Kolkata rape-murder case: CBI arrests ex-RG Kar principal Sandip Ghosh, police officer Abhijit Mondal
Kolkata, Sep 14 (IANS) The Central Bureau of Investigation
(CBI) on Saturday arrested Abhijit Mondal, the former officer-incharge of the Tala Police Station, under whose jurisdiction R.G. Kar Medical College & Hospital comes, in connection with the ghastly rape and order of a junior doctor of the hospital within its premises.
At the same time, Sandip Ghosh, the former principal of R.G. Kar, who was earlier arrested by
the CBI in the case of financial irregularities at the institution, and is currently serving judicial custody, has also been shown as "arrested" in the rape and murder case.
Sources said that both have been arrested on charges of misleading the initial investigation carried out by Kolkata Police in the rape and murder case as well as on
Brisbane, September 12 (Australia India News Newsdesk) Air India is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by the Tata Group's vision to elevate the national carrier
Kolkata, Sep 12 (IANS) Disagreements between
into a competitive global airline. After years of struggling with outdated systems, the airline is now embracing modernity with an ambitious strategy to revitalize its services and re-establish itself as a major player in the aviation industry.
Before its privatization in 2022, Air India had fallen behind, hampered by a workforce ...
Sitaram Yechury: The liberal Marxist who became a master mediator in coalition politics Air India’s bold new era: Growth, challenges & the path ahead
hardliners and liberals within the CPI(M) is nothing new, and the Left leadership has always encouraged internal debates since the inception of the party in 1964 when it broke away from the CPI with Puchalapalli Sundarayya as its first General Secretary.
The reason why the party leadership always allowed the
SC gives bail to CM Kejriwal, but upholds arrest by CBI in excise policy scam case
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) In a major relief to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the Supreme Court on Friday granted
Union Cabinet approves health coverage to all senior citizens above 70 under flagship scheme
Minister
Announcing the decision after the Cabinet meeting, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said: " "It has been decided to cover our senior citizens who are more than 70 years old under universal health coverage, Ayushman Bharat
(AB PM-JAY).
him bail in the corruption case linked to the alleged liquor policy scam.
Apart from allowing Kejriwal’s bail plea, Justice Surya Kant, heading a two-judge bench dismissed his distinct plea challenging the legality of arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the alleged liquor scam.
The other judge, Justice Ujjal Bhuyan, authored a separate opinion raising serious questions on the timings of arrest by the
CBI and held the "belated arrest" by the central agency to be unjustified.
Last week, the top court reserved its decision after hearing the oral arguments advanced by senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo, and Additional Solicitor General (ASG) S.V. Raju, who appeared on behalf of the CBI.
During the hearing, Singhvi
Army officers held hostage, female friend raped in MP’s Mhow; probe underway
Bhopal, Sep 11 (IANS) Two army officers and their female friends were allegedly attacked and held hostage in Madhya Pradesh's Indore district when they were moving in a car, the police said, adding that one of the women was also claimed to have been raped by the accused.
The incident happened near the Chhota Jam Field Firing Range in Mhow when the army officers along with their female friends went out for a ride in a car, the police said. Over six individuals, said to be allegedly involved in the incident, also demanded a ransom of Rs 10 lakh.
According to the police, the accused approached the car and after a while, for some reason,
New Delhi, Sep 11 (IANS) The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime
Narendra Modi, on Wednesday, approved health coverage to all senior citizens aged 70 years and above, irrespective of income, under the flagship scheme Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
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Kolkata rape-murder case: CBI arrests ex-RG Kar principal Sandip Ghosh, police officer Abhijit Mondal
Continued from Page 1
charges of direct involvement in the tampering of evidence in the matter.
Mondal was in-charge of the Tala Police Station when the body of the junior doctor was recovered from the seminar hall within the hospital premises on the morning of August 9.
However, recently he was removed from that chair by the city police authorities.
Mondal arrived at the CBI office on Saturday afternoon to face
questioning on the matter, and he was arrested at around 9.45 p.m.
Both Mondal and Ghosh will be presented at a special court in Kolkata on Sunday.
The information of the arrest of Mondal and the event of Ghosh being referred to as "arrested" surfaced soon after the talks between Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and junior doctors protesting over their demand on the rape and murder case at the official residence of the CM in South Kolkata failed.
As the information of the arrest of Mondal and Ghosh reached the protesting junior doctors in front of the state health department headquarters at Salt Lake, there was a loud round of applause. With the fresh developments, the total number of arrests in the rape and murder cases rose to three.
Already, one civic volunteer, Sanjay Roy, is in judicial custody in connection with the matter. He was arrested by the city police and later was handed over to the CBI.
SC gives bail to CM Kejriwal, but upholds arrest by CBI in excise policy scam case
Continued from Page 1
contended that the CBI did not arrest CM Kejriwal for two years but made an "insurance arrest in a hurry" to prevent his release in the money laundering case. The CBI arrested Kejriwal for "his non-cooperation and evasive replies" but there were several apex court judgments that held that cooperation with the probe should not mean that the accused should incriminate himself and confess to the offences alleged, he said.
Singhvi added that CM Kejriwal, a constitutional functionary holding the position of Delhi Chief Minister, satisfied the triple test for grant of bail. “He is not a flight risk, he will turn up to answer the questions of the investigative agency, and cannot tamper with documents, running into lakhs of pages, and digital evidence after
two years," he submitted.
On the other hand, the central agency apprehended that the release of CM Kejriwal would turn many witnesses "hostile" and urged the apex court to not release him on bail. ASG Raju said that many candidates of the AAP in the Goa Assembly election came forward to give their statements to the central agency only after CM Kejriwal was arrested.
"They (witnesses) will turn hostile if your lordships release Kejriwal on bail," he argued. He argued that CM Kejriwal’s plea for bail should be remanded back to the trial court and he should not have petitioned the Delhi High Court for bail in the first instance.
The ASG submitted that arrest is a part of investigation and ordinarily, an investigating officer will not require any permission
from a court to make an arrest. "But, in the present case, there was an order of the court granting the power (to arrest)," he said. He added that when an arrest is made pursuant to an order of the court, an accused cannot take a plea of violation of fundamental rights.
Recently, the top court allowed bail pleas of senior AAP leader and former Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, BRS leader K. Kavitha, and AAP's former communication-incharge Vijay Nair in the excise policy case. The Supreme Court, on July 12, ordered CM Kejriwal to be released on interim bail in connection with the money laundering case lodged by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). However, he was not able to walk out of jail since he was arrested by the CBI.
Union Cabinet approves health coverage to all senior citizens above 70 under flagship scheme
Continued from Page 1
PM Jan Arogya Yojana. This is a very big decision. There is great humanitarian thinking in this decision. They will get the facility of free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh and this will cover about 4.5 crore families in the country, which will include about 6 crore senior citizens..."
The expansion of cover to senior citizens of the age of 70 and above was earlier announced by PM Modi in April 2024 during the launch of the BJP manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections.
According to a cabinet communique, all senior citizens, aged 70 years and above, irrespective of their socioeconomic status, would be eligible to avail the benefits of AB PM-JAY. The eligible senior citizens would be issued a new distinct card under the scheme.
Senior citizens of the age 70 years and above, belonging to families already covered under the scheme, will get an additional top-up cover up to Rs 5 lakh per year for themselves (which they
do not have to share with the other members of the family who are below the age of 70 years).
All other senior citizens of the age 70 years and above will get a cover up to Rs 5 lakh per year on a family basis.
Those senior citizens of the stipulated age, who are already availing benefits of other public health insurance schemes such as the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), or the Ayushman Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) may either choose to continue their existing scheme or opt for AB PMJAY.
However, those who have private health insurance policies or are covered under the Employees’ State Insurance scheme will be eligible to avail benefits under AB PM-JAY.
AB PM-JAY is the world’s largest publicly funded health assurance scheme which provides health cover of Rs 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation to 55 crore
Oppn leader offered to back me as PM, I refused: Nitin Gadkari
Nagpur, Sep 15 (IANS) Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has said that a political leader once offered to support him for the Prime Minister's chair, but he declined the offer saying that he did not nurse that ambition.
"I remember one incident -- I would not name anyone -- that person said if you are going to become Prime Minister, we will support you," Union Minister Gadkari said on Saturday at a journalism awards function here, without specifying when the
conversation took place.
"But, I asked why you should support me, and why should I take your support. To become the Prime Minister is not the aim in my life. I am loyal to my conviction and my organisation, and I am not going to compromise for any post because my conviction is foremost for me," the senior BJP leader added. In his speech, Nitin Gadkari underlined the importance of ethics in both journalism and politics.
Sitaram Yechury: The liberal Marxist who became a master mediator in coalition politics
Continued from Page 1
flow of debates, as pointed out by several party veterans, was to keep an air of internal democracy flowing within the organisation.
CPI-M General Secretary Sitaram Yechury, who passed away at the age of 72 on Thursday, was a product of this liberal faction within the party.
His liberal approach towards the implementation of Communism and Marxism in the Indian context, coupled with his excellent articulation style with command over as many as eight languages, including his mothertongue Telugu, made him the most acceptable mediator for all the constituents of the national non-BJP coalition for the last oneand-a-half decades, except for CPI-M’s arch-rival in Bengal, the Trinamool Congress. Yechury, along with Congress
individuals corresponding to 12.34 crore families. All members of the eligible families irrespective of age are covered under the scheme, the statement said, adding that it has covered 7.37 crore hospital admissions, including 49 per cent women beneficiaries.
The public has benefited to the extent of over Rs 1 lakh crore under the scheme.
The AB PM-JAY scheme has witnessed continuous expansion of the beneficiary base. Initially, 10.74 crore poor and vulnerable families comprising the bottom 40 per cent of India’s population were covered under the scheme. Later, the government revised the beneficiary base under AB PM-JAY from 10.74 crore to 12 crore families considering India’s decadal population growth of 11.7 per cent over the 2011 population. The scheme was further expanded to cover 37 lakh ASHAs/ AWWs/AWHs working across the country and their families for free healthcare benefits.
leader P. Chidambaram, had drafted the common minimum programme of the Left Frontbacked first United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government in 2004.
Also, when the CPI-M leadership under then General Secretary Prakash Karat decided to withdraw support from the UPA-I government over the IndoUS nuclear deal, Yechury as a politburo member accepted the decision, but chose to disagree with the logic behind withdrawing support.
In 2015, Yechury admitted that had the CPI-M withdrawn support from UPA-1 over public livelihood issues, it would have been acceptable to the people, but doing the same over the nuclear deal was something which the common people simply could not digest.
Army officers held hostage, female friend raped in MP’s Mhow; probe underway
Continued from Page 1
a heated argument broke out between them and the army officers. Soon the numbers' game (in terms of headcount) came into play and the accused individuals overpowered the army officers, and held them hostage.
The army personnel told the police that the assailants also confiscated their belongings and "detained" one of the women who was accompanying them.
The army officers somehow managed to alert the police and shared their location. The police then immediately swung into action.
A search has been launched at and around the site of the incident to nab the accused, the police said.
Additional Superintendent of Police Rupesh Dwivedi said: "Five teams have been formed, and a search is underway. Local
residents are being questioned, and CCTV footage is also being monitored."
He further said that all the four individuals were brought to Mhow Civil Hospital for medical examination. Doctors have found signs of injuries on the officers' bodies.
Meanwhile, Indore Rural SP Hitika Vasal said: "A case under (BNS) sections pertaining to loot, dacoity, rape and Arms Act has been registered."
The incident has shocked the residents of the area as the crime allegedly took place with defence personnel -- said to be trainee army officers -- while the dignity of a woman was also violated by the accused.
Further investigation into the matter is underway, the police said, adding they are hopeful of apprehending the accused individuals soon.
Launch of the TSAC Basketball Club: A New Era in Local Sports
The Springfield Anglican College is proud to announce the launch of the TSAC Basketball Club in partnership with the Greater Springfield Basketball Association (GSBA) the Greater Springfield Pioneers
The Springfield Anglican College (TSAC) is proud to announce the launch of the TSAC Basketball Club, a new initiative in partnership with the Greater Springfield Basketball Association (GSBA) the Greater Springfield Pioneers.
This exciting venture will provide TSAC students with an alternative elite sports pathway, in line with the school’s pursuit of an attitude of excellence.
Starting in February 2025, TSAC will offer club-level basketball, complementing its existing involvement in Greater Brisbane Conference (GBC) sport. The TSAC Basketball Club will compete as part of the Greater Springfield Basketball Association Competition, providing opportunities for local athletes to represent their school year-round in teams ranging from Under 12 to Under 18. The Club will play its home games at the newly built state-of-the-art TSAC Sports Centre.
The TSAC Basketball Club will
provide students with access to elite player, coaching, and officiating pathways, offering high-level training and education to support the development of future sports leaders.
Mr Steven Morris, Principal, The Springfield Anglican College, says, “We are excited to partner with the Greater Springfield Basketball Association, a local organisation that shares our values and commitment to excellence.
“The affiliation with Greater Springfield Basketball Association’s Pioneers offers a pathway to the state league program, with the potential for players to compete against teams across South East Queensland and advance to state championships.
“With a year-round competition, and opportunities for all skill levels, the TSAC Basketball Club welcomes everyone to build their skills and represent their school in a supportive and inclusive environment.”
June Tahata, CEO of the Greater Springfield Basketball Association, expressed her
enthusiasm for this collaboration, saying, “TSAC is the first school we have partnered with, and we are excited to build grassroots community connections through sports. The Pioneers are focused on providing healthy opportunities for children, connecting schools, and fostering a positive culture based on perseverance, faith, trust, and belief.”
The TSAC Sports Centre, set to open in early 2025, will be a stateof-the-art venue for local athletes, unmatched by any other facility in the Greater Springfield area. This new addition is expected to elevate the community’s sporting experience to new heights.
A sign-on day for the TSAC Basketball Club will be held in November 2024 at the TSAC Sports Centre, where students can learn more about this exciting opportunity and register their interest.
For more information about the TSAC Basketball Club and the upcoming sign-on day, please contact The Springfield Anglican College.
Celebrating 30 Years of an Emerging City
The City of Greater Springfield is a remarkable story. Thirty years in the making, we have seen the transformation into today’s thriving, bustling city and suburbs that more than 50,000 people now call home. We hope you choose to be part of the next 30 years of our city.
Back Row (L-R): Mr Steven Morris, Principal, TSAC and June Tahata, CEO of the Greater Springfield Basketball Association Front Row (L-R): TSAC students Kavin Govindan (Year 7) and Lily Kisnorbo (Year 8)
Air India’s $70 Billion Makeover Restructuring and revitalising for Air India: Interview with CEO Campbell Wilson
Since its inaugural flight in 1932, India’s oldest airline has had quite the journey. J.R.D. Tata, who made history as the first Indian to earn a commercial pilot license, founded what was originally known as Tata Airlines. By 1946, it had been renamed Air India and became a public company. Nationalization in 1953 led to a domestic air travel monopoly that lasted until the early '90s. The airline faced mounting financial issues over the years, and in 2021, it was privatized with Tata Group's US$2.3 billion acquisition. After more than 70 years under government control, Campbell Wilson, a 53-year-old New Zealander with a background in Singapore Airlines and its low-cost carrier Scoot, took on the challenge of transforming Air India into a modern competitor. Under his leadership, the airline has seen its revenue more than double, with Air India Connect also experiencing significant growth.
In an exclusive interview with Australia India News Chairman Dr Ram Mohan, and Associate Editor Kriti Bhardwaj, CEO of Air India Campbell Wilson spoke about Air India’s transformation with a $70 billion investment in modernizing its fleet and technology, aiming for enhanced service and sustainability. He also emphasized the challenge of completing the Vistara merger by November 12th while expanding the airline’s network and addressing community demands for direct flights.
Question: Air India has been undergoing a significant transformation since the Tata Group acquisition. Can you share
specific milestones achieved under your leadership, and what challenges remain in revitalizing the airline?
Wilson Campbell: Prior to privatization, Air India was on an unsustainable path, lacking a private sector performance mentality and focus on consumer excellence. The airline had not recruited new IT or non-flying staff for nearly 15 years, resulting in an average employee age of 54 and a culture resistant to innovation.
Under my leadership, we’ve made significant strides. We’ve recruited thousands of new staff, reducing the average age to 34, and built a 600,000-square-foot training academy, alongside launching a new cadet pilot program with advanced technology. These changes have fostered a mindset shift and enhanced our capacity for training.
Our team, despite the rapid and challenging turnaround, has shown exceptional passion and capability. The challenge now is to maintain this momentum and continue evolving Air India into a modern, competitive airline.
Question: Given the highly competitive nature of the aviation market, how is Air India working with international carriers to expand its network, particularly in regions like Australia and Southeast Asia?
Wilson Campbell: In the highly competitive aviation market, Air India is focusing on strategic mergers and partnerships to enhance our network. We are merging Air India with Vistara to form a consolidated full-service
carrier and combining AIX Connect with Air India Express to create a larger low-cost airline. These moves are designed to strengthen our market position and expand our reach.
By consolidating our operations, we aim to offer more robust services and improved connectivity, particularly in competitive regions like Australia and Southeast Asia. This strategic approach will enable us to better compete on a global scale and capitalize on emerging opportunities in these key markets.
Question: Amidst all the significant changes happening at Air India, what is the one thing keeping you up at night?
Wilson Campbell: (Laughs) As the CEO of an international airline, there's a lot that can keep me up at night, given the complexity of our operations and changes. However, the one thing that stands out is the upcoming go-live date for our merger services on November 12th. This date is critical because it marks the culmination of numerous dependencies and preparations that must be perfectly executed. From regulatory approvals to logistical transitions and booking systems, everything needs to be seamless and ready for the transition. Ensuring that all aspects are in place for a smooth go-live is a major focus and a significant challenge for my team
Question: Air India has placed one of the largest aircraft orders in recent aviation history. How will this new fleet shape the airline’s future growth, and what changes can passengers expect in terms of service and sustainability?
Wilson Campbell: The Tata
Group has committed tens of billions to transform Air India, with a significant focus on investing in a new fleet of 470 aircraft, modernizing cabins, refreshing the brand, and enhancing customer service. This capital-intensive plan aims to address the airline's ageing fleet, which had been neglected for decades.
The recent addition of 36 leased aircraft, including 11 Boeing 777s and 25 Airbus A320s, allowed us to launch six new international routes and increase frequencies on 24 others. However, the cornerstone of our transformation is our ambitious order of 470 new Airbus and Boeing aircraft, costing $70 billion. This includes 140 A320neos, 70 A321neos, and 190 737 MAX aircraft. These new additions will enable us to operate one of the most advanced and fuel-efficient fleets in the industry within five years.
In parallel, we are investing $400 million to retrofit our existing fleet. The retrofit will initially focus on our narrow-body A320neo and A321neo aircraft, followed by a comprehensive overhaul of 40 legacy wide-body Boeing 777s and 787s with all-new interiors.
Passengers can expect several improvements as a result of these investments. We will introduce premium economy seats on selected long-haul flights and new food menus to enhance the onboard experience. These changes not only improve service but also contribute to our sustainability goals by incorporating the latest, fuelefficient technologies and modernizing our fleet. This comprehensive approach is designed to position Air India for
substantial growth and better service in the dynamic Indian aviation market.
Question: The Indian aviation market is highly competitive and price-sensitive. How does Air India plan to differentiate itself from other domestic carriers, and what strategies are in place to maintain profitability while ensuring customer satisfaction?
Wilson Campbell: Air India plans to differentiate itself by expanding its network and leveraging its new widebody aircraft. As we grow, we are focusing on enhancing our longhaul routes, such as increasing flights between Delhi and London Heathrow, and adding new destinations in the US, like San Francisco and New York.
To compete with major domestic and international carriers, such as IndiGo and Middle Eastern airlines like Emirates and Qatar Airways, we are enhancing our service offerings and improving direct connectivity. Our new widebody aircraft, including the Airbus A350s, will enable us to provide more direct flights and better compete on long-haul routes.
Additionally, the upcoming merger with Vistara will boost our fleet with more widebody aircraft, further expanding our network and service capabilities. Our focus is on increasing capacity and frequency, particularly in key markets, which will help us maintain profitability while delivering a high level of customer satisfaction.
Question: Sustainability is becoming a key focus for airlines globally. What steps is Air India taking to reduce its
Continued on next page ...
Air India’s bold new era: Growth, challenges & the path ahead
Brisbane, September 12
(Australia India News Newsdesk)
Air India is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by the Tata Group's vision to elevate the national carrier into a competitive global airline. After years of struggling with outdated systems, the airline is now embracing modernity with an ambitious strategy to revitalize its services and reestablish itself as a major player in the aviation industry.
Before its privatization in 2022,
... Continued from previous page
carbon footprint and improve sustainability, and how do you see this influencing future operations?
Wilson Campbell: Air India is committed to reducing its carbon footprint as part of IATA’s “net zero by 2050” goal. We are investing in new aircraft, like the Airbus A350s, which are designed to operate on blended sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Although SAF is currently four times the price of conventional fuel, scaling up its production and reducing costs are essential for making it a viable solution.
Our approach to sustainability involves a combination of using advanced aircraft, adopting SAF, and exploring carbon offset options. This comprehensive strategy will shape our future operations by driving technological advancements
Air India had fallen behind, hampered by a workforce that hadn’t seen significant new recruitment in over 15 years. With an aging staff and a reluctance to innovate, the airline's performance was stagnant. But now, Air India has turned a corner. Thousands of new employees have been brought on board, reducing the average age of staff from 54 to 34. This younger, more dynamic workforce is being trained in a newly built 600,000-square-foot
and operational efficiencies, ultimately supporting our longterm sustainability goals and reducing our environmental impact.
Question: In terms of the extensive changes happening at Air India, what will it take to change the perception of the brand, and how does Air India plan to attract and alter that perception?
Wilson Campbell: Changing Air India's perception involves a multi-faceted approach. We’ve initiated a major rebranding effort supported by a $70 billion investment in 470 new Airbus and Boeing aircraft. These planes feature upgraded cabins, including business-class privacy doors, premium economy seating, and enhanced coach seats. We are also expanding our team by hiring over 5,000 new employees, including cabin and
training academy, part of the airline’s efforts to build a more forward-thinking, consumerfocused company.
One of Air India’s boldest moves is its record-breaking order of 470 new aircraft, with a massive investment aimed at refreshing its ageing fleet. These new planes include advanced models like the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 777, which will allow the airline to expand its international routes and increase frequencies on popular routes. With these aircraft, the airline is well on its way to offering one of the most modern and fuel-efficient fleets in the skies.
Air India's fleet expansion is just one part of its growth plan. It’s also heavily investing in technology, with over $200 million spent on upgrading IT systems and launching customer-friendly innovations like a revamped website, mobile app, and AI-powered chatbot. The focus here is clear: better customer service and seamless
cockpit crew, and implementing new compensation and rostering systems to improve morale and performance.
Our rebranding includes a new logo, livery, font, color palette, and uniform collection, alongside an upgraded digital presence with a new website, mobile app, and a 24/7 customer contact center in multiple languages. Additionally, we are rolling out a redesigned loyalty program. Early feedback on our new Airbus A350s has been positive, highlighting the improved cabin, service, and comfort, which supports our efforts to reshape the brand's image and attract more customers.
Question: What is Air India’s position on the community's demand for direct flights from Australia to India, and how does this fit into the airline’s broader plans?
operations. The airline’s new loyalty program, updated brand identity, and sleek digital presence are all designed to change how passengers experience Air India and to make the airline more appealing to international and domestic travelers alike.
In a highly competitive market, Air India is also focusing on strategic partnerships and mergers to enhance its network.
By merging with Vistara, the airline is creating a stronger fullservice carrier, and its integration with Air India Express is set to expand its low-cost offerings. This consolidation helps Air India expand its reach, particularly in regions like Southeast Asia and Australia, where demand for air travel is booming.
Looking ahead, sustainability is a key priority for Air India. The airline is committed to reducing its carbon footprint by investing in more fuel-efficient aircraft and exploring the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). These efforts
Wilson Campbell: Air India recognizes the strong community demand for direct flights from Australia to India. Currently, our ability to launch such routes is limited by the availability of wide-bodied aircraft, which are essential for long-haul flights. As we receive more of these aircraft, we will be better positioned to expand our long-haul routes, including those to Australia. Our expansion plans also include increasing long-haul services to the U.S. This expansion is driven by both prioritization and demand. While we can’t provide an exact timeline for when direct flights to Australia might start, it remains a key part of our strategy as we continue to enhance our fleet and network capabilities.
Question: How does Air India plan to leverage advancements in technology and AI to enhance its operations, and what role do you see these technologies playing in
align with the global push toward greener aviation, and Air India is positioning itself to be a leader in this space.
One of the most exciting developments for Air India’s passengers will be the introduction of new premium economy seats on long-haul flights, as well as upgraded menus and service offerings. These changes aim to enhance the overall passenger experience, bringing it in line with global standards.
As Air India moves forward with its bold vision, it faces challenges, including ensuring a smooth transition for its upcoming mergers and keeping pace with the rapid changes in the global aviation industry. Yet, with its aggressive expansion plans and renewed focus on customer service, Air India is on a promising path to regain its position as a leading global airline.
the airline’s future?
Wilson Campbell: Air India is actively integrating advanced technologies to enhance our operations. Key initiatives include a revamped website and mobile app, which are highly rated by users, and the implementation of a generative AI chatbot, A.DOT G. This chatbot efficiently handles complex customer queries with a 93% containment rate, meaning only 7% of queries require human intervention.
These technological advancements are designed to improve customer service and streamline operations, demonstrating the significant impact AI can have on enhancing our overall passenger experience. As we continue to develop and deploy these technologies, they will play a crucial role in shaping Air India’s future by increasing efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Brisbane Airport’s Bold Future New US routes, $5 billion revamp & India’s direct flight aspirations
On the sidelines of the CAPA Summit, talking to Associate Editor of Australia India News
Kriti Bhardwaj, Brisbane Airport's Peter Doughty reveals a $5 billion renovation and new US flights, while Dan from VietJet discusses growing demand and customer service focus. Tim Thomas from the Centre for Australia India Relations highlights future initiatives and support for Australia-India connections.
Kriti: I'm joined by Peter Doughty representing Brisbane Airport. Welcome Peter. Good to be with you. Today we are covering all the events at the CAPA Summit
which is the aviation summit and I'm excited to find out from your point of view as a media person for Brisbane Airport, what is the most exciting thing that you're looking forward to in the next maybe a year and five years from Brisbane Airport?
Peter Doughty: There's a lot happening at Brisbane Airport right now. We have a lot of new airlines coming on board. American Airlines starts next month with flights from Dallas to Brisbane. That will be their longest route in the world and also Brisbane's longest route, so we know that will attract
lots of attention. We've also got Delta Airlines, another US major carrier about to launch flight in December into Brisbane from Los Angeles, plus a number of other new route announcements. So a lot of growth is happening in terms of new communities, and new destinations, which we love because it connects more communities. But we're also undertaking a really big building program right now. We're spending $5 billion. We're renovating the domestic terminal. Today we revealed we're renovating the international terminal and that's going to
make a whole bunch better customer service for travellers coming through Brisbane. And we're also planning for a future third terminal because we know population growth is continuing. Brisbane, this city here, is growing very fast. Many people are moving to Brisbane, and that means more travellers, and that means more flights; so we're looking to build a third terminal to serve this beautiful city.
Kriti: It's amazing just to see what a growth journey Brisbane's on. And representing the Australia India News, I would love to know your journey in terms of
the travellers from India, what your experience has been at the Brisbane Airport, and if there's any specific plans for connectivity of direct flights, which is a petition that's ongoing at the moment as well. So what's the hope for Brisbane Airport?
Peter Doughty: Firstly, before we get to the hope, the reality is the number of people travelling from India to Brisbane is growing dramatically. So this past year that's just ended in June, there were 126,000 people from India who flew to Brisbane. That's 13% more than last year, and it's way more than pre-COVID. So
this is a very busy market, and it's growing each year. We also know that those travellers aren't flying direct because there isn't currently a direct service. Many are coming via Singapore; some are going via Vietnam, and lots of other creative ways to get here.
So you asked me about our hope. Our hope is that we will have direct flights to India. We know the community here wants that. We know there is a big business community growing in Brisbane that's Indian-based. Of all the trade that occurs in Australia with India, 68% of that happens with Queensland. So this is a really an important market. So not just for family, not just for friends, not just for travel, but for business, we would certainly love to see direct flights. And Brisbane Airport is talking to lots of partners. We do it regularly. We travel to India. We meet with people here. That's happening this weekend at this conference. So our aspiration is the same as the community's aspiration. It's something we want to see. But as we heard this morning, at the moment there's a shortage of aircraft. So when they're ready to say we'd like to come to Brisbane, we're ready to receive them, and we'll generously support them. So we have the same goal.
Kriti: That's impressive to hear, particularly the numbers that you've just mentioned; 68% of trade in Australia coming from Queensland. But putting it back to the visitor lens of people that come to Brisbane, whether from India or around the world, what would you say are your top three destinations out of Brisbane in Queensland?
Peter Doughty: So we know when people land in this city of Brisbane, they check out Brisbane, but they're also keen to head a little bit north and a little bit south. And just an hour south of Brisbane is the Gold Coast. So you see spectacular beaches, high-rise along the beach, a wonderful lifestyle. And we know lots of people who are coming from India are actually travelling to the Gold Coast. Some are going north to the Sunshine Coast, a little more laid-back, not so much high-rise, a bit chiller. They might be checking out Australia Zoo and checking out some of our wildlife. And some are going to North Queensland; further north, to experience the Great Barrier Reef, one of the true wonders of the world. So they're arriving in Brisbane, they're not just staying in Brisbane, they're spreading out. So I'd say Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and the Barrier Reef would be three things to put on your bucket list to do.
Second interview
Kriti: I'm joined by Dan, representing VietJet. Welcome, Dan. VietJet being now increasingly a popular airline, with a lot of connectivity, what is it that you were looking to get out of the summit this week?
Dan: So, it's our second year representing VietJet at CAPA, and it's a wonderful event for bringing the whole aviation community together with a particular focus on the Australian market, which is terrific and needed. In terms of our connectivity, the Brisbane market is performing extremely well for VietJet as an Australian gateway to Vietnam and then
onwards to the Indian gateways as well. We've seen a huge demand increase and growth over the last 12 months, and it's wonderful to see. For the Indian diaspora in Brisbane particularly, there's a lot of interest, and what we see is demand for stopover in Ho Chi Minh and maybe beyond for a quick holiday or their forward journey to India.
Kriti: Well, that's amazing to hear. I have experienced Vietjet quite recently, actually this year. I did not take the opportunity of stopping over, so that's obviously fantastic to know for our viewers to consider Vietnam for the next holiday, particularly to break the trip onwards to India or back. But in terms of the market, it's a fairly competitive system, aviation has always been competitive, more so than ever. Very pricedriven, but also at the same time, I think people are very sensitive of their experiences as well for longer journeys. So, how does Vietjet position itself apart from competing on price?
Dan: Sure, that's a terrific question. So, with Vietjet, in the Australian market, we pride ourselves on customer service. When I talk about customer service, it's from throughout the sales cycle and throughout the whole customer experience. So, the time a customer and our passengers will come to purchase the ticket, whether directly or with a travel agent, our team in Australia is Australian-based, and we are there for the passenger and the travel agent community across Australia to help make sure that their trip is optimized in Vietjet as much as possible.
Kriti: Thanks, Dan. And in terms of airline partnerships, is there any major reason that Vietjet already has partnerships with or envisions to?
Dan: At this point in time, in the Australian market, no. It's definitely in scope, keeping in mind that we've only been operating in Australia since last year. So, it's still early days for us, and we're definitely open to considering and looking at partnership opportunities across the whole sector.
Kriti: Well, it's great to know that you guys have achieved so much in just a year of operating in Australia. I'm sure I am personally going to fly with Vietjet again in the future. And, Dan, thank you so much for your time today.
Kriti: Hello, Tim. I've heard a lot about you as the CEO of Centre for Australia-India Relations. So thank you for your time. Tim, the first question I would like to ask you, how have you found the aviation summit so far?
Tim Thomas: Thanks, Krithi. Thank you for the opportunity. Look, I think the CAPA is an interesting global event, so I think it's always good to support Brisbane when it's hosting global events. But obviously, we're very interested to understand what can be more in terms of aviation links between Australia and India. That will, of course, help on trade and investment and for the diaspora and their needs. So obviously, we're here to support that.
Kriti: Thank you, Tim. And also, I think a great opportunity for us to learn more about your
organization as well, which I'm sure has been around for a while. So I'd love to know what are your top challenges and maybe priorities for the upcoming year, and what can we look forward to?
Tim Thomas: So the center is the federal government's center of gravity on all of the efforts to uplift the relationship with India. So we look at it from an economic lens, from a diaspora lens, from a public policy lens, a cultural and sports lens. So some of the priorities, we have a very large matri program- grants program that will be launched later this month, and that will be supporting scholarships, fellowships, business research grants, cultural ties, sporting ties. So that's a big priority for us. The matri program has started off really well. Another priority is the summer of cricket. So we're going to be doing something with the Queensland government here in Brisbane around the Gabba test, on the sidelines of the Gabba test, around activating business linkages and cultural and tourism linkages with India.
Kriti: Awesome to know, Tim. And what do you think about this brand new venue that we're at, the Star Brisbane?
Tim Thomas: Obviously much awaited. It is impressive, isn't it? It's a beautiful facility and very much needed, I would say, great timing for Brisbane to have a convention center of this nature.
Kriti: Thank you so much, Tim, for your time, and I hope that we get to catch you again, hopefully in Brisbane or around the country.
Antarctic sea ice falls to new record low for winter: Scientists
Sydney, Sep 10 (IANS) The extent of Antarctic sea ice fell to an all-time low for winter earlier in September, according to Australian scientists.
Researchers from the Australian Antarctic Program Partnership (AAPP) and Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) on Tuesday said that the extent of sea ice in Antarctica reached only 17.0 million square kilometres on September 7. It marks the lowest level of
Antarctic sea ice coverage since satellite records began. The previous winter low of 17.1 million square km was set on the same day in 2023, Xinhua news agency reported.
Researchers said that the longterm normal Antarctic sea ice extent for September 7 is 18.4 million square km.
Will Hobbs, a sea ice researcher from the AAPP, said the new low is an indication that the sea ice system around Antarctica is shifting to a new state.
"While the summer sea ice of 2024 was largely within the 'normal' variability, this winter we've again seen chaotic fluctuations similar to last year, now producing the lowest winter extreme on record,"
he said in a media release.
"We know that the past two years have been the warmest on record for the planet, with global temperatures more than 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial for extended periods. This global warmth is now reflected in the oceans around the Antarctic, and is likely a major factor in continuing record low sea ice." Phil Reid from the BoM said that recent studies suggest that lower Antarctic sea ice coverage may lead to an increase in the duration and extent of summer-time wet extremes in Australia and longer dry periods during winter.
The Antarctic winter typically starts in March and lasts until October.
Two children found dead in Sydney, woman hospitalised
Sydney, Sep 10 (IANS) The bodies of two children were found in a house west of Sydney while a woman was hospitalised under police guard on Tuesday.
Police in the Australian state
of New South Wales (NSW) said officers were called to a house in Faulconbridge - approximately 77 kilometres west of Sydney's central business district in the Blue Mountains region - at 12:40 p.m. local time due to concerns for the welfare of a woman and two children, reports Xinhua news agency.
The bodies of two boys, aged 9 and 11, were found inside the home by a family member and a
42-year-old woman was taken to hospital under police guard in a stable condition.
NSW Police said in a statement that officers from the area and the State Crime Command's Homicide Squad are investigating the circumstances of the deaths.
"There is no ongoing threat to the community. Police are not looking for anyone else," the statement said.
Government to outlaw doxxing
Canberra, Sep 12 (IANS) The act of doxxing by releasing someone's personal information without consent will be made a criminal offence in Australia under new government privacy laws.
Mark Dreyfus, Australia's Attorney-General, on Thursday, introduced legislation to Parliament that would make doxxing illegal and entitle victims of serious invasions of privacy to seek compensation through
the court system, Xinhua news agency reported.
Under the laws, anyone found guilty of the malicious release of personal data online -- a practice known as doxxing -- will face jail time.
The legislation imposes a maximum penalty of six years in jail for publishing someone's personal information with the intent of causing harm.
The maximum prison sentence will be increased to seven years in cases where a person or group is targeted based on their religion, race, gender, disability, nationality or ethnic origin.
The move to criminalise doxxing is part of broader reforms that Dreyfus said would bring the existing Privacy Act into the digital age.
"Strong privacy laws are essential to Australians' trust and confidence in the digital economy and digital services provided by governments and industry," he said in a statement.
"Australians have got the right to have their privacy respected and when they're asked to hand over their personal data they have a right to expect it will be respected," the statement further read.
Additionally, the legislation introduced on Thursday would give Australians the right to sue for damages if they have been the victim of a serious invasion of privacy.
Dreyfus said the bill is the first stage of the government's commitment to provide Australians with greater control over their personal information.
Government flags major fines for companies failing to protect Australians from scams
Canberra, Sep 13 (IANS) The Australian government has announced plans to issue fines worth millions of dollars to companies that fail to protect customers from scams. Stephen Jones, the assistant treasurer, on Friday released details of the
government's proposed new laws that would force banks, telecommunications companies and technology giants to do more to protect customers under mandatory sector-specific codes. The codes will create new obligations for designated sectors to combat scammers and protect Australians. Companies in those sectors that fail to meet their obligations will face fines worth up to 50 million Australian dollars (33.6 million U.S. dollars), Xinhua news agency reported.
Australia to ban children from social media
Canberra, Sep 10 (IANS)
Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday announced a plan to ban children from using social media.
The Prime Minister stated that the government will introduce legislation in 2024 to enforce a minimum age for access to social media and other relevant digital platforms, reports Xinhua news agency.
"We know social media is causing social harm, and it is taking kids away from real friends and
real experiences," he said in a statement.
He said that the legislation would be informed by engagement with the states and territories, but his preference is to set the minimum age at 16 years.
According to a poll conducted by state broadcaster the Australian Broadcasting Corporation in August, 61 per cent of Australians supported restricting social media access to those younger than 17.
At the same time, Peter Malinauskas, the premier of South Australia, commissioned former federal judge Robert French to explore legal pathways to ban children younger than 14 from social media.
The prime minister said that the federal government would consider Robert French's review when drafting the legislation.
Deaths by suicide among current, former Australian defence personnel ‘unacceptably high’: Inquiry
Canberra, Sep 9 (IANS) The number of deaths by suicide among current and former members of the Australian Defense Force is "unacceptably high", a landmark inquiry has found.
The Royal Commission into Defense and Veteran Suicide on Monday handed down its final report following a threeyear inquiry, making 122 recommendations.
The report found that 1,677 current and former personnel died by suicide between 1997 and 2021, more than 20 times the number killed in active duty in the same period, according to Xinhua news agency.
Over the last 10 years, it found that an average of 78 serving or ex-members have taken their own lives every year, the equivalent of three deaths every two weeks.
The number of deaths by suicide among those who serve or have served in the force is unacceptably high, the report said.
Addressing the Parliament, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government would thoroughly consider every recommendation made by the commissioners.
"Just as our veterans and defence personnel step up for our country, we have an obligation to step up for them," he said.
Among the recommendations is a proposal for a new agency to help force personnel to transition into civilian life.
The report said the body should be staffed by people who have experienced military service and help veterans apply for compensation and rehabilitation support, connect them with health services and conduct ongoing monitoring of wellbeing. The commission also recommended a formal inquiry into the prevalence of sexual violence within the force and a new national register of suicides among current and former defence personnel.
The inquiry was established in 2021, received almost 6,000 submissions and heard testimonies from hundreds of witnesses.
Commissioners Nick Kaldas, James Douglas and Peggy Brown said they had been forever changed by personal stories shared with the inquiry by serving and ex-members and their friends, families and supporters.
"We are inspired by your resilience, courage, and desire to change things for the better so that others do not experience what you have endured. We thank you for your faith in this Royal Commission," they said.
Defence Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, who tabled the report in the parliament on Monday, said the government would work through the recommendations in a timely manner.
Stalin appeals to Tamil diaspora to visit mother state once a year
Chennai, Sep 8 (IANS) Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who is on a visit to the United States to garner investments in the state, has called upon the non-resident Tamil families to visit Tamil Nadu -- the mother state -- once a year.
Addressing a meeting of the Tamil diaspora in Chicago, Stalin called upon the non-resident Tamils to visit the state once a year with their children and to show them the sky, the museum which was a symbol of Tamil history and culture and take the children to Sivagalai, Korkai and Parunai and Keeladi.
He also asked the Tamil diaspora to tell their children that one of their family members was the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and that his name was Muthuvel Karunanidhi Stalin.
He called upon the Tamil people living in Chicago not to have any divisions within them, urging them to live with Tamil pride and dignity.
Stalin said, “You reached these higher positions due to your talent. Tamils are not frogs in the well.”
He stated that the Tamils were highly talented and that they had performed extremely well in the international arena due to their talent.
Stalin said that the Dravidian Model of the government of Tamil Nadu was a protection cover for the Tamil people living across the world. The Chief Minister added that the state government was intervening in the issues faced
by the Tamil people living abroad through the Department of NonResident Tamils.
He also said that wherever the Tamils were affected, the state government was creating the feeling that, “Tamil Nadu is the mother of us.”
He also said that the government of Tamil Nadu was not a government of the DMK but of the Tamil race. Stalin said that only Tamil has the strength to unify all and trounce caste and religious differences.
Citing the Keeladi archaeological excavations, the Chief Minister said that Tamil society was a developed society even 4000 years ago and added that the history of the Indian subcontinent will be written hereafter from the Tamil landscape.
During his US trip which commenced on August 27, Stalin has addressed the Tamil diaspora in San Francisco and Chicago.
Haryana polls: Union Minister Manohar Lal claims BJP will form government for third time
Karnal, Sep 8 (IANS) As the Haryana Assembly elections approach, political activities have gained momentum with leaders campaigning for their respective parties.
As part of campaigning, Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs, and Power, Manohar Lal Khattar, on Sunday visited Karnal. Khattar is the Member of Parliament (Loksabha), from the Karnal constituency.
Speaking to reporters in Karnal, the Minister stated that in the coming days, Haryana will witness rallies by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence
Minister Rajnath Singh, and several Chief Ministers and Ministers. He targeted the Congress party and asserted that the BJP would form the government for the third consecutive term in the state.
Regarding speculation about Kanhaiya Mittal, known for his song "Jo Ram Ko Laaye Hain, Hum Unko Laayenge," joining Congress, Manohar Lal said, “I cannot comment on that. People join Congress or BJP based on their own choices. Everyone has their own reasons for making decisions." Manohar Lal is also the former chief minister of Haryana.
On the question of wrestler Vinesh Phogat contesting from Julana, Manohar Lal responded, “There is nothing in it. I am getting information that she is running away. She herself is refusing to contest from Julana.”
It is noteworthy that voting for the Haryana Assembly elections
will be held on October 5 across all 90 seats, with results to be announced on October 8. The political heat is rising in Haryana as the BJP strives to retain power while the Congress aims for a comeback.
In the midst of this, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is also seeking to establish its presence in Haryana. Meanwhile, there is no final word on the possible alliance between Congress and AAP for the upcoming assembly polls in the state.
"I can only tell you that both the parties have a desire, a wish and hope for an alliance. The last date for nomination is 12th September. We will make a decision before 12. If we don't agree or if there is no win-win situation, we will leave it," AAP Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha told reporters following a meeting with Congress in charge of Haryana.
RG Kar protest: Junior doctors vow to continue sit-in till all demands are met
Kolkata, Sep 12 (IANS) The West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Forum (WBJDF) protesting against the rape and murder of a junior doctor at the R.G Kar Medical College and Hospital announced on Thursday evening that it will continue with the sit-in
outside the Swasthya Bhavan, the headquarters of the state Health Department in Salt Lake, till all their demands are met.
After the scheduled discussion with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee failed on Thursday with the state administration not willing to allow live telecast of the meeting, one of the preconditions set by the protesting doctors for the talks, the 30-membr WBJDF delegation returned to the sit-in site in Salt Lake, blaming the 'obstinate attitude' of the state government
Odisha CM launches CM-KISAN scheme
Bhubaneswar, Sept 8 (IANS)
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi launched the CM-KISAN scheme during a special programme at the Gangadhar Meher University campus in Sambalpur on Sunday.
The eligible farmers will receive a total of Rs 4000 in two instalments of Rs 2000 each on Nuakhai and Akshaya Tritiya every year. More than 45.97 lakh small, marginal, and landless cultivators on Sunday received the first instalment of Rs 2000 each through the Direct Benefit Transfer mode under the scheme.
A total of Rs 925.40 crore has been transferred into the accounts of farmers across the state.
The Chief Minister launched the scheme in the presence of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Revenue and Disaster Management Department Minister Suresh Pujari, Sambalpur MLA Jayanarayan Mishra and other officials.
Deputy CM KV Singh Deo and Pravati Parida joined the launching programme through virtual mode from Balangir and
Puri.
“On the auspicious occasion of Nuakhai, the process begins for sowing of the rabi crops, so we decided to launch the CM-KISAN Yojana from today and provide financial assistance. The farmers can arrange essential agricultural items including fertilisers, pesticides, and machinery using financial assistance,” he said. He also said that a farmer will get annually a total of Rs 10,000 including Rs 6000 under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) yojana and Rs 4000 under the CM-KISAN scheme.
The Chief Minister also inaugurated a CM-KISAN portal for seamless and hassle-free implementation of both PMKISAN and CM-KISAN schemes. This apart, he reiterated his government’s promise to offer a Minimum Support Price of Rs 3100 per quintal of rice to the farmers. He also informed about sending a proposal to the union government for setting up another All-India Institute of Medical Sciences institute in the state at Sambalpur.
Meanwhile, the opposition BJD accused the ruling BJP of continuing the schemes introduced by the previous BJD government by changing the names of the schemes.
Call girl murdered over money dispute, accused held
Gurugram, Sep 8 (IANS) A 23-year-old call girl was found murdered over a money dispute and a man was arrested for the crime in a guest house located in Jharsa village of Gurugram, police said on Sunday.
for the failure of the talks.
Countering the remarks made by Banerjee at a press conference where she claimed the doctors' protest had political colours prompted by the greed for the CM's post, the protesting doctors said they went to the doorsteps of the Secretariat for talks respecting the 'chair' of the Chief Minister. “We don't want any chair. We want justice for the victim. We have been on the streets for the last 33 days, and if necessary we will remain on the streets for another 33 days. But we will fight for justice till the end,” said one of the protesting doctors.
Police said, the deceased, Laxmi a native of Uttar Pradesh, who worked as a field massage therapist was murdered on Saturday at a Mohit guest house in Jharsa village.
The accused was identified as 40-year-old Anil Pahal, a resident of Jyoti Park Gurugram and worked as a custom broker in Delhi.
According to the police, they received information that a woman was murdered at a guest house in Jharsa village Upon information, the police team reached the spot and took custody of the body, kept it in
the mortuary for an autopsy and informed the deceased's kin.
The deceased's elder sister told the police on Sunday that the guest house caretaker informed her that Anil Pahal had booked a room on Friday. On Saturday she called her sister via broker and raped her and when she resisted, he strangulation to her death.
Based on her complaint a case of murder was registered against the culprit at the Sadar police station here in Gurugram.
During the investigation, a crime branch team nabbed the accused Anil from the Ashok Vihar area of Gurugram on Sunday.
"During interrogation, the accused told the police that on September 6 he had booked a room at a Mohit guest house in Jharsa and on the next day he called the victim via a broker. He paid her Rs 5,000 after this the girl demanded Rs 2,500 more which led to a verbal spat and in a fit of rage he killed the victim and fled the spot along with the deceased's mobile phone," Sandeep Kumar, spokesperson of the Gurugram Police said.
Pak calls PoK residents foreigners, we call them our citizens, says Rajnath Singh
Jammu, Sep 8 (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday that the Pakistan government has called the people of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as ‘foreigners’ while India considers them as its own citizens.
Addressing an election rally of the BJP in Ramban district of Jammu division, Rajnath Singh referred to the BJP-PDP coalition government and said, “During Mehbooba-led government, we withdrew cases against minors and those who were innocent. But the problem was that the PDP was sympathetic to separatists. I would always tell her to bring the ground situation under control, but she couldn’t. People of J&K are free citizens of India and they have a right to peace and prosperity.
“In contrast to this, in a recent affidavit, the solicitor general of Pakistan has called the people of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as ‘foreigners’. We don’t call them foreigners. They are our people. Let them come and join us. After a government is formed in J&K, the people of PoK will want to come and join India,” he asserted. He strongly criticised former J&K chief minister and National Conference (NC) vice president, Omar Abdullah for saying Afzal Guru should not have been hanged.
“Omar Abdullah has said Afzal Guru should not have been hanged. I want to ask him did he want Afzal Guru to be garlanded?” Singh queried.
The Union minister said he has come for the first time to Ramban, but the people have given him a warm welcome. “I greet all of you. After 10 years, Assembly elections are being held in J&K. Entire country is watching the outcome of this election. I was in America recently and the Indian diaspora there
asked me what would happen in these elections. I told them BJP will form the govt in J&K,” he claimed.
“While coming here, I asked Dr Jitendra Singh about the ground situation and he told me that such a conducive political atmosphere in favour of BJP is far greater than his expectations. In the past, whenever, 2, 6 or 10 per cent voting would take place in Kashmir it would become a big news. 58 per cent voting took place in Lok Sabha elections and in Ladakh it went to 72 per cent,” he added.
“First time, there was an election here which was held without fear and without any partisan consideration. This is a great change for us. The people of J&K are hard-working and talented. If BJP rules J&K for the next 10 years, J&K will be the most prosperous place in India,” Rajnath Singh opined.
“Since Modiji took over as the Prime Minister, our economy has grown from 11th place to become the 5th largest economy in the World. Independent economic surveys and media reports now accept that in 2027 India would be 3rd largest in size after US and China,” he claimed.
“Give an opportunity to BJP to form the government here and we will change the face of this place in 10 years. We have already changed the ground situation in the last 10 years. Even Tazia (Muharram) procession was not allowed in Kashmir and we made this procession take place,” the Union minister said.
“Nobody has the guts today to fire a pistol or hurl a stone at Lal Chowk. Countries need a strong-willed PM and we are fortunate to have one in Modiji. In J&K women were deprived of their rights. We will ensure that West Pakistan refugees, Safaikaramcharis, Valmiki Samaj and others will vote in the Assembly elections. We ensured OBC reservations in Panchayats and urban bodies,” he further claimed.
“PM Modi abrogated article 370 and nobody rose against this. NC
manifesto says they will restore 370. Nobody can restore 370 now. For the first time, a G-20 meeting was held in Kashmir Valley. This is called governance. Kashmir was called a terrorism spot, but now it is called a tourism spot,” he said. He referred to developments in the last 10 years and said that the Muharram procession, railway link, Rs 38000 core worth developmental works, reducing the travel time from Jammu to Srinagar from 14 to 4 hours, 40,000 recruitments in last 5 years.
“Not a single stone pelting incident since 2022. Those youth who had pistols in their hands had rave tablets and laptops. We abrogated 370, if Congress has guts, let them get it back. As long as the BJP is there, no power on earth can bring 370 back,” he asserted.
He also referred to the Parliamentary delegation that went to meet hardline separatist leader, Syed Ali Shah Geelani on September 4, 2016. “I was part of the Parliamentary delegation and I told members that the Hurriyat is allergic to the BJP, but if they wanted to go to meet the Hurriyat, they could. When they went to their door, the Hurriyat people shut their door on them,” Rajnath recalled. He referred to the manifesto and the promises made in that. He said incomplete border fencing will be completed, two free gas cylinders will be provided to families of weaker sections, students of remote areas higher secondary schools will be given free tablets and laptops, Jammu will have a riverfront on Tawi, Ramban and Banihal will have tourist destination areas. Jammu and Srinagar will get Metro services and migrant Kashmiri Pandits will be brought back to the Kashmir Valley with safety and honour. In the end, he appealed to voters to elect BJP candidate, Rakesh Gupta with a huge majority. J&K will go to the polls in three phases on September 18, September 25 and October 1 while counting will take place on October 8.
After losing family in Wayanad lanslides, Shruthi bids tearful adieu to fiance
turn of events,
entire family in the recent Wayanad landslide, was held on Thursday. Jenson passed away on Wednesday night due to injuries sustained in a vehicle accident.
Shruthi's entire family comprising nine members died in the Wayanad landslide on July 30, her new house which got washed away that she had recently built. Since she was working away from her home, she survived the landslide and was helped to come out of her trauma by her fiance Jenson.
Tragedy struck Shruthi when she was travelling in a van with seven others, including Jenson. As the couple were sitting in the
Decoded: How Ayushman Bharat becomes bigger
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS)
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) -- the world's largest health insurance scheme -- has added another feather to its cap with free health coverage to all senior citizens above the age of 70 in the country.
In a significant move, the Union Cabinet this week approved a major expansion of the AB PMJAY to provide health coverage to all older adults aged 70 and above, regardless of their income.
The move comes as India’s elderly population is projected to double by 2050, and will increase the demand for geriatric care. By 2050, one in five people in India is expected to be elderly.
“This expansion is set to benefit around 4.5 crore families, including 6 crore senior citizens, by providing them with free health insurance coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh per family. With this approval, every senior citizen in this age group will have access to the scheme's benefits, regardless of their socio-economic status,” the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.
With the scheme senior citizens above 70 can avail of a new distinct card, top-up coverage, and family coverage. They will also get a choice of schemes, and also eligibility with private insurance.
The new card will enable the elderly to avail the new scheme with ease.
The new scheme is in addition to the existing AB PM-JAY family scheme, wherein the elderly will have a separate cover of Rs 5 lakh per year.
“Senior citizens within families already covered by AB PM-JAY will receive an additional top-up cover of up to Rs 5 lakh per year. This top-up will be for them, and they will not have to share it with other family members under the age of 70,” the ministry said.
In the case where senior citizens are not part of an existing AB PM-JAY, “family coverage will be provided with a cover of up to Rs 5 lakh per year on a family basis”. Further, the new scheme also offers the elderly flexibility to opt for other public health insurance schemes like the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), or Ayushman Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) or AB PM-JAY.
Crorepatis, commoners & old timers in fray for J&K polls
Srinagar, Sep 12 (IANS) Assets revealed by 219 contesting candidates for the first phase of J&K Assembly elections show that 50 per cent of the contestants are crorepatis.
van for their wedding, it collided with a bus on Tuesday afternoon. While Jenson was seriously injured and was on ventilator support, Shruthi suffered injuries on her legs and was also hospitalised.
Jenson passed away on Wednesday. Before taking his body to his home, the authorities carried his body to the hospital where Shruthi was admitted from where she bid him goodbye lying on the stretcher.
Each one of these contestants has declared assets exceeding Rs one crore. The average assets of phase one candidates stand at Rs 3 crore. Of these, 13 candidates have assets worth over Rs 10 crores each.
Just 9 of these 219 candidates are women. Interestingly, Mehbooba Mufti-led the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has the highest number of crorepatis. Eighteen out of PDP’s 21 candidates are crorepatis.
Abdul Gaffar Sofi, contesting from Anantnag West has declared assets worth over Rs 66 crore followed by Imtiaz Ahmed of the
same party with assets more than Rs 34 crore.
Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) President, Tariq Hameed Karra has declared a net worth of over Rs 190 crore, with his annual income also increasing since 2021. Nearly all candidates have reported a rise in their annual income.
According to the details submitted, 69-year-old Karra has declared movable assets worth Rs 3.4 lakh, while his wife holds assets worth Rs 40 lakh. Karra’s immovable assets total Rs 148 crore including agricultural land valued at Rs 113.47 crore, commercial buildings worth over Rs 9 crore, and residential properties worth over Rs 25 crore. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, he had declared assets worth Rs 98 crore. His pension is his declared source of income, while his wife earns from her business. Karra’s annual income rose from Rs 2.62 lakh in 2020-21 to Rs 7.77 lakh. His wife’s income, meanwhile, has remained stable at Rs 13 lakh since 2019.
Peoples Conference (PC) leader, Abid Hussain Ansari has seen his income nearly triple, from Rs 10 lakh in 2019 to Rs 28 lakh.
Wayanad, Sep 12 (IANS) In a heart-wrenching
the funeral of Jenson, the fiance of Shruthi, who had lost her
We are surrounded by murderous ideology: Israel PM Netanyahu
Tel Aviv, Sep 8 (IANS) A few hours after a terrorist shot and killed three Israelis at the border crossing between West Bank and Jordan on Sunday, Israel' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that his country is surrounded by a murderous ideology that is led by "Iran's axis of evil".
"This is a difficult day. An abhorrent terrorist murdered three of our citizens in cold blood at the Allenby Bridge. On behalf of the Government and myself, I send condolences to the families of those who were murdered," said Netanyahu as he chaired a government meeting.
"We are surrounded by a murderous ideology led by Iran's axis of evil. In recent days,
abhorrent terrorists murdered six of our hostages and three Israel Police officers in cold blood. The murderers do not differentiate between us. They want to murder us all, right and left, secular and religious, Jews and non-Jews, until the last one," he added.
According to the Israeli defence authorities, a terrorist approached the area of the Allenby Bridge from Jordan in a truck, exited the truck, and opened fire at the Israeli security forces operating at the bridge.
"The terrorist was eliminated by the security forces, three Israeli civilians were pronounced dead as a result of the attack. IDF soldiers were dispatched to the scene and are currently operating to rule out the suspicion of the truck being rigged with explosives, further details to follow," the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) posted on X.
Hailing the efforts of security agencies and their heroism, Netanyahu said that it is the strength of the State of Israel and the power of the IDF which,
unlike the past, is preventing further destruction even as massive efforts are underway to divide and sow discord among the people of the country.
"Last weekend, the German newspaper Bild published an official Hamas document that revealed its action plan: To sow discord among us, to use psychological warfare on the hostages' families, to apply internal and external political pressure on the Government of Israel, to tear us apart from within, and to continue the war until further notice, until Israel is defeated," the Israeli PM commented.
"The great majority of Israel's citizens are not falling into this Hamas trap. They know that we are fully committed to achieving the objectives of the war: To eliminate Hamas, to return all of our hostages, to ensure that Gaza never again constitutes a threat to Israel and to return our residents in the north and south securely to their homes," he added.
Valdimir Putin warns West against direct involvement in Ukraine conflict
Moscow, Sep 13 (IANS) Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that by providing Ukraine with long-range weapons, Western countries risk involving directly in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. In such circumstances, Russia would be forced to make "appropriate decisions" based on the new threats, Putin was quoted by Russian media as saying.
Ukraine has been pleading with its Western allies for it to use their missiles, including long-range ones, to fire deep into Russian territory, according to Western media reports.
"Only service people from NATO countries can make flight assignments to these missile systems. Ukrainian service people cannot do that," Putin told Russian state TV.
"So this is not a question of allowing the Ukrainian regime to attack Russia with these weapons or not. It is a question of deciding whether NATO countries are directly involved in a military
conflict or not," Xinhua news agency reported quoting local media.
"If this decision is taken, it will mean nothing else than direct participation of NATO countries -- the USA and European countries -- in the war in Ukraine," he said.
According to a report by Politico, the White House is finalising a plan to ease restrictions on Ukraine's use of US-donated weapons in battles against Russia, including the use of British long-range missiles that contain American parts to strike targets inside Russia.
Trump says no more presidential debate with Harris
Washington, Sep 13 (IANS)
Former US President Donald Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, has announced that he will not participate in another presidential debate against Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee.
In a post on Truth Social, his social media platform, Trump on Thursday claimed that he won
the debate hosted by ABC News in Philadelphia on Tuesday night, and accused Harris of refusing to accept debate invitations from Fox News, NBC News and CBS News.
In a post on social media platform X, Harris said on Thursday that "we owe it to the voters to have another debate."
Harris' campaign also claimed victory in the first debate between the two. "Vice President Harris commanded the stage on every single issue that matters to the American people," according to a statement released earlier.
A CNN poll of debate watchers showed that 63 per cent agreed
48 killed after gasoline tanker explosion in Nigeria: Official
Abuja, Sep 9 (IANS) At least 48 people were killed after a gasoline-laden tanker exploded on a busy highway in Niger, a state in Nigeria's central region, local authorities have said.
The ill-fated tanker had a head-on collision with an oncoming truck laden with cattle along the Bida-
Agaie-Lapai highway, causing the gasoline tanker to explode, Abdullah Baba-Arah, head of the State Emergency Management Agency, told reporters in Minna on Sunday, the capital of the state. Two other vehicles were caught up in the inferno, Baba-Arah said, noting up to 48 people were killed. At least 50 cattle were also lost to the incident, Xinhua news agency reported.
A search operation was underway to recover bodies of more victims believed to have been trapped in the unfortunate vehicles, he added.
How the Chinese surveillance state is suffocating its citizen
New Delhi, Sep 12 (IANS) Over the past decade and a half, the Chinese techno-authoritarian state has deeply entrenched itself in the day-to-day lives of citizens through the use of highly sophisticated surveillance technology. Two of the world's largest manufacturers of video surveillance equipment, Hikvision and Dahua, have revolutionized the industry and exported their products to hundreds of countries worldwide.
Chinese citizens are required to use their ID when engaging in various activities, from signing up for WeChat, the ubiquitous messaging app, to using superapps like Alipay or WeChat Pay for tasks such as public transport, online shopping, and booking movie tickets.
that Harris turned in a better performance onstage in Philadelphia, Xinhua news agency reported.
According to Fox News, 12 voters on a panel thought Harris won the debate, while five believed Trump won. Many said that Trump did not know how to attack his new opponent in the presidential race.
A New York Times article noted that after the debate, many Democratic strategists and officials cheered Harris' performance, while Republicans complained about the "tenor of the questions" from the moderators and acknowledged Trump's "missed opportunities" to unleash focused attack lines.
This extensive network allows the government to track citizens' everyday activities and create detailed profiles, effectively establishing a Panopticon state of censorship and repression.
The most prominent feature of China's surveillance state is its extensive network of facial recognition cameras, which are nearly ubiquitous. The Chinese government launched a programme known as Skynet in 2005, which mandated the installation of millions of cameras throughout the nation.
This initiative was further expanded in 2015 with the introduction of SharpEyes, aiming for complete video coverage of 'key public areas' by 2020.
The government, in collaboration with camera manufacturers such as Hikvision and Dahua, framed this as a progressive step towards
developing 'smart cities' that would enhance disaster response, traffic management, and crime detection.
However, the technology has been predominantly employed for repressive purposes, reinforcing compliance with the Communist Party of China (CPC).
In addition to tracking alleged criminals, this surveillance network monitors citizens' everyday activities, pre-emptively identifying potential crimes and protests while coordinating security responses.
When combined with artificial intelligence, the system triggers alerts for 'unusual' behaviours, such as an individual lingering too long in a railway station or residential area.
It also closely follows individuals deemed 'suspicious' including fraud victims or those likely to petition against the government, to prevent their assembly in Beijing.
Furthermore, the system is activated if a group of individuals with a history of political protests congregates in one location. Although many of the 'threats' identified by this system may turn out to be false alarms, the omnipresent vigilance of the state ensures that even the slightest dissent from citizens is swiftly suppressed.
China has become the first known instance of a government employing artificial intelligence for racial profiling, a practice referred to as 'automated racism', with its extensive facial recognition technologies specifically identifying and monitoring minority groups, particularly Uyghur Muslims, who have been subjected to numerous human rights violations by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), including mass detentions, forced labour, religious oppression, political indoctrination, forced sterilisation and abortion, as well as sexual assault; in Xinjiang,
Breaking down US Prez debate: How Trump and Harris traded barbs
New York, Sep 11 (IANS) On the all-blue stage with lines from the Constitution imprinted on the background, the debate between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris was an exercise in evasions, subtle and not-so-subtle insults, and name-calling.
There were two moments when the presidential candidates made telling statements during Tuesday's debate in Philadelphia.
Although the microphones were turned off to prevent interruptions, at one point Harris raised her voice while it was Trump's turn to speak.
"Wait a minute please, I'm talking now," Trump said, adding, "Does that sound familiar"?
That was a throwback to Harris cutting off former Vice President Mike Pence at their 2020 debate when he interrupted her, and that remark was widely promoted as a sign of her strength.
For her almost four years as President Joe Biden’s vice president, Trump taunted her saying of policies he claimed she would follow, "She is Joe Biden."
Harris retorted, "I am not Joe Biden, and I am certainly not Donald Trump."
It was both an evasion and a declaration of her break from Biden, whose inflationary economic policies and the Afghan debacle are turning into an electoral burden for her.
When the two adversaries took the stage, Harris walked up to Trump, extending her hand. "Let's have a good debate”, she told him, and Trump replied, "Good to see you. Have fun."
But insults were galore, sometimes sounding like a schoolyard brawl.
Harris prefaced the debate with a warning to be prepared to listen to lies.
Trump called her a Marxist, adding that her father, Donald Harris the Stanford economist, was a Marxist, too.
He also accused her of copying his policies as she tried to move to the centre and said that he would send her a "MAGA" hat, the red headgear worn by the supporters of his "Make America Great Again" platform.
"World leaders are laughing at you," Harris said.
Trump shot back that Russia's President Vladimir Putin, like others, had sensed the weakness of her administration and invaded Ukraine. That's why, he said, "Putin endorses her; I think he means it," referring to what is
considered a joke by the Russians.
Taunted by Harris for the criminal case he has been convicted in, the others, including on national security, pending, he blamed it on the “weaponisation” of the justice system by Democrats and pointed to the refusal to prosecute President Joe Biden on the national secrets charge he had faced, describing him as a "pathetic old man".
One of the moderators, ABC News anchor David Muir, asked Trump about his comments asserting that Harris had always claimed to be Indian but only recently began identifying as Black. (She had grown up with a primarily African American identity and only in recent years publicly emphasised her Indian identity.)
Trump did not explain why he had said that, but replied, "I couldn't care less. Whatever she wants to be is OK with me."
Harris said, "I think it's a tragedy that we have someone who wants to be president, who has consistently, throughout his career, attempted to use race to divide the American people."
"We don't want a leader, who is constantly trying to have Americans point their fingers at each other," she added.
The size of rallies has been a sore point for Trump, and Harris playing on it said, "I invite you to attend his rallies". There, she said, they can hear about Hannibal Lecter, a fictional serial killing cannibal, and cancer-causing windmills. People leave the rallies bored, she said. Trump retorted, "People don't go to her rallies", adding that rent-a-crowd filled them.
The debate was held in the hallowed ground of US democracy, the Independence Hall built in 1753 in Philadelphia where the Declaration of Independence was made and the Constitution was drafted.
Fittingly, the questions turned to threats to democracy from Trump, an issue frequently raised by Harris.
Trump denied that he had instigated the mob that overran the Capitol on January 6, 2020, while Congress was about to ratify the election of President Joe Biden.
He said that democracy was instead threatened by the influx of illegal immigrants invading the country. And Harris' nomination to take up the party nomination was the subversion of democracy because the 14 million votes Biden received in the primaries were nullified after he was "pushed out", Trump said. Speaking of the assassination attempt, he said, "I took a bullet to the head because of them" referring to the taunts that he was a threat to democracy.
An odd issue not surprisingly thrown into the fray by Trump was his claim that Illegal Haitian
migrants were eating people's pets in Springfield, Ohio.
His running mate JD Vance first spoke about it, but later admitted they were rumours.
Muir, called him out on that saying that local officials had denied the reports. Trump kept a serious, sometimes stoic, demeanour staring ahead, while Harris turned towards him while he spoke and often made facial gestures ridiculing him and laughing. Harris put in several days of preparation with staged practised debates, while Trump continued his campaigning, save for some policy discussions with his team, and the difference showed on the stage.
Trump spoke in his usual style, while Harris put on a passionate performance some of her responses appearing practiced. The debate rules banned bringing in notes to the podium, but Harris made studious notes as Trump spoke, preparing her responses, while Trump spoke off the cuff.
Cornered on a tough question the former president repeatedly talked instead about the vice president’s past stands calling for banning private health insurance, fracking method of gas drilling and the flood of illegal immigration.
And, Harris turned to her plans for tax breaks for start-ups and promotion of small businesses, her middle-class background, and Trump's role in having the Supreme Court overturn the national abortion legalisation, making it a state issue.
On that issue, which the Democrats play as a major issue that could determine the election because it would rouse women voters, both were evasive.
Harris refused to respond to Trump's question if she would put restrictions on abortions in the seventh, eighth, or nine months, only saying that mentioning the ninth month was an insult to women. (Some states like New Jersey and Minnesota have no restriction on how far along it could be done.)
Trump maintained that he was against a national ban leaving it to the states, but when pressed on whether he would veto a bill passed by Congress banning abortion, he refused to give a straight answer.
Harris avoided answering why the policies she advocated were not enacted during the three-plus years of the administration she was part of, and why they waited six months before the election to tighten border controls.
Trump would not give a straight answer on how he would carry out his threat to deport all illegal immigrants.
(Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @ arulouis)
Sri Lankan tourism earnings exceed two billion USD
Colombo, Sep 8 (IANS) Sri Lanka has earned over two billion US dollars from tourism in the first eight months of 2024, the latest data from the country's Central Bank shows.
Sri Lanka earned 2.17 billion dollars in the above period, which is a 66.1 per cent increase from the same period in 2023, the Central Bank data shows.
Tourist arrivals also increased by 50.7 per cent in the same period, and 1.36 million tourists arrived in the first eight months of 2024, the central bank data shows, Xinhua news agency reported.
In August 2024, arrivals were 164,609, an around 20 per cent increase compared to August 2023, Central Bank data shows.
Tourism is one of Sri Lanka's top foreign revenue generators.
Sri Lankan tourism authorities are expecting three million foreign tourists in 2025, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau Managing Director Nalin Perera said recently.
Algeria’s President Tebboune wins second term
Algiers, Sep 9 (IANS) Preliminary results showed that Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has been re-elected for a second term, the country's election authority has said.
Mohamed Charfi, head of the Independent Authority for Elections, said on Sunday in a press briefing in the capital Algiers that Tebboune received 5,329,253 votes, or 94.65 per cent of the total.
His nearest competitor, Abdelaali Hassani Cherif, garnered 178,797 votes, or 3.17 per cent, while Youcef Aouchiche secured 122,146
votes.
According to regulations, the country's Constitutional Council will review any appeals from the candidates before finalizing the results.
The election was held on Saturday, with more than 23 million citizens eligible to vote. Although Algerian presidential elections are traditionally held in December, Tebboune moved this year's election to an earlier date in March, citing "technical reasons."
The 78-year incumbent president first took office in 2019 following a political crisis and the resignation of late President Abdelaziz Bouteflika. Tebboune's victory marks a continuation of his leadership. During his electoral campaign, he pledged to continue addressing Algeria's political and economic challenges.
Middle Eastern countries condemn Israeli attack on UN-run Gaza school
Cairo, Sep 13 (IANS) Countries in the Middle East condemned on Thursday an Israeli airstrike on a school operated by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in Gaza's al-Nuseirat refugee camp, which occurred on Wednesday and resulted in 18 fatalities.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) asserted that the target was a Hamas command and control centre concealed within the shelter. UNRWA reported that six of its employees, who had been providing aid to families taking refuge in the facility, were killed, Xinhua news agency reported.
The Egyptian Foreign Ministry
described the attack as a "blatant violation of international laws," criticized the targeting of international and UN facilities, and called for accountability for the perpetrators. Egypt emphasized the urgent need to address "Israeli breaches" and urged influential parties to ensure Israel's compliance with international obligations.
Jordan's Foreign Ministry condemned the strike as a "blatant violation of international law" and a "new war crime" amidst ongoing Israeli actions in Gaza. Spokesperson Sufian Qudah denounced the attack as part of Israel's "ongoing aggression," which he argued contradicted human values and international law. He called for immediate international intervention and support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.
From the editor’s desk
Political roadblocks & future of Australia’s central bank reforms
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) finds itself in the middle of a hot and intense political battle. The opposition parties are blocking key reforms aimed at making the institution more independent. For such a long time, these much-needed reforms were dubbed crucial for the proper management of the economy, yet they hit a snag. So, what happens to Australia, and what is at stake, really?
Hence, the cardinal notion behind these reforms is to break the RBA into two functional bodies. The first one has to address interest rates while the second has to focus more on governance. The objective of these reforms is simple: monetary policy—decisions affecting inflation, interest rates, and economic growth— should never be entrusted to politicians. It is said that through making the RBA more independent, it can very well respond to the challenges facing Australia.
These reforms are headed by Treasurer Jim Chalmers. He has been advocating for their adoption and is of the opinion that without such reforms, the RBA will not be adequately prepared when crisis strikes again. He holds as clear evidence the behaviour by the RBA regarding interest rates during the COVID-19 epidemic. Many critics argued that the RBA was slow and inflexible during the economic shocks imparted by the pandemic to Australia. But it's far from smooth sailing. Against him is a powerful political opponent-the Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor and the Liberal-National party who have effectively blocked the reforms in parliament. They claim that the existing structure of the RBA works just fine and see the proposed changes as unnecessary and possibly disruptive.
It has now become a political fight. On one side, there are those who feel the RBA needs to be modernized, more insulated from political pressure, and have a more diversified decision-making process. The opposing figures are those who feel any heavy restructuring would do more harm than good. Chalmers is not giving in, however. He has begun to negotiate with the minority parties, such as the Greens, trying to win them over for these reforms. And maybe that will involve compromise. He's going to have to water down what he originally proposed just to get it over. That makes the reforms almost unrecognizable.
The broader debate here has not been merely on the kind of structure involved in the RBA. It is about the degree to which politics should inform economic policy. Central banks such as the RBA are structured to be independent so that very tough decisions are made in support of the economy. However, critics argue that, in times of crisis at least, the RBA has not always acted this way.
The reformers regard this as an opportunity to put it right. A more independent RBA would do a better job of addressing issues like inflation and the prospect of some economic slowdown, and help Australia insulate itself from the shocks of global unpredictability.
On the other hand, LiberalNational party's unwillingness to assent for the reforms underlines the economic management-political influence 'out of kilter'. Their posture holds more symbolic meanings than sound action. So what if those reforms do not pass? Likely, the RBA will still be conducted under a system, which many observers believe, is unsound and probably unprepared to tackle the demands of the new economy. Since the RBA cannot change, the exposed economy will most probably respond more to external shocks, such as another global financial crisis, or even domestic inflationary pressures. Everything-from jobs to the interest rate on home loans-could be affected.
Precisely, the impact of the political battle will last beyond the reforms themselves. If
Treasurer Chalmers succeeds, it might set a precedent for further economic reforms, making RBA stronger and more independent by using their authority. But if he does not succeed, the opposition might block such attempts towards reforming Australia's economic institutions for many years to come.
Australia’s economic headwinds: A growing divide and looming crisis
Once considered an economy that was strong and resilient at different times, the Australian economy is standing at the crossroads. For the first time in the history of the country, it now faces critical problems that threaten to exacerbate social cleavages and erode long-term stability. It has hit rock bottom: record-low household savings are at a 17-year low. It is also further exacerbated by a sixquarter downturn in GDP per capita. Inflation may have peaked at 3.5% by July 2024, hardly of any comfort to the already stretched population as greater inequality and unsustainable spending habits grow. The older, asset-rich Australians are moreor-less weathering the storm; the younger generations and lower-income groups are rapidly becoming more vulnerable to the whims of the economy. It is pertinent to realize that today’s economic decisions will shape Australia's future.
One of the most telling signs of current ills is the sinking household savings ratio. It is now just saving 60 cents for every $100 earned- an incredible drop from the 16% savings ratio Australia enjoyed during the 1970s. The national savings ratio is at an all-time low and only came out better than last year for the first time since 2007. The implication is clear: Australians are increasingly going to rely on debt to sustain their lifestylesthe precarious trend plumbs deeper systemic issues. It would be especially sobering for lowincome households, which are increasingly turning to credit cards as a means of making ends meet for everyday purchases. It's unsustainable financially and holds quite meaningful risks for the overall economy.
Another area of rapid concern is the growing divide among demographics. Older Australians, particularly those with financial assets, have benefited more than anyone else from rising asset prices as well as relatively stable incomes. Younger Australians, especially those with mortgage debt, are being squeezed by more stagnant wage growth as well as higher housing costs. It is increasingly apparent that economic policy over the past decades has been skewed very much towards asset holders putting a generation of younger Australians in precarious financial positions.
The most acute example is that of single women aged 50 plus who have often experienced the cruel twist of divorce. In such areas of life, for instance, many women in this age group have practically nothing to speak of in terms of secure financial situations -an emerging high cost of living and meagre retirement savings. The economic lives of
such women therefore stand as a representation of a more serious problem within society-the differences in earnings between males and females, combined with the lack of support for those who are considered to fall between the cracks within welfare. A disturbing scenario is that aging of the population leaves Australia facing the stark reality that much of its citizenry has too little ready for retirement life, and this alone could place yet more strain on public finances.
Some historical context to the problem comes from comparisons. While it had stood at 16 percent in the 1970s, the household savings ratio had declined in the aftermath of financial deregulation which started in the 1990s. Household borrowing increased sharply in response to liberalization of the credit markets, a process that, regarding household credit, continued unabated until the early 2000s. The crisis turned problems into catastrophes; the GFC derailed savings ratios negative for the first time in memory. While the pandemic saw a short period when savings rebounded positively, as households were not that adventurous in spending, this could not be sustained. Instead, now it has reversed the trend, and today Australians are increasingly using their savings to cover the increasing costs.
Household expenditure provides a depressing picture. Expenditure is standing at -0.2%, obviously indicating that Australians are depending on their savings to sustain their current standards of living. This is troublesome because it is leading to rising household debt. In other words, volatility in economic conditions is created, and this would become yet another unstable system that could be knocked out by external shocks or downturns. And because global economic trends remain uncertain, Australia's reliance on household debt is a sure risk for long-term stability. Other concerns related to Australia are not just in numbers but in people. Dealing with intergenerational inequality needs policies that properly address the gap between different vulnerable groups. Thus, the economic system is at the risk of leaving behind low-income Australians and young people as well as older single women aged over 50 within this new economy. The unviability of the current expenditure practice cannot be put into words. The utilization of credit cards has risen and savings have eroded. These trends are unsustainable in the near term, but spell further economic instability over the longer term. As households continue to pile up further levels of debt and save less, it would be likely for a
household debt crisis to assume higher risks. The policymakers are thus challenged by the need to arrest this trend decisively before it gets out of hand.
Solutions should hence be shortterm relief as well as long-term structural changes. Short-term measures should be policies that should relieve the burden of financial means on lower-income groups; targeted social welfare measures, for instance increasing housing, and access to low-cost living. That in itself would prove insufficient with regard to the causes of economic inequality and their depth due to the reason of change it demands itself. It would include much more fundamental reform in the collection of taxes and significant investment in public service by engaging the perspectives and needs of health and education.
As households continue to pile up further levels of debt and save less, it would be likely for a household debt crisis to assume higher risks. The policymakers are thus challenged by the need to arrest this trend decisively before it gets out of hand.
Economic stresses in Australia also possess a strong international dimension. Since the world economy is still unstable, Australia can by no means neglect any international forces that will impact its domestic economy. High interest rates, geopolitical tensions and volatile commodity prices may all press upwards on those economic headwinds. In that light, Australia must employ vigorous measures to regulate its economy, keeping it buoyant amidst uncertainty in the world at large.
The way forward won't be easy, but action must be taken. Indeed, in facing economic problems such as low savings in the household sector, and rising inequality, one has no choice but to focus on urgent policy initiatives. The policymakers need to take bold steps towards trying to address the underlying issues. Without meaningful intervention, demography will be the factor driving the widening of the economic gap, leaving a generation of Australians in an increasingly precarious financial landscape.
Improving the delivery of justice
New Delhi: Under the current regime at the Centre, there is a continuing effort to expedite the dispensation of justice for the common man.
Initiatives have been taken basically in the directions of a meaningful revision of laws, reform in the process of investigation by underscoring the importance of forensics and introduction of digitisation and related technologies for cutting down delays.
A number of amendments have been made in the IPC, CrPC and the Evidence Act with the twin objective of strengthening the 'deterrence' of punishment against crime and keeping the 'Citizens and their dignity first'.
Delays are sought to be minimised at various stages of the judicial process -- including investigation, prosecution and court hearings -- by laying down time limits on filing of charge sheets, providing for recording of evidence on video and encouraging announcement of early judgements through the avoidance of needless adjournments.
Evidently, the new laws and the method of their implementation needed to be explained to all stakeholders and the Centre has rightly directed the top training establishments of the Police to suitably add new points of orientation in their programmes.
The quantum expansion of the forensic skills needed by the investigators is now an important challenge which is being attended to in a systematic way.
Dispensation of timely justice to the people is basic to the stability of a democratic state and it is a matter of satisfaction that a comprehensive attempt is being made by the Centre to view this as a fundamental plank
of governance. The outcome of these transformational moves was eagerly awaited.
It is at the 44th All India Criminology Conference held at National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), Gandhinagar, in January 2024 that Union Home Minister Amit Shah explained that Parliament had in December 2023 earlier, passed new Penal Codes in replacement of the 150-year old IPC, CrPC and the Evidence Act -- abolishing laws that had a colonial imprint, providing new codes for delivering timely justice and also making sure that technology was embraced for boosting the conviction rate.
He announced that it had been made mandatory for a Forensic Science Officer to visit the crime scene of offences that had a punishment of imprisonment of seven years or more. He gave out that attaching priority to the growing threat of cyber crimes, the Centre had established the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) for enlarging the cyber security infrastructure and launching nationwide campaigns to raise public awareness about cyber safety issues.
As many as 313 changes were made in the old Penal Codes to respond to changing social and political trends in keeping with the principle that legal frameworks were created for society and must adopt to its needs for justice relevant to the times.
Some important provisions made in the new laws were directly meant to cut short delays in the dispensation of justice. No case will ordinarily last for more than three years -- from the institution of the criminal case to the passing of judgement by the trial court.
A time cap of 90 days has been put for filing charge sheets which could be extended by court for another 90 days -- thus allowing for a maximum of 120 days between the FIR and the submission of charge sheet.
The amendments in the law attach importance to the rights of the accused, introduce special
Investigation (CBI) linked to the alleged liquor policy scam, paving the way for his release as he has already secured bail in the ED case. However, it imposed several conditions.
Here are 10 key takeaways from the SC order, delivered by a division bench of Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan.
1. While out on bail, Kejriwal will not visit the Chief Minister's Office and the Delhi Secretariat.
2. He will not sign official files unless it is required and necessary for obtaining clearance/ approval of the Lt Governor(L-G).
3. Kejriwal will not make any
provisions to protect women and children and seek to prevent misuse of police powers. Police is obliged to inform a complainant about the status of the investigation on the completion of 90 days of the complaint and do it every 15 days after that.
Judges must deliver the judgement within 30 days of the completion of arguments and the judgement should be made available on line within seven days of the verdict.
No government can withdraw a case of imprisonment of seven years or more without hearing the victim. Prime Minister Modi's government introduced stringent laws to curbs sexual offences against women and children.
The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018, provided for death penalty in case of rape of a girl aged below 12 years with a minimum punishment of 20 years -- extendable to life imprisonment in case of rape of a girl below 16 years.
The minimum punishment in case of rape of a woman has been increased from seven years to 10 years extendable to life imprisonment. The new laws mandate that courts will issue orders based on the investigator's advice.
The concept of trial in absentia has been introduced ensuring that fugitives can be tried and sentenced even if they are not in the country. Further, crimes such as lynching, terrorism, armed rebellion and secessionism have been defined and provision made for confiscation of the property of such offenders.
Modernisation of Police Forces (MPF) scheme includes training programmes designed to foster good police-public relations and enhance trust of the people in law enforcement agencies.
The Centre has set the goal of achieving 90 per cent conviction rate. On the whole creating deterrence against crimes that caused destabilisation of society is a welcome step.
A basic problem with law and order management is that
public comments on the merits of the case, as it is sub judice before the trial court.
4. He will not interact with any of the witnesses or have access to any official files connected with the case.
5. Kejriwal will remain present before the trial court on each and every date of the hearing, unless granted exemption.
6. The AAP supremo will fully cooperate with the trial court for expeditious conclusion of the trial proceedings.
7. Dismissing Kejriwal’s plea challenging the legality of his arrest, Justice Surya Kant did not
Constitution-wise it is totally a responsibility of the states with Centre having no locus standi to exercise any oversight function except for an occasion where there was a complete breakdown of law and order paving the way for the Centre's intervention.
Political interference with the working of the Police, professionally incompetent officers securing senior positions because of favouritism and police stations failing to present a favourable picture to the lawabiding citizens -- these are the principal systemic reasons why India was unable to reach a uniform level of implementation of law and maintenance of order throughout the country.
If the new Penal Codes are implemented without any impediment being created by vested political interests and if the Police leadership sees to it that the concept of policing being a people-friendly function of the state was understood down the line, things would certainly improve.
A say of the Centre in the appointment of the Chief Secretary and the DGP of the state through the instrumentality of UPSC -- howsoever indirect -- would go a long way in uplifting the standards of law and order management and bringing justice to the people. The Supreme Court of India had an occasion to deprecate the trend of state governments appointing 'Officiating DGP' for their political convenience and lay down the broad procedure for the selection of a regular DGP.
It is not clear how the Centre availed of this support of the apex court in bringing about an upgradation of policing in the states.
At the diamond jubilee function of the Supreme Court held recently, both PM Narendra Modi and D.Y. Chandrachud, the Chief Justice of India, spoke of the need to make the judicial system more accessible to the common people.
The Prime Minister underscored the importance of 'ease of justice'
find any merit in his contention that the CBI failed to comply with Section 41A CrPC, in its true letter and spirit. Section 41A of the CrPC pertains to the issuance of a notice by a police officer to an individual when their arrest is not warranted, but their presence is still required before the investigating authority.
8. In his opinion, Justice Surya Kant, who headed the bench, said that CBI followed the procedure which is contemplated in terms of the intent and purpose of Section 41A CrPC.
9. Further, Justice Kant said that the trial court’s approval
terming the Supreme Court as the main instrument for ensuring the same and projected this as the right of every Indian citizen.
Recalling that 44 crore cases were pending in District Courts alone he recommended greater use of technology for reducing pendency. He wanted swift justice in offences against women to give them greater assurance of safety and pointed out that stricter laws had been enacted to deal with crimes against women and children.
He expressed confidence that e-court project and digitisation would speed up delivery of justice and urged Supreme Court to ensure that district judiciary was given suitable training in this regard.
The Chief Justice of India Chandrachud made the fundamental points that 'judging must be free of social and political pressures', that a judgement should be above 'inherent human biases' and that 'judiciary had a vital role in upholding democratic values'.
He observed that Supreme Court was created with a sense of idealism -- to interpret judicial matters in accordance with 'rule of law' and not by colonial values or social hierarchies -- and added that judiciary should serve as a bulwark against injustice, tyranny and arbitrariness.
He viewed the right to speedy justice as a fundamental right of citizens and added that Supreme Court had taken proactive measures to reduce pendency. Meanwhile, the new Law Commission which will start functioning in September has been mandated, among other things, "to implement a framework for effective management of court cases to eliminate delays and clear the backlog".
It is good to see that the government and the judiciary at the highest levels were engaged in tackling the issue of speedy justice.
(The writer is a former Director of the Intelligence Bureau. Views are personal)
of the CBI’s application to interrogate Kejriwal should be viewed as satisfying the essential requirements of Section 41A CrPC, adding that his arrest by the CBI was entirely permissible. 10. In a separate judgement, Justice Bhuyan did pose some questions about the timing and necessity of Kejriwal's arrest by the CBI.
Earlier in the day, the Rouse Avenue Court accepted the bail bonds furnished on behalf of Kejriwal and issued an order to release him from Tihar Jail.
D.C. Pathak
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) The Supreme Court on Friday granted bail to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in connection with the corruption case lodged by the Central Bureau of
Boeing reaches historic pay contract with workers’ union
San Francisco, Sep 8 (IANS)
Global aerospace major Boeing on Sunday announced it has reached a tentative pay agreement with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) which represents more than 33,000 employees. The pact has ended weeks of intense negotiations and avoiding a potential strike.
“We've heard what’s important to you for the new contract. And we have reached a tentative agreement with the union on a historic offer that takes care of you and your family,” said Stephanie Pope, Boeing
Looking
for
Commercial Airplanes President and CEO.
The contract offer provides the largest-ever general wage increase, lower medical cost share to make healthcare more affordable, greater company contributions toward your retirement, and improvements for a better work-life balance.
The IAM has been asking for a 40 per cent pay increase during their first full negotiation with Boeing in 16 years.
Pope further said that this contract deepens the company’s commitment to the Pacific Northwest.
“Boeing’s roots are here in Washington. It is where generations of workers have built incredible airplanes that connect the world. And it’s why we’re excited that, as part of the contract, our team in the Puget Sound region will build Boeing’s
next new airplane,” he said in a statement.
This would go along with our other flagship models, meaning job security for generations to come. It’s a big commitment to you and to our community, added the Boeing CEO. More than 33,000 employees are represented by “IAM 751” primarily in Washington and “W24” in Portland, Oregon. There is also a small group of employees in California. “This is the first full negotiation between Boeing and IAM 751 and W24 in 16 years. After ratification of a new contract in 2008, employees approved two contract extensions in 2011 and 2014. The current 8-year extension began in 2016,” according to the company.
Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defence products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries.
right partners to expand India footprint: Wyndham Hotels’ Dimitris Manikis
New Delhi, Sep 8 (IANS) The government's mega infrastructure push, particularly highway development, offers significant growth opportunities for the hotel industry and we are eager to identify the right partners who can help us establish a groundbreaking hospitality segment that will become a success story, Dimitris Manikis, President EMEA, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, said on Sunday.
Speaking to IANS, Manikis said that as road infrastructure and connectivity improve, more people are opting for road trips for business and leisure, boosting demand for quality accommodations along these routes in the country.
“We can strategically expand our presence by developing hotels near major highways and key service stations, providing travellers with convenient and comfortable options for overnight stays,” Manikis emphasised. By offering a reliable and welcoming environment, these hotels will cater to the needs of families, business travellers, and
tourists, enhancing their overall travel experience.
The world's largest hotel franchising company, Wyndham is set to launch its first luxury hotel in India with the likely opening of the Wyndham Grand in Udaipur next year.
Wyndham currently has more than 40 hotels in the country and is aiming to further expand its footprint. Last year was the best one for the company in India in terms of increased occupancy and revenue growth.
According to Manikis, the future of the Indian hospitality industry looks promising, driven by rising occupancy rates and a strong pipeline of new projects across all segments.
“From a Wyndham perspective, we are keen on expanding our footprint by continuing to grow the brands we have already brought to market while, at the same time, looking to introduce budget to mid-scale brands to meet the growing demand for affordable, high-quality accommodations, especially in tier 2 and tier 3 cities,” he told IANS.
The expansion comes at a time when buoyed by overall infrastructure growth and the expanding commercial market, the hospitality investment sector in the country showed robust growth in the first half of this year.
Hotel investment transactions reached $93 million and are expected to reach $413 million by year-end -- a 22 per cent increase compared to last year, according to reports. According to Manikis, establishing properties at strategic locations will help
$8 bn market opportunity awaits India’s social enterprises by next year: Hardeep Puri
New Delhi, Sep 11 (IANS) India’s social enterprises are witnessing rapid growth and the market opportunity and potential for them is estimated to be $8 billion by next year, Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister, Hardeep Singh Puri, has said.
The minister emphasised that social enterprises have always been a vital part of the Indian life, significantly impacting sectors such as agriculture, health, and education.
Speaking at an event in the national capital, the minister highlighted that these enterprises play a crucial role in improving the lives of millions and driving
them cater to travellers seeking convenient and comfortable stays, “positioning us to capture a larger market share”.
More and more Indian customers seek premium hotel experiences as disposable incomes rise.
The top Wyndham executive said that they are focused on expanding mid-scale brands to meet the growing demand for quality accommodations among the expanding middle-class and value-conscious travellers.
“This approach allows us to scale rapidly in key markets, including tier 2 and tier 3 cities, where economic activity and tourism are on the rise. By positioning our properties in these emerging areas, Wyndham offers both business and leisure travellers value-driven stays without compromising on quality, catering to the evolving preferences of Indian consumers,” Manikis noted.
When it comes to budget hotels with enhanced amenities, the company is actively increasing its presence in this segment.
“With 3,360 budget hotels established in 2023, this segment presents a significant opportunity for us. We see it as a chance to expand our presence and deliver quality hospitality to a broader range of travellers,” Manikis said.
As Indian consumers increasingly seek affordable yet comfortable accommodations, “our strategy is perfectly aligned to meet their needs, offering value-conscious guests an excellent experience without compromising quality”.
There has also been a growing trend of staycations, experiential travel and a rise in wellness tourism packages in India.
social progress across the country.
The increase in average deal size for social impact investmentsgrew from $7.6 million to $17.6 million between 2010 and 2016.
During the event, the minister also drew attention towards Social Stock Exchange (SSE), a pioneering initiative of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government aimed at providing social enterprises with enhanced visibility and access to capital.
The SSE offers a platform for these enterprises to attract investment, measure their social impact and demonstrate their effectiveness in addressing societal issues.
“Over 20 Social Enterprises have already listed on the exchange”, the minister noted.
The SSE vision, outlined by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman during her budget speech for the financial year 2019, gives socially-conscious firms the much-needed boost by offering an effective means of raising capital.
Rs 80 lakh crore being earmarked for logistics sector’s growth: Jayant Chaudhary
New Delhi, Sep 7 (IANS) There is a huge scope of growth in logistics industry with over 300 initiatives and Rs 80 lakh crore being earmarked for the growth of this sector, Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, said on Saturday.
The minister said the government is also creating an enabling ecosystem for the growth in this sector where skilling and education work hand in hand.
Launching ‘Swiggy Skills’ initiative during an event in the national capital, Chaudhary said that public-private partnerships can accelerate and create new avenues for the workforce in the sector.
“There are huge opportunities in this space, and we wish to see more corporates engaging with us,” the minister added.
Online food delivery platform Swiggy and the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) have collaborated to provide skilling and employment opportunities within its food delivery and quick commerce network.
According to Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, the partnership will increase the economic contribution of the retail and supply chain logistics sector while creating skilling, upskilling and reskilling opportunities for the workforce.
Rohit Kapoor, CEO of Swiggy Food Marketplace, said that India’s food and beverages and retail sectors are expanding rapidly, contributing around 13 per cent of the overall GDP and generating significant employment.
“As digitisation accelerates growth in these sectors, there is an urgent need for a skilled workforce across the entire value chain,” he added.
‘Swiggy Skills’ plans to integrate with MSDE’s Skill India Digital Hub (SIDH) across partners' apps, enabling almost 2.4 lakh delivery partners and the staff of two lakh restaurant partners to easily access online skill development courses, offline certifications, and training modules.
“In Swiggy Instamart operations, we will be able to provide recruitment to 3,000 individuals across the country. We have also planned to provide training and internship to 200 people trained by MSDE, in our quick commerce operations at the senior level,” Kapoor informed.
India showcases defence innovations at Land Forces Expo 2024
Melbourne, September 12
(Australia India News Newsdesk)
India showcased its advanced defence capabilities at the Land Forces Expo 2024, held recently in Melbourne. The event witnessed the inauguration of the 'India
Pavilion' by India's Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth.
During the expo, Minister Seth engaged with scientists and exhibitors representing the Defence Research and Development Organisation
(DRDO), Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), and various private companies. The Indian delegation highlighted cutting-edge technologies and innovations, reinforcing India’s growing expertise in the global defence sector.
Indian Minister pays tribute at Shrine of Remembrance
Melbourne, September 11
(Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar welcomed a high-level delegation
led by India’s Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, during his recent visit to Melbourne. Dr. Kumar briefed the minister on the robust and expanding relations
between Australia and India, with a focus on Victoria’s growing ties.
As part of his visit, Minister Seth paid homage at the Shrine of
Remembrance, honouring the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the two World Wars. His gesture reinforced the shared values of respect and
remembrance between the two nations, further strengthening relations between the two countries.
Consul General inaugurates Food & Beverage Buyer-Seller meet
Melbourne, September 2
(Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar
inaugurated the Buyer-Seller Meeting in the food and beverage sector on August 29 in Melbourne. The event was organized by the
Trade Promotion Council of India.
18 Indian exporters showcased
a diverse range of products, engaging in productive discussions with key importers from Victoria. The event
facilitated strong business connections, enhancing trade ties between India and Australia in the food and beverage industry.
Indian dance workshop showcased
Melbourne, September 2
(Australia India News Newsdesk)
A vibrant workshop on Indian dance forms took place recently at the Consulate General of India in Melbourne. The event, organized in collaboration with the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Sydney, and Rachana Natyalaya, offered participants of all ages the chance to experience both classical and contemporary Indian dance styles.
Sydney Consulate hosts one-day Consular camp in Newcastle
September 9
Sydney,
(Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India in Sydney organized a one-day
Consular camp on September 8 at the Shortland Brenner Room,
University of Newcastle, New South Wales. This initiative aimed to provide convenient access to consular services directly to the local community.
Vrindavan Garden and Krishna statue unveiled at Bendigo’s Great Stupa
Melbourne, September 4
(Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion in Bendigo recently hosted the inauguration of
the Vrindavan Garden and the unveiling of a Lord Krishna statue. The event, marking Sri Krishna Janmashtami, was officiated by Speaker of the
Victorian Parliament Maree Edwards MP, and Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar, in collaboration with the Kerala Hindu Society Bendigo.
The celebration, which highlighted India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, saw attendance from Cr. Andrea Metcalf, Mayor of the City of
Greater Bendigo, Ian Green OAM, Director and Chairman of the Great Stupa, Captain Dr. Smriti Murali Krishna, and members of the vibrant Indian diaspora.
CG launches India Pavilion at Melbourne’s Fine Food Australia Expo
Melbourne, September 6
(Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General (CG) Dr. Sushil Kumar inaugurated the India
Pavilion at the ‘Fine Food Australia’ exhibition, held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from September 2-5, 2024.
The pavilion featured 13 Indian exhibitors, led by Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) Chairman Abhishek
Dev. Additionally, 45 exhibitors from the Trade Promotion Council of India and Spices Board India participated in the event. APEDA also hosted a networking
reception to strengthen connections between Indian exporters and local food and beverage importers.
Ganesh Chaturthi celebrated in Perth with traditional dances
Perth, September 9 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Marathi Association Perth (MAP) recently organized a
vibrant Ganesh Chaturthi celebration. It was attended by Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi along with other attendees.
The event featured traditional and contemporary performances, including Lavani dance and song, and concluded with a theatrical
presentation depicting notable figures from Maharashtra through a time travel theme, impressively delivered by community members.
Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival birthday of Hindu deity Ganesha.
Kerala-born Jinson Anto Charls named NT Minister
Perth, September 9 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Jinson Anto Charls, CLP representative for Sanderson and originally from Kerala, has been appointed Minister for Multicultural Affairs in the new Northern Territory Government
cabinet led by Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro MLA. In addition to his role in multicultural affairs, he will oversee portfolios including People, Sport and Culture; Disability; Arts; Youth, Seniors and Equality; and Veterans
Indian Railway chief meets Consul
General in Perth Perth, September 11 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Principal Executive Director (Infrastructure) at India’s Ministry of Railways Dr. Pranai Prabhakar visited the Consulate in Perth recently. During his visit, he met with Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi. Dr. Prabhakar is in Perth representing India at the International Heavy Haul Association (IHHA) Board meeting.
CGI hosts reception in honour of visiting minister
Melbourne, September 11
(Australia India News Newsdesk)
In honour of India’s Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, Dr. Sushil Kumar, the Consul General of India (CGI), hosted a special reception in Melbourne recently. The event was an occasion to bring together members of the Indian diaspora . During his address, Minister
Seth expressed gratitude to the Indian community for their pivotal role in enhancing the strong, multifaceted ties between Australia and India. He also acknowledged their efforts in promoting Indian culture and traditions within multicultural Victoria, fostering a sense of unity and pride among Indian Australians.
Tree plantation drive organized in Parramatta
Sydney, September 2 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Dr. S. Janakiraman, alongside Parramatta City Council Lord Mayor Cr. Pierre Esber and other
elected officials, organized a tree plantation drive on September 2 at Jubilee Park, Parramatta. The
event, part of the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative, aimed to promote environmental sustainability and community involvement.
Onam celebration features cultural performances
Perth, September 9 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Perth United Malayalee
Association Inc (PUMA) recently hosted vibrant Onam festivities with Consul General Amarjeet
Singh Takhi in attendance, along with other members of the Indian diaspora. The celebration
featured a sumptuous Onasadya and lively cultural performances by community children and
youth, including folk songs and classical Mohiniyattam dance.
Consul General and officials attend Vietnam National Day FICQ discusses community needs with Queensland leaders
Perth, September 4 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi joined Stephen Dawson MLC, Minister for Innovation and Digital Economy, and Mayor Terresa Lynes of the City of Gosnells at the 79th National Day celebrations of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, hosted recently by Consul General Nguyen Thanh Ha. Mayor Lynes shared her positive experiences from a recent trip to Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, and discussed her upcoming plans to explore southern India.
Brisbane, September 11 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) Executive Committee recently held a productive meeting with Queensland’s Opposition Leader David Crisafulli MP and Joh-Paul Langbroek MP, Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism. Discussions
centered on the challenges faced by the Indian diaspora, including the lack of community event spaces and sporting facilities. Plans for the construction of the House of India, a multipurpose facility, were also shared, with the MPs acknowledging available funding and expressing their support for the project.
Victoria’s Governor and CG discuss boosting India relations
Melbourne, September 4 (Australia India News Newsdesk) Consul General (CG) Dr. Sushil Kumar attended a reception hosted by the Governor of Victoria, Prof. the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC. The event focused on exploring and enhancing opportunities to further strengthen relations between Victoria and India.
Maroonprint Election Assembly
Queensland leaders address key policy issues
Brisbane, September 4 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Queensland Community Alliance recently hosted the Maroonprint Election Assembly,
giving the community a chance to hear directly from Queensland Premier Steven Miles MP and Opposition Leader David Crisafulli MP. Assembly Co-
chair Christine Castley, CEO of Multicultural Australia, presented key policy proposals during the event.
Fiji Senior Citizens Association of Queensland marks 20th anniversary
Brisbane, September 1 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Fiji Senior Citizens Association of Queensland Inc. celebrated its 20th anniversary recently, honouring the elders who helped establish a vibrant Fijian community in Queensland. The event emphasized the importance of supporting and uplifting seniors. Attendees included Senator Paul Scarr,
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, and Opposition Leader David Crisafulli MP, alongside various community leaders.
The South Asian Genes and Health in Australia (SAGHA)
‘Special and historical’: PM Modi applauds India’s best-ever performance at Paralympics
New Delhi, Sep 9 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has commended Indian para-athletes who bagged 29 medals at the Paralympic Games held in Paris, marking the country's best-ever performance at the Games. The Prime Minister took to social media platform X to hail
the "unwavering dedication and indomitable spirit" of these paraathletes.
"Paralympics 2024 have been special and historical," Prime Minister Modi said in a post on X.
"India is overjoyed that our incredible para-athletes have brought home 29 medals, which is the best ever performance since India’s debut at the Games. This achievement is due to the unwavering dedication and indomitable spirit of our athletes.
Their sporting performances have given us many moments to remember and inspired several upcoming athletes," he added.
The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
lowered the curtain on Sunday evening.
The closing ceremony at Stade de France was attended by approximately 64,000 spectators and more than 8,500 athletes and accompanying staff.
After 11 days of competition, Indian para-athletes won seven gold, nine silver, and 13 bronze medals at the Paris Paralympics. India's first medal in the Paralympics came in the 1972 Games, with Murlikant Petkar winning a gold medal in swimming. Prior to the 2024 Games, India had won 31 medals across 12 Paralympic Games.
Indian boxer Deepali Thapa becomes first-ever Asian Schoolgirl Champion
New Delhi, Sep 8 (IANS) Indian boxer Deepali Thapa made history by becoming the first-ever Asian Schoolgirl Champion, leading India to secure seven female titles at the Asian Championships. In the 33kg weight category, Thapa defeated Kazakhstan's Anelya Ordabek in the semi-finals and went on to face Ukraine's Liudmyla Vasylchenko in the final. Thapa, who had both height and skill advantages, dominated the match to claim the historic gold medal- the first ever awarded in the ASBC Asian Schoolboys Boxing Championships to a female boxer.
In the 35kg category, Kazakhstan's Assel Jalimbekova faced India’s Bhoomi in the final. Bhoomi, who displayed excellent technical skills, steadily outperformed her opponent to secure India's second title.
Nischal Sharma continued India's winning streak in the 37kg weight
class, overcoming Ukraine's Maria Matsiura in a closely contested final. Sharma used smart tactics to regain control in the third round and claim India’s third title.
In the 40kg final, Ukraine’s Oleksandra Cherevata defeated India's Laxmi Manjunath Lamani. Despite Lamani's aggressive start, Cherevata's height advantage and stamina gave her the edge in the final round, securing Ukraine's first gold in the tournament. India's Rakhi won the 43kg title by defeating Ukraine's Veronika Holub, using close-distance strategies and finishing the bout strong to earn India's fourth title.
In the 46kg category, Ukraine’s Maria Rafalska won a highly anticipated final against Kazakhstan’s Lashyn Dauletzhan. Despite Dauletzhan's height advantage and defensive skills, Rafalska's determination led her to victory.
Kazakhstan’s Nuraiym Kudaybergen claimed her country’s first gold in the 49kg category by defeating Ukraine's Kateryna Smolkina. Kudaybergen controlled the bout from the start with her effective jabs and solid defense.
In the 52kg final, India's Naitik
showcased her stamina and skill to win against Kazakhstan's Arina Orazymbet, adding another title to India's tally.
Other notable performances included Ukraine's Anhelina Rumiantseva, who won the 55kg title, and Kazakhstan's Ailin Khodzhamberdiyeva, who triumphed in the 58kg final. Kazakhstan's Ayaulym Ospanova also claimed victory in the 61kg category by overpowering India's Diya in a dominant performance. Kazakhstan’s Madina Nurmanova won the 64kg title after a hardfought match against Ukraine's Ksenia Kotsokhub. In the 67kg final, India's Trushana Vinayak Mohite secured a comfortable victory over Ukraine’s Anna Hornostal, while Kazakhstan’s Diana Nadyrbek won the 70kg title by defeating India’s Manshi Malik.
The day concluded with India’s Gurseerat Kaur winning the last of the 15 titles in the schoolgirls' category. The Asian Championships featured 26 nations, including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine, with standout performances from athletes like Chinese Taipei’s Su Hsin Yu, who impressed the crowd with her skills and charisma.
‘I’m taking it as motivation’, says para-athlete Sandeep to PM Modi on his third successive 4th-place finish
New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) Indian para-athlete Sandeep Chaudhary, who finished in fourth place for the third time in a row in as many Games, is unfazed about missing the podium in his third appearance at the Paralympics Games and has taken it as motivation for himself as well as for other athletes for the next
edition of the mega sporting spectacle in 2028 in Los Angeles.
Speaking about his third consecutive fourth-place finish, when Prime Minister hosted the Paris Paralymians at his residence on Thursday, Sandeep said he will be the first one to motivate others with his successive fourth-place finish, as it will encourage other athletes, who missed out on a medal in their first attempt, to keep doing hard work until you achieve the success.
"I finished fourth in Rio (2016), Tokyo (2020), and now in Paris (2024) as well... It feels like
The time is ripe to groom young Indian Test side
The competition brewing between cricket players for a place in the Indian Test side is very good for Indian cricket. However, to groom the young talent and make them quickly and forcefully effective is the key to success. Especially, with the World Test Championship final looming on the horizon next year.
Young daring cricketers are emerging from all corners of India, each one being confident and skillful enough to make their mark. One may seem to see harmony amongst them when they are on the field representing India, however, there is definitely no love lost when so many of them are vying for the only 11 spots to fill.
In boxing terms, a street fighter is one who has not honed his skills through systematic training but on the notorious streets. The Indian cricket stars of the recent past and the ones emerging have tales of rising to the top from unchartered places as well. These are the cricketers who from street fighters have become “Prize fighters” those who seem to revel when reaching their goal.
Jaspreet Bumrah, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Hardik Pandya, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj and even the great Mahendra Singh Dhoni, are a few examples of them. They all have one strong trait and characteristic and that is to swim and survive through any turbulence that they face.
The present Indian cricket seems to breed so many of them and selecting an Indian side in any of the formats has become a very taxing task for the selectors.
3 Indian debutants who came through with flying colors against England in the last Test series, are most likely to be benched against Bangladesh.
The trio of Sarfaraz Khan, Devdutt Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel will make way for K.L. Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja. One can understand the inclusion of Jadeja as an extra spinner in Indian conditions, however, for the young brood to be replaced by their more established colleagues is not fair. A prime example of this was Karun Nair, who after scoring a triple hundred, a rare feat in Test cricket, was dropped in the very next match. Cricket, like most things in life, is played as much mentally, as on the field. It needs a positive flow of confidence to consistently do well and if that thread is broken, weaving it back can become difficult. Unfortunately, Karun Nair, could not do so and failed to live up to his earlier success upon his return.
Both K.L. Rahul and Rishabh Pant have done great service and played some magnificent cricket in the past, however, a series against Bangladesh is an ideal platform to nurse the next in line, especially, players who have shown to be ready to play amongst the big boys.
This takes one back to the making of Mumbai players. They were and are renowned for having, as one popularly called it, a “Khadoos” attitude. Although, in normal terms it means grumpy and unfriendly, the Mumbai players see it as a sole focus of never giving up or giving an inch or losing heart.
That is precisely why Mumbai and Bombay earlier have had such a distinguished list of Indian Test batters. Presently, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Ajinkya Rahane and the newest being Sarfaraz Khan have kept the baton going.
the number four has a special connection with me. But I’m taking this fourth place as motivation because the next Paralympics will be my fourth Games," he said to PM as the room erupts with laughter.
"I will be the first para-athlete to inspire others with a fourth-place finish. There are a few athletes who also finished fourth and feel disappointed, but I feel good about it, because their coaches are encouraging them, using me as an example, saying, "Look at him," he added.
The historical problem that Indian cricket has faced over all these years has been the failure to take a forceful decision on the selection of players of the national side. The safe and secure option has normally the one that has been opted for. This has been taken to ensure and secure one against possible brickbats or criticism. The present selectors need to break this syndrome. Cricket in India has become a profession and for one to make it to playing internationally for the country requires a lot of sweat, hard work and a singular focus to achieve one’s goal.
For players, after going through the hard yards and having done well, one is, therefore , perplexed as to why young talented Indian cricketers should be benched once senior players return. The
The Mumbai attitude has gradually filtered into players from other parts of India as well. One can see the focus and the determination in the eyes of an Indian player making ones debut and Test cricket is the only true platform where this becomes most relevant. In the limited overs, due to the overs restriction, one can be forgiven for playing a false shot, whereas, in Test cricket it is not so.
The performance in domestic cricket is always talked about as being the stepping stone to the next level of playing for the country. Sarfaraz, Padikkal and Jurel have done so and have also performed well for India. One can understand their disappointment on being side-stepped, especially, to play against Bangladesh, a side against whom they may have been able to seal their place in the Indian side for good.
Meet the powerful women shaping pop culture trends
India experiences a fascination with anime characters, particularly females, marking
Mitsuri Kanroji (Demon Slayer)
Mitsuri Kanroji charms with her cheerful demeanor and exceptional swordsmanship, adding depth to the Demon Slayer Corps.
Nezuko Kamado (Demon Slayer)
Nezuko Kamado captivates audiences with her unwavering determination and loyalty to protect her brother, Tanjiro while battling demons in a world of darkness.
a departure from the days dominated by fictional figures like Wonder
and
Tsunade (Naruto) Known for her unparalleled strength and wisdom, Lady
embodies resilience and leadership as the Fifth
of the Hidden Leaf Village.
Anya Forger (Spy X Family)
Anya Forger along with Yor Forger, navigates a world of espionage with humour and heart, showcasing the strength of family bonds.
Catwoman. In this evolving cultural landscape, it's incredible to see iconic figures such as Lady Tsunade from Naruto and Usagi Tsukino from Sailor Moon have captured the hearts of fans with their unwavering strength and resilience.
Through meticulous cosplay, dedicated enthusiasts not only pay homage to these characters but also embody the qualities of courage and empowerment they represent. Here are some of the standout characters that we have seen women cosplaying at Comic Con India:
Hinata Hayuga(Naruto)
Evolves from a timid ninja to a fierce warrior, showcasing determination and loyalty as she fights alongside Naruto and marries her
Usagi Tsukino (Sailor Moon)
Usagi Tsukino, also known as Sailor Moon, symbolises hope and courage as she battles evil forces to protect the world with her fellow Sailor Guardians.
Breaking Free from Professional Habits
Asseasoned professionals, we often pride ourselves on our expertise and accumulated knowledge. However, what if some of that knowledge is holding us back? What if the habits we've developed over decades are actually hindering our progress rather than propelling us forward? My own journey in unlearning, particularly through the lens of my experience with swimming, sheds light on the importance of breaking free from ingrained habits and embracing change in our professional lives.
Allow me to share a personal anecdote that resonates deeply with the concept of unlearning. Despite my passion for swimming, I found myself struggling to improve for over four decades. It wasn't because of a lack of effort or determination, but rather because I had learned the wrong techniques at an early age. Swimming alongside friends in a river, I absorbed habits that stuck with me throughout my life, hindering my progress despite my best intentions.
Finally acknowledging the need for change, I enrolled in a beginner's swimming course.
The process of unlearning was arduous; it required me to confront not only physical challenges but also the mental resistance to change. Watching others progress while I struggled to undo years of ingrained habits was a humbling experience. Yet, with perseverance and dedication, I began to see incremental improvements.
The parallels between my swimming journey and professional life are striking. Just as I had unknowingly absorbed detrimental habits in swimming,
so too can we pick up negative behaviours in our careers. Our first job, our initial experiences with bosses and colleagues— they all shape our professional identity. Yet, over time, some of these habits can become obstacles to growth and success.
Too often, we attribute our professional challenges to external factors—the current workplace culture, our managers, or the industry itself. Yet, true growth requires introspection and a willingness to unlearn ingrained behaviours that no longer serve us. It's about challenging the status quo, breaking free from the comfort of familiarity, and embracing the discomfort of change.
Unlearning is not a one-time event but an ongoing process— one that demands resilience, humility, and self-awareness. It requires us to confront our own limitations and biases, to question long-held assumptions, and to embrace new perspectives and ways of working. It's about recognizing that the path to success is not always linear, and that failure is an essential part of the learning process.
In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, the ability to unlearn and relearn is more critical than ever. The skills and knowledge that brought us success in the past may not be sufficient to navigate the challenges of tomorrow. By embracing the art of unlearning, we open ourselves up to new possibilities, innovation, and growth.
Business leaders, I urge you to reflect on your own professional journey.
Navigating the music industry & rights
To raise awareness of IP rights in the music industry and educate music creators and independent artists on the critical aspects of the music business and
publishing, the Indian Performing Right Society Ltd. (IPRS), the representative body of authors, composers, and publishers of music dedicated to safeguarding their rights has recently launched a pan India campaign ‘My Music My Rights’ in association with Dolby India, In its inaugural workshop in
Chandigarh as part of the My Music My Rights campaign, the IPRS marks a significant milestone in its mission to support and empower music creators nationwide. Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Pune are some of the cities that will witness similar workshops to highlight the aforementioned objectives
of the campaign to independent creators in the coming days.
According to a study conducted by EY titled 'The Music Creator Economy: The Rise of Music Publishing in India,' India generates 20,000 original songs annually, contributing over Rs. 12,000 crore in revenues. Despite this, financial challenges
are common among creators. Among the 500 respondents surveyed, 87% wished to make a living solely from music, but only 60 percent achieved it. The majority felt the need to enhance their music production skills and improve monetization, while only 56 percent had the necessary equipment.
Woman
Lady
Tsunade
Hokage
Egypt, Singapore, Dubai, Vietnam, and Thailand emerge as top destinations amongst Indian travellers
As the summer season approaches, travellers can now embark on their summer adventures with confidence, knowing they're headed towards experiences that align with their preferences and desires. Atlys, an online platform for visa applications, unveils the top destinations and emerging travel trends based on its extensive data analysis.
"We're excited to see such diverse travel interests among our users," says Mohak Nahta, Founder & CEO of Atlys. “While international travel keeps growing in India, and more and more Indians
contribute to the global, these insights enable us to better tailor our services to meet the evolving needs of travellers worldwide."
According to the report, Egypt, Singapore, Dubai, Vietnam, and Thailand emerge as the top countries for which Indian travellers have applied for visas for summer vacations, offering an enticing mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation for travellers of all interests.
Conducting extensive research on gender-wise distribution, male travellers dominate the visa application scene, representing 77 percent in the United Arab
Emirates (UAE) and 71 percent in Singapore. Meanwhile, 30 percent of women travellers applied for Singapore visas, and 25 percent of women applied for UAE visas. Data reveals a diverse age distribution among travellers. While younger demographics, particularly those in the age group of 20 to 35, are prominent, there's a notable representation across various age brackets, indicating the universal appeal of these destinations. The reach also provided insights on city-wise travel. The City of Gold, Dubai turn out to be popular among Indian cities with Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad leading the pack. Cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi are among the top contributors to the Vietnamese travel surge. Indian cities, including Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi, display a strong interest in exploring Singapore, the Lion City's charms. Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi showcase a keen interest in Egyptian wonders, followed closely by cities like Chennai and Hyderabad.
Egypt, Singapore, Dubai, Vietnam, and Thailand emerge as top destinations amongst Indian travellers
F
ollowing the successful certification of Atlantis Aquaventure in 2023, Atlantis Dubai announced that Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal have also earned the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This certification marks the first resort destination in the Eastern Hemisphere to achieve this status. It reflects the team’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional experiences to guests with diverse needs and ensuring an inclusive environment.
"We are incredibly proud to become the first resort destination in the Eastern Hemisphere to earn the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation," said Kelly Timmins, Director of Marine Animal Operations and Sustainability at Atlantis Dubai. "Partnering with IBCCES is part of our long-term Corporate Social Responsibility strategy under the Atlantis Atlas Project, with initiatives focused on supporting people
and the planet on our journey to becoming a sustainable tourism business. We look forward to welcoming all guests to Atlantis Dubai for an enjoyable and memorable experience."
IBCCES awards the CAC™ designation to organisations that complete a training and review process to understand better and assist autistic and sensorysensitive guests and other persons of determination. This designation ensures that at least 80 percent (an IBCCES minimum requirement) of colleagues are trained in autism and sensory awareness and are fully equipped to provide service to people on the autism spectrum. In collaboration with IBCCES, Atlantis Dubai staff underwent extensive training to understand the range of potential guest needs. More than 90 percent of guest-facing colleagues across both resorts took training in Autism & Sensory Awareness (ASA). In addition, the Learning & Development team developed a Weekly Briefing Topic on Autism and Sensory Awareness, which an additional 1,500 colleagues
Ultimate summer escape to the gateway of the northeast
As the temperatures rise, there's no better time to plan a getaway to one of these opulent resorts, where comfort meets sophistication. From tranquil valleys to riverside havens, each of these resorts offers an oasis of relaxation amidst the bustling city life.
Grand, Guwahati
Join us as we explore the perfect destinations for your summer break in Guwahati, including the iconic Mayfair Spring Valley Resort and other establishments that promise to make your vacation truly unforgettable.
Mayfair Spring Valley Resort
completed across Atlantis Dubai. In addition to training, further achievements include:
The Atlantis Dubai website hosts an accessibility tab that provides guests with downloadable sensory guides. Outlined for rooms and restaurants at Atlantis, The Palm and Atlantis The Royal, as well as experiences across Atlantis Aquaventure, these guides provide a sensory rating, allowing people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to pre-plan their visit to the destination.
Allocated quiet zones are available across both resorts in case people need a moment of respite from sensory stimulation. Locations include the concierge lounge, outdoor cabanas, Imperial Club lounge, and the Explorers Club underwater theatre at Atlantis, The Palm, and the Royal Club lounge, outdoor cabanas, Royal Majlis banquet lounge, and the Explorers Club lounge at Atlantis The Royal.
By completing the CAC™ programme, Atlantis Dubai is helping to lead the way as part of a broader Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) initiative for Dubai to become the first Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) in the Eastern Hemisphere. In just one year, the city has already reached the halfway point, and this significant milestone, achieved under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, underscores Dubai's dedication to inclusivity and accessibility for all travellers.
Kiranshree Grand stands as a beacon of luxury and sophistication in Guwahati, offering a refined retreat for discerning travellers. The hotel boasts opulent accommodations, ranging from elegant rooms to luxurious suites, each designed to provide the utmost comfort and style. Guests can indulge in culinary delights at the hotel's gourmet restaurants, where a team of expert chefs curates an exquisite dining experience. With its impeccable service and attention to detail, Kiranshree Grand promises an unforgettable summer escape in the heart of the city.
Situated in the heart of the city, Vivanta Guwahati offers a blend of contemporary luxury and traditional hospitality. The spacious rooms and suites are designed to provide the utmost comfort, while the rooftop infinity pool offers a refreshing retreat from the summer heat. Indulge your taste buds at the hotel's signature restaurant, serving a curated selection of local and international cuisine. With its convenient location and impeccable service, Vivanta Guwahati is the perfect choice for a stylish summer getaway.
Nestled amidst the serene valleys of Guwahati, Mayfair Spring Valley Resort epitomizes luxury and tranquillity. With its lavish accommodations ranging from deluxe rooms to secluded villas, every corner of this 5-star haven exudes opulence. Immerse yourself in a world of indulgence as you dine at the Bay Leaf Restaurant, offering delectable delights amidst breathtaking views of rolling hills. Whether you choose to unwind by the pool or explore the nearby attractions, Mayfair Spring Valley Resort promises an unforgettable summer escape.
Offering a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, Novotel Guwahati GS Road is an ideal choice for discerning travellers seeking a luxurious summer getaway. The spacious rooms feature modern amenities and stylish décor, providing a haven of relaxation after a day of exploration. Guests can savour exquisite cuisine at the hotel's all-day dining restaurant or unwind with a refreshing cocktail at the rooftop bar. With its central location and impeccable service, Novotel Guwahati GS Road promises a memorable stay.
Kiranshree
Vivanta Guwahati
Novotel Guwahati GS Road
SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn launches crew for 1st-ever ‘all-civilian’ spacewalk
Elon Musk-led SpaceX's Polaris Dawn spacecraft on Tuesday launched the first-ever crew for 'all-civilian' spacewalk.
The first commercial spaceflight mission with a spacewalk carries billionaire Jared Isaacman, along with three others, for the allcivilian spacewalk. It lifted off atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket today at after 5:23 a.m. EDT (2:54 PM IST) from historic Launch Complex-39A at NASA's Kennedy
Space Center (KSC).
“Liftoff of Polaris Dawn!” SpaceX said in a post on X.
The mission has been delayed since August, first over a helium leak and then weather played spoilsport.
Polaris Programme was launched by billionaire Jared Isaacman -- the commander of the first "all-civilian" space mission Inspiration4, launched in 2021.
Polaris Dawn is the first of three planned missions under the programme,
Along with Isaacman, the mission launched pilot Scott "Kidd" Poteet, mission specialist Sarah Gillis,
and medical officer Anna Menon.
The mission will be free-flying and will go to a “very high altitude that humans haven’t gone to in 50-plus years,” Isaacman said earlier. Only Apollo was higher. During the mission, the teams will conduct research to better understand the effects of spaceflight and space radiation on human health.
“While on-orbit, the Polaris Dawn crew will conduct 36 research and science experiments from 31 partner institutions to expand our knowledge of humans adapting, living, and working in space,” Polaris Dawn said in a post on X.
Aiming to launch first uncrewed Starship mission to Mars in 2 years: Musk
San Francisco, Sep 8 (IANS) Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk on Sunday said that the first uncrewed Starship mission will be launched to the Red Planet in two years when the next EarthMars transfer window opens.
Starship is the world's most powerful rocket and will be used to send humans to the Moon and then eventually to Mars.
In a post on X social media platform, the tech billionaire said that “the first Starships to Mars will launch in 2 years when the next Earth-Mars transfer window
opens”.
“These will be uncrewed to test the reliability of landing intact on Mars. If those landings go well, then the first crewed flights to Mars will be in 4 years,” Musk announced.
According to him, flight rate will grow exponentially from there, with the goal of building a selfsustaining city in about 20 years.
“Being multi-planetary will vastly increase the probable lifespan of consciousness, as we will no longer have all our eggs, literally and metabolically, on one planet,” said the X owner.
His aerospace company SpaceX has created the first fully reusable rocket stage and, much more importantly, made the reuse economically viable.
“Making life multi-planetary is fundamentally a cost per tonne to
Mars problem. It currently costs about a billion dollars per ton of useful payload to the surface of Mars,” informed Musk.
That needs to be improved to $100,000/tonnes to build a selfsustaining city there, “so the technology needs to be 10,000 times better. Extremely difficult, but not impossible,” he added. SpaceX recently launched the third test flight of its 400-foot-tall Starship rocket, along with the Heavy booster. Starship consists of a giant first-stage booster called Super Heavy and a 50 metres upper-stage spacecraft known as Starship.
The SpaceX CEO eventually plans to shift at least one million people to Mars. "Humanity should have a moon base, cities on Mars and be out there among the stars," the X owner said.
Over 250 chip firms from 24 countries to participate in ‘Semicon India 2024’
New Delhi, Sep 10 (IANS) More than 250 companies from 24 countries are set to participate in the ‘Semicon India 2024’ event in Greater Noida from September 1113, showing the country’s growing presence in this critical sector, the government has said. According to the Ministry of Electronics and IT, these companies span the entire semiconductor supply chain, from equipment manufacturers to fabs, presenting a significant opportunity for business-tobusiness interaction and forging new partnerships.
Akash Tripathi, CEO of the Indian Semiconductor Mission (ISM) said the mega event will provide a platform for all major semiconductor supply chain players.
“In India, with the ongoing construction of the five semiconductor projects, the need for all ecosystem components is paramount. ‘Semicon India 2024’ provides the perfect environment for the business-to-business interactions and partnerships to take place," Tripathi noted.
Recognising the need for a robust and comprehensive policy framework, India has developed policies to support every segment of the semiconductor ecosystem, not just focusing on fabs but also including packaging, display wires, OSATs, sensors and more.
“Our first major project with Micron was approved at nearly Rs 22,000 crore, and Tata's joint venture with Taiwan’s Powerchip in Dholera is another shining example," Tripathi said.
Currently, there are five such proposals, with a total combined investment nearing Rs 1.52 lakh crore.
Ajit Manocha, President and
India at threshold of unshackling immense potential in chip ecosystem: Industry
New Delhi, Sep 9 (IANS) India stands at the threshold of unshackling its immense potential in building a robust semiconductor ecosystem, industry experts said here on Monday.
Ahead of the ‘Semicon India 2024’ which is being organised in Greater Noida from September 11 to 13, the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA) and SEMI announced a Semiconductor Executive Summit (SES), in collaboration with the IT Ministry and the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM), at Bharat Mandapam in the national capital on September 10.
The two events are set to attract global leaders from semiconductor companies and their ecosystems, marking a pivotal moment for India to demonstrate its growing potential in the semiconductor sector.
“India has all the right ingredients, including strong policy support and the willingness to lead. These events are pivotal in charting a course for India's growth in semiconductor manufacturing, which will also significantly boost electronics manufacturing and our position in the global market,” said Pankaj Mohindroo, Chairman, ICEA. This event, which will be organised in collaboration
with SEMI, Messe Muenchen India, and the Electronic Industries Association of India-ELCINA, aims to elevate India's semiconductor sector and establish the country as a significant global contender.
‘Semicon India 2024’ is being organised in collaboration with SEMI, Messe Muenchen India, and the Electronic Industries Association of India-ELCINA.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially inaugurate the event on September 11, with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also in attendance.
With countries like the United States, Taiwan, Japan and Europe at the forefront of the global semiconductor industry, these events represent a significant step for India to join this influential league.
Ajit Manocha, President and CEO of SEMI, said that India’s emergence as a key player in the semiconductor industry is a testament to its ambition and determination.
“For SEMI, this is our first event of this magnitude in India, and we see tremendous potential. With the right mix of talent, policy support, and innovation, I am optimistic about India’s future in the semiconductor ecosystem,” he added.
Maruti Suzuki India gears up to launch its first EV with 500-km range in Jan
CEO of SEMI, underscored India's unique advantages in becoming a global semiconductor powerhouse, highlighting the country’s strong foundation in design capacity, a large talent pool, and the backing of worldclass educational institutions as key factors positioning the country for success in the semiconductor sector.
Meanwhile, the US has announced a new partnership with India to explore semiconductor supply chain opportunities, which will include a “comprehensive assessment” of India’s existing semiconductor ecosystem, regulatory framework, workforce and infrastructure needs. That will serve as the “basis for potential future joint initiatives” to strengthen and grow this critical sector. Last week, India signed a semiconductor ecosystem partnership with Singapore during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit.
Maruti Suzuki India on Tuesday said the automaker is geared up to launch its first electric vehicle (EV) with a range of 500 km per charge in January next year.
The leading automaker announced this on the sidelines of the annual session of industry body Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) in the national capital.
Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director and CEO, Maruti Suzuki India, said that the company will will have a high-specification EV with a high-range of the order of 500 km and powered by a 60 Kilowatt-hour battery.
Maruti Suzuki India will also export EVs to markets like Europe and Japan.
The mid-size SUV, likely to be called eVX, is estimated to be priced above Rs 15 lakh, as per
reports, and will take on rivals like Tata Curve.ev and Mahindra & Mahindra’s Born EV lineup.
Takeuchi said the automaker will come up with a range of solutions for its EV customers to remove their concerns on owning an EV. The company will use the strength of its network for aftersale support.
"We are going to provide a complete ecosystem for the customers and solve for range anxiety, lack of EV infrastructure and residual value of EVs,” according to the company.
Last month, Maruti Suzuki India said as India aspires to become "Viksit Bharat" by 2047, it will introduce electric cars in the next few months towards a sustainable mobility future.
R.C. Bhargava, Chairman, Maruti Suzuki India, said the company will be introducing electric cars in the next few months.
“While electric car use increases, customers should be encouraged to buy cars using strong hybrid technology, or CNG or ethanol and biogas. Pure petrol and diesel car use should be minimised," Bhargava noted.
Study shows dangers of button battery ingestion in small children
New Delhi, Sep 9 (IANS) Night owls -- a person who is habitually active or wakeful at night -- tend to have a higher body mass index (BMI), larger waists, and more hidden body fat and thus are almost 50 per cent more likely to develop type 2 diabetes (T2D) than those who go to bed earlier, shows new research on Monday.
Previous studies have indicated that late chronotype -- people who prefer to go to bed late and wake up late -- live an unhealthy lifestyle, and are at higher risk of obesity and metabolic disorders including type 2 diabetes.
The new study showed that a late chronotype had a 46 per cent higher risk of developing diabetes, which suggests that the
increased risk of T2D can't be explained by lifestyle alone.
"We believe that other mechanisms are also at play," said lead researcher Dr. Jeroen van der Velde, from Leiden University Medical Centre, in the Netherlands.
"A likely explanation is that the circadian rhythm or body clock in late chronotypes is out of sync with the work and social schedules followed by society. This can lead to circadian misalignment, which we know can lead to metabolic disturbances and ultimately type 2 diabetes," van der Velde added.
To explore, the team studied the association between sleep timing, diabetes, and body fat distribution in more than 5,000 individuals who were divided into three groups: early chronotype (20 per cent), late chronotype (20 per cent), and intermediate chronotype (60 per cent).
The team measured all participants’ BMI and waist
circumference, while visceral fat and liver fat were measured in 1,526 participants, using MRI scans and MR spectroscopy, respectively.
About 225 were diagnosed with diabetes after a follow-up of 6.6 years.
Late chronotypes were found to be at higher risk of developing diabetes, had a 0.7 kg/m2 higher BMI, 1.9 cm larger waist circumference, 7 cm2 more visceral fat, and 14 per cent higher liver fat content, compared with those with an intermediate chronotype.
More visceral fat and liver fat were responsible for making people with a late chronotype to be at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes, van der Velde said.
The findings will be presented at the Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) in Madrid, Spain (September 9-13).
Rising consumption of processed, packaged food in India to affect health outcomes
New Delhi, Sep 7 (IANS) The rising consumption of processed and packaged food in India will likely affect health outcomes and policies may be required to regulate the nutritional content of these foods and promote healthier alternatives, a government paper has stressed. According to the paper, titled ‘Changes in India’s Food Consumption and Policy Implications,’ by the Economic Advisory Council (EAC) to the Prime Minister, across regions and consumption classes, “we observe a significant increase in the share of household expenditure on served and packaged processed food”.
This increase was universal across the classes but more pronounced for the country's top 20 per cent of households and significantly more in urban areas.
“While food processing is a growth sector and a significant creator of jobs, this rising consumption of processed and packaged food will also likely affect health outcomes,” the paper warned.
The Indian food and beverage packaging industry is experiencing substantial growth, with market size projected to increase from $33.73 billion in 2023 to $46.25 billion by 2028, driven by factors like rising consumption.
According to the paper, further research is needed to understand the nutritional implications of the growing consumption of packaged processed foods and policies may be required to regulate the nutritional content of these foods and promote
New Delhi, Sep 7 (IANS) Amid the global outbreak of mpox, a US CDC report shows that, unlike Covid-19, the monkeypox virus (MPXV) does not easily spread through the air.
The CDC's latest 'Morbidity and Mortality' weekly report included a study on 113 persons with mpox who travelled on 221 flights during 2021-22.
The results showed that none of the 1,046 passenger contacts got infected.
''Among the 1,046 traveller contacts followed by the US public health agencies, CDC identified no secondary cases,'' the report said.
The findings suggest that ''travelling on a flight with a person with mpox does not appear to constitute an exposure risk or warrant routine contact tracing activities''.
healthier alternatives.
The paper also analysed the relationship between nutritional intake and dietary diversity on the prevalence of Anaemia.
“As expected, we found that average Iron intake was inversely related to the prevalence of Anaemia; however, we discovered a significant negative relationship between the prevalence of Anaemia and dietary diversity in sources of iron,” it noted.
This strong inverse relationship was observed across state/UTs.
The analysis revealed that policies that aim to reduce anaemia among children and women would need to focus on improving iron intake and, more importantly, consider the dietary diversity of iron sources.
The report, however, acknowledged the limitations of excluding served and packaged processed food from the micronutrient analysis.
New Delhi, Sep 11 (IANS) If you are suffering from chronic pain in your body, it may be time to actively work towards losing that belly or abdominal fat, suggests research on Wednesday.
Reducing belly fat may help reduce chronic musculoskeletal pain particularly if it’s at multiple body sites, especially in women,
revealed the study, published in the open-access journal Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine.
Musculoskeletal pain, which affects about 1.71 billion people globally, affects bones, joints, ligaments, tendons or muscles. Previously published research has shown that obesity is associated with musculoskeletal pain, but it’s unknown if excess fat tissue is linked to chronic musculoskeletal pain at multiple body sites, said researchers from the universities of Tasmania and Monash in Australia.
“Abdominal adipose tissue was associated with chronic musculoskeletal pain, suggesting that excessive and ectopic fat depositions may be involved in the pathogenesis of multisite and widespread chronic musculoskeletal pain,” said the team.
They suggested reducing abdominal adiposity for chronic pain management.
The study analysed data from 32,409 participants -- half (51 per cent) were women, and their average age was 55.
This comes as the current outbreak is majorly driven by the clade 1b, which has historically been associated with increased transmissibility.
Mpox, currently spreading rapidly in Africa, infecting both adults and children, has been declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organization (WHO). It is also surging deaths, especially among children, raising concerns of being airborne.
''The situation is different during close contact however, where respiratory droplets could still play a role,'' said Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, co-chairman of the Indian Medical Association's National Covid-19 Task Force, in a post on X.
Outside of Africa, mpox's clade 1b has spread to Sweden and Thailand with one case each being reported so far.
However, the CDC recommends that people with mpox infections must isolate and delay travel until they are no longer infectious. Meanwhile, the CDC also pointed out that irrespective of variants, the findings apply to MPXV and both clade I and clade II mpox spread in the same ways. Primarily, it spreads via close physical or intimate contact with people infected with mpox lesions and ''less often via infectious respiratory secretions and fomites'', the CDC said.
PM Modi hails report showing India’s rapid strides in Swachhta Abhiyaan, dip in infant mortality
New Delhi, Sep 5 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday hailed a research work spotlighting the outcome of Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) in ushering in hygienic conditions in both rural and urban India, pivotal in checking infant mortality across the country.
Suffering from chronic pain? Blame that belly fat Mpox does not easily spread through air: US CDC
PM Modi took to X and shared a link to the research work on how SBM turned out to be a gamechanger in containing infant mortality. He also expressed happiness over the positive impacts of the programme including a significant reduction in infant and child mortality rates in the country.
“Happy to see research highlighting the impact of efforts like the Swachh Bharat Mission. Access to proper toilets plays a crucial role in reducing infant and child mortality,” PM Modi said. The research estimates that the provisioning of toilets under Clean India programme could avert approximately 60,000–
70,000 infant deaths annually.
“Clean, safe sanitation has become a game-changer for public health. And, I am glad India has taken the lead in this,” PM wrote further on X.
The leading research team conducted an analysis of the long-term association between India’s toilet coverage and infant mortality, and found that the benefits of Swachh Bharat Mission were visible in the reduction of child mortality.
The researchers analysed data from 35 states, spanning 640 districts spread over 10 years (2011–2020), with regard to Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) and UnderFive Mortality Rates (U5MR) (deaths per thousand live births). It found that as the construction of toilets increased dramatically under Swachh Bharat Mission 2014, the mortality rate also registered a significant decline.
“Results from panel data regression models show that districts with > 30 per cent toilets constructed under SBM corresponds with 5.3 lower IMR (p < 0.05), and 6.8 lower U5MR (p < 0.05),” it revealed.
“The post-SBM period in India exhibited accelerated reductions in infant and child mortality compared to the pre-SBM years,” it further pointed out.
Emotional skincare
For generations, the beauty industry has focused on achieving flawless skin, often with a product-centric approach. But what if our skin held the key to not just outward beauty, but also internal well-being? Enter the exciting realm of emotional skincare, a movement that bridges the gap between beauty and mental health, recognizing the profound connection between the two.
This shift is supported by growing scientific evidence. Psychodermatology, a branch of dermatology that explores the mind-skin connection, reveals how stress, anxiety, and depression can manifest in skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Conversely, healthy skin-care practices can positively impact our mood and emotional well-being.
So, how can we embrace emotional skincare?
Here are some key aspects: Move beyond simply applying products. Approach your skincare routine as a mindful self-care ritual. Focus on your breath, be present in the moment, and connect with your senses. This creates a space for relaxation and reduces stress, which benefits your skin.
Instead of chasing trends or unrealistic beauty standards, prioritise healthy functioning skin. Consult a dermatologist to understand your skin type and specific needs, and choose products accordingly. Remember, healthy skin doesn't have to be "flawless."
Gently massage your face while applying products to calm and reduce stress hormones. Facial massage can also improve circulation and lymphatic drainage, both beneficial for skin health and mental health.
While products can play a significant role, emotional skincare is about holistic wellbeing. Prioritise quality sleep, manage stress through activities like yoga or meditation and nourish your body with healthy foods. Remember, true beauty radiates from within.
Society often bombards us with unrealistic beauty ideals. Instead, cultivate self-compassion and acceptance. Celebrate your unique skin, scars, and all. This shift in perspective can significantly improve your mental health and your relationship with your skin.
Recent developments in emotional skincare:
The landscape of wellness and self-care is constantly evolving, and skincare brands are at the forefront of this movement, integrating holistic practices, like NeuroGlow (Mintel's 2024 trend), into their products and messaging. This mind-body connection, explored through the lens of Psychodermatology, is revolutionising how we approach skin health.
One key development lies in the rise of personalised skincare. By addressing individual skin concerns and emotional needs, brands empower individuals to create a connection with their routines.
Technology further empowers informed self-care through teledermatology, providing convenient online access to dermatological expertise. This removes barriers and fosters a deeper understanding of individual skin needs.
Mood science plays a crucial role in this conversation, as research increasingly reveals how emotions can impact our skin's health. Stress, for instance, can manifest as breakouts or exacerbate existing conditions. To address this, brands are incorporating aromatherapy into their offerings. Essential oils, with their moodboosting and calming properties, offer a natural approach to promoting emotional well-being and radiant skin.
Psychodermatology in Action:
Embracing emotional skincare is not just about achieving clearer skin, but about fostering healthier, happier skin and cultivating a radiant you –Inside and out. However, true transformation goes beyond the surface. The burgeoning field of Psychodermatology unveils the critical link between our emotions and skin health. This groundbreaking science delves into the skin-mind connection, the missing link in truly holistic beauty regimens. By understanding how stress, anxiety, and even happiness influence our skin, we can create personalized solutions that address the root cause of concerns, not just the symptoms. Therefore, embracing emotional skincare and delving deeper into the skin-mind connection isn't just a trend; it's the future of holistic beauty. It's about empowering individuals to achieve radiant skin and a sense of well-being that truly shines from within. By prioritising mindful practices, celebrating your unique beauty, and seeking professional help when needed, you can create a holistic self-care approach that benefits your skin and mental health.
Remember, true beauty radiates from a place of self-love and acceptance, and emotional skincare is a powerful tool to help you get there.
L’Oréal Professionnel brings back Indian Hairdressing Awards
Ahair tech brand, L'Oréal Professionnel, is set to introduce the iconic Indian Hairdressing Awards 2024, which occur once every two years, in an all-new format as a reality series streaming exclusively on JioCinema starting March 29th.
From over 100K entries for its theme “Meta-morphosis” which represents a real transformation, 89 regional finalists were chosen to compete on technical skills. They were judged by an eminent jury comprising international hair artists and beauty media representatives.
“L’Oréal Professionnel has taken giant strides into the future. Consumer and hairstylist centricity are our key drivers to elevate the professional hair industry in India. In the last two decades, the country’s professional hair salon landscape has evolved at a supersonic pace. The skill of Indian hairstylists is now at par with global hair artists’ and with the 2024 edition of The
Skincare Secrets for the Modern Man
Ageing is an inevitable part of life. While genetics, stress, and lifestyle habits may be factors that influence how fast you age, however, with the right skin care products, treatments, and lifestyle habits, you can promote healthy, natural ageing.Just like women, a grooming routine is essential for men of every age. Typically, a man’s skin is up to 25 percent thicker than a woman’s, and men are more susceptible to irritation and sensitivity from the impact of shaving. The good thing is, today,men recognise the importance of skincare and selfgrooming, and are investing more time and money to appear good, healthy,and younger.
Dr. Leena Aggarwal, Dermatologist, at Vibes Healthcare Ltd. shares with IANSlife age-defying skincare hacks to make every man look and feel your best every day.
sunglasses with UV protection. Retinol, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid to your rescue
Indian Hairdressing Awards, we wish to celebrate their infinite talent and potential," asserts Mathilde Barthélemy-Vigier, General Manager of L’Oréal Professionnel, India.
The final top 12 hairstylists will compete in a mega-augmented L’Oréal Professionnel salon. Judging their art and technique will be an illustrious panel featuring the renowned filmmaker, Karan Johar, and the L’Oréal Professionnel global color ambassador Min Kim.
The winners of the competition will win a trip to Paris and an opportunity to enhance their skills in Le Visionnaire, the prestigious L’Oréal academy in Paris.
The mandatory CTM routine Cleansing, Toning and Moisturising (CTM) your skin is a simple routine to start with. Cleansing the skin regularly twice a day is important to remove the dirt, debris, pollutants, and oil secretions from the skin's surface. Regular cleansing also minimises clogged pores and acne on the skin. Using a toner removes all dust or dirt adhered to the pores and maintains the pH of the skin. A toner is safe to use even after shaving. Post cleansing and toning, the skin usually becomes dry. For soft and supple skin, it is best to apply a moisturiser. It is advisable to use gentle yet effective productsthat do not contain any toxic ingredients. Look for AHAs (such as glycolic and lactic acids) and antioxidants such as vitamin C and resveratrol in toners, creams, and other skincare products.
Protect your skin from the sun
The sun is the biggest culprit of accelerated ageing. UV rays cause uneven pigmentation, sun spots, reduced skin elasticity, skin degradation, etc. Whether spending a day at the beach or running errands, sun protection is essential. Applying sunscreen, preferably SPF 30 (or higher) regularly will shield the skin from adverse effects of UV, UVA, UVB, and IR radiations. Additionally, you can protect your skin by covering up with lightweight and long-sleeved shirt, pants, cap, and
Go for products rich in these ingredients, be in the form of a mask, face wash, or serum. Retinol is widely known to have the best actual evidence for anti-ageing benefits. Although salicylic acid is better known as an acne treatment, this betahydroxy-acid (BHA) has some serious exfoliating powers, which makes it a good option for managing signs of ageing as well. Additionally, it can boost the production of collagen. Unlike other chemical exfoliants, salicylic acid is also oil soluble, allowing it to get deeper into your greasy pores. If you have especially oily or acne-prone skin, salicylic acid could be a key ingredient for you. Glycolic acid is another helpful ingredient for reducing signs of ageing, such as hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Hyaluronic acid-infused bioremodelling treatment for longlasting effect
The natural decrease of your collagen supply can give way to skin laxity and wrinkling around the face and neck.Bioremodelling is the latest and best in collagen-boosting treatments, especially formulated with the highest concentrations of ultrapure hyaluronic acid (HA) to restore skin elasticity, firmness, and youthfulness. Unlike other injectable treatments, bio-remodelling harnesses your body’s natural collagen production, spreading smoothly beneath the skin to trigger widespread rejuvenating effects. Bio remodelling procedures such as Profhiloimproves ageing and sagging tissue by smoothing and tightening the skin. Besides the face, it can also be injected into neck, hands and other areas with high skin laxity.
A nutritious diet
Several studies say eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables may help prevent damage that leads to premature skin ageing. A diet rich in healthy fats, fibre, antioxidants, vitamin C, A, B3, E, K, and selenium can promote collagen production and keep the skin firm and plump.
Alia Bhatt on fashion: Have always tried to keep as true as I can to me
B
e it her performance on screen or her style, Alia Bhatt has always managed to sweep everyone by their feet. For the star, fashion is another form of storytelling and said that she has always tried to keep it as true as it can be.
Talking to IANS about how she would define her fashion and how has it evolved, Alia told IANS: “Fashion is another form of storytelling for me, a reflection of one’s self. I have always tried to keep as true as I can to me - everevolving but forever comfortable and easy.”
Asked about how she takes care of her hair and skin, Alia gave pointers on her routine.
“I stick to a consistent skincare routine that includes cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting my skin from the sun. Staying hydrated is also a key part of my regimen. When I'm not working, I like to go makeup-free to let my
skin breathe, and I give my hair a break from styling tools and products to keep it healthy,” said the actress, who will next be seen in “Jigra”.
She added: “It’s really a mix of a balanced diet, workout, my skin and hair care routine, good sleep but most importantly – just listening to my body.”
Experimenting with hair is a big part for Alia.
“For me, experimenting with my hair is a big part of embracing different roles and looks. It’s fascinating how something as simple as a new hair colour or hairdo can shift your whole appearance and bring a different energy to your performance,” said Alia, who has been onboarded as the global brand ambassador for L’Oréal Paris.
“Whether it’s for a project or just for a change, experimenting with my hair keeps things fun,” said Alia, who mentioned being
“passionate about skincare”. Alia, who is married to Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor, is all set to complete 12 years in Hindi cinema in October. She made her Bollywood debut in 2012 with “Student Of The Year”.
Ever since then, Alia has showcased her prowess in films such as “Highway”, “2 States”, “Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania,” “Kapoor & Sons,” “Udta Punjab,” “Raazi,” “Gully Boy,” “Gangubai Kathiawadi,” “Darlings,” and “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani”. In 2023, she even made her debut internationally with “Heart of Stone” starring Gal Gadot.
Alia feels grateful, when she looks back at her adventurous journey in Hindi cinema.
“Over the past 12 years, I have had the opportunity to work with some of this country’s finest in terms of directors, production houses, and actors. I am so grateful for every project I have been a part of because I have gotten to step into the shoes of so many diverse and unique characters,” she shared. Looking forward, she has “Jigra” and “Alpha”, where she will be seen playing a spy.
“I am equally excited for the upcoming projects I am working on as they’re presenting me with even more challenges and opportunities to grow as a performer. This world of stories amazes me, excites me, inspires me .. and I couldn’t be more grateful to be living my dream every single day.”
Mouni Roy to attend Rahul Mishra’s show in London Fashion Week
Actress Mouni Roy is all set to make an appearance at the prestigious London Fashion Week, 2024, and will be seen attending the ace couturier Rahul Mishra’s show, showcasing his innovative and sustainable designs.
Fans of Mouni are eager to see her take on the global fashion scene, as her bold choices have often set new trends. The actress’s presence at the event further solidifies her position as a fashion icon in the industry.
After Rahul's show, Mouni will continue her sartorial journey by attending a few more shows during the week. Her striking red carpet looks and casual-chic street style have always captivated her fans, making her appearances highly anticipated.
The fashion week which started on Friday will conclude on September 17.
Meanwhile, Rahul made his debut in 2006 at Lakme Fashion Week with a collection using cotton handloom textiles from Kerala.
He is the first Indian designer to be invited to showcase at the Haute Couture Week in Paris.
He won the International Woolmark Prize in 2014 at Milan Fashion Week, becoming the first Indian designer to win the award.
On the other hand, Mouni is best known for her portrayal of shape-shifting snakes in the supernatural thriller series 'Naagin'. She started her acting career in 2006 with the television
Zeenat Aman reveals why she finds most ‘designer outfits unwearable’
Veteranstar and fashion icon
Zeenat Aman is a casual dresser and said that she finds most designer outfits unwearable.
Zeenat took to Instagram, where she shared a picture of herself wearing a sculpted 3D dress in earthy shade, which she said that she is giving her best dog breed “Komondor” impression.
“I’ve been blessed by the hand of many a genius in my life. The very best in not just cinema, but also fashion. The formidably talented Bhanu Athaiya, India’s first Academy award winner, designed my costumes for over 15 movies including Satyam Shivam Sundaram,” she wrote.
She said Athaiya was prolific and meticulous, and soon after our first partnership had a mannequin made to her measurements.
“It would stand in her studio, and on this inanimate bust she would actualise the fantastical ideas that appeared in her mind. I only had to pop in very occasionally for trials, an arrangement that was most suitable to my schedule.”
Zeenat minced no words when she said that no other designer in the actress’ life has come close to creating outfits for her “that were as comfortable as they were sensual”.
“I am constantly tickled by my persona as a woman of high fashion. Those who know me know that I am quite the casual dresser. One who finds most designer outfits unwearable!” she said.
The actress added: “An impossibly wealthy friend of mine, with museumesque mansions in Dubai and London, would routinely gift me haute couture and then rue the fact that their fate was to moulder in my wardrobe. It’s an unfortunate fate shared by my most prized heirlooms.”
Rashmika Mandanna jets off in style for Milan Fashion Week 2024
show 'Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi'.
She essayed the role of Sati in 'Devon Ke Dev...Mahadev', and Meera in 'Junoon – Aisi Nafrat Toh Kaisa Ishq'.
Roy made her film debut in 2011 with the Punjabi romantic film, 'Hero Hitler in Love'. She made her Hindi film debut with the 2018 period sport film, 'Gold', directed by Reema Kagti and starred Akshay Kumar in the lead.
She has then appeared in movies like-- 'London Confidential', 'Made in China', 'Brahmāstra: Part One – Shiva', and 'Blackout'.
The 38-year-old actress had last appeared in the web series 'Showtime' directed by Mihir Desai and Archit Kumar. It stars Emraan Hashmi in the lead.
Mouni next has 'The Virgin Tree' in the kitty.
Actress Rashmika Mandanna on Friday jetted off to Milan, Italy, where she is poised to make her mark once again on the global fashion stage at Milan Fashion Week 2024. This marks her second appearance at the prestigious event, underscoring her rising influence and prominence in the international fashion arena. She was spotted at the airport radiating charm in a cute and chic outfit--a white sweatshirt and black joggers. With a heartwarming gesture, she made
the sweetest heart signs to the photographers, showing off her signature blend of grace and playfulness.
A source close to the industry revealed: "Rashmika will be representing India on a global stage for the second time among many other celebrities from Asia at the Milan Fashion Week 2024." "Milan Fashion Week 2024" (the 2025 spring/summer collections) will be held from September 17 to September 23.
Berlin: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar meets German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock to discuss India-Germany Strategic Partnership, including trade, green development, and defense in Berlin on Tuesday, September 10, 2024
Geneva: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, along with Ambassador Jean-David Levitte, shares his perspectives on global tectonic shifts at The GCSP in Geneva on Thursday, September 12, 2024.
iyadh: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar speaks at the inaugural India – Gulf Cooperation Council Joint Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue in Riyadh on Monday, September 09, 2024.
Dallas: Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi interacts with Indian diaspora in Dallas on Monday, September 09, 2024.
Caption: New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacts with Suhas L Yathiran in New Delhi on Thursday, September 12, 2024.
New Delhi: Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for 240 AL-31FP Aero Engines for Su-30MKI aircraft
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi chairs the Semiconductor Executives roundtable in New Delhi on September 10, 2024.
Caption: St Petersburg: Russian President Vladimir Putin with Ajit Doval, National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister of India during a meeting at the Konstantinovsky Palace in St Petersburg on Thursday, September 12, 2024
Jaipur : Devotees take out a religious procession of Lord Ganesha’s idols winding its way through the roads, a day after the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, in Jaipur on Sunday, September 08, 2024.
Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami performs Bhoomi Pujan for the new Bar Association building at the Judicial Complex in Dehradun on Tuesday, September 10, 2024.
Caption: Washington: Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi interacts with the media at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, 11 September 2024.
Singapore: Union Minister attends the second India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable
Kolkata: NorthEast United FC celebrate after winning the 133rd Durand Cup during the final match against Mohun Bagan Super Giant at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Saturday August 31, 2024.
Ananya Panday talks about how she actually had ‘aloo’ in ‘real life’
Bollywood actress Ananya Panday shared a photo dump from the behind-the-scenes moment from “Call Me Bae” and even shared some details about how she actually ate aloo in "in real life".
Ananya revealed that her character Bae has a scarf hidden in almost every look she wears and that she actually ate ‘aloo’ and her co-star Gurfateh Singh Pirzada chose not to as she shared a picture of the vada pav.
After sharing a string of pictures
from the sets of “Call Me Bae,”
Ananya shared anecdotes in the caption.
She wrote: “Some #CallMeBAE moments (binge now on @ primevideoin ) 1. GUTS if you haven’t seen the show yet, 2. & 3. bae’s face before and after you see the show, 4. Bae has a scarf hidden in almost every look she wears!! How many can you spot? 5. First shot of the shoot! Right before I tripped and fell over all the LV bags”
The actress shared a picture with
Akshay Kumar joins forces with
again
her co-star Muskkaan Jaferi, who plays the role of her best friend Saira, a picture of the vada pav, which itself has an significant role in the show and a picture of her mother Bhavna Panday on the sets.
She captioned: “6. My Muskiiiii Sairu #BehenCode 7. Cute shoes, 8. Aloooo squishy which actually I had had in real life and @ gurfatehpirzada (Neel) never had! 9. She’s cute! Even when she sleeps 10. Cryyyying 11. Mama came to TRP set.”
“Call Me Bae” revolves around the story of Bae, who upon being downsized from heiress to hustler, discovers that her most valuable assets aren’t her diamonds, but her street smarts and style. Broke but refusing to be broken, she navigates the newsrooms of Mumbai, finding beaus, behens, and her better self.
The eight-part series stars Ananya in the lead role, and features an ensemble cast including Vir Das, Gurfateh Pirzada, Varun Sood, Vihaan Samat, Muskkaan Jaferi, Niharika Lyra Dutt, Lisa Mishra, and Mini Mathur.
The show is a Dharmatic Entertainment production, with Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra as executive producers. The series is created by Ishita Moitra, and directed by Collin D’Cunha.
Priyadarshan
after 14 years for ‘Bhooth Bangla’
Ois seen having milk in a bowl with a black cat standing on his shoulder.
“Thank you for your love on
Arjun Rampal thinks ‘boys are idiots’
Bollywood actor Arjun Rampal, who was recently seen in ‘Crakk’, feels that boys are idiots and are inferior to women when it comes to emotional maturity.
A video of the actor is being circulated on social media in which he opens up about having got married at a relatively young age.
The video is from the Beer Biceps podcast, and shows the actor discussing how age plays an important role in the maturity of men,
He said: “I got married when I was 24 years old. I think it was too early. When you’re too young, you have to get mature. Guys definitely mature far slower than women do. That’s a proven fact. We are idiots”.
He further mentioned: “I know guys, who were childhood sweethearts, never cheated on each other. It’s phenomenal,
my birthday, year after year! Celebrating this year with the first look of ‘Bhooth Bangla'! I’m beyond excited to join forces with Priyadarshan again after 14 years,” wrote the actor, who last worked with the filmmaker in 2010 in the film "Khatta Meetha".
Tagging it as a “dream collaboration", he added: “This dream collaboration has been a long time coming… can’t wait to share this incredible journey with you all. Stay tuned for the magic!”
Other details of the film, which will hit the big screens in 2025, are still under wraps.
Akshay and Priyadarshan have given several blockbusters together including “Hera Pheri”, “De Dana Dan”, “Bhool Bhulaiyaa”, “Garam Masala” and “Khatta Meetha” to name a few.
It was on September 7, when Akshay, who was recently seen in ‘Khel Khel Mein’, hinted at a new project and shared that he will be sharing the news on his birthday with his fans.
He took to his Instagram, and shared a motion poster featuring an ominous metal evil face against a backdrop of royal red curtains.
those things also do occur but, I call them miracles. You will know when you’re really ready. And that would mean sacrificing maybe somebody who you think is right for you or maybe that person waited out with you.”
Meanwhile, on the work front, the actor has started work on the upcoming film yet-to-be-titled film directed by Aditya Dhar of ‘Uri: The Surgical Strike’ fame. He recently shared the BTS pictures from the film’s shoot. In the pictures, the actor can be seen seated on a make-up chair as he wore a black t-shirt, pants and a pair of sunglasses.
The film also stars Ranveer Singh, Sanjay Dutt, R Madhavan and Akshaye Khanna. Details about the movie's plot are currently under wraps, but the announcement has generated excitement among fans and industry insiders alike.
When Amitabh Bachchan exposed ‘ziddi’ Sharmila Tagore
An old video of veteran Bollywood stars Amitabh Bachchan and Sharmila Tagore is making rounds on social media.
The clip is from the iconic quizbased reality show 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' hosted by Big B and shows the Bollywood megastar heaping praise on Sharmila Tagore by calling her an actress so much ahead of her time, yet stubborn.
The video shows Sharmila Tagore along with her granddaughter Sara Ali Khan on the 'hot seat', as Big B recollects his working experience with the veteran actress, and how she was "brutally honest". He said that Sharmila
Tagore used to be very clear on her stand if she felt a scene could be done differently. She used to put her point strongly in front of the directors.
In the video, Big B can be seen telling Sara, "I have worked with her in many films. And I'm not saying this just because she is sitting here with us but, if she doesn't like a dialogue or a scene, she tells her opinion with brutal honesty."
The veteran actor then recollected how Sharmila Tagore used to tell directors, "What you're asking me to do, I won't do it, if I don't feel it's right".
n his 57th birthday on Monday, Akshay Kumar announced that he is joining forces with director Priyadarshan once again after 14 years for the upcoming horror comedy ‘Bhooth Bangla’.
Akshay took to X, formerly called Twitter, where he shared the motion poster of the film. In the image, Akshay
Taylor Swift formally endorses Kamala Harris for upcoming US Presidential elections
Pop icon Taylor Swift is coming out in support of the current Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris in the latter’s presidential race for the upcoming November 5 US elections.
The singer-songwriter has formally endorsed Kamala Harris, after the latter’s debate with Donald Trump, with a strong message posted to her Instagram Story, reports ‘Variety’.
Swift said that the vice president “fights for the rights and causes I believe need a warrior to champion them. I think she is a steady-handed, gifted leader and I believe we can accomplish so much more in this country if we are led by calm and not chaos”.
As per ‘Variety’, Swift wrote in her
Instagram Story, “Like many of you, I watched the debate tonight. If you haven’t already, now is a great time to do your research on the issues at hand and the stances these candidates take on the topics that matter to you the most. As a voter, I make sure to watch and read everything I can about their proposed policies and plans for this country”.
She continued, “Recently I was made aware that AI of ‘me’ falsely endorsing Donald Trump’s presidential run was posted to his site. It really conjured up my fears around AI, and the dangers of spreading misinformation. It brought me to the conclusion that I need to be very transparent about my actual plans for this election as a voter. The simplest
way to combat misinformation is with the truth”.
Swift made her candidate of choice very clear, as she stated, “I will be casting my vote for Kamala Harris and Tim Walz in the 2024 Presidential Election. I’m voting for @kamalaharris because she fights for the rights and causes I believe need a warrior to champion them. I think she is a steady-handed, gifted leader and I believe we can accomplish so much more in this country if we are led by calm and not chaos”.
Swift said that she was impressed by Kamala’s selection of running Tim Walz as the Vice President as he has been standing up for LGBTQ+ rights, IVF, and a woman’s right to her own body for decades.
“I’ve done my research, and I’ve made my choice. Your research is all yours to do, and the choice is yours to make. I also want to say, especially to first time voters: Remember that in order to vote, you have to be registered! I also find it’s much easier to vote early. I’ll link where to register and find early voting dates and info in my story. With love and hope,” she signed the message, “Taylor Swift… Childless Cat Lady”.
Sonam Kapoor dishes out stories from her Dubai diaries
Actress Sonam Kapoor on Tuesday shared a glimpse of her '36 hours' in Dubai, along with her sister Rhea Kapoor and her friends, saying she is grateful for the barrels of laughs, happy tummies, and picture-perfect memories.
Sonam, who was recently in Dubai for a launch event, took to Instagram where she has 35 million followers and dropped a Reel video in which we can see her laughing and eating out in a fine dine restaurant.
We can see her happily twirling around in a black top and white skirt. In the video, we can see Sonam clinging on to her sister
Rhea, her hair and makeup session, and some glimpses from their hotel room.
The video is captioned as:
"Pack-up, jet off, laugh, eat, repeat- 36 hours in Dubai with this incredible gang for Sam's restaurant opening! So grateful for the barrels of laughs, happy tummies, and picture-perfect memories. These girls make great things truly spectacular!
The 39-year-old fashion icon, Sonam had started her career as an assistant director with filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Black’.
She made her acting debut with 2007 romantic drama ‘Saawariya’, alongside Ranbir Kapoor. Produced and directed by Bhansali, the film was based on Fyodor Dostoevsky's 1848 short story ‘White Nights’.
Sonam has then featured in movies like ‘Delhi-6’, ‘I Hate Luv Storys’, ‘Mausam’, ‘Raanjhanaa’, ‘Prem Ratan Dhan Payo’
In 2016, she essayed the role of Neerja Bhanot, in the biographical thriller film ‘Neerja’ directed by Ram Madhvani and written by Saiwyn Quadras and Sanyuktha Chawla Shaikh. The movie also featured Shekhar Ravjiani, Shabana Azmi, Yogendra Tiku, Kavi Shastri and Jim Sarbh in pivotal roles.
Known for her timeless beauty and grace, iconic diva Madhuri Dixit has once again proved why she reigns as the queen of Bollywood, leaving admirers captivated by her radiant charm.
On Tuesday, Madhuri has mesmerised her fans with a series of stunning looks.
Taking to Instagram, Madhuri, who has 39.7 million followers shared a Reel video in which we can see her flaunting her graceful outfits.
The 57-year-old looked elegant in a beige-coloured floral top, paired with a magenta-pink skirt. Her look was rounded off with subtle makeup with her hair tied in a ponytail.
In the video, we can further
Pop icon Taylor Swift continues to be on an upward curve in her career.
The singer-songwriter finished the MTV Video Music Awards with a record-breaking number of wins, 30 moon men, reports 'Variety'. Swift upped her personal collection, surpassing the previous record of 25 wins set by Beyonce (as a solo act). She also became the first artiste to win the Video of the Year award five times.
As per 'Variety', during her acceptance speech for the latter, Swift spoke about directing the
see her wearing a purple frill saree paired with a matching embellished blouse. Madhuri looks gorgeous as she flaunts her smile, with her look accessorised with green jewellery.
Serving boss lady vibes, Madhuri was seen dressed in a pastel bluecoloured shimmer co-ord set. The last look summed up the trend with Madhuri oozing elegance in a white floral saree.
The post was captioned: “Tell me your favourite outfit in the comments”.
A fan commented, “Your outfits & you always favourite.”
Another user said, “Saree is best.” Madhuri has appeared in over 70 Hindi films and has been awarded with Padma Shri award.
video and credited the people involved, along with Post Malone and “my boyfriend Travis Kelce", who was “cheering and woo-ing from across the studio where we were shooting (the video)”, she said. “I want to thank him for adding that to our shoot because I will always remember that".
She continued by acknowledging the fans, who she thanked for “making my life what it is, for making the Eras Tour for what it’s become, and for making the ‘The Tortured Poet’s Department’ what it’s become”, she told the audience. “That’s all you guys".
