Gday India July 2021 Issue

JUL 2021

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VOL 15 ISSUE 171

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Anmol Anand, Debasree Das, Dileep Narayan, Dr Raj Kotharu, Gary Nair, Harpal Sandhu, Manjit Sethi, Narisa Dawar, Sanchita Abrol, Karthik Arasu, Abhi Narayan, Gurpal Singh, Monisha Iswaran, P. Harsora, Nandita Chakraborty, Archita Baweja, Barinderjeet Kaur, Gurpal Singh, Muktesh Chibber, Shivani Prabhu, Payel Ghosh Disclaimer: Opinions published in G’Day India are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher. No advertising design or material is to be reproduced without the written consent of the editor. All copyrights reserved to G’Day India.

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G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

Keeping People Safe and Avoiding Lockdowns

MELBOURNE, July 2: The Victorian Government has put forward a plan designed to keep Australia safe while we wait for the vaccine rollout – and do everything we can to avoid lockdowns.

Building on comments made by Premier Daniel Andrews earlier this week, Victoria’s plan urges National Cabinet to chart a course out of the pandemic for Australians by focusing on four key areas: A nationally consistent approach to reducing numbers of international arrivals in hotel quarantine, until greater vaccine coverage has been reached • Refining the eligibility criteria for Australians to travel abroad and to return home • A nationally agreed vaccination target which would allow for the application of different quarantine arrangements based on stratified risk assessments of incoming travellers • Options for safer, Commonwealth-led alternatives to hotel quarantine that can be used both in the short-term and as part of an ongoing reset once a vaccination target has been reached Australia continues to face newer, more contagious COVID-19 strains which leave the nation with little choice but to apply restrictions to limit movement and stop the spread of the virus.

More than half of Australia’s population is currently living under a lockdown order – in New South Wales, Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

In the past two months alone, hotel quarantine leaks across the country have seen more than 17 million Australians forced to endure hard lockdowns and tough restrictions.

Nationally, there were 4.9 failures per 1,000 positive cases in quarantine – meaning one outbreak from quarantine is expected for every 204 infected travellers. Since April 2020, on average 308 infected travellers arrived in Australia each month, amounting to 1.5 outbreaks expected per month.

Victoria’s plan aims to reduce the risk of new, highly infectious COVID-19 variants entering the country through international arrivals in quarantine – no matter which state they’re arriving in – until we have a critical mass of Australians vaccinated.

This gives us the best chance to bolster new approaches to fighting COVID-19, including greater vaccination coverage, the completion of alternative quarantine accommodation as proposed in Victoria, diverse quarantine arrangements, as well as the ability to safely open the country – reducing the number of lockdowns and restrictions.

(MEDIA RELEASE)

Strong Border Enforcement to Keep Victoria Covidsafe

MELBOURNE, Jun 28: As the coronavirus outbreak in New South Wales continues to evolve, the Victorian Government is increasing its enforcement efforts along the NSW border to keep our state safe and protect Victorians’ hard work stopping the spread of the virus.

With border zones changing quickly across Australia, anyone travelling into Victoria must hold a valid Victorian Travel Permit to enter Victoria. Victorian residents entering from a red zone must apply for a Red Zone permit to return home, must isolate for 14 days and return a negative test, while interstate residents will be turned back at the border and sent home.

Those travelling from an orange zone must have an Orange Zone permit, get tested within 72 hours and isolate until they receive a negative result.

Since the first red zone came into effect on 23 June, the Department of Health has processed more than 5,000 red zone permits for returning Victorians and more than 21,000 orange zone permits. So far 38 per cent of

red zone permit holders have returned a negative test, as well as 31 per cent of those from orange zones.

Victoria’s Authorised Officers are continuing their strong presence at our airports to ensure everyone travelling has the correct permits, as well as conducting regular household visits to those who need to be isolating.

From Friday 25 June, more than 260 Victoria Police officers each day have mobile border zone checks and patrols along the border to restrict unauthorised travel into Victoria and limit the risk of the current outbreak spreading to the state.

Since 11pm on 25 June, there have been more than 2,000 checks conducted, with 53 warnings issued, mostly to people forced to turn around after coming from a red zone.

This targeted, mobile and highly visible police enforcement model has proven to be successful – with data showing a detection rate of 48 out of 1000 compared to 1.14 out of every 1,000 while the hard border was in place.

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Patrolling six key border crossing zones around Mildura, Swan Hill, Echuca, Yarrawonga, Wodonga and Cann River, the operation has also seen three booze buses deployed to support mobile enforcement south of the border townships of Bairnsdale, Echuca and Wodonga.

Given the increasing risk from the NSW outbreak, this presence will be bolstered with the addition of the Victoria Police Airwing.

The Victorian Government this morning also made a request to the ADF for 130 personnel to support CHO compliance operations at airports and compliance checks on close contacts and those who have returned home with red zone permits, and work side by side with police officers to protect the state’s borders – particularly if the outbreak in NSW continues to grow.

The Government will continue to closely monitor the situation in NSW and across Australia – with additional options for scaling up border measures available as required.

(MEDIA RELEASE)

Metro Tunnel Backing Jobs and Launching Careers

MELBOURNE, Jun 28: Almost 30 million hours have been worked on the Metro Tunnel Project – the equivalent of keeping more than 2,500 people in full time work for the six years – since the project began.

Premier Daniel Andrews today met some of the project’s 900 apprentices, cadets and trainees, who have been given an early career boost by the chance to work on this city-changing project.

After the completion of TBM tunnelling, Arden Station is taking shape with the platforms being constructed and the Laurens Street station entrance ground floor slab poured. The twin tunnels are now being fitted out with base slabs and steel brackets to house high voltage power cords.

Tunnel entrances at South Yarra and Kensington are now complete and connected to the main tunnels.

Construction is well underway on 26 cross passages – short tunnels that connect the main rail tunnels so people and emergency services can move between them in case of an incident.

Work is ramping up on the project’s five new underground stations, with the final stages of excavation underway and work continuing to build walls, roof structures, entrances and platforms.

Once the station structures are well advanced, crews will fit them out with electrical, mechanical and ventilation systems, as well as the next generation signalling and train control technology needed for future High-Capacity Metro Trains to be used on the line.

Installation of the systems will be an incredibly complex job, with each system needing to function and interact safely with all the others and the existing network.

Once the tunnels and stations are fully fitted out, a long period of testing will ensure that the systems are integrated and talking to each other so that the newest part of Melbourne’s rail network can be operated safely and reliably.

Completion of the project in 2025 – a year ahead of schedule – will transform how Melburnians move around the city.

Metro Tunnel passengers at CBD stations will be able to connect to City Loop services via underground pedestrian links at Flinders Street and Melbourne Central stations, and people will be able to catch a train to Parkville, Arden and St Kilda Road for the first time.

(MEDIA RELEASE)

The Orange Door Coming to Outer Eastern Melbourne

MELBOURNE, July 1: The Andrews Labor Government is ensuring families across Melbourne’s outer east have access to help and support for family violence and child wellbeing, with the latest Orange Door network site one step closer.

Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Gabrielle Williams today announced a lease has been signed for the Orange Door network in outer eastern Melbourne – with a primary site in Croydon.

The new primary site will be supported by access points along with outposted and outreach services to ensure residents across the Knox, Maroondah and Yarra Ranges local government areas have the support they need, closer to home.

The $448 million Orange Door network has helped more than 140,000 Victorian’s since first opening in 2018 including more

than 55,000 children – bringing together workers from specialist family violence, child and family, Aboriginal and men’s services.

The Orange Door network is currently operating in eight regions across the state, including Goulburn, Central Highlands, Loddon, Barwon, Inner Gippsland, Northeast Melbourne, Bayside Peninsula, and Mallee.

The remaining nine areas will be open by the end of next year.

The Australian-first Orange Door initiative is part of the Labor Government’s record more than $3.5 billion investment to end gendered violence in Victoria following the Royal Commission into Family Violence – more than the Commonwealth and all the states and territories combined.

More information is available at: orangedoor.vic.gov.au.

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Wage Theft Now a Crime in Victoria

MELBOURNE, July 1: From today, wage theft is now a criminal offence in Victoria, and employers who deliberately underpay or don’t pay their workers now face fines of up to almost $1 million for companies and up to 10 years’ jail or up to $200,000 for individuals.

Under the Wage Theft Act 2020, which took effect today, it is a crime for an employer in Victoria to deliberately underpay employees or dishonestly withhold wages, superannuation or other employee entitlements.

The new laws deliver on the Andrews Labor Government’s commitment to establish criminal offences targeting employers who commit wage theft.

The law also makes it a crime to falsify, or avoid keeping, employee entitlement records to gain a financial advantage.

The legislation covers dishonest conduct by employers who are seeking to deliberately avoid their lawful responsibilities.

Employers who make honest mistakes or who exercise due diligence in paying wages and employee entitlements are not guilty of wage theft offences.

A new statutory body, Wage Inspectorate Victoria, also begins operations today and has the power to investigate and prosecute wage theft offences.

Led by newly appointed Commissioner Robert Hortle, Wage Inspectorate Victoria will also promote and enforce existing Victorian laws covering child employment, long service leave, and contractors in transport and forestry.

Allegations of wage theft can be reported to Wage Inspectorate Victoria via its website at wageinspectorate.vic.gov.au, which also contains comprehensive frequently asked questions, fact sheets, and information for employers about their responsibilities.

(MEDIA RELEASE)

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Campaign To Get Young Drivers into Safer Cars

MELBOURNE, Jun 30: A new campaign urging young drivers to buy the safest car they can afford is aiming to address an alarming proportion of deaths in older vehicles.

While the 107 lives lost on Victoria’s roads in the first half of this year is the second lowest on record, the number of young driver deaths (18 to 25 years old) has increased in 2021, with the majority in older vehicles that don’t have key safety features.

A lack of safety technology in older vehicles not only increases the risk of being involved in a crash, but also provides less protection in the event of an incident.

Transport Accident Commission (TAC) research shows that young drivers place the least value on safety among all other road users when buying a car, with a preference for features such as in-car entertainment and design and look. The TAC’s new campaign, ‘How safe is my…’, is aimed at putting safety firmly on their radar.

The campaign includes a series of videos featuring a driver and either a partner, family members, friends or pets alongside them in the vehicle. Viewers are then asked to ‘think of the ones beside you’, with a prompt to visit the TAC’s How Safe is Your Car website howsafeisyourcar.com.au.

The website provides free and independent safety information on new and used cars and allows people to search by their budget or by registration number to instantly find the safety rating of their vehicle and its safety features.

Getting drivers into the safest car they can afford is a top priority of the Government’s Victorian Road Safety Strategy, which aims to halve road deaths and significantly reduce serious injuries by 2030 and reach zero road deaths by 2050.

The strategy action plan includes a $6.9 million incentives program to get 1000 young regional drivers into safer vehicles.

Data from the first half of this year also shows that the biggest contributor to the reduced road toll has been a lower number of deaths on regional roads. The 57 lives lost on regional roads is fewer than the same time last year and well below the five-year average.

The young driver vehicle safety campaign will run across social media throughout July.

(MEDIA RELEASE)

Supporting Victorian Students with Disability

MELBOURNE, Jun 25: More Victorian students with disability will get the support they need to learn, contribute and participate in their schools and classrooms, thanks to the Victorian Government.

Minister for Education James Merlino today announced that all government schools across the Barwon, Loddon Campaspe and Bayside Peninsula areas, and the five supported inclusion schools across Victoria, will receive further funding support to make their school more inclusive for all students, as part of the Disability Inclusion package.

These schools are in Year 1 of the five-year

Disability Inclusion roll-out and will all receive a base level of funding from Term 3 this year, with additional funding provided depending on the individual school’s characteristics.

This new funding support is ongoing and is in addition to support already provided through the current Program for Students with Disabilities.

Schools will use this funding to implement whole-school practices that support the inclusive education of students with diverse learning needs such as autism and learning difficulties.

This may include undertaking professional

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development for staff, employing new disability and inclusion staff, and purchasing programs, interventions or specific equipment and technology – depending on the needs of their students and the school.

For example, a school may choose to use this funding to employ a new inclusive practices leader to work in classrooms with teachers or an occupational therapist to develop sensory profiles.

Other schools may choose to use the funding to invest in the services of external professionals or coaches who can provide advice and training on equipment and technology to support learning for students with diverse learning needs and implement consistent inclusive supports throughout the school.

Disability Inclusion will be rolled out progressively over the next five years, reaching all Victorian government schools by 2025.

The Victorian Budget 2020/21 invested an unprecedented almost $1.6 billion to make sure Victorian students with disability are supported at school through the Disability Inclusion package.

The record investment will transform support for students with disability in Victorian government schools – doubling the number of students receiving extra support in the classroom to 55,000 – and is expected to create up to 1,730 jobs across the state by 2025.

(MEDIA RELEASE)

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Delivering New Homes for Vulnerable Victorians

MELBOURNE, Jun 29: The Andrews Labor Government is ensuring vulnerable Victorians have the security and safety of a home, as the first residents move into Big Housing Build homes.

More than 240 homes are ready to be tenanted with some residents already moved in after the first six months of the landmark program, as more than $1 billion is being invested in construction and development before the end of June.

These homes are part of the more than 1,100 houses that have already been purchased or started construction so far creating 356 direct jobs and 1,246 indirect

jobs.

This investment includes six faststart projects – in Ascot Vale, Ashburton, Flemington, Hawthorn, Richmond and West Heidelberg – where planning or preconstruction work to build more than 1,000 homes and create more than 4,000 jobs is well underway.

A further 480 social and affordable homes are planned for sites at Collingwood and South Yarra, with the two projects expected to generate more than 2,000 new jobs.

In addition, 150 homes are being delivered in Ballarat creating 450 jobs – the first regional project under the program.

The Government’s landmark $5.3 billion Big Housing Build – the largest single investment in social and affordable housing in Australia’s history – is delivering more than 12,000 new homes across Victoria.

This historic investment will boost Victoria’s social housing supply by 10 per cent, while creating 10,000 jobs per year over the next four years.

The Big Housing Build is investing $1.25 billion in regional areas – ensuring the economic and social benefits of the program are felt in communities across the state.

(MEDIA RELEASE)

Job Support for Young and Culturally Diverse Victorians

MELBOURNE, Jun 24: The Victorian Government is helping young and multicultural Victorians overcome barriers to work with 27 new dedicated staff to link up jobseekers with employers.

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence today announced $3.9 million to address the increased needs of culturally diverse jobseekers as we recover from the global pandemic.

Eleven organisations will be supported to provide culturally appropriate and individualised support to jobseekers through a network of Community Employment Connectors, who will help jobseekers navigate and connect with

employment and training services.

The program has a specific focus on young people aged 16-25 and adults from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who face barriers to securing sustainable employment.

By working through organisations with existing links to community, the program will provide local solutions to the needs of jobseekers and support the economic recovery for all Victorians.

Organisations include MiCare working in partnership with the Wyndham Community and Education Centre, which will connect new and established communities across Western Melbourne to training and work.

The Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District will assist new arrivals and refugees impacted by the pandemic and the end of fruit season.

WEstjustice will provide legal advice and education to help increase job-seekers’ understandings of their employment rights and responsibilities.

Community Employment Connectors will start their work supporting jobseekers from July.

The program will also work in collaboration with the Jobs Victoria Advocates Program to address barriers for jobseekers in local areas.

(MEDIA RELEASE)

Delivering A Stronger Social Housing Sector in Victoria

MELBOURNE, July 2: The review into Victoria’s social housing regulatory system is underway, responding to significant changes in the sector as the Andrews Labor Government builds thousands of new social housing homes across the state.

The Labor Government’s $5.3 billion Big Housing Build is delivering more than 12,000 new homes – boosting Victoria’s social housing supply by 10 per cent – while generating 10,000 jobs each year over the next four years.

This landmark investment– the largest single investment in social housing in Australia’s history – is dramatically shifting the landscape of the social housing sector in Victoria.

The independent Social Housing Regulation Review will identify how best to support the long-term interests of social and affordable housing residents and their communities.

The independent panel will also look at how best to position Victoria for social housing growth and transformation over the coming decades.

The panel will involve a strong focus on resident voices as well as focusing on issues specific to Aboriginal housing, including support for Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations to deliver and manage social housing.

Extensive consultation with stakeholders will be an important part of the review through

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meetings, round-tables and site visits, with a discussion paper now open for stakeholder feedback.

The panel has already spent the first part of 2021 visiting parts of Victoria to understand first-hand the social housing system and how it operates.

Chaired by Emeritus Professor of Public Policy at RMIT David Hayward, the panel includes Commissioner for Residential Tenancies in Victoria Heather Holst and public sector policy and regulation expert Dr David Cousins AM. Stakeholders, social housing tenants and the community are encouraged to have their say at: engage.vic.gov.au/social-housingregulation-review

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G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

Australian states prudent on Deputy PM federal's vaccination advice fined for not CANBERRA, Jun 30: Australian states were prudent on the federal government's new remarks on the Covid-19 vaccination program which said anyone under the age of 40 can now approach their general practitioner and request the AstraZeneca jab.

Chief Health Officer of the state of Queensland Jeannette Young told a press conference on Wednesday that she doesn't want people aged under 40 to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine due to the blood clot risks, reports Xinhua news agency.

"I do not want under-40s to get AstraZeneca... It is rare, but they are at an increased risk of getting the rare clotting syndrome. We've seen up to 49 deaths in the UK from that syndrome," she said, "I don't want an 18-year-old in Queensland dying from a clotting illness who, if they got Covid, probably wouldn't die. We have had very few deaths due to Covid-19 in Australia in people under the age of 50 and wouldn't it be terrible that our first 18-year-old in Queensland who dies related to this pandemic, died because of the vaccine."

The state chief health officer's remarks came after Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced on Tuesday that anyone under the age of 40 can now approach their GP and request the AstraZeneca vaccine.

After several reports of blood clots and low blood platelets were confirmed to be linked to the AstraZeneca vaccine, the vaccine was recommended to Australians over the age of 60.

Pfizer, the recommended vaccine for Australians under the age of 60, however, needs to be imported from overseas.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk echoed Young saying there was no national cabinet decision about providing AstraZeneca to the under 40s.

"Now, in Queensland, we always follow the advice of the chief health officer. So I urge Queenslanders to listen to Dr. Young, and follow the advice of our chief health officer."

The state, with some areas entering a snap three-day lockdown since 6 p.m. Tuesday, recorded three new local cases and one in returned travellers on Wednesday.

Premier of the state of New South Wales (NSW) Gladys Berejiklian also urged people to go to GP about AstraZeneca.

"What we need to do as a state government is follow the federal regulatory health advice which is that AstraZeneca is offered for over-60s, and obviously second doses are strongly, strongly advised," she said.

"Anyone under 60 who wants AstraZeneca needs to have a conversation with their GP." NSW continued its widespread testing with 68,220 tests reported by Tuesday night, and recorded 22 new locally acquired cases, all of which were linked to previously confirmed cases, and half of which were in isolation during their infectious period.

The current outbreak has grown to 171 local cases in just two weeks since June 16.

To better conduct contact tracing, the NSW government on Wednesday also announced the use of Service NSW QR code to be mandatory at all workplaces and retail businesses from July 12.

Businesses such as hospitality and hairdressers that were already using the Service NSW QR code will also need to ensure staff and visitors such as maintenance workers and delivery drivers check-in, when they resume services after the lockdown period.

NSW Minister for Digital and Customer Service Victor Dominello said expanding the mandate would give NSW Health contact tracers real-time access to QR code data from a greater number of venues including supermarkets, retail stores, gyms and offices.

There are more than 5.2 million active users of the Service NSW app, according to the state government.

(IANS)

wearing mask

CANBERRA, Jun 29: Australian Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce has been fined A$200 ($151) for failing to wear a face mask inside a petrol station in New South Wales (NSW) state.

Joyce, also the leader of the National Party of Australia, confirmed the incident of breaching coronavirus restrictions.

"I went into the Caltex service station. I was going to the airport, fuelled the car up with fuel, went in, 30 seconds later, A$200 it cost me, because I didn't wear one of these (masks)," he told Sky News Australia.

NSW police said they were called to the petrol station by a member of the public and issued the fine to a 54-year-old male after reviewing the security camera footage.

"That person was apologetic and cooperated with police being firm and fair," deputy commissioner Gary Worboys told reporters.

"Police are rostered 24/7 right across the state and they will take action, and certainly the incident at Armidale is clear evidence that police will investigate and take action."

It comes a week after Joyce was returned as the Deputy Prime Minister after a successful leadership challenge against former Nationals leader Michael McCormack.

The governing coalition government in Australia is formed by the Liberal Party and the National Party, with the leader of the later serving as the Deputy Prime Minister.

Joyce previously served as the Deputy Prime Minister from 2016 to 2018 when he resigned after being accused of sexual harassment, an allegation he strongly denied.

(IANS)

Australia on 'high alert' amid new Covid outbreaks

CANBERRA, Jun 30: Australia's Health Minister Greg Hunt has announced that the country is on "high alert" with fresh Covid-19 outbreaks reports in communities.

According to the latest figures from the Department of Health, the country has so far reported a total of 30,562 confirmed Covid-19 cases since the pandemic started early last year.

The death toll currently stood at 910.

Several capital cities of the country's eight states and territories have been forced into

lockdowns to prevent the spread of the virus, with more than 10 million people subject to stay-at-home orders.

"We are obviously on high alert and high watch," Hunt told reporters on Tuesday afternoon.

He announced that Australia has surpassed 7.5 million administered Covid-19 vaccines, which includes over 5.95 million first dose vaccinations, or 28.9 per cent of the population, and over 1.47 million second dose vaccinations or 7.1 per cent of the

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population.

"We have over 4.4 million Australians over the age of 50 or 51.3 per cent of the over 50s population that have been vaccinated, 60 per cent of over 60s, and 68.5 percent of over 70s, our most vulnerable group," he said.

Despite some calls for the international arrival cap to be lowered amid the current outbreaks, Hunt urged states to accept as many residents and citizens into hotel quarantine as they can.

(IANS)

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'Young Australians should consider AstraZeneca

jab only in pressing circumstances'

CANBERRA, July 2: The head of Australia's vaccine panel said that the younger population in the country should consider getting the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine only in "pressing" circumstances.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison had said on Monday that people under 40 could consult their doctor "if they wish to go and speak to their doctor and have access to the AstraZeneca vaccine".

The announcement came weeks after the government restricted access to the vaccine to only over-60s on the advice of the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (ATAGI).

ATAGI Co-chair Christopher Blyth said on Thursday that younger people should consider getting the AstraZeneca vaccine only in "pressing" circumstances.

"There are some situations where that would be warranted, but they are quite small," he told the (ABC) radio.

"The ATAGI advice is that Pfizer is our preference for those under the age of 60

years."

The Australian government acquired 53.8 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine - 50 million of which will be manufactured domestically while supplies of Pfizer vaccine remain tight.

According to a statement, the ATAGI said it examined estimates of risk of Thrombosis and Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (TTS) by age group in Australia and "note that there have been 69 cases of confirmed or probable TTS (41 confirmed cases; 28 probable cases) in around 4.8 million doses of Covid-19 Vaccine AstraZeneca given up to June 15, 2021".

Australia has so far reported 30,643

confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Australia, with 910 deaths, according to the latest figures from the Department of Health.

(AGENCIES)

One-fourth Australians aged above 50 not planning to retire

CANBERRA, Jun 27: One in four Australians over the age of 50 do not believe they will ever retire for financial and social reasons, a study has found.

The survey conducted by the Newgate Research for the COTA Federation (Councils on the Ageing) found that older Australians plan to continue working.

It also revealed that 49 per cent of Australians aged 65 have retired, down from 60 per cent in 2018 and the number of people in their 60s who want more paid work has doubled.

The number of people aged 66-74 who had retired increased significantly from

2018, but the report attributed the rise to the coronavirus pandemic which has forced people into early retirements.

Joan Hughes, the chairperson of COTA Federation, said while finances were a major factor, many older Australians were choosing to continue to work for social connections.

"There is a bit of problem with that notion of retirement, what we call 'the R word', and what that conjures up for some people," she was quoted as saying by the Nine Entertainment.

"There is a lot of ageism and maybe some people have seen that happen to their parents or feel like they don't know what the next

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chapter of their life will be or that if they don't have work they don't have an identity."

Australians can access their superannuation, a compulsory retirement fund system, from the age of 60.

However, Stella Avramopoulos from female-oriented charity Good Shepherd said women's superannuation balances were 40 per cent lower on average than men's, forcing older women to work beyond 60.

"We need to ensure retirement isn't a pipedream for younger women by working towards super parity," she said.

(IANS)

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Australia launches permanent gun amnesty

CANBERRA, July 2: The Australian government has launched a permanent firearms amnesty, allowing people to hand in illegal guns without repercussions.

From Thursday, Australians can surrender any unregistered firearms or firearmrelated items to police or firearm dealers for registration, sale or destruction.

Possessing an unregistered firearm is a criminal offence with offenders facing imprisonment.

The amnesty grants people who come forward with their firearms immunity from prosecution.

Jason Wood, assistant minister for community safety, said that unregistered firearms were a major threat to the Australian

community.

"They are difficult to trace and can fall into the hands of criminals to commit terrible crimes while avoiding police detection," he told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

"An unwanted firearm can also be deadly.

If not properly stored, there is always a risk that it could harm you or your loved ones."

The John Howard government's buyback plan in 1996-97 led to 650,000 legally-owned guns being seized and destroyed after 35 people were killed in Australia's worst mass shooting in the Tasmanian town of Port Arthur.

More than 57,000 firearms were turned in during another amnesty, which was held over

three months in 2017.

Crime Stoppers will hold 65 community events across the country encouraging people to surrender their weapons under the latest amnesty.

"There are more than 26 million Australians who place the highest value on living in a safe community, and thousands of law-abiding people with registered firearms that they use for their work or hobby," said Diana Forrester, chair of Crime Stoppers Australia.

"Sadly it is the minority who use firearms to threaten and injure others, and it is important to limit the opportunity for these criminals to access and use firearms."

(IANS)

NZ to resume travel bubble with some Australian states

WELLINGTON, Jun 29: New Zealand will resume the quarantine free travel bubble with some Australian states from Sunday after Wellington relaxes Covid-19 restrictions on Tuesday night.

The capital will move back down to alert level 1 from midnight on Tuesday due to zero community transmission found after the Covid-19 alert moved up to level 2 about a week ago, Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield told a press conference.

The raising of alert level on Wednesday was due to a Sydney tourist who visited Wellington between June 18 and 21 and tested positive for the more infectious Delta variant of Covid-19 upon returning to

Australia.

Under alert level 2, any mass gatherings are prohibited and limited to 100 people.

Facial masks are mandatory on public transport.

As Wellington prepares to return to Alert Level 1 tonight, people in the region are urged to remain vigilant and get tested if they are feeling unwell or were at a location of interest, Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins said.

He said there have been no cases of Covid-19 detected in the community after nearly 2,500 negative results from contacts of the case (including repeat negative results from the case's close contacts) and

wastewater testing The pause on the quarantine free travel from South Australia, Australian Capital Territory, Tasmania and Victoria will be lifted at 11.59 p.m. on Sunday, Hipkins said, adding this could change if the situation in Australia evolves.

The pause with Western Australia, Northern Territory, New South Wales and Queensland will remain in place so that outstanding test results can be returned and to "give New Zealand time to assess next steps", the Minister said, adding this will be reviewed again next on July 6.

(IANS)

NSW announces stimulus package for affected businesses

SYDNEY, Jun 29: New South Wales (NSW) announced on Tuesday a stimulus package for businesses affected by the recent Covid-19 lockdown.

From 6 p.m. on June 26, Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Central Coast and Wollongong entered a two-week lockdown until July 9 in response to a growing outbreak of the highly virulent Delta variant.

In response to the restrictions, grants of up to A$10,000 ($7,600) will be offered to keep small businesses afloat, helping them keep paying their rent and workers.

"This latest outbreak has coincided with school holidays when a lot of regional areas were counting on more visitors to help boost

local economies," said NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro.

"These grants will help many get through the winter, and just like after the bushfires, the floods and the first wave of Covid-19, the regions will lead NSW out the other side."

NSW recorded 19 new locally acquired cases in the last 24 hours, bringing the total locally acquired cases reported since June 16 to 149.

The state has so far reported 5,798 cases and 54.

Meanwhile, Australia's overall infection tally and death toll stood at 30,528 and 910, respectively.

(IANS)

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G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

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'38% Australians who lost jobs during pandemic were younger than 25'

CANBERRA, Jun 26: More than onethird or 38 per cent of Australians who lost their jobs during the early days of the coronavirus pandemic were younger than 25, a government study has found.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) published a report on the psychological distress experienced by young Australians in the early stages of the pandemic.

It revealed that 38 per cent of the 592,000 Australians who lost employment in April 2020 amid a nationwide lockdown were aged 15-24 and that the proportion of people aged 18-24 experiencing severe psychological distress increased from 14 per cent in 2017 to 22 per cent.

The proportion of Australians aged 15-24 who were not in education, employment or training rose from 8.7 per cent in May 2019 to 12 per cent in May 2020.

"Adolescence and young adulthood is a critical period in a person's life. Young people often experience rapid physical, social and emotional changes in a time where they are transitioning from dependence to

independence," AIHW spokesperson Sally Mills said in a statement.

understand the longer-term impact of the pandemic," Mills added.

"This is a time when young people are finishing school, pursuing further training and education, entering the workforce, moving out of the family home, and forming relationships.

Despite the significant increase in unemployment and distress, the report found young Australians were faring well in some areas, with 59 per cent of people aged 15-19 saying they were happy or very happy with their lives in April 2020.

(IANS)

"Ongoing monitoring is needed to fully

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NEWS INDIA

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

15-year-old boy from Delhi receives Diana Award

NEW DELHI, Jun 28: A 15-year-old boy from Delhi has received the prestigious Diana Award for going above and beyond in his daily life to create and sustain a positive change.

Ishan Kapur, a student at Wellington College (UK), has been recognised with the highest accolade a young person can achieve for social action or humanitarian efforts The Diana Award. Ishan work with the Sri Ramakrishna Ashram New Delhi. He helps a local school access uniforms for marginalised girls.

Ishan devised and delivered an ambitious campaign to fundraise £5000 and collect

almost 100 laptops and tablets for teachers and students, whilst also ensuring everyone had an online connection to access learning during the long nationwide lockdown.

The Diana Award was established in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales. The Award is given out by the charity of the same name and has the support of both her sons, The Duke of Cambridge and The Duke of Sussex.

His compassion and dedication have enabled young people to continue their education despite many obstacles. Ishan is an outstanding example in his community.

"We congratulate all our new Diana Award recipients from the UK and all over the globe who are changemakers for their generation.

We know by receiving this honour they will inspire more young people to get involved in their communities and begin their own journey as active citizens. For over twenty years The Diana Award has valued and invested in young people encouraging them to continue to make positive change in their communities and lives of others," said Tessy Ojo, CEO of The Diana Award.

The award recipients have been put forward by adults who know the young people in a professional capacity and recognised their efforts as a positive contribution to society.

Through a rigorous nomination process, these nominators had to demonstrate the nominee's impact in five key areas: Vision, Social Impact, Inspiring Others, Youth Leadership, and Service Journey.

There are 12 Diana Award Judging Panels representing each UK region or nation and a further three panels representing countries outside of the UK. Each panel consist of three judges, one young person, an education or youth work professional, and a business or government representative. The panels have an important main purpose: to determine which nominations from each UK region/ nation/country will receive The Diana Award.

Nominations are judged using the Criteria Guide and Scoring Guide which have been created to measure the quality of youth social action.

International Indian School-Abu Dhabi enters Guinness records

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM/Abu Dhabi, Jun 28: The International Indian School- Abu Dhabi, which has 60 per cent Indian students besides students from 24 other countries, wrote itself into the Guinness record book for making the largest medal.

School principal Beno Kurien said this achievement has been the creation of the 850 students.

"The concept and the idea came from the students and teachers who made this a reality. It took three months for this to happen and when completed the medal made of steel weighed around 450 kgs and has a size of 5.93 sq meters breaking the previous record of 68.5 kilograms and 2.56 sq meters," said Kurien, adding that officials from Guinness came and approved it.

He said that the medal was made to celebrate the 50th year of the UAE and also the fifth anniversary of the school.

"The medal has been inscribed with the major landmarks of Abu Dhabi and it's now placed in the lobby of our school," added Kurien.

(IANS)

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(ANI)

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

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798 doctors died during second wave of COVID-19 across country: IMA

NEW DELHI, Jun 30: Amidst the prevalence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian Medical Association said that 798 doctors died during the second wave of COVID-19 across the country of which maximum 128 doctors lost their lives in Delhi, followed by Bihar at 115.

As per the official note by the IMA, the number of doctors who lost their lives in the pandemic in Delhi stands at 128, followed

by Bihar at 115 and Uttar Pradesh at 79.

States like Maharashtra and Kerala where the prevalence of the Delta Plus variant of COVID-19 is on a rise also reported deaths of doctors in double digits. Maharashtra reported 23 doctor deaths and Kerala reported 24 deaths.

Pondicherry reported the lowest deaths of doctors by logging one death only.

Hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday praised doctors for going out of their way to extend help to people during the coronavirus pandemic, IMA President Dr JA Jayalal said that the PM has assured that doctors will be respected, protected and safeguarded.

Like every year, the country celebrated National Doctors' Day on July 1 to honour the contributions of the doctors. The first National Doctor's day was celebrated in the country in July 1991.

"PM Modi ensured that doctors should be respected, protected and safeguarded. He also emphasised the need for vaccination.

We're celebrating this year's National Doctors' Day (July 1) in remembrance of the

veteran Dr BC Roy. We're so much pleased that PM Modi greeted the medical fraternity for the Doctors' Day," the IMA President had said.

On June 25, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) informed that 776 doctors lost their lives in the second wave of COVID. According to the IMA COVID registry on June 25---in the state-wise doctors martyrs list, Bihar saw the maximum number of 115 deaths, followed by Delhi at 109, Uttar Pradesh 79, West Bengal 62, Rajasthan 44,

Jharkhand 39, and Andhra Pradesh 40.

Meanwhile, India on Tuesday reported 37,566 fresh COVID-19 cases, the first time in 102 days that daily cases dropped below the 40,000 mark, the Union Health Ministry informed. With this, the country's total COVID-19 tally stands at 3,03,16,897, including 2,93,66,601 recoveries and 5,52,659 active cases.

(ANI)

Twitter removes distorted map of India from its website, after backlash

NEW DELHI, Jun 28: Faced with severe backlash, microblogging site Twitter on Monday removed from its website a distorted map of India, which depicted Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh as not part of the country.

The map, which appeared on the Twitter website's Career page under the heading 'Tweep Life' section was removed from the webpage late today. The incorrect map attracted heavy criticism from netizens and demands of action against the microblogging site.

Bharatiya Janata Party's national president of IT cell Amit Malviya slammed the social media platform for posting an erroneous map.

Amit Malviya said, "This is not the first time that Twitter has got India's map wrong and that's perhaps the reason why intermediary guidelines mandate that social

media and tech company employees should understand the local cultural sensitivities in territorial issues. I guess it is time to realise that there is inadequacy in compliance with the law of land".

Previously, in October 2020, Twitter had labelled the Indian territory of Leh in Ladakh as part of the People's Republic of China (PRC).

The government of India had then issued a warning to CEO Jack Dorsey over the misrepresentation of the Indian map. Giving notice to Twitter, Secretary IT had said that such attempts not only bring disrepute to Twitter but also raise questions about its neutrality and fairness as an intermediary.

Now for the past several months, Twitter has been involved in a stand-off with the Indian government over the new amendments in the country's new Information Technology laws with the microblogging

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platform losing its intermediary status and becoming liable for user-generated content.

Among other conditions mandated by the government in the new rules for social media websites include the appointment of an interim grievance officer for India and other regulations.

(ANI)

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NEWS WORLD

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

America plans to spend billions of dollars to counter China

WASHINGTON, Jun 29: The US plans a massive spending plan to counter China.

According to the Senate, China is America's greatest geopolitical and geo-economic challenge and passed the United States Innovation and Competition Act 2021 to spend more than USD 250 billion to ensure that the US stays on top in terms of technological research and production.

The Bill is a rare point of agreement between Republicans and Democrats. In a vote, 68 of the 100-member Senate supported the measure, with 32 against. The Senate is evenly divided between Republicans and Democrats, and experts say the vote shows how the two political parties are united on the need to counter Beijing's economic and military ambitions. Supporters say the package is one of the largest industrial bills in US history and the biggest investment in scientific research that the country has seen in decades. The Bill aimed at bolstering

American competitiveness with China with a variety of measures. The key idea is this, from Section 3005, which reads: "The United States must ensure that all Federal departments and agencies are organized to reflect the fact that strategic competition with the PRC is the United States' greatest geopolitical and geoeconomics challenge."

To meet that challenge, the Senate authorized in the budget USD 190 billion aimed at massively increasing R&D at universities and other institutions, and boosting innovations in artificial intelligence, drones, and other emerging technologies.

To create an American version of China's Special Economic Zones, USD 10 billion to be invested in "regional technology hubs". For the expansion of domestic semiconductor production, USD 52 billion has been provisioned. More than USD 23 billion for space exploration and the development of space industries has been earmarked.

The Bill includes several China-specific provisions, including the prohibition of the social media app TikTok from being downloaded on government devices. The purchase of drones manufactured and sold

by Chinese state enterprises would also be blocked under the legislation. Chinese

organisations engaged in US cyber-attacks or theft of US intellectual property from US firms would face sanctions too.

The Bill also calls for sanctions over human rights abuses in Xinjiang province and abuses against Uighurs are mentioned several times, and a diplomatic boycott of the upcoming Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.

The Bill also commissions a new study into the origins of COVID-19, specifically requiring an answer to the question if the virus came from a lab leak or was zoonotic.

China hit back at the Bill describing it "exaggerated the 'China threat' scolded America for perceiving China "as an imaginary enemy." The Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Wang Wenbin suggested the Bill could harm these efforts, saying it was "full of Cold War and zero-sum thinking and runs counter to the public aspiration in both countries to strengthen exchanges and cooperation".

"The China-related content of the Bill passed by the US Senate distorts facts and slanders China's development path and its domestic and foreign policies," he said. "It exaggerates the 'China threat', advocates traditional competition with China and seriously interferes with China's internal affairs on Taiwan."

Separately, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin also issued an internal directive calling for several initiatives to counter China -time to watch out how it will work.

(ANI)

US to soon see explosive outbreak of Delta variant: Epidemiologist

WASHINGTON, Jun 28: The US is set to witness an explosive outbreak of the Delta Covid variant in a month's time, if people are not fully vaccinated, warned Eric Feigl-Ding, an epidemiologist and a public health scientist.

"The US has just one month to act before it becomes full blown Delta variant dominant.

One month to slow it down. One month to fully vaccinate," Feigl-Ding said in a series of tweets.

He urged the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to take urgent steps to vaccinate people in the US. "But we likely have even less time than that if CDC doesn't act soon," Feigl-Ding said.

"If the CDC doesn't issue new guidelines to stem the growth of #DeltaVariant, which can transmit via merely 5-10 seconds of passive breathing exposure, it will be extremely derelict," he said.

"The Delta variant is leaps and bounds faster than any other variant known to date. It

represents a clear and present danger to the world. This Delta variant surge will not end well for low vaccination areas," he noted.

Feigl-Ding emphasised on the need for two doses of vaccines and said, "1 dose is definitely not enough".

Concerns are rising about the spread of the Delta variant of Covid-19 in the US as President Joe Biden falls short of his July 4 vaccine rollout goal and cases explode in the UK. The highly contagious Delta variant, first identified in India, has spread to at least 92 countries.

According to the CDC, the variant now represents at least 20 per cent of Covid cases in the US, and is expected to become dominant in a matter of weeks.

Besides vaccinations, it is imperative to wear masks.

Feigl-Ding has urged the CDC for reversing its mask rule as nations like Australia and Israel are reimposing masks due to the threat of the Delta variant.

He cited a Queensland health official,

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who early last week had warned that "5-10 seconds" is all one needs to transmit the Delta variant. It can be a "fleeting moment" of seconds.

Meanwhile, the WHO has also said that being vaccinated may not be enough, and people must continue wearing masks, maintain social distancing and other Covid-appropriate behaviours.

"Israel and now the WHO are both coming out strongly for masks even if fully vaccinated.

Israel has 60 per cent people who have received both doses of Pfizer vaccine, yet it knows it needs to reinstate masks because of the new Delta Variant outbreak. The WHO is on the right side of the science this time, better than CDC," Feigl-Ding said.

"Don't act slowly against the Delta Variant.

Speed matters. You must move quickly, or else once Delta hits a critical mass, you will be in trouble and lose control," he said.

(IANS)

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

Thailand readies to reopen Phuket

BANGKOK, Jun 29: Thailand is readying to kick off the 'Phuket Sandbox' campaign to reopen the country's largest resort island to vaccinated international tourists, a top official said.

In a statement, Yuthasak Supasorn, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) said that hotels and other tourism-related venues throughout the island province have been prepared for the reopening campaign whereas up to 80 per cent of Phuket's residents will complete their vaccination against Covid-19 by Wednesday.

An estimated 400 to 500 foreign tourists are scheduled to arrive in Phuket on Thursday and many more are expected to follow at later dates, he said.

The 'Phuket Sandbox' program was approved on June 4 at a meeting of the Centre for the Economic Situation Administration chaired by Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.

Indian artist gets UAE's coveted Golden Visa

Under the program, foreign tourists will be allowed to enter and move freely on the island, provided they are fully vaccinated against the virus and tested negative.

They can travel to the rest parts of Thailand after staying on the island for 14 nights.

The country has also planned to welcome back vaccinated foreign visitors in nine other provinces, including the capital Bangkok and popular tourist destinations Pattaya and Chiang Mai, in the third or fourth quarter of the year.

But the development comes as Thailand is struggling to contain a months-long surge in infections.

On Monday, the country reported 5,406 Covid-19 cases, the third highest daily tally since the pandemic began, raising the total infection tally to 249,853, with 1,934 deaths.

(IANS)

Nepal introduces digital visa system

KATHMANDU, Jun 29: Nepal launched a digital visa system to replace its 45-year-old hand-written visa regime.

Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Bishnu Prasad Paudel inaugurated the new system under which visas are produced digitally from the integrated information system of the Department of Immigration.

According to a statement by the Department of Immigration, key features of the digital visa system include hologram and water mark as security features and QR code in visa sticker with details of the visa enabling authorities to determine whether the visa is authentic with the help of QR code readers.

The department said that as the digital system generates visas, their details cannot be tempered. Likewise, the software system itself will generate visa numbers and three visas can be accommodated on a single page of passport.

"With the new system, the security and management of visas is expected to be strengthened," the department said.

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"Currently, we issue visas by writing manually on a printed copy of visa sticker and such visa is pasted on the passport of foreigners," Jhanka Nath Dhakal, information officer at the Department of Immigration, told Xinhua. "Under the new system, nothing should be done manually to issue the visa."

He said the new system would pave the way for the issuance of e-visas in the future.

On the day, over 150 digital visas were issued to foreigners, with a Portuguese citizen being the first to receive such a visa, said Dhakal.

The Department of Immigration started the new system at its headquarters, but it aims to introduce it to all of its offices within four months after the new 2021-22 fiscal year begins in mid-July.

While launching the digital visa system, Paudel said it would make Nepali visas more credible and help ensure national security, according to a press statement released by the Home Ministry.

(IANS)

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DUBAI, Jun 30: An Indian artist, who has been living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) since 2007, received the Gulf nation's coveted Golden Visa.

Hailing from Odisha, Mona Biswarupa Mohanty applied for the Golden Visa on the basis of advice by a senior artist.

"I am honoured to have received the Golden Visa. These milestones in life mean a lot. They reassure you that if you follow your heart and put heart and soul, gradually you will be rewarded in more ways than you can imagine," Mohanty said.

"Receiving the Golden visa has strengthened my belief in myself and if this can inspire other young artists, I'd consider that my biggest contribution.

"I listened to my heart and took this plunge and being rewarded for it tells me that when you follow your passion and give in your best, good things start happening to you," she added.

A fashion designer, Mohanty came to the UAE in 2007 as a Lecturer for Manipal University in Dubai.

After working in the fashion industry for eight years, she decided to become a painter, said the Khaleej Times report.

A Golden Visa enables foreigners to live, work and study in the country without the need of a national sponsor and with 100 per cent ownership of their business on the UAE mainland.

They are issued for five or 10 years and are renewed automatically.

(IANS)

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

G’Day Mate

!

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Padma Lakshmi opens up on struggles behind stunning photo shoot LOS ANGELES, July 1: Indian American model, TV host, author and activist Padma Lakshmi has shared the true story of struggle behind an old stunning photo shoot that had turned heads when it was launched.

The 50-year-old star posted the throwback photograph on Instagram, of a jewellery campaign shoot, and quoted Oprah Winfrey in the caption.

"You can have it all, just not all at once" -- @oprah "This is me in our jewellery campaign for The Padma Collection.

I'm exhausted here, not only from doing Top Chef, losing the weight and running a jewellery company on the side but from all of the stresses that come with being a sole business owner. A year from when this picture was taken I had to make the difficult decision as a new mom to close my company, my lover was dying of cancer, and I just couldn't handle it all.

"I learned so much about my priorities during that time," wrote Padma.

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In the photo, she is seen wearing a blazer with a plunging neckline and a few pieces of jewellery.

She welcomed her daughter Krishna, whom she shares with her formerpartner Adam Dell, in February 2010.

(IANS)

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

Dead man walking: To remarry wife as he turns 28 again

AZAMGARH, July 1: Lal Bihari 'Mritak', the man who made headlines when he fought a long battle to prove he was 'alive', after being declared 'dead' in government records, is in news again.

'Mritak' is now planning to remarry his 56-year-old wife Karmi Devi because it has now 27 years since he turned up alive again. He was declared alive on June 30, 1994.

"I was reborn in government records 27 years ago. The marriage ceremony will be held in 2022, when I will turn 28 after my rebirth in government records," Lal Bihari told reporters.

Mritak has three childrentwo daughters and one son -all of whom are now married.

Lal Bihari, now 66-years-old, said that he wanted to remarry his wife and draw the attention of the people towards the plight of the 'living dead'.

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GETTING MARRIED IN AUSTRALIA

Tips for completing Notice of Intended Marriage.

"Though I fought and won my case, not much has actually changed in the system. I remained 'dead' in government records for 18 years. There are still people who have been declared dead and their land has been usurped by relatives in connivance with government officials. I have been helping such victims in the past decades but the campaign must continue," he said.

Lal Bihari is a resident of Amilo village in Azamgarh district and was officially declared dead in 1975.

During his legal battle to regain his identity, he added 'Mritak' (deceased) in his name.

He even formed a Mritak Sangh to highlight the cases similar to his.

Filmmaker Satish Kaushik has made a film 'Kaagaz' on his life and actor Pankaj Tripathi essayed the role of Mritak.

(IANS)

Following is the practical guidance on issues to consider when completing Notice of Intended Marriage.

Notice period - The wedding date must be at least one month from the date of notice is lodged. ‘Month’ means a period starting at the start of any day of one of the calendar months; and ending immediately before the start of the corresponding day of the next calendar month, or if there is no such day – at the end of next calendar month.

Wedding Venue - It is okay if the parties change their wedding venue after a notice has been completed.

The location section can be updated to reflect a last-minute change.

Description and names - Each person should choose their own descriptors for party and sex.

Each person’s name must be an exact match with their identification documents. For example, you cannot enter ‘Tess’ for Theresa or ‘Bob’ for Robert unless you have legally changed your name.

Conjugal status - Some people have more complex conjugal

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histories. If a party has previously been married, their conjugal status should reflect the way their last marriage ended.

Born outside Australia - Where a party born outside Australia, the parties should state the total period that they have resided (lived or stayed) in Australia. Months as well as years need only be given where the party has been a resident in Australia for less than two years.

Parents - Parties do not need to supply evidence of their father or mother’s names or countries of their birth. We will discuss other issues in the next edition.

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IFFM 2021

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

Indian Film Festival 2021 is Back in Cinemas and Online The Multicultural Heartbeat of Melbourne is back in Cinemas from August 12 to 21, and Online from August 15 to 30

W

hat a year! It has been so far. We are like on repeat, start- stop-start, leaving us in disarray. Tired faces are peeking through the masks in trams, buses and trains; the tired city almost successful in pulling its weight of the masses. Everyone is looking for something, a good feel story, something inspiring, perhaps a glimmer of hope and that’s what exactly this story is all about - Indian Film Festival (FFM) 2021 is back in cinemas and online.

Though we will be missing the Stars, the glamour, the sounds and the diverse noise of Melbourne on the red carpet but it is the noise of the cinema corridors that will once again echo and that’s something to celebrate about. A sombre affair of the Festival returning to its roots - the cinemas in 2021. Following last year’s virtual success - reaching out to IFFM’s largest audience to date, IFFM 2021 is smart, innovative and hybrid. Given the current climate it too had to adapt to the new normality. We at G’day India and The Indian Weekly, are not only loud and proud of the Festival but we are also looking forward to the diverse community coming closer to what makes our beautiful city, Melbourne beat. The somatic (physical) Festival IFFM is 12th - 21ST August and the Virtual Festival kicks off, online on August 15 - August 30. Taking care of details that matter to many in these testing times has also been the focus of the Festival ensuring audiences around the country can join in and celebrate the best of contemporary Indian cinema, in the 75th year of Indian Independence.

More than 70 feature films, documentaries and shorts – the largest Festival of its kind in the southern hemisphere kicks off with the 2021 IFFM Opening Night film, Ajitesh Sharma’s WOMB (Women of My Billion).

WOMB translating to Women Of My Billion is an agonising and heartwarming documentary about the dreams and fight against violence in all forms that unify today’s women in India, WOMB (Women of My Billion) follows one young woman, Srishti Bakshi, as she embarks on a monumental journey, walking nearly 4000 kilometres over 240 days, from Kanyakumari (South-India) to Kashmir (North). Along the way, she meets and learns first-hand about the experiences of women from all corners of the country.

File photo IFFM 2019

Srishti Bakshi quotes: "Violence against women and girls is a human rights violation. since the outbreak of Covid-19 and the world locking down to live within four walls, emerging data and reports from those on the frontlines have shown that all types of violence against women and girls, particularly domestic violence, has only intensified. In this documentary,

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G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

we have celebrated ordinary women who’ve shown extraordinary courage to rise above their limitations and challenge deeply entrenched gender norms. We did this to unite the majority because what we discovered was that ‘gender-based violence is a crime perpetrated by the minority but perpetuated by the silence of the majority.”

Producer Apoorva Bakshi, quotes, "We take great pride in presenting our film at IFFM as the opening night gala presentation and look forward to sharing it with audiences worldwide. This documentary not only presents facts but also highlights possible solutions which can be implemented today.”

IFFM 2021 will be across five key venues in Melbourne’s CBD and suburbs, while an extended virtual season will stream for free via the Festival’s website, iffm.com.au.

Partnering with the Mental Health Foundation IFFM connecting to their audience and new viewers will be encouraged to donate to the organisation when they stream Festival films.

Every year the Festival celebrates the spirit of giving back with its 'IFFM Hero’ celebrating by recognising community heroes who have contributed to or helmed projects that helped the Victorian. So, let us all celebrate and nominate the spirit of humanity. The festival director Mitu Bhowmick Lange in her own words, “After the unprecedented challenges

faced over the last 18 months, we are excited to bring the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne back to the big screen, while our digital platform will ensure viewers around Australia can access the Festival too. In 2021, IFFM pays tribute to not only the best of Indian cinema, but to many of our COVID-19 heroes, offering vital community support, connection and hope in these challenging times.”

The most loving part of the Festival is bringing the community together on August 15 in celebrating India’s 75th year of Independence Day; at the melting point of all cultural diversities - Federation Square.

We hope to see the Indian flag hoisting and swaying to all its glory, celebrating India along with everyone here in Melbourne. Also, part of this prestigious flag hoisting ceremony is the cultural festivities that we hope blossoms again with IFFM Indian Dance Competition; the community so eagerly waits for. It has definitely been a while since we have captured ourselves in that artistic vibe, especially here in Melbourne, much needed (now) most certainly than ever before.

In the coming weeks, we will bring you more news regarding the Festival until then stay tuned and embrace this new way of virtual realities.

As the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne is the southern hemisphere's greatest annual

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celebration of Indian cinema and films from the Indian sub-continent. Established in 2010, it is recognised as an important feature of the State’s cultural calendar. IFFM is proudly supported by the Victorian Government via Film Victoria – principal partner of the Festival.

Caroline Pitcher, Film Victoria CEO quotes: “Film Victoria is proud to be the principal partner of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne. For over a decade, this incredible celebration of Indian film and culture has given Victorians the opportunity to engage with diverse and compelling screen stories, and it’s wonderful that this year we can come together both in cinemas across Melbourne and online.”

We at Indian Weekly and G’day India couldn’t be happier than to see a thriving conclave of artistic cinemas blending in with the much-needed hope that the arts world is looking for.

As a writer, I have been touched by what arts stand for, and artists across the world not only unified but stood in support of each other in this global pandemic. Creativity is sparked through curiosity; translating its own voice and with that in mind I cannot help myself from quoting the famous French artist Henri Matisse - “Creativity takes courage”.

By Nandita Chakraborty

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FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

SHOULD YOU OIL YOUR BELLY BUTTON?

I

t is the navel that provides the essence of life and growth. It supplies nutrition, blood, and oxygen to babies in the womb through the navel. Even as an adult, your navel, which is also the core of your body, is one of the key points of sustenance and growth.

it is ineffective due to the lack of ayurvedic qualities with heating elements. Massage should be with an oil that contains extracts such as neem, tea tree, lemon, grapeseed, and almond oil, which helps cleanse your belly button, for the greatest effects.

So like other parts of our boy which benefit by oiling does the navel as well? Not just the belly button, but the entire body, including our skin, benefits when you oil the navel. It is a primitive tradition described in our Vedas and Ayurveda, in which women and men oil their navels to nourish their entire bodies. Your belly button has been medically proven to be related to various veins throughout your body, and oiling it can help you heal from a variety of ailments.

Helps to purify the skin: Massaging and routinely oiling your belly button should be on your to-do list if you desire a radiant face and healthier skin texture. Oiling your belly button might help clean your blood and get rid How to practice it? of pollutants and blemishes. Therapeutic oils such as neem oil, rosehip oil, coconut oil, and This procedure takes only two minutes. Pour lemon essential oil can help. oil over your belly button and that’s all there is to it. Massage your belly button in a circular Lightens lip shade: Coconut oil applied motion for 5-10 minutes after applying it to to the belly button every night before bedtime your navel. For the best outcome, do so every lightens and protects your lips from chapping. day before going to bed or after bath. Also, oiling at night can make you feel more relaxed Good for eyes: If you suffer from poor vision when you wake up in the morning. then you must try out oiling your belly button with a diluted solution mixed with mustard oil During the menstrual cycle also, you can and so it will improve your eye health. Also, apply coconut oil on your navel, it helps for those who constantly strain their eyes on soothe cramps. the screens it is a good way to reduce the appearance of puffy eyes and dark circles.

The belly button is more than just a little dot on your navel; it’s the chamber that has the answer to a slew of cosmetic issues. The belly button is connected to many veins throughout the body, and when it is nourished with oil, it aids in the treatment of a variety of health issues. Whatever carrier or oil you choose

By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

In conversation with Preeti Chadha, Founder, IREMIA shares the importance of oiling the belly button: Why navel oiling?

If we talk about the technique of navel oiling in general, it has a lot of benefits, as most mothers have taught their children it can help with correcting, balancing, and repairing neural connections in their bodies.

Benefits of oiling: People commonly use mustard, cow ghee (desi ghee) or coconut oil on the navel, but

Oiling the navel helps to detoxify the body and promotes healthy, radiant skin, free from radical damage. Furthermore, the navel absorbs oil more quickly and supplies sustenance from within.

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‘coconut, mustard, or rosemary’ it will be beneficial to you!

Helps to remove dirt: Cleaning the belly button removes bacteria and filth that has accumulated and keeps the stomach and navel regions clear of any potential ailments.

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

25

‘REVENGE’ TRAVEL IS THE NEW BUZZWORD For some, camping in their backyard could have come closest to an adventure during our days in quarantine. With trains and flights suspended and hotels closed down, all we could do is dive into good old’ travel memories. But thanks

T

hose struck by wanderlust have started planning their next trip.

But since leisure travel is no longer how it used to be before the pandemic, compliance with safety measures is indispensable. Post-pandemic travel could revive the travel industry with a whopping surge in bookings in the latter part of the year. After being advised not to step out of the confines of our homes for over a year, stepping out into the world could be vengeance for those ‘lost’ days.

This is where the concept of ‘Revenge Travel’ sprouted from.

down our laptops, stuff our backpacks with all things necessary and avenge the time spent in quarantine by going out into nature.

A Boom in Travel Industry

Kotha feels: “Travellers, all across the world, laying out their plans for ‘revenge travel’ would stimulate What is Revenge Travel? a massive boom in “The surge in flight/train and hotel the travel industry. bookings have been anticipated by the However, poststakeholders in the travel industry after pandemic travel might the vaccination drive starts gaining pace. be costly due to the rising air/train and After the dreadful hiatus of staying at home, hotel fares. The increasing cost is due to travel enthusiasts are planning longer and the additional safety gears and accessories more luxurious vacations. Thus, ‘revenge while travelling such as the cost of PPE kits travel’ is all set to become a phenomenon,” for air travel, sanitization of the hotel, etc.” says Dinesh Kumar Kotha, Co-Founder and CEO, Confirmtkt.

The increasing cost of travel or accommodation is perhaps not a deterrent He adds: “The quarantine has not only for those who wish to step out for ‘revenge been bluntly uneventful but also mentally travel’, which is why a boom in the travel taxing. Moreover, adjusting to the new industry is certainly around the corner, he normal of work from home has derailed adds. us from enjoying the little pleasures of enjoying bustling city life. Since the city Travel Guidelines and Safety seems busting no longer, we might as well Standards take a thrilling vacation to the destination of our desire.” For a break, we could shut With the beginning of these efforts to

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sustain the new normal, the certification of the vaccination status of the travellers is important. Besides, the passenger would also need to show an RT-PCR test negative report and undergo health screening at the airport/railway station. Another notable change would be the absence of meal services on flights/trains, which only means that you must plan your trip taking into account such aspects, Kotha says.

Despite the apprehensions owing to the second wave of the virus, travel enthusiasts are hoping for some relaxations in restrictions in regards to travel by the end of this year, indicating long-haul travel plans post-vaccination.

By Puja Gupta

26

LEGAL

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

Property settlement and the CGT costs BY GURPAL SINGH

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he monies received from the disposal of an asset in the event of division of matrimonial pool attract Capital Gains Tax known as CGT. This refers to the increase in value of the property after deducting the asset’s cost base which is the initial cost of acquiring the asset at the time of purchase. CGT is governed by Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (Cth) and is payable on the disposal of assets acquired on or after 20 September 1985. The scope of CGT applies to the sale of real estate, goodwill of a business in which the owner has made a capital gain at the time of the sale, sale of shares, units and similar Investments, Foreign currency, Contractual rights, personal use assets such as boats, furniture, electrical goods and house hold item(s) each acquired for AUD 10,000 or more, collectables such as paintings, sculptures, drawings, jewellery, stamps, coins or medallions each acquired for AUD 500 or more.

There are, however, some exemptions applicable to personal assets including but not limited to the main residence, the car provided it is designed to carry a load of less than one tonne and fewer than nine passengers or the motorcycle, personal use items acquired each for less than AUD 10,000, collectable item(s) for less than AUD 500 each, compensation or damages received for any wrong or injury suffered in the course of occupation, winning or losses

from gambling, a game or competition with prizes and most importantly the superannuation of the parties.

CGT is required to be factored in the family law proceedings and attention needs to be paid at the stage of the court making an order for the sale of an asset or if the parties are otherwise convinced and satisfied that a sale of the asset(s) is inevitable or if the asset was acquired exclusively as an investment property with the objective to eventually gain profit at the time of sale. Any negligence in this respect might haunt the parties later in time. The cases in which there is a significant risk for an asset’s sale in the short or mid-term, the court may not make allowance or provision for the CGT may take that risk into account as a determining factor.

The question if CGT should be accounted for in valuing the particular asset covered within the scope of the definition varies on different factors including the method of valuation, the likelihood of asset being realised in the foreseeable future, the circumstances of asset acquisition, intentions of the parties in respect of the asset.

The CGT rollover applies only when the marriage or relationship ended on or after 20 September

1985; and the ownership of the CGT asset, or a share in a jointly owned CGT asset is transferred between the spouses or from a company or trust to one of the parties and the transfer of ownership is because of a Court Order, formal agreement, or award. The rollover is mandatory, and the parties have no discretion in this respect.

In a full court matter where the husband was a property developer and indicated his desire to retain a parcel of the real estate in the long-term future with a view to being developed. The court expressed that where the husband had refused an offer of AUD 2 million for the property, it could not be reasonably asserted that it would be just and equitable for the wife to have to share the burden of a potential future liability for CGT in relation to that property.

Foreign resident capital gains apply to the vendors disposing of the real property under contracts entered from 1 July 2016.

The purchasers are required to withhold 12.5% of the purchase price and pay it to the Australian Tax Office where the value of the property is AUD 750,000 or more. To avoid paying the 12.5% value of the property, the party transferring the asset must obtain a clearance certificate and provide it to the other party prior to transfer of the property in their name.

The question of CGT application is always intriguing in nature and requires proper attention and advice both from legal and tax aspects of the asset importantly when such an issue in case of a dispute is decided on a case-to-case basis.

Gurpal Singh is the principal lawyer of Melbourne law firm, Saundh Singh & Smith Lawyers | W: www.sssl.com.au

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OPINION

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

27

How do I cry out and share my feelings?

– Shaken, troubled and searching for answers!

Pain is universal, no one is immune to it, but how we deal with it makes the difference.

BY KARTHIK ARASU President of “Australia India Sports Council

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ain, stress, hurt, and fear were always there coexisting with us in our inner self, but we managed them well until recently when this new invisible monster Coronavirus happened.

We are facing new challenges, unforeseen experiences, pain and fear have increased manyfold with it. When our loved one passes away, we go through a process with our family and friends and farewell the loved one, no matter how hard it is, but it will still bring closure.

Today we cannot even say our goodbyes, we cannot hug them for one last time, even our cries are through online funerals. We are not allowed to leave home for our own welfare, our wings are clipped, our feelings are caged, and our faith tested like never.

March 2019, I received a call from my sister in India, when I was about to have dinner at my friend’s place. My sister’s voice was trembling, and she kept saying only one thing, come home immediately, Daddy is ok but we are taking him to hospital.

My world froze at that moment, my friends immediately started looking for flights and within 5 minutes my brother called and broke the dreaded news that our dad has left us, I left for the airport and managed to get a flight back to India immediately. I was ashamed and guilty because I had responsibility, but I was incapacitated to fulfil it from thousands of miles away.

The flight from Melbourne to India was the worst night in my life, I cried till I reached home to see my hero lying down lifelessly.

I cannot cry now; I must be strong for my sisters and brother. I cannot cry now; I have guilt running through me. I could not see my father in his last minutes, he was surrounded by my sisters and brother. My sister told me that he looked at them and was searching for someone, it could have been me. Having gone through many hardships in my life, but that moment was my worst ever. I still cry every day when I do my prayers to him, I hope he knows and sees me from heaven, missing him every day.

Today many sons and daughters are unable to even say their final goodbyes.

The funeral rites which are one of the most important duties to their parents in one’s life are done by friends and strangers.

Just imagine how anyone could cope

with this pain, but still, we need to live for ourselves and the ones who are still with us.

For the past year or so, I have been to many of my friends' homes for condolences, I have lost many relatives back home, when I go back next time, they will only be a memory.

The pain and guilt of the diaspora cannot be simply put in words, it is the curse of the diaspora who have their loved ones thousands of miles away. Yes, we chose this life, and this is the cost, but the price we are paying now is not what we were prepared for, even in our worst imagination. Many have lost their loved ones back home, each of us grieves differently, but one important gesture we can do for them is not to put them under more stress, not give them more grief, not to make them cry in fear.

Fear of being judged, being mocked, being targeted, being weak, and not belonging pushes us to hide our tears, makes us bottle up inside us, and ultimately makes our pain worse. There are friends and social friends, unfortunately, we have more social friends in today's world, some are nice to your face and social media but so vile behind

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your back.

Some are fortunate to learn about them and keep them at arm’s length, some are caught in the trap and damage their lives for the sake of others. We tend to do things to please those around us and in that pursuit, we miserably fail to live our true self. I realised one thing well, no matter what you do, there will always be some to find fault, and there will always be some to support you as well.

In our own imaginary outlook, we create narratives of ourselves and others. We see tears as weakness, bearing pain as strength, the damage to our mental health is multiplied before we realise it.

The lesson I learned was, YES, it is ok to cry, it is ok to share feelings, it is ok to be weak if you think it is weak. But what is not ok is pretending to be strong and hurting ourselves and our loved ones.

Mental trauma and illness not only damages you, but it also takes down mercilessly those you love as well.

Remember both the wick and the candle burns out in the end.

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FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

IS YOUR NAME LUCKY FOR YOU?

The letters of your name have the power to help you build a successful life. Owing to the benefits that the study of numerology offer, several celebrities and business tycoons have paved their way to success by changing their names.

Celebrity name changes Not many people know this, but even the most respected and renowned celebrity, Amitabh Bachchan, changed his name from Inquilab Srivastava (birth name) to what he is recognised as today. It was his father, Harivansh Rai Bachchan, who made the change in his name. This industry name is also said to have paved a way for success.

Sometimes people also add or subtract certain letters in their name to procure the benefits of numerology. For instance, formerly known as ‘Rani Mukherji’, the actress changed the spelling of her name to Rani Mukerji, as suggested by her numerologist. This change of only a single letter has worked wonders for her life. There are several other celebrities in Bollywood as well as Hollywood who have made small or big changes to their names to seek the benefits of numerology.

Lucky Names in Businesses Even the most popular of tech giants or businesses today have changed the names of their businesses/corporations. For instance, Instagram which is one of the most popular

social media sites in the world was earlier named as Burbn. Similarly, Google was not the first choice, the tech-giant was earlier named BackRub. Hence, people from all phases of life have adapted to name changes their business’s success.

How to Find Your Lucky Name?

Numerology is a scientific art. Hence numerology provide an insight on how you can benefit from a change in your name based on your lucky letters.

Number: Based on the letters of your first name, allocate a number to each alphabet.

See table below. In name number, both twodigit name number and single digit sum is equally important. * Name Number and Name Compound: Assign number to each alphabet of an individual’s last name. * For instance- First Name -- 29 is compound and 2 is First name number Name number -- 44 is compound and 8 is name number Name Number: 29+15 = 44 (8)

As per Chaldean numerology, every alphabet has been assigned a number and every This is how you can calculate your name number is known to have a positive or negative number. Based on the astrological implications impact on your lives. of the number, a numerologist can choose the best name for you. There are several other What are the Core Numbers for every intricacies of finding a name number which is Alphabet? best understood by someone who has studied The following table shows what number is numerology. assigned against each alphabet. This number can be modified to synchronize with your Date Remember your name is your identity, the of Birth. signal that one telecasts to world and it carries a purpose much more than that. Hence, one Steps to followmust focus on these aspects of life to foster * First Name Number and Compound one’s growth trajectory.

By Sidhharrth S Kumaar

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G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

29

CAN YOU REALLY SHRINK YOUR PORES?

We’ve all come across serums and creams that promise tighter pores or even “poreless” skin. But can any serum, face mask, or pore strip truly shrink your pores to an invisible size?

As you might expect, the idea that topical products can shrink your pores is false. More importantly, you can never completely eliminate pores; they play an important role in maintaining skin health, and without them, we’d be doomed.

It is a myth that it is possible to have a poreless face.

Pores are necessary for the normal structure and function of the skin.

Pores are simply hair follicle openings, and each pore contains its own sebaceous gland, which produces oil, or sebum. Your skin requires sebum for lubrication and protection, but an excess of sebum can cause breakouts, and a lack of sebum can cause dry skin.

We have no control over the size of our pores due to genetics. However, if you want your pores to appear smaller, Niketa Sonavane, Celebrity Dermatologist and founder of Ambrosia Aesthetics, Mumbai, shares some guide you can follow to help.

Q: Is it a bad thing to have large pores?

A: While large pores may appear frightening in a magnifying mirror, they generally pose no health risks.

Most people seek to reduce pore size for cosmetic reasons, as irregular-looking pores can make the skin appear

ingredient that sits on top of the skin and reduces the appearance of pores, such as sunscreen and foundation.

Some skin care products can also help to reduce the appearance of pores. Consider products with active ingredients that contain acids, particularly glycolic and salicylic acids, or retinol, as they work to unclog pores. These ingredients promote skin cell turnover, which aids in the unclogging of pores, making them appear smaller.

textured, older, and damaged.

Big pores, on the other hand, create an easy place for makeup to collect because they are more pronounced. As a result, makeup applied over the pores may have a cakey appearance, which can be distracting in photographs.

While large pores can be a cosmetic annoyance, they can also be beneficial in some cases.

Large pores are not always bad for your health, and they may even be beneficial as you get older.

Because larger pores produce more oil, this can be beneficial as we age and our skin becomes drier.

Q: How to Use Topical Treatments to Reduce the Appearance of Pores A: While it may be cosmetically beneficial to reduce the appearance of pores, we cannot change the size of the pore itself.

Instead, there are numerous methods for temporarily refining pores.

These include using cosmetic products containing dimethicone, a silicone

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Last but not least, wearing sun protection every day can make a huge difference.

Wearing SPF products on a regular basis helps reduce redness, irritation, and discolouration, all of which affect pore appearance. Not to mention that sun exposure ages skin and contributes to collagen breakdown, causing skin to lose elasticity, which dilates pores and makes them appear larger.

When it comes to SPF, I may sound like a broken record, but it is, without a doubt, the most important product in anyone’s regimen. It is the most effective tool we have for preventing collagen breakdown, which is one of the main reasons our pores appear larger.

Q: Does medical-grade procedures ensure more effective outcomes?

A: Although topical products can help clean pores and reduce their appearance, only medical-grade procedures can produce more visible results.

These include dermatologist-administered micro needling and laser treatments, which typically require no downtime and no recovery time.

There is no downtime with the Fraxel laser, and it can improve pigmentation, fine lines, and the appearance of pores.

Similarly, procedures involving the use of botulinum toxin are prohibited. Botox can be effective in reducing sebum production and pore size by acting directly on the sebaceous and other glands.

Consider skin polishing or microdermabrasion if you want something more effective than at-home cleansing but less drastic than an in-office treatment. It can be quite effective at minimising the appearance of pores.

By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

30

FESTIVALS

Bonalu

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

BY ARCHITA BAWEJA

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onalu is a Hindu Festival where Goddess Mahakali is worshipped. It is an annual festival celebrated in the twin cities, Hyderabad and Secunderabad and other parts of Telangana state in India. The festival usually falls in the month of July/August. Special poojas are performed during the first and last day of the festival.

The name has been derived from the Sanskrit term ‘Bhojanam’. This in turn became Bonam and that later was termed as Bonalu. It all means food or a feast in Telugu language. As per the festival, this is a food offering that is offered to the Mother Goddess Mahakali. Bonam denotes the food that will be cooked in pots and that is offered to the Goddess. Womenfolk in household prepare rice that is cooked along with milk, jaggery in a new earthen or brass pot, which is adorned with Neem leaves, turmeric and vermilion.

Women carry these pots on their heads and make an offering of Bonam, including Bangles and Saree to the Mother Goddess at Temples. In various parts of Andhra Pradesh, Bonalu includes the worship of the Goddess in a number of forms and names like Pochamma, Yellamma, Ankalamma, Peddhamma, Maremma, Dokkalamma,

Poleramma, and Nookalamma.

The origin of the festival dates back to the 19th century when the region that is today Hyderabad and Secunderabad underwent the outbreak of a deadly plague. The residents of the two cities started praying to the Goddess to protect them from the plague with special offerings. When the plague finally stopped, they devoted themselves to worshipping her in remembrance of her grace and mercy, dedicating several days to her memory every year after that. This is the origin of the festival of Bonalu.

In Telangana, the Bonalu festival begins at

the Golconda Mahankali, located inside the Golconda fort, and follows to Secunderabad’s Ujjaini Mahakali Temple and then to the old city. On the festival day, women wear silk sarees and jewellery. Some tranced women dance with balancing pots (Bonam), to the rhythmic beats of drums in honour of the local Goddess. Women carrying Bonalu are believed to possess the spirit of Mother Goddess, and when they go towards the temple, people pour water on their feet to pacify the spirit.

Every group of devotees offers a Thottela (a small colourful, paper structure supported by sticks), as a mark of respect.

Also, here in Melbourne, residents of Telangana celebrate the Bonalu festival at the Sri Durga Temple, Rockbank. The celebration represents Telangana’s unique and special cultural heritage that local nonresident Indians carry in their hearts and minds. In keeping with tradition, members of the organising committee beautifully offer ‘Bonam’ to Durga Mata with all the traditional welcoming of songs and dances, followed by lunch.

It is believed that the Goddess comes back to her maternal home during Ashada Maasam, so people come to see her and bring offerings of food to show their love and affection, just as they would prepare a special meal when their own daughters visit them.

In the end hoping and wishing this year on the occasion of the Bonalu festival, when the Goddess of power, Mahakali visits her home she blesses us all with grace, mercy, health, love and happiness.

Archita Baweja of Melbourne is an engineer by profession but a writer at heart

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FASHION FEATURE

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

Autumn/Winter'21: Fashion Wardrobe Edit

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BY DEBASREE DAS

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ow would life be post Isolation be? How would we be feeling socializing yet again? What would it be feeling being myself and wearing something that I always wanted?!

There are so many questions that need answers in our head? But before we start socializing yet again here are some trendy picks for your Winter wardrobe.

Melbourne winter is harsh and sometimes layering is not always trendy though it’s a norm. So, here are my trendy picks for Melbourne winter 2020.

Transitioning is always tricky, as you don’t wish to give up comfort for style, but there is always a way to balance both and yet be trendy.

Melbourne winters though harsh, windy, and unpleasant, so layering on is the only game, but the question is how do we keep this stylish and still have the fashion game on? Answering all your questions “what to wear this Winter”?

You’re top 5 Winter styles:

#Colourful Knitwear’s:

I swear I can style knitwear the way I

want, be it with a dress or with a humble denim. This is my go-to style every day and especially with the different color options available, you can always add that zing to your otherwise gloomy winter day.

#Dresses with Knee-length Boots

Dresses are for all season and I always end up with a reason to flaunt one. Style your favorite Floral/printed/block color outfit with a Knitwear or long coats and let your Boots do the talking.

Sometimes we are blessed with few hours of sunny winter days, wherein a dress can be easily styled with a pair of your favorite stockings and white boots.

# Accessorizing the Scarfs

Let the layering game this winter take a trendy turn, style your scarfs to re-purpose an old boring outfit.

This is one trend I would be following this Melbourne winter and give a new look to my old boring outfits.

Style it with a trendy belt or wrap it like a shrug to give a different look to an old dress or even this goes well with a denim.

Jackets

Cosy and warm Knitwear dresses are totally in trend, love the versatility of the outfit, especially in Melbourne winter. This is one trend you should follow, work to casual this is one Melbourne winter must-have in my wardrobe.

Brands like Zimmerman, Kookai, Country road have some amazing winter styles to replicate this winter. Departmental store brands like Target and K-mart also have some amazing color and styles to choose from.

Buffer Jackets are saviors especially in Melbourne winter and can literally go along with any outfit.

Whatever, you choose to wear, remember to keep it comfortable, warm and stylish.

#Colour block Coats

Coats does most of the talking for your winter wardrobe, bring out that flamboyant side of your style.

Block color trench coats are trendy and always goes for your 9-5 and beyond.

I am a big fan of fur coats too, for your warm and cosy winter evenings.

#Knitted Dress/Buffer

Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @travelinstylewithdebs for your daily fashion inspiration. travelinstylewithdebs

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32

TECH

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

WINDOWS 11 TO REQUIRE LAPTOPS TO HAVE HIGH-QUALITY WEBCAMS As part of the rush of news surrounding its new operating system, Microsoft has declared that starting January 1, 2023, all new laptops running on Windows 11 will need to have a front-facing camera.

According to Android Authority, this likely has to do with Windows Hello, which is Microsoft’s facial recognition system that allows you to use your face as biometric security.

Windows 11 puts a heavy emphasis on the importance of security.

For those concerned with privacy, this means a trip to the office supply store to grab more tape with which to cover up the pesky little lenses, Windows Central reported.

quality of cameras is found in Microsoft’s camera requirements.

And for those who’ve fully immersed themselves in the world of remote work, this means an end to the days of fearing a laptop will have a bad camera, or worse, no camera, the report said.

Not only does the company demand that laptops have cameras, but it expects them to have a resolution of HighDefinition (HD) or better, Auto Exposure (AE), Auto White Balance (AWB).

The way this new policy influences the

Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has revealed that the new iPhone models in 2021, the so-called “iPhone 13,” could be bolstered by specification upgrades, as well as market share gain because of the US ban on Huawei.

On the flip side, it’s also just a matter of time before privacy-minded individuals have one less source of security, it added.

(IANS)

With a massive company like Microsoft

‘IPHONE 13’ LIKELY TO RELEASE IN LATE 2021 In a bid to offer an upgraded iPhone, Apple is likely to unveil the upcoming “iPhone 13” in late 2021.

demanding an end to objectively outdated and substandard cameras, it’s only a matter of time before such inferior products cease to exist, the report said.

According to the analyst, Apple will also release a new 5G iPhone SE in the first half of 2022, followed by a slate of flagship “iPhone 14” models with under-display Touch ID and lower prices. iPhone SE will sport the same form factor as the current iPhone SE, but will add 5G support and an upgraded

A-series chip, the report said.

Kuo also expects the device to be the “cheapest 5G iPhone model ever.”

Additionally, the analyst forecast that Apple will release two high-end and two lower-end iPhone models in the latter half of 2022.

Both standard sized models will pack 6.1-inch displays, while both “Max” devices will have 6.7-inch displays.

Kuo didn’t mention any smaller-sized iPhones, which could suggest an end to Apple’s 5.4-inch iPhone mini-series.

Those devices could benefit from growth drivers like under-display fingerprint readers using proprietary Apple technology and a wide camera upgrade to 48MP. Kuo also believes that Apple could drop the price for at least one larger iPhone model to somewhere in the sub-$900 range.

Kuo expects iPhone shipments to reach 230 million to 240 million units in 2021 and 250 million to 260 million units in 2022.

(AGENCIES)

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VIRTUAL

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

33 33

You may soon post on Instagram from desktop

Facebook-owned photo-sharing platform Instagram might soon let its users post from their computers.

A number of Twitter users noticed that the test feature had gone live on Thursday and Instagram confirmed the test to TechCrunch.

“We know that many people access Instagram from their computer,” an Instagram spokesperson was quoted as saying by the website.

“To improve that experience, we’re now testing the ability to create a Feed post on Instagram with their desktop browser,” the spokesperson added.

To see if the test is live for you, head to Instagram in your browser and look for a new “plus” icon in the icon tray on the top right.

The test isn’t available to everyone and it only allows users to create posts for the main feed.

The new test feature is the company’s most recent sign of life for its desktop product.

The photo-sharing platform added the ability to view Stories on the web in 2017 and added direct messaging to desktop late last year.

“We haven’t found any evidence that the Instagram desktop web experience cannibalizes engagement from the native

apps,” a data scientist with Instagram observed with the launch of web messaging.

“In fact, it’s quite the opposite -- users who use both interfaces spend more time on each interface, compared to users who use each interface exclusively,” the data scientist added.

(AGENCIES)

Telegram is adding group video calling With the latest version of Telegram’s iOS, Android and desktop apps, encrypted messaging app Telegram users can turn their group voice chats into video conference calls.

Users have the option to pin someone’s video feed to the screen so that they stay front and center even as new participants join the call.

Unsurprisingly, users can share your screen if they need to put on a presentation or want to show something off. Users have the option to share both their camera feed and screen at the same time.

With this release, group video calls are limited to the first 30 people who join a voice chat, but that’s a number Telegram said will increase “soon” as it expands voice chats to support live events and other new features.

Users can take part in group video calls on the phone, as well as on tablets and computers.

Earlier, Telegram CEO Pavel Durov made the announcement via a message posted to his official Telegram channel where he wrote “we will be adding a video

dimension to our voice chats in May, making Telegram a powerful platform for group video calls”.

In an April 2020 blog post, to mark passing 400 million users, it wrote that the global lockdown had “highlighted the need for a trusted video communication tool” -going on to dub video calls in 2020 “much like messaging in 2013”.

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However, it also emphasized the importance of security for group video calling -- and that’s perhaps what’s caused the delay.

The company said it reached 400 million monthly active users in April 2020, up from 200 million in 2018.

(AGENCIES)

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RELATIONSHIPS

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

4 Socially Distanced Date Ideas The Covid-19 pandemic has made dating a lot trickier, whether one is already in a relationship or is itching to meet new people. And though FaceTime dating has cut it for some time, now with the weather being all nice and things gradually opening up, many of us are wishing to actually see people in person -- especially if you are totally into them.

Being in a global pandemic doesn’t really lend itself to extensive physical contact.

However, discouraging touch does not have to mean discouraging romantic pursuits. Even while being distanced, couples can continue to enjoy each other’s company, albeit from a distance.

The pandemic-induced lockdown has dramatically altered how we date. Erstwhile, you would get to know your potential partner by having a glass of wine or two together in a nice restaurant. But now things are a lot different. As events unfolded in the past year, some people may have given up on the idea of dating, while others may have brightened up at the idea of flirting virtually, exhausting all their data on video calls.

Still, technology cannot take the place of good old dating in real life. And with the new guidelines, it’s again possible to see your potential date. But no matter how turned on you may be, it’s important that you maintain your distance!

Here are some innovative dating ideas for you as suggested by Gleeden users in India. Most of them are married and are speaking of

their personal experience.

Cute Picnic Date It’s the summer season and so far, the weather has been good to us, even blessing us with rains from time to time. So, go on and enjoy this time with your potential future partner by organising a nice picnic date. Prepare a menu of quick snacks that can be easily packed such as toasts, fruits or cheese. Curate a list of topics or questions that you would like to ask each other or take some nice board game along with you. Apart from this, if you wish your date to be Instagram-worthy, then go for coordinated outfits that complement each other.

So, what are you waiting for? Bring out a bedsheet, nibbles, refreshing drinks and enjoy to the hilt!

About 42.3 per cent of Gleeden users think that a picnic date is the cutest thing to do.

Interestingly, 31.9 per cent of the users would like to relive their old days and would like to take along their ex’s on a picnic date while 37.29 per cent of them would like to spend some quality picnic time with the entire family.

Go Bike Riding This is another great idea to enjoy together.

Take some time and get out of the house to enjoy a long bike ride through nature together.

Working up a sweat over long stretches of road will not only keep both of you healthy and improve your mood, but will also help develop a strong bond as studies have proven that exercising with your partner can elevate your emotional bond.

Bike rides can give you thrills and Gleeden users have voted in affirmation for the same as 41.7 per cent of the users think that going on long drives or bike

rides can certainly lift up the relationship and can help create a longing bond. About 27.19 per cent of them also feel that bike rides can also lead to intimacy.

Watch a Movie Together -- Outdoors Whether you both are big movie buffs or not, opting for an exciting outdoor cinema night is something that will definitely work to bring the two of you close to each other. As outdoor social activities are allowed now, drive-in cinema is an idea that is fast catching up with millennials, which is surely not surprising. After all, we missed watching a nice movie on the big screen, while digging into a bag of popcorn and enjoying great company. There are themed open-air movie screenings as well that are just perfect for your date night. Bollywood Special -check. Halloween Special -- check. Blockbuster Weekend -- check. And a lot more!

Watching movie, holding hands, dim light... what a romantic scenario and with popular voting it is one of the topmost liked ideas by Gleeden users as about 46.67 per cent of them think that movie dates are evergreen and for every generation!

Take a City Tour Together As places open up slowly and gradually, very less crowd will be flocking to these spots. Take your pick and plan to meet up there. Majority city centres are much quieter now than they ever were before. So, this is a great time to see some of the beautiful tourism hotspots devoid of the crowds.

Travelling with your partner is a wholesome experience, not only you get to spend time together, but you also face different situations collectively as partners and this experience is enough to stronger the ties of the relationship.

Gleeden users also feel that travelling with your partner is the best medicine for most relationship-based diseases as 46.34 per cent of them have voted in affirmation. Surprisingly, none of them would like to take their in-laws with them on the tour.

Well, there are obviously a lot many ways that you can go on and enjoy a socially distanced date. But how you plan to do it is entirely up to you. Everything will be good as long as you keep the right amount of distance from each other and keep it outdoor. Times are unusual, so can your date be too!

By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

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LIFESTYLE

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

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Fitness, focus and fun with yoga for kids

According to a National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health survey, 1 in 12 children practice yoga. Over the years, yoga has become increasingly popular among Indian children.

It helps in improving balance, strength, endurance, and aerobic capacity. It can also help to boost memory, self-esteem, academic performance, and classroom behaviour, thereby reducing anxiety and stress in children.

channels throughout the body, increasing flexibility of the spine, strengthening bones, and stimulating the circulatory and immune systems. Along with proper breathing, these poses or asanas also calm the mind and reduce stress.

Focus on mind Asanas like Pranayama, Padmasana, Sukhasana, and others, help a child to be aware of themselves and help them control their emotions. These act as a tool for calming and energizing the child to develop a stateof-relaxed mind, which is crucial for learning.

It also develops social-emotional awareness, body awareness and coordination, and interpersonal skills.

As we approach International Yoga Day, Tata Sky Fitness is introducing Yoga Ki Paathshala,

by Shrradha Setalvad. The series will focus on 3F’s -- Fitness for the body, Focus on the mind, and Fun for the soul. Setalvad explains in details the 3Fs: Fitness for body Asanas like Shavasana, Navasana, Tolasana, Suryanamaskar, Chakrasana helps in

strengthening the overall being of kids. It aims to develop both physical health as well as cognitive skills in children. It opens the energy

Fun for soul Children can adapt to all kinds of exercise and practicing yoga asana at an early age can lead them to having a healthy head start in life.

In this fast-paced world, it helps to rejuvenate kids inside-out. The meditative pose helps to relax both our mind and body. It promotes spiritual awakening and awareness of higher consciousness. It is a perfect choice if you want a holistic approach to mind and body stre ngth.

By Puja Gupta

Women now comprise 41% of global supply chain workforce Women comprise 41 per cent of the supply chain workforce globally in 2021, up from 39 per cent last year, according to a new survey.

However, 54 per cent of survey respondents said that retaining mid-career women is an increasing challenge.

“Lack of career opportunities is the top reason that mid-career women left a supply chain organisation or provider. The secondmost selected option was development opportunities,” according to ‘The Women in Supply Chain Survey 2021’ by Gartner.

Every leadership level saw an increase in representation, except the executive level where there has been a slight decline.

In 2021, women account for 15 per cent of executive level roles in supply chain, down from 17 per cent in 2020.

representation in organisations,” she said in a statement.

The findings, however, showed the highest percentage of women in the supply chain workforce since the first edition of the survey in 2016. The pandemic does not appear to have disrupted supply chain gender equality efforts.

“Contrary to other industries, supply chain’s mission-criticality during the COVID-19 pandemic has meant that many sectors did not reduce their workforce, but rather continued to hire and even faced talent shortages, especially in the product supply chains,” said Dana Stiffler, vice president analyst with the Gartner Supply Chain practice. “This resulted in many women not only standing their ground in supply chain organisations but increasing their

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Eighty-four percent of responding organisations stated that COVID-19 had no discernible impact on their ability to retain and advance women.

“Supply chain leaders who are serious about their gender equality efforts must create tailored leadership development programmes and explore flexible work policies that cater to the needs of mid-career women,” Stiffler said.

(AGENCIES)

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HEALTH

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

Poor sleep may up dementia, early death risk among olders Older adults who struggle to fall asleep and experience frequent night awakenings are at high risk for developing dementia or dying early from any cause, a new study suggests.

The findings, published in the Journal of Sleep Research, indicated that people who reported routinely experiencing difficulty falling asleep had a 49 per cent increased risk of dementia.

And those who often woke in the night and had difficulty falling back asleep had a 39 per cent increased risk of dementia.

“We found a strong association between frequent difficulty falling asleep and night time awakenings and dementia and early death from any cause, even after we controlled for things like depression, sex, income, education and chronic conditions,” said researcher Rebecca

nights or almost every night”.

Self-reported sleep difficulties by participants in the study were then compared to each participant’s medical records.

Robbins from Harvard Medical School.

For the study, the team analysed data collected by the National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), which conducts annual in-person interviews with a nationally representative sample of 6,376 Medicare beneficiaries. Data from between 2011 and 2018 were examined for the new study, with a focus on people in the highest risk category -- those who said they had sleep issues “most

The study found that people who had trouble falling asleep most nights had about a 44 per cent increased risk of early death from any cause. Those who said they often woke in the night and struggled to return to sleep had a somewhat higher risk -- a 56 per cent increased risk of early death from any cause.

“These results contribute to existing knowledge that sleep plays a very important role, every night, for reducing our long term risk for neural cognitive decline and all-cause mortality,” said Robbins.

(AGENCIES)

HEADPHONES, EARBUDS MAY AFFECT HEARING IN CHILDREN Increased usage of headphones, earbuds likely to raise hearing troubles in children as their auditory system maturation is incomplete, warn experts.

Children, teenagers, and young adults are listening to many hours of music daily at volumes exceeding the globally recommended public health limit of 70 decibels of average leisure noise exposure for a day for a year.

“Nonoccupational noise exposure in everyday life comes from a handful of noise sources: personal listening systems, especially for younger people; transit noise, home appliances; power tools; and entertainment (sports events, movies, parties, NASCAR races, etc.),” said Daniel Fink, from The Quiet Coalition, a US-based non-profit.

Auditory health risk is highest

for people using personal audio systems for more than an hour a day at more than 50 per cent volume over a five-year period. Disputing a recent Wall Street Journal article claiming 85 decibels is safe for children and teens, Fink said 85 decibels is not a safe exposure for anyone.

“People think the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health 85 dBA recommended exposure level for noise is safe,” he said.

“But a noise level that won’t prevent hearing loss in factory workers or heavy equipment operators is far too high

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for a young child whose ears have to last an entire lifetime,” he added.

“Children are at highest risk because their auditory system maturation is incomplete and normal hearing health is vital for learning, socialisation,” the expert noted.

During the 180th Meeting of the Acoustical Society of America, held virtually between June 8 and 10, Fink along with audiologist Jan Mayes spoke for the need for personal audio system noise emission standards and public education on their use “to prevent an imminent noise-induced hear loss epidemic when today’s younger generations reach midlife”.

In 2017, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported almost 25 per cent of American adults, age 20-69, have noiseinduced hearing loss.

Acquired hearing loss is associated with communication difficulties, social isolation, increased risk of falls and accidents, and health complications, including dementia in later life. (AGENCIES)

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

ASK DR. RAJ… WARTS: Q: Hello Dr Raj, My wife has developed several knob like growths on her face, arms etc in the last one year. Initially we noticed 2 such growths, one on the chin and other at the tip of the nose. These were freezed first and then laser burned when they reappeared later within 3 months. Now these growths are multiplied and we are greatly concerned that these may continue to spread and about health implications. This started shortly after my wife went for an aid camp as a volunteer. Mr. A

Health tip:

A detailed case study is required for effective treatment. Homeopathy has a proven track record in treating warts and also preventing their recurrence. The ideology behind this is not everyone exposed to the virus get warts. This is because of the strength of their immune system and its response. Homeopathic remedies will stimulate a similar response in the affected person’s immune system, thus the warts gradually dry drop off and in most cases do not reoccur.

Freezing of warts is called Cryotherapy. The wart is sprayed with liquid nitrogen at very low temperatures A: Dear Mr.A, Warts are common, allowing the wart to drop off. Side and are caused by a viral infection effects include pain, swelling, scaring (viruses in the human papillomavirus and the results are not permanent.

(HPV) family) and are contagious Laser treatments burn off the wart but when in contact with the skin of the once again, may not be a permanent infected person. Warts usually disap- solution because the virus which pear after few months however can causes the wart is still well and truly also last several years and reoccur. alive within your body. I have heard Warts can grow on various parts of the continuous use of Apple Cider the body, face, inside the mouth, Vinegar on the wart surely helps the genitals, hands, fingers etc. Also wart to disappear but would not recwarts are of different types such as ommend the use of such treatments flat and filiform warts (more common by yourself without medical supervion the face), plantar warts, mosaic sion when you have available natural and genital warts etc. therapy alternatives.

.

Your wife could have picked up the virus in her travels or the virus could have been dormant and manifested at an available opportunity.

By Raj Kothuru

Please send any of your health related questions to drraj@aurahealth.com.au with Ask Dr Raj as the subject line or ph: 94788649 / 0425761826. The questions will be published with your identity protected.

37

A handful of peanuts can reduce the risk of cardiovascular and coronary heart disease

Zoom Vs. Take-Home Teeth Whitening Kits

H

ave you experienced people coming up to you and gently letting you know that you have pale teeth? According to popular belief, pale teeth, more often than not, make you look dirty and old. Is getting rid of those yellow ones your biggest concern right now? Then you must look for teeth whitening options and save yourself all the worry.

We are going to discuss some basic facts about the two most popular ways amongst all the teeth whitening options. They are Zoom In-chair teeth whitening and Take-home teeth whitening kits.

Let us have a look at what aspects differentiate them from each other.

Zoom In-Chair Teeth Whitening This method lies at the forefront of cosmetic dentistry and plays a crucial role in providing patients with an attractive smile. This tooth whitening treatment is performed by qualified and experienced dental professionals with the help of advanced equipment. The basic features of this method are as follows: Quick Zoom teeth whitening is the fastest way to brighten your pale set of teeth. The process requires applying whitening gel and leaving it to work for at least 15 minutes in one go. This step is repeated for 3 to 4 times depending upon how bright you want your teeth to be.

It usually takes even less than a couple of hours for your teeth to reach the level of whiteness you require.

Safe Professional teeth whitening is the safest option compared to other methods. Being in the safe hands of experienced dentists who take all the measures to avoid any risks and injuries during your teeth whitening procedure is anytime better than doing it on your own.

Efficient Dentists first examine your teeth to ascertain the type of stains you have. This helps to ensure if you are a candidate for Zoom teeth whitening and whether the level of whiteness you want is achievable.

This further enhances the efficiency of teeth whitening.

Lasts longer Usually, the results of Zoom teeth whitening last longer than the take-home teeth whitening kits or any other methods. You must also remember to avoid foods and drinks that contribute to staining your teeth and harming the enamel.

Take-Home Teeth Whitening Kits This is yet another popular form of teeth whitening. All those who

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cannot make it to a dentist’s clinic in time or are suffering from dental anxiety often prefer to whiten their teeth at home. The sales of home teeth whitening kits are on the rise.

Cost-effective Take-home teeth whitening kits are lighter on your pockets compared to the in-chair teeth whitening option. If budget is your biggest concern, you might want to check out the home teeth whitening kits.

Hassle-free This method does not require artificial bonding or attachments to teeth. It is just like getting your teeth whitened at a dental clinic except for the effectiveness. Home teeth whitening takes longer to show results as compared to Zoom in-chair teeth whitening.

Easy to use tray The home teeth whitening kits include simple trays and are designed in a way that makes them easy to use on your own. You need not call in your friends or family to help you whiten your teeth.

Variety of options Just like the different kinds of teeth and stains on them, takehome teeth whitening kits come in a variety of options. You may ask your dentist to help you select the best home teeth whitening kit for you.

Conclusion: You can wave your pale teeth a goodbye and welcome the new smile any time you want. Teeth whitening is the way forward.

But before you select any teeth whitening method, make sure you consult your dentist. They will suggest the right teeth whitening option according to your teeth and the stains present on them.

Happy teeth whitening!

For more information about teeth whitening options at Healthy Smiles Dental Group clinic in Blackburn, feel free to visit us during work hours. You may also call us on 03 9877 2035 to talk to our frontdesk coordinators and book an appointment.

Dr Ved Berani BDS(Mum), ADEC(Aust), MBA(Melb), FIADFE, MFGDP(UK) Principal Dentist & Clinical Advisor Healthy Smiles Dental Group 150-152 Canterbury Rd, Blackburn South VIC 3130 Call us: (03) 9877 2035 www.healthysmiles.com.au

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HEALTH

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

Mixing Covid doses may help boost immune response

Taking the first dose of Pfizer Covid vaccine and then AstraZeneca for the second can provide good protection against the pandemic virus, a study has found.

The Com-Cov trial, led by researchers from the University of Oxford, looked at the efficacy of either two doses of Pfizer, two of AstraZeneca, or one of them followed by the other. The results showed that all combinations worked well, priming the immune system.

The study included 850 volunteers aged 50 and above, who were given the doses four weeks apart. The team found that people who took AstraZeneca shot followed by Pfizer showed higher antibodies and T cell responses than those who took Pfizer followed by AstraZeneca.

Both of these mixes induced higher antibodies than two doses of AstraZeneca, while the highest antibody response was seen after two doses of Pfizer, and the highest T cell response from AstraZeneca

for a booster programme, while also supporting countries who have further to go with their vaccine rollouts, and who may be experiencing supply difficulties,” UK’s deputy chief medical officer, Prof Jonathan Van-Tam, said.

followed by Pfizer. “We already know that both standard schedules are very effective against severe disease and hospitalisations, including against the Delta variant when given at eight to 12 weeks apart,” lead investigator Professor Matthew Snape, from varsity was quoted as saying.

He however, added that the findings did not undermine the UK policy of giving people the same jab twice.

But, they do offer such flexibility for vaccine rollout in the future.

“Mixing doses could provide us with even greater flexibility

Two doses are important to give the fullest protection and teach the body to make antibodies and T cells to block and kill Covid.

Meanwhile, a pre-print study suggests that a third dose of AstraZeneca vaccine, given more than six months after the second, boosts the immune system.

But, there is currently no data to support that a Covid-19 vaccine booster shot is needed for the general population, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. An extra dose may be needed for more-vulnerable groups, such as older adults or organ transplant patients.

(AGENCIES)

LOW VITAMIN D CAN RAISE DEATH RISK FROM COVID BY 20% People with low vitamin D levels are at least 20 per cent more likely to die from Covid-19 than people who are not, according to a new study.

Early this month, a study at McGill University in Quebec, Canada, showed no evidence for an association between genetically predicted vitamin D levels and Covid-19 susceptibility, hospitalisation, or severe disease.

The study by researchers from the Azrieli Faculty of Medicine of Bar-Ilan University in Safed and the Galilee Medical Center (GMC) in Nahariya, Israel, found that being deficient in vitamin D before contracting Covid-19 has a direct impact on the disease’s severity and mortality.

The findings have been published on the medical sharing site MedRxiv and is also being submitted to a peer-reviewed journal, The Jerusalem Post reported.

The study revealed that 26 per cent of people who had a pre-infection level of vitamin D of 20 ng/mL died, compared to 3 per cent of those who had higher levels of vitamin D -- a difference of 23 per cent, said Amir Bashkin, director of the Endocrinology and Diabetes Unit at GMC. While the study falls short of pinpointing vitamin D as the cause of death, “we know that people who had low vitamin D died

It is because previous studies looked only at vitamin D levels only once people were sick, which could make the studies inaccurate, said the new study researchers.

“It is very important that people take vitamin D, especially older people,” said lead author Amiel Dror from the varsity. more,” according to Bashkin.

Further “we found that if vitamin D was low, it was correlated with severe disease and mortality in an independent manner,” Bashkin said.

When the team tested all other known comorbidities that might cause severity, they found vitamin D was an independent predictor, the report said.

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The recommended dose is around 1,200 mg per day, but people should consult with their healthcare provider before taking any supplement to be sure not to take too much or too little, Bashkin said.

“If you are going to encounter Covid-19 next time, perhaps in a next wave, you better have a sufficient level of vitamin D in your body,” Dror said.

(AGENCIES)

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

Green tea might help tackle Covid As India continues to be ravaged by the coronavirus pandemic, a team of researchers is investigating how green tea could give rise to a drug capable of tackling Covid-19.

“We screened and sorted a library of

was still in its early days and a long way from any kind of clinical application, in the study published in the journal RSC Advances.

“The compound that our model predicts to be most active is gallocatechin, which is present in green tea and could be readily available, accessible, and affordable,” the researcher said.

There now needs to be further investigation to show if it can be proven clinically effective and safe for preventing or treating Covid-19.

The initial findings suggested that one of the compounds in green tea could combat the coronavirus behind Covid-19, said lead author Suresh Mohan Kumar, who researched during his time at JSS College of Pharmacy in Ooty before taking up his current role at Swansea University Medical School.

“Nature’s oldest pharmacy has always been a treasure of potential novel drugs and we questioned if any of these compounds could assist us in battling the Covid-19 pandemic?” said Mohan Kumar.

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“This is fascinating research and demonstrates that natural products remain an important source of lead compounds in the fight against infectious diseases,” said Andrew Morris, Professor, Swansea University.

natural compounds already know to be active against other coronaviruses using an artificial intelligence-aided computer programme,” he added.

Mohan Kumar emphasised that the research

“I am also really pleased to see this international research collaboration continuing now that Mohan Kumar has joined the Pharmacy team,” Morris added.

(AGENCIES)

OMEGA-3 DHA IS IMPORTANT FOR A HEALTHY PREGNANCY One of the most important aspects of pregnancy is maintaining a nutrient-dense diet. However, it has been observed that an everyday diet during pregnancy does not need to differ significantly from the pre-pregnancy diet, and the general rule of healthy eating remains -- to eat a balanced diet.

The recommended amount of DHA intake during pregnancy is about 200mg per day.

However, pregnant women in India are particularly found to be DHA deficient owing to a primarily vegetarian diet. Therefore, it is important that you know your DHA levels and change your diet or add supplements based on the results. An at-home blood test may help in assessing and monitoring your DHA levels without stepping out during this pandemic.

While all nutrients are equally important for expectant mothers, folic acid, iron, vitamin D, calcium, iodine, and omega-3 DHA are critical for the overall development of the baby as well as a healthy pregnancy, says Manu Sharma, Neonatologist/Paediatrician, Max Healthcare.

“However, omega-3 DHA is not always present in regular prenatal supplements and which is why many women have questions about the importance of DHA during pregnancy,” he adds.

Mothers-to-be should read on for more details by the expert: What Is DHA? DHA or docosahexaenoic acid is an essential omega-3 fatty acid that is not synthesised by our body and must be obtained through a diet rich in seafood like salmon, tuna, and anchovies, or through the intake of supplements. However, it is not typically derived from daily food intake in an adequate amount if you are following a vegetarian diet.

A human baby’s brain develops rapidly especially during the third trimester in the mother’s womb till the first two years of the baby’s life. DHA is considered the building

block of your baby’s brain as it amounts to 97 per cent of the omega-3 fatty acid found in the brain and 25 per cent of the brain’s total fat content. Because DHA is present in significant amounts in the brain and retina, it helps support the baby’s brain and eye development as well as the central nervous system.

In fact, DHA is not only necessary for babies, but also for mothers. Optimal DHA levels during pregnancy support a full-term pregnancy as well as a healthy birth weight.

DHA has also been shown to reduce the risk of preeclampsia and support a mother’s healthy mood after childbirth.

What Is the Ideal Amount of Daily DHA Intake?

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DHA in Breast Milk Breastmilk is a critical source of nutrition for newborns. DHA, which is naturally present in breast milk supports your baby’s cognitive function and has a positive impact on the baby’s vision. For breastfed babies, the recommended amount of DHA is 0.32 per cent to 0.35 per cent of the milk fat. However, because the amount of DHA in breast milk is determined by the mother’s DHA intake through food, the rates of absorption are bound to vary depending on the mother’s dietary patterns.

Therefore, testing breastmilk is a definitive way to check your DHA levels and provide the right nutrition to your baby for optimal growth.

How Does One Ensure Adequate DHA Consumption?

You can know your blood and breast milk DHA levels during pregnancy or lactation with the right and convenient at-home diagnostic tools. Based on the results, you can modify your diet and incorporate DHA-rich foods to ensure your baby’s optimal development and good health!

By Puja Gupta

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

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UNDERSTANDING SKIN AND HONESTY OF A CHARACTER IS IMPORTANT:

SUNNY TURNS UP THE HEAT

SHANAYA KAPOOR Actor Sanjay Kapoor’s daughter Shanaya Kapoor is ready enter Bollywood soon. The 21-year-old is naturally excited.

“I’m extremely excited and looking forward to shooting the film. I have been doing several readings with my director and been having lots of discussions on my character brief and breakdown of the scenes,” says the new kid on the B-Town block, in an interview.

Shanaya’s first film is directed by Shashank Khaitan and, like the debut projects of many industry kids lately, will be produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions. She is cast opposite actors Gurfateh Pirzada and Laksh Lalwani in the film, a rom-com love triangle.

The debutant actress has been preparing for the film before it goes on the floor after lockdown gets over.

“I think understanding the skin and honesty of a character is important,” she says. Before her debut film, Shanaya worked as an assistant director on the Jhanvi Kapoorstarrer “Gunjan Saxena” to understand filmmaking and how film sets function.

Her father Sanjay Kapoor has lately been a regular on the digital space, he was seen in seen in “Lust Stories”, “The Gone Game” and “The Last Hour”, and has “Finding Anamika” coming up.

Shanaya picks her favourite from her father’s recent works. “In my opinion, one of my favourites of my father is Lust Stories.

The character my father played had layers, and I think it was cracked extremely well!” she says.

Sanjay featured in Dibakar Banerjee’s segment of the anthology film alongside Manisha Koirala and Jaideep Ahlawat.

On the web series “Fabulous Lives Of Bollywood Wives”, during Shanaya’s debut, the audience got to see Sanjay Kapoor being possessive about Shanaya’s boyfriend at “Le Bal” in Paris while her mother Maheep was mellower.

Shanaya stifles a laugh recalling the episode. “Like all parents are, I guess! My dad never asks or wants to know, but he is very protective,” she says, adding: “My mom is like my best friend, so she asks me a list of a minimum of 100 questions before I leave and come back from the date. But I wouldn’t say they annoy me much.”

Her Bollywood debut will follow but Shanaya is already a social media sensation. She has a fan following of 741k on Instagram.

“Social media and interacting online has become really big,” observes Shanaya, who will be seen in an upcoming video on the Bumble dating app along with her mother Maheep Kapoor. In the fun video, Shanaya and

Maheep will bond over making the first move and spill some fun secrets and life truths.

Talking about dating apps, Shanaya sums up: “I don’t use a dating app but I think it’s pretty awesome.

I heard about dating apps when I was 17. It’s really cool as you can really get to know a person online before you go and meet them.”

By Ekatmata Sharma

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“Summer is here!” comments Sunny Leone, who raises temperatures with her latest social media post. The owner of StarStruck Cosmetics posted a sultry photograph in what can only be described as pencil high heels and a big hat which leaves much to the imagination for her debut picture for the Dabboo Ratnani 2021 Calendar.

Leone was recorded gushing on a video on Ratnani’s Instagram handle stating, “I’m so excited because we are about to shoot the Dabboo Ratnani 2021 Calendar shoot!

We are on this beautiful location... and we are doing an outdoor shoot with beautiful sunlight, it’s an absolutely amazing day to take an amazing shot. I don’t know what month I am going to be, but hopefully it will be a summery month.”

One can hardly tell that the actress wasn’t feeling too well on the day of the shoot as she comments, “Sunshine Is Great For the Soul, But Make Sure To Wear A Big Hat! ?? Scorching Hot & Stunning Shot of Sunny Leone @sunnyleone for #dabbooratnanicalendar #2021” Leone’s makeup was done by Tomas Moucka and celebrity Designer and stylist, Hitendra Kapopara, styled the look.

Celebrated celebrity photographer Dabboo Ratnani’s annual Calendar is much awaited amongst the who’s who in tinsel town. Other names who feature in this edition include actors Abhishek Bachchan and Vicky Kaushal along with Vidya Balan.

You’re lucky if you can get your hands on the coveted 2021 edition.

(IANS)

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

41

FREIDA PINTO FLAUNTS BABY BUMP TO ANNOUNCE PREGNANCY WITH FIANCÉ CORY TRAN

“Slumdog Millionaire” actress Freida Pinto is pregnant. The actress is expecting her first child with fiancé Cory Tan. “Baby Tran, coming this Fall!” she wrote along with a couple of pictures she posted on Instagram. In the one of the images, Freida flaunts her baby bump in a floral summer dress while adventure photographer Tran, in a white T-shirt and black bottom, poses alongside with his palm placed on her swollen belly. They smile at the camera.

In the second picture, they lovingly look into each other’s eyes.

Tran, too, posted the photos on his official Instagram handle.

The actress got engaged to her long-time boyfriend Tran in November 2019.

The post has been showered with love and congratulatory messages from Hollywood as well as Bollywood.

Nora Fatehi wrote: “OMG Congrats”.

Mrunal Thakur commented: “Oh my god.

Freidaaaaaaaaa and Cory congratulations! I’m literally screaming and dancing.”

Actor Hannah Simone wrote: “Oh my goooodness!!!!”

Actor Marcus Francis commented: “Ooh my !!!! Freida!! I’m so so happy for you and Cory!!!

Congratulation hon!”

Freida’s upcoming films include “Needle In A Timestack” and “Mr Malcolm’s List”.

(IANS)

SRK PROMISES FANS A LOT OF MOVIES, SAYS HE IS IN ‘REBUILDING’ PHASE Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan engaged in a fun Twitter conversation with fans. Using trademark humour, sarcasm and charming personality, the actor responded to curious questions and promised to gift them a lot of movies!

“berozgaar” or jobless. To this, the actor responded: “Jo kuch nahi karte...woh (people who don’t do anything...they)...”

When a fan asked how his health was, the actor replied: “Not as amazing as John Abraham but holding my own...ha ha.”

“Movie release might not be a good option right now, how about a Dance Number which might hold us for some time?” asked a fan.

“Which is the most inspiring thing that you learnt on the journey of 29 years?” enquired a fan.

SRK replied: “Nahi yaar ab toh bahut saari movies hi aayengi. (No my friend, a lot of movies are in the pipeline).”

Asked when would his next film release, the actor tweeted: “Right now with the situation I think it’s prudent to make film release schedules with a bit of patience.”

Shah Rukh also hinted that his production house Red Chillies Entertainment is backing “very masaaledaar movies”!

On being asked: “@iamsrk what’s cooking in @RedChilliesEnt kitchen these days?”, the actor-producer replied: “Some very masaaledaar movies”.

Quizzed if he is doing a film with filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani, SRK replied: “Just going to

“Not inspiring but the truth...everybody who doesn’t do the work you are best at, knows how to do it better!!!” replied the actor.

call him and request him, he sleeps late!!”

Asked if he plans to make any announcements in the near future, Shah Rukh sarcastically replied: “Loudspeakers make announcement...I will gently allow my films to enter your hearts... soon.”

“What phase of life do you think you are right now sir?” asked a fan, to which Shah Rukh replied: “Rebuilding”.

A user asked whether SRK is currently

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How does it feel to complete 30 years in Bollywood? SRK replied: “It’s the best 30 years of my life and still counting...”

Early on Friday, the actor had tweeted to express his love and gratitude to fans.

“Been working. Just saw the ‘overwhelmed ness’ of the love of nearly 30 yrs u r showering on me here. Realised it’s more than half my life in the service of hoping to entertain u all. Will take out time tomorrow & share some love back personally. Thx needed to feel loved...” he wrote.

(IANS)

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

42

THANKFUL TO PARENTS FOR MAKING ME THIS OPINIONATED PERSON: BHUMI PEDNEKAR Actress Bhumi Pednekar thanks her parents for making her an opinionated person.

Creative people shouldn’t have favourites: Manoj Bajpayee

“I thank my parents for imparting strong values in me and I’m deeply thankful to them for making me this opinionated person that I have become,” Bhumi, who is also an environmentalist, said. She added: “I will continue on my mission to constantly do my bit for the community and the fellow citizens of my country.”

The actress, with her initiatives Climate Warrior and Covid Warrior, tries to reach out to people in need and raise as much awareness on critical issues that our country faces today.

with Akshay Kumar in the upcoming film “Raksha Bandhan”. She will also be seen in “Badhaai Do”, a sequel to the Ayushmann Khurrana starrer “Badhaai Ho”.

On the work front, Bhumi will be seen

(IANS)

BIG B FINDS BIT OF RHYME IN DAY’S WORK SCHEDULE Amitabh Bachchan on Thursday informed with rhyme and relish that he left for work early in the morning at 7am, wrapped up shoot and returned home.

“T 3945 -- 7 baje nikle kaam pe; shooting hogayi poori toh vaapas apne dhaam pe (left for work at 7 in the morning; shoot over, back home),” he wrote in Hindi.

Big B posted two pictures on Twitter with the words. One features him going for the shoot while in the other, he is seen stepping back inside his home.

He did not share details about the project he ventured out for.

Big B earlier posted a picture on Instagram from the 1981 film “Naseeb” directed by Manmohan Desai. In the image, the actor is dressed like a matador.

“The matador and the gun ... film NASEEB ... climax on a rotating Restaurant ... a set built at Chandivali Studio ... and it rotated ... so action scenes, drama, Restaurant on fire, all ... done while it rotated ...

Only the great Manmohan Desai could conceive all this ... and succeed ... and we’re talking the 80’s ... no VFX no CG nothing ... those were the days my friend,”: he wrote as caption.

“Naseeb” also stars Shatrughan Sinha, Rishi Kapoor, Hema Malini, Reena Roy, Kim, Pran, Prem Chopra, Shakti Kapoor, Kader Khan, Amjad Khan and Amrish Puri, and is directed

by Manmohan Desai.

The actor currently has “Brahmastra”, “Chehre”, “Jhund”, “MayDay”, “Goodbye” and a remake of the Hollywood film “The Intern” coming up, besides an untitled film with Prabhas and Deepika Padukone.

(IANS)

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Actor Manoj Bajpayee, who has worked in films as well as OTT, says he would never pick a favourite medium when it comes to showcasing his work.

“Creative people should not have favourites because you are supposed to work on whatever medium that you are working for. You have to just look for good work that excites and challenges you,” the actor tells.

He cites examples of recent projects he has worked in that dropped digitally.

“So many films that have come on OTT have done well. ‘Bhonsle’ or ‘Silence’ were meant for theatre release.

OTT came as a blessing and we can put these films on OTT for people to see.

Theatres will open again. The more the avenues, better the chances for all of us. More talent will be consumed and benefit from it,” he added.

The critically-acclaimed and muchfeted actor says his criteria for picking scripts has always been the same.

“A good script, good character and good director, an honest intent and a character I feel I can play differently, somewhere I can challenge it and do it differently. These are things I still look for after 26 years of my career,” he sums up.

By Yashika Mathur

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

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AMYRA DASTUR URGES ALL TO DONATE TO COVID RELIEF Amyra Dastur is donating to Covid relief amid the ongoing second wave of the pandemic. The actress is deeply affected by how the pandemic has left people devastated and displaced families across the nation.

“Covid-19 has devastated so many in our country and displaced so many families. It’s because of this that we all really need the children of today to be able help create a better world for tomorrow,” Amyra said.

“I have personally seen the progress that has taken place and I feel proud of what these small NGOs have managed to achieve, especially during this pandemic,” she added.

The actress also feels we should educate our children about the reality of our country so that they learn to donate for those in need.

“Children shouldn’t be living in a bubble. Poverty is a huge humanitarian issue in India. Kids need to know this reality so that when they grow up, they can help and make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate than them,” she suggested, adding, “As a child my mother worked with The Red Cross as a volunteer on and off. I learnt so much and became so grateful for what I have,” she said.

Amyra prefers donating to smaller NGOs which are working to aid Covid affected families in India.

Explaining why she chooses to donate to smaller NGOs, the actress shared: “The bigger NGOs already have big names attached and great consistent donations. The smaller NGOs need support and awareness spread on their behalf to be able to grow. I also believe the smaller NGOs give more attention and focus to a smaller group of people, thereby enhancing a better way of life for these people that they solely concentrate on.”

Urging all to donate whatever they can, Amyra said: “You can even donate food instead of money in the form of ration kits containing basic commodities like rice, vegetables, cooking oil, etc. Money isn’t the only way to help. Something simple to you can be worth so much to families who don’t have it.”

On the work front, Amyra will feature alongside actor-choreographerfilmmaker Prabhu Deva in the upcoming Tamil film “Bagheera”.

(IANS)

PANDEMIC, LOCKDOWNS MADE US MORE OPINIONATED THAN BEFORE: AYUSHMANN Actor Ayushmann Khurrana feels the pandemic and lockdowns have made people more opinionated than before, adding that only superlative content would bring the audience back to theatres post pandemic.

that are worthwhile.”

Ayushmann is a firm believer that fresh, unique and disruptive cinema will manage to restart the theatrical business in India. “Cinema will provide them with that option but we will have to produce the best content that we have ever produced.

People will want to be entertained with films that celebrate new ideas. The scale of the film will be immaterial because content will take precedence in a whole new world,” is Ayushmann’s opinion.

Ayushmann, whose film “Article 15” completed two years of release, said: “Article 15 is a special film in my filmography and I can’t thank (director) Anubhav Sinha sir for giving me one of the most cherished films of my career.

“It was an eye-opening film for me and helped me see things from a different lens.

We will need films like Article 15 with its superlative content to pull people back to theatres.”

The actor added that people have already been exposed to brilliant content from across the world. “So, for them to step out to a theatre to watch a film they need a huge incentive and content will play this crucial role. People will want to watch brilliant films.”

Talking about going back to the theatres, Ayushmann said: “We will need to be disruptive and present fresh content for people to enjoy, engage and discuss.

“I’m a firm believer that the pandemic and lockdowns have made us more opinionated than before and people would

only want to invest time and energy on things that are unique and different. They would want to have community experiences

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Ayushmann will soon be seen in “Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui” directed by Abhishek Kapoor, “Anek” directed by Anubhav Sinha and “Doctor G” directed by Anubhuti Kashyap.

(IANS)

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FOOD

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

Did you know:

Avocados are a great source of potassium, which helps in controlling blood pressure levels

Disposable cutlery

playing key role amid pandemic

A

t the absolute starting point of this pandemic, we understood the significance of disposables and the huge need for dispensable cutlery and crockery.

The worldwide pandemic has created a shift in how and in what we eat. As eateries across the Capital offer takeout in such troublesome crossroads, the methods for expendable bundling which has ended up being outstanding amongst other benefits to people in general. However, even now, a portion of cafes serve clients in plastic utensils and takeout boxes, and compostable cups.

Undeniably this pandemic gave a colossal ascent to the utilisation of expendable items.

People in limited numbers are invited to homes during the lockdown and ordering in, ensured cafes use disposables for conveyance purposes.

Coronavirus stays on plastic surfaces longer than most different materials, thus natural flatware disposables give a better outcome in our everyday lives. The advantageous of disposables gives us the opportunity of eating any place, being more secure and eating cleaner.

Various factors have driven people to use

disposables, and this has had a significant influence. It has been widely observed that device reprocessing is frequently associated with residual contamination, which is indeed left by reprocessing agents that fail to reach difficult-to-reach parts of reusable equipment.

The rising demand for disposables like

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Areca/palm leaf plates, espresso cups and plates made of bamboo and wooden cutlery is best suited in such difficult situations.

The cheap availability of disposable cutlery makes it a great option for the general public, including those who are infected with the virus.

By Vaibhav Jaiswal & Amardeep Bardhan

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

45

s l l i k s f e h c r u o y e Hon s m r o f t la p 5 e s e h t o by logging int

I

n the last one year, especially during the pandemic, the demand to empower home chefs saw an upsurge with new and innovative players entering the space making an exceptional growth on virtual platforms. Some who were already prominent in this space saw extraordinary growth considering everybody wanted to hone their chef skills.

Check out these 5 platforms which can help refine your chef skills: Your Food Lab After being a Food Producer for MasterChef India, Mumbai-based Sanjyot Keer started Your Food Lab in 2016 which has garnered millions of views on the internet. For chefs, creating content in social media has become a win-win situation as the platforms can be seen flooded with varieties. Today, no doubt Your Food Lab is the most loved food video

channel with easy and interesting recipes.

Foodism Foodism, a 2019 foodtech company that has brought together verticals like a Wholesome Food magazine, a website and an Instagram handle covering from great food to nutrition and more! They have a recipe sharing platform for members to come together and share their love and knowledge of food. It is also a one stop shop for food lovers and professionals and the only platform to incentivise content creators (recipes, lifestyle, health, wellness, blogs -- both video and posts). Foodism is also coming up with a mobile and web application that allows users to interact and network for business Kabita's Kitchen Kabita Singh's YouTube channel called Kabita's Kitchen has 10.4 million

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subscribers. Kabita gave up her banking job to look after her son and since she had time she decided to pursue her passion for cooking. Kabita's aim is to keep the recipes simple so that everyone can cook.

She posted her first YouTube video on November 2, 2014, and her channel has grown rapidly over the years.

Roposo Roposo 'TV by the People' is an Indian social media platform that allows users to express, connect, and interact with the world. With its channel Hungry TV, people can curate cooking videos, upload them and learn a variety of dishes from the uploaded videos. It has tools which create realistic videos with music, voice-over applications and GIF stickers.

(IANSlife)

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DIET

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

Cholesterol: break up that fatty build up BY DEEVYA GUPTA

C

holesterol is a naturally occurring fatty substance produced within the body, needed for daily functioning.

Cholesterol helps the body with hormone production amongst other things so you can see why it is important. Most of the body’s cholesterol is made within the liver (about 75%) however dietary intake can also contribute towards the cholesterol going within the body. Some people produce a higher amount of cholesterol due to genetics.

There are a few different types of fats that make up cholesterol. Usually, these levels are monitored through a blood test with the GP. When the body has a higher amount of cholesterol, especially cholesterol types known as LDL and/or triglycerides this may cause a blockage to the normal blood flow within the arteries, increasing the risk of stroke and heart disease. Another type of cholesterol known as HDL is monitored as this can reduce some of the risks associated with cholesterol. HDL cholesterol can reduce the build up of cholesterol within the arteries and therefore reduce the risks of stroke and heart disease.

How can I reduce my ‘bad cholesterol’ (LDL and triglycerides) Aside from genetic factors playing a role, diet and lifestyle can assist in reducing the

higher risk cholesterol within the body.

To reduce this particular cholesterol, reduce your overall intake of: • Fried foods • Foods containing a higher amount of butter, cream or ghee • Cakes, biscuits, and baked goods (especially those made with butter, cream or ghee) • Vegetable (palm) oil • Processed sugar/carbohydrate foods and drinks • Fat found in animal products such as meats and dairy • Skin on chicken • Alcohol Foods also containing fibre have been found to reduce cholesterol. A good amount of fibre-rich foods such as these below can assist with removing some of the cholesterol deposits: • Wholegrain bread and cereals, rice and pasta • Vegetables and fruits • Legumes (such as peas, beans and lentils) Be sure to stay active and exercise regularly. In addition to this, if you are at higher risk your doctor may advise you to take some additional medications or fish oil supplements to reduce these types of cholesterol.

It is important to also consider if you are at higher risk of developing higher cholesterol due to diabetes, blood pressure and other medical conditions you may need more

regular monitoring.

How can I increase my ‘good cholesterol’ (HDL) Plant fats (known as plant sterols) can assist in increasing the good cholesterol. It is important to note that although these can assist in reducing cholesterol, we still want to keep a balance and not overeat. Foods that can assist include: • ¼ avocado daily • Up to 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil • 30g or 1 handful of unsalted nuts or seeds • Fatty fish such as salmon • Lean meats and poultry with fat-reduced or skin removed • Reduced-fat dairy products • Polyunsaturated or monounsaturated oils and table spreads.

Remember we want to try and keep a balance where there is not too much or too little of certain foods. Ideally, if you can aim for less processed foods coupled with lifestyle improvements such as regular exercise with regular monitoring, you may see some changes over time.

A Dietitian can assist in making a tailored plan to ensure you are getting enough nutrients through your diet.

Please note this advice is of a general nature. If you have any concerns or queries you should get tailored advice from an Accredited Practicing Dietitian and always consult with your General Practitioner before making any changes.

Deevya Gupta is an Accredited Practicing Dietitian in Melbourne | W: www.abcofnutrition.com.au

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RECIPE

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

Pomflet Hara Masala (Pomfret fish cooked with fresh green herb paste)

Pomfret fish is an important food sources for humans. It is widely available in the Asian countries, there’s no reason why we can’t enjoy it here in Melbourne! Pomfret is healthy and wonderfully tender when steamed, baked in the oven, fried or cooked in a curry.

Pomfret Fry is a mouth watering fish recipe.

BY MANJIT SETHI

recipe

from the private collection

INGREDIENTS

2 Pomfret (medium sized) Salt and pepper ½ tsp turmeric powder Juice of half a lemon 1 tbsp garlic paste 1 tbsp ginger paste 1 tbsp red chilli paste 2 tbsp fresh mint paste 2 tbsp fresh coriander paste 1 cup rice flour 2 tbsp olive oil Oil – to cook

METHOD 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Clean fish and make slits on either side.

Marinate the fish with salt, pepper, turmeric powder and lemon juice. Set aside for 15 mins.

In a bowl, mix all the remaining ingredients, except the rice flour, to make a thick paste.

Generously apply the paste on both sides of the fish and set aside for 30 minutes or more.

Coat the fish with a thin layer of rice flour on each side.(optional) In a pan, heat enough oil to pan fry or deep fry the fish, according to preference. Fry the fish until golden brown.

Serve hot with Tadka Dal and Basmati rice or Chappati.

SERVES: Serves four people.

GARNISH: With lemon wedges and onion rings.

TIP: Have your fish pre-cut down the centre for better taste.

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ASTROLOGY

G’DAY INDIA | JUL 2021

By D. Narayan (Tantracharya) Mesha (Aries)

Vrishabh (Taurus)

Mithuna (Gemini)

M: 0425 660 220

Karkat (Cancer)

You will remain very popular in society. This month your business profession will gain some momentum. You may get some big business contracts as a result of some important meetings. You will get best results in competitive exams. This month shall be especially auspicious for the students. availing higher education. During June, you may increase your income.

Good time for students, Partial amount of success can be expected in the case of competitive exams. Happy and joyous occasion may be hosted by your family members. However, some clashes may take place on account of some property. Things will return back to normal in the second half of the month once again.

The economic & financial aspect to remain shall be good during the month.

Due to this, you are likely to acquire some strong benefits. There will be good income from regular sources. Some new sources of income can also be created. There will be good profit in business. However, expenses may also increase slightly.

Your situation will improve professionally and your reputation will also increase.

Senior officials will remain pleased with you which can also help you back a promotion. you are likely to acquire some strong benefits. There will be good income from regular sources.

Some new sources of income can also be created. There may be an increase in salary, allowances etc.

Best days: 3, 12, 30 Lucky Colour: Red, Orange, Cream

Best days: 9, 18, 27 Lucky Colour: Green, Blue

Best days: 2, 7, 9 Lucky Colour: Red, White, Yellow

Best days: 9, 18 Lucky Colour: Red, Blue

Simha (Leo)

Kanya (Virgo)

Tula (Libra)

Vrishchik (Scorpio)

Overall speaking, your economic life will be quite favourable during this month. You may also stumble upon some new sources of earning money.

There are chances of you acquiring success from the government sector. If you happen to be a government official, then you will definitely be granted a bonus during this time. Apart from the regular one, some unexpected expenditure may also crop up.

This month has some mixed results in store for you. Your career will keep moving in the right direction. You will be able to climb the ladder of success on account of your diligence and hard work. A promotion is also on the cards.

Those who were into normal business ventures may face some ups and downs. The time is also quite right for pursuing your higher education.

This month is expected to remain favourable.

Month will bring success to you professionally.

You will pitch in your full-fledged efforts and get some benefits in return. You may fall prey to some controversies or arguments during this time. Try to check out the facts before making any remarks about anything. Try to keep your mind stable. Benefits will flow into your hands.

From an economic perspective, this month can be full of ups and downs.

While the first half may be financially worrying, the latter will be normal. Any loss may occur due to a close acquaintance.

So you should not ignore the signs and remain tactful. Month will increase your progress.

Laziness will go away. You will be active at your business. Efforts will be seen.

Best days: 3, 12 Lucky Colour: Orange, Green

Best days: 9, 18 Lucky Colour: Red, Blue

Best days: 1, 3, 4 Lucky Colour: Red, Orange

Dhanu (Sagittarius)

Makara (Capricorn)

Best days: 5,3 Lucky Colour: White & Orange

Kumbha (Aquarius)

Meen (Pisces)

This month You need to be careful and alert. There may be some hurdles in functioning properly, but your competitive ability will open the doors of success for you.

There can also be differences with friends, so be as sweet as you can. This month you may have to face uncomfortable situations due to your bitter speech.

This is a very auspicious time for your professional life. The first half of the month will be especially beneficial to employed people.

Respect can be increased at the workplace. There may be some kind of award or there may be a discussion on promotion or increment in the job. For those who are looking for a job, the first half of the month can be successful.

The month of July can be expected to be better than average. The beginning of the month will be a bit slow in terms of functioning. Business can keep your mind upbeat.

There will be laziness and confusion. Employed people need to be mindful of their work. The tendency to make excuses should be avoided. Conditions will begin to improve in the second half of the month.

The month will be good overall By the economic point of view. You will be inspired to become financially strong with the help of your muscle, hard work and close people. New sources of income may open. There will be a lot of income from old sources. There may also be sudden benefits.

Money on hold can return back into your hands. Your mind will be full of enthusiasm.

Best days: 9, 18 Lucky Colour: Red, Blue

Best days: 1, 3, 4 Lucky Colour: White, Green, Blue

Best days: 5, 3, 6 Lucky Colour: White, Green

Best days: 2, 7, 9 Lucky Colour: Red, Yellow, White

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Have a laug h

HAVE A LAUGH

Think about it...

2) Husband ... Where did 1) During a company's I go wrong??? annual family trip to a crocodile farm in Wife ... *You tried to Thailand... the eccentric correct me. * Boss dared any of his employees to jump into the 3) Lady patient to crocodiles infested pond... the Doctor inside his and swim to the shore. examination room "Doctor Anyone who survived the can you please call my swim will be rewarded with husband inside, I am not 5 million... but if killed by feeling comfortable. " the crocs...2 million will be given to the next of kin.

Doctor - "Trust me lady, I am a Doctor & I am a For a long period of time Gentleman. no one dared take up the Lady patient - "No challenge... then suddenly a man jumped in...and swam that's not the issue.

Your receptionist is alone frantically for his life towards shore pursued by outside and my husband is neither a doctor nor a the crocs...and luckily, he gentleman... made it unscathed. *He is an engineer.!!!!!!* When he managed to recover his breath... the 4) "If you want to be man, who became instant Happy with your millionaire, shouted asking husband, who pushed him into the Love him Less & pond.... it was his wife who Understand him more! did it.!!!

And from that day... that was how the phrase...

"Behind every successful man...there's a woman"... came about!!!

If you want to be Happy with your wife, Love her More & NEVER try to Understand her!"

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