Maybe they’ll be selling oil to India someday: Trump says US to help develop ‘massive reserves’ in Pakistan
Washington, July 31 (IANS) US President Donald Trump on Thursday (Indian time) declared that the United States has struck a deal with Pakistan to jointly develop what he described as
"massive oil reserves", with a suggestion that this oil could eventually be exported to India.
The announcement came just a day after Trump imposed 25 per cent tariffs on Indian goods and warned of additional penalties over India's continued oil and arms trade with Russia.
Posting on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump wrote, "We have just concluded a deal with the country of Pakistan,
‘Congress said 56 inches failed—we made terror tremble in its den’: PM Modi roars in Lok Sabha
New Delhi, July 29 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a forceful address to the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, defended Operation
Sindoor as a decisive and historic counter-terror mission that not only dismantled Pakistan-based terror infrastructure but also exposed the political opportunism of the Opposition.
Rising to speak on Operation Sindoor, PM Modi declared, “I stand here to present Bharat’s stand.” He described in detail how Indian forces penetrated deep
whereby Pakistan and the United States will work together on developing their massive oil reserves. We are in the process of choosing the oil company that will lead this partnership. Who knows, maybe they'll be selling oil to India someday!"
The statement comes just after Trump announced 25 per cent tariffs on Indian exports and hinted at further economic
All seven accused acquitted in 2008 Malegaon blast case by NIA court
New Delhi, July 31 (IANS) In a significant judgment, a special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court on Thursday acquitted all seven accused in the 2008 Malegaon blast case, including former BJP MP Sadhvi Pragya
Singh Thakur and Lt Colonel Prasad Shrikant Purohit.
The court dropped all charges against the accused under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Arms Act, and the Indian Penal Code (IPC), citing a lack of sufficient evidence.
The blast occurred on September 29, 2008, when a bomb strapped to a motorcycle exploded near
Delhi court defers decision on issuing notice to Robert Vadra in land deal case
Divya Deshmukh scripts history to become first Indian woman to win chess World Cup
Baku, July 28 (IANS) The 19-yearold Divya Deshmukh stunned the chess world by winning the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, becoming the first Indian woman to claim the prestigious title. In the all-Indian final, Divya defeated legendary compatriot Koneru Humpy 1.5–0.5 in the
rapid tie-breaks on Monday to script a fairytale ending in Baku. The classical games played over the weekend had ended in tense draws, with both players showcasing resilience and elitelevel play. In Saturday's opening
New Delhi, July 31 (IANS) A Delhi court on Thursday deferred till August 2 the pronouncement of its decision on issuing a notice to businessman Robert Vadra, son-in-law of former Congress President Sonia Gandhi, in connection with a money laundering case linked to a land deal in Haryana’s Shikohpur.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) had filed a prosecution complaint under the Prevention of Money
Laundering Act (PMLA), claiming that Vadra's Skylight Hospitality “fraudulently” purchased 3.53 acres of land situated in the village of Shikohpur in Haryana's Gurugram district through “false declaration”.
The Rouse Avenue Courts, which was slated to deliver the verdict on Thursday, deferred the pronouncement till August 2.
Narendra Modi becomes 2nd longest serving PM in India, surpasses Indira Gandhi’s record
New Delhi, July 25 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday, completed 4,078 days in office, surpassing former Prime Minister late Indira Gandhi's record of 4,077 consecutive days as Prime Minister of the country from January 24, 1966, to March 24, 1977. This means, a single and uninterrupted tenure as the Prime Minister of India. With this milestone, PM Modi
becomes the second longest consecutively serving Prime Minister in India's history, behind only the country's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
As PM Narendra Modi marks 4,078 consecutive days in office on July 25, 2025, he also holds several historic distinctions. PM Modi is the first and only Prime Minister born after Independence, the longestserving non-Congress PM, and the longest-serving Prime Minister from a non-Hindispeaking state. He is also the first and only
Asha Bhosle treats Anup Jalota with homemade kebabs,
4th Test: Jadeja, Sundar hit centuries as superb India defy England to secure draw
Maybe they’ll be selling oil to India someday: Trump says US to help develop ‘massive reserves’ in Pakistan
Continued from Page 1
pressure in response to New Delhi's continued engagement with Russia for crude oil and defence supplies.
In his post, Trump also said he is engaged in negotiations with multiple countries seeking reductions in tariffs.
"We are very busy in the White House today working on trade deals. I have spoken to the leaders of many countries, all of whom want to make the United States 'extremely happy'," he said.
He mentioned a meeting scheduled with the South Korean
trade delegation and noted that Seoul currently faces a 25 per cent tariff rate.
"They have an offer to buy down those tariffs. I will be interested in hearing what that offer is," he added.
Trump asserted that such deals would help reduce America's trade deficit, promising a full report "at the appropriate time."
Responding to a reporter's question on the newly imposed Indian tariffs and broader tensions, Trump reiterated his dissatisfaction with India's role in BRICS, a group of emerging
economies comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa and several recent entrants.
"Well, we are negotiating right now, and it's also BRICS. BRICS, which is basically a group of countries that are anti the United States and India is a member of that if you can believe it... It is an attack on the dollar, and we are not going to let anybody attack the dollar. So it's partially BRICS and it's partially trade," Trump said. He indicated that ongoing discussions with India might yield clarity "by the end of this week."
Delhi court defers decision on issuing notice to Robert Vadra in land deal case
Last week, the trial court had reserved its order regarding the issuance of a notice to Vadra, the husband of Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. During the hearing, advocate Zoheb Hossain, appearing for the ED, stated that the sale deed falsely declared a payment of Rs 7.5 crore, whereas in reality, no such payment was made. This amount was paid at a later stage to evade stamp duty, a fact that has been confirmed by key witnesses, added Hossain. Further, the federal anti-money laundering agency claimed that Vadra, “through his personal influence”, obtained a commercial
license on the land purchased.
As per the ED, the land was later sold to DLF at a higher price, and this aspect of the case is still under investigation.
In April this year, Vadra was questioned in multiple rounds by the ED, during which his statement was also recorded.
The land purchase deal in question was executed in February 2008 when Congress was at the helm in Haryana, and Bhupinder Singh Hooda was the Chief Minister. The mutation process, which usually takes months, was done the next day.
Months later, Vadra received a permit to develop a housing society on the land, and the value of the plot increased. He sold it to DLF in June at Rs 58 crore.
Suspecting the proceeds to be part of a money laundering scheme, the ED has been probing the trail behind the windfall gains.
In October 2012, IAS officer Ashok Khemka (now retired), who was then posted as the Director General of Land Consolidation and Land Records-cumInspector-General of Registration of Haryana, cancelled the land purchase deal, citing procedural irregularities.
All seven accused acquitted in 2008 Malegaon blast case by NIA court
Continued from Page 1
the Bhikku Chowk mosque in Malegaon city of Nashik district, Maharashtra. The explosion, which took place during the holy month of Ramzan and just days before the Hindu festival of Navratri, claimed six lives and injured over 100 people in the communally sensitive town.
After nearly 17 years of legal proceedings, the verdict was delivered in a packed courtroom with all the accused present, as directed earlier by the court. The court also ordered compensation of Rs 2 lakh to the families of each of the six deceased and Rs 50,000 for every injured victim.
The trial saw a prolonged legal process involving a voluminous case file exceeding one lakh pages.
Hearings concluded in April this year, and the court had reserved its judgment on April 19. Given the scale and complexity of the case, the court took additional
time to scrutinise all the material before announcing its verdict. Throughout the trial, the prosecution examined 323 witnesses, though 34 of them turned hostile, significantly weakening the prosecution’s case.
Initially, the investigation was conducted by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), which arrested the accused and filed the first charge sheet. However, in 2011, the probe was transferred to the NIA.
In 2016, the NIA filed a supplementary charge sheet dropping charges against several accused, including Sadhvi Pragya, citing insufficient evidence to prosecute them under stringent anti-terror laws.
All accused were out on bail during the trial. They were facing serious charges, including conspiracy, murder, and use of explosives under UAPA and IPC provisions.
Narendra Modi becomes 2nd longest serving PM in India, surpasses Indira Gandhi’s record
in Lok Sabha
‘Congress said 56 inches failed—we made terror tremble in its den’: PM Modi roars
Continued from Page 1
into Pakistan to destroy terror camps, stating that “for the first time, India’s strategy extended into areas we had never reached before — we dismantled terror networks inside Pakistan itself.”
The Prime Minister highlighted that the Pahalgam massacre of April 22, in which terrorists killed innocent civilians after asking their religion, was a calculated attempt to trigger communal violence and destabilise national unity. “But the strength of Indian unity crushed that conspiracy,” he said.
In a clear dig at the Congress,
PM Modi condemned the Opposition's reaction in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack. “They were celebrating too early. They thought they had scored a political point by asking, ‘Where is 56-inch Modi now?’
They were mocking, laughing, playing politics over the blood of innocents,” he charged.
“Congress wasn’t looking for justice; they were looking for headlines,” he said, adding that such remarks were demoralising the armed forces.
“Their statements showed sheer pettiness. They don’t trust the Army’s strength, nor India’s capabilities.”
Referring to the global reaction, PM Modi noted that 193 countries watched India’s actions, and not one stopped us. Only three nations stood with Pakistan. “From Sindoor to Sindhu, the world saw India’s resolve,” he asserted.
He also revealed that after Pakistan’s infrastructure suffered massive losses, its military leadership requested India’s DGMO to halt the assault, leading to the suspension of Operation Sindoor on May 10. “It was not ended—just paused. If Pakistan misbehaves again, it will resume with even more aggression,” he warned.
Continued from Page 1
non-Congress leader to have completed two full terms and to be re-elected twice with a majority, making him the only non-Congress Prime Minister to secure a majority on his own in the Lok Sabha.
head of a democratically-elected government, either in the state or Centre.
The record for the unbroken stint is held by first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. PM Modi has matched Nehru in leading their respective parties to victory in three consecutive Lok Sabha elections.
Divya Deshmukh scripts history to become first Indian woman to win
Continued from Page 1
game, Divya, playing with the white pieces, built a commanding position but let Humpy equalise late. The second game on Sunday was more balanced, though Divya admitted she “wandered into trouble for no apparent reason” before holding on.
But the tie-breaks were where the young sensation flipped the script. After the first rapid game ended in a draw, the
chess World Cup
second saw Humpy crack under time pressure, making critical blunders that Divya pounced on.
With nerves of steel, Divya closed out the win to become the 2025 Women’s World Cup champion, the fourth Indian woman to earn the Grandmaster title, and the country’s 88th GM overall.
“It was fate,” said an emotional Divya after the final. “Before the tournament, I was thinking that I could maybe earn a Grandmaster
norm here. And at the end, I became a Grandmaster.” Divya’s victory is even more remarkable considering the odds. She came into the tie-breaks as the underdog — Humpy, a twotime World Rapid Champion and currently world No. 5 in classical chess, was widely expected to dominate in the faster format. In contrast, Divya was ranked No. 18 in classical, No. 22 in rapid, and No. 18 in blitz on the FIDE women’s list.
Additionally, he is the first sitting Prime Minister since Indira Gandhi in 1971 to return to power with a full majority.
PM Modi is the only Prime Minister, apart from late Jawaharlal Nehru, to win three consecutive elections as leader of a political party in India.
He is the only leader in India, among all Prime Ministers and Chief Ministers, to win six consecutive elections as the leader of a party -- Gujarat (2002, 2007, 2012), Lok Sabha polls (2014, 2019, 2024).
This will be another milestone in PM Modi's almost 24 years as
Born into a modest family in Vadnagar, Gujarat, Narendra Modi helped his father sell tea at a railway station before rising through the ranks of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and later the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Known for his grassroots connect and strong communication style, PM Modi served as Gujarat's chief minister for over a decade before leading the BJP to a historic national victory in 2014. Since then, he has positioned himself as a key global leader, projecting India as a confident, assertive voice on the world stage.
2006 Mumbai blasts: 12 convicts, including 5 on death row, acquitted; HC orders immediate release
Mumbai, July 21 (IANS) The Bombay High Court on Monday acquitted all 12 men convicted by a lower court in the 2006 Mumbai train blasts, which claimed 189 lives and left over 800 people injured.
The verdict was given by a bench of Justice Anil Kilor and Justice S. Chandak.
The High Court’s order is a major blow to the investigation agencies. With this decision, the sentences imposed by the special court earlier have been cancelled.
There were in all 13 men, of whom one was already acquitted
by the special court. The high court has ordered the release of 12, of whom five were on death sentence and seven others on life imprisonment, to be released from jail immediately.
The serial bomb blasts in a local train in Mumbai killed 189 people and injured about 824. Five explosions took place in local trains in Mumbai in 11 minutes between Churchgate and Borivali stations.
The explosives used in the 2006 Mumbai train bomb blasts were a mixture of RDX and Ammonium Nitrate. The bombs were packed into seven pressure cookers and put in bags. Forensic analysis confirmed the presence of these explosives in the debris.
The serial bomb blasts were carried out by Islamic militants backed by Pakistan. During
the attack, seven blasts ripped through trains in the evening rush hour.
The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) had filed a charge sheet in November 2006 under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
The prosecution had argued that the attack was planned by Pakistan's intelligence agency, ISI, and carried out by operatives of Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba with help from the Students' Islamic Movement of India, a banned Indian group. However, the police and investigation agencies were unable to present evidence properly in the court, leading to the acquittal of 12 men after 19 years of languishing in jail.
Chhattisgarh: 4 Maoists killed in Bijapur encounter; security forces recover arms and ammunition
Raipur, July 27 (IANS) In a significant counter-insurgency operation success, four rewardcarrying Maoists were killed during a prolonged encounter with security forces in the dense forest region of Bijapur district in Chhattisgarh, the police said on Sunday.
The operation, launched by the District Reserve Guard (DRG) on July 26, was based on specific
intelligence inputs regarding Maoist activity near the Basaguda and Gangaloor police station limits in the district’s southwestern corridor.
The gunfight began in the evening and continued intermittently through the night. Among the deceased were two women cadres, all affiliated with the South Sub Zonal Bureau of the banned CPI (Maoist), said the official.
The slain insurgents were identified as Hunga (ACM, Platoon 10), Lakkhe (ACM, Platoon 30), Bhime (ACM), and Nihal alias Rahul, a party member and bodyguard to the Bureau Communication Head.
Collectively, they carried a bounty of Rs 17 lakh.
Security personnel recovered a substantial cache of arms and ammunition from the site, including one SLR rifle, one INSAS rifle, one .303 rifle, a 12 bore gun, a BGL launcher, a single-shot 315 bore rifle, and an AK-47.
In addition, multiple magazines, live rounds, grenades, BGL cells, Maoist literature, and daily-use items were seized.
Inspector General of Police (Bastar Range) Sundarraj P. confirmed that the operation was part of an intensified anti-LWE campaign in the region.
Stranded British F-35 B fighter jet finally takes off after 5-week stay in Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram, July 22 (IANS) The British Royal Navy's F-35B Lightning II fighter jet, which had been stranded in Kerala for five weeks after making an emergency landing on June 14, flew out of the Thiruvananthapuram international airport at 10.50 a.m. on Tuesday.
The single-pilot manned jet, according to sources, is heading to its destination in Australia.
Renowned for its short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) capabilities, the fifth-generation fighter -- part of the UK’s HMS Prince of Wales Carrier Strike Group -- was returning from joint maritime exercises with the
Indian Navy in the Indo-Pacific when it was forced to land in Kerala’s capital city on June 14.
The snag was identified in its hydraulic systems.
Soon after it was grounded, a team of engineers landed here, but could not rectify the snag.
Then the British officials decided to fly out a special team of top aviation engineers from the US and the UK, who arrived early this month.
The special team, comprised of engineers from the British Royal Navy and aircraft manufacturers Lockheed Martin.
The jet, which was first lying in the open and was later shifted to the hangar.
The US-UK engineering team cordoned off the entire area, and in a week, they got the engine to roar again. By the end of last week, it was cleared for flying again.
On Monday, the aircraft was brought to the tarmac, and on
Patna hospital murder case: Three arrested in Bihar’s Bhojpur after encounter
Patna, July 22 (IANS) In a major breakthrough in the Chandan Mishra murder case, a joint team of Bihar STF and Bhojpur police arrested three accused following an encounter in Bhojpur district on Tuesday.
The encounter took place around 5.45 a.m. near a river on the Bihiya-Kateya road under the Bihiya police station limits.
The police and STF, acting on intelligence inputs, surrounded the suspects linked to the Chandan Mishra murder case.
In response, the criminals opened fire, prompting retaliatory fire from the police.
Two of the criminals, Balwant Kumar (22, a resident of Liladharpur, Buxar) and Raviranjan Singh (20, from Chakrahi, Bhojpur), sustained bullet injuries during the exchange of fire.
Balwant suffered injuries to his hand and leg, while Raviranjan was shot in the thigh. The joint team has also seized two pistols, a country-made Katta, two magazines and some live cartridges. The entire area was cordoned off, and a heavy
deployment of police was seen in the area.
Both injured accused were initially taken to Bihiya Hospital and later referred to a higher facility for treatment.
A total of three accused were arrested during the operation, Bhojpur ASP confirmed.
Sources revealed that leads obtained during the interrogation of the main accused, Mohammad Taushif alias Badshah, currently on a three-day police remand in Patna, led to the arrests in Bhojpur.
Gangster Chandan Mishra was killed in Patna’s Paras Hospital on July 17.
Patna Police had earlier stated that nine individuals were involved in the planning and execution of the murder.
With the three fresh arrests in Bhojpur, the total number of accused apprehended in the Chandan Mishra case has risen to seven.
Earlier, police had arrested Mohammad Taushif alias Badshah (main accused), Nishu Khan alias Bhaijaan, Harsh Kumar, and Bhim Kumar from Kolkata.
Now, Balwant Kumar and Raviranjan Singh (injured in the encounter), along with another suspect arrested on Tuesday, add to the police’s progress in the case.
Raj school building collapse: Four children killed, 10 rescued; govt orders probe
Tuesday morning, the final preparations were also done, and at 10.50 a.m., the stranded stateof-the-art was airborne again.
The special team of engineers is also expected to leave later in the day on a special flight, which brought them here early this month.
Ever since the jet was grounded, it became a subject of discussion on social media, and there were numerous trolls about it. Even Kerala Tourism could not resist the fun. It included this rare moment in its campaign. In a post on X, it shared a message: "Kerala, the destination you will never want to leave. Thank you, The Fauxy." The post featured a spoof "review" attributed to the UK jet: "Kerala is such an amazing place, I don't want to leave. Definitely recommend."
Now with the jet having left, a sensation has again been created on social media.
Jhalawar, July 25 (IANS) At least four children were killed and several are feared trapped after a government school building collapsed in Rajasthan's Jhalawar district on Friday, said officials here, adding that ten kids have been admitted to hospitals.
The devastating incident occurred in Piplodi village of Manoharthana area in the district, where the roof of a government school building collapsed, burying dozens of students under the debris.
State Education Minister Madan Dilawar expressed his grief over the incident and has called for a high-level inquiry into the collapse.
"...I have given strict orders to ensure the best medical treatment to students. Also, I am issuing orders to get the matter investigated to know why this tragic accident happened. District officials have reached the site," he
said.
"Ten children have been referred to Jhalawar for treatment, out of which three to four are in critical condition,” said Jhalawar Superintendent of Police, Amit Kumar.
The incident took place at the Government Higher Primary School, which was operating out of an old and dilapidated structure. The collapse happened around school hours, triggering chaos and panic.
According to eyewitnesses and local villagers, over 50 students were present in the classrooms when the roof suddenly caved in due to persistent heavy rainfall over the past few days. The sound of the collapse was followed by screams and confusion as dust and debris engulfed the area. Without waiting for help, villagers and school staff immediately began rescue efforts, manually clearing debris to pull out the trapped children. The injured students were rushed to the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Manoharthana using private vehicles, with many of them reportedly in serious condition.
Two dead as panic over electric shock triggers stampede at UP’s Barabanki temple
Barabanki (UP), July 28 (IANS) Two devotees lost their lives while 29 others were injured in a stampede that broke out at a temple in Uttar Pradesh's Barabanki district in the early hours of Monday.
The incident occurred at the Awsaneshwar Mahadev temple in the Haidergarh area during a religious ritual, after panic spread over an electric shock in the temple premises.
The stampede occurred on the intervening night of July 27 and 28, when a large number of devotees had assembled for the 'Jalabhishek' on the third Monday of Sawan, a day considered especially sacred for worshipping Lord Shiva.
According to officials, the ritual had commenced at midnight, and
by around 2 A.M., the premises was packed with worshippers.
The situation turned chaotic when reports of an electric shock spread among the crowd.
As per Barabanki District Magistrate Shashank Tripathi, the panic was triggered when a group of monkeys jumped onto an overhead electric wire, which subsequently broke and fell on the temple shed.
This led to a sudden electric current passing through the structure, sparking fear and confusion among the devotees.
As the news of the electric shock spread, devotees rushed in all directions, resulting in a stampede.
Two devotees reportedly died on the spot, while 29 others sustained injuries. The injured were promptly taken to the Haidergarh and Trivediganj Community Health Centres for treatment.
Those with serious injuries were later referred to the district hospital for advanced care.
"All except one patient brought to the Haidergarh Community Health Centre have been discharged," said Barabanki Chief Medical Officer Awadhesh Kumar Yadav.
"Ten people were brought to Trivediganj CHC, of which two were declared brought dead. The remaining are stable and being treated," he further informed.
Local police were already deployed at the temple in view of the expected crowd.
After the incident, additional police forces were sent to the site to control the situation and manage the large gathering.
The tragedy in Barabanki came just a day after a similar incident occurred in Haridwar's Mansa Devi Temple, where eight people were killed and 30 others injured in a stampede.
That incident, too, was reportedly triggered by rumours of a possible electric shock, leading to chaos on the stairway leading to the temple.
India emerging as a major exporter of railway bogies, coaches & locomotives: Vaishnaw
(Gujarat), July 27 (IANS) Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Sunday that Indian Railways is rapidly emerging as a major exporter of bogies, coaches, locomotives, and propulsion systems under the "Make in India, Make for the World" Vision.
The minister visited Alstom's Savli facility in Vadodara, which is a key manufacturing hub for railway rolling stock in India.
He highlighted that Indiamade metro coaches have been exported to Australia and Canada, while bogies have been shipped to the UK, Saudi Arabia, France, and Australia. Propulsion systems manufactured in India have been
supplied to France, Mexico, Romania, Spain, Germany, and Italy.
Similarly, India-made passenger coaches and locomotives have been exported to countries such as Mozambique, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
Vaishnaw said that the export of railway components to multiple countries is creating significant employment opportunities in India. The Minister further added that Indian engineers and workers are now gaining expertise in international standards, which he described as a major success of the Make in India mission.
He appreciated Alstom’s practice of designing customised solutions for each order - an innovation Indian Railways could emulateand proposed developing a joint training programme with Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya through a creative and collaborative framework.
The minister also suggested that General Managers of all PUs undertake training and exposure visits to Alstom’s Savli unit. Discussions also included the use of sensors and artificial intelligence for preventive maintenance.
Savli facility is producing stateof-the-art commuter and transit train cars, with a strong commitment to the government's Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. With a strong focus on innovation and manufacturing excellence, over 3,400 engineers from India are actively collaborating with 21 Alstom sites worldwide. Since 2016, India has successfully exported 1,002 rail cars for various international projects, reinforcing the country’s position as a trusted supplier of modern rail systems. As many as 450 rail cars were manufactured at Savli and exported to Australia for the Queensland Metro project.
Bengaluru: 22-year-old nurse ends life after harassment over photos by friend’s father
Bengaluru,
the outskirts of Bengaluru, said officials on Thursday.
The deceased was identified as 22-year-old Bhavana, a resident of Gyarahalli in Gubbi town, Tumakuru district.
According to the police, she was blackmailed and harassed over a private photograph by her classmate’s father, identified as Naveen. While pursuing her nursing studies in Mysuru, Bhavana’s father used to send money to the bank account of Naveen’s daughter through her mobile. The accused allegedly
8 killed, 30 injured in Mansa Devi stampede in Haridwar
Haridwar, July 28 (IANS) At least eight people were killed and 30 others were injured in a stampede that broke out at the Mansa Devi Temple in Uttarakhand's Haridwar on Sunday.
The incident occurred due to overcrowding in the temple premises as thousands of devotees thronged the sacred site during the ongoing holy month of Shravan.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has expressed deep condolences over this accident.
Vinod Kumar Suman, Secretary Disaster Management and Rehabilitation, said that at around 9 a.m. on Sunday, the State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) received information about a sudden stampede at the Mansa Devi temple. The SEOC immediately established contact with the District Emergency Operations.
According to the information received from Haridwar District
Administration, eight people have died and 30 have been injured in the stampede incident in the Mansa Devi Temple premises.
The deceased include minors and elderly pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Uttarakhand. Among them are: Aarush (12), Bareilly, UP; Vikki (18), Rampur, UP; Vishal (19), Rampur, UP; Vipin Saini (18), Kashipur, Uttarakhand; Vakeel (43), Barabanki, UP; Ram Bharose (65) and Shanti Devi (60), Budaun, UP; and Shakaldev (18), Araria, Bihar.
The District Administration informed that there was some difference in the number of injured in the primary information received by the State Emergency Operation Centre through telephone and other means and the list issued by the District Administration after a thorough investigation.
Some people with minor injuries, who left immediately for their homes after first aid, were not included in the list of injured.
Secretary Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Vinod Kumar Suman informed that a revised list of the injured is being issued after a thorough investigation at the level of the District Administration, and after talking to the family members.
49-year-old TN woman fulfils dream to study medicine, cracks NEET with daughter
Chennai, July 31 (IANS) In a heartwarming story of perseverance and determination, a 49-year-old woman from Tenkasi, Tamil Nadu, is set to begin her medical studies, fulfilling a dream she has cherished for more than 15 years. Amuthavalli, a physiotherapist by profession, always aspired to become a doctor but could never pursue her ambition due to personal and financial constraints.
accessed Bhavana’s number from his daughter’s phone and began contacting her.
After completing her studies, Bhavana began working as a staff nurse at a private hospital in Tumakuru. The accused continued to stay in touch with her and once took her to Dharmasthala.
During the trip, he reportedly took a private photo of her and began threatening and pressuring her to marry him.
While helping her daughter prepare for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), she rekindled her longstanding dream and decided to appear for the exam herself.
Speaking about her journey, Amuthavalli said, "I've been working as a physiotherapist for years, but I always wanted to study medicine. This dream started 15 years ago, but I never had the opportunity. When I began preparing alongside my daughter, I realised it was now or never. She gave me the courage to
try again."
Although Amuthavalli scored 147 marks in NEET, she qualified under the Persons with Disabilities (PwD) category and has secured admission to the Government Medical College in Virudhunagar.
Her daughter, Samyuktha Krupalini, who scored an impressive 460 marks in the same exam, has taken part in the ongoing general counselling process and is expected to secure a seat in one of Tamil Nadu's medical colleges.
Interestingly, the motherdaughter duo has decided not to attend the same college even if they both get admission offers.
"We want to study in different medical colleges so that we can focus independently on our studies," Amuthavalli said with a smile. The story of Amuthavalli's perseverance has inspired many in her hometown of Tenkasi. Locals and well-wishers have lauded her determination to pursue higher education at an age when most people are busy fulfilling family responsibilities.
Medical education experts have also hailed her success as a testament to the fact that age should never be a barrier to learning.
Vadodara
July 31 (IANS) In a shocking case, a nurse died by suicide after being blackmailed by her friend's father in the Nelamangala police station limits on
Indian diaspora in London greet PM Modi with chants of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ and ‘Vande Mataram’ on historic visit to UK
London, July 24 (IANS) The Indian community in London welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a grand reception as he arrived in UK on Wednesday evening for a historic two-day visit that centres around the signing of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and refresh of the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Members of the Indian diaspora carried several posters welcoming PM Modi with chants of 'Modi, Modi', 'Bharat Mata Ki Jai' and 'Vande Mataram' and danced in traditional outfits as Prime Minister Modi arrived at his hotel in London.
"Touched by the warm welcome from the Indian community in the UK. Their affection and passion towards India’s progress is truly heartening," PM Modi wrote on social media platform X.
Earlier, artists dressed in traditional outfits played dhol ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival in London.
Speaking with enthusiasm and excitement on meeting PM Modi, a member of the Indian diaspora told IANS, "We are so proud, and I am still in tears. You can see that my eyes are still filled with the happiness and joy he (PM Modi) brought while shaking our hands."
Another member of the Indian diaspora while speaking to IANS said, "I felt extremely happy meeting PM Modi for the first time and my entire day felt worthwhile. The initiatives PM Modi has taken for India such as digitisation, the recent success of Operation Sindoor etc. The whole credit for such initiatives goes to PM Modi and his Cabinet. The energy PM Modi carries wherever he goes people are crazy to meet him. I feel extremely proud whenever I return back home."
An Indian community member told IANS: "The aura I witnessed was simply amazing. I never expected him to have such a powerful presence as he (PM Modi) looked like a saint to me.
That is why people like PM Modi a lot.
Another member of the Indian diaspora told IANS, "It felt really great, just like every time PM Modi comes, he always does something good here. He strengthens the UK-India bond and brings positivity. I have great hope this time as well as PM Modi will achieve something great for India."
Another Indian diaspora member said, "He (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) is an amazing person, and I am so glad I met him today. I feel so inspired from PM Modi."
The Prime Minister's visit to the UK, scheduled for July 23–24, comes at the invitation of British counterpart Keir Starmer and will be his fourth trip to the country. "Leaving for the UK, a country with which our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has achieved significant momentum in the last few years. I look forward to my talks with PM Keir Starmer and my meeting with His Majesty King Charles III," PM Modi said on X as he emplaned for the UK.
North Korean leader calls for bolstering combat capability during artillery drills
Seoul, July 24 (IANS) North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has called on the military to strengthen combat capability through intensive training, stressing the capability "of immediately coping with a war anytime and destroying the enemy in every battle," state media reported on Thursday. Kim made the remarks as he observed a firing contest of artillery subunits of the Korean People's Army (KPA) the previous day, accompanied by senior party and defence officials, reports Yonhap, quoting Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
During the training aimed at sharpening artillery firing capabilities, participating units were ordered to hit a maritime target that was designated at a spot in a limited time, the KCNA said.
Kim expressed satisfaction after observing the contest and called for further developing the military's artillery tactics "in keeping with the harsh and acute environment of the dailychanging modern battlefield," the KCNA said.
He was also quoted as saying the military should further beef up intensive training for a "real war" and stressed that the most powerful war deterrent is the "clearest outlook on the arch enemy."
Among officials who attended the event were Pak Jong-chon, vice
chairman of the ruling party's Central Military Commission; Defence Minister No Kwangchol; and Ri Yong-gil, chief of the General Staff of the KPA.
During his visit to the defence ministry in February, Kim designated 2025 as the year of military training and has since overseen various military activities to emphasise intensive training and the acquisition of modern warfare capabilities.
Kim oversaw a similar military artillery firing contest in late May.
An official at South Korea's unification ministry assessed that North Korea did not appear to target either South Korea or the United States with Wednesday's firing drills, adding that Pyongyang did not specify whom it meant when referring to "the arch enemy."
Trump remains open to dialogue with Kim to achieve ‘fully denuclearised’ North Korea: White House
achieve a "fully denuclearised"
North Korea, a White House official said a day after his administration announced a raft of actions to disrupt Pyongyang's illicit revenue generation schemes.
The Trump administration unveiled a package of actions against North Korea on Thursday, including offering rewards for information about seven North Korean nationals involved in a scheme believed to raise funds for the reclusive regime's nuclear and missile programs.
Russian plane crashes in Amur, kills all 49 on board
Moscow, July 24 (IANS) A Russian An-24 aircraft carrying 49 people, including five children and six crew members, crashed in the mountainous Amur region on Thursday, killing all on board, according to local media reports.
The ill-fated flight, operated by the Siberia-based Angara Airlines, had departed from Blagoveshchensk and was en route to Tynda, near the RussiaChina border, when it lost contact with air traffic controllers shortly before its scheduled landing.
According to Russia's state news agency TASS, the aircraft reportedly caught fire mid-air and vanished from radar.
Rescue helicopters later located the burning wreckage on a remote mountainside, approximately 16 kilometres from Tynda.
Officials from the Amur Centre for Civil Defence and Fire Safety confirmed that "no survivors were found when a Mi-8 search helicopter flew over the crash
site."
"The aircraft caught fire upon crashing," said a spokesperson. "Rescue operations have been hampered by the extremely difficult terrain, as the crash site lies on a steep, inaccessible slope."
The harsh geographical conditions of the region -- dense taiga forests and swampy terrain -- further complicated rescue efforts.
The aircraft did not send any distress signals before disappearing, heightening questions over what went wrong.
Preliminary reports suggest the An-24 may have been attempting a second approach to land at Tynda Airport when it went off the radar.
A Rosaviatsia aircraft and multiple rescue teams were immediately dispatched to the area when the information was received earlier in the day.
"All necessary forces and means have been deployed to search for the plane," said Amur region governor Vasily Orlov.
Investigators from the Far Eastern Transport Prosecutor's Office have launched a probe into the incident.
Philippines President to visit India next week to strengthen defence and maritime ties
New Delhi, July 31 (IANS)
Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., President of the Philippines, will undertake a State Visit to India from August 4 to 8 with an aim to deepen bilateral cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including defence and maritime security.
This will be his first visit to India since assuming office.
"President Trump, in his first term, held three historic summits with North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un that stabilised the Korean Peninsula and achieved the firstever leader-level agreement on denuclearisation," the official told Yonhap News Agency via email.
"The president retains those objectives and remains open to engaging with Leader Kim to achieve a fully de-nuclearised North Korea," the official added.
The Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday that President Marcos will be accompanied by First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos and a high-level delegation comprising several Cabinet Ministers, senior officials, dignitaries, and business representatives. Apart from engagements in New Delhi, the President will also visit Bengaluru before concluding his visit.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Marcos are scheduled to hold bilateral talks on August 5. The visiting leader will also meet President Droupadi Murmu, while External Affairs
Minister S. Jaishankar is set to call on him as well.
According to the MEA, India and the Philippines established diplomatic relations in November 1949. Since then, the two countries have built a strong partnership in areas such as trade and investment, defence, maritime cooperation, agriculture, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and digital technologies. Both sides also collaborate closely at the regional level, particularly through India’s Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN.
"India's relations with the Philippines are an integral pillar of our 'Act East' Policy, Vision MAHASAGAR and our vision of the Indo-Pacific. The forthcoming State Visit of President Marcos, coincides with the 75th anniversary of India-Philippines diplomatic relations," the MEA said.
Indian Navy vessels have frequently visited the Philippines as a component of defence collaboration; India has provided its ports for the maintenance of ships.
On July 30, Indian naval ships, INS Mysore, INS Kiltan, and INS Shakti, received a warm welcome from the Philippine Navy during their port call to the Southeast Asian country.
Washington, July 26 (IANS) US President Donald Trump remains open to engagement with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to
Maldives-India ties are one of deep-rooted connections and enduring partnership: President Muizzu
Male, July 26 (IANS) Reflecting on the 60 years of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and India, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has described the diplomatic ties between the two nations as a reflection of shared history and enduring partnership.
He made the remarks here at a state banquet held on Friday evening in honour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently undertaking a state visit to the Maldives.
"This year marks 60 years of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and India, a milestone that reflects not only our shared history but also the depth and resilience of our partnership. Yet, the bond between our people predates diplomatic formalities.
For centuries, the Indian Ocean has been a witness to our shared journey. As traders, travellers and neighbours we exchanged goods, stories and ideas across
these waters for centuries. It is the same ocean that unites us today with ties that no tide can break," said President Muizzu congratulating PM Modi for becoming the second longest consecutive serving PM of India. Speaking at the official banquet hosted in honour of PM Modi during his two-day visit to the Maldives, Muizzu praised the Prime Minister's leadership. In his speech, President Muizzu noted that the relationship between the Maldives and India extends far beyond formal diplomacy, with deep-rooted connections dating back centuries.
Bangladesh: Gopalganj violence shows ugly side of new political order
Dhaka: Bangladesh's political theatre has always been animated, its vibrancy marred by episodes of violence that seem almost intrinsic to its narrative.
In the wake of Sheikh Hasina's ouster from power in August last year, the country has been caught in a downward spiral of unrest, with the streets increasingly overtaken by chaos and common citizens bearing the brunt of growing insecurity. The interim government, despite its stated commitment to restoring order, appears unable—or perhaps unwilling — to rein in this spiralling disorder.
With the Awami League outlawed and absent from the electoral fray, a vacuum has emerged — one that has not necessarily been filled with stability. Instead, political rivalries have intensified. Formerly united in opposition to the League, parties have begun turning on each other, vying for dominance in an increasingly fragmented landscape. Among them, the National Citizen's Party (NCP), born from the fervour of last July's student uprising, has emerged as a powerful and provocative force. Its meteoric rise has further stoked tensions in a country still grappling with the remnants of its former ruling party’s influence.
The Gopalganj incident on July 16 starkly illustrated the dark side of this new political order. The NCP's ambitious cross-country campaign, titled 'March to Build the Country', aimed to mark the first anniversary of the July Uprising. What began as a rally to showcase unity and purpose soon devolved into violence when NCP members clashed with elements of the banned Bangladesh
Chhatra League — once the student wing of the Awami League. Reports confirmed that crude explosives were hurled, resulting in five fatalities and over 50 injuries. While the Awami League may be officially dissolved, its grassroots presence and legacy evidently persist. More worryingly, the clash also laid bare the NCP's own descent into authoritarian conduct. The party, which has for months championed the banning of the Awami League and vilified its supporters as 'fascists', now finds itself mirroring the very traits it once condemned. The violence in Gopalganj — a town symbolically tethered to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman — was no accident. NCP's provocative choice of location, viewed by many as an intentional attempt to desecrate Mujib's legacy, has sparked fears of a coordinated campaign to erase the historical and ideological foundations of Bangladesh itself.
In recent months, the NCP has positioned itself at the forefront of the national discourse, pushing for three primary goals: the permanent banning of the Awami League, completion of the July Uprising trial, and formal adoption of the July Charter as a foundational document. The interim government initially resisted such moves. The Chief Advisor had even remarked that it was up to the Awami League to decide whether or not to participate in elections.
But following the NCP's May demonstration in Dhaka, the government changed course. The League’s registration was revoked by the Election Commission on May 12, and all its political activities were halted pending the outcome of the July trials.
The global community, however, did not take kindly to the move. Several international observers condemned the decision as a deviation from democratic norms. Banning the country's oldest and arguably most historically significant political party has triggered concerns
Tsunami hits Hawaii, flooding reported on Oahu’s North Shore
about the interim government's impartiality and the future of pluralistic politics in Bangladesh. While the NCP paints the Awami League as fascist, it is becoming evident that the new party harbours its own ideological extremism. The assault on Mujibism is no longer rhetorical. There is a calculated effort underway to purge the legacy of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman — Bangabandhu, the Father of the Nation — from every public space. Following Hasina's removal, state-led actions have facilitated the removal of his portraits, cancellation of holidays commemorating his achievements, renaming of institutions, rewriting of textbooks, and even demolition of historical landmarks associated with him.
The transformation is not limited to just politics. It extends to a cultural revolution aimed at redrawing the ideological map of the nation. The existing Constitution, promulgated in 1972 with secular and nationalist ideals derived from the Liberation War, has come under attack. The NCP, backed by Islamist groups, has denounced it as a 'Mujibbadi' document and has called for the elimination of its core principles. This demand challenges the very ethos of Bangladesh's struggle for freedom and its subsequent nation-building project.
The interim government's complicity is hard to ignore. Rather than acting as a neutral custodian of national stability, it has quietly enabled these measures. The symbolic erasure of Mujib's legacy is most evident in the demolition of sites like Mirza Alam Chattar in Jamalpur and the Bangabandhu memorial in Jessore — both being replaced with monuments commemorating the July Uprising. These acts have drawn sharp criticism, with citizens, historians, and civil society figures warning against rewriting history to suit the narrative of a single political faction.
Honolulu, July 30 (IANS) Tsunami waves hit parts of Hawaii, flooding low lying coastal areas as well as triggering widespread evacuations, following the earthquake that struck Russia's Far East region, local media outlets reported on Wednesday. On Tuesday night, waves up to four feet high hit Oahu’s North Shore, sending seawater into the Haleiwa Boat Harbour and causing brief flooding in nearby parking areas. Water surged into the harbour at approximately 9:10 pm local time, reaching ankle height before receding within five minutes. While the area was largely deserted, a few vehicles and docked motorboats were present when the wave arrived, the CNN reported quoting KHNL, a television station in Honolulu. In response, emergency sirens were activated across Oahu, and local authorities urged residents to move to higher ground. In Honolulu, many people followed advisories and relocated to elevated areas as a precaution. According to local media outlets, more than 90 vessels departed Honolulu’s main port in the hours
following the tsunami impact. Fishing boats, pleasure craft, and Coast Guard ships could be seen heading out to deeper waters, where the risk from surging waves is reduced. Maritime tracking systems confirmed steady traffic away from the harbour, reflecting a coordinated response from port authorities and vessel operators.
Although the tsunami warning for Hawaii was been downgraded to an advisory, coastal regions remain under watch for further surges or dangerous sea conditions. Officials have cautioned the public to stay away from beaches, harbours, and piers, as strong currents may persist for several hours after the initial wave activity.
The tsunami event was part of a broader disturbance in the Pacific, with wave activity also recorded along the US West Coast and tsunami threats issued in parts of the South Pacific. However, in Hawaii, the immediate focus was shifted to ensuring coastal safety and monitoring for any residual ocean activity.
However, despite the limited flooding and evacuations, no injuries or major damage have been reported so far. Emergency services remain on alert, and maritime traffic continues to be monitored closely, the American media reported.
No winners in tariff war, coercion and pressure won’t achieve anything: China
Beijing, July 30 (IANS) Reacting strongly to the US threat of facing higher tariffs if China continues to purchase Russian oil, Beijing on Wednesday said that there are no winners in a tariff war, and coercion and pressure will not solve problems.
"China will take reasonable energy security measures based on its national interests. There are no winners in a tariff war, and coercion and pressure will not solve problems. China will firmly safeguard its sovereignty, security, and development interests," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said during a regular media briefing.
China's reaction came around the same time US President Donald Trump threatened on Wednesday to impose a 25 per cent tariff on India’s exports, starting Friday. "India will be paying a tariff of
25 per cent" starting on August 1, Trump posted on Truth Social. He said that India would also face an additional tariff penalty for buying Russian energy.
Trump had set the penalty, known as secondary tariffs, across the board at 100 per cent for all who are buying Russian energy if Moscow did not reach a ceasefire with Ukraine.
He shortened the deadline for that to 10 days from Tuesday, setting it at August 7.
The threat to India could be a negotiating tactic to force New Delhi to reach an agreement after Trump and his officials, like Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, had spoken optimistically that India would be among the first to make a deal. India was among the first countries to start trade negotiations with Washington on tariffs, and Trump had repeatedly said that an agreement was imminent, most recently last week. Trump said in his post: "Remember, while India is our friend, we have, over the years, done relatively little business with them because their Tariffs are far too high, among the highest in the World".
Majority of Australians doubt that AUKUS pact will deliver submarines
Canberra, July 30 (IANS) A majority of Australians doubt that the country will ever receive nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS security agreement, a survey has found. The survey conducted by independent market research firm Essential Research as part of its fortnightly polling on Australian issues, found that 60 per cent of respondents believe it is "not that likely" or "not likely at all" that the US will ever deliver submarines to Australia under
AUKUS.
Six per cent of respondents to the survey, which is published by the Australian online edition of UKbased newspaper The Guardian, said they believe it is "very likely" that the AUKUS pact will deliver nuclear-powered submarines to Australia, and 34 per cent said it is "quite likely," Xinhua news agency reported.
A majority of respondents, among all age groups and genders, said they believe it is unlikely that Australia will receive the submarines. Respondents aged 55 and above were the most doubtful, with 65 per cent saying the delivery of the submarines is "not that likely" or "not likely at all."
Asked about Australia's relationship with other countries,
40 per cent rated that with the US as "positive," down from 65 per cent in November 2023.
On July 26, Australia and the UK signed a 50-year commitment to the AUKUS defence treaty despite the United States' ongoing review of the pact.
Australia's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles and UK Defence Secretary John Healey signed the bilateral Nuclear-Powered Submarine Partnership and Collaboration Treaty (the Geelong Treaty) at their meeting in Geelong, Victoria.
"The Geelong Treaty is a historic agreement, the commitment for the next 50 years of UK-Australian bilateral defence cooperation under AUKUS Pillar I," Marles and Healey said in a joint statement.
Google threatens legal action if YouTube is included in Australia’s social media ban for children
Canberra, July 28 (IANS) Google has threatened to take legal action against any move by the Australian government to include YouTube in its world-first social ban for children younger than 16. In a letter to the Minister for Communications Anika Wells, executives from Google and YouTube's Australian office said the technology giant is "considering its legal options" if the federal government reneges on its previous decision to exempt YouTube from the social media ban.
The letter, which was published by News Corp Australia newspapers, argues that YouTube is a video streaming platform rather than a social media platform and flags a legal challenge against its inclusion in the ban on constitutional grounds, Xinhua news agency reported.
Under the ban, which will take effect in December, platforms including Meta, TikTok and Snapchat will be required to take "reasonable steps" to prevent children younger than 16 from creating or accessing accounts.
The federal government initially decided not to include YouTube in the ban due to its education and health content, but Australia's top online safety adviser, the eSafety Commissioner, in June said that no platform should be exempt.
Asked on Monday about Google's threat of legal action, Social
Services Minister Tanya Plibersek said that the government would not be "bullied" by technology companies.
"We will do whatever we have to make sure Australian kids are kept safe," she told Seven Network television.
"We're not going to be bullied out of taking action by any social media giant."
Representatives from Meta, TikTok and Snapchat in March made submissions to the federal government criticising the decision to exempt YouTube from the ban.
Companies that fail to prevent under-16s from accessing their social media platforms after the ban takes effect will face fines worth up to 50 million Australian dollars (32.8 million US dollars).
48th session of Australia’s federal parliament officially opened
Canberra, July 22 (IANS)
Australia's 48th federal parliament officially opened on Tuesday in the capital Canberra, following May's general election.
The commencement of the parliament comes more than two months after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's Labor Party won a second term in government in a landslide victory at the May 3 election.
As part of Tuesday's proceedings,
Milton Dick was re-elected as the speaker of the House of Representatives, which is the lower house of parliament, and Sue Lines was re-elected president of the Senate, the upper house.
The duo, both from the Labor Party, will be charged with overseeing debates in their respective houses and maintaining order and rules, Xinhua news agency reported. Both speakers are entitled to continue attending party meetings, but Dick will only be able to vote on legislation in the event of a tie in the lower house, while Lines can vote on all matters before the Senate.
Climate change raises hailstorm risks for Australian major cities
Sydney, July 29 (IANS) Australian cities may see more severe and frequent hailstorms as the climate warms, new research finds.
Major urban centres like Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, and Perth are expected to experience larger hailstones and a greater risk of damaging hail events due to climate change, according to a statement released Tuesday by Australia's University of New South Wales (UNSW).
The study, which examined simulated weather patterns in a warming climate, also shows hailstorms become more frequent in Brisbane, Sydney, and Canberra, Xinhua news agency reported.
Hailstone sizes are expected to rise in several of these cities, and more intense storms in the future could increase the chances of large-diameter hail, said the study's lead author, Tim Raupach from UNSW's Institute for Climate Risk and Response.
The study finds that in Melbourne, 10 cm hailstonespreviously seen only every 20 years - could strike every three years as the climate warms. Hail damage has made up over 20 per cent of insured losses in Australia from 1967 to 2023, mainly because stronger storm updrafts produce larger, more destructive hailstones, said the study detailed in Geophysical Research Letters published by the American Geophysical Union. While hail can occur nationwide, Australia's east coast is especially vulnerable. Remote areas like Western Australia's goldfields and the Gulf of Carpentaria also see severe hail, though data there is limited, it said.
Researchers noted that Australia's growing solar industry is increasingly vulnerable to hail damage, but experts say this should encourage stronger infrastructure and resilience, not deter investment in renewables. The authors said current Australian building standards lack hail resilience measures, leaving many properties vulnerable, adding that although hail warnings and insurance exist, physical precautions like covered parking and strong roofing remain crucial for protection.
India, US discuss avenues for strengthening defence cooperation
Addressing a ceremony in the Great Hall at Parliament House on Tuesday morning after a traditional Aboriginal acknowledgement, Albanese urged all 226 elected members of the federal parliament to write Australia's "next chapter" with grace and courage.
Earlier on Tuesday, the Prime Minister said that every day in the new parliament would be an "opportunity" for his government to deliver for Australians.
The first day of a new parliament's agenda is filled with formalities, with the Great Hall ceremony followed by swearingin proceedings for the elected members of the lower and upper houses.
Canberra, July 27 (IANS) Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC) Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit held a meeting with US Indo-Pacific Command's Deputy Commander Lieutenant General Joshua Rudd on the sidelines of Exercise Talisman Sabre in Australia and discussed various avenues for strengthening defence cooperation and future operational operations, Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff said on Sunday.
In a statement shared on X, Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff stated, "Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff #CISC #HQ_IDS held bilateral discussions with Lt Gen Joshua Rudd, Deputy Commander US Indo-Pacific Command on the sidelines of Exercise #TalismanSabre2025. Various avenues for strengthening #DefenceCooperation and collaboration, as well as future operational opportunities, were discussed. #India - #USA
Defence engagements underscore mutual resolve towards #RegionalSecurity and stability in the #IndoPacific."
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit also held bilateral discussions with Vice Admiral Justin Jones, Chief of Joint Operations, Australian Defence Forces, on the sidelines of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025. The two military leaders discussed growing defence cooperation between the two nations with the elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
"Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff #CISC #HQ_IDS_India, held bilateral discussions with Vice Admiral Justin Jones, Chief of Joint Operations, Australian Defence Forces, on the sidelines of Exercise #TalismanSabre2025. The military leaders discussed the growing #DefenceCooperation, with the elevation of bilateral relations between both nations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Future avenues for operational interaction and cooperation were also discussed," Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff posted on X.
From the editor’s desk
Australia must step up on climate goals—the world is watching
Australia is at a turning point.
The decisions Australia makes today will determine not only its environmental future but also its economic and geopolitical position as the climate crisis worsens and countries around the world increase their commitments to clean energy. Will the country embrace its enormous potential and become a world leader, or will it stick to minimal compliance?
The recent visit of Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, brought this sense of urgency home. Stiell made a direct statement while speaking at a significant event in Sydney: Australia's current climate policies are just "bog standard" and far from what is required or expected of a country that has the potential to spearhead the global energy transition. However, simply having the ingredients is insufficient. According to Stiell, the true question is whether Australia has the political will to employ them.
Australia has pledged to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 and a 43% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. When these goals were announced, they were viewed as a step forward, especially after years of inaction. However, those goals no longer reflect the scope of the crisis, as climate science now warns of the need for more aggressive and immediate action. By September, Australia's 2035 emissions target must be announced. This is not just another administrative deadline; rather, it is a chance for the Albanese government to demonstrate to the world that Australia is taking the climate crisis seriously.
Delays will have very personal repercussions, and the stakes are high. The threat posed by climate change is not hypothetical or remote. Its effects are already being felt by Australians, as evidenced by record-breaking heatwaves, devastating floods, and devastating bushfires.
Inaction could result in longer mega-droughts, more severe natural disasters, and disruptions to food supply chains, according to modelling cited by News.com. au. Fruits and vegetables may become too expensive for the average Australian. According to economic modelling, the economy could lose US$6.8 trillion by 2050 if climate change
is not addressed, and average living standards could drop by more than $7,000 per person. There is an impending economic and social revolution in addition to the environmental crisis. Additionally, the window to avoid it is closing.
For this reason, the government is being urged to be much more ambitious by climate experts and advisory bodies. A 65% to 75% reduction in emissions by 2035 has been suggested by the independent Climate Change Authority, which is currently led by former New South Wales Treasurer Matt Kean. An even more resolute commitment is being called for by the Climate Council and other environmental organisations: net zero by 2035. Although these goals may seem ambitious, they align with what is required to reach the Paris Agreement's 1.5°C limit. Anything less runs the risk of causing the planet to reach an irreversible point.
Before deciding on the new goal, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Climate and Energy Minister Chris Bowen have committed to extensive consultations. Industry preparedness and economic viability are important factors, but they shouldn't be used as justifications for inaction. Being a leader means taking initiative rather than waiting until the last minute. Australia's response needs to be motivated by both opportunity and responsibility.
Australia is in a unique position to gain from the energy transition. It boasts a highly qualified workforce, some of the best solar and wind resources in the world, and enormous potential for producing green hydrogen. The government can stimulate domestic investment, increase exports, and generate long-term employment by establishing a robust 2035 target. Making a firm decision now would also give investors and companies peace of mind, hastening the transition to clean technologies.
Furthermore, on the global scene, Australia's credibility regarding climate change is being questioned. Without exhibiting leadership at home, that bid cannot be successful.
Stiell's warning was crystal clear: affluent countries like Australia are supposed to lead, not follow, while the rest of the world watches.
AUKUS ambitions face reality check
Submarine deal threatened by US production limits
The AUKUS pact, formulated with a keen strategic perspective and unveiled in 2021 as a significant security alliance among Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, aimed to enhance Australia's defence capabilities and contribute to the preservation of stability in the Indo-Pacific region. At its essence resides the bold initiative to furnish Australia with a cadre of nuclear-powered submarines—craft that would significantly enhance the nation's deterrent capabilities and foster a closer alignment with its most formidable allies.
Nevertheless, three years following its momentous introduction, AUKUS is facing a disquieting reality: mere strategic intent is insufficient. Ambitious initiatives are currently encountering significant logistical challenges, especially within the United States. The industrial foundation anticipated to fulfil Australia's commitment to Virginia-class submarines is experiencing significant pressure, prompting senior officials in Washington to raise concerns. This transcends a mere technical issue. This presents a fundamental challenge that has the potential to redefine expectations regarding AUKUS, reveal weaknesses in Australia’s defence strategy, and possibly postpone or obstruct the nation’s most ambitious defence procurement initiative in contemporary history.
A fragile supply chain meets an overstretched system
Reports from The Guardian Australia and The Sydney Morning Herald indicate that the U.S. Navy is currently manufacturing approximately 1.2 nuclear submarines each year—significantly under the minimum threshold of two necessary to satisfy its own fleet requirements, not to mention the obligations under AUKUS. The industrial framework required to achieve this output, encompassing essential shipyards such as Newport News and Electric Boat, is encumbered by labour shortages, overextended contracts, disruptions in the supply chain due to the pandemic, and ageing facilities.
The outcome, a potential deficiency that may postpone the arrival of the initial Virginia-class submarines to Australia—should they be delivered at all.
U.S. officials, among them Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro and various congressional members, have commenced a public recognition of the shortfall and are cautioning about its possible ramifications. In the absence of substantial new investment and an increase in skilled labour, the United States may find itself unable to relinquish submarines to Australia without
compromising its own naval preparedness.
The limits of strategic optimism
The defence establishment of Australia has, up to this point, conveyed a sense of assurance regarding the AUKUS timeline.
The Department of Defence has emphasised its dedication to collaboration with both the U.S. and U.K., as Canberra allocates substantial resources towards nuclear training, shipyard readiness in Adelaide, and advancements in defence education. These measures indicate that Australia is earnestly fulfilling its commitments.
However, the disconcerting truth persists: the submarines—the centrepiece of the agreement—lie outside Australia's immediate jurisdiction. This represents the fundamental vulnerability of the AUKUS initiative. The construction of submarines is not occurring on Australian territory in the immediate future, nor do they utilise indigenous technology. Should the U.S. defence industrial base weaken, it will inevitably impact Australia's defence strategy as well.
A shorter timeline would make this dependency less worrisome. However, we are discussing a multi-decade project in a rapidly evolving global setting. Australia has a lot on the line.
The Collins-class submarines that are currently in its fleet are getting older. As regional tensions continue to rise, strategic analysts concur that a smooth transition to nuclear-powered capability is essential to preventing a dangerous capability gap in the 2030s.
Geopolitical tensions raise the stakes
This goes beyond simple logistics of procurement. The regional environment in Australia is growing increasingly unstable. Concerns about Taiwan, North Korea's nuclear brinkmanship, rising South China Sea tensions, and China's increasingly assertive actions all highlight the necessity of an Indo-Pacific defence posture that is both credible and capable.
The AUKUS submarines are more than just military equipment in that regard. They serve as a strategic reminder to both domestic stakeholders and adversaries that Australia is capable and willing to protect its interests and make a significant contribution to regional stability. Any indication that the project is struggling could give rival nations more confidence and damage Australia's strategic standing.
$368 billion and growing: The cost of uncertainty
At more than $368 billion, AUKUS is the biggest defence investment in Australian history. The project's scope not only piques interest but also demands close examination.
The general public, defence workers, and Australian taxpayers all deserve accountability and openness. They are entitled to know if deadlines will be fulfilled, what backup plans are in place, and how Australia intends to fill in any defensive readiness gaps. The Albanese government must be transparent if it turns out that delays are inevitable. Additionally, it needs to be proactive, seeking workable answers, investigating stopgap options, and quickening the growth of Australia's own defence industry capabilities. When the nation's security and billions are on the line, complacency is not an option.
Towards a more resilient defence industry
Increasing Australia's domestic capacity is one possible way to move forward. Although domestic nuclear-powered submarine construction is still a long way off, there are steps that can be taken right now to accelerate the process. This entails boosting investment in shipyard capacity, expediting the SSN-AUKUS program in Adelaide, and establishing avenues for the local production of additional components.
This strategy can lessen dependency and build buffer capacity, but it won't completely make Australia self-reliant, particularly when it comes to nuclear propulsion systems, which call for close cooperation with the United States and the United Kingdom. Additionally, it will increase Australia's long-term sovereign capability, generate jobs, and develop skills.
Leveraging diplomacy and influence
Strong diplomatic engagement is essential in addition to domestic initiatives. In order to convince U.S. lawmakers that timely submarine delivery is not just a bilateral commitment but also a crucial component of regional stability, Australia must make its case. A more robust Australian naval presence directly benefits the United States. Washington can better manage the larger IndoPacific strategic environment by assisting Australia.
To guarantee shared responsibility, Canberra must also cooperate with the U.K., the other AUKUS partner. De-risking delays and maintaining program momentum will be greatly aided by the UK's involvement, particularly in the design of SSNAUKUS and possible technology transfers.
The bigger picture: AUKUS beyond submarines
Submarines were never the only focus of the AUKUS pact. It stands for a more comprehensive idea of trilateral collaboration in the areas of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, Continued on Page 19
Trend setters in Trump’s America
New Delhi, July 27 (IANS) Amidst criticism of US President Donald Trump for making Executive Directives a principal instrument of governance in a democratic dispensation, many announcements of the Trump Presidency seemed to be a part of the drive against bureaucratic corruption, avoidable administrative burden on the Government and an uncontrolled trade imbalance leading to a debt of $36 trillion on American economy.
Trump’s strategy of ‘Making America Great Again’ ( MAGA) through the call of America First, carries his inimitable style of functioning with bold, personalised and even hyperbolic statements being made of them, allowing for a near-offensive use of language against the opponents at home or those in the international arena.
Domestic opposition to Trump has been on the rise for this reason, and Elon Musk, once the closest confidante of the President who was put in charge of the all-powerful Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), is presently his most bitter personal critic.
Since the US is still the largest economy and the only Superpower, its domestic, economic and foreign policies have to be carefully watched by India for framing its own geopolitical and economic strategies.
President Donald Trump cannot be faulted for declaring a National Emergency first on Immigration in January this year and then on Trade & Tariffs in April to deal with the two biggest problems facing the country. The first allowed the use of the US Army on the Southern border and called upon the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to deploy special teams in all states to proactively detect illegal
New Delhi, July 25 (IANS)
Twenty-six years ago, a bold infiltration in the Kargil region jolted the nation, as armed intruders crossed the border and occupied key high-altitude positions on India’s side of the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. Initially believed to
migrants, while the second was for pursuing reciprocity to rebuild the economy and restore national and economic security.
Additionally, the Secretary of Defence was allowed to divert military construction funds to projects designed to support the use of armed forces on the border. As regards foreign trade and economic practices, Trump declared that they had created a national emergency under which he would impose responsive tariffs to strengthen the international economic position of the US and ‘protect American workers’.
He contended that the absence of reciprocity in US trade relationships and other harmful policies like currency manipulation and exorbitant Value Added Tax(VAT) perpetuated by other countries had to be addressed immediately.
Trump has imposed a 10 per cent universal Tariff on trading partners, along with a reciprocal Tariff on several nations, depending upon the state of trade barriers with a particular country.
The Tariff windfall reportedly created a US budget surplus of $27 billion in June 2025 alone. Trump has encouraged countries to negotiate bilateral deals on tariffs, climbing down from the arbitrariness that his earlier pronouncements betrayed.
Trump’s Tariff policies were becoming a significant source of government revenue, and many policymakers in the US hope that the country will rise with less debt, with a more efficient private sector and with better preparations for trading in a fair international system.
President Trump is trying, as a matter of policy, to pull back Washington’s security umbrella and to distribute more evenly the cost of supplying key global public goods by way of aid and defence in order to upend both US and global economy.
Since the end of World War-II, the US economy and financial system have been at the centre of global markets as the only reliable driver of world economic growth. The US has led in productivity-
be militants, the infiltrators were later confirmed to be part of a carefully planned covert military offensive—Operation Badr— conducted by the Pakistan Army. The objective was to secure a strategic advantage in the Kashmir region, sever India’s vital link to Siachen by cutting off Indian troops, compel their withdrawal, and ultimately facilitate the occupation of all of Kashmir. This incursion came just months after India and Pakistan had signed the historic Lahore Declaration, a bilateral
enhancing innovations such as Artificial Intelligence, Life Sciences and Robotics. The dollar is still the world’s reserve currency. Countries are now trying to insulate themselves from the policy volatility in Washington and Trump was conscious of it. He is seeing Europe trying to improve its regional standing and seeking more robust economic relationships with Africa, Asia and Latin America. China had stepped up pursuing the economic route to becoming the second superpower. After nearly 80 years the global trading system is at risk of fragmentation. The US, however, is still the most powerful and prosperous country in the world, with the advantage of having mature institutions. For India this is the time for developing self-reliance, ‘make in India’ initiatives and bilateralism in trade with the US based on mutual benefits.
Trump has got the GOP to cancel $9 billion in Approved Spending of Congress as part of his policy of clawing back funding of foreign and humanitarian programmes as well as public broadcasting. Through Rescissions Act of 2025, Trump has sought to put SAGE’s recommendations into law. Trump’s supporters say this was promoting responsible spending that put US interests first, whereas critics felt that this would undermine the US’s global leadership and disrupt programmes that delivered support internationally. In a further move to save government spending, Trump has got the Department of Education(DOE) to resume interest accrual on 7 million student loan borrowings from August 1, 2025, but without retrospective effect. DOE has also opened investigations against some universities for the alleged exclusion by them of US-born students in favour of ‘illegal migrants’ under a scheme. This is in pursuance of President Trump’s America First agenda. Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has emailed notices to a total of nearly half a million Cubans,
agreement aimed at reducing tensions and resolving disputes through peaceful means and mutual respect for territorial sovereignty. The summer of 1999 thus marked Pakistan’s breach of this landmark accord and India’s decisive countermeasure through the launch of Operation Vijay.
The Kargil War of 1999 marked the first conventional conflict between two nuclear-armed states. What distinguishes this war is its conduct at extreme altitudes, spanning a 170-kilometre stretch of the
Haitians, Nicaraguans and Venezuelans for deportation -they had been allowed to stay in US for two years under the ‘humanitarian parole’ programme of the Biden Administration.
President Trump is being ruthless about dismantling the ecosystem of illegal migration to the US, and India has, in principle, extended support to this endeavour. He is trying to stop every expenditure on third-country projects, including those of ‘humanitarian aid’.
President Trump has taken a policy line that US will pull out of the world bodies like the UN Agencies that put financial burden on the country without serving any American interests.
He announced withdrawal from WHO earlier this year and this has been followed by a joint statement of Marco Rubio Secretary of State, and Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr on July 18, rejecting the Amendments issued by WHO in 2024 in the name of Pandemic Emergency to strengthen global preparedness for public health contingencies.
The statement objected to the said amendments that ‘compelled countries to adopt digital health documents and elevated political issues such as solidarity rather than taking quick and efficient action’. It asserted that ‘ our agencies will continue to put Americans first in all their actions and will not tolerate international policies that infringe on American speech, privacy or personal liberties’.
The statement went on to say that the amendments ‘risk unwarranted interference with our national sovereign right to make health policy’. It is significant that Trump had alleged Chinese dominance on WHO - his approach to international bodies reflects his desire to correct geopolitical balance in favour of US.
President Trump has now ordered the withdrawal of US from UNESCO as well. India as a major world power, has no issues with President Trump’s strategies and would deal with them with its own line of keeping Indian national interests on top of the
Himalayan frontier, where Indian troops contended not only with hostile forces but also with harsh environmental conditions. Operating in low-oxygen environments, Indian soldiers ascended steep, icy cliffs—ranging between 8,000 and 18,000 feet—under relentless enemy fire to dislodge opposing forces and reclaim Indian territory. This conflict was, therefore, not merely a battle against a hostile adversary, well-entrenched in fortified bunkers with weapons poised, but also a confrontation
agenda.
India must continue to share its deep concerns with US over the Sino-Pak axis that primarily worked against this country and should not feel disconcerted with the legacy of Pentagon maintaining a friendly relationship with Pakistani Generals.
Any irritants thrown in by Trump in the context of IndoPak military confrontation that followed the Pahalgam terror attack or in matters of trade & tariff can be handled without fouling up India-US long term friendship.
India’s approach to Indo-US relations must be set by an acknowledgement on both sides that the two countries were the largest tested democracies of the world and their friendship had a natural side to it. Whatever posed a threat to the democratic world as a whole such as terrorism, dictatorships and international crime like drug trafficking, brought them strategically together.
All bilateral issues such as trade, tariff and grant of US visas can be handled through negotiationsnotwithstanding the pressure tactics used by Trump for having his way.
There is enough scope for give and take between India and US even as the two countries fiercely safeguarded their national interests.
India should assert its sovereign right to import defence equipment and energy from any trading partner and maintain its stand on international issues at competitive forums like BRICS and QUAD.
Politically and economically, the world has a multi-polar order in spite of the US supremacy as a superpower and President Trump’s strategy of America First offered a new opportunity to a major country like India to reset its international relations. A good course for India is to develop its domestic market for its own growth, build bilateral friendships for sustaining mutual security and economic interests and take a non-aligned view on the world’s trouble spots.
(The writer is a former Director Intelligence Bureau)
with the unforgiving forces of nature. Despite the tactical advantage held by the enemy, Indian soldiers exhibited extraordinary perseverance, selflessness, and determination, rendering this military triumph, one of the most revered in the nation’s history. Victory in war is not solely determined by advanced weaponry, and the Kargil conflict serves as a definitive example.
Empowering Migrants Expo 2025: A Celebration of Cultures, Communities, and Contributions
By Australia India News Newsdesk
Brisbane is set to host one of the most vibrant multicultural gatherings of the year—the Empowering Migrants Expo 2025, taking place on Sunday, 3 August, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the iconic Brisbane City Hall. Organised by the communitydriven force Bhartiya Samaj, the event returns for its second edition following the resounding success of its 2024 debut.
With a theme of “Unity in Diversity”, the expo is designed to celebrate, support, and spotlight migrants who contribute to the social, cultural, and economic fabric of Queensland and beyond. The free, all-ages event promises a powerful blend of cultural performances, community exhibits, and a prestigious awards ceremony honouring outstanding individuals and organisations within the migrant community.
Building on last year’s turnout of over 3,500 attendees, the 2025 edition will offer:
• Live multicultural performances from diverse communities
• Interactive exhibits and workshops
• Community and business stalls
• Increased participation from Queensland government departments, service providers, and educational institutions
• The inspiring Migrants’ Awards Ceremony, recognising excellence in leadership, youth empowerment, and community service among migrants
"Empowering Migrants Expo is not just an event—it’s a movement,” said a spokesperson from Bhartiya Samaj. “It’s about creating space for connection, representation, and celebration, while supporting new migrants to thrive in Australia.”
At a time when Australia
continues to shape its national identity through the lens of multiculturalism, events like this serve as a vital reminder of the power of inclusion, unity, and recognition. The expo reflects Bhartiya Samaj’s broader mission to empower migrants, foster community engagement, and build bridges across cultural divides.
Event Details:
Sunday, 3 August 2025
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Brisbane City Hall
Free Entry – Registration
Required: https://tinyurl. com/29adkdyf
Contact: bsbbrisbane@outlook. com
Whether you’re a community leader, a recent migrant, or simply someone who believes in the beauty of diversity— Empowering Migrants Expo 2025 is an event not to be missed.
A look back at 2024 Empowering Migrants Expo: A Milestone in Queensland’s Multicultural Story
By Australia India News Newsdesk
The inaugural Empowering Migrants Expo, hosted last year at Brisbane City Hall, marked a defining moment in Queensland’s journey toward a more inclusive and diverse society. Organised by Bhartiya Samaj, the event attracted an impressive crowd of over 3,500 attendees, including community leaders, service providers, and families representing more than 20 nationalities.
The day-long celebration featured a dynamic lineup of cultural
performances, art displays, interactive workshops, and resource booths set up by over 10 government departments and community organisations. The vibrant atmosphere and inclusive programming left attendees calling the event “uplifting,” “empowering,” and “a proud moment for the migrant community.”
One of the most moving segments of the day was the Migrants’ Awards Ceremony, which honoured individuals and groups who have made outstanding contributions to migrant
wellbeing, youth empowerment, and cross-cultural unity.
For many Indian-Australian families, the expo served as both a cultural homecoming and a celebration of Australia’s rich multicultural landscape. It provided a space to share heritage, build connections, and showcase the strength of migrant contributions to society.
With the success of 2024 laying a solid foundation, excitement is already building for the 2025 edition, which promises to be even more inclusive, inspiring, and impactful.
Empowering Migrants Expo 2025 Returns to Celebrate Unity, Culture, and Community
By Australia India News Newsdesk
Brisbane is once again preparing to welcome one of the city's most vibrant multicultural celebrations—the second annual Empowering Migrants Expo, proudly hosted by Bhartiya Samaj. Scheduled for Sunday, 3 August 2025, at the iconic Brisbane City Hall, the event will shine a spotlight on the vital contributions migrants make to Australia’s evolving cultural landscape.
Following the tremendous success of its debut in 2024, this year’s expo promises an even more dynamic experience.
The expanded program will feature cultural performances, interactive exhibits, community stalls, and the highly anticipated Migrants’ Awards Ceremony, which will honour individuals and organisations making outstanding contributions to migrant welfare and cultural harmony.
Designed as a free, familyfriendly event, the expo aims to empower, educate, and inspire migrants while celebrating the richness of Australia’s multicultural identity. With greater involvement from Queensland government departments, educational institutions,
Since its establishment in 2022, Bhartiya Samaj has rapidly emerged as a key force in promoting migrant empowerment and inclusion across Queensland. Rooted in the Indian-Australian community, the organisation has built a reputation for bringing diverse cultures together through a rich blend of cultural celebrations, educational initiatives, and community outreach programs.
At the heart of its efforts lies the flagship event—the Empowering Migrants Expo. This annual gathering embodies Bhartiya Samaj’s vision to foster unity in diversity, offer critical support for new migrants, and shine a
spotlight on the achievements of multicultural communities.
But Bhartiya Samaj’s impact goes far beyond a single event. Throughout the year, the organisation hosts a range of workshops, networking platforms, and support services, aimed at uplifting migrants and strengthening community bonds. Its work resonates across cultures—connecting communities from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Pacific.
In a country that continues to evolve as a vibrant multicultural society, organisations like Bhartiya Samaj play an essential role in ensuring that migrants are seen, heard, and celebrated—with equal opportunities to thrive, lead, and contribute.
Australia-India Business launch highlights growing synergies at Brisbane event
Brisbane, July 11 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia India Business Pty Ltd (AIB) and its Indian joint venture AIBX Enterprise Pvt Ltd marked a significant milestone on July 10 with the official international launch of their “Exploring Economic Synergies” seminar held at “66 on Ernest” in South Brisbane.
Bringing together top government officials, industry leaders, and education sector representatives, the half-day event underscored the growing momentum in bilateral trade, education, and investment partnerships between Australia and India.
Master of Ceremonies Jim Varghese AM set the tone with a formal welcome and acknowledgment of country, before outlining the objectives of the seminar — strengthening Australia-India business ties and fostering collaboration across sectors.
The event opened with a presentation by Ridhi Verma, Resident Director (Australia) of the Trade Promotion Council of India, highlighting India's
trade potential and its growing footprint in Australia.
A key session on trade opportunities and industry policies saw insightful addresses by Indian High Commissioner to Australia His Excellency Gopal Baglay, Federal MP Shayne Neumann, and Senator Paul Scarr. The leaders explored new pathways for economic engagement under the AustraliaIndia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) and discussed fresh opportunities emerging in Queensland’s trade and investment landscape.
The Brisbane 2032 Olympics featured prominently in the discussions, with Queensland Minister Andrew Powell — speaking on behalf of Opposition Leader David Crisafulli — outlining potential business and investment prospects connected to the global event.
In a practical showcase of sectoral collaboration, AIB Chair Con Livissianis presented case studies in education, announcing the launch of the AustraliaIndia Traineeship Exchange Program in partnership with
TAFE Queensland and the Trade Promotion Council of India. The initiative will focus on five key sectors: education, agriculture, sports, environment, and healthcare.
Kim Russell of the Stump Jump Foundation also shared insights on innovations in agriculture and agri-tech partnerships.
The seminar concluded with a business Q&A panel, followed by the launch of the book Innovate or Disintegrate, underlining the importance of innovation in sustaining bilateral business ties.
The event attracted strong participation from business leaders, diplomats, and policymakers, reinforcing AIB and AIBX’s vision of creating high-quality, tailored business solutions and fostering IndoAustralian partnerships.
The July 10 event builds on the 2024 Memorandum of Understanding signed with TAFE Queensland and highlights the growing relevance of bilateral cooperation in vocational training, entrepreneurship, and trade facilitation.
Indian real estate sector turns optimistic for future growth amid robust sentiment: Report
Mumbai, July 29 (IANS) India’s real estate stakeholders appear to be responding positively to improving macroeconomic indicators, a report said on Tuesday, as the Sentiment Index rose to 56 in April-June period (Q2) from 54 in Q1 this year, snapping a four-quarter downward streak.
The ‘Future Sentiment Score’ also climbed to 61 in the quarter from 56 a quarter ago, signalling a renewed sense of confidence
and cautious optimism about the sector’s performance in the next six months, according to the Knight Frank-NAREDCO ‘Real Estate Sentiment Index for Q2 2025 (April-June).’
This marks a significant shift in the mood of the Indian real estate sector. Following a yearlong moderation in sentiment, stakeholders are beginning to look beyond short-term global uncertainties and are anchoring their expectations on India’s structural economic strength, accommodative monetary policy, and robust demand in premium residential and office segments.
“Q2 2025 represents a turning point for the real estate industry
with the recovery in both current and future sentiment scores reflects the sector’s resilience and adaptability. As high-frequency indicators show sustained momentum, stakeholders are repositioning their strategies for long-term growth, especially in premium and high-yielding asset classes,” said Shishir Baijal, Chairman and Managing Director, Knight Frank India.
One of the most encouraging signs in this quarter’s index is the resurgence in developer confidence. The sentiment among developers has seen a sharp increase, with their Future Sentiment Score rising from 53 in Q1 to 63 in Q2 2025.
Con Livissianis launches groundbreaking book “Innovate or Disintegrate” at prestigious AIB event
Australia India Business Pty Ltd (AIB) hosted an extraordinary event that brought together thought leaders, government officials, industry pioneers, and education leaders to celebrate the official launch of "Innovate or Disintegrate" — the latest book by Con Livissianis, Co-Founder and Chair of the AIB Board.
Held in Brisbane, the event marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing collaboration between Australia and India, particularly in the fields of education, innovation, agriculture, environment, sport, and healthcare. Con Livissianis, who brings over 50 years of management experience across major organisations, unveiled his timely book urging leaders and industries to embrace innovation in the face of rapid technological disruption. His work highlights critical trends in AI, cybersecurity, and digital transformation, reinforcing the importance of proactive adaptation to global shifts.
Event highlights
•The event began with a comprehensive presentation by Con Livissianis, where he also launched the Apprenticeship Exchange Program, a tri-nation initiative in collaboration with TAFE Queensland and the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI). The announcement of five Centres of Excellence — in Education, Agriculture, Sports (Olympics 2036), Environment, and Healthcare — was met with widespread acclaim.
• The audience was then treated to expert insights from Kim Russell on Agri-Tech and Soil Improvement, and from Councillor Vicki Howard, who spoke on behalf of Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.
• A lively and insightful panel discussion followed, featuring prominent voices including Paget Hargreaves (Queensland Semiconductor Initiative), Preethi Suraj (Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland), John Buchanan (former Australian Men’s Cricket Head Coach), and Viv Grayson (TAFE Queensland).
• A number of dignitaries delivered addresses throughout the program, including:
o His Excellency Gopal Baglay, High Commissioner of India to Australia
o Hon Shayne Neumann MP
o Senator Paul Scarr
o Ms Ridhi Verma, Resident Director of TPCI
o Hon Andrew Powell MP, on behalf of Premier Hon David Crisafulli MP
The event culminated with the official launch of the book "Innovate or Disintegrate", drawing an enthusiastic response from guests who praised the book's relevance in today’s everchanging global landscape.
In his closing remarks, Jim Varghese AM, Director of AIB, acknowledged the presence of federal and state representatives, business leaders, and community champions. Special mention was given to Ms Ridhi Verma (TPCI) and Professor Michael Drew (Jobs Queensland), among others.
With the presentation of the AIB leadership team and advisory members — including Jim and Sylvana Livissianis, Manu Hingorani, Kim Russell, and Nik Senapati — the event concluded on a high note, celebrating the strong foundation being laid for future Australia–India partnerships.
Department of Posts links up with UPI to set up safe low-cost channel for remittances to India
New Delhi, July 24 (IANS) India's Department of Posts and NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL), the international arm of National Payments Corporation of India, on Thursday announced the signing of a non-disclosure agreement to collaborate on a path-breaking initiative that will provide an affordable and secure channel for the Indian diaspora worldwide to send money back home.
This partnership will leverage the power of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and
the Universal Postal Union (UPU) Interconnection Platform (IP) to create a seamless, secure, and affordable remittance channel for the Indian diaspora worldwide, according to an official statement. This collaboration marks a significant step towards modernising cross-border payment services and enhancing financial inclusion for millions of Indians. By integrating UPI with the postal network, this initiative aims to provide a convenient and accessible alternative to traditional remittance methods, reducing costs and improving efficiency for senders and beneficiaries.
The UPI-UPU-IP integration is
expected to significantly reduce remittance costs, making it more affordable for Indian workers abroad to send money home.
Leveraging the robust security features of UPI and the trusted reputation of the postal network, this service will ensure secure and reliable transactions for both senders and beneficiaries.
By utilising the global postal network, this initiative also extends the reach of UPI-enabled remittances to regions where traditional banking services may be limited, promoting financial inclusion for a broader segment of the Indian diaspora. Through the efficient payment processing driven by the real-
time system using technology transfers would happen in real time, thus benefiting the families back home.
"We are thrilled to partner with NIPL on this innovative project," said L.K. Dash, Deputy Director General, International Relations and Global Business, Department of Posts. "This collaboration aligns with our commitment to providing accessible and affordable financial services to all citizens, including the Indian diaspora. By leveraging the UPU Interconnection Platform and the UPI network, we are confident that we can create a truly transformative remittance solution."
Celebrating tradition and togetherness – Ashada Gorinta Utsavam
The Andhra Association of Queensland (AAQ) successfully organized a vibrant and culturally rich event dedicated to women, celebrating the beautiful tradition of Gorinta Dharana (known as Mehendi or Mendika in Samskrutam). This event, held on Saturday, 19th July, brought together the Telugu community and members of the wider multicultural society at Svoboda Park, Kuraby..
The application of Gorinta holds
deep cultural and religious significance for the people of Bharat. During Ashadam (July), Telugu women traditionally adorn their hands with Gorinta, welcoming the monsoon season with beauty and devotion. This cherished practice also marks the beginning of preparations for Sravana Masam (August), a sacred time when families invoke the blessings of Maha Lakshmi for prosperity and abundance.
Mrs. Sudha Sankar (AAQ Spiritual
Coordinator) led the event with great enthusiasm, making it a grand success. Many Telugu women and girls participated joyfully, decorating their hands with Mehendi—a timeless symbol of love, good fortune, and celebration.
Andhra Association of Queensland (AAQ) said in a statement, "We extend our special thanks to Ms. Carmel from the Queensland Jewish Community (QJC) for her kind support and
participation, reflecting the spirit of multicultural harmony.
"Our heartfelt gratitude also goes to our generous sponsors: Sree Lakshmi, Gaurang ji, and Trusha ji, whose support greatly contributed to the success of this event.
"Together, we not only celebrated a meaningful tradition but also strengthened the bonds of community and culture."
Contemporary migrant Indian marriages in Australia
Indian migration to Australia has seen a significant rise in recent years, with a sizeable portion of migrants arriving as married couples or getting married within a couple of years after migration.
According to data from the Department of Home Affairs, both permanent and temporary Indian migrants are predominantly in marital relationships. These marriages, however, face unique
challenges in the Australian context, particularly during the initial settlement period.
Most Indian migrants come to Australia as well-educated and skilled professionals, often from middle- or upper-middle-class backgrounds. In India, many grew up in large, living-together families with the support of extended family members, domestic help, and strong social networks.
Upon migration, this support structure disappears, forcing young couples into a nuclear setup, often with small children and no immediate familial assistance. The absence of grandparents not only burdens the parents with full-time care giving but also leaves children without a vital emotional connection to their cultural roots.
Mental health becomes a growing concern during the first 10 to 15 years of settlement. The uncertainty around visa renewals and the struggle for permanent residency or citizenship add significant psychological stress. During this period, families are also dealing with cultural adjustment, career establishment, and the pressure of child-rearing, all without the familiar help systems from back home. Unlike in India, access to domestic help is limited and expensive in Australia, making household responsibilities fall entirely on the couple, while they are both working full-time jobs.
A unique challenge for many Indian migrants is acquiring life skills they never had to develop in India. For example, cooking becomes an essential skill, as hiring a cook is not feasible
outside India. Many arrive from families that could afford fulltime domestic help, meaning they now have to quickly adapt to doing everything on their own, including cleaning, cooking, and caring for children—all while balancing demanding jobs.
Another emotional challenge is the inability to travel frequently to India. Whether it's a joyous event like a wedding or a tragedy such as the loss of a family member, distance and visa constraints often make it difficult or impossible to be physically present. This emotional disconnect further contributes to feelings of isolation and guilt.
In cases where Indian migrants find partners and marry within Australia, multicultural marriages are becoming more common. While these unions reflect broader integration into Australian society, they sometimes cause friction with traditional family expectations back in India. In extreme cases, lack of familial approval can strain the marriage itself, creating long-term stress for the couple. Even among those who marry in India and migrate together, some relationships struggle under the weight of these new pressures, occasionally leading to separation or divorce.
Contemporary Indian marriages in Australia are marked by resilience, but they are also shaped by isolation, cultural transition, and systemic stress. Despite the many opportunities that migration offers, Indian couples often find the early years in Australia to be emotionally and physically demanding. Navigating marriage, parenting, and personal growth in a foreign land requires adaptability, patience, and above all, strong emotional bonds that can withstand the pressure of building a life far from home. Watch this space for regular content on family and contemporary family lifestyle. Our newest writer, Kanakalakshmi Balasubramani is on a mission to enhance happiness in daily life.
SRM Public School students engage in Global Design Challenge on clean energy
Melbourne, July 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General of India in Melbourne, Dr Sushil Kumar, interacted with visiting students from SRM Public School, Chennai, who are in Australia to participate in the Global Design Challenge 2025. The international
program is being organised by the Department of Education of Victoria in collaboration with the Knox Innovation Opportunity and Sustainability Centre (KIOSC).
As part of the initiative, the students from Chennai engaged in collaborative activities with their peers at Keysborough
College, with a key focus on developing clean energy solutions for sustainable living. The visit aims to encourage innovative thinking, crosscultural collaboration, and global awareness among school students through real-world challenges.
Dr Kumar lauded the efforts
of the young innovators and commended the spirit of collaboration between Indian and Australian schools. He emphasised the importance of such educational exchanges in strengthening bilateral ties and nurturing future leaders equipped to tackle global sustainability issues.
The program highlights the growing educational partnerships between India and Australia, particularly in areas related to STEM education, innovation, and sustainability.
India-Australia business ties strengthened at BIZCON
Melbourne, July 23 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The ANZ India Business Chamber (ANZIBC), with the support of the Consulate General of India in Melbourne, recently hosted BIZCON – INDIA 2025, a highprofile business and networking event that brought together key players from India and Australia to explore new frontiers in bilateral trade.
Held in Melbourne, the event witnessed the participation of a visiting Indian business delegation alongside Australian entrepreneurs and industry leaders. The discussions focused on emerging opportunities in sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and critical minerals, areas identified as crucial for the future growth of both economies.
A highlight of the event was a panel discussion on “The Business Opportunities beyond the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) – The Inspiring Success Stories.” The session featured prominent voices from both nations sharing insights on expanding business engagement and building on the momentum generated by ECTA.
–
INDIA 2025 in Melbourne
The gathering provided a vibrant platform for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, reinforcing the growing synergy between Indian and Australian businesses. The success of BIZCON – INDIA 2025 marks another step forward in deepening the strategic economic partnership between the two Indo-Pacific democracies.
Syro Malabar Church inaugurates Santhom Groves Centre in Victoria
Melbourne, July 16 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In a milestone moment for Victoria’s Indian Christian community, the Syro Malabar Eparchy of St Thomas the Apostle, Melbourne officially inaugurated Santhom Groves, a new Pastoral and Community Resource Centre in the scenic Yarra Ranges, continuing the legacy of the former Pallotti College.
The blessing ceremony was led by Mar Raphael Thattil, Major Archbishop of the Syro Malabar Church, and witnessed a distinguished gathering of clergy, parliamentarians, and community leaders. Among those present were Pauline Richards MP, Iwan Walters MP, Cindy McLeish MP, Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar, and members of the Syro Malabar clergy and lay community.
The centre stands as a tribute to the heritage, service, and vision of the Syro Malabar Church in Australia and marks a new chapter in fostering faith-based community engagement. The event celebrated the growing contributions of Indian Christians to Victoria’s multicultural fabric and their ongoing commitment to spiritual growth, education, and cultural harmony.
Abhivyakti Fine Arts Academy marks 5 Years of cultural excellence
Melbourne, July 16 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The 5th anniversary of Abhivyakti Fine Arts Academy was celebrated with vibrant cultural performances that reflected the academy’s dedication to Indian classical, folk, and contemporary dance traditions.
Founded by Deepti Shukla, Abhivyakti has grown into a respected institution nurturing talent and promoting Indian cultural heritage in Australia.
Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar graced the occasion and commended the academy’s efforts in deepening cultural ties between India and Australia. The evening’s performances highlighted the academy’s role in strengthening people-topeople connections and enriching Australia’s multicultural landscape through the arts.
Melbourne students shine at Kalakruthi’s 31st annual Indian classical music concert
Melbourne, July 18 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The 31st grand annual concert of the Kalakruthi School of Music, led by acclaimed Carnatic vocalist Shobha Sekhar OAM, was recently held in Melbourne, celebrating India’s rich classical music traditions.
Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar graced the occasion, joining an appreciative audience in honouring the students’ talent and commitment. The event
showcased soulful performances by the school’s students, reflecting their dedication to preserving and promoting India’s musical heritage in Australia.
In her decades-long mission, Shobha Sekhar has played a pivotal role in nurturing Indian classical music and fostering cross-cultural appreciation. Her efforts continue to serve as a cultural bridge, enriching Melbourne’s diverse artistic landscape.
‘Om’
and ‘Swastik’ unveiled at Great Stupa in Bendigo
Melbourne, July 17 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The sacred symbols of ‘Om’ and ‘Swastik’ were unveiled at the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion in Bendigo, celebrating India’s spiritual legacy and its message of peace and unity.
Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar joined Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf,
Ian Green OAM, Chairman of the Great Stupa, local councillors, members of Sri Durga Temple (Melbourne) and the Indian community for the special event. The ceremony highlighted the universal values of harmony and inclusivity, strengthening cultural bonds within Australia’s multicultural society.
Lockhart River Charity Gala Raises Vital Funds for Community Foundation
Brisbane, QLD – The 8th Annual Lockhart River Charity Gala proved to be a dazzling evening of generosity, culture, and connection as it brought together distinguished guests, philanthropists, and art lovers in support of the Puuya Foundation. The event featured a fine dining experience and an exclusive art
auction showcasing works by celebrated and award-winning artists from the Lockhart River community. The auction drew enthusiastic participation, resulting in significant funds raised to support the Puuya Foundation’s mission of empowering and strengthening the remote Indigenous
community of Lockhart River in Far North Queensland.
Notable attendees included the Honourable Quentin Bryce, former Governor of Queensland and Governor-General of Australia, whose presence added prestige to the occasion.
Paul Simshauser and his team were commended for their
exceptional organisation and dedication to the cause. Among the evening’s heartfelt moments was a special recognition for Jim Varghese AM, Chairman of The Leadership Company, who was honoured by Leann Wilson as a “unicorn” in acknowledgment of his mentorship and contributions to leadership development.
“It was a privilege to support the Puuya Foundation and reconnect with inspiring colleagues and friends like Dottie Hobson,” said Mr. Varghese.
The gala highlighted the power of art, leadership, and community to create meaningful change for one of Queensland’s most culturally rich yet geographically remote communities.
Melbourne-based youth selected for Know India Programme
Melbourne, July 21 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar recently met with Lakshmi Ganapathy, a Melbourne-based participant of the Know India Programme (KIP), ahead of her upcoming visit to India. During the meeting, Dr Kumar offered valuable guidance and insights about the programme and encouraged her to make the most of the unique opportunity.
Continued from Page 10
defence technology, and quantum computing. However, the strategic and symbolic focal point is the submarine deal. The remainder of the pact might be seen as meaningless rhetoric if that fails.
Owing to this, the current crisis needs to be handled quickly.
Overcoming these real-world obstacles is essential to AUKUS's credibility and, consequently, to Australia's defence strategy. This is a test of political will, strategic clarity, and alliance management in addition to industrial capacity.
Organised by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, KIP is aimed at students and young professionals of Indian origin, offering them a chance to explore their cultural roots and strengthen their connection with India.
Dr Kumar highlighted the importance of cultural exchange and praised the programme’s role in building long-lasting ties between the Indian diaspora and their ancestral homeland.
The U.S. warning signals are not your typical bureaucratic complaints. Ignoring these signals will have serious repercussions, including weakened deterrence and a decline in strategic standing in addition to delayed submarines. Australia needs to take decisive, quick action. This entails pressuring the United States to increase its production commitments, boosting domestic capabilities, maintaining open lines of communication with the public, and creating backup plans to keep the navy strong in case of delays.
Veena maestros Iyer Brothers meet Consul General
Melbourne, July 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Renowned Veena maestros, the Iyer Brothers – Ramnath S. Iyer and Gopinath S. Iyer – called on Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar following their recognition with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) 2025 for their services to Indian classical music in Australia.
Joined by Vasu Srinivasan, Managing Director of Sarayu Australia, the brothers received warm congratulations from the Consul General, who lauded their continued efforts in promoting India’s rich cultural heritage and deepening Australia-India people-to-people ties.
AIBC WA meets Consul General ahead of economic roadmap event
Perth, July 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Members of the Australia India Business Council (AIBC) – WA, led by president Paritosh Misra, recently met with Consul General Kajari Biswas to discuss their upcoming flagship event, “Australia India New Economic Roadmap: A Spotlight”, scheduled for August 7.
The delegation included Yaso Ponuthurrai, Richard Baddeley, Dr Jyothi Teggunamath, David McCulloch, Surya Ambati, and Siva Murugappa. The meeting focused on strengthening economic engagement between India and Australia and outlined the significance of the event in fostering bilateral business ties.
India’s Independence Day 2025 celebrations set for Sydney’s Darling Harbour Theatre
Sydney, July 18 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India in Sydney has announced grand celebrations for India’s 78th Independence Day, inviting the Indian diaspora and friends of
India to join the festivities at the iconic Darling Harbour Theatre, ICC Sydney, on August 15, 2025. The event will begin at 6:00 PM and promises a vibrant evening of cultural performances, patriotic spirit, and community celebration. The consulate has urged attendees to register in advance to be part of this special occasion.
With a growing Indian community in New South Wales, the annual Independence Day celebrations in Sydney have become a highlight in the multicultural calendar, drawing large audiences and showcasing the rich diversity of Indian heritage.
ISWA hosts colourful ‘Sangam 2025’ festival in Perth
Perth, July 28 (Australia India
Consul General Kajari Biswas congratulated the Indian Society of Western Australia (ISWA) for successfully hosting Sangam 2025, a vibrant cultural festival that showcased the richness of Indian traditions.
The event featured captivating performances in art, music, and dance, drawing enthusiastic participation from the Indian community and local audiences alike. Sangam served as a celebration of India’s cultural diversity and its meaningful contribution to Australia’s multicultural spirit.
India, Australia must collaborate for cyber resilience: CG Biswas
Perth, July 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Kajari Biswas addressed the IETE Australia Symposium on Cybersecurity, emphasizing the critical need for deeper India-Australia collaboration to ensure a secure and resilient digital future. She lauded the Institution of Electronics and
Telecommunication Engineers (IETE) for bringing experts together to explore shared challenges and innovative solutions in cybersecurity. The symposium served as a timely platform to promote technological cooperation between the two nations in an increasingly interconnected world.
News Newsdesk)
CG hosts ‘Meet & Greet’ with Indian spiritual groups in WA
Perth, July 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate hosted a Meet & Greet event with Indian Religious and Spiritual Associations in Western Australia, bringing together key representatives for an engaging discussion with Consul General (CG) Kajari Biswas.
Leaders from various associations shared insights into their ongoing community initiatives, spiritual
services, and cultural outreach.
The interaction also addressed diaspora-related concerns, while exploring new avenues for collaboration and deeper community engagement.
The Consul General commended the associations for their role in preserving Indian spiritual traditions and fostering unity within Australia’s multicultural society.
Consul General joins tree planting to
Brisbane, July 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Mrs Neetu Bhagotia participated in a tree plantation ceremony hosted by the Life Tree Movement at Booval to mark the 10th death anniversary of former Indian President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. The Life Tree Movement, established in 2015 as a tribute to Dr Kalam, continues to uphold his vision of environmental sustainability and climate action. The event reflected the group’s commitment to greening the planet and honouring one of India’s most admired leaders through action-driven community initiatives.
honour Dr Kalam’s
legacy
CapTech 2025 hosts high-level India-Australia business networking event
Brisbane, July 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
CapTech 2025 hosted a dynamic business event titled “How Private Capital Drives Business Growth”, bringing together senior government officials, investors, and scale-up founders to explore opportunities for economic collaboration between India and Australia.
Consul General Neetu Bhagotia attended the event alongside Ros Bates, Queensland Minister for
Finance, Trade, Employment and Training. The highlight of the gathering was the presence of a nine-member Indian high-growth business delegation, showcasing India’s growing startup and innovation ecosystem.
The event featured an engaging panel discussion and a networking session, creating a platform for productive dialogue between international delegates, Australian investors, and government representatives.
CapTech 2025 successfully reinforced its role as a bridge between India’s entrepreneurial talent and Australia’s capital and policy support.
Brisbane, July 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Lalithakalalaya School of Bharatanatyam recently hosted
its Salangai Pooja ceremony, a significant milestone in the journey of classical dance students. Consul General Neetu Bhagotia attended the
ceremony and commended the school’s efforts in preserving and promoting India’s cultural heritage.
Young dancers shine at Salangai Pooja in Brisbane Chinmaya Bhuvanam inaugurated in Brisbane
Brisbane, July 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Neetu Bhagotia joined Federal Speaker Milton Dick MP and Margie Nightingale MP at the Installation Ceremony of Mata Bhuvaneshvari Devi and the Inauguration of Chinmaya Bhuvanam in Ellen Grove.
The occasion marked a significant cultural milestone, bringing together members of the Indian community in a spirit of devotion and celebration. The presence of senior leaders and community members made it a proud and spiritually uplifting moment for Brisbane’s Indian diaspora.
At the event, 15 young students were formally initiated and blessed to perform on stage, marking their readiness to carry forward the rich tradition
of Bharatanatyam. The school continues to be a leading platform for nurturing Indian classical dance in Australia.
Brisbane, July 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General of India in Brisbane, Neetu Bhagotia, held a constructive meeting with Thomas Gjerde, Manager of Key Accounts at Air India, to discuss the prospect of establishing a direct flight connection between Brisbane and India.
The discussion centred on the growing demand from the Indian diaspora and business community in Queensland for a more accessible travel link with India. Both parties exchanged ideas on the potential benefits of such a route, including enhanced
connectivity, tourism, and trade opportunities.
The proposal, if realised, would mark a significant development in
strengthening India-Australia ties and easing travel for thousands of families and professionals who frequently commute between the two countries.
Brisbane RF Fashion Show 2025 blends glamour with a heartfelt cause
Fundraising
for “Simply Human” celebrates diversity, elegance, and community spirit
Brisbane, July 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Brisbane RF Fashion Show 2025 lit up the runway with style, colour, and compassion in a spectacular evening dedicated to fundraising for the local humanitarian organisation Simply Human. The high-profile event beautifully combined fashion with philanthropy, showcasing a powerful message of unity and social impact.
Consul General Neetu Bhagotia attended the event in support of the fundraising efforts. Her presence highlighted the community's growing
engagement with causes promoting inclusion and social welfare.
The fashion show featured an impressive lineup of models and designers, representing the multicultural spirit of Brisbane. From traditional ensembles to contemporary designs, each segment celebrated inclusion, creativity, and cultural pride.
Organised by the RF team, the event aimed to raise funds for Simply Human, a not-for-profit initiative that provides dignity kits and essential support to people experiencing crisis and displacement. Proceeds from
the evening will help expand the organisation’s outreach and service delivery.
Attendees were treated to an evening of stunning visuals, heartfelt moments, and high fashion—all with a strong social message at its core. The runway finale, bursting with vibrant colours and cultural fusion, earned a standing ovation.
The Brisbane RF Fashion Show 2025 successfully demonstrated how fashion can become a force for good—uniting communities, raising awareness, and inspiring action through elegance and empathy.
New report highlights Indian community’s impact in Australia
Brisbane, July 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Neetu Bhagotia recently attended the launch of a new report titled “Understanding
Australia’s Indian Communities: A Statistical Snapshot”, jointly produced by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the University of Queensland
(UQ).
The event also featured Tim Watts MP, Special Envoy for Indian Ocean Affairs, and Peter Varghese AO, Chancellor of UQ and former
DFAT Secretary.
The report offers valuable insights into the size, diversity, and socio-economic contributions of Indian-origin communities in
Australia. It is expected to play a key role in shaping future policy and engagement with Australia’s growing Indian diaspora.
Naatyotsava 2025 to light up Brisbane with a classical dance spectacle
Brisbane, July 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Brisbane is gearing up for an enchanting evening of rhythm, expression, and storytelling as Naatyotsava 2025 brings together a spectacular array of classical Indian dance forms on one stage. Slated for September 6, at the Calamvale Community College, the event promises to be a celebration of cultural richness and artistic excellence.
Audiences will be treated to an extraordinary line-up of acclaimed dancers from across Australia, each representing a distinct classical tradition. Among the featured performers
is Vidushi Bindu Rajendren, who will present the graceful and expressive Mohiniattam. Kathak will come alive through the performance of Sanchita Abrol, known for her command of rhythm and poise.
The vibrant and intricate style of Kuchipudi will be presented by two seasoned artists, Hema Venugopalan and Sreeanusha Viswanathan, who are both known for their dynamic stage presence. Bharatanatyam, one of the most popular classical forms, will be performed by Vidushi Ambika Ganeshprasad and the talented young artist Shivani Sriram, each bringing their own
unique interpretation and flair to the traditional dance. Odissi, the lyrical and sculptural form from eastern India, will be represented by Anwesha Das, promising a performance of grace and depth. Naatyotsava 2025 is not just a performance event—it is a tribute to the timeless traditions of Indian classical dance. Organisers describe it as a cultural experience that brings together diversity, heritage, and the enduring power of artistic expression. The evening is expected to attract dance lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and families eager to experience a rich artistic journey.
Tickets are available now at https://www.trybooking.com/ DDJRF. With such a vibrant line-up and the rare opportunity to see so many dance forms in one evening, Naatyotsava 2025 is shaping up to be a highlight in Brisbane’s cultural calendar.
AIMA delegation meets Consul General
Perth, July 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
A delegation from the Australian Indian Medical Association (AIMA), led by president Dr. Kiran Puttappa, met with Consul General Kajari Biswas to discuss the association’s ongoing work. The team, including Dr. Bhaskar Mandal, Dr. Sree Krishna, Dr. Vinay Verma, Dr.
and Dr.
— shared updates on AIMA’s community outreach, professional initiatives, and contributions to healthcare in Western Australia. The meeting also explored opportunities for future collaboration between the Consulate and the Indian medical fraternity.
ISKCON Brisbane to celebrate Janmashtami 2025 with day-long festivities on August 16
Brisbane, July 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Brisbane is preparing to host one of its most significant annual celebrations—Janmashtami 2025— on August 16, at the ISKCON Brisbane Community Centre. The festivities will run from 12 noon to 12 midnight, offering a vibrant mix of spiritual devotion and cultural expression to mark the sacred birth of Lord Krishna. The event will feature a range of devotional activities throughout the day. A highlight of the celebration is the Abhishek ceremony for the deities of Sri Sri Radha Krishnachandra, which will take place at 10 PM. Devotees will also be treated to continuous kirtans, with devotional singing and chanting filling the temple space, creating an uplifting spiritual atmosphere. Attendees will have the opportunity to receive darshan of the beautifully decorated deities and enjoy prasadam—a variety of sanctified vegetarian meals prepared with love and offered as part of the worship.
In the lead-up to the celebrations, ISKCON Brisbane representatives held an official meeting with Consul General of India in Brisbane, Neetu M. Bhagotia,
and Head of Chancery Sushil. The meeting took place at the Indian Consulate, where the officials extended their support and best wishes for the upcoming Janmashtami festival, recognizing its importance in uniting the community through shared cultural and spiritual values.
The event is free to attend, and guests are encouraged to register via Eventbrite. Janmashtami at ISKCON Brisbane is not just a religious celebration—it is also a community gathering that brings people of all ages and backgrounds together in joy, devotion, and harmony.
Manisha Doohan,
Leena Singla
CG Neetu Bhagotia attends ANZIBC Bizcon India 2025 in Brisbane
Brisbane, July 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Neetu Bhagotia participated in the “ANZIBC
Bizcon India 2025” event hosted by the ANZ Business Chamber in Brisbane, as part of its threecity series across Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney.
The event featured a panel discussion on “The Business Opportunities beyond IndoAustralia ECTA – The Inspiring Success Stories,” highlighting
emerging commercial partnerships and industry insights.
During the event, CG Bhagotia
also engaged with the visiting Indian business delegation, further strengthening businessto-business and institutional ties between India and Australia.
Brisbane hosts ‘Drinks with Art’ to unite leaders from arts, business and sport
Brisbane, July 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
An inspiring networking evening titled “Drinks with Art”, organised by The Enterprise Network, recently brought together influential figures from education, arts, politics, business, multicultural affairs, and sports in Brisbane.
The event featured prominent guests, including John-Paul Langbroek, Queensland’s Minister for Education and the Arts, and NRL legend Darren Lockyer,
representing Beyond the Broncos. Their presence added weight to the evening’s message of unity and collaboration across sectors.
Also in attendance were Gretel Wilson from Casu Australia and Dr Ram Mohan, president of the Multicultural Community Council of Queensland (MCCQ), both of whom engaged with attendees on topics ranging from cultural leadership to business innovation.
Hosted in an informal setting, the event created space for rich conversations around youth
development, community empowerment, and the role of creativity and sport in building a more connected Queensland.
The Enterprise Network, known for fostering cross-sector dialogue, used this occasion to promote partnerships between emerging professionals and established leaders in the community.
Events like “Drinks with Art” are fast becoming a hallmark of Brisbane’s commitment to inclusive leadership and cultural growth.
Water safety for all highlighted on Drowning Prevention Day in Melbourne
Melbourne, July 29 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar took part in the ‘World Drowning Prevention Day’ awareness event at Gurudwara Siri Guru Nanak Darbar in Officer, Victoria, emphasizing the need for water safety, especially among migrant communities.
The event was attended by Sheena Watt MP, Gary Maas
MP, Viv Nguyen (Chairperson of the Victorian Multicultural Commission), local councillors, Life Saving Victoria representatives, emergency services, and multicultural community members. The gathering aimed to raise awareness about drowning risks and encourage safe behavior around water, reinforcing a shared responsibility to protect lives.
Travel enthusiasts in Perth inspired to explore Incredible India
Perth, July 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In a collaborative effort to promote tourism to India, the Consulate partnered with the Western Australia Travel Club to host an engaging presentation by
renowned travel writer Stephen Scourfield. The event drew a crowd of enthusiastic travellers keen to discover the many layers of India’s cultural and natural beauty.
The Consul General opened
the session with a compelling address, emphasizing India’s immense diversity, rich heritage, and unmatched vibrancy. Attendees were warmly invited to experience the magic of “Incredible India” for themselves.
Stephen Scourfield, travel editor of The West Australian and The Sunday Times, brought the country to life through his reflections and travel stories, drawing from his long-standing relationship with India dating
back to 1978. His vivid narratives and engaging discussions painted a colourful and complex picture of India, inspiring many in the audience to consider it their next travel destination.
Indian wines take centrestage at Sydney buyer-seller meet
Sydney, July 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Wine Growers Association of India, in collaboration with APEDA and the Consulate General
of India in Sydney, hosted a Wine Buyer-Seller Meet (BSM) to promote Indian wines in the Australian market. Addressing the gathering, the Consul General
expressed confidence that Indian wines would soon find a strong footing in Australia, much like the success Australian wines have seen in India.
The event featured addresses by Dr Tarun Bajaj, Director of APEDA, and Ashwin Rodrigues, Secretary of the Wine Growers Association of India. Over 40
Councillor Balli Singh meets Consul General in Perth
Perth, July 23 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Councillor Balli Singh from the City of Gosnells met with the Consul General in Perth to discuss a range of issues concerning the Indian diaspora and broader community engagement. The meeting focused on strengthening ties between the local council and the Indian community, with a shared commitment to support initiatives that promote cultural integration, collaboration, and community welfare.
Australian wine importers, media professionals, and wine tasters attended the meet, showcasing growing interest in Indian wine offerings.
Brisbane set to celebrate cultural unity with ‘Naatyotsava 2.0’ – A multicultural Indian classical dance spectacle
Brisbane, 6 September: Following the phenomenal success of its inaugural edition, the Queensland Kannadigas Cultural & Sports Society Inc. (QKCSS) is thrilled to announce the return of its flagship event, Naatyotsava 2.0 – a multicultural classical dance concert that brings together Australia’s top Indian classical dancers for an evening of timeless art and cultural harmony.
Scheduled for Saturday, 6 September 2025, at Calamvale Community College (11 Hamish St, Calamvale QLD 4116), the event will commence sharply at 5:30 PM and is expected to attract a diverse audience of dance enthusiasts, community leaders, and multicultural families from across Queensland.
A vision of cultural harmony through dance
Naatyotsava is more than just a stage performance—it’s a platform that celebrates the diverse heritage of India’s classical dance traditions while fostering inclusivity in a proudly multicultural Australia. The evening will feature Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kuchipudi, and Mohiniattam, offering the audience a rare opportunity to experience the full spectrum of India’s classical dance forms in one grand production.
This year’s featured artists are a powerhouse ensemble of nationally recognised exponents:
• Ms. Sanchita Abrol –Kathak virtuoso and cultural entrepreneur from Melbourne
• Mrs. Sreeanusha Viswanathan –Acclaimed Kuchipudi performer and teacher, Melbourne
• Vidushi Bindu Rajendren –Renowned Mohiniattam artist and educator based in Brisbane
• Ms. Hema Venugopalan –Eminent Kuchipudi exponent from Sydney
• Miss Anwesha Das – Odissi performer and teacher from Brisbane
• Miss Shivani Sriram – Emerging Bharatanatyam talent, Brisbane
• Vidushi Ambika Ganeshprasad –Esteemed Bharatanatyam teacher and performer from Brisbane
Each artist brings a unique regional style and personal interpretation to their performance, ensuring a rich and immersive cultural experience
for all.
The legacy of Naatyotsava
The first edition of Naatyotsava in 2024 was met with overwhelming applause, drawing hundreds of spectators and receiving praise for its flawless execution, high-caliber performances, and cultural inclusiveness. It became a landmark event in Brisbane’s Indian cultural calendar, uniting communities through the language of dance. Audiences were particularly moved by the seamless integration of various Indian classical forms into one cohesive narrative celebrating unity in diversity.
Building on that success, Naatyotsava 2.0 has scaled up its production, drawing wider participation and reaching broader audiences. With increased community support, government recognition, and growing interest from sponsors and media, this year’s concert is poised to be even more impactful. Proudly supported by the community
The event is supported by Councillor Emily Kim of the Calamvale Ward and sponsored by respected community partners including:
• Platinum Sponsor: Tracer Law
• Gold Sponsors: Swades Foods, Way2Wealth Advisers, and Fairfax Partners
• Media Partners: Australian Indian Times, Australian Indian Radio, and India News
The organisers have worked diligently to ensure the concert is ticketed and accessible to all, reinforcing QKCSS’s commitment to community engagement and the promotion of multiculturalism.
An invitation to all
“We believe events like Naatyotsava are essential for preserving and sharing India’s rich classical heritage in a way that resonates with modern multicultural Australia,” said Preetham Krishna, President of QKCSS. “The response to the first edition proved there is a deep appreciation for classical arts in our diverse community. This second edition aims to be even more inclusive, enriching, and unifying.”
All are welcome, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure their seats.
Divya Deshmukh scripts history to become first Indian woman to win chess World Cup
Baku, July 28 (IANS) The 19-yearold Divya Deshmukh stunned the chess world by winning the FIDE Women’s World Cup 2025, becoming the first Indian woman to claim the prestigious title. In the all-Indian final, Divya defeated legendary compatriot Koneru Humpy 1.5–0.5 in the rapid tie-breaks on Monday to script a fairytale ending in Baku. The classical games played over the weekend had ended in tense draws, with both players showcasing resilience and elitelevel play. In Saturday's opening
game, Divya, playing with the white pieces, built a commanding position but let Humpy equalise late. The second game on Sunday was more balanced, though Divya admitted she “wandered into trouble for no apparent reason” before holding on.
But the tie-breaks were where the young sensation flipped the script. After the first rapid game ended in a draw, the second saw Humpy crack under time pressure, making critical blunders that Divya pounced on. With nerves of steel, Divya closed out the win to become the 2025 Women’s World Cup champion, the fourth Indian woman to earn the Grandmaster title, and the country’s 88th GM overall. “It was fate,” said an emotional Divya after the final. “Before the tournament, I was thinking that I
could maybe earn a Grandmaster norm here. And at the end, I became a Grandmaster.”
Divya’s victory is even more remarkable considering the odds. She came into the tie-breaks as the underdog — Humpy, a twotime World Rapid Champion and currently world No. 5 in classical chess, was widely expected to dominate in the faster format. In contrast, Divya was ranked No. 18 in classical, No. 22 in rapid, and No. 18 in blitz on the FIDE women’s list.
This win crowns a sensational rise for the Nagpur teenager, who just last year clinched the World Junior Championship title. She played a pivotal role in India’s gold medal run at the 2024 Chess Olympiad in Budapest, also securing individual gold on her board.
4th Test: Jadeja, Sundar hit centuries as superb India defy England to secure draw
Manchester, July 27 (IANS)
Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar hit epic unbeaten centuries and propel a superb India to defy England and secure a draw in the fourth AndersonTendulkar Trophy Test at Old Trafford on Sunday.
With India at 0/2 and 311 runs behind in the beginning of their second innings, it seemed they would lose the match and the series. But a monumental, strong and resolute batting show – led
by hundreds from Shubman Gill (103), Jadeja (107 not out) and Sundar (100 not out) – along with KL Rahul’s 90 meant the visitors conjured up a miraculous escape and secure a memorable, hardfought draw.
The result also means England, whose bowling performance on day five was iffy, are still up 2-1 going into the last match at The Oval, starting on Thursday. Their frustration on not getting a win was quite evident when Jadeja and Washington, promoted to number five due to Rishabh Pant’s injury, refused their offer of an early draw, and went on to achieve their three-figure milestones.
The final session started off with Jadeja slogging and driving Liam Dason for a brace of fours, before
Sundar leaned into the drive off Chris Woakes for another boundary. Jadeja began going aggressive by lofting Dawson down the ground for four, before thumping Joe Root for a boundary past mid-on.
Jadeja’s liking to smash Root didn’t stop as he smacked and lofted him for two fours, second of which brought up the 150 of his partnership with Sundar, who got into his 80s by driving the parttime off-spinner through extra cover for a boundary.
After India denied Stokes’ request to shake hands and settle for a draw at drinks break, Jadeja took a four off Harry Brook, before Sundar unfurled two beautiful cover drives off Root for consecutive boundaries.
Indian men’s hockey team to tour Australia for four-match series in August
New Delhi, July 25 (IANS) The Indian men’s hockey team is set to tour Australia in August for a four-match series, set to be held at the Perth Hockey Stadium from August 15 to 21.
The series promises to be a highly competitive contest, featuring eighth-ranked India taking on sixth-ranked Australia. The matches will be played on August 15, 16, 19, and 21.
The two sides recently faced each other in the FIH Pro League 2024–25 in Europe, where Australia edged India 3–2 in both legs. However, India had earlier
scripted a memorable 3–2 victory over the Kookaburras at the 2024 Paris Olympics — their first Olympic win over Australia since the 1972 Munich Games.
While recent encounters have been closely fought, Australia have historically held the edge in the rivalry, winning 35 of the 51 matches played between the two teams since 2013. India have won nine times, with seven matches ending in draws.
The series will serve as important preparation for India ahead of the Asia Cup 2025, set to be held in Rajgir, Bihar from August 29 to September 7. The tournament offers a direct qualification spot for the FIH Hockey Men’s World Cup 2026, making the Australia tour a key milestone in India’s buildup.
Speaking on the tour, chief coach Craig Fulton said, “This
England beat Spain on penalties to retain Women’s Euro title
Basel, July 28 (IANS) Holders England came from behind before beating Spain on penalties to retain UEFA Women's Euro 2025 title.
Mariona Caldentey gave Spain the lead as she rose highest to meet Ona Batlle’s cross, before Alessia Russo responded after the break with a brilliant header back across goal to put England back in it.
And after Hannah Hampton had saved two penalties in the shootout, Kelly stepped up to secure a historic victory. Russo posed an immediate threat in the early moments, charging away behind the Spanish defence down the left after three minutes and seeing her shot parried by Cata Coll, with Lauren James unable to react
‘Most
tour comes at a crucial time for us, just ahead of the Asia Cup in Bihar. While these are technically friendly matches, they form a very important part of our preparation phase. Playing against a team like Australia will test us in all aspects - both on the ball and off it - and that is exactly what we need to sharpen up before a major tournament.”
“We have just completed a 10-day training block, and the mood in the camp is upbeat as we are fully focused on what lies ahead. One of our key goals on this tour is to use the first two matches for selection purposes, while the remaining games will be played with the shortlisted squad for the Asia Cup. Our focus is firmly on moving forward - the goal now is to prepare well and go to the Asia Cup with the intent to win it,” he added
fast enough to the rebound. Spain then looked dangerous as Olga Carmona found space on the left to pick out Esther Gonzalez, who saw her shot saved well by Hampton at the near post. And it was almost a repeat minutes later as Carmona once more clipped a cross in after finding space behind Lucy Bronze, but Gonzalez fired wide.
In a half of shifting momentum, Lauren Hemp took initiative to win the ball back in the Spanish box on the stroke of 20 minutes but Coll proved equal to her low shot. It was Spain who went ahead in the 25th minute, though, as Ona Batlle found space at the byline to the right of the box before dinking a delicate cross into the centre and it was Arsenal’s Caldentey who rose highest to nod home the opener.
Just after James had been forced off with injury on 41 minutes, Spain nearly doubled their lead as Gonzalez sent her header just wide yet again. But after the restart, Russo had England back on level terms. It was Kelly who produced a delightful cross onto the head of the Arsenal forward, who made no mistake with a brilliant header back across goal and into the top corner.
rounded F1 driver ever’: Jenson Button hails Max Verstappen’s unique talent
New Delhi, July 21 (IANS) Former Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button believes Max Verstappen stands alone as the “most rounded F1 driver that there has ever been”, praising the Dutchman’s ability to extract the maximum from any car.
Speaking on The Chris Moyles Show on Radio X, Button reflected on Verstappen’s incredible talent, despite a slightly tougher 2025 season so far. The Red Bull driver currently sits third in the Drivers' Championship on 165 points, trailing leader Oscar Piastri by 69 points and second-placed Lando Norris by 61.
Still, Button said Verstappen’s allround abilities make him the best on the current grid.
“I feel he's the most rounded F1 driver that there has ever been,” Button said. “And I know he hasn't won the championships of Lewis [Hamilton]. And I obviously think Lewis is extremely, extremely good and one of the best in the world. But there's just something about Max that he can do something with a car that I don't think anyone else can.” Verstappen’s F1 record speaks for
itself: four World Championships, 65 race wins, 44 pole positions, and 117 podiums since debuting in 2015. While 2025 has brought stiffer competition, Button still places him a cut above the rest. When asked who he sees as the second-best driver currently, Button pointed to the McLaren duo. “I think Lando and Oscar are both up there,” he said. “They're very different personalities. I think Lando can be his own worst enemy. He's unbelievably quick, but if he makes a tiny mistake… I think he thinks about it too much. “Oscar is very level-headed. He just wants to go racing, and he wants to drive fast, and he does it very well.”
Button, who partnered Lewis Hamilton at McLaren from 2010 to 2012, also recalled how Hamilton’s natural flair often stunned him. “I was teammates with him for three years, and the talent, the natural ability he has, is unbelievable,” he said. “He would struggle in practice, come to qualify, I'm like, ‘Right, I've got him. I'm going to have him.’ And he’d just, bang, put in a lap. It just came from nowhere.”
“Extreme talent, and obviously the career he's had — I'm not sure anyone's going to beat that, his records. But just thinking about this moment in time, I feel that Max is the one who can do more with a car than anyone else,” he said.
New Delhi: FDCI India Couture Week 2025
Bollywood actress Tara Sutaria with designer Isha Jajodia during the FDCI India Couture Week, in New Delhi on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
A model presents a creation by designer Isha Jajodia during the FDCI India Couture Week, in New Delhi on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
Models present creations by designer Isha Jajodia during the FDCI India Couture Week, in New Delhi on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
A model presents a creation by designer Isha Jajodia during the FDCI India Couture Week, in New Delhi on Thursday, July 24, 2025
Bollywood actress Tara Sutaria showcases a creation by designer Isha Jajodia during the FDCI India Couture Week, in New Delhi on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
A model presents a creation by designer Isha Jajodia during the FDCI India Couture Week, in New Delhi on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
A model presents a creation by designer Isha Jajodia during the FDCI India Couture Week, in New Delhi on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
A model presents a creation by designer Isha Jajodia during the FDCI India Couture Week, in New Delhi on Thursday, July 24, 2025
A model presents a creation by designer Isha Jajodia during the FDCI India Couture Week, in New Delhi on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
Bollywood actress Tara Sutaria showcases a creation by designer Isha Jajodia during the FDCI India Couture Week, in New Delhi on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
A model presents a creation by designer Isha Jajodia during the FDCI India Couture Week, in New Delhi on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
Varanasi youth summit: Kashi Declaration adopted for drug-free society
The Kashi Declaration, affirming a national consensus to treat substance abuse as a multi-faceted public health and societal challenge and suggesting a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, was adopted at the Youth Spiritual Summit here on Sunday.
“If a nation, where 65 per cent of the population is youth, falls prey to addiction, only those who break free from it will be able to build the future,” said Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya.
Addressing the Summit, the Union Minister said, “We have reflected deeply over the last three days across diverse thematic sessions. Based on this
Prosenjit
collective chintan, the Kashi Declaration is born, not just as a document, but as a shared sankalp for the Yuva Shakti of Bharat.”
The Youth Spiritual Summit on the theme Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat culminated at the Rudraksh International Convention Centre in Varanasi with the formal adoption of the Kashi Declaration.
Organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the Summit brought together more than 600 youth leaders, representatives from over 120 spiritual and socio-cultural organisations, academicians, and domain experts. The event marked a defining moment in Bharat’s journey toward a drugfree society by 2047.
This gathering represented a national convergence of youthful energy, spiritual vision, and institutional resolve.
The Summit featured four focused plenary sessions exploring
Chatterjee says,
key dimensions of substance abuse: its psychological and societal impacts, the mechanics of drug trafficking and supply chains, strategies for grassroots awareness campaigns, and the role of spiritual and cultural institutions in rehabilitation and prevention.
These deliberations formed the foundation of the Kashi Declaration, which is a visionary commitment to collaborative action against drug addiction, rooted in India’s civilizational wisdom and youth leadership.
The Declaration emphasises the integration of spiritual, cultural, educational, and technological efforts to prevent addiction, support recovery, and foster a national culture of sobriety, said a statement.
It proposes institutional mechanisms for multi-ministerial coordination, including the formation of a Joint National Committee, annual progress reporting, and a national platform for linking affected individuals to support services.
‘Devi Chowdhurani’ is part of India’s cultural conscience
Bengali cinema legend Prosenjit Chatterjee, who has been getting a great response to his work in the recently released film 'Maalik’, will be next seen in ‘Devi Chowdhurani’. The veteran actor called the film a part of India’s cultural conscience. ‘Devi Chowdhurani’ is a period drama that positions itself as Bengali cinema’s boldest panIndia release of the year. Talking about the same, Prosenjit
Chatterjee said, "After decades in cinema, it’s rare to come across a story that feels both rooted and revolutionary. ‘Devi Chowdhurani’ is a part of our cultural conscience. I’m honoured to be part of a project that brings Bengal’s legacy to a global stage, especially at a time when regional stories are finding international resonance”.
The film is directed by National Award-winner Subhrajit Mitra, and is based on Bankimchandra Chattopadhyay’s iconic novel. The film tells the story of India’s first female freedom fighter with scale, soul, and cinematic ambition.
What makes Devi Chowdhurani historic is its status as the first Indian film to receive official Indo-UK co-production recognition. TJhe film is backed by cultural bodies including India’s Ministry of Information
and Broadcasting, NFDC, FFO, Invest India and the UK’s British Film Institute (BFI).
The film also stars Srabanti Chatterjee, Sabyasachi Chakraborty, Darshana Banik, Bibriti Chatterjee and Arjun Chakraborty. The film, which is currently in post-production, features a powerful score by Grammy-nominated composer Pandit Bickram Ghosh.
It is produced by Aparna and Aniruddha Dasgupta (Adited Motion Pictures) and Soumyajit Majumdar (LOK Arts Collective), with UK partners Moringa Studios and HC Films.
The film is set to release this Durga Puja. With Prosenjit's trademark superlative performance, the film aims to blend Bengal’s revolutionary past with a truly global cinematic future.
Tracing emerging contours of the trusted and increasingly multi-faceted India-Russia relationship
Their relationship is a success story in diplomacy's annals, spanning the Cold War, the end of communism, economic liberalism, the rise and fall of globalism and unipolarity to enter the 21st century with its new set of issues but opportunities too. But India and Russia's bilateral
ties have added a new key paradigm even as they maintain a special continuity.
How this plays out as the third decade of the new century hits a turbulent phase with tectonic global political shifts, conflicts, terrorism, climate change, economic protectionism, and failed states has to be seen, particularly as global institutions are questioned over their dated representation, and new regional and multilateral organisations come up. Particularly.
It is this and other related and contingent issues of the IndianRussian relationship that a group
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta keen to promote art, culture of other
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has emphasised the importance of promoting and expanding the art and culture of various states across the national capital, an official said on Sunday. She called for events such as women's art exhibitions, artist camps, music and dance festivals, theatre performances, and religious celebrations like Chhath Puja and Durga Puja to be organised across the city to increase public participation. The Chief Minister also said that efforts will be made to explore possibilities for teaching nonHindi languages to children in Delhi, enabling them to understand the social and cultural identities of other states.
states
At a recent meeting at the Delhi Secretariat, CM Gupta discussed measures to enrich Delhi’s cultural landscape and involve all sections of society in cultural activities.
“Delhi is not merely the capital city but also a reflection of the country’s cultural identity,” she said.
“We want the art and culture of various states to reach every street and for every individual to feel connected to it,” she said, adding that theatre and folk arts are powerful tools for spreading awareness and information, often more effectively than other forms of communication.
The meeting was also attended by Minister of Art, Culture and Languages Kapil Mishra, as well as various secretaries, deputy secretaries, and senior officials from different agencies.
CM Gupta noted that the Department of Art, Culture and Languages can play a vital role in this endeavour by broadening the scope of its programmes and activities.
Renowned theatre legend Ratan Thiyam passes away in Manipur
India's renowned theatre personality and Padma Shri awardee Ratan Thiyam died at a hospital in Imphal on Wednesday, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that redefined contemporary Indian theatre, officials said. He was 77.
"Thiyam died at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences early on Wednesday after a prolonged illness," a state government official told the media.
of scholars from both countries seek to weigh on in "INDIA and Russia - Enduring Trust in a Transformational Era" (HarAnand Publications Ltd., pp 175). However, the transformations have not shaken the trust, as the book's editor, Dr Lydia Kulik, stresses.
Kulik, the Head of India Studies at the Moscow School of Management, Skolkovo, and Senior Research Fellow of the Russian Academy of Sciences' Institute of Oriental Studies, notes that 2024 was "an eventful year" for the bilateral relationship.
A recipient of India's fourthhighest civilian award -- Padma Shri in 1989 -- and Sangeet Natak Akademi Award winner in 1987, Thiyam was famous for blending traditional Manipuri art forms with modern craft, innovation and poetic narratives. Founder of the Imphal-based Chorus Repertory Theatre in 1976, Thiyam briefly served as the chief of the New Delhi-based National School of Drama from 1987 to 1988.
Some of the other notable awards that Thiyam had received were the Kalidas Samman (1997), Indira Gandhi Award for National Integration (2008), Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship (2012), and Tagore Ratna (2012).
The most recent one was the
Lifetime Achievement Award from the Manipur government on the occasion of the 54th Statehood Day in January this year for his unparalleled service to the state's theatre and cultural heritage. The Manipur government has condoled the death of the legendary theatre personality. Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, former Chief Minister N Biren Singh, state BJP President Adhikarimayum Sharda Devi also expressed their grief over the death of Thiyam, and said his work carried the soul of Manipur.
"Hon’ble Governor of Manipur, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, expressed deep sorrow on the demise of renowned theatre personality and Padma Shri awardee Thiyam Ratan. The Governor stated that his invaluable contribution to Manipuri theatre and culture will always be remembered. Heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and admirers," a post of the Raj Bhavan X handle said.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said: "Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Ratan Thiyam , a visionary who redefined Indian theatre by blending contemporary form with the cultural soul of Manipur. Through his art, he not only elevated the cultural identity of his homeland but left an indelible mark on the landscape of Indian performing arts. His legacy will continue to inspire."
"Heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones, and all who admired his art. May he rest in peace," CM Sangma said.
PM Modi flags off four new Amrit Bharat Trains: A leap towards comfortable and safer travel
With the addition of these trains, Bihar now boasts a total of six Amrit Bharat Express services.
The newly inaugurated routes are: Malda Town – Bhagalpur – Lucknow (Gomti Nagar), Darbhanga – Lucknow (Gomti Nagar), Rajendra Nagar Terminal (Patna) – New Delhi and
Designed for enhanced passenger comfort, these trains feature modern, ergonomically crafted coaches.
Each seat is equipped with mobile holders, foldable bottle and snack tables, and fast-charging USB pods.
The seats offer superior cushioning, while radium floor lighting ensures safe movement at night.
The coaches are also fitted with air spring suspension systems, providing a jerk-free and smooth travel experience.
The trains are inclusive and accessible, with Divyang-friendly toilets that come equipped with electronic flushing systems and automatic soap dispensers, ensuring hygiene and convenience for all passengers.
Security has been significantly upgraded in these trains.
For the first time, non-AC coaches feature fire detection systems, enhancing onboard safety.
Each coach is fitted with a Talk Back Unit, enabling passengers to communicate with onboard staff during emergencies.
The semi-automatic coupler with crash tube ensures shock absorption during collisions, while the advanced EP-assisted braking system allows for quicker halts in critical situations.
Indian medical tourism market to surge from $18.2 bn in 2025 to $58.2 bn by 2035: Report
The Indian medical tourism market is set to surge from $18.2 billion in 2025 to $58.2 billion by 2035, according to a new report on Thursday.
The report, by the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations
of India (FHRAI), in collaboration with KPMG, showcased the country’s ambitious vision to become the global medical hub by 2035, rising at a CAGR of 12.3 per cent.
The report also outlines a
transformative national strategy that integrates India’s clinical expertise with its centuries-old wellness traditions, aiming to make the country the world’s most trusted destination for medical value travel (MVT).
It showed that India is emerging as a cost-effective alternative offering both modern surgeries and natural recovery options like Ayurveda, Yoga, and Panchakarma.
India ranks 10th in the Medical Tourism Index and seventh in wellness tourism, and attracts nearly 2 million international patients from 75 countries.
The report showed that medical visa issuance rose to 463,725 in 2024, with the majority of patients from Bangladesh, GCC nations, and Africa.
Indian medical tourism market to surge from $18.2 bn in 2025 to $58.2 bn by 2035: Report
Dy CM Diya Kumari credits PM Modi and Raj govt as Jaipur ranks among top five global tourist cities
Rajasthan's capital Jaipur has been ranked among the top five tourist cities in the world in Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards 2025, government officials said on Monday.
Reacting to the global recognition, Deputy Chief Minister and Tourism Minister Diya Kumari called it a testament to the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the sustained efforts of the state government under Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma.
"This is a proud moment for India. It reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of promoting Indian tourism
globally, the strength of the double-engine government, and the relentless efforts of the Rajasthan government.
A culturally rich and historic city like Jaipur receiving such global recognition is truly commendable," the Deputy Chief Minister said.
Praising the efforts of state government, she said, "The state government's ongoing initiatives for developing tourism infrastructure, preserving heritage, and introducing modern facilities are reshaping Rajasthan's identity on the international stage."
Extending congratulations to the people of Rajasthan, Diya Kumari said, "This honour belongs to every individual who passionately showcases Rajasthan's cultural heritage, hospitality, and traditions to the world. I am confident that Jaipur and Rajasthan will continue to rise as premier destinations on the global tourism map."
MP now heartbeat of global tourism, 134.1 million tourists visited last year
The mission focuses on upgrading cruise terminals, ports, and related infrastructure, promoting eco-friendly tourism practices using green vessels, and creating numerous employment opportunities in the cruise industry in the coming two years.
The river cruise tourism sector in India has witnessed notable growth, with the number of river cruise voyages on National Waterways increasing from 371 in 2023-24 to 443 in 2024-25.
This 19.4 per cent growth underscores the rising appeal and operational efficiency of river cruises in India's inland waterways.
With its sweeping landscapes, sacred rivers, vibrant culture and world-class heritage, Madhya Pradesh is no longer just the 'Heart of India' -- it's becoming the heartbeat of global tourism.
This message rang loud and clear during the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board's roadshow held at Jaipur's Jai Mahal Hotel on Friday. Speaking to a packed event of tourism stakeholders, filmmakers, and hospitality professionals from both Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, Additional Managing Director of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, Bidisha Mukherjee, highlighted the state's soaring popularity.
In 2024 alone, Madhya Pradesh welcomed 134.1 million tourists,
with 70 million visiting for religious and spiritual experience, to Mahakaleshwar and Omkareshwar Jyotirlingas, Chitrakoot, Maihar, and Amarkantak, the sacred origin of the Narmada River.
But spiritual tourism is just one facet of Madhya Pradesh's appeal.
"We want to showcase the hidden gems of Madhya Pradesh to the world," Mukherjee said.
"From majestic temples to dense jungles, from tribal art to local cuisine -- we're creating experiences, not just sightseeing tours. We're building a sustainable, immersive, and community-led tourism model that speaks to the soul of every traveller."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday, flagged off four new Amrit Bharat Express trains via video conferencing from the Motihari district of Bihar.
Bapudham Motihari – Anand Vihar Terminal (Delhi).
The government on Monday said it plans to develop 51 new river cruise circuits on 47 national waterways across 14 states and three union territories (UTs) by 2027.
With the launch of the Cruise Bharat Mission, the government aims to increase river cruise passengers from 0.5 million to 1.5 million, according to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
India leading transformative shift in how reality is experienced: Qualcomm
New Delhi, July 21 (IANS) India is leading a transformative shift in how reality is experienced and Qualcomm Technologies envision a future where smart glasses become as integral to daily life as smartphones, seamlessly handling everyday tasks, the leading chip manufacturer said here on Monday.
Qualcomm kicked off its ‘Snapdragon for India–XR Day’ event here, uniting top tech experts, developers, partners, media, and creators to fuel the growth of spatial computing in India.
The event featured immersive demos and real-world use cases across entertainment, content creation, fitness, and education,
spotlighting Qualcomm’s leadership in smart glasses and extended reality.
According to Alex Katouzian, Group General Manager, Mobile, Compute & XR (MCX) at Qualcomm Technologies, Snapdragon XR platforms have powered 100+ immersive devices globally, and continue to deliver best-in-class experiences across mixed reality (MR), virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR).
On stage, Alex demonstrated a SLM (small language model) running completely on a pair of AI glasses, showing the versatility of Snapdragon platforms to run AI across the cloud, local and ondevice solutions.
As part of the vision, Qualcomm is powering smart glasses being developed by partners like Lenskart, with Snapdragon chipsets. This move reflects a concerted effort to bringing cutting-edge, AI-enabled smart eyewear solutions to Indian consumers.
“Snapdragon platforms are engineered to deliver a balance of sleek, lightweight design with powerful functionality, making smart glasses practical and intuitive for everyday use. This milestone signals a new era in bringing spatial computing to Indian consumers and positioning India prominently in the global immersive technology ecosystem,” said Savi Soin, Senior Vice President and President, Qualcomm India.
Aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat, this technology will empower frontline workers, transform education in remote areas, and enable truly inclusive digital access, he mentioned. As Qualcomm Technologies continues to expand beyond smartphones, it remains committed to enabling transformative innovation across industries, accelerating India’s drive in spatial computing technologies.
Gujarat approves action plan for AI implementation, sets 5-year digital transformation goal
New Delhi, July 27 (IANS) Gujarat
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has approved the Action Plan for Implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) 2025-2030, to facilitate smart decision-making, citizen-focused schemes, efficient service delivery, and effective welfare programmes through the application of Artificial Intelligence.
The action plan, aligned with the Modi government’s vision for the nation’s digital transformation, seeks to leverage widespread use of AI for digital empowerment and prepare India to lead the world in the technological sector.
Speaking at the annual Chintan Shibir in Somnath, the Chief
Minister declared that the state government will leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) across its administrative framework and government departments to lead in technology-driven governance and socio-economic progress, in line with the vision of Viksit Gujarat@2047.
To realise this vision and embed AI in governance, healthcare, education, agriculture, fintech, and other critical sectors across the state, a 10-member expert AI Taskforce Committee has been established.
The Action Plan, prepared under the guidance of the Chief Minister, will serve as a timebound blueprint to equip the state government with advanced AI capabilities. Furthermore, it will foster a robust, innovative AI ecosystem that ensures seamless service delivery, improved citizen welfare, and enhanced quality of life with prosperity.
To ensure the structured and timely implementation of
the action plan, the state will establish a dedicated AI and Deep Tech Mission. This mission will function as a specialised institutional mechanism, leading the design, implementation, and innovation of AI strategies and emerging technologies within the state government.
Additionally, it will strengthen a robust ecosystem by fostering collaboration among startups, academic research, and industries. The mission will focus on skilling, reskilling, and upskilling the workforce in AI and related technologies.
The Action Plan will be implemented in phases, starting with key initiatives like creating a state-level AI data repository, establishing AI factories, and initiating department-specific pilot projects. Over its fiveyear timeline, these efforts will enhance AI integration across departments and foster a dynamic, innovative ecosystem.
Samsung wins $16.4 billion order for chips from undisclosed customer
Seoul, July 28 (IANS) Samsung Electronics said on Monday it has secured a 22.8 trillion-won ($16.4 billion) order to supply semiconductors to a major undisclosed customer. In a regulatory filing, the South
Korean tech giant said it signed a foundry contract set to be completed by Dec. 31, 2033. The company did not disclose the identity of the client or the specifics of the deal, citing "management confidentiality,” reports Yonhap news agency.
The contract accounts for 7.6 percent of the company's total revenue of 300.9 trillion won last year and marks the largest chip order ever won by Samsung
The Dark Side of Digital: Unmasking Cyberbullying
The rise of digital technology has created new avenues for criminal activities, known as computer crimes or cybercrimes. These include hacking, online fraud, identity theft, and data breaches. In response, governments and legal bodies have introduced strict penalties to curb such offenses. Central to these investigations is digital forensics, which focuses on collecting and analysing digital evidence to be used in court.
The process includes five key stages: acquisition, preservation, analysis, reconstruction, and presentation. The goal is to ensure that digital traces can help establish the truth and identify those responsible. Digital forensics involves specialized techniques like data recovery, file identification, encryption/ decryption, and IP tracing. Using real-life case examples, here is how the digital evidence is collected, preserved, and presented during investigations.
In an era where a smartphone is more common than a diary, and emotions are shared through stories and status, a dangerous new threat has emerged - cyberbullying. It is silent, borderless, and often anonymous, leaving deep emotional scars while hiding behind digital screens. As India
becomes increasingly digitized, cyberbullying is growing into a national crisis that demands urgent legal, social, and technological attention.
At just 16, Meera Sharma from Pune had reason to celebrate she had topped her Class 10 board exams. In a simple act of joy, she posted a selfie with the caption, “Hard work pays off.” What followed was a digital nightmare.
Within days, a fake Instagram profile in her name began posting vulgar captions and altered images. Her classmates mocked her, online strangers sent threatening messages, and her reputation crumbled in a matter of hours. Meera fell into a spiral of anxiety, skipping meals and avoiding school. The emotional pain escalated to the point where she searched online for ways to “end the suffering.”
It was only when her younger brother found the messages on her phone that the truth came to light. Her parents reported the case to the cybercrime cell, triggering a full digital forensics investigation. Tracing the IP address and examining digital logs, investigators found the culprit a jealous classmate using the school’s computer lab. The account was removed, the offender was disciplined, and Meera eventually recovered with therapy. Today, she speaks publicly about her experience, advocating for stronger laws and digital empathy.
AI-powered Jihad: Islamic State’s new frontier in terror tactics
New Delhi, July 24 (IANS) As the security agencies battle terror threats on multiple fronts, the latest challenge is terrorists using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to carry out attacks.
Electronics. The deal is expected to give a much-needed boost to its foundry division, which has long struggled to catch up with global industry leader Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). In its earnings guideline released earlier this month, Samsung Electronics estimated an operating profit of 4.59 trillion won and sales of 74 trillion won for the second quarter.
In fact, it was the Islamic State that had first encouraged its operatives to adopt this technology back in 2023. Currently, the technology is being used by the Islamic State for media spawning. The media wings of the outfit have been using AI to create propaganda content. With a single image or video, they are generating multiple manipulated content. Further they have also using AI for multilingual translation. This helps them create content in as many languages as possible and this automatically reduces time
and manpower for the Islamic State.
A report published by Tech Against Terrorism says that AI tools are being used to translate propaganda into multiple languages. The technology is being used to create personalised messages in a bid to undertake recruitment.
On the encrypted chat groups of the Islamic State, it has been found that propaganda content has been circulated in multiple languages. Further, the technology has also been used for creating speeches, images and environments that are interactive. The operatives have also been found to customise messaging and the media. This, in turn, helps them target a much larger audience. Further, AI has been used to repurpose old propaganda material to create newer propaganda. This has helped them deliver the messages and material more frequently.
The use of generative AI has led to policy debates taking place, where the security planners are drawing up a new strategy to counter this threat.
Dementia takes 3.5 years to diagnose after symptoms begin: Study
New Delhi, July 28 (IANS) People with dementia are diagnosed an average of 3.5 years after symptoms are first noticed, according to a new study.
Early signs of dementia may include memory loss, difficulty finding words, confusion, and changes in mood and behaviour.
The study, published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, showed that younger age at onset and having frontotemporal dementia were both linked to a longer time to diagnosis.
For those with early-onset dementia, the diagnosis can take 4.1 years, with some groups more
likely to experience longer delays.
"Timely diagnosis of dementia remains a major global challenge, shaped by a complex set of factors, and specific health care strategies are urgently needed to improve it. Timely diagnosis can improve access to treatments and, for some people, prolong the time living with mild dementia before symptoms worsen,” said lead author Dr. Vasiliki Orgeta, from the Division of Psychiatry at the University College London (UCL).
For the study, UCL researchers reviewed data from 13 previously published studies that took place in Europe, the US, Australia, and China, reporting data on 30,257 participants.
Dementia is a growing public health concern, affecting over 57 million people globally. Studies estimate that only 50-65 per cent of cases are ever diagnosed in high-income countries, with
many countries having even lower diagnostic rates. Timely diagnosis of dementia remains elusive, and specific healthcare strategies are urgently needed to improve it.
Dr. Phuong Leung, from UCL's Division of Psychiatry, pointed out that "symptoms of dementia are often mistaken for normal ageing, while fear, stigma, and low public awareness can discourage people from seeking help."
Orgeta urged the need for public awareness campaigns to help improve understanding of early symptoms and reduce stigma, encouraging people to seek help sooner.
“Clinician training is critical to improve early recognition and referral, along with access to early intervention and individualised support so that people with dementia and their families can get the help they need," the expert said.
Indian scientists develop new nano-sensor to detect deadly sepsis infection in minutes
New Delhi, July 24 (IANS) A group of scientists from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Calicut has developed a new highly sensitive, low-cost, and point-of-care device with an electrochemical biosensor that could rapidly diagnose deadly sepsis infections and boost treatment outcomes.
Sepsis is a serious medical condition caused by an infection that can lead to multiple organ failure, shock, and even death. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for timely therapeutic intervention and improving patient outcomes, which in turn directly impact mortality rates.
Early diagnosis is possible with the precise and sensitive detection of specific biomarkers.
Endotoxin, a toxic component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, acts as a key biomarker, signalling the presence of an infection that could lead to sepsis.
To rapidly detect endotoxin, the NIT team developed eight distinct sensor architectures. Of these, seven employed electrochemical detection, and one utilised optical detection, said the team led by Dr. N. Sandhyarani, Professor, NIT Calicut.
In the paper, published in the journal Langmuir, the team demonstrated a highly sensitive electrochemical sensor chip designed for the selective detection of Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which is compatible with a portable analyser for on-site detection.
All the sensors exhibited high
selectivity and detected endotoxin in the presence of other interfering compounds.
"The presence of endotoxin is detected in the pharmaceutical drug Biphasic isophane insulin, fruit juices, and whole blood by the standard addition method. The endotoxin recovery was within 2 per cent error in all the cases,” the researchers said.
Further, two of the electrochemical platforms demonstrated versatility by enabling the sensitive detection of Gram-negative bacteria, specifically E. coli, in water samples.
The findings also demonstrated that the quantification of E. coli using these platforms is comparable to traditional biological methods and also reduces analysis time. This highlights their potential for efficient water quality monitoring, the team said.
Eating chips, cookies can raise addiction risk akin to substance-use
disorders: Study
Study blames high-calorie diet for global rise in obesity
New Delhi, July 21 (IANS) More than a lack of exercise, a higher caloric intake may be the primary driver of obesity worldwide, finds a study.
While many experts have offered that rising obesity rates are due to declining physical activity as societies become more industrialised, the findings led by researchers from Duke University in the US, show that people in wealthier countries expend just as much -- or even more -- energy daily.
“It’s clear that changes in diet, not reduced activity, are the main cause of obesity,” said Herman Pontzer, principal investigator and Professor in the Department of Evolutionary Anthropology at the varsity.
In an article recently published in the journal PNAS, the researchers analysed thousands of measurements of daily energy
expenditure, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI) from more than 4,200 adults aged 18 to 60 across 34 populations spanning six continents. While a marginal decrease was found in size-adjusted total energy expenditure with economic development, differences in total energy expenditure explained only a fraction of the increase in body fat that accompanied development, said the researchers.
"This suggests that other factors, such as dietary changes, are driving the increases in body fat that we see with increasing economic development,” explained Amanda McGrosky, lead investigator and postdoctoral researcher at Duke at the time of the study. McGrosky is now an assistant professor of biology at Elon University in the US. Notably, the findings do not mean that efforts to promote physical activity should be minimised. Instead, the data support an emerging consensus that both diet and exercise should be prioritised, the researchers said.
Study links common diabetes drug with cardiovascular risk
New Delhi, July 26 (IANS) A commonly used type 2 diabetes medication in the US -- Glipizide -- may be linked to a higher rate of heart-related conditions, claimed a study.
Delhi,
chips,
Your
soda --
foods -- can trigger addictive behaviours that meet the same clinical criteria used to diagnose substance-use disorders, warned a study.
Researchers argued that failure to recognise this in diagnostic systems is a dangerous oversight with grave consequences for
global public health.
"People aren't becoming addicted to apples or brown rice," said lead author Ashley Gearhardt, Professor of psychology at the University of Michigan, US.
"They're struggling with industrial products specifically engineered to hit the brain like a drug -rapidly, intensely and repeatedly," Gearhardt added.
The paper, published in the journal Nature Medicine, synthesised evidence from nearly 300 studies across 36 countries. Their findings demonstrated that ultra-processed foods
can hijack the brain's reward system, triggering cravings, loss of control, and persistent use despite harmful consequences -key features of addiction.
Further, neuroimaging studies reveal that individuals with compulsive intake of these foods show brain circuit disruptions strikingly similar to those seen in alcohol and cocaine addiction. Notably, medications that reduce cravings for ultra-processed foods have also been found to reduce compulsive drug use, underscoring the shared neurobiological mechanisms.
Researchers from Mass General Brigham examined nationwide data from nearly 50,000 patients treated with different sulfonylureas. They found that glipizide was linked to a higher incidence of heart failure, related hospitalisation, and death compared to dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. The findings are published in JAMA Network Open.
“Patients with type 2 diabetes are at heightened risk of adverse cardiovascular incidents such as stroke and cardiac arrest,” said corresponding author Alexander Turchin, Division of Endocrinology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH).
“While sulfonylureas are popular and affordable diabetes medications, there is a lack of long-term clinical data on how they affect cardiac health in
comparison to more neutral alternatives like dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors,” he added. Type 2 diabetes is a common chronic disease whose prevalence continues to grow worldwide. Individuals with Type 2 diabetes have an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events, including coronary ischemia, stroke, and heart failure. Mitigation of cardiovascular risk is therefore an important aspect of the treatment of diabetes.
The study included 48,165 patients with type 2 diabetes and moderate cardiovascular risk who received care at 10 different study sites across the country.
The researchers studied the five-year risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients treated with different sulfonylureas (glimepiride, glipizide, or glyburide) or DPP4i in addition to metformin, a primary diabetes medication. They found that glipizide was associated with a 13 per cent increase in cardiovascular risk when compared to DPP4i, while glimepiride and glyburide led to relatively smaller and less clear effects, respectively.
“Our study underscores the importance of evaluating each drug in a particular pharmacological class on its own merits,” said Turchin.
The team also called for further research to uncover the underlying mechanisms.
New
July 29 (IANS)
favourite
cookies,
ultra-processed
Sara Tendulkar, social media sensation and youth icon and the new face of Laneige, one of the most popular Korean beauty brands in the world. Known for her authenticity, charm and influential presence on social media, Sara has embarked on this new venture with the brand to support the its mission in the country.
She gracefully represents the brand's values of natural and sustainable beauty, while bringing to life the brand belief that everyone should shine with a unique inner and outer glow that is as distinct as their individuality. Along with the announcement of a new Brand Ambassador, the brand unveiled its Bouncy and Firm Sleeping Mask.
An elated Sara Tendulkar, Brand Ambassador, Laneige India, commented, “I am thrilled to be part of Laneige's family. As
someone with a biomedical background that makes way for a keen understanding of quality as well as a personal passion for skincare, I admire the brand's commitment to innovation and have been using their products for quite a while. It brings me immense excitement and humility to partner with Laneige, as their core belief in the radiance of each person's unique individuality resonates deeply with me."
At the launch, Paul Lee, Managing Director & Country Head of Amorepacific India, added, "Laneige proudly announces Sara Tendulkar as its Brand Ambassador, embracing her vibrant energy. Sara symbolizes the modern, self-assured youth advocating that beauty transcends mere appearances. With Sara onboard, Laneige aims to connect with a broader audience."
Mini Sood Banerjee, Assistant
Hydration is Key
Combat the drying effects of summer heat by regularly applying moisturising lotion or oil to your nails and cuticles. This simple step will help maintain their strength and flexibility, reducing the risk of breakage.
Summeris all about fun in the sun, beach outings, and showing off those fabulous nails! With the sunny season upon us, it's essential to step up our nail care game to keep our nails looking fresh and vibrant.
Experts in nail care from Tip and Toe Salon share with IANSlife
Protect from the Sun
Protect your nails from the sun's harmful UV rays, just as you would protect your skin. Consider using a nail polish with UV protection or applying a clear topcoat containing SPF. When engaging in outdoor activities, wearing gloves can also provide an additional layer of protection against sun damage.
Director & Head of Marketing and Training Amorepacific India said, "As Laneige's journey evolves, we are thrilled to welcome Sara Tendulkar into our family as the embodiment of timeless grace and modern elegance. Her vibrant spirit and innate charm perfectly resonate with Laneige's commitment to empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty. Together, we embark on a new chapter, celebrating authenticity and the transformative power of skincare."
Social media sensation Sara Tendulkar for Korean Beauty Brand Laniege Summer nail care secrets
"We are delighted to announce Sara Tendulkar as the new Brand Ambassador for Laneige," said Sally Lee, Brand General Manager of Laneige India. Sara's luminous charm and timeless elegance resonate deeply with our brand's values. Sara's deeper integration into the Laneige experience marks a remarkable milestone, fostering deeper connections with a burgeoning generation of consumers."
Laneige is a brand that specializes in moisture research. They have developed advanced water complexes that are dedicated to creating intelligent skincare solutions for all skin types. With a range of products developed to address different skin concerns due to stress and a hazardous environment, Laneige offers solutions that awaken your skin’s ultimate moisture potential.
the importance of maintaining healthy and beautiful nails, especially during the summer months. Don't let the sun and heat take a toll on your nail health; follow these expertrecommended tips to keep your nails looking fabulous.
Use the Right Tools
Using the right tools is crucial for maintaining nail health. Avoid metal cuticle pushers, as they can cause damage and increase infection risks. Instead, opt for wooden or rubber cuticle pushers. Additionally, always use sharp, clean nail clippers and files to prevent nail splitting and peeling.
Chase the sun,
not
the damage: Smart skin care choices for summer
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, many of us eagerly embrace the warmth of summer. However, the need for diligent skin care comes with the joys of outdoor activities and beach vacations.
Before diving into skin care tips, it's essential to understand the damaging effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to many skin concerns, including sunburn and premature ageing.
"One of the most effective ways to shield your skin from sun damage is sunscreen. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating to ensure comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of skin, including your face, neck, and ears, and remember to reapply every two hours, especially if you're swimming or sweating," says Mansi Sharma, founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess.
Hydration is key. Summer heat can take a toll on your skin, leading to dehydration and a loss of moisture. Mansi recommends
to combat the heat by staying hydrated from the inside out. She says, "Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and plump. Additionally, incorporate hydrating skincare products into your routine, such as lightweight moisturizers and serums formulated with hyaluronic acid or glycerin."
While sunscreen provides crucial protection, it's not the only line of defence against the sun's rays. "Consider covering up with lightweight, breathable clothing, hats, and sunglasses to provide additional protection for your skin and eyes. Opt for tightly woven fabrics and dark colours for optimal sun protection," adds Mansi. "When possible, seek shade during the sun's peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This is when UV radiation is at its strongest, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Take breaks from direct sunlight by relaxing under a beach umbrella or finding shelter in a shaded area."
The founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess also suggests that while selecting skincare products for summer, opt for formulations that cater to the specific needs of sun-exposed skin. Mansi says, "Look for products enriched with antioxidants like vitamins C and E, which help neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure. Incorporating a gentle exfoliant into your routine can also help slough off dead skin cells, revealing a fresh, radiant complexion."
Beauty addicts can now get Kylie Cosmetics in India
Iamso excited to launch Kylie Cosmetics in India – I created Kylie Cosmetics to give my fans access to the makeup products that I use and love, and I can’t wait to share my collection with all my fans in India.", said Kylie Jenner, Founder of Kylie Cosmetics.
In 2015, Kylie Jenner embarked on her beauty business with the launch of Kylie Lip Kits - a collection of three liquid lipsticks with corresponding lip liners. Since then, Kylie supported by Global beauty powerhouse Coty, have continued to expand her beauty empire around the world in over 50 countries, and across eye, complexion, and countless innovations in lip. The beauty line is carefully crafted with clean formulations and vegan ingredients that deliver on trend, high-quality, high-pigment, and
high-performance formulations that fans around the world have come to love.
In a significant milestone in the brand’s global expansion Kylie Cosmetics, launches in India. Partnering with House of Beauty, the leading beauty specialty company which brings coveted international beauty brands to India, Kylie Cosmetics’ arrival has been long awaited by Indian beauty consumers. This partnership marks the first time the brand has partnered with an Indian omnichannel specialist like House of Beauty.
The launch collection includes the best-selling Matte and Velvet Lip Kits, as well as recent must-have launches such as Precision Pout Lip Liner, Power Plush Longwear Foundation, Kylash Volume Mascara, Power Plush Longwear Concealer and Tinted Butter Balm.
Starting 25th April 2024, Kylie Cosmetics will be available exclusively in 25 Sephora India stores nationwide and online on www.sephora.in
Male: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu during the 60th Independence Day celebrations of Maldives, in Male, Maldives, Saturday, July 26, 2025.
New Delhi: Actor Arjun Rampal and other models present the creation by designer Rohit Bal during the FDCI India Couture Week, in New Delhi on Monday, July 28, 2025.
New Delhi: Vice Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General NS Raja Subramani inspects the ceremonial Guard of Honour at South Block lawns in New Delhi on Thursday, July 31, 2025.
Imphal: Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi meets Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at Raj Bhavan in Imphal on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.
Vaishali: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar offers prayers during the installation event of the relic casket of Lord Buddha at the Buddha Smriti Stupa in Vaishali on Tuesday, July 29, 2025.
New Delhi: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav meets Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Thursday, July 31, 2025.
Srinagar: A view of Hari Parbat fort, also called Koh-iMaran, in Srinagar, on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.
Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar receives a Guard of Honour at the Southern Air Command Headquarters, in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday, July 29,
New Delhi: Samajwadi Party (SP) MPs Akhilesh Yadav, Ziaur Rahman Barq, and other opposition MPs hold placards as they protest against the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision
Mandi: Vehicles stand parked along the roadside amid mud and debris following a cloudburst in Mandi district on Tuesday, July 29, 2025.
Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar receives a Guard of Honour at the Southern Air Command Headquarters, in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday, July 29, 2025.
Buckinghamshire: Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the Chequers Estate, the official country residence of the UK PM, in Buckinghamshire on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
Baku: India’s Divya Deshmukh and compatriot Koneru Humpy in action during the Women’s World Cup final on Monday, July 28, 2025.
LANGUAGE: Hindi, Telugu, Tamil (With English Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Aditya Chopra
DIRECTOR: Ayan Mukherji
CAST: Jr NTR, Hrithik Roshan, Kiara Advani
TEHRAN
RELEASE DATE: TBC
LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Bake My Cake Films, Maddock Films
DIRECTOR: Arun Gopalan
CAST: John Abraham, Manushi Chhillar, Hadi Khanjanpour
Asha Bhosle treats Anup Jalota with homemade kebabs, offers blessings
One of the most celebrated singers of our time, Asha Bhosle, treated Anup Jalota with some delicious homemade kebabs as he visited her at her residence.
Jalota used social media to treat the InstaFam with some glimpses of the meet. The photo dropped by him showed Jalota touching Asha Tai's feet, while she showered him with blessings.
Posting the pic, Jalota wrote,
"Recently at Asha ji’s house, she blessed me with so much love. And to make the evening even more special — she cooked delicious kebabs herself. Moments like these are nothing but blessings."
The netizens reacted to the post with lovely comments such as, "Beautiful to See Legends in One Frame", "Sir, u are blessed to seek blessing from iconic Asha ji",
"Heartly salute both of you", and "App koto asha tai ka pair chuneka mouka bar bar milta rahta hai sir ji mujhe vhi unka pair chuneka bahat man karta hain nice pic (You have had plenty of chances to touch Asha Tai's feet, I also feel like taking her blessings)."
Back in April, popular television actor Sudhanshu Pandey revealed why legends like Asha Ji will never retire.
He dropped a couple of pictures with the legendary singer on his IG.
The images featured her gracefully sitting on the couch, while Sudhanshu sat on the floor beside her, with his hand lovingly placed on Asha Ji's hand.
Referring to Asha Ji as his ‘Aayi.’ Sudhanshu penned, “Legends Are Never Tired and Never Retired! Pyaar Se Hum Inhe Aayi Kehte Hain Lekin Ye Sabki Maayi Hain… Last of the Legends…Watch this space for more … #comingsoon #abob #abandofboys #ashabhosle #music #song.”
Over the years, Asha Ji has lent her melodious yet powerful voice to some memorable hits such as "Chura Liya Hai Tumne Jo Dil Ko", "Kehdoon Tumhen", Jaane Jaan Dhoondata", and "Zara Sa Jhoom Loon Main", to name just a few.
Mouni Roy on ‘Salakaar’: Every scene required careful attention to nuance, depth
Actress Mouni Roy has talked about her upcoming spy thriller project “Salakaar”, and said that what struck her the most was the script’s ability to weave political suspense with very personal, intimate moments.
Mouni shared, "Joining Salakaar was an opportunity to explore a world unlike any I’ve stepped into before. The narrative’s intensity and emotional layers demanded that I push myself to new heights as an artist.”
She added: “What struck me most was the script’s ability to weave political suspense with very personal, intimate moments. Every scene required careful attention to nuance and depth, which made the experience deeply rewarding.”
Directed by Faruk Kabir and
Produced by Sphereorigins and Mahir Films, Salakaar is a gripping espionage thriller, which is slated to release on August 8.
She added: “The camaraderie on set and the shared vision of the team made this journey unforgettable. I’m excited for the audience to see a side of me they haven’t seen before and to be a part of a story that is as thrilling as it is meaningful.”
The makers on Monday unveiled the teaser, which is set across two timelines - 1978 and 2025.
Salakaar follows the story of an Indian spy and sets the stage for an intense drama, where old enemies resurface, and the past threatens to destroy the present. The series is a blend of history and suspense, making intelligence its biggest arsenal.
Rashmika Mandanna: For me, fragrance is memory
Actress Rashmika Mandanna has announced the launch of her fragrance brand, and said that for her, perfumes bring back special moments that might otherwise be forgotten.
Called Dear Diary, her perfume brand is inspired by Rashmika’s own life experiences and deeply personal reflections.
It also stars Naveen Kasturia, Mouni Roy, Mukesh Rishi and Surya Sharma.
Inspired by real events, Salakaar is a story of a decorated spymaster who, driven by sheer mettle and crucial intelligence, successfully disarms enemy forces to safeguard national security as he discovers the existence of a top secret nuclear facility in Pakistan. Faruk Kabir, director and co-writer, said: “Salakaar is an intense spy thriller with a deeply emotional core - it is the legend of an extraordinary Indian spy. It’s not about action for the sake of spectacle; it’s about intelligence as strategy and silence as sacrifice.”
“It was an incredible experience working with Naveen, Mukesh ji and Mouni - they did absolute justice to their characters and added so much to each character. This series is my tribute to the unsung minds who fought not only with bullets, but with brilliance,” Kabir added. Naveen Kasturia said that Salakaar was an immense challenge, pushing me in unprecedented ways.
“Character-wise, portraying an individual of such astuteness and constant alertness, while living with the imminent danger of being an undercover operative in a foreign land, was a unique experience. One misstep could mean capture or worse.”
“For me, fragrance is memory. I don’t remember most things, or maybe it's just selective memory, but perfumes bring back special moments that might otherwise be forgotten. It’s how I hold on to the people, places, and experiences that shaped who I am.”
She said with Dear Diary, she wanted to give everyone a way to
carry their stories with them. “To connect, to feel comforted, to feel a warm hug, and to express who they are, unapologetically," said Rashmika.
Rashmika also shared a video on social media talking about her new fragrance brand. She wrote in the caption: “This one’s really really realllllyyyy close to my heart. It’s not just a brand.. not just a perfume.. it’s a piece of me. Scent has always been such an important part of my personal life.. and today I share that with you..”
She added: “I am so grateful I get to do this.. I am so excited but also soooo nervous.. but I hope I have all your blessings to go ahead with this..”
Fatima Sana Shaikh shares memory of her first love, admits to keeping flowers in books
Sana Shaikh has opened up about a tender memory from her younger days, recalling her first love.
Speaking to IANS during the interview of her film “Aap Jaisa Koi,” the 'Dangal' actress shared a sweet and nostalgic memory from her younger days. When asked whether she had ever pressed flowers in books or experienced such heartfelt moments, the
actress smiled and said, “100 percent.” Fatima also fondly recalled a birthday surprise from her then-partner, who had beautifully lined the path from the door to the room with flowers. Recalling the same, the actress shared, “There were flowers everywhere, and around the cake, there were candles lit all over,” she recalled. However, the surprise didn’t go exactly as planned. By the time she arrived, most of the candles had melted away. We had to clean it all up later.” Reflecting on that moment, Fatima said it was a special kind of love—simple and sincere. “I was very young and didn’t even have Facebook or Instagram back then.”
Actress Fatima
Uma Thurman talks about intense physical prep that went for ‘Kill Bill’ movies
Hollywood star Uma Thurman, who is gearing up for the release of her upcoming project, The Old Guard 2, has opened up about the intense physical preparation she underwent for “Kill Bill.”
The 55-year-old actress, renowned for her iconic role as The Bride in Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill Vol 1 and Vol 2, revealed that her return to action films this year came without time for full training.
Thurman told The Sunday Times: “Fortunately I had put in hundreds of hours learning how to hold a sword (for Kill Bill 1 and
2),” she said.
In her new action film The Old Guard 2, a sequel to the 2020 Netflix action hit, Thurman plays Discord, a 5,000-yearold immortal warrior who engages in an epic sword fight opposite Charlize Theron’s character, Andromache, near a secret nuclear facility, reports femalefirst.co.uk.
Thurman added about her Kill Bill muscle memory coming in handy during the shoot: “You may not be limber and strong. But if your brain has learnt how to memorise sequences of movements, you can get back in that zone.”
Uorfi Javed shuts
For Kill Bill, Thurman trained for eight hours a day across three months in preparation for the role.
That experience, she said, proved invaluable when returning to the genre.
Her character in The Old Guard 2 marks her first sword-wielding performance since Quentin Tarantino’s films, and it has been more than two decades since she last performed choreographed combat on screen.
Thurman’s new film is directed by Victoria Mahoney and follows a group of age-old warriors with supernatural powers who fight to protect humanity.
The original, directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, was praised for its blend of grounded drama and stylised violence.
Speaking about the appeal of The Old Guard, Thurman said: “I thought that first movie was really unusual, a superb female-led action film that had depth, drama and really beautiful, naturalistic acting.”
She also credited her co-star and producer Charlize Theron, 48, as a major draw for signing on.
down trolls,
reveals
face without lip fillers and swelling
Uorfi Javed, on Thursday, took to social media to shut down trolls in her signature bold style. Addressing the recent memes and online comments about her appearance, the actress shared a video revealing her face without lip fillers and swelling. In her post, Uorfi said she had a good laugh over all the trolling. Sharing
her images and video, the 'Bigg Boss OTT' contestant wrote, “All the trolling and the memes, honestly I had a good laugh! Here you go this is my face without the fillers or swelling now, not used to seeing my face or lips like that I’ve used a lip plumper here tho.”
In the images, Javed could be seen striking different poses for
Karan Johar to Ahaan Panday: You broke my heart and yet energised me as a filmmaker
her
the camera. Reacting to her post, Divyaa Agarwal commented, “You are beautiful.” Jasmine Bhasin wrote, “Beautiful beautiful.”
Uorfi Javed recently made headlines after she took to Instagram to reveal the side effects of getting her lip fillers dissolved. Her visibly swollen face raised eyebrows on social media. She captioned the video, “No this is not a filter, I decided to get my fillers dissolved as they were every misplaced. I will get them again but naturally.
I’m not saying no to fillers at all. Dissolving is painful. Also it’s very very important you go to a. Good doctor for fillers, all these doctors with fancy clinics know nothing. Finally, I found @ dr.rickson , trust me he’s the best #notsponsored.”
On the work front, Uorfi emerged as a winner on the reality show ‘The Traitors.’ Reflecting on her stint in the show, the modelactress told IANS, “I didn’t really see myself in Bigg Boss, since I left within a week. Bigg Boss is very different. The Traitors is a completely different game. In The Traitors, you have to use your brain. Fights do happen— naturally—when there are four different people with different personalities. But I controlled myself. The goal on that show is to win, not to fight. The Traitors is pure class on Prime.”
Filmmaker Karan Johar has heaped praise on the latest release “Saiyaara”. He also talked about debutant Ahaan Panday, who broke his heart and yet energised me as a filmmaker along with added that Aneet Padda’s performance “moved” him to “tears.”
Karan took to his Instagram, where he shared a poster of “Saiyaara” and wrote: “I don’t remember the last time I felt like this after watching a film …. Tears flowing and yet the feeling of immense joy… Joy for the fact that a love story has conquered the silver screen and made the nation fall in love ….
Michael
He added:“Proudest that my Alma mater @yrf has bought love back!!! Back to the movies …. Back to our Industry…. Adi I love you and feel so proud to say that I am a YRF student for life! @awidhani what a debut as producer!!! That ball is now officially out of the park! Congratulations!”
Karan then talked about filmmaker Mohit Suri and said that he “makes the best film of his career” and that he is “blown away by his storytelling , his craft and his magnificent use of music… the music is not just a pillar but a character in this film….”
Jackson biopic now scheduled to release in April 2026
The biopic based on the life of the King of Pop Michael Jackson titled “Michael” will now release worldwide on April 24, 2026.
The film was earlier scheduled to release in October 2025.
Antoine Fuqua directs, with John Logan as screenwriter and Jaafar Jackson starring as his late uncle.
Graham King, an Oscar winner for “The Departed,” produces, reports variety.com.
“‘Michael’ explores the global superstar’s journey to become known to the world as the King of Pop, presenting an intimate look at the life and enduring legacy of one of the most influential, trailblazing artists the world has ever known,” the synopsis reads. Lionsgate is releasing the film domestically, with Universal handling distribution in the rest of the world except for Japan, which is handled by Kino Films. Lionsgate CEO Jon Feltheimer said in May that the movie was “likely” to move to 2026.
Although it wrapped production in May 2024, the project underwent reshoots and came in with a lengthy initial cut. Earlier, there had been discussion about releasing the film in two parts.
