India News - May 16-30, 2024

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BJP supports reservation policy, Congress peddling propaganda: Amit Shah

400 plus slogan.

Talking to reporters here, he said, "Congress leaders have been trying to fool the people about our 400-seat target by saying that the BJP has plans to change the Constitution. This is an utter lie.

The BJP got absolute majority in the last two general elections, but we never tried to do such kind of things."

The Home Minister said, "The Congress party leaders are so

desperate that they have made a fake video of my speech and tried to spread it on social media. Congress Chief Ministers and other top leaders were found forwarding this doctored video."

According to the Union Home Minister, the original video of his speech was available and the "lies" of the Congress party have come to the fore.

Gukesh wins Candidates tournament, becomes the challenger for world title

Chennai, April 22 (IANS)

Seventeen-year-old Indian chess Grandmaster D. Gukesh on Monday became the youngest player to win the FIDE Candidates tournament and to become the challenger for the world chess title.

Gukesh will now play against

world champion and Chinese Grandmaster Liren Ding for the world title.

Gukesh drew with the American Grandmaster and world number three Hikaru Nakamura in the 14th round of the Candidates tournament at Toronto in Canada to become the world title challenger with nine points.

The players signed a truce pact after Nakamura playing white made the 71st move when both the players had only their kings on the board.

The Indian Grandmaster turned out to be the winner as the

game between the Russian Grandmaster Ian Nepomniachtchi and the US Grandmaster Fabiano Caruana -- with eight points -- ended in a draw, with both closing the tournament with 8.5 points.

Finally, the prayers of the young and old Indian chess players and even their parents were answered positively by the almighty.

Gukesh after the game said he felt confident of winning the tournament after his loss against the US Grandmaster Fabiano

BJP accuses Rahul Gandhi of insulting Rajput community, demands apology

New Delhi, April 28

accused Congress leader

remarks on 'Maharajas'.

In a post on social media platform X late Saturday, BJP Information & Technology cell chief Amit Malviya shared a video of the Congress leader and said: "Rahul Gandhi should immediately apologise to the Rajput community, for this offensive comment."

In the video, the Wayanad MP was heard saying: "It was the

rule of kings and Maharajas, they could do whatever they wanted. If they wanted someone's land, they took it away. The Congress party and our workers, along with the people of the country, achieved independence, brought democracy and gave the Constitution to the country."

The video was reportedly from a Lok Sabha poll campaign rally in Karnataka during which Rahul Gandhi made the remarks.

JD(S) suspends Deve Gowda’s grandson over sex scandal row: Kumaraswamy

Shivamogga (Karnataka), April 30 (IANS) Former Chief Minister and JD(S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy said on Monday that the decision of suspending Prajwal Revanna, his nephew and the grandson of former Prime Minister Deve Gowda, has already been taken by

his party.

The decision was taken by JD(S) after an alleged sex scandal involving his nephew Prajwal Revanna started doing several rounds in his parliamentary constituency of Hassan.

Speaking to media persons in Shivamogga, Kumaraswamy said, "The Congress is conspiring to make it (sex scandal) a big issue. The decision is already made and it has to be discussed in the

Unwarranted & unsubstantiated imputations on serious matter: India on US media report on Pannun plot case

New Delhi, April 30 (IANS) India on Tuesday said a report published by a media outlet in the US made unwarranted and unsubstantiated imputations on a serious matter involving

an alleged plot to kill Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs Randhir Jaiswal said, "The report in question makes unwarranted and unsubstantiated imputations on a serious matter."

"There is an ongoing investigation of the High-Level Committee set

Rahul slams BJD-BJP in Odisha rally, says both in collusion to benefit few corporates

BJP while accusing them of having ‘married’ each other for personal gains and befooling the public.

Rahul claimed that the ruling BJD has got into a secret partnership with the main opposition party BJP and both have one shared goal, to ‘benefit the select few corporates’.

Addressing a huge public gathering at Salepur in Cuttack,

New Delhi, April 28 (IANS) Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, stepping up the party’s campaign in Odisha on Sunday lashed out at the Naveen Patnaik-led BJD government and the opposition

(IANS) The BJP has

Rahul Gandhi of insulting the Rajput community with his recent

Guwahati, April 30 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday said that the BJP backs reservation for SC, ST and OBCs in the country while the Congress is peddling propaganda about its

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BJP supports reservation policy, Congress peddling propaganda: Amit Shah

Continued from Page 1

"Now, one of the Congress leaders has been arrested in this case", he added.

He expressed confidence that the BJP has been getting excellent support from Southern states in the Lok Sabha polls and that the party will achieve its "400 paar"

(more than 400 seats) target. The union minister appealed to the voters not to fall into the Congress' "trap" and "teach it a lesson" in the polls.

Rahul slams BJD-BJP in Odisha rally, says both in collusion to benefit few corporates

Continued from Page 1

Rahul alleged that the Naveen Patnaik government was running a nexus with the rival BJP and facilitating the loot of the state’s resources in various fields including plantation and mining.

He also declared if Congress came to power in the state, the looted money would be returned to the residents.

“Your money was stolen by them (BJD and BJP) through the mining scam worth Rs 9 lakh crore,

farmers’ land grab worth Rs 20,000 crore and plantation scam worth Rs 15,000 crore. I am giving these numbers because when the Congress party comes to power here in Odisha and in Delhi, we will start returning the money they have looted from you,” roared Rahul at the rally, drawing applause from the crowd. Gandhi said that Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik was running the government for a ‘select few’ while Prime Minister Narendra

Modi was running a government for the billionaires.

He also said that though Naveen Patnaik was the Chief Minister, the state government was being run by his aide VK Pandian.

“Uncleji of Delhi (referring to PM Modi) and Naveen Patnaik offered people of Odisha PAANN (Pandian, Amit Shah, Narendra Modi and Naveen Patnaik),” Gandhi said in a sharp jibe at Odisha CM.

Gukesh wins Candidates tournament, becomes the challenger for world title

Continued from Page 1

Caruana in the seventh round.

The Indian teenager lost the game in time trouble despite having a good position against Caruana.

"The loss gave me motivation. The mental attitude towards the Candidates tournament was good," Gukesh said after the game.

He said Yoga and meditation helped a lot to be a successful chess player.

(Venkatachari Jagannathan can be reached at v.jagannathan@ians.in)

Day not far when you will travel in bullet train, PM Modi tells Puneites

Pune (Maharashtra), April 29 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday assured Punekars that it is his guarantee to the citizens of Maharashtra that the day is not far when they will travel in a bullet train.

"This is Modi's guarantee to Maharashtra's brothers and sisters, that the day is not far away when you all will be traveling in a bullet train.

During Manmohan Singh's 'remote' government, the amount they spent on infrastructure, we have spent that much on infrastructure in one year," PM Modi said in Pune.

He was addressing a campaign rally for MahaYuti nominees Muralidhar Mohol (Pune), Sunetra Pawar (Baramati), Shivajirao

Adhalrao (Shirur) and Srirang Barne (Maval).

"Congress ruled the country for 60 years. But, during the Congress rule, more than half of the people of the country did not have basic facilities.

We have only had the opportunity to serve you for 10 years but in this period we have not only fulfilled the basic needs but also worked hard to fulfill the aspirations of every class. We are moving forward with a vision to fulfil both needs and aspirations," he added.

Listing various infrastructure projects, PM Modi said that they all reflect the image of a modern India.

"You also know, if one lives in a city, or in a village, seeing good roads, modern infrastructure is heartening. You have to work hard too. Modern infrastructure gives us confidence.

Here you see the Pune Metro, the new look of the Pune Airport, the Palkhi Marg, the Mumbai Nagpur Samruddhi Highway, the semihigh speed Vande Bharat train that connects every place, all these are the images of a modern India," said PM Modi.

He mentioned that in the last 10 years, Indian youngsters have launched more than 1.25 lakh startups.

"Today's India is moving forward with full faith in the research,

AdaniConneX establishes India’s largest sustainability linked financing to raise up to $1.44 billion

Ahmedabad, April 28 (IANS)

In a bid to accelerate digital infrastructure growth in India, AdaniConneX, a JV between Adani Enterprises and EdgeConneX, on Sunday said it has established the country’s largest sustainabilitylinked financing to raise up to $1.44 billion.

The transaction elevates AdaniConneX’s construction financing pool to $1.65 billion, building on the maiden construction facility of $213 million executed in June last year.

“This successful exercise is a testament to the collective resolve of the parties to meet the challenges of establishing sustainable and robust digital infrastructure, thereby pushing norms and setting new industry benchmarks,” said Jeyakumar Janakaraj, CEO of AdaniConneX.

The upcoming data centre facilities will employ stateof-the-art technologies and renewable energy solutions to minimise the ecological footprint

talent, and technologies of its youth. Look at the peak of Startup India. In just 10 years, Indian youth have started more than 1.25 lakh startups.

It is a matter of pride that many of these are from Pune. Our mission to reform, perform, and transform is now showing results," he added.

According to Prime Minister Modi, the policy changes made by the government are also showing results in the field of mapping with progress being made in various sectors such as space, defence, and industry.

"There are intelligent youngsters in Pune. We have decided to give Rs one lakh crore to people who want to innovate," he mentioned in his speech.

PM Modi said that 10 years ago, mobile phones had to be imported but now India has become the second-largest mobile phone exporting country in the world.

"Now, we will see India becoming a hub for electric vehicles.

BJP's vision is to make India a semiconductor and innovation hub. There is also a resolve to make India a hydrogen hub. This is the first government which has thought of common citizens," he said.

while optimising operational efficiency.

The new financing has an initial commitment of $875 million, with an accordion feature to extend commitment up to $1.44 billion.

“Construction financing is a core element of the AdaniConneX capital management plan, enabling us to deliver a data centre solution firmly rooted in sustainability and environmental stewardship,” Janakaraj added.

According to the company, a key feature of the data centre facility is the innovative solution of a syndicated guarantee-backed assurance programme in sync with the projects’ procurement strategy. The agreements have been executed with eight international lenders -- ING Bank N.V., Intesa Sanpaolo, KfW IPEX, MUFG Bank Ltd., Natixis, Standard Chartered Bank, Societe Generale and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, informed the company.

AdaniConneX aims to build an environmentally and socially conscious 1GW data centre infrastructure platform by leveraging the complementary capacity of the Adani Group and EdgeConneX, one of the largest private data centre operators.

Unwarranted & unsubstantiated imputations on serious matter: India on US media report on Pannun plot case

Continued from Page 1

up by the Government of India to look into the security concerns shared by the US government on networks of organised criminals, terrorists and others. Speculative and irresponsible comments on it are not helpful," he said.

The statement refers to a report published in the Washington Post which has claimed that a Research and Analysis Wing officer, Vikram Yadav, had instructed a hired hit team to kill the US-based separatist leader.

JD(S) suspends Deve Gowda’s grandson over sex scandal row:

Kumaraswamy

Continued from Page 1

core committee to be held in Hubballi. The decision is likely to be announced on Tuesday."

"I had requested former Prime Minister and father H.D. Deve Gowda in this regard. The decision to expel him (Prajwal Revanna) has been made on Sunday already," he reiterated.

"It is not the question of the Deve Gowda family. Do not drag me or Deve Gowda into it. This is the question of an individual, it is not about the family," Kumaraswamy added.

"The guilty should be punished. Prajwal Revanna's family is separated. If it would have come to my notice, I would have avoided the embarrassment. I can't keep track of where one goes during the day," the former Chief

Minister said.

"At the same time, let the probe be conducted against the persons, who circulated lakhs of pen drives containing the sex videos. It is said that the case is an old one," he added.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister and Congress leader D.K. Shivakumar criticised the BJP for not making its stand clear over the issue of Prajwal Revanna's alleged sex scandal, adding that "they (BJP) can't beat around the bush".

"There is no connection between the sex scandal and the Congress. But, BJP which has an alliance with JD-S is answerable. The BJP and NDA should make their stand clear over the case of Prajwal Revanna," Shivakumar said.

Bravus’ community partnership program takes wing

(L-R) Bravus Mining and Resources Lead- Asset Strategy Eric Girgenti and Bird of Prey Rescue, Rehabilitation & Release Inc Founder Deborah Carter inspect the wedge-tailed eagle aviary to be reconstructed using the Bravus Community Partnership Program grant.

“If your local group has a great community initiative, we encourage you to jump onto our website and put in an application,” she said.

“Our Carmichael mine is now in its third year of operations and is responsibly producing high quality thermal coal to meet growing international demand. That means we’ll be able to keep providing jobs, business opportunities, and social investment for north and central Queensland for decades to come.”

Shaheen the peregrine falcon and her feathered friends at Townsville’s Bird of Prey Rescue, Rehabilitation and Release Inc will soon have a new aviary to call home thanks to Bravus Mining and Resources.

The Kelso-based wildlife rescue organisation was among the successful recipients in the latest round of Bravus Mining and Resources’ Community Partnership Program, which offers grants of up to $10,000 for not-for-profit businesses, groups, or associations in central and north Queensland.

The program funds projects that enhance communities through education, skills development, health, sustainability, environmental stewardship, and

social welfare.

Bravus Mining and Resources

Head of Community Kate Campbell said the grant for Bird of Prey Rescue, Rehabilitation and Release Inc would see more sick native birds recover and return to the wild.

“We’re proud to operate in regional Queensland and we always seek to back our local communities and the things that are important to the 1,200 workers at our Carmichael mine,” Ms Campbell said.

“Our Community Partnership Program is one of the ways we add community vibrancy, on top of the economic value of the jobs we support and the opportunities we create for businesses.

“Enjoying central and north Queensland’s diverse native flora and fauna is a special part of living and working here. The service Bird of Prey Rescue, Rehabilitation and Release Inc provides to educate people about the importance of predatory birds to the environment, and to rehabilitate those animals that fall ill or suffer an injury so they can go back into the ecosystem is something we’re delighted to support.”

Bird of Prey Rescue, Rehabilitation & Release Inc

Founder Deborah Carter said the grant was a lifesaver for the conservation of the region’s native predatory birds.

“The grant will be used to re-

construct the aviary that houses the wedge-tailed eagles,” Ms Carter said.

“The existing enclosures are ageing and require maintenance and shade cloth upgrades to ensure the birds have both the shelter they need, and enough space during peak care periods.

“We’re a small charity that relies on donations, so the support of Bravus Mining and Resources is fundamental to maintaining our lifesaving facilities and ensuring every native bird we care for has the best possible chance to recover and be released.”

Ms Campbell urged local community groups to apply for the annual program, which is awarded each quarter.

Bowen Rail Company revs up as Naming Rights sponsor of Bowen’s

Bowen Rail Company is revving up as the new Naming Rights sponsor of the Whitsunday’s favourite event, the 2024 Don River Dash offroad race.

The Don River Dash 300 is a two-day offroad race that sees motorbikes, buggies and trophy trucks tackle a rugged “desert style” course through the dry riverbed of Bowen’s famous Don River.

The event injects more than $4 million into the local economy as thousands of competitors and motorsport enthusiasts from across Australia descend on Bowen and the Whitsundays each

Bravus Mining and Resources has contributed more than $2 million to not-for-profit, charities, school groups and other organisations across the businesses’ operational footprint since 2019.

For more information about Bravus Mining and Resources Community Partnership Program, head to their website.

The full list of 2024 Community Partnership Program Round 1 grant recipients is:

• William Ross State High School, Townsville

• Ballyneety Rodeo Club Inc., Aramac

• Clermont Wombat Festival, Clermont

• The Yeppoon Choral Society Inc, Yeppoon

• Kirwan State High School, Townsville

• Clermont Outback Sailing Regatta, Clermont

Don River Dash

September.

Bowen Rail Company General Manager Brendan Lane said the company was delighted to partner with an event that showcased Bowen and the Whitsundays to the world.

“This is the sixth year of the Don River Dash and to be able to partner with an event that showcases Bowen and the Whitsundays to the world is something we’re passionate about as a local business, but also as members of this community,” Mr Lane said.

“The Dash is an event our team members are keen to participate

in and keen to support and we strive to get behind the events and causes that are important to our people and their families.

“It’s also another way we can add to the vibrancy of Bowen and the greater Whitsunday region on top of the economic value of the local jobs we support and the opportunities we create for local businesses.

“We’re a business that appreciates horsepower, too. I doubt many competitors will match the 4,300 horsepower of one of our locomotives, but we can’t wait to see the action on the Don in September.”

Bowen Rail Company rollingstock maintainer Trent Williams said he was hoping to better his ninth place in his motorbike class last year – as well as his brother and fellow BRC employee, Byron.

“I’m not sure what Byron is going to ride yet, there might be a bit of a secret coming up, but it’s going to be on this year and you’re going to be seeing who’s the better brother,” Trent laughed.

“I didn't really do much practice last year, just jumped on and rode. So hopefully with a bit more practice and time put into it this year I can do a bit better and maybe get a podium.

“It’s always nice to see your employer putting back into the community and supporting local events that bring a lot of people and a lot of money into the town. Bowen Rail Company does a great job at that.”

Don River Dash secretary Wanita Sparr said Bowen Rail Company’s support elevated both the social and economic value of the event.

“Tourism Whitsundays and Whitsunday Regional Council tell us the Don River Dash’s local economic contribution is well over $4 million a year, and you only have to look at the local hoteliers and retailers who are overflowing with customers during and after the race and to understand why,” Ms Sparr said.

“We had more than a thousand people camped at the showgrounds last year.

“But we simply couldn’t put on the same quality of event without the support of a major corporate sponsor like Bowen Rail Company.

“We’re incredibly excited to have Brendan and the team on board and working with us to get the most out of the Dash for competitors, spectators, and the local community alike.”

Competitor nominations open in June. For more information about the Don River Dash, head to www. donriverdash.com.au

(L-R) Bird of Prey Rescue, Rehabilitation & Release Inc Founder Deborah Carter with Bravus Mining and Resources Lead- Asset Strategy Eric Girgenti and Shaheen the peregrine falcon.

) (L-R) Bowen Rail Company (BRC) General Manager Brendan Lane, Don River Dash secretary Wanita Sparr, and BRC rollingstock maintainer Trent Williams at BRC’s rail provisioning yard north of Bowen’s Don River.

New Vande Bharat trains to Super App, Indian Railways to redefine travel in next 5 years: Ashwini Vaishnaw

New Delhi, April 23 (IANS) From Vande Bharat sleeper, chair car and metro trains to a Super App to make passengers journey seamless, the capacity of the Indian Railways, which witnessed a tremendous transformation in the last 10 years, will expand very rapidly in the next five years, Union Railways and IT

Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Tuesday.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has very clearly laid out its vision to further bolster the Indian Railways in its manifesto.

“It is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guarantee that the capacity of the Railways will be expanded very rapidly in the next five years,” Ashwini Vaishnaw told IANS in a candid conversation.

The Vande Bharat train has three versions -- sleeper, chair car

and metro. While the Chair car version is already running on tracks, the first car body of the Vande Bharat sleeper is ready and the first sleeper train could be ready in the next five-six months.

“By these three Vande Bharat trains, great facilities and travel experiences are being provided to the passengers. The fourth, Amrit Bharat train, will be manufactured in large numbers in the near future so that anyone can travel long distances comfortably,” Ashwini Vaishnaw informed.

The Union Minister recently visited Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) facility in Bengaluru to inspect the progress of Vande Bharat sleeper coaches.

At least 10 Vande Bharat Sleeper trains will be introduced for a trial period in a span of six months. All Vande Bharat sleeper trains will come pre-fitted with the ‘Kavach’ anti-collision system.

Ashwini Vaishnaw told IANS that for ease of travel, a Super App will be created so that every facility related to all kinds of rail travel can be addressed comfortably through the app.

The comprehensive Super App has been designed to serve as a one-stop solution for railway commuters.

It will provide a slew of services like ticket booking, train tracking and other railway-related queries to make the customer experience better, including the introduction of a 24-hour ticket refund scheme.

The Union Minister said that in the next five years, Railways, which is a strong link in the growth of the country's economy, “will be further strengthened and the facilities, especially for the passengers, will be expanded at a much faster pace”.

Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS) is the world's biggest railway station redevelopment programme. To date, 1,321 stations out of 7,000 have been selected by the Railways for redevelopment.

“The redevelopment of 1,321 stations is going on and will be completed soon. After that, all the other medium and big stations will also be included in the station redevelopment programme,” Ashwini Vaishnaw told IANS.

Internet subscribers reach 936.16 million in India, telephone subscribers cross 1.19 billion: TRAI

New Delhi, April 23 (IANS) The number of Internet subscribers reached 936.16 million at the end of December 2023, registering a quarterly rate of growth 1.96 per cent from 918.19 million at the end of September, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) said on Tuesday. Out of 936.16 million internet subscribers, the number of wired internet subscribers is 38.57 million while wireless internet

subscribers are at 897.59 million.

The Internet subscriber base consists of broadband internet subscriber base of 904.54 million and narrowband subscriber base of 31.62 million, the report mentioned.

Monthly average revenue per user (ARPU) for wireless service increased by 1.93 per cent -- from Rs 149.66 in September to Rs 152.55 in December (year-on-year).

According to the TRAI report, the number of telephone subscribers in India increased from 1,181.13 million (over 1.18 billion) at the end of September to 1,190.33 million (over 1.19 billion) at the end of December, registering

a 0.78 per cent growth over the previous quarter.

The overall teledensity in India increased from 84.76 per cent to 85.23 per cent in the December quarter.

Telephone subscribers in urban areas increased from 658.46 million to 662.56 million while in rural areas, telephone subscribers increased from 522.66 million to 527.77 million.

“Pay DTH (direct to home) has attained a total active subscriber base of around 63.52 million. This is in addition to the subscribers of the DD Free Dish (free DTH services of Doordarshan),” the TRAI report mentioned.

SC orders immediate cleaning of Yamuna river bed in Agra

New Delhi, April 24 (IANS) The Supreme Court has ordered authorities to immediately clean the river bed of the Yamuna in Agra.

A bench of Justices Abhay S. Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan was hearing the application moved by an NGO seeking directions for the restoration of the river bed to its natural state and removal of the silt, sludge, and garbage up to a depth of 5-6 metres.

The Bench has asked the Centre, the Uttar Pradesh government, and the Agra Development Authority to file compliance

affidavits by the end of June 2024.

"The three authorities, while filing the affidavits, shall take a clear stand setting out the name of the authority which is under an obligation to undertake continuous work of removal of silt, sludge, and garbage from the bed of river Yamuna," it said.

The top court said that if the authorities concerned need advice from an expert agency to ensure the cleaning of the river bed, the Union government will take an appropriate decision in such a case. "Needless to add that removal of the slit, sludge, and garbage from the bed of river Yamuna has to be a continuous activity," the SC order said. The matter will be taken up for further hearing on July 11.

India’s 1st bullet train set to run in 2026: Railways Minister

New Delhi, April 23 (IANS)

Significant progress has been made in the construction of various stations for India’s first bullet train and we are geared up to run the first train in one section in 2026, Union Railways and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Tuesday.

In an interview with IANS, the Union Minister said the work on bullet trains is progressing very well on the Ahmedabad-Mumbai route.

“More than 290 kms of work has already been done. Bridges have been built over eight rivers. Work is going on at 12 stations. The stations have also come at the same level so that the work is nearing completion,” Ashwini Vaishnaw informed.

“The work is going on at two depots. The work is going on at a very fast pace with the complete target of opening its first section in 2026,” the Union Minister told IANS.

The Bullet Train is a very complex project. The work on it started in 2017 and it took almost two-

and-a-half years to complete the design.

“Its design is very complex because the vibrations are very strong at the speed at which the train has to run,” informed the Union Minister.

“How to manage those vibrations? If we have to take current from above electricity, then how to take that current? Everything like speed, aerodynamics etc. has to be looked at very carefully and the work started immediately after that,” Ashwini Vaishnaw elaborated.

In between, there was a little setback due to the Covid pandemic.

“In Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray's government had refused to give permission which delayed the project. But the work is progressing very well now,” the Union Minister noted.

The bullet train corridor has a 21-km-long tunnel, including a 7-km undersea stretch. The deepest point of the tunnel is 56 metres.

Inside the tunnel, the bullet trains will run at the speed of 300-320 kmph.

The objective is to develop a highfrequency mass transportation system by constructing the High-Speed Rail between Mumbai and Ahmedabad, using Japan's Shinkansen technology (also known as the bullet train).

Everest mountaineer’s letters, that survived 75 years, digitised for 1st time

In its application filed before the apex court, the Agra Development Foundation said that around 90 surface drains flow towards and join the River Yamuna and many of them have untreated and untapped wastewater, carrying the wastewater load with solid waste, sludge, polythene and plastic, which fall in the river and get deposited on the river bed. The Supreme Court has been passing orders, from time to time, to protect the Taj Mahal and other protected monuments, falling within the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ), which extends to approximately 10,400 square km across 6 districts, namely, Agra, Mathura, Firozabad, Etah, and Hathras (UP) and Bharatpur (Rajasthan).

New Delhi, April 22 (IANS) In a key scientific feat, letters written by the late Everest mountaineer George Mallory, which survived 75 years in his jacket pocket before his body was discovered, have been digitised and made available to a global audience for the first time.

The bulk of the collection is made up of letters written between Mallory and his wife Ruth, from the time of their engagement in 1914 until his death on Everest in 1924.

Among them are the very last letter he wrote before his final Everest summit attempt and three

letters that were retrieved from his body in 1999.

These letters have now been made available in the centenary year of Mallory’s fatal attempt to scale Everest.

The letters are free to view on the website of Magdalene College, University of Cambridge.

“It has been a real pleasure to work with these letters,” said College archivist Katy Green. “Whether it’s George’s wife Ruth writing about how she was posting him plum cakes and a grapefruit to the trenches (he said the grapefruit wasn’t ripe enough), or whether it’s his poignant last letter where he says the chances of scaling Everest are ‘50 to 1 against us’, they offer a fascinating insight into the life of this famous Magdalene alumnus,” Green noted.

An alumnus of Magdalene College, Mallory is known for purportedly replying "because it's there" when asked by a reporter why he wanted to climb Everest. The letters cover some fascinating topics including his first reconnaissance mission to Everest in 1921.

9 held for gang rape of minors in Meghalaya

Guwahati, April 28 (IANS) Nine persons were arrested by the police in connection with the rape of minor girls in the South West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya, officials said on Sunday.

Earlier on Sunday, Priyank Kanoongo, the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) Chairperson, said that illegal Rohingya infiltrators were behind this incident.

He has also shared a video on his social media platform X, in which he reached the crime spot with the police team.

Kanungo wrote on X, "I have come here with the NCPCR team to investigate the complaint in connection with the gang rape of minor girls in the attack during a tribal festival in South West Garo Hills's Ampati district of Meghalaya. It is surprising that

there has been no discussion at the national level on such a brutal crime against tribal children. According to the complaint, the culprits are suspected to be illegal Rohingya intruders. Investigation is underway.''

According to the police, the incidents of rape took place on April 16 night at Chenga Benga Mela village in Ampati, the headquarters of South West Garo hills district.

Superintendent of Police (SP), West Garo Hills district, Vikash Kumar, told IANS, "The incident happened on April 16 night and the police complaint was lodged on April 18. Although the state had conducted Lok Sabha polls on April 19, the police launched a probe immediately and the accused were taken into custody."

"Nine accused persons were arrested from South SalmaraMankachar district with the active assistance of the Assam Police. They were taken into custody after more than a week of investigation," he added.

The police said that one minor girl was raped and another one was gang raped on April 16.

Chennai Police arrest Rajasthan man in double murder case

Chennai, April 29 (IANS) The Greater Chennai Police on Monday arrested a Rajasthan native in a case related to the murder of a Keralite couple living here.

The accused was identified as Mahesh (29) from Udaipur in Rajasthan. He was working as a salesman in a hardware shop in Chennai.

The bodies of Sivan Nair (68) and

his wife Prasannakumari (62) were found at their residence at Muthaputhupettil in Avadi on Sunday night.

Sivan Nair and Prasannakumari hail from Erumeli in Kerala and have been living in Chennai for the past several years. While Sivan Nair was a Sidha doctor, Prasannakumari was a retired teacher from Kendriya Vidyalaya.

Relatives informed police that 800 gm of gold was missing from the residence of the deceased.

Police found a mobile phone in the residence of the deceased and an investigation commenced based on this phone and finally reached the suspect Mahesh.

Six of family killed as car rams into parked truck in Telangana

Hyderabad, April 25 (IANS)

Six members of a family were killed and two injured when a car in which they were travelling rammed into a stationary truck on the Hyderabad-Vijayawada national highway in the early hours of Thursday, police said. The accident occurred near Durgapuram stage in Kodada town of Suryapet district of

News nuggets at a glance

Historic moment as Shompen tribe members cast votes in Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Australia India News Newsdesk

On April 19, a historic event unfolded in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as seven members of the Shompen tribe, classified as a particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTGs) residing in the Great Nicobar Islands, exercised their voting rights for the first time in

the union territory's history. This significant milestone was confirmed by an official source. The voting process took place at polling station 411, aptly named 'Shompen Hut,' situated within the forest staff quarters. Notably, the Shompen tribe members not only participated in the electoral process but also enthusiastically

engaged with the occasion. They were observed posing for selfies at a designated cut-out arranged by the Election Commission of India. The cut-out, bearing the message "I vote for sure," served as a symbolic representation of their active participation in the democratic process.

This momentous event not only signifies the integration of the Shompen tribe into the electoral framework of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands but also underscores the importance of inclusivity and representation in democratic governance. It marks a significant step forward in ensuring the full participation of all segments of society in the democratic process, reflecting the principles of equality and empowerment.

Nagaland’s northern Angami constituency witnesses historic moment with all-women managed polling station

Australia India News Newsdesk

In a historic development, the Northern Angami constituency in Nagaland achieved a significant milestone as the Government Middle School was transformed into the state's inaugural polling station operated entirely by women officers. Despite encountering a minor setback due to a malfunctioning voting machine, the atmosphere remained tranquil and wellorganized at the polling station

SIT

located in Chedema village. Citizens displayed commendable patience as they queued up to exercise their democratic right, recognizing the profound significance of this momentous occasion. This pioneering initiative was spearheaded by Kumar Ramnikant, the administrative head of Kohima district, with the objective of challenging entrenched societal norms and fostering equal participation in governance.

This transformative step not only symbolizes progress towards gender equality and inclusivity but also underscores the commitment to promoting democratic principles and empowering women in the electoral process. Such initiatives serve as inspirational benchmarks for fostering a more equitable and participatory democratic framework in Nagaland and beyond.

to probe allegations against JD(S) MP Prajwal Revanna and HD Revanna

Australia India News Newsdesk

Following the Karnataka government's decision to establish a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe allegations involving JD(S) MP and Hassan candidate Prajwal Revanna in a reported sex scandal, a significant development emerged as a woman lodged a complaint naming his father, HD Revanna,

Telangana.

Six persons, including a baby, died on the spot. Two others were injured and were shifted to a government hospital at Kodad. According to police, the SUV rammed from the rear into the truck parked by the roadside. The deceased were identified as Manikyamma, Chander Rao, Krishnam Raju, Swarna, Srikanth and Lasya. The family belonging to Khammam district was on their way to Vijayawada.

Police suspect overspeed led to the collision. The person driving the car failed to notice the truck which had broken down.

Holenarasipura MLA and son of former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda, as an accused. Amidst these developments, it has been reported that Prajwal has left the country for Germany. The complainant, in her statement to the Holenarasipura police, cited her motivation to come forward after witnessing online testimonies of other victims

recounting their experiences. Providing details of her case, she alleged instances of abuse spanning from 2019 to 2022. The complaints lodged, including that against Prajwal, are set to be transferred to the SIT, which will be overseen by Additional General of Police Bijay Kumar Singh. The team comprises IPS officers Suman D Pennekar and Seema Latkar, tasked with conducting a thorough investigation into the matter.

Minimal polling in eastern Nagaland amidst “call to abstain” and shutdown

Australia India News Newsdesk

On April 19, the six districts comprising Eastern Nagaland witnessed minimal polling activity, largely attributed to a "call to abstain" from elections and a pre-scheduled total shutdown initiated by the Eastern Naga People's Organization (ENPO) to advocate for their demand for autonomy.

The voting for Nagaland's solitary Lok Sabha seat had convened on the same day, featuring

a contest among Chumben Murry representing the NDPP, Supongmeren Jamir from the Congress, and Independent candidate Hayithung Tungoe Lotha.

Upon the conclusion of polling, the overall voter turnout in the state amounted to 56%. However, reports from the local vicinity suggest a notable absence of voting activity within the Eastern Nagaland region, as a result of the total shutdown enforced by the ENPO commencing from

the evening of April 18. It's noteworthy to mention that in 2019, Nagaland had recorded a substantially higher voter turnout of 83.08%.

This subdued polling scenario in Eastern Nagaland underscores the influence and effectiveness of the ENPO's campaign for abstention and emphasizes the ongoing pursuit for autonomy within the region. Such developments contribute to the nuanced landscape of electoral participation and socio-political aspirations prevailing in Nagaland.

HD Revanna

Prajwal Rewanna

No one can remove reservation for SCs, STs & OBCs, this is PM Modi’s guarantee: Amit Shah

Akola (Maharashtra), April 23 (IANS) Union Home Minister

Amt Shah on Tuesday clearly stated that as long as the is BJP in power, no one can remove the reservation for SCs, STs, and OBCs in the country.

Addressing an election rally in Akola in support of BJP candidate

Anup Dhotre, the Home Minister accused the Congress of running a misinformation campaign that the BJP will change the Constitution if it is voted to power for a third straight term.

"The BJP will not change the Constitution. Also, reservations for the SC, ST, and OBC communities will remain intact. No one can remove that. This is PM Modi’s guarantee," Amit Shah said.

"In Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, our brothers -Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis and Christians -- are being oppressed. Should we not give them security? The Modi government has worked to give citizenship to our refugee brothers. But the Congress says it will repeal CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act)," Amit Shah said.

The Home Minister also accused the Congress of spreading lies that if the BJP wins 400 seats, it will remove the reservation system.

"People gave us a complete

majority in 2014 and 2019. Did we abolish reservation? Instead, we used the absolute majority to abolish triple talaq, scrap Article 370, end terrorism, and bring CAA," said Amit Shah. The Home Minister also said that the Modi government at the Centre and the MahaYuti government in Maharashtra have done a lot of work in the eastern Vidarbha region as well as in the irrigation sector. "The BJP is committed to bring water schemes in Vidarbha. We have approved the nearly Rs 79,000 crore Wainganga-Nalganga interlinking scheme, which will end Akola's drought forever.

About 4 lakh hectares of land in Nagpur, Wardha, Amravati, Yavatmal, Akola, and Buldhana districts will come under irrigation due to this scheme," he added.

LS Polls: As campaigning for Phase 2 ends, BJP mounts pressure on Congress over Pitroda statement

New Delhi, April 24 (IANS)

Several top leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to launch a scathing attack on senior Congress leader Sam Pitroda for making a statement on wealth redistribution and inheritance tax.

Pitroda, the Chairman of the Indian Overseas Congress who is also considered close to Rahul Gandhi, created a massive storm on Friday with his remarks on inheritance tax in America.

Rahul

slams

"Now, the Congress is saying there will be an inheritance tax on inheritance from parents... They will hit you with a higher tax rate till the time you are alive. And after that, they will impose an inheritance tax," PM Modi said while addressing a public rally in Chhattisgarh's Ambikapur on the last day of campaigning for the second phase of Lok Sabha elections to be held on April 26.

In Delhi, Home Minister Amit Shah said that with Pitroda's statement, the "true intentions" of the Congress have been laid bare, exposing the party's agenda.

He said the comments made by Pitroda have unveiled the appeasement politics of the Congress and, in essence, confirm the party's intention to confiscate the property of the majority and redistribute it among the minorities.

This "revelation", he said,

BJD-BJP

underscores that the Congress never prioritised the empowerment of India's poor, Dalits, youth, tribals, and backward classes.

"The idea of 'survey' was initially introduced in the Congress manifesto. During his tenure as Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh stated that minorities have the primary claim on the country's resources. Such ideology has long been associated with the Congress legacy.

Now, Sam Pitroda, drawing parallels with America, has advocated for discussions on wealth distribution and the implementation of inheritance tax," said Shah.

Rajya Sabha MP and BJP spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi said the statements made by Pitroda have categorically exposed the "nefarious design" of the Congress.

in Odisha rally, says both in collusion to benefit few corporates

New Delhi, April 28 (IANS)

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, stepping up the party’s campaign in Odisha on Sunday lashed out at the Naveen Patnaik-led BJD government and the opposition BJP while accusing them of having ‘married’ each other for personal gains and befooling the public.

Rahul claimed that the ruling BJD has got into a secret partnership with the main opposition party BJP and both have one shared goal, to ‘benefit the select few corporates’.

Addressing a huge public gathering at Salepur in Cuttack, Rahul alleged that the Naveen Patnaik government was running a nexus with the rival BJP and facilitating the loot of the state’s resources in various fields including plantation and mining.

He also declared if Congress came to power in the state, the looted money would be returned to the residents.

“Your money was stolen by them (BJD and BJP) through the mining scam worth Rs 9 lakh crore, farmers’ land grab worth Rs 20,000 crore and plantation scam worth Rs 15,000 crore. I am giving these numbers because when the Congress party comes to power here in Odisha and in Delhi, we will start returning the money

Assam minister claims Congress fearful at seeing Muslims’ support for BJP

Guwahati, April 23 (IANS) Assam

minister Pijush Hazarika claimed on Tuesday that the Congress used to believe that it could continue using Muslim people as its vote bank but the BJP's politics of good governance has spoiled it.

Speaking to reporters here, he claimed that the Congress is fearful at seeing a large number of people belonging to the minority community in BJP's public programmes.

"Muslim people are coming towards us because of the development initiatives of both the state and Central governments," Hazarika said. He further claimed that the BJP will win the Nagaon Lok Sabha seat comfortably, which is primarily a minority-dominated constituency.

"I have been campaigning in various parts of Nagaon parliamentary constituency for the last few days. I have seen tremendous support for the BJP in Muslim-dominated areas. Minority people have observed that the BJP has passed on government benefits to every section of the society without a single case of discrimination," he said.

The state minister also took a jibe at Sivasagar MLA Akhil Gogoi claiming that the opposition leader is having sleepless nights seeing the support of minority people to the BJP.

Indira Gandhi coined ‘Gareebi Hatao’ slogan, her grandson still repeating it: CM Yogi

Amroha (UP), April 23 (IANS)

Criticising the Congress for its handling of terrorist incidents, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath stated on Tuesday that during the Congress government, whenever a terrorist incident occurred, they would "put oil in their ears" and ignore it.

“They would merely say they were watching or would watch, while terrorists continued their activities,” he added.

they have looted from you,” roared Rahul at the rally, drawing applause from the crowd.

Gandhi said that Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik was running the government for a ‘select few’ while Prime Minister Narendra Modi was running a government for the billionaires.

He also said that though Naveen Patnaik was the Chief Minister, the state government was being run by his aide VK Pandian.

“Uncleji of Delhi (referring to PM Modi) and Naveen Patnaik offered people of Odisha PAANN (Pandian, Amit Shah, Narendra Modi and Naveen Patnaik),” Gandhi said in a sharp jibe at Odisha CM.

In a jibe at the Congress, he remarked that the party had coined the slogan 'Gareebi Hatao' in 1970 and in 2024 late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s grandson was still repeating it.

He added, “Instead of alleviating poverty, one family gained unfettered access to plunder the nation's resources, whether it was the family in Delhi or in Saifai. They indulged in rampant corruption and instigated chaos.”

Speaking at a public meeting in Hasanpur, Amroha in support of Kanwar Singh Tanwar, CM Adityanath stated, “The Samajwadi Party has crossed the limits of shamelessness. They had the audacity to withdraw cases against terrorists who attacked Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya and the Sankat Mochan Temple in Kashi. However, the judiciary

thwarted their intentions.”

He continued, “The court sharply criticised the SP, warning that if they can withdraw cases against terrorists today, they might tomorrow shamelessly compromise the country's security by giving them the Padma Award. The judiciary will not permit such actions.”

He further said, “Today is Hanuman Jayanti. PM Modi has facilitated the installation of Lord Ram's idol in Ayodhya, who is the idol of Lord Hanuman. Therefore, ‘Jo Ram ko laaye hain, hum unko layenge aur kamal khilayenge.’”

CM Adityanath remarked that prior to 2014 there were frequent terrorist incidents and bomb blasts, instilling fear among the people. However, terrorism has been effectively curbed since 2014.

"By 2019, PM Modi took decisive action to revoke Article 370, which was the foundation of terrorism. This led to the eradication of terrorism from India. Now, even when a firecracker explodes, Pakistan promptly denies involvement. Even our adversaries recognise India's strength. They understand that if terrorist incidents occur in India and innocent lives are lost, they will face consequences", he stated. Asserting that the BJP prioritises development, the Chief Minister said, “The distance from Amroha to Delhi is just 165 km. Before 2014, it took five hours to travel this distance. Congress failed to appreciate the importance of convenience and time.

NDA will sweep all 28 seats in K’taka, says Amit Shah after roadshow in B’luru

Bengaluru, April 24 (IANS) As the first phase of Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka is going to be held on April 26, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday held a roadshow in Bengaluru South Parliamentary constituency for sitting BJP MP and candidate Tejasvi Surya.

Starting late Tuesday evening in Bommanahalli here, the election rally held by Amit Shah witnessed huge participation from citizens.

Former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, Opposition leader R. Ashoka, and Bengaluru South BJP candidate and Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha President Tejasvi Surya were also present in the rally along with Amit Shah.

Addressing the gathering, the Union Home Minister appealed to the people to ensure the victory of Tejasvi Surya from the Bengaluru South seat with a margin of more than five lakh votes.Amit Shah hit out at the Congress government

for its failure in governance in Karnataka, highlighting the issues of law and order, and corruption.

He also said Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's inaction in addressing law and order was emboldening anti-national elements across the state to attack innocent citizens.

He also criticised the Congress for supporting organisations linked to extremist activities and stressed the BJP's commitment to law and order.

Amit Shah expressed confidence about the NDA winning all 28 Lok Sabha constituencies in Karnataka as well as lauded the transformative impact of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership on the progress and security of the country.

He urged the people of Karnataka to reject Congress' empty guarantees and choose the development-oriented governance of Prime Minister Modi.

"After the DJ Halli and KG Halli riots a couple of years ago, I met Amit Shah Ji and requested the establishment of an NIA office in Bengaluru. The NIA

office has significantly bolstered our counter-terrorism efforts. The investigation into the Rameshwaram Cafe blast case is being spearheaded by them," Tejasvi Surya said, expressing his gratitude towards the Union Home Minister for his support.

"That apart, the Home Minister's support for the Safe City project, at an outlay of Rs 2,840 crore, has boosted the city's security,” Surya noted.

The roadshow began from the Vivekananda Statue near Bommanahalli Circle on Hosur Road to the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore, Bannerghatta.

A huge crowd of BJP workers followed the vehicle carrying Amit Shah and other senior party leaders with party flags and banners in their hands.

BJP leader Tejasvi Surya is contesting against Congress candidate Sowmya Reddy from the Bengaluru South Lok Sabha seat.

Sowmya Reddy is a former MLA and the daughter of State Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy.

In Maharashtra, Rahul Gandhi vows to fight ‘attempts to change the Constitution’

Solapur (Maharashtra), April 24 (IANS) Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said here on Wednesday that the INDIA bloc will 'fight any power' that threatens to change or tamper with the Constitution.

Addressing an election rally here, Rahul Gandhi said that for the first time in the country's history, a ruling party -- the BJP -- led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the RSS were attacking the Constitution and working to destroy it.

"The BJP leaders are publicly saying that the Constitution will be changed after that party returns to power… they are trying to destroy and do away with the Constitution itself. However, no power can tamper with the Constitution and the INDIA bloc will fight to protect it," the Wayanad MP said.

He said the Constitution of B.R. Ambedkar "is not merely a book, but a document of the rights" of the poor people, the tribals, the Dalits and the common citizens, it is a 'weapon' in the hands of the ordinary masses to safeguard themselves.

"We shall not tolerate it… we will strongly oppose and fight any attempts to weaken or destroy the

Constitution. This election is to save the country's Constitution and Democracy," the Congress leader said. Accusing PM Modi of diverting the people's attention whenever the Opposition parties raised major issues of national concerns, Rahul Gandhi said that the youth of the country are frustrated and directionless without employment opportunities.

"The BJP had promised to give two crore jobs to the youth but that did not happen. Now, the country is facing the highest rate of unemployment in the past 45 years. The youth roam around with nothing to do but the INDIA bloc will change matters after coming to power," he said.

For this, he said that the new INDIA bloc government will create a new law ensuring a 'job guarantee' and provide training and stipend to all educated youth and make them ready for any jobs of their choice.

He said the next government would identify all the jobless graduates or diploma holders and train them for one year at government, public and private sector offices, plus also give them Rs 1 lakh stipend per year to prepare them for any kind of employment opportunities.

Declaring that there is no dearth of resources in the country, Rahul Gandhi said it needs to be shared equitably among the poor, and flayed how a handful of rich persons control the largest chunk of India's wealth under the

‘I

need people’s blessings to protect crores of daughters like Neha Hiremath’, PM Modi says in K’taka rally

Ballari (Karnataka), April 28

(IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, while addressing a rally in Karnataka's Ballari, sought the blessings of the people to protect crores of daughters like Neha Hiremath, an MCA student and Congress leader's daughter who was stabbed to death in broad daylight by a Muslim youth with whom she was in a "relationship".

Speaking at the rally, PM Modi said that he was not seeking power to enjoy but to curb incidents like bomb blasts in the country. "Before 2014, many bomb blasts had happened but after 2014 they stopped. This is Modi. I will ensure the security of the nation, of your house, by keeping in check the guns and bombs," he said.

Slamming the Congress, PM Modi said: "Our daughters are not safe under the Congress government in Karnataka. A young woman was stabbed to death in full public view in broad daylight. There is no fear in the accused

BJP rule. Here, he mentioned the Congress election manifesto's promises to make crores of people as millionaires compared with the two-dozen helped by the BJP, deposit Rs 8,500 per month or Rs 1 lakh per year directly to the bank accounts of millions of women from poor families under the Mahalakshmi Scheme.

"PM Modi is a leader of the rich, billionaires and industrialists, he is not a leader of the poor masses in the country and that is why he is scared of losing the elections, and out of that fear and anxiety, he starts misleading the country with false claims," Rahul Gandhi alleged.

Accusing PM Modi-led regime of being 'anti Dalits and tribals' and insulting them, Rahul Gandhi said:

"The INDIA bloc will change all this. It will conduct a caste census to determine the socio-economic status of all sections of the people like Dalits, Tribals, OBCs and minorities to ensure that they get the fruits of development and 'nyay' (justice) that they have been denied."

The Congress leader was campaigning for the INDIAMaha Vikas Aghadi-Congress nominee Praniti Sushilkumar Shinde, who is contesting the Solapur (SC) LS constituency, in the presence of top leaders like Nana Patole, Balasaheb Thorat, Sushilkumar Shinde and other state and central leaders, plus representatives of the INDIA bloc leaders in Maharashtra.

as the Congress party is ruling. A daughter has been killed... and her family has been living with worries. This is the result of the policies of the Congress."

In an oblique reference to Pakistan, PM Modi said "neighbours who exported terror earlier are now struggling to import potatoes".

"Once, when terror acts were on the rise, our soldiers were beheaded. Now, they know Modi is there, and he will not hesitate to come inside and punish," PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister further said: "India is rapidly developing. Few countries and organisations do not like it. Many want India to be weakened. They want a weak government so that they can benefit. "The Congress will make a way for them as it wants an opportunity to practice corruption. But the BJP is a threat to them as our government will not relent," he added.

PM Modi also said that "the political corridors of Delhi were earlier filled with dalals (middlemen)".

"All the work was done through middlemen. Since 2014, the scenario has changed. The middlemen have shifted their base from Delhi to states. The Congress' diktat won't work anymore," PM Modi said.

Support BJP to secure children’s future, PM Modi urges voters in MP rally

Bhopal, April 24 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, speaking at a rally in Madhya Pradesh, urged the people to support the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the Lok Sabha elections to secure the future of their children.

Addressing a gathering in Madhya Pradesh's Betul Lok Sabha constituency, PM Modi said whenever he visited the state in the last 10 years, he gave something to the state and now, he needs the support of the people to ensure the safety of the country and its citizens.

"I bow down my head before you today. I would appeal to you to vote for the BJP to make the future of your children safe. Do not support those who conspire to destroy the country,"

PM Modi said while addressing the massive public gathering in Dhar assembly segment of Betul Lok Sabha constituency.

The polling in Betul was scheduled for April 26.

However, after the death of BSP candidate Ashok Bhalavi earlier this month, the polling was rescheduled for May 7.

The sitting Betul MP is BJP's Durga Das Uikey, who defeated Congress leader Ramu Tekam in 2019 by a margin of over 3.6 lakh votes.

The constituency is set to see another 'Uikey versus Tekam' contest this time.

Betul recorded a voter turnout of 78.18 per cent in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

The constituency is reserved for candidates belonging to Scheduled Tribes (ST).

China, Australia discuss FTA implementation

Canberra, April 22 (IANS) Senior Chinese and Australian trade officials have agreed to further give full play to the potential of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement (FTA), and promote a deeper and more solid economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.

According to the Chinese Embassy in Australia on Monday,

at the second meeting of the China-Australia FTA Joint Committee held in Canberra last Tuesday, the two sides highly valued the results achieved since the implementation of the agreement and fully affirmed the important role played by the FTA in promoting the development of bilateral economic and trade relations, Xinhua news agency reported.

The meeting reviewed the implementation of the FTA since its entry into force in the areas of goods, services, investment, finance, movement

of natural persons, and sanitary and phytosanitary measures, according to an embassy statement on Monday.

The two sides had an in-depth exchange of views on issues of concern to each other, and discussed the overall review of the agreement and the next working arrangements, it said.

The China-Australia FTA Joint Committee meeting was cochaired by Chinese Vice Minister of Commerce Li Fei and Deputy Secretary of the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade George Mina.

Unemployment rate rises to 3.8 pc in March

Canberra, April 18 (IANS)

Australia's unemployment rate rose slightly to 3.8 per cent in March, official data has revealed.

According to figures published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) on Thursday, the number of employed Australians fell by 6,600 between February and March,

driving unemployment up from 3.7 per cent to 3.8 per cent, Xinhua news agency reported.

News Corp Australia newspapers reported that economists had generally expected unemployment to hit 3.9 per cent in March.

The fall in employment comes after the number of employed Australians grew by 116,500 between January and February.

The ABS said the number of Australians employed in full-time roles grew by 27,900 between February and March but parttime employment fell by 34,500 in the same period.

Despite the net job loss, the total

number of hours worked by Australians was 17 million or 0.9 percent higher in March than in February and 1.7 per cent higher than in March 2023.

The participation rate, which measures the proportion of the working-age population who are either employed or actively looking for work, fell slightly from 66.7 per cent to 66.6 per cent.

Bjorn Jarvis, head of labor statistics at the ABS, said in a media release that the participation rate was much higher than pre-pandemic levels and close to the record high of 67 per cent set in November, 2023.

Defence Minister announces $50 bn defence funding over next decade

Sydney, April 17 (IANS/DPA)

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles on Wednesday announced a $50 billion Australian ($32 billion) defence funding boost over the next 10 years.

The spending package includes an additional $5.7 billion over the next four years and an immediate injection of more than $1 billion to speed up the development of long-range missiles and targeting systems, as well as fuel resilience and robotic and autonomous systems, Marles said.

The funding also includes an upgrade of Australia's naval fleet with greater firepower and conventionally armed, nuclearpowered submarines.

The army is to be given the means for greater coastal manoeuverability with a longrange land and maritime strike capability, while the Air Force will be outfitted with better long-range surveillance and strike capabilities, on land, sea and air, according to the Defence Ministry.

The strategy also includes a strengthened and integrated space and cyber capability, including enhanced cyber and electronic warfare.

"At a time of complex challenges and increasing uncertainty, a

stronger, integrated, focused and capable Defence Force is of the utmost importance," the Defence Minister said in a statement. He added that the Canberra government's main focus was to project defence power into the Asia-Pacific region, rather than simply protecting Australia's borders. Canberra's total defence spend is expected to reach $330 billion through to 2033-34. That incorporates the initial costs of acquiring nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS alliance with the US and Britain.

The increased spending commitment under the government's National Defence Strategy will bring defence spending to around 2.4 per cent of GDP by 2033-2034.

PM urges men, boys to prevent violence against women

Canberra, April 23 (IANS) Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged the nation's men and boys to take responsibility for ending a crisis of violence against women.

Albanese on Tuesday said his government would do whatever it can to tackle violence against women but said men and boys must address the underlying causes of violence, Xinhua news agency reported.

He was speaking after a 29-yearold man who was on bail for another matter was on Monday charged with the murder of a 28-year-old woman in the state of New South Wales.

According to activist group

Counting Dead Women, 25 women have died violently in Australia so far in 2024, including five in the Sydney shopping center stabbing spree earlier in April.

"We all have to take responsibility for what is a scourge of violence against women. The fact that more than one woman per week has died at the hands of someone that they know, whether it's a partner or someone in a relationship, is just completely unacceptable," Albanese told state media Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) radio on Tuesday.

"Men and boys have to clearly have discussions about these issues. There's a need to show respect to women."

Asked on Tuesday if he would declare violence against women a national emergency, Albanese said the government knew it had been a crisis for some time and had committed additional funding to provide safe places for women.

PM announces loans for critical minerals projects

Canberra, April 17 (IANS) The Australian government will provide loans worth more than half a billion Australian dollars to critical minerals projects in a bid to boost the local manufacturing industry.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Trade Minister Don Farrell and Resources Minister Madeleine King on Wednesday announced 585 million Australian dollars ($375.6 million) in loans for two critical minerals projects in the states of Queensland and South Australia (SA), Xinhua news agency reported.

The largest loan worth 400 million Australian dollars

($256.8 million) will go towards Australian company Alpha HPA to help it establish Australia's first high-purity alumina processing facility in Queensland, with the remaining 185 million Australian dollars ($118.8 million) assigned to Renascor Resources to fast-track its plans for a graphite facility in South Australia.

Both projects will produce critical minerals that are used in lithiumion batteries required for electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies.

The announcement came after Albanese earlier in April revealed plans for an interventionist green policy, the Future Made in Australia Act, to boost Australia's clean energy and advanced manufacturing using direct government support.

"We are building a future made in Australia with secure jobs in our regions," he said in a statement on Wednesday.

"The global race for new jobs and new opportunities is on. Our government wants Australia to be in it to win it."

PM joins mass protests against gendered violence

Canberra, April 28 (IANS)

Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has joined nationwide protests calling for an end to violence against women.

Tens of thousands of Australians on Sunday gathered at events across the country to demand action to address gendered violence, Xinhua news agency reported.

In Canberra, protesters were

joined on their march to Parliament House by Albanese, who earlier in April said Australia was facing a crisis of violence against women, and senior government ministers.

According to the activist group Destroy the Joint, 26 women have been violently killed in Australia since the start of 2024.

"Violence against women is an epidemic. We must do better,"

Albanese wrote in a post on social media on Sunday morning. "Governments need to do better, and as a society, we need to do better."

Speaking at a press conference earlier on Sunday, Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said more time was needed to determine if the 10-year National Plan to End Violence against Women implemented by the government in October 2022 was

yielding results.

The plan set a goal of eradicating violence against women within a generation. "The results will take some time to see the change we need to turn things around," Rishworth said on Sunday.

She said she was hopeful the current national conversation would bring sustained resolve across society to address the issue.

Pressing UNSC reforms, India highlights consensus in G20 with broader membership

United Nations, April 24 (IANS)

Pressing the case for Security Council reforms, India has highlighted the consensus arrived at the more representative G20 Summit on issues that could not make it through the UN's highest decision-making body stuck in a "cold war" mode.

"We are all aware that issues on which the United Nations Security Council has failed to find consensus, have seen more progress and solutions outside," India's Permanent Representative Ruchira Kamboj said on Tuesday giving the example of the consensus, arrived at last year's G20 summit presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

"Therefore, unless we change the composition of the permanent membership and make it reflective of today's realities, diplomacy and dialogue will not get a real chance to find solutions to our challenges," she said at the General Assembly meeting commemorating the second anniversary of its Veto Initiative that requires Security Council permanent members to explain before it their vetoes.

Because of the polarisation among the permanent members, the Council has not been able to act on the Ukraine War now in its third year.

But the G20 Summit of the major economies. where the adversaries at the Council also participated, reached a consensus on Ukraine

declaring that "all states must refrain from the threat or use of force to seek territorial acquisition against the territorial integrity and sovereignty or political independence of any state" and that "the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons is inadmissible".

The consensus was possible because of the G20's broader membership and the equality of all the participating countries.

The Veto Initiative was adopted in a General Assembly resolution in 2022 as a reaction to the paralysis of the Security Council on Ukraine because of vetoes.

UN General Assembly President Dennis Francis said, "It is precisely for the reason of its state of paralysis that we must ramp up momentum for Security Council reform -- reinvigorating the Council's capacity to fulfill its responsibilities."

"I thus strongly urge member states -- especially those also members of the Council -- to seize this debate as an opportunity to bridge divisions among themselves and seek impactful solutions by involving more the General Assembly," he added.

The "dysfunctionality of the United Nations Security Council and the use of the veto" is not only because the veto is being used but also because of the "binary nature" of the Council's membership, "which is not reflective of contemporary realities, and therefore ensures that the Council takes decisions in a vintage 'cold war' mode," Kamboj said.

"Unless we change the composition of the permanent

membership and make it reflective of today's realities, diplomacy and dialogue will not get a real chance to find solutions to our challenges," she added. Kamboj said, "What is very clear today is that a majority of the member states, including most of those who were not even independent at the time of the drafting of the United Nations Charter, want reform and do not feel represented in the decisions of the United Nations Security Council."

She took aim at the "hidden veto" that has stymied the process of reforming the Security Council which a majority of the member states want.

At the Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) for Council reform, a "minority of nay-sayers" are holding up the process by calling for a consensus before the negotiations and preventing the adoption of a negotiating text to move the discussions forward, she said.

Kamboj criticised the lack of transparency in the working of the Security Council and how it is used to disguise vetoes.

She gave the example of the Security Council's Sanction Committee where members put "holds and blocks" on actions against terrorists without having to explain their actions.

China has frequently resorted to this manoeuvre to protect terrorists under Pakistan's protection.

(Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @ arulouis)

TikTok faces nationwide ban in US as Biden prepares to sign ‘historic’ bill

Washington, April 24 (IANS)

US President Joe Biden is set to sign a historic bill regarding a huge foreign aid package on Wednesday, that will also ban TikTok in the country if its Chinabased owner ByteDance doesn’t sell its stake within a year.

The US Senate passed the bill 79-18 on Tuesday after the House passed it with an overwhelming majority last weekend.

TikTok, which has more than 170 million American users, didn’t immediately comment but Michael Beckerman, its head of public policy for the Americas, said that the company plans to challenge the move in court.

“The stage that the bill is signed, we will move to the courts for a legal challenge,” he said in a memo to TikTok’s US staff.

The bill gives TikTok owner Bytedance nine months' time to force a sale, with a 90-day extension.

In a White House statement, Biden said that a bipartisan majority in the Senate joined the House to answer “history’s call at this critical inflection point”.

“I will sign this bill into law and address the American people as soon as it reaches my desk tomorrow so we can begin sending weapons and equipment to Ukraine this week,” said the US President.

“The need is urgent: for Ukraine, facing unrelenting bombardment from Russia; for Israel, which just faced unprecedented attacks from Iran; for refugees and those impacted by conflicts and natural disasters around the world, including in Gaza, Sudan,

North Korea will face end of regime if it uses nuclear weapons, warns South Korea

Seoul, April 23 (IANS) North Korea will face the end of its regime if it attempts to use nuclear weapons, the South Korean defense ministry warned on Tuesday, after the former said it conducted rocket drills simulating a nuclear counterattack.

North Korea's state media said leader Kim Jong-un on Monday guided a tactical drill simulating a nuclear counterattack involving super-large multiple rocket launchers against enemy targets, Yonhap news agency reported.

"If North Korea attempts to use weapons, it will face an immediate, overwhelming and decisive response from the South Korea-US alliance, and the North Korean regime will face its end," ministry spokesperson Jeon Ha-kyu said in a regular press briefing.

Jeon said North Korea's continued provocations would only strengthen South Korea's military capabilities and US extended deterrence, and their trilateral security cooperation involving Japan.

Extended deterrence refers to America's commitment to using the full range of its military capabilities, including nuclear, to defend its ally. The allies have been pursuing an integrated form of extended deterrence with Seoul leveraging its high-tech conventional military capabilities.

and Haiti; and for our partners seeking security and stability in the Indo-Pacific,” he elaborated.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said the North's latest missile tests appear to be "a show of force"

against the ongoing military drills between Seoul and Washington as well as demonstrating its capabilities in lieu of its delayed spy satellite launch and arms sales abroad.

The South Korean military said earlier North Korea appears to be making preparations for its next launch of a spy satellite, although there are no signs of an imminent launch.

JCS spokesperson Lee Sung-jun evaluated North Korea's claim of a nuclear attack capability as "exaggerated" and the South Korean military is ready to detect and shoot down its ballistic missiles.

"North Korea is known to have not yet concluded its experiments with small tactical nuclear weapons," Lee said during the briefing.

The North's super-large multiple rocket launch system is classified as a short-range missile that could put the entire South Korean territory within range. Pyongyang has claimed a tactical nuclear warhead could be mounted on such a weapon.

The North said Monday's missiles accurately hit the target island within a 352-kilometer range, which is enough to hit South Korea's Gyeryongdae military headquarters, 160 kilometers south of Seoul, and an air base in Gunsan on the southwestern coast, where the joint aerial drills have been underway.

On Tuesday, JCS Chairman Adm. Kim Myung-soo visited the 707th Special Mission Group, an elite counter-terrorism unit under the Special Warfare Command, to review its military readiness.

Kim highlighted the special force's role in eliminating the enemy's leadership in covert operations during a conflict and called for heightened vigilance against North Korean threats.

Stadium ban for women to be reintroduced in Iran

Tehran, April 14 (IANS/DPA) A stadium ban for women is to be reintroduced in Iran, multiple local news reports said on Wednesday.

The reports said that the Iranian FA has ordered the ban to be imposed in the north-western city of Tabriz in the wake of "repulsive incidents" at a home game of local top flight club

Tractor-Sazi.

It was not clear whether the stadium ban only applies in Tabriz or for all matches. TractorSazi is one of the most popular clubs in Iran, with a large fan base including many women.

Observers believe that a female pitch invader at a match last week is a reason for the latest decision by the FA.

A woman ran onto the pitch during the Pro League match between Tehran club Esteghal and Aluminium Arak and embraced Esteghlal and national team goalkeeper Hossein

Hosseini.

Hosseini was fined around $7,500 and suspended for one match after he reportedly briefly held her. In Iran, it is forbidden to touch women who are not a part of the close family.

Iran's arch-conservative clergy has argued that women had no business in stadiums with fanatical male fans.

Under pressure from the world governing body FIFA, the ban was relaxed somewhat in recent years, with a certain number of women allowed to attend matches.

US Congress approves $61 billion in aid for Ukraine

Washington, April 24 (IANS/DPA)

The US Congress has approved a $61-billion aid package for Ukraine after months of stalling.

The US Senate on Tuesday approved the bill with 79 votes in the 100-seat upper chamber days after the US House of Representatives on Saturday approved the bill with overwhelming bipartisan support. It now needs the approval of US President Joe Biden.

"I will sign this bill into law and address the American people as soon as it reaches my desk tomorrow so we can begin sending weapons and equipment to Ukraine this week," Biden said shortly after the vote, adding he wants to start delivering weapons and equipment to Ukraine this week.

By passing the legislative package,

which also includes billions of dollars in aid for Israel and Taiwan, the US Congress has demonstrated the power of American leadership in the world, Biden said.

"We stand resolutely for democracy and freedom, and against tyranny and oppression."

There is an urgent need for support for Ukraine, which is being subjected to relentless bombardment from Russia, Biden said. The bill also contains aid for Israel, which has recently faced unprecedented attacks from Iran.

"This critical legislation will make our nation and world more secure as we support our friends who are defending themselves against terrorists like Hamas and tyrants like Putin," Biden said.

The US aid package provides for around $23 billion to increase the US military stockpile.

The money will therefore go indirectly to Ukraine, as the US usually provides the country with equipment from its stocks.

The remainder is earmarked for further military support and

financial aid, which is designed as a loan.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the US Senate "for approving vital aid to Ukraine today."

"This vote reinforces America's role as a beacon of democracy and the leader of the free world," Zelensky.

Earlier on Tuesday, Pentagon spokesman Pat Ryder told reporters in Washington that new military aid could be delivered to Ukraine "within days."

The deliveries would be "based on Ukraine's most urgent needs," Ryder said. "I think it's a good assumption to expect that it'll include air defense capabilities as well as artillery ammunition."

The US is considered Ukraine's most important ally in its defence against the Russian invasion. Since the start of the war in February 2022, Biden's administration has provided more than $44 billion in military aid to Kiev.

This is in addition to billions more in non-military financial aid.

Hundreds of students arrested across US in surging pro-Palestine protests

York,

Hundreds of students have been arrested on US campuses as protests against Washington’s support for Israel are surging sea to sea.

By Wednesday, the protests that started last week at the Ivy League Columbia University campus in New York City where more than 100 students were arrested and their tent encampment cleared had skipped across the nation with more of them detained by police, a rare occurrence in the US where police seldom enter campuses to quell protests.

The students are demanding that the US end its support for Israel, which has been embroiled in a war with Hamas in Gaza leading to the deaths of over 30,000 people, most of them women and children.

They also want the universities to cut ties with Israel and divest the investments of their endowments in arms manufacturers.

Students have been arrested at, among others, the University of Texas-Austin, New York University, Yale, Ohio State University, and the University of

Southern California.

And, protest tent encampments have cropped up in dozens of universities including Harvard, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and University of California-Berkley, copying the Columbia model.

The protest tents were back at Columbia when Mike Johnson, the speaker of the House of Representatives, came there on Wednesday to denounce the protests and demand the resignation of its president, Nemat Minouche Shafik, asserting that she lost control of the university and lawlessness prevailed.

Johnson, a Republican warned universities that they could lose federal funding if they did not control the students, threatened that the National Guard could be deployed to quell the protests, and called on President Joe Biden to intervene.

Students chanting, “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” -- which has been interpreted as a call to annihilate Israel -- tried to drown him out as he spoke to reporters.

The surge in protests has pitted the principle of freedom of expression against university norms and the protection of the rights and safety of students. University administrators are caught in the middle, attacked by both the right that charges them with not doing enough to protect students, and the left that accuses them of being

Gaza, April 29 (IANS) At least 15 Palestinians were killed on Sunday night in Israeli airstrikes on three residential buildings in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, Palestinian official news agency Wafa reported on Monday.

Many others were still trapped under the rubble and civil defence crews were working to rescue them, Xinhua news agency reported, citing local sources.

The Israeli army killed 66 Palestinians and wounded 138 others during the past 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 34,454 and injuries to 77,575 since the Israeli-Palestinian conflict broke out on October 7, 2023, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said in a statement on Sunday.

Israeli attacks killed 27 in Rafah, alleges Hamasrun health authority

too harsh, especially when disciplinary actions are taken against protesters and police are called in.

Shefak, who was the head of the London School of Economics and is of Egyptian descent, is the first university head in the current wave of protests to call in the police but while Johnson demanded her resignation, university faculty and students have attacked her action.

A disturbing element, though, has crept into the protests with some veering off into communalism targeting Jews based on their religion, leading to a political backlash.

Johnson met with Jewish students at Columbia who said they had been personally threatened because of their religion by some of the protesters.

Some protesters have burned both US and Israeli flags and made threats on behalf of Hamas to attack Tel Aviv.

“We just cannot let this kind of hatred and anti-Semitism flourish in our campuses”, Johnson said. In the climate of heightened tensions, Muslims have also faced attacks and the office of the Islamic Life Center at Rutgers was vandalised.

(Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @ arulouis)

Gaza/Tel Aviv, April 29 (IANS/ DPA) At least 27 Palestinians have been killed in fresh Israeli attacks on the city of Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip, the territory's Hamas-controlled Health Ministry said on Monday. Authorities said 20 people in residential buildings in the border town were killed in various attacks during the night.

Seven members of a family in Rafah were also reportedly killed in shelling on Monday morning.

The information could not be independently verified.

An Israeli army spokesman said he could not comment without the exact coordinates of the incidents.

Israel has said it will launch an offensive in Rafah to eliminate the remaining strongholds of the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Israel's allies have repeatedly urged caution, as hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinian civilians are sheltering in the city.

The planned military operation could yet be avoided, with a Hamas delegation arriving in Egypt on Monday to hold negotiations on the release of Israeli hostages in return for Palestinian prisoners.

Israel-Hamas war: Talks in Cairo continue for a six week ceasefire

Tel Aviv, April 30 (IANS) The indirect talks between Hamas and Israel are progressing in Cairo with Egyptian and Qatari mediators taking the lead.

The talks that commenced on Monday are continuing on Tuesday. According to sources in the Israeli Defence Ministry, the negotiations are on a positive path. After Israel reduced the number of hostages to be released from 40 to 33, the possibility of a six-week ceasefire is high.

The Hamas side has demanded the release of around 600 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. Some of the Palestinian prisoners whose names figure in

the list of prisoners submitted by Hamas are charged with serious offences, including murder. Israel has already publicly stated that if Hamas backs out of this discussion in Cairo, it would lead to an Israeli ground offensive in the Rafah region of the Gaza Strip. Around 1.3 million Palestinians inhabit the Rafah area. Egypt

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi had expressed his concern about an Israeli military action in Rafah and the possibility of a huge exodus of refugees to the Sinai region that borders Rafah.

Egyptian intelligence head Major General Abbas Kamel during his recent visit to Israel had expressed concern about a Rafah operation.

Meanwhile, the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is in Saudi Arabia for a two-day visit, is overseeing the mediatory talks between Hamas and Israel.

New

April 25 (IANS)

From the editor’s desk

An Australian diplomat’s perspective on India’s general election: A sign of strengthening ties

India's general election—the most extensive democratic process globally—draws considerable attention, not just within the country but from international observers as well. This interest is especially keen among India's global partners.

Philip Green, the Australian High Commissioner to India, is one of the diplomats eager to witness India's election process up close. His view on this massive democratic event could have a significant impact, shaping how Australia perceives India as the largest democracy and potentially affecting the course of Australia-India relations.

High Commissioner Green's announcement that he plans to immerse himself in the election campaign is a rare and noteworthy move. India has traditionally not invited foreign observers to witness its elections, preferring to keep the process internally managed. However, Green's social media post reveals his enthusiasm to engage with the Indian electorate, visiting campaigns across different regions and interacting with voters. His decision to participate at this level demonstrates the growing importance of India on the global stage and the recognition that its democratic process has far-reaching implications.

The relationship between Australia and India has strengthened in recent years, notably through their participation in the Quad, a strategic alliance that also includes the United States and Japan. This partnership has expanded from security-focused cooperation to encompass broader areas, highlighted by the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), a pivotal step in enhancing trade between the two nations. Green's enthusiasm for India's general election illustrates the evolving and deepening ties between Australia and India, reflecting growing engagement in diplomacy and trade.

High Commissioner Green's participation in the Indian election process can impact Australia's perception of India as a vibrant democracy. His firsthand experience and insights might shape Australia's approach to strengthening ties with India, encouraging more collaborative efforts in trade, education, and cultural exchanges. Additionally, as Australia navigates its own domestic political landscape, the way India manages its elections can offer valuable lessons in democracy and governance.

While India's general election is a testament to the resilience

of its democracy, it does not come without challenges. Green's involvement offers a unique opportunity to witness how India balances its domestic obligations with its global commitments.

Given the growing pro-Khalistan sentiment in Australia, India's stability and its ability to conduct fair elections play a crucial role in maintaining positive bilateral relations. Green's perspective could help Australia understand the nuances of India's internal politics and how it impacts international partnerships.

Moreover, with increasing international scrutiny on India's domestic policies,

High Commissioner Green's observations can provide a more nuanced view of the Indian democratic process. This, in turn, could foster better understanding and cooperation between the two countries, especially in areas where they share mutual interests.

India's general election comes at a time when a few other countries have either gone through the election process or are also going to the polls. In neighbouring Bangladesh, the election was marred by controversy, with the main Opposition party refusing to participate, leading to questions about the credibility of the process. Similarly, political developments in India have attracted comments from western countries, including the United States and Germany, highlighting concerns about the arrest of opposition leaders and restrictions on freedom of religion.

Despite these challenges, India's commitment to democratic principles remains strong.

High Commissioner Green's involvement in India's election process serves as a reminder that democracy, though complex, continues to thrive in India.

His insights can contribute to a more balanced view of India's political landscape and reinforce the notion that Australia and India share a commitment to democratic values.

High Commissioner Green's curiosity about India's general election goes beyond mere diplomacy—it reflects a genuine interest in and respect for India's democratic evolution. By participating in the election process, Green can contribute to shaping how Australia views India, promoting closer ties grounded in shared values and mutual respect. As Australia and India advance their partnership through initiatives like ECTA and strategic collaborations within the Quad, a deeper insight into India's democracy can only enhance the relationship between the two countries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for India: A transformative journey

In an exclusive interview with The Times of India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled his vision for India—a vision that transcends individual timelines and political narratives. As the nation stands at a crucial juncture, PM Modi's leadership aims to steer India toward progress, development, and protection of rights.

PM Modi's confidence in crossing the 400-seat mark in the ongoing elections stems from the unprecedented display of love, affection, and support he witnessed during his rallies and roadshows. The people's belief in the BJP's commitment to development fuels their desire for a better tomorrow. Voting for the BJP aligns with progress, and the "Abki Baar, 400 Paar" slogan

emerged organically from the people's emotions.

The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of securing a thumping majority to safeguard the rights of marginalized communities—Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). His commitment to social justice and inclusivity resonates with millions. The opposition's designs to take away their reservations and rights must be thwarted, and PM Modi's stance is justified in ensuring equal opportunities for all.

The slogan "Abki Baar, 400 Paar" encapsulates the aspirations of millions. When the government successfully abrogated Article 370, people felt emotionally connected to the cause. The BJP workers, driven by this historic achievement, set the ambitious target of 400 seats for the NDA.

PM Modi's vision extends beyond mere numbers—it symbolizes a collective desire for change, progress, and a "Viksit Bharat" (developed India).

PM Modi addressed allegations that the BJP aims to change the Constitution. He pointed out

the irony that those who have amended the Constitution the most are now making such claims. His track record speaks for itself—during his tenure, no changes were made to the Constitution. His viewpoint is justified in inviting scrutiny and emphasizing transparency.

The vision of a "Viksit Bharat" is not confined to any individual—it resides in the hearts of 140 crore Indians. PM Modi's leadership serves as a catalyst, but the collective aspiration for progress drives the nation. The journey toward development, innovation, and prosperity continues, regardless of individual timelines. India's destiny lies in the hands of its people, and PM Modi's vision aligns with their dreams.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision encompasses development, protection of rights, and a collective desire for positive change. His leadership navigates challenges and unveils transformative initiatives. As India marches forward, it does so with hope, determination, and the belief that together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant nation.

Charting new horizons: AI’s impact on political campaigns

In the ever-evolving landscape of political campaigning, the infusion of technology has long been instrumental in shaping electoral strategies and engaging with voters. As we venture into the year 2024, the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) marks a pivotal moment, offering new avenues for digital campaigning and reshaping traditional methodologies.

AI's transformative potential is exemplified by initiatives like Polymath Solutions' innovative voter engagement project. Through AI-generated calls, local politicians can interact directly with constituents, fostering personalized communication and garnering valuable insights into voter sentiments. This novel approach underscores AI's capacity to revolutionize conventional campaign strategies, enhancing engagement and connectivity.

Moreover, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stands at the forefront of AI-driven outreach, leveraging

technology to transcend linguistic barriers and broaden its political outreach. By employing AI for real-time translation of Prime Minister Modi's speeches, the BJP exemplifies how technology can bridge communication gaps and connect with diverse linguistic demographics across the nation. Similarly, parties like the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) harness AI-generated content to reinforce political narratives and deepen voter engagement. These initiatives underscore AI's potential to amplify messaging and foster meaningful connections with voters.

However, amid the promise of AI-driven campaigning, the proliferation of deepfake videos presents a formidable challenge to electoral integrity. The dissemination of manipulated content poses a threat to the authenticity of political discourse and underscores the urgent need for vigilance against AI-driven misinformation. Instances featuring prominent figures endorsing parties in deepfake videos highlight the potential ramifications of unchecked misinformation on the electoral process.

Addressing the complexities of AI-driven misinformation requires proactive regulatory measures and legal frameworks.

Gangesh Varma of Saraf and Partners underscores the need for clear guidelines to define and prosecute fake news, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding electoral processes against AIgenerated misinformation. Despite these challenges, AI presents opportunities to enhance electoral transparency and efficiency. By leveraging AI for real-time surveillance during vote counting, electoral authorities can mitigate the risk of fraud and uphold the integrity of election results. Moreover, AI-driven technologies offer the potential to streamline voter registration and polling procedures, paving the way for a future of e-elections characterized by accessibility and convenience.

As India prepares for the Lok Sabha elections of 2024, policymakers must navigate the complexities of AI-driven campaigning while upholding democratic principles and electoral integrity. Clear guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India are essential to safeguarding the electoral process against the influence of deepfake videos and other AIgenerated content. Responsible AI usage, coupled with proactive regulatory measures, can bolster public trust in the electoral process and pave the way for a transparent, inclusive, and techdriven future of elections.

Deepika Bhan

New Delhi, April 21 (IANS) As the common people await mangoes to flood the market, a special ‘Aam Aadmi’ has been quietly devouring them in Delhi’s Tihar Jail.

There is nothing wrong with eating a mango, but it can create a mess if not done properly. And, this is what the Aam Aadmi Party and its founder Arvind Kejriwal have landed in.

The Aam Aadmi Party chief has been caught in the act literally -- eating mangoes, sweets, aloo-

puri, etc., in jail. Again, there is nothing wrong with relishing mangoes and all those dishes. After all, he is the CM of the national capital and can have any type of home meal, even inside the jail (as the court has permitted).

However, controversy arose when the ED revealed in court that the CM, who is diabetic, was eating mangoes, sweets, etc. to fall sick to create conditions for making a bail plea. A diabetic is supposed to be cautious with food because any deviation can be detrimental to the health system. This is what almost every household in the country knows. Kejriwal and his family know too. So, then why eat mangoes and sweets?

CM Kejriwal is known for disruptive politics and does things for a reason. When he ate mangoes and other things prohibited for a diabetic, he knew what he was doing. However, the likely-would-be-disruption got caught in the eagle eyes of the ED, which complained to the court.

Outside the court, Kejriwal’s food has now become the only issue for the AAP to raise the

flag against the BJP. Its leaders are alleging that there is a “conspiracy to kill Kejriwal”. While the BJP is countering this with its logic of Kejriwal’s hit-and-run politics, the Congress is sitting pretty. Interestingly, the main complainant in the excise policy case is the Congress, and yet it has not been attacking Kejriwal, a partner in the INDIA bloc.

Both AAP and BJP are trying to play up the mango episode to their advantage. While they push and shove, the common people are amused at the turn of events.

Kejriwal’s image of a typical middle-class babu with oiled hair and slippers has worked wonders for him. Delhiites gave him a huge mandate in the Assembly elections in 2015 and 2020. Instead of acknowledging the mandate and fulfilling all the promises he made during the Anna Hazare-led India Against Corruption movement, he simply turned the button off.

Kejriwal’s ‘style’ of working saw his close friends like Yogendra Yadav, Prashant Bhushan, Kumar Vishwas, Mayank Gandhi and several others, losing favour

and finally getting out of the party which they had helped to form. Mayank Gandhi had even said in 2015 while launching his book ‘AAP and Down’, that “Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has compromised with party principles.” He and many others have said that Kejriwal “is autocratic and not democratic” –certainly a quality that does not go with the 'Mango Man' image.

For CM Kejriwal, who claimed that the party was based on the principles of transparency, most activities have not been so transparent. And the alleged excise policy scam case is a pointer to this. The ED, which has arrested him in connection with the probe into the alleged case, has called him the ‘kingpin’. How the case shapes up in the court cannot be predicted.

The Kejriwal of 2011 has simply vanished and the Kejriwal of 2024 is a typical politician whose only concern is to stay in power and get votes somehow. He shares the stage with all those whom he had accused of corruption a decade ago and is, sadly, seeking their validation and support.

Thirteen years ago, he began with the Lokpal movement that sought an ombudsman to look into complaints of corruption against government officials. But today, this former government official and serving Chief Minister of Delhi is in jail on corruption charges. He had said years ago: “Without jumping into the system, it will be impossible to clean up the system. We are going to challenge this system.” He did jump into the system but the glitter of power was perhaps too strong.

Ironically, today he is the accused in corruption cases and is using Mangifera Indica to beat the system and create a sensation. The now-not-so-mango-man has a lot to answer to the 'mango' people, who prefer to visit and jostle in local markets where the king of fruits, incidentally, is yet to make an appearance.

(Deepika Bhan can be contacted at deepika.b@ians.in)

FairPoint: Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Khatakhat’ genie won’t snap votes

New Delhi, April 14 (IANS) The pressure of staying relevant in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls seems to be forcing Congress to promise the moon and the sun to people. A manifestation of this is the slew of promises made by Rahul Gandhi just ahead of the polls.

During his election speech in Rajasthan last week, he had said: "The Congress government will transfer Rs one lakh to the bank account of a woman from every poor family in the country... khatakhat khatakhat aata rahega aur ek jhatke se hum Hindustan se gareebi ko mita denge (it will come instantly and, we will remove poverty from Hindustan)." The best jiffy moment has always been Aladdin’s magic lamp but Rahul Gandhi's "khatakhat khatakhat" claim could well be the new one. The closest translation of Khatakhat, a Hindi word, could

be jiffy or in one stroke or instant. And, instant for most of the present-day generation is always noodles, a Chinese-origin food item.

As all political parties are making promises to woo the electorate, the perpetual youth leader of his party offered the ultimate 'Khatakhat' solution to address poverty in the nick of 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The solution is a sharp contrast to the statement that Rahul Gandhi made 11 years ago in Uttar Pradesh when he said that “poverty is a state of mind.”

In August 2013, the Congress leader was participating in a discussion in Uttar Pradesh when he said: "Poverty is just a state of mind. It does not mean the scarcity of food, money or material things. If one possesses self-confidence, then one can overcome poverty." To prove his point, he even cited the example of a poor woman from Amethi, who got hold of her life by taking help from Rajiv Gandhi Mahila Vikas Pariyojana.

If, in 2013, Rahul believed that providing the right atmosphere to earn and sustain can help tackle poverty, then why the U-turn in 2024? A decade of sitting in the opposition has

made the Congress scion believe that promising doles is the only way to impress people. And the khatakhat system of transferring money in accounts is the easiest way to the hearts of people. Had it been so easy then Karnataka and Telangana economies would not have been struggling with fulfilling the pre-election promises on guarantees. Various development activities have almost stopped and legislators, even from the Congress, are unhappy as fund flow is slow. Overlooking the ground realities, Rahul also made another equally startling promise which is to do a wealth survey, very much a Communist idea that actually originates from Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels’ Communist Manifesto. Rahul Gandhi said that if voted to power, his government would conduct a caste census to know the exact population and status of backward communities, SCs, STs and minorities. After that, the financial and institutional survey will be done and finally, the “historic assignment to distribute the wealth of India, jobs and other welfare schemes to these sections based on their population" will be done.

History has examples of several countries under the influence of Communism going for this concept, but after suffering the ill effects, decided to change again.

China tried the same in the 1960s but failed and finally reworked its policies. Today, China’s economy is huge with a rise in wealth, private properties and income gaps. But, in India, the Congress scion is seeking the 1848 idea for developing the country where youths constitute 66 per cent of the population.

By talking about wealth distribution, he also appears to be taking an about-turn from the liberal economic model of 1991. It was Manmohan Singh, the then Finance Minister in P. V. Narasimha Rao’s government, who presented a landmark budget, ushering in a new dawn for the country’s economy. Since then, India has not looked back.

Rahul Gandhi, with such withered and weird ideas, is seeking to impress the youth of the country who want to move ahead and not get entangled in caste and religion wars. It is an aspirational India in 2024 which is seeking new opportunities to grow, prosper and lead.

With less than a week to go for the

first phase of elections on April 19, what has the Congress shaped itself into? Inner contradictions are galore and its leaders at all levels are just running away with a majority of them picking the lotus merrily. Those abandoning the grand old party’s ship do not hesitate to blame Rahul Gandhi for “suffocating them” and the party for being directionless. While the BJP has built a strong narrative of developmental politics, the Congress has been unable to come up as a challenger. In fact, it is today seen as a party standing with the corrupt and openly giving impetus to caste politics.

As surveys predict, Congress may find it difficult to even retain the 52 seats that it secured in 2019. The blame squarely rests on the top leadership. There is no Khatakhat genie that can help Rahul Gandhi get even near 100 seats.

His aunt Maneka Gandhi has the best advice for him. He should take a break, she said, and perhaps this could work for him.

(Deepika Bhan can be contacted at deepika.b@ians.in)

Heat waves and elections: Can India’s general election 2024 survive the searing sun?

India's general election is the world's largest democratic exercise, and it comes with its own set of challenges. This year, as the election enters its final phases, the heat may already be playing the spoil sport. A severe heatwave has gripped much of east and south peninsular India, threatening to dampen voter turnout and complicate election campaigning.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued warnings for heatwaves and severe heatwaves over Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, and parts of Jharkhand, with

temperatures soaring over 35°C in 186 out of 191 constituencies set to vote in the next two phases. With election campaigns in full swing, political parties and candidates are finding it difficult to hold rallies without turning them into impromptu sweat lodges. Auto rickshaws are doubling as rolling

saunas, and party workers are praying for a breeze. Not even free chai and samosas seem to be enough to lure the crowds when the heat index is flirting with 50 degrees Celsius in some places.

The result? A noticeable dip in voter turnout. The second phase recorded an aggregate of 66.70%, a drop from the 69.6% turnout in the 2019 elections.

Election officials and experts are sounding the alarm, urging political parties and voters to follow heatwave precautions. In this battle of democracy versus the sun, the sun seems to have the upper hand.

Entrepreneurship is about doing things faster, creating competitive advantage: Narayana Murthy

New Delhi, April 22 (IANS)

Infosys founder N.R. Narayana Murthy said on Monday that entrepreneurship is just a state of mind and it is not those who start companies that are entrepreneurs, it is all about doing things faster and creating

a competitive advantage for yourself, while striving for excellence.

Addressing the ‘Day Zero 2024’ event by Log9 Materials, a deep technology and advanced battery technology startup in Bengaluru, Murthy said that as long as we keep that in mind, “we are all entrepreneurs”.

“Everybody can be an entrepreneur because it's a state of mind. As long as everybody in the company asks themselves how can I do things faster, cheaper and better then I think you'll be in a position to bring in competitive sustainable advantage for you,” he told the gathering.

“There are some extremely important factors that contribute to the longevity of a company.

First is access to the market. Unless a company increases its

access to the market, however great your idea is, it is of zero value,” said the Infosys founder. “Second is access to talent. A company is worth zilch unless it brings the best quality minds. Because it is the power of human minds that innovates and brings to the table. So your biggest task is to recruit, enable, empower and retain the best and the brightest.”

At the event, Log9 announced a significant transformation with the rebranding of its mobility business as Amphion, a full-stack EV asset management company.

“I'm thrilled about the transformative opportunities Amphion will offer fleet operators. This Day Zero signifies the commencement of a new journey, not just for us, but for an entire ecosystem,” said Dr Akshay Singhal, Founder and CEO, Log9.

RBI lists 6 factors powering India’s take-off to become world’s 3rd largest economy

Mumbai, April 23 (IANS)

While India’s recent growth performance has surprised many, triggering a flurry of upgrades from financial institutions such as the IMF, the RBI bulletin released on Tuesday cites six factors that will propel the country to become the world’s third-largest economy.

In purchasing power parity (PPP) terms, the Indian economy is already the third largest in the world. According to the OECD’s December 2023 update, India will overtake the US by 2045 in PPP terms to become the world’s second-largest economy, the RBI bulletin points out.

According to the bulletin, the “tailwinds likely to power India’s take-off” are as follows:

* The demographics favour the rising profile of growth.

Currently, India has the world’s largest and youngest population. The median age is around 28 years; not until the mid-2050s will aging set in. Thus, India will enjoy

a demographic dividend window of more than three decades, driven by rising working-age population rates and labour force participation rate. This is a striking contrast to a world widely confronted with the challenge of aging.

* India’s growth performance has been historically anchored by domestic resources, with foreign savings playing a minor and supplementary role. This is also reflected in the current account deficit (CAD), which remains within a sustainable threshold of about 2.5 per cent of the GDP. Currently, the CAD averages about 1 per cent, and this is associated with various indicators of external sector resilience –illustratively, external debt is below 20 per cent of the GDP and net international investment liabilities are below 12 per cent.

* The gradualistic path of fiscal consolidation adopted after the Covid pandemic has brought the general government deficit to 8.6 per cent of the GDP and public debt to 81.6 per cent of the GDP by March 2024. Employing a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model, it is estimated that reprioritising fiscal spending by targeting productive employment-generating sectors, embracing transition, and investing in digitalisation could

lead to a decline in general government debt to 73.4 per cent of the GDP by 2030-31.

In contrast, the debt-GDP ratio is projected by the IMF to rise to 116.3 per cent in 2028 for advanced economies and to 75.4 per cent for emerging and middle-income countries.

* India’s financial sector is predominantly bank-based. In 2015-2016, the overhang of asset impairment in the wake of the global financial crisis was addressed through an asset quality review (AQR). A massive recapitalisation was undertaken during 2017-2022. The beneficial effects started to show up from 2018 -- gross and net nonperforming assets ratios declined to 3.9 per cent and 1 per cent, respectively, by March 2023, with large capital buffers and liquidity coverage ratios well above 100 per cent.

The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) has created the institutional environment for addressing stress in banks’ balance sheets. Macroeconomic and financial stability are providing the foundation for medium-term growth prospects.

* India is undergoing a transformative change leveraged on technology.

Gold trading volume spikes amid Middle East crisis

Seoul, April 20 (IANS) The trading volume of gold in South Korea has jumped sharply this month amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, data showed on Saturday.

The daily trading volume of gold in the country came to 16.9 billion won ($12.25 million) as of Friday, according to the data from Korea

Exchange (KRX), the country's bourse operator.

The reading marks a sharp increase from a daily average of 6.86 billion won for March, reports Yonhap news agency.

Such an increase follows tensions in the Middle East, prompted by Iran's drone and missile attacks against Israel earlier in the month that apparently forced investors to seek safe assets.

Israel reportedly staged retaliatory attacks against Iran this week.

As of Friday, the average price of a 1 kilogram gold bar jumped 10.3 per cent on-month, with that of 100 gram nuggets spiking 13.4 per cent, according to the KRX.

"The instability in the Middle East is expected to remain at a heightened level for the time being, causing fluctuations in global oil prices and prompting investors to avoid risks," Samsung Securities researcher Yoo Seungmin said.

RBI crackdown triggers crash in Kotak Bank shares

Mumbai, April 25 (IANS) Shares of Kotak Mahindra Bank crashed by as much as 12 per cent in morning trade on Thursday to Rs 1,620 on BSE as investors dumped the stock following the RBI crackdown on the lender.

The RBI had, on Wednesday evening, barred Kotak Mahindra Bank, with immediate effect, from taking on new customers and issuing fresh credit cards.

Infina Finance, one of the promoter group entities of Kotak Mahindra Bank had donated electoral bonds worth Rs 60 crore to the BJP. However, the RBI has taken stringent action against the bank to protect the interest of consumers.

The RBI order said business restrictions on Kotak Mahindra Bank have been imposed in the interest of customers as the

Uday Kotak-controlled bank was assessed to be deficient in its IT Risk and Information Security Governance.

The RBI said that stringent action has been taken to protect consumers and to prevent any possible prolonged outage which may seriously impact not only the bank’s ability to render efficient customer service but also the financial ecosystem of digital banking and payment systems, according to the RBI order.

“In the absence of a robust IT infrastructure and IT Risk Management framework, the bank’s Core Banking System (CBS) and its online and digital banking channels have suffered frequent and significant outages in the last two years, the recent one being a service disruption on April 15, 2024, resulting in serious customer inconveniences.

“The bank is found to be materially deficient in building necessary operational resilience on account of its failure to build IT systems and controls commensurate with its growth,” the RBI order states.

Will make India our global export hub: Hyundai Motor chief

operations there to utilise the country as a key export hub for the South Korean automaker, the group said on Thursday.

Over the past year, Hyundai Motor Group has announced new investment plans in India totalling approximately 5 trillion won ($3.75 billion), reflecting the group's intent to better target one of the fastest growing major automotive markets in the world.

Euisun Chung, Hyundai Motor Group's executive chair, visited the group's Indian headquarters in Gurugram, Haryana on Tuesday and discussed medium- to longterm strategies for the Indian market with employees. He also held a town hall with some 400 employees and shared his future visions. It marked the first time for Chung to hold a town hall with employees

overseas, reports Yonhap news agency. At the meeting, Chung shared his vision to nurture India as the group's global export hub as Hyundai expands its business to Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. He also highlighted customer trust, employees' dedication, and technological expertise as key growth factors in India, while expressing pride in the group consistently achieving

the second position in the Indian market share. Regarding Hyundai's electric vehicle (EV) business direction, Chung said Hyundai will "play an active role in electrification through specialised EV development for the Indian market" and envisioned the group leading India's clean mobility sector by the time EV adoption becomes mainstream by 2030.

New Delhi/Seoul, April 25 (IANS)

The chief of Hyundai Motor Group recently visited India and laid out a vision to bolster its

“It really helped me a lot for my future life and even career journey” - Learn Local brings accessible education to migrant communities

Being one of the world’s major ‘immigration nations’, nearly 30% of Australia’s population was born overseas. However, settling in Australia can be challenging, particularly for recent migrants.

The Victorian Government’s Learn Local initiative aims to remove barriers and provide people of all backgrounds with practical learning opportunities that can enhance their work and personal lives.

Learn Local’s low cost courses are available at over 200 community centres across metro and regional Victoria. Adult learners can enrol in a broad range of subjects including job-finding skills, digital literacy and computer skills, English language, and financial literacy skills.

The initiative equips participants with greater confidence, increased social connection

and provides a critical step in their personal and professional journeys.

As a new migrant to Australia from China, Jack Zhou undertook an English language course at Kew Neighbourhood Learning Centre. He learned critical skills for his everyday life and was able to find a sense of community by connecting with others with similar experiences.

"The course really helped me improve my English language skills and my knowledge of Australian culture. It really helped me a lot for my future life and even career journey. If you're new to [the country] I think it's very good for you to join your local community centre, because one thing you can do is meet some new friends."

For migrants like Mahasin El Sharieff, who immigrated to

Australia from Sudan, finding employment was a priority when settling in Australia. Demand for workers in Victoria remains strong, with more than 300,000 new workers expected by 2026, yet many migrants face obstacles when attempting to join the workforce.

Mahasin enrolled in English classes and a one-on-one English program at Farnham Street Neighbourhood Learning Centre (FSNLC) to help her find work. The volunteer she was paired with played a crucial role in helping her secure a job in the services industry, and also supported her throughout the training process. Currently, Mahasin is balancing

work with her studies at FSNLC, where she is enrolled in a Workplace English and Digital Skills program to gain digital skills for her job. On her improvement in computer skills, Mahasin says, “Before I wasn’t good at computers, but now I’ve improved.”

Reflecting on her learning journey, Mahasin expresses a sense of independence: “ I feel confident to go [to] any place and ask a question. I do everything for myself.”

Similarly, 77 year oldVui Nguyen finds learning gives her the confidence to be independent. Originally from Vietnam, Vui enrolled in classes at Yarraville

Community Centre at the recommendation of her friends.

“I decided to learn English for my children’s sake. But now I sometimes go to the city and can ask for directions from people. It makes me happy I can speak to my neighbours."

Apprehensive at first, Vui is currently studying Computer Skills, which is her third Learn Local course. She now encourages others to enrol: "If you’re older like me, you shouldn’t be afraid to try it. It's at a community centre, which is not far away and it's beginner friendly.”

To find out more about Learn Local, visit vic.gov.au/learnlocal.

Australia-India friendship honoured at ANZAC-India untold story event

Melbourne, April 23 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

A recent event celebrating the ANZAC-India untold story highlighted the strong bonds of friendship between Australia and India, forged during World War I at Gallipoli. Organized by the Australia India Institute, the event brought together distinguished guests, community leaders, and war veterans to honour the contributions of Australian and Indian soldiers during the

conflict.

Tim Watts MP, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, along with Steve McGhie MP, Lisa Singh, Former Senator, Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar, Ivan Trayling OAM, and Mark Trayling, attended the event, which sought to recognize the camaraderie and resilience that formed the foundation of the thriving relationship between the two nations.

Prof Peter Stanley, a renowned military historian, delivered the keynote address, focusing on the courage, resilience, and camaraderie of thousands of Australian and Indian soldiers. Prof Stanley's address underscored how the sacrifices made at Gallipoli served as a catalyst for the enduring ties between Australia and India.

A significant moment of the event was the presentation of a portrait of Private John

Kilpatrick Simpson by Mark Trayling, grandson of Indian Navy Commander JB "Dick" Simmon. The portrait, painted-by-mouth by Leading Air Craftsman Mridul Ghosh, a resident of the Paraplegic Centre for Armed Forces in Pune, celebrated Simpson's legacy at Gallipoli. Private Simpson's brave efforts in rescuing wounded soldiers for medical treatment earned him the nickname "Bahadur"—meaning "bravest of the brave"—from

Indian troops.

The event concluded with a sense of unity and appreciation for the historical connections between Australia and India. The celebration of the ANZAC-India untold story serves as a testament to the lasting friendship between the two countries, built on a shared history of bravery and resilience during one of the most challenging periods in modern history.

India’s High Commission pays tribute to Dr B R Ambedkar on his birth anniversary

Canberra, April 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Indian High Commission in Canberra recently observed the birth anniversary of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, one of India's most prominent jurists, social reformers, and political leaders. The commemoration featured floral tributes and speeches honouring Ambedkar's legacy. The event was held at the High Commission, where High Commissioner Gopal Baglay led the tributes by laying a wreath in front of a portrait of

Dr. Ambedkar. Members of the High Commission staff and other members of the Indian diaspora in Australia also participated in the ceremony, offering their respects to the man who played a pivotal role in the creation of India's Constitution.

In addition to his significant role as a principal architect of the Indian Constitution, Dr. Ambedkar was a key advocate for social justice and equality in India. As the first Minister of Law and Justice in independent India under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Ambedkar

worked tirelessly to combat social discrimination, especially against Dalits, formerly known as "Untouchables."

During the ceremony, High Commissioner Baglay emphasized Ambedkar's enduring influence on Indian society and the global community, stating, "Dr. Ambedkar's vision of a just and equitable society continues to inspire millions around the world. His commitment to human rights and social justice remains a guiding light for many, and it's important that we continue to honour his legacy."

The event in Canberra not only paid tribute to Ambedkar's historical contributions but also highlighted the ongoing

efforts to promote social justice and equality within Indian communities across the globe.

Indian veterans join ANZAC Day parade in Melbourne to honour Australia-India military ties

Melbourne, April 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Veterans of the Indian defence forces recently participated in the ANZAC Day parade in Melbourne, commemorating the bravery, camaraderie, and resilience of soldiers from both Australia and India. The event, held recently, is an annual observance in Australia and New Zealand, honouring those who have served and sacrificed in wars and conflicts.

The presence of Indian veterans at the parade underscored the enduring friendship and close military ties between Australia and India. The Indian contingent, adorned with medals and regalia, marched proudly alongside Australian veterans, representing a united front of valour and respect for military service.

To further celebrate this special

occasion, Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar hosted a reception for the Indian veterans and their families. During the reception, Dr Kumar expressed his gratitude to the veterans for their invaluable service and acknowledged their role in fostering the strong relationship between Australia and India.

The reception offered a warm and inviting atmosphere where veterans and their families shared stories of their service, reinforcing the mutual respect and shared values that underpin the Australia-India relationship.

As the ANZAC Day festivities concluded, the presence of Indian veterans was a reminder of the common values that Australia and India share, highlighting a legacy of cooperation and solidarity that continues to grow stronger.

Sri Ramanavmi festival celebrated with joyous fervour at AUMSAI Sansthan Temple in Melbourne

Melbourne, April 19 (Australia India News Newsweek)

Devotees gathered at the AUMSAI Sansthan Temple in Melbourne for a joyous celebration of the Sri Ramanavmi - Sri Sita Rama Kalyanam festival, marking the birth of Lord Rama, recently. The blissful event, which took place recently, brought together religious leaders, community members, and special guests to commemorate this sacred Hindu festival.

Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar, Emma Vulin MP, and other distinguished guests joined the festivities, participating in traditional rituals and cultural activities that define the Sri Ramanavmi festival. The event included the Shej Arati, a revered ritual, followed by the distribution of Mahaprasadam, a blessed offering shared among devotees.

The highlight of the celebration was the Kalyanamahotsavam, a grand wedding ceremony reenacting the marriage of Sri Rama with his consort Sita. This vibrant and colourful ceremony, which is celebrated on the holy occasion of Sri Ramanavmi, is a significant event in the Hindu calendar, often occurring in the last week of March or the first week of April.

Throughout the celebration, the temple grounds were filled with joyous music, traditional dance performances, and vibrant decorations, creating a

festive atmosphere. Devotees from various backgrounds came together to partake in the festivities, sharing stories of Lord Rama's teachings and his divine role in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana.

The Sri Ramanavmi - Sri Sita Rama Kalyanam festival at the AUMSAI Sansthan Temple served as a beautiful reminder of the deep-rooted traditions and spiritual connections that bind communities together, reinforcing the importance of cultural celebrations in promoting harmony and togetherness.

Hare Krishna Melbourne hosts vibrant Rama Navami celebrations

Melbourne, April 19 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Hare Krishna Melbourne community recently held a vibrant Rama Navami celebration at Akoonah Park in Berwick, bringing together thousands of devotees to honour the birth of Lord Rama, a central figure in

Hinduism. Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar was among the special guests who joined in the festivities, alongside a large crowd of enthusiastic worshippers.

Rama Navami is an important Hindu festival that commemorates the birth of Rama, who is considered an

avatar of Vishnu, the preserver in the Hindu trinity. The festival is celebrated with great devotion, and the event at Akoonah Park was no exception, featuring a range of activities and traditional ceremonies.

The celebration included lively kirtans (devotional singing),

traditional dance performances, and puja (worship rituals) to honour Lord Rama's life and teachings. The park was adorned with colourful decorations, creating a festive atmosphere where families and individuals gathered to take part in the joyous occasion.

Devotees were treated to

prasadam, a sacred offering of food, which was shared among the attendees, symbolizing the spirit of unity and togetherness.

The Rama Navami celebrations at Akoonah Park concluded with a sense of spiritual fulfillment and a deeper understanding of the values that Lord Rama represents.

Assam Association Melbourne celebrates Rongali Bihu with joyous festivities

Melbourne, April 16 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The Assam Association Melbourne recently organized a vibrant celebration of Rongali Bihu, bringing the rich cultural heritage of Assam to Melbourne. The joyous event, which marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year, was attended by Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar, along with numerous members of the Assamese community and their

guests.

Rongali Bihu is a traditional festival celebrated in the Northeastern Indian state of Assam and other parts of Northeastern India. It is a time of festivity, music, dance, and cultural performances, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the renewal of life.

The Rongali Bihu celebration in Melbourne featured a splendid

display of Assamese culture, with traditional music, dance performances, and vibrant costumes. Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar, who joined the celebration, also released a cultural magazine, 'Enajori,' during the event and took the opportunity to interact with members of the community.

The event included traditional Bihu dances, where performers

captivated the audience with their energetic movements and rhythmic beats.

The release of the cultural magazine 'Enajori' was a highlight of the event, symbolizing the community's commitment to sharing its stories and traditions.

The magazine serves as a platform for promoting Assamese culture and connecting with the broader multicultural community

in Melbourne.

The Rongali Bihu celebrations in Melbourne concluded with a sense of unity and pride in the Assamese heritage. The success of the event demonstrated the strength and resilience of the Assamese community in maintaining their cultural roots while embracing the diversity of Melbourne's multicultural landscape.

Hindi Niketan Melbourne hosts ‘India Street Festival’ celebrating cultural heritage

Melbourne, April 16 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

The 'India Street Festival,' organized by Hindi Niketan Melbourne, recently brought together a vibrant celebration of India's rich cultural heritage in the heart of Melbourne. The event was attended by Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar, along with a distinguished list of dignitaries and guests, showcasing the best of Indian culture, traditions, and

diversity.

The festival attracted a wide range of attendees, including Minister for Immigration, Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs Andrew Giles MP, Dr Carina Garland, Member for Chisholm, John Mullahy MP, Mayor Cr. Nicky Luo of the City of Monash, and Dr Reena Dubey, among other prominent figures. Members of the Victorian multicultural community also joined in the festivities,

underlining the inclusive spirit of the event.

Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar highlighted the significance of the 'India Street Festival,' emphasizing its role in promoting cultural understanding and unity. He praised Hindi Niketan Melbourne for their efforts in organizing the event and their dedication to promoting the Hindi language and Indian culture in Australia.

The 'India Street Festival' featured a diverse range of activities, including traditional music, dance performances, and food stalls offering a variety of Indian cuisine. The lively atmosphere was filled with colour, energy, and the sounds of traditional Indian instruments, creating a captivating experience for attendees.

The festival's success demonstrated the strong

community support for promoting cultural exchange and highlighted the critical role of organizations like Hindi Niketan Melbourne in fostering cross-cultural connections. The 'India Street Festival' concluded with a sense of unity and a shared appreciation for India's rich heritage, leaving attendees looking forward to future celebrations.

Indian contingent joins ANZAC Day Dawn service and parade in Perth to honour fallen soldiers

Perth, April 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi, along with the Governor, Premier, Lord Mayor, members of the Consular Corps, state leaders, and service members, laid a wreath at Kings Park during the ANZAC Day dawn service, honouring those who fought and

sacrificed during the First World War. The solemn ceremony was part of Perth's commemoration of ANZAC Day, a national day of remembrance in Australia.

The dawn service, a tradition on ANZAC Day, was attended by a large crowd, reflecting the deep respect and gratitude for the sacrifices made by Australian

and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) soldiers. The Indian Veterans contingent joined the service and the ANZAC Day Parade in Perth to pay tribute to Indian soldiers who fought alongside Australian soldiers at Gallipoli during World War I. Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi's wreath-laying gesture

symbolized the strong ties between India and Australia, acknowledging the shared history and camaraderie between the two nations' armed forces. The Western Australia Sikh band also participated in the parade, contributing to the impressive display of military heritage and unity. The parade featured veterans, soldiers, their families, and bands from various services, city councils, and local schools.

The presence of the Indian Veterans contingent highlighted the historical significance of Indian soldiers' involvement in the Gallipoli campaign and other battles during the First World War. Their participation in the parade was a testament to the enduring bonds between India and Australia, forged through shared sacrifices and a commitment to freedom.

High Commissioner Gopal Baglay emphasizes people-to-people

ties

& Economic diplomacy during first visit to Northern Territory

Perth, April 19 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

High Commissioner Gopal Baglay

highlighted the significance of the Indian diaspora, peopleto-people ties, and economic diplomacy in strengthening the relationship between Australia and India during his first visit to the Northern Territory (NT). The visit provided an opportunity for the High Commissioner to engage with the Indian community in Darwin and discuss the growing

collaboration between the two nations.

High Commissioner Baglay was warmly welcomed and felicitated by the Indian community in Darwin. The Indian Cultural Society of the Northern Territory and the Hindu Council of Australia - Northern Territory chapter, along with various other diaspora cultural associations, organized a reception in his honor. The event featured traditional Indian music, dance

Dinner

[Brisbane, 22/04/2024]

–

Crescent AusIndia Inc, the esteemed Friends of Indian Muslims association, recently hosted an unforgettable Eid Dinner Event in Brisbane, drawing a diverse and enthusiastic crowd of guests, dignitaries, and community leaders. The event, held on 14th April 20204, served as a vibrant celebration of unity, harmony, and multiculturalism within the Queensland community.

The Honourable Peter Russo

performances, and cultural displays, showcasing the vibrant heritage of the Indian diaspora in the Northern Territory.

In his address, the High Commissioner stressed the importance of people-topeople ties as a cornerstone for furthering the Australia-India relationship. He noted that the Indian diaspora plays a pivotal role in fostering cultural exchange and strengthening economic links between the two countries.

He also emphasized the role of economic diplomacy in creating new opportunities for trade and investment.

The High Commissioner was accompanied by Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi and Sweety Agarwal, Counsellor of the High Commission of India, Canberra.

The presence of officers from the Indian Air Force and Navy at the event reflected the growing bilateral defense cooperation between Australia and India, further contributing to the security and stability of the region.

MP, Member for Toohey, graced the occasion with his esteemed presence, highlighting the significance of the event in fostering community cohesion and understanding. Joining him was the distinguished Indian Muslim community leader, Mr. Ali Kadri, CEO of the Islamic College of Brisbane, who provided valuable insights.

Representatives from the Queensland Police Commissioner's Office also participated, symbolizing a

collaborative effort towards promoting inclusivity and dialogue among diverse communities.

Crescent AusIndia Inc, a nonprofit community association dedicated to serving Muslims of Indian origin in Queensland. Guided by the principles of justice, liberty, and equality, Crescent AusIndia Inc aims to foster collaboration among different communities, creating a harmonious and inclusive society where every voice is heard and

The visit concluded with a sense of optimism about the future of Australia-India relations and a renewed commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors. The engagement with the Indian diaspora in Darwin was a testament to the strong connections between the two countries and the crucial role of the Indian community in supporting the ongoing growth of this partnership.

valued.

"Our mission at Crescent AusIndia Inc is to empower individuals and promote understanding, tolerance, and active engagement in shaping a positive future for all Australians," said Mr Yousuf AliKhan, President at Crescent AusIndia Inc.

The evening was filled with multicultural participation, featuring recitations of both the Australian and Indian national anthems and captivating

performances that enchanted the audience. However, the highlight of the event was undoubtedly the delicious variety of food, including delectable desserts that left everyone thoroughly satisfied.

The Eid Dinner Event by Crescent AusIndia Inc served as a testament to the organization's commitment to promoting dialogue, inclusivity, and cultural exchange, reinforcing the rich diversity that characterizes Queensland's social landscape.

Eid

Event by Crescent AusIndia Inc Celebrates Unity, Harmony, and Multiculturalism in Brisbane

Brisbane’s first Consul General of India meets FICQ members

Brisbane, April 24 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

High Commissioner of India to Australia Gopal Bagley, Counsellor,Sweety Agarwal, and

Former Honorary Consul of India, Brisbane Archana Singh formally introduced Neetu Bhagotia, first Consul General of India

at Consulate General of India, Brisbane and her colleagues Sushil Goel and Gati Mishra to the Federation of Indian

Communities of Queensland Executive Team and advisors. There were insightful discussions on enhancing relations with the

Australian Indian community in Queensland and the Indian government. It was an engaging opportunity to connect and collaborate.

MAQ’s multicultural festival ‘Sangamam’ hosted

Brisbane, April 21 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Malayalee Association of Queensland's (MAQ) hosted 'Sangamam', a multicultural festival, recently, to celebrate Easter, Eid and Vishu at Islamic College of Brisbane. The music, the dance, and of

course, the delicious food made it a successful multicultural event. Team MAQ, especially its president Sudha Nair and the Cultural coordinator worked tireless to organize the event. The diverse performances by various cultural groups captivated the audience, and the dedication of the volunteers

made everything run smoothly. Milton Dick Speaker of the House of Representatives, Shayne Neumann MP, and Shadow Assistant Minister for Multicultural Engagement Senator Paul Scarr , Cr Emily Kim attended the event with other leaders and dignitaries.

Lalitha Kalalaya’s annual concert Skanda Vaibhavam organized

Brisbane, April 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

LalithaKalalaya’s organized its

9th annual concert, Skanda Vaibhavam, in Brisbane, recently. The concert explored the Avatara and Lilas of Lord Muruga /

Karthikeya (second son of lord shiva), his astonishing birth, youthful days, victory over the demon king – Surapadma and

divine union with Deivayanai and Valli. Padmalakshmi Sriram and Lalitha Kalalaya's holistic approach to Bharatanatyam

education emphasizes not only technical mastery but also a deep understanding of its cultural and spiritual significance.

Indian High Commissioner visits Gurudwara Sahib in Darwin, prays for Sikh & Indian communities in Northern Territory

Perth, April 19 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay, accompanied by Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi in Perth and Counsellor Sweety Agarwal at the High Commission of India, Canberra, visited Gurudwara Sahib in Marrara, Darwin, recently. The visit was a part of the High Commissioner's

outreach to the Indian and Indian-origin communities in the Northern Territory.

During the visit, High Commissioner Baglay prayed for the well-being of the Sikh community and other Indian and Indian-origin communities in the Northern Territory. The Gurudwara Sahib, a prominent Sikh place of worship in Darwin,

warmly welcomed the High Commissioner and his delegation.

The visit was an opportunity to engage with the local Sikh community and show support for their cultural and religious practices.

The High Commissioner interacted with members of the Gurudwara Sahib and expressed his appreciation for their role

in promoting Sikh values and traditions. He also acknowledged the contributions of the Sikh community to the broader multicultural landscape of the Northern Territory.

Consul General Amarjeet Singh Takhi and Counsellor Sweety Agarwal also interacted with members of the Sikh community, discussing the unique challenges and opportunities they face in the Northern Territory.

They reaffirmed the High Commission's commitment to supporting the Indian diaspora and promoting cultural exchange between India and Australia. The High Commissioner's visit underscored the ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with the Indian diaspora and promote harmony within the multicultural communities of the Northern Territory.

Consul General hosts dinner reception to celebrate multicultural festivities in Melbourne

Melbourne, April 19 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar hosted a special dinner reception in Melbourne to celebrate the festive occasions of Eid, Easter, Ramnavami, Vaishakhi, and Chetichand. The event brought together leaders from the Indian community and various faith groups, reflecting the vibrant multicultural spirit of Victoria. The dinner reception was an opportunity for the Consul

General to acknowledge the significant efforts made by community and faith leaders in organizing socio-cultural events and festivals. These gatherings play a crucial role in uniting people from diverse backgrounds and promoting India's rich cultural heritage.

During the event, Dr Sushil Kumar expressed his appreciation for the work that the Indian community and faith leaders have done to foster social cohesion

in Victoria's multicultural environment. He emphasized the importance of these events in promoting understanding and harmony among different communities, contributing to the strong friendship between Australia and India.

The reception also served as a platform for community leaders to share their future plans for promoting cultural exchanges and social unity. Dr. Kumar assured them of the Consulate's

support in their endeavors to create inclusive and harmonious multicultural communities in Victoria.

Attendees at the dinner reception enjoyed a diverse range of traditional Indian dishes, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of India. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and camaraderie as guests from various backgrounds mingled, shared stories, and discussed ways to continue fostering cross-

cultural understanding. The celebration of Eid, Easter, Ramnavami, Vaishakhi, and Chetichand at the dinner reception underscored the importance of embracing diversity and promoting the values of tolerance and inclusivity. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to supporting multicultural initiatives and strengthening the bond between Australia and India.

Sindhi Association of Victoria celebrates Cheti Chand festival in Melbourne

Melbourne, April 16 (Australia

India News Newsdesk)

The Sindhi Association of Victoria, Australia, recently organized a vibrant celebration of Cheti Chand, the traditional festival marking the beginning of the Lunar Hindu New Year for Sindhi Hindus. The event was attended by Consul General Dr.Sushil Kumar, along with members of the Sindhi community, who gathered to offer prayers to Lord Jhulelal.

The Cheti Chand festival is a significant occasion for Sindhi Hindus, symbolizing the start of a new year and honoring the birth of Lord Jhulelal, the community's patron saint and a revered deity.

The celebration at Melbourne's Sindhi Association was a lively affair, with traditional music, dance, and a sense of unity among

attendees.

Cheti Chand is an important festival for the Sindhi community, celebrating the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year in the Hindu lunar calendar. The event organized by the Sindhi Association of Victoria provided an opportunity for the community to reconnect with its roots and share its cultural heritage with others in Melbourne.

The celebration concluded with a sense of camaraderie and gratitude, as attendees expressed their hopes for a prosperous and harmonious year ahead. The success of the Cheti Chand festival in Melbourne demonstrated the resilience and enduring traditions of the Sindhi community, contributing to the rich tapestry of cultures that define the city.

Victorian parliament hosts Vaishakhi celebration showcasing Indian culture & unity

Melbourne, April 16 (Australia India Newsdesk)

The Victorian Parliament hosted a vibrant Vaishakhi celebration recently, showcasing the rich traditions and cultural diversity of India. The event was attended by parliamentarians Nick Staikos MP, Steve McGhie MP, Luba Grigorovitch MP, Evan Mulholland MP, Sam Groth MP, Viv Nguyen,

Victorian Multicultural Commissioner, Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar, and members of the Indian diaspora. Organized by OESS Incorporated (Organisation to Encourage People and Step Toward Success) and EWIA (Ethnic Women in Australia), the Vaishakhi celebration featured a lively program that included Shabad

(Sikh devotional hymns), folksongs, Punjabi Bhangra, and Gidha dances. The event created an atmosphere filled with energy and enthusiasm, highlighting the vibrant culture of India and its traditions.

The speakers at the event emphasized the importance of Vaishakhi in promoting unity, equality, social cohesiveness, and

community service. They spoke about how this festival has a broader significance in fostering communal harmony and a sense of togetherness.

The performances by the Bhangra and Gidha dancers were a highlight of the event, captivating the audience with their colourful costumes and dynamic moves.

The presence of parliamentarians and other dignitaries at the Vaishakhi celebration in Victorian parliament underscored the significance of such events in promoting cross-cultural understanding and building bridges within the multicultural community.

T20 World Cup: Williamson to lead as NZ name experienced 15-man squad

Wellington, April 29 (IANS)

Kane Williamson has been named captain as New Zealand announced an experienced 15man squad for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, starting from June 1 in the USA and the West Indies.

This is Williamson’s sixth appearance in a T20 World Cup and his fourth tournament as captain. Tim Southee, currently sits as the leading wicket-taker in the history of T20Is, earned a

selection in his seventh T20 World Cup.

Moreover, pacer Trent Boult is set for his fifth T20 World Cup.

Devon Conway, who is currently recovering from a thumb injury, has also been picked in the squad.

Pace bowler Ben Sears will travel and train with the team as injury cover.

Bowler Matt Henry and batting all-rounder Rachin Ravindra are the only two members of the 15 without ICC T20 World Cup experience.

"Matt has worked exceptionally hard on his skills across the phases of a T20 game to come back into selection consideration.

Rachin has made every post a

winner in the past 12 months and it was exciting to see him continue that trajectory over the summer in the T20 format against Australia," said coach head Gary Stead.

New Zealand will leave for the tournament on May 23. They open their campaign against Afghanistan in Guyana on June 7.

New Zealand Squad: Kane Williamson (C), Finn Allen, Trent Boult, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee. Travelling Reserve: Ben Sears

From the start Gukesh wanted to become youngest world chess champion: Coach GM Vishnu

Chennai, April 27 (IANS) It was in January 2019, the world’s second youngest and India’s youngest chess Grandmaster (GM) D. Gukesh then 12-years announced he would like to become the youngest world champion.

And five years later, he is one step away from his ambition.

Winning the recent Candidates Tournament held in Toronto, ahead of several higher rated players, Gukesh will be the challenger for the world title held by the reigning champion from China GM Ding Liren.

“Even as an eleven year old kid, Gukesh used to be serious while attending the chess coaching classes. While other kids used to demand the answers for chess problems, Gukesh used to ask me not to disclose the solution till he works it out,” GM Vishnu Prasanna told IANS.

After the class, the serious Gukesh will turn playful and start joking with other kids. But during the coaching sessions, Gukesh will be very serious and focused, Prasanna said.

The 34-year old Prasanna began coaching Gukesh in 2017 when he had an ELO rating of about 2,300.

“From the start, Gukesh would discuss how to become a world champion. We would discuss various board situations through different games,” Prasanna said.

According to him, children at about that age –about 11 yearswill be full of chess tricks and

tactics.

“But Gukesh was more of a positional player. It was an advantage. He was able to understand a position and accordingly strategise,” Prasanna added.

The young Gukesh used to listen keenly to his coach Prasanna when he talked about complex positions.

Prasanna was very impressed with his young ward’s ability to focus, maturity being a workaholic.

“Initially he was a bit upset for not becoming the youngest GM in the world and had said he had lost one night sleep. But that is in the past. Now compartmentalizes things. His recovery after losing a game is fast,” Prasanna added.

It should be noted that Prasanna has coached several notable players like GMs Leon Mendonca, International Master (IM) V.S.Rathnavel, Woman GM V.Varshini, WIM K.Priyanka and others.

“I have known Gukesh as a very young boy. I used to take Gukesh along with my daughter Rakshitta for overseas tournaments whenever his parents were not able to accompany him. Similarly, they used to do that when we were not able to accompany Rakshitta for overseas events," Woman International Master (WIM) Sai Meera Ravi, the wife of IM T.S.Ravi and mother of Woman GM Rakshitta Ravi, told IANS.

“Even as a 10-year-old boy, Gukesh was very disciplined and mature. He used to get up early and finish his morning ablutions first so that there is no fight for the bathroom," Sai Meera recalled.

“Gukesh likes to create a complicated position on the chess board which would make his opponent work more calculations and commit mistakes,” Rakshitta told IANS.

Agreeing with her Prasanna added: “Gukesh will not play

India to compete in Asia Rugby Men’s 15s C’ship Division 1

Mumbai, April 30 (IANS) The Indian Men’s 15s Rugby team will chalk up another milestone in their journey to the Asian frontier as they will compete at the Asia Rugby Men’s 15s Championship Division -1, for the first time ever.

Qualifying for the Division -1 has brought the Indian team one step closer to competing on the highest level in Asia, the Asia Rugby 15s Championship.

Prasanna

sharp positions. He is good in unclear positions and will focus on his strengths.”

While Gukesh’s ELO ratings began to go up, Prasanna felt that his ward needed additional and secret weapons other than chess. “So the focus was on meditation, yoga and breathing exercises. This gave him a lot of emotional stability,” Prasanna said.

Gukesh’s emotional stability is what is being described as him having nerves of steel.

Perhaps that is why, Gukesh was not at all perturbed with the former world chess champion Magus Carlsen’s comment ahead of the Candidates Tournament that he can’t imagine the Indian teenager winning the event. It will be a bad event for the youngster.

In the last few months, Gukesh’s mindset change is very evident. The way he recovered from the seventh round loss in the Candidates Tournament was remarkable, Prasanna remarked. Prasanna was confident that Gukesh will win the Candidates Tournament as he was in good shape and well rested.

“Prior to the tournament we were talking about winning the Candidates,” Prasanna said. Even though the Polish GM Grzegorz Gajewski became Gukesh’s second, the latter continued to check out with Prasanna on certain aspects.

As for the title clash against Liren and what Gukesh should do Prasanna said: “He has to work on some of the weaknesses in his games. He has to increase his range of positions. He has to widen his repertoire while playing with white pieces as a sizable number of his wins are with black pieces.”

(Venkatachari Jagannathan can be reached at v.jagannathan@ ians.in)

Led by seasoned campaigner Deepak Punia along with his deputy Hitesh Dagar, the men’s team will go up against Sri Lanka for their first match on the April 30.

On the other side, Qatar and Kazakhstan will fight for a spot in the finals, with the winner between India and Sri Lanka.

The winners of this competition stand to qualify for the Asia Rugby 15s championship to face off against higher ranked countries

like Korea, Hong Kong China, and Malaysia, ranked 30, 24, and 50 on the world stage, respectively.

This campaign sees 5 players making their debut. Vallabh Patil, Shakti Nag, Abhishek Shukla, Joginder, and Ajit Hansdah have shown tremendous promise and mental strength, qualities that propel them into the Indian team.

Squad:

Deepak Kumar Punia (C), Hitesh Dagar (VC), Sanket Patil, Vallabh Patil, Suraj Prasad, Harvinder Singh, Javed Hussain, Shivam Shukla, Bhupendra Bokar, Mohit Khatri, Neeraj, Prince Khatri, Bharat Dagar, Mannu, Pradeep Tanwar, Joginder, Abhishek Shukla, Prabal Giri, Sukumar Hembrom, Rajdeep Saha, Shakti Nag, Asis Sabar. Ajit Hansdah, Devendra Padir, Bhupinder Singh, Suresh Kumar.

Indian para-shooters win five medals in WSPS World Cup II in Changwon

New Delhi, April 28 (IANS) Indian para-shooters excelled on Sunday and claimed five medals including two gold medals in the World Shooting Para Sports (WSPS) World Cup in Changwon, South Korea. In all the Indian parashooters won two gold, two silver and one bronze on Sunday in the second World Cup of the year that started in the Korean city on April 22 and will continue till May 1.

The gold medals for India came through Nihal Singh and Bhakti Sharma in the Mix 10m Air Pistol

event and Sanjeev Kumar Giri in P1 Men's 10m Air Pistol.

Bhakti Sharma in P2 Women's 10m Air Pistol and the combine of Akash Kumar along with Bhatiwal Vikash & Sandeep Kumar in P5 10m Air Standard Pistol Mixed SH1 grabbed the two silver medals for India.

Akash Kumar also clinched a bronze medal in the P5 10m Air Standard Pistol Mixed SH1 Individual event to make up India's tally on Sunday.

As many as 125 shooters from 27 nations are competing in the second World Cup of the season which is a build-up event for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. For several European athletes, this World Cup is serving as a warmup event before the European Championships in May.

Squash: Senthilkumar wins Batch Open, bags eighth PSA

Paris, April 29 (IANS) National

Tour title at the Batch Open Challenger event with a straight-games

Tour title

victory over local favourite Melvil Scianimanico in the final.

World No 58 Senthilkumar beat the Frenchman 11-6, 11-9, 11-6 in 35 minutes in what was the Indian's 12th Tour final.

"Melvil played really well and there was a lot of crowd support for him as well. I had to be sharp from the start till the end, and I’m glad I could do that,” said top seed Senthilkumar, who hails from Chennai.

champion Velavan Senthilkumar clinched his eighth Professional Squash Association (PSA)

Elon Musk hits out at Australia over ruling to hide stabbing videos

Sydney, April 23 (IANS/DPA) Tech

billionaire Elon Musk has hit out at Australia over the country's attempts to ban footage of a Sydney church stabbing on his social media platform X.

The Australian court on Monday evening granted a two-day injunction, ordering the platform to hide videos of the April 15

stabbing for all users globally.

"Our concern is that if ANY country is allowed to censor content for ALL countries, which is what the Australian 'eSafety Commissar' is demanding, then what is to stop any country from controlling the entire Internet," Musk wrote on X.

"We have already censored the content in question for Australia, pending legal appeal, and it is stored only on servers in the USA," he added.

Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told ABC News Breakfast on Tuesday that Musk was an "arrogant billionaire."

"We'll do what's necessary to take on this arrogant billionaire who thinks he's above the law, but also above common decency," he said.

"What the e-Safety Commissioner is doing is doing her job to protect

the interests of Australians. And the idea that someone would go to court for the right to put up violent content on a platform shows how out-of-touch Mr Musk is." Albanese said social media needed to have social responsibility with it. "Mr Musk is not showing any," he said.

X had earlier blocked the posts in Australia pending a legal challenge. The case is expected to be heard in court again on Wednesday for an argument about a permanent suppression. A 16-year-old boy has been charged with a terrorism offence after two people were injured in the alleged stabbing at the Christ The Good Shepherd Church in Wakeley, western Sydney, on April 15. The church attack came days after six people were killed and dozens injured in a stabbing at a Sydney shopping centre.

Everest mountaineer’s letters, that survived 75 years, digitised for 1st time

New Delhi, April 22 (IANS) In a key scientific feat, letters written by the late Everest mountaineer George Mallory, which survived 75 years in his jacket pocket before his body was discovered, have been digitised and made available to a global audience for the first time.

The bulk of the collection is made up of letters written between

Mallory and his wife Ruth, from the time of their engagement in 1914 until his death on Everest in 1924.

Among them are the very last letter he wrote before his final Everest summit attempt and three letters that were retrieved from his body in 1999.

These letters have now been made available in the centenary year of Mallory’s fatal attempt to scale Everest.

The letters are free to view on the website of Magdalene College, University of Cambridge.

“It has been a real pleasure to work with these letters,” said College archivist Katy Green.

“Whether it’s George’s wife Ruth writing about how she was posting him plum cakes and a grapefruit to the trenches (he said the grapefruit wasn’t ripe enough), or whether it’s his poignant last letter where he says

the chances of scaling Everest are ‘50 to 1 against us’, they offer a fascinating insight into the life of this famous Magdalene alumnus,” Green noted.

An alumnus of Magdalene College, Mallory is known for purportedly replying "because it's there" when asked by a reporter why he wanted to climb Everest. The letters cover some fascinating topics including his first reconnaissance mission to Everest in 1921.

There were no existing records or maps, it was uncharted and this was the mission to see if it was even possible to get to the base of Everest.

“The letters to Mallory from his wife Ruth are a major source of women's social history, covering a wide variety of topics about her life as a woman living through the First World War,” according to the university.

India’s first all-in-one payment device launched

New Delhi, April 23 (IANS)

Fintech company BharatPe on Tuesday launched India's first all-in-one payment product that incorporates POS (point of sale), QR, and speaker into a single device.

Called BharatPe One, the product is designed to streamline transactions for merchants,

offering versatile payment acceptance options including dynamic and static QR code, tap-and-pay and traditional card payment options.

The company plans to launch the product in over 100 cities in the first phase and further scale it to more than 450 cities over the next six months.

"By combining multiple functionalities into one costeffective device, we're providing a comprehensive solution tailored to the varied needs of small and medium businesses across diverse sectors," Nalin Negi, CEO, BharatPe, said in a statement.

As per the company, the device offers a smooth and hassle-free

India among top countries in artificial intelligence adoption

New Delhi, April 20 (IANS) As the Asia-Pacific region experiences a surge in the adoption of Generative AI (GenAI), India is set to join the most rapidly expanding markets in the forthcoming years.

According to an IDC report, the Asia-Pacific region is witnessing an unprecedented surge in GenAI adoption, including software, services, and hardware for AIcentric systems.

The region is likely to see GenAI spending soar to $26 billion by 2027, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 95.4 per cent for the period.

This surge underscores the region's pivotal role in driving the next wave of AI innovation and

technological advancement, the report mentioned.

Deepika Giri, Head of Research, Big Data and AI, IDC APJ, said that the investment in GenAI will reach its zenith within the next two years, followed by a period of stabilisation.

“China is projected to maintain its position as the dominant market for GenAI, while Japan and India are set to become the most rapidly expanding markets in the forthcoming years,” Giri mentioned.

From software development to customer service, GenAI is revolutionising industries, ushering in a new era of innovation in the region.

The financial services sector is experiencing rapid growth in GenAI adoption in Asia -projected to reach $4.3 billion by 2027 with a CAGR of 96.7 per cent, the report said.

India showcasing innovative technologies at World Energy Congress

Rotterdam, April 23 (IANS) India is showcasing its innovative technologies and power generation practices at the 26th World Energy Congress, being held in the Netherlands from April 22 to 25.

The India Pavilion at the Congress is reinforcing the country's commitment to environmental conservation on the global stage.

Central Public Sector Enterprises under the Ministry of Power,

Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Ministry of Coal and Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas are participating in the India Pavilion, giving a collective testimony to the country's leadership in global energy transition.

The Pavilion was jointly inaugurated by Secretary, Ministry of Power Pankaj Agarwal and Ambassador of India to the Netherlands Reenat Sandhu. Additional Secretary, Ministry of Power, Srikant Nagulapalli and CMDs and other senior officials of participating organizations such as NTPC, POWERGRID, PFC, REC, NHPC, SECI, IREDA, ONGC, and World Energy Council India are attending the event.

Musk’s X takes on YouTube, to launch dedicated TV app for videos soon

experience for both merchants and customers alike.

It comes equipped with a highdefinition touchscreen display, 4G and Wi-Fi connectivity, and is powered by the latest Android operating system. It delivers improved performance and security, the company said.

"We have received an overwhelming response from our merchants in the pilot phase and we reckon that this will be another game changer for the digital payments ecosystem, further consolidating our position as a trailblazer in the fintech industry," said Rijish Raghavan, Chief Business Officer - PoS Solutions, BharatPe.

New Delhi, April 24 (IANS) Taking on Google-owned YouTube, X social media platform will soon launch a dedicated TV app for users to upload high-quality videos, its CEO Linda Yaccarino has announced.

The X TV app’s user interface looks quite similar to YouTube.

In a post on the social media platform, Yaccarino said that from the small screen to the big screen, X is changing everything.

“Soon we’ll bring real-time, engaging content to your smart TVs with the X TV App. This will be your go-to companion for a high-quality, immersive entertainment experience on a larger screen,” said the X CEO. Users can expect trending

video algorithm, AI-powered topics, cross-device experience, enhanced video search, effortless casting, and wide availability (coming soon to most smart TVs).

“We'll keep you updated. And of course please share your ideas. We build X for our community,” said Yaccarino.

The trending video algorithm is designed to help users stay updated with tailored popular content.

The AI-powered topics will organise videos by subject and the app will also feature enhanced video search.

An X user commented that a video playlist/index for creators would be nice, “so we can create our own playlists”.

From breast cancer to brain, DNA damage - here’s how ethylene oxide can affect your health

New Delhi, April 20 (IANS)

Ethylene oxide is a cancercausing agent that can raise the risk of breast cancer, as well as cause damage to the DNA, the brain, and the nervous system in humans.

The carcinogen has been found in four products from two big spice brands in India -- three from MDH and one from Everest -- at levels exceeding the permissible limit.

What is ethylene oxide?

The Spices Board, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, defines ethylene oxide as a "flammable, colourless gas at temperatures above 10.7 Celsius".

It serves as a "disinfectant, fumigant, sterilising agent and insecticide".

It is majorly used to sterilise medical equipment and to reduce microbial contamination in spices.

Besides being produced from natural sources, it can also be generated from water-logged soil, manure, and sewage sludge.

What are the health effects?

The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies ethylene oxide as a 'Group 1 carcinogen', meaning it has "enough evidence to conclude that it can cause cancer in humans".

Short-term exposure to the carcinogen can affect the human central nervous system, and cause depression and irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes but prolonged exposure can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs, and damage the brain and nervous system, as per the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The EPA said "ethylene oxide is carcinogenic to humans by the inhalation route of exposure", and has also been linked to

reproductive problems.

"Evidence in humans indicates that exposure to ethylene oxide increases the risk of lymphoid cancer and, for females, breast cancer," it noted.

Further, according to the US National Cancer Institute, ethylene oxide is frequently reported to be associated with lymphoma and leukaemia.

Stomach and breast cancers may also be associated with ethylene oxide exposure, the institute said. It stated that people can be exposed to ethylene oxide via inhalation and ingestion, which may occur through occupational, consumer, or environmental exposure.

According to the latest estimates of cancer's global burden by the WHO, India has more than 14.1 lakh new cancer cases and over 9.1 lakh deaths in 2022. The number is projected to go up to 15.7 lakh in 2025, according to the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Cancer Registry Programme (ICMRNCRP).

The role of diet & exercise in managing diabetes

New Delhi, April 19 (IANS) After the food habits of incarcerated Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal stirred up a debate as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) revealed the details of his high glycaemic index diet this week, the lifestyle disease, which results from a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, is a complex one and diet -- along with daily exercise -- plays a key role in its management.

A proper healthy and nutritional diet can help aptly manage the incurable condition, which if ignored, can affect nearly all organs.

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to multiple complications ranging from kidney problems -- failure, dialysis, and transplantation, to blindness, amputation, heart attacks, strokes, dementia, nerve problems, and gangrene.

The condition can also affect sexual health and cause infertility, among others.

What is diabetes?

The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines diabetes as a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin (blood glucose regulating hormone), or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.

Both raised glucose levels, called hyperglycaemia, and low glucose levels, called hypoglycemia, can lead to serious damage to many of the body's systems, especially the nerves and blood vessels.

Globally, diabetes affects more than 50 crore people, according to a study published in the journal The Lancet. It projects the number to more than double to 130 crore people in the next three decades.

In India, a whopping 10.1 crore people suffer from diabetes, while 13.6 crore are pre-diabetic, reveals data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

According to top diabetologist Dr V. Mohan, chairman of Dr

Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre, "diet, high calories, weight, increase in obesity are the major drivers, and there is a small genetic factor, which makes Indians a little bit more prone". He also blames rising consumption of junk food -known to be rich in salt and sugar --, no exercise, disturbed sleep patterns, rising pollution levels, adulteration of food, and their contamination with pesticides behind the diabetes epidemic in the country.

Diet management in diabetics While it is important to eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, controlling portion size and carbohydrate levels is key for diabetic patients. Food items can also be classified based on their glycaemic index (GI) levels. GI is a value assigned to foods, especially those rich in carbohydrates, and determines how quickly the foods can spike blood glucose levels in the body.

High-GI food can cause a rapid spike in blood glucose levels, followed by a swift decline.

This could be a reason for your late-night chocolate cravings

New Delhi, April 21 (IANS) If you have spent nights eating chocolates or ice cream, then 'loneliness' can be the reason behind the binging on sugary items, say researchers.

According to the study published in the journal JAMA Network Open, loneliness can cause an extreme desire for sugary foods.

To conduct the study, the researchers linked brain chemistry from socially isolated individuals to poor mental health, weight gain, cognitive loss, and chronic diseases such as Type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Senior study author Arpana Gupta, an Associate Professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, said that she wanted to observe the brain

pathways associated with obesity, depression, and anxiety, as well as binge eating, which is a coping mechanism against loneliness.

The study included 93 premenopausal participants, and the results indicated that people who experienced loneliness or isolation had a higher body fat percentage.

Moreover, they displayed poor eating behaviours such as food addiction and uncontrolled eating.

Scientists used MRI scans to monitor the participants' brain activity while they were looking at abstract images of sweet and savoury foods. The results revealed that individuals who experienced isolation had more activity in certain regions of the brain that are responsible for reacting to sugar cravings. These same participants showed a lower reaction in areas that deal with self-control.

According to Gupta, social isolation can cause food cravings similar to "the cravings for social connections".

New immunotherapy to fight cancer, keep healthy cells safe

A team of US researchers has developed a new immunotherapy technique that uses cytokine proteins as a potential treatment, effectively targeting tumours without causing harm to healthy cells.

Cytokines are small protein molecules that help control inflammation in the body. They are released by the body's immune cells to fight against cancer and improve treatment effectiveness.

The team from Virginia Tech’s College of Engineering developed the new technique which ensures that immune cell boosts cytokines which curbs tumour spread to other tissues or organs. It also preserved the cytokine’s structure and reactivity levels to not expose toxicity to the rest of the body.

“Cytokines are potent and highly effective at stimulating the immune cells to eliminate cancer cells,” said Rong Tong, associate professor in chemical engineering at Virginia Tech.

“The problem is they’re so potent that if they roam freely throughout the body, they’ll activate every immune cell they encounter, which can cause an overactive immune response and potentially fatal side effects,” he added.

In contrast, current cancer treatments such as chemotherapy cannot differentiate between healthy cells and cancer cells, resulting in side effects like hair loss and fatigue, as it affects all cells in the body.

“Stimulating the body’s immune system to attack tumours is a promising alternative to treat cancer. The delivery of cytokines can jump-start immune cells in the tumour, but overstimulating healthy cells can cause severe side effects,” the researchers noted in the paper published in the journal Science Advances.

No ice, no toothpaste for burn injuries, say KGMU

Lucknow, April 28 (IANS)

Contrary to the common practice of rubbing ice or applying toothpaste, it is better to keep the affected burn area under flowing water until the pain stops. This is the best thing to do in case of burns, said experts at the ongoing medical education event WOUNDCON 2024 hosted by the Society for Wound Care

and Research at King George’s Medical University (KGMU).

According to the faculty member in KGMU’s plastic surgery department, Prof Brijesh Mishra, rubbing ice and applying toothpaste or oil on a burn might seem like common remedies, but they can actually do more harm than good. “Ice can freeze the skin and

halt blood flow while toothpaste has hard stuff like calcium and peppermint that can worsen burns and oil traps heat, making burns harder to cool,” explained Mishra, warning that these methods raise the infection risk.

Head of KGMU’s plastic surgery department, Prof Vijay Verma, advised, “The best approach is to rinse the affected under

experts

running water, cover with fresh bed linens, and seek medical help promptly in case of severe burns. Increasing hydration and protein intake is crucial for healing damaged skin, muscles, and tissues. For electrical burns, apply a sterile bandage or clean cloth; avoid blankets or towels to prevent fibres from sticking to the burned skin.”

New Delhi, April 20 (IANS)

Ex-diplomat discovers Amritsar’s dark side while translating his grandfather’s book

By Sukant Deepak

When India was celebrating its 75th year of independence, author and former diplomat Navdeep Suri thought it was important that we realise the price we paid for it. He says in many ways 'A Game of Fire' (HarperCollins India), which his grandfather Nanak Singh wrote in Punjabi decades ago, holds more significance today.

'A Game of Fire' is a sequel to 'Hymns in Blood' by the same author, also translated into English by Suri, who believed that the stories of the pain of Partition should reach a wider audience conversant with the English language. And in the process of translating his grandfather's books, he discovered more about the latter's personality.

"Translating these two novels was a discovery and a journey at two different levels. The first was that I discovered my grandfather, you know, because he passed on when I was just 12. While translating, I got acquainted with his robust opposition to communalism, his staunch, almost iron cast, and uncompromising position for a secular India," Suri said, adding that while Nanak Singh was a devout Sikh, for him, humanity took precedence over religion.

The Partition stories that a generation grew up with were always about the atrocities that were committed by Muslims on

the Hindus and Sikhs, accounts conditioned by the refugee narrative, but his grandfather through the book acquaints us with what the other religious groups did to the Muslims at a time when a collective madness descended upon the subcontinent.

And that's not a story that many of us are comfortable telling or listening to, Suri added.

When he was researching his subject, the translator came across the startling fact that the last Census before Independence, which was conducted in 1941, showed that 46 per cent of Amritsar's population was Muslim, but, as Suri pointed out, "I grew up in a city where there were virtually none".

Stressing that the exodus of Muslims left a big gap in the culture of Punjab, the author told IANS that the exodus of a large number of creative people -writers, artists and singers, who had been forced to go to Pakistan -- affected the soul of the state.

"Manto wrote passionately about his experiences. Of course, the same holds true for Lahore from where many Hindus migrated to India," Suri pointed out.

For someone who has extensively translated works from Punjabi into English, Suri knows too well that it is never easy for a translator to be 'invisible'. "Being a translator, you are bridging not

just the language, but also the time and space set in a certain geographical context. And in a certain time context. One hopes to make it accessible to an audience that could be anywhere," Suri said.

He continued by pointing out: "I personally feel it is very hard to stay invisible. Almost every translator will inject a piece of her or him into the translation. That is why today some people are saying, let's call it transcreational. Yes. Because translation is as much of an art form as writing. One does leave her/his footprint as a translator. You'll see that each one is different."

Talking about his process, Suri said that as a translator he likes to ensure that the substance must retain fidelity to the original. He noted: "But you have to ensure that it is also readable. You cannot do it line-by-line. You want to try and pick up a chunk and convey the context. It is important to make sure that the flavours of the original are retained to the greatest extent. You don't want to over-explain. After all, one has to trust the reader's intelligence as well."

In the last 15 years, we have seen a revolution in translations from Indian languages into English, and the books getting major awards, Suri pointed out, emphasising that we have incredible literature in India. "And everyone must be able to access it. What translators can do is really create bridges between different parts of the country," Suri noted. Currently taking a break, Suri plans to write something about the UAE, where he was posted as ambassador before his retirement from the IFS, and the momentous transformation in relations that we have seen between India and the emirate.

In search of Indianness

India’s cultural consciousness is embedded with pearls of heritage carried forward through generations in the form of folk art. Stories from epics such as Mahabharata, Ramayana and Panchatantra are prominently illustrated and propagated by Patuas (Pattachitra artists) and Sutradhars. We may exist as an individual with personal ambitions, goals, and vision but together we occur within the society as an Indian.

“In Search of Indianness” is an artistic odyssey by Santanu Nandan Dinda and Sunita Dinda curated with meticulous care and passion by Hem Rana. The exhibition is scheduled to be held at the Open Palm Court Art Gallery from 24 - 28 April 2024 from 11 am - 7 pm.

Today, India is a cosmopolitan nation inhabiting people with

different food habits, languages, customs, traditions, religious beliefs, and many more things. In this abstract, artists Santanu Nandan Dinda and Sunita Dinda through their paintings seek Indianness.

Indianness is a conscious approach to implanting values and history that has originated, evolved, and transformed on Indian soil.

Santanu and Sunita’s paintings are a homage to their cultural identity. Both artists have worked together in the same studio for a long time and their paintings are inspired to tell their shared perspectives and mutual stories. Canvases drenched with bold lines and folk motifs express the beauty and serenity of an earthy India. Their creativity is rooted in the city of Jamshedpur, where they both grew up surrounded by tribal life.

India’s national personification is a woman - Bharat Mata. She is seen as a goddess that rages ferociously to protect her people and she is also seen as a mother that many Indian freedom fighters had fought for. Female deities are also deeply rooted in scriptures and holy books. Henceforth, both Sunita and Santanu have expressed their love for their nation through their paintings where a female entity takes center stage. Women are depicted as protagonists in their everyday lives.

Celebrating 75 years of Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society

As the Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society (SIFAS) commemorates its 75th year of enriching Singapore's cultural landscape, the much-anticipated SIFAS Festival of Arts, continues to captivate audiences till May 1, 2024, in Singapore. The celebration by SIFAS is jointly organised with SIFAS Productions Limited (SPL) and will feature enthralling performances by

Indian classical artistes

Gayatri (RaGa Sisters), Jayateerth Mevundi, Abhishek Raghuram and dance drama by Kalakshetra Foundation in collaboration with SIFAS. Established in 1949, SIFAS has been a cornerstone of Indian cultural heritage in Singapore, fostering art and cultural appreciation through its diverse disciplines.

2024 marks SIFAS' Diamond Jubilee, a significant milestone for the non-profit organisation committed to nurturing talent and promoting Indian fine arts in the region. As Singapore transitions into a global arts hub, SIFAS continues to uphold its mission of preserving and promoting Indian cultural heritage while embracing multiculturalism.

The SIFAS Festival of Arts 2024, an iconic event in SIFAS' cultural calendar, celebrates the institution's legacy as the heart and hub of Indian arts in Singapore. Themed 'Virasata: Celebrating a Timeless Legacy of Arts,' this year's festival also serves as a curtain-raiser to SIFAS' 75th anniversary celebrations that will extend throughout the year. With over 75 programmes of

classical Indian music, dance, and visual arts, the festival promises a mesmerising journey through the rich tapestry of Indian arts.

From traditional Kathak and Bharatanatyam performances and soul-stirring renditions of Hindustani and Carnatic vocals and instrumentals to a visual arts exhibition and arts and craft workshops, the festival showcases the depth and diversity of Indian cultural heritage.

"We are thrilled to present the SIFAS Festival of Arts as a tribute to SIFAS' illustrious journey over the past 75 years," said K V Rao, President, SIFAS. "This festival not only celebrates our heritage but also embraces the future of Indian arts, showcasing the talents of both emerging artists and iconic maestros."

leading

Ranjani and

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

Following 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

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.

Designer Raghavendra Rathore unveils fresh interpretations of classic styles

By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur (RRJ), the epitome of bespoke and traditionally inspired fashion, announces the launch of its Spring Summer 2024 collection. Embracing the ethos of recycling and reinventing classic styling, the new collection offers an exquisite blend of heritage and contemporary designs, tailored for the discerning modern client. The latest collection is a testament to the brand's belief in personal style transcending fleeting trends, featuring a sophisticated mix of colours, textures, and silhouettes that harmonize classic Indo-Western elements with a fresh, modern twist.

Each piece from the collection, including the Jodhpuri Bandhgalas, Waistcoats, Kurtas, and Achkans, is designed to provide timeless elegance while ensuring ease and adaptability to suit various destinations, events, and occasions.

Handcrafted accessories such as

personalized buttons, cufflinks, pocket squares, and more, designed to enhance the look of any ensemble will also be a part of the bespoke offerings from the brand.

Raghavendra Rathore, Founder of Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur, shares insights on the process and inspiration behind the SS 2024 Collection with IANSlife. What inspired the theme of recycling and reinventing classic styling for the Spring Summer 2024 collection?

Rathore: The brand's emphasis has always been on personalized dressing rather than trenddriven fashion. Recycling and

reinventing classic styling offer a timeless appeal, with a focus on adaptability to various occasions. The collection blends traditional and modern elements, offering a range of silhouettes and colours carefully selected for their timeless elegance and versatility.

How does the collection strike a balance between heritage and contemporary designs?

Rathore: By blending traditional elements with modern twists this collection strikes a balance between heritage and contemporary designs. It incorporates classic silhouettes such as waistcoats, kurtas, bandhgalas, and achkans, while infusing them with unique touches to create a fresh and relevant aesthetic. Additionally, the use of modern colours, textures, and surface treatments adds a contemporary flair to traditional styles, ensuring that the collection appeals to both classic and modern sensibilities.

Could you share insights into the creative process behind mixing

Indo-Western elements with a modern twist in the collection?

Rathore: Reinterpreting traditional silhouettes with contemporary cuts and styling details. Modern colours, patterns, and innovative fabric combinations update traditional motifs, while attention to detail ensures a cohesive and fashionforward look that blends Indian heritage with contemporary design seamlessly.

What sets apart the Jodhpuri Bandhgalas, Waistcoats, Kurtas, and Achkans of this collection from previous ones?

Rathore: The Jodhpuri Bandhgalas, Waistcoats, Kurtas,

and Achkans in this collection distinguish themselves through innovative design elements and meticulous craftsmanship. While staying true to the brand's heritage, they feature modern twists and unique detailing that set them apart from previous collections. These garments showcase a refined balance between traditional aesthetics and contemporary trends, offering fresh interpretations of classic styles that resonate with the discerning tastes of our clientele.

How do personalized accessories like buttons, cufflinks, and pocket squares enhance the overall appeal of the ensembles?

Rathore: Accessories customized with intricate designs or engraved with initials, not only add visual interest but also showcase the client's attention to detail and appreciation for craftsmanship. They serve as subtle yet distinctive accents, reflecting the wearer's discerning taste and elegance.

By offering personalized client accessories, Raghavendra Rathore Jodhpur enables individuals to curate ensembles that are truly their own, reflecting their unique style sensibilities and making a lasting impression with every detail.

How do the sharp cuts in silhouette contribute to achieving an effortless grace in the garments?

Rathore: The cut of the silhouette is an integral element of the

bespoke ethos, as it lends elegance and grace to the wearer’s style. What message or statement does each piece of clothing from the Spring Summer 2024 collection aim to convey to the wearer and the observer?

Rathore: Each piece from the RRJ Spring Summer 2024 collection aims to convey timeless elegance and individuality. It celebrates the wearer's unique style while making a statement of refined taste and versatility, inspiring confidence and creativity in both the wearer and the observer. The Bespoke Preview will take place at the Ritz Carlton Pune on the 19th and 20th of April.

Bulgari sets a new bar in highend mechanical watchmaking

Never before has a mechanical watch resistant to shocks and magnetic fields been made so slim – even thinner than a coin.

Bulgari's Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC sets a new bar in highend mechanical watchmaking by achieving that daring streak and relentless drive to keep pushing boundaries, the benchmark now stands at 1.70 millimetres.

A new feat with pushed boundaries

Consider the significance of a 1.70 mm thickness – a ninth-world record that introduces a novel standard in watchmaking. This new Octo Finissimo Ultra is the thinnest mechanical watch ever produced and the world's thinnest COSC chronometer.

Antoine Pin, Director of Bvlgari's watchmaking division, reflects, "The Octo Finissimo is a vast playground of innovation and design – and a source of unprecedented challenges – for Bvlgari's R&D department. This marks the ninth occasion our engineers, watchmakers, and designers have defied the laws of physics to offer complex timepieces of unparalleled slimness. These accomplishments go deeper than the watchmaking prowess they represent: they define our DNA. Bvlgari stands

to innovate, to keep pushing the boundaries, and to master the art of the extraordinary – and to always surprise.”

This milestone reflects a rigorous process, underscored by a commitment to reevaluate, and transcend the conventions of traditional high watchmaking, propelling

venerable craftsmanship into a contemporary context.

The outcome is notable; the unparalleled design of the watch becomes evident at first glance, prompting reflection on the innovation behind its creation.

How is this even possible?

The journey to this record was formidable, beginning with the task of reconciling extreme slimness with robustness. Creating the world's thinnest

mechanical watch isn't possible by building solely on existing concepts. It requires a paradigm shift, starting a new one from the ground up.

This is precisely what Bulgari accomplished with the unveiling of the Octo Finissimo Ultra and its remarkable thickness of only 1.80 mm in 2022. Emboldened by this achievement and convinced the limits had not been reached, Bvlgari's R&D department, in collaboration with Concepto (experts in complex mechanisms), decided to push the envelope further. The limits of movement slimness had already been reached with the Octo Finissimo Ultra, achieving an even slimmer profile for the Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC involved a rework of the case by optimizing the sapphire crystal. Through patient,

meticulous incremental steps, the engineers were able to shave off that critical tenth of a millimeter – and establish a new world record. In terms of the overall structure, the case back serves as the main plate, upon which the 170 components of the manually wound BVL180 manufacture calibre are assembled.

Janjgir-Champa: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Vishnu Deo Sai during a public meeting for Lok Sabha elections, in Janjgir-Champa district, Tuesday, April 23, 2024.

Toronto: FILE pictures of Grandmaster D. Gukesh of India at the FIDE Candidates 2024 chess tournament, in Toronto, Canada, Sunday, April 21, 2024

New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu confers Padma Shri to Gopinath Swain in the field of Art during Padma Awards 2024 ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi, Monday, April 22, 2024.

Malda : Union Home Minister Amit Shah holds a roadshow for Lok Sabha Elections, in Malda, Tuesday, April 23, 2024

Bhopal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav during a road show for Lok Sabha elections, in Bhopal, Wednesday, April 24, 2024.

New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar with 2016 Brussels terror attack survivor Nidhi Chaphekar during a meeting in New Delhi, Monday, April 22, 2024.

Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, AICC General Secretary Randeep Surjewala, And Others Stage A Protest Against The Central Government

Mumbai: Actor Amitabh Bachchan Being Conferred With The Lata Deenanath Mangeshkar Award By Veteran Singer Usha Mangeshkar

New Delhi: Devotees participate in a religious procession on the occasion of ‘Hanuman Jayanti’, at Jahangirpuri in New Delhi, Tuesday, April 23, 2024.

Bengaluru: Saurabh Govil, Chief Human Resources Officer at Wipro speaks during a press conference to announce the Q4FY24 financial results of Wipro Ltd, in Bengaluru on Friday, April 19, 2024.

New Delhi: Chief Of The Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari PVSM AVSM VM ADC, Presents Presidential Award To A Recipients During An Investiture Ceremony At The Public Plaza

Bengaluru: Union Home Minister Amit Shah participates in a roadshow in support of BJP Candidate Tejasvi Surya in Bengaluru on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.

Lucknow Super Giants’ Marcus Stoinis celebrates after scoring the winning runs with teammate Deepak Hooda at the end of the IPL match between Lucknow Super Giants and Chennai Super Kings at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.

ROSE ROSY TE GULAB

RELEASE DATE: 24 May 2024

LANGUAGE: Punjabi (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Aashu Munish Sahni and Gurnam Bhullar

DIRECTOR: Manvir Brar

CAST: Gurnam Bhullar, Maahi Sharma and Pranjal Dahiya

NI MAIN SASS KUTTNI 2

RELEASE DATE: 7 June 2024

LANGUAGE: Punjabi (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Yoodle Films

DIRECTOR: Mohit Banwait

CAST: Gurpreet Ghuggi, Karamjit Anmol, Nirmal Rishi, Anita Devgn, Tanvi Nagi, Mehtab Virk

MANSARRA

RELEASE DATE: 3 May 2024

LANGUAGE: Nepali (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Shailendra K

DIRECTOR: Upendra Subba

CAST: Dayahang Rai, Miruna Magar, Praveen Khatiwada, Menuka Pradhan

SRIKANTH

RELEASE DATE: 10 May 2024

LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: BHUSHAN KUMAR, KRISHAN KUMAR & NIDHI PARMAR HIRANANDANI

DIRECTOR: TUSHAR HIRANANDANI

CAST: Rajkummar Rao, Jyotika, Alaya F & Sharad Kelkar

Fashion designer Dolly J’s latest collection ‘Basra’ highlights timeless elegance of pearls

adorned with delicate pearl embellishments, and tailored suits.

'Basra' transcends fashion to become an ode to the eternal allure of natural beauty.

Talking about the new collection, Dolly J told IANS: "Basra embodies refined luxury, unrivalled radiance, and a symphony of opulence and grace."

The Delhi-based designer Dolly Jhunjhunwala, renowned for beautifully crafted Indian wear, shared that 'Basra' captivates the elegance of pearls.

"The collection embraces the spirit of haute couture and continues to captivate the timeless elegance of pearls," said the designer.

Water baby Nargis Fakhri recalls her first clamming experience

Actress Nargis Fakhri, who recently featured in the streaming series 'Tatlubaaz', confessed to being a water baby.

She shared her first experience with clamming.

The actress expressed her fondness for engaging in various water-based activities like sailing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and jet skiing.

Nargis revealed that her preferred way of spending vacation or leisure time involves sitting on the deck, gazing at the water, and relishing tranquillity.

The actress also recounted her unsuccessful first attempt at scuba diving, admitting that she was overwhelmed and panicked upon encountering numerous underwater creatures.

Talking about her "super fun" clamming experience, Nargis said: "I did it for the first time in Abu Dhabi. You get off your boat and onto the sandbars. The water is just above your knee."

The actress added: "You have to dig in the sand for clams. I went home with the fresh catch and made pasta with the clams."

Juhi does an impromptu dance on ‘Jaadu Teri Nazar’ with Gaurav on ‘Madness Machayenge’

Actress Juhi Chawla, the O.G K-k-k-k Kiran from 'Darr', cast a ray of sunshine on the sets of the comedy show 'Madness Machayenge - India Ko Hasayenge' when she performed an impromptu dance on the iconic song 'Jaadu Teri Nazar' with comedian Gaurav More in the latest episode.

During the episode, Kushal Badrike, Hemangi Kavi, and Kaveri Priyam teamed up for a new skit of the famous ‘Saiko Baiko’ series, where the ‘navra’ and ‘baiko’ try to spend some quality time on the beach but soon encounter a rollercoaster of misunderstandings and surprises. Gaurav More channeled his inner

Madhuri, Karisma recreate ‘Dance of Envy’; Suniel Shetty calls them ‘greatest dancing stars ’

Actresses Madhuri Dixit Nene and Karisma Kapoor will set the stage on fire as they will be seen recreating the magic of the 'Dance Of Envy' from the iconic 1997 film 'Dil Toh Pagal Hai'. Karisma will be a guest on the upcoming episode of the reality show 'Dance Deewane'. She will be joining Suniel Shetty, with whom she worked in 'Rakshak' and her 'Dil To Pagal Hai' co-star Madhuri Dixit Nene.

A promo shared by the channel on Instagram showcased the two actresses recreating the iconic

SRK, while Sugandha Mishra took on the role of the bubbly ‘Yuhi Chawla’. Gaurav Dubey stepped into the shoes of Sunny Deol for a hilarious spoof of ‘Darr’.

Gaurav More took Juhi Chawla by surprise as he swept her off her feet for a dance to the iconic song ‘Jaadu Teri Nazar’ and presented her with a rose.

Talking about the gag, Gaurav said: "We are so happy to have Juhi Chawla be a part of the show! To ensure my act was perfect, I watched the movie 'Darr' numerous times so that I could capture the style and essence of the character. Juhi not only enjoyed our performance but even joined me on stage for an impromptu dance to 'Jaadu Teri Nazar'."

"It was a moment I'll never forget. Working alongside Gaurav and Sugandha has been a blast. Our behind-the-scenes fun translates into the camaraderie you will see on screen. Our gag not only adds a comic twist to a cult thriller but also pays homage to the timeless charm of 'Darr'," he added.

'Madness Machayenge - India Ko Hasayenge’ airs on Sony Entertainment Television.

face-off dance, which is called the Dance Of Envy. The two nailed it to the T as they took over the stage on the show.

Suniel gave them a standing ovation and praised the two by saying: “Tab bhi aap logo ke liye dil paagal tha aur aaj bhi dil paagal hai. The greatest dancing stars of our industry and country.”

The song is from Yash Chopra’s 1997 blockbuster. In the film, both actors were cast opposite Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan.

‘Not a morning person’, says Neha Dhupia, as she turns on her ‘flight mode’

Actress Neha Dhupia shared that she is "not a morning person", yet she switched on her "flight mode" as she is all set to travel.

Neha took to her Instagram stories and shared a picture of herself standing in the airport transport, holding a coffee mug

in one hand and a pillow in the other.

The actress is seen wearing a classic white T-shirt paired with jeans and a luxurious Bottega Veneta fiery orange bag.

The mother-of-two looks stunning in her au naturel look and chose to keep her tresses open.

For the caption, Neha wrote: "Pillow (check emoji), Tea (check emoji), Flight mode (check emoji), Not a morning person (check emoji)."

The actress did not reveal what she was traveling for or where she was going in the Instagram story she shared.

Talking about her work, up next for Neha is an OTT show called 'Therapy Sherapy' with Gulshan Devaiah. She also has 'Bad Newz' with Vicky Kaushal and Triptii Dimri and an international film titled 'Blue 52'.

Fashion designer Dolly J says her latest couture collection, named 'Basra', embodies "refined luxury, unrivalled radiance, and a symphony of opulence".

The collection draws inspiration from Basra Pearls, featuring cascading gowns, sarees, lehengas

Rashmika shares a view from ‘Kubera’ set as she ‘packs up’ Dhanush-starrer film

"Andddddd

The makers of the film released the film's title and Dhanush’s first look from the film on Maha Shivaratri last month.

'Kubera' is directed by National Award-winning director Sekhar Kammula, known for movies such as 'Fidaa' and 'Love Story'.

The film, which also stars Nagarjuna and Jim Sarbh, is presented by Sonali Narang and produced by Suniel Narang and Puskur Ram Mohan Rao under their banner Sree Venkateswara Cinemas LLP, a unit of Asian Group, in association with Amigos Creations Pvt Ltd.

Rashmika, who was last seen in Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s 'Animal', will be seen in 'Pushpa: The Rise'. She also has 'Rainbow', 'The Girlfriend', and 'Chaava' in her kitty.

in the caption.

Billie Eilish reveals her dramatic 2021 blonde hair transformation caused an identity crisis

Grammy Award-winner

Billie Eilish revealed that her dramatic blonde hair transformation sparked an

identity crisis, leaving her feeling like she had "no idea" who she was.

In an interview with Rolling Stone, she said: "And then I dyed my hair blonde, and I immediately was like, 'Oh, I have no idea who I am'."

The glamorous look aligned with the softer feel of her sophomore album, 'Happier Than Ever', but ultimately, it felt like too much of a departure from Eilish’s true self, reports people.com.

"In a weird way, that was a little

like being in a tornado cellar, reading a cute little story," Eilish’s brother and collaborator, Finneas O’Connell, said in the profile. "It was a coping mechanism for an album."

Eilish showcased her new icy blonde hair in a March 2021 Instagram video. She made her Met Gala debut six months later in a peach tulle Oscar de la Renta corset ball gown, with her blonde hair styled into a glamorous bob.

Rajkummar Rao, Khushi, Nayanthara lead celeb lineup at GQ Most Influential Young Indians

Agalaxy

of stars, including names such as Rajkummar Rao, Tiger Shroff, Nayanthara, Navya Naveli Nanda, and Khushi Kapoor, among many others, illuminated the red carpet of the GQ Most Influential Young Indians event.

Rajkummar looked dapper in a classic black suit with a white shirt, while Tiger brought his stylish self in a blue suit with striped pants and completed his look with sunglasses.

Actress Nayanthara looked drop-dead beautiful in a black plunging neckline gown.

Actress Alaya F chose a white number, while Khushi looked gorgeous in a vintage-styled black and white co-ord outfit.

Brother-sister duo Agastya and Navya Naveli Nanda looked like Yin and Yang, with the 'Archies' actor in a black suit and Navya looking surreal in white.

Breaking away from the monochromes were actors Varun Dhawan, Sanya Malhotra, and Palak Tiwari, who wore a navy blue suit, denim anti-fit ensemble, and a colourful shimmery short dress, respectively.

Actress Pednekar flaunted her curves in an ivoryhued cutout outfit, while designer Kunal Rawal walked the red carpet in a gender-fluid number.

‘Bhabhi’ Mira Kapoor, who wore a bright orange dress with a side trail, posed with her ‘devar’ Ishaan Kapoor on the red carpet.

Secret behind Raashii Khanna’s perfect look in track ‘Achacho’: Egg whites and spinach

Actress Raashii Khanna, who is awaiting the release of her Tamil film ‘Aranmanai 4’, has shared how she achieved her look in the ‘Achacho’ song from the film.

The actress shared that she banked on weight training, a healthy sleep cycle and perfect nutrition to get the perfectly toned frame for the song. She emphasised that there is no ‘shortcut’ to fitness and that she made some changes in her

routine and sleep cycle.

Raashii said: "I work hard and I won’t take that away from me. Even on a 12 to 16-hour shoot day, I take out time for my workouts. I wake up early, I sleep early. I put in the work. And I have been at it for many years now. For the song, I went on to do a lot of weight training with split routines and circuits, making it intense but not too long. The idea was to tone up.”

She further mentioned that a week prior to the shoot, she opted for an egg white and spinach diet though she wouldn't recommend it for the long run.

She said: “Nutrition plays a very important role when you are trying to look a certain way. For the song, I did go on an egg white and spinach diet for a week prior (the shoot). But I wouldn't recommend it because it is not healthy in the long run.”

She further stated that during the normal shoot days, she maintains a very healthy diet with "cheat meals on Sundays". The actress, who is set to tickle funny bones in horror-comedy 'Aranmanai 4', also has ‘The Sabarmati Report’ in the pipeline, where she will be seen sharing the screen with Vikrant Massey.

The film, which sees both actors play the role of reporters, will hit the theatres on August 2, 2024. Raashii is also looking forward to the release of a Hindi film ‘TME’ and a Telugu film ‘Telusu Kada’.

Aamir Khan explains to Kapil Sharma why he doesn’t attend award shows: Time’s precious

The Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan, who was last seen in ‘Laal Singh Chaddha’, is set to appear on the streaming comedy show ‘The Great Indian Kapil Show’. The makers of the show unveiled a new promo of the show on Wednesday, which shows the actor having a gala time with the cast of the show.

The actor also narrated several stories. This is the first time Aamir is appearing on the show. Welcoming him, Kapil seemed elated as Aamir is known to pay visits to limited places.

During the episode, Aamir also

spoke about why he doesn’t attend Award shows; he said that time is "very precious," and it should be invested correctly. He then opened up on the iconic radio scene of ‘PK’ where he ran on the railway track bare-bodied.

Like every parent, Aamir too experiences the challenge of his kids not listening to him. The actor spoke at length about it during the show, and also mentioned that he intended on coming to the show in shorts but his team told him to wear jeans.

‘The Great Indian Kapil Show’ stream on Netflix.

Actress Rashmika Mandanna shared a glimpse from her upcoming film 'Kubera' starring Dhanush.

Rashmika took to her Instagram

stories and shared a picture showing the moon, a building, and a little bit of the set.

it's a wrap #Kubera," the actress wrote

Buyers Like What They See at Brookwater.

Your 5 minute neighbourhood:

Just 35 minutes away from Brisbane CBD, the interest among buyers has been at a record level, according to Narendran Sinnathamby, the General Manager of Brookwater Residential. Brookwater’s current land release, The Dress Circle, is situated around the first nine holes of the championship golf course designed by Greg Norman. It is the only integrated golf community near Brisbane. “Discerning buyers are recognising that Brookwater is a premium lifestyle destination,’’Mr Sinnathamby said.

“The Dress Circle, Brookwater is situated within Springfield City, one of Australia’s fastestgrowing regions. Springfield City sets the standard for world-class master-planned urban environments in the 21st century and has become a blueprint for nation-building,” he added.

“The area boasts outstanding schools, and state-of-the-art health facilities, and is now home to the Brisbane Lions AFL Club. Everything you need is within reach.”

Within the Springfield City area, there are 12 schools, 22 childcare facilities, and the University of Southern Queensland providing a remarkable array of options for both private and public amenities, making it an ideal choice for growing families.

Springfield City is positioned as the gateway to the western corridor of Southeast Queensland. With an expansive area of 2,860 hectares, it is Australia’s largest master-planned city and the first of its kind since Canberra.

CALL US NOW AND VISIT THE SALES CENTRE: 07 3814 5177 3 Birchwood Crescent, Brookwater. Open daily 9am – 5pm

SOURCE: ECONISIS

- The wider Springfield Growth Corridor including Springfield and Greater Springfield is currently home to 145,300 people.

- This is expected to grow rapidly to almost 200,000 people in 2026 and over 435,000 in 2041.

- Represents an annual growth rate of 5.6% over the 20 years to 2041.

St Peters Lutheran College offers Prep to Year 12 Christian co-education.

Health City Springfield Central – home to Mater Private Hospital Springfield, Aveo Springfield and Quest Apartment Hotel.

Orion Springfield Central offering major retail shops, restaurants, a movie theatre and food court.

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