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US winter storm death toll rises as bad weather drags on

Washington: (IANS) At least 62 people have died in the US due to the catastrophic winter storm that continues to wreak havoc across the country since it started on December 22, officials said. Erie County in New York has reported the 37 deaths, the highest in the country as crews continue to clear roads and first responders are checking on people they couldn’t reach days ago, reports CNN. The remaining 25 fatalities were reported across 11 states.

“It’s a horrible storm with too many deaths,” Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz said at a news conference on Wednesday as he praised first responders, without whom “more people would have died”.

“We are fearful that there are individuals who may have perished living alone or people who were not

Trump-Era Strict Border Policy Will Remain In Place: US Supreme Court

Large numbers of migrants have amassed at the border in expectation of the US policy change, which could force the Border Patrol to register and admit all those asking for asylum.

Washington: The US Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that a pandemic-era measure used since 2020 to block hundreds of thousands of migrants from entering the country should remain in place. Large numbers of migrants have amassed at the border in expectation of the US policy change, which could force the Border Patrol to register and admit all those asking for asylum.

The 5-4 court ruling accepted a petition from 19 states who said they would be swamped with migrants if the Title

42 policy is lifted and the border with Mexico opens up. The court said the policy introduced under former president Donald Trump would remain in place pending its ruling on an underlying lawsuit challenging plans to remove Title 42, and that it would hear the case in February. That could give President Biden’s govt., which had prepared for a gush of migrants, until May or June before a final ruling comes.“The states contend that they face an immigration crisis at the border and policymakers have failed to agree on adequate measures to address it,” the court said in its ruling.

doing well in an establishment, especially those that still don’t have power,” he added.

The storm buried the city of Buffalo in Erie County in nearly 52 inches of snow, trapping residents at home, many without heat as the Christmas weekend blizzard took out power lines.

Also on Wednesday, Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph A. Gramaglia told CNN that he expects rising temperatures in the coming days will melt the snow and uncover more storm victims.

In a statement, Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said: “People got stranded in their vehicles and passed away in their cars. We have people that were walking during blizzard conditions and passed away on the street, passed away in snowbanks.

“And we have people that were found that passed away in their homes.”

US imposes mandatory Covid testing for visitors from China

The tests can be either an RT-PCR or an antigen self-test administered through a telehealth service. It said that the travellers would need to take a Covid test no more than two days before departure. Those who test positive more than 10 days before the flight could provide documentation of recovery from Covid instead of a negative test result, the statement noted.

Washington:(IANS) The US has made it mandatory for travellers from China to show a negative Covid-19 test result before boarding a flight to the country in the wake of an ongoing resurgence of the virus in the Asian nation.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Department of Health that from 12.01 a.m. on January 5, 2023, all passengers travelling from China, Hong Kong and Macau would need a negative Covid test to enter the country in order to “slow the spread” of the virus, reports the BBC.

Americans Lost Over $10 Billion To Fraudsters In India This Year: Report

US citizens lost more than $10 billion to phishing gangs and fraudsters operating from India in 2022.

A majority of these victims were found to be elderly, who were duped of over $3 billion in the last two years, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) data shows, reported The Times of India. Fraudsters running illegal call centres in India have been targeting people based in the US, especially senior citizens, on the pretext of providing technical support or other assistance.

Americans lost $10.2 billion through the Internet or call centre-related fraud in just the last 11 months. This indicates a jump of 47 per cent as compared to the last year, when the total money lost was put at $6.9 billion, the report added. Earlier this month, Delhi Police officials

informed that they had arrested three men running illegal call centres in the capital and defrauding US senior citizens by promising them technical support for the “malfunctioning” of their systems.

While three accused were caught in Delhi after overnight raids, one of their accomplices was caught by Canadian Law Enforcement Agency in Toronto and the other from New Jersey, US, by the FBI.

The police informed that as per the information shared by the US, over 20,000 victims fell prey to such scams causing a revenue loss of $10 million to America between 2012 and 2020. Given this rise in frauds originating from India, the FBI deputed a permanent representative at the US Embassy in New Delhi.

With this, the FBI aims to curb such crimes by working with the CBI, Interpol, and the Delhi Police, the TOI report said.

The official attached with the US embassy in Delhi, Suhel Daud, was quoted as saying by TOI that romancerelated frauds led to a loss of around ₹ 8,000 crore to victims in 2021 and ₹ 8,000 crore in the last 11 months of this year as per frauds reported on FBI’s website.

The measures applied to people flying via a third country and to passengers taking connecting flights through the US to other destinations, the Department said, adding that it would “continue to monitor the situation” and adjust its approach “as necessary”.

The statement also accused China of failing to provide “adequate and transparent” Covid data, which it said was “critical” for monitoring infection surges “effectively” as well as decreasing the chances of new variants emerging.

US To Revise Travel Rules For China Over “Lack Of Transparent Data”: Report

Los Angeles: The US govt. may impose new COVID-19 measures on travelers to the United States from China over concerns about the “lack of transparent data” coming from Beijing, US officials said on Tuesday. The move comes after Japan, India and Malaysia announced stepped up rules on travelers from China in the last 24 hours, citing a rise in infections there. Japan has said it would require a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival for travelers from the China.

Malaysia put in place additional tracking and surveillance measures.

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Fraudsters running illegal call centres in India have been targeting people based in the US, especially senior citizens.

Australia to vote on Indigenous Voice to Parliament within 12 months: PM

Indian-American convicted of making illicit profits worth $7.3mn

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New York: (IANS) An IndianAmerican former IT professional has been convicted of four counts of securities fraud in California for using a publicly traded company’s confidential inside information about its financial performance to trade in the company’s securities.

Canberra: (IANS) Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has promised a referendum on establishing an Indigenous voice to Parliament will be held within 12 months.

Addressing the annual Woodford Folk Festival on Wednesday, Albanese told the crowd that the referendum will have been held by this time next year. The referendum will ask Australians if they support an alteration to the Constitution that would establish an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to act as an advisory body to Parliament, Xinhua news agency reported.

Russia bombards liberated Kherson

Sivannarayana Barama, 48, and a co-defendant were charged with securities fraud and conspiracy to commit securities fraud by a superseding indictment in December 2019.

The co-defendant pleaded guilty plea to related charges in 2019.

Barama proceeded to jury trial, and the jury returned its verdicts against him on December 13.

He had participated in an insider trading scheme in which he learned inside information about the quarterly financial performance of NASDAQlisted Palo Alto Networks before that information was released to the public and then traded in that company’s

stock while that information was still confidential. According to evidence presented at trial, Barama formerly worked as a contractor at Palo Alto Networks.

During that time, he met an employee who worked in the company’s information technology department, a statement from Attorney Stephanie M Hinds’ office said.

From at least October 2016 through September 2017, the employee learned confidential inside information about the company’s quarterly revenue and financial performance through his employment. Trial evidence demonstrated that the

After US, UK May Impose Covid Curbs On Arrivals From China: Report

The UK Prime Minister’s spokesperson had said earlier that the restrictions were “not something we are looking at”, the report added.

the United States and Italy in imposing Covid restrictions for travellers from China, the report said.

Palo Alto Networks employee traded on that confidential information himself in nominee accounts and also provided Barama with the information along with trading instructions.

Barama used the confidential information and trading instructions to purchase Palo Alto Networks stock options.

Once the company publicly announced its earnings for a prior quarter, the stock price reacted to the public disclosure and his earlier option trades promptly became highly profitable.

Barama’s trades based on confidential inside information at times resulted in profits of more than five times the amount he invested.

He made profits of $7.3 million on his options trades based on confidential information obtained ahead of four different Palo Alto Networks earnings announcements.

The jury convicted Barama last week of four counts of securities fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. sections 1348.

China will halt testing travellers

Russian forces stepped up mortar and artillery attacks on the recently liberated city of Kherson in southern Ukraine on Wednesday, Ukraine’s military said, while also exerting pressure along frontlines in the east.

Russia fired 33 missiles from multiple rocket launchers at civilian targets in Kherson in the 24 hours to early Wednesday, the General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces said in its morning report.

Heavy fighting also persisted around the Ukrainian-held city of Bakhmut, now largely in ruins, in the eastern province of Donetsk, and to its north, around the cities of Svatove and Kreminna in Luhansk province, where Ukrainian forces are trying to break Russian defensive lines.

Air raid sirens also sounded across Ukraine on Wednesday morning, officials said, though there were no reports of any missile strikes and the allclear was later given. Ukrainian social media reports said the nationwide alert may have been declared after Russian jets stationed in neighbouring Belarus took off.

Britain’s defence ministry said in its update on Ukraine that Russia had likely reinforced the Kreminna section of the frontline as it is logistically important to Moscow and has become relatively vulnerable following Ukrainian advances further west.

The UK will consider on Thursday imposing COVID-19 restrictions for arrivals from China, including requiring tests for the coronavirus, the Telegraph reported.

Officials from the Department for Transport, Home Office and the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) are expected to decide today whether the UK should follow

The Prime Minister’s spokesperson had said earlier on Wednesday that the restrictions were “not something we are looking at”, the report added.

DHSC did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment on the report.

The United States imposed mandatory COVID-19 tests on travelers from China on Wednesday while Italy has ordered COVID-19 antigen swabs and virus sequencing for all travellers coming from China.

India can do more, says Volodymyr Zelensky

earlier during which he had said he was counting on New Delhi to participate in the implementation of his peace plan.

China will drop a requirement for inbound travellers to take Covid-19 PCR tests starting from January 8, customs authorities said on Wednesday.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday told his nation that “India can be more active in efforts to end aggression”, swiftly following through a conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi a few hours

In a televised address to Ukraine, Zelensky referred to his telephone conversation with Modi earlier in the day and said: “Next year, it will be India that will preside over the G20. I wished Mr Modi a fruitful presidency, and fruitful not for someone in particular, but for everyone in the world who values peace.”

Zelensky added: “India can be more active in efforts to end aggression, so I hope we can do more together for global stability in the coming year.”

PCR checks for imported chilled and frozen foods will also be dropped, China’s General Administration of Customs said. China’s management of Covid-19 is set to be downgraded to the less strict Category B from the top-level Category A from January 8, the health authority said on Monday. The country will also gradually resume accepting applications for international passenger charter flights from Chinese and foreign airlines, China’s civil aviation authority said on Wednesday. China will also fully restore pre-pandemic flight procedures and requirements by the summer and autumn seasons in 2023, it added. Chinese hospitals and funeral homes were under intense pressure on Wednesday as a surging Covid-19 wave drained resources, while the scale of the outbreak and doubts over official data prompted some countries to consider new travel rules on Chinese visitors. China reported three new Covid-related deaths for Tuesday, up from one for Monday — numbers that are inconsistent with what funeral parlours are reporting, as well as with the experience of much less populous countries after they re-opened.

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Uzbekistan Says Deaths Of 18 Children Linked To India-Made Cough Syrup

Uzbekistan Cough Syrup

Deaths’ Claim: The health ministry of Uzbekistan, in a statement, said that the 18 children who died had consumed cough syrup Doc-1 Max - manufactured by Noida-based Marion Biotech.

New Delhi: Uzbekistan has claimed that at least 18 children in the country have died after allegedly taking an India-manufactured cough syrup. India is set to probe the claims. The health ministry of Uzbekistan, in a statement, said that the children who died had consumed cough syrup Doc-1 Max - manufactured by Noida-based Marion Biotech.

The laboratory tests of a batch of syrups found the presence of ethylene glycol, a toxic substance, the ministry said.

It also said the syrup was given to children at home without a doctor’s prescription, on the advice of local pharmacists, and doses exceeded the standard amount for children. It was found that the children, before being hospitalised, took this syrup at home for 2-7 days, in doses of 2.5 to 5 ml three to four times a day, which exceeds the standard dose, the ministry said.

“Blinded In Hate For...”: BJP vs Congress Over Syrup Linked Deaths In Uzbekistan

New Delhi: The alleged role of Indian pharma companies in the deaths of children abroad led to a verbal tussle between the BJP and the Congress on Thursday. While the opposition party asked the government to stop boasting about India being a pharmacy to the world and take the strictest action, the ruling party accused it of deriding India in its “hate” for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

TheCDSCO has initiated a probe in connection with the death of 18 children in Uzbekistan allegedly linked to a cough syrup manufactured by an Indian firm, official sources said on Thursday. Before that, were reports linking the deaths of children in Gambia to India-made cough syrups. The Drugs Controller General

of India had claimed the WHO drew a premature link. “Made in India cough syrups seem to be deadly. First it was the deaths of 70 kids in Gambia and now it is that of 18 children in Uzbekistan.

Cough syrup deaths in Uzbekistan:

Team of Centre, UP drug dept inspect pharma firm’s Noida office

A team of central agencies and the Uttar Pradesh drug department on Thursday carried out an inspection at the Noida office of a pharmaceutical firm whose cough syrup is allegedly linked to the death of 18 children in Uzbekistan, officials said.

The company, Marion Biotech, does not sell the cough syrup, ‘Doc-1 Max’, in India and its only export has been to

Uzbekistan, a state government official said.

The inspection began at Marion Biotech’s office in Noida Sector 67 on Thursday morning, Gautam Buddh Nagar Drug Inspector Vaibhav Babbar told PTI.

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has initiated a probe in connection with the death of 18 children in Uzbekistan allegedly linked to Marion Biotech.

Mumbai Special Court sends Kochhars, Dhoot to 14 days’ judicial custody

Kochhar, her businessman husband Deepak Kochhar, and Videocon Group Chairman Venugopal Dhoot to 14 days’ judicial custody.

The Kochhars nabbed on December 23 and Dhoot arrested on December 26, was produced before a Special Central Bureau of Investigation Court after their CBI remands ended today.

Modi Sarkar must stop boasting about India being a pharmacy to the world & take strictest action,” Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said on Twitter. The BJP hit back with its IT department in-charge Amit Malviya replying, “The death of children in Gambia had nothing to do with the consumption of cough syrup made in India. That has been clarified by the Gambian authorities and DCGI, both. But blinded in its hate for Modi, Congress continues to deride India and its entrepreneurial spirit. Shameful.” The DCGI said Gambia has informed, according to media, that there has been no direct causal relation established yet between cough syrup consumption and the deaths, and that certain children who had died had not consumed the syrup in question.

Hiraben (99) was admitted to the super-speciality UN Mehta Institute of Cardiology and Research Centre here on Wednesday morning due to some health issues.

“Her condition is gradually improving. She is much better today, she moved her arms and legs,” Somabhai Modi told PTI. “She even asked us, through a sign, to put her in the sitting position and also took liquid food given by the hospital. The decision about her discharge will be taken by doctors after conducting her CT Scan and MRI today,” he said.

Mumbai, Dec 29 (IANS)

Since the probe agency did not require them for further custodial interrogation in the ICICI-Videocon fraud cases, it sought judicial custody for a fortnight, which was granted till January 10, 2023.

Star Australia opener David Warner on Thursday said he is “committed” to playing next year’s 50-over World Cup in India but will quit if the team management says “it’s time”. The 36-year-old, who was undergoing prolonged lean patch in red-ball cricket, silenced his detractors by scoring a double century in his 100th Test.

“I will keep myself fit, try and keep scoring, but if they (the team management) do tap me on the back and say it’s time, I’m ready (to quit),” said Warner, who was adjudged ‘Player of the match.’ On Tuesday, Warner, one the finest all-format players

Rahul Gandhi, Asked About Life Partner, Says “Would Prefer Woman Who...”

New Delhi: Rahul Gandhi wants to settle down with someone who has the qualities of both his mother Sonia Gandhi and grandmother Indira Gandhi, the Congress leader has said. He shared this on being asked whether he would settle down with a woman like Indira Gandhi during an interview with a YouTube channel during his nationwide Bharat Jodo Yatra.

He also termed his grandmother, a former prime minister, as “the love of my life and my second mother”. “I would prefer a woman... I do not mind...she has got qualities. But, a mix between my mother’s and grandmother’s qualities is good,” said Mr Gandhi. On being called “Pappu”, he termed it a propaganda campaign and said those calling him so are doing it out of fear inside them. “Nothing is happening in his life, he is sad as his relations in life are not fine. That is why he is abusing someone else, it is ok. I welcome it. Abuse more. I like it. You can give me more names, I do not care. I am relaxed.”

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Condition of PM Modi’s mother improving

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s elder brother Somabhai Modi on Thursday said their mother Hiraben’s condition was gradually improving and she had liquid food in the morning.

A Mumbai Special Court on Thursday sent former ICICI Bank honcho Chanda

“Will Quit If...”: David Warner Provides Update On His Australia Future

The health ministry of Uzbekistan has claimed that the 18 children had consumed cough syrup, ‘Doc-1 Max’, manufactured by Noida-based Marion Biotech.

Breif

Can’t Take Nasal Vaccine After Booster: Covid Task Force Chief

Covid: Vaccine makers sitting on stockpile of 250 mn doses

According to respective company sources, 200 million doses of Corbevax while 50 million doses of Covaxin are ready to dispatch as and when orders are received

The nasal vaccine, iNCOVACC, was introduced on the CoWIN platform last week

New Delhi: India’s nasal vaccine cannot be administered to those who have taken a precaution or booster dose, the head of the country’s vaccine task force told NDTV on Tuesday in an exclusive interview.

The nasal vaccine, iNCOVACC, was introduced on the CoWIN platform last week.

“It (nasal vaccine) is recommended as the first booster. For example, if a person has already received a precaution dose, it is not recommended for that person. It is for those who have not yet taken a precaution dose,” Dr NK Arora, who has been closely involved with the rollout of vaccines from the onset of the pandemic, told NDTV.

Dr Arora is the Chairman of the Covid Working Group of NTAGI, short for the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation, which works on introduction of new vaccines and strengthening the universal immunisation programme.

3 Terrorists Killed In Encounter With Security Forces In Jammu

Srinagar: At least three terrorists have been killed during an encounter after security forces intercepted a truck they were travelling in on the outskirts of Jammu this morning, police said. Police said the truck has caught fire in the gun battle and fire tenders were called to douse the fire. “There was suspicious movement of a truck in the area. Police stopped the truck at check post. As security forces started searching the truck, terrorist hiding inside fired at security forces. All the terrorists were killed in retaliatory fire,” said Mukesh Singh, Additional Director General of police Jammu.

Mr Singh said the truck driver has managed to escape and a search operation is on to track him. Soon after the encounter, the entire area was sealed off and traffic along the highway was stopped.

Police also recovered a coded sheet and letter pad page of terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and detained a suspect.

Two major vaccine makers from Hyderabad, Biological E Ltd and Bharat Biotech, together are holding about 250 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines ready to dispatch as and when orders are received.

According to respective company sources, Biological E is holding 200 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccine Corbevax while Bharat Biotech is sitting on a stockpile of 50 million doses of Covaxin.

Dr Vikram Paradkar, Executive Vice President (Manufacturing), Biological E, said the firm produced about 30 crore doses of Corbevax in total, abiding by the vaccine manufacturing commitment to the Central government.

In March ’22, Biological E successfully supplied 10 crore doses to the government.

“Currently, we have approximately 20 crore (200 million) doses that are fully tested and ready for supply, as and when

we receive orders. Additionally, we manufactured 20 crore doses equivalent of the antigen which will help us ramp up the manufacturing of the Corbevax finished product quickly,” Paradkar told PTI.

The vaccine has been developed by Biological E in collaboration with Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development (Texas Children’s CVD) and Baylor College of Medicine (Baylor) in Houston, Texas, USA.

He further said Biological E can begin with the additional vaccine supplies within eight weeks of future orders and can manufacture and supply approximately 10 crore doses of Corbevax on a monthly basis as per its qualified manufacturing capacity.

Bharat Biotech sources said the vaccine maker has more than 50 million doses of Covaxin readily available in vials, and over 200 million doses as drug substance.

in biology

London, Dec 28 (IANS) An Indian scientist has been chosen to join the prestigious European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) Young Investigator network, recognising her as one of the top talents in biology in Europe.

Dr Mahima Swamy, who hails from Bengaluru, is one of the University of Dundee’s most revered experts within their School of Life Sciences where she heads a research group that investigates immune responses in the intestine. Based within the University’s Medical Research Council Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit (MRC-PPU), Mahima joins 23 other researchers to become a part of the network of 135 current and 390 former members of the EMBO programme.

PM Modi’s mother hospitalised

Hospital Says “Condition Stable”

Ahmedabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mother Heeraben Modi has been hospitalised after her health deteriorated last night.

Heeraben Modi, who turned 99 in June this year, has been admitted to a hospital in Ahmedabad. A statement from UN Mehta Institute of Cardiology and Research Centre has said that her condition is stable. The hospital has not shared any other piece of information.

3 Indian-Americans Walking On Frozen Lake Fall Through Ice, Drown

According to a statement released by officials with CCSO, “deputies stationed at a substation in the area were called to the lake after two men and a woman were walking on the frozen lake and fell through the ice.”

three victims resided in Chandler, Arizona and are originally from India,” Coconino County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) said in a statement on Tuesday. Chandler is a suburb of Phoenix.

Officials said they were able to pull Haritha from the water soon after and administered life-saving measures but were unsuccessful and she died at the scene, it said.

Washington: In a tragic incident, three Indian-Americans, including a woman, have drowned after they fell through the ice while walking on a frozen lake in the US state of Arizona.

The incident occurred on December 26 at 3:35 PM at Woods Canyon Lake in Coconino County, Arizona.

“The missing men are located deceased and identified as Narayana Muddana, 49 and Gokul Mediseti, 47. The female victim has been identified as Haritha Muddana (age unknown). The

Crews then began searching for Narayana and Mediseti, who had also fallen into the lake. The two men were found dead on Tuesday afternoon, the sheriff’s office said.

According to a statement released by officials with CCSO, “deputies stationed at a substation in the area were called to the lake after two men and a woman were walking on the frozen lake and fell through the ice.” Woods Canyon Lake is located east of Payson in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. It is an area popular among hikers, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts.

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Indian scientist honored as one of Europe’s top talents

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Telangana has highest MBBS seats to population ratio: Govt

Hyderabad: (IANS) With 19 MBBS seats for one lakh population, Telangana now has the highest ratio of medical seats in the country, state Health Minister T. Harish Rao said on Tuesday.

The country’s youngest state has a total of 6,690 seats with a population of 3.51 crore (as per 2011 census). Karnataka stands second with 17.91 seats for one lakh population while Tamil Nadu is at third position with 15.35 seats.

Telangana has second highest ratio of PG seats in the country. For every one lakh population, the state has 7.22 PG seats. Karnataka stands first with 9.06 seats for the same population.

The Health Minister said that under visionary leadership of Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao, Telangana is shining like a diamond in medical education, despite Central government’s

discrimination in allotting medical colleges. He stated that BJP-ruled states are not even in competition.

The minister said that the measures taken by the Chief Minister to make medical education accessible are yielding the results.

The state set a new record this year with a student who had secured 8,78,280st rank in NEET, got an MBBS seat under B category. With eight new medical

With 19 MBBS seats for one lakh population, Telangana now has the highest ratio of medical seats in the country, state Health Minister T. Harish Rao said on Tuesday.

colleges, the state now has added 1,150 MBBS seats. Harish Rao pointed out that the Chief Minister had already decided to set up one medical college in every district. As part of this, after the formation of Telangana, four medical colleges were started and by setting up eight new medical colleges in one go this year, the state set a new record in the country. With the addition of eight new colleges, total number of medical colleges in the country rose to 42 while the number of MBBS seats increased to 6,690, providing more opportunities to students.

TN Health Minister inspects Covid-19 preparedness, urges people not to panic

HYDRABAD NEWS

Hyderabad police issue notice to Congress poll strategist

Hyderabad: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA), with an on-time percentage (OTP) of 88.44 per cent, has been named one of the punctual airports in the large category. The data was revealed by aviation analytics firm Cirium, which recently published an on-time performance report for November.

The airport made its debut in the top five this month by bagging the fourth spot, beating all other Indian airports.

Telangana govt releases Rs 2,500 crore for road repairs

Chennai: (IANS) Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanian on Tuesday called upon state government hospitals to ensure that they are prepared for any Covid-19 cases surge and to report on their preparedness to the state Health Department in 24 hours.

Speaking to media persons after inspecting the mock drill for Covid-19

preparedness at the Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital here, he assured the people of the state that the state had adequate beds and oxygen and that there was no need for any panic. The Union Health Ministry had directed all the state governments to conduct a mock drill on Tuesday to ensure the availability of hospital beds, oxygen concentrators, and liquid medical oxygen tanks. Subramanian said that the Union Health Ministry had given an advisory to the state health departments that government medical college hospitals, district hospitals, taluk, and non-taluk hospitals should be instructed to have a proper assessment of their infrastructure and report back to the state Health Department. The advisory came following the rise in the number of Covid-19 cases in countries like China, Japan, South Korea, France, Italy, Germany, and Brazil.

Hyderabad: Two arrested for killing youth at Lalithabagh corporator’s office

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad city police have issued a notice to Congress poll strategist Sunil Kanugolu in connection with a case registered against him for allegedly making derogatory videos against Chief Minister, K Chandrasekhar Rao and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) party.

The cybercrime police had asked him to appear before them on December 30 failing which he will be liable for arrest.

TSRTC introduces Singareni Darshan package

Hyderabad: The State government has issued orders releasing Rs 2,500 crore for the repair of roads and construction of culverts damaged due to rains in the State.

The government has asked the Roads & Buildings Department to finalise the tenders for the repair of roads and construction of culverts at the earliest. Out of the sanctioned amount, Rs 1,865 crore has been allocated for road repairs and Rs 635 crore for the construction of culverts.

Hyderabad: The Bhavaninagar police have solved the murder of a student, which took place a week ago in the office of Lalithabagh GHMC corporator, with the arrest of two persons on Monday.

The arrested persons were identified as Suleman Khan (28) and Abdul Hamed Khan (24) both residents of Edi Bazaar. According to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (South), P Sai Chaitanya, the victim Syed Murtuza Ali Anas was in the office of Lalithabagh corporator when Suleman and Abdul Hamed came and

attacked him with a paper cutting knife. Few months ago, Junaid, Suleman and Hamed had allegedly threatened a woman to vacate a house over issues pertaining to payment of rent. The woman approached the local corporator Azam who reprimanded the trio for harassing the woman and asked them to resolve the issue. It is learnt that, Anas was present when the discussion took place at the corporator’s office and the trio developed a grudge against Anas because he had threatened them.

On December 19, Anas and his friend Hameedullah went to a Mee Seva center on some work and there Suleman had also come. “There was a confrontation between Suleman and Anas and the former left the place. Suleman went home and along with Hamed came back and attacked Anas who died due to injuries,” said DCP (South), P Sai Chaitanya.

Hyderabad: The TSRTC Tourism is introducing Singareni Darshan, a package tour to Singareni coal reserves that stretch across 350 km of the Pranahita-Godavari valley of Telangana.

Priced at Rs 1,600 per person, the package will include underground mine view, open cast mine view, view of Jaipur power plant and rescue station.

First batch of Agniveers report at Artillery Centre

Hyderabad: After undergoing four phases of gruelling, testing and filtering process, the first batch of Agniveers reported at Artillery Centre Hyderabad here on Sunday. The union government had announced the Agnipath scheme enabling the Indian youth to serve the Armed Forces as Agniveers for a period of four years.

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Hyderabad airport ranked fourth most punctual airport globally

Immigrant graduates earn more than US-born peers: Study

New York: (IANS) Immigrant graduates in the US, including Indians, are more likely to be better educated and earn more compared to their American-born peers with college degrees, says a study by the Washington-based Migration Policy Institute (MPI).

College-educated immigrants in the US are more likely to have advanced degrees and major in STEM and health fields than their US-born peers with college degrees.

The study found that 60 per cent of immigrant college graduates have at least a master’s degree versus 53 per cent of the college-educated US-born. Fifty-one per cent of immigrants’ degrees are concentrated in the high-

Indian man dies in US multi-vehicle crash

demand STEM and health fields versus a mere 36 per cent in those held by the US-born. Furthermore, two-thirds of immigrants in the PIAAC (Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies) sample earned their highest degree in the US. It is precisely due to this reason that the average monthly earnings of immigrant college graduates exceed those of US-born graduates. Full-

time, college-educated immigrant workers have higher monthly earnings of $7,140 compared to their US-born counterparts at $6,500. However, despite these largely favourable outcomes, one-fifth of immigrant college graduates see their skills underutilised, said the study targeting the 25-65 age group.

MPI estimated that about two million college-educated immigrants in the US worked in jobs that required no more than a high school degree or were unemployed as of 2019. This outcome is a result of lower levels of English proficiency, licensing barriers, limited social and professional networks, and other issues. The study added that immigrants’ literacy, numeracy, and digital skills are also likely to play a role.

Indian-American Richard Verma comes home to US State Department

is the first member of the community to serve at this level of seniority in the State Department.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken will be his boss, whom he will serve as principal advisor on overall supervision and direction of resource allocation and management activities of the department.

Indian student wins top UK univ scholarship worth 5,000 pounds

Rajvir Singh

New Delhi: (IANS) An Indian student from Bengaluru has won a prestigious scholarship worth 5,000 pounds, which is awarded to an undergraduate pursuing any of the 24 subjects offered at the University of Dundee, UK.

Rajvir Singh, 18, who studies Psychology and French at the University of Dundee, will receive the 2022 Jainti Dass Saggar Memorial Scholarship for Excellence, which supports a student who aims to give back to their community.

The award which, is given to one aspiring student from India each year, honours Scotland’s first non-white elected politician and doctor Jainti Dass Saggar, who travelled all the way from Punjab to study at the University over 100 years ago.

New York: (IANS) A 26-year-old man from Haryana died in a multi-vehicle crash that occurred in the US state of Pennsylvania following ice and snow storms across the mid-Atlantic region, local media reported.

Manpreet Singh from Pehowa, Haryana, who had moved to Queens, New York recently, was hit by a truck that was on its way to Indiana.

“The crash occurred around 6.30 a.m. on December 24 near mile marker 64 on Interstate-80 west in Clarion Township,” Clarion County Coroner Dan Shingledecker said.

The

Verma will have to be confirmed by the US Senate, which may not be a problem because he has been confirmed twice before by the chamber.

It’s a homecoming of sorts for Verma, who served in the State Department as Assistant Secretary of State for Legislative Affairs before being dispatched by President Barack Obama to India as his ambassador. He is currently serving as Chief Legal Officer and Head of Global Public Policy at Mastercard.

UK Police arrest 12 more in connection with Leicester violence

Hassan Chunara, 28, of Morley Road, will appear at Leicester Magistrates’ Court in January.

“We’ve been working hard behind the scene, reviewing the CCTV footage and all the hours of body worn video from officers who were working and making IDs of those who may be involved,” Detective Chief Inspector Rob Arthur, who is leading the investigation team, said in a statement.

Indian-American MIT scholar applies for Twitter CEO post

President Joe Biden has nominated former ambassador to India, Indian American Richard Verma as Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources. The announcement was made by the White House recently. Verma will have to be confirmed by the US Senate. Verma has served in the State Department as Assistant Secretary of State for Legislative Affairs before being dispatched by President Barack Obama to India as his ambassador. He is currently serving as Chief Legal Officer and Head of Global Public Policy at Mastercard.

London, Dec 27 (IANS) The UK Police have made 12 more arrests in connection with the Leicester communal clashes, which erupted late in August following a cricket match between India and Pakistan.

The men, in between the age groups of 25-42, were arrested over the last few weeks for alleged public order offences, breaching bail conditions, violent disorder, and possession of offensive weapons. While most of those arrested were released on bail pending further investigations, three men were charged relating to a number of disorder offences.

Zakir Umarji, 26, of Gwendolen Road, Jadved Patel, 42, of Leicester Street and

“This work has led us to be able to make these arrests and bring these people into custody in order to get their accounts. It’s work that has taken time, due to the nature of it, and it’s work we’ll be continuing to carry out,” Arthur added. The investigating team said they are working through the evidence and carrying out enquiries to work up to making arrests. The very first arrest was made on December 8 -- that of a 30-yearold, who was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder in relation to an incident in Harewood Street, Leicester, on May 22, 2022. He was released under investigation pending further investigation, the Leicester Police said.

New Delhi: (IANS) Indian-American V.A. Shiva Ayyadurai, who “invented email” when he was just 14, has expressed interest in taking up the position of Twitter CEO after Elon Musk said that he wishes to step down from the post.

Mumbai-born Ayyadurai, 59, who holds four degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), including a PhD in biological engineering, took to his twitter to apply for the position.

“I am interested in the CEO position @Twitter. I have 4 degrees from MIT & have created 7 successful high-tech software companies. Kindly advise of the process to apply,” Ayyadurai wrote in a tweet addressed to Musk.

Ayyadurai’s tweet gained attention, with many users coming up with responses ranging from encouraging to sarcastic.

“I’ve observed that degrees is one of the last thing @elonmusk looks at when hiring (sic).

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Washington: (IANS) US President Joe Biden has nominated Indian-American Richard Verma, a former ambassador to India, as Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, the White House said in an announcement on Friday.

position is equivalent to minister of state in India and marks a new milestone for Indian-Americans as he

Indian-American V.A. Shiva Ayyadurai

Former Ambassador to India, Richard Verma to be Deputy Secy of State

Illegal immigration from India to US surged in last 2 months, doubled in 2021-22

New York: (IANS) The death of an Indian man who fell trying to climb a border wall into Texas has put a spotlight on illegal immigration from India to the US which has shown a sudden surge along the border with Mexico in the last two months.

US Border Patrol caught 4,297 Indians crossing the Mexican border in October and November, compared to 1,426 during those two months last year and 16,236 in all of the fiscal year that ended in September, according to American government data.

Overall, the number of Indians apprehended by US authorities right on the border and elsewhere has more than doubled since last year.

US authorities encountered 63,927 Indians who had entered the country illegally, during the 2021-22 fiscal year that ended in September, a 109 per cent increase from the 30,662 they found the previous fiscal year, according to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data. In just the last two months, a total of 13,655 illegal immigrants from India were caught compared to 6,865 during those two months in 2021, the data showed.

In the fiscal year 2019-20, the number of Indians illegally in the US who were apprehended by the CBP was only 19,883, according to the agency.

Indians are only a part of the phenomenon of Illegal migration to the US that has been spiralling since the election of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who has been tasked to stop the flow of migrants from Latin America.

Although Harris has asserted that the border is “secure”, US authorities have registered 2.77 million encounters with people of different nationalities illegally in the US during the fiscal year that ended in September, up 41 per cent from the 1.96 million in the previous period.

In 2019-20, there were only 646,822 encounters. The Biden administration that has been struggling to cope with the surge of people trying to enter the US illegally at the southern border received a reprieve from the Supreme Court on Tuesday, even though it glibly opposed it.

Biden had kept in place a rule instituted as a health measure because of the Covid-19 pandemic by his predecessor Donald Trump to return Latin Americans from most countries to Mexico when they are caught but revoked it in May under pressure from his Democratic Party’s left.

A group of Republican state officials went to court against it and the Supreme Court temporarily stayed the revocation till February, staving off an expected rush to the border.

The rule known as Title 42 is not used against Indians and people from outside Latin America as Mexico will not take them back.

The illegal migration numbers are only of those caught by the CBP and several more would have successfully evaded authorities and those who entered legally but overstayed their visas making their presence in the country illegal are not included in the data.

In the 2019-20 fiscal year, the latest period for which data is available, 14,389 Indians were suspected of overstaying, up from 13,203 the previous year, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

On the northern border with Canada, where an Indian family of four were found frozen to death about a dozen metres from the US border in January, 84 Indians have been apprehended in the last two months.

During the US fiscal year ending September 237 Indians had been caught there, compared to 42 in the previous 12 months and 129 in the period before that.

Most of those caught by US authorities are released, usually with a notice to appear before an immigration judge, but with little or no follow-up and few are detained.

A breakdown by nationality of how those caught by the CBP were dealt with was not available.

According to data from the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse (TRAC), a database maintained by Syracuse University, 34,230 asylum cases of Indians were pending before Immigration courts last month.

People can ask for asylum on various grounds including fear of religious or political persecution, domestic violence and threats due to sexual orientation but will have to prove it to a judge.

In the fiscal year 2019-20, the latest period for which data is available from the Homeland Security Department, 1,337 Indians were granted asylum, down from the 2,256 who received it the previous year.

In 2017-18, 1,302 Indians received asylum, according to the Department.

A breakdown of reasons for granting asylum was not available.

TRAC provides a breakdown by languages spoken by those whose asylum cases are pending and Punjabi-

Brijkumar Yadav fell to his death on December 14 while holding his three-year-old son and climbing the border wall built by the Trump administration between San Diego and Mexico.

His wife also fell, but on the US side and survived and the child was reunited with her, according to reports.

speakers, who could be from India or Pakistan or elsewhere, numbered 21,961.

The deaths at the border of Indians involved families, but most of the Indians apprehended by US officials are single adults. They constituted 56,739 of those caught in 2021-22 and 11,780 in the last two months.

Those who came in as families were 6,577 in the last fiscal year and 1,736 in the last two months.

Brijkumar Yadav fell to his death on December 14 while holding his three-year-old son and climbing the border wall built by the Trump administration between San Diego and Mexico.

His wife also fell, but on the US side and survived and the child was reunited with her, according to reports.

On the border with Canada, Jagdishkumar Patel, 39, his wife Vaishaliben, 37, and their daughter Vihangi, 11, and son Dharmik, 3, were found frozen to death on January 19.

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The death of an Indian man who fell trying to climb a border wall into Texas has put a spotlight on illegal immigration from India to the US which has shown a sudden surge along the border with Mexico in the last two months.

PM Modi’s Building Boom - What It Means For India

Poised to overtake China as the world’s most populous country next year, India is in the midst of a building boom.

With China’s massive construction sector still in a funk and the US and Europe likely heading into recessions, India has emerged as a savior for flagging global steel demand.

Poised to overtake China as the world’s most populous country next year, India is in the midst of a building boom. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking to modernize roads, rail networks and ports in attempt to vie with China as a manufacturing hub. That’s set to translate into a 6.7% jump in steel demand to around 120 million tons in 2023, according to the World Steel Association, the highest growth among major economies. India, which also saw a similar expansion this year, overtook the US to become the world’s No. 2 steel consumer after China a couple of years ago.

“The nation-building phase of any economy requires a lot of steel and commodities,” said Jayant Acharya, deputy managing director at JSW Steel Ltd., the nation’s biggest producer. India is going through that phase in this decade, and it could boost the country’s steel consumption to over 200 million tons by 2030, he said.

The buoyant outlook has set off a flurry of activity. ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India Ltd., a joint venture between India’s Mittal family and the Japanese producer, has plans to more than triple capacity to 30 million tons in the coming decade.

South Korean steelmaker Posco Holdings Inc. and Indian tycoon Gautam Adani, Asia’s richest person, are also exploring setting up mills in the country.

India produces the vast majority of the steel it uses, but it’s also being forced to import more to meet the surge in demand. Inward shipments rose 15% in April through October from a year earlier to 3.1 million tons, according to government figures.

Local producers are becoming worried

about the flood of cheap imports as demand dries up in traditional steel producers. China accounted for more than a quarter of imports in October, while some Russian steel is also reaching India, the government data show. The quality of some of the steel coming in is “sub-standard,” said A.K. Hazra, deputy secretary general at the Indian Steel Association, which has requested authorities look into the matter. “We are just asking that imports should be at competitive and international prices and the quality should adhere to Indian standards,” he said. Despite the strong growth, India is still well behind its rival Asian powerhouse in terms of total steel consumption. Demand for next year will be less than a seventh of China’s 914 million tons, according to the World Steel Association data.

How fast India can narrow the gap will depend on the success of PM Modi’s construction roll-out, with the Ministry of Finance estimating $1.4 trillion of funding will be needed for the National Infrastructure Pipeline through 2025.

China’s real-estate problems and the lingering impact of Covid-19 will keep its steel demand suppressed next year, said Jayanta Roy, senior vice president at ICRA Ltd., the Indian unit of Moody’s Investors Service.

“Over the long term, it would depend on the recovery of the property sector on the one hand, and the government’s policy of an infrastructure-led economic growth model in China.”

From

Pakistan

crisis to UK’s turmoil,

look at some major Global Political Slugfests Of 2022

a

Pakistan witnessed political and constitutional crisis

This year, Pakistan was the first country to witness a political as well as constitutional crisis. The situation emerged in the first week of April when National Assembly’s Deputy Speaker Qasim Khan Suri dismissed a no-confidence motion against the then Prime Minister Iman Khan during a session in which it was expected to be taken up for a vote.

Later, Pakistan President Arif Alvi, following the advice of Khan, dissolved the National Assembly under Article 58 of the constitution. However, the Supreme Court of Pakistan took the suo moto cognizance of the development and termed the dismissal of the no-confidence motion and the dissolution of the National Assembly as unconstitutional. Subsequently, the country’s top court ruled that the National Assembly must be reconvened by the speaker immediately by April 9 at 10:30 am.

Sri Lanka: The island nation’s economic and political crisis

Year ender 2022: The year 2022 proved to be a rollercoaster for the world in many ways. As the world got some respite from the menace of COVID-19 this year, the launch of a full-fledged war by Russia against Ukraine affected several countries in some or the other way. Meanwhile, the world also witnessed some of the major political slugfests that made the headlines this year. As the year 2022 draws to a close, here’s a quick roundup of some of the most notable political crises that caught the eyeballs globally.

The unprecedented economic crisis in Sri Lanka also led to political turmoil in the country. According to various media reports, several years of mismanagement, corruption, poor policymaking, and overall lack of good governance were some of the reasons for the economic crisis in the country. The Sri Lankan people called for the resignation of the then President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, accusing them of mismanaging the economy of the nation. Earlier in March, thousands of Sri Lankans protested near President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s private residence. They shouted slogans against the government and raised the demand that the President should “go home.”

United Kingdom: Unprecedented turmoil rocked British politics

reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, on September 8. The turmoil at 10 Downing Street occurred after more than 50 Tory members resigned in July in protest of the seemingly never-ending string of scandals under the then Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s leadership. Following this, Johnson tendered his resignation on July 7. He was succeeded by another Conservative leader Liz Truss. After a tough contest against her rival candidate Rishi Sunak, the former UK foreign secretary Truss was sworn in as the country’s new Prime Minister on September 6. She achieved the top post in the government through an internal Conservative Party election in which just 0.3% of registered voters were eligible to vote.

Brazil witnesses a slew of protests post General elections

The nation that once had an empire that stretched across the globe saw three Prime Ministers within the span of two months and also lost the world’s longest-

Brazil continues to witness protests in several parts of the country after the incumbent President and far-right populist leader Jair Bolsonaro lost to his leftist rival and former national leader Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro’s party has also challenged the outcome of the election as he lost narrowly. Lula da Silva received 50.9% of the votes in the tightest presidential election in the history of the country.

After the election on October 30, some of Bolsonaro’s followers, who couldn’t accept his narrow loss, blocked about 1,000 roads across the country for more than three weeks before the federal highway police started clearing the way. According to the federal highway police, demonstrators who were obstructing traffic used “terrorist” methods such as improvised bombs, fireworks, nails, stones, and barricades built from burned tyres.

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Breif

Maharashtra Assembly passes resolution on border row

I made Rs 2.25 cr within 8 minutes of Zomato IPO opening: Ashneer Grover

New Delhi, Dec 27 (IANS) Former BharatPe co-founder and managing director Ashneer Grover has revealed he made a cool Rs 2.25 crore from Zomato IPO within 8 minutes of its opening in July last year.

In his memoir ‘Doglapan’, Grover said that with the IPO being oversubscribed more than 30 times, he got an allotment of shares worth over Rs 3 crore.

“My RMs (relationship managers), based on grey-market premiums, were expecting the Zomato share to list between Rs 85-90, as against an issue price of Rs 76. I, however, was certain that it would do far better. When the share opened on the listing day at Rs 116 per share, I mandated them to sell all my shares,” he wrote.

By the time the trade got executed, “I got a selling price of Rs 136 per share. With my landing cost after interest being between Rs 82-85, 1 ended up making over Rs 2.25 crore,” he said.

“Within eight minutes of the Zomato IPO opening, I had made over Rs 2.25 crore.”rover said that he became a little greedy post the Zomato IPO.

“I went in for the Car Trade IPO but ended up losing Rs 25 lakh there,” he said.

Prannoy regains world no. 8 rankings

The Maharashtra Legislative Assembly on Tuesday unanimously passed a resolution to “legally pursue” inclusion of 865 Marathi-speaking villages in Karnataka into the western state, amid the raging boundary dispute between the two states.

The resolution moved by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said the Karnataka state legislature had passed a resolution on the issue to purposely fuel the border row.

“The state government stands resolutely with the Marathi-speaking people in 865 villages. The state government will legally pursue in the Supreme Court the case to include inch and inch of land of the 865 Marathi-speaking villages in Karnataka,” said the resolution passed in the Maharashtra Assembly.

The Karnataka Legislative Assembly had on Thursday unanimously passed a resolution on border row with Maharashtra, resolving to protect the

Woman In US Dies In Car After Getting Trapped By Blizzard

A 22-year-old woman died after being stuck in a snow storm in Buffalo, New York, while waiting in her car. Anndel Taylor’s car stranded in the snow triggered by a blizzard on Friday afternoon while she was driving back from work. The extreme weather has caused more than 50 deaths across the United States so far. Videos and photos posted by social media users show vehicles completely covered under a thick layer of snow and residents forced to spend time inside ice-encrusted homes.

southern state’s interests and not to cede an inch of land to its neighbour. The resolution had also condemned the border dispute “created” by Maharashtra. The border issue dates back to 1957 after the reorganisation of states on linguistic lines.

Maharashtra laid claim to Belagavi, which was part of the erstwhile Bombay Presidency, as it has a sizeable Marathispeaking population. It also laid claim to more than 800 Marathi-speaking villages which are currently part of Karnataka.

Kerala CM meets Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi

of the southern state protesting against implementation of the one-kilometre eco-sensitive zones (ESZ) in those places. Other than photographs of the meeting, no other details were released by the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).

An official source on Monday had said that the ESZ issue was likely to be discussed during the meeting.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the latter’s official residence in New Delhi, an official source said.

The Chief Minister’s Office shared photographs of the meeting which is being held in the wake of farmers and residents of areas close to forested parts

US: Biden approves aid for New York after heavy blizzard

The 30-year-old from Kerala had achieved the number eight ranking in 2018 for the first time before slipping to 34 in 2019

Star Indian shuttler HS Prannoy regained his career-best number eight position in the latest BWF world rankings issued on Tuesday. The 30-year-old from Kerala, who has been in good form this year, had achieved the number eight ranking in 2018 for the first time before slipping to 34 in 2019.

However, some memorable performances in the season, including the Thomas Cup win, seven quarterfinals, two semifinals and a runner-up finish at the Swiss Open, saw him rise like a phoenix in 2022.

US President Joe Biden announced federal disaster relief for New York state on Monday after a severe winter storm left at least 27 people dead in the Buffalo area and thousands more without power.

Specifically, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been authorized to coordinate efforts in the

greater Buffalo metro area.

Biden spoke with Governor Kathy Hochul late on Monday night to offer “the full force of the federal government” to support emergency efforts in the state. “My heart is with those who lost loved ones this holiday weekend. You are in my and Jill’s prayers,” Biden tweeted .

Besides that, the delay in getting the Central government’s clearance for the semi-high speed rail project SilverLine, connecting Kasaragod in the north to Thiruvananthapuram in the south, and the financial crisis that has gripped the state during the time of COVID-19 pandemic may also be topics of discussion, the source had said.

Intranasal vaccine to cost Rs 800

Bharat Biotech International Limited on Tuesday said its COVID-19 intranasal vaccine iNCOVACC, which is now available on CoWIN portal, is priced at Rs 800 (excluding GST) for private markets and Rs 325 (excluding GST) for government supplies. A press release from the vaccine maker said the jab will be rolled out in the fourth week of January, 2023.

iNCOVACC is the world’s first intranasal vaccine for COVID to receive approval for the primary twodose schedule, and as a heterologous booster dose.

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Karnataka Says Masks Mandatory, New Year Celebrations Can Go On Till 1 AM

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman admitted to AIIMS

New Delhi: Union Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was admitted into a private ward of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi today.

The 63-year-old was admitted at around noon. According to sources, her condition is stable and she is being given the best medical care. AIIMS doctors will release a statement on her health shortly.

China’s largest incursion in Taiwan yet to air defence zone

Bengaluru: The Karnataka government today issued fresh guidelines for new year celebrations amid rising covid cases, driven by a new variant, in some parts of the world. Masks will be mandatory, and celebrations can go on

till 1 am.

Pregnant women, children, elderly citizens and people with health issues must avoid public gatherings, the government said, adding that in closed door events, the number of people allowed inside shouldn’t be more than the number of seats available.

Brutal US Storm Kills 32, Power Outages, Cities In Crisis

Precautionary measures for Covid will be implemented in stages without affecting the daily activities of citizens and the economy, Chief Minister Bommai has said today.

Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has today categorically said preventive and precautionary measures to check the spread of the Covid pandemic will be implemented in a phased manner without affecting the economy of the common people.

Talking to reporters at Suvarna Soudha here on Monday, he said the state cabinet discussed the Covid pandemic and decided to further consult the Technical Advisory Committee members to create awareness among the people, ramp up vaccination, tests for influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) cases, mandatory masking inside and in public, and implement other preventive steps in a

Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul Likely To Miss Home Series vs Sri Lanka

The incursion includes 43 Chinese aircraft that crossed the Taiwan Strait’s median line

Seventy-one Chinese air force aircraft including fighter jets and drones entered Taiwan’s air defence identification zone in the past 24 hours, the island’s government said on Monday, the largest reported incursion to date.

The incursion included 43 Chinese aircraft that crossed the Taiwan Strait’s median line, an unofficial buffer between the two sides that lies within the defence zone, Taiwan’s Defence Ministry said in a report, as Beijing continues military activities close to the Chinese-claimed island.

Taiwan’s official Central News Agency said it was the largest Chinese air force incursion to date, although there was no sense of alarm on the island, which has witnessed a steady increase in Chinese pressure in recent years.

China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory, said it had conducted “strike drills” in the sea and airspace around Taiwan on Sunday in response to what it said was provocation from the democratically governed island and the United States.

Taiwan, which strongly rejects China’s sovereignty claims, said the drills showed Beijing was destroying regional peace and trying to intimidate Taiwan’s people.

New York, US: A brutal winter storm brought Christmas Day danger and misery to millions of Americans Sunday as intense snow and frigid cold gripped parts of the eastern United States, with weather-related deaths rising to at least 32. A crisis situation unfolded in Buffalo, in western New York, where a blizzard left the city marooned, with emergency services unable to reach the worst-hit areas.

“It is (like) going to a war zone, and the vehicles along the sides of the roads are shocking,” said New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a native of Buffalo, where eight-foot (2.4-meter) snow drifts and power outages have made for life-threatening conditions. Hochul told reporters Sunday evening that residents were still in the throes of a “very dangerous life-threatening situation” and warned anyone in the area to remain indoors.

India captain Rohit Sharma and out-of-form opener KL Rahul are likely to miss the home series against Sri Lanka in January, according to a report. The report stated that Rohit is yet to recover completely from the thumb injury he sustained during the second ODI against Bangladesh earlier in December, as per ANI sources in BCCI. KL is going to get married during the time-frame of the series, added the sources. Sri Lanka will be touring India from January 3 to January 15 for three T20Is and three ODIs. Notably, Rohit and KL did not have a very good 2022 with the bat.

World Economy Is Headed For A Recession In 2023, Says Researcher

The global economy surpassed $100 trillion for the first time in 2022 but will stall in 2023 as policy makers continue their fight against soaring prices, a British consultancy said in its annual World Economic League Table.

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The world faces a recession in 2023 higher borrowing costs aimed at tackling inflation cause a number of economies to contract, according to the Centre for Economics and Business Research.

The global economy surpassed $100 trillion for the first time in 2022 but will stall in 2023 as policy makers continue their fight against soaring prices, the British consultancy said in its annual

World Economic League Table. “It’s likely that the world economy will face recession next year as a result of the rises in interest rates in response to

higher inflation,” said Kay Daniel Neufeld, director and head of Forecasting at CEBR. The report added that, “The battle against inflation is not won yet. We expect central bankers to stick to their guns in 2023 despite the economic costs. The cost of bringing inflation down to more comfortable levels is a poorer growth outlook for a number of years to come.”

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Nawazuddin Siddiqui pays a courtesy call on Amit Shah

New Delhi,: (IANS) Bollywood actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui called on Union Home Minister Amit Shah here on Monday.

Home Ministry officials described the meeting as a courtesy call. In recent days, Siddiqui has also met ICCR chief Vinay Sahasrabuddhe and Goa CM Pramod Sawant. Nawazuddin Siddiqui is known for his role in Anurag Kashyap`s crimedrama ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’, among others

Anushka Sharma wraps up ‘Chakda ‘Xpress’

Mumbai,: (IANS) Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma has wrapped up the filming of the biopic ‘Chakda ‘Xpress’. The film’s shoot was completed on Monday. The film is inspired by the incredible story of one of the fastest female pacers in the history of world cricket, Jhulan Goswami as she moves up the ladder, despite the countless hindrances, to fulfil her only dream -- to play cricket. Anushka, who underwent extensive training and outdoor schedules for the film and was also questioned over her portrayal of the cricketer, took to her Instagram to announce the wrap up of the film.

Actress Tunisha Sharma suicide

Palghar (Maharashtra); (IANS) The police have ruled out any potential ‘love-jihad’ angle to the December 24 purported ‘suicide’ of

Monday.

The Mira Bhayander-Vasai Virar Police which is probing the case, arrested Khan, 27, on Sunday and he has been remanded to police custody till Wednesday on charges of abetment to suicide, with some politicians claiming a ‘love-jihad’ angle to the case.

Year-Ender

2022: Suhana Khan, Nysa Devgn, Sara Tendulkar and more star kids who were trolled this year

and why

Drishyam 2

The movie was released on November 18 and is currently running successfully in the theatres. According to film critic Taran Adarsh, the film has so far earned over Rs 200 crore at the domestic box office.

Gangubai Kathiawadi

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s “Gangubai Kathiawadi” was another big hit at the box office this year. After a week of its release on February 25, the film collected Rs 68.93 crore. The film is based on a chapter from author S Hussain Zaidi’s book Mafia Queens of Mumbai. It featured Alia Bhatt as ‘Gangubai’ — a character from Kamathipura of the 1960s. The film’s cast included Ajay Devgn, Vijay Raaz, Seema Pahwa, and Shantanu Maheshwari. The film earned around Rs 125 crores at the box office.

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actress Tunisha Sharma, days after a break-up with boyfriend actor Sheezan Khan, official sources said here on

Sachin Tendulkar’s daughter was brutally trolled for her fair looks and was body shamed as well. She was trolled for spending money and recently, for the cost of the planner she launched.

Ananya Panday has been at the receiving end of trolling ever since she made her debut. Ananya’s Liger was released this year and she was brutally trolled for her acting chops. But Ananya takes everything in her stride.

Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan’s princess Suhana Khan have always been gracious toward the media. However, the debutante has been trolled for her dressing sense and even her walk. She was also compared to Malaika Arora

Janhvi Kapoor is another popular star kid who is trolled often. She has been trolled for trying to copy Kim Kardashian. Janhvi’s fashion choices are often bashed online. Her statements also get criticised online.

Shanaya Kapoor is yet to make her film debut. However, she made her ramp debut and was trolled for her walk. Netizens also questioned Shanaya if she had done any lip job

Sara Ali Khan was trolled this year for her look. She was judged for her simple looks at an event. The actress also recently walked the ramp for which she was trolled again. She was even trolled for her handbag.

Ajay Devgn and Kajol’s daughter has been trolled for her glow-up, yep, for real. Nysa has been trolled for her dresses as well. Be it plunging necklines or body-hugging outfits, netizens have something to say about her outfits all the time.

Year Ender 2022:

2022 was a year

Bollywood actresses

who gave the biggest blockbusters this year

Year Ender 2022: 5 movie roles which showcased Bollywood actors in new light

New Delhi [India]:(ANI): This year while only a handful of Hindi films could make a mark at the box office, Bollywood actors still tried to experiment with their roles in a bid to bring something new for their audiences. Though most of the movies released in 2022 met with a lukewarm response commercially, stars, from Ayushmann Khurrana to Ranbir Kapoor, were seen in a new light as they broke the mould that audiences have mostly seen them in. Let’s have a look at some of those films.

Ayushmann Khurrana in ‘An Action Hero’

Ayushmann Khurrana’s latest movie is his first film in the action genre and sees him sharing screen space with the talented Jaideep Ahlawat. The high-octane thriller has Khurrana’s character Maanav going to Haryana for an outdoor shoot where he gets involved in an accident that turns his life upside down.

Kartik Aaryan in ‘Freddy’

Brahmastra: Part 1- Shiva

Sci-fi film “Brahmastra Part

One:

The

Kartik Aryan’s recently released psychological thriller ‘Freddy’ showed the actor in the never before seen avatar of Dr Freddy Ginwala, a dentist haunted by his horrific past. The film’s plot revolves around a thrilling story, where the line between love and obsession is blurred.

Hrithik Roshan in

Vedha’

‘Vikram

‘Govinda Naam Mera’, a murder mystery drama directed by Shashank Khaitan featured Vicky breaking the mould of only doing serious roles as he was seen in a comedic role in this full Bollywood masala entertaining movie

Ranbir Kapoor in ‘Shamshera’

The Kashmir Files

Vicky Kaushal in ‘Govinda Naam Mera’

With Vikram Vedha, Hrithik Roshan once again proved that he cannot be typecast into urban roles alone and that he can pick up dialects and demeanours as and when the character demands.

Ranbir Kapoor’s comeback vehicle ‘Shamshera’ might have been a dismal performer commercially, but it was the first time that the actor was seen in a full-blown Bollywood period drama. It was produced by Aditya Chopra under Yash Raj Films and directed by Karan Malhotra.

of fine performances and big box office numbers. While a lot of male actor-driven films like ‘KGF Chapter 2’ and ‘RRR’ became big hits, there were also many female actors who gave one of the biggest hits of 2022. Check out the list to see if your favourite actor made the cut.

Alia Bhatt: Many call 2022 Alia’s year -- she got married, got blessed with a baby girl and on top of it all, she gave the biggest hits of 2022. Alia starred in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’ which minted around Rs 203 + crores worldwide. Alia was also the lead in ‘Brahmastra: Part 1 Shiva’, which was a box office blockbuster and an OTT release ‘Darlings’, which did exceptionally well. And, don’t forget her appearance in the mega-blockbuster ‘RRR’.

Tabu: Tabu gave two massive hits this year -- Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and Drishyam 2. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 earned around Rs 263+ crores worldwide while Drishyam 2 has so far done a business of Rs 298+ crores worldwide.

Trisha Krishnan: Trisha Krishnan was one of the leads in Mani Ratnam’s magnum opus ‘PS-1’ which earned around Rs 500+ crores worldwide.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan: Touted to be Aishwarya’s mega comeback, ‘PS 1’ marked her collaboration with Mani Ratnam once again! After doing a business of Rs 500+ crores worldwide, the film amazed millions of people, especially Aishwarya’s fans who were eagerly waiting for the release.

Kiara Advani: Kiara was a part of three films this year -Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, Jug Jugg Jeeyo and Govinda Naam Mera. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 turned out to be a massive hit earning around Rs 263+ crores worldwide while Jug Jugg Jeeyo also performed quite well, earning around Rs 132+ crores worldwide. Govinda Naam Mera had an OTT release and it getting good reviews online.

Shiva” was another blockbuster of this year. fantasy adventure series starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Amitabh Bachchan had collected Rs 75 crore on its opening day and only grew from strength to strength. The film, directed by Ayan Mukerji, crossed the Rs 150 crore-mark in gross box office collections worldwide soon after its release.

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2

film starred Kartik Aaryan, Kiara Advani and Tabu in lead roles and was one of the biggest hits of the year 2022. The film collected more than Rs 250+ crores at the box office.

Written and directed by Vivek Agnihotri, the film “The Kashmir Files” was based on the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from the Valley in 1990. According to film critic Taran Adarsh, the film entered the ‘100+ crore club’ in its first week and collected over Rs 200 crore at the domestic box office.

IMMIGRATION Options Available For Non Immigrant Workers Following Termination Of Employment

CHICAGO, IL- Some of the Options that may be available to Nonimmigrant Workers seeking to remain in the United States in a period of authorized stay following Termination of Employment

Parveen Goyal Attorney at Law

This article was written by Attorney Parveen K. Goyal based on the information from USCIS.

Attorney Parveen Goyal is n established and reputable immigration attorney with more than 30 years of practicing Immigration in Chicago, Illinois and neighboring states. The office is located at 1625 West Colonial Parkway, Inverness, Illinois 60067 (near Harper College in Palatine) Attorney Goyal can be reached at phone 847-584-7617 or email at goyallaw@gmail.com

Based upon the information provided by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for nonimmigrant workers whose employment has terminated, either voluntarily or involuntarily, workers seeking to remain in the United States, may have several options for remaining in the United States in a period of authorized stay based on existing rules and regulations.

Based upon the information provided by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for nonimmigrant workers whose employment has terminated, either voluntarily or involuntarily, workers seeking to remain in the United States, may have several options for remaining in the United States in a period of authorized stay based on existing rules and regulations.

60 – Day Grace period following the termination of employment

Regulations permit a discretionary grace period that allows workers in E-1, E-2, E-3, H-1B, H-1B1, L-1, O-1, or TN classifications (and their dependents) to be considered as having maintained status following the cessation of employment for up to 60 consecutive calendar days or until the end of the authorized validity period, whichever is). During this period, workers may be able to maintain their nonimmigrant status if a new employer timely files a petition on their behalf with an extension of stay request (e.g., an H-1B change of employer petition for a worker in H-1B status). Alternatively, workers may be able to remain in the United States in a period of authorized stay if they timely file an application to change to a new nonimmigrant status (such as B-2 visitor nonimmigrant status) or an application for adjustment of status, if eligible (see below for a detailed overview of options). 180 Days and 360 days bars apply to alien and its dependents if the alien stays in usa for 180 day or 360 days in usa after expiration of their legal status Most of the time the alien and dependants are not aware of 3 years and/or 10 years Bars. Workers who are unable to timely file a change of status application, or find a new employer who timely files a change of employer petition for the worker, may be required to depart the United States at the end of this grace period, MUST DEPART USA within less than 179 days after their legal status and/ or authorization to stay in USA is terminated or expires. If you stay in USA without any legal status for more than 179 days (there is 3 years bar of inadmissibility) and if illegal stay in the USA is more than 359 days (there is 10 years Bar of inadmissibility to USA). The alien is strongly advised to consult a professional immigration attorney to avoid his/her becoming subject to 3 years or 10 years Bars.

Portability to a New Employer

H1-B employees do have an option to port his/her employment and have new employer file new H1B petition. Portability rules permit workers currently in H-1B status to begin working for a new employer as soon as the new employer properly files a new H-1B petition with USCIS, without waiting for the petition to be approved. Contact an attorney to explore about H-1B portability.

Also, a worker with an adjustment of status application (Form I-485) that has been pending for at least 180 days with an underlying valid immigrant visa petition (Form I-140) has the ability to transfer the underlying immigrant visa petition to a new offer of employment in the same or similar occupational classification with the same or a new employer. This is commonly referred to as “porting.” In these cases some time RFE is received from USCIS about the job title and the job description offered by in the newly ported job with the new or same employer. The more similar or same job description as stated in PERM and I-140 lesser the complication.

Change of Status

Workers may use the up to 60-day discretionary grace period to apply to change their nonimmigrant status, which may include changing status to become the dependent of a spouse (e.g., H-4, L-2). Some individuals in a dependent nonimmigrant status may be eligible for employment authorization incident to status, including spouses of E-1, E-2, E-3, or L-1 non-immigrants In addition, some cases the Spouses of H1B workers may be

eligible for obtain work employment authorization if certain requirements are met. Please consult an immigration attorney to take advantage of this kind of change of status.

Other possible nonimmigrant options include student status (F-1) or visitor status (B-1 or B-2). Note that, by statute, B-1 and B-2 nonimmigrant visitors are specifically precluded from “performing skilled or unskilled labor” in the United States. Certain F-1 students, by regulation, may engage in limited employment. For further information please contact professional immigration attorney for more information, e.g Options for Noncitizen STEM Professionals to work in the United States.

Note: The timely filing of a non-frivolous application to change status may toll, or stop, the accrual of unlawful presence until the application is adjudicated. In the event the change of status application is denied you must immediately seek advice of Immigration attorney as you do not want to kick in and be subject to 3 years or 10 years bars of inadmissibility. As stated hereinabove this article.

Change of Status and Employer.

Other option is that during up to 60-day discretionary grace period to seek a new employer-sponsored nonimmigrant status in the same or different status. Of course facts and details of each individual’ qualification and background in each case the alien may or may not be eligible for new employment under the TN, E-3, or H-1B1 or L-1 classifications. The timely filing of a non-frivolous change of status application will prevent the accrual of unlawful presence until the application is adjudicated (see above).

Adjustment of Status.

Some individuals depending on their qualification, experience and background may be eligible to file a self-petitioned immigrant visa petition concurrently with an adjustment of status application. For example immigrant classifications that are eligible for self-petitioning include EB-1 Extraordinary Ability, EB-2 National Interest Waiver. EB-5 Immigrant Investors with a pending adjustment application are generally eligible to remain in the United States and obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) depending on facts of each case.

Note: A compelling circumstances EAD is a discretionary stopgap measure intended to assist certain individuals on the path to lawful permanent residence by preventing the need to abruptly leave the United States. Workers who begin working on compelling circumstances EAD will no longer be maintaining nonimmigrant status but generally will be considered to be in a period of authorized stay and will not accrue unlawful presence in the United States while the EAD is valid. Contact an attorney for more information on eligibility requirements and the application process for Employment Authorization in Compelling Circumstances..

Expedite Criteria

Individuals and Employer are strongly advised to use premium processing or expedited adjudication, depending on the facts or each case. See an Immigration Attorney for additional information.

Departure from the United States

In order to avoid 3 year or 10 years bars ( as explained above that if individual or dependent remain in illegal status for more than 179 days in USA may become subject to 3 year to 10 years (in case of more than 359 days out of legal status, the individual will be subject to 3 and/or 10 year bars respectively, The individual once subject to these bars may not be admissible or take benefits of any immigration. The individual and/ or individual’s dependent may choose to depart the United States to avoid theses bars.. For H-1B and O workers who chose to depart the United States after involuntary cessation of employment, the reasonable costs of transportation to the worker’s last place of foreign residence must be borne by the H-1B employer or by the O employer and O petitioner, as applicable). Once out of USA you may have to apply to embassy for the new employment of approved petition and if you are not subject to 3 or 10 year bars Embassy may issue the Visa depending on case by case basis.

HiIndia Newsdesk

NRS Pay FeeBU$TER: 100% Free Credit Card Processing

NEWARK, NJ- Today, businesses are struggling to thrive due to the pandemic causing reduced foot traffic, making stores close down. Credit card companies are raising their fees for payment acceptance, and this is hitting businesses hard. It is challenging for businesses that are struggling to survive when credit card processing carries high transaction fees. When numbers keep on skyrocketing, merchants fear that they can’t cover the expenses.

National Retail Solutions (NRS), a leading provider of point-of-sale (POS) systems designed specifically for grocery, convenience, tobacco, liquor, hardware, gas stations, and c-stores in the United States, offers NRS Pay FeeBU$TER. This cash discount program is 100% FREE for retailers who process over $18K/ month – no monthly account fee, and zero transaction fees! The credit card acceptance program is straightforward: Instead of the merchant covering the transaction fees, the transaction charge is paid by the customer, built into the bill. If the customer pays with cash, there is a discount applied. For any retailer who processes under $18K/mo., NRS Pay FeeBU$TER is just $49.95/ mo. flat with $0 transaction fees. The plan includes a FREE credit card reader, ZERO hidden fees, NO long-term contract, and NO early termination fee. Merchants no longer have to pay the price for customers who pay by credit card. FeeBU$TER is a reassuring solution to combat high processing fees. NRS Pay offers a rare commodity: honesty. “Our dedication to transparency is precisely what small business owners need,” Elie Y. Katz, president and CEO

of National Retail Solutions (NRS), says, “…and our business model should serve as an example to the rest of the industry on how to conduct good business.” Katz, being a small business owner, understands what small businesses need in order not to be taken advantage of

and, most importantly, the value of an honest company that they trust, that can help them save and make more money. “Businesses suffer nationwide, and it is tough to compete against big companies that have more foot traffic. Small businesses can be left in the dust, which is unfortunate. We want to help our customers combat high fees and get them where they need to be.”

The FeeBU$TER monthly structure is currently $49.95 with zero transaction fees – and the retailer will not have any surprise expenses. Businesses that handle more than $18,000 per

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Promotional Meet

month don’t have to pay a monthly payment; hence this processing plan is entirely free! If a business wants a more conventional plan, the Clean Rate plan from NRS PAY costs just 2.49 percent + $.10 each transaction, with a $10 monthly account charge. Early termination costs for credit card processing can be as high as $300. NRS PAY is adamant about giving merchants the freedom to pick their processing plan without fear of being penalized if they want to go elsewhere. So no matter which plan a merchant chooses, they are never locked in and will never pay higher prices than they signed on for. Credit card processing with NRS Pay is a game-changer. “NRS PAY is altering the way we conduct business – somebody has to!” says Major League Baseball great and Hall of Famer Mariano Rivera. As a spokesman for NRS Pay, Mariano has passionately campaigned for honesty in the sector. NRS Pay stands by ethics and offers a quick and painless payment acceptance platform for retailers who prioritize trust and integrity.

For information about or to sign up for FeeBU$TER, visit nrspay.com or call (833) 289-2767.

Top Indian-American Editor Steps Down To Save Staff Jobs

New York: (IANS) An Indian-American Pulitzer-winning editor of a prominent US publication has announced his decision to step down next year in an attempt to save the jobs of his staff members from impending company wide layoffs.

Peter Bhatia, 69, editor and vice president of Gannett-owned Detroit Free Press, announced his decision at a staff meeting held last week after the company reported back-to-back quarterly losses.

“We’re in a difficult period economically,” Bhatia was quoted as saying in his newspaper, which employs a total of 110 people. “The company is going through a layoff process and I essentially made the decision to lay myself off in the interest of saving other jobs. I do have other opportunities that will probably come to work out at some point,” he added.

“But if by getting my salary out of the budget it saves some jobs of people on the staff, I think that’s the right thing for the Free Press,” Bhatia, who will step down in January, said. Bhatia, who hails from Lucknow, joined The Free Press in September 2017, after two years as editor and vice president of The Cincinnati Enquirer and cincinnati.com.

Congressman Krishnamoorthi Hails Ban On TikTok For Government Devices

CHICAGO, IL- Pravasi Bharatiya

Divas Promotional Community Meet & Reception was held at the Marriott Northwest in Hoffman Estate, Illinois. This promotional community meet attracted 20 community organizations who have stepped up to showcase enthusiastic support and interest in participating at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas to be held in Indore City, India from January 8-10, 2023.

Several Chicago community’s high-

profile leaders spoke with Ambassador Somnath Ghosh, Consul General of India taking the lead.

Ajeet Singh, President of Indian American Business Council in his welcome address explained that it is our collective mission to ensure substantial representation of Indian Americans from Illinois at PBD.

Dr. Bharat Barai, prominent leader who was a recipient of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas advocated Indian Americans to attend and participate at the NRI Divas

WASHINGTON, DC– Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi hailed the passage of the omnibus government funding bill, which included a provision to ban the app TikTok from government devices, He said,“Today, we succeeded in passing a federal ban on TikTok for all government devices, following in the footsteps of the Pentagon and several other government agencies, in order to better protect ourselves

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi against the machinations of the People’s Republic of China. While this is a major step forward for the security of our

government, it’s imperative that we take additional steps to protect individual American citizens from the threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party’s control of TikTok. So long as TikTok remains under Beijing’s direction, its capacity to track the real-world movements and online activities of Americans while potentially serving them curated propaganda poses too great of a threat to be ignored. I urge my colleagues to join us in support of this bipartisan legislation to ban TikTok unless its ownership and control are moved out of the reach of the Chinese Communist Party.”

HiIndia Newsdesk

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Peter Bhatia

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi

CBP Officers Seize Several Weapons And Ammunition At Eagle Pass Port Of Entry

on the forefront of border security operations,” said Acting Port Director Michael Martinez, Eagle Pass Port of Entry.

The first enforcement action occurred on Friday, December 16, 2022, when officers assigned to outbound operations referred a 28-year-old male U.S. citizen driving a 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 for secondary inspection. Following a non-intrusive inspection system and physical inspection of the vehicle and all belongings, CBP officers discovered three handguns, 1,074 rounds of assorted ammunition, four magazines and three scopes.

Californian City Gets Its First Sikh Mayor

EAGLE PASS, TX– U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Field Operations (OFO) officers working outbound operations seized multiple weapons in two unrelated enforcement actions.

“Officers at the Camino Real International Bridge continue to excel in their targeting strategies, remaining vigilant and

CBP seized the weapons, ammunition, weapon accessories and the vehicle. Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) special agents arrested the driver and have initiated a criminal investigation. The second enforcement action occurred on Sunday, December 18, 2022, when officers assigned to outbound operations referred a 30-year-old male Mexican citizen driving a 2011 Dodge Ram 1500 for secondary inspection. Following a non-intrusive inspection system and physical inspection of the vehicle and all belongings, CBP officers discovered a stolen Glock 9mm pistol and a magazine.

CBP seized the weapon, magazine and the vehicle. Maverick County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested the driver and have initiated a criminal investigation.

Clerk Karen Yarbrough To Conduct Live Drawing For Cook County’s First Marriage License Of 2023

CHICAGO, IL- Clerk Karen A. Yarbrough will conduct a live drawing on Tuesday, December 27, to select the winning couple who will receive the first marriage license issued in Cook County in 2023 as well as special wedding gifts including steak, lobster, Eli’s cheesecake, flowers, and dancing and cooking lessons.

The Clerk’s Office invited couples interested in tying the knot in 2023 to enter the drawing to receive the first marriage license and more than 75 couples have submitted their names. Yesterday was the deadline for submissions and the winning couple will exchange vows January 3, 2023 in the Clerk’s annual first wedding ceremony.

Tomorrow’s drawing will be streamed live on the Clerk’s official Facebook page at 10:00 a.m. The live stream

The Clerk’s Office invited couples interested in tying the knot in 2023 to enter the drawing to receive the first marriage license and more than 75 couples have submitted their names.

can be viewed at facebook.com/ CookCountyClerk.

The winning couple will be contacted by the Clerk’s Office after the drawing to

get the needed paperwork filed prior to the First Marriage. In addition to being married by Clerk Karen A. Yarbrough, the winning couple will receive special gifts from several of the Chicago-area’s signature establishments.

The gifts include:

• A newlywed gourmet dinner gift box including filet mignon, strip steaks, and lobster tails provided by Whittingham Meats

• A sparkling wine basket and champagne flutes provided by Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant

• A gift card provided by Eli’s Cheesecake

• A couple’s dance lesson provided by Duet Dance Studio

• A cooking lesson provided by The Chopping Block

• Wedding flower arrangements provided by LaSalle Flower Group • Two tickets to a comedy show provided by the Laugh Factory Chicago

New York, Dec 25 (IANS) Mikey Hothi has been unanimously elected as the 117th mayor of Lodi city in northern California, becoming the first Sikh to hold the position in the city’s history.

Hothi, whose parents are from Punjab, previously served as vice mayor under mayor Mark Chandler.

As a mayor of the city, Hothi will serve a two-year term, chair the Common Council meetings, and serve as executive officer of the city.

“Honored to be sworn in as the 117th Mayor of the City of Lodi,” Hothi tweeted after taking oath this month.

“Everyone came to Lodi because they realized it was a safe family town. (It has) great education, great people, great culture, great values, and just hard-working people in this town. I’m just proud to represent this community as its next mayor,” Hothi was quoted as saying in Lodi Times.

Hothi, who graduated from Tokay High School in 2008, said that growing up in the city was a challenge, especially post 9/11, when many Muslims and Sikhs experienced unfair harassment.

His family was also instrumental in founding the Sikh temple on Armstrong Road, the Lodi Times reported. He was first elected to the Lodi City Council in November of 2020 from District 5, and also serves as a Board Member on the Lodi Fire Foundation and as District Director to Assemblymember Jim Cooper.

Woman Accused Of Theft Of 1000s Of Oxycodone Pills From Amneal Pharmaceuticals: DA

HiIndia Newsdesk

NEW YORK, NY — A Queens woman has been indicted on charges she stole thousands of oxycodone pills from her former employer, Amneal Pharmaceuticals in Brookhaven, Suffolk prosecutors say.

Usharani Alexander, 63, of Bellerose allegedly stole thousands of oxycodone pills while she worked as an operator in the packaging department of Amneal in 2022, prosecutors said, adding, that the company discovered the theft when an audit uncovered a discrepancy between the number of oxycodone pills that were manufactured, and the number of pills that were actually packaged for distribution.

An internal investigation, including a review of video surveillance, identified Alexander as the person responsible for

the theft, prosecutors said. She used her key card to gain access to the packaging area at a time when she was not scheduled to be there, according to prosecutors.

DA Ray Tierney said Alexander abused

her position as an employee by stealing and illegally distributing oxycodone pills, “which are highly addictive, if not used properly.”

effects on our communities,” he said. “This alleged theft and illegal distribution of more than 200,000 thousand oxycodone pills will not be tolerated.” Her attorney, Steven Gaitman of Hempstead, said told Patch that she has never been arrested before.

Alexander has been charged with four counts of first-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, as well as third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and grand larceny, all felonies.

She faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment on the top charge of first-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.

Alexander was released under the supervision of GPS monitor because the crimes are not bail-eligible under state law, Tierney’s office said. She is due back in court on Jan. 30.

“We continue to see the tragic effects of opioid addiction and its damaging

Mikey Hothi

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Cook County Property Taxes Due By December 30

CBP Enforces Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act

CHICAGO, IL- Property owners must pay the Second Installment of their Cook County property taxes by Friday, December 30, 2022, to avoid late charges imposed by state law.

“The most efficient way to pay is online,” said Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas. “You can download your bill online and get a receipt after you pay. We’ve collected nearly $2 billion in Second Installment property tax payments online.”

Payments made at cookcountytreasurer. com before 11:59 p.m. on December 30 will be recorded as on time.

To make a payment or download a copy of your tax bill, visit cookcountytreasurer.com:

• Select the blue box labeled “Pay Online for Free”

• Search by property address or enter your Property Index Number

• There is no fee if you pay from your bank account

You can also pay your property tax bill:

• At any Chase Bank location

• From a checking or savings account at more than 200 participating community banks • By mail with a U.S. postmark no later than December 30, 2022

• At the Treasurer’s Office, 118 N. Clark St., Room 112, Chicago, Illinois 60602

For those who cannot pay the full amount due, partial payments are accepted. Late payments are charged 1.5 percent per month, as required by Illinois law.

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) began detaining merchandise produced or manufactured by Jingde Trading Ltd., Rixin Foods. Ltd., and Zhejiang Sunrise Garment Group Co. Ltd. at all U.S. ports of entry on Dec. 5, 2022. This enforcement action is the result of a CBP investigation indicating that these companies use North Korean labor in their supply chains in violation of the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). CAATSA prohibits the entry of goods, wares, and articles mined, produced, or manufactured wholly or in party by North Korean nationals or North Korean citizens anywhere in the world, unless clear and convincing evidence is provided that such goods were not made with convict labor, forced labor, or indentured labor under penal sanctions. Pursuant to CAATSA, CBP will detain merchandise from these entities at all U.S. ports of entry unless there is clear

and convincing evidence that forced labor was not present at any stage of the production process. Evidence must be provided within 30 days of notice of detention. If the importer fails to provide clear and convincing evidence

SWIFT’s Vikesh Patel to lead Cboe Clear Europe

Patel comes on board with over 15 years of experience in financial market infrastructure and is joining from SWIFT, where he was most recently Head of Securities with responsibility for leading its securities strategy globally.

forward to leading it into its next phase of growth,” he added.

within this timeframe, the merchandise may be subject to seizure and forfeiture. “CBP is committed to keeping America’s supply chains free of goods produced with forced labor and to eliminating this horrific practice,” said CBP Office of Trade Executive Assistant Commissioner AnnMarie R. Highsmith. “North Korea’s forced labor system operates both domestically and internationally and supports the North Korean Government’s weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs, and it is also a major human rights violation. Legally and morally, we cannot allow these goods into our commerce.”

Any person or organization that has reason to believe merchandise in violation of CAATSA, or any merchandise produced with forced labor, is or is likely to be imported into the United States can report detailed allegations by contacting CBP through the e-Allegations Online Trade Violations Reporting System or by calling 1-800-BE-ALERT.

Toronto: The Khalistan referendum - held in September and November - became a huge irritant in India-Canada relations in 2022 and a major point of friction in the Indo-Canadian community as pro-Khalistan and pro-India supporters clashed in the GTA. India called the referendum a “farcical exercise held by extremists and radical elements” and asked Canada for “action in this matter.”

In a rare travel advisory, New Delhi urged travellers to Canada to be cautious about the possibility of anti-India violence in Canada. Canada said it supports India’s integrity, but it won’t stop the referendum as its citizens were free to protest. Though Ottawa is trying to warm to India as outlined in its recently announced IndoPacific Strategy in which it calls India “a critical partner in Canada’s pursuit of its objectives under this strategy,” Khalistan will continue to be a major issue in IndiaCanada bilateral relations in 2023 and beyond.

London: (IANS) SWIFT executive

Vikesh Patel has been named President of Cboe Clear Europe, a pan-European central counterparty offering clearing services to 47 trading venues.

Patel, who will join the company in early 2023, replaces Cecile Nagel, who stepped down from the role in September this year.

Patel comes on board with over 15 years of experience in financial market infrastructure and is joining from SWIFT, where he was most recently Head of Securities with responsibility for leading its securities strategy globally.

“I am honoured to be appointed as the next President of Cboe Clear Europe.

Having been a client, partner and competitor of Cboe Clear Europe over many years, I am well aware of the company’s strong reputation, in particular for its outstanding levels of client service, innovation and risk management expertise,” Patel said in a statement released by the company.

“The company is at an exciting time in its development and I am looking

Prior to joining SWIFT in 2017, Patel was a chief operating officer at LCH, focusing on strategy, risk management and the development of new products for the clearing organisation’s EquityClear and RepoClear businesses. He has also served in global executive roles at Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, with a primary focus on market infrastructure and post-trade strategy. “We are delighted to have Vikesh lead Cboe Clear Europe.

He has a long and impressive track record in the securities post-trade industry, both in Europe and globally,” Natan Tiefenbrun, President, Cboe Europe, said.

Cboe completed its acquisition of Cboe Clear Europe (formerly EuroCCP) in July 2020. Under Cboe’s ownership, the company has enhanced its position as the leading pan-European cash equities clearing house, growing its volumes on venues that allow fully interoperable clearing as well as those that have adopted preferred clearing. Cboe Clear Europe operates as an independent subsidiary of the Cboe group, retaining a separate governance structure and management team.

Wellington: (IANS) More than $100,000 has been raised for the family of an Indian dairy shop worker who was stabbed to death in New Zealand’s Auckland last month.

Janak Patel, 34, was stabbed multiple times by robbers on November 23 at the Rose Cottage Superette in Sandringham, Auckland, where he worked, and died later in hospital. His death sparked off nationwide protests in New Zealand with small business owners and workers, mostly of Indian-origin, demanding their safety and calling for harsher penalties for criminals.

More than 2000 people, many of them anonymous, made donations for Patel, who is survived by his wife and parents, the NZ Herald reported.

The Dairy and Business Owners Group in New Zealand had started a Givealittle page to support Patel’s family. The amount thus collected would be split between his wife and elderly parents.

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CBP is committed to keeping America’s supply chains free of goods produced with forced labor and to eliminating this horrific practice

Vikesh Patel

More than $100,000 raised for slain Indian dairy worker in NZ

Janak Patel

Khalistan issue remains a major irritant between India and Canada

Indian Americans Turn To ‘Assertive Hinduism’ To Define Identity

more moderate sections of Hindus. “I was shocked by the naked display of this Hindu assertion at the US congress event,” said one of the people who attended, speaking on condition of anonymity to be able to express his views freely.

Attendees posed for pictures in groups chanting “Jai Shri Ram” as members of US congress arrived, spoke and left with aides. Slogans were also raised about India — “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”, which may have been appropriate given the occasion, the 75th anniversary of Indian independent.

US Congress, incidentally, was a favoured venue for many of these public display of assertive Hinduism.

Indian American Inventor Of Email Applies For Twitter CEO Post

An event to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Indian Independence at US Capitol, home to US democracy and Congress, was turned into a celebration of their Hindu faith by organisers and attendees as groups after groups lustily chanted “Jai Sri Ram”. It wasn’t the wine that was being served.

A bulldozer rolled along a parade organised by a separate bunch of Indian Americans in New Jersey, in an unmistakable nod to its emergence as a symbol of oppression of minorities in India.

The backlash continues to this day, with a coalition of Muslims, African Americans and civil rights groups calling for the US authorities to investigate its organisers, which included the Overseas

British Indian Army memorial coming up in Glasgow

This import from India was also seen in other countries with significant presence of the Indian diaspora in 2022.

Indian-origin Britons chanting “Jai Shri Ram” marched through the streets of Leicester in the UK in September, which was noted with much alarm by British authorities and media.

Some Hindu-Americans have been quietly promoting their faith and cultural accoutrements for decades.

Vishwa Hindu Parishad America, for instance, was founded in 1970 to, in the words of its website, “preserve, promote and practice those great universal and eternal values which were discovered and practiced by the Sages of Bharat”. But this in-your-face Hindu assertion is new and has surprised and embarrassed

Another group of Indian Americans hosted two events at the Capitol in 2022 to register their desire to shirt the generic name of the community from Indian American, as the nearly 4 million Americans of Indian extraction have been called for decades, to Hindu American as some in the community have been advocating for long, but unsuccessfully until now.

One of the events was hosted by a group of prominent Indian Americans who said they were disappointed by the Indian government’s refusal to offer a robust criticism of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and, they further argued, they did not want to take the backlash they suffered on behalf of the Indian government.

FBI Atlanta Warns Fans Heading To The Big Game

CAMBRIDGE, MS- This has to be one of the most interesting job applications in a long time. Indian-American VA Shiva Ayyadurai, popularly known as the inventor of e-mail, took to Twitter to write to Elon Musk about his candidacy as the Twitter CEO.

Mumbai-born Ayyadurai, holds four degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), including a PhD in biological engineering.

In a tweet addressed to Elon Musk, he wrote, “I am interested in the CEO position @Twitter. I have 4 degrees from MIT & have created 7 successful hightech software companies. Kindly advise of the process to apply.”

Back in 1978, when Ayyadurai was just 14-year-old, he created a computer programme, which he called “email.

The US government awarded him the first Copyright for Email in 1982, recognizing him officially as the inventor of email.

Consulate General Of India, Chicago Commemorated Veer Baal Divas

London: (IANS) A city council in the UK has approved plans to erect a memorial in Scotland to recognise the service and sacrifice of more than four million Indian soldiers in the British Army.

The plans for the memorial, which will come up near Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow, were submitted by Colourful Heritage -- a group that captures first-hand accounts of first-generation South Asians in Scotland, The Glasgow Times reported.

The Glasgow City Council approved the plan subject to conditions, which include full details of the designs and content of carvings into the stone. Samples of the materials for the pavilion and surrounding blocks have also been submitted for approval, according to the paper.

ATLANTA,, GA —As the frenzy builds for this weekend’s Peach Bowl in Atlanta and the National Championship game in Los Angeles next month, FBI Atlanta warns fans to be careful with their tickets.

Last year, the average price of a National Championship ticket was $3,000, according to one online ticket broker.

Another online retailer pegs the current lowest price for a standing room only ticket to the 2022 Peach Bowl at $252. That’s a lot of cash at risk.

A link of FBI Atlanta Supervisory Special Agent Aaron Seres talking about potential scams and ways to avoid them can be downloaded here: https://we.tl/tah3qtu8ZRh.

SSA Seres talks about what happened to him as he went online looking for a ticket to the game. He warns if someone is looking for a last-minute ticket, be careful of which online seller you visit. Seres says scammers are posing online as legitimate third party resellers. “If the price seems too good to be true, it likely is,” says Seres.

SSA Seres also has a warning for those who might be trying to sell their extra tickets online: Don’t post a picture of the ticket on social media or online.

SSA Seres says the barcode found on most tickets is a goldmine for scammers. They can either use the information to get into the game themselves without paying you or copy the information and sell many more fraudulent tickets to other unsuspecting buyers. The FBI says consumers should protect ticket barcodes as they would credit card numbers.

CHICAGO, IL- Consulate General of India, Chicago commemorated #VeerBaalDiwas on 26 December 2023 to pay tributes martyred sons of Sri Guru Gobind Singh ji for their unparalleled sacrifices. 150 members of the Indian-American community joined this solemn event. Speakers thanked GOI for highlighting the aspects which enriched India’s identity and heritage. Consul General in his remarks underlined the significance of remembering the martyrdom of Sahibzade Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh because this was not only an epic struggle against injustice for one’s honor and identity, but also the fact that many such narratives in India were lost from the mainstream for lack of emphasis. He informed that long before independence Gurudev Tagore thought it necessary to convey such “veergatha” to school children and wrote inimitable poems on this topic for children.

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Friends of BJP.

SSA Seres also has a warning for those who might be trying to sell their extra tickets online: Don’t post a picture of the ticket on social media or online.

Breif

World’s Largest Outbreak: China Surge Infecting 37 Million People A Day

Actor Kamal Haasan Joins Congress Yatra With Gandhis In Delhi

New Delhi: Thousands of people joined the Congress’ Bharat Jodo Yatra today as Rahul Gandhi marched through Delhi amid calls by the Health Minister to follow Covid protocols. Actor-turnedpolitician Kamal Haasan also joined the Gandhis yatra in Delhi today.

Several party leaders, including Jairam Ramesh, Pawan Khera, Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Kumari Selja and Randeep Surjewala were seen marching with Mr Gandhi.

As many as 248 million people, or nearly 18% of the population, likely contracted the virus in the first 20 days of December, according to minutes from an internal meeting of China’s National Health Commission. Nearly 37 million people in China may have been infected with Covid-19 on a single day this week, according to estimates from the government’s top health authority, making the country’s outbreak by far the world’s largest.

As many as 248 million people, or nearly 18% of the population, likely contracted the virus in the first 20 days of December, according to minutes from an internal meeting of China’s National Health Commission held on Wednesday, confirmed with people involved in the discussions. If accurate, the infection rate would dwarf the previous daily record of about 4 million, set in January 2022. Beijing’s swift dismantling of Covid Zerorestrictions has led to the unfettered spread of the highly contagious omicron variants in a population with low levels of natural immunity

Adani group to own 64.71% stake in NDTV

Later, former Congress President Sonia Gandhi and party general secretary Priyanka Gandhi also joined Rahul. This is the second time Sonia Gandhi has joined the yatra. In October, she

had taken part in the Congress’ mega foot march in Karnataka.

As the Bharat Jodo Yatra entered the national capital from Faridabad early this morning, Delhi Congress Chief Anil Chaudhary welcomed Mr Gandhi, other party leaders and the yatris at Badarpur Border amid “Rahul Zindabad” chants.

While addressing party workers and

Shanghai asks residents to stay in on Christmas

While addressing party workers and leaders, Rahul Gandhi reiterated that the motive of his yatra is to open a ‘mohabbat ki dukaan’ (shop of love) amid an existing ‘nafrat ka bazaar’ (market of hate)

leaders, Rahul Gandhi reiterated that the motive of his yatra is to open a ‘mohabbat ki dukaan’ (shop of love) amid a ‘nafrat ka bazaar’ (market of hatred).

Mr Gandhi said the purpose of the Yatra is to showcase “real Hindustan” where people help each other.

US Marines to allow Sikhs with beards

New Delhi/Chennai, Dec 23 (IANS)

The two original promoters of New Delhi Television Ltd (NDTV) -Prannoy Roy and Radhika Roy -- have decided to sell their 27.26 per cent holding in the company to Adani group’s RRPR Holdings Private Ltd.

In a regulatory filing, NDTV said that Roys have decided to transfer 27.26 per cent stake out of their 32.26 per cent stake in the company to RRPR Holding.

The Roys said in a statement that AMG Media Network, a part of the Adani group, is the single largest shareholder in NDTV now.

Shanghai authorities urged residents to stay at home this weekend, seeking a toned-down Christmas in the nation’s most populous city as COVID-19 rages nationwide after tough curbs were lifted.

A branch of the Shanghai Municipal Health Commission on Saturday urged young people in particular to avoid crowded gatherings, due to the ease of spreading the coronavirus and low temperatures.

Christmas is not traditionally celebrated in China, but it is common for young couples and some families to spend the holiday together.

The Omicron variant is surging weeks after the authorities abruptly ended their zero-COVID policy, lifting strict testing requirements and travel restrictions as China becomes the last major country

Nearly 37 million people may have been infected with the virus on a single day this past week

to move toward living with the virus. While many have welcomed the easing, families and the health system were unprepared for the resulting surge of infections. Hospitals are scrambling for beds and blood, pharmacies for drugs and authorities are racing to build clinics.

Shanghai typically hosts a large Christmas-themed market in a luxury shopping area along Nanjing West Road, and restaurants and retailers offer promotions to drum up business.

Will follow norms but don’t play tricks: Congress to Modi govt

try to use a disease for political trickery. “Rahul Gandhi was the first person who wrote to the government alerting it to the Covid mayhem,” Kanhaiya Kumar, a Bharat Yatri, told a news conference in Faridabad — a reference to the Congress leader’s many public appeals starting February 2020 to take the virus threat seriously.Even now, we will abide by any scientific protocol announced by the government.

Hamara virodh Corona ke naam par kiye ja rahe raajnitik chaalbazi par hai (Our objection is to the political trickery being done in the name of Corona),” Kanhaiya added.

The US Marines Corps are to allow Sikh recruits to maintain their beards and wear turbans, a federal appeals court ruled Friday.Sikh men maintain their beards and wear their turbans to express their outward commitment to their religious faith. The court said allowing them to do so would have no impact on their duties.

Indian-American lawyer named Immigrant Rights Commissioner

New York, Dec 24 (IANS)

Chandigarh-born lawyer Kudrat Dutta Chaudhary has become the first immigrant of Indian-origin to take oath as Commissioner to the Immigrant Rights Commission for the city and county of San Francisco. The Immigrant Rights Commission guides the Mayor and Board of Supervisors on issues and policies that impact immigrants who live or work in San Francisco.

“I am very excited to be taking this role and am really looking forward to working for my community in San Francisco,” Chaudhary wrote on her LinkedIn post.

Chaudhary is a gender, human rights, child rights, and conflict resolution specialist.

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The Bharat Jodo Yatra, which is at Delhi’s door after covering 3,000km from Kanyakumari on foot, will follow any Covid protocol in force in the country through its journey to Kashmir, the Congress said on Friday, while advising the Narendra Modi government not to

Kudrat Dutta Chaudhary

News Breif

Dubai court orders Indian-origin man to pay 80,000 dirhams

Covid: Govt clears Bharat Biotech’s intranasal vaccine

Bharat Biotech’s intranasal Covid vaccine has been approved by the Union Health Ministry as a booster dose for those aged 18 years and above and is likely to be introduced on the Co-WIN platform Friday evening, official sources said.

The needle-free vaccine will be available at private hospitals as of now.

Dubai, Dec 23 (IANS) A court in Dubai has ordered an Indian-origin man to pay 80,000 dirhams in blood money to the family of two women from Saudi Arabia who were killed in a car accident in June this year.

The Dubai Traffic Court was told that an Indian man, 48, recklessly drove his car in the residential town of Al Barsha on June 3, killing two women and injuring four others.

The Indian failed to see a car, which was reversing in the middle of a main road, and rammed into it, The National reported. Both cars then hit a third car, with a family from Saudi Arabia inside. Two women died on the spot, while four other family members were moderately injured. The Indian as well as the other car driver from Bangladesh were charged with causing wrongful death, causing injuries and damaging one another’s cars.

Sam Curran costliest buy at IPL auction

It is likely to be rolled out in the national Covid vaccination programme soon, they said.

The ministry’s approval for the intranasal vaccine comes amid a spurt in Covid cases in China and some other countries.

The nasal vaccine -- BBV154 --had received approval of the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) in November for restricted use in an emergency situation for those above 18 years as a heterologous booster dose.

“The vaccine branded as iNCOVACC

3 Army Officers, 13 Soldiers Killed After Army Truck Falls Into Gorge In Sikkim

The approval for the vaccine comes amid a spurt in Covid cases in China and some other countries

is likely to be introduced on the CoWIN platform Friday evening onwards. For now it will be available in private hospitals,” an official source said.

iNCOVACC is a recombinant replication deficient adenovirus vectored vaccine with a pre-fusion stabilised spike protein. This vaccine candidate was evaluated in phase I, II and III clinical trials with successful results, the Hyderabad-based vaccine-maker had said in a statement.

China: WHO report lacks Covid data

Sixteen soldiers, including three officers, were killed Friday after the army truck they were travelling in fell into a gorge in Sikkim, the army said in a statement. The truck was part of a 3-vehicle convoy, said the army, that had moved from Chatten in the morning towards Thangu.

“Enroute at Zema, the vehicle skidded down a steep slope while negotiating

Australia

Cameroon

England all-rounder Sam Curran on Friday became the most expensive player in the history of IPL auctions after fetching a whopping Rs 18.5 crore bid from Punjab Kings here. An intense bidding followed for Curran with Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Rajasthan Royals, Chennai Super Kings, Lucknow Super Giants and Punjab Kings raising their paddles frenetically to secure the services of T20 World Cup player-of-the tournament.

In the end, it was Punkab Kings that broke the bank to get Curran, who drew highest-ever bid that bettered the previous best buy of Rs 16.25 crore that Rajasthan Royals had shelled out to grab South African allrounder Chris Morris in 2021.

A rescue mission was immediately launched and four injured soldiers were air lifted.

a sharp turn. A rescue mission was immediately launched, and four injured soldiers have been air evacuated,” the Army said.

The Army added that it stands with the bereaved families in this hour of loss.

Australia Eyes India’s Middle Class To Offset China Trade Damage

Bilateral trade between Australia and India is expected to more than double to around A$60 billion over the next five years.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has received no data from China on new COVID-19 hospitalizations since Beijing ended its zero-COVID policy.

On Thursday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Beijing to share more information. Beijing decided to ease restrictions on movement on December 7, ending the country’s zero-COVID policy. Hospitalizations peaked at 28,859 through to December 4, which is the highest reported figure in China since the start of the pandemic. Figures have been absent in the last two reports in December.

India reports 163 fresh Covid cases, 9 deaths

Australia is eyeing India’s burgeoning middle class to help offset the economic damage wrought to some of its major exports by the twin headwinds of Covid-19 and heavy restrictions imposed by its biggest trade partner, China.

With a middle-to-high income population of about 85 million people, according to Pew Research - roughly three times Australia’s total population - it’s seen as a prime target for sectors from education, to wine and tourism, all of which were hit badly by the pandemic and worsening relations with China.

Bilateral trade is expected to more than double to around A$60 billion over the next five years, after a pact that cuts or eliminates tariffs on a number of goods and services, and gives greater recognition of professional qualifications, comes into place on Dec. 29. While that’s still just a sliver of Australia’s two-way trade of A$280 billion with China, India’s widely recognized as a huge piece of the country’s diversification puzzle.

Australia’s efforts are paying off, just as its relationship with China is also showing signs of thawing. Between April and October this year, India’s imports of Australian goods climbed to US$12.3 billion, up 48% from a year ago.

New Delhi, Dec 23 (IANS) India reported 163 fresh Covid cases in the last 24 hours, said the Union Health Ministry on Friday.

In the same period, the country recorded nine Covid-related deaths, taking the national toll to 5,30,690 as per the report.

Meanwhile, the active caseload has declined to 3,380 cases, accounting for 0.01 per cent of the country’s total positive cases.

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all-rounder

Green was secondhighest earner, fetching Rs 17.5 crore bid from Mumbai Indians

The year 2022 is one that will long live in the memory of the world’s sports aficionados.

It was a year in which legends bid farewell and new stars emerged, of story-book endings and of poignant displays of respect between rivals. It was also one of glorious triumphs, of bitter disappointments and of career-defining achievements.

For raw emotion, there are few, if any, sporting moments in recent history that could surpass the farewell match of tennis great Roger Federer in September. The Swiss maestro’s trophy-laden career ended with defeat as he and long-time rival Rafael Nadal lost to Jack Sock and Frances Tiafoe in their Laver Cup doubles tie at London’s O2 Arena.

Sports Yearender 2022

World witnessed Federer, Nadal, crying their heart out

fairytale endings, surely nothing can eclipse this month’s FIFA World Cup final between France and Argentina in Qatar.

Arguably the most touching display of sportsmanship came at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.

Xu Mengtao won China’s first-ever Olympic women’s aerial skiing title by beating Hanna Huskova of Belarus and United States pair Megan Nick and Ashley Caldwell for the gold medal. It was the culmination of years of dedication for 31-year-old Xu, already a six-time world championship medalist and five-time World Cup crystal globe winner.

But the event’s truly memorable moment came after the medal was decided. Caldwell, who led after the first round of the final before botching the landing of her last jump, rushed across to hug and congratulate her rival.

“I respect her so much and I hope that our friendship inspires great sportsmanship among other competitors around the world at every level of competition,” Caldwell said afterwards.

The 41-year-old Swiss, who had not played for more than a year because of a knee injury, thrilled the sell-out crowd with moments of brilliance alongside Nadal before Tiafoe and Sock ruined the script.

After the match, tears flowed as Federer thanked his wife, Mirka, for her unyielding support over more than two decades. “She could have stopped me a long, long time ago but she didn’t. She kept me going and allowed me to play, so it’s amazing. Thank you,” he said. Nadal also dedicated heartfelt words to the 20-time Grand Slam champion, a

gesture that showed how friendship and respect can transcend sport.

“An important part of my life is leaving too because of all the moments he has been next to me or in front of me in important moments of my life,” the Spaniard said. “It has been emotional to see his family, to see all the people. It’s difficult to describe.”

While Federer said goodbye, Spanish teenager Carlos Alcarez showed that the future of tennis remains bright as he earned his first Grand Slam title by overcoming Norway’s Casper Ruud 6-4, 2-6, 7-6 (1), 6-3 in the US Open final.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi had said before the tournament that this would be his last shot at World Cup glory; the trophy that he has so desperately craved over an international career spanning more than 16 years.

He looked set to fulfill his dream when Argentina raced to a 2-0 lead after 36 minutes in Lusail, courtesy of goals from Messi and Angel Di Maria.

But a late brace from Kylian Mbappe saw Les Bleus draw level as a wearying Argentina were in danger of being overrun. Messi restored Argentina’s lead in extra-time before Mbappe equalized again from the penalty spot to force the match into penalties.

Virat Kohli has been ruling the world of cricket for the last decade, but in a true sense, Indian fans got maximum joy this year from middle order batsman Suryakumar Yadav. Surya impressed everyone with his fearless approach and ability to play shots all around the ground. SKY, who took the entire year by storm, proved that after Dhoni, Virat and Rohit, there is another batsman on whom Indian fans can put their trust on.

Volunteers pose for a group photo after the figure skating gala event of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics at the Capital Indoor Stadium in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 20, 2022. (Xinhua/Wang Yuguo)

Dancers stage the performance “Forming a Snowflake” during the opening ceremony of the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games at the National Stadium in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 4, 2022. (Xinhua/Cao Can)

Xu Mengtao (R) of China hugs Ashley Caldwell of the United States after the freestyle skiing women’s aerials final of Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics at Genting Snow Park in Zhangjiakou, north China’s Hebei Province, Feb. 14, 2022. (Xinhua/Fei Maohua)

For

New Years Eve Times Square Ball Drop

LIFESTYLE

To do during christmas in NEW YORK CITY

New Delhi, Dec 23 (IANSlife) The 2022-2023 holiday season is a great time to explore New York City, according to NYC & Company, the convention and visitors bureau and official destination marketing agency of New York City. As one of the most well-known holiday destinations, NYC will once more provide merry dining, shopping, cultural, and entertainment experiences and events in all five boroughs.

December 31 - January 1 Times

Square, Manhattan

The Waterford Crystal Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball will sparkle in Times Square all season, but watching its descent in person on New Year’s Eve is a spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime way to ring in the New Year. Millions view the broadcast event in NYC and around the globe along with spectators in Times Square on December 31. Guests can also stop by the New Year’s Eve Confetti Wishing Wall from December 1 on to submit (in person and online here) a wish for the New Year on a piece of official NYE confetti that will be dropped at midnight as the ball drops. Guests can also look out for details (at TSQ.org) about the arrival of the official numerals (‘2’ and ‘3’ for 2023) that will be in Times Square before ascending to the top of One Times Square to be lit as we welcome the New Year.

Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden

Till January 16 Bedford Park, The Bronx

The Holiday Train Show-a favourite holiday tradition-has been making memories for over 30 years. Visitors will see model trains zip through an enchanting display of more than 190 replicas of New York City landmarks, each delightfully re-created from natural materials such as birch bark, lotus pods and cinnamon sticks.

Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights

Till January 8 Bronx Park, The Bronx

With more than 360 lanterns representing nearly 90 animal and plant species, Bronx Zoo’s family-centric holiday lights festival will connect visitors with real wildlife and wild places. During the evenings, the park comes to life with holiday cheer as immersive light displays, custom-designed animal lanterns (with some life-size, some larger-than-life-size) and animated light shows sparkle across the zoo. The celebration is complete with seasonal treats, classic holiday music and other festive entertainment. The beloved tradition is sure to enchant visitors of all ages, making it the perfect way to kick off the holidays this year.

Spiced coffee recipes for Christmas

Cocoa and Pepper Spiced latte

Your favourite latte with a delicious twist of cocoa and chili pepper and amazingly blended with aromatic espresso makes it one of the most favourite spicy milk coffee to enjoy this winter.

Ingredients

Single shot of Espresso for Moka Pot coffee

2 teaspoons sweet cocoa powder

Pinch of cinnamon powder

pinch of cayenne chile pepper

150 ml whole milk

Directions

Freshly brew espresso with dark roast Indian coffee blend or use Mokapot coffee.

Flagship Store Shopping

Available now throughout the holiday season | Midtown Manhattan Locals and visitors alike are invited to various flagship stores, such as Macys, Bloomingdale, Bergdorf Goodman, Cartier, Saks Fifth Avenue and more.

Add espresso, cocoa and cayenne chile pepper together in a mug and stir to make a paste.

Steam and froth milk using a steam wand or electric frother, pour milk into a mug trying and exhibiting your coffee making skills, enjoy!

Aries

Ganesha says that at the beginning of this week, the people of Aries will spend most of their time participating in auspicious works and having fun. During this, a short and pleasant journey is also possible. People associated with the business will get the expected profit..

Taurus

Ganesha says that t the people of Taurus will have to manage their time this week. Along with this, you have to try to make your daily routine positive. Spend according to your pocket, otherwise, you may face a financial crunch.

Gemini

Ganesha says thatthis week will prove to be the end of long-standing troubles for Gemini. Misunderstandings or disputes with love partners will end. Love affairs will get strengthened. New opportunities will be available in terms of career and business. Those doing occupations related to foreign countries will get special benefits.

Cancer

Ganesha that the natives of the Cancer zodiac will be able to expand their long pending plans at the beginning of the week. Full cooperation of subordinates will be received in the workplace. There will be chances of getting some auspicious work done in the family. Relatives will accept your love and a love affair can turn into a marriage.

30th December to 6th January 2023

By Astro Friend Chirag – Son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla

Leo

Ganeshasays that the people of the Leo zodiac should come out of the world of dreams and face the reality this week. Don’t depend on destiny or any other person. You will get success only if you make continuous efforts. Do not tell anyone else until the work is done.

Virgo

Ganesha says that this week will be medium fruitful for the people of Virgo. At the beginning of the week, the mind will be affected by an unknown fear. There will be a need to work harder in the workplace. In this regard, long or short-distance travel may also have to be done. People associated with politics need to take steps after thinking, otherwise even the things made can go wrong.

Libra

Ganesha says to control both your anger and speech at the beginning of the week. There can be a dispute in the family,

especially with a brother or sister. Any senior advice will prove beneficial to settle property-related disputes. During this, adopt positive thinking and do not let the inferiority complex enter your brain.

Scorpio

Ganesha says that this week is coming for Scorpio to fulfill their desired wishes. Positive results will be visible in the workplace. Salaried people will get the full support of their seniors. This time is auspicious for working women. If you were looking for a job for a long time, then your search can be entire this week

Sagittarius

Ganesha says that the people of Sagittarius have to understand very well that there is no shortcut to success. This week, if you want, you can get desired results by working hard. Do not ignore health-related problems at the end of the week, otherwise, you may end up in the hospital.

Capricorn

Ganesha says that at the beginnatg of the week things will be as per your wish but, in the middle, you may have to compromise with the circumstances. The advice of a senior will prove beneficial to settle disputes related to parental property etc. Employed people need to maintain better collaboration with their coleagues.

Aquarius

Ganesha says that the people of Aquarius may have to face some difficulties at the beginning of the week. Although sometimes some challenges teach better lessons, this time will prove to be very important for you for some such future.

Pisces

Ganesha says that the week will start with excessive expenditure on luxuries. During this, you will get the full support of luck. This time will also be favorable for business people.

Author Bio:

Celebrity Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla is the son of famous astrologer Bejan Daruwalla. He is known for his detailed astrological predictions on career, health, love, finance, and business. You can visit their website bejandaruwalla.com for guidance on problems related to your life and solve your problem with the help of expert astrologer Chirag Daruwalla. For guidance on problems related to your life you can talk to Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla on Call/Whatsapp: +91 9825470377 or also mail on: info@ bejandaruwalla.com

Why do heart attacks go up in winter? Does the degree of cold matter?

Over the last seven decades, heart attacks among Indians have gone up in both cities and rural areas, significantly so in cities. Now air pollution has emerged as a risk factor along with stress, food and hectic lifestyle. Ahmedabad-based Dr Sameer Dani, Director, Cardiology Services, Apollo CVHF Heart Institute, has done many comparative surveys and cautions about increased incidence of heart attacks in the cold season.

Hospital admissions because of heartrelated ailments are up by almost 2030 per cent during winters. A lot has been researched but we don’t have a final definitive answer. It is believed that cold weather affects your heart in many ways. One is the heart needs to pump more blood compared to routine warm weather, which our body is used to. For every mile you walk, your heart has to do more work, compared to that in summers or more ambient temperatures. So, in extreme heat and extreme cold, the heart is stressed. Second, cold weather affects the blood vessels, causing them to contract and keep the body warm. Blood vessels have an increased sympathetic tone. The sympathetic nervous system is the body’s control mechanism which maintains heart rate and blood pressure. The surge in blood pressure may cause plaques to rupture, resulting in winter morning heart attacks. Third, there are allergic contributors that stress the cardiopulmonary system, that is the heart and lungs. Cold weather is a time of respiratory infections, say viral pneumonia, bacterial pneumonia, flu, all of which stress out the heart. Flu has a direct relationship with heart attack. All respiratory infections decompensate people who have heart disease and are otherwise well-compensated. Then there are diurnal variations of our hormones, which are associated with our sleep cycle and one can compare this to booting a computer. A computer is more likely to conk off during the booting and rebooting process. That’s why we see the highest number of heart attacks in the early morning hours, when you wake up or are about to wake

up and this is more pronounced and prominent in cold weather.

Air pollution is emerging as a significant factor. Among those with no comorbidities, family history can be a risk factor despite being a healthy individual. Apart from that, lung conditions, diabetes, smoking or tobacco, hypertension and stress or lack of physical activity are known triggers.

Does the degree of cold affect incidence?

Very surprisingly, there is no linear relationship with the degree of cold. Other conditions such as comorbidities and environmental factors are at play. For example, what kind of air pollution you have, what kind of food habits or lifestyle change you have in the winters are important factors.

Air pollution, which is otherwise neglected and under emphasised, definitely plays a role. Because of the cold weather, the pollutants are suspended closer to the earth’s surface, which trigger inflammation and in turn heart attacks. We have had surveys in both cities and rural areas and found that compared to cities, heart attacks are lesser in rural areas. But if you look at the last 70 years, heart attacks in rural areas have also increased almost ten-

fold. Still there is a rural-urban gap in incidence. In cities, we now blame the higher incidence on mainly four factors — weather, stress, food and lifestyle — weather now emerging as one of the most important triggers. What precautions can we take specific to winter?

The usual set of precautions remains the same. Only the level of activity would vary. You should not exert yourself physically, especially if you have comorbidities. For example, do not try out a heavy exercise schedule that you have never done before, or resume something you have done before but you are not used to anymore. Similarly, one must also be careful about bingeeating and binge-drinking because cold weather makes you feel hungry and there are more festivals and events this time of the year. One measure that we can take, and as we often suggest to our patients, is to take the flu vaccine in August-September. Usually, the strains change and WHO puts out information on the circulating strains so that the new vaccines are available accordingly. It is always preferable to get yourself vaccinated and prepare yourself for winter.

RT-PCR mandatory for arrivals from China, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong & Thailand

New Delhi:L (IANS) The Centre has made the RT-PCR test mandatory for international arrivals from the countries experiencing a surge in Covid cases. “The RT-PCR test will be mandatory for international arrivals from China, Japan, S. Korea, Hong Kong and Thailand”, Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said on Saturday.

The Centre has said that if any passenger from these countries on arrival is found symptomatic or tests positive for Covid-19, then he/she will be put under quarantine.

Meanwhile, the states have also been asked to be on alert mode and ramp up the genome sequencing to track the new variant in positive cases.Mandaviya, in a meeting with states

on Friday, urged the states to strengthen the surveillance system for whole genome sequencing of positive case samples to track the variants through Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) network to ensure timely detection of newer variants, if any, circulating in the country.

Focus is to be given to health facility-based sentinel surveillance; pan-respiratory virus surveillance; communitybased surveillance; and sewage/wastewater surveillance, he added. Mandaviya said that irrespective of the new COVID variants, ‘Test-Track-Treat-Vaccinate & Adherence to COVID Appropriate Behaviour’ continue to remain the tested strategy for Covid management.

WELLNESS

One of the top travel trends in 2023

New Delhi: (IANSlife) Consumer desire for wellness-focused vacations is on the rise, as seen in 2023’s wellness trends. The demand for domestic travel has increased by 50 per cent, according to CGH Earth Wellness Centers. Since before the pandemic, foreign visitors from regions like Russia and Europe have remained devoted customers.

Restorative Travel and Healing Holidays

Prevention is better than cure couldn’t ring truer. Rather than having to go for curative spells at a hospital, more and more people are turning towards traditional, holistic health.

Wellness is no longer considered a concept for the old. Centres are witnessing a growth in younger audiences for preventive healthcare. Having seen an older generation who have had to be on lifelong medication for their lifestyle disorders, the young are now turning towards Naturopathy & Ayurveda as a means to prevent going down the same road. One is seeing a big change in the mindset of the younger generation who are emphasizing on clean eating, fitness and leading a more mindful existence. They are opting for wellness based getaways and self-healing journeys.

Renewed interest in Ayurveda post pandemic

The Kerala Ayurveda philosophy has been accepted worldwide for its immense benefits and the science and methodology of treatments. The Panchakarma treatment course that involves 21 days has helped people change their lives. Society, now at large is realizing the need for the responsibility of taking their health into their own hands, by tapping into India’s ancient wisdom of medicine that is globally revered and respected.

Solo Travel for Wellness

People are increasingly choosing Solo travel which helps them go through selfhealing and a holistic transformational process. Being able to re-connect with nature helps solo visitors rebalance their lives and be in sync with their mind, body and soul. Solo Travel enables people to set themselves on the right path to healthy living.

Investing time and money to travel for well-being

People are willing to allocate one break in the year completely dedicated to their wellbeing. They are also willing to spend more, if it means better year -round health and a more positive state of mind. From a traditional mind-set of pushing wellness to a later date, and a need-to-do basis, one is seeing a more proactive and a must-do approach.

‘In cities, we now blame the higher incidence on mainly four factors -- weather, stress, food and lifestyle -- weather now emerging as one of the most important triggers,’ says Dr Sameer Dani, Director, Cardiology Services, Apollo CVHF Heart Institute, Ahmedabad

What is the percentage increase in heart attack during winter?

HiIndia Newsdesk