize, it was all about efforts and entrepreneurial drive of the founders of Covax Australia that catapulted them to the top of the list of awardees and that’s how they won the Young Entrepreneur of the Year for the Gold Coast, though the competition for the award was tough given the fact that it included toppers like EVOLT co-founder and winner of the Trailblazer Award, Kelly Weideman.

started to refuse patients showing symptoms of COVID-19.

Taking to Business News Australia Dr Gupta, co-founder of Covax Australia said,“I decided that that was not going to happen to my patient cohort. So we put up a tent outside the clinic, and we started seeing patients - we didn’t have masks at the time, it was just gloves. The international borders were still open and the news coming from Italy was that there was a one in seven chance of dying.”

here in Queensland. We ran clinics from start-to-finish, and that included doctors, nurses, pharmacists, cleaning staff, security staff - the whole shebang,” Dr Gupta told Business News Australia.

The founders of Covax Australia added a feather in their cap when they received the top prize at the 2022 Gold Coast Young Entrepreneur Awards recently. Covax Australia may not have made it to the headlines of newspapers frequently but they have been quietly supporting national efforts to fight against the pandemic for the past over two years. Staying away most of the time from media limelight,

former MedLab Pathology Queensland general manager Mannu Kala and his co-founder DrAnuj Gupta were quietly going about their job the results of which were discernible not merely in Queensland, but throughout Australia.

According to Business News Australia report, the highlights of some of their efforts compriseoperating specialist respiratory clinics right at

Covax Australia was founded by Mannu Kala and DrAnuj Guptain 2020. The idea struck them after they realisedmost of the clinics and hospitals were unequippedto manage the respiratory illness of the population. This was also the time when there weren’t any adequate access to telehealth and specialist respiratory clinics were fewer in numbers. Moreover, general practitioner clinics

Subsequently with the pandemic showing no signs of relenting, states and the Federal Government asked them to assist in devising action plans and procedures for operating respiratory clinics, and to establish drive-thru testing sites. The pair wrote a white paper detailing the logistics processes so as to enable rolling out a COVID-19 vaccine and jabbing as many people as possible. This was the only way out of endless lockdowns. From there on, the Covax Australia began their endeavour to bring on Linfox and Qantas (ASX: QAN) to help move the inoculation nationwide, which was a very difficult task to accomplish.

“That set us up quite well with Queensland Health, and we essentially helped them establish the mass-immunisation clinics

More significantly as Dr Gupta toldBusiness News Australia“Whenever we were asked to do something by our local hospital, health service, district school, Queensland Health, Federal Health, we didn’t say no; we said ‘yep - we’ll give it a hit’.” From September 2020 to April this year, Covax Australia had about 900 active staff working every day in the company. Though the pandemic is not what it was at its peak, the business of Covax Australia has not declined as it now supports close to 100 aged care facilities with staffing solutions in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, reports Business News Australia.

Besides, the company also runs a manufacturing facility that produces rapid antigen tests, one of them being currently under consideration with the Therapeutic Goods Administration.

About the future, the co-founders visualize the businesswould continue to evolve, reports Business News Australia.

Dussehra festival celebrated in Brisbane

Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) celebrated the festival of Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, in Brisbane on October 9. This festival, which comes straight after the celebration of Navratri, is celebrated to remember the victory of justice over immorality, justice over injustice and good over evil. HSS organised this event in Holland State High School. The event was open for the public to come and see performances and presentations done by eight shakhas from across Brisbane and Gold Coast. These performances and presentations include dand (stick fight), Niyudh (Indian martial arts), yoga, surya namaskar (sun salutation), gosh (instruments), and padavinyas (combat leg movements). HSS swayamsevaks and sevikas presented all these demonstrations to 300+ attendees.

Organisers started the event by doing shastra pooja (worshipping weapons), vyayam yoga and surya namaskar, followed by other performances. After the presentation, our mukhya atithi, Dr Ashutosh Mishra, chief editor, India News, in his address, talked about the importance of sangh, doing volunteer work where needed, including floods, bushfires, and earthquakes. Later he mentioned how sangh inculcates discipline in the present and future generations to achieve the goal of life. After this, our mukhya vakta, Arshdeep Ji, delivered bauddhik on the significance of Vijayadashami. Vijayadashmi, which is a celebration of Shakti,

brings strength, and Arshdeep Ji explained five types of strengths:

1. Aatma Bal – inner strength

2. Buddhi Bal – brain/thinking strength

3. Sharirik Bal – Physical strength

4. Shastra Bal – weapon strength

5. Sangathan Bal – Unity strength

Following the bauddhik and sangh prarthna, the utsav concluded. A saha bhoj (lunch), which facilitated the community members mingling and knowing each other, was organised for all the families.

Walk for Mental Health held in Brisbane

Walk for the Mental Health was organised by Mental Health Foundation Australia on 16 October at City Botanical Garden, Brisbane.

October is National Mental Health Month and a chance for us all to be reminded of how much support all of us may need at times. There are lots of events to raise awareness and funds for this health issue that affects many Australians in different ways. One of the major events was the National Walk for Mental Health, where we take steps towards

promoting better mental health for all, at the same time across Australian states and territories.

Earlier in the month, National Mental Health Month was launched on 1 October at Queensland Parliament by Mental Health Foundation Australia.

Ms Amelia Callaghan Executive Director Queensland Mental Health Commission, Professor Nigar Khawaja, QUT and Ms Suzzane Dang spoke at the event on October 1 and Seema Chauhan was a fantastic MC.

Townsville Bathukamma 2022 festival celebrated

Bathukamma celebrations were held in a grand manner under the auspices of the Telugu community in Townsville, Queensland. This year, not only members of the Telugu community but also friends from other states of India and regional Australians danced, sang and indulged in the Saddula Bathukamma celebrations.

Telegu revelers came not only from Townsville but also from other surrounding towns, and they worshiped the Saddula with great devotion.

Telugu community member Raghava made this year's Townsville Bathukamma even bigger and better than the previous year's. People were surprised to see such a big Bathukamma and took photos and celebrated the Bathukamma celebrations by singing and dancing together.

This year, the participation of more elderly people made not just the parents but the grandchildren happy indeed. They expressed their happiness that the elders were here with them during the festival, and the elders appeared equally happy to see the Telugu people celebrating Batukamma in a traditional manner while living abroad.

Telugu girls showed the history of the Bathukamma festival and traditions with their demonstrations to the guests

and explained the features of the festival to the children, regional Australians, and other Indians in an articulate and impressive manner. Traditional Telegu meals were served to all those who came.

Townsville City Council supported the Bathukamma celebrations this year too. For more information about Townsville Bathukamma, people can contact Nick Attam at +61438749297 or townsville. bathukamma@gmail.com

GSML organises event to celebrate Gandhi Jayanti

Floral tributes were paid to Mahatma Gandhi on his birth anniversary on October 2 at Roma Street Parklands, Brisbane.

Later, Gandhi Salt March Limited (GSML) organised an event at Springfield with many political and community leaders present there. They spoke about Gandhi Ji and shared his message of love, kindness, compassion, and inclusiveness.

GOPIO Gold Coast hosts Diwali Festival 2022

An event to celebrate Diwali was organised by GOPIO Gold Coast on October 8. The eclectic collection of performances at the event represented the unity of the celebrations.

There were various dance numbers and vocal performances by both children and adults representing different cultural groups. The renditions ranged from the classical Bharatnatyam to folk music and dance. And how can one celebrate Diwali without having delicious food. The diversity of both ancient and modern India was reflected in the variety of food stalls that

served mouth-watering dishes.

The pinnacle of the event was the fireworks which are an integral part of Diwali celebrations.

“Thanks to the generous contributions from numerous sponsors, the City of Gold Coast, the program held at the Broadwater Parklands, Southport was free to all. Thanks also to all

the special guests who graced the occasion and all the participants who made it a huge success,” GOPIO Gold Coast said in a statement.

For GOPIO Gold Coast’s future events, you can visit their website www.gopiogoldcoast.org.au.

Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane spreads the light this Diwali with good cause

It is a festival that illuminates our minds and hearts. It is a festival that unifies communities, families and hearts. India’s festival of Lights Diwali promotes peace, harmony and brotherhood in the community.

Diwali for Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane is not just for celebration, but also is an opportunity to give back to the community.

With this, the organisation channels its efforts into helping the most vulnerable people through a collaboration with The Seva Project, which aims to help the community with donation of clothes.

Abhishek Sharma, President of Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane says Diwali is to kindle light in many hearts. “Like one Diya (lamp) can light many Diyas, one act of kindness can light many hearts.”

More than 1,000 people are expected to attend the event that coincides with the launch of Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane. The guests will enjoy cultural dance performances, soulful singing, and mouth-watering food.

The celebrations will begin with a Puja (prayer), followed cultural dance performances from Rajasthan, Assam, Gujarat, Punjab, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and other states of India, and food and activity stalls. A dedicated kids corned will be put up to provide an opportunity to children to showcase their creative skills through Diya (earthen lamps) painting.

Jeet Suchdev, founder and chairperson of Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust says Diwali is a perfect occasion to lay down the foundation of Bhartiya Samaj’s Brisbane Chapter.

“Diwali celebrations are ideal to launch Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane.

The festival of lights illumines minds, enlightens hearts and strengthens bonds within communities, which coincides with the vision of Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust.

“Diwali is a festival that helps in fostering a sense of brotherhood as it encourages people to come together and celebrate regardless of their background.”

Ranita Patel, Communication Officer, The Seva Project said that she was delighted to have an opportunity to be a part of Bhartiya Samaj’s Diwali celebration in Brisbane.

“I am glad that someone from Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane reached out to us to collaborate for the Diwali celebrations. It is a great opportunity to spread awareness about The Seva Project, encourage people to donate for this great cause and invite people to join us one day when we give these essentials to the homeless people

of Brisbane”.

The Seva Project is a grassroots organisation run completely by volunteers. They have been providing clothing, blankets, toiletries and other essentials to the disenfranchised and homeless people of Brisbane, every week for over two years.

Diwali is a five-day festival in India that features different ceremonies each day, with the third day being the main event.

The festival is an opportunity to spruce up the home, buy new clothes, celebrate together, enjoy good food and exchange gifts.

Even though every region in India has distinctive traditions to commemorate Diwali, it is celebrated across the country, regions and religions.

“No matter what religion you follow, Diwali is a festival that brings all the communities together in India, and the world,” says Suchdev.

‘Diwali Festival and Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane official launch’ is scheduled to be celebrated on Saturday, November 5 between 4pm and 8pm at Indooroopilly State High School, Brisbane. Come with your best traditional attire if you have one

About Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust

Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust is a not-for-profit organisation serving the community in Auckland since 1995. It was founded by Mr. Jeet Suchdev QSM JP and Ms. Roopa Suchdev QSM along with other like-minded people.

The trust works responsibly to ensure people of the community are benefited by fostering healthy relations and catering to their social, cultural and emotional needs. The trust serves people from diverse backgrounds, age groups, regions, and social status.

Our Mission is to help and support the community to empower them to become strong and confident. We also support the people who have newly migrated to New Zealand, by means of various community development and awareness

activities. We carry out activities/ programs and events to empower the community and bring them out of isolation. Our services involve various activities, workshops, and awareness programs aligned with specific needs of the Senior Citizens Wing, Children and Youth Wing, New Migrants Support Wing, and Social Services Wing. Our main objective is to provide a platform for the people of the community to feel socially connected, supported, and less isolated.

About Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane Bhartiya Samaj supports bringing “Positive Change” into the lives of Australia’s diverse South Asian communities to empower them to become strong, confident and in control of their lives. We are dedicated to enriching lives and increasing people’s choices and possibilities for realizing their potential.

Now the Brisbane chapter has been launched to continue delivering the core values of Bhartiya Samaj (AKL) which embraces empowering people with knowledge, to build strong identities and to connect with diverse communities whilst exceling our service to the community in Brisbane - QLD. Three key things that Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane chapter will focus on over the next few months are as follows:

a. Helping migrants to settle in BNE – QLD by information dissemination

b. Building inclusive communities c. Collaborating with various other community organisations to conduct a joint venture/event.

We are a passion driven organisation with a genuine desire to make a positive impact in the community and\ or people’s lives with our strong determination and commitment, if you up for the challenge or keen to know more. Please feel free to get in touch or join today!

For more information, send an email to Bhartiya Samaj Brisbane’s president Abhishek Sharma at BSBrisbane@outlook. com or call 0406 344 692.

Make your mind your friend by having faith in yourself

John Milton, in his classic ‘Paradise Lost’ wrote “The mind is its own place, and in itself can make a heaven of hell, a hell of heaven..”

Indeed, mind is the root cause of all success as well as all evils in the society. A well-cultivated, disciplined mind can create the equivalent of heaven within oneself whereas an uncontrolled, wayward mind can create a situation that is worse than hell.

What do we need to create a healthy mind? The solution is very simple. Yet, because it is so simple, we tend to ignore them and handle our mind in a careless manner.

The first tool needed to bring balance to our mind is to have faith in ourselves. Swami Vivekananda, a great saintphilosopher said: ‘The ideal of faith in ourselves is of the greatest help to us. If faith in ourselves had been more extensively taught and practised, I am sure a large portion of the evils and miseries that we have would have vanished.’ Martin Luther King, Jr says ‘Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase’. To give another example, when you learn to swim, you will have to have faith that you would be able to float and not drown; otherwise, you won’t learn to swim.

The second tool is to have hope through rational thinking. The nature of life is that it throws out challenges which will derail us. But getting up and restarting our life is important. We need to say to ourselves ‘this too shall pass’ and surge ahead. ‘Let the dead bury their dead,’ said Jesus Christ - we should bury our hurtful feelings, victim mentality and

such negative emotions and go onward in the journey of life.

A third tool we can adopt is to fix realistic goals. For example, if a person is in the habit of waking up at 7am and as a result is missing his transport and getting delayed at the workplace, instead of setting the goal of waking up at 5.30am, he can set the goal to wake up at 6.30am. Slowly, he will find that by exercise of will power, he would be able to wake up earlier and would accomplish much more.

Nurturing and enriching one’s will power is an extraordinary tool in mind management. Will power is that which helps a person to do what he or she knows is good or right and avoid those things which our inner voice tells us is wrong. It is a positive and creative tool which enables us to follow the right path in a definite way. To develop this, a simple exercise is to devote 15 minutes a day to sit quietly, turn off all devices and watch our own mind. As the mind gets watched, it will become calmer and the intellect will get the strength to make affirmative decisions.

The Vedanta Centre in Springfield Lakes is an intercultural faith and community hub engaged in benevolent activities like food assistance, educational workshops, activities for children and youth, classes on Vedanta and volunteer opportunities. The Centre has a Café, Soup Kitchen, community garden and reading library. All are welcome. Email: info@ vedantabrisbane.org

By Swami Atmeshananda

Vedanta Centre Springfield Lakes

Places for senior citizens to enjoy

plantations. Trekking, camping, and staying in a treehouse are some of the activities to explore for a surreal experience. August receives a good amount of rainfall which enhances the spectacular beauty of this hill station in Kerala to another level, making it an ideal holiday spot.

Singapore

Ageing is a unique experience that allows life to come a full circle. You get to give back to the community and at the same time, you let the heart in you live again by experiencing each day as it comes. The beauty of travelling in your silver years is that you become a child once again and realise your dream of being free-spirited. What a perfect time and age to take that voyage when all you want to do is travel comfortably, eat good, stay away from the crowd, explore, and enjoy.

Seniors can travel to some of these handpicked destinations for a well-deserved holiday, shared by MP Deepu, Co-Founder & COO, Senior World.

place where Gautam Buddha preached his first sermon. It is just 10 Km away from Varanasi.

Archaeological museums, Stupas and Monasteries are some of the major attractions in Sarnath.

Jaisalmer

The royal dessert city of India also known as the golden city, Jaisalmer’s charm lies in the grandeur and glory of its forts and palaces. With the massive sand dunes on one hand and the colourful bazaars on the other, this trip will fill you with rich cultural heritage. The visit to the wondrous Thar desert along with exciting adventure sports, desert safaris, and delectable cuisines will keep you going! Parasailing and quad biking in sand dunes in Jaisalmer are some offbeat activities to experience.

Munnar

A trip to this magical city, Varanasi is an experience in itself. One of the oldest cities in India, this place boasts life-changing perspectives. There are more than 100 ghats in Varanasi but some of the most visited ones include Manikarnika and Assi Ghat. Strolling on the ghats, watching the sunrise on a boat ride in the Ganges or simply observing the rituals on the ghat in this city of lights, will mesmerise you.

Due to its proximity to Varanasi and its rich culture, Sarnath is a must-visit. Sarnath is the

The most picturesque hill station in Southern India, Munnar offers a perfect getaway for pleasant weather, verdant valleys, virgin forests, savannah, rolling hills, streams, waterfalls, winding walkways and lush tea and spice

One of the safest places to visit in the world, Singapore is a small country with a high level of law and order. It is also one of the most senior citizenfriendly countries in the world. Singapore is a melting pot of different cultures, cuisines, and ethnicities. A spotlessly clean country, it offers numerous choices to its visitors from art galleries, museums, and topnotch shopping centres to vast green spaces.

The best way to travel around Singapore is by its mass transit system. The modern transport system covers the entire island with a network of light and clean and speedy underground rail lines. These railways are the best way to get around the country for older travellers, as all of the stations and trains are operational with accessibility features like lifts, escalators, ramps and handrails.

Some of the senior-friendly activities that can be enjoyed in Singapore are Sentosa view via cable cars, flyer capsules to enjoy the night skyline, river cruise at Marina Bay and nature outings at Gardens by the bay.

Plan your vacation to any one of these best spots in India or Asia. SeniorWorld offers safe travel packages to enjoy a comfortable stay. So, get going and enjoy your second innings this senior citizens day.

International Convention of Wedding Fraternity makes its debut

India's wedding business is one of the biggest in the world, and The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru is getting ready to welcome renowned wedding industry specialists who help the sector reach its billiondollar sales threshold. Reputable industry experts will be present at the event, participating in interactive sessions and sharing their years of knowledge in the wedding industry. One of the largest events for the wedding industry in Asia, ICWF 2022,will take place at The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru at Bhartiya City from August 26 through 28, 2022.

The Leela Bhartiya City's team will design experiences to highlight the true spirit of the events in luxury with topnotch amenities and cuttingedge technology. ICWF, or the International Convention of Wedding Fraternity, is an organisation founded by wedding industry professionals in India who are passionate and knowledgeable about revolutionising the Indian wedding scene by setting international standards. ICWF establishes a venue where wedding pioneers, leaders, and newcomers may join together to discuss their goals, successes, and accomplishments in relation to the wedding business. Multilevel conversations are taking place during the event to create a framework that will serve as a

guide for upcoming changes.

Wedding planners, designers, decorators, stylists, photographers, and influencers may integrate, analyse, and discuss cutting-edge concepts, ideas, and trends at the glitzy ICWF event. ICWF sponsors annual events that inspire professionals to advance their careers, broaden their networks, and learn new things in order to hone their craft and take the wedding business to new levels of altruism. Over the course of the four-day event, every facet of the wedding industry is exhibited and celebrated.

ICWF is a glamorous event that gives wedding professionals— planners, designers, decorators, stylists, photographers, and influencers—a platform to integrate, analyse, and discuss cutting-edge concepts, ideas, and trends. ICWF hosts annual events that encourage professionals to gain new knowledge, expand their networks, and develop in order to sharpen their skills and elevate the wedding industry to new heights of generosity. Every element of the wedding industry is featured and highlighted over the four-day event.

Ranveer Brar, Sumit Jayakrishnan, Roshan Abbas, Vandana Mohan, Sabbas Joseph, Rituraj Khanna, and Prathip Thyagarajan, among others, will attend this year's ICWF and GIWA Awards events.

Reverse Waterfall – A majestic wonder at Malshej Ghat

This occurs during heavy monsoons every season around the western ghats of Maharashtra.

The scenic beauty of this mostly temporary occurrence is a delight for both travellers and photographers. The torrential monsoon rains turn the brown Sahyadri (Western Ghat) hills into lush green and slopes are dotted with innumerable waterfalls.

In many parts of the world, when cataracts with a large volume of water flow down the hill, the wind pushes the water backwards forcing it to rise

in a misty spray that can blow over a large area. It is called the upside-down waterfall or reverse waterfall.

One such well-liked location is Naneghat, which is found off of Malshej Ghat Road near the peak of the western ghat. Along the road connecting Kalyan and Ahmednagar, Malshej Ghat is a waterfall. Sinhagad Fort is situated atop this lovely ghat. Pune city is about 25 kilometres away and can be reached from

Mumbai in about three hours. In addition to being a highly popular and beautiful 3–4 hour trip (depending on your speed), this unusual gravity-defying phenomena makes for a beautiful photo opportunity. When you come here, you can also have the delightful experience of standing atop a waterfall and being doused in its water that is flowing backwards! It's interesting to note that this trekking route was formerly a major trading route, possibly during Chhatrapati Shivaji. the path that links the Konkan coast and the Deccan Plateau. Travelers are especially drawn to the historic caverns and pots carved out of rock. Along with sightseeing and

trekking in the monsoon, one may also get some nearby hot, steaming bhajiyas and tea. Additionally, a few fantastic resorts have emerged beside the waterfall in the recent years. The well-known resort Saj on the lake is one of these. With numerous grades of rooms suitable for groups, families, and couples, the resort and its ambiance offer a one-of-a-kind experience that goes hand in hand with the weather! The brick village category gives breathtaking views of the lake and mountains, while the courtyard view rooms provide a view of a verdant farm.

World Skyscraper Day

resemble a giant picture frame, it lets visitors enjoy views of Old Dubai on one side and New Dubai on the other. Stroll along the 150m high Sky Bridge, crafted using high-tech transparent materials, to enjoy scintillating views all around – look down and it'll seem like you're walking in the sky. Don't miss the immersive gallery on the mezzanine level to explore a simulated version of Dubai in the future.

Dubai has no dearth of sky-high buildings. The Emirati city has become a global hub for business, gastronomy and leisure alike. Its unique architecture and eyecatching designs have evolved the city’s skyline dramatically in the last decade. With the world's tallest tower, infinity pools, and buildings, Dubai embodies smart city thinking. To celebrate World Skyscraper Day here are Dubai’s top experiences that let you engage with the city's iconic skyline.

Sky Views Dubai - Edge walk:-At 219.5m above ground, Sky Views Dubai is the latest attraction to sweep visitors off their feet with mesmerising perspectives of Downtown Dubai's pristine expanses below and the sublime city skyline beyond. Perched atop the Address Sky View hotel, this architectural marvel comprises unforgettable and thrill-inducing sightseeing escapades such as the Edge Walk. From the ledge of the building's 53rd level, take in some fantastic and beautiful views of the magnificent city. There are no windows or other barriers between you and the sights, this walk is not for the faint hearted.

Weslodge Saloon:- There is plenty to catch the eye at this quirky venue, set on the 68th floor of JW Marriott Marquis hotel with floor-to-ceiling views that offer up spectacular views. Weslodge Saloon allows you to sample just a little taste of life in the Great White North. Designed with subtle Canadian touches and cosy alcoves that make you feel like you are in a comfortable living room offering a large swathe of Sheikh Zayed Road’s impressive skyline.

Aura Sky Pool:- Bask under open skies like never before at AURA Skypool, perched on the 50th floor of Nakheel’s Palm Tower. As the world’s first and highest 360-degree infinity pool, the elegant pool-and-lounge destination evokes an ‘oasis in the sky’ feel, thanks to its natureinspired décor and uninterrupted views of landmarks like Ain Dubai, Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah. The View at the Palm:- Enjoy incomparable views of one of Dubai’s most talked about landmarks at The View at The Palm. Located 240m high, the observation deck presents never seen before 360-degree panoramas of Palm Jumeirah alongside the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline in the distance. The View at The Palm is located on level 52 of The Palm Tower, which also houses a café, a creative exhibition, interactive aquariumthemed tunnels and a gift shop. To further elevate your sky-high sightseeing experience while here, step up to The Next Level – at 250m above ground, the private, barrier-free space is the island's highest vantage point.

This contemporary eatery with Far Eastern accents is perched up on the 54th floor of the Address Sky View hotel and deservedly dazzles the culinary crowd. One of Asia's most well-known rooftop venues, with outposts in Hong Kong, Tokyo, and atop Singapore's iconic Marina Bay Sands hotel and its Dubai incarnation boasts breath taking views of the city’s dazzling skyline. Living up to its name CÉ LA VIE gives you a perfect setting and dining experience with uninterrupted panoramas of the Burj Khalifa.

Al Sarab:- One of Dubai’s signature experiences is watching day turn to night over the desert dunes. Just a short drive from Dubai’s vibrant city lights, Bab Al Shams’ rooftop terrace, Al Sarab, orchestrates the perfect setting to see the bright orange horizon transform to a night sky full of stars. Dimly lit lanterns and earthy clay décor offer a magical escape from it all, with sounds of Arabian live music creating a uniquely Dubai sky high experience.

Dubai Frame:- Located in Zabeel Park, Dubai Frame is an architectural delight. Designed to

Downtown Circle - a new concept recently unveiled by Znera Space, to transform Dubai's skyline and reimagine modern architecture. Dubai architects envisions the futuristic Downtown Circle to drastically redefine Dubai’s skyline with an elevated hyperefficient urban centre. In the concept, a 3000 metre (9,800 feet) circumference ringed vertical city would surround the Burj Khalifa. Introducing a singular mix-use, mega-structure that can simultaneously become a new urban and natural landmark of the UAE.

Taj Lands End, Mumbai completes 20 years

and patrons to show gratitude to guests and to celebrate the hotel’s breakthrough as a leading property in the Indian luxury hospitality industry.

A first-of-its-kind journey along the India and Pakistan border

What binds the two most talked about nations - India and Pakistan together? What makes their relationship unique? How have the lives of the people changed since the IndiaPakistan partition? discovery+ India Originals- Expedition Borderlands with Levison Wood and Ash Bhardwaj, an upcoming adventure answers these and many other questions.

In the series, Lev and Ash trek through the snow-capped mountains of the Gurez valley in Kashmir to witness the majestic beauty of the borderlands. The duo engages in local sports like Horse Polo on both sides of the border, a quick game of cricket at Teetwal, and countless more in the course of their journey. They immerse themselves in an authentic cultural adventure and indulge in song and dance along with Dashungs, a local Ladakhi band. In Amritsar, they offer their prayers and services at the Golden Temple with the Langar Seva. On the other side of the border, they relish local food delicacies like offal (goat’s testicles, brain, heart) in Lahore, and attend a local Qawwali performance. Amidst gallivanting escapades, they traverse rocky terrains to see the gleaming Indus River and catch a glimpse of the illustrious sunset in Gilgit amidst breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

This journey was unforgettable. The border regions are home to resilient and affectionate civilians who welcomed us into their homes and lives. This journey was a true adventure. We ended up in some difficult situations, learned a lot about these fascinating countries, and had many heartfelt moments along the way.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Taj Lands End, Mumbai’s exemplary service and renowned reputation. The hotel is commemorating the momentous occasion with a celebration with our guests

Commenting on the 20th anniversary, Somnath Mukherjee, Senior Vice President – West said “We are honoured to have been an integral part of the Bandra community for 20 years. The past two decades have seen numerous changes in the Indian hospitality industry and we have strived to consistently refine our offerings to meet current needs and stay at the forefront of luxury service

for our guests. Our goal has always been to truly delight our visitors by providing a level of service that is tailored to their individual needs. We can only accomplish this feat through the tireless actions of our talented team members, many of whom have been with us since the beginning. In honour of our Silver Anniversary we are delighted to share a very special, festive evening with a select group of invitees at the hotel Lobby as we toast to a glorious and meaningful future”.

Levison Wood said, “Ash and I were lucky enough to experience the incredible food, and culture and hear plenty of fascinating stories in both India and Pakistan. I couldn't think of anyone I would rather have done this journey with than Ash. It was interesting to see the countries from his perspective - and we had a lot of laughs along the way! The best part of this trip was seeing what unites the two countries in this border region. Our journey helped us to try and understand the people who have so much in common yet are so divided.

“Lev and I have been traveling together for over a decade, but this journey was particularly special. Being able to walk in the footsteps of my ancestors made me feel vividly connected to my heritage - not just in Punjab, but on the Pakistani side of the border, too. The geography along the border is truly remarkable, but what really captured my heart was the people we met along the way. As well as the amazing sights, sounds, and foods of the journey, we met some incredible characters - mostly through taking part in unexpected activities. Lev and I each bring a different perspective to our travels, which makes it more rewarding for each of us - and it is a real privilege to share our experiences with the discovery + audience.” added avid explorer and travel writer Ash Bhardwaj. “Along with the rich content that draws upon the history and diversity of two countries, the format's authenticity and this unique route are what makes this expedition so captivating. We are thrilled to collaborate with renowned explorer Lev and his friend Ash whose incredible experiences on this unique adventure are sure to capture the audience’s attention”, said Sai Abishek, Head of Factual & Lifestyle Cluster- South Asia, Warner Bros. Discovery. He added, “We at Warner Bros. Discovery are known for our impactful storytelling, highdefinition content where adventure genre is what we are known for and are happy to bring that expertise and experience to our viewers in India and around the world.”

Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Sushruthi Krishna joins hands for responsible fashion

owned Saaki clothing, hence extending the lifespan of a product.

Alia Bhatt experiments sets maternity fashion goals

Together, Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Sushruthi Krishna work to promote ethical fashion among sellers of used clothing. Relove Saaki, a domestic D2C fashion brand, is a platform for fashion recycling technology to demonstrate its dedication to "Responsible Fashion."

Actor and Co-Founder of Saaki, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, said “I have inculcated many sustainable practices in my life and we wanted to translate that in a meaningful way to our customers

at Saaki. With ReloveSaaki, we are encouraging a responsible way of shopping that will help build sustainable habits among our consumers.”

As per statistics, the fashion industry contributes to 10% of the world’s carbon emissions, and approximately 9 billion clothes are left idle in the closets. Each garment resold can save 6 times its weight in CO2, thus, limiting the environmental impact of fashion.

The portal enables users to purchase and sell their previously

Sushruthi Krishna, the Founder of Saaki, said “At Saaki, we always look for ways to give back. We started with using sustainable packaging materials for our orders. With ReloveSaaki, we are taking another step towards being a responsible fashion brand. This initiative is an ideal example of how brands can continue to grow while having a limited impact on the environment through rethinking business practices and shifting focus on innovation. We are positive that our consumers will find this addition valuable.”

Positive about the association with Saaki, Prateek Gupta, the Founder of Relove, said “Technology has the power to change the way we have structured business models in the past. The possibilities have been extended by building circular technologies that are userfriendly and we hope to change the way the world works.”

Ananya Birla to make International Ramp debut at London Fashion Week

Multi-platinum singersongwriter Ananya Birla, is preparing for her debut in the international fashion world. She is well-known for her eclectic sense of style and will be walking the runway for celebrated Indian couturière, Archana Kochhar. The designer will be showcasing for the first time at prestigious London Fashion Week.

Ananya Birla states, “I'm looking forward to being a part of the London Fashion Week and supporting the Make In India campaign on the world stage.

Archana Kochhar is a talented designer and I can't wait to walk for her. ” The show, in collaboration with the British Fashion Council, will take place on September 17, 2022, at the Hyatt Regency, London - The Churchill. Kochhar, who has worked with Bollywood stars, is

also the first Indian designer to be designated to propel the Make In India campaign, which was launched by the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, in 2014 on global territories.

Alongside Kochhar, Elizabeth Emanuel, a British designer best known for designing late Princess Diana's wedding gown, currently on display at Kensington Palace

London, will appear during the nightfall slot. Kochhar's collection 'Lé Gehna,' focuses on emerging bridal trends from the modern world. The collection will be a vibrant showcase of royal hues, avant-garde cuts, and seamless textures, with a striking medley of artisanal Indian embroidery and western silhouettes. Birla is expected to dazzle in a bespoke emerald saree gown, with an emphasis on promoting Indian heritage on the global stage.

Archana Kochhar states, “Craft and handiwork are at the core of my work and I’m pleased to associate with Ananya Birla who enjoys a distinct cultural and artistic lineage. My collection’s overall theme is all about inclusivity and consciousness and to inspire forward-thinking fashion conversations in the bridal fashion circuits.”

The Power of Colour

of 208 designer handbags and accessories.

In addition to the most wellknown handbag designs in the world, the Hermès Birkin and Kelly, this online auction features everything a connoisseur could want, including items from Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Dior, Hermès accessories, and limitededition Louis Vuitton x Supreme clothes.This is a rare opportunity to find your favourite items to fill your wardrobe.

Alia Bhatt's sartorial maternity fashion choices are giving us major goals. Pink seems to be her colour of the moment; she fist spotted in the hue on an episode with Koffee with Karan dressed in a playful pink Alia Magda Butrym and followed it up with a pink kurta set by the label Earthen at the airport. She recently made headlines for showing off her growing baby bump dressed in a sheer pink Gucci dress teamed with a pair of jeans, which got mixed reviews. But love it or hate it, Alia is mixing it up teaming and pairing a range of silhouettes like never before.

Spotted in a short, sequined dress and Ranbir's blazer, Alia proved that being pregnant and glamorous can go hand-in-hand. This time, she choose a shimmer eyeshadow that suited her sequin dress and smoky eyes, topped off with a pair of heels.

This brown wrap dress by Meshki made for the perfect photo opportunity with hubby Ranbir Kapoor. It was one of the first photos where her growing baby with visible.

This look on Instagram in a poplin white shirt, a pair of baggy, ripped blue jean and block heels got a lot of votes.

Fun, feminine and bright as sunshine, this yellow dress is one of our faourites. Cosy and stylish, the soon-to-be mother looked effortlessly chic in this number.

For all the office going ladies out there, Bhatt served up workwearchic in a yellow pantsuit from Stella McCartney. A pair of white mules and a black tank top kept it simple and fuss-free.

For fashionistas looking to update their wardrobes, Christie's Hong Kong

Handbags & Accessories Online Auction: The Power Of Color is offering a collection

Picking a traditional blue velvet kurti with bell sleeves, small black bindis, large jhumkas, Alia made sure she kept the ethnic theme going with a but of sass and style.

Grooming habits we sometimes overlook

in nose and ears mean lesser dirt accumulation.

Nail clipping

Short and clean is the way to go. You might not know when, but women notice the little things. Clip your nails every fortnight, and if you’re feeling fancy, get a quick mani-pedi at your barbershop. Who minds soft hands and feet! And the mini massages are a bonus.

Bathroom Etiquettes

NeurocosmeticsMyth vs Reality

Wethought we should discuss some grooming details that are occasionally, if not frequently, forgotten. Why would you let anything detract from your good looks? They say it's all about the little things.

Eyebrow maintenance

Keeping your glabella, that is the part between your eyebrows and above your nose, would make your eyebrows look a lot cleaner and sharper. Unless you have a unibrow, just a little bit of plucking and/or threading would make a world of difference.

Moisturizing

Some of you might not need it, but it wouldn’t hurt on giving it one more look.

Lips. Elbows. Knees. Feet.

Chapped lips draw a lot of attention. And while elbows, knees and feet might not be focal points, but when they are dry and like sandpaper, they do get noticed. It wouldn’t take a long regime to get them in order. Just a little bit of moisturizer on these parts before bed, and you’re set.

If you think that cleaning your body with water is all the hydration you need, you are dead wrong. While drinking water hydrates your body, splashing water on your skin makes it dry and flaky because it will wash the oils away from it.

Nose and ears waxing

It’s important to trim hair from your nose and ears. Find a barbershop that offers waxing for nose and ears, they hurt a lot less than you’d expect. And lesser hair

If you share a bathroom with someone, a carpet of beard trimmings in the sink might become a matter of friction with your roommate. It takes about 30 seconds to run water over it, or an easier solution is just trimming in the shower.

If you are too busy, we can understand; this is where The Lair comes in. It's a straightforward idea: fantastic grooming at affordable costs where gentlemen may just stop by, spend a little time there, or just stop in for a fast haircut, but the cornerstone is for men to just be. Enjoy your relaxation as you admire your impeccable grooming!

(Kruti Sheth, Founder, The Lair, Barbershop)

The tide has shifted in favour of sustainable beauty

People have recently started to pay more attention to the cosmetics they choose to use on their skin. Everyone’s perception of beauty is and always will be subjective. Brands are raising their standards in response to the changing demands of their customers as the cosmetics business experiences a rise in recent years. Choosing personal care and wellness goods has become a top priority for modern beauty consumers, and this trend towards clean beauty is evidence of this.

Consumers nowadays will choose products that are “natural,” “eco-friendly,” “toxin-free,” and “clean” over those that are packed with chemicals. The tide has undoubtedly shifted in favour of sustainable beauty. Nearly 50 percent of 1000 women surveyed by the prestigious Harper’s Bazaar have already included clean, ingredient-focused selections in their regimen, and more than 60% would be willing to spend extra money on them. Every beauty enthusiast has a legitimate desire to learn more and broaden their knowledge.

Anything with “parabens,” “silica,” “aluminium compounds,” “phthalates,” and other infamous substances should be avoided. This has caused beauty businesses to concentrate on the substances used in their product formulations and inform all

customers about the advantages they provide! Beauty companies should be completely truthful and open with their customers.

And with this rising demand of ingredient-focused products in skincare, haircare, personal care & nutrition; the beauty industry is ready to deliver what is being asked of them.

Rather than problem-focused products that used to tackle beauty troubles such as dullness, dehydration, hyperpigmentation, frizz, acne, fatigue (to name a few), the idea has moved onto formulating ingredient rich products that will, in essence, combat any such beauty issues along with providing varied benefits to one! Gone are the days when a brand could claim something and provide something else. With this transition, and keeping ingredients as the core of the formulas, brands are manufacturing high performance essentials that give the maximum results. Clean beauty, in its wake, has also brought attention to ‘sustainability’, ‘greener’ and ‘safe

for planet’ options.

Given the advantages and results of this transition from picks that focus on problems to formulae that focus on ingredients, it’s reasonable to assume that this move is here to stay! Conscious consumers have the ability to change the beauty business and receive what they are due!

To remain genuine to their customers and satisfy their demands, brands may engage in “greenwashing,” which needs to be checked. Because of this, customers may unintentionally contribute to the environment’s continued harm.

Ingredient-focused products are taking over from problem-based ones by treating beauty issues while being environmentally sustainable, clean, and mindful.

At Sublime Life, we take pride in the fact that we have introduced more than 150 eco-friendly beauty businesses who share our values for pure, environmentally conscious, toxin-free beauty and who are as open and truthful about their ingredients, their origin, and environmental impact as we are. We all work together on the platform to give our customers the greatest, most effective items possible. Nothing about it is compromised, not even the information or the ingredients we use.

(Dr. Deep Lalvani, Founder, Sublime Life)

Goosebumps,

blushing, hairraising fear and going pale, we’ve all experienced these reactions on our skin, most of which are caused by emotion or feeling, whether it’s excitement, nerves, embarrassment or fear. It’s clear that our mind and our skin are directly ‘talking’ to each other in some way.

Science proves this beyond doubt: receptors in our cutaneous nervous system bind with neurotransmitters to send messages to the brain and immune systems about external and even internal stimuli that impact our skin. This helps the brain fix any problems, react to stimuli in the right way, and create a feeling of well-being. What happens if these processes are interrupted or slow down? That’s when our skin breaks out, and gets inflamed or is oversensitive. Or simply starts ageing prematurely. Remember the feeling when you use a product that has menthol in it? Your skin feels cool and there’s also a reduction in pain. A massage with aromatherapy oil relaxes your mind as well as your muscles. These products help us in sensorial and textural ways to de-stress or enhance our mood, invigorate us, or soothe us by soothing our skin.

The new generation of clean beauty neuro cosmetics companies has taken this idea one step further. They’ve created wonderful products using a holistic approach which works you inside and out. These products make your skin look like a million bucks, and they make you feel amazing as well, by working on the inner processes of the nervous system. Such products, developed through extensive research, enhance, support and repair the processes of skin-brain communication at a neurological level – by simple topical application! You may ask - how is that possible? How can something you apply to your skin impact your brain and your feelings as well as repair your skin concerns? Read on for all the answers. Mostly derived from natural, plantbased actives, clean beauty neurocosmetic products work to prolong the life and efficiency

of cells. Which means they can actually reverse the effects of ageing on our skin. The science behind this almost miraculous effect is simple. The ingredients like neuro peptides contained in clean beauty neurocosmetics modulate and enhance those all-important messengers, the neurotransmitters, in their job of communicating with the brain. Once this two-way communication becomes more efficient because of the magic of neurocosmetics, a long-lasting transformation in the skin begins to occur, slowing down ageing, reducing inflammation and supporting healing. Here's a great example of how this actually plays out in our skin’s nervous system. We all know that stress in our lives shows up so clearly on our skin making it look dull, older or inflamed. This is because stress promotes the release of cortisol, the stress hormone which damages the collagen in our bodies. However, if products containing neuropeptides are used on the skin, they work as neurotransmitters, and dramatically reduce hormones like cortisol, making our skin look immediately younger, healthier and more radiant. Here's another example of how these cutting-edge new products called neurocosmetics can change the way our skin functions. Some products contain beta-endorphins (another type of neuro peptide) which reduce pain and protect the skin barrier, increase the number of healthy cells, and help them work better –all of that besides helping ageing cells communicate better with the brain. They act directly on the nerve fibres as well, making skin less reactive to outside stimuli, which is good news for those with hypersensitive skin.

So if you’re in doubt about how a cosmetic can work wonders on your skin and improve your mood too, try them for yourself! Check out the new generation of clean neurocosmetics about to launch in India in early September.

(Roshini Sanah Jaiswal, Promoter & CEO at Swanrose Inc (USA) &Swanrose India Pvt. Ltd. and owner of JustHuman brand of personal care products.)

‘KBC 14’: Jaya, Abhishek to grace the show on Big B’s birthday special episode

soon)". This was followed by his popular song 'Kabhi Kabhi Mere Dil Mein Khayaal Aata Hai' in the background as Abhishek entered and hugged Bachchan. This made him emotional and teary-eyed. The angry young man of the film industry, born on October 11, 1942, has many times portrayed a revengeful character on the celluloid.

Vijay Varma wraps up Season 3 of ‘Mirzapur’

Vijay took to his Instagram and shared some selfies with a wrapup cake which has 'Picture wrap for Mirzapur season 3' written on it.

The actor wrote in the caption: "Season wrap for me! #Mirzapur3 Absolutely delightful to work with the fam again. @excelmovies @ primevideoin @yehhaimirzapur @gurmmeetsingh"

Mumbai, Oct 5 (IANS) Megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who is currently seen hosting the fourteenth season of the quizbased reality show 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' will be turning 80 on October 11. To make his birthday more special, his son and Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan and his wife and veteran actress Jaya Bachchan will

be seen taking the hot seat.

The makers dropped the promo of Big B's birthday special episode in which the veteran star can be seen asking questions to the contestants and appeared to be surprised with the sound of the hooter.

He said: "Bahot jaldi khatam kar diya khel ko (Ended the game too

Starting from the 1969 film 'Bhuvan Shome', 'Saat Hindustani', to starring along with superstar Rajesh Khanna and then achieving success with his work in 'Zanjeer', 'Deewar' , 'Don' and 'Trishul', Bachchan has created his own influence and charm and his acting skills makes him an actor par excellence. In the recent poster released by the channel, Abhishek and Jaya, both can be seen along with Big B on 'KBC 14'. 'KBC 14' airs on Sony Entertainment Television.

Angad, Neha Dhupia celebrate son’s first birthday at Golden Temple

statement: "For me, family comes before anything else. It's my son's birthday and I wanted to make sure that they spend some time with their grandfather as well, because the bond they share is extremely special."

Both Angad's and Neha's families belong to Amritsar hence they decided to celebrate their son's first birthday there. Also Bishan Singh wanted his grandson's first birthday celebrations to happen at Amritsar at the Golden Temple.

Mumbai, Oct 4 (IANS) Actor Vijay Varma, who received a lot of positive response for his work in the streaming movie 'Darlings', has wrapped up his part for the third season of the crime-drama web show, 'Mirzapur'.

Vijay's dual role in the Mirzapur series has been very well received by the audience and left the viewers wondering as to which of the two characters portrayed by him in the show gets killed.

Meanwhile, 'Darlings', which was the highest viewed non-English Indian original film on streaming platform Netflix, resulted in a lot of hate for Vijay as he had netizens flocking to his DMs for playing the alcoholic and abusive husband in 'Darlings'.

Vijay has an exciting slate of projects ahead including 'Dahaad' with Sonakshi Sinha, 'The Devotion of Suspect X' with Kareena Kapoor Khan, and of course there's 'Mirzapur 3'.

Tushar Joshi divulges how he bagged ‘Rasiya’ from ‘Brahmastra’

Mumbai, Oct 5 (IANS) Actor

Angad Bedi and his actress-chat show host wife, Neha Dhupia celebrated their son Guriq Singh's first birthday in Amritsar at the Golden Temple.

The couple along with their daughter, Mehr Dhupia Bedi, decided to go back to their roots to their home town Amritsar and have joyous moments with their kids and Angad's father, former

Indian cricketer, Bishan Singh Bedi.

The kids travelled to Amritsar along with Neha, whereas Angad went to Delhi to accompany father Bishan Singh Bedi to Amritsar. The couple chose this itinerary over any kind of theme or lavish party.

Angad, who was seen in the short film 'The List', said in a

"With God's grace, I have everything that I need. To say thank you, all of us are travelling to Amritsar to express our gratitude at The Golden Temple. Birthdays have always been extremely intimate and private for our family and we like them that way", Angad added.

The actor's last project was a streaming short film, 'The List', which also starred Kirti Kulhari, his co-star from 'Pink'. The film is available to stream on Amazon miniTV.

Neetu Kapoor, Karisma Kapoor, Soni Razdan & others celebrate Alia’s baby shower

arrived at their Vastu home in the Pali Hill area of Mumbai.

Mumbai, Oct 6 (IANS) Singer

Mumbai, Oct 6 (IANS) Bollywood couple Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, who are enjoying the response to their film 'Brahmastra', are expecting their first child. The two recently

hosted a baby shower for which Alia's sister Shaheen Bhatt, Ranbir's mother Neetu Kapoor, his sister Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, cousin Karisma Kapoor and Shammi Kapoor's wife, Neila Devi

Ranbir's sibling, Riddhima took to her Instagram and shared pictures from the baby shower. The director of 'Brahmastra'Ayan Mukerji too attended the event as he is very close to Ranbir, having worked with him in all his three directorials, so far. Neetu Kapoor too shared a group picture featuring Alia, herself, Karisma Kapoor, Shweta Bachchan, Alia's mother Soni Razdan, Nitasha Nanda, Rima Jain, Anissa Malhotra Jain, Neila Devi and others.

Tushar Joshi, who is known for his tracks like 'Musafir' from 'Jagga Jasoos', 'Woh Din' from 'Chhichhore' and 'Ami Je Tomar' from 'Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2', is receiving good response for his track 'Rasiya' from the film 'Brahmastra: Part One - Shiva' starring Bollywood couple, Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt. The singer explained how he bagged the song: "I was involved in the process of 'Brahmastra' for a while and initially I got to sing 'Rasiya' as a part of the background score in the film which was really appreciated and loved by the audience. After that Pritam da (music director Pritam Chakraborty) called me to sing it again as a full audio song."

Tushar started his film journey by lending his voice for the musicals featuring Ranbir Kapoor in the film 'Jagga Jasoos'. Sharing his experience of doing the song 'Rasiya' and how he found the response of the audience, he said: "Recording 'Rasiya' honestly, came naturally to me. It's just a song that I loved right from the time I heard it and felt that it is a special song. Amitabh Bhattacharya (the lyricist) has written it beautifully and I tried to sing it with all honesty, love and passion. I'm overwhelmed that I got to share the microphone with the legendary Shreya Ghoshal."

He added: "The response is massive and people are loving the song so much. They have only nice things to say and I'm so glad that they are appreciating and loving my voice as well."

On the work front, Tushar is occupied with a few of his independent tracks.

"I'm planning to release two more independent songs this year. Have recorded a bunch of songs where I'm collaborating with other artists as well. On the film front, I have recorded quite a few songs. Keeping my fingers crossed for the release."

Neha, Vishal and Himesh shower their praise on ‘Indian Idol 13’ contestants

the music industry soon. You have witnessed great talent last season and this season the talent will take it to another level."

Aditya Narayan, who is hosting the third season of the show, said this time the contestants are more talented and thus this season is going to be exciting.

Mumbai, Oct 1 (IANS) As the singing reality show, 'Indian Idol 13' is all about to start, the judges and singers Himesh Reshammiya, Neha Kakkar and Vishal Dadlani expressed their excitement and hopes that the new season will show some out-of-the-box talents and maybe a few will make their place in the entertainment industry.

During 'The Dream Debut' episode of the show, Neha talked about her shooting experience and said: "We had a lot of fun shooting for 'The Dream Debut'. The performances we saw of the Top 15 contestants are extraordinary, to say the least. It felt more like the grand finale performance, and from here on, I am eagerly waiting to see every

contestant's journey. I am also confident that many contestants will make their debut in the music industry during their journey on 'Indian Idol 13'.

On the other hand, Vishal added that all the contestants gave versatile performances and this is what the show is all about and they all are just brilliant singers.

He added: "All the contestants rightfully showed off their singing prowess to their fans and made us very proud. They have started to display their versatility as musicians, which is what 'Indian Idol' truly is about at its core."

Himesh also agreed with Vishal and said: "The journey ahead on this super show will see some amazing talents which will rule

"This is my third season hosting Indian Idol and I can say with pride that I have not seen this kind of talent before. The talent that we have got this time is extraordinary and diverse. I am sure that the audiences will love 'the dream debut' episodes," he shared.

The show will start with the Top 15 contestants including Rishi Singh from Ayodhya, Chirag Kotwal from Jammu and Kashmir, Shagun Pathak from Ranchi, Vineet Singh from Lucknow, Navdeep Wadali, Rupam Bharnarhia from Amritsar, Shivam Singh from Baroda, Kavya Limaye from Gujarat, Bidipta Chakraborty, Anushka Patra, Senjuti Das, Sanchari Sengupta, Sonakshi Kar, Debosmita Roy and Pritam Roy from Kolkata.

'Indian Idol 13' will air on Sony Entertainment Television.

Pankaj Tripathi announced as National Icon by ECI

(AIR) which will include a series titled 'Matdata Junction' with 52 episodes of 15 minutes each to be broadcast every Friday on Vividh Bharti stations, and other primary radio channels of AIR.

The programme will be broadcast in 23 languages across 230 AIR channels. Pankaj Tripathi will join the launch of Matdata Junction as the National Icon. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar along with Election Commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey complimenting Pankaj Tripathi announced during the election commission meet and launch of the Matdata Junction.

Mumbai, Oct 4 (IANS) Actor

Pankaj Tripathi, who is known for his work in 'Gangs of Wasseypur', 'Mirzapur', 'Bareilly Ki Barfi' and several others, has been roped in as the National Icon, as announced by the Election Commission of India (ECI).

The actor was already State Icon of Bihar to create awareness and encourage youth as voters and participate in the elections in Bihar. The ECI is launching a special programme in collaboration with All India Radio

On being titled the National Icon of Election Commission of India, Tripathi said in a statement: "I was already the state icon of Bihar associated with Election Commission and during the programme at AIR station Chief Election Commissioner Mr Rajiv Kumar along with Election Commissioner Mr Anup Chandra announced that now I will be the National Icon of the Election Commission of India between the running show and it was a pleasant surprise for me as I wasn't aware anything such thing was to happen."

Continuing further, he mentioned that he feels that the ECI has roped him in because of his dedication and commitment as Bihar's State Icon.

"I believe they have seen my dedication and responsibility as the State Icon of Bihar. Whenever there is a requirement to share an audio and video clip to spread awareness for the voters, I promptly share informative details within no time. Mr Rajiv Kumar announced my name as the National Icon is a kind gesture. He also went on to mention that Pankaj does not charge for any commercials for such initiatives and his love towards democracy is highly appreciated. Hence, he announced me as the National Icon of our country," he said. Expressing his gratitude, the actor added: "I am grateful to the Election Commission. As an actor, I believe I also have some social responsibilities towards the society. The title which is bestowed upon me I'll abide by it sincerely in my full capacity. I shall be available as much as possible whenever the Election Commission needs me to spread awareness and be a part of campaigns. I am extremely happy and it's a great responsibility and I'll fulfil it's duties sincerely."

On the work front, Pankaj Tripathi is currently shooting the third instalment of the streaming series 'Mirzapur'. He will soon be seen in 'OMG 2' followed by 'Gulkanda Tales', again a Prime Video series.

Alia Bhatt enjoying her pregnancy to the fullest

reveal her emotions for them. During a promotional event of her movie 'Brahmastra' in Hyderabad in September, she was seen wearing a pink sharara. But what she wanted to do was to highlight a message written on it. For this, she turned her back towards the audience so that they could read ‘baby on board' written on her back.

New Delhi, Oct 3 (IANS) Alia Bhatt had announced her pregnancy through social media in June and since then the actress is grabbing the eyeballs about the same.

From her maternity outfit, footwear and to launching her own line of maternity wear, the 'Brahmastra' actress is leaving no stone unturned to flaunt her pregnancy and talk about it during the promotional events or award ceremonies.

The actress is often seen sharing her experience and singing her favourite track 'Kesariya'.

In fact, more recently during the acceptance speech after being honoured with Time100 Impact award, the actress mentioned how the baby 'relentlessly kicked' her throughout her speech.

She also talked at length about it during the promotional events of her recent projects, including 'Darlings' and 'Brahmastra: Part One - Shiva'. well, it seems momto-be Alia is in love with these two topics and thus she prefers to

She also sang her favourite song 'Kesariya' in Telugu. The actress was also trolled by the netizens for wearing heels during one of the promotional events of her movie 'Brahmastra' and many of them advised her to stop wearing them as they can be risky and said not to feel insecure about her height while posing for a picture with Ranbir.

Recently, she also took to her Instagram handle to show the collection of her maternity wear. Those looking at it can easily come to know about her style statement during pregnancy and how much effort she is putting to make it visible to her fans.

Of course, it can be an attempt also to show how expecting mothers can set their own fashion trends.

Just after the announcement of her pregnancy, the 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' actress was seen promoting her film 'Darlings' in which she opened up about the stress during pregnancy and gave her precious piece of advice to continue working even during this period.

Richa-Ali dance to ‘Ambarsariya’ at their sangeet ceremony

Mumbai, Oct 2 (IANS) Bollywood couple Richa Chadha and Ali Fazal are now officially man and wife with their recently concluded Delhi wedding festivities.

The two are now in Lucknow to celebrate another round of celebrations of mehendi, sangeet and a party being hosted to celebrate their union.

The decor for the occasion was inspired by nature with a lot of elements like florals, jute, wood etc. The couple did a fun "Phoolon

Ki Holi" as their friends and family showered them in a customary way.

The evening was marked by performances by their friends and cousins. Richa's best friend from her childhood put up a surprise performance for the couple, while her brother sang her a song and did a Bhangra performance too. The couple then danced on two songs including their popular song 'Ambarsariya' from their 2013 release, 'Fukrey'.