India News – Feb 16-28, 2022, Vol 2 Issue 15

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Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

Brookwater is only 10 minutes from major shops, multiple schools, the Mater hospital and University.

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Quad meets with free and open Indo-Pacific India, Australia plan to finalise 'interim' Trade Agreement: Goyal agenda, condemns terror attacks in India The Print

inclusive and resilient, and in which states strive to protect the interests of their people, free from coercion.

New Delhi/Melbourne, February 11 (IANS): The Foreign Ministers of Australia, India, and Japan, and the US Secretary of State met in Melbourne on February 11 for the

fourth Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting, where they reaffirmed their commitment to supporting efforts to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific - a region which is

India does away with 'at risk' nations category, no home quarantine required, Australia included earlier.

The demarcation of 'at risk' and other countries has also been removed in the revised guidelines, which will come into effect from February 14.

New Delhi, February 10 (IANS): The Union Health Ministry on February 10 revised the guidelines for international arrivals, recommending that all travellers self-monitor their health for next 14 days, instead of 7 days home quarantine as was mandated

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"The demarcation of countries 'at-risk' & other countries removed. Accordingly, the need for giving samples on port of arrival & waiting till the result is obtained from countries 'at-risk' is dispensed with", said Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in a tweet.

In a series of tweets, he also said that the need for undertaking RTPCR test on 8th day and uploading the same on Air Suvidha portal is dispensed with.

Continued on Page 3

The Quad Foreign Ministers deliberated on regional challenges, including humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR), maritime security, counterterrorism, countering disinformation, and cyber security. It was also decided that Japan is going to host the next Quad Leaders' Summit in the first half of 2022.

Continued on Page 3

J&K govt inks agreement with NZ for 'transforming' sheep farming sector Jammu, February 10 (IANS): To improve sheep farming sector, Jammu and Kashmir government on Thursday signed memorandum of cooperation (MoC) with New Zealand.

According to an official statement, the virtual MoC signing ceremony was presided over by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha at Raj Bhawan.

Sinha, on the occasion, said that the overarching objective of the MoC is to improve farmers' remuneration, transfer of technology, marketing & value addition of sheep products of J&K. The MoC was signed by Navin Kumar Choudhary, Principal Continued on Page 3

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New Delhi, February 11 (IANS): India and Australia have reached an understanding on the 'interim' trade agreement and plan to finalise it in the next 30 days, India Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on February 11.

The India-Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) is expected to be concluded in 12 months thereafter, he announced

at a joint press conference with Australian Trade, Tourism and Investment Minister Dan Tehan.

The two nations are expected to sign the interim agreement in March. The proposed areas covered under the interim agreement include goods, services, rules of origin, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, customs procedure, and legal and institutional issues.

Australian Defense Force deployed to reduce pressure on aged care system Canberra, February 8 (IANS): The Australian government has deployed military personnel to aged care homes to ease a staff shortage crisis as a result of surging Covid-19 infections.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced up to 1,700 Australian Defense Force (ADF) personnel will be sent in to support the aged care workforce, reports Xinhua

news agency.

The ADF personnel will assist across facilities including logistics and general duties tasks, such as screening of entrants to facilities, providing companionship to residents, supporting meals and other non-direct care functions to take the pressure off qualified aged care workers and medical staff.

Continued on Page 3

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INDIA NEWS

Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

EDITORIAL BOARD Professor Prasad Yarlagadda, Queensland University of Technology Dr Uttam Kumar Sinha, Senior Fellow, Nehru Memorial Museum & Library, India Mr Shaun Star, Director, Centre for Australia India Studies, Jindal Global University, India

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News from Australia Tamanna Monem wins Female Defence Leader Award

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Community News Lata Mangeshkar - An everlasting national treasure for India

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After 70 yrs, J&K products get global recognition; GI tags part of new export policy

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Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

Quad meets with free and open Indo-Pacific agenda, condemns terror attacks in India

Continued from Page 1

The Quad recognises that international law, peace, and security in the maritime domain underpins the development and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific and reiterates the importance of adherence to international law, particularly as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to meet challenges to the maritime rules-based order, including in the South and East China Seas with deepened engagement with regional partners, including through capacity-building and technical assistance, to strengthen maritime domain awareness, protect their ability to develop offshore resources, consistent with UNCLOS, ensure freedom of navigation and overflight, combat challenges, such as illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and promote the safety and security of sea lanes of communication, read the joint statement issued after the meeting.

The Quad is exchanging information on ever-evolving threats and working with Indo-Pacific countries, and in

multilateral fora, to counter all forms of terrorism and violent extremism and denounces the use of terrorist proxies for cross-border terrorism and urges countries to work together to eliminate terrorist safe havens, disrupt terrorist networks and the infrastructure and financial channels which sustain them, and halt cross-border movement of terrorists, it said.

Australian Defense Force deployed to reduce pressure on aged care system Continued from Page 1

Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. Quad acknowledges the importance of sub-regional mechanisms and institutions, including in the Mekong sub-region. and will continue to support Cambodia in its important role as 2022 ASEAN Chair, it added.

In this context, Quad reiterates its condemnation of terrorist attacks in India, including the 26/11 Mumbai and Pathankot attacks and reaffirms UNSC Resolution 2593 (2021) that Afghan territory should not be used to threaten or attack any country, shelter or train terrorists, or plan or finance terrorist acts, with such ungoverned spaces being a direct threat to the safety and security of the Indo-Pacific, said the joint statement.

In the meeting, it was noted that the Quad partners have collectively provided more than 500 million vaccine doses, and have pledged to donate more than 1.3 billion vaccine doses globally.

It also noted the Quad Vaccine Partnership's rapid progress in expanding vaccine production at the Biological E Ltd facility in India, which aims to deliver at least 1 billion vaccines by the end of 2022. Quad is also assisting to train healthcare workers, combat vaccine hesitancy, and augment infrastructure, especially cold chain systems, for 'last mile' vaccine delivery.

As unwavering supporters of ASEAN unity and centrality, and the ASEAN-led architecture, Quad continues to support ASEAN partners to advance the practical implementation of ASEAN's

"We welcome the timely initiative for coordinating the response to combat the Covid pandemic under a Global Action Plan for Enhanced Engagement," the statement said.

The aged care industry has come under pressure in 2022 due to widespread outbreaks of the Omicron variant of Covid-19 in facilities.

There have been reports of residents being isolated for months and going without proper care due to staff shortfalls.

Till date there are 11,980 COVID-19 positive residents (5,439) and staff (6,541) in 1,176 active outbreaks in residential

J&K govt inks agreement with NZ for 'transforming' sheep farming sector Continued from Page 1

interests and economic potential," Lt Governor asserted.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern believe in a shared commitment to promote ideals of democracy, peace and prosperity for the people. Despite turbulent events of global pandemic since the last two years, there has been almost seamless continuity in the India-New Zealand relationship," he said.

"This year marks the 70th anniversary of the commencement of bilateral relations between our two countries. It gives us an opportunity to strengthen our partnership and our resolve to construct a strong edifice of a long term, mutually reinforcing economic relationship," the Lt Governor added.

Secretary to J&K Government, Animal & Sheep Husbandry Department and Mischa MannixOpie, Executive Director, New Zealand G2G as a mutual commitment between J&K and New Zealand for complementing each other's capability in sheep sector.

The Lt Governor observed that the new partnership between

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J&K and New Zealand will boost production and productivity in the livestock sector of the UT. "New Zealand is an important partner of India's expanding relationship globally and we attach special values to our ties not only because of deep bonding and cultural affinities, but also from a mature understanding of our strategic convergences, global

COVER STORIES

"Now, expanding our relationship further, New Zealand G2G, the well known public sector entity actively partnering with other Indian states to leverage expertise and solutions for sustainable development has entered into a cooperation agreement with J&K to encourage collaboration in the field of sheep husbandry, capacity building, technology transfer and training."

The new partnership is aimed at doubling produce in the next three years with substantial increment in quality of livestock products, wool production and introducing processing facilities and value addition to boost income and benefits to Jammu & Kashmir, Sinha said.

"We are creating an enabling environment for the integrated

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growth of livestock sector which is providing livelihood support to around 1.2 million families and contributing 5% to the Union Territory's GDP." The Lt Governor reaffirmed that the leadership of the two countries believes in the huge potential for our economic and commercial cooperation.

David Pine, New Zealand's High Commissioner expressed hope that the cooperation of agreement shall further strengthen the relationship between J&K and New Zealand and help in achieving the desired results on ground.

Atul Chaturvedi, Secretary, Animal Husbandry, GoI, congratulated the J&K Government for the unique initiative to make new strides in making J&K self-reliant in the livestock sector, besides enhancing the income of the farmers and improving the economy of J&K. Similarly, Arun Kumar Mehta, Chief Secretary, J&K said that the MoC is a timely step to add further momentum to "our excellent bilateral ties and to facilitate greater institutional linkages between J&K and New Zealand". This will improve our practices in the sheep farming sector and increase the income of everyone associated with it, Mehta added.

Mischa Mannix-Opie, Executive Director, New Zealand G2G said that the latest scientific interventions shall be extended to J&K which shall entail marketing of livestock products like wool for adding value to farmers' produce.

aged care facilities across Australia, according to the Department of Health.

On February 8 morning, Australia reported more than 20,000 new confirmed cases of Covid-19 and 50 deaths -- 20 in Victoria, 18 in New South Wales and 12 in Queensland.

There were 3,916 cases being treated in hospitals on February 7, including 274 in intensive care.

India does away with 'at risk' nations category, no home quarantine required, Australia included Continued from Page 1

Two per cent of international travellers from all countries will undergo random sampling on arrival. The travellers can leave the airport after submitting the sample.

According to the new guidelines, if travellers, under self-health monitoring, develop signs and symptoms suggestive of Covid-19, they will immediately self-isolate and report to their nearest health facility or call national helpline number (1075)/state helpline number.

The passengers, found to be symptomatic during screening post arrival, shall be immediately isolated and taken to medical facility, as per health protocol.

If testing positive, their contacts shall be identified and managed as per laid down protocol, according to the revised guidelines. Australia is included in the exemption list which means all travellers from Australia self-monitor their health for next 14 days, instead of 7 days home quarantine as was the rule earlier.

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Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

ADVERTORIAL

Jayalakshmi’s passion for education shines through

G

reater Springfield teacher Jayalakshmi Vasudevan says her passion to teach students is matched by their energy and liveliness.

since 2015.

The Spring Mountain teacher migrated to Australia in 2009 for a better quality of life, after living in India for several years.

“I did relief teaching at Springfield Lakes State School on several occasions during 2020 and 2021, and a few weeks at Springfield Central State School.

As primary school teacher, Ms Vasudevan is looking forward to teaching Year 1 students this year.

She said education was very important in a child’s life and has been teaching in Queensland

“I tutor students who need academic support, including those with special needs,” Ms Vasudevan said.

“The children learn important life skills such as critical thinking skills, and develop social and emotional cues.”

Mrs Vasudevan’s son Abhinand Vasudevan is a soon-to-be third year pre-medical student studying at the University of Queensland.

shopping centres and public transport,” she said.

She said having lived in the Greater Springfield region for many years there were plenty of opportunities for people of all ages and encouraged more people to move to the ever-growing city.

Aside from her job as a teacher, Ms Vasudevan is the vice president of the Organisation of Hindu Malayalees (OHM).

“There is a unique combination of conveniences and facilities available within our vicinity like sports complexes, schools,

“It is also one of the fastest growing suburbs, so I feel excited to be a part of that.”

The group creates a platform for Hindu Malayalee’s in Queensland to participate and perform in all Hindu-related activities.

The group meets every third

Saturday of the month and conducts activities at Moorooka Community Hall.

The activities include singing devotional songs, spiritual talk by professionals and celebrations of respective Hindu festivals.

The not-for-profit organisation promotes Hindu culture and fosters spiritual education among Malayalee communities in Brisbane. There are 55 families actively participating in OHM’s regular programs and membership costs $25 each year.

Dress circle in Brookwater… surrounded by 345 acres of open space, manicured parks and a championship golf course.

Brookwater….

A unique and elegant lifestyle.

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Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

ADVERTORIAL

Mining business shines in renewables From engineering equipment to give solar panels a sparkling clean to designing class leading mining truck trays, regional Queensland has the mechanical know-how.

A

dani Renewables Australia is working with Rockhamptonbased SMW Group to produce custom-designed equipment to clean the 247,000 solar panels at Rugby Run Solar Farm, near Moranbah.

Adani Renewables Australia’s Business Manager Derek Chapman said the new machine will help to maximise the panel’s energy production and improve operational efficiency.

“There’s a large mining services knowledge base in our region, so it is great to see companies like SMW Group who have always been focused on traditional mining use their capability for renewable projects as well,” Mr Chapman said.

“Adani Renewables Australia has a proud history of working with regional Queensland businesses and it has always been our intention to continue to work with local suppliers wherever possible.

“The cleaning equipment that SMW Group has developed is specifically designed for Rugby Run with the cleaning arm and rotating brushes tailored for our panels.

mining sector for a long time, so it made a lot of sense for our business to adapt some of the equipment that we use on a mine site for use in solar panel cleaning.

“We have been really impressed

by SMW Group’s willingness to work with us to get the product right for our operations and look forward to seeing the results of this relationship over time.”

“Securing a contract to supply solar panel cleaning equipment for Adani Renewables Australia’s Rugby Run Solar Farm is a great outcome for SMW Group and is a vote of confidence for central Queensland’ resources industry.”

SMW Group Operations Manager Cameron Tragardh said that SMW Group was proud to continue its partnership with Adani’s businesses in Australia after previously working with Adani Australia’s mining business, Bravus Mining and Resources to make custom haul truck trays.

“We are really proud to align ourselves with any business that values giving back to local communities,” Mr Tragardh said.

“At SMW Group we have been providing equipment for the

Adani Renewables Australia is part of the Adani Group, which in 2020 was recognised as the world’s largest multinational solar company with 25GW of operating, installed and committed capacity.

We remain on track to be the world’s largest renewables company by 2030 with a portfolio including solar and wind generation and a solar panel manufacturing business in India.

Sheep lend a hoof at Rugby Run A

nd in other news, in what is central Queensland’s first ‘Agri-solar’ arrangement Adani Renewables Australia is working with local farmers on a sheep grazing trial on Rugby Run solar farm's 600-hectares.

Trying to keep the grass in check around the 247,000 solar panels was expensive and quite difficult using mowing and slashing equipment, so in August last year, Adani Renewables put out a call to local farmers for sheep, and shortly after started a trial with 70 sheep with self-shedding coats.

there’s good food, good water, good shelter and plenty of space at Rugby Run – it’s sheep heaven.

During the day the sheep are able to use the panels as shade while they graze and several have now successfully lambed, which shows us that they are happy and healthy.

The joint exercise between Adani Renewables Australia and local farmers has shown that combined land use can have positive outcomes for both the agricultural sector and solar operators.

It has been a real winner as

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INDIA NEWS

Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

SC enquires whether cases on quota in private sector can be heard together IANS

New Delhi, February 11 (IANS): The Supreme Court on February 11 asked whether parties connected with cases involving quota in private sector - based on domicile - can be heard together.

A bench of Justices L. Nageswara Rao and B.R, Gavai said: "If the matters are pending before other high courts, we can hear the larger issue after calling for the papers from high courts."

The top court was hearing an appeal by the Haryana government challenging the Punjab and Haryana High Court interim stay on its law to give 75 per cent reservation to the youths belonging to the state in the private sector.

The bench said Jharkhand and Andhra Pradesh government policies granting reservation on the basis of domicile have been challenged in the high courts. It further queried the parties in the

Haryana matter, whether matters of other states could be brought to the top court for adjudication along with Haryana government's policy.

The top court asked parties, including the Haryana government, to find out the pending cases in high courts and inform it on Monday whether they are agreeable on hearing matters together.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Haryana government, submitted at the beginning of the hearing that only a handful of people are opposed to the state's policy.

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi said he would consult with his clients. Senior advocate Dushyant Dave, representing one of the parties, emphasised that the matter requires examination by the top court.

In a special leave petition, the Haryana government contended that the interim order was passed in the teeth of law laid down by the top court in Bhavesh D. Parish vs Union of India (2000), and also in violation of the principles of natural justice. "It is submitted that the hearing granted by the

High Court was mere empty formality, whereby, the High Court with a predetermined conclusion opened the hearing by saying that they Act is liable to be stayed and thereafter did not afford any opportunity to the law officer appearing on behalf of the state of Haryana," said the plea.

"Violation of principles of natural justice is manifest from the fact that the entire hearing in the matter concluded within one minute," it added.

On February 3, in a setback to the BJP-JJP government in Haryana, the Punjab and Haryana High Court stayed the state government law to give 75 per cent reservation to the youths belonging to the state in the private sector. The law under the Haryana State Employment of Local Candidates Act, 2020 is applicable in industries having more than 10 employees.

In a petition, the Faridabad Industrial Association said the impugned Act was against the provisions of Constitution and also against the basic principle of meritocracy that acted as the foundation for businesses to grow and remain competitive.

Islamic centre to organise inter-faith meet on hijab row Lucknow, February 11 (IANS): The clerics at the Islamic Centre of India (ICI) will hold an interfaith conference with various religious heads to find a solution against hate being spread in the country, in the backdrop of the Hijab row in Karnataka.

In a meeting at ICI, the clerics elaborated on the importance of hijab for women, as laid down in the Quran and Prophet Mohammad's Hadiths.

ICI head, Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahali, said,

"Hijab is the religious duty of a Muslim woman, and the Indian Constitution in Article 25 allows every citizen to practice their religion as per choice. Stopping students from attending educational institutions in their hijab is a direct attack on their religious freedom."

He said, "We have decided to soon hold an interfaith conference against such propagated hate with heads of different religions to come up with a common solution towards peace, prosperity and the

future of our nation."

He further added: "The Constitution also guarantees every citizen the right to education. From this point of view too, the Karnataka government is eroding the constitutional rights."

Expressing concern over the issue, the cleric said that if students are incited against the religion of their fellow classmates, the future of the country would be worrying.

NEWS FROM INDIA

'No Lata memorial' at Shivaji Park: Congress backs Mangeshkar family Mumbai, February 12 (IANS): A day after music director Hridaynath Mangeshkar said that he was against constructing a memorial for his sister, the late Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar at Shivaji Park, the Maharashtra Congress came out in support of the family, here on February 12.

Simultaneously, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) activist has moved the Bombay High Court in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the use of the 28-acre ground - known as the 'Cradle of Indian Cricket' for public funerals or memorials.

State Congress General Secretary Sachin Sawant said that the sprawling park was established during the British Rule by the erstwhile Bombay Municipal Corporation in 1925 and named as 'Shivaji Park' ahead of the great Maratha warrior's 300th birth anniversary.

"Taking into consideration the sentiments of the Marathi people, the then British Government had allowed the name and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's equestrian statue was also installed there," Sawant said.

He pointed out that since the park is already a monument dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, then how can another memorial in the name of Lata Didi be erected there.

"On one hand, the BJP is playing dirty politics in the name of a memorial for Lata Mangeshkar on the other, their own party activist is filing a PIL in the court demanding there should not be a memorial there. The BJP had

IANS

resorted to similar dual-politics during the issue of reservations for Marathas and OBCs," Sawant said.

On February 11, Hridaynath Mangeshkar made it clear the family was not supportive of the memorial at Shivaji Park, while Dadar resident Prakash Belwade-Patil moved the court saying the ground is for sports, a memorial for the late Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray was built there and now there is a demand for one dedicated to Lata Mangeshkar.

Considering their stature, both Balasaheb Thackeray and Lata Mangeshkar were accorded rare public funerals at Shivaji Park on November 18, 2012, and February 6, 2022, respectively, to accommodate the massive crowds of mourners and VVIPs attending.

Earlier, BJP MLA Ram Kadam and others like Congress President Nana Patole had demanded a memorial for Lata Mangeshkar at the site, but the ruling ally Shiv Sena urged that the issue should not be politicised but assured a grand memorial for the late melody queen.

ED attaches Rs 1.77cr of Rana Ayyub in money laundering case

IANS

The date for the conference would be announced later, he added.

Aggressive masculinity dominates Indian journalistic performance: Study of aggressive masculinity in journalistic performance and social media discourse.

Hyderabad, February 11 (IANS): Aggressive masculinity dominates the Indian news shows and talk shows, according to researchers at the Hyderabad University. The study monitored prime time news and talk shows across 31 television channels in 12 Indian languages including English.

A team from the university's Department of Communication, comprising Prof. Usha Raman and two of her research scholars, Amritha Mohan and Anuja Premika, collaborated with the Network of Women in Media, India (NWMI) to conduct a study exploring the presence

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According to the study, aggression was observed in more than 50 per cent of all news shows sampled, with the percentage rising to 85 per cent for talk shows.

At 76.8 percent, tone of voice was the most common expression of aggression observed in the study.

Elements that increased stridency such as sound and visual effects occurred as frequently as 60 per cent.

Panels moderated by male anchors revealed relatively more aggressive masculinist behavior (54.55 per cent) on several metrics than those moderated by female anchors (12.07 percent).

Using a scale developed by the Hyderabad University team to identify and catalogue aggressive,

dominant and sexist verbal and non-verbal behaviours associated with hegemonic masculinities, a team of coders from the NWMI membership analysed the television content.

The study also conducted a limited analysis of trending social media posts, as were a set of case studies of specific news stories and channels.

It was prompted by the increasing polarisation in news performance, characterised by high-decibel confrontational behavior on many shows, which often carries over into social media as well.

The researchers also looked for instances of gender positive behaviours and offered guidelines on how channels can move towards a more dialogic, civil mode of television news presentation.

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New Delhi, February 10 (IANS): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on February 10 said it has attached Rs 1.77 crore of journalist Rana Ayyub in connection with a money laundering case lodged against her for allegedly misusing funds collected in the name of help and charity through a website -- ketto.com.

An ED official said Ayyub had allegedly misused the funds, and diverted them into another account for personal expenses.

ED sources said she cheated donors in a pre-planned manner.

She had opened a Fixed Deposit (FD) of Rs 50 Lakh, the money was collected through campaign, and diverted into FD from the savings account through net banking.

Earlier, on August 28, 2021, one Vikas Sankrityayan, had lodged

a complaint with the Ghaziabad Police against Ayyub, alleging that "she cheated the general public in the name of charity".

Acting on his complaint, on September 7, 2021, an FIR was lodged against Ayyub at Indirapuram Police Station. She was booked under sections 403, 406, 418, 420 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), read with section 66D of Information Technology Act. The funds were collected in the savings accounts of Rana Aayyub, her sister and her father.

Later, on the basis of this FIR, the ED initiated a money laundering probe.

Now, the ED has attached Rs 1.77 crore of Rana Ayyub, alleging that this money was part of proceeds of crime.

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Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

'Don't spread these things to a larger level', SC on pleas challenging HC order on Hijab IANS

religious or political.

Chief Justice orally observed, "Don't spread these things to a larger level; we don't want to express anything on it."

Justice Ramana told Kamat, "We are watching it and we know what is happening. Think, is it proper to bring it to the national level.."

New Delhi, February 11 (IANS): Chief Justice N.V. Ramana on February 11 orally told the counsel of a petitioner, challenging the Karnataka High Court interim order in the Hijab matter, to think whether it is proper to bring the issue at the national level.

Senior advocate Devadutt Kamat mentioned the plea challenging the Karnataka High Court before a bench headed by Chief Justice N.V. Ramana. Kamat submitted that the high court has restrained the students from disclosing their religious identities, which results in suspension of Article 25 and this will lead into larger consequences.

The Chief Justice said: "Court is already hearing the matter".

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted that the high court order has not come out so far and it should be allowed to decide the issue. Mehta emphasized that the matter should not be made either

Kamat mentioned the plea by a petitioner challenging the Karnataka High Court's interim order to students not to insist on wearing religious attire till the court has decided the matter.

The Chief Justice emphasized that if there is constitutional rights' violation of any one it would intervene at the appropriate time and its responsibility to protect constitutional rights of everyone.

The top court declined to go into the merits of the matter. "We will take it up at an appropriate time," said the bench.

Another plea that has been filed through advocates Rahamatullah Kothwal and Adeel Ahmed said: "The right to wear hijab falls under right to expression under Article 19(1)(a), right to privacy and freedom of conscience under Article 25. The same cannot be infringed upon without a valid law." The college administration has resisted a group of students' insistence to wear Hijab. The matter has triggered reaction, where others have worn saffron shawls.

Adeel submitted before the bench that students' practical exams are scheduled on February 15.

The plea filed by Mohamed Arif Jameel and D.J. Halli Federation of Masajids Madaaris and Wakf Institutions contended that the high court through its order has sought to curtail the fundamental right of Muslim student-women by not allowing them to wear the hijab and pursue their education.

"It is, therefore, necessary that an appropriate order be made staying the operation of the impugned order till the disposal of this petition otherwise the purpose of filing of special leave petition may be defeated and the same may be rendered infructuous", said the plea.

The plea said the students concerned have to appear in practical examinations scheduled on February 15 and any interference on their access to institutions would impede on their right to education.

A three-judge bench of Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, Justice Krishna S.Dixit and Justice J.M. Khazi had passed the oral observations and scheduled the hearing on petitions challenging Hijab ban on February 7. The high court said: "We will pass an order.

Let the schools-colleges start.

But till the matter is resolved, no student should insist on wearing religious dress".

Hijab crisis: Mobile are not banned at educational institutions, says Karnataka Minister IANS

Meanwhile, Karnataka Police have conducted flag marches in various districts, including Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, Vijayapura, Dharwad, and Hubballi as a precautionary measure amid tension against the backdrop of hijab row.

Two teams of armed policemen have taken out flag marches in sensitive areas of Hubballi to send out a strong signal to the anti-social elements and instill confidence among parents as high schools reopened on February 14.

Bengaluru, February 14 (IANS): Karnataka's Higher Education Minister C.N. Ashwath Narayan on February 11 said that it would not be possible to ban the usage of phones in colleges as digital learning has become part and parcel of the study process.

Replying to a query by reporters about speculation that usage of mobiles will be banned in schools and colleges against the backdrop of hijab row, he said: "Nowadays

modern gadgets such as mobile, computer, laptop, tab, etc have become an integral part of the teaching-learning process. When such is the situation, how can the usage of mobiles be banned?"

The police also took out a march in communally-sensitive Vijayapura. The flag march was undertaken in arterial roads and sensitive pockets of the historical city.

"Neither students nor parents should believe such rumours. The government's aim is to provide quality education to students at all levels using modern gadgets.

Accordingly, usage of mobiles in institutions will be continued."

Police march was also taken out in Udupi, from where the hijab row started.

The Karnataka High Court has given an interim order banning the hijab and saffron shawls until its final orders.

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NEWS FROM INDIA

UP witnesses 59.87% total polling in phase I

IANS

statement said.

The 11 districts that went to polls saw a mixed turnout with Agra witnessing 60.23 per cent voting, Aligarh 60.49 percent, Bagpat 61.25 percent, Bulandshahr 60.57 percent, Gautam Budh Nagar 54.38 percent, Ghaziabad 52.43 percent, Hapur 60.53 percent, Mathura 62.90 percent, Meerut 60 percent, Muzaffarnagar 65.32 percent and Shamli 66.14 saw percent, the EC statistics showed.

New Delhi, February 10 (IANS): Phase I of the polling for the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections on February 10 saw 59.87 percent voting, according to the Election Commission of India.

"Phase I has seen 59.87 per cent polling till voting ended," the ECI

Of the total 403 seats in UP assembly, voting for 58 seats of the phase I of the seven phase elections was held on February 10.

There are a total of 634 candidates in fray, 73 of them are women. As many as 2.28 crore voters (1.04 of them female) exercised their franchise at 26,027 polling booths across 10,853 polling stations in 11 districts.

Twitter receives request to close newly formed Tehreek-e-Taliban India

New Delhi, February 12 (IANS): Twitter has received request by Indian law enforcement agencies to shut down the newly formed Tehreek-e-Taliban India (TTI).

"The Tehreek-e-Taliban India (TTI) announced its official activities today, Thursday, following a meeting of its leaders in India", It said in a tweet.

"The Indian government has no choice. Without war or peace with Tehreek-e-Taliban India", it said in another tweet.

Muslim scholars. And created for peace in India and Kashmir. And so far thousands of Indian and Kashmiri Muslims have joined it", it clarified on the Taliban name and also because it sounds a lookalike of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) which is at war against the Pakistan government.

TTI also put out a notification saying that Twitter has received a request from Indian law enforcement that the content violates the laws of India.

"Tehreek-e-Taliban India. Taliban is a common name. And it has nothing to do with the Taliban in Afghanistan or Pakistan. The Indian Taliban is made up of

The announcement to establish the TTI was carried out via a Tweet from an undisclosed location after a meeting.

New Delhi, February 11 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 11 paid tributes to Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay on his death anniversary.

Also in a tweet, Home Minister Amit Shah said: "Deendayal ji's philosophy of Antyodaya and Integral Humanism contains solutions to the problems of India and the whole world. By giving house, electricity, gas, toilet and pure drinking water to every poor and downtrodden, Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji is doing a great job of bringing Deendayal ji's ideas to the ground."

Prime Minister Modi pays tributes to Deendayal Upadhyay on his death anniversary

Taking to Twitter, the Prime Minister: "The entire life of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay ji was based on the principle of 'Sarvajan Hitay - Sarvajan Sukhay'. His philosophy of 'Integral Humanism' is capable of providing solutions to many problems of not only India but the world. Respectful tributes on his death anniversary."

Also paying homage, Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu said: "Remembering the great son of this soil, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Ji on his Punya Tithi today. He was a devout nationalist, insightful thinker and an epitome of selfless service.

"His philosophies of 'Integral Humanism' and 'Antyodaya' have inspired many to serve the nation and the downtrodden and will continue to remain a guiding force for all."

Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted: "Heartfelt tributes to Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay ji on his death anniversary. He has given such a philosophical concept of 'Integral Humanism' to the politics of India, which is completely in line with the culture, tradition and nature of this country. His thoughts will continue to inspire the coming generations of India."

BJP chief J.P. Nadda said that "his entire life dedicated to the service of the nation is an inspiration for all of us".

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INDIA NEWS

NEWS FROM AUSTRALIA

Australian men twice as likely to be PM announces plan highly paid than women: Report to enhance research The Straight Times

gaps in favour of men while 7 percent favour women and 20 percent have achieved parity.

"From the very top-down, women are undervalued in Australian businesses and underrepresented where decisions are made," Mary Wooldridge, director of the WGEA, said in a media release.

"Our latest insights show this pattern clearly: 22 percent of all boards still don't have a single woman in the room; and about three quarters of all boards have a vast majority (over 60 per cent) of men.

Canberra, February 11 (IANS): Australian men are twice as likely to be highly paid than women, a government report revealed on February 11.

The Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) published its latest data on the gender pay gap, reports Xinhua news agency.

Based on the earnings of more than 4 million employees between April 2020 and March 2021, it revealed that men, on average, earn A$25,792 ($18,371) more per

year than women.

It equates to a gender pay gap of 22.8 percent, a slight fall from 23.3 percent the previous year, meaning that for every A$10 a man earned, a woman made A$7.72.

One third of male employees make more than A$120,000 per year, as likely as females, while women are 50 percent more likely to earn less than A$60,000.

Seventy-three per cent of Australian employers have pay

"Of those heavily male-dominated boards, only 12 percent have set a target to increase the representation of women, and on average that target is only 35 percent -- not even what is generally considered a balanced board," she added.

The construction industry had the biggest gender pay gap, with men earning 30 percent more on average than women followed by financial and insurance services (29.5 percent) and professional, scientific and technical services industries (24.7 percent).

Government lists koalas as endangered species Canberra, February 11 (IANS): The Australian government has officially listed the iconic koala as an endangered species, Sussan Ley, the Minister for the environment, on February 11 announced.

The Minister added that the government has accepted the Threatened Species Committee's recommendation that the status of koala populations in the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales and Queensland be rated as endangered, reports Xinhua news agency.

It comes 10 years after koalas were first listed as vulnerable as a result of land clearing and bushfires significantly reducing the marsupials' habitat.

"Today I am increasing the protection for koalas in NSW, the ACT and Queensland, listing them as endangered rather than their previous designation

of vulnerable," Ley said in a statement.

"The impact of prolonged drought, followed by the black summer bushfires, and the cumulative impacts of disease, urbanization and habitat loss over the past twenty years have led to the advice.

"The new listing highlights the challenges the species is facing and ensures that all assessments under the act will be considered not only in terms of their local impacts, but with regard to the wider koala population," she added.

The announcement was made weeks after the government committed A$50 million ($35 million) in funding to help the species.

Environment groups have campaigned for koalas to be listed as endangered since the 2019/20

Black Summer bushfires when 60,000 of the iconic creatures were killed or affected.

The Humane Society International (HSI), International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), and WWF-Australia nominated the species for an endangered listing.

"The koala has gone from no listing to now being declared endangered on the Australian east coast within a decade," Dermot O'Gorman, WWF-Australia's chief executive, told the local media.

"That is a shockingly fast decline for one of the world's most iconic animals," he said.

"There is still time to save this globally iconic species if the uplisting serves as a turning point in koala conservation. We need stronger laws and landholder incentives to protect their forest homes."

Deputy PM apologises for calling Morrison 'hypocrite and liar' Canberra, February 5 (IANS): Australian Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce on February 5 apologised to Prime Minister Scott Morrison for calling him "a hypocrite and a liar" and said the latter did not accept his offer to resign.

In text messages made public on February 4 by Nine Newspapers, Joyce said Morrison "is a hypocrite and a liar from my

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observations and that is over a long time" to former government staffer Brittany Higgins, before Joyce assumed the office of Deputy Prime Minister in June 2021, reports Xinhua news agency.

Minister immediately," Joyce told reporters on February 5.

The messages were sent through a third party after Higgins alleged that she was raped by a colleague in Parliament House in 2019.

Morrison announced changes to his cabinet in March 2021 in response to the scandal over the treatment of women in Parliament.

"When it came to light a couple of days ago, I rang the Prime

"I apologised. He accepted my apology. I offered my resignation and he did not accept my resignation," Joyce said.

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Canberra, February 1 (IANS): Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on February 1 unveiled the A$2.2 billion ($1.5 billion) research commercialisation plan.

boosted by A$150 million.

The package includes A$1.6 billion for Australia's Economic Accelerator, which will fund high-potential research projects in the fields of defence, space, resources technology, food and beverage, clean energy, and medical products, reports Xinhua news agency.

"It will allow Australian innovators to access funding opportunities for each stage of their project provided they can continue to prove project viability and importantly, commercial potential," he said.

Another A$296 million will be invested in industry-focused PhDs. The Innovation Fund administered by national science agency the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) will be

Morrison said the injection of funding would make Australian research more commercially competitive.

"We need to accelerate the forging of linkages between Australian industry and Australian university researchers. And we need to develop a new breed of research entrepreneurs here in Australia so they can create the new products and new companies and most importantly, the new jobs."

Researchers on board for report on high-speed rail in Australia

Sydney, February 9 (IANS): A team of researchers from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) have come up with a new approach to making highspeed rail (HSR) cost-effective in Australia that involves factoring in the rise in land value among other "value uplifts".

The report released by UNSW's City Futures Research Centre on February 9 showed that HSR stations along Australia's east coast, connecting the nation's three most populous cities Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, would generate a potential 140 billion Australian dollars (about US$100 billion) in land value, Xinhua news agency reported.

"There are a lot of opportunities around the HSR for Australia to build stronger connectivity between cities and inject significant wealth and job opportunities into the regions," said Director of UNSW City Futures Research Centre and lead author on the report Christopher Pettit.

In the past, proposed HSR projects have been ruled out given Australia's relatively small population -- compared to countries like Japan, China and Germany, which have established HSR networks.

A report delivered to the Australian government in 2013 proposed HSR development on the east coast would cost 130 billion Australian dollars (about $93 billion).

Pettit said their proposal shows

that this cost could be almost entirely offset by value added in areas such as dwelling value, population growth, creating jobs in regional areas of Australia and providing greater access to cities.

"If you were to capture a substantial proportion of this value uplift, it could pay for a huge amount of the HSR," he said.

Past proposals have attracted no shortage of criticism. Experts have rebuked the idea as having a benefit-cost ratio that would barely break even, and huge emissions costs from the construction of thousands of kilometers of rail lines.

James Abbott, managing director at Abbott Advisory and reviewer of the UNSW report, told Xinhua: "I think that you need to consider the population we will have in 30 years versus the population we have today.

"Melbourne and Sydney, if you can imagine those two key markets within Australia becoming basically one hub, which an HSR could deliver, (would) fundamentally change the Australian economy," he said.

Abbott said with the benefits far outweighing the costs, the only thing left was strong political leadership that looked beyond the short term.

"Arguments for HSR are not just environmental. They're also social and economic. There's a variety of different reasons why this infrastructure makes sense for Australia."

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INDIA NEWS

Severe weather lashes Australia with flooding, fires Canberra, February 11 (IANS): Multiple bushfires have been raging through vast swathes of Western Australia (WA) recently, while the east of the country has been hit by heavy rains and floods affected by the La Nina weather pattern.

The fires, which have torn through thousands of hectares of WA bushland and across the state's wheatbelt, have pushed hundreds of firefighters to the brink of exhaustion, reports Xinhua news agency.

Until February 10, the state's Department of Fire and Emergency Service (DFES) was still issuing extreme fire danger forecasts for WA's Great Southern region and a fire ban was declared from February 11 for some local government areas.

The infernos are probably not surprising for many WA residents who have spent much of the summer sweltering through heat waves with the capital, Perth, breaking records in January with six consecutive days above 40 degrees Celsius.

The remote coastal town of Onslow, some 1,400 km north of Perth, also equaled the nation's highest ever temperature of 50.7 degrees Celsius on January 13.

Joe Fontaine from Murdoch

University's Environmental and Conservation Sciences department told Xinhua that blazes are often lit deliberately by arsonists or by accident such as when people let a barbecue get out of control, and a fire will get larger when the weather is hotter and drier.

He mentioned that although he thinks this year's bushfire scale is average, the state would have two more months of bushfire seasons than before as the fire had come earlier this year.

"We have a Mediterranean climate in WA; it's wet, but we get almost all of our rain in winter, and our summers are dry," Fontaine told Xinhua.

He said that thunderstorms at this time of year could also spark blazes when lightning struck parched flora and the rain is few.

The extreme heat and fires in WA are in stark contrast to the continent's eastern states as heavy rains and flooding have washed out parts of New South Wales (NSW), Victoria, and Queensland since the La Nina weather phenomenon settled in late last year.

Meteorologist Milton Speer from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) told Xinhua that Australia had been experiencing

intense heat lows over its northwest region "aided by decaying tropical cyclones".

"Combined with a moist air flow onto the eastern Australian coast, typical of a La Nina, there has been plenty of atmospheric moisture," Speer said.

However, WA was too far away to benefit from any of this rainy activity and instead faced "persistent northeast to southeast winds directing the hot, dry continental air mass over the west coast".

Speer also said the thunderstorm rains that occurred in last November had been particularly heavy over the nation's inland regions and had extended further south than normal.

He said he expected the damp conditions were likely to continue, especially when La Nina reoccurs, and the warming up of the oceans along the northern and eastern coastlines could further add to the cloudy and rainy conditions.

"It is very likely that the extent to which large parts of northern and southeast Australia have had such heavy thunderstorm rain is related to climate change," Speer said, noting that the trend of increasing temperatures was likely due to global warming.

Australia to change Covid vax terms Canberra, February 11 (IANS): Australia's Covid-19 vaccine advisory body has recommended to change the term of "fully vaccinated" to "up to date" or "overdue".

reports Xinhua news agency.

The government recently received advice from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (ATAGI) about the vaccination status, with people aged 16 and over having had a booster shot now considered "up to date" with immunizations,

Australians aged 16 years and older are currently eligible for a booster shot three months after their second dose.

Under the new rules, an eligible person who has not had a booster Covid-19 vaccine within six months of their second dose will be considered "overdue".

The cabinet on February 10 night also endorsed an Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) statement on

mandatory booster vaccinations in aged care facilities.

On February 11 morning, Australia reported more than 20,000 new coronavirus cases and 46 deaths including 19 in New South Wales, 13 in Victoria and 14 in Queensland.

As of February 10, there were 3,414 cases being treated in Australian hospitals including 267 in intensive care units, according to the Department of Health.

Australia's largest bank becomes part of NetZero Banking Alliance to cut emissions by 2050

Sydney, February 9 (IANS): Australia's largest retail bank, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), announced on February 9 that it would be signing onto the global Net-Zero Banking Alliance, which pledges a commitment to aiding the transition to zero emissions.

contingent on policy, regulation, and technological developments," said CBA Chief Executive Officer Matt Comyn.

The commitment means the bank would publish interim targets for power generation, thermal coal and upstream oil and upstream gas, and provide transparency on their transition to net-zero emissions by 2050, Xinhua news agency reported.

Dr. John-Paul Monck, CEO of SME Bank and adjunct professor at the University of New South Wales Business school, told Xinhua this move by CBA, which makes up such a large part of Australia's banking industry, would in and of itself begin to reshape the entire sector.

"Successfully transitioning to net-zero emissions will require a transformation of the global economy. It requires coordinated effort across sectors; and is

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It would also entail a realignment of the banks' balance sheets as they move away from lending to fossil fuel enterprises and towards green energy solutions.

"There are certain pockets of industries that banks just won't touch now, because they don't

want to be associated with that."

He said that for larger banks with trillions of dollars on their balance sheets, this would likely be a gradual process of decoupling.

"If the banking sector completely walked away from say, coal or whatever industry their rates (from non-bank lenders) they would pay could be double, triple," he said, indicating that banks will play a significant role in disincentivising high-emission industries.

However, climate change solutions rooted in technological development and growth have drawn widespread criticism in the climate change advocacy world.

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NEWS FROM AUSTRALIA

Defence Minister dismisses reports of plan to depose PM Canberra, February 8 (IANS): Australia's Defence Minister Peter Dutton on February 8 rejected reports suggesting he is preparing to depose Prime Minister Scott Morrison ahead of the general election this year.

Dutton insisted he is behind Morrison in the lead-up to the election, which is expected to be held in the first half of this year, reports Xinhua news agency.

It came after Bob Carr, a former Premier of New South Wales (NSW) and Foreign Minister, claimed Dutton was the government minister involved in a leaked text exchange that savaged Morrison's character with the then-NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

Carr recently wrote on social media that "if Morrison has one more week in free fall the prospect of a leadership change pre-election is real".

Dutton said on February 8 that the accusation was untrue and baseless.

"I have been loyal to Scott Morrison from day one and I continue to be so, because I have seen what he has done in taking us through what has been a difficult situation," he told local media.

Dutton was among a group of MPs who in 2018 manufactured

the downfall of former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

He contested the subsequent leadership ballot to become Australia's 30th Prime Minister but was defeated by Morrison.

Former Opposition Labor Party leader Bill Shorten, who was defeated by Morrison at the 2019 election, called for the government to "settle their internal fighting".

"People have to be convinced about the merits of politics on a good day. But this government is hopelessly divided and we've got the aged care crisis," he told Nine Network television.

"We've got people with disabilities risking Covid-19. I think the nation wants us to focus on the people, not on our own games and the ins and outs."

Aus borders to open to fully vaccinated tourists from Feb 21

Canberra, February 7 (IANS): Australia's international borders will reopen to fully vaccinated tourists from February 21 after almost two years since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on February 7.

It marks one of the most significant easing of Australia's border closure since it was introduced to prevent the spread of the virus in March 2020, reports Xinhua news agency.

However, arrivals could still face a mandatory quarantine period depending on the rules in the state or territory they arrive in.

"The national cabinet has decided today Australia will reopen our borders to all remaining visa holders on February 21 of this year," Morrison told reporters in Canberra.

"The condition is you must be double vaccinated to come to Australia."

Travellers who have not been vaccinated against Covid-19 will be required to apply for a travel exemption to enter Australia.

Border restrictions were eased for international students and some visa holders in December last year, prompting calls from the tourism industry for travellers to be allowed in.

"I know the tourism industry will be looking forward to that and over the next two weeks they'll get the opportunity both for visitors to be coming and for them to be gearing up," Morrison said.

Australia reported more than 20,000 new Covid-19 infections and more than 40 deaths on February 7.

According to the Department of Health, there were 4,147 cases being treated in hospitals nationwide, including 286 in intensive care units.

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NEWS FROM QUEENSLAND

New south Brisbane satellite hospital Clean energy future for to be built in Eight Mile Plains Central Queensland Brisbane, February 14: The final location for the Palaszczuk Government’s Satellite Hospitals Program has been locked in, paving the way for work to begin soon on the crucial project to deliver improved healthcare services for our growing communities.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk today announced Eight Mile Plains would be home to the south Brisbane facility, adding to the six other locations already identified across the south-east.

The Satellite Hospitals Program will deliver healthcare facilities at Eight Mile Plains, Caboolture, Redlands, Pine Rivers, Tugun, Bribie Island and Ripley.

The Premier said the site marked an important milestone in the progress of the $265 million Satellite Hospitals Program – an Australian first initiative.

“My Government committed to delivering seven convenient and community-focused satellite hospitals in the south-east to provide ancillary and minor healthcare services and to ease pressure off nearby hospitals,” the Premier said.

“Securing the site on Levington Road at Eight Mile Plains means this Program is one step closer to becoming a reality.

“All seven Satellite Hospitals will provide health services in growing urban areas so Queenslanders can receive the care they need closer to home and in a more convenient setting.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for

State Development Steven Miles said the site identified at Eight Mile Plains was a parcel of RACQowned land.

“We promised to deliver seven satellite hospitals in South East Queensland to take pressure off our busy health system, and today we have secured the seventh site in south Brisbane,” Mr Miles said.

“The Eight Mile Plains Satellite Hospital will provide non-urgent healthcare closer to home for many people on Brisbane’s southside and Logan and it will take pressure off nearby hospitals including QEII, the PA and Logan Hospital.

“It will improve healthcare and support jobs in construction and healthcare jobs in operation.”

Treasurer Cameron Dick said the Program is a first for Australia that will bring new and improved health services to the heart of growing local communities including Logan.

“It will increase the capacity of our health system, create jobs and strengthen the economy – all vital to our COVID-19 economic recovery plan,” Mr Dick said.

“More than 100 construction jobs will be supported with this Eight Mile Plains facility, and more than 773 local jobs supported across all seven sites which is also great news for those local communities.”

Health and Ambulance Services Minister Yvette D’Ath said following community consultation and planning processes, construction can begin at Eight

Mile Plains in the second half of 2022.

“Eight Mile Plains and the surrounding areas have all experienced significant growth in recent years, and as a result, seen increased demand for health services,” Ms D’Ath said.

“Now is the right time to invest in additional infrastructure to make sure the residents in these areas continue to get quality healthcare.

“A range of services are being considered for these healthcare facilities, including community health services, ambulatory and low acuity day therapy services such as renal dialysis, chemotherapy, complex wound management, urgent care for minor injury and illness, and outpatient activities.”

Member for Toohey Peter Russo said that the new Satellite Hospital was a huge win for southsiders.

“I am so happy that we are delivering this brand new Satellite Hospital for the southside,” said Mr Russo.

“I know that it will make a huge difference for our local community.”

The Palaszczuk Government is delivering a record $22.2 billion health budget in 2021-22 and investing more in health than any government in Queensland’s history.

Lots 59 & 65 Levington Road, Eight Mile Plains is the preferred site for the southern Brisbane healthcare facility.

Summit to strengthen Queensland's workforce Brisbane, February 12: The Palaszczuk Government will collaborate with industry and community on innovate solutions to current and future workforce challenges with the Queensland Workforce Summit to be held on March 11.

Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer said a strong workforce was vital to rebuilding Queensland’s economy.

"Thanks to our strong health response, Queensland’s economy is growing six and a half times faster than the rest of the country,” the Minister said.

“However, significant workforce challenges that have affected businesses throughout Australia even before the pandemic, continue to have an impact here in Queensland.

“It is being felt in every sector and in every region.

“In fact, in some sectors, we’re creating more jobs than we have Queenslanders to fill them.

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“Our government is committed to working with industry and the private and community sectors to address these challenges so we can continue to build back better with the labour force to do it.”

Minister Farmer said the Summit will focus on cooperatively planning the next phase of Queensland’s economic recovery.

“Prior to the Omicron outbreak, labour shortages were already being identified by businesses small and large across the country as the biggest challenge they faced,” the Minister said.

“We have a perfect storm of circumstances affecting the labour market right now, with international borders largely closed to this point, and the lowest unemployment rate in over 13 years.

“We will need to come up with out-of-the box solutions, which is why we’re bringing together the best and brightest minds for the Summit.

“This will help us stay ahead of the other states and territories, continuing to show Queensland is a great place to work and live.”

The Queensland Workforce Summit will be hosted by awardwinning journalist Ellen Fanning

NES Fircroft

with a keynote address from Deloitte Access Economics Lead Partner Dr Pradeep Philip.

Panellists will include: • Wayne Gerard, Queensland Chief Entrepreneur • Thérèse Rein, APM Employment Services • Dr David Rock, CEO NeuroLeadership Institute • Sally Pitkin, Chair - Super Retail Group • Sally McManus, Secretary ACTU The theme of the Summit Building our Future, Together - reflects the importance of a collaborative partnership approach to building the workforce needed to ensure Queensland’s continued prosperity.

The Palaszczuk Government continues to invest in employment and skills through Queensland’s $14.5 billion COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan.

The Workforce Summit is part of the Big Plans for Small Business Strategy 2021-2023, released in June, to help small business to recover, grow and thrive.

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Brisbane, February 9: Central Queensland is another step closer to becoming a renewable energy powerhouse with producer ACCIONA Energía signing the Central Queensland Statement of Cooperation today.

and green manufacturing are at the core of our $3.34 billion Queensland Jobs Fund, and these partnerships are a direct result of this government’s commitment to job creation and regional development.”

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Steven Miles said four companies - Rio Tinto Australia, Alpha HPA, Orica and ACCIONA - had now signed the Statement of Cooperation to work with the state government to ensure Queensland can benefit from the global shift towards decarbonisation.

ACCIONA Global Chairman and CEO José Manuel Entrecanales said that Queensland was leading the way in delivering globally competitive energy solutions.

“The world is starting to realise the natural advantage Queensland has in renewable energy and manufacturing and that we are ready for renewable investment right now,” Mr Miles said.

“We are working with industry to unlock more opportunities for Queensland to decarbonise and create jobs, starting in Central Queensland.

“The Statement of Cooperation outlines our commitment to making Central Queensland a renewable energy powerhouse.”

“We are bringing together key players in the region to leverage our traditional strengths and build a state that will thrive in the global transformations ahead.

“This means more opportunities for the region and more jobs for Queenslanders.”

“Through renewable energy infrastructure commitments and the green hydrogen opportunities being developed, Queensland is demonstrating that renewable energy can deliver a sustainable zero net emissions industrial and manufacturing powerhouse,” said MrEntrecanales.

ACCIONA Energía Managing Director Brett Wickham said Central Queensland was a region of great potential for renewable energy.

“Central Queensland has enormous opportunities for renewable energy to create new jobs in the region and can supercharge the area’s economic growth,” said Mr Wickham.

“Between our MOU with Stanwell Corporation and signing the Statement of Cooperation we have made a strategic long-term commitment to the future of Central Queensland.”

Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said the government is well on its way to achieving its Queensland Renewable Energy Target by 2030.

The Statement of Cooperation will secure the future competitiveness of Queensland, adding value to a natural energy advantage to drive employment and economic outcomes for the State by focussing on three areas:

“Late last year we saw ACCIONA Energía sign a historic Memorandum of Understanding with the Stanwell Corporation to power Stanwell’s hydrogen facility with ACCIONA Energía’s renewable energy,” Mr de Brenni said.

• committing to industry by establishing certainty for current industry and growing demand • delivering a globally competitive energy solution that is centred around firmed, lowcarbon electricity for industry.

“There’s a massive growth in demand for renewable energy and this Statement will ensure Central Queensland becomes one of the first regions in the world to benefit from that.”

• growing the industries of the future in Central Queensland by creating an enabling regulatory environment, strengthening regional skills and employment to lower capital intensity, and planning for the infrastructure to enable industry development.

Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing, Minister for Water and Member for Gladstone Glenn Butcher said this was fantastic news for the region.

“Central Queensland has clearly established itself in the renewables space and it’s great to have our region looked at on a global stage as the place to invest,” Mr Butcher said.

Mr Miles said seeing additional signatories joining the statement would translate into more value for Queenslanders.

“Our ambitious target to get to net zero emissions by 2050 is creating huge opportunities with more jobs in more industries right along the renewable energy supply chain.”

“Renewable energy, hydrogen,

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$200 million to fly international visitors to Queensland Brisbane, Feb 11: The Palaszczuk Government will partner with the private sector in a nationleading deal announced today, investing $200 million to secure more direct international flights to Queensland.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the government would invest $100 million matched dollar-fordollar by the state’s largest four airports to secure flights and rebuild Queensland’s $6 billion international tourism industry.

“We know that more flights means more tourists. That’s why international aviation connectivity is absolutely critical to the economic recovery of Queensland’s tourism industry,” the Premier said.

“This is the largest investment of any Australian state or territory in securing inbound international flights after COVID-19.

“The agreement we’ve made this week will enable our airports to negotiate with airlines and fast-track more direct flights into Queensland.

“I want to see more planes landing at our major airports – filled with tourists who want to experience Queensland. That’s what this funding will help us achieve.

“I thank Queensland’s international airports for their commitment. This is another great example of the government working with the private sector to rebuild Queensland’s economy and create jobs.”

The combined $200 million international aviation investment is predicted to deliver more than 5.3 million airline seats per year, generating almost $4 billion.

Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the partnership with Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Cairns international airports would supercharge the Palaszczuk

Government’s commitment to helping Queensland tourism operators rebuild better.

“Our airport partnership will target the international flights suspended by the pandemic, as well as new overseas connections,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“Attracting international aviation is extremely competitive and that’s why we’re on the runway early to secure Queensland’s place on the destination boards of the world’s biggest airports.

“Queensland’s $200 million international aviation plan coincides with the pending launch of the successful ‘Good to Go’ campaign into Singapore and the UK. “The domestic ‘Good to Go’ campaign generated $7 billion for Queensland tourism operators, who have been savaged by the loss of international visitors to the pandemic.

“Before Covid, international visitors spent two and half times more than interstate holidaymakers.

“Securing more international flights into Queensland airports also supports the State’s wider economy including food and freight exports and the return of up to 30,000 international students.

“The unprecedented size of our combined investment is set to deliver a significant return for Queenslanders by creating thousands of jobs and accelerating the Palaszczuk Government’s Economic Recovery Plan.

“We’ve listened to the airports and tourism operators and acted.”

Brisbane Airports Corporation CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff welcomed BAC’s partnership with the State Government.

“Today the Premier and the Minister have delivered for our

industry, and the hundreds of thousands of Queenslanders right across the state - who rely on a strong aviation sector,” Mr de Graaff said.

“The combined power of BAC’s investment and the Government’s matching funds will ensure Brisbane Airport can continue to be Australia’s best gateway for many of our major international markets and will deliver passengers across our regional network to all parts of the state.”

Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Craig Crawford said the day paid respects to First Nations people who were forcibly removed as children from their family, culture, language, and community.

“The National Apology to the Stolen Generations in 2008 was a turning point in Australia’s postcolonial history,” Mr Crawford said.

“It acknowledged some ugly truths, but gives a chance to right the wrongs, heal the past, and build hope for the future.

“It created an opportunity that allows all Queenslanders,

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Indigenous and non-Indigenous, to move forward together as we take significant steps this year on our Path to Treaty, truth-telling and reconciliation.

“We have to recognise the traumatic impacts of forced separation of Aboriginal children and Torres Strait Islander children from their families and culture to embrace a more just future for all Queenslanders.”

At the heart of the treaty-making process in Queensland, there exists a strong desire for truthtelling and honesty about our shared history, Mr Crawford said.

“That’s why we are listening to calls from generations of Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander people to progress a Path to Treaty because we know that the greatest outcomes are achieved by working together,” he said.

Roma Street taking shape as Cross River Rail embarks on new phase

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Queensland Airports Limited CEO Chris Mills said Gold Coast international services would restart on Monday.

“This is fantastic news. The government has listened to the tourism and aviation industries and recognised the importance of supporting the restart of international services,” he said.

“It will take time for international travel to rebuild, but this funding will be critical in attracting airlines back to Queensland.

“This funding package will bring forward airline commitments, deliver more international visitors, and provide a muchneeded boost for the local economy.”

Destination Gold Coast CEO Patricia O’Callaghan said the announcement was a shot in the arm for tourism recovery.

“We know aviation attraction for new routes and services is the critical piece to recovery our industry has been calling for and this support will give Gold Coast’s tourism sector another reason to smile with an exceptionally bright future ahead,” Ms O’Callaghan said.

Mr Hinchliffe also announced the appointment of experienced aviation professional Manny Gill to the new role of Strategic Aviation Director in the Department of Tourism.

Queenslanders reflect on the past to mark 14th Anniversary of the National Apology Brisbane, February 13: Queenslanders will today (13 February) join together to mark the 14th Anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations.

NEWS FROM QUEENSLAND

“By working in partnership, we can ensure all First Nations children, families and communities can thrive – with opportunities to connect with family, language, country, and culture.

“It’s about creating a more inclusive state going forward, with opportunities for everyone.”

Guugu Yimithirr elder Ella Woibo was aged just six when she became part of the stolen generation.

“It was a sad time, I cried my heart out,” the 88-year-old, of the former Aboriginal mission of Hope Vale, north of Cooktown, said.

She was placed in a girls dormitory, and shipped south during World War II to be used as slave labour at Woorabinda for seven years. She was 17 before she returned home.

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Brisbane, Feb 12: Despite not being visible to pedestrians passing just outside, a giant 20-metre-deep cavern has now been excavated deep underground at Cross River Rail’s Roma Street worksite, marking the next exciting phase of construction on the transformational rail project.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said the station box would house the future Cross River Rail Roma Street station entrance, which will rise 27 metres above the new underground rail level once completed.

“In 2021, we capped off Cross River Rail’s year of tunnelling when two massive Tunnel Boring Machines completed the project’s twin tunnels beneath the Brisbane River and CBD,” Mr Bailey said.

“2022 will be our year for station build and tunnel fit out, as Cross River Rail’s four underground stations, as well as multiple new above ground stations including a new station at Exhibition, really start to take shape.

“And nowhere is that more evident than at Roma Street, where you not only get an epic sense of the main station but also the network of tunnels that will connect above ground rail, bus and coach services with the new high-capacity underground rail line.

“This mega-project is a strong example of the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to delivering quality transport infrastructure for the people of Queensland, with $5.4 billion invested by our government to get this project done right.”

Mr Bailey said the impact of the new station on how people will travel to, from and within Brisbane in the future was a genuine game changer “Over 45,000 people are expected to use the new station every week-day and the new Roma Street station will not only become our state’s single most significant transport interchange, it will also be an integral part of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

Mr Bailey pointed also to the crucial role that construction of Cross River rail is playing in supporting our economy in the meantime, with more than 200 people currently working on the Cross River Rail’s Roma Street site and over 2,000 working on the project in total “Cross River Rail is injecting more than $4 million a day into the economy and providing both job and training opportunities at a time when they’re needed most,” he said.

“Crews have done a terrific job keeping the project on schedule throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, with onsite contractors continuing to implement a wide variety of social distancing and other protective measures to main safe operations across the project’s multiple construction sites.”

“Work will now continue in the station box to install drainage and commence permanent structural works, including formwork, reinforcing and concrete pours.”

Roma Street station fast facts: • The 20-metre-deep Roma Street station box is fully excavated, with 38,382 cubic metres of spoil removed.

• The station box will house the main station, which will rise 27 metres above the new underground rail line level, and the lift and escalators that will transport people to platform level 27 metres below ground.

• The rest of the station is also taking shape, including the 280-metre long station cavern up to 33 metres below ground, the 29-metre deep services shaft, and the connecting tunnels and adits.

• More than 200 people are working on the Roma Street site, while more than 20 people have completed an apprenticeship or traineeship on site to date.

• The new Roma Street station platforms will be about 220-metres long and set up to 27 metres below the ground.

• More than 46,000 people are expected to use the new Roma Street station each weekday by 2036.

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More international flights means more jobs for Victorians Melbourne, February 13: A major international airline is increasing its services to Melbourne, creating 110 new jobs in the aviation and tourism sectors and delivering a $17 million boost to the economy – thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Industry Support and Recovery and Minister for Trade Martin Pakula today announced Etihad Airways will increase air services from Abu Dhabi to Melbourne to establish a daily year-round service from 27 March 2022.

The additional two flights each week will expand international

air services from the United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and Europe – bolstering tourism, international student access and air freight capacity for exports.

The new services will allow 12,500 extra visitors to come to Victoria and drive the revitalisation of Victoria’s international aviation sector which directly employs 6,700 people and supports thousands of other jobs. The flights will help also strengthen Victoria’s trade links with United Arab Emirates.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the United Arab Emirates was Victoria's seventh largest export destination, with two-way trade

activity estimated at around $183 million in 2019.In 2019, European tourists carried by Etihad contributed approximately $63 million to Victoria’s economy, with the airline uplifting almost $176 million in air freight from Victoria to Europe and the UK. The additional services by Etihad Airways follows the recently announced Bamboo Airways services from Vietnam to Melbourne that will commence later this year and Qantas’ new passenger route from Melbourne to Delhi that commenced in December last year.

Vaccinators reporting for duty in Victoria

vaccinators have completed the mandatory Commonwealth and Victorian COVID-19 vaccination skills and competencies training - equivalent to the requirements for other emergency authorised vaccination workforces.

Melbourne, February 11: More than 1,000 Victorians have applied to help vaccinate people across the state as part of a push to expand the vaccination workforce to include health students, retired nurses and other trained workers.

As the state edges closer to 50 per cent of adults protected with a third vaccine dose, 130 additional vaccinators have completed training to administer vaccinations, while more than 700 others are being trained - in order to boost vaccination rates and free up health workers like nurses to return to their normal

duties.

The new vaccinators, many of whom have previous healthcare or vaccinating experience, are joining nurses, allied health professionals, and other health workers in state-run centres.

They will be supported and lead by a Supervising Authorised Immuniser provided by health services with relevant skills and experience in vaccination.

The vaccinators are not responsible for establishing patient consent and will administer vaccines only to people aged 18 and over. The

Their other duties may include patient support, such as mobility assistance, general duties and infection control. The training surge comes as the state prepares to end its coordinated Pandemic Code Brown on Monday, 14 February, following a steady reduction in hospitalisations and fewer staff furloughs. The measure has been in place for just over three weeks and led to immediate short-term relief across stretched public hospitals and ambulance services during the Omicron peak.

The Department of Health will work closely with health services to lift the coordinated Code Brown, while continuing to support individual hospitals as needed.A further increase to nonurgent elective surgery will also begin from Monday, 14 February – including private hospitals being able to perform up to 50 per cent of all elective surgery in metropolitan Melbourne and up to 75 per cent of all elective surgery in regional areas.

White night to shine bright in Shepparton in 2022 Melbourne, February 11: Tens of thousands of visitors are expected to flock to Shepparton later in the year, when White Night lights up the city for the first time – thanks to support from the Andrews Labor Government. Premier Daniel Andrews today announced the Labor Government would bring White Night to Shepparton as the region celebrates the recent reopening of the Shepparton Art Museum.

White Night will transform Shepparton through illuminations, projections, music and interactive works from talented local and national artists. up to 40,000 people are expected to attend the inaugural Shepparton White Night, which

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is expected to deliver a $3 million boost to the local economy, on a date to be confirmed in the middle of the year. Artistic Director Andrew Walsh AM, will take the reins for White Night Shepparton, bringing a wealth of experience to deliver a spectacular event in a regional setting.

Walsh is highly regarded for his work as a Creative Director of Olympic and Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremonies and was the founding Artistic Director of White Night Melbourne.White Night attracts a broad audience of locals and visitors of all ages, bringing tens of thousands of people into the regional centres of Geelong, Ballarat and

Bendigo and driving millions of dollars into regional economies, supporting creative industries and local businesses.

Visitors to the event can also explore the new Shepparton Art Museum, which opened its doors in November 2021 after a major redevelopment, backed by a $12.5 million investment from the Government. Since the first White Night in Melbourne in 2013, it has built a strong reputation as a vibrant and inclusive celebration of immersive art and community participation.

The Government is committed to supporting a wide range of events that strengthen our state’s reputation as the cultural centre of Australia.

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NEWS FROM VICTORIA

Putting senior students’ literacy and numeracy to the test Melbourne, February 10: As part of the Andrews Labor Government’s reform of the VCE and VCAL system, Victorian senior secondary students will have their literacy and numeracy skills measured against new standards in a reformed General Achievement Test (GAT) from this year.

Minister for Education James Merlino today announced the changes to the GAT – to be held on Wednesday, 7 September this year – which will explicitly report students’ literacy and numeracy scores to bring the Victorian GAT in line with similar tests in other states and territories.

First announced in 2018 as part of a $187 million package of support for the the broader review and reform of senior secondary pathways to be phased in over the coming years, the new standards will indicate whether students have demonstrated the literacy and numeracy skills expected of someone completing secondary school – giving another indication of their readiness to move onto further education, training or employment.

While the new standards will be reported on students’ VCE or VCAL certificates, they will not contribute to a student’s ATAR unless the GAT is required to calculate a score – for example, if a student requires a Derived Examination Score after missing an exam due to illness.

The slightly later test date

provides the time required to ensure the revised GAT is valid and reliable and for teachers and students to understand the changes – with the test expected to return to its traditional June date from 2023. The GAT will be split into two sections: Section A will assess literacy and numeracy skills; and Section B will assess skills in English, Mathematics, science, technology, the arts and humanities, with an increased focus on critical and creative thinking skills.

As in all previous years, no special study will be required for the GAT. Past study of subjects like English, mathematics, science and history prepares students for the test by building their general knowledge and skills in writing, numeracy and reasoning. Around 90,000 students will sit the GAT this year, including Senior VCAL students who will participate for the first time, along with all students enrolled in one or more VCE or scored VCE VET Unit 3–4 sequence.

The change comes as Victoria prepares to transition to a new integrated senior secondary certificate from 2023, which will bring together VCE and VCAL within the VCE Vocational Major and Victorian Pathways Certificate options. The new certificates will give all students better support and flexibility to study what they want, alongside the key academic skills to prepare them for the jobs of the future, further education or training.

Victoria attracts more international feature films Melbourne, February 4: The Andrews Labor Government has attracted production of another highly anticipated international feature film, showcasing the state’s exceptional facilities and destinations while bringing jobs to Victoria’s creative industry.

Amazon Studios’ epic production Foe has recently begun filming in the state, with locations to include Winton Wetlands in north east Victoria and Docklands Studios Melbourne.

The star-studded cast includes Saoirse Ronan (Little Women, Brooklyn), Paul Mescal (Normal People) and Aaron Pierre (The Underground Railroad). Attracted to the state through the Victorian Screen Incentive and the Regional Location Assistance Fund, Foe will inject up to $32 million into the Victorian economy and create 950 jobs for Victorian cast and crew – including four leading Head of Department roles.

The sci-fi psychological thriller will be directed by Victorian filmmaker Garth Davis, best known for his Academy Award nominated film Lion. It is based on the novel of the same name written by Ian Reid, who is a cowriter of the adaptation alongside Davis.

Producers on the project include Kerry Kohansky-Roberts on behalf of AC Studios, Garth Davis for I Am That, and Emile Sherman and Iain Canning for See-Saw Films. Executive producers include Ian Reid, and I Am That’s Samantha Lang. Libby Sharpe will co-produce for I Am That and See-Saw Films.

Foe will engage over 500 local businesses from across Melbourne and regional Victoria, including construction companies and caterers. Through Film Victoria’s skills development program, the Labor Government is supporting placements for three local practitioners to hone their specialist skills while working on the production – director Michael Hudson, costume buyer Ellen Stainstreet and set decorator Tom Herbert.

Foe follows other epic productions like Better Man starring Robbie Williams and Blacklight starring Liam Neeson, choosing to film in Victoria. It is supported as part of Victorian Government’s $191.5 million VICSCREEN strategy. Activity in the Victorian film industry is at record levels, with more than $391 million channeled into production expenditure in 2020/21.

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FIAN speaks out against Religious Discrimination Bill 2022 We are happy to note that the Government has sent the Bill to a Senate enquiry, instead of putting this for voting.

Sydney, February 10: The Federation of Indian Associations of NSW (FIAN) has voiced its concern about the Religious Discrimination Bill 2022, which passed the House of Representatives of the Australian Parliament early this morning.

“This Bill has now gone to the Senate for consideration.

“While we are happy that protections have been included to stop discrimination of some diverse gender students by changes to section 38(3) of the Sex Discrimination Act, we are dismayed that not all diverse gender students are yet protected from the discrimination in religious-based schools and colleges. This must change. The government’s plan for a 12-month review by the Law Reform Commission is not good enough,” said Dr Yadu Singh, Secretary, FIAN. He further said: “Under this Bill, we are concerned about the

powers of the employers from religious-based institutions, including schools and hospitals to discriminate people who do not belong to the faith-affiliation of such institutions. It is not of much practical importance that such institutions would have public policies explaining their decisions and discriminations. In today’s world, it is not acceptable for the potential applicants to be discriminated against because the employers adhere to a certain set of the religious beliefs, which applicants don’t. Discrimination harms people in more ways than one including mental and physical health, and must not be legalised.”

“Sexuality, gender identities and religious beliefs of anyone cannot be the basis to

GREATER SPRINGFIELD MEDICAL & OFFICE SUITES

discriminate anyone anywhere in modern Australia, if we want to have harmonious, happy and productive work places. If we do not, there will be the job insecurity and adverse mental and physical health of the workers.

“The so-called “statements of belief clause” cannot be a ruse to discriminate anyone in schools and hospitals owned by religiousbased groups. It is unhealthy and unproductive.

“People need to follow their religions outside the workplaces.

We fear that the Bill will give legal protection to people making offensive or controversial statements about their faith. It is not of much help to claim that they were made in good faith and

were not malicious, or intended to harass, threaten, intimidate or vilify. It is subjective and will not help the victim.

“This proposed law would protect a boss, teacher, doctor or taxi driver, who makes comments to a colleague, student or customer, such as: “menstruating women are unclean”; “homosexuality is a sin”; or “disability is caused by the devil”. This is wrong, morally or otherwise.

“We fear that this proposed law will encourage religious conversions from the minority faiths into major faiths, not because of free choice but because of difficulties experienced in education and employment.”

Inspect Today More on Page 32

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Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

COMMUNITY NEWS

Australia strengthening ties with India Scholarships Program will attract and support high achieving Indian students to study at Australian universities. It will showcase Australia’s globally renowned academic and research institutions, particularly in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and health.

T

he Morrison Government is further strengthening our ties with India, one of Australia’s most important partners in the Indo-Pacific region. A series of new initiatives to support our education, community, tourism and investment links will add to our growing bilateral relationship, which was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2020.

Following meetings between the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, and India’s Minister of External Affairs Dr S. Jaishankar in Melbourne, the Government has launched three Maitri (friendship) initiatives, which will foster AustraliaIndia cooperation, creativity, understanding and exchange.

The $11.2 million Maitri

The $3.5 million Maitri Grants and Fellowships Program will build links between our future leaders, supporting mid-career Australian and Indian professionals to collaborate on strategic research and shared priorities.

The $6.1 million Australia-India Maitri Cultural Partnership will boost the role of creative industries in our economic and people-to-people ties. This partnership will also promote artistic talent and cultural exchanges in our two countries’ world class visual and performing arts, literature, film, television

and music industries.

Following meetings between the Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, the Hon Dan Tehan MP, and India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal in New Delhi, the Government has also renewed the Australia-India Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tourism Cooperation and launched the Australia India Infrastructure Forum.

The renewed MoU positions tourism operators to take advantage of our international border re-opening to all fully vaccinated eligible visa holders, including tourists and business travellers from 21 February. Under the MoU, Australia and India will promote travel between the two markets and advance cooperation on tourism policy, data sharing, training and industry engagement. Pre-pandemic, India

was Australia’s fastest-growing source of international visitors.

In 2019, almost 400,000 visitors from India visited Australia and spent a combined total of $1.8 billion.

The Australia India Infrastructure Forum will serve as a hub to promote two-way investment in infrastructure. As a side initiative of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement, currently under negotiation with India, it will also support our broader trade and investment objectives. A new $5.8 million Bay of Bengal Connectivity Partnership will expand this work to other countries in the region.

These initiatives reflect our nations’ shared commitment to cooperation and exchange, as set out in the AustraliaIndia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, agreed in June 2020.

Singhs Open Cup volleyball tournament held

S

inghs Open Cup volleyball tournament was organised at Cornubia Park Sports Centre, Shailer Park, on January 15 by Singh Spikers Queensland. The event went on the whole day from 8am till 9pm.

Best setter-Tylor Nix (Beta) Best hitter-Alfredo Walton (Singh Spikers Queensland) Player of the tournament-Connor Rudder (Beta) Bronze -Tune Squad

The event was divided in two divisions, and both the divisions had maximum ten teams competing. In Division 1, Beta Squad won the Gold, and in Divison 2 the Gold went to D.V.A.S..

Silver-Singh Spikers Queensland

Following are the results:

Silver- ICSC

Division 1

Gold- Beta Squad Division 2 Best setter- Nathan (D.V.A.S) Best hitter- Rahul (ICSC) Bronze -Slavic Jaguar Gold-D.V.A.S

Brookwater….

A unique and elegant lifestyle.

Brookwater is only 10 minutes from major shops, multiple schools, the Mater hospital and University. www.indianews.com.au

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Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

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Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

Australia welcomes return of international students and backpackers

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anberra, February 3: Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs, Alex Hawke MP, today announced strong arrival figures for International Students and Working Holiday Makers, in recent weeks.

“Australia is open for business. We are welcoming back increasing numbers of International Students, Backpackers, and Skilled migrants,” Minister Hawke said.

“Visa application rates have surged in the last week, since the Government’s announcement of a special Visa Application Charge (VAC) refund window for people who travel and arrive in Australia over the coming weeks,” he said.

“We are building back healthy pipelines of Working Holiday Makers, and we are processing these visas very quickly. The Government is seeing a surge in demand from backpackers and we are ready to welcome them to our shores,” he said.

“Confidence in Australia’s economic recovery is extremely strong. Unemployment is at record lows, industry and government are providing incentives for workers to come to Australia, and we are ready to meet the demand. We all have a role to play in the economic recovery, filling vital skills shortages, and the Government is providing these incentives to encourage skilled workers to come to Australia now and fulfil these opportunities and participate in the phenomenal economic recovery that we are seeing in Australia right now,” he said.

“There are more jobs now available in Australia than before the COVID-19-Pandemic, and there are still many more places available to Backpackers and

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Tamanna Monem wins Female Defence Leader Award

T Students that we are ready to fill, so come on down,” Minister Hawke said.

International Students Australia is proud to have welcomed the arrival of almost 7,000 International Students in the last week alone.

From 24 to 30 January we have witnessed the strong return of International Students to our shores - with almost 7,000 International students making the journey to Australia ahead of course commencement at Australian campuses right around the nation.

Since late November 2020 a total of 56,000 International Students have arrived in Australia.

Demand for Australian study visas has been particularly strong, in recent months, with more than 50,000 overseas student visa lodgements since late 2021.

Visa grants to International Students are flowing as a result of the Minister directing the Department to allocate additional resources to processing the visas of International Students.

Working Holiday Makers There was a 17% increase in the arrival of Working Holiday Makers in the last week.

From 24 to 30 January the number of Working Holiday Maker visa (subclass 417 and 462) applications has surged – with 2,600 visa applications lodged by overseas backpackers.

A total of 28,000 Working Holiday Maker visas have been approved in the last few months - since the reopening of international borders to fully vaccinated skilled workers, International Students and Working Holiday Makers - in line with the National Plan to safely reopen Australia.

The Morrison Government has

signed a number of new and increased Working Holiday Maker arrangements with partner countries, in recent years, with a total of 45 partner countries or regions now participating in the program.

Refunds of visa application charges Fully vaccinated International Students and Working Holiday Makers have been encouraged to return to Australia now to support our economic recovery and to commence studies through the launch of a new Visa Application Charge (VAC) refund window for eligible travellers.

Working Holiday Maker visa holders (subclasses 417 or 462) who are outside Australia and arrive in Australia between 19 January 2022 and 19 April 2022 are eligible for a VAC refund.

Student visa holders who are outside Australia and arrive in Australia between 19 January 2022 and 19 March 2022 are eligible for a VAC refund.

Further information about refunds is available online.

Attracting more International Students and Working Holiday Makers These initiatives are proudly supported by a new $7 million marketing campaign to attract young people from overseas to work and holiday in Australia.

The Work and Play the Aussie Way campaign encourages the uptake of Working Holiday Maker visas in the United Kingdom, Europe, Japan and Republic of Korea, by giving young travellers a glimpse of the adventures that await them while working and travelling Australia.

Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) is also running a campaign to attract more international students.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

amanna Monem has been awarded as the Female Defence Leader 2021. This award acknowledges Tamanna’s authentic, innovative and inclusive leadership to drive defence industry projects, over the past few years, leading defence strategy, initiating defence summits, and helping SMEs to get access to defence industry mentoring and defence supply chain opportunities.

She was acknowledged as a high performing, innovating and authentic leader in defence industry.

Defence Connect’s Australian Defence Industry Award is a peak platform that recognises the comprehensive role of the defence industry as a fundamental input to Australia’s

capability.

This esteemed awards program celebrates the achievements and excellence of the industry’s most successful professionals and businesses.

Previously, Tamanna has received the Rising Star award and Professional of the Year award for her contributions to help empowering SMEs for defence and her contribution to shaping India Australia trade relationship.

Tamanna is leading strategy and partnerships at the Queensland AI Hub. She is a board member of Australian AI Collective. Tamanna is Women in Business Qld Chair and National Advisor for Export and Investment at Australia India Business Council (AIBC).

Australia reopening to tourists and other international travellers from Feb 21

A

ustralia will reopen to all fully vaccinated visa holders, welcoming the return of tourists, business travellers, and other visitors from 21 February.

These changes will ensure we protect the health of Australians, while we continue to secure our economic recovery.

Australia’s health system has demonstrated its resilience throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including though the recent Omicron wave. With improving health conditions, including a recent 23 per cent decline in hospitalisations due to COVID, the National Security Committee of Cabinet today agreed Australia is ready to further progress the staged reopening of our international border.

Visa holders who are not fully vaccinated will still require a valid travel exemption to enter Australia, and will be subject to

state and territory quarantine requirements.

Today’s announcement will give certainty to our vital tourism industry, and allow them to start planning, hiring and preparing for our reopening. In 2018-19, tourism generated more than $60 billion for the Australian economy, with more than 660,000 jobs dependent on the industry.

Since the Morrison Government commenced Australia’s staged international border reopening on 1 November 2021 we have seen almost 580,000 arrivals come to Australia including to reunite with loved ones, work or study.

The Commonwealth continues to work with States and Territories on the safe resumption of the cruise industry and looks forward to further announcements on this in due course.

Press release from PM Scott Morrison MP

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Opportunities to re-think Australia-India University partnerships the focus at higher education roundtable Australian universities, creating opportunities for both students and faculty to work together across the countries.”

CQUniversity Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Nick Klomp said in a post-COVID world, international institutions would have to re-think and re-imagine their strategies for engaging with students from India.

February 9: The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the education aspirations of students globally, but has also brought opportunities to re-think and reframe how institutions can work together to develop innovative, sustainable and successful partnerships.

That was the key topic of discussion at a recent Australia India Business Council (AIBC) education roundtable, where O.P. Jindal Global University and CQUniversity Australia joined forces to reimagine education post COVID-19.

The roundtable brought together a group of higher education leaders from India and Australia, providing input to future policy frameworks, and suggesting opportunities for innovation in education partnerships.

The roundtable participants discussed their vision for collaboration and the policy settings required to support the development of sustainable and mutually beneficial partnerships.

While the pandemic has accelerated many changes and created significant pressures within the education sector, the conversation focused on “where to next” and how to build for the future.

The roundtable experts

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recognised that the growth of digital connections and the ability to use technology has seen collaboration in ways that had not previously been possible. Rather than go back to how things were, discussion was focused on how to build on innovations to take us forward, and ensure that policy settings are aligned to the needs of the new education reality postCOVID. Founding Vice-Chancellor of O.P. Jindal Global University Professor (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar said that in the past decade, a lot of effort had gone into advancing India-Australia educational collaboration.

“People have come to know and appreciate the extraordinary reputation of Australian universities and the very high degree and emphasis they put on quality training, research, scholarships and publications,” Professor (Dr.) Kumar said.

“The Centre for India Australia Studies at O.P. Jindal Global University worked hard to collaborate with Australia’s world-class universities and we are now seeing students aspire for mobility opportunities and further studies in Australia at a scale that hasn’t existed in the past. There is still tremendous scope for deeper engagement between Indian and

“It is incumbent on Australian universities to think about the unique “value add” we can provide to students who make the major life decision to travel halfway across the world to study here,” Professor Klomp said.

“I’d like to see Indian students be able to take greater advantage of internships, industry placements and work-integrated learning opportunities, so they can be truly “job ready” when they graduate.

Not only will those students be in a position to really take advantage of their post-study working rights in Australia, if they choose to stay longer term, they’ll also be able to return to India with significant Australian industry experience under their belt. That’s a huge competitive advantage for a graduate jobseeker.

“I’d also like to see Australian students who travel to India through offshore partnerships take advantage of similar initiatives. It’s a way of building the talent pool in both Australia and India, with graduates who are culturally competent across the “business languages” of our two nations.

“If we could see a change of culture, a change of policy, a change of attitude, we could be doing so much more together, and I’m really excited about that.”

The National Chair of the AIBC Education and Skills Chapter, Amritha Zachariah said Australia and India had a long collaborative

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CQUniversity Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Nick Klomp presenting at the Australia India Business Council (AIBC) education roundtable

history, and with the recent signing of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the Indian National Education Policy, development of a refreshed Australian National International Education Strategy and a review of the Australia India Economic Strategy, the time was right to re-frame how partnerships would look into the future.

Torrens University incoming Chancellor and AIBC National Chair, Jim Varghese AM said that the opportunity to bring together policy leaders and practitioners provided a unique insight into the possibilities of future partnerships.

CQUniversity and O.P. Jindal Global University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the end of the roundtable that will see the two universities provide education pathways for

students in both countries.

The MoU is just the first step in developing a deeper partnership where we can work together to provide innovative solutions for students to share and create new knowledge.

The collaboration will see both organisations provide different opportunities for its students to experience studying in both countries, giving them the chance to study at two world-recognised universities in the one degree.

The outcomes of this roundtable will inform how the Australia India Business Council can continue to support Brand Australia and facilitate key initiatives to our international students, helping move the needle on the acute skills gaps and shortages that exist in both countries.

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INDIA NEWS

India criticises UN terror report for ignoring JeM, LeT IANS

United Nations, February 10 (IANS): India has criticised a report of the UN SecretaryGeneral on terrorism for ignoring the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and the Jaish-e-Mohammad ( JeM) militant groups despite drawing attention to them.

While silent on the terrorist groups like the JeM and the LeT that pose threats to India, the report mentions the antiBeijing Uyghur separatist groups, the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) and the Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP) in its sparse coverage of South Asia.

India's Permanent Representative T.S. Tirumurti told the Security Council on February 9: "We have been reiterating the close links between proscribed terrorist entities under the 1267 Sanctions regime such as LeT and other terror groups including the JeM. "However in spite of repeatedly flagging these concerns, the SG's (Secretary-General's) report has failed to take notice of these linkages."

Stressing the reason to pay attention to them, he said: "It is essential that we don't lose sight of the ease with which the proscribed Haqqani Network, with support from their patron state, have worked along with prominent terrorist organisations like Al Qaeda, IS-K, etc. in South Asia.

"We hope that in future iterations of such reports, inputs from all member states would be treated on an equal footing and an evidence based and credible yardstick be applied by its authors."

He was speaking after a Council briefing on "Threat to International Peace and Security Caused by Terrorist Acts" by Vladimir Voronkov, the undersecretary-general heading the Office of Counter-Terrorism, and Weixiong Chen, the acting executive director of the CounterTerrorism Committee's Executive Directorate.

They presented the "14th report of the Secretary-General on the threat posed by IS (Islamic State) to international peace and security and the range of UN efforts in support of Member States in countering the threat", which has only three paragraphs on South and Central Asia in which it faulted the Taliban for not acting against foreign terrorists.

"There are no recent signs that the Taliban has taken steps to limit the activities of foreign terrorist fighters in the country.

On the contrary, Member States are concerned that terrorist groups enjoy greater freedom in Afghanistan than at any time in recent history," it said.

The report said that the IS in Afghanistan "is taking advantage of the turmoil in the country, including by recruiting fighters" from the ETIM and TIP. The UN has designated the two groups as terrorist organisations, like it has with LeT and JeM about which the report is silent.

China's Permanent Representative Zhang Jun took note of the mention of the two anti-Beijing groups in the report and said Beijing was "deeply concerned" about the IS's attempts to recruit from them.

Tirumurti drew attention to Pakistan's role in backing

terrorist organisations without directly naming Islamabad.

In a reference to a statement by Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan about the founder of Al Qaeda, he said: "We should not forget the fact that, even after 20 years of September 11 attacks, we have leaders who, without any remorse, continue to defend Osama Bin Laden as a martyr."

He also said that the proscribed Haqqani Network operated with ease "with support from their patron state".

Tirumurti warned that the terrorist organisations are adapting technologies that "pose a dynamic threat for which most of the member states do not have adequate response".

These include social media, new digital payment methods, cryptocurrencies, crowdfunding platforms and drones, he said.

"We need to work together to develop appropriate solutions and evolve global standards to address these threats," Tirumrti said.

Addressing his briefing, Voronkov said: "Military counter-terrorism operations may be necessary, but comprehensive measures with a strong focus on prevention are required to address the dynamics that fuel the appeal of terrorism."

He called the US attack in Syria that killed Islamic State leader Amir Muhammad Sa'id AbdalRahman al-Salbi "encouraging".

But, he cautioned that the Islamic State "is known for its ability to re-group despite similar losses in the past, maintaining and intensifying its activities in conflict-affected regions across the world."

He urged the Security Council and UN members "to use every available tool at their disposal to sustain important gains against the threat posed by the IS to prevent its regional expansion, and curtail its capabilities to launch attacks and recruit new members to its ranks".

WORLD NEWS

Australia, India and Japan call for a 'free and open Indo-Pacific', plan Kishida's visit to New Delhi New Delhi, February 11(IANS): India and Japan on February 11 agreed to deepen cooperation through multi-layered dialogue and the visit of Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to India later this year to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Japan's Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi finally held their first face-to-face meeting on the sidelines of the Quad Foreign Ministers' meeting in Melbourne on February 11 after having two telephone conversations over the past few weeks.

In an interaction which lasted 45 minutes, the two ministers welcomed "the frank discussions" to enliven Japan-India partnership and also reaffirmed to work closely with each other along with Quad partners Australia and the United States towards the realisation of a 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific'.

"In particular, they concurred to cooperate to enhance connectivity through the IndoPacific Ocean Initiative and Japan-India cooperation in third countries," said the Japanese Foreign Ministry in a statement.

Hayashi stated it is becoming more important for both the countries, who share the basic values and have advocated the importance of rule-based order, to address common challenges under the 'Special Strategic and Global Partnership' in this "increasingly uncertain international community".

Jaishankar mentioned that the 70th anniversary is the opportunity to strengthen the Japan-India ties even further and he is keen to expand the cooperation with Japan in various fields toward realising a 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific'.

"The two ministers reiterated the importance of resuming the annual mutual visit of both

leaders by realising Prime Minister Kishida's visit to India at an appropriate timing that is convenient for both sides," said the Japanese Foreign Ministry.

In addition, the two ministers concurred to hold the next round of India-Japan Foreign and Defence Ministerial meeting (2+2) to promote cooperation in the field of security besides deepening cooperation through multi-layered dialogues and meetings areas like cyber, space, maritime, disarmament and nonproliferation and UN Security Council.

"Good to meet FM Hayashi in person. Our conversation followed up on two virtual discussions. We are preparing for our Annual Summit of Leaders," tweeted Jaishankar February 11 afternoon.

India and Japan on February 11 also reaffirmed their commitment to promote economic cooperation including in digital, climate change countermeasures, healthcare, as well as economic security cooperation in the fields such as Beyond 5G, undersea cables, and supply chain resilience.

In addition, both Jaishankar and Hayashi spoke on the ongoing partnership in India's North Eastern region and steadily advancing the High-Speed Rail Project, the flagship project of Japan and India.

They also shared views to promote people-to-people interactions and cultural exchanges, including the utilization of the talented IT workers and the Specified Skilled Workers of India, while taking advantage of various opportunities of the 70th anniversary.

"The two ministers exchanged views on cooperation in regional affairs such as Myanmar and international cooperation including WTO, disarmament and non-proliferation, UN Security Council reform," the statement added.

Canadian PM Trudeau appeals to protesters to go home, promises to end blockades Ottawa, February 12 (IANS): Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on February 11 urged all protesters to go home, saying "everything is on the table" when it comes to ending the blockades paralysing cross-border trade at multiple locations.

"This unlawful activity has to end, and it will end," Trudeau said.

"We hope these people will decide to go home. Otherwise, there will be increasingly robust police intervention."

The Prime Minister added that the police and all levels of government are preparing to take action against the demonstrators behind the blockades in Ottawa, Windsor and elsewhere, Xinhua

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news agency reported.

Federal, provincial and municipal officials have been clear over recent days: the blockades and activities of the convoy are "illegal" and "unlawful", and must end.

Trudeau said the protesters must stand down or face severe "consequences" for any illegal activities -- consequences that include the possibility of criminal charges and steep financial penalties. He added that the federal government will no longer tolerate activists who "take the economy hostage" and bring life to a standstill in the nation's capital.

Authorities are prepared to hit protesters where it hurts the most by suspending commercial

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trucking licenses and pursuing charges that could result in jail time, Trudeau said, warning that criminal sanctions could be leveled that would stop the protesters from ever traveling internationally again.

He added that he spoke on phone with US President Joe Biden earlier on January 11.

They discussed the blockade at Windsor's Ambassador Bridge in particular -- a protest that has cut off the flow of hundreds of millions of dollars worth of goods over the last five days.

"The border cannot and will not remain closed," he said, describing the decision earlier on February 11 by Ontario Premier

Doug Ford to declare a state of emergency as "responsible and necessary".

Ford declared a state of emergency, saying he will use legal measures to enact orders, making it "crystal clear" that it is illegal and punishable to block and impede the movement of goods, people and services along critical infrastructure. That includes protecting international border crossings, 400-series highways, airports, ports, bridges and railways. Fines for noncompliance will be up to 100,000 Canadian dollars and up to a year imprisonment.

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WORLD NEWS

Quad ministers call for US Indo-Pacific strategy to support India's 'rise, regional leadership' in countering China destruction of terrorist safe the importance of the global commons to advance critical issues in the region," the official added.

havens, prosecution of terrorists

The official turned to the Quad as the vehicle for promoting strategic cooperation with India.

"Obviously, India's role in the Quad, I think, is a very significant element of that, including the much-enhanced ability to speak frankly about issues in the region; to work together to deliver, you know, essentially, public goods that address, you know, challenges in the region, and to enhance ways in which we can coordinate."

The strategy document promised to "bring together our IndoPacific and European partners in novel ways, including through the AUKUS partnership".

New York, February 12 (IANS): US President Joe Biden's administration has outlined its Indo-Pacific strategy that would "support India's continued rise and regional leadership", as Washington seeks to counter China's attempts at global domination.

The long-awaited document released on January 11 said: "We recognise that India is a likeminded partner and leader in South Asia and the Indian Ocean, active in and connected to Southeast Asia."

China's "coercion and aggression" is acute "along the Line of Actual Control with India", it said.

The document further said that as it continues to build its strategic partnership with India, the US will "contribute to a free and open Indo-Pacific", a region where China confronts the US and other countries.

The strategy plan said that the US would "steadily advance our Major Defence Partnership with India and support its role as a net security provider".

India was given the Major Defence Partner designation in 2016 and the two countries have steadily built it up with several agreements for defence cooperation.

The document prepared mostly by the National Security Council and released a year after Biden assumed office sets out the plan for the Indo-Pacific, a region that his administration had said was going to be the focus of its diplomatic and strategic engagement.

Other developments like the withdrawal from Afghanistan and the standoff in Europe with Russia that is deploying a huge military force along the Ukraine border have come in the way, but now the Biden administration is reinforcing its commitment to the Indo-Pacific even as it says a Russian invasion is imminent.

Its release in Washington was

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timed to coincide with the meeting in Melbourne of the Foreign Ministers of the Quad, the group of India, the US, Japan and Australia that is emerging as the linchpin of American strategy in the Indo-Pacific.

The strategy document warned: "The PRC (People's Republic of China) is combining its economic, diplomatic, military, and technological might as it pursues a sphere of influence in the IndoPacific and seeks to become the world's most influential power."

A senior administration official who briefed reporters about the strategy document said that there was "a recognition that India is a critical strategic partner, and a desire to continue building on the very good work of previous administrations to significantly broaden and deepen that relationship".

Working with India is seen "as a very, very high priority", the official said.

"There is tremendous appreciation of the importance and the challenges of strengthening the engagement with India and a recognition that India is a critical strategic partner," according to the official.

Asked about the likelihood of a defence pact with India like the AUKUS, the alliance between the US, Australia and the UK, the official cited the different situation in India in regards to achieving such an agreement without explicitly ruling it out.

"Obviously, you know, India is in a very different place, in many ways, than Australia, than other countries," the official said.

"India faces very significant challenges. And I think that, you know, China's behaviour in the Line of Actual Control has had a galvanising impact on India.

"We see tremendous opportunities in working with another democracy, with a country that has a maritime tradition that understands

"We will foster security ties between our allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond, including by finding new opportunities to link our defence industrial bases, integrating our defence supply chains, and co-producing key technologies that will shore up our collective military advantages," it added.

Highlighting the challenge from China, the strategic plan said: "We will focus on every corner of the region, from Northeast Asia and Southeast Asia, to South Asia and Oceania, including the Pacific Islands.

"In a quickly changing strategic landscape, we recognise that American interests can only be advanced if we firmly anchor the United States in the Indo-Pacific and strengthen the region itself, alongside our closest allies and partners."

Injecting a note of urgency, the document said: "Our collective efforts over the next decade will determine whether the PRC succeeds in transforming the rules and norms that have benefitted the Indo-Pacific and the world."

The document noted that many of the US allies and partners are also focusing on the region and support for enhancing US involvement in the region has support in the US across party lines.

The document acknowledges that the US illusions of changing China into a responsible democracy through engagement are dead.

"Our objective is not to change the PRC but to shape the strategic environment in which it operates, building a balance of influence in the world that is maximally favourable to the US, our allies and partners, and the interests and values we share.

"We will also seek to manage competition with the PRC responsibly," but will cooperate with Beijing in areas like climate change and nuclear nonproliferation," it said.

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New York, February 11 (IANS): The Quad on February 11 called for the elimination of terrorist safe havens and for bringing to justice the perpetrators of crossborder terrorism.

integrity of regional countries."

"We call on all countries to ensure that territory under their control is not used to launch terror attacks and to expeditiously bring to justice the perpetrators of such attacks," the Foreign Ministers of the Quad nations said in a joint statement after their meeting in Melbourne.

"We reiterate the importance of adherence to international law, particularly as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to meet challenges to the maritime rules-based order, including in South and East China Seas," the statement said.

Reiterating the condemnation of the 26/11 Mumbai and Pathankot terrorist attacks, the statement said: "We denounce the use of terrorist proxies for crossborder terrorism and urge countries to work together to eliminate terrorist safe havens; disrupt terrorist networks and the infrastructure and financial channels which sustain them, and halt cross-border movement of terrorists."

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Foreign Ministers Marise Payne of Australia and Hayashi Yoshimasa of Japan who participated in the meeting focused on joint action, said in their statement: "The Quad is exchanging information on ever-evolving threats and working with Indo-Pacific countries, and in multilateral fora, to counter all forms of terrorism and violent extremism."

They warned that "ungoverned spaces" are "a direct threat to the safety and security of the IndoPacific" and said, "Afghan territory should not be used to threaten or attack any country, shelter or train terrorists, or plan or finance terrorist acts".

The statement said they were committed to the "Indo-Pacific countries' efforts to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific - a region which is inclusive and resilient, and in which states strive to protect the interests of their people, free from coercion".

Without mentioning China which poses a common threat to the four countries, the ministers said: "Quad partners champion the free, open, and inclusive rules-based order, rooted in international law, that protects the sovereignty and territorial

Their statement made a pointed reference to the South and East China Seas where Beijing has posed a direct threat to countries in the area.

"The Quad recognises that international law, peace, and security in the maritime domain underpins the development and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific," it added.

The ministers said they would "deepen engagement with regional partners, including through capacity-building and technical assistance, to strengthen maritime domain awareness, protect their ability to develop offshore resources, consistent with UNCLOS, ensure freedom of navigation and overflight, combat challenges, such as illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and promote the safety and security of sea lines of communication".

Their statement highlighted their initiative to provide 1.3 billion vaccines around the region with India being the manufacturer of the vaccine.

"We are pleased with the Quad Vaccine Partnership's rapid progress in expanding vaccine production at the Biological E Ltd facility in India, which aims to deliver at least 1 billion vaccines by the end of 2022," it said.

The first batch of Quadsupported vaccines would become available in the first half of this year, it said.

As another element of Quad's humanitarian assistance and disaster response programmes, the statement said that it was helping recovery efforts in Tonga which was hit by volcano eruption and tsunami last month.

The Quad ministers who met under the shadow of tensions in Europe because of the confrontation between Russia and Ukraine, did not broach the topic in their statement.

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WORLD THIS WEEK

WORLD THIS WEEK Contributed by the National Institute for Advanced Studies, Bengaluru

Compiled by D. Suba Chandran, Ashwin Dhanabalan, Angkuran Dey and Meghna Manoj

Escalation and de-escalation in the Ukraine crisis

UPI.com

What happened?

On 03 February, French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He was stated to have discussed the importance of strategic balance in Europe to maintain order and guarantee security and the need to "accelerate" the peace process in Eastern Ukraine. According to a Kremlin statement: "The substantive dialogue on the situation around Ukraine and issues related to the Russian initiative to develop longterm legally binding security guarantees for the Russian Federation was continued. The leaders exchanged views on the current state of affairs, including in the context of recent contacts with several international partners and France's Presidency at the EU Council. Vladimir Putin again emphasized the provocative statements and actions of the Kiev leadership, which run counter to the Minsk agreements."

On the same day, the Pentagon's press secretary, in a press briefing, mentioned: "Russians are likely to want to fabricate a pretext for an invasion, which again, is right out of their playbook. One option is that the Russian government is planning to stage a fake attack by Ukrainian military or intelligence forces against Russian sovereign territory or against Russianspeaking people to justify their action. As part of this fake attack, we believe that Russia would produce a very graphic propaganda video, which would include corpses and actors that would be depicting mourners and images of destroyed locations."

On 2 February, the Pentagon Press secretary said in a briefing: "Our commitment to NATO Article 5 and collective defense remains ironclad. As part of this commitment and to be prepared for a range of contingencies, the United States will soon move additional forces to Romania, Poland and Germany."

Earlier, on 01 February, in a press conference in Moscow, Putin accused the US of ignoring the Russian proposals put forward

by Moscow. He was not satisfied

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with the US response to Russian demands on NATO's troops and infrastructure removal from Eastern Europe and barred Ukraine from entering NATO. Putin mentioned how: "It's already clear that Russia's principal concerns were ignored."

There was also a call by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov for governments to adhere to the 1999 agreement, the violation of which was the basis of the Ukraine crisis.

On 31 January, at the UNSC council meeting, the US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said: "The threats of aggression on the border of Ukraine ... is provocative. Our recognition of the facts on the ground is not provocative." The UNSC experienced a spillover of the tensions at the Ukrainian border as the countries accused each other of being provocative.

She further stated how: "The provocation is from Russia, not from us or other members of this council." Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia responded: "Our Western colleagues are talking about the need for de-escalation.

However, first and foremost, they themselves are whipping up tensions and rhetoric and are provoking escalation." Nebenzia also disputed the number of troops stationed at the border.

What does it mean?

With the revival of the Normandy format talks, one could also revisit the Minsk Protocol, a set of agreements signed in 2014 and 2015. The recent days witnessed both escalation and de-escalation; the revival of the Normandy format is essential in this context.

ALSO IN NEWS China: 2022 Winter Olympics kicks off On 4 February, the lighting of the seven Olympic rings brought an end to the grand opening ceremony as the XXIV Winter Olympics in Beijing was declared open. The opening ceremony saw athletes from 91 National Olympic Committees (NOC's) participating together. On this occasion, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach stated: "You have arrived here after overcoming so many challenges, living through great uncertainty. But now your moment has come: the moment you have been longing for – the moment we all have been longing for."

China: President Xi meets President Putin On 4 February, on the sidelines of the Winter Olympics' inauguration, the two Presidents of China and Russia met.

Time

mid-February on the charges of influencing the country's election commission in the 2020 elections.

According to a Kremlin release, a "joint Russia-China statement and a package of documents have been adopted within the framework of the visit. They include an intergovernmental agreement on cooperation in anti-monopoly legislation and competitive policy and several other interdepartmental documents, such as the agreement on cooperation in ensuring compatibility and interoperability of GLONASS and BeiDou navigation satellite systems in terms of the system time scales; a joint statement on the completion of a roadmap for high-quality development of Russian-Chinese trade in goods and services; and a plan of consultations between the foreign ministries of Russia and China in 2022. In addition to that, the sides have signed a memorandum of understanding between the Russian Economic Development Ministry and the Chinese Ministry of Commerce to promote investment cooperation in sustainable (green) development, and a joint statement between the relevant ministries on holding the Russian and Chinese years of cooperation in physical education and sports in 2022–2023."

North Korea: Pyongyang's longrange missile launch and the US condemnation On 30 January, North Korea fired a long-range missile test that covered the longest distance since 2017. The missile covered a distance of 800 kilometres, reaching an altitude of 2,000 kilometres before landing in the sea. The test marks North Korea's seventh-round weapons launch since the new year.

The US military's Indo-Pacific command said: "The United States condemns these actions and calls on [North Korea] to refrain from further destabilizing acts."

Myanmar: 11th corruption charge against Suu Kyi On 4 February, the military regime placed the 11th corruption charge against Aung San Suu Kyi for allegedly receiving a USD 550,000 donation as charity. The donation was received by the charity foundation named after her mother. Each corruption charge carries a possible 15-year jail term, and so far, Suu Kyi is facing more than 150 years in prison. Her next round of indictments will commence in

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ASEAN: Myanmar's top diplomat barred from attending the forthcoming foreign ministers' meeting On 3 February, ASEAN announced the barring of Myanmar's top diplomat Wunna Maung Lwin from attending an upcoming Foreign Ministers meeting.

Cambodia's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Chum Sounry said: "Since there has been little progress in carrying out ASEAN's Five-Point Consensus, the ASEAN member states did not reach a consensus to invite Myanmar SAC's foreign minister to participate in the upcoming foreign ministers' retreat." He additionally said that the group had asked Myanmar to send a non-political representative.

Afghanistan: Claims of progress in acquiring international recognition On 4 February, Afghanistan's Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi mentioned the progress the Islamic Emirate had made in gaining worldwide recognition. He stated: "Our understanding and talks that we have had with everyone is a good achievement and that is a progress, we have come closer to that goal." The statement was made after the Afghan delegation held a series of meetings with delegations from the US, the European nations, and the EU. Muttaqi went ahead and invited countries to set up their embassies in Kabul and called for normalizing relations.

Nepal: MoU with India to construct a bridge on the Mahakali river On 1 February, India and Nepal signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for constructing a motorable road on the Mahakali river. A statement released by the Indian embassy in Kathmandu stated: "This is in line with the priority shared by both the governments to expand cross-border connectivity for streamlining commercial, cultural and people-to-people exchanges."

Sri Lanka: India's EXIM bank to extend USD 500 million On 3 February, India's ExportImport Bank (EXIM) signed an agreement with the Sri Lankan government to extend the USD 500 million line of credit to the cash-strapped country. Sri Lanka faces significant fuel shortages and is reeling under an economic

crisis. An official statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs of India stated: "This critical support comes in the wake of a virtual meeting between the External Affairs Minister of India S. Jaishankar and Sri Lanka's Minister of Finance Basil Rajapaksa, held on 15 January."

The UK: Sue Grey's report on PM Johnson's party gate scandals On 1 February, civil servant Sue Grey released her report on Prime Minister Boris Johnson's party gate scandals. She said she found "failures of leadership and judgement" on Johnson's part. However, the report did not live up to its expectations as it provided little details about the 16 parties held. Additionally, there was a jurisdictional issue as 12 parties were not held in government buildings and are yet to be investigated by London's Metropolitan Police as a subject of criminal investigation.

Italy: President Mattarella gets re-elected On 30 January, Italian President Sergio Mattarella withdrew his retirement plans and got elected as President at the end of the eighth round of voting. Mattarella was ready to move out of the Presidential Quirinale Palace quarters to a new apartment in Rome. But, he recalled his decision to retire in the wake of a potential power vacuum in Italy. Mattarella said: "I had other plans, but if needed, I am at your disposal."

The US: Warning to Chinese firms on helping Russia amidst potential sanctions On 3 February, the US issued a warning to Chinese firms regarding the consequences of evading export controls in the case of a Ukrainian invasion by Russia. The US, along with other Western countries, has said that an invasion of Ukraine would bring sanctions on Moscow.

The US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price stated: "We have an array of tools that we can deploy if we see foreign companies, including those in China, doing their best to backfill US export control actions, to evade them, to get around them."

About the authors Ashwin Dhanabalan is a Research Assistant at the National Institute of Advanced Studies. Angkuran Dey, and Meghna Manoj are Postgraduate scholars at the Center for South Asian Studies at Pondicherry University.

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EDITORIAL

From the editor's desk Hijab or no hijab: A fundamental question Religious tourism and economy: The case of Kashi Vishwanath Dham O

By Kumar Mihir

Bloomsberg

S

ince 2014 there has been a significant rise in the media debate, national discourse and public imagination on India’s ancient culture, heritage and religious practices. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led government at the centre since 2014 and Yogi Adityanath led government in Uttar Pradesh since 2017 have galvanized Hindu consciousness which is expected to yield enormous economic benefits to the state and central exchequers.

Be it the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj in 2019, or the Ram Temple construction in Ayodhya or most recently the inauguration of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor (KVC) by PM Modi in Varanasi, religious tourism is going to generate significant revenue for both center and the state, given the fact that 60% of India’s tourism has a religious purpose as well.

The Kashi Vishwanth Dham (KVD) and Corridor is the latest jewel in the crown of India’s religious tourism which along with the beautification of the ghats, cleaning of the Ganges, upgradation of the Varanasi and Maduadih railway stations, airport to city road construction, decongestion and traffic regulation in the old city near the Kashi Vishwanth Dham have all metamorphosized Varanasi’s appeal for tourists.

KVD has been the dream project of PM Modi across a sprawling 50,000 sq meters of area, completed in 21 months at the cost of Rs. 345 crores, using seven types of stones from Makarana in Rajasthan. In the KVD vicinity 300 building were purchased for 339 croresto clear the land for the KVD and KVC. The KVC itself covers 5.3 lakh square feet of area including 80 feet long and 40 feet wide parikrama path. In the process of acquiring land the government regained control of over 40 ancient temples hidden inside private homes in the area.

An 80-step pathway and an escalator has also been provided for pilgrims to visit the temple after taking a dip in the holy Ganges.

Despite the Omicron variant, a 20% jump in tourism has

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been recorded in the Kashi and Ayodhya circuit, and soon Vrindavan and Mathura will be added to the list. Kashi’s syncretic culture and appeal — which has been attracting tourists for time memorial to the Buddhists centre of learning- Sarnath, magnificent ghats, the holy Ganges, Banarasisaree trade and also as a centre of ancient learning where the saints like MahakaviTulsidas who wrote the Ram Charitmanas at Tulsi Ghat and Sant Kabir, and Raja Harishchandra - the epitome of honesty and self-righteousness became immortalized in India’s spiritual consciousness — will receive a further boost, courtesy the KVD. When it comes to religious tourism, the general imagination is that of tourists over 45 years of age thronging tourist sites, but interestingly, in recent years the millennials and youth between 18 and 35 have been powering India’s religious tourism. In the latest Union budget there is an increase of Rs 2400 crores for bolstering tourism infrastructure, marketing, promotion and capacity building which will benefit the hard hit hospitality sector, small businesses, local shopkeepers, tour operators, handicraft and cottage industry, andthe local public and transport infrastructure.

The India Brand Equity Foundation believes that the five-year tax holiday for 2-, 3- and 4-star hotels around the UNESCO heritage sites will also benefit Varanasi. Additionally, the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme increase from Rs 50,000 croresto Rs. five lakh crores and extension until March 2023 will resuscitate the hospitality and SME sector significantly. IBEF also forecasts that tourism-based revenue in India is expected to jump from Rs 15.24 trillion (US$234.03 billion) in 2017 to Rs. 32.05 trillion (US$429.21 bn) in 2028, and cities like Kashi will be one of the key contributors to that jump.

n February 5, the Karnataka government, passed an order in exercise of its powers under Section 133 of the Karnataka Education Act, 1983, inter-alia directing that in colleges that come under the pre-university education department's jurisdiction, the uniforms mandated by the College Development Committee, or the board of management, should be worn and in the event, the management does mandate a uniform, students should wear clothes that are in the interests of unity, equality, and public order.

When this order was sought to be implemented by the Government PU Colleges in Udupi which barred few girls from wearing hijab and insisted on implementing a uniform dress code, few girls opposed the ban which for political reasons evolved into agitations and counter agitations, first across Karnataka and subsequently, to other parts of the country, supporting or opposing the right to wear hijabs in classrooms.

Therefore, a fundamental question arises as to whether Article 25 of the Constitution protects the right of students to wear hijabs in class rooms which will now be decided by the Karnataka High Court and most probably by the Honourable Supreme Court.

A similar controversy arose in 2003 when the Bombay High Court in the case of Fatima Hussain Syed v/s Bharat Education Society and Others, ruled that it was not a violation of Article 25 of the Constitution for the principal to prohibit the wearing of headscarf or head covering in the school.

Further in 2018, the Honourable Kerala High Court in its judgment dated December 4, 2018 titled Fathima Thasneem (Minor) vs State of Kerala & Others had sought to balance the fundamental right of a woman to have the choice of dress based on religious injunctions and the fundamental right to establish, manage and administer an institution. In the said background, the Kerala High Court held that individual rights/ interest must give yield to the larger public interest and therefore, it is for the institution

to decide whether the petitioners can be permitted to attend the classes with the headscarf and full sleeve shirt and if a student does not wish to abide by the dress code, they can seek Transfer Certificate.

However, despite the said decision, the said dispute is being raised again and has now attained the status of a national debate only due to vested political interest and ongoing elections in several states wherein people have started to take extreme positions where one side is insisting on hijabs and the other side is insisting on wearing saffron shawls and scarves in class rooms.

It is a settled legal position that no fundamental right is absolute in nature. Article 25 of the Constitution which provides the fundamental right to profess, practice and propagate a religion is also subject to restrictions in the interest of public order, morality, health and other interests of the State. Even assuming that wearing hijab is a religious practice, the same is not absolute and must give way to larger interests of public order and state. The said position has also been upheld by the Honourable Supreme Court in Asha Ranjan and others v/s State of Bihar and others (2017) holding that individual interest must yield to the larger public interest. Thus, conflict over competing rights can be resolved not by negating individual rights but by upholding the larger right to remain, to hold such relationships between institutions and students.

A uniform dress code is introduced with an objective to bring homogeneity and a sense of uniformity and to implement a sense of order and discipline amongst the students and any insistence on deviating from the said dress code, defeats the said objective. The right to establish and administer an institution under Article 19(1)(g) or Article 29 & 30 will also include the right to maintain order and discipline in the same and if the institutional rules are not followed by a student, the institution has a right to deny entry to that student as well.

For example, if an institution prohibits burqa or short skirts or lungis in class, the students cannot insist on wearing the same

on the ground that the right to wear a cloth as per their choice at all places is their fundamental right and therefore the same must also be allowed in schools and colleges. Similarly, if a minority institution mandates hijabs as part of their mandatory dress code, no student can deny to wear the same on the ground that wearing them violates their religion.

Therefore, the larger question i.e. whether wearing hijab is an essential practice of Islam and therefore, the students have a fundamental right to wear hijabs is only being stoked due to vested political interests and Courts must be very careful in dealing with the same as the same will directly affect the unity and social fabric of our country. Further, even if the same is held to be a fundamental right, the same must be subject to restrictions which must include a respect for the dress code sought to be implemented by the Institution.

We also need to understand that banning hijabs or other face covering from school uniforms is not confined to our country or something unique being imposed by the ruling party. In 2011, France banned burqa covering the face in public schools and barred students from displaying any form of religious symbols.

Subsequently, several other countries such as Switzerland, Netherlands, Belgium, China, Austria, Bulgaria, and Sri Lanka amongst others have imposed a ban on hijabs and other facial and head coverings on public transportation, in government buildings and at health and education institutions.

Painting all these countries as Islamophobic on account of the ban imposed by them, may not be correct. Public security, sense of equality and checking religious extremism have been a valid reason for upholding the ban on the hijab, which anyways is perceived as a symbol of women oppression and no freedom of choice can be allowed to trump these valid concerns of the society at large.

"What to wear in a classroom is not important, what to learn is" and therefore, instead of fighting for wearing hijab in classrooms, we need to fight for better teachers, laboratories and colleges which is the need of the hour.

What is more heartening that the youth of India will not only push India’s economic growth but also deepen the connections between India past heritage and culture and modernity and youth.

(The author is Advocate-onRecord in Supreme Court of India)

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INDIA NEWS

Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

SPECIAL FEATURE

Lata Mangeshkar - An everlasting national treasure for India

NDTV.com

By DC Pathak When I was a teenager, my eldest brother, who was a poet at heart, once said 'Lata Mangeshkar was the best thing that happened to India'. That for the legend, Basant Panchmi turned out to be the last day of her life was in a way the ultimate tribute to her as the

musical appeal and civilisational heritage. That she was cremated with national honour with Prime Minister Modi personally appearing for her last rites, was a dignified gesture of a grateful nation. India has produced great sons and daughters but what is certain is that there would not be another Lata Mangeshkar for this nation.

singer with the 'gift of Saraswati' who would take the voice of India to all corners of the world. She was a Bharat Ratna who was also honoured with the Legion of Honour by France -- a country symbolising the best in European culture -- confirming the universality of Lata Mangeshkar's

This uniqueness is both about her singing talent as well as her persona as a star nationally respected as Lata Didi. Her story was a fabulous illustration of the journey of a self-made person who began with shouldering the responsibility of a large family as a teenager and through a rare self-belief, commitment to a value system and the unwavering devotion to the goal in her life, rose to become the 'Nightingale of India'. At the height of her fame, she lived a life on her terms, preserved her lively interest in cricket and cars and remained an embodiment of Indian womanhood in terms of generosity, innate wisdom that enabled her to be stable in success and a healthy interest in the state of the nation. What would remain unchanged about her was her white 'sari', a red 'bindi' and the two braids. It is remarkable that as a legend she carried this image of purity till the end in an effortless way.

Her memory will always inspire respect, affection and admiration for her singing genius.

Talking of her fame as a playback singer, there is no doubt that the haunting initial four lines of the famous song ‘Ayega Aanewala’ rendered without a rhyming tune - 'Khaamosh Hai Zamaana' - established the unparalleled

beauty of her singing. Some of the greatest songs of the genre of impactful sadness sung by Lata Mangeshkar include ‘Mushkil Hai Bahut Mushkil’, ‘Ye Zindagi Usi Ki Hai' and ‘Tum Na Jane Kis Jahan Me Kho Gaye’. Of the melodious tunes, songs like ‘Bande Mataram’ of ‘Anand Math', ‘Jago Mohan Pyare' of ‘Jagate Raho' and ‘Gaaye Chalaja' of ‘Hamlog’ will remain in memory. And of course there are immortal romantic duets like ‘Pyar Hua Ikarar Hua Hai’, ‘Kitana Hasin Hai Mausam’ and ‘Yaad Kiya Dil Ne Kahan Ho Tum' with Manna Dey, Chitalkar and Hemant Kumar. Some youthful songs of lilting tunes have their own place for the fans- ‘Jiya Bekarar Hai’, ‘Thandi Hawaein’ and ‘Kare Badara Tu Na Ja Na Ja’.

And of course, Lata Mangeshkar sang a number of songs totally based on classical music such as ‘Thare Rahiyo’, ‘Raina Beeti Jaye’ and ‘Preetam Daras Dikhao’ directed by Ghulam Mohammad, RD Barman and Madan Mohan.

One can have a collection of her songs including duets for a spell of soothing music of one's choice.

Bharat Ratna Lata Mangeshkar's greatness lies in her exceptional contribution to national unity through her art and influence -bringing together Indians of all communities, classes and regions as her fans. She represented at the highest levels the universal beauty of Indian music rooted in our tradition and quickly became the cultural ambassador of India in distant lands beyond the subcontinent or the diaspora.

That she was totally apolitical reinforces the civilisational strength of India which has to be preserved and fostered for the interest of all countrymen.

By DC Pathak

The message of culture does not need a language and supersedes the lesser divides inflicted in the name of religion, language and ethnicity by politically motivated elements.

Lata Mangeshkar leaves behind a legacy of how our national icons must carry forward India's image and prestige in the world outside and thus contribute to the nation's strength and standing as a promoter of universal peace and human welfare. Cultural nationalism unites people at home and does not create conflict with the world outside- religion represents differing modes of worship but provides an input to culture that helps to socially unite people. It is the projection of religion into politics - mostly the doing of community leaders of the minorities - that induces divisiveness and impedes national unity. Lata Mangeshkar united India in a manner that was as effective as it was subtle and sublime.

(The writer is a former Director of the Intelligence Bureau)

Lata Mangeshkar, India's singing Goddess New Delhi, Feb 8 (IANS): For nearly eight decades, Lata Mangeshkar defined Hindi film music. Diminutive, Indore-born Lata was literally nurtured in music. Her father Dinanath Mangeshkar ran a theatre company and later did music concerts. So, a two-year-old Lata would sit by her father's side while he did his daily 'riyaaz'.

By the time she was five, she would warble abhangs and other songs from her father's repertory of classical and traditional songs.

Lata was the eldest of the five Mangeshkar siblings -- Asha, Meena, Usha and Hridaynath.

Incidentally all would grow up and make a name for themselves.

Unfortunately, after some professional disasters, Dinanath died leaving the family destitute in 1942.

All the responsibility fell on 13-year-old Lata. She had appeared in bit roles till then but now she needed more work.

Family friend Master Vinayak (father of actress Nanda) came forward to help. He helped the

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young Lata get her a break in friend Vasant Joglekar's film Kittie Ha Saal in 1942. She started working in Master Vinayak's company, Navyug Chitrapat.

Kumar, too, got his break in this film). 'Ziddi' was followed by 'Buzdil', both in 1948. and in 1949, the superhit 'Aayega Aanewala' in 'Mahal'.

In 1945, this company moved to Mumbai and the young Lata followed too. While the initial days were of tremendous struggle, Lata started learning classical music under Ustad Aman Ali Khan of the Bhindi Bazaar Gharana.

This Kamal Amrohi film had music by Khemchand Prakash.

Lata's rise to the top thereafter was swift.

In 1946, she got her first Hindi film in Vasant Joglekar's 'Aap Ki Seva Mein' (1945). She kept on doing an odd song or the other until Master Ghulam Haider (better known as the composer of Kamal Amrohi's 'Pakeezah') became her mentor and got her a job in Bombay Talkies and her first hit was in 'Majboor' in 1948 where Ghulam Haider gave the music.

Haider also got her to improve her Urdu diction.

In 1948, she got her big breakthrough in 'Ziddi' from Bombay Talkies, starring Dev Anand and Kamini Kaushal, with music by S.D. Burman (Kishore

She soon became the default choice as the playback singer for most leading ladies and composers. Once Bade Ghulam Ali Khan said about her "Kambakth kabhi sur nahin chhodti" -- damn, she never drops a note.

From the Fifties to the Eighties, Lata delivered hundreds of hit songs under various composers.

She was the first choice of filmmakers such as Mehboob Khan, V. Shantaram, Bimal Roy, Raj Kapoor, the Anand brothers, (Chetan, Dev and Vijay), Raj Khosla, Yash Chopra, Amiya Chakravarty and L.V. Prasad.

Let us not forget this was the golden age of Hindi film music with composers such as Anil Biswas, Naushad, S.D. Burman,

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Khemchand Prakash, C. Ramchandra. Shanker-Jaikishen, Roshan, Madan Mohan, Khayyam, Salil Chowdhury, Vasant Desai, Hemant Kumar, Ravi, KalyanjiAnandji, Laxmikant-Pyarelal, and later Rajesh Roshan, Bappi Lahiri and Anu Malik.

Poets such as Sahir, Shailendra, Majrooh, Shakeel, Kaifi, Indeevar and Anand Bakshi were also among some of the most talkedabout individuals.

Among the singers, we had Suraiya, Geeta Dutt, Asha Bhosle, Shamshad Begum and Suman Kalyanpur, among women, and Mohamad Rafi, Kishore Kumar, Mukesh, Hemant Kumar, Talat Mehmood and Manna Dey. Lata Mangeshkar was the voice most heard and liked in India.

Lata Mangeshkar never married, though there were whispers about her liaisons with C. Ramachandra, Raj Kapoor, Jaikishen, and an extended close friendship with cricketer-prince Raj Singh Dungarpur.

Such was her respect that such innuendo never impacted her

image. She would come to the studio dressed in exquisite white sarees with a prominent bindi carrying a thermos of warm water. Rarely would she ask for a cup of tea.

She did not socialise much and spent most of her time with her family, doting on her mother and nieces and nephews. Cricket and photography were her favourite hobbies, and she could whip up a mean dinner if required I got to know her in my early days in Navketan, but came closer to her once I turned a lyricist n 1973.

In fact she sang the first song I wrote 'Dur Dur Tum Rahe', for which she got the West Bengal Film Journalists' Association Award.

Over time, she got fond of me partly because I was the youngest writer of lyrics and partly because of the language, which was a little different from the conventional Hindi/Urdu used in film songs. It was only after a couple of years of working together that she opened up.

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Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

INDIA NEWS

India's FY23 GDP growth projected at 7.8%: RBI Gov IANS

financial conditions engendered by the RBI's policy actions will provide impetus to investment activity."

Besides, he cited that surveys done by the RBI reveal that capacity utilisation is rising, and the outlook on business and consumer confidence remain in optimistic territory.

Furthermore, he said that the prospects for agriculture have brightened on "good progress" of winter crop sowing.

Mumbai, February 10 (IANS): India's GDP is expected to grow at 7.8 percent in FY 2022-23, said RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das on February 10.

In a statement after the Monetary Policy Committee's bi-monthly meet, Das said the real GDP growth is projected at 17.2 per cent in Q1FY23, at 7 per cent in Q2; at 4.3 percent in Q3 and Q4 at 4.5 per cent.

"In India, real GDP growth at 9.2 percent for 2021-22 takes it modestly above the level of GDP in 2019-20. Private consumption, the mainstay of domestic

demand, continues to trail its pre-pandemic level," he said.

"The persistent increase in international commodity prices, surge in volatility of global financial markets and global supply bottlenecks can exacerbate risks to the outlook."

According to Das, going forward, the government's thrust on capital expenditure and exports are expected to enhance productive capacity and strengthen aggregate demand.

"This would also crowd in private investment. The conducive

In conclusion, Das said: "Overall, there is some loss of the momentum of near-term growth while global factors are turning adverse."

"Looking ahead, domestic growth drivers are gradually improving."

On February 10, RBI retained its key short-term lending rates during the sixth and final monetary policy review of FY22.

Further, the growth-oriented accommodative stance was retained to give a push to economic activity.

In addition, the RBI's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) maintained the repo rate, or short-term lending rate, for commercial banks, at 4 percent.

MGNREGA was infested with ghost accounts, became hub of corruption, says Finance Minister

IANS

Agriculture from 2013-14 and Rs 68,000 crore has been provided for 'Kisan Samman Nidhi' through Direct Benefit Transfer.

Speaking on the health sector allocation, Sitharaman stated that Rs 86,000 crore has been allocated in the Budget which was Rs 80,000 crore during the current fiscal (2021-22) and was Rs 64,000 crore in 2019-20.

New Delhi, February 11 (IANS): Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 11 said that the UPA government launched Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) scheme which was infested with ghost accounts and turned out to be a source of corruption at that time.

Responding to the general discussion on the General Budget 2022-23 in the Rajya Sabha, the Minister said that the scheme was brought by an Act because of them (UPA Government), but I would like to say that MGNREGA's misuse was also because of them.

"MGNREGA was infested with ghost accounts, its misuse was also to their credit," Sitharaman

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said pointing towards the Opposition bench. At this, the Opposition members created an uproar.

It was a demand driven programme, meant to provide employment during lean season of agriculture. Slamming the Opposition, she further said: "We are now working towards creating it and using it properly with transparency," she added.

Responding to comments regarding funds to the agriculture sector and subsidies to Fertiliser, she said that the government has ensured that burden does not shift to the farmer.

On doubling farmers' income, she said that this Budget has an increase of 6.6 times in expenditure of the Department of

The Minister also listed out the various monetary schemes and allocations being given to the Micro, Medium and Small Enterprises (MSME) sector in light of the pandemic. She also said that it was alleged that 67 per cent of MSMEs were shut but they (Opposition) failed to mention that those were temporarily shut due to the Covid induced lockdown and now they are currently afloat using credit guarantee schemes.

Talking about inflation, Sitharaman said that inflation management was an important job for finance ministries across the world.

"Since 2014, PM Narendra Modi has ensured that we keep our inflation contained.and it is every time brought back to being within 6 per cent and our management is robust," she said, adding that the highest inflation this country had been during 2010-14 when retail inflation was around 9 per cent in most of the months.

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BUSINESS & TRADE

'This Budget is forward looking, has vision for India at 100': Sitharaman New Delhi, February 11 (IANS): The Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 11 said in the Rajya Sabha that the General Budget 2022-23 stood for continuity, was forward looking and has a vision for 'India at 100'.

Replying to the general discussion on the General Budget 202223, she said that stable and sustainable recovery was one of the motives for this Budget and highlighted the importance of emphasising digital technology in governance that will help in transparency in governance beyond easing the process for common man.

Citing the example of Kisan drone, she said that through this technology, the spraying of fertilizers and pesticides will be done quickly and effectively while the crop density and other surveys can be made easily.

Replying to the budgetary provisions aimed at the next 25 years when India will be attaining 100 years of independence, she said that if we do not have a vision for the next 25 years, we will end up like 65 years of Congress when everything was done for a

particular family, she alleged.

Noting that there were many occasions in the past when the economy of the country contracted, she further said that this pandemic period of crisis is a big one, and the loss to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is much higher.

Replying to the issue of unemployment, Sitharaman said, "One big number that people (opposition) picked up was the 60 lakhs jobs provided in the budgetary provisions, the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) which is now being given for 14 sectors will create 60 lakh jobs in the future."

Over Rs seven lakh crore is being spent on infrastructure and this will also create jobs, she added.

The Finance Minister also said that questions were asked on the increase in allocation of Urban Affairs, as they (opposition) said that the increase was purely for Central Vista. She clarified that the increase in the Housing Ministry Budget was not for Central Vista, but for the PM Aawas Yojana-Urban.

India's forex reserves rises over $2 bn Mumbai, February 11 (IANS): India's foreign exchange reserves rose by $2.198 billion during the week ended February 4.

The Reserve Bank of India's forex reserves increased to $631.953 billion from $629.755 billion reported for January 28.

The country's forex reserves comprises foreign currency assets (FCAs), gold reserves, SDRs, and the country's reserve position with the IMF.

On a weekly basis, FCAs, the largest component of the forex reserves, edged higher by $2.251 billion to $568.329 billion. However, the value of the country's gold reserves decreased by $210 million to $39.283 billion.

The SDR value rose by $98 million to $19.108 billion and the country's reserve position with the IMF increased by $59 million to $5.233 billion.

Australia-India Infrastructure Forum launched, tourism MoU renewed New Delhi, Feb 14 (IANS): Following meetings between India's Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and Australian Trade, Tourism and Investment Minister Dan Tehan in New Delhi, the Australian government has also renewed the bilateral MoU on tourism cooperation and launched the Australia India Infrastructure Forum.

As per the Australian Trade Commission, the renewed MoU positions tourism operators to take advantage of Australian international border reopening to all fully vaccinated eligible visa holders, including tourists and business travellers, from February 21. Under the MoU, Australia and India will promote travel between the two markets and advance cooperation on tourism policy, data sharing, training and industry engagement.

Pre-pandemic, India was Australia's fastest-growing source of international visitors. In 2019, almost 400,000 visitors from India visited Australia and spent a combined total of $1.8 billion.

"The Australia India Infrastructure Forum will serve as a hub to promote two-way investment in infrastructure. As a side initiative of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement, currently under negotiation with India, it will also support our broader trade and investment objectives. A new $5.8 million Bay of Bengal Connectivity Partnership will expand this work to other countries in the region.

"These initiatives reflect our nations' shared commitment to cooperation and exchange, as set out in the AustraliaIndia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, agreed in June 2020," the Trade Commission said.

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Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

INDIA NEWS

MAKE IN INDIA

MAKE IN INDIA

As world economies restart their engines in a bid to regain lost ground due to the Covid-19 pandemic, India too shows signs of economic buoyancy and promise. India’s Make in India initiative holds a key to the global economic revival, something that should interest Australian government ministries, corporate sector, entrepreneurs, institutions seeking R&D collaborations and Australia Inc in general, among others.

India assumes greater importance as several major world economies including American, Japanese, German, British and South Korean look to move out and diversify their businesses from China. India has jumped to 63rd rank in the World Bank’s Ease of Development 2020 report, and has also been ranked as the 9th largest recipient of Foreign Direct Investment destinations in 2019 by the World Investment Report 2020 of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

Lower manufacturing eases India's Dec 2021 industrial production sequentially, YoY Invest Guru India

New Delhi, February 11 (IANS): Subdued manufacturing growth as well as unfavourable base eased India's industrial output sequentially as well as on a yearon-year basis in December 2021, official data showed on February 11.

The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) for December 2021 rose by only 0.4 per cent from a rise of 1.34 per cent reported for November 2021.

Similarly, the production rate was lower on a year-on-year basis. In December 2020, the IIP had risen by 2.2 per cent.

"The Indices of Industrial Production for the 'Mining, Manufacturing and Electricity' sectors for the month of December 2021 stand at 120.3, 138.8 and 162.5, respectively."

mild uptick, the YoY IIP growth crumbled to a marginal 0.4 per cent in December 2021, partly on account of an unfavourable base," ICRA Chief Economist Aditi Nayar said.

On a YoY basis, the mining excavation output grew by 2.6 per cent from (-) 3 per cent in December 2021. However, manufacturing production slipped by 0.1 per cent from a rise of 2.7 per cent and electricity generation rose at a slower rate of 2.8 percent from 5.1 per cent.

"The contraction in capital goods, consumer durables and consumer non-durables, along with a feeble growth in the remaining categories ranging from 0.3 per cent to 2.8 percent in December 2021, add heft to the MPC's decision to remain growth supportive in light of the incomplete recovery."

Among the major use-based segments, the December data, on a YoY basis, showed that manufacturing of primary goods grew by 2.8 per cent from 0.4 per cent, whereas capital goods production fell by 4.6 per cent from a rise of 2.2 per cent, and intermediate goods increased at a slower rate of 0.3 per cent from 2.3 per cent.

"For the month of December 2021, the Quick Estimates of Index of Industrial Production (IIP) with base 2011-12 stands at 138," said the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

Similarly, the production of infrastructure or construction goods rose at a slower rate of 1.7 percent from 3.1 percent.

New Delhi, February 12 (IANS): India, in the last seven financial years (2014-21), has received FDI inflow worth $440.27 billion which is nearly 58 per cent of the total FDI reported in the last 21 years ($763.83 billion) the Parliament was told on Friday.

set up their business in India, she added.

"Belying our expectation of a

India Ratings and Research's Principal Economist, Sunil Kumar Sinha, said: "Lacklustre IIP growth puts a question mark on the current recovery. It also indicates that policy makers may have to take more measures to support industrial recovery as high commodity prices have made most inputs, particularly fuel and materials quite expensive."

"IIP growth in December 2021 is the lowest in four months, with manufacturing being the major drag accounting for 77.6 percent weight in IIP."

Half of India's FDI since 2000 in last 7 years: Govt

India registered its highest ever annual FDI inflow of $81.97 billion (provisional figures) in 202021 despite the Covid-related disruptions, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Anupriya Patel told the Rajya Sabha in a written reply.

This indicates increasing inclination of global companies to

India jumped to 63rd place in World Bank's Ease of Doing Business ranking as per World Bank's Doing Business Report (DBR) 2020 from a rank of 142 in 2014.

Keeping in view India's vision of becoming 'Atmanirbhar' and to enhance its manufacturing capabilities and exports, an outlay of Rs 1.97 lakh crore (over $26 billion) has been announced in Union Budget 2021-22 for Production Linked Incentives(PLI) schemes for 14 key sectors of manufacturing, Patel said.

An Empowered Group of Secretaries has been constituted to fast track investments in the country. Similarly, Project Development Cells (PDCs) have been set up across Central Ministries/Departments to handhold investors and spur sectoral and economic growth.

Further, a GIS-enabled India Industrial Land Bank has been launched to help investors identify their preferred location for investment. A National Single Window System (NSWS) has also been soft launched in September 2021 to facilitate clearances for investors, the Minister said.

Exports from IT/IteS in SEZs over Rs 5 lakh crore in 2020-21: Govt New Delhi, February 12 (IANS): Exports by information Technology and Information Technology enabled Services (IT/ ITeS) units in SEZs touched Rs 5.1 lakh crore in 2020-21 as the government has taken various initiatives to promote the sector, the Parliament was informed on February 12.

The Centre has approved National

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Policy on Software Products-2019 with an aim to develop India as the global software product hub, driven by innovation, improved commercialisation, sustainable Intellectual property, promoting technology start-ups and specialised skill sets, for development of the sector, based on ICT, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Anupriya

Patel told the Rajya Sabha in a written reply.

The objective of the policy is to create a robust Indian software product development ecosystem leading to a ten-fold increase in India's share of the global software product market and so as to generate direct and indirect employment for 3.5 million people by 2025, she added.

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After 70 yrs, J&K products get global recognition; GI tags part of new export policy New Delhi/Srinagar, February 12 (IANS): The carpet industry in Jammu and Kashmir has got a shot in the arm with the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. The Indian Institute of Carpet Technology (IICT) has introduced QR Code mechanism for the purpose of testing and certification of hand-knotted carpets manufactured in Kashmir under Geographical Indication of Goods Act 1999.

The GI tag is affixed with certain products that correspond to a specific geographical location or origin. Generally, the location or the place is historically reputed for an outstanding quality product. The tag denotes geographical genuineness and ensures native sourcing of the product.

Hand-knotted Kashmiri carpets famous for their intricate and colourful floral patterns are all set to invade the markets across the globe with GI tag being the proof of their authenticity.

Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) welcomed the step of the UT government, under Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, for introducing GI tags to famed hand-knotted Kashmiri carpets. It stated that the QR code based mechanism, first of its kind in the country, for certification and labeling can help in checking the cheating that has badly dented the carpet Industry in Kashmir.

After J&K's transition into a Union Territory nine products --Kani Shawl, Kashmir Pashmina, Kashmir Sozini Craft, Kashmir Papier-Macihe, Kashmir Walnut Wood Carving, Khatamband, Kashmiri Hand Knotted Carpets and Kashmir Saffron and Basmati -- have been issued GI tag to fight counter branding.

The GI powered saffron and basmati rice have got world wide acceptance and have helped in preserving its quality as well.

Other products that are in the list of GI tagging include Kashmir's indigenous rice types, Honey, and few spices. The GI tagging is vital to get legal protection for the product.

The concept of GI-tagging was introduced soon after August 5, 2019-when the Centre announced its decision to abrogate J&K's special status. The idea was to take the products manufactured in the Union Territory to the world.

The GI tags checked the duplicity of the products and also helped

in reviving the crafts that are witnessing downfall for the past many years now. The GI tagging of J&K products has saved an individual from getting cheated and has ensured that authentic products only are sold in the market.

Besides issuing GI tags the government reduced procedural formalities for export transactions by way of fast processing of export-related documents, like issuance of licenses and import, export codes. Steps were taken to integrate the Single Window Interface for Trade system with a Single Desk Portal.

During the past two years Jammu & Kashmir Trade and Export Policy has been restructured in line with the suggestions given by the Federation of Indian Export Organisations.

People coming closer to government The promises that were made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on August 5, 2019, by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, are being fulfilled at a fast pace.

The steps taken by the Centre have helped to end the alienation.

People are coming closer to the government and are realizing that for the past 70-years they were misled by being told that J&K's special status is a shield. The past two years have proven beyond doubt that the so-called special status was no shield. It was an impediment that deprived J&K people from getting the benefits they deserved. The Article 370, which gave so-called special privileges to the natives of J&K, in fact prevented them from even getting the basic rights as Indian citizens.

The Kashmir based politicians, who every now and then, talk about "getting everything back" need to tell the people why they failed to make J&K self-reliant.

What prevented them from taking J&K products to the world?

Had they paid some attention towards the governance, by now many products of J&K would have got the GI tag. The poor craftsmen and artisans, who are still struggling to make their ends meet, would not have given up their traditional skills which they inherited from their ancestors.

They kept on raising the issue about duplicate products being sold in the markets. But no one paid any heed towards their concerns.

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Everest glaciers losing ice, thinning at alarming rate: Study IANS

important for glaciers like this one that get very little snowfall.

"The rate of ice loss measured is more than 80 times faster than the 2000 years it took to form this thickness of ice," it said.

With estimated thinning rates of nearly 2 m per year even glaciers such as South Col Glacier, which is located at the highest point in the world, may vanish by midcentury. Moreover, the study also shows the importance of snow cover and how quickly things can change for high mountain glaciers when it disappears.

New Delhi, February 8 (IANS): With estimated thinning rates of nearly two metre per year, glaciers on the Mount Everest such as South Col Glacier, which is located at the highest point in the world, the ice on Mount Everest has been thinning at an alarming rate, a latest study has found.

This study addresses a key question from the 2019 National Geographic and Rolex Perpetual Planet Everest Expedition on whether glaciers at the highest point on earth are experiencing the impacts of climate change.

The Mount Everest region has indeed been losing ice significantly since the late 1990s, it was revealed in an article published in the Nature Portfolio journal 'Climate and Atmospheric Research'.

This is significant in view of the fact that earlier studies concentrated on glaciers at lower heights and those studied from the higher altitude were done with the help of satellite images.

The Himalayas are called the third pole as it is the repository of the highest volume of ice outside the two poles.

The Everest Expedition, the single most comprehensive scientific expedition to Everest, conducted trailblazing research on glaciers and the alpine environment. The multidisciplinary team comprised scientists from eight countries, including 17 Nepali researchers.

Three of the co-authors of this study were from the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD).

Based in Kathmandu,

Nepal, ICIMOD is a regional intergovernmental learning and knowledge sharing centre for Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.

The findings are based on data from a 10-metre-long ice core obtained from South Col Glacier at an elevation of 8,020 metres above sea level (masl), as well as meteorological observations from the two highest automatic weather stations in the world located on the southern slopes of Mount Everest at 7,945 masl and 8,430 masl.

South Col Glacier lies on the main climbing route of Mount Everest on its southern ridges.

At a mean elevation of 7,985 masl, this relatively small glacier is undoubtedly the highest glacier in the world. The surface of the glacier is mainly bare ice, apart from seasonal snow and a perennial snow apron along the sides of Mount Everest, which comprise the upper reaches of this southerly oriented glacier.

"Using micro radiocarbon dating, researchers estimated that the age of ice in the glacier was about 2000 years old. Over the past two thousand years, ice accumulation was the equivalent of 27 mm of water per year, and an overall net thinning of the equivalent of 55 m of water measured since the mid1800s but accelerating in recent decades," the study said.

South Col Glacier lies at one of the sunniest spots in the world.

Melting here can be up to 20 times faster when snow cover disappears, and the bare glacier ice is exposed. This is especially

"This warming will have a cumulative effect on the experience of climbing Mt Everest. Some areas of the route's surface will gradually change from snowpack to ice to exposed bedrock, and avalanches will become dynamic because ice is more brittle. The long-term effect on the availability and stability of these water towers which will impact downstream communities is of major concern," it said.

"This tipping sensitivity and increased mass loss of glaciers, particularly at the world's highest elevations, where temperatures never rise above zero degree Celsius, is a wake-up call for us all. It also shows the importance of direct measurements on glaciers to increase our understanding of the processes when forecasting how these landforms will respond to changing climate," said Tenzing Chogyal Sherpa, Remote Sensing and Geoinformation Associate, ICIMOD. Glaciers in the Himalayas make a significant contribution to water resources for millions of people. Most previous studies have focused on glaciers at lower altitudes that are easier to access.

These show a strong trend of shrinking, with an accelerating rate in recent years. Earlier work on high altitude glaciers has relied on satellite measurements.

However, with the information we now have from the weather stations and the ice core, it is clear that even the highest glaciers are melting rapidly and at an accelerating rate. These changes will have tremendous consequences on people's livelihoods and wellbeing.

ENERGY & RESOURCES

Simultaneous droughts across globe can threaten food security New Delhi, February 11 (IANS): Droughts occurring simultaneously across different regions of the world could place an unprecedented strain on the global agricultural systems threatening the water and food security of millions of people, recent collaborative research has found out.

Continuing fossil fuel dependence will increase the probability of co-occurring droughts 40 per cent by the mid-21st century and 60 per cent by the late 21st century, relative to the late20th century. That comes out to an approximately nine-fold increase in agricultural and human population exposure to severe co-occurring droughts unless steps are taken to lower carbon emissions, said the study carried out by researchers from the Washington State University, Vancouver, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the University of Massachusetts, Lowell, the Columbia University, and the Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar.

"There could be around 120 million people across the globe simultaneously exposed to severe compound droughts each year by the end of the century. Many of the regions that our analysis shows will be most affected are already vulnerable, and so the potential for droughts to become disasters is high," said lead author Jitendra Singh, a former postdoctoral researcher at the WSU School of the Environment, now at ETH Zurich, Switzerland.

The elevated risk of compound droughts estimated by the research team is a result of a warming climate coupled with a projected 22 per cent increase in the frequency of El Nino and La Nina events - the two opposite phases of the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO).

La Nina refers to the large-scale cooling of the ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, coupled with changes in the tropical atmospheric circulation.

It usually has the opposite impacts on weather and climate as El Nino.

The researchers' projections show that nearly 75 percent of compound droughts in the future will coincide with these

irregular but recurring periods of climatic variation in the world's oceans, which have played a large role in some of the greatest environmental disasters in world history.

The research team analysed climate, agricultural and population growth data for the research study that was recently published in Nature Climate Change, an international highimpact journal.

"While technology and other circumstances today are a lot different than they were in the late 19th century, crop failures in multiple breadbasket regions still have the potential to affect global food availability. This could in turn increase volatility in global food prices, affecting food access, and exacerbate food insecurity, particularly in regions that are already vulnerable to environmental shocks such as droughts," said study co-author Prof Deepti Singh, an Assistant Professor in the WSU School of the Environment.

The study results also indicated that areas of North and South America are more likely to experience compound droughts in a future, warmer climate than regions of Asia, where much of the agricultural land is projected to become wetter.

Sharing insights from the research study and its estimated impact on India and South Asia, Prof Vimal Mishra from the Department of Civil Engineering at Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar, and co-author of the study, said: "Our study estimated the probability and risk of co-occurrence of drought in multiple regions during the observed and projected future climate, which is likely to increase under the warmer climate. Simultaneous droughts in major agricultural areas pose food security risks and raise food prices. ENSO remains one of the prominent drivers of drought occurrence in both observed and future climates."

"The potential for a food security crisis increases even if these droughts aren't affecting major food-producing regions but rather many regions that are already vulnerable to food insecurity," he said.

India's power demand slated to grow 6-7% in FY23: Ind-Ra New Delhi, Feb 3 (IANS): India's overall electric power demand is expected to grow between 6 and 7 per cent in FY23, due to a higher base, according to India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra).

emergence of any strong Covid wave could derail the growth in power demand," the agency said in a report.

It said that the impact of third Covid wave on power demand remains lower, given the less stringent curbs imposed by state governments.

On the other hand, Ind-Ra pointed out that coal availability could pose a risk to the overall demand and thus, PLF (plant load factor) recovery, given the higher reliance on domestic coal as international prices remain high.

"Although any stringent lockdowns in case of the

"The domestic coal availability to the power sector would remain

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dependent on an improvement in the domestic coal production and its allocation to the power sector, both of which improved in 9MFY22."

Furthermore, it said that weak financial profile of distribution companies (discoms), reflected in increasing overdues even after liquidity injections by the government, is likely to keep power producers' debtors elevated and may pose a risk to

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the overall demand.

"The government assistance of Rs 3.05 trillion for improving discoms infrastructure including smart metering and upgradation of systems should result in reduction in aggregate, technical and commercial losses, although implementation remains key for discoms as observed in the past."

Consequently, India Ratings has maintained a neutral outlook for the power sector for FY23, as it

believes the overall plant load factor (PLF) of thermal power plants would continue to improve and reach closer to 60 per cent in FY23.

"This is given the consistent growth in power demand and continued dependence on coalbased generation in the absence of any major increase in the capacity additions in any other sector except renewables."

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Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

Nasal spray launched to treat adult Covid patients in India New Delhi, February 9 (IANS): Mumbai based pharma company Glenmark has launched the Nitric Oxide Nasal Spray under the brand name FabiSpray for the treatment of adult patients with Covid-19 infection. The nasal spray has been launched in partnership with Canadian pharmaceutical company SaNOtize.

The Mumbai-based drug firm had earlier received manufacturing and marketing approval from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) for the Nitric Oxide nasal spray (NONS) as part of the accelerated approval process. The nasal spray has been designed to kill the coronavirus in the upper airways.

"FabiSpray, Nitric Oxide Nasal

Spray, is designed to kill the COVID-19 virus in the upper airways. It has proven antimicrobial properties with a direct virucidal effect on SARS-CoV-2.

NONS when sprayed over nasal mucosa, acts as a physical and chemical barrier against the virus, preventing it from incubating and spreading to the lungs", said the drug manufacturer in a statement.

"A Phase 3 clinical trial was conducted in adult COVID-19 patients across 20 clinical sites in India. The double blind, parallel arm, multicenter study, conducted in 306 patients evaluated the efficacy and safety of Nitric Oxide Nasal Spray versus normal saline nasal spray in non-hospitalized adult patients.

All patients received standard

supportive care in the study", the statement reads further.

Dr Srikanth Krishnamurthy one of the Principal Investigators of the study said that Nitric Oxide Nasal Spray lowers the viral load and hastens RT-PCR negativity when used early in COVID 19 infection leading to recovery.

Most importantly, viral load reduction with NONS has the potential to reduce the chain of transmission. Last but not the least, NONS being topical, is safe, and makes this therapeutic option very attractive, he added.

NONS has already received a CE mark in Europe, which is an equivalent of marketing authorization in case of a Medical Device, claimed the drug company.

HEALTH

Global Covid caseload tops 408.1 mn Washington, February 12 (IANS): The global coronavirus caseload has topped 408.1 million, while the deaths have surged to more than 5.80 million and vaccinations to over 10.16 billion, according to Johns Hopkins University.

deaths at 77,608,377 and 918,206, according to the CSSE.

In its latest update on February 12 morning, the University's Center for Systems Science and Engineering (CSSE) revealed that the current global caseload and the death toll stood at 408,157,822 and 5,800,640, respectively, while the total number of vaccine doses administered has increased to 10,168,415,394.

The other countries with over 5 million cases are France (21,646,561), the UK (18,346,553), Russia (13,526,183), Turkey (12,748,341), Germany (12,127,767), Italy (11,991,109), Spain (10,604,200), Argentina (8,716,940), Iran (6,761,855), Colombia (6,007,991), the Netherlands (5,524,764), Poland (5,328,492) and Mexico (5,226,269), the CSSE figures showed.

The US continues to be the worsthit country with the world's highest number of cases and

The second worst hit country in terms of cases is India (42,536,137 infections and 507,177 deaths), followed by Brazil (27,299,336 infections and 637,467 deaths).

India reports 50,407 new Covid cases, 804 deaths

Scientists detect early versions of Covid, could be linked to lab leak theory London, February 11 (IANS): Hungarian scientists have stumbled upon traces of the early versions virus that may have been manipulated in a Chinese lab, giving fresh momentum to the pandemic's lab leak theory, media reports said.

The team from Eotvos Lorand University and the University of Veterinary Medicine, in Budapest, have discovered traces of a unique variant of coronavirus while examining DNA from soil from Antarctica that had been sent to firm Sangon Biotech in Shanghai, Daily Mail reported.

They also found genetic material from Chinese hamsters and green monkeys, which may suggest the virus was being examined in a lab, using either the animals themselves or their cells.

The findings, not yet peerreviewed, were made accidentally while examining DNA from soil samples collected from Antarctica in late 2018 and early 2019 in a completely unrelated research project.

The samples had been sent to company Sangon Biotech in Shanghai to be analysed

in December 2019, where a 'barcode error' saw them become contaminated with previously unseen coronavirus mutations, the report said.

The machine being used to analyse the samples has been known to suffer barcode reading errors -- meaning samples from two different projects can be mixed together.

In this case, the Antarctic soil is believed to have been mixed with the DNA from lab monkeys or hamsters carrying coronavirus.

The Sangon facility is thought to be used by Chinese researchers, including those at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) -- the lab at the centre of the accidental leak hypothesis.

According to some experts, the new mutations bridge the gap between the original bat coronavirus and the one that jumped to humans -- the missing piece of the puzzle that has escaped scientists for the past two years.

But others believe the contamination came from samples of China's early Covid patients, who were announced in

December 2019.

Yet another theory is that the genetic material is from other animal-borne coronaviruses that were circulating at the time or being experimented on by the Chinese.

The Hungarian team who found the sample error say the virus could be the ancestor of the original Wuhan strain, if the mistake happened in December 2019, the report said.

According to Professor Lawrence Young, a virologist at Warwick University, the finding was "very, very intriguing and very, very suspicious".

While this is no definitive proof that Covid was engineered in a lab and released, it signalled that coronaviruses were being studied in Chinese labs very early in the pandemic, Young was quoted as saying.

"The two things that really stand out for me are these three key mutations bringing the bat Covid closer to the first Wuhan strain. It is very very suspicious (and could be) a signature of the ancestral SARS-CoV-2,"he said.

Approval granted for AstraZeneca as booster vaccine in Australia Canberra, February 10 (IANS): Australia has provisionally approved the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine against Covid-19 as a booster shot for people aged 18 years and older.

However, in its announcement the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) said that Pfizer and Moderna's mRNA vaccines remain the preferred boosters for Australians irrespective of the primary vaccine a person received, reports Xinhua news agency.

It said anyone who wishes to receive the AstraZeneca jab, Vaxzevria, as a booster would first

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have to consult their doctor.

"This includes for people who received the AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine for their primary course," the TGA said.

"The Australian government continues to encourage individuals to have a booster (third dose) following their initial two vaccination doses to enable strong protection against severe illness and hospitalization, particularly from the Omicron variant."

Australia reported more than 25,000 new COVID-19 cases and over 50 deaths on February 10.

The department of health data revealed there were 3,588 cases being treated in hospitals, including 274 in intensive care units.

Minister for Health and Aged Care Greg Hunt said on February 10 that senior Australians in residential aged care are leading the national uptake of boosters, with 80.56 percent of those eligible for their third vaccine shot now having received it.

"The booster vaccination rate for aged care residents is well ahead of the national community figure of 55.43 per cent," he said.

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New Delhi, February 12 (IANS): Continuing a decline, India reported 50,407 new Covid-19 cases and 804 deaths in 24 hours, said the Union Health Ministry on February 12.

The new fatalities increased the nationwide death toll to 5,07,981.

Meanwhile, the active Covid cases have reduced to 6,10,443, which constitute 1.64 per cent of the country's total positive cases.

The recovery of 1,36,962 patients in the last 24 hours has increased the cumulative tally to 4,14,68,120.

Consequently, India's recovery

rate stands at 97.37 per cent.

Also in the same period, a total of 14,50,532 tests were conducted across the country, which took the total to 74.93 crore.

While the weekly positivity rate stood at 5.07 per cent, the daily positivity rate fell to 3.48 per cent.

With the administration of over 46 lakh vaccine doses in 24 hours, India's Covid inoculation coverage reached 172.29 crore as of February 12 morning.

More than 12.27 crore balance and unutilised Covid vaccine doses are still available with the states.

Delhi sees daily Covid tally fall below four digits New Delhi, February 11 (IANS): Delhi on February 11 reported 977 fresh Covid infections in 24 hours, the first time that daily cases have fallen before a thousand since the onset of the third wave, while there were 12 more deaths, according to the Health Department bulletin.

This is the lowest number of cases after December 30 when 1,313 cases were reported.

The Covid positivity rate has come down to 1.73 per cent and active cases have also reduced to 4,812.

With recovery rate climbing at 98.33 per cent, the active cases rate in Delhi stands at 0.26 percent while the death rate continues at 1.41 per cent.

With 1,591 patients recovering in 24 hours, the total number of recoveries has gone to 18,18,737.

A total of 3,135 Covid patients are being treated in home isolation at present.

The new cases and deaths have pushed the tally to 18,49,596 and the death toll to 26,047.

The number of Covid containment zones has declined to 19,582.

Meanwhile, a total of 56,444 new tests -- 46,664 RT-PCR and 9,780 Rapid Antigen - were conducted in 24 hours, taking the total to 3,55,18,310.

Out of 85,533 vaccines administered in 24 hours, 14,630 were first doses and 63,785 second doses. Meanwhile, 7,118 precaution doses were also administered. The total number of cumulative beneficiaries vaccinated so far stands at 3,03,51,020 according to the health bulletin.

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Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

INDIA NEWS

SPORTS

IPL Mega Auction: Ishan, D Chahar, Shreyas biggest earners, complete squads of 10 franchises; hits and misses!

IANS

Ferguson, Abhinav Sadarangani, Rahul Tewatia, Noor Ahmad, R Sai Kishore, Dominic Drakes, Jayant Yadav, Vijay Shankar, Darshan Nalkande, Yash Dayal, Alzarri Joseph, Pradeep Sangwan, David Miller, Wriddhiman Saha, Matthew Wade, Gurkeerat Singh Gujarat have some proven match-winners in the playing XI, but they will need outstanding seasons from both Hardik Pandya and Rashid Khan.

Kolkata Knight Riders: Retained players: Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Venkatesh Iyer and Varun Chakravarthy

Bengaluru, Feb 14 (IANS): A total of 204 players were picked by the 10 franchise after shelling out a total of Rs 551.70 cr during the enthralling two day IPL 2022 mega auction with Ishan Kishan (Rs 15.25 cr), Deepak Chahar (Rs 14 cr) and Shreyas Iyer (Rs 12.25 cr) emerging as top-three earners, ahead of the exciting 15th season of cash-rich league.

The likes of Ishan, Chahar and Shreyas earned big bucks on Saturday while Sunday belonged to Liam Livingstone (Rs 11.50 cr), Tim David (Rs 8.25 cr) and Jofra Archer (Rs 8 cr).

After the culmination of the mega auction, IANS takes a look at the squad of every franchise and what their team did well, and where the gaps are.

Chennai Super Kings: Retained players: Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, Moeen Ali and Ruturaj Gaikwad Players bought at Auction: Robin Uthappa, Dwayne Bravo, Ambati Rayudu, Deepak Chahar, KM Asif, Tushar Deshpande, Shivam Dube, Maheesh Theekshana, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Simarjeet Singh, Devon Conway, Dwaine Pretorius, Mitchell Santner, Adam Milne, Subhranshu Senapati, Mukesh

Choudhary, Prashant Solanki, C Hari Nishaanth, N Jagadeesan, Chris Jordan, K Bhagath Varma The MS-Dhoni led CSK managed to keep a large part of their core together. They have multiple players, who can bat deep and bowl as well - courtesy all-round talent. As always, a team not to be taken lightly.

Delhi Capitals: Retained players: Rishabh Pant, Axar Patel, Prithvi Shaw and Anrich Nortje Players bought at Auction: David Warner, Mitch Marsh, Shardul Thakur, Mustafizur Rahman, Kuldeep Yadav, Ashwin Hebbar, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, KS Bharat, Sarfaraz Khan, Mandeep Singh, Syed Khaleel Ahmed, Chetan Sakariya, Lalit Yadav, Ripal Patel, Yash Dhull, Rovman Powell, Pravin Dubey, Lungisani Ngidi, Tim Seifert, Vicky Ostwal Delhi have got superb firepower in their batting line-up and a soild bowling attack of five bowlers where three can bat.

Gujarat Titans: Retained players: Shubman Gill, Hardik Pandya and Rashid Khan Players bought at Auction: Jason Roy, Mohammad Shami, Lockie

Players bought at Auction: Pat Cummins, Nitish Rana, Shreyas Iyer, Shivam Mavi, Sheldon Jackson, Ajinkya Rahane, Rinku Singh, Anukul Roy, Rasikh Dar, Baba Indrajith, Chamika Karunaratne, Abhijeet Tomar, Pratham Singh, Ashok Sharma, Sam Billings, Alex Hales, Tim Southee, Ramesh Kumar, Mohammad Nabi, Umesh Yadav, Aman Khan Kolkata's batting looks a bit thin and their batters need to perform in unison to win matches.

However, their bowling could still win them games.

Lucknow Super Giants: Retained players: KL Rahul, Ravi Bishnoi and Marcus Stoinis Players bought at Auction: Quinton de Kock, Manish Pandey, Jason Holder, Deepak Hooda, Krunal Pandya, Mark Wood, Avesh Khan, Ankit Rajpoot, K Gowtham, Dushmanta Chameera, Shahbaz Nadeem, Manan Vohra, Mohsin Khan, Ayush Badoni, Kyle Mayers, Karan Sharma, Evin Lewis, Mayank Yadav Lucknow have a potent first playing XI and they also have good back-ups. Their batting has variety and depth, same goes with the bowling.

Mumbai Indians:

Retained players: Rohit Sharma, Kieron Pollard, Jasprit Bumrah and Suryakumar Yadav Players bought at Auction: Ishan Kishan, Dewald Brevis, Basil Thampi, Murugan Ashwin, Jaydev Unadkat, Mayank Markande, N Tilak Varma, Sanjay Yadav, Jofra Archer, Daniel Sams, Tymal Mills, Tim David, Riley Meredith, Mohammad Arshad Khan, Ramandeep Singh, Anmolpreet Singh, Rahul Buddhi, Hrithik Shokeen, Arjun Tendulkar, Aryan Juyal, Fabian Allen Despite lacking Jofra Archer's services for 2022, Mumbai made the big purchases at the end and have once again built a solid.

It's not as awe-inspiring as the 2018-2021 version was, but it's still strong.

Punjab Kings: Retained players: Mayank Agarwal and Arshdeep Singh Players bought at Auction: Shikhar Dhawan, Kagiso Rabada, Jonny Bairstow, Rahul Chahar, Shahrukh Khan, Harpreet Brar, Prabhsimran Singh, Jitesh Sharma, Ishan Porel, Liam Livingstone, Odean Smith, Sandeep Sharma, Raj Bawa, Rishi Dhawan, Prerak Mankad, Vaibhav Arora, Writtick Chatterjee, Baltej Dhanda, Ansh Patel, Nathan Ellis, Atharva Taide, Bhanuka Rajapakse, Benny Howell Punjab had the biggest purse coming in, and they made it count by picking a power-packed batting order. In addition, their bowling has variety and depth.

Rajasthan Royals: Retained players: Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jos Buttler Players bought at Auction: R Ashwin, Trent Boult, Shimron Hetmyer, Devdutt Padikkal, Prasidh Krishna, Yuzvendra Chahal, Riyan Parag, KC Cariappa, Navdeep Saini, Obed McCoy, Anunay Singh, Kuldeep Sen, Karun Nair, Dhruv Jurel,

Tejas Baroka, Kuldip Yadav, Shubham Garhwal, James Neesham, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Rassie van der Dussen, Daryl Mitchell Rajasthan, who had a superb Day 1 at the auction, seem to have a good playing XI on the field, with the batting particularly looking good. The bowling has some outstanding names too, with the only possible grey area being the death bowling.

Royal Challengers Bangalore: Retained players: Virat Kohli, Glenn Maxwell and Mohammed Siraj Players bought at Auction: Faf du Plessis, Harshal Patel, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Karthik, Anuj Rawat, Shahbaz Ahamad, Akash Deep, Josh Hazlewood, Mahipal Lomror, Finn Allen, Sherfane Rutherford, Jason Behrendorff, Suyash Prabhudessai, Chama Milind, Aneeshwar Gautam, Karn Sharma, Siddharth Kaul, Luvnith Sisodia, David Willey The Royal Challengers have plenty of quality bowling options, and have a batting line-up that runs deep-ish too.

Sunrisers Hyderabad: Retained players: Kane Williamson, Umran Malik and Abdul Samad Players bought at Auction: Washington Sundar, Nicholas Pooran, T Natarajan, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Priyam Garg, Rahul Tripathi, Abhishek Sharma, Kartik Tyagi, Shreyas Gopal, Jagadeesha Suchith, Aiden Markram, Marco Jansen, Romario Shepherd, Sean Abbott, R Samarth, Shashank Singh, Saurabh Dubey, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Glenn Phillips, Vishnu Vinod They overloaded on bowling options, and also have a middle order featuring Williamson, Markram and Pooran.

DC getting Warner was a Sarojini End of an era? 'Mr. IPL' Nagar market-level bargain, says Jaffer Suresh Raina goes unsold New Delhi, Feb 12 (IANS): Australia's swashbuckling batter David Warner was picked by Delhi Capitals (DC) for INR 6.25 crore in the IPL 2022 mega auction in Bengaluru on Saturday.

However, former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer, who is known for his humorous posts on social media, has given Warner's price a different twist.

Jaffer feels that the franchise got the Aussie opener cheap and compared it to a "Sarojini Nagar market-level bargain".

"Delhi people are known to strike a bargain, but getting David Warner for just 6.25cr is a Sarojini Nagar market level bargain #IPLAuction2022 #IPL2022," Jaffer wrote on social media platform Koo.

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Jaffer's post immediately got attention and a user termed it "the biggest heist of this" auction.

The user wrote, "It's a heist! Delhi pulled off the biggest heist of this #IPLAuction."

Warner was released by SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) after a disappointing IPL 2021 season which also saw him stripped of the team's captaincy. But the opener bounced back brilliantly and played a crucial role in Australia's T20 World Cup glory last year.

The 35-year-old had a base price of INR 2 crore. Warner also started his IPL career with Delhi Daredevils, who changed their name to Delhi Capitals in December 2018.

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Bengaluru, Feb 13 (IANS): Even as the ten franchises splurged cash, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina went unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, here on Sunday.

which he scored only 160 runs at an average of 17.77. And now with age not on his side, it could mean the end of the road for Raina in the cash-rich league.

After going unsold on the first day, the veteran batter, who had a base price of Rs 2 crore, was ignored by franchises on the final day of the auction as well, which meant that Raina went unsold for the first time in an IPL auction.

The dashing southpaw is the fourth-highest run-getter (5,528 runs) in the history of the IPL, scoring 5,528 runs at an average of 32.51 and only has Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, and Rohit Sharma ahead of him.

This will only be the second IPL season Raina would miss since the competition began in 2008.

He had also missed the IPL 2020 season after returning home from UAE due to personal reasons.

Raina, who had last played in Indian colours in a series in England in July 2018, retired from international cricket in 2020. The all-rounder, who scored 5,615 runs from 226 ODIs and 1605 from 78 T20Is for India, was also a part of the 2011 World Cup-winning team under MS Dhoni.

Known as 'Mr. IPL', Raina returned to the CSK outfit in 2021 but had a poor season during

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India's efforts in vain as Amelia Kerr smashes unbeaten century in 2nd WODI

IANS

at the other end.

Earlier, India posted their highest Women's ODI total against New Zealand, making 270/6 after an amazing start at the top of the order from Sabbhineni Meghana.

One of the most aggressive batters in the world, Shafali Verma (24 off 38 balls), curbed her attacking instinct as Meghana (49 off 50), smashed seven boundaries. She, however, fells agonisingly short of a maiden half-century.

Queenstown, Feb 15 (IANS): New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr slammed a superb unbeaten century (119 off 135 deliveries) and also grabbed a wicket as the hosts defeated India Women by three wickets in the second One-day International to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series at the John Davies Oval here on Tuesday.

In one of the most dominating performances by New Zealand Women ahead of the ICC Women's World Cup at home next month, the White Ferns played remarkably to overhaul India's stiff target of 270/6 in 50 overs for the loss of seven wickets and an over to spare.

The 21-year-old Amelia Kerr saved the White Ferns from an early collapse, putting on 128 for the fourth wicket with Maddy Green in the middle overs, before guiding the team home with the tail-enders, in a match many

predicted India would win after the tourists posted an imposing total.

Amelia's sister Jess Kerr completed the task for New Zealand with a swipe over the fielders at cover to ensure a hardfought win for the hosts. This was Amelia's second ODI century and came with the help of seven boundaries.

The No. 3 batter came in at 35/1, with Sophie Devine and Amy Satterthwaite departing in quick succession before the 10th over as India looked to dominate.

Rebuilding with Maddy Green, the duo played with caution as the field moved out, scoring in ones and twos to ensure the target stayed within reach.

Despite a late stumble with the loss of Green (52) and Brooke Halliday (13), Amelia carried on with Katey Martin contributing 20, before Jess Kerr kept her cool

Their work was built upon by Yastika Bhatia (31), along with a stand of 108 between skipper Mithali Raj and Richa Ghosh.

Ghosh compiled her maiden ODI fifty at better than a run-a-ball, and finished with 65 before falling in the 46th over. Despite her efforts, India failed to churn out vital late-over runs at a heavy clip, finishing arguably 10 to 20 runs short of a possibly stronger total given the start.

Five bowlers shared the wickets in New Zealand's bowling effort, including Amelia Kerr who chimed in with 1/43 (8) before her batting masterclass.

The teams will meet for the third ODI on February 18.

Brief scores: India Women 270/6 in 50 overs (Sabbhineni Meghana 49, Yastika Bhatia 31, Mithali Raj 66, Richa Ghosh 65) lost to New Zealand 273/7 in 49 overs (Sophie Devine 33, Amelia Kerr 119 not out, Maddy Green 52; Deepti Sharma 4/52) by three wickets.

Indian Grandmaster Dronavalli Harika among women chess players targeted by sexually abusive mails IANS

envelope unknowingly, I would have reacted differ"ntly."

Apart from Harika, the other Indian players in Riga at the time were Padmini Rout, R Vaishali, Divya Deshmukh and Vantika Agarwal.

"Most of us had no idea that something like this had been happening all these years," WGM Padmini told ESPN. "We were horrified when we heard of it for the first time after the closing ceremony in Riga. I remember feeling really scared."

New Delhi, Feb 14 (IANS): Indian Grandmaster Dronavalli Harika was the target of a sexually abusive mail while at a tournament in Latvia last November. According to the Russian media, about 15 female chess players who participated in the tournament received letters of sexual harassment.

The Indian GM, who is ranked 11th in the world, said that she received anonymous mail during the tournament in Latvia.

"The police asked me whether I wanted to open the envelope for

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myself and stay back in Riga to be a part of the investigations," Harika was quoted as saying by ESPN. Harika, who was the lone target of the five Indian female players at the tournament, said "Of course, I was more than happy to not have anything to do with the envelope or its contents and signed a noobjection authorising FIDE to be a part of the investigation on my behalf. It was a really strange feeling. I didn't know what to make of the whole experience.

Perhaps had I opened the

The Grand Swiss tournament organisers in Riga and the FIDE (International Chess Federation) handled the situation professionally. The matter is now being investigated by the Latvian police, according to the world chess federation FIDE. "FIDE took action when letters were received during the Grand Swiss tournament in Riga. We reported it to the police right away on behalf of the players, to minimize distractions to them.

We can confirm that the Latvian Police took it seriously and it is actively investigating," FIDE said in a statement.

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SPORTS

ICC Women's Cricket World Cup 2022 sees massive jump in prize money

IANS

Dubai, Feb 15 (IANS): The winner of the 2022 ICC Women's Cricket World Cup, scheduled to be held across six venues in New Zealand from March 4 onwards, will be richer by USD 1.32 million -- double the amount that was awarded to the victors of the 2017 edition in England.

The overall prize money has also seen an increase of 75 per cent, with the eight teams taking home a share of USD 3.5 million, which is USD 1.5 million more than the previous edition, according to the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday.

The runners-up will now be awarded USD 600,000, which will be USD 270,000 more than what India were rewarded in 2017 for finishing as runners-up to England in 2017 at Lord's.

The two losing semifinalists will earn USD 300,000 each while the four teams who exit at the group stages will be awarded USD 70,000 -- up from the USD 30,000 prize from the previous

edition.

Every group stage win will also earn the teams a reward of USD 25,000 per victory from a total purse of USD 700,000.

This marks an increase in the prize money during the Women's Cricket World Cup for consecutive editions. The prize money between the 2013 and the 2017 edition witnessed a 10-fold rise, going up from USD 200,000 to USD 2 million. England, who emerged champions on their home turf, took home USD 660,000 after beating India by nine runs to claim their fourth title.

In the 2022 edition, a total of 28 group stages matches will be played in a round-robin format, with each team playing each other once. The four sides with the most points will then advance to the semifinals. A victory will earn each other two points while a draw, a tie or a no-result will see them walk away with a single point.

Brazil, Argentina to replay suspended World Cup qualifier

Rio de Janeiro, Feb 15 (IANS): The suspended World Cup qualifier between South American rivals Brazil and Argentina will be replayed, world football governing body FIFA has said.

The match in Sao Paulo last September was halted shortly after kick-off when Brazilian health officials walked onto the pitch to object to the participation of four Argentina players for allegedly breaching COVID-19 protocols.

"After a thorough investigation of the various factual elements and in light of the applicable regulations, the FIFA disciplinary committee has decided that the match should be replayed on a date and at a location to be decided by FIFA," it said in a statement on Monday evening.

"In addition, the FIFA disciplinary committee has concluded that the abandonment of the match stemmed from several deficiencies of the parties involved."

Brazilian health agency Anvisa said Premier League players Emiliano Martinez, Giovani Lo

Celso, Cristian Romero and Emiliano Buendia failed to comply with entry regulations for travellers from the United Kingdom, Xinhua reports. The entity claimed the players should have been in quarantine because of a rule at the time that applied to foreigners arriving from Britain, South Africa, Northern Ireland and India.

Argentina team officials denied knowingly breaching travel guidelines, arguing that they believed players could travel across South America without restrictions, as they did during the Copa America in June.

FIFA issued a two-match ban to Martinez, Lo Celso, Romero and Buendia for failing to comply with its COVID-19 requirements.

In addition, the Brazilian and Argentine football associations were fined 500,000 Swiss francs (around 540,000 US dollars) each for infractions related to order and safety. Brazil and Argentina have already qualified for the World Cup, to be played in Qatar from November 21 to December 18.

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'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' same principle that Mahadji Shinde followed: Scindia

CULTURE

K'taka's Hoysala temples nominated for UNESCO World Heritage sites

Pratishthan', a socio-cultural organisation, with 'Rambhau Mhalgi Pratishthan', an organisation based in Thane, working for improving civic governance.

Held at Maharashtra Sadan in the national capital, the programme was watched live by over 10,000 people on multiple social media platforms managed by Vayam.

"Mahadji can be termed as the pioneer of coalition government as he brought together the Gujar, Jat, Dalit, Sikh and Muslims all under the banner of Hindavi Swaraj and the name of the army was 'Hind Ki Fauz'," Scindia said.

Mahadji had a special 'Decxan Invincibles' brigade that had advisors from France and Portugal, the Union Minister said while recounting how Mahadji "favoured modernisation of arms and artillery" as he was determined to face the Britishers who could not be fought just with 'talwar and dhaal' (swords and shields).

New Delhi, Feb 12 (IANS): Remembering his ancestor 'the Grand Maratha Mahadji Shinde' on the 251st anniversary of his reconquer of Delhi, Minister for Civil Aviation Jyotiraditya Scindia on Friday said the 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' that Prime Minister talks of today was the same principle that Mahadji had followed.

"He even started an industrial unit on the outskirts of Agra where he started a tank manufacturing unit. Army modernisation, Aatma Nirbhar Bharat, all that we talk of today, Mahadji Shinde had laid the foundation in 1771," Scindia said at a programme organised to mark the 251st anniversary of the Mahadji Shinde's take over of the then Mughal ruled Delhi.

The programme was jointly organised by 'Dilli Marathi

Recalling how Mahadji had been single handedly responsible for expansion of the Hindavi Swaraj 'Attock Se Cuttack Tak' (from Attock in present day Pakistan to Cuttack in Odisha), Scindia said, "I am not just emotional as I come from the family of this great personality but feel pride that he has shaped a glorious chapter in the history of India."

Rajya Sabha member Vinay Sahastrabuddhe, who also heads the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) said, "Gen Lake (who led the British forces in 1803 Battle of Patparganj) had mentioned in his diary that Britishers had taken over India from the Marathas and not from any Mughal rulers."

Earlier, explaining 'Dilli Vijayotsav', Vaibhav Dange of Dilli Marathi Pratisthan, said, "Unfortunately, people remember the tragic defeat at the 1761 Battle of Panipat. But within 10 years of that, Mahadji Shinde, a Maratha sardar, had gathered force and reconquered Delhi. What we need to do is to revisit history again and again as we believe, a society that learns from history can create a bright future."

Indian classics translated into English, foreign languages: Govt into French, to name a few," he told the Rajya Sabha in a written reply.

New Delhi, Feb 10 (IANS): A large number of Indian classics, popular Indian works and literary masterpieces have been promoted into English as well as foreign languages by the Sahitya Akademi, the Parliament was informed on Thursday.

Culture and Tourism Minister G. Kishan Reddy said that the government has constantly taken various steps to promote/ encourage the translation of Indian literature' into English and foreign languages through the Sahitya Akademi, an autonomous

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body under the Culture Ministry.

"Over the years, the Akademi has promoted several Indian classics and popular Indian works into foreign languages such as 'The Ayodhya Canto of the Ramayana' as told by Kamban from Tamil into English, 'Chemmeen' from Malayalam into English and several Eastern European languages, 'Kavitavali'

by Tulsidas into English, 'Godaan'

by Premchand into English, 'Garambica Bapu' by S.N. Pendse into English, 'Pather Panchali' by Bibhuti Bhushan Bandyopadhyay

He also said that the Akademi has published translations of 10 books of 10 different Indian languages into Chinese, Russian, and English. The books are "Surujmukhir Swapna" by Syed Abdul Malik (Assamese), "Arogyaniketan" by Tara Shankar Bandyopadhyay (Bengali), "Vevishaal" by Jhaverchand Meghani (Gujarati), "Kavve Aur Kala Pani" by Nirmal Verma (Hindi), "Parva" by S.L. Bhyrappa (Kannada), "Manoj Dasanka Katha O Kahini" by Manoj Das (Odia), "Marhi Da Diva" by Gurdial Singh (Punjabi), "Sila NerangalilSila Manidargal" by D. Jayakanthan (Tamil), "Illu" by R. Viswanatha Sastry (Telugu) and "Ek Chadar Maili Si" by Rajinder Singh Bedi (Urdu) Apart from the above mentioned translations and publications, the Akademi has published/translated a number of titles into foreign languages, he added.

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he elegant Hoysala temples of Belur, Halebid and Somnathapura in Karnataka have been finalised for nomination for the Unesco World Heritage sites for the year 2022-2023, Union Minister for Culture, Tourism and Development of North Eastern Region G. Kishan Reddy said.

He broke the news on Monday night by puting out tweets in Kannada and Hindi, which doubled the celebration of Kannadigas.

He said: "The 'Sacred Ensembles of Hoysala' have been on UNESCO's tentative list since April 15, 2014. Let us sincerely pray that these temples get inscribed as World Heritage in 2023.

"These temples represent one of the highest points of human creative genius and stand testimony to the rich historical and cultural heritage of our country. My hearty congrats to all those involved in this exercise."

India's ambassador and permanent representative to UNESCO Vishal V. Sharma, said: "India is proud to nominate the 'Sacred Ensembles of Hoysala' for UNESCO's World Heritage List! Art Historians recognise the exceptional sculptural artistry of the ensembles to be among masterpieces of Asian art."

The Hoysala temples represent human creative genius and stand testimony to the rich historical and cultural heritage of our country.

Vishal V. Sharma formally submitted the nomination dossier to UNESCO's Director of World Heritage, Lazare Eloundou on Monday, After this, the UNESCO will respond by early March, conduct site evaluation in September/ October and finally take up the dossier for consideration in July/ August next year.

Talking about the Prime Minister's efforts in protecting the rich cultural heritage of India, Kishan Reddy said: "The Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed to both Vikas and Virasat. Our efforts in protecting our Virasat is evident from the work the government has been putting in inscribing both our tangible and intangible heritage

and also repatriating the cultural heritage that was stolen or taken away from India."

The three Hoysala temples are protected monuments under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and therefore conservation and maintenance is done by the ASI. The state government will ensure the conservation of state protected monuments which are around these three temples, since it would add to the visual integrity of the place.

It will also build an integrated management plan by incorporating the buffers of all monuments in the District Master Plan and look at the traffic management issues, especially around the designated property.

The Hoysalas temples were built in the 12th-13th century and are represented here by the three components of Belur, Halebid and Somnathpur. They also attest to the creativity and skill of the Hoysala artists and architects who built these one of a kind masterpieces.

These architects used their profound knowledge of temple architecture from across India to their advantage.

These temples have a basic Darvidian morphology but show strong influences of the Bhumija mode widely practiced in central India, the Nagara traditions of northern and western India, and the Karnataka Dravida modes favoured by the Kalyani Chalukyas.

Therefore, the Hoysala architects considered eclectic selections of features from other temple typologies which they further modified and complemented with their own particular innovations.

The result was the birth of a completely novel 'Hoysala Temple' form.

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BOOKS & LITERATURE

'Snapshots from the Past': Experiencing the journey of the Indian Novel the manager of the local school and centrepoint of all village politics, and his younger son Ruppan, who stays on in Class 10 for 10 years to be able to carry on in student politics.

The elder son, Badri Pehelwan, eschews politics and concentrates on bodybuilding. The other characters include the principal with a penchant for rustic dialect, the drunk goon who invents a new 'language', the hapless common man, and more.

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here can be endless arguments on whether a novel is literature, literary fiction, or genre fiction, but its ability to portray the experience of a historic place and time, at the level of the individual, cannot be gainsaid by memoirs, which may not be impartial, or academic histories, which usually focus on a larger picture.

What can give a better insight into the horrors and lingering effects of war than Erich Maria Remarque's 'All Quiet on the Western Front' (1929), or the dehumanising -- and often fatal -- consequences of racial prejudice and the 'lynch mob' mentality than Harper Lee's 'To Kill a Mockingbird' (1960), or the ramifications of colonialism on indigenous cultures than Chinua Achebe's 'Things Fall Apart' (1958), to take a few examples.

Indian novels, in English and other languages, do not lag in any respect to their global counterparts, since the form emerged across the country in the late 19th century. While Devaki Nandan Khatri's 'Chandrakanta' (Hindi, 1888) was fantasy, drawing on the Persian-Urdu 'dastangoi' oral storytelling tradition, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay's 'Anandamath' (Bengali, 1882), and Nandshankar Mehta's 'Karan Ghelo' (Gujarati, 1866), among others, had historical themes, many were rooted in the contemporary world and its problems.

Some did serve as an impetus for social progress, with a story getting the message across

better than a tract, most did offer a sparkling and insightful description of the society they were set in, its mores and norms, and the state of the language, its idioms, slang, and more.

The depictions of Tsarist Russia and Ottoman Turkey in 'Fasanae-Azad' (Urdu, 1881) by Ratan Nath Dhar 'Sarshar' may be imaginary, but the description of the manners and customs of the late 19th-century Lucknow, which account for most of the massive tome (four volumes), is spot-on.

Peary Chand Mitra did the same for the then Calcutta in 'Alaler Gharer Dulal' (Bengali, 1857) and Samuel Vedanayagam Pillai for Madras in 'Prathapa Mudaliar Charithram' (Tamil, written in 1857 and published in 1879).

Sharda Ram Phillauri's 'Bhagyawati' (Hindi, 1877) had a more prescriptive tone, frowning on child marriage and favouring widow remarriage, and Hari Narayan Apte's 'Pan Lakshat Kon Gheto' (Marathi, 1890) was the sobering "autobiography" of a young woman buffeted by a mostly adverse society. And in the 20th century and onwards, there is an abundance of plenty.

Indian literature, especially in English, both as an original source and in translations, can offer a novel for any mood and purpose the reader may seek, be it pure diversion or a more instructive purpose. For the latter, let's take up five-odd works -once famous but now forgotten and some even out of print -from the recent past, which may have some bearing on our present

times.

Amid the debate over heritage, colonial and otherwise, in the country and in its institutions, especially in the Army, Manohar Malgonkar's 'Distant Drum' (1960) is instructive.

Beginning with career army officer Kiran Garud's life commanding his regiment ('The Satpuras') in a cantonment somewhere in Central India soon after Independence, it sees him move to a staff job at the Army HQ in New Delhi, where a romantic tangle -- worthy of a Bollywood potboiler -- sends him opting for active service in Jammu and Kashmir, where he gets into another career-disrupting incident, before redemption, on the personal and professional front. Interpersed are digressions into the beginning of his career, and his experiences of World War II, and the Partition.

On a wider perspective, it is about the British-Indian relationship in the colonial army and the Indians and Pakistanis in the armies after Independence as well as Indian civil-military relationships with some of both not coming off too well.

The underlying lesson is that there is good and bad in people as well as things, we cannot be selective about the pasts we want to adopt, and, according to scholar Usha Bande, Malgonkar's belief that "everything British need not be condemned in our enthusiasm to celebrate 'nationalism'."

Attia Hossain's 'Sunlight on a Broken Column' (1961) is a

coming-of-age story of an orphaned Muslim girl from a landed family in Lucknow growing up in the 1930s, and the series of choices she has to make in her life, both personal and political, rising in complexity and consequences, to the biggest one in 1947.

Laila, whose story in a way echoes that of the author herself, is raised at her grandfather's house after her parents' passing.

After his death, she becomes the ward of her uncle, who is both authoritarian and liberal, allowing her to pursue modern education but seeks to retain control of her life otherwise -- a feature we have come to see is scarcely dated and is much around today as it was then -- and her rebellion is inevitable.

These may be seen as the account or outlook of an 'Anglicised' section, but let us look at the other side of the spectrum.

Shrilal Shukla's satirical 'Raag Darbari' (Hindi, 1967) shows that life in the 'Bharat' beyond the metros is neither straightforward, nor simple, and the pursuit or perpetuation of "tradition" is not always desirable. Set in the village of 'Shivpalganj' somewhere in Uttar Pradesh, it is a collection of vignettes without a defined protagonist, and the characters are rather eccentric and devious.

The narrator is Ranganath, who comes to the village to recuperate after completing his post-graduate education. He observes the jostling for power and position that constitutes local politics, from his uncle Vaidyaji,

A more ominous tone can be found in Partap Sharma's 'The Days of the Turban' (1986), set in Punjab, where the spectre of terrorisism is slowly spreading, and a syncretic way of life is fast disappearing.

Balbir, the youngest of a landowning Mohyal family in a village, is chafing against his rustic life and dreams of moving to Europe like his elder brother and cousin.

This leads him to get involved with a local gun-runner, and then get trapped in the Golden Temple as Bhindrawale's men cement control and make him a hostage to force his cousin, an arms supplier, to make deals with them.

The cousin ties up with intelligence to frustrate the terrorists' plans and the family patriarch, Lokraj, carries out an audacious plan to rescue his grandson from right under the extremists' eyes, and then deals with the man who got him embroiled.

Nalinaksha Bhattacharya's 'A Fistful of Desire' (1997) is about power, love and social responsibility -- in rather unique manifestations -- in a pre-social media age.

At its centre are the shenanigans of a powerful bureaucrat in the PMO who becomes rather too enamoured of a British woman, who seeks his help to locate her husband, who went missing while on a scientific survey in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. As he makes increasingly elaborate plans to seduce her, the woman, sensing his intentions, summons her younger boyfriend from London to help. A search is ultimately mounted but with results scarcely expected.

Book publishing platform Notion Press to support books in Malayalam A fter Hindi, Tamil and Marathi, Notion Press, which calls itself the country's largest book publishing platform, on Thursday announced that it will now be supporting books in Malayalam language too.

Authors, who aspire to publish their books and get a global reach, will be able to do so free of cost, the Chennai-based firm said, adding, publishing will take just three simple steps, and there is dedicated online support to help them through the process.

Writers can publish stories in

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their preferred language, both as paperback and e-books, which can be sold to readers in over a 100 plus countries, it said.

Notion Press CEO Naveen Valsakumar said that the demand for books in Indian languages has always been huge and will grow exponentially in the coming years.

"We are thrilled to enter a market with such potential, and we hope to share with the world, stories that will represent a unique culture and provide an unmatched experience for readers," he said.

Started in 2012, Notion Press says it has authors from all over the world, and has successfully published more than 40,000 books and sells them in over 150 countries.

In addition to presenting Indian languages, writers on the world stage, Notion Press has successfully created a platform for distinguished writers, researchers, poets, historians, journalists and other professional and fiction writers.

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TRAVEL

Honeymoon during a pandemic? Maldives top option

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ewlyweds have been constrained to choose from a handful destinations for their honeymoons due to travel restrictions. But that hasn't stopped these celebrities from planning a great getaway to celebrate their nuptials. Check their vacay photos to get inspired Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal flew to the Maldives for their honeymoon. Katrina revealed the location on her Insta handle.

Fans can get a closer look at her intricate mehendi design in the photo she posted on social media.

She has her hands stretched out in front of her, with the seashore and beach serving as a backdrop.

Katrina can also be seen wearing the traditional chura. She used a heart emoji as a caption.

Miss Asia Pacific, who is back in Mumbai now, fondly captioned her photos, “We made some really special memories in Maldives.”

Rhea Kapoor and Karan Booloni Rhea Kapoor and Karan Booloni, jetted off to the tropical island nation of the Maldives for their honeymoon. The couple appears to have returned home, but the stylist is still mentally in the Maldives. Rhea shared a photo dump from her honeymoon, which included peaceful sunsets, delicious food, and laid-back vibes.

Dia Mirza Rekhi and Vaibhav Rekhi Actress Dia Mirza and husband Vaibhav Rekhi also chose thel Maldives. Step daughter Samaira Rekhi, posted gorgeous pictures from her vacation. The former

One can't get enough of wildlife and safaris, says Rannvijay Singha

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ith an aim to explore and experience India's rich biodiversity, the people behind the parks, and the urgency of preserving the magnificent wildlife, Safari India explores seven of India's legendary national parks through an eightpart tentpole series. Zee Zest is launching a first-of-its-kind show 'Safari India', an adventurous, entertaining and thrilling journey across some of India's prominent national parks with actor Rannvijay Singha.

The seven national parks captured through Safari India's lens are the popular Jim Corbett National Park in Nainital, Kaziranga National Park in Assam, Pakke Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh, Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, Gir National Park in Gujarat, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary in Goa and Dubare Elephant Camp in Karnataka.

Actor Rannvijay Singha walks us through each jungle, with its own wildlife diversity that breathes life into nature, and that echoes the roar of its own emotion, taking you through an exciting and thrilling experience.

What piques your interest in being a Safari host?

Rannvijay: Hosting Zee Zest's Safari India was so up my alley that I didn't even think twice. I was raised in an army family, and we were always stationed near the forest. In fact, Jim Corbett Park was where I spent my first birthday. As soon as I count the opportunity to host Zee Zest's Safari India, I jumped at it because these are the kind of things I would like to do myself even in my spare time.

Have you ever been blown away by nature? Walk us through.

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Rannvijay: Of course, I've been blown away by nature many times. But now that I've had this journey with Safari India, the whole month that we shot it for, every day there was something that was just unbelievable. From the experiences that I had with Dr Panjeet when they were rewilding bear cubs deep in the Pakke Tiger Reserve to meeting female forest officers in Gir, and even in Dubare Elephant Camp in Karnataka, when we were microchipping a Cobra, every experience was amazing.

the jungles, how rich the wildlife is of our country and how proud we should be of the kind of flora and fauna that we have in India, it's unbelievable. If people go and support the wildlife, the forests and the national parks, India could be one of the best destinations for wildlife in the world and that's what you could get to see in this series by Zee Zest.

In every episode that you'll see during my journey with Safari India, I'm interacting with people behind the ecosystem that supports the national parks and forest reserves in India. Just with the kind of information that I was getting, the lifestyle and the way nature works, all of it was just unbelievable and I was blown away every day.

Rannvijay: In Safari India on Zee Zest, every episode showcases how different people contribute to preserving India's wildlife and biodiversity. You'll see professionals like biologists, doctors, rescue workers who take care of the wildlife. Even in the Elephants' camp in Dubare in Karnataka, they take care of the elephants sometimes even life long. A lot of people are involved in rewilding animals such as bear cubs. Naturalists take care of many different animals and plants, do treks and promote it.

Through these promotions, the revenue generated goes back towards the welfare of the locals, national parks, and forests.

What can viewers expect from this series?

Rannvijay: The viewers can expect a journey of someone who is just not looking at wildlife, forests and enjoying the safaris but stories of people who have actually dedicated their lives, who are from that place -villagers, tribals, forest officials, government officials, doctors, biologists, and naturalists and how they are working towards making this planet a better place. Everything that they do to conserve our reserves and jungles helps us in the cities also so it's not just that they are doing it for themselves.

Viewers will get to see how people have turned around things, how communities have come together and made a difference, the stories of the people behind

Mention a few things that the show promotes in order to preserve India's magnificent wildlife and biodiversity?

When I visited Kaziranga, I learned that only a few years ago, the total area of the whole national park was somewhere around 432 square kilometres and it's been increased to 1300 square kilometres which means there's still hope. Similarly, over 100 years ago, there were only 12 or 18 Asiatic Lions left in Gir, and today there are 674 Asiatic Lions after the census in 2020, so there is growth. There are people behind and who are those people are whom you'll be able to meet

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through Safari India at least in the 8 national parks that I went to.

Out of all the national parks you visited for the show, which one stands out?

Rannvijay: This is the most difficult question for me to answer because each and every national park that I went to during Zee Zest' Safari India has its own uniqueness and speciality.

Depending on which area you're in, just go to one national park around you. if you're in the east of India go to Kaziranga National Park in Assam and Pakke Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh.

If you're in the north go to Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan or Jim Corbett National Park in Nainital. And if you're close to Gir, you must visit the

Gir National Park in Gujarat. If you're in Karnataka, go to Dubare Elephant Camp. And what will happen as soon as you go to one is that you'll enjoy it so much that you will want to go to the next one and I have obviously lined up 8 such places for you to go to through Safari India.

That's the thing about wildlife and safaris. Once you get the taste of the wild and nature and once you start enjoying it, you'd want to go to each and every one. So I'd suggest instead of planning and going all across the country, just begin with the one that's closest to you.

Safari India premieres on January 31, 2022, at 8 p.m. on Zee Zest SD and HD, along with ZeeZest.com

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INDIA NEWS

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Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

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Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

INDIA NEWS

Kiara Advani confesses her newfound love for K-Dramas

ENTERTAINMENT

New poster from 'Bachchhan Paandey' showcases Akshay Kumar's rugged avatar

Kiara said: "Most of my friends are K-Drama fans and I just had to join the bandwagon! I'm so glad that I came across Snowdrop as I'm completely hooked to K-dramas and the fascinating Korean culture -- thanks to this show. Jisoo is a phenomenal actress and her performance in 'Snowdrop' is simply outstanding."

"Her chemistry with Jung Hae-in is to die for and being a huge fan of romance, I think their story in the series is so complex but captivating at the same time. I'm hooked to the show and have blocked my Wednesdays to watch every new episode."

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ollywood actress Kiara Advani has confessed her newfound craze for K-Dramas and said that she is hooked to 'Snowdrop'.

'Snowdrop' features BLACKPINK's Jisoo and 'Something In The Rain'

star Jung Hae-in, the 16-episode series explores the forbidden love between a South Korean girl and a North Korean spy during the June 1987 Democracy Movement in South Korea.

Directed by Jo Hyun-tak and written by Yoo Hyun-mi, the show also marks Jisoo's debut as a leading actress. With intriguing characters, outstanding storytelling, and a fantastic cast Snowdrop, also available in Hindi, is a show that will take viewers on an emotional rollercoaster that is full of excitement, action, and romance.

'Snowdrop' is also available in Hindi on Disney+ Hotstar.

Himansh Kohli enjoyed shooting last leg of 'Boondi Raita' in Dehradun try and explore Dehradun and places around it.

"Dehradun was my home for about three months and I lived there like a local. I went to temples, bakeries, scenic spots of the city etc. I also went to Mussoorie and Rishikesh a couple of times. Once the shoot was over I did everything that a Dehradun localite would do on his regular days," he adds.

Himansh sounds happy to have been able to work after such a long gap and finish the project.

Now, he is looking forward to the release of the film.

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ctor Himansh Kohli recently went to Dehradun to shoot for his upcoming film 'Boondi Raita' and he had a wonderful time in the city. The actor shares his experience, and things he would cherish forever.

"It is a nice and easy city which has its own pace. Dehradun gives an energetic vibe because of the abundance of educational institutions, and well-educated crowd. I really loved interacting with the people there and genuinely felt they are very welcoming," he says.

The actor then goes on to elaborate on his experience.

"No matter how many difficulties you face, if you are strong and

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determined, things can turn in your favour. This film saw two waves of Covid-19 before it could even go on the floor. It was announced in 2019 and we finished shooting in January 2022. But, I'm glad that we also got the time to make it so much more relevant and tune it in our favour as we got more time to work on every aspect. One of the most memorable things was that this film received the opening from the honourable CM of Uttarakhand, Shri Pushkar Dhami ji and we wrapped up the shoot with a Ganga Aarti. Now we have only good things to expect," he shares.

In between his work Himansh did

"What can I say, destiny has its own timelines and you can't do much when you're not supposed to be doing something. But, we utilized the time in our favour and kept reworking the script, the dialogues, the music and everything we could have achieved sitting in our homes. We planned so much that we didn't face a hiccup when we went on the floors and the shoot wrapped up in the exact timeframe as expected. 'Der aaye par durust aaye', and I hope we will do well at the box-office," he is keeping his fingers crossed.

There's a lot in the pipeline waiting to be executed that has been pushed due to Covid, reveals the actor. "But, as per my confirmation, I'll announce new projects the moment they are on the floor. I don't want to say anything till that happens," he says.

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ollywood star Akshay Kumar's new poster from his upcoming film 'Bachchhan Paandey' was revealed on Tuesday.

The film, which also stars Kriti Sanon, Jacqueline Fernandez, Arshad Warsi, Pankaj Tripathi, Prateik Babbar and Abhimanyu Singh, will see its trailer launch on Friday.

Akshay Kumar took to his Instagram to share his character's look, he wrote in the caption, "This is one character that has more shades than a paint shop! #BachchhanPaandey aapko daraane, hasaane, rulaane sab ke liye ready hai. Please give him all your love Trailer Out on 18th Feb, 2022 (sic)."

The picture shows the actor in a rugged avatar with a blue eye, thick stubble and a head gear that pretty much establishes his character. The film, a big ticket release, will hit the theaters on March 18, exactly a month after its trailer launch, on February 18, which also happens to be producer Sajid Nadiadwala's birthday.

'Bachchhan Paandey' produced

by Sajid Nadiadwala, marks the fourth collaboration of Akshay Kumar with Farhad Samji after 'Entertainment', 'Housefull 3' and 'Housefull 4'. The film written by Nischay Kuttanda and Farhad Samji directs.

'Jugaadistan' director Akarsh Khurana peeps into college life, politics in new web series itself. While I have done youthcentric, college stuff before, this was like a different take on it.

Like the darker side of our college years, and Delhi like we don't see often. We delve into an array of issues - college politics, student dynamics, side incomes - all of which are significant in how people's lives are shaped in their formative years."

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irector Akarsh Khurana is all set to come up with a new web series titled 'Jugaadistan'. He speaks about dealing with the darker side of college life, politics inside the campus and its impact on the students in the show.

Akarsh says: "As a filmmaker and storyteller, you are always looking to push the envelope and challenge yourself. I wanted to do just that when this presented

Directed by Akarsh Khurana and Adhaar Khurana, 'Jugaadistan' features actors such as Sumeet Vyas, Arjun Mathur, Parambrata Chatterjee, Rukshar Dhillon, Taaruk Raina, Gopal Datt and Ahsaas Channa, among others.

The 'Mismatched' director adds further: "After all, college is the beginning of the rest of your adult life. The decisions we take then usually have far reaching consequences. I also really enjoyed the track of investigative journalism and the quest for the truth that runs parallel to all the student shenanigans."

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INDIA NEWS

Feb 16-28, 2022 - Vol 2, Issue 15

Alia on 'Gangubai Kathiawadi': She's sunshine but there's sadness in her

ENTERTAINMENT

Richa loses 15 kilos, says actors are expected to look a certain way

is something ... that all adds up."

"That was one of her biggest sensitive points that what happened to her was not fair and which world she had to enter is not fair but the beauty is what she does with that anger... She has it in her body and soul but how she turns it around."

So how would you describe Gangubai?

"She is sunshine but there is sadness in her that is emotionally draining...to that to do what she did... " The 28-year-old actress added: "Her picture was on every girl's wall in Kamathipura for 50 years.

That was the impact she had for women so put yourself out for other people and not really be there for yourself that is another weight to carry. Even when I was dancing, walking or laughing...

Sanjay sir said 'weight'. 'Weight' doesn't mean physical weight... It means in the heart and head and that's what translates hopefully in the screen.

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very time she comes on screen she gives her all to the role she plays. Actress Alia Bhatt, who currently awaits the release of her upcoming film 'Gangubai Kathiawadi', has talked about how emotionally draining it was to play an intense character like Gangubai in the Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial and described her as "sunshine" but with "sadness".

'Gangubai Kathiawadi' tells the tale a young girl named Ganga who becomes Gangubai, a madame in the red light area of Kamathipura. It is loosely based on the true story of Gangubai Harjivandas, popularly known as Gangubai Kothewali, whose life was documented in the book 'Mafia Queens of Mumbai' written

by S. Hussain Zaidi.

In a conversation with IANS, Alia spoke about the emotionally draining part of playing a real life character like Gangubai, who was sold by her suitor to a brothel.

Alia said in the candid chat: "One of the things that maybe you'll also get to see in the trailer that there is a constant anger in her eyes so that comes with what happened to her and the situation she was put in. I remember whenever we used to play out scenes and there would always be that layer sir would ask me to bring in the character and maybe I didn't understand it while I was doing it and bringing it I was understanding it but when I saw the film in a flow I understood what he was trying to do and that

Asked how much is too much an actor to invest in intense roles, Alia, who has given power-packed performances in films such as 'Highway', 'Raazi' and 'Udta Punjab' to name a few, said: "Well, it depends in your personality I am that kind of a person where I will give everything."

"That's how I think sir and I connected. I kind of feel we had a sould connect by the end of it. We are both number 6... I could hear him without him saying things to me.. That's the kind of connect we have formed and I have seen how he gives everything."

Alia added: "He does not even rest even when his back was hurting he would be standing in pain and would not let his crew down.

It is a very soldier like attitude.

You have to soldier on there is no excuse. So, I am that kind of person and so is sir."

Music video 'Yaar ki Mehfil' featuring Ashnoor Kaur, Anuj Saini, Paras Kalnawat out now

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opular faces of the entertainment industry Ashnoor Kaur, Anuj Saini and Paras Kalnawat have come together for their upcoming music video 'Yaar ki Mehfil'. The song is sung by Stebin Ben.

The trio shares their experience of working in the music video.

Paras Kalnawat, who plays Ashnoor's love interest in the music video, is a bad boy and Anuj is portrayed as a typical middleclass man who is smitten by Ashnoor Kaur.

Speaking on her experience of shooting for the song, actress Ashnoor says: "It was a wonderful experience working with the cast and crew of 'Yaar Ki Mehfil.' More than anything, I am really glad to hear some amazing responses from my fans, they're as excited

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as me for my first project of 2022.

It's a very fresh pairing with both Paras and Anuj in the song, and people have welcomed us with open arms which means our efforts have paid off."

Anuj Saini says the music video is a complete effort taken by each and every member of the team. "Me and Ashnoor were confident enough to pull out what was requested from our end. We worked on it and now as we are being tagged as the new millennial pair in the town, it really adds value to whatever homework we had done for this music video."

On the other hand, 'Anupamaa' actor Paras Kalnawat shares his excitement to look at the reaction of the audience after watching the music video

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icha Chadha has shared a video flaunting her jawdropping transformation. The actress has lost 15kgs in just three months.

In the clip she shared, Richa also talked about her body weight and the expectations show business has towards actors.

Richa posted a video on her Instagram handle, where she is heard talking about how she has lost and gained weight but there is better conversation that needs to be made.

In a video montage featuring the actress, Richa is heard saying: "Its never easy being in front of the camera, much less for someone who wants to swim upstream. Be vocal or woke. The world is going to tell you there's a premium on youth. But that is also for public consumption only, na? Your success, failure, public! Won't matter if you are self-made or self-paid. Everyone has advice.

"You've gained weight. You've lost weight."

"Yes I've lost weight, I've gained weight. But surely there's better conversation to be made."

He adds: "I am very excited for the audience to watch it and this time I am playing a different character.

The outcome of the entire song is so beautiful, after all the hard work we have put in. And I really believe that the audience will love the song".

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The actress added: "You can lose cartilage, health or sanity over what ends up being a terrible film.

And all your well-intentioned effort amounts to be a big fat zero. When you are harassed, people will say it's a part of your job. Well, to hell with people.

This isn't some before and after montage. It's me. It's my body, ever-changing. No literally, every cell, every scar, everything dies and is reborn, every six months.

Why not me? Kaun Rokega (who will stop me)."

Alongside the powerful post, the actress wrote: "Assuming that eLove is the absence of judgement", we're most unloved by self. Happy Valentine's Day! .Just wanna confuse the algorithm by posting something "out-ofsyllabus" was looking for depth (, , ), with utter disregard for likes and comments. Sometimes you just wanna talk, ya know ?

Reframe what romance means to include self."

On the work front, Richa is currently riding high on the success of 'The Great Indian Murder'.

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Brookwater is the premier address in the Western Corridor.

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