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Major US labour union declines to endorse
Iranian hackers sent emails containing stolen material from Republican former President Donald Trump's campaign to people involved in Democratic President Joe Biden's then re-election campaign, part of an alleged broader effort by Tehran to influence the U.S. election, U.S. agencies said on Wednesday.
Major US labour union declines to endorse either Harris or Trump
One of America's most influential labour unions, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, has declined to issue a US presidential endorsement for the first time since 1996.
The union, which boasts some 1.3 million members across the US and Canada, said it had received "few commitments on top Teamsters issues" from either Democratic nominee Kamala Harris or Republican nominee Donald Trump. It also claimed that polling of its rank-and-file members found "no definitive support" for either candidate, though two of its recent polls indicated lopsided support for Trump.
class voters with less than 50 days before election night.
An endorsement had the potential to mobilise thousands of Teamsters who live, work and vote in the crucial
representing more than half a million members in Michigan, Wisconsin, Nevada and California, said they would be endorsing Harris.
In a statement, the Harris campaign touted its support from "the overwhelming majority of organised labour" and noted that many Teamsters locals have gotten behind her candidacy.
battleground states of Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin.
The move is a major blow to the Harris campaign's efforts to win over working-
Ryan Routh Arrested for Trump Assassination Attempt
According to the New York Times, Routh is a former construction worker from North Carolina Greensboro. Routh had no formal military background but expressed strong desires to participate in armed conflict in the past, particularly in Ukraine after Russia's 2022 invasion. In one post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Routh declared his willingness to "fight and die" in Ukraine. He also advocated for civilians to change the course of global conflicts.
"I AM WILLING TO FLY TO KRAKOW AND GO TO THE BORDER OF UKRAINE TO VOLUNTEER AND FIGHT AND DIE," he wrote.
According to the New York Times, on the messaging application Signal, Routh wrote, "Civilians must change this war and prevent future wars" as part of his profile bio.
"Each one of us must do our part daily in the smallest steps help support human rights, freedom and democracy; we each must help the Chinese," his bio on WhatsApp reads. Routh's activities didn't stop at online declarations. In a 2023 interview with The New York Times, he claimed to have travelled to Ukraine to support the war effort and recruit Afghan soldiers.
This wasn't Routh's first brush with violence. In 2002, he was arrested after barricading himself inside a building with a fully automatic weapon in Greensboro. The charges were serious, though the outcome of the case remains unclear.
Shortly after the announcement, some Teamsters regional councils
"While Donald Trump says striking workers should be fired, Vice-President Harris has literally walked the picket line and stood strong with organized labour for her entire career," campaign spokesperson Lauren Hitt said.
The union's rank-and-file - a coalition of members that includes freight drivers, warehouse workers and airline pilots - has long been considered politically diverse.
US goes big with first interest rate cut in four years
The US central bank has lowered interest rates for the first time in more than four years with a bigger than usual cut. The Federal Reserve reduced the target for its key lending rate by 0.5 percentage points, to the range of 4.75%-5%.
Jerome Powell, the head of the bank,
said the move was "strong" but that it was needed as price rises ease and job market concerns grow.
It will be a relief to US borrowers, who have been dealing with the highest interest rates in more than two decades. Wednesday's cut was larger than many analysts had predicted just a week ago, and the bank's forecast signalled that rates could fall another half percentage point by the end of the year.
Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell said the aggressive action on Wednesday was intended to make sure that high borrowing costs, put in place to fight inflation, would not end up hurting the US economy.
US says Iran emailed stolen Trump campaign material to Biden camp
Sept: (Reuters) - Iranian hackers sent emails containing stolen material from Republican former President Donald Trump's campaign to people involved in Democratic President Joe Biden's then re-election campaign, part of an alleged broader effort by Tehran to influence the U.S. election, U.S. agencies said on Wednesday.
"Furthermore, Iranian malicious cyber actors have continued their efforts since June to send stolen, non-public material associated with former President Trump’s campaign to U.S. media
Donald Trump Says He Will Meet PM Modi Next Week
New Delhi: Former US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week during his visit to the US. The Republican presidential candidate made the announcement while campaigning in Michigan. PM Modi is a "fantastic man", said Trump, at the same time calling India a "very big abuser" of trade ties. Stressing that India imposes heavy tariffs on imports, Trump told the crowd: "So when India, which is a very big abuser. He (Modi) happens to be coming to meet me next week, and Modi, he's fantastic. I mean, fantastic man. A lot of these leaders are fantastic."
Ex-CIA Officer Jailed 30 Years for Drugging, Sexually Abusing Women
organizations," the FBI, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and Office of the Director of National Intelligence said in a joint statement. "This malicious cyber activity is the latest example of Iran’s multi-pronged approach ... to stoke discord and undermine confidence in our electoral process," the agencies said. They added that there is currently no information indicating those recipients replied. They did not provide further details on the nature of the stolen material.
In August, the United States accused Iran of launching cyber operations against the campaigns of both U.S. presidential candidates and targeting the American public with influence operations aimed at fanning political discord. Iran has denied interfering in U.S. affairs. On Wednesday its permanent mission to the United Nations in New York said the latest U.S. allegations were "fundamentally unfounded, and wholly inadmissible." It added: "Iran neither has any motive nor intent to interfere in the U.S. election."
Washington: A former CIA officer was sentenced to 30 years in prison on Wednesday for drugging and sexually abusing more than two dozen women in several countries. Brian Jeffrey Raymond, 48, of La Mesa, California, pleaded guilty in November 2023 to one count of abusive sexual contact and other charges. "When this predator was a government employee, he lured unsuspecting women to his government-leased housing and drugged them," Matthew Graves, the US Attorney for the District of Columbia, said.
Trump, Family Launch New Cryptocurrency Platform
New York: Little was revealed about the Trump family crypto project during a two-hour online presentation other than an offer to let people buy digital "tokens" giving them a vote in platform decisions. The event went ahead as planned despite an apparent assassination attempt against Trump on Sunday at his golf club in West Palm Beach, Florida.
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32 Killed, Over 3,250 Injured As WalkieTalkies, Pagers Explode In Lebanon
Israeli military and Iran-backed Hezbollah members have been fighting across the Lebanese border since the IsraelHamas war broke out in Gaza in October 2023.
At least 32 people were killed and more than 3,250 injured as walkie-talkies and pagers used by Hezbollah members blew up in its strongholds across Lebanon in the last two days, stoking fears of an allout war with Israel.
Walkie-talkies used by Iran-backed Hezbollah members blew up in its Beirut stronghold on Wednesday, killing at least 20 people and injuring more than 450 others. At least one of Wednesday's blasts took place near a funeral organised by Hezbollah for those killed the previous day.
The explosions came a day after thousands of pagers used by Hezbollah exploded across Lebanon, killing 12 people, including two children, and injuring about 2,800.
Hezbollah said Israel was "fully responsible for this criminal aggression" and vowed revenge. Israel has so far not officially said anything about the explosions. In Tuesday's explosions, sources said Israeli spies remotely detonated explosives they planted in a Hezbollah order of 5,000 pagers before
they entered the country.
Hezbollah members turned to pagers and other low-tech communication devices to evade Israeli surveillance of mobile phones.
Hezbollah, Iran's most powerful proxy in the Middle East, said on Wednesday it attacked Israeli artillery positions with rockets. The Israeli military, however, said there were no reports of any damage or casualties.
The US warned all sides against "escalation" in the Middle East after two
Bangladesh Interim Govt Grants Army Magisterial Powers for 2 Months
The interim government of Bangladesh, led by Mohammad Yunus, granted magisterial powers to the Army on Tuesday for the next two months to enhance law and order in the country.
A notification from the Ministry of Public Administration stated that these powers would be conferred upon commissioned officers of the Army and would remain effective for 60 days.
According to a report in the Dhaka Tribune, Sami Ud Dowla Chowdhury, the director of the Inter-Services Public
European Union warns deadly flooding
Devastating floods through much of Central Europe and deadly wildfires in Portugal are joint proof of a “climate breakdown” that will become the norm unless drastic action is taken, the European Union's head office said Wednesday.
“Make no mistake. This tragedy is not an anomaly. This is fast becoming the norm for our shared future,” said EU Crisis Management Commissioner Janez Lenarcic. The worst flooding in years moved Tuesday across a broad swath of Central Europe, taking lives and destroying homes.
Relations (ISPR), indicated that the Army would operate in accordance with government directives.
The order grants the Army magistracy authority under several sections of the
Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), specifically sections 64, 65, 83, 84, 95(2), 100, 105, 107, 109, 110, 126, 127, 128, 130, 133, and 142. This allows Army officers to exercise their powers in cases involving these provisions.
These sections cover various powers, including issuing orders for arrest and detention, executing arrest warrants, issuing search warrants, collecting bonds for misdemeanours and petty offences, dispersing unlawful assemblies, and removing encroachments on property and business establishments.
Russia region orders evacuation after Ukraine drone attack
A partial evacuation has been ordered in Russia's Tver region after a "massive" Ukrainian drone attack sparked a fire
there, the local governor has said. Igor Rudenya said emergencies services in the town of Toropets were trying to "localise" the blaze caused by falling drone wreckage. He did not say whether there were any casualties.
Meanwhile, unverified footage has emerged purportedly showing a massive blast in the town. Video footage circulating on social media showed detonations and smoke covering a large stretch of sky. AFP and Reuters news agencies have quoted Ukrainian sources as saying an ammunitions warehouse had been struck.
days of blasts in Lebanon. "We still don't want to see an escalation of any kind. We don't believe that the way to solve where we're at in this crisis is by additional military operations at all," US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters on Wednesday. United Nations chief Antonio Guterres warned that the pager blasts targeting Hezbollah indicate "a serious risk of a dramatic escalation in Lebanon and everything must be done to avoid that escalation." The United Nations Security Council is scheduled to meet on Friday over the pager blasts in Lebanon.
Shanghai hit by strongest typhoon in 75 years
Hundreds of thousands of people were evacuated as a powerful typhoon made landfall near China's financial hub, Shanghai.
Typhoon Bebinca hit at about 07:30 local time (23:30 GMT) on Monday in the coastal area of Lingang New City in Shanghai’s east, the China Meteorological Administration said.
It is the strongest storm to hit Shanghai in 75 years, according to Chinese state media.
As a precaution, more than 400,000 people in the Shanghai Metropolitan area were relocated by Sunday evening, according to local officials. A further 9,000 people were evacuated from the Chongming District, an island at the mouth of the Yangtze River that is also part of Shanghai. Hundreds of flights were cancelled as the city's two main airports grounded all flights.
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Israel Announces "New Phase" In Conflict With Hezbollah
Speaking at a military airbase in northern Israel on Wednesday, Gallant said that Israel is "shifting northward by reallocating resources, energy, and forces", Xinhua news agency reported.
Washington: Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has said that Israel has entered a "new phase" in its conflict with Hezbollah in Lebanon, following two days of explosions targeting communication devices across Lebanon. Speaking at a military airbase in northern Israel on Wednesday, Gallant said that Israel is "shifting northward by reallocating resources, energy, and forces", Xinhua news agency reported. "We are at the beginning of a new phase in the war -- this requires boldness, determination, and perseverance," Gallant said. He added that the goal is "to return the residents of the northern communities to their homes safely." The announcement came a day after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Security Cabinet decided to expand the conflict's objectives, aiming to enable displaced Israelis to return to border areas affected by crossborder fighting with Hezbollah.
UK Bank Warns Of AI Voice Cloning Scams Targeting Millions
A UK bank, Starling Bank, has issued a warning about a new wave of scams that use artificial intelligence to replicate people's voices. Fraudsters can create convincing voice clones from just a few seconds of audio, often found in online videos, the bank said in a press release. The online-only lender said that these scams are highly effective, with millions of people potentially at risk. The bank's survey found that over a quarter of respondents had been targeted by such scams in the past year, and many were unaware of the threat, CNN reported.
"I look forward to being among the people of Jammu and Kashmir today. Will address a rally in Srinagar and Katra. Yesterday’s turnout has shown that the people of J&K are very enthusiastic about the elections and are keen to make the poll process vibrant."
J&K People Eager for Elections, Says : Modi
New Delhi, Sep 19 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday that the turnout in the first phase of the Assembly election in J&K has shown that the people there are very enthusiastic about the elections and are keen to make the poll process vibrant. PM Modi will be in the union territory to address two election rallies in J&K --Srinagar and Katra. The second phase of the Assembly polls in the UT is scheduled for September 25. In a post on X, PM Modi said, "I look forward to being among the people of Jammu and Kashmir today. Will address a rally in Srinagar and Katra. Yesterday’s turnout has shown that the people of J&K are very enthusiastic about the elections and are keen to make the poll process vibrant." He further said in the post that he would speak about the
Canada Tightens Restrictions On International Students, Indians To Be Hit
In a bid to bring down the number of temporary residents in the country, Canada on Wednesday announced to further reduce the number of study permits it will grant to foreign students and also tightened its foreign worker rules, a move that will impact many Indians.
"We're granting 35% fewer international student permits this year. And next year, that number's going down by another 10%," Prime Minister Justin
Israel
The government has already pledged to reduce the number of temporary residents to 5% of the total population. It was 6.8% in April.
Trudeau posted on X. "Immigration is an advantage for our economy - but when bad actors abuse the system and take advantage of students, we crack down," he added. \ Ottawa: Canada is further reducing the number of study permits it will grant to foreign students and tightening eligibility for work permits in a bid to cut down on the number of temporary residents in the country, the government said on Wednesday. The announcement comes as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's Liberal government, trailing in the public opinion polls and coming off a major byelection loss this week, seeks to reduce the number of temporary residents - including international students and foreign workers - in the country.
Warns War "Centre Of Gravity Moving North" Amid Hezbollah Escalation
Tel Aviv, Israel: In Israel's first reaction since thousands of pager and walkietalkie blasts rocked Lebanon over two days, the defence minister in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has announced that the "centre of gravity" of the Middle East conflict is "moving north".
Benjamin Netanyahu also gave a brief video statement in which he promised that tens of thousands of residents from
Israel's northern border with Lebanon will "return to their homes".
Lebanon's militant outfit Hezbollah has been backing Hamas in the Gaza war shortly after it began in October 2023 and regular exchange of fire between Hezbollah militia and Israel's armed forces have been going on for the last many months, however tensions have surges since Tuesday's pager explosions across Lebanon which killed twelve and injured nearly 3,000 people, mostly linked with Hezbollah.
Hezbollah has blamed Israel for what it calls their "biggest-ever" security breach. Mr Netanyahu, however, didn't speak directly about the explosions that have rocked Lebanon.Less than twenty-four hours since thousands of pagers blew up across Lebanon, hand-held walkie-talkies have today exploded killing another nine people and wounding over 300.
development agenda and "seek people’s blessings". The Prime Minister is slated to address a public rally at Sher-eKashmir Cricket Stadium in Srinagar around noon, followed by another at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex in Katra at 3:00 p.m.
This will be the Prime Minister's first election rally in Kashmir for ongoing Assembly elections. Earlier, he addressed a public meeting for the BJP in Jammu's Doda on September 14. BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh has said that Prime Minister Modi's visit to J&K would be a "game changer". Talking to reporters after he visited the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, Chugh said: "People of J&K love the Prime Minister. We have seen in the past whenever he has visited J&K, people in large numbers have welcomed him.
Animal Fat Was Used In Tirupati Laddoos, Says Chandrababu Naidu
Making a startling claim, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has said animal fat was used to make Tirupati laddoos under the previous government run by the YSR Congress. The YS Jagan Mohan Reddyled party has rubbished the allegation and termed it malicious.
Addressing an NDA legislative party meeting on Wednesday, Mr Naidu, whose Telugu Desam Party came to power in Andhra Pradesh in June in an alliance with the Jana Sena and the BJP, said animal fat was used to make the sought-after laddoos given as 'prasad' by the Sri Venkateswara Temple in Tirupati under the Jagan Reddy government.
BJP Suspends J&K Unit Vice President
Three senior BJP leaders were suspended on Wednesday for contesting assembly elections against the party's official candidates in Jammu and Kashmir, a party spokesman said. J&K BJP vice president Pawan Khajuria along with senior party leaders, Balwan Singh and Narinder Singh Bhau, were suspended from the membership of the party on the recommendation of a disciplinary committee headed by Sunil Sethi, the spokesman said.
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There is a conspiracy against Rahul Gandhi and there is threat to his life - Sanjay Raut
15 Opposition Parties Reject "One Nation, One Election" as Impractical
New Delhi: Fifteen Opposition parties, spearheaded by the Congress, have opposed the "One Nation One Election" plan, which was green-lighted by the Union cabinet today. The Congress has said the plan is not pragmatic or practical.
Party chief Mallikarjun Kharge has called it "an attempt to divert the attention of the public". "This is not going to succeed... the people will not accept it," he said while releasing its manifesto for next month's assembly elections in Haryana.
ICC Introduces Equal Prize Money for Men's and Women's World Cups
The International Cricket Council, in a landmark decision on Tuesday, announced equal prize money for men and women in World Cups, starting with next month’s women’s T20 showpiece, the purse for which has been hiked by a staggering 225 per cent to $7.95 million.
The women’s T20 World Cup champions will walk away with $2.34 million from this fund, a 134 per cent increase on the $1 million awarded to the Australia Women’s team when they clinched the title in South Africa last year, said the ICC in a statement. India, who lifted the men’s T20 World Cup in the Caribbean earlier this year, had received $2.45 million in cash prize.
Cabinet Approves ‘One Nation, One Election’ Plan
1,643 Km India-Myanmar Border To Be Fenced At A Cost Of Rs. 31,000 Crore
New Delhi: The entire 1,643 km porous IndiaMyanmar border, known for the smuggling of arms, ammunition and narcotics, will be
fenced at a cost of Rs. 31,000 crore, sources said on Wednesday. On Tuesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said fencing work had been completed in 30 km of the border, which he termed the root cause of the ethnic violence in Manipur. The Cabinet Committee on Security has, in principle, approved the construction of border fencing and roads along the 1,643-km international border between India and Myanmar at an approximate cost of Rs. 31,000 crore, sources said. About 10 km of fencing has already been completed near Moreh and work is underway to fence another 21 km of the border in other areas of Manipur. The India-Myanmar border passes through Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. The Central government has already scrapped the the India-Myanmar Free Movement Regime (FMR), which allows people residing close to the border to venture 16 km into each other's territory without any documents.
Fifteen parties, including the Congress, have opposed the 'one nation, one election' push.
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New Delhi: The Union Cabinet has approved the government's 'one nation, one election' push - which proposes simultaneous Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, with urban body and panchayat polls to be held within 100 days - accepting the report of a panel led by exPresident Ram Nath Kovind. The proposal will now be tabled in Parliament and must clear both Houses - the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha - en route to becoming the law. More significantly, as it will require an amendment to the Constitution and that amendment has to be ratified by all states and union territories.
Loudspeaker Rules Must Apply Equally to Ganesh Festival and Eid: Bombay HC
Mumbai: The Bombay High Court said on Wednesday that if the use of loudspeakers and sound systems beyond permissible noise levels was harmful during the Ganesh festival then it also has the same effect during the Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi processions.
A division bench of Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar made the remark while hearing a bunch of public interest litigations (PILs) seeking a ban on the use of "DJs", "dance" and "laser lights" during the Eid-e-Milad-unNabi processions.
The petitions urged HC to direct the civic bodies and police to refrain from granting permission for the use of such highdecibel sound systems.
The bench referred to an order passed by it last month just before the Ganesh festival wherein it emphasised the ban on the use of sound systems and loudspeakers emitting noise levels beyond the permissible limits specified under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, during festivals.
Kamala Harris' '2011 Hit-And-Run' Is
Fake News Spread By Russia: Microsoft
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Washington: A false claim circulating on social media that Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris left a 13-year-old girl paralysed after an alleged hit-and-run in San Francisco in 2011 is the work of a covert Russian disinformation operation, according to new research by Microsoft. Researchers found that the operation created a video, paid an actor to appear as the alleged victim, and spread the claim through a fake website for a non-existent San Francisco news outlet named "KBSF-TV". The Russian group responsible, which Microsoft dubs Storm-1516, is described as a Kremlinaligned troll farm. The discovery is a sign of Russia ramping up its foreign
influence efforts ahead of the Nov. 5 presidential election, Microsoft said. A spokesperson for the Russian embassy in Washington did not respond to a request for comment. "Russian influence operations initially struggled to pivot operations aimed at the Democratic campaign following President Biden's departure from the U.S. 2024 presidential race," a blog published on Tuesday by Microsoft said. "In late August, however, elements of prolific Russian actor Storm-1516 began producing content implicating Vice President Harris and Governor Walz in outlandish fake conspiracy theories," Microsoft said, referring to Harris' running mate, Tim Walz.
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In a Muslim graveyard in Delhi, a tombstone stands out.
It has an inscription written in the Urdu language, but beneath it lies the name of a German-born Jewish womanGerda Philipsborn - followed by the epithet 'Aapajaan' or 'elder sister'.
This is an unusual sight as the graves of the founders of Jamia Millia Islamia - a top Muslim university rooted in India's independence movement – rest here. Its students have upheld this legacy of political activism, including protests against a controversial citizenship law introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government in 2019.
So, how did a German Jew come to be invested in a place so distant and disconnected from her homeland?
The answer lies somewhere between friendship and a woman's search for meaning, says Margrit Pernau, author of Jamia's Aapa Jaan: The Many Lifeworlds of Gerda Philipsborn.
Pernau, who has spent a decade researching Jamia, says that though she had come across Philipsborn's name several times during her research, her life was shrouded in mystery. Even today, not many students know about Philipsborn and her contribution to the university. Syeda Hameed, a prominent activist and historian, says there's a need for writings on her to be translated and made available to students "for their benefit and the benefit of future generations".
Philipsborn's journey from being a German memsahib - a term of respect for white European women in colonial India - to becoming Jamia's Aapa Jaan began in 1933 when she traveled to India after forging an unlikely friendship with three Indian men, Zakir Husain, Muhammad Mujeeb, and Abid Husain, who had gone to Berlin to study.
The men would go on to become the main founders of Jamia and also play important roles in India's political history, with Zakir Husain becoming the country's third president in 1967.
In the 1920s and 30s, it was uncommon to find cross-national friendships, let alone close, platonic relationships between three men and a woman.
The men, who were involved in the freedom
The German woman who helped build an Indian university
movement, often spoke to Philipsborn about their plans to build an institution that would contribute towards India's fight for freedom. At the time, there were very few universities in British India, and even fewer ones that were not funded by the government. The men wanted Jamia to be a place where Muslim boys and girls could educate themselves, so that they could take up an active role in India's freedom struggle. They
also wanted the institution to promote unity between Hindus and Muslims and love for the motherland.
These altruistic plans had a deep impact on Philipsborn. Born into a wealthy family in 1895, she had seen her life, and the world around her, change due to war, industrialisation and a wave of antiSemitism. She understood what it felt like to be oppressed, to long for freedom and to be driven by the desire to become an
The men wanted Jamia to be a place where Muslim boys and girls could educate themselves, so that they could take up an active role in India's freedom struggle. They also wanted the institution to promote unity between Hindus and Muslims and love for the motherland.
instrument of change, Pernau writes.
And so, shortly after her friends left Berlin to dedicate their lives to building Jamia, Philipsborn followed them to India. But moving from a bustling, modernised Berlin to a country mired in poverty was not an easy decision. Pernau sheds light on the many times Zakir Husain forbade Philipsborn from making the journey. "More than once she had offered to join him [in India], and more than once he had proffered 'advice, warnings, and admonitions not to come'," Pernau writes.
Meanwhile, Muhammad Mujeeb wondered how a "still young, unmarried and unaccompanied woman would fit into Jamia, whose women at this time still observed purdah [the seclusion of women from the sight of men or strangers, practiced by some Muslims and Hindus]," she writes. But Philipsborn made the journey despite these calls for caution.
Within months, she managed to make
friends with the people of Jamia and even began teaching in the university's primary school. Like the rest of the teaches there, she worked for minimal wage and agreed to dedicate her life to serving the institution. She used the knowledge she had gained teaching at kindergartens in Germany to make education enjoyable and approachable for her students. When she was appointed the warden of a hostel for children, she took on the role of an Aapa Jaan for them, Pernau writes.
She did menial tasks like washing and oiling their hair and kept them close to her, emotionally and physically. "When the little children under her care fell sick, she attended to them with such devotion that they didn't miss their mother," Pernau says. Philipsborn also encouraged Jamia's girls and women to play a more active role in society. When she joined the editorial team of Payam-e Ta'lim, Jamia's children's journal, she contributed articles that spotlighted the hobbies and interests of women and encouraged girls to write for the journal.
Apart from her work with the children of Jamia, Gerda also helped its founders raise funds for the university, prepare speeches and often acted as their sounding board for all matters related to teaching and politics. But seven years after she arrived in India, her work hit a roadblock.
Amid Britain's war with Germany, German citizens in British India were viewed with suspicion, leading to their arrest and internment in camps where they endured harsh conditions, including inadequate water, blankets and food.
Philipsborn was taken to one such camp in 1940. Her internment made her fearful for her life as there was the possibility of authorities deporting her to Germany, where Hitler was persecuting the Jews. But even in the camp, she did her best to serve her inmates by organising small events to cheer them up and looking after those who had taken ill.But a couple of months after being brought to the camp, Philipsborn developed a gastric ulcer. She was taken to a hospital for treatment and then moved back to the camp, where she stayed for a whole year.
Gerda Philipsborn left her home in Germany to dedicate her life to serving the people of Jamia
Philipsborn's grave in the Jamia graveyard
Philipsborn with staff and students in Jamia
"Brij Bhushan Survives on Political Power, We Need Strength Too": Vinesh Phogat
HiIndia Interview with Vinesh Phogat: From Wrestling to Politics
HiIndia: After your Olympic heartbreak, how has your political journey been so far?
Vinesh Phogat: I never planned to enter politics. But during our protest, I realized that to make real change, you need political power. Despite concerns about losing goodwill, the love and respect, especially from women, has only grown.
support is overwhelming.
HiIndia: Despite protests, you reached the final and defeated Japan's Yui Susaki. What drove you?
the final, how did you react?
Vinesh Phogat: I was devastated. I begged them to check again. It was a heartbreaking moment. A friend, a Hungarian wrestler, had tears in her eyes, but there was nothing anyone could do.
HiIndia: Has your Olympic achievement or the protest against Brij Bhushan Singh resonated more with the public?
Vinesh Phogat: I believe the protests struck a chord. People saw our fight as being for their daughters and families. Olympic achievements are personal, but when you stand up for others, the
India Focuses on Mental Strength for Women's T20 World Cup 2024
With India team gearing up for Women's T20 World Cup 2024 starting early next month, India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur spoke of the need of mental strength and how it helps a team execute its plans. Harmanpreet made her T20I debut in 2009 against England and has scored 3,426 runs in the shortest format after playing 173 matches and 153 innings. The 35-year-old will also lead Team India in the T20 World Cup, which will be held in the UAE.
Harmanpreet said that the India are working on their mental strength for a long time. She added that T20s are not a small format, and the last 3-4 overs are very crucial.
"We have been working on mental strength for a long time. The last 3-4 overs are the most crucial.
Vinesh Phogat: It’s God-given strength. Once I set my heart on something, no one can stop me. Even during the protests, I never felt I had quit wrestling. I was always determined to compete.
HiIndia: When the scale showed you were 100 grams overweight before
HiIndia: Should there be weight allowances in such cases?
Vinesh Phogat: Absolutely. There should be a 1kg allowance, especially for women, as our bodies handle weight differently. Many female athletes feel this way.
HiIndia: You’ve been critical of the Prime Minister's silence during your protest. How did that affect you?
Vinesh Phogat: It was disappointing. He meets athletes often, yet during such a major protest, he stayed silent. If his love for sportspeople was genuine, I believe he would have reached out. His silence speaks volumes.
India win Asian Champions Trophy hockey
A determined India claimed their fifth Hero Asian Champions Trophy title with a fighting 1-0 victory over hosts China here on Tuesday, completing a display of absolute dominance in the tournament in which they won all their matches.
Defender Jugraj Singh scored a rare field goal as the defending champions toiled hard before getting the better of their opponents.
It was not easy for the Harmanpreet Singh-led India as they failed to break
the Chinese defence in the first three quarters. Eventually, Jugraj broke the deadlock in the 51st minute to hand the Paris Olympics bronze medallists the win against a resolute Chinese side, which was playing in only its second international tournament final.
Before this, China’s only appearance in the final of an international tournament was in 2006 Asian Games, where they finished second-best after losing 1-3 to Korea.
Earlier in the day, Pakistan defeated Korea 5-2 to bag the third spot in the six-team competition. India, thus, became the most successful team in the tournament’s history with a record-extending five titles. The Indians had previously achieved back-to-back titles in 2016 and 2018.
Rewarding the team’s efforts, Hockey India on Tuesday announced a cash prize of Rs 3 lakh for each player and Rs 1.5 lakh for each support staff member.
Virat Kohli Eyes Elite Test Club
Star India batter Virat Kohli will be having some milestones to unlock as he prepares for the first Test against Bangladesh at Chennai, with an aim to overtake his peers Joe Root, Steve Smith and Kane Williamson's recent success in the longest format. The two-match series between India and Bangladesh will kick off on September 19 in Chennai at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Meanwhile, the second long-format game will begin on September 27 in Kanpur. In his first Test assignment, head coach Gautam Gambhir will be keen on securing a series win.
Saleema Imtiaz
Becomes Pakistan's First Woman Umpire on ICC Panel
Pakistan’s Saleema Imtiaz became the first woman to be nominated for the ICC International Panel of development umpires said Pakistan Cricket Board(PCB) on Sunday. “The journey has been filled with hard work and personal sacrifices, but now, standing at the cusp of this new chapter, it all feels worth it,” Imtiaz said.
India is a batting-obsessed nation but Bumrah, Ashwin and Jadeja changing trend: Gautam Gambhir
India coach Gautam Gambhir on Wednesday praised the trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin for changing the trend that India is a batting obsessed country.
Speaking ahead of India’s first Test against Bangladesh in Chennai, Gambhir said, “India is a batting obsessed nation. But Bumrah, Ashwin and Jadeja are changing that. Bumrah is smart in Test cricket. It is good these guys are changing the trend.”
“Bumrah is the best fast bowler in the
world now who can make a difference at any stage of the game,” he added. He also expressed confidence the batting unit, saying that it can take on any spin unit in the world despite the team’s struggles in the last ODI series against Sri
Gambhir also expressed confidence the batting unit, saying that it can take on any spin unit in the world despite the team's struggles in the last ODI series against Sri Lanka.
Lanka where the Lankan spinners took the lion’s share of the wickets, handing India a 2-0 loss. “Our batting unit has so much quality that it can take on any spin unit. There is a lot of difference between ODIs and Tests,” he said. Meanwhile, littered largely with lopsided
contests, India’s hopes of walking down that familiar path will hinge on sorting an uncharacteristic batting infirmity against spin when they face Bangladesh in a twoTest series starting from Thursday. After the first Test in Chennai, the two teams will face each other in Kanpur on September 27. Bangladesh, who are fresh from a recent 2-0 drubbing of Pakistan, are no pushovers this time and this will add to India’s list of concerns as they look to take that bold first step into a long season that features 10 Tests, including a possible berth in the World Test Championship Final.
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New US shipping rules target China's Shein and Temu
The US has proposed rules that would hit many low-value shipments from China with new taxes - a measure aimed at curbing the flood of packages from shopping sites such as Shein and Temu.
The Biden administration said the plan was intended to stop "abuse" of an exemption that allowed packages worth less than $800 (£600) to enter the US without facing tariffs and other fees.
The US said the "de minimis" rule has helped firms such as Shein and Temu, which typically ship directly from the manufacturer to the customer, undercut competitors with lower prices. In statements, the two companies defended their business models.
The US raised the exemption from tariffs and other fees for shipments from $200 to $800 in 2016 to facilitate trade and allow officials to focus on higher priority shipments.
But lawmakers have voiced increasing alarm about "exploitation" by firms such as Temu and Shein, as the two make rapid inroads in the US market. The new rules would remove the exemption for Chinese goods that currently face tariffs from the US - a wide range of products including shoes, machinery and 70% of textiles and
Amazon ends working from home for office staff
Amazon is ending its hybrid work policy and ordering staff back to the office five days a week.
The change will go into effect in January, boss Andy Jassy said in a memo to staff announcing the new rule. He said he believed the move would help staff be "better set up to invent, collaborate, and be connected enough to each other".
Mr Jassy has long been known as a sceptic of remote work, but Amazon staff were previously allowed to work from home two days a week.
The company's push to get its corporate staff back into the office has been a source of tension within the company, which employs more than 1.5 million people globally in full- and part-time positions, including hundreds of thousands corporate roles.
Staff at its Seattle headquarters staged a protest last year as the company tightened the full remote work allowance that was put in place during the pandemic.
Amazon subsequently fired the organiser of that protest, prompting claims of unfair retaliation, a dispute that has been taken up with labour officials. In his message on Monday, Mr Jassy said he was worried that Amazon - which has long prided itself on preserving the intensity of a startup while growing to become a tech giant - was seeing its corporate culture diluted by flexible work and too many bureaucratic layers.
TikTok to begin appeal against being sold or banned in US
TikTok will start making its case on Monday against a law that will see it banned in the US unless Chinese owner ByteDance sells the social media app within nine months. The measure - signed into law by President Biden in April - has been prompted by concerns that US users' data is vulnerable to exploitation by China's government.
apparel. They would also increase what information shippers must provide to authorities.
Temu said its success was due to an "efficient business model that cuts out unnecessary middlemen, allowing us to pass savings directly to our consumers".
Russian state media networks banned by Facebook owner
Facebook owner Meta says it is banning several Russian state media networks, alleging they use deceptive tactics to carry out influence operations and evade detection on its platforms.
"After careful consideration, we expanded our ongoing enforcement against Russian state media outlets.
Rossiya Segodnya, RT and other related entities are now banned from our apps globally for foreign interference activity," Meta said. The bans are expected to come into effect in the next few days.
The Russian embassy in Washington, broadcaster RT, formerly Russia Today, and the owner of the Sputnik news agency, Rossiya Segodnya, did not immediately respond to BBC requests for comment.
Russian state media outlets have come under increased scrutiny over claims they have tried to influence politics in Western countries.
As well as Facebook, social media giant Meta owns Instagram, WhatsApp and Threads.
Govt clears 12 Indian start-ups for incentives under chip design plan
The Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) has approved chip design related proposals from at least 12 Indian startups and has committed more than Rs 130 crore to their projects, which span from developing integrated circuits for telecommunication applications, to artificial intelligence (AI) hardware accelerator.
In total, the approved projects will cost Rs 342 crore, and the Centre has committed close to Rs 133 crore towards them. So far, the government has released a little more
than Rs 7 crore. The government has received 59 applications under the design linked incentive (DLI) scheme, of which it has cleared 12 for financial assistance. 21 applications are under review. The twelve companies, and the innovations they are working on are: DV2JS Innovation (image sensor system on chip for automotive applications); Vervesemi Microelectronics (microcontroller integrated circuit for industrial applications); Fermionic Design (beamformer IC for satellite communication); Morphing Machines (RISC-V multi-core accelerators for telecom applications); Calligo Technologies (hardware accelerators for AI); Sensesemi Technologies (wearable SoC for healthcare applications); Saankhya Labs (basestation SoC for 5G communication); Aheesa Digital Innovations; Netrasemi (edge-AI SoC for smart vision and IoT applications).
TikTok and ByteDance have always denied links to the Chinese authorities and have described the law an "extraordinary intrusion on free speech rights."
Adani bags 6,600MW power deal
Adani group has won a bid to supply 6,600MW of bundled renewable and thermal power to Maharashtra for the long term after its quote of Rs. 4.08 per unit beat the likes of JSW Energy and Torrent Power. Adani Power’s bid for the bundled renewable and thermal energy supply for 25 years was almost a rupee lower than the cost at which Maharashtra currently procures electricity and will help meet future electricity requirements of the state, two sources with direct knowledge of the matter said.
Electric Cars Lose PM E-DRIVE Incentives Due to Dropping Battery Prices
Electric cars have been denied incentives under the new electric vehicle scheme — PM E-DRIVE — announced last week. The scheme has announced funds to the tune of Rs. 3,679 crore to incentivise electric two- and three-wheelers, e-ambulances and e-trucks but not e-cars. Road transport and highways minister Nitin Gadkari had indicated electric cars will be left out of the successor to FAME, the earlier incentive scheme.
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China, Russia Wary of India-US Ties: US Diplomat
Washington: China and Russia are concerned about the strengthening India-US relationship because it promotes inclusivity, peace, and the peaceful resolution of disputes, along with valuing diverse voices in society, a top US diplomat said Monday.
"Frankly, why do you think China and Russia are so concerned about this partnership? Because we bring a way of life to the rest of the world, that is about inclusivity, about peace, about the peaceful resolution of disputes, about the rule of law, and it's about hearing everyone's voice in a society," Richard Verma, the Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources said at the prestigious Hudson Institute, in response to a question, after he delivered remarks on India-US relationship.
Taliban Suspends Polio Vaccination In Afghanistan
Kabul: The United Nations (UN) announced on Monday that the Taliban has suspended all polio vaccination campaigns in Afghanistan. UN agencies said that they were notified about the suspension just days before the scheduled September immunisation campaign, though no official reason was provided. Representatives from the Talibanled government did not comment on the situation immediately.
25 Punjab Travel Agencies Busted for Fake Job Scam Abroad
The Punjab Police have booked 25 travel agencies across various parts of the state for deceiving youngsters with fake job opportunities abroad.
The Punjab Police's NRI and Cyber Crime wings, in coordination with the Protectorate of Emigrants, Chandigarh, launched this crackdown on travel agencies for illegally advertising employment opportunities on social media platforms, primarily Instagram and Facebook.
The elevation of Atishi comes two days after Arvind Kejriwal's shocking announcement to step down from the top post
New Delhi: Delhi minister Atishi will take over as Chief Minister after Arvind Kejriwal resigns from the top post after a meeting with Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena this afternoon. The decision was taken at an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislators' meeting today.
At the meeting of AAP MLAs today, party leader Dilip Pandey proposed that Mr Kejriwal decide on the Chief Minister face. When the AAP national convener proposed Ms Atishi's name, all AAP MLAs stood up and accepted it and Ms Atishi was elected leader of the legislature party.
Ms Atishi now holds key portfolios in the Delhi government such as Education and Public Works Department. An Oxford University alumnus and a
Atishi Chosen as Delhi's New CM by Arvind Kejriwal
Ms
An MLA from Kalkaji, the 43-year-old became a minister after Mr Sisodia was
Kolkata Top Cop, 2 Health Officials Removed After Mamata-Doctors Meeting
Kolkata: Bengal Chief Minster Mamata Banerjee, after meeting with the protesting junior doctors, has announced that she had agreed to three of the five demands of the protesting doctors -- the removal of two top officials of the health department and the Chief of Kolkata police. Along with it, the police chief of the city's north zone -- where RG Kar Medical College, the hospital where the rape-murder of a young doctor took place, is located -- will also be removed. Though the impasse is solved, the protest and the ceasework is expected to continue till the formal orders are issued in the morning.
"I think the meeting was positive. Am sure they think too," she said. "Or why else we will sign the minutes of the meeting and they would sign it too?" she added. Banerjee said they have accepted 99 per cent of the doctors' demands, "because they are our younger brothers". The announcement is seen as a capitulation of sorts. The atmosphere at the protest site after the doctors returned was festive.
arrested in a corruption case linked to Delhi's now-scrapped liquor policy. When Mr Kejriwal and Mr Sisodia were behind bars, Atishi articulated the party's position at party events and media exchanges.
Full of Hate, Defaming India": PM on Rahul Gandhi's Sikh Remarks
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said "those filled with hate are defaming India", in sharp comments seen as his first (and veiled) response to Rahul Gandhi's remarks in the United States last week, including one freedom for religious minorities, like the Sikhs, in the country. Mr Modi was speaking in Gujarat's Ahmedabad, where he inaugurated infrastructure projects worth Rs. 8,000 crore. The PM did not name Mr Gandhi but accused "some people" of acting against the interests of the country. "... (some) filled with negativity are targeting India's unity. Those filled with hate are not leaving any chance to defame India and Gujarat... want to do tukde, tukde (break-up) the country," he said. He also made campaign references ahead of the first phase of voting, on Wednesday, for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly election, hitting out at the Congress and its ally, the National Conference. The two have promised to restore special status for J&K under Article 370, which was scrapped by the ruling BJP, which also split J&K into two union territories, in August 2019.
Salman Khan Warns Against Fake US Show: "Legal Action Will Be Taken"
Salman Khan warned his fans against a fake event announcement claiming that the superstar will be performing in the US. Salman Khan, on Tuesday, shared an official statement, and he captioned it, "Official Notice." An excerpt from the statement read, "This is to inform that neither Mr Salman Khan nor any of his affiliated companies or teams are organizing any upcoming concerts, appearances in the USA in 2024. Any claims suggesting that Mr Khan will be performing are completely false."
Salman Khan added in the statement, "Please do not trust any emails, messages, or advertisements promoting such events. Legal action will be taken against anyone found falsely using
"Please do not trust any emails, messages, or advertisements promoting such events," an excerpt from the statement read
Mr Salman Khan's name for fraudulent purposes."
In terms of work, Salman Khan was last seen in AP Dhillon's Old Money, also starring Sanjay Dutt. He also produced the docu-series Angry Young Men, which showcases the journey of the legendary screenwriters of 1970s Hindi cinema - Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar. He produced it along with Salma Khan, Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar, Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti.
Speaking of films, the superstar announced his next project on Eid this year and it is titled Sikandar. He will co-star with Rashmika Mandanna in the film which will be directed by AR Murugadoss. The actor had two releases last year - He first starred in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan.
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Rhodes scholar,
Atishi has worked extensively in the AAP's flagship exercise to overhaul education in Delhi's schools.
5 Years, Rs.300 Crore And 5,000 VisasFake Document Unit Busted In Delhi
According to the police, the gang were making some 30-60 fake visas every month and could prepare a visa sticker in just 20 minutes.
New Delhi: On September 2, a man from Haryana, Sandeep, was caught attempting to fly to Italy on a fake Swedish visa during an immigration check at Delhi airport. Upon questioning, he revealed that several people from his village had visited abroad using the same counterfeit visas. Sandeep's revelations led to the busting of a fake visa racket operating out of Delhi for the last five years, which had produced four to five thousand forged visas so far and had made a whopping Rs. 300 crore doing so.
Sandeep revealed that he managed to get the fake visa through an agent named Asif Ali for Rs. 10 lakh. Following this, the police arrested Asif Ali and his associates Shiva Gautam and Naveen Rana. During
Rahul Gandhi’s U.S. Tour
the investigation, Shiva Gautam revealed the names of two more agents linked to the gang- Balbir Singh and Jaswinder Singh, who were also arrested. They later disclosed that the fake visas for several countries were made in a factory in Delhi's Tilak Nagar area which was operated by a man named Manoj Monga. The police then raided the factory in Tilak Nagar and arrested Manoj Monga, who has a diploma in graphic design. Around five years ago, Manoj met a man called Jaideep Singh, who encouraged him to use his graphic designing skills to make counterfeit visas. He also provided Manoj with the necessary equipment. According to the police, they were making some 3060 fake visas every month and could prepare a visa
sticker in just 20 minutes. Every fake visa was sold for Rs. 8-10 lakh. The racket used Telegram, Signal, and WhatsApp for communication and had an intricate web of local agents across several regions who would connect with people seeking jobs abroad.
Deputy Commissioner of Police, IGI Airport Usha Rangrani said that so far, six people have been arrested and 16 Nepali passports, two Indian passports, 30 visa stickers, and 23 visa stamps have been recovered. A lot of equipment used in making the forged visas such as dye machines, printers, laminating sheets, laptops, UV machines, and more have also been recovered in the raid.
A Catalyst for a New Political Narrative
In a series of statements made during his recent U.S. tour, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has ignited a fresh wave of political discourse, addressing critical national concerns that have rattled the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His speeches in Washington, D.C., and Dallas touched on pressing issues such as social justice, economic disparity, and the Chinese occupation of Indian territory in Ladakh.
BJP Criticism and Rahul Gandhi's Focus on Accountability
In response to BJP's criticisms following
his foreign visits, Gandhi's sharp focus on transparency and accountability in governance became a key theme. His remarks not only called attention to the ongoing territorial dispute in Ladakh but also spotlighted growing economic inequalities, particularly favoring industrialists like Adani and Ambani. Gandhi questioned the waiver of substantial loans for these individuals, underscoring concerns of economic favoritism that benefit a select few at the cost of the broader population.
The Call for a Caste Census and Social Justice
One of Gandhi’s most significant
propositions, a national caste census, has further stirred the political landscape. His advocacy for such a measure is aimed at addressing historical inequalities faced by backward classes and Dalits, urging the recognition of social realities to ensure more equitable policy formulation. This focus on social justice is seen as a direct challenge to the BJP and its ideological affiliate, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), whose silence on the matter has raised questions about their stance on inclusivity.
Economic Disparities and Criticism of Corporate Favors
Gandhi’s emphasis on economic disparities has also touched a nerve, particularly regarding the alleged favoritism shown towards certain industrialists. By calling attention to these issues, Gandhi has positioned himself as a voice for the marginalized, challenging the BJP’s claims of fostering economic development while disproportionately benefiting the wealthy elite.
BJP’s Moral Authority in Question
In light of these pressing concerns, the BJP’s criticisms of Rahul Gandhi seem to falter in terms of moral authority. The party’s counter-narrative, which often targets Gandhi’s foreign engagements, pales in comparison to the weight of the issues he raises. This has led many to question whether the ruling party is focusing more on political theatrics than addressing the genuine concerns of the Indian populace.
Rahul Gandhi’s Ethical Stance Resonates with Many
Gandhi’s approach, in contrast to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s earlier remarks about "nothing happening in the last 70 years" of India’s history, has been viewed by many as a more constructive and respectful engagement with the country’s past. Modi’s comments, often criticized for dismissing the contributions of previous generations, stand in stark contrast to Gandhi’s focus on issues of equity, justice, and national security.
Community leader Iftekhar sharrif with Rahul Gandhi
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Mom Hema Malini Gave Tips on Protecting Modesty on Set Esha Deol
Actor Esha Deol, who started out in the film business over two decades ago, spoke about the important lessons that her mother, Hema Malini, gave her before she took the plunge. Esha also praised her mother for being one of the biggest movie stars of her generation, and for earning the same amount as her male contemporaries.
In an interview with Hauterrfly, Esha said that shortly after her debut, the constant comparisons that were being made between her and Hema began to get to her. She spoke about it with her mother, who told her that if she’s expecting a smooth ride, she’s ‘in the wrong profession’.
Hema also gave her some valuable tips on how to protect herself in an industry dominated by men.
Esha said, “Back then, only the heroines and the hairdressers would be women.” She added, “Luckily, my mother has experienced this industry. There were tips that I was always given to avoid getting into that zone of getting into trouble or feeling uncomfortable. So, for example, if I was wearing a short skirt and shooting through the day, my man Friday would immediately put a towel on my lap the second my shot was over. Or, if I was wearing a low-neck top where my cleavage was showing a bit, they would give me a cloth (to cover myself up).”
Esha said that she also developed a special hugging technique on camera, where she would put her arms in front of her and hold the other person around the neck. This way, she could push them back if she wanted to, and not touch them with her body. Esha has often spoken about how opposed her conservative father, Dharmendra, was to her acting career. But he eventually came around to it.
Esha also spoke about pay parity in the industry, and said that actors should earn what they deserve, which is why her mother commanded the same salaries as her male co-stars. “She didn’t have to fight for the money. When she was ruling, she was wanted in every second or third film. She was the selling point of the film. If Hema Malini was in the film, the film would be a hit. So, she was getting that price,” Esha said.
Sajid Nadiadwala is reuniting the dynamic duo of Shahid Kapoor and Vishal Bhardwaj for a big screen entertainer under his banner, Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment. Adding to the excitement, the incredibly talented Tripti Dimri will also be a part of this much-anticipated project. It is touted to be the big action commercial entertainer.
This untitled film promises to deliver a perfect dose of entertainment for the audiences.
The power-house producer Sajid Nadiadwala said, "I'm thrilled to join forces with the genius director, my dear friend Vishal Bhardwaj, and the phenomenal powerhouse Shahid Kapoor! It's an honor to welcome the incredibly gifted Tripti Dimri to the #NGEFamily! -Love #SajidNadiadwala"
IFFSA Toronto 2024: Shabana Azmi To Be Honoured At The Film Festival
Shabana Azmi is celebrating 50 years in the film industry. In recognition of her outstanding career, the International Film Festival of South Asia (IFFSA) Toronto 2024 will honour her contributions to cinema during its 13th edition. The festival will run from October 10 to 20. It will feature a tribute program for the actress including a screening of her 1983 film Mandi. The festival will host an exclusive masterclass and a musical celebration honouring the veteran actress' remarkable cinematic journey. According to Sunny Gill, Festival Director of IFFSA Toronto, the goal is to pay tribute to the luminaries whose work has influenced the world of cinema.
“This year's celebration will be a vibrant tribute to the rich legacy of South Asian cinema, marked by unforgettable moments, insightful dialogues, and a profound homage to the icons who have shaped our cinematic world. We invite everyone to join us for an inspiring and transformative experience,” Sunny Gill said in a statement, reported PTI.
Have no forefathers in the industry, I'm just on my own
BAkshay made his appearance on the big screen in the cameo role as a martial arts instructor in the 1987 film 'Aaj' helmed by Mahesh Bhatt. From there he secured his first role as a lead actor in the 1991 film 'Saugandh'. He got his big break with the film Khiladi that established him as an action hero.
ollywood actor Akshay Kumar, who has been in the film industry for more than a decade, had earlier revealed that he did not take any training in the field of acting. In a throwback video, when the host asked Akshay if there is any training required for acting just like in martial arts. To which Akshay replies, "Main apni baat bata sakta hoon, maine toh training nahi lii hai, main toh iss film industry mein raw aaya tha." (I can tell you, I have not taken any training, I came to this film industry raw).
"None of my forefathers belong to this industry, I'm just on my own, I just have one man to be that he is with me, Mr. Pramod Chakravorty and his whole family and I've nobody else, that's all," Akshay concluded.
Before getting a big break in acting, Akshay worked as a background dancer in many films and also worked as an assistant for the renowned photographer Jayesh Sheth. However, destiny had other plans for Akshay because while he had
planned for an ad shoot in Bangalore, the actor missed his flight and while returning he decided to visit a film studio along with his portfolio. On the same evening, renowned producer-director late Pramod Chakravorty signed Akshay for his upcoming film titled 'Deedar' opposite Karisma Kapoor.
Akshay made his appearance on the big screen in the cameo role as a martial arts instructor in the 1987 film 'Aaj' helmed by Mahesh Bhatt. From there he secured his first role as a lead actor in the 1991 film 'Saugandh'. He got his big break with the film Khiladi that established him as an action hero.
The actor was last seen in Mudassar Aziz's directorial 'Khel Khel Mein'. The comedy-drama featured Akshay Kumar, Ammy Virk, Taapsee Pannu, Vaani Kapoor, Fardeen Khan, Aditya Seal and Pragya Jaiswal in lead roles. He will next be seen in the film 'Singham Again' where he will reprise the role of Sooryavanshi. Directed by Rohit Shetty, the film also stars Ajay Devgn, Ranveer Singh, Tiger Shroff, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Arjun Kapoor.
Will Join Bigg Boss Only If Co-Hosting With Salman Khan: Sunita Ahuja
Bollywood actor Govinda's wife Sunita Ahuja recently gave her two cents about being offered to be contestant in reality show Bigg Boss. On being asked if she would be interested in participating in the reality TV show, Bigg Boss, Sunita said that she has been receiving the offer for a few years now. She said, “They've been making me offers for the last four years. For the OTT version as well, the one hosted by Anil Kapoor. They came to me twice for that, and I told them, ‘Are you mad? You think I clean toilets?' You ask me this question, but tell me, would you ask Shah Rukh Khan's wife the same thing? Do you think we're struggling financially? I don't even watch Bigg Boss.”
Sunita added, “I told them, ‘Do you even know who you're talking to right now? Come to me if you want me to host alongside Salman Khan'.” Sunita Ahuja also expressed her wish to grace the couch in Koffee With Karan. On the Time Out with Ankit podcast, when asked about appearing on Koffee with Karan, Sunita said with a smile, “I'm waiting for an invite!”
She said it doesn't bother her that she hasn't been invited so far. “Why would I be irritated? It's his show, it's up to him who he wants to invite. Although if he invites me he'll certainly attract ratings! Karan's also a Gemini, so am I. We'll have a ball,” she said. Sunita Ahuja is married to Govinda, who has featured in several blockbuster films including Hero No 1, Coolie No 1, Dulhe Raja, Haseena Maan Jaayegi, Jodi No 1 and many more.
Aditi Rao Hydari and Siddharth are now married
Aditi Rao Hydari and Siddharth are now 'Mr and Mrs'. The couple has dropped pictures from their intimate temple wedding on social media and confirmed their wedding. The couple in a collaborative post on social media surprised all with their wedding announcement. Despite being popular stars in the South and Bollywood, the actors managed to keep their wedding a secret. Announcing their wedding, Aditi and Siddharth shared stunning pictures from their temple ceremony.
‘Jokes will be a mix of US election, world events Vir Das on hosting International Emmy Awards
It has been an eventful month for Das, who also featured in Call Me Bae, led by Ananya Panday. Creating the character of TRP-hungry news anchor for the Collin D’Cunha-directed series was deeply satisfying. “I’m not the first person you think of when you think of a Dharma show. I didn’t want to make my character a YouTube sketch version of a journalist. So, Collin and I decided to make him a badass when he is in front of the camera; he can deliver lines. But we made him an idiot off camera. I played it with authenticity and a little bit of menace.”
Jackson, a member of the
Jackson 5 and the third oldest child in the
Jackson family, is no more. Tito breathed his last on Sunday at age 70, Variety reported, citing information from Entertainment Tonight. The news of Tito's demise was confirmed by Steve Manning, a longtime friend and associate of the Jackson family. Manning told the publication that he believed Tito suffered a heart attack while driving on a road trip, adding that the cause of death was officially undetermined.
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Michael Jackson's Brother Tito Jackson Dies
Tito
legendary
famous
"It Is Pretty Cool"
Sunita Williams To Vote In US Election From Space
Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams, who is stuck on the International Space Station (ISS), today said it was her "happy place" and that she "loves" being up there. Ms Williams and her fellow NASA colleague Butch Wilmore on June 5 took off aboard the Boeing's Starliner as part of the vessel's first crewed mission, in what was originally meant to be eight days in orbit. Their stay, however, has been stretched to eight months after the Starliner ran into several technical issues and returned to Earth without them last week.
Adani Group in
TIME's 2024 Best Companies List
New Delhi: The Adani Group has featured in TIME's prestigious World's Best Companies of 2024 list, prepared in collaboration with Statista, a leading global industry ranking and statistics portal. The Adani Group in a statement said, "The accolade highlights the Adani Group's commitment to employee satisfaction, revenue growth and sustainability. It is further validation of the group's hard work and continuous efforts to push boundaries and deliver excellence across businesses."
China raises retirement age for the first time since the 1950s
The Chinese government on Friday approved a plan to raise the country’s statutory retirement age, currently among the lowest in the world, in a long-awaited but broadly unpopular effort to address the challenge of its rapidly ageing population. This is the first time China has raised its retirement age since the 1950s.
2 Soldiers Killed In Action In J&K, 2 Terrorists Shot Dead In Another Op
Srinagar: Two soldiers were killed in action during a fierce gunbattle with terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar, a senior army officer said.
In a separate encounter in Kathua, troops of the Rising Star Corps shot dead two terrorists.
The army in a statement said based on intelligence inputs, a joint operation with Jammu and Kashmir Police was launched in Chatroo at Kishtwar. Contact was established with terrorists at 1530 hours.
In the ensuing firefight, two soldiers were killed in action, the army said. The operation is going on.
The gunbattle in Kishtwar's Chatroo began after the security forces launched an operation in the area. The encounter is still going on, the White Knight Corps said in a post on X.
The same terrorists involved in the
encounter in Kishtwar are linked to another encounter in Doda in July, when four soldiers including an officer were killed in action, sources said.
The encounters happened days before voting in eight assembly segments spread across Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban districts in the Chenab valley region, along with 16 seats in the south Kashmir
Hemant Soren's Challenge of 'Humiliating Defeat' to BJP Before Jharkhand Polls
Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren has accused the BJP of using all its “big” leaders to spread communal narrative in the poll-bound state but warned that the saffron party would face a humiliating defeat in the Assembly poll. Addressing a function to mark the release of the second instalment of financial assistance for women beneficiaries of Jharkhand Mukhyamantri Maiyan Samman Yojana at Bokaro district on Friday, Soren alleged, “Ever since our government was formed the BJP has been trying to purchase MLAs and MPs in Jharkhand. They purchase leaders like vegetables in the market and have got enough money for such acts. But do not have money to waive off loans of farmers, provide pension to poor persons, provide grants for girl children and waive off arrears of electricity bills.”
districts of Anantnag, Pulwama, Shopian and Kulgam on September 18. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to campaign in Jammu and Kashmir tomorrow.
Jammu, Kathua and Samba districts will vote in the second and third phases on September 25 and October 1, respectively.
PM Modi to Campaign in J&K's Doda Under Tight Security
This will be the first visit by a prime minister to Doda in the last 42 years.
Jammu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to hit the poll campaign trail in support of his party candidates on Saturday by addressing a mega rally in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district, amid tight security arrangements.
This will be the first visit by a prime minister to Doda in the last 42 years. Multi-tier security has been deployed across the twin districts of Doda and Kishtwar, particularly around the venue, to ensure a peaceful and smooth conduct of the election rally, which will be held at the stadium in Doda town.
"Prime Minister Modi will hold his first election meeting in Doda tomorrow. This will be a significant event as it marks the first visit of any Prime Minister to Doda in 42 years. The last prime ministerial visit to Doda was in 1982," said Union Coal and Mines Minister and BJP election in-charge for Jammu & Kashmir, G Kishan Reddy, on Friday in Samba.
Rahul Gandhi's U.S. Tour Stirs Political Debate, Focuses on Social Justice
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s recent U.S. tour has sparked political discourse, addressing critical national concerns that have shaken the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His speeches in Washington, D.C., and Dallas highlighted key issues, including social justice, economic inequality, and China’s territorial claims in Ladakh.
Gandhi’s remarks focused on accountability in governance, pointing to economic favoritism toward industrialists like Adani and Ambani, criticizing loan waivers benefiting a select few. His advocacy for a national caste census, aimed at addressing inequalities faced by backward classes and Dalits, has been a focal point of his critique against the BJP and its ideological ally, the RSS.
The BJP’s attacks on Gandhi over his foreign visits have been met with skepticism, as many see Gandhi’s emphasis on social justice and economic fairness as more substantive. His approach contrasts with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s past remarks dismissing India’s progress over the last 70 years, further intensifying the debate on governance and national progress. As the political landscape heats up, Gandhi’s focus on equity and transparency resonates with a growing section of the Indian public, challenging the BJP’s narrative ahead of upcoming elections.
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Iftekhar sharrif with Rahul Gandhi
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RG Kar Horror Bengal Junior Doctors' Strike Enters 36th Day
Agitating junior doctors in West Bengal on Monday continued with their cease work, stating that they wouldremain steadfast in their resolve to pursue justice for the medic raped and murdered at the RG Kar hospital.
The doctors continued their sit-in outside Swasthya Bhawan, the headquarters of the Health department, for the eight day and the cease work for the 36th day and vowed to continue it till their demands - the removal of Kolkata Police Commissioner and senior state health officials are met.
Vande Metro, To Be Launched In Gujarat By PM Modi, Renamed To "Namo Bharat Rapid Rail"
New Delhi: The muchanticipated Vande Metro has been officially renamed as "Namo Bharat Rapid Rail" by Indian Railways. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the country's first Namo Bharat Rapid Rail service in Gujarat today, a day before his birthday.
The Namo Bharat Rapid Rail will connect Bhuj, located in Gujarat's Kutch district, with Ahmedabad, one of the state's largest cities, covering a distance of 360 kilometres in just under six hours.
PM Modi Extends Milad-Un-Nabi Greetings
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted people on Milad-un-Nabi on Monday and wished that harmony and togetherness may always prevail.
"Eid Mubarak! Best wishes on the occasion of Milad-un-Nabi. May harmony and togetherness always prevail. Let there be joy and prosperity all around," PM Modi said on X.
Delhi CM Kejriwal to Resign in 2 Days, Faces ‘Agnipariksha
Through his months in jail, Arvind Kejriwal confounded many by refusing to resign as Delhi chief minister. Now freed on bail, he has caused some more surprise by declaring he would step down in two days.
The Aam Aadmi Party national convener announced his decision on Sunday, claiming the moral high ground two days after his release from Tihar Jail. He, however, signalled he was ready to be back if the AAP won the “agnipariksha” (trial by fire) of the upcoming Assembly polls.
Kejriwal stopped short of dissolving his government, saying the legislature party would choose a new leader who would not be his former deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia. Sisodia too is out on bail in the same case, relating to alleged corruption in the Delhi government’s nowscrapped excise policy. “I will go to every street, I will go to every house and until the public gives its verdict that Kejriwal is honest, I will not sit on the CM’s chair…. I resigned from the post of chief minister after remaining in power for 49 days (in 2014). I resigned for my principles,” Kejriwal said in an address at his party headquarters.
One Nation, One Election’ Likely This Government Tenure: Sources
New Delhi: The idea of One Country One Election -- under discussion for long in the corridors of parliament -- will be implemented during the current tenure of the Narendra Modi government, sources have said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had mentioned this in his Independence Day speech this year and the government is committed to implementing it, sources said. The government has already formed a committee under the chairmanship of former President Ramnath Kovind, which has submitted its report. The panel has recommended simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies as a first step, which would be followed by synchronised local body polls within 100 days. It is likely that the Law Commission will also recommend it soon. The Commission is likely to recommend that all three tiers of government -- Lok Sabha, state assemblies and local bodies like municipalities and panchayats -- have simultaneous polls starting 2029 and a provision for unity government in cases like hung house or no-confidence motion.
Pak-Origin Man Convicted for Killing Indian with SUV in UK
London: A 25-yearold man of Pakistani heritage has been convicted of murdering an Indian restaurant manager with a stolen car while the victim was cycling back home in south-east England on Valentine's Day this year.
Vignesh Pattabhiraman, 36, was killed by Shazeb Khalid with a "stolen Range Rover" while he cycling back from his workplacean Indian restaurant 'Vel' - in Reading, United Kingdom.
The Indian man was declared dead at the Royal Berkshire Hospital and a murder investigation was launched.
Khalid was arrested on February 19 and charged with murder the following day.
Khalid was on Wednesday found guilty of murdering Pattabhiraman following a trial at Reading Crown Court that lasted 28 days. Khalid pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter at an earlier hearing but was convicted of murder by the jury.
Second Trump Assassination Attempt Raises Secret Service Concerns
A would-be killer got within shooting distance of former President Donald Trump for the second time in about two months — stopped only by the swift, keen-eyed response of Secret Service agents — raising new questions about the agency’s broader ability to protect candidates in its charge.
The Secret Service significantly bolstered Trump’s protective detail after coming under intense criticism following an attempt on his life in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13. That beefedup detail, which includes additional agents and enhanced on-the-ground intelligence, might have played a role in the outcome this weekend, current and former officials said.
Yet the fact that a gunman was able to get a semi-automatic rifle with a telescopic sight so close to the former president, roughly 300 to 500 yards away, underscored how many urgent problems exposed in Butler remained unresolved — and how difficult it is for the Secret Service to respond to an unpredictable and increasingly violent
political environment.
As in Butler, the biggest issues in Trump’s protection seem to involve securing the protective perimeter of a targeted site, even one they know as well as Trump’s properties. The wouldbe shooter positioned himself in the bushes on the perimeter of the former president’s golf club in West Palm Beach, Florida. A Secret Service agent was one hole ahead of Trump on the course and spotted the barrel of a gun, prompting agents to open fire on the man, Sheriff Ric Bradshaw of Palm Beach County said at a news conference Sunday. Bradshaw said that Trump — one of the most polarizing figures in the world — still retains a protective detail that is smaller than the one given to a sitting president.
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Ryan Routh Donald Trump
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Ajit Doval Meets Putin, Reportedly with Ukraine Peace Proposal
In the talks, the Russian leader expressed his hopes that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to Russia's Kazan next month to attend the annual BRICS summit.
Moscow: National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday on the sidelines of the BRICS National Security Advisers' meeting. The two were seen exchanging a handshake in a picture shared on X by the Russian Embassy in India. Sources had said that Mr Doval's visit to Russia would be aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He was reportedly carrying PM Modi's peace plan for President Putin. In the talks, the Russian leader expressed hopes that PM Modi will travel to Russia's Kazan next month to attend the annual BRICS summit.
"Itna Gussa Kaise..."
PM Modi's Special Meet Navdeep Singh
The Prime Minister on Instagram posted a video of his meeting with star javelin thrower Navdeep Singh, who clinched gold medal in the F41 classification at the Paris Paralympics 2024. Navdeep's aggression after his every attempt at the javelin final became a talking point. His energy was even compared to that of star India cricketer Virat Kohli.
"Baad mein itna gussa kaise karte ho (Why do you get so much angry after the throw)?" asked PM Modi.
Navdeep replied: "Sir, last time I came fourth. This time I had promised you and I have done it (won the medal)." India gave its best-ever performance in the Paralympic Games by winning 29 medal.
"Issue Of Liberty" Arvind Kejriwal Granted Bail By Supreme Court
Supreme Court Slams 'Bulldozer Justice' as Lawless Force
New Delhi: Coming down heavily on 'bulldozer justice' for the second time this month, the Supreme Court has said alleged involvement in crime is no grounds for demolition of a property and such actions can be seen as running a bulldozer over the laws of the country.
Hearing a petition by Javed Ali Mehboobamiya Saeed of Gujarat's Kheda district, a bench of Justices Hrishikesh Roy, Sudhanshu Dhulia and SVN Bhatti was told on Thursday that municipal officers had threatened to demolish his family's home with a bulldozer after a case of trespass was registered against him on September 1.
Four Conditions for Kejriwal's Bail:
• Cannot visit Chief Minister's office
• No public discussions related to the case
• Must not obstruct investigation or influence witnesses
• Will appear in trial court and cooperate with the investigation if required"
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been granted bail by the Supreme Court following his arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation in June, in connection with the alleged liquor excise policy case. The Aam Aadmi Party leader can now leave jail - after nearly six months in prison without a trialafter having secured bail in a case filed by the Enforcement Directorate.
As Haryana's assembly elections approach, the bail of Arvind Kejriwal could prove crucial for the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Haryana, which borders Delhi, will hold elections for all 90 seats in a single phase on October 5, with results to be declared on October 8. AAP, contesting all seats independently without any alliance with Congress, is relying heavily on Kejriwal’s leadership. If granted bail, Kejriwal will have 25 days to campaign, potentially gaining sympathy votes. While Kejriwal had 21 days of interim bail for campaigning during the Lok Sabha elections, AAP saw limited success, winning only 3 out of 22 contested seats across five states. The outcome in Haryana remains uncertain, and only the election results will reveal AAP’s impact.
45 Indians Released from Russian Army, Rescue Efforts for 50 Underway
Moscow: Forty five Indians who were illegally made to join the Russian army and fight for them on the battle fronts against Ukraine have been rescued from the war zone and discharged from the Russian military, the Ministry of External Affairs said today. There are fifty more Indian nationals still on battlefields in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, and efforts are underway to rescue them and get them released too, the spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs added. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Moscow, Russian President Vladimir had assured Mr Modi that Russia will discharge any and all Indians who had been misled and falsely inducted in the Russian Army.
Punjabi Singer Arrested in Delhi for Sending People to US on Fake Visas
Fatehjit Singh, a singer from Jalandhar, Punjab has been arrested for sending people to the US via the ‘dunki’ route. The Punjabi singer was arrested from the Indira Gandhi (IGI) airport in Delhi. According to officials Singh along with other members of the racket were trying to send a passenger to the United States. The police say that Singh was in touch with an agent named Sultan Singh who used to dupe people by promising to send them to the US. Fatehjit began working with him to earn quick money. In the recent case, a man called Gurpreet Singh approached Sultan Singh as he wanted to go to the US. The singer promised to arrange his journey and manage all documentation work in return of 50 lakhs Indian rupees (approx. 59k USD) An advance amount was paid which Sultan Singh and Fatehjit Singh distributed. Interestingly, Sultan Singh had made arrangements for the passenger's journey to the US five times before, through different countries, but all attempts failed. During the fifth attempt in March, the accused and agents tried to send Gurpreet Singh to the US via Kazakhstan. But he was caught by authorities in Kazakhstan and deported back to India. The Kazakhstan authorities suspected that the passenger had a fake visa as two pages of his passport were torn. Earlier, Gurpreet Singh was provided with a fake Brazilian visa but was deported back to India from Qatar. After Gurpreet Singh was arrested, the police followed his lead and arrested Sultan Singh but Fatehjit was on the run. The police finally nabbed him in Delhi.
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Zofeen Maqsood
What's The Health Insurance Scheme
• All senior citizens who are 70 years old and above, irrespective of their socio- economic status, would be eligible to avail the benefits of AB PM-JAY.
• Senior citizens (70-plus) belonging to families already covered under AB PM-JAY will get an additional top-up cover up to Rs. 5 lakh per year for themselves. They do not have to share the cover with other members of the family who are below 70 years.
• Senior citizens (70-plus) who are already getting benefits of other public health insurance schemes such as Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), ExServicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), and Ayushman Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) can keep their existing scheme, or opt for AB PMJAY.
• Senior citizens (70-plus) covered by private policies or Employees' State Insurance Scheme are eligible for AB PM-JAY.
• The AB PM-JAY is the world's largest publicly funded health assurance scheme which provides cover of Rs. 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation to 55 crore people, corresponding to 12.34 crore families.
Kamala Harris Beats Donald Trump 63%-37%
The Democrat candidate is said to have baited her opponent into angry responses on issues ranging from abortion to foreign policy.
Washington: American voters broadly agree that Vice President Kamala Harris outperformed Donald Trump during Tuesday's presidential debate, according to a CNN poll of debate watchers conducted by SSRS, an independent research firm.
Viewers of the debate voted in favour of Harris, 63% to 37%, saying she performed better. Prior to the debate, a poll by The New York Times and Siena College had shown both candidates were neck-and-neck in the race. Afterward, 96% of Harris supporters who watched the debate said that their candidate had done a better job, while only 69% of Trump supporters said he did better.
The Democrat candidate is said to have baited her opponent into angry responses on issues ranging from abortion to foreign policy. Mr Trump said afterwards that this was his "best debate", contrary to what the flash polls have shown. Ms Harris' campaign has challenged him for a second debate in October.
Universal Health Insurance for All Seniors 70+ Announced by Centre
New Delhi: The Union government has approved health coverage to everyone who is 70 and above under the national insurance scheme Ayushman Bharat.
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a statement said the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) will benefit 4.5 crore families with six crore senior citizens. The free cover is worth Rs. 5 lakh and will be on a family basis.
"With this approval, all senior citizens of the age 70 years and above irrespective of their socio- economic status would be eligible to avail the benefits of AB PMJAY. The eligible senior citizens would be issued a new distinct card under AB PM-JAY," the government said in the statement. Senior citizens of the age 70 years and above belonging to families already covered under AB PM-JAY will
The AB PM-JAY is the world's largest publicly funded health assurance scheme which provides health cover of Rs. 5 lakh per family per year
get an additional top-up cover up to Rs. 5 lakh per year for themselves (which they do not have to share with other members of the family who are below the age of 70 years), the government said.
Senior citizens above 70 who are already getting benefits of other public health insurance schemes such as Central
Trainee Officers Robbed, Woman Friend Gang-Raped in Madhya Pradesh
Bhopal: Two young army officers were brutally assaulted and their friend was gang-raped at gunpoint in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, late on Tuesday evening. The attackers appeared to have set upon the group, which was out on a picnic, with the intention of robbing them.
The police have arrested two of the attackers, one of whom was found to have a criminal record.
The two officers, who are training at the Mhow Army College near Indore, had gone with two women friends to a spot
The attackers appeared to have set upon the group, which was out on a picnic, with the intention of robbing them.
near the firing range at Chhoti Jam in the afternoon.
Suddenly, they were surrounded by eight men armed with pistols, knives, and sticks. The men beat up the trainee officers and the women before robbing them of their money and belongings. The situation escalated when the attackers took one officer and a woman hostage, sending off the other officer and a woman to fetch a ransom of Rs.10 lakh.
Panicking, the officer hurried back to his unit and informed his commanding officer, who swiftly alerted the police. Police officers and military personnel rushed to the spot but the attackers fled on seeing the approaching vehicles.
Indian-Origin Lawyer Dismissed Over CEO Affair in US
An Indian-origin lawyer has been fired over an alleged 'inappropriate workplace relationship' with the CEO of the company.
Nabanita Nag, the Chief Legal Officer at Norfolk Southern Corporation, was terminated from her role after an investigation into claims she was involved in a consensual relationship with her boss Chief Executive Officer Alan Shaw, who was also fired. Though the relationship was consensual, the two officials violated company policies and code of ethics by engaging in a relationship, Norfolk Southern Corporation said. The move "comes in
Government Health Scheme (CGHS), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), and Ayushman Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) may either choose their existing scheme or opt for AB PMJAY.
"We are committed to ensuring accessible, affordable and top quality healthcare for every Indian," Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X.
It has been clarified that senior citizens of 70 years and above who are under private health insurance policies or Employees' State Insurance Scheme will be eligible to avail benefits under AB PM-JAY.
The AB PM-JAY is the world's largest publicly funded health assurance scheme which provides health cover of Rs. 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation to 55 crore people, corresponding to 12.34 crore families.
"Will Take Reservation Beyond 50%": Rahul Gandhi Clarifies
Congress's Rahul Gandhi, amid a torrent of criticism over remarks that have been perceived as anti-reservation, issued a clarification today, saying his party would "take reservation beyond the limit of 50 per cent". "Yesterday someone misrepresented my statement that I am against reservation. But let me make it clear – I am not against reservation. We will take reservation beyond the limit of 50 per cent," he said during an interview at the National Press Club in the US. The comment that sparked controversy was made during an interaction with the students and the faculty of Georgetown University in Washington DC yesterday.
Vir Das Makes History as First Indian to Host International Emmys
Though the relationship was consensual, the two officials violated company policies and code of ethics by engaging in a relationship, Norfolk Southern Corporation said.
connection with preliminary findings from an ongoing investigation that determined Shaw violated company policies by engaging in a consensual relationship with the company's chief legal officer. Shaw's departure is unrelated to the company's performance, financial reporting and results of operations," Norfolk Southern Corporation said in a press release.
In her LinkedIn profile, Ms Nag has called herself a "seasoned leader" with who works with three Fortune 300 public companies. She formerly worked at Goldman Sachs. She was appointed Chief Legal Officer in 2022 and Executive Vice President of Corporate Affairs in 2023.
New Delhi: In a historic first for India, actor-comedian Vir Das has been announced as the host of the upcoming International Emmy Awards. Vir made it official on Instagram on Wednesday. He shared a photo of himself with a news article and wrote, "Thanks to your support, an Indian Emmy Host can't wait to host the @iemmys this year! Crazy. Thank you for having me. Tremendously honoured and excited!" The 2024 International Emmy Awards will take place in New York City on November 25.
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Vir Das
Talking about DEATH Can be tricky
Talking about death is never easy, but doing so early can help families prepare. Here’s how to open the floor for an often tricky conversation.
Dr. Vanessa Rodriguez is no stranger to talking about death.
As a palliative care doctor at New York’s Mount Sinai Hospital, she works with families of patients at the ends of their lives. Many are hesitant to talk about death before the fact since it means imagining a future without their loved one.
Talking about death is never easy, but doing so early can help families prepare. Here’s how to open the floor for an often tricky conversation.
Start an open and honest dialogue
Thinking through details and resolving loose ends can help families cope when the inevitable happens: Where might their loved one like to be buried?
Are finances squared away?
here anymore?”
The daughter brushed it off at first. But as Rodriguez kept talking, tears welled in the daughter’s eyes. Having limited her mother’s hospital visits as much as possible, she realized it was important to her that her mother died at home. Rodriguez then suggested setting the patient up with hospice care at home — treatment designed to reduce pain and suffering in the final months.
Conversations
about death don’t have to be heavy, Cutting through the fear of death can make it less scary to talk about
“It really can help ease the anxiety that this moment can bring,” Rodriguez said. Settling other questions such as what song to play at a memorial or what old boxes to go through allows a loved one to have a say in their situation.
“They’re tough conversations,” Rodriguez said. “But there are so many tough conversations we have to have in life, and this shouldn’t be of less importance.”
Set expectations
Talking about death with a loved one doesn’t make the loss hurt less, Rodriguez said. But it can help families know what to expect. Recently, Rodriguez sat down with a 93-year-old patient and her family. After talking through the patient’s care details, Rodriguez asked her daughter, “Have you thought about what things might look like when your mom isn’t
Aries
Ganesha says that this week has brought auspiciousness and good luck to the people of Aries. This week your speech will have a different ooze, through which you will be able to get all the work done by others. You will get the desired success not only in your career and business but also in family matters.
Taurus
Conversations about death go over easier when they come from someone you trust, Rodriguez said. It’s important to assess how a family member feels about the topic before going deep.
Keep it light
Conversations about death don’t have to be heavy. Britna Savarese shrugs off the doom and gloom by being direct, asking: “I’ve been planning my death today.
How about you?”
“It almost shocks them,” said Savarese, a death doula from Dallas who helps navigate the dying process. “But then it’s kind of silly. And that can be disarming.”
Savarese hosts Death Cafes: coffee shop soirees where attendees of all ages eat cake and chat about dying. Discussion topics at the cafes, which take place globally, range from funeral horror stories to questions about the afterlife.
Cutting through the fear of death can make it less scary to talk about, Savarese said.
But if someone is truly hesitant or scared to talk about it, she recommends framing the conversation around their needs: “As scary as it may be to you, it’s important to me that you have the very best death that you can and that we are honoring you the way that you want to be honored.”
Ganesha says that the beginning of the week will prove to be auspicious for the people of Taurus. During this, your work in the field will be appreciated. During this, you will be seen trying to complete your stuck tasks with your intelligence and discretion.
Gemini
Ganesha says that this week is going to be full of disaster for the people of Gemini. At the beginning of the week, you may have to travel long or short distances in connection with your career and business. During this, there will be additional sources of income for employed people.
Cancer
Ganesha says that this week the lucky stars of Cancer will be seen shining brightly. If you have invested money in any project or business in the past, then you will get the desired profit from it this week. If you were trying to deal with a big project, then even if you try for it this week, it will work.
Leo
Ganesha says that this week will prove to be very lucky for the people of Leo zodiac and your planned work will be completed on time. Because of this, a different confidence will appear within you. At the beginning of the week, the wish of a desired promotion or transfer can be fulfilled, due to which there will be an atmosphere of happiness in your home.
Virgo
Ganesha says that the week for the people of Virgo will start with the removal of a major obstacle. With the help of close friends, you will heave a sigh of relief when a major problem related to life is solved. The first half of the week is going to be very favorable and auspicious for you.
Author Bio:
Chirag Daruwalla is the best celebrity astrologer who is one of the most famous names in the astrology world. Chirag Daruwalla has more than 18+ years of experience. You can ask for any advice related to career, health, finance, business, money, and love marriage. He has complete knowledge, solutions, and guidance to all the problems related to life. If you want to avail his astrological services then you can visit his website chiragdaruwalla.com. For guidance on problems related to your life, you can talk to Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla on Call/ Whatsapp: +91 8141566266 or also mail: info@ chiragdaruwalla.com
Libra
Ganesha says that the people of the Libra zodiac will get a lot of opportunities to advance their careers and business this week with the help of best friends, but while doing so, your health and lack of time will come in the way. In such a situation, this week you will have to manage your time and energy to achieve the desired success.
Scorpio
Ganesha says that the people of the Scorpio zodiac are going to get full support of good luck this week. Due to this, your planned work will be completed on time. While facing any challenges related to life firmly, you will be able to solve every problem with your intelligence and discretion.
Sagittarius
Ganesha says that the people of Sagittarius will have to avoid both laziness and pride this week. At the same time, the habit of postponing today’s work for tomorrow will also have to be avoided, otherwise, you will lose hands on a big opportunity that will bring progress and progress in life.
Capricorn
Ganesha says that this week is going to be very busy for the natives of Capricorn. At the beginning of the week, you may be burdened with the responsibility of home and family along with your workplace. In completing this you will get the full help of your well-wishers.
Aquarius
Ganesha says that this week is auspicious and beneficial for the people of Aquarius. This week, you will see different energy and confidence within you to do your work in a better way and to finish it on time. The special thing is that every small and big person will be seen taking the initiative to help you fulfill your dreams.
Pisces
Ganesha says that the people of Pisces will get the full support of luck this week. At the beginning of the week, great success related to the workplace, business, etc.
( Celebrity Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla)
No brain cancer from mobile phones: Why this WHO study matters to long-time users
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sing mobile phones, no matter how long, is not linked to brain and head cancers, according to a comprehensive review of the highest quality evidence commissioned by the World Health Organization (WHO). The researchers found no increase in risk for cancers such as glioma and salivary gland tumours despite years of mobile use among subjects.
“We concluded the evidence does not show a link between mobile phones and brain cancer or other head and neck cancers. Even though mobile phone use has skyrocketed, brain tumour rates have remained stable,” said lead author Ken Karipidis in a release. The systematic review, led by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (Arpansa), examined more than 5,000 studies on the subject.
The review is significant as for years many myths had been swirling around about the side effects of wireless technology devices like mobile phones emitting radio-frequency electromagnetic radiation, also known as radio waves. In fact, the WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) had designated radio frequency and electromagnetic fields as a possible carcinogen in 2011.
WHY IS THE STUDY SIGNIFICANT?
The researchers examined 5,060 studies for the analysis but selected only 63 that investigated causal relationship — meaning studies that were designed to find out whether exposure to radio-frequency and electromagnetic radiation caused the cancers.
When the IARC termed radio-frequency and electromagnetic field as possibly
Most patients keep asking me about the symptoms of prediabetes — a condition when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be declared diabetes. They want to know if something is to be made out of their hunger cravings or not. The fact of the matter is that there are virtually no symptoms of prediabetes and it can only be diagnosed by routine screening. If symptoms like exhaustion, frequent urination or unexplained bouts of hunger or thirst show up, then you have already progressed to diabetes.
WHAT CONSTITUTES PREDIABETES
Before one develops overt diabetes, the intermediate stage called prediabetes may be defined as a condition of Impaired Fasting Glucose (IFG) (if you have higher than normal sugar levels after a period of fasting), or as Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) (if you have higher than normal sugar levels after eating) or a combination of both. According to the WHO definition of prediabetes,
While radiation from mobile phones may not cause cancers, excessive use can still lead to headaches, anxiety and hearing loss. People may still get addicted to games. If they keep the mobile phone near their ears for four hours or more, they may develop addictive behaviours that have other consequences,
carcinogenic in 2011, it was largely based on positive associations seen in case-control studies (studies that look at the difference in incidence of cancers in groups using and not using cell phone), which might have been biased based on what the participants recalled, the current analysis said.
Not only did the review find no overall association between mobile phone use and cancer, it overruled any risk with prolonged use (for those using their mobile phones for 10 years or more) and frequency (the number of calls made or the time spent per call).
WHAT DO ONCOLOGISTS SAY?
Dr Abhishek Shankar, oncologist from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Delhi says mobile phone usage was never really thought of as a preventive strategy for cancer. “The radiation from cell phones is non-ionising — the ones that don’t cause cancer. The radiation from say an X-ray machine, on the other hand, is ionising and can cause cancer. Ionising radiation has enough energy to break chemical bonds, remove electrons from atoms like in nuclear power plants and damage cells in organic matter.”
Dr Pritam Kataria, medical oncologist, Sir HN Reliance Foundation HospitalMumbai, concurs, saying, “Mobiles emanate extremely low intensity radio
Spot prediabetes before it becomes
DIABETES
the plasma glucose level in the fasting state is between 110 and 125 mg/ dL. The two hours after meal reading should be 141-199 mg/dL. If the fasting blood sugar level is above 126 mg/dL, you have diabetes. WHY PREDIABETES MUST BE REVERSED IMMEDIATELY
Prediabetes is not an innocuous state and can lead to heart attack, disease and strokes. Its diagnosis becomes important because besides isolated spikes of blood sugar, it also elevates blood pressure and cholesterol. Some of the long-term damage to the blood vessels, heart and kidneys may have
already started in this stage. Hence a comprehensive approach is required to control it. What many do not realise is that the division of prediabetes and diabetes was made because those overtly diabetic were more susceptible to developing eye infection, kidney and nerve complications.
INTERVENTIONS TO ROLL BACK PREDIABETES
Studies both in India and abroad have proven that lifestyle interventions — that is diet, exercise and weight loss — are the most effective way to halt diabetes. For those in whom lifestyle corrections do not work,
waves and will definitely not have the same effect as when you are exposed to thorium, a naturally active radioactive material, in soil.”
As for the IARC’s classification of radio frequency electromagnetic fields as a possible carcinogen in 2011, he says, “The classification is like an alert, about a potential danger. It doesn’t estimate the extent of the danger and there is no definitive proof,” he adds.
While he agrees that this review has attempted to go by scientific evidence, he feels more studies need to be done to ensure it is fool-proof. “The problem with any study is that risk assessment is based on the accounts of patients and biases creep in. So while this crystallised review may seem cogent, we still need more studies and in large populations across geographies,” says Dr Kataria.
FOCUS ON OTHER RISK FACTORS
Dr Shankar recommends preventive screening and limiting risk factors like smoking. “These and taking vaccination for HPV can have a greater impact when it comes to preventing cancers,” he says.
However, he still recommends keeping a check on the usage time. “While radiation from mobile phones may not cause cancers, excessive use can still lead to headaches, anxiety and hearing loss. People may still get addicted to games,” Dr Shankar says.
Dr Shyam Aggarwal, chairman, medical oncology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi, also alerts parents about unrestricted mobile use among children. “If they keep the mobile phone near their ears for four hours or more, they may develop addictive behaviours that have other consequences,” he says.
metformin has been cleared by the drug controller for prediabetes. Other drugs are not approved for use at this stage.
WHO SHOULD BE SCREENED?
All adults above 30 should be screened for prediabetes. But if that may seem overwhelming, those with a family history of diabetes, obesity, polycystic ovary disease (PCOD), those who are physically inactive and have a lot of stress should undergo screening. Take the oral glucose tolerance test (OGT) and the haemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) test, which maps blood glucose for three months. In the US, anybody with a reading between 5.7 per cent to 6.4 per cent is considered to be living with prediabetes even if their blood glucose test is normal. Those with full-blown diabetes have difficulty reversing their condition but can keep it under control and lead a long life if they keep their ABC levels under control. This means you should keep your A or haemoglobin A1c levels below 6.4 per cent, B or blood pressure in normal range and C or cholesterol levels under control.
Dr Shankar recommends preventive screening and limiting risk factors like smoking. “These and taking vaccination for HPV can have a greater impact when it comes to preventing cancers,” he says.
US Lawmakers, Indian Consulate Condemn Vandalism at NY BAPS Temple
NEW YORK, NY- U.S. lawmakers and the Consulate General of India in New York have strongly condemned the recent vandalism of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Temple in Melville, New York. On Monday, September 16, disturbing images and videos circulated on social media showing the temple defaced with extremist graffiti, including slogans such as “F**k Modi” and “Modi is Terrorist.”
In response, the Indian Consulate in New York stated, “The vandalism of the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in Melville, New York, is unacceptable.
The Consulate General is in contact with the community and has raised the issue with U.S. law enforcement for swift action against the perpetrators of this heinous act.”
The Consulate General is in contact with the community and has raised the issue with U.S. law enforcement for swift action against the perpetrators of this heinous act
of “bigotry and hate,” attributing such occurrences to the dangerous “rhetoric by national leaders.” Congressman Tom
Melville. Such acts of vandalism, bigotry, and hate are happening far too often because of inflammatory rhetoric by
U.S. Congressional leaders expressed outrage, calling the incident an act
Suozzi condemned the attack, stating, “There is too much hate! I am appalled by the hideous acts of vandalism targeting the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in
Congressman Ro Khanna also emphasized the need for accountability to prevent future incidents, declaring, “Freedom of worship is a bedrock of our democracy. There is no place for acts of intimidation, harassment, or violence.”
national leaders, extremism, and lack of accountability. Acts like these are un-American and contradict the core values of our nation.”
Key Executive Ajit Jain Divests Large Shares in Warren Buffett’s Berkshire
NEW YORK, NY- Ajit Jain, a longtime top executive at Berkshire Hathaway, sold over half of his Class A shares in the company this week. A regulatory filing on September 11 revealed that Jain sold 200 Berkshire Class A shares on September 9, amounting to about $139.1 million at an average price of $695,418 per share. Of the shares sold, 104 were held directly by Jain, while 96 were held by family trusts. No specific reason for the sale was provided, and Berkshire Hathaway did not comment. This sale followed a peak in Berkshire’s stock price, which reached over $727,000 just days earlier, and came shortly after the company’s market value
Ajit Jain
surpassed $1 trillion. Analyst Cathy Seifert of CFRA Research suggested the
sale might be linked to personal reasons rather than any concerns about the company’s outlook. She also hinted at a possible “changing of the guard” within Berkshire’s insurance operations. Despite the sale, Jain retains 166 Class A shares, and his nonprofit, the Jain Foundation, holds an additional 124,308 Class B shares.
A key figure at Berkshire since 1986, Jain has been instrumental in expanding the company’s reinsurance business, earning praise from Warren Buffett for his significant contributions. Buffett once humorously commented that if only one person could be saved in a crisis between him, Jain, and the late Charlie Munger, it would be “Swim to Ajit.”
The BAPS organization issued a statement expressing deep sadness over the attack, which they described as “aimed at inciting hatred against Hindus.” In a post on X, BAPS Public Affairs wrote, “Deeply saddened by the desecration of our BAPS Mandir in Melville, NY, an act aimed at inciting hatred against Hindus. Today, local, state, & federal leaders gathered to promote peace, respect, & unity. Guided by our faith, we stand united against hate with compassion & solidarity.” This incident follows other attacks on Hindu places of worship, reflecting broader concerns about religious intolerance.
FDA Approves First Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Software
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WASHINGTON, DC- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid software, the Hearing Aid Feature (HAF), for use with compatible Apple AirPods Pro headphones. This software transforms the AirPods Pro into OTC hearing aids, designed for individuals aged 18 and older with mild to moderate hearing impairment. Once customized, the HAF amplifies sounds, providing a convenient hearing aid solution. Dr. Michelle Tarver, acting director of the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health, emphasized the significance of this development, highlighting that it advances accessibility to hearing support for millions of Americans
Hindi Divas Celebration by Consulate General of India, Chicago and Hindi Coordination Committee
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CHICAGO, IL- The Consulate General of India, Chicago, in collaboration with the Hindi Coordination Committee, celebrated Hindi Divas on September 14, 2024, at the Consulate. The event was attended by Hindi scholars, representatives from Hindi organizations, language experts, school students, parents, and members of the Indian diaspora dedicated to promoting the Hindi language. The program witnessed enthusiastic participation from school children, who showcased their talents through
Mandi Theatre, Shanti Ke Sipahi by Dramatech of America, as well as the recital of Hindi poems and patriotic songs by young students. In his opening remarks, Consul General Somnath Ghosh expressed his gratitude to the various Hindi organizations that have been actively promoting the use of Hindi in Chicago and across the Midwest. He emphasized the significance of encouraging the younger generation of the Indian diaspora to engage with Hindi, fostering a deeper connection to their cultural heritage.
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Hindi plays, poetry recitals, and patriotic songs. Highlights of the event
included a short drama titled Hamid Ka Chimta performed by students of
Indian Seniors of Chicago: General Meeting, Ganeshotsav, and Navratri Festivities
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CHICAGO, IL- The General Meeting of the Indian Seniors of Chicago took place on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 10:00 AM in Mahalakshmi Hall of Manavseva Mandir, with 320 members in attendance. The meeting began with a song by Seth. Bhupendra Suthar provided information about the upcoming Chicago temple tour, scheduled for October 5, 2024, organized by the association. Treasurer Hemant Modi presented the financial report for August 2024 and announced the names of donors.
Bhupendra Suthar also conveyed birthday wishes to members celebrating in September. The felicitations were led by Institute Minister Jayesh Shah. In remembrance of the late trustees of the organization, Hirabhai Patel, Shantaben Patel, and Bhailal Patel, who passed away in August, a two-minute silent prayer was observed for the peace of
their souls. Manubhai Shah shared details of the contributions made by Hirabhai Patel to the community. Chandrakant Patel gave a lecture on the genocide of Hindus in Bangladesh,
highlighting the need for awareness and unity among the Hindu community.
The Ganesha festival was celebrated with great enthusiasm. The Ganesha idol was paraded around Mahalakshmi
Rep. D’Esposito and Suozzi Team up to Expand Congressional India Caucus
NEW YOR, NY- Congressman Anthony D’Esposito (NY 04) has officially joined the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, following Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY 03), who joined two months earlier. This milestone is part of the India Caucus Membership Drive Committee’s efforts to expand its ranks. The bipartisan Caucus focuses on enhancing US-India relations through cooperation in trade, defense, and cultural exchange. D’Esposito’s decision to join came after a meeting with the Membership Drive Committee, led by Chairman Varinder Bhalla and other key
Varinder Bhalla, Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, Dr. Dattatreyudu Nori, & Sudhir Vaishnav
members, where he was briefed on the growing strategic and economic ties between the two nations. Bilateral trade has surged from $4 billion in 1993 to $200 billion in 2023, highlighting the importance of this relationship.
Gobind Munjal, National President of the Association of Indians in America, emphasized the significance
of U.S.-India defense and security partnerships, which played a key role in securing D’Esposito’s support. In solidarity, D’Esposito pledged to urge fellow Long Island Republicans, Nick Lalota and Andrew Garbarino, to join the Caucus. Congressman Suozzi, who joined in July, is also advocating for more Democratic support, particularly from colleagues in Connecticut.
With these recent successes, the India Caucus now has 143 members, making it the largest country-specific caucus in the U.S. House. Chairman Bhalla remains confident that U.S.India relations will continue to deepen with broader support from American lawmakers.
Hall, with chants of “Ganapati Bappa Morya” and “Jai Shri Ganesh” filling the space. Bhupendra Suthar led the Ganesha aarti, with many members participating. Sukamewa prasad was distributed to all attendees, and Bhadra Shah performed a beautiful bhajan.
Vice President of the organization, Kantibhai Patel, introduced the Manav Sadhana Kendra in Ahmedabad, which has been providing health services for the past 30 years. The center operates 11 community centers, 89 kindergartens, and employs 171 staff members.
The Navratri celebrations were organized with great enthusiasm, and all members enjoyed participating in Ras Garba.
Kantibhai Patel expressed gratitude to the volunteers, donors, Hemant Modi (who managed the sound system), and press photographer Jayanti Oza. The meeting concluded with collective prayers and a delicious meal, after which everyone departed.
CBP Officers Save Woman from Opioid Overdose at San Luis Port
SAN LUIS, AZ- On Monday, September 10, just after midnight, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Area Port of San Luis saved a 23-year-old woman who appeared to be suffering from an opioid overdose.
The incident occurred when CBP officers encountered three women in a vehicle applying for entry from Mexico at the San Luis Port of Entry.
The officers referred the travelers for further examination in the secondary inspection area. During the inspection, as the women exited the vehicle, the 23-year-old backseat passenger lost consciousness, displaying symptoms consistent with an opioid overdose.
NJ Health Camp Hosts Annual South Brunswick Fair
SOUTH BRUNSWCK, NJ- On Sunday, September 15, 2024, Health Camp of New Jersey (HCNJ) hosted its annual Health Fair at Durga Mandir in South Brunswick Township, NJ. The event benefited 100 participants by providing a range of health screenings, disease prevention services, education, and counseling. HCNJ, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, has been organizing health fairs since 1999 to assist the South Asian community, particularly uninsured and underinsured individuals.
This year’s fair offered comprehensive services such as blood tests, EKGs, vision screenings for glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, physical exams, cardiology and neurology evaluations, mental health support, pharmacy and physical therapy consultations, flu vaccinations, and alternative medicine counseling. The event also focused on educating attendees about chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disorders, cancer, and mental health issues. Medical professionals from various fields, including internal medicine, cardiology,
neurology, and mental health, were present to provide their expertise. Organizations such as Legacy Pharmacy Group, Penn Medicine Princeton, LabCorp, NJ Commission for the Blind, and SAMHIN contributed significantly to the fair. Volunteers from the Rotary Club of Plainsboro-North and South Brunswick, along with their youth interactive club and NJ Youth Artists Leo Club, played a key role in supporting the event’s success.
The annual health fair continues to serve as a vital resource for the local South Asian community.
ABOUT HCNJ:
Since its inception in 1998, HCNJ has screened more than 13,000 individuals and detected over 4,000 chronic disease abnormalities. The next health fair will be on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at Shree Swaminarayan Temple in Secaucus, NJ. As part of its 25th-anniversary celebrations, HCNJ aims to open a community health center in New Jersey by 2026 to provide follow-up services throughout the year. For more information, visit www.IHCNJ.org or contact president@IHCNJ.org.
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Iran-Linked Pakistani Charged in U.S. Politician Assassination Plot
WASHINGTON, DC- Asif Raza Merchant was indicted on charges of attempting to commit an act of terrorism transcending national boundaries and murder-for-hire, part of a plot to assassinate a U.S. politician or official. The plot, uncovered before any attack could occur, involved orchestrating an assassination with support from Iran. Merchant, a Pakistani national with ties to Iran, was initially arrested in July 2024. He was accused of plotting multiple criminal acts, including the theft of sensitive documents and planning a protest, in addition to the assassination. Merchant allegedly began coordinating the assassination after arriving in the U.S. in April 2024 and enlisted a confidential
Valuable Diamond Ring Discovered at Arlington Heights Metra—Owner Sought
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL -The Village of Arlington Heights is seeking the owner of a diamond ring recently discovered at the Metra train station in downtown Arlington Heights. Known for successfully reuniting residents with lost rings in the past, the Village is hoping to return this valuable item to its rightful owner. According to a social media post from the Village on Thursday morning, “The ring was dropped off at Public Works by a thoughtful and kind resident, who is eager to help reunite this lost treasure with its owner.” The ring contains unique identifying inscriptions that must be provided to claim ownership. Residents with information are encouraged to email communications@vah.com
Merchant now faces a potential life sentence if convicted. The investigation was led by several FBI field offices, with assistance from the New York City Police Department and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
source (CS), who later reported the plot to law enforcement. In meetings with the CS, Merchant outlined his plans and met with undercover law enforcement officers, whom he believed to be hitmen, offering them $5,000 in advance for the killing. The indictment highlights the severity of the threat, with U.S. Attorney Breon Peace and FBI Director Christopher Wray emphasizing the national security implications of the plot. Merchant now faces a potential life sentence if convicted. The investigation was led by several FBI field offices, with assistance from the New York City Police Department and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and Merchant remains presumed innocent until proven guilty.
CoHNA Denounces Rising Hate Campaign Targeting Hindu Americans
LOS ANGELES, CA – The Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) has condemned what it sees as a coordinated misinformation campaign targeting Hindu Americans. In a press release, CoHNA highlighted increasing attacks from groups like Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), accusing them of spreading baseless claims of disloyalty among “Indo American Hindus.”
Nikunj Trivedi, CoHNA president, likened these accusations to harmful historical tropes used to scapegoat
minorities in the U.S., emphasizing the need to counter such narratives and safeguard the rights of all Americans. This statement follows controversy around the NYC India Day Parade, where a float featuring a Hindu temple was labeled an “anti-Muslim” symbol by a coalition of Islamist groups and Hindus for Human Rights. Trivedi criticized the claim as provocative, arguing it undermines Hindu cultural celebrations.
CoHNA asserts that this is part of a broader effort to discredit Hindu advocacy organizations, involving groups like the Bridge Initiative at Georgetown University, Rutgers University’s Professor Audrey Truschke, and SFJ, who they say are known for promoting anti-Hindu rhetoric.
Additionally, CoHNA noted the rise of Khalistani extremism, citing vandalism at Hindu temples and attacks on Gandhi statues as evidence of growing Hinduphobia, exacerbated by certain academic and media outlets.
Indian American Pharma Exec Charged in Insider Trading Scandal
BOSTON, MA – A top executive of a global pharmaceutical company has been charged with securities fraud for allegedly profiting over $250,000 through insider trading. Dishant Gupta, 55, of Hillsborough, N.J., faces one count of securities fraud and will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date.
According to court documents, Gupta served as the Director of Strategy and Operations in the Boston office of the global pharmaceutical company, referred to as Company A. In early 2022, while employed at Company A, Gupta allegedly gained access to non-public information regarding Company A’s negotiations to acquire assets from a smaller Boston-based pharmaceutical company, referred to as Company B, including its leading cancer drug. Eventually, Company A agreed to acquire Company B entirely. While in possession of this confidential information, Gupta allegedly purchased more than 300,000 shares of Company B in both his and his wife’s brokerage accounts over a span of two and a half months. After Company A publicly announced the acquisition, Gupta reportedly sold the shares, earning over $250,000 in profits.
Gupta is accused of breaching his fiduciary duties to Company A by trading on this material non-public information.
If convicted, Gupta faces up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $5 million. Sentencing will be determined by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and applicable statutes.
Hindu PACT’s HinduVote Introduces 2024 Agenda for American Hindu Voters
CHICAGO, IL- HinduVote, a project under HinduPACT of the World Hindu Council of America (VHPA), has unveiled the American Hindu Agenda for the 2024 Elections. This initiative aims to influence political discussions on critical issues for American Hindus, including combating Hinduphobia and strengthening U.S.-India relations. Key points in the agenda include advocating for legislation to counter Hinduphobia, protecting Hindu temples from vandalism, repatriating stolen Hindu artifacts, and promoting a stronger U.S.-India partnership. Other priorities include supporting
fair immigration policies, merit-based education, environmental responsibility, and holding religious theocracies accountable for human rights abuses. HinduPACT has also developed two comprehensive guides: a 36-page document for 501(c)(3) organizations,
including temples, on permissible election-related activities, and a 24page guide for Hindu voters, offering practical advice on navigating the election process.
To further engage the political process, HinduPACT has sent a questionnaire
to 1,000 candidates running for the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, focusing on issues relevant to the Hindu community. These efforts are designed to empower Hindu voters and ensure that their concerns are addressed in the political sphere.
Deepa Karthik, Executive Director of the HinduVote project, emphasized the importance of this initiative in fostering informed civic engagement within the Hindu community. Ajay Shah, President of VHPA, highlighted the broader significance of the agenda in benefiting all Americans while addressing key issues for Hindus. Both guides are available for download on the HinduVote website.
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Asif Raza Merchant
Secretary of State Giannoulias Expands DMV Services with Digital Wallet Payments
HiIndia Newsdesk
CHICAGO, IL- DMVs throughout Illinois now accept contactless payments as part of Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias’s effort to modernize technology and enhance customer convenience. Giannoulias announced the adoption of digital wallet payments, including Apple, Google, and Samsung Pay, to improve service at the DMV. “By incorporating digital wallets, we are committed to enhancing the customer experience using new technology,” Giannoulias stated. “This brings the same accessibility and ease that people enjoy at stores and restaurants to our DMV services.”
More than half of Americans reportedly use contactless payment for everyday purchases, a trend accelerated by the pandemic and the security benefits it provides. Near-field communication (NFC) technology used in digital wallets offers enhanced safety over
Illinois customers now have convenient, secure Tap to Pay option
traditional credit cards, using end-toend encryption to prevent fraud.
Giannoulias reassured Illinois residents about the security of their payment information when using contactless payments at the DMV. “The combination
of security and speed means there’s no risk of fraudsters stealing information,” he said. Digital wallet payments are now available at all 150 DMV locations and other Secretary of State departments across Illinois.
The Immigrant Legacy: Nearly 500 Companies
Founded by First- or Second-Generation Immigrants
WASHINGTON, DC- A recent report by the American Immigration Council highlights that more than 40% of America’s top-earning companies were founded by immigrants or their children, marking a record high. The report, titled New American Fortune 500 in 2024: The Largest American Companies and Their Immigrant Roots, examines the influence of immigrants on U.S. business. It reveals that 46% of Fortune 500 companies have immigrant founders or their descendants. This year, 10 new companies, including DoorDash and EchoStar, joined the list. These 230 immigrant-founded companies generated an impressive $8.6 trillion in revenue in 2023, exceeding the GDP of many nations. They also employed over 15.5 million people worldwide, contributing significantly to job creation and economic growth. Nan Wu, research director at the American
a global scale.
Immigration Council, emphasized that immigrants are vital to maintaining the U.S. economy’s competitiveness on
The report also identified the states with the highest number of immigrantfounded companies, with New York leading at 32, followed by California with 28. These companies are integral to local economies, sometimes representing substantial portions of state income. 230 Immigrant-Founded Companies Generate $8.6 Trillion in Revenue in 2024
Radhi Spear Elected to
Lead Toastmasters International
ANAHEIM, CA- Radhi Spear, a resident of Piscataway, New Jersey, has been appointed as the new International President of Toastmasters International, the world’s leading organization dedicated to communication and leadership development. Spear commenced her one-year term at the 2024 International Convention, held in August.
With over 30 years of experience as a seasoned software engineer in the telecommunications industry, Spear currently works at AT&T in Middletown, New Jersey. Her career spans software development, systems administration, and acceptance testing, with her work benefiting millions of users globally.
She earned a master’s degree in electrical engineering from the New Jersey Institute of Technology and is actively involved in AT&T employee resource groups such as Women of AT&T and InspirASIAN, supporting professional growth and leadership development.
A member of Toastmasters since 2000, Spear is a charter member of the AT&T Middletown Toastmasters club and has held various leadership positions within the organization.
TUSTIN, CA- The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced three new P.O. boxes for the California Service Center (CSC) to handle U.S. Postal Service mail, while all other commercial carrier mail (UPS, FedEx, DHL) will now be directed to CSC’s new facility address. Individuals should consult the USCIS website’s form filing address and contact pages in the coming days to get the updated details based on the form or correspondence type being submitted.
Previous CSC Mailing Address: WS 13057
P.O. Box 10751
Laguna Niguel, CA 92607-1075
Mail will continue to be accepted at this address until Sept. 30, 2024. Following this date, a two-week grace period will be in effect, during which mail sent to the old Laguna Niguel P.O. box will be forwarded to the new Tustin P.O. box. Starting Oct. 15, 2024, any mail sent to the Laguna Niguel address will be returned as “Return to Sender.”
For those responding to USCIS correspondence issued on or before Aug. 12, 2024 (e.g., Requests for Evidence, Notices of Intent to Deny, or Notices of Intent to Revoke), responses should be sent to the following address: New Mailing Address (Effective Immediately): USCIS CSC
P.O. Box 30113
Tustin, CA 92781
Form I-865 Filing Location Update:
As of Sept. 1, 2024, the filing location for Form I-865 (Sponsor’s Notice of Change of Address) has changed to the Texas Service Center:
New Form I-865 Address: USCIS TSC Attn: I-865
6046 N. Belt Line Road, Suite 865 Irving, TX 75038-0021
A 60-day grace period applies to filings sent to the California, Nebraska, or Vermont Service Centers. After Nov. 1, 2024, filings postmarked to the old addresses will be rejected.
New Address for I-751 Waivers (Battery
or Extreme Cruelty Cases):
U.S. Postal Service Deliveries:
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
California Service Center
P.O. Box 30113
Tustin, CA 92781
FedEx, UPS, DHL Deliveries:
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
California Service Center
2642 Michelle Drive
Tustin, CA 92780
Reminder: USCIS service centers do not provide in-person services, interviews, or accept walk-in applications. They handle only mailed, online-filed, or Lockbox-filed petitions.
