IN Sept 16-30, 2023

closure of Delhi G20

hands over ceremonial gavel to Brazil Prez

Sunday announced the closure of the New Delhi G20 leaders' Summit and handed over the presidency gavel to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

the Brazilian president on the occasion.

New Delhi, Sep 10 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on

Brazil will hold the G20 presidency for the next one year. PM Modi expressed hope that under Brazil's presidency, G20 will take forward the common agenda of the grouping further ahead. He also congratulated

While delivering his speech to announce the closure of the G20 Summit, PM Modi said, "As you all know India has the responsibility of G20 presidency till November 2023. In these two days, all of you gave a lot of suggestions and placed proposals. It is our duty that the suggestions we have received be reviewed once again

New Delhi, September 13: Shri Gopal Baglay (IFS: 1992), presently High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, has been appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to Australia. He is expected to take up the assignment shortly. He has previously been the Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, and Joint secretary in Prime Minister’s Office.

to inclusive, equitable and high-quality education for all: G20 leaders

Committed

New Delhi, Sep 9 (IANS) The G20 leaders on Saturday said that they are committed to inclusive, equitable and high quality education for all the people.

"We are committed to inclusive, equitable, high-quality education and skills training

for all, including for those in vulnerable situations. We recognise the importance of investment in supporting human capital development," the Delhi Declaration said.

"To this end, we recognise the importance of foundational learning (literacy, numeracy, and socio- emotional skills) as the primary building block for education and employment. Reiterate our commitment to harness digital technologies to overcome the digital divides for all learners."

The G20 leaders said that they extend support to educational institutions and teachers to enable them to keep pace with emerging trends and technological advances including Al.

It said that there they would emphasise expanding access to high-quality Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

“Reaffirm our commitment to promote open, equitable and

Pall of gloom descends on native places of martyred Army officers

Anantnag on Wednesday.

While Col Manpreet Singh belongs to Mohali in Punjab, Major Dhonchak from Panipat in Haryana.

Patna, Sep 10 (IANS) With the Lok Sabha elections approaching in 2024 both the opposition and the ruling dispensation at the Centre are unrolling different narratives

to achieve their goal of victory. One such point of discussion is the name of the country with the ruling NDA stressing on Bharat and the opposition parties saying India, that is Bharat.

The opposition leaders in Bihar believe that this is a tactical ploy of the BJP to divert attention from the real issues.

Shivanand Tiwari, national vice president of the RJD said: “The discussion on India and Bharat is quite old. It comes from the Mahabharata period and started

Chandigarh, Sep 14 (IANS) A pall of gloom descended on the native places of Sena Medal-awardee Col Manpreet Singh and Major Aashish Dhonchak of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, who made the supreme sacrifice while protecting the nation from the terrorists in

"We last spoke to him (Col Manpreet Singh) at 6.45 a.m. and later got a call at around 3 p.m. that he has been injured. He was a great man. Last year, he was awarded Sena Medal for his duty. I salute him," Colonel Manpreet Singh’s brother told the media.

His family, comprising mother, wife Jagmeet Grewal and two children -- a daughter, aged six, and a son, aged two, resides near New Chandigarh in Mohali district, near here. Planning to visit the family on his birthday next month, Major Dhonchak joined the India Army in 2013 and was the lone brother of three sisters.

New Delhi, Sep 14 (IANS) Top Indian-American lawmakers and advocacy groups said they were "horrified", "sickened" and "appalled" following the release of a bodycam video in which a Seattle cop is heard joking

and laughing about an Indian student's death by a police patrol car this year.

Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-yearold student of Northeastern University campus in South Lake Union, was hit by a Seattle Police vehicle on January 23.

In the brief clip, which has sparked massive outrage on the internet, Seattle Police Officers’ Guild Vice President Daniel Auderer is heard saying, "she had limited value", in a call with the guild’s president, Mike Solan.

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PM Modi announces closure of Delhi G20 Summit, hands over ceremonial gavel to Brazil Prez

Continued from Page 1

so as to see how their progress can be sped up. I propose that at the end of November, we hold a virtual session of G20."

He added, "We can review the topics decided in this Summit in that virtual session. I hope you all

will connect in the virtual session. With this, I declare the conclusion of G20 Summit".

India had taken over the G20 presidency from Indonesia during the Bali Summit last year.

Enhancing financial inclusion and strengthening digital

PM Modi praises Australian diplomats for their love for Hindi

public Infrastructure as well as expanding multilateral development banks (MDBs) for emerging economies, amplifying the voice of the Global South and ensuring environment sustainability have been some of the key takeaways of India's G20 presidency.

Committed to inclusive, equitable and high-quality education for all: G20 leaders

Continued from Page 1

secure scientific collaboration and encourage mobility of students, scholars, researchers, and scientists across research and higher education institutions.”

The leaders said that they emphasise the importance of enabling life-long learning focused on skilling, reskilling, and upskilling especially for vulnerable groups.

"We thank India for successfully

hosting the 18th G20 Summit in New Delhi, for its warm welcome to delegates, and for its valuable contributions to the strengthening of the G20. We appreciate the successful conclusion of various G20 Working Groups and Ministerial meetings and welcome their outcomes as annexed. We also congratulate India on the successful landing on the moon on 23 August 2023."

“We thank international organisations for their participation and support. We thank the Engagement Groups of B20, S20, SA120, Startup20, T20, U20, W20, Y20, C20, P20 and L20 and the Initiatives, namely, EMPOWER, Research Initiative, Space Economy Leaders Meeting (SELM), Chief Science Advisers' Roundtable (CSAR) and the G20 Cybersecurity Conference for their valuable recommendations,” the Delhi Declaration said.

Pall of gloom descends on native places of martyred Army officers

Continued from Page 1

He’s survived by his wife Jyoti and three-year-old daughter Vamika. As the news of his death spread, villagers and neighbours rushed to his house in Sector 7.

Lal Chand, his father, along with the family, had shifted to a rented accommodation after he retired from National Fertilizers Ltd. Major Dhonchak’s grandfather told the media that he was an intelligent man and scarified his life for the country.

"Everyone in the village will wait for the arrival of his mortal remains," he said with teary eyes.

Col Manpreet Singh’s wife Jagmeet is an economics teacher with the Haryana government and is posted in Panchkula district.

Col Manpreet Singh was leading his troops from the front when he received critical gunshot wounds.

"Punjab Police salutes our martyr Col. Manpreet Singh & Maj.

Ashish Dhonchak of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, and DSP Humayun Bhat of

J&K Police who lost their lives during a fierce gunfight with terrorists in #Anantnag, #JammuKashmir," Punjab Police said in a post on 'X'.

"The nation will remain indebted to them for their supreme sacrifice. Our fighters have always fought for safeguarding the unity & integrity of India, both in the Armed Forces & the Police," it added.

Minister Narendra Modi on Friday praised Australian diplomats for their love for Hindi.

He was responding to a post on X by Australian High Commissioner Philip Green on the occasion of Hindi Diwas on September

14, where he shared clips of his colleagues at the high commission reciting their favourite Hindi proverbs and "dohas".

"Your recitation of proverbs and "dohas" is mesmerising and your love for Hindi language is quite interesting," PM Modi said in his post on X.

Hindi Diwas is observed on September 14 every year as it was on this date in 1949 that the Constituent Assembly had unanimously decided that Hindi will be the official language of the country.

Oppn sees India vs. Bharat as a ploy to divert attention from real issues

Continued from Page 1

from Bharat, then became Bharatvarsh and now Bharat. A common man would say that it has a long history so why not go for Bharat instead of India. People are saying that the name of our country India was given by the British but many people believe that this name was there since the time of Alexander. The BJP has a clear view to utilize this issue to hide the real issues. The discussion on Bharat vs India is similar to the Sanatan Dharma issue."

“The Narendra Modi government has not done anything in the last nine and a half years for the common people. The situation in BJP ruled Manipur is the worst at the moment. Human rights violations are taking place. The Assam Rifles were deployed there. If any incident takes place in non BJP ruled states like Bihar,

West Bengal or Jharkhand, they are made into big issues. The violence in Manipur reached such a massive level only due to the communal agenda of the BJP and it has not been resolved till now,” Tiwari said.

The arguments over Bharat and India started after the Bengaluru meeting of the opposition parties where they announced their alliance called the Indian National Development Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). Since, the country's name is also India and it is mentioned in the Constitution as well, India that is Bharat, the BJP leaders felt uncomfortable with it. The BJP leaders especially RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat advocated for Bharat. BJP senior leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sushil Kumar Modi claimed that when he used the word India, it felt like he was still a slave of the British.

As Nipah strikes Kerala, RGCB rolls out a mobile virology laboratory

Continued from Page 1

Congressman Ro Khanna, who is also the co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans, said that anyone who thinks that "a human life has 'limited value' should not be serving in law enforcement".

"Jaahnavi Kandula came here for graduate work from India. She was killed on a crosswalk by a speeding police car, & Officer Auderer said her life had 'limited value'. I thought of my Dad who came here in his 20s," Khanna wrote in a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday.

"Mr Auderer, the life of every Indian immigrant has infinite value," he added.

Slamming the video, IndianAmerican representatives Pramila Jayapal and Shri Thanedar sought justice for Kandula, who came to the US in 2021 on a student exchange programme. "This is appalling. I hope to see

justice for Jaahnavi Kandula's family and accountability for those involved," Congresswoman Jayapal wrote on X.

"Video shows Seattle policeman laughing over death of Indian student killed by patrol car.

TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE.

Justice for Jaahnavi Kandula," Thanedar posted on his X handle.

The Asian American Foundation, an organisation committed to serving the AAPI (Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders) community, called upon the Office of Police Accountability to keep holding Auderer accountable for his actions.

"We are sickened by the insensitive remarks made by an officer of the Seattle Police Department... We condemn this type of behaviour from a leader in the community who is sworn to protect and serve," Norman Chen, Chief Executive Officer of The Asian American Foundation, said

in a statement.

"We call upon the Office of Police Accountability to keep holding this officer accountable for his actions and encourage the Seattle Police Department to work with local leaders to rebuild trust within the Seattle and greater Washington community," Chen added.

Stating that Kandula's case has not been "properly investigated", advocacy group, the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), called for "strict action", saying Kandula and her family "deserve better".

"We are horrified by the disgusting lack of concern or humanity for Jaahnavi Kandula, in the tapes of Seattle police that surfaced this week. Laughing and assigning a dollar value to a life snuffed out so brutally needs to be condemned in the strongest way," CoHNA said in a statement on X on Wednesday.

Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 14

(IANS) The Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) in Kerala on Thursday rolled out a fully-equipped mobile virology testing laboratory, strengthening the efforts to contain the Nipah virus infection reported from parts of the state's Kozhikode district.

Health, Woman and Child Development Minister Veena George flagged off the Mobile Virology Lab in front of the Kerala Assembly complex here.

Lauding the RGCB for stepping in to significantly help the Nipah containment efforts by rolling out such a critical facility, she said more samples can be tested with the mobile lab reaching in Kozhikode later in the day.

"Biosafety Level 2 (BSL) plus Level 3 practices can be done in the lab where two machines will be working simultaneously. At any given point of time, each machine can handle around 96 samples and a total of 192 samples can be tested in the two machines," George said.

She also informed that a mobile lab from National Institute of Biosciences (NIB), Pune, has already reached Kozhikode.

RGCB Director Prof Chandrabhas Narayana said the services of a group of six experts have been made available in the mobile unit, which can give results within six hours after testing the samples.

"The mobile lab will be deployed right at the containment zone. Any small number of samples can also be tested to provide prompt results to the public," he said.

Narayana also said like a BSL 3 facility, the mobile lab has a double airlock system and features onboard decontamination and biological waste processing capabilities.

‘Appalled’, ‘sickened’: Top Indian-American lawmakers slam video mocking student’s death

Bowen Rail Company sowing the seeds for a healthier local community

able to expand the garden and have a bigger variety of fruit and vegetables for the kids to cook with,’’ Ms Trask said.

“That’s been a huge benefit to the students and the program, and it wouldn’t have been able to happen without Bowen Rail Company’s support.”

BRC General Manager Brendan Lane said the Community Partnership Program was one of the ways the organisation gave back to the community, which had so strongly supported the company as it established itself in Bowen.

“We’ve gone from having five or six staff in town in 2020 to well over 150 today as we safely run our rail operation from right here in Bowen,” Mr Lane said.

Bowen Rail Company’s Community Partnership Program was launched in 2022 and is awarded bi-annually in November and May.

In addition to the Queens Beach State School, other recipients from the May 2023 round included the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, which BRC assisted to fit out its large meeting room with audio visual equipment to support community groups and small businesses to hold meetings and conferences.

Queens

Townsville, September 7: Queens Beach State School’s kitchen garden program is blooming thanks to a new grant from Bowen Rail Company (BRC) to support the region’s littlest green thumbs.

The Bowen state school was one

of four recipients of the latest round of funding from BRC’s Community Partnership Program, which is designed to assist not-for-profit organisations and community groups with the purchase of small assets that can make a big difference.

Queens Beach is part of the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program and teacher Bec Trask said the children learned about food through hands-on gardening, harvesting, and cooking.

“Thanks to the grant we’ve been

About Bowen Rail Company

• The Bowen Rail Company (BRC) is a Queensland rail freight business launched in August 2020.

• Headquartered in Bowen, North Queensland, BRC combines world-leading technology with clever solutions to transport Queensland’s high-

quality resources for export to the world.

• BRC’s GT46C-ACe Gen III locomotives help its local workforce work more efficiently, safely, and with a smaller environmental footprint.

• BRC’s first customer was Bravus Mining and Resources’

Carmichael mine.

• BRC operates on the Carmichael Rail Network, a 200km railway connecting the Carmichael mine 160km northwest of Clermont in central Queensland to the Newlands Rail System.

• BRC transports high quality

“As we have grown, so too has our connection to our community. We now have kids who go to school here, we have elderly parents who live here, and all of that drives the desire our people have to give back to Bowen.

“That’s why we’re so excited to see our Community Partnership Program used to support the delivery of activities and services that make a tangible contribution to this place we’re so lucky to live and work in.”

coal from Carmichael to the North Queensland Export Terminal north of Bowen. Here, Carmichael coal is exported to nations around the world where it is used alongside renewables to help lift people out of energy poverty while at the same time reducing emissions intensity as the world transitions over coming decades to a low carbon future.

• The Carmichael Rail Network

Mr Lane said the Bowen Cricket club also received a grant to install lighting around the cricket nets so play can continue safely into the evening and Bowen Flexi Care used its grant to purchase new power tools including a leaf blower, lawn mower and whipper snipper for clients to use on gardening days.

For more information about Bowen Rail Company’s Community Partnership Program, or to apply, head to www. bowenrail.com.au/sustainability/ community/

For more information about the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program visit www. kitchengardenfoundation.org.au/

was built as part of the Carmichael mine and rail Project, through which more than A$2 billion was paid to regional Queensland contractors and businesses.

• Both Bowen Rail Company and Bravus Mining and Resources are part of the Bravus group of Australian businesses delivering integrated energy and infrastructure services.

Beach State School teacher Bec Trask (back left) with BRC’s Lienca Nell (back right) and students with a haul from their kitchen garden.

Springfield city provides unique opportunity to study health and wellbeing

In an Australian-first project, Springfield City Group have joined forces with The University of Queensland to drive local research, co-funding a Professor at the new Centre for Community Health and Wellbeing.

Centre Director and Chair of Community Health and Wellbeing, Professor Lauren Ball said Springfield was an ideal location to test the effectiveness of community-level preventative health and wellbeing initiatives over time.

“Springfield is a young community – much younger than the national average – and we’ll work with them to design and test health and wellbeing initiatives to live and age well,” Professor Ball said.

“By collaborating with residents and workers to deliver programs that genuinely support their health and wellbeing needs, we can support their long-term health outcomes and potentially reduce future demand on the

healthcare system.

“With such a vibrant, multicultural community, we know there is huge potential for positive impact through research on mental health, healthy eating, physical activity, domestic violence, school transitions, childhood health, cancer survivorship, plus so much more.” Springfield city is made up of many young families, with a mean age of 32 years.

Springfield City Group Chairman Maha Sinnathamby AM said the collaboration with UQ would provide a unique offering to residents of Australia’s fastestgrowing region.

“When we devised this masterplanned city, we created it with health, education and innovation at the forefront of all of our decisions,” Mr Sinnathamby said.

“This Centre for Community Health and Wellbeing takes this commitment to a new level, combining with some of the

brightest medical research minds at one of the world’s best universities.

“This is a genuine partnership between cutting-edge research and our community, understanding each other and developing health outcomes that will improve lives.”

Springfield city is home to 55,000 residents across 2,860 hectares including 30 per cent green space. The city celebrated its 30th birthday last year.

UQ Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry said communityled research could help local residents to live and age well, and shape healthcare services in other growing communities.

“This gives residents the opportunity to help direct research to address healthcare challenges that matter to them and tailor local services to their needs,” Professor Terry said.

“Community-led research is the future of world-class health

Prime

$615,000

research in Australia.”

The Centre for Community Health and Wellbeing is already on the ground in Springfield city, actively engaging residents in the following projects: Working with cancer survivors as they transition back into their community following hospital treatment; Understanding the benefits of a “third space” in health and wellbeing away from home and work;

Teaching cooking skills to residents, not only for healthy living but to create the possibility of microbusinesses based on

those cooking skills.

Feedback from the community will inform the focus of research, so local healthcare services and programs can be tailored to local needs and preferences.

Findings from the research will be translated to communities across Queensland and other states.

The Centre for Community Health and Wellbeing was officially launched at Springfield City Group’s 6th Annual Medical Practitioners’ Networking Event, bringing together medical professionals working across Springfield city region.

Left to right: Bob Sharpless, Prof Deborah Terry AO, Prof Lauren Ball, Maha Sinnathamby AM, Dr Peter Steer at the 6th Annual Medical Practitioners Event

BJP seems to be irritated with Oppn alliance name INDIA, says Rahul Gandhi

ruled by the British, we fought the British, we defeated the British,” he said.

Paris, Sep 10 (IANS) Amid the controversy between Opposition and ruling BJP over use of word 'Bharat' instead of India, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday has said the BJP government seems to be irritated with name of opposition alliance INDIA.

"In our Constitution, India is defined as 'India that is Bharat- a Union of States'. So, these states have come together to form India or Bharat. The most important thing is that the voice of all the people included in these states is heard loud and clear and no voice is crushed or intimidated," he said in response to a question during his recent interaction with the students and faculty at Sciences Po University in Paris, France.

"The Constitution actually uses both names. The BJP government seems to be irritated with the name of our coalition (I.N.D.I.A). Now, they've decided to change the name of the country.People act in strange ways."

"We could give our coalition a second name as well. I don't think it will solve the purpose, but people act in strange ways.

“There is something deeper that is going on. People who want to change the name of anything are basically trying to deny history.

The fact is whether we like it or not, we have a history, we were

The MP from Kerala's Wayanad said, "When you see people on the stage in the INDIA coalition, you must realise that more people from the majority community vote for us than they vote for BJP. Sixty per cent of India votes for us, 40 per cent of India votes for them. So the idea, the majority community is voting for BJP is wrong idea. The majority community actually votes for us."

Gandhi further said, "My experience is that regardless of whether people are poor or rich, they have a sense of what India should be doing, where India should be going. For me, the first step is protecting that voice and making sure that the institutions, the structures that protect the voice are working and are defended."

"When we use words like 'democracy', what we are actually talking about is the voice of the people. And listening effectively to that voice, allowing that voice expression is central to any success. The bedrock of it is the idea that we protect the voice of all our people," he said.

Mahatma Gandhi had said the most important voice is the one that is the last in the line, the parliamentarian said, adding, a nation doing that will succeed.

"So, when you are dealing with a country the size of India, we have to have relationships with multiple different countries. I

think it's a simplification to say whose side you are. The blunt answer to that is we are on our own side. As a nation we act in our interest and we do whatever suits us with regards to our interest," Gandhi said on being asked about on whose side is India on international relations. "For large country like us it becomes very difficult to come up with an answer to that .But, we do have a strong view that voice and democracy are important. Indian people their basic architecture is designed to deal with much more complexity."

On China, the MP said: "Today, the bulk of production, manufacturing, and value addition are done in China. It's a global problem. It's a problem for India, for Europe and for the United States. In my view, there's a problem with the way China has achieved it."

"We need to think about production in a democratic and non-coercive environment. We have to compete with China by giving our people political and economic freedom. So that is the challenge. I don't see it as confrontation with China."

"China is placed on the table, a way of working. I think it is important for India, United States, Europe to place an alternative system, alternative method on the table," he added.

Gandhi on Sunday reached Netherlands. He will hold an interactive session at the Leiden University.

Martyred J&K Police officer’s father defies grief, tears to salute his son

solemnly behind the father waiting for their turn to pay last respects to the slain officer.

Humayun, a 2018 batch officer of the JKPS, was married last year. His wife gave birth to a baby just 26 days ago.

Patna, Sep 12 (IANS) A rape victim of Bihar’s Nawada district on Monday threatened to selfimmolate herself in front of the District Magistrate's office if police do not arrest the accused in the next 8 days.

The victim has filed a complaint with the SDO office of Nawada seeking immediate action against the accused. She claimed that she was sexually brutalised two and half

months ago but police have not arrested the accused so far. As a result, he is roaming freely in the village and threatening dire consequences and blackmailing her, she said.

The victim claimed that an FIR had been registered on June 24 this year in Dhamaul police station but police have not taken any action against the accused. She claimed that if district police would not arrest the accused till September 15, she will do a dharna at DM office on September 16 and 17. Then she will do a hunger strike for a day on September 18 and will immolate herself on September 19 at 12 noon and the district administration will be held guilty for her death.

Bengaluru, Sep 14 (IANS)

Karnataka government has booked Aaj Tak anchor Sudheer Chaudhary for allegedly promoting enmity between groups in his show.

The complaint was filed by Shivakumar, assistant administrator of the KMDC, at the Seshadripuram police station in the city. Based on the complaint a First Information Report (FIR) was registered under sections 505 (Statements conducing to public mischief) and 153 A (Promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence) of the Indian Penal Code,police said.

Srinagar, Sept 14 (IANS) The courage, fortitude and composure of this brave police officer as he laid a wreath on the body of his martyred officer son, will be written with golden letters in the history of Indian police.

Fragile bodied retired IGP, Ghulam Hassan Bhat stood by the body of his son, DSP Humayun Bhat in the district police lines in Srinagar without a tear in his eyes.

As a piece of steel, Ghulam

Hassan Bhat escorted by Javaid Mujtaba Gilani, ADGP, laid a wreath at his martyred son’s coffin wrapped in the Tricolour.

Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Secretary Arun Mehta, DGP Dilbag Singh and all other senior officers of J&K Police stood

The tragedy could not have been greater for any family in any part of the country.

But, Ghulam Hassan Bhat hid grief and tears to set an example not many fathers can ever imagine. He was grief stricken undoubtedly, but his spirit as was high.

He lived up to what he swore in the oath he and his son took when baptised into the police service of the country.

Bhat’s fortitude, courage, grit and spirit will be quoted in every police training school, college and academy to future policemen of the country.

This father has become a living legend who will inspire generations of future officers in the country. It is the duty of the police force to stand with, to

stand by and to stand alongside this great father.

Every police officer of the country must bow his/her head before Bhat like the proud sons and daughters of a brave, courageous police officer father.

Humuyan was the sub-divisional police officer (SDPO) in Kokarnag area of Anantnag district.

He was part of the team of security officers who went to Gadole mountain area after receiving inputs about the presence of terrorists there.

In the initial contact with the terrorists, army’s Colonel Manpreet Singh, CO of 19 Rashtriya Rifles, major, Aashish Dhonchak and Dy.SP, Humayun Bhat came under heavy firing from the terrorists.

The three officers were leading the operation from the front. Rescue was immediately organised. Helicopters were kept in readiness to shift the injured to the hospital. Inhospitable terrain and the advantage of surprise helped the terrorists.

Aaj Tak anchor Sudhir Chaudhary booked in K’taka for ‘promoting enmity’ between groups

Rape victim in Bihar threatens to immolate herself if police do not arrest accused

How Ambedkar settled the India-Bharat debate with the wording of Article 1

A year later, in September 1949, the Assembly revisited the issue to decide on the Union's name.

Chandrababu Naidu is prisoner number 7691

New Delhi, Sep 10 (IANS) There have been occasional debates and discussions related to the use of these two names -- India and Bharat -- in official documents and discourse.

The term "India" is often associated with the country's colonial past and is the internationally recognised name. On the other hand, "Bharat" has deep cultural and historical roots in India's ancient texts and traditions.

The recent decision by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government at the Centre to prioritise the use of "Bharat" over "India" has sparked debate over the nation's identity and history. The opposition has alleged that invitations to the G20 Summit dinner, sent by Rashtrapati Bhavan, featured the term 'President of Bharat' rather than the usual 'President of India.' This has sparked speculation that the government might introduce a resolution to officially rename India as Bharat during the upcoming special session of Parliament, which is being convened on September 18.

September has consistently been a month of debates for many years, and this can be traced back to September 1949 when there was intense discussion regarding the phrase 'India, that is Bharat...'. This debate followed the establishment of a committee on August 29, 1947, by the Constituent Assembly, with BR Ambedkar as its chairman, to draft the Constitution.

In 1948, the Draft Constitution of India began with Article 1, stating 'India shall be a Union of States.'

During the Constituent Assembly discussion, some members suggested alternatives like 'Bharat,' 'Bharat Varsha,' and 'Hindustan' for 'India.'

Ambedkar, on behalf of the Drafting Committee, moved an amendment proposing to change Article 1 of the Draft Constitution to ‘India, that is, Bharat shall be a Union of States.’

It appears that the Drafting Committee took onboard demands to include ‘Bharat’ in the clause. Interestingly, the Committee retained ‘India’. However, the members found the overall phrase – ‘India, that is, Bharat’ – undesirable.

But at the end of the debate, Assembly members accepted Ambedkar’s amendment. And the Constitution of India 1950 opened with ‘India, that is Bharat, is a Union of States’.

The debate over "India" vs. "Bharat" is not just a linguistic quibble; it reflects the larger struggle to define India's identity in a rapidly changing world.

As the nation evolves, it's essential to recognise that both "India" and "Bharat" have their place in the mosaic of this diverse and vibrant republic.

We refer to our country as India in English and as Bharat in other Indian languages. Even in Dravidian languages it is Bharata in Tamil, Bharatam in Malayalam and Bharat Desam in Telugu.

In Hindi, the Constitution is referred to as ‘Bharat ka Samvidhan’. And Article 1 is, ‘Bharata arthat India, rajyon ka sangha hoga’.

The term "Bharat" has ancient origins, found in Hindu texts like the Mahabharata and Manusmriti.

Advocates of 'Bharat' argue it represents the region's rich history and culture.

"India" isn't a recent term either; it was derived from the Indus River, crucial in early regional civilisations, popularised by Greek historians, and later adopted during British colonial rule.

For decades, India and Bharat

have both stirred deep emotions among patriots, symbolising the diverse and rich tapestry of a nation. These labels of pride, however, have increasingly become tools for narrow political objectives.

To understand the "India vs. Bharat" debate, one must delve into the historical context of preindependence India. It was a land of stark contrasts, where urban centres epitomised modernity and progress, while rural areas remained deeply rooted in traditional values and agrarian lifestyles.

This divide was not just economic but also cultural and linguistic, giving rise to two distinct, yet interconnected, ideas of the nation.

The proponents of "India" argued for an identity that represented the urban and modern face of the country. For them, India was about embracing science and technology, industrialisation, and global engagement.

On the other hand, the champions of "Bharat" saw the nation through a different lens. They celebrated the deep-rooted cultural values, traditions, and spirituality that thrived in the countryside. To them, Bharat represented the soul of India, embodying timeless wisdom and a connection to the land. The Preamble, which begins with "We, the people of India," ultimately struck a balance by acknowledging both India's modern aspirations and its traditional roots. It incorporated the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, encapsulating the ideals of a pluralistic and progressive nation.

The BJP has already renamed cities and places that were linked to the Mughal and colonial periods. Last year, for instance, the Mughal Garden at the presidential palace in New Delhi was renamed Amrit Udyan.

Critics say that the new names are an attempt to erase the Mughals, who were Muslims and ruled the subcontinent for almost 300 years, from Indian history.

Rajahmundry (Andhra Pradesh), Sep 11 (IANS) Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is remand prisoner number 7691 at the Rajahmundry Central Jail.

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) supremo was brought to the jail in the early hours of Monday after a court in Vijayawada sent him to judicial custody for 14 days in alleged skill development scam.

The 73-year-old is lodged in a special room in ‘Sneha’ block in the central prison.

On the direction of the court, the jail authorities were providing him special amenities, including a special room, home-cooked food, medicines and sufficient security in view of threat perception. Naidu enjoys Z plus category security. However, the NSG commandos were not allowed inside the jail.

The TDP leader’s lawyers have moved a petition in Vijayawada ACB court to permit house arrest in view of Z plus security. This petition along with the plea of the Crime Investigation Department (CID) for Naidu’s police custody is likely to come up for hearing on Monday.

Goa Police book 2 more persons in int’l sex trafficking racket

Panaji, Sep 12 (IANS) Goa Police have registered FIRs against two more people in connection with an international sex trafficking racket, which was busted last week.

DSP Jivba Dalvi informed that the FIRs were registered by the Anjuna Police.

“During the raids, accused person Maria Dorcus, a Kenyan national, was found to be staying without a valid passport and visa and hence FIR under section 7(1), 7 (3) (iii) of Foreigners Order, 1948, and section 3 (2)(a) and 6 (a) of the Passport (Entry into India) Rules, 1950, and section 3 and 4 of the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920, has been registered,” Dalvi said, adding that she has been arrested.

He said that the accused was found to be staying at a resort, owner of which Sebestian Albuquerque from Vagator, had failed to fill a ‘C form’ of the accused woman which is mandatory by law.

“Hence owner of the resort has been booked for violating section 7 (1) of the Foreigners Order Act, 1947, and hence FIR under section 14 of the Foreigners Act has been registered,” he said.

On September 8, Goa Police had busted the international sex trafficking racket and rescued five women with the arrest of two female Kenyan nationals.

Police said that the sex racket was busted with the collaborative efforts of Anjuna Police in North Goa and an NGO named ARZ.

PM Modi, Ministers extend Hindi Diwas greetings

New Delhi, Sep 11 (IANS) Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel is the most popular among the CMs facing Assembly elections. As per the IANS CVoter Anger Index in the poll-bound states, Baghel faces the least amount of anger which also implies he is the most popular Chief Minister among these. Among every 100 voters angry at state level governance, Baghel has the least number at 25.4. Voters are most angry at Telangana CM K. Chandrasekhar Rao at 50.2, followed by Rajasthan's Ashok Gehlot at 49.2.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has a score of 35.1 while Madhya Pradesh's Shivraj Singh Chouhan has a score of 27. Mizoram CM Zoramthanga has a score of 37.1. Among the six states going to the polls, people's anger is the most palpable against the governments of Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh, while the voters are most angry with the Chief Ministers of Telangana and Rajasthan, as per the IANS CVoter Anger Index.

New Delhi, Sep 14 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Ministers, including Amit Shah, on Thursday greeted the countrymen on the occasion of Hindi Diwas.

"Best wishes to all my family members on the occasion of Hindi Diwas. I wish that Hindi language will continue to strengthen the thread of national unity and goodwill," the Prime Minister wrote on X (formerly twitter).

Extending his warm wishes, Home Minister Shah in a message said, "India has been a country of diverse languages. Hindi unites the diversity of languages in the world's largest democracy. Hindi has been a democratic language. It has honoured different Indian languages and dialects as well as many global languages and adopted their vocabularies, sentences and grammar rules."

Chhattisgarh’s Bhupesh Baghel most popular CM among 6 states headed for polls

Australia announces new strategy to boost trade with Southeast Asia

The blueprint, which was developed by Special Envoy for Southeast Asia Nicholas Moore, sets out how Australia will boost trade links with the region and makes 75 recommendations to grow partnerships with Asian nations.

programs for young professionals.

"Southeast Asia's fast-growing economies present a major opportunity for Australian business, but we haven't kept pace with their exponential growth," Albanese said.

Canberra, Sep 6 (IANS) In a joint statement on Wednesday, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday announced a new strategy to boost trade with Southeast Asia. Albanese, Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Trade Minister Don Farrell released the joint statement announcing Australia's Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, reports Xinhua news agency.

It identified 10 priority sectors offering the most potential for economic growth, including agriculture and food, infrastructure, healthcare and education and skills.

The joint statement said the government has committed A$95.4 million ($60.8 million) in funding to support investment deal teams based in the region, a Southeast Asia business exchange program and placement and internship

"This strategy outlines how we can harness this growth, and seize the vast trade and investment opportunities our region presents." According to the strategy, Australia's twoway trade with Southeast Asian countries was worth A$178 billion in 2022. It also calls on the government to cut foreign investment barriers, fast-track visas and expand air links with Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.

new Australian laws, jail, heavy fines for wage thieving employers

Under

government.

Minister for Workplace Relations

Tony Burke told Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on Sunday that he will introduce legislation for the industrial relations changes to Parliament on Monday, Xinhua news agency reported.

underpaid if that figure exceeds the maximum fine. The legislation would close a "loophole" and that he was surprised by backlash from business and employer groups.

Canberra, Sep 3 (IANS)

Employers, who deliberately underpay workers, will face jail time and heavy fines under new laws proposed by the Australian

Under the proposed laws, the maximum criminal penalty for employers who are found to have intentionally engaged in wage theft will be increased to a 10-year imprisonment and fines worth up to 7.8 million Australian dollars ($5.03 million), or three times the amount that was

"If you intentionally, as a worker, take money from the till, it is a criminal offence and it should be. But if the employer intentionally withholds money from your pay, it's not a criminal offence," he said. "That's a simple loophole, it should be logically simple to close - I'm surprised it's even been controversial. The objective here is not to send people to jail. The objective is to make sure people are paid properly."

Water quality sensors deployed on Great Barrier Reef

the seafloor, impeding the growth of marine plant life.

"This then impacts the food availability for biodiversity in the area, including the reef's colourful array of marine wildlife," he said in the media release.

"We will also be able to identify higher levels of chlorophyll in the water, which can be indicative of a potentially harmful algal bloom."

Canberra, Sep 13 (IANS)

Researchers from Australia's national science agency have installed specialized sensors on the iconic Great Barrier Reef to monitor water quality.

The team from the AquaWatch Australia Mission at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO) is aiming to create a world-leading weather service for water quality using the sensors and satellite data, reports Xinhua news agency.

Alex Held, the CSIRO's AquaWatch Mission Lead, said in a statement on Wednesday that

the project could help support the management of the reef - the largest coral reef system in the world and one of Australia's top tourist attractions.

The specialised sensors, which were installed in the southern part of the reef, will monitor the flow of sediment and dissolved organic carbon from rivers and bays into the reef.

Modeling and artificial intelligence (AI) will be applied to the combined data to predict sediment flows and identify areas where interventions can be made. Held said that too much sediment can block sunlight from reaching

"Harmful algal blooms can be devastating for marine ecosystems when they produce toxins that can cause health problems and even kill fish."

The Unesco in August recommended against listing the world heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef as "in danger", but warned it remains under "serious threat" from the impacts of climate change.

A separate governmentcommissioned report published by the Australian Academy of Science in August found that the reef could be irreversibly damaged by 2050 as a result of global warming.

Camberra,

Sep 6 (IANS)

Australia's economy grew by 0.4 per cent in the second quarter of 2023 on the back of rising services exports, official statistics revealed on Wednesday.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) on Wednesday released the latest national accounts data, revealing the nation's gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 0.4 percent between April and June and by 2.1 percent in the 2022-23 financial year.

It is unchanged from the 0.4 percent growth in the first quarter of 2023 from January to March, but the annual growth rate fell from 2.4 percent in the 12 months to the end of March.

Katherine Keenan, head of national accounts at the ABS, said in a statement that capital investment and services exports were the main driver of GDP

growth in the June quarter, reports Xinhua news agency. "This was the seventh straight rise in quarterly GDP, and annual growth remained above trend, reflecting the absence of significant Covid-19 disruptions, such as lockdowns, in 2022-23," she said.

According to ABS data, services exports rose by 12.1 per cent in the June quarter as the number of international students and tourists arriving in Australia continued to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Responding to the figures at a press conference in Canberra, Treasurer Jim Chalmers said it was a "steady result in difficult circumstances" but warned of short-term economic headwinds. "While we have been clear and upfront that we expect our economy to slow considerably over the next year, we enter this period of uncertainty from an enviable position," he told reporters.

"The Australian economy grew faster than most of the major advanced economies through the year to June quarter 2023."

Australia’s annual economic growth slows to 2.1% in June quarter Government declares war on feral cats

night in Australia. They played a role in Australia's two latest extinctions. And they are one of the main reasons Australia is the mammal extinction capital of the world," said the Minister.

Canberra, Sep 7 (IANS) Australia's Minister for the Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek on Thursday declared war on feral cats in a bid to protect iconic native species from extinction. Plibersek on Thursday launched a new action plan to stop feral cats from decimating wildlife and pushing native species to the brink of extinction.

According to a research published by Australian National University (ANU) in 2019, cats kill more than 2 billion reptiles, birds and mammals in Australia every year.

In a statement, Plibersek said that feral cats have played a role in two thirds of Australian mammal extinctions over the last 200 years and are a threat to more than 200 listed threatened species, reports Xinhua news agency.

"When domesticated cats are living inside our homes, snuggled up at the end of our beds, we rightly love them. But feral cats are the opposite of adorable. They are walking, stalking, ruthless killers," she said.

"If we don't act now, our native animals don't stand a chance. Cats kill 6 million animals every

"I want to see a feral cat-free Australia. If we are serious about protecting our precious threatened species, then we have to tackle one of their biggest killers. We are declaring war on feral cats. And today, we are setting up our battle plan to win that war."

The action plan outlines legislative, planning and research needs to ensure effective management of feral cats by preventing them from spreading to islands, removing them from key areas and expanding cat-free fenced havens.

According to the government, feral cats threaten the survival of over 100 native species in Australia.

They have caused the extinction of some ground-dwelling birds and small to medium-sized mammals.

They are a major cause of decline for many land-based endangered animals such as the bilby, bandicoot, bettong and numbat. Feral cats can carry infectious diseases which can be transmitted to native animals, domestic livestock and humans.

Qantas illegally fired 1,700 workers during Covid: Court

was plummeting.

The court upheld that while Qantas had "sound commercial reasons" for the move, it had deprived workers of their rights to "engage in protected industrial action and... bargaining."

that "the entire Qantas board must be replaced by new directors including a worker representative".

Nation’s population growth hits 15-year high

Canberra, Sep 13 (IANS) The High Court of Australia on Wednesday unanimously upheld a ruling that the flag carrier had illegally laid off 1,700 workers at 10 airports across the country in November 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The country's highest court's ruling found that Qantas had breached Australia's Fair Work Act, which protects employee rights, reports the BBC.

The firings of baggage handlers and cleaners at the airports came at a time when the country had closed its borders and business

In a statement on Wednesday, Qantas apologised for the outsourcing the 1,700 jobs during the pandemic, but maintained it was a necessary financial measure during Covid.

"As we have said from the beginning, we deeply regret the personal impact the outsourcing decision had on all those affected and we sincerely apologise," the BBC quoted the statement as saying.

The court's ruling was welcomed by many.

The Transport Workers' Union said the finding was proof

The Union's national secretary Michael Kaine called the carrier's actions "the largest sacking found to be illegal" in Australian history and promised that workers would now seek compensation in court. In recent weeks, the Australian flag carrier has faced public outrage after reaping record profits amid a series of scandals related to its actions throughout the pandemic, including allegations that it sold tickets on thousands of flights which were cancelled.

Amid mounting scandals, Alan Joyce, the long-time boss of Qantas, announced his early departure from the airline last week. His successor Vanessa Hudson is the airline's first ever female leader.

Outback town under emergency due to threat from major bushfire

The declaration grants police and emergency services additional powers to seize assets and order evacuations if a nearby fire that has been burning for over a week crosses into the town of more than 3,000 people.

Canberra, Sep 14 (IANS) High overseas migration has driven Australia's rate of population growth to its highest level in 15 years, according to official data issued on Thursday.

The data published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) revealed that the country's population grew by 2.17 per cent in the 12 months to the end of March to 26.47 million people, reports Xinhua news agency. It marked the highest annual growth rate since the population grew by 2.19 pe rcent in the 12 months to the end of December 2008.

"Thirteen months after international borders were reopened, net overseas migration accounted for 81 per cent of growth and added 454,400 people to the population in the year to March 2023," he said.

By comparison, in the 12 months to the end of March 2022 the population grew by 1.0 per cent, with Australia's international borders closed for the majority of that span.

Canberra, Sep 12 (IANS)

Authorities in Australia's Northern Territory (NT) on Tuesday declared an emergency situation for an outback town as a major out-of-control bushfire continues to grow.

NT acting Chief Minister Nicole Manison, Emergency Services Minister Kate Worden and emergency services leaders announced at a press conference on Tuesday afternoon that an emergency declaration has been issued for the town of Tennant Creek more than 900 km south of Darwin, reports Xinhua news agency.

As of Tuesday, the fire had burned more than 10,000 square km of land in the NT's Barkly Region, east of Tennant Creek in central Australia.

Joshua Fischer, the NT's acting Chief Fire Officer (CFO), said at Tuesday's press conference that authorities were confident they could stop the blaze from crossing the Gosse River and reaching Tennant Creek.

"It's approximately 30 km from Tennant Creek at this time," he said.

A combination of ground-based burning, mineral earth control line establishment and aerial

bombing is all to ensure to prevent this fire from spreading to Tennant Creek, he added. Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel were on Monday deployed to the region to aid volunteers, farmers and firefighting crews from the NT and the states of South Australia and New South Wales in constructing firebreaks around Tennant Creek.

Despite the emergency declaration, Manison urged residents of Tennant Creek to remain calm.

The message is to be calm and business as usual, she said.

"Because of the unusual size of this firefront, we just want to be prepared for worst-case situations as well. We would just like to have a few more tools in the toolbox to make sure we're ready to act very swiftly if we need to."

NT declared 6-month fire danger area

Canberra, Sep 7 (IANS)

Authorities have declared the entirety of Australia's Northern Territory (NT) a fire danger area until the end of February 2024.

Following a meeting on Friday, Bushfires NT and the NT Fire and Rescue Service said in a statement that the entire territory -- an area covering more than 1.4 million square km -- will be considered a fire danger area from Saturday to February 29, 2024, reports Xinhua news agency.

Chief Fire Control Officer for Bushfires NT Tony Fuller said forecast higher-than-average temperatures had significantly increased the catastrophic fire risk across the territory.

"Eighty per cent of the territory was burnt during the 2011-12 season from wildfires, and due to consecutive La Nina years and above average temperatures forecast this summer, this could repeat again this season," he said in the statement.

Under the NT Bushfire Management Act all landholders in declared fire danger areas are required to obtain a permit to light a fire.

Any person who intentionally lights a fire in a danger area without authorisation to do so faces a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment.

The declaration was made as a large bushfire continued to burn uncontrolled across more than

6,000 square km in the NT's central Barkly Region on Friday.

NT Police Commissioner Michael Murphy told a press conference on Friday morning that the blaze was not an imminent threat to life but could impact supply lines. He confirmed a Territory Emergency Management Council (TEMC) has been activated in response to the blaze.

"It is a huge impact on food and supply lines into the territory," Murphy told reporters.

"But I think it's the safest option at this point in time, and part of the TEMC is looking at supply chains and what other options can be available to make sure there's no immediate shortages for any supply lines."

Beidar Cho, head of demography at the ABS, said in a media release on Thursday that an influx of migrants in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic was the biggest factor in the population surge.

ABS data showed that 681,000 migrants arrived in Australia in the year to March 2023, an increase of 103 per cent from the previous year, and 226,600 people left the country to live overseas. Natural increase in the population was 108,800 people, with 301,200 births and 192,300 deaths registered in the year to March. Deaths were 7.9 per cent higher than the 12 months to March 2022 and births 3.4 per cent lower. Population growth over the 12 months was highest in the state of Western Australia at 2.8 per cent and lowest in the island state of Tasmania at 0.4 per cent.

MPs to urge US to end Assange extradition attempt

Canberra, Sep 5 (IANS) A delegation of Australian MPs will travel to the US in a bid to stop attempts to extradite WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, the lawmakers announced on Tuesday.

The multi-party group, led by former Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce and government MP Tony Zappia, said in a statement that they will travel to Washington D.C. on September 20, where they will urge politicians and officials to abandon extradition efforts for Assange, reports Xinhua news agency.

Assange, an Australian citizen, is wanted in the US on 18 charges relating to WikiLeaks' 2010 publication of thousands of classified documents on the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and diplomatic cables. He has been in prison in Britain since 2019, and is currently appealing a decision by the UK High Court in June 2022 to allow

an extradition.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Assange's brother Gabriel Shipton said Australians overwhelmingly supported allowing him to return home.

"The vast majority of Australians can't understand why the U.S. continues to act in a way that keeps Julian locked up in one of the worst prisons in the UK," he said. "Even Australians who didn't support Julian's actions believe he has suffered enough and should be set free immediately."

A coalition of nine former federal, state and territory attorneysgeneral in August wrote an open letter to the Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese describing Assange's treatment as "troubling" and calling for greater efforts to secure his freedom.

Albanese told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation in May that he was frustrated at the lack of a diplomatic solution to the issue.

Queensland Government updates justice legislation, removing prohibition on naming alleged sex offenders

Brisbane, 13 September: Laws allowing the public naming of people charged with rape and other prescribed sexual offences in Queensland were passed in State Parliament today.

The reforms, contained in the Justice and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023, were among other legislative amendments to modernise and strengthen Queensland’s laws relating to the operation of courts and tribunals and the justice system.

The key measure will remove restrictions in the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 1978 (CLSO Act), which currently prohibit reporting of the identity of accused rapists and defendants charged with other prescribed sexual offences prior to committal.

A prescribed sexual offence includes rape, attempt to commit rape, assault with intent to commit rape and sexual assault.

When the laws commence on 3 October 2023, those accused of these sexual offences will be treated the same as individuals charged with any other offence, with details about their identity able to be published, except where it would identify or tend to lead to the identification of the complainant.

Under the new laws, the defendant, their alleged victim(s) or the prosecution can apply to a Queensland court for a nonpublication order.

When deciding such applications, the court must consider various matters including any submissions made or views expressed by or on behalf of the alleged victim.

Accredited media entities will have a right of appearance on any application and the court will take reasonable steps to notify them when an application is made.

The reform brings Queensland more closely into line with all

LNP reveal plan to cut nurses and midwives’ pay and conditions

other Australian jurisdictions, other than the Northern Territory and is in direct response to a recommendation from the Women’s Safety and Justice Taskforce.

The new laws also amend the Criminal Code, the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992, the Youth Justice Act 1992, and the Victims of Crime Assistance Act 2009 – as part of a Queensland Government commitment to better recognise the loss of an unborn child due to criminal conduct.

These amendments include a requirement for the courts to treat the death of an unborn child as an aggravating factor during sentencing and will also improve support for families.

The reforms will also clarify provisions relating to qualifications for and disqualification of Justices of the Peace and Commissioners for Declarations to provide further protections for members of the community.

New laws to crack down on cosmetic cowboys

Brisbane, 12 September: The Queensland Government has passed an amendment to the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law Act 2009 aimed at safeguarding Australians against “cosmetic cowboys”.

Changes to the national law — which is hosted by Queensland — will protect the title of ‘surgeon’ within the medical profession.

These changes mean only qualified doctors with significant surgical training can use the title

‘surgeon’ when promoting and conducting their services.

Doctors who use the title without having completed the appropriate accredited surgical training will face up to three years in prison and a $60,000 fine.

Other measures being taken to better regulate the cosmetic surgery industry include new licensing standards for private facilities and establishing a credentialing system to endorse qualified providers.

The Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency is also moving to introduce stronger laws around advertising and the use of online influencers and brand ambassadors to promote cosmetic procedures. With support from all state and territory Health Ministers, the Bill was introduced to Queensland Parliament in April 2023, before being referred to Queensland Parliament’s Health and Environment Committee for consideration.

Queensland’s containers for change scheme hits seven billion milestone

Brisbane, 10 September: Queensland’s hugely popular container refund scheme has reached another significant milestone, seeing seven billion containers returned through the network of container refund points in less than five years of operation.

Since launching in November 2018, the Containers for Change scheme, which provides 10cent refunds for eligible drink containers, has continued to grow from strength to strength after already celebrating its sixth

billion container milestone in February this year.

This year alone, a record 1.13 billion containers have been returned to container refund points across the state, with every month in 2023 breaking respective monthly records since the scheme began.

Queenslanders and charities continue to benefit from the scheme with more than $700 million returned to the pockets of Queenslanders, including almost $11 million being paid to charities and community groups.

The seven billion container milestone comes ahead of a planned expansion of the Containers for Change refund scheme. From 1 November, the ability to get a refund will be extended to include glass wine and pure spirit bottles. The addition of glass wine and spirit bottles will build on the existing benefits of the program and will help to significantly increase the recovery of glass for remanufacturing into new glass bottles and other applications such as home insulation.

Palaszczuk Government puts Queensland bus manufacturing in motion

Brisbane, 13 September: Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has today announced a plan to build 200 buses in Queensland, backing local jobs, skills and training. An initial $134 million investment will drive the plan, with the Department of Transport and Main Roads currently undertaking an independent

procurement process.

It is expected the plan will restore Queensland’s bus manufacturing sector, which has been subject to significant pressures due to low order volumes. Through the $134 million investment, the Palaszczuk Government is expected to support hundreds of local jobs.

Brisbane, 13 September: David Crisafulli and Ros Bates are under pressure to explain comments by LNP MP Stephen Bennett, following a since-deleted late night social media tirade against healthcare staff.

Health Minister Shannon Fentiman today revealed the comments made on a post attacking the Bundaberg Hospital, including Mr Bennett’s comment that it is “time we broke the back of unrealistic employee entitlements.”

Nurses and midwives at the Bundaberg Hospital receive entitlements such as sick leave, overtime pay, and maternity leave.

The Health Minister has called on David Crisafulli and Ros Bates

to categorically rule out cutting nurses and midwives’ pay and conditions.

The LNP MP’s comments come as the Palaszczuk Government implements strategies to attract overseas and interstate healthcare workers to move to regional and rural Queensland, as well as encouraging young Queenslanders to take up a career in the healthcare sector.

LNP Shadow Minister for Health, Ros Bates, has previously come under fire for labelling healthcare staff working in regional Queensland “duds.”

During the previous LNP Government, 345 health staff were sacked from the Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service, including 120 nurses

Plans lodged for Queensland’s largest social, affordable housing precinct

Brisbane, 13 September: Planning applications have been lodged for what could be Queensland’s largest social and affordable housing precinct.

Four hundred and ninety new social, affordable and specialist disability homes are on the cards for Woree, between Cairns’ southern corridor and inner-city suburbs.

It’s particularly aimed at seniors who are seeking to downsize and would be able to enjoy supported independent living, while freeing up under-occupied social homes for larger households. Plans feature modern, low maintenance and energy efficient one and two-bedroom homes, set among landscaped gardens, picnic grounds, BBQs and playgrounds. The Palaszczuk Government is

now considering an application from project proponents Community Housing Qld Limited and Tetris Capital through the government’s signature $2 billion Housing Investment Fund. The site is connected to the Bruce Highway via the newly upgraded arterial road Des Chalmers Drive on the eastern boundary. Directly adjoining the property on the southern boundary is a local shopping centre and the Woree Aquatic Centre.

The location offers direct access to the Cairns Bus Transit network at the eastern front of the property with two newly constructed bus stops servicing five bus routes. This development is on top of the 1600 homes already approved under the Housing Investment Fund.

$4.2m funding pledge to further protect our endangered koalas

Brisbane, 7 September:The Palaszczuk Government has marked National Threatened Species Day by announcing that it would provide funding to environmental organisation Healthy Land & Water to further protect the iconic koala. The government will provide $4.2 million in funding to Healthy Land & Water to deliver a range of initiatives to address the threats impacting on koala populations.

Koalas face unprecedented challenges due to habitat loss,

disease, climate change, bushfires and attacks by domestic and wild dogs.

Healthy Land & Water will engage local governments across South East Queensland to deliver koala threat management initiatives over the next three years.

Healthy Land & Water will focus on identified priority threat areas and align with the SEQ Koala Conservation Strategy to reduce the impacts from disease, injury and mortality rates on our koalas.

The buses will be fully accessible to ensure all Queenslanders have access to public transport, including people in a wheelchair, and people travelling with luggage or prams. Once built, the buses will be owned by the state and operated by Transport and Main Roads. The buses will also support transporting rail passengers during periods of disruption or planned track maintenance

MAKE IN INDIA

As world economies restart their engines in a bid to regain lost ground due to the Covid-19 pandemic, India too shows signs of economic buoyancy and promise. India’s Make in India initiative holds a key to the global economic revival, something that should interest Australian government ministries, corporate sector, entrepreneurs, institutions seeking R&D collaborations and Australia Inc in general, among others. India assumes greater importance as several major world economies including American, Japanese, German, British and South Korean look to move out and diversify their businesses from China. India has jumped to 63rd rank in the World Bank’s Ease of Development 2020 report, and has also been ranked as the 9th largest recipient of Foreign Direct Investment destinations in 2019 by the World Investment Report 2020 of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

Apple gets bullish on India market with iPhone 15 launch amid ‘huge opportunity’

in India as "there is a significant upgrade for those shifting from previous iPhone 11, 12 and even 13-gen models".

Apple set a June quarter record in India, driven by the robust sales of iPhones, according to its CEO Tim Cook.

AWS partners ISRO, IN-SPACe to boost space-tech innovations in India

‘Make in India’ iPhone 15 on the first day of its global sales, within the country as well as export to a few other markets sooner than ever before, according to sources.

The collaboration, said the Amazon’s Cloud subsidiary, will give space startups, research institutes and students access to cutting edge cloud technologies that accelerate the development of new solutions in the space sector.

New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) With iPhone 15, Apple has further made India a sweet spot in its future scheme of things -- ‘Make in India’ devices to roll out on the global sale day (September 22), support for ISRO-made GPS called NavIC, and availability of new products in the country along with the global markets (which started last year) – as it doubles down on local manufacturing.

Driven by the premiumisation of the smartphone market, uptick in first-time users who are shifting from Android to the Apple ecosystem and a young population, India is now among the top five global markets for Apple -- after China, the US, Japan. and the UK.

"We have seen a definitive trend where Apple is now attracting many first-time users for its newly-launched iPhones in India, apart from a robust sale of previous-generation devices which continue to increase Apple’s overall market share in the country," Counterpoint Research Director Tarun Pathak told IANS.

Pathak said that the base iPhone 15 models will see a solid uptick

The tech giant opened its ownbranded Mumbai and Delhi retail stores in the country in April this year, which met with great enthusiasm.

India is set to cross Rs 1,20,000 crore in mobile phone exports in the current fiscal year and according to the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA), Apple's market share is set to exceed 50 per cent in FY24.

Driven by domestic manufacturing, Apple iPhones are set to garner 7 per cent market share in the Android-dominated smartphone market in India this year, according to latest data. Apple iPhone shipments grew 68 per cent (year-on-year) in the first half of this year in the country.

In the first half, Apple secured a 6 per cent market share in the Indian smartphone market and dominated the super-premium smartphone segment (priced between Rs 50,000-Rs 100,000) with a robust 63 per cent market share, according to market intelligence firm CyberMedia Research (CMR).

For the first time, Apple will sell

A small set of ‘Make in India’ iPhone 15 units is set to be exported to other countries within a short span of time from its global availability which is September 22.

There are estimates that the iPhone 15 shipments in the launch quarter, which heralds the massive festive season in India, will hover around 65 per cent, driven by an increased ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Last year, the tech giant started assembling the iPhone 14 at the Foxconn facility in India in September, a first in years when a new iPhone was assembled within weeks of its global launch in the country.

This time, Apple has also extended support for the Indian satellite navigation system NavIC for its high-end iPhone 15 Pro and the iPhone 15 Pro Max models for location-based services. It, however, is yet to reveal what features will be part of the NavIC support in the country. Apple continues to work on building out the channel and putting more investment in its direct-to-consumer offers in the country.

(Nishant Arora can be reached at nishant.a@ians.in)

India moving forward with great enthusiasm in adopting new technology: Prez Murmu

address after virtually launching the Ayushman Bhav campaign from Raj Bhavan in Gujarat, in presence of Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and other dignitaries.

"If every person and every family stays healthy, then the resolve to build a healthy India would be fulfilled. A multi-ministerial approach has been adopted to achieve this goal.

New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) Amazon Web Services (AWS) India on Wednesday said it has signed a strategic MoU with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) to support space-tech innovations through cloud computing.

“We are at a pivotal time in India’s space journey as the Indian government focuses on broadening and strengthening the country’s capabilities in the aerospace and satellite industry,” said,” Shalini Kapoor, Director and Chief Technologist, Public Sector, AWS India and South Asia.

“We look forward to helping customers in India build spacetech solutions to make life on Earth better,” Kapoor added.

New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS)

President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday said India is moving forward with great enthusiasm in adopting new technology and working methods in many fields, including health sector. The President said this in her

Citing that Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) was launched in September 2021, she expressed confidence that India would set the example of digital inclusion in the field of healthcare services also like other sectors.

Talking about the Ayushman Bhav campaign, the President said, "It would make our country successful in achieving the objective of Universal Health Coverage (UHC)."

Everyone's cooperation would be helpful in achieving such big goals," Murmu said.

Speaking on the occasion Mandaviya said, "Ayushman Bhav will emerge as a big initiative in the field of healthcare. With this campaign, India is going to write a new chapter in making healthcare affordable and accessible."

Moscow, Sep 13 (IANS) Russian President Vladimir Putin has once again lauded the 'Make in India' initiative and said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is "doing the right thing" by promoting the policy.

In his address to the plenary session of the 8th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) in Vladivostok on Tuesday, Putin gave India's example while responding to a query about Russian-manufacture automobiles.

"You know, we did not have domestically made cars then, but we do now. It is true that they look more modest than Mercedes or Audi cars, which we bought in vast amounts in the 1990s, but this is not an issue.

"I think that we should emulate many of our partners, for example, India. They are focused on the manufacture and use of Indian-made vehicles.

"I think that Prime Minister Modi is doing the right thing in promoting the 'Make in India' programme. He is right," the Russian leader said. He went on to say that it is "absolutely fine" to use Russianmade automobiles.

"This will not lead to any infringements of our WTO obligations, absolutely not. It will concern state purchases. We must

create a certain chain regarding what cars different classes of officials can drive, so that they will use domestically-made cars. "You probably know about the proposals to continue buying these cars. It would be easy to do, because the logistics are streamlined," Putin added. In June while addressing an economic forum in Moscow, Putin had called Modi "a great friend of Russia" and praised the 'Make in India' initiative.

“Our friends in India and our big friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, launched the ‘Make in India’ initiative several years ago. It has had a truly impressive effect on the Indian economy. It would do no harm to emulate what is working well, even if it was not us but our friends who created it,” the President had said.

The 'Make in India' initiative was launched by Prime Minister Modi in 2014 aimed to to create and encourage companies to develop, manufacture and assemble products made in the country and incentivise dedicated investments into manufacturing.

Putin and Modi last met on the sidelines of a regional security bloc summit in Uzbekistan in September 2022.

The President did not attend the G20 Summit held in New Delhi on September 9-10. He was represented by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. AWS’s educational programmes on cloud computing in combination with ISRO’s space-tech expertise will inspire future generations to pursue a career in India’s growing space sector.

PM Modi ‘doing the right thing’ by promoting Make in India: Putin

G20 Joint Declaration is a coup for Indian PM Modi in balancing North South Interests - US

side would have allowed the participants to better understand the situation. The principle of 'nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine' remains as key as ever," media reports said.

Death toll from Morocco earthquake rises to 2,122

Washington, Sep 10 (IANS) The US conceded space to the host India in the wording of the final Delhi Declaration of G20 on Russia's invasion of Ukraine and lauded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's diplomatic skills that virtually represented a coup as the final document came out despite fractures in the group. The declaration earned the praise of the US.

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan called the statement a "significant milestone for India's chairmanship and a vote of confidence that the G20 can come together to address a pressing range of issues."

"The G20 statement includes a set of consequential paragraphs on the war in Ukraine. And from our perspective, it does a very good job of standing up for the principle that states cannot use force to seek territorial acquisition," Sullivan told newspersons.

Still, the language differed from last year's G20 declaration, which stated "most members strongly condemned the war in Ukraine."

So, in a way, it was a diplomatic coup for India as the host country took a softer line than the Bali G20 one by not calling it a war but saying, "All states must refrain from the threat or use of force to seek territorial acquisition."

US and western nations wanted stronger language to condemn the aggression on Ukraine as they succeeded in the Bali G20 conference. The Russian invasion was described as a war in the declaration then.

The softer tone in the Delhi declaration showed that US and western allies yielded space to India, the host country, to word it differently which still had the same effect but also gave India the leverage with its long term ally Russia, whose leader Vladimir Putin did not attend, balancing its equations with US and Russia at the same time - a feat pilled of by the foreign office officials under foreign minister S Jaishankar along with trusted allies .Russia, as a member of the G20, would have to agree on any consensus statement on Ukraine. Russia and China had resisted stronger language in a final statement, making any kind of agreement difficult. No G20 summit has concluded without a joint declaration of some type, media reports said.

Leaders gathered here for the annual Group of 20 summit managed to agree on a joint

statement laying out shared views on climate change and economic development but showed the fractures within the group by stopping short of explicitly condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine, CNN reported . Diplomats virtually burnt the midnight oil to sort out what sort of language and phraseography the final draft joint statement required in the lead-up to the summit . Anticipating snags, Indian foreign office officials along with its allies managed to play down the Ukraine situation as a war.

The eventual compromise statement amounted to a coup for the summit’s host, Prime Minister Modi, but still reflected a position far softer than those the US and its Western allies have adopted individually, CNN reported.

US President Joe Biden's hopes of convincing the world's largest economies to rally behind Ukraine during his two-night stay in India for the summit did not bear fruit in the way he wanted, but he still liked the final wording. He also pressed his case for American investment in the developing world.

Even as the summit was midway through on Saturday, the leaders agreed to the joint declaration acknowledging the situation in Ukraine while not papering over the group’s major divides on the issue.

"All states must refrain from the threat or use of force to seek territorial acquisition," the declaration read, without explicitly singling out Russia for its invasion. The document also stated opposition to the use of nuclear weapons and highlighted the economic effects of the war in an indirect reference to Putin's threat of using nuclear weapons if NATO allies intervened militarily to help Ukraine.

In a reflection of the deep fractures among the G20 nations, the statement acknowledged "there were different views and assessments of the situation", US media reports noted.

Ukraine's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oleg Nikolenko however criticised the declaration. Kiev was not invited by India to the G20 summit.

"Ukraine is grateful to its partners who tried to include strong wording in the text," he wrote on Facebook. "At the same time, the G20 has nothing to be proud of in the part about Russia's aggression against Ukraine. Obviously, the participation of the Ukrainian

The absence of Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin - US President Biden's arch rivals - provided opportunities for Biden to make a more affirmative case at the summit, White House officials said during the summit.

Biden said Saturday he would have welcomed the presence of his Chinese counterpart at the summit, but that positive outcomes were still possible. "It would be nice to have him here but, no, the summit is going well," Biden said when questioned about the impact of Xi's absence.

Biden hoped to leverage on the two leaders absence at the summit to portray the US as a credible counterweight to China’s economic outreach.He announced new plans partnering Europe, the Middle East and Asia to construct a major new transit corridor connecting the regions, thus challenging Beijing's own efforts at expanding global trade with its belt road initiatives.

"India calls upon the world to come together to transform the global trust deficit into one of trust and reliance. This is the time for all of us to move together,"

Prime Minister Modi said as the gathering got underway.

"Be it the divide between North and South, the distance between the East and West, management of food and fuel, terrorism, cyber security, health, energy or water security, we must find a solid solution to this for future generations," he emphasised. It was a message of unity at a markedly fractured moment for the grouping, the US media observed.

While Biden enjoyed success at other summits convincing European leaders and NATO allies to step up their military support for Ukraine and tighten their punishment of Russia, many nations, particularly in the Global South, weren't convinced. They viewed the billions of dollars in Western assistance pouring into Ukraine sceptically, and sought a more balanced relationship with Moscow, CNN said.

Biden's aides claimed the president welcomed the opportunity to make the case for Ukraine, including to audiences that aren’t necessarily on the same page. “Part of what makes the G20 an appealing format for the United States is it gives us a chance to interact with and work with and take constructive steps with a wider range of countries, including some, frankly, that we don’t see eye to eye with on every issue," US deputy national security adviser Jon Finer told reporters on Saturday.(ends)

Amizmiz (Morocco), Sep 11

(IANS) At least 2,122 people have been killed and 2,421 injured since a massive earthquake struck central Morocco on Friday night, according to the latest update from the Moroccan Interior Ministry.

The deaths include 1,351 people reported in the Al Haouz Province, 492 in Taroudant Province, 201 in Chichaoua, and 17 in Marrakesh, added the ministry in a press release on Sunday.

Moroccan troops and emergency services were reportedly struggling to reach the most affected areas in the Atlas Mountains region, as roads leading up there were blocked by fallen boulders, Xinhua news agency reported, citing local media.

Earlier in the day, Marrakesh's residents told reporters that aftershocks could still be felt. According to the World Health

Organization estimates, the disaster has affected more than 300,000 people in the ancient old city and its outskirts.

The number of casualties is expected to rise. The Moroccan Red Crescent (MRC) has said the situation on the ground posed a vast challenge to search and rescue efforts, and "getting heavy machinery into those remote areas of the Atlas Mountains to help with that is a priority".

As more people were being pulled out of the rubble, the MRC and other first responders were working around the clock to identify and prioritize the most severe cases, the MRC said in a statement.

The earthquake hit Morocco Friday at 11:11 p.m. local time at a depth of 18.5 km, according to the US Geological Survey.

PM Modi delivers useful, if not spectacular, results at G20: US think tank

$100 billion a year to developing countries by 2025).

website today.

director in charge of South Asia said.

Washington, Sep 11 (IANS) A US think tank said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has delivered practically everything he wanted at the just-concluded G20 Summit in New Delhi, albeit with compromises that primarily includes a joint declaration not mentioning Russia in the war in Ukraine, admitting African Union as a permanent member and sustained efforts to deal with climate change -- no hard commitments in phasing out fossil fuels.

The Washington D.C.-based Atlantic Council, a non-partisan organisation that galvanises US leadership and engagement in the world in partnership with allies shaping solutions to global challenges, said theG20 Summit, even without the Chinese and Russian Presidents, has delivered practically everything Modi had wanted.

Hailing Modi's diplomatic skills aided by his foreign office team secured support for climate financing to assist developing countries (but no hard targets except extending the 2010 pledges by developed countries to transfer

The G20 also took on reforms to the multilateral development banks (MDB) to include climate financing in their core missions (no capital increases now but optimising the MDB balance sheets so they can lend $200 billion more over the next decade) and support for the improvement of the Common Framework for Debt Treatment to facilitate the restructuring of low-income countries’ debt.

Hung Tran, a former deputy director of the IMF and a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council’s GeoEconomics Center, said the Common Framework still remains vague without a roadmap specifying a sequence and timeline of steps to be taken once a debtor country asks for a restructuring.

He pointed out that the group adopted several concrete and potentially helpful initiatives such as mapping the global value chain to help countries identify risks, the digitalisation of trade documents to expedite trade transactions, and the development of public digital infrastructures to promote financial inclusion and productivity.

Also notable is the launch of an India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor connected by railways and ports—in direct competition with China’s Belt and Road Initiative, he said in a statement put up on the council's

Climate change will not end the world as is being propagated: Elon Musk

“If people keep pushing hard, humanity will solve the sustainable energy problem in time,” Musk added.

Musk had earlier claimed that farming has no major effect on the climate, which drew flak from the scientific and agriculture communities.

Overall, the outcomes of the G20 Summit will bolster India’s claim to be the voice of the Global South -- being able to articulate the demands of developing countries and to engage in negotiations with developed countries to produce useful, if not spectacular, results.

This is a good template for Brazil to take up the G20 presidency in 2024 and South Africa in 2025, Trang said.

In a statement, the Atlantic Council said that in August, India had successfully landed its Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft on the moon.

"This weekend, at a futuristic convention center, in New Delhi that looks like a flying saucer, another landmark landing was achieved."

The G20 nations approved an 83-paragraph leaders consensus covering issues ranging from plastic pollution to terrorism.

While consensus among the world’s wealthiest countries is always difficult, and the absence of China's Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladmir Putin, lowered expectations of the outcomes. But Prime Minister Modi guided home the declaration, which welcomed the African Union as a new member to the group, among other important points.

The G20 summit at Delhi saw India launching a new form of inclusive diplomacy, Kapil Sharma, the council’s senior

The lead-up to the Summit was fraught with the possibility of Putin and Xi not physically participating in the summit. Observers believed that their absence was a direct affront to India and would ultimately overshadow India’s presidency and its G20 objectives. But as the summit came to an end, it was clear that India’s objectives were not derailed, and three key themes emerged: consensus, inclusiveness, solutions.

As Russia’s war in Ukraine loomed large over India’s presidency dividing G20 countries, it was unclear as to how the ongoing invasion would be addressed and whether it would derail the agreement of a final communique.

However, after 300 bilateral meetings, 200 hours of negotiations, and 15 drafts, Modi and his foreign office team brought a consensus to the table on the Russia-Ukraine paragraphs in the final G20 communique.

While Russia has applauded the final draft, Ukraine fumed over the declaration.

Ukraine was not invited to the summit.

Inclusiveness: India’s positioning as the voice of the Global South, it shepherded the African Union’s inclusion as a permanent member of the G20. India also pushed for, and countries agreed to, major reforms at global institutions

such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. The major initiative came from the US President Joe Biden who wanted the World Bank to raise additional funding from member countries to those in peril so that the endangered countries came out of the debt trap into which China had landed them with its coercive lending methods. The US is providing $18.5 as additional funding to the multilateral financing institution.

India successfully promoted its Digital Public Infrastructure plan as an exportable tech solution for financial inclusion. While it’s unclear whether other countries are capable of replicating India’s digital plan, it has found a niche that goes above and beyond simple capital financing, Sharma said.

With more than 200 meetings in over 60 Indian cities, India was determined to make its presidency the pivot of representing marginalized voices and the Global South.

While India was disappointed not to have Putin and Xi present, this G20 Summit was not about how diplomacy has been done, but rather how diplomacy can be done, Sharma said.

In the end, India’s diplomacy demonstrated its ability to take on current geopolitical disagreements and represent those countries who have felt marginalised for decades.

New Delhi, Sep 11 (IANS) As the G20 nations urged the world to double down on efforts to address climate change during the weekend, Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk on Monday said climate change will not end the world as is being propagated. Reacting to a follower who posted that 14-year-olds are being told climate change is going to end the world as we know it and essentially nothing can be done, Musk replied that climate change definitely will not end the world as we know it.

However, “we shouldn’t be complacent about changing the chemical constituency of our atmosphere & oceans,” the billionaire stressed.

In June this year, he posted: “Overwhelmingly, the risk of climate change is due to moving billions of tons of carbon from deep underground into the atmosphere”.

“Over time, if we keep doing this, the chemical makeup of our atmosphere will change enough to induce meaningful climate change”.

In the just-concluded G20 Summit in New Delhi, the participating nations committed to urgently accelerate their actions to address environmental crises and challenges including climate change.

The G20 nations also reiterated their commitment to achieve global net zero GHG emissions/ carbon neutrality by or around mid-century.

United Nations, Sep 9 (IANS)

A common misperception about the UN is that it is the world government and could unilaterally act to stop wars or punish nations launching wars. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has spectacularly blasted the myth yet again like the drones raining bombs.

This unrealistic expectation gives rise to cynicism about the organisation that rose from the ashes of World War II with the shimmering goal of ending wars and genocide. It has failed in both. The Security Council, which alone has enforcement powers, has been checkmated by the polarisation from the veto powers of the five permanent members.

General Assembly President Csaba Korosi put it succinctly: “The Security Council -- the main guarantor of international peace

and security – has remained blocked, unable to fully carry out its mandate".

And the General Assembly of 193 members is powerless.

The UN is burdened by the original sin of its founding when it reflected the post-World War II geopolitics, vesting indisputable powers over the Council with the five nations that emerged victorious.

And this weekend, the focus at the G20 summit will turn to two specialised UN agencies formed with the same post-war template: the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group (WB) which are equally showing signs of losing their relevance.

These two institutions have been found to be unprepared for the 21st century with a changed world map, especially at a time when many countries around the world are trapped in a financial crisis.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the G20 finance ministers earlier this year, "Trust in international financial institutions has eroded. This is partly because they have been slow to reform themselves”.

“We need to collectively work to strengthen multilateral development banks for meeting global challenges like climate change and high debt levels”, he said.

Given the urgency, Biden will make reforming them also his agenda at the G20, his National Security Adviser said, creating a congruence of India’s and US positions.

“That's one of our main focuses heading into the G20: delivering on an agenda fundamentally reshaping and scaling up the multilateral development banks, especially the World Bank”, he said.

The reform of the two institutions gets a further sense of urgency because of China’s lending programmes around the world becoming a rival centre of financing with initially looser terms, even though those entrap debtors into giving up strategic assets.

Given the limitations on ushering in world peace, the UN has focused on climate, humanitarian and development issues – which it also views as essential to countering threats to global peace – again with varied success.

Burden of unrealistic expectations: UN not a ‘world government’; can’t end wars

WORLD THIS WEEK

In collaboration with National Institute for Advanced Studies, Bengaluru

Authored

by

Rohini Reenum, Padmashree Anandhan, Anu Maria Joseph, Femy Francis, Dhriti Mukherjee and Shamini Velayutham

The return of the South China Sea

This comes in as China is facing an economic slump where some US-based think tanks are stating the once thriving but now diminishing Chinese economy poses no threat to the US.

China: Discusses export controls with the US

bathhouses, gyms and parks. Greece: Indian Prime Minister visits Athen to boost bilateral ties

Femy Francis

What Happened?

On 28 August, the Chinese Ministry of Natural Resources released a new ‘standard map’ that included contesting regions of Arunachal Pradesh, Aksai Chin, Taiwan and the South China Sea. The map outlines their infamous U-shaped “10-dash” line which covers 90 per cent of the South China Sea overriding many disputed regions, with some of the most tussled waterways aggregating USD 3 trillion worth of trade route passage every year. The “10-dash” line loop cuts into the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunie and Indonesia. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin asserted the claims stating: “China's position on the South China Sea issue has always been clear... and We hope that relevant parties can view this in an objective and rational manner.”

What is the Background?

First, a brief background to the 10-dash line claim. Previously known as the “9 Dash line” was

China: IMF looks to engage in future cooperation

On 1 September, Chinese Premier Li Qiang met the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Kristalina Georgieva. The meeting aimed to promote economic growth and strengthen policy coordination. Qiang assured that China will provide an environment to promote growth for private enterprises and attract foreign capital. He hoped that the IMF would go against protectionist policies and promote globalization and free trade. Furthermore, he assured continued cooperation of China is aiding the debt issue in supporting the developing countries.

adopted in Chinese maps since the 1940s with Beijing claiming their indisputable sovereignty over the regions within. The Chinese officials referred to the area as ‘blue national soil’ and can be traced back to the maps made by the Nationalist Kuomintang or the Chinese National Party before World War Two. In 1947 Chinese geographer Yang Huairen came out with the U-shaped loop with a “11-dash line.” A Chinese Marine geographer Wang Ying stated that the lines mean that all ocean, island and coral reefs belong to Beijing, but the discontinuous line portrays that other countries can pass through it.

Second, claims and opportunities in the South China Sea. The region has a thriving marine life with an abundance of fish which the regional countries are dependent on for fulfilling their major dietary requirements. Additionally, large reserves of natural gases and oil have been found on the floor of the South China Sea. The most significant is that the South China Sea has one of the world’s busiest and most important shipping lanes with trillions of dollars’ worth of trade and business opportunities.

Philippines and Vietnam claim their historical right over the South China Sea whereas Indonesia and Brunei claim the right over their Exclusive Economic Zones as outlined by the UNCLOS.

Third, external interest in the South China Sea. There has been a significant external and especially US presence in the

Southeast and East Asian region that has met with criticism by China as an unwarranted incursion. In the context of Southeast Asia, the Philippines and the US revied the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) which provides access to nine Philippines military bases that are of strategic significance as they are in close proximity to both Taiwan and the South China Sea. In 2023, Manila and Washington held an annual Balikatn military exercise and resumed joint military patrols in the region.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning called it a “zero-sum endeavour” by the US and warned regional players to be more responsible as it might lead to more competition than cooperation.

Fourth, the timing of the release of the “standard map.” The release of the map comes right before the G-20 summit where China wants to reassert its claims over the territories and is well aware that this would become aa a major focus of discussion. Additionally, the publishing of the 10-dash line after the 9-dash line was rejected by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016, relegates that Beijing refutes the ruling. This reassertion before the summit showcases their binding determination over its claims and the rumour of President Xi Jinping’s plans to not attend the G20 summit showcases no space for negotiations and discussion.

can truly change its erroneous perception and policies towards China in the coming period, and whether it can take concrete goodwill actions”

China: Meeting in Fiji between US and China’s Defence officials

On 31 August, China and US defence officers held talks in Fiji as reported by the Chinese Ministry of National Defence (MOD). MOD spokesperson Senior Colonel Wu Qian expressed that talks between the two countries have not been suspended and that both sides have maintained open and effective communication. The meeting comes right after the announcement made by the US State Department approving USD 80 million worth of military support to Taiwan under the “Foreign Military Financing program.” An international affairs expert in China Zhuo Hua states: “If the two militaries want to have further positive interactions, the key lies in whether the US

On 28 August, US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo met with her Chinese counterpart Wang Wentao in Beijing. The meeting aimed to serve as a platform to mitigate misunderstanding and to further explain their export control systems. They decided that every year both government and private sector representatives would be allowed to discuss trade and investment policy. Several analysts found that while the meeting won't lead to any concrete provisions, talking is better than not talking.

Malaysia: Allocates USD 1.77 billion for National Industrial Master Plan

On 01 September, Malaysia's government will invest RM8.2 billion in a national industrial master plan, targeting the development of a stronger manufacturing sector, the enhancement of SME competitiveness, and the creation of high-skilled jobs by 2030.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim estimates a total investment of RM95 billion, mostly from the private sector. The plan seeks to boost the manufacturing sector's value by 6.5 per cent over seven years and projects 2.3 per cent employment growth in the sector from 2023.

Afghanistan: Ban on Women from Visiting a National Park

On 25 August, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Greece's Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens. The meeting focused on improving bilateral relations in trade, defence, and strategic cooperation. India and Greece will boost military ties, promote skilled migration, and aim to double bilateral trade by 2030. Modi said: "In the sector of defence and security, we agreed to reinforce our military ties and our defence industries." Establishing direct flights and collaboration in tourism, pharmaceuticals, and technology was also in the discussion.

Europe: New EU Digital Services Act imposes rules on tech giants On 25 August, the EU's Digital Services Act (DSA) came into effect. Henceforth, major tech platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, and Google will be monitored under the act. Under these 45 million EU users, like Alibaba, Amazon, and Twitter will face stringent rules to prevent illegal content, protect rights, and ensure public security. If violated, the firms will be subjected to a fine of six per cent from the turnover and service suspension. DSA requires transparency in algorithms and sharing data with researchers. Some platforms have already implemented changes in line with DSA, impacting advertising and content visibility for younger users.

China: President Xi Jinping announces measures to expand market access

On 02 September, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that they plan to widen the market access for the service industry and welcome cross-border service trade. The initiative plans to expand on the domestic market by increasing imports of highquality services.

On 27 August, the Guardian reported that the Taliban government has banned women from visiting one of its most popular national parks called the Band-e-Amir. The ban was announced in the wake of a complaint made by the acting minister of vice and virtue, Mohammad Khalid Hanafi, regarding women visiting the park not adhering to the proper way of wearing the hijab. He further stated, “Going sightseeing is not a must for women” and requested religious clerics and security forces to enforce the same. This ban is another addition to a long list of bans restricting women’s access to public places in Afghanistan like

Europe: Poland takes legal action against three EU climate policies On 28 August, European Commission published a lawsuit filed by Poland against the European Parliament and the EU Council. The three policies include the EU's ban on the sale of cars emitting carbon dioxide from 2035, the cut down national emissions and the policies to reform the carbon market. According to Poland, these policies seem to endanger its energy security and widen social inequality. It also stated that due to its high dependency on coal where 70 per cent of its power is produced, the EU policies will affect the coal mining jobs.

About the authors

Rohini Reenum is a PhD scholar in the School of Conflict and Security Studies at the National Institute of Advanced Studies. Padmashree Anandhan, Anu Maria Joseph, and Femy Francis, Rishika Yadav, Dhriti Mukherjee and Shamini Velayutham are Research Associates at NIAS. The report has been modified by Australia India News for space considerations.

Industry stakeholders hail inclusion of startups as part of G20 Delhi Declaration

recommendations over the next couple of years,” said Rajan Anandan, Managing Director of leading venture capital Peak XV (formerly Sequoia Capital India and SEA).

One of the most significant recommendations is that every G20 nation should invest 1 per cent of their GDP into startups by 2030.

New Delhi, Sep 10 (IANS)

The Indian startup ecosystem stakeholders on Sunday hailed the inclusion of startups as part of the Delhi Declaration for the first time in the history of G20.

India has taken the initiative to launch the Startup20 Engagement Group during its G20 Presidency.

“We are glad that Brazil has picked up the mandate to continue the Startup20 Engagement group into their presidency next year. We look forward to working on implementing the Startup20

"This will add up to $1 trillion per year of startup funding across the G20 nations," said Anandan, who is also Co-Chair of the Finance Taskforce of the Startup20 Engagement Group.

Startup20 is the first of its kind official engagement group initiated under the Indian presidency of the G20 2023. The Startup20 Engagement Group would create a global narrative for supporting startups and enabling synergies between startups, corporates, investors, innovation agencies and other key ecosystem stakeholders.

"Startups are driving innovation on a global scale, and these emerging entrepreneurs necessitate a specialised platform to facilitate regulatory ease, cross-border partnerships, technology policy, and the cultivation of global synergies among key stakeholders within the ecosystem," Dr Ritesh Malik, Director, Alliance for Digital India Foundation (ADIF), a think tank for India's digital startups, told IANS.

"Innovation will play a pivotal role in addressing the world's pressing global challenges, such as climate change, unemployment, cybersecurity, poverty, pollution, and the like," he added.

Startup20 India will operate through Task Forces which are structured to develop key priorities and bring forward the topics in which recommendations would be formulated to support the startup ecosystems globally.

India surgical sutures market to grow to $380 mn in 2030: Report

that are vital to minimise complications and infections.

The report by GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, reveals that India will account for about 18 per cent of the Asia-Pacific (APAC) surgical sutures market, by revenue, in 2023.

Mumbai, Sep 8 (IANS) In a major milestone, the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) has facilitated India’s first exports through the “courier mode” from Mumbai – as against the regular ‘cargo mode’ - marking a huge leap in simplifying international trade, an official said here.

The country’s first four jewellery exports from Caratlane worth more than $1,000, via an Air India flight to the US departed on Wednesday.

Terming it as a ‘historical step’, GJEPC Chairman Vipul Shah said that the swift implementation of exports via courier mode within a year of its announcement underscores the government’s commitment to this vital sector.

‘e-commerce’.

The GJEPC worked with the Customs Department’s Courier Cell, stakeholders of the Adani Group and the BVC to make the entire process seamless and efficient.

Mumbai, being a pivotal export destination would greatly benefit from this service, given its proximity to key gem and jewellery manufacturing regions including Gujarat.

Shah said that the new initiative aligns with GJEPC's mission to promote and simplify international trade in the gems and jewellery sector.

This development is expected to further enhance the growth of the industry and open up new avenues for exports, especially in the e-commerce segment.

“With the support of the government and the dedication of its members, GJEPC looks forward to continued success in promoting Indian gems and jewellery on the global stage," said Shah.

New Delhi, Sep 11 (IANS) The domestic surgical sutures market will continue to grow at a compound annual growth rate of over 13 per cent to reach $380 million in 2030, according to a report on Monday.

Minimal access surgeries (MAS) have gained significant importance in recent times owing to reduced post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery of patients.

In India where a large population seeks affordable healthcare, the success of MAS heavily relies on efficient suturing techniques

“Traditional suturing techniques in India often involve using metal clips, plasters, and bandages. However, such techniques are known to pose risks due to poor sterilisation and cause unwanted reactions in patients," said Ayshi Ganguly, Medical Devices Analyst at GlobalData, in a statement.

"Furthermore, the limited number of skilled practitioners and poor access to healthcare in rural areas have been additional drawbacks. This drives the requirement of alternative suturing techniques that can reduce the complications

associated with traditional sutures,” she added.

Surgical sutures have efficiently sealed wounds and incisions by securely holding the tissue together, reducing the risk of infection and minimising scarring, making them an effective tool in MAS.

Ganguly pointed at India's ‘Makein-India’ policy that aims to boost domestic manufacturing of such medical equipment and devices, thereby reducing dependence on imports in the upcoming years.

"The development of such devices will expand the scope of exports and create a favourable business environment for the healthcare sector. With this, the Indian surgical sutures market is all set to flourish, offering promising domestic and export opportunities for Indian manufacturers,”Ganguly said.

Bombay Dyeing to sell 22-acres Worli land to Goisu Realty for Rs 5,200cr

to Goisu Realty Pvt. Ltd in two phases for around Rs 5,200-crore, to pay off debts and fund future projects, here on Wednesday.

“Enabling exports through courier mode -- of upto Rs 10 lakhs value -- will not only open doors to new markets but also significantly expand the value added exports from the sector by reaching directly to retail and end consumers abroad… At a crucial juncture, considering the industry's current challenges,” said Shah.

Additionally, he said the courier mode for exports can reduce the costs by as much as 70 per cent compared with the cargo mode, thereby paving the entry of many jewellery businesses in the country into the realm of

A Mumbai industry player termed the move as very 'laudable' and will now help do away with cumbersome paperworks, liaising with multiple departments including the air cargo and thereby avoiding delays.

An apex body of some 9,000 members, the GJEPC was set up by the Union Ministry of Commerce in 1966 to boost the country’s export thrust and granted an autonomous state status in 1998. Headquartered in Mumbai, the GJEPC now has regional offices in New Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Surat and Jaipur, all major business centres for the industry.

Mumbai, Sep 13 (IANS) In one of the biggest realty deals, the Bombay Dyeing and Manufacturing Co. Ltd. (BDMC) said it has approved a proposal to sell off its prime property in Worli, measuring around 22 acres,

BDMC Chairman Nusli Wadi said that on completion of the transaction, the company will notch a pre-tax profit of more than Rs 4,300-crore, report a strong positive net worth, wipe off all its borrowings thus saving interest costs and releasing the charge on encumbered assets, pay dividend in future, and have a strong treasury balance to fund upcoming realty projects.

The BDMC Board had charted a strategy in March 2022 to change the company’s trajectory envisaging focus on realty business for future growth and profitability, accelerating sale of flats in Dadar areas, monetizing its land bank, deleveraging the company by retiring its borrowings and improving credit ratings, develop the company’s unutilised land parcels and explore joint development opportunities.

Ahmedabad, Sep 11 (IANS)

Ahmedabad-based software engineer fell victim to a cryptocurrency scam, resulting in a loss of over Rs one crore, said officials on Monday.

The victim, identified as Kuldeep Patel, encountered the scammer, Aditi, through a matrimonial site, ultimately leading to the financial loss. He approached the police on September 9 and the matter is under investigation.

Sources said Patel's ordeal began in June when he met Aditi on a matrimonial site, who claimed to be engaged in import and export business in the UK. She enticed Patel to invest in 'banocoin,' promising lucrative returns. Trusting her words, Patel initiated contact with a 'customer care representative of Banocoin,'

registered on their website, and began investing substantial sums of money, hoping for substantial profits. Initially, Patel's investments appeared promising, with his crypto account showing a profit of 78 USDT (US dollar tether) after investing the first Rs one lakh. Encouraged by the initial success, he continued to invest, ultimately committing Rs 1.34 crore across 18 transactions between July 20 and August 31. However, on September 3, when Patel attempted to withdraw Rs 2.59 lakh from his account, he received the shocking news that his account had been frozen. In a desperate attempt to resolve the issue, Patel reached out to the customer care representative who had initially advised him. He was informed that he needed to invest an additional Rs 35 lakh to unfreeze his account. Alarmed and confused, Patel attempted to contact Aditi but received no response, leading him to realize that he had fallen victim to a scam, said the sources.

In a first, gem & jewellery exports upto Rs 1 mn allowed via courier

Ahmedabad man loses Rs 1 cr in matrimonial site cryptocurrency scam

From the editor’s desk

G-20, a selfie moment & tales of two Prime Ministers

Prime Minister Anthony

Albanese was in New Delhi on September 8 for the crucial G-20 leaders’ summit. He was visiting New Delhi again, after his previous successful visit to India earlier in March, which was followed by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s three-day visit to Australia in May, this year. The relations between Australia and India have strengthened after the signing and implementation of the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA). Australia and India are members of QUAD, along with Japan and the US. With both Australia and India being members of G-20, along with other member countries, the mutual understanding and cooperation which both countries have shown in their relations in multilateral forums, have revealed how close both countries have come in present times.

Though many Western countries have hailed the recentlyconcluded G-20 summit in New Delhi as successful, they have later gone on to express their displeasure at what they expected of it, related to the strong-worded consensual statement on Ukraine-Russia war condemning Russia, and what was not done and ought to have been done. Most of the countries from the West would have wanted a strong statement emanating from the Delhi declaration denouncing Russia for its relentless war against Ukraine. Australia would also have supported such a statement. But India was one of the countries that resisted attempts to harshly criticize Russia, and therefore was instrumental in toning down the statement related to the Ukraine war as a general statement that denounces war, without specifically targeting Russia for its deeds in Ukraine. However, Prime Minister Albanese realized India’s compulsions and did not put pressure on India to issue statements sharply criticizing Russia for its war against Ukraine. In fact, the Prime Minister has termed the G-20 summit hosted by Indian Prime Minister Modi as “successful”. According to media reports, Prime Minister Albanese stated that the New Delhi summit was followed by a good bilateral discussion between the two leaders. In a post on X (earlier Twitter), the Prime Minister wrote about his discussions with Indian Prime Minister Modi about concluding the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement between Australia and India. This is how geopolitics is

done these days. There is an atmosphere of mutual trust, understanding, cooperation and commitment, which goes beyond the confines of official positions they hold. It reaches to a level where leaders begin to understand each other’s personality, and thereby bank on each other for accomplishing tasks which still need to be accomplished. Protocols serve their purpose, but world leaders are known to go beyond protocols in meeting each other and conduct discussions irrespective of the constraints imposed on them by the established protocols.

Prime Minister Albanese acknowledges the importance of Australia and India relations. He said during his recent India visit that Australia’s relationship with India is worth investing in. He understands the value of a strong partnership with India, which he rightly says, will deliver benefits for Australia in trade, investment and business and in regional security and stability. This kind of relationship augurs well for international peace, stability and an order based on mutual respect and cooperation. Albanese also underscored the value Australia gives to India, highlighting that Australia is a better place because of the contributions of the IndianAustralian community. He expressed his desire to see more connections between the two nations.

Though Ukraine-Russia war, multilateral trade agreements and China’s rising power were the major issues on the G-20 agenda, in the absence of both Russian President Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, there was ample room for countries to engage in bilateral talks, as G-20 offered the opportunity to meet leaders of many countries. Therefore, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was also keen on meeting with European leaders in a bid to strike a free trade deal with them, which will promise more jobs and cheaper products for Australians.

Now that the G-20 summit has concluded, the Prime Minister will have a busy time back home in the Parliament, and a month of campaigning before a vote on the Voice to Parliament on October 14. His Indian counterpart Narendra Modi will also be very busy; first he has to take on the country’s opposition in the special session of the Indian parliament, where his government will try to pass at least four bills. Once the session is over, the Indian Prime Minister and his party and alliance partners will start gearing up for the 2024 general elections.

G-20, the balancing act & Modi’s leadership

There is something charismatic about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his leadership that gets the most improbable of things done, quite literally. While many critics of Modi, both within the country and outside it, are saying that the recentlyconcluded G-20 summit became more of a Modi show, but even critics acknowledge that things as arduous as getting the Delhi declaration done so swiftly, could only be possible due to Modi’s ‘Midas touch’. That Modi is no ordinary run-of-the-mill leader has now already become well-known. And it is also true that the world today needs a decisive leader like the Indian Prime Minister to give his country and the world a much-needed direction. It is also a fact now that India's G-20 presidency has brought to the fore several tangible outcomes. This has necessitated many of the world leaders, who attended the twoday summit in New Delhi, to hail Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his decisive leadership, and what they felt was his efforts to champion the voice of the Global South.

While G-20 was not about Modi per se, but the Indian Prime Minister’s crucial leadership at a difficult juncture, prior to a declaration, was effective and much awaited. That Modi has a very competent team with members like National Security Advisor Ajit Kumar Doval and Minister for External Affairs S Jaishankar is also well-known internationally, by now. This further strengthens Modi’s leadership, both within the country and also globally. The Indian Prime Minister was meticulous in choosing the right setting for the G-20 summit. Bharat Mandapam was the venue for the summit, and it was quite an appropriate one as it brought together the memories of India’s ancient past and mingled it with all the modern facilities, including India’s endeavour to fully digitalize the country. Even the cuisine for hosting the delegates and the world leaders were carefully chosen to gel with the theme of a non-violent Bharat, which has abundance of sophistication and variety in matters of gastronomic delights. ‘Atithi devo’ (guests are gods) was India’s ancient spiritual philosophy, which was apparent in the manner in which each guest was accorded the welcome they deserved being heads of their respective states or heads of their respective governments.

China’s President Xi Jinping may have missed the trick to talk his way through to the hearts of the assembled world leaders. But then President Xi never espoused such a belief. On the contrary, most of the world leaders in attendance for the summit hailed the Indian Prime Minister’s hospitality and praised him for presiding over a successful summit. They also made the observation that India’s

message of 'one earth, one family, one future' was apt and resonated strongly with all the delegates. Before the G-20 leaders’ summit began in New Delhi, there were a lot of challenges, and the challenges still exist for the Indian Prime Minister as the Indian Parliament awaits its special session this month, which is expected to see acrimonious scenes from the opposition. But even before the summit began, the real challenges before the Indian Prime Minister were many. For instance, how to provide an impeccable security cover to so many top leaders of the world. It wasn’t going to be an easy task to just order the lockdown of Delhi. There is already a local government in Delhi. They needed to be taken into confidence and their cooperation was sought and obtained. Then the public needs to be told and persuaded of the significance of this summit for India, and why Delhi residents must remain supportive to and cooperative with the government in putting up with the near-lockdown situation. The Indian Prime Minister had addressed all these issues before the actual summit began on September 9. Then there was the news that both the Chinese and the Russian Presidents won’t be coming for the summit. Of course, Putin spoke to Modi over phone informing him of his unavailability during the summit due to obvious reasons. The decision by the Chinese President Xi Jinping not to come for the summit was also expected, given the fact that he was at the BRICS summit in South Africa earlier, when he must have had the feeling that the global environment has turned against China. So the best course of action for him was to skip the summit. There are certain other reasons for not coming to India. One of them was related to the India-China border dispute, which has not been resolved as yet. Then there was the Adani pressure on China, with many international companies being wooed by India’s Adani, and these companies, on their part, showing willingness to work with the Adani group. Perhaps China had also anticipated the announcement of the IndiaMiddle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), which is a potential counter to China’s Border and Road Initiative (BRI). However, President Xi’s absence at the G-20 summit would further alienate China from the international community. The US President, Joe Biden, had already shown his displeasure at the absence of the Chinese President at such a crucial meeting.

Modi also had the challenge of how to persuade the West not to press for a strong anti-Russia statement at the G-20 summit. Russia had already warned against ‘Ukrainisation’ of G-20, which in other words means issuing a

statement, based on consensus, bitterly criticizing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Modi, of course succeeded in toning down the statement issued from G-20 leaders’ meeting regarding the Ukraine war. Many countries of the West, including Germany, have shown their displeasure as they sought a strong language of the statement that would condemn Russia for its invasion of and war against Ukraine. Modi was treading the difficult path of not attracting Russia’s wrath, as also not to antagonize the West against India.

The Indian Prime Minister also had to be well aware of the fact that the public in his country was also watching him and would continue to watch him right till the next general elections were held. The more Modi shines abroad, the more his personal ratings in India get better than before. Even his detractors would find it very difficult to criticize him for his actions and achievements abroad and within the country. And the Indian Prime Minister is not known to mince words. He was quite straightforward in letting the Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau know that his lackadaisical approach in dealing with Khalistani supporters in Canada, who were openly spewing venom against India, was unacceptable. Despite the fact that Indian diplomats in Canada were being subjected to open threats by the Khalistanis, the Canadian government has not taken any action to restrain their antiIndia activities. However, when Trudeau’s plane broke down and he was stranded in India, he was offered Indian plane service to take him to Canada, which was of course declined by the Canadian premier.

World leaders like the UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, US President Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Kishida, Turkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Brazilian President Lula da Silva and many other world leaders, who attended the G-20 summit, have hailed Modi’s hospitality, and praised him for his able and effective leadership. As the baton of G-20 presidency now passes on to Brazil, the test remains of how much world leaders can achieve on the declarations they have already made. The implementation of the statements made will be keenly observed. And here also Modi and India’s role will be crucial. India has been at the forefront, setting examples before the international community regarding the achieving of climate change goals. In other matters of national and international interests, leadership of India will continue to be significant and needed.

Fundamentals of security management that stood the test of time

By D.C. Pathak

New Delhi Sep, 10 (IANS) The concept of security whether it concerns the nation, an establishment of strategic importance or even a business corporation, revolves around some basic principles that brooked no compromise. We live in an insecure world where the issues of security are knocking at everyone’s doors - the State has to protect its own integrity amidst threats, external or domestic, but it is also supremely responsible for the security of its citizens as well. In a democratic dispensation, this can not happen unless people themselves show an awareness about security which makes them a conscious contributor to national security at large. This more than anything else, validates the first principle of security in our times about the ‘mainstreaming’ of this function. Security of an enterprise is no more a matter of outsourcing it to a set of guards and their supervisors - it has to be built into the policy framework of the organisation, be based on planning and budgeting and above all, has to be in a position to act on the authority of the top man of the enterprise.

The head of the organisation is deemed to be the ultimate repository of the security function though he or she would normally assign this responsibility to one of the Deputies. This stands to reason for in the event of a senior member being suspected of violating mandatory security regulations, there would be a reluctance to bell the cat if the security set-up did not have confidence that it had the attention of the person at the very top.

In strategically sensitive establishments handling secret projects of the State, arrangements exist for taking prompt notice of any member exhibiting ‘vulnerability’ by way of falling for an ‘addiction’, living beyond means or befriending an ‘outsider’ in an unnatural fashion and confidentially checking out

if there were grounds for any further suspicion.

The point is that security is a comprehensive call that can not be fulfilled without the notional involvement of the organisational leadership. Security clearly is a ‘mainstream’ task that embraces the length and breadth of the organisation.

The second fundamental principle of security is that it is an INTEGRAL concept. The establishment is either secure or insecure - there is nothing like a house being half-secure or half of it being secure.

Security basically is protection against ‘covert’ attacks of the enemy - an open or visible offensive against the nation will have to be countered by the defence forces of the country and if the target is an organisation, by the state law and order machinery responding to that attack.

The unseen adversary tries to damage the three ‘assets’ of the nation or the targeted organisation as the case may be - physical resources, manpower and protected information - and this is what was professionally called Sabotage, Subversion and Espionage respectively. These are security concerns.

In sensitive organisations, subversion basically meant changing the loyalty of a member away from the organisation to serve the cause of the ‘new master’, which can obviously be used for sabotage and espionage too.

Arrangements are accordingly made by the security establishment to ensure physical security, ‘personnel’ security and Information security - all put together through well-defined steps.

Anticipated risks are assessed for planning total security measures and apart from a certain standardised framework of security built on the risk assessment, special arrangements are made to deal with any specific threat that Intelligence might have indicated for the targeted

entity. Intelligence is information about the secret plans of the adversary and this is always difficult to come by. Large competing business corporates would like to know what the rivals were up to and they make substantial investments in creating a team that was engaged the whole time in studying the market and the competitors to produce the socalled ‘Business Intelligence’. In these days of ‘knowledgebased’ decision-making, this function has acquired a newfound importance. The impact of climate change is another area of study now for security - across the spectrum of local to global concerns.

Incidentally, it is rightly said that ‘you have to buy security’ and that ‘security does not come cheap’. This is, however, compensated by another principle of security that emphasises that ‘costeffective security was the best security’. The logic of this is easy to understand. If two men can do what a team of three was assigned to do or where an operation could be completed in three steps instead of four, reduction would not only ‘lower’ the cost but also make the effort more efficient.

A simple definition of ‘efficiency’ is the ‘productivity per unit of resource’ - the resource here is not only the money and manpower but ‘time’ as well. This concept is fully practised by our national Intelligence agencies even though they had a reasonable assurance that resources would not be allowed to come in the way of their mission.

A security set-up is relatively free of bureaucratic impedimentsdecision-making is delegated subject to the healthy practice of seniors being kept informed. Also, the importance of work produced is often dis-linked from ‘rank’ and this was reflected in credit sharing as well.

Further, the ‘boss’ was free to do ‘tasking’ but he or she was also obliged to provide ‘guidance’ where it was asked for. A senior

of the modus operandi of the adversary carried out through its power of analysis.

given to ‘escapism’ in regard to this responsibility would have no future in an Intelligence organisation or in fact anywhere else.

A fundamental thing about security is that it is not a ‘onetime event’. The scale and pattern of security are determined by the threat scenario and the latter was prone to changes - this is true of geopolitical developments, the environment in the neighbourhood and changes on the domestic front.

In the era of globalisation and knowledge economy, a rival can spring up from anywhere in the world and a smaller player could take an established business by surprise through ‘smarter’ ways of working.

Technology makes a human process ‘smart’ and now we have Artificial Intelligence (AI) that smartens up Information Technology itself. In the digital world, a lot is happening to upgrade life but for security, newer challenges are also emerging - ranging from Cyber Warfare to misuse of social media as ‘an instrument of combat’.

Proxy wars have expanded to include ‘information warfare’ and influencing the narrative to pull down a target country or enterprise. AI is opening up new frontiers of data analytics, robotics and identity emulation and pushing product development and business applications to new heights but it has multiplied security concerns as well.

It is feared that the security risks accruing from automation - of military offensives in particular - could outweigh the likely positives produced by AI for human advancement. Change is the only constant now and the entire challenge of security has assumed unforeseen proportions. As it is, a Cyberattack is detected only after it materialised making the mitigation effort so much more difficult. AI, however, would theoretically make it possible to consider ‘preventive’ measures for security on the basis of study

Security definitely was running into new challenges in a situation rightly described by VUCA( volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous) which made knowledge-based decisionmaking so much more difficult. A new threat scenario marked by the rise of covert warfare in newer forms because of the use of cyber or digital space is opening up a new vista of challenge for security. Man-made disasters are another developing area of security concern in this context. Finally, it is the security domain that is putting leadership to new tests. In matters of security, the top man of the organisation will have to be decisive and capable of making decisions not out of notions of personal ‘charisma’ or of being ‘born’ a leader but on the strength of knowledge of what was happening externally and within the organisation.

The leader has to seek facts that make a difference between a decision and a guess and consequently has to make arrangements that ensure the flow of relevant information to him or her.

In the realm of security, the leader has to have the ability to communicate the organisational advice down the line with clarity, precision and unambiguity. The ethical code of the organisation should also be framed in a manner that covers the requirements of security.

For employees handling confidential information of a sensitive nature, there had to be an arrangement of internal vigilance that occasionally checked out the conduct of a member outside of the workplace. There is so much exposure of society to unscrupulous acts of the hidden enemy on social media, websites and other digital distractions that the classical mandate for ensuring ‘personnel security’ in all its nuances has to be understood well by the leadership.

Security set-up of a large corporate body would now have to have enough knowledge of the environment around and this would enable it to contribute to even advising the leadership on how to take the business forward.

A smart leader of the organisation would find ways of garnering that knowledge for corporate progress. Security in fact is an important instrument of grooming for the potential leader of the enterprise - this is the biggest proof that security was in all situations a ‘mainstream’ function today.

(The writer is a former Director of the Intelligence Bureau. Views expressed are personal)

Simply Human Inc’s Stem Cell Donor Drive Marks Remarkable Success with Multicultural Australia’s Support

Brisbane, 02 September

2023 — Simply Human Inc, a leading non-profit organization committed to raising cancer awareness, is thrilled to announce the resounding success of its recent Stem Cell Donor Drive, held at Multicultural Australia on 02 September 2023. The event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of the venue by Mr. Heath Goldfinch, COO of Multicultural Australia. Simply Human Inc extends its deepest gratitude to Multicultural Australia for their invaluable support, which played a pivotal role in the event's success. Their dedication to fostering unity and supporting noble initiatives

within the community has greatly contributed to the positive outcome of our stem cell donor drive.

The Stem Cell Donor Drive exceeded all expectations, drawing a remarkable turnout of enthusiastic individuals, particularly the youth, who demonstrated an inspiring commitment to saving lives. Many young donors came forward to register, exemplifying the incredible potential for generosity and compassion within our community.

Mr. Heath Goldfinch, COO of Multicultural Australia, not only provided the venue but also shared his inspiring

vision for a more inclusive and compassionate society. His involvement exemplifies the power of collaboration and community engagement in making a tangible difference in the world.

Simply Human Inc acknowledges and thanks its dedicated team of volunteers whose tireless efforts and passion for the cause have been instrumental in creating awareness and inspiring action. Their persistent commitment to raising awareness about the importance of stem cell donation has been a driving force behind our success.

We would also like to express our heartfelt appreciation to

Red Cross Australia (Jenelle and Rachel) for their continued collaboration and support. Their expertise and resources played an essential role in facilitating a smooth and successful donor registration process.

The resounding success of Simply Human Inc's Stem Cell Donor Drive underscores the incredible impact that collective effort and community support can achieve. Together, we are fostering hope and making a positive difference in the lives of those in need.

For more information about Simply Human Inc and its ongoing initiatives, please follow them on Facebook & Instagram@SimplyHumanAustralia

Media Contact: Sonal Darbari

PRO Info@SimplyHuman.org.au

About Simply Human Inc: Simply Human Inc is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their families, raising awareness about stem cell transplant. Through innovative campaigns, community engagement, and collaboration with partners, Simply Human Inc strives to make a meaningful impact on healthcare and the well-being of individuals in need.

Kingfisher Creek corridor concept calls for community consultation

Urban gardens, waterplay, and sports courts have all been incorporated in draft plans to revive and revitalize one of Brisbane’s most important creek corridors.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner has invited residents to have their say on the concept plan for Kingfisher Creek, which stretches from East Brisbane to Woolloongabba. A series of “stepping stone” parks and urban greenspaces linked by separated pedestrian and cycle paths have been included in the Kingfisher Creek Concept Plan. Kingfisher Creek is part of the broader Norman Creek Master Plan which included the landmark transformation of Hanlon Park in Stones Corner, which has been widely embraced by Brisbane residents.

Cr Schrinner said the proposed Kingfisher Creek concept will promote a healthy creek system, facilitate active travel, and accommodate recreational options for locals.

“Brisbane is renowned for being clean, green, and sustainable, and revitalizing our creeks is just one of the ways Council is helping ensure our city and suburbs get even better,” he said.

“We know residents are passionate about their local greenspaces and we recognise Kingfisher Creek catchment has huge potential which is why we are keen for locals to have their say.

“Connecting two of Brisbane’s fastest growing suburbs Woolloongabba and East Brisbane, the concept plan will

see key green areas Watt Park, Woolloongabba Rotary Park, and the Moorhen Flats transformed based on resident feedback.

“With suggestions like improving lighting, dog parks, and more tree coverage, the next phase of the feedback process will ensure that the natural bushland is preserved while delivering more to see and do in our suburbs.”

The Kingfisher Creek corridor is the third proposal in the wider Norman Creek Master Plan, the first of its kind in Australia. The Master Plan aims to rejuvenate the catchment, improve flood resilience, and create a more connected community.

The current Kingfisher concept plan is open for consultation until Sunday 8 October.

Coorparoo Ward Councillor Fiona Cunningham said the consultation period will be vital in informing the final vision for Kingfisher Creek.

“The final Kingfisher Creek plan is set to be released later this financial year, so we want residents to jump online and provide their feedback on the proposed amenities,” Cr Cunningham said.

“For those looking to learn more about the project or provide feedback in person, information kiosks will be held in the Woolloongabba Rotary Park starting this weekend, with Council representatives on-site to provide further background.

“The more feedback we have, the better our Council officers are able to plan for the Brisbane of

tomorrow.”

Pop-up information kiosks will be held at Woolloongabba Rotary Park on the dates below:

• Saturday 9 September 9am11am

• Thursday 14 September 4 pm-6 pm

• Saturday 16 September 9am11am

• Wednesday 20 September46pm

For more information on the Kingfisher Creek corridor concept plan or to complete the online survey, visit www.brisbane. qld.gov.au.

Brisbane’s Ballet Legend Honored with Keys to the City

my life.

“To have my life’s work acknowledged with the Keys to the City, the City which my family and I love, it’s a wonderful gesture and one I will always cherish.”

Known recipients of Keys to the City of Brisbane:

1. Mr Keith Payne - 24 September 1969

2. Dame Joan Sutherland 1983

3. Brisbane Bullets – 1985

2001

18. Mr Steven Bradbury – 21

March 2002

19. Powderfinger – 29 November

2003

20. 2004 Qld Olympic Athletes – 3

September 2004

21. 2006 Qld Commonwealth Games Team – 29 March 2006

22. 2006 Qld Winter Olympic Athletes – 29 March 2006

23. Mr John Knox – 8 November

2006

September 2011

36. 2012 Olympic Team – 24 August 2012

37. 2012 Paralympic Team – 14 September 2012

38. Brisbane Heat – 22 January 2013

39. Queensland Police Service – 28 February 2014

40. Brisbane Bandits – 16 February 2016

41. 2016 Olympic Team – 2 September 2016

Queensland Ballet legend Li

Cunxin AO will be honored with the Keys to the City to recognize his outstanding contribution to Brisbane.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said Li had left an indelible mark on Brisbane’s arts scene and his achievements would be celebrated at a ceremony later this month.

“Li has extended the dignity, grace, and elegance of ballet into every aspect of his life,” Cr Schrinner said.

“Like me, I’m sure many people were saddened to hear of Li’s retirement after 11 years at the helm of Queensland Ballet.

“On behalf of Brisbane, I feel it’s appropriate to acknowledge the talent, passion, and vision that has enriched our creative scene and inspired generations of dancers.”

Among his long list of national and international achievements, Li has been pivotal in the growth of the Queensland Ballet, doubling the ensemble, creating a world-class Academy at Kelvin Grove State College, and a home for ballet and the arts at the Thomas Dixon Centre in West End.

“For many years, we’ve enjoyed the great privilege of witnessing Li’s achievements come to life both on and off the stage,” Cr Schrinner said.

“The Keys to the City are awarded to those who embody the ideals of Brisbane, and few people

have had such a significant and enduring impact on Brisbane’s art scene.

“I can’t think of a more worthy recipient of the Keys to the City.”

“As the curtain closes on this chapter of his life, I thank Li for a lifetime of artistic excellence.

It has been a true privilege to watch.”

The Keys to the City are awarded to acknowledge the achievement or contribution of an individual or organization in furthering the ideals of the city.

Dating back to medieval times when cities were enclosed by walls, the symbolic gesture can be performed to recognize outstanding achievement in sport, community, or humanitarian work by a Brisbane resident at an international or national level.

Li Cunxin thanked Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner for honoring him with the title of the 55th recipient of the Keys to the City.

“I’m incredibly proud to accept the city’s highest honor from Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner,” Li Cunxin said.

“I have devoted so much of my life to Brisbane and Australia’s arts scene and it’s truly special to have this recognized with this incredible honour.

“I am truly grateful. It’s a job that brought me decades of joy and fulfillment, and the last 11 years at Queensland Ballet represent one of the most rewarding chapters of

4. The Bee Gees - 1989

5. The Brisbane Broncos - 30 September 1992

6. Mr Leroy Loggins - 1992

7. Her Excellency Leneen Forde AC - 24 June 1997

8. Savage Garden - 6 February 1998

9. Uncle Herb Bligh - 12 February 1998

10. Dr Clem & Mrs Sylvia Jones19 February 1998

11. Mr Pat Rafter - 18 December 1998

12. Mr Mick Doohan - 18 December 1998

13. Ms Vicki Wilson OAM - 5 October 1999

14. Australian Wallabies – 19 November 1999

15. Major General Peter Cosgrove – 16 March 2000

16. Queensland Bulls – 27 March 2000

17. Brisbane Lions – 1 October

24. Scouting Queensland – 4

August 2007

25. The Very Reverend Father Gregory Sakellariou MBE – 31

March 2008

26. Queensland Police Pipes & Drums – 23 August 2008

27. QLD Members of the 2008 Australian Olympic Team – 19

September 2008

28. QLD Members of the 2008 Australian Paralympic Team – 29

September 2008

29. Mr Leigh Matthews – 24

November 2008

30. Ms Jude Munro AO – 10 June

2010

31. Girl Guides Queensland – 11

November 2010

32. Brisbane Roar – 15 March 2011

33. Firebirds Queensland Netball Team – 25 May 2011

34. St George Queensland Reds –

11 July 2011

35. Mr Darren Lockyer – 4

42. 2016 Paralympic Team – 11 October 2016

43. Mr Jeff Horn – 6 July 2017

44. 2018 Australian Commonwealth Games Team – 27 April 2018

45. Women’s Brisbane Broncos – 5 October 2018

46. Women’s Brisbane Heat – 6 February 2019

47. Red Frogs – 13 December 2019

48. Bushfire Relief Heroes – 7 March 2020

49. Women’s Brisbane Lions – 24 April 2021

50. Australian Olympic Team –October 2021

51. Australian Paralympic Team –October 2021

52. Cameron Smith – 22 October 2022.

53. Brisbane’s SES volunteers – 24 November 2022

54. The Matildas – 20 August 2023

New Delhi G20 leaders summit

pressures, including free, fair, and rules-based trade, enhancing supply chain resilience, and shoring up food and energy security.

sustainable development and respond to climate change.

of Korea, and Türkiye, where leaders discussed how to enhance inter-regional cooperation and strengthen multilateralism to target global challenges.

From Prime Minister’s Desk: Prime Minister Albanese joined world leaders in New Delhi this weekend for the G20 Leaders' Summit to discuss collective responses to the world’s most pressing economic challenges. G20 leaders discussed global measures to ease cost-of-living

Australia’s attendance at the G20 Summit allows our country to work with the world’s major economies to shape solutions for our region and the world. Climate change was high on the agenda, with Prime Minister Albanese advocating for collective action and outlining Australia's plan to become a renewable energy superpower.

Australia also supported G20 work to deliver better, more prominent, and more accessible multilateral development banks to help developing countries, including the Pacific, pursue

Discussion at the Summit highlighted the negative impact that Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine is having on the global economy, as well as its appalling toll on the people of Ukraine.

While at the Summit, the Prime Minister met bilaterally with some of Australia’s closest partners, including Indian Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Kishida of Japan.

Prime Minister Albanese and Prime Minister Kishida welcomed early progress under the Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation, including the recent entry into force of the Australia-Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement. This Agreement

allows Australia and Japan to undertake more frequent defence training and exercises together, and with other partners, to make the region more secure.

Prime Minister Albanese and Prime Minister Kishida also discussed the importance of continued cooperation on our respective energy transition commitments.

During the Prime Minister’s Summit bilateral meetings, he advocated for an expedition to settle both the Australia-India CECA and Australia-EU FTA agreements as soon as possible to benefit Australian trade and economy.

The Prime Minister also attended a MIKTA Leaders’ Gathering with Mexico, Indonesia, the Republic

On the occasion Prime Minister Albanese said; "I was honored to join world leaders at the New Delhi G20 Leaders' Summit this weekend, hosted by Prime Minister Modi…As we have seen, the global economic environment directly affects Australian households. That is why it’s crucial Australia contributes to global discussions on easing costof-living pressures…The G20 will continue to work together to drive global economic cooperation as we respond to shared challenges and navigate the global economy back to strong, sustainable, and resilient growth…I thank Prime Minister Modi for India’s Presidency of the G20 this year, and look forward to working closely with President Lula da Silva as Brazil assumes the Presidency for 2024."

Hindu-Americans urge California governor to veto anti-caste discrimination bill

Washington, Sep 10 (IANS)

Hundreds of Hindus in the US state of California gathered to protest against an anti-caste discrimination bill, which they say will further fuel instances of Hinduphobia if signed into law. The SB 403 bill, which seeks to outlaw caste-based discrimination in the state, was passed in the California Senate last week with an overwhelming 31-5 votes and now rests with Governor Gavin Newsom for clearance.

Holding banners and placards, Hindus in the Californian city of Sacramento on Saturday urged Newsom to veto the bill, which if

signed, will make California the first state in the US to add caste as a protected category in its antidiscrimination laws.

"Governor Newsom you stood with us in 2017 when you supported our community to ensure that Hindus and Indians are not misrepresented in California's textbooks. We ask you to stand with us one more time by vetoing SB 403," said Samir Kalra from the advocacy group Hindu American Foundation (HAF).

"We ask you Gavin Newsom to Veto SB403 so history remembers that you said no to discrimination against Indian Americans and said no to racially profiling our

community," the HAF, which is planning to file a lawsuit against the bill, wrote on X.

Sharing videos and images from the peaceful protest, US-based Hindu advocacy group, Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA), wrote on X: "Gavin Newsom, we hope you see how deeply concerned our community is about this bill and its potential impact on us".

Asserting that the bill seeks to "silence" the Hindus, CoHNA said that SB 403 "is not facially neutral, allows for the targeting and profiling of Hindus and violates our civil rights".

"'Caste' is not neutral like race,

religion, gender, ethnicity, ancestry and other categories. And, existing California laws can already address any claims of caste discrimination," CoHNA said, urging Newsom to "stand on the right side of history".

The bill, introduced by Senator Aisha Wahab in March, adds caste as a protected category to an existing law, the Unruh Civil Rights Act, which provides that all people in the state of California are entitled to the full and equal accommodations, advantages, facilities, privileges, or services in all business establishments.

"We want to ensure organizations and companies do not entrench

caste discrimination in their practices or policies, and in order to do that we need to make it plainly clear that discrimination based on caste is against the law," Wahab had said in March 2023.

Just after the the passage in the California State Assembly, its supporters went on a hunger strike asking Newsom to sign it into law as soon as possible.

The office of Governor Newsom told BBC that he would evaluate the bill when it reaches his desk.

Before its passage in California’s senate, the bill had cleared the State Assembly late last month with a 55-3 vote, a sign of broad support.

Time to enrol for 2023 referendum: Get ready to vote

With the 2023 referendum announced for Saturday 14 October it’s now time for Australians, including new citizens and voters from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, to make sure they are enrolled and ready to vote.

Electoral Commissioner Tom Rogers said that all Australian citizens aged 18 years and over are required by law to enrol and vote in the first referendum in nearly a quarter of a century.

“If Australians are unsure of the status of their enrolment, they should go on the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) website and make sure their details are up to date.”

The deadline to enrol is 8pm on 18 September.

Voting options

While completing a ballot paper for a referendum is different to a federal election, the voting services will be quite similar. The

17.5million voters will be able to cast their vote in person on the day or via early voting centres in the two weeks leading up to polling day or via a postal vote. Australians voting overseas will see the in-person voting services returning to pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, there will be fasttracked arrangements in place for overseas postal voting, as provided during last year’s federal election.

Aged care facilities will also see an increase provision of mobile polling services, something

Key dates:

Close of rolls: Monday 8pm18

September

Start of early voting: From Monday 2 October

Voting Day: Saturday 14

October

Ahead of the Khalistan referendum, another Hindu temple defaced in Canada

spray paint. These kinds of cowardly attacks are on the rise to create terror amongst the community," Sameer Kaushal, News Director at Radio AM600 in Richmond, wrote on X.

Kaushal said that the Surrey detachment of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has been notified about the incident.

Toronto, Sep 8 (IANS) In the latest attack on Hindu places of worship in Canada, a prominent temple in the British Columbia province has been vandalized with anti-India and pro-Khalistan graffiti.

The outer walls of Shree Mata

Bhameshwari Durga Society

Mandir in Surrey were spray painted on Thursday with slogans reading, “Punjab is not India” and “Modi is a terrorist”.

"A Hindu temple Shree Mata

Bhameshwari Durga Devi Society has been vandalised with black

The development comes just ahead of a Khalistan Referendum event, scheduled for September 10, and threats from banned group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) to “lock down” India’s Consulate in Vancouver.

The referendum event, scheduled to take place at a school in Surrey, was canceled after images of weapons on the poster were brought to the school authorities' notice by concerned residents.

The poster featured a kirpan (dagger) as well as an AK-47 machine gun, along with the name of SFJ.

It also had pictures of Khalistani leaders Hardip Singh Nijjar, who was shot dead in June at a parking lot in Surrey, and Talwinder Singh Parmar, the mastermind of the 1985 Air India Flight bombing. Despite New Delhi registering strong protests, an anti-India campaign continues in Canada with pro-Khalistani graffiti and posters targeting Indian diplomats and temples across the country.

Last month, anti-India and proKhalistan posters were found pasted on the front and rear walls of the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey.

Beginning this year, the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in Ontario and the Gauri Shankar temple in Brampton were targeted in April and January with anti-India graffiti.

Canadian authorities are investigating them as “hatemotivated incidents”.

New Delhi, Aug 30 (IANS) Indians grabbed the lion's share of the 152,336 national work visas granted to foreign nationals by the German authorities in 2022, according to the Federal Foreign Office of Germany.

Indians were granted a total of 17,379 work visas last year, with the majority of them -- 8,613 -- being granted by the German Consulate General in Bengaluru, marking a significant increase compared to 2021, SchengenVisaInfo.com reported.

The second-highest number of work visas for Indians was granted by the German Consulate General in Mumbai -- 3,013, -followed by the Consulate General in Chennai (2,483), the German Embassy in New Delhi (2,434), and the German Consulate in Kolkata (836).

While visiting India earlier this year, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that his government wants to ease the path for information technology experts from India to obtain work visas in the European country.

A survey by Munich-based Ifo Institute released earlier this month found the country facing an acute labor crisis with more than 43 percent of nearly 9,000

firms polled suffering from a lack of qualified workers in July -- up from just over 42 percent in April this year.

After India, Turkey with 12,542, and Serbia with a total of 11,792 German work visas were the biggest beneficiaries in 2022.

A large number of national work visas were also granted to Bosnians, Kosovars, Russians, Albanians, and North Macedonians.

Last year, Germany issued a total of 393,083 national visas. After work visas, the second and third highest number of visas issued were study and spouse reunification visas.

Germany issued 71,129 national visas for spouse reunification and 71,018 national study visas in 2022.

A total of 8,930 Indian nationals were granted spouse reunification visas, with the majority processed by the German Consulate General in Bengaluru.

As of April 2023, the German Embassy in India had some 25,000 student visa applications for the next two semesters, Philipp Ackerman, the country’s Ambassador to India, said.

A March 2023 report by Wissenschaft weltoffen, a project of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), revealed that the European country was hosting a total of 33,753 Indian students -- making up 9.7 percent of the 349,438 total international cohort in 2021-22.

Indians were granted the highest number of German work visas in 2022

Emotional mistakes every property investor should avoid

By Anna Khandhar (Bhavna)

In the high-stakes world of real estate investment, emotions can be your best friend or your worst enemy. Decisions made on impulse, driven by fear or excitement, can lead to costly mistakes that haunt property investors for years. To build a successful property portfolio, it's crucial to recognize and avoid emotional pitfalls. Here are some common emotional mistakes every property investor should steer clear of:

1. Falling in Love with a Property: One of the most common emotional mistakes in real estate is becoming infatuated with a property. This can cloud your judgment and lead you to overpay or ignore potential issues. Instead of focusing on aesthetics alone, always conduct thorough research, including property inspections, market analysis, and potential rental income, to make an informed decision.

2. Chasing Quick Profits: Emotional investors often look for fast returns, which can lead them

to risky investments. It's essential to remember that real estate is a long-term game. Impatient decisions can result in buying the wrong property or selling too soon. Always have a clear investment strategy and stick to it.

3. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): FOMO can be a powerful force in real estate, especially in hot markets. Investors may rush to buy a property out of fear that they will miss out on future opportunities. This can lead to overpaying or making hasty decisions without proper due diligence. Keep a cool head and stick to your financial goals.

4. Ignoring the Numbers: Some investors let their emotions overshadow financial realities. They may convince themselves that a property will be profitable despite unfavorable financial projections. Always base your investment decisions on concrete numbers, including expected rental income, expenses, and potential appreciation.

5. Neglecting Risk Management:

Investing emotionally can lead to ignoring potential risks. Overlooking factors like neighborhood crime rates, property maintenance issues, or market volatility can result in financial setbacks. Prioritize risk management and conduct thorough risk assessments before making any investment.

6. Succumbing to Peer Pressure: The desire to fit in or follow the crowd can influence investment decisions. Just because everyone is investing in a particular area or type of property doesn't mean it's the right choice for you. Make decisions based on your financial situation, goals, and risk tolerance, rather than following trends.

7. Overextending Financially: Emotional investors may stretch their budgets to purchase a property that is beyond their means. This can lead to financial stress and instability. Always set a realistic budget and stick to it, ensuring that you have a comfortable financial cushion for unexpected expenses.

8. Emotional Attachment to a Property: Once an investor owns a property, emotional attachment can lead to poor decisions. For instance, being overly lenient with difficult tenants or resisting necessary property improvements. Treat your investments as business decisions and prioritize what's financially sound.

9. Impulsive Selling: Emotions can also come into play when selling a property. Fear of a downturn in the market or frustration with a difficult tenant can lead to hasty decisions to sell. Before selling, assess whether it aligns with your long-term investment strategy.

10. Lack of Patience: Success in real estate often requires patience. Emotional investors may become discouraged if they don't see immediate results and abandon their investments prematurely. Stay committed to your strategy and remember that real estate wealth is built over time.

Investing in real estate can be a rewarding journey, but it's

essential to navigate it with a level head and a focus on sound financial principles. By avoiding the emotional mistakes outlined above, you can increase your chances of building a robust and profitable property portfolio. Remember, you don't have to go it alone. Seeking expert guidance and local insights can be a valuable asset in your investment journey. If you're considering property purchases in Queensland and need someone on the ground to help you make informed decisions, don't hesitate to reach out. Call me, Anna today at 0424 164 980. Don't let emotions rule your investments; take control and secure your financial future in the world of real estate.

Anna Khandhar Principal/ Buyers Advisory Lyra Homes Pty Ltd 0424 164

980

anna@lyrahomes.com.au

Singapore MP files motion to suspend Indian-origin minister from Parliament

the service of Parliament for the remainder of the current session of the 14th Parliament so that he no longer receives his MP allowance of SG$192,500 per year while he has been requested by the Prime Minister to not perform any official duties during his investigation by CPIB," Poa said.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong told Parliament last month that Iswaran was currently interdicted with a reduced pay of S$8,500 a month until further notice.

to remove the MP's allowance, Parliament has to move a motion to interdict the MP as an MP.

Poa said she will also introduce a Private Member's Bill to amend the Parliament (Privileges, Immunities and Powers) Act 1962 at the parliament's next sitting. This, she said, would "ensure that Parliament has the power to back-pay Minister Iswaran should he subsequently be cleared of any wrongdoing and resume his official duties".

Singapore, Sep 8 (IANS) An opposition MP in Singapore has filed a motion requesting the suspension of Indian-origin Transport Minister S. Iswaran from Parliament, following his investigation by the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB).

In a Facebook post shared on Friday, Hazel Poa of the opposition Progress Singapore Party said that the motion will be debated in Parliament on or after September 19.

"I filed a motion for Parliament to suspend Mr. S Iswaran from

According to the city-state's Public Service Division, this sum works out to be about 15 percent of the benchmark level of a minister’s monthly salary at SG$55,000, Channel News Asia reported.

In addition, Iswaran is still allowed to draw the annual MP allowance of SG$192,500 because it differs from a Minister’s pay and does not come under the Prime Minister’s discretion, Loong had told Parliament.

Referring to past cases where ministers had been investigated for corruption, Loong said that

The demand for Iswaran’s suspension comes just days ahead of the 14th session of the Parliament, which starts on September 18.

An MP from the ruling People's Action Party, Iswaran, 61, was arrested on July 11 and released on bail. His passport was impounded and he has since been placed on a leave of absence. His political career spans more than 26 years, and he was first elected in 1997 as an MP for West Coast GRC.

Democratic party official of Indo-Sri Lankan descent left bloodied in carjacking attack

she was beaten and bloodied by four young men in front of her children in a carjacking incident, which took place outside her home.

Shivanthi Sathanandan, a Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor (DFL) Party official, said the attack, which occurred on Tuesday morning, left her with a broken leg, deep lacerations on her head, and bruising and cuts all over her body.

"You could have been reading the obituary for me and my children today. But instead, I'm here. To write this... I have a broken leg, deep lacerations on my head, bruising, and cuts all over my body. And I have rage," Sathanandan wrote in a Facebook post shared on Wednesday.

"Four very young men, all carrying guns, beat me violently down to the ground in front of

our kids. The young men held our neighbors up at gunpoint when they ran over and tried to help me. All in broad daylight," she said.

Sathanandan, the Second Vice Chairwoman for the DFL, a Democratic party affiliate, said her four-year-old daughter "screamed non-stop" and her seven-year-old son wailed for help "because bad guys are murdering his Mama in the backyard".

Sharing her bloodied picture on Facebook, Sathanandan called for tougher crime laws after being beaten with "guns, kicks, and fists".

"Look at my face. These criminals will not win. We need to take back our city. And this will not be the last you hear from me about this," Sathanandan wrote.

"I'm now part of the statistics.

I wasn't silent when I fought these men to save my life and my babies, and I won't be silent now. We need to get illegal guns off of our streets, catch these young people who are running wild and creating chaos across our city, and hold them in custody and prosecute them."

Confirming the incident, the Minneapolis Police said in a statement to KSTP channel that Sathanandan’s vehicle was later abandoned by the suspects and recovered, but no suspects have been arrested so far.

Sathanandan, who had pledged to “dismantle” the Minneapolis Police Department three years ago, thanked Minneapolis 4th Precinct Officers, Mayor Jacob Frey, paramedics, neighbors, friends, and DFL family, who came to her rescue "during this terrifying experience".

Sathanandan made history as the first woman of color and the first South Asian woman to be elected as Second Vice Chair of Minnesota's DFL. She has been involved with the party since 2006. Since then, she has served as Vice Chair of the 4th Congressional District, a member of the State Outreach and Inclusion Committee, co-chair of the State Credentials Committee, a board member of the Asian American and Pacific Islander Caucus, and a board member of the Minnesota Asian Democratic Association (also a constituency caucus of the DFL).

Daughter of immigrants, Sathanandan grew up in St. Paul and is a University of Minnesota graduate.

Family to welcome Rishi Sunak’s first India visit by hosting a feast in his honor

The Telegraph reported that the Sunak's relatives will host a feast with flower bouquets and “nonstop dancing” to Punjabi music in New Delhi on Thursday or Friday.

land”.

London, Sep 6 (IANS) Ahead of Rishi Sunak's first official trip to India as Britain’s Prime Minister during the G20 summit this week, his relatives are planning a banquet in New Delhi to welcome the Indian-origin leader to his ancestral land.

Sunak's maternal uncle, Gautam Dev Sood, said all relatives have been asked to gather in New Delhi to mark the arrival of the Prime Minister, who is likely to be accompanied by his wife Akshata Murthy on the three-day trip. The menu will feature a mixture of North and South Indian cuisines, with “flower bouquets and beverages for the dinner as well”, Sood told The Telegraph, adding that it is a "great honor for us that he is visiting his ancestral

“We can’t divulge exact details but a plan is in place to welcome the Prime Minister. We are gearing up for a night of non-stop dancing, mostly to the lively beats of the traditional Punjabi music, although I imagine we might also groove to a few English tunes along the way,” said Subhash Berry, Sunak’s paternal uncle. However, Sunak is not planning to attend the event, penciled for Thursday or Friday night, because of an intense schedule of meetings with world leaders between Friday and Sunday, the newspaper reported.

Born to Indian parents in

Southampton with roots in Punjab, the 42-year-old is the first Indian-origin person to assume the office of the Prime Minister in the UK.

The British Indian leader has described India as an “indispensable partner” of the UK across all spheres of bilateral cooperation, which he is keen to bolster further. On Tuesday, he ruled out a 'quick-fix' trade deal with India, which is held up by disagreements over New Delhi’s demands for greater migration rights for Indian people.

Multiple sources close to the negotiations told the Guardian that Sunak rejected the idea of an

"early harvest" deal, which could have lowered tariffs on goods such as whiskey but would not have dealt with trickier subjects such as professional services. The decision has scuppered any chance of an agreement being struck this week, before the Prime Minister meets his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, in the Indian capital this weekend. Many now believe a deal is impossible before both countries hold elections in 2024, although some in government still believe it could be reached later this year.

Hundreds of free and affordable events are on offer during school holidays

More than 500 free and affordable events for the whole family are being supported by the Schrinner Council during the September school holidays.

Podcasting 101, Dungeons and Dragons tournaments, musical theatre workshops and live performances with life-sized koalas are just a few of the new free activities on offer in Brisbane.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said with living costs on the rise, the Council’s extensive range of events and activities during the holidays were even more important for parents and carers.

“Every parent knows the challenge of keeping kids entertained and active during school holidays and that’s only become harder with rising living costs,” Cr Schrinner said.

“Our Council is committed to ensuring our libraries, parks, pools, and stages come alive with free and affordable events to help keep the whole family entertained.

“With the top end of our program costing just $15 a person, there are

endless opportunities for fun here in Brisbane.”

Events include the new cosmic Skydome shows at the Planetarium and light up the night with glow-in-the-dark mini golf at the St Lucia Golf Course which both cost $15 a person.

For $10 a game, teams can battle it out to become laser tag champions at Laserforce in Woolloongabba.

For $6 a person, kids can access expert workshops in abseiling, fishing, diving, kayaking, and everything else in between.

Cr Schrinner said free events include podcasting classes and tabletop game tournaments at Council libraries and free musical theatre workshops that will transform Roma St. Parklands into Brisbane’s Broadway.

“If you prefer to watch from the audience, Victoria Park will be hosting a new live stage with special guest host Blinky Bill and our City Hall concerts will bring exciting guest artists to the heart of the city,” he said.

“Planning a day out for the family often comes at a cost however we

don’t want fun dropping off the agenda of Brisbane families.

“Our events calendar makes sure that every interest is catered for to keep boredom at bay over the holiday break.”

Cr Schrinner urged families to book in advance to secure their spot on the holiday calendar.

“While many of the activities over the September holidays are free of charge, most require booking in advance,” he said.

“Council will continue to offer fantastic events for kids of all ages as we help residents make the most of the school holidays here in Brisbane.”

To plan your school holiday schedule, visit www.brisbane.qld. gov.au and search ‘School Holiday Events’.

BACKGROUND Saving on Space Exploration

The Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium will offer several school holiday programs under the cosmic skydome, with many shows offering adult tickets at children’s prices to make space exploration even more affordable.

The Planetarium saw almost 64,000 holidaymakers visit the venue during the school holidays over the past 12 months and anticipates another boom in September.

With around 1,000 attendees expected every day over the September holiday break, families will be able to enjoy the fantastic shows on offer, including two new programs, that transports them across the universe.

Kicking Costs to the Curb with Active Workshops

Kids looking to embrace the great outdoors can enjoy 130 Active and Healthy events across the holiday period.

Free activities include basketball skill workshops, scooter coaching, ninja-warrior training, and hiphop dance classes to cater to all interests.

Those looking to spend a little more than the cost of a coffee could enjoy stand-up paddle boarding, fishing classes, springboard diving, or kayaking for just $6 a person.

Budget Entertainment for Budding Teens

The Visible Ink Holiday program includes media studio inductions, where budding music producers and performers can try out stateof-the-art production facilities. From jam sessions to art circles and even a youth takeover of the Queen Street Mall stage, the Visible Ink hub is the perfect place for creative teens looking to explore their passions.

Free Gigs and Games and Council Library Council’s 33 libraries will be hosting more than 320 free events over the September holidays, with something to cater to every bookworm.

Tiny tots can enjoy engaging story times and live kids’ performances while teens can battle dragons in fantasy tabletop games or learn how to make their very own podcast.

Over 17,600 visitors attended a free library event over the school holidays in the last 12 months, and with the range on offer this September, there is something for everyone in the suburbs.

New York, Sep 8 (IANS) A Democratic leader of Indian and Sri Lankan descent from the US state of Minnesota has said

Eminem tells Vivek Ramaswamy to ‘stop rapping his songs’

we will have to leave the rapping to the real slim shady."

On Monday night, Ramaswamy posted on X, formally known as Twitter, to make light of the situation, reports the BBC.

Sales of pineapples soar in Singapore after Thurman’s poll victory

Celine's Ree and Mummy Cafe.

The Casuarina Curry eatery along Upper Thomson Road is offering its pineapple and pineapple cheese prata at half price until September 9 to celebrate Tharman’s win.

Washington, Aug 29 (IANS)

American rapper Eminem's lawyers have sent a letter to Indian-origin tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who is seeking a Republican nomination for the 2024 US presidential election, asking the latter to stop rapping his songs.

The letter, dated August 23 and sent by the rapper's record company BMI, comes more than a week after Ramaswamy delivered an impromptu performance of "Lose Yourself", one of Eminem's most popular numbers, at the Iowa State Fair, reports the BBC. The letter says the company

"received a communication from" Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Mathers III, objecting to the Republican's use of his "musical compositions".

"BMI will consider any performance of the Eminem works by the Vivek 2024 campaign from this date forward to be a material breach" of its license, it adds.

Responding to the letter, Ramaswamy's campaign spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin, referring to an Eminem lyric, said in a statement on Monday: "Vivek just got on the stage and cut loose. To the American people's chagrin,

"Will The REAL Slim Shady Please Stand Up? He didn't just say what I think he did, did he?" he wrote. Ramaswamy, the 38-year-old political newcomer is seen, as a rising star in the campaign following a strong performance at last week's Republican debate. He is almost tying up with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis at number two in polls, beating fellow Indian-American Nikki Haley and former Vice President Mike Pence.

A Yahoo News/YouGov poll released last week showed DeSantis in second place in the Republican race with 12 percent support -- just four points ahead of Ramaswamy.

With a worth of more than $950 million, Ramaswamy raised more than $450,000, with an average donation of $38, in the first hour after the Republican debate.

Singapore, Sep 4 (IANS)

The sales of pineapples and pineapple cakes have shot up in Singapore after Tamil-origin presidential candidate Tharman Shanmugaratnam marched to a decisive victory last week with the fruit as his campaign symbol. Business is booming for fruit store owners, with sales of pineapples rising by 10 to 15 percent in August from the month before, The Straits Times reported.

In addition, eateries and bars in the city-state have been rolling out pineapple-related products and offering price discounts to celebrate the former senior minister's presidential win on Friday.

Cafe owner Celine Ng, who would usually sell two or three of her signature charred pineapple cheesecakes each day, said she received 30 orders on Saturday for those cakes after she had launched a one-for-one deal to commemorate Tharman's win.

"I thought offering this promotion on pineapple cheesecake would be a fun way to celebrate his victory. I was quite surprised by the number of orders," Celine told The Times.

Each of the charred pineapple cheesecakes cost SGD48 at

"I appreciate Mr Tharman and am very fond of him. I want to show my appreciation to Singaporeans and have them celebrate this occasion over prata," said Elango Subramaniam, the eatery owner.

At the Soi 44 bar in Prinsep Street, people who came dressed in pineapple-related attire received a tower of 1.5 liters of pineapple soju, which usually costs SG$48. According to the Chinese newspaper Shin Min Daily News, some fruit stores sold over a thousand pineapples daily during the campaign period.

While choosing pineapple as his campaign logo, Tharman said it is a symbol with a lot of meaning to all the communities here.

During the hustings, he was often presented with pineapples and greeted with chants of "ong lai", which means pineapple in Hokkien and symbolizes prosperity and good fortune.

"Ong lai -- it is a propitious and welcome symbol for many people -- when we move into a new home, when we start a new business when we want good luck and good things to happen, it is our future,” Tharman had said in one of his campaign speeches. Holding up a pineapple as he greeted supporters later, Tharman said it is the perfect symbol for his campaign.

Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar Multicultural Cricket Cup Announced by QKCSS in association with Aust-Ind Cricket Club

In a thrilling development for cricket fans, the Queensland Kannadigas' Cultural and Sports Society Inc. (QKCSS) in partnership with the Aust-Ind Cricket Club has announced the launch of the "Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar Multicultural Cricket Cup".

This vibrant tournament is slated to take place on October 29, 2023, with the Aust-Ind Cricket Club poised to be the flagship home team. The Aust-Ind Cricket Club, founded in 1995 as a hub for cricket enthusiasts, has evolved into a club of sportsmanship and fair play. Their significant track record includes notable

performances in prestigious competitions such as 'The Warehouse Association' and 'Sub-district Cricket'. The club not only clinched the title in the Warehouse Competition in 20202021 but has also consistently reached the finals over the last three years. Such achievements have cemented the Aust-Ind Cricket Club's reputation as a formidable opponent, prompting rival teams always to bring their best to the field. QKCSS, on the other hand, is renowned for hosting an array of events that draw approximately 500 attendees each.

With a history of celebrating

Indian diaspora body congratulates PM Modi for successfully holding G20 Summit

multiculturalism through classical music concerts and artist meetand-greets, QKCSS is now shifting its focus to the cricket pitch. Their vision is clear: nurture top-tier talent and introduce them to the local circuit, aiming for standout performances in premier tournaments like the 'Subdistricts Cricket Tournament' in 2023. Through these initiatives, QKCSS hopes to provide budding cricketers with a platform to hone their skills and eventually join elite teams like Aust-Ind. With both organisations committed to fostering talent and promoting multiculturalism,

the "Dr Puneeth Rajkumar Multicultural Cricket Cup" is more than just a game. It's a testament to the power of sports in bringing diverse communities together. As the countdown begins to this landmark event, cricket enthusiasts and the community eagerly await what promises to be an unforgettable sporting spectacle.

As the anticipation builds, we warmly invite all community members to join us on this special day. Celebrated in memory and contribution by Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar to multiculturalism, this event is more than just a

game; it's a tribute to unity, diversity, and the spirit of sportsmanship. By attending, you not only witness top-tier cricket action but also play a part in championing the values Dr. Rajkumar held dear to his heart. Let's come together, cheer for our teams, and show our local community the strength and beauty of our shared heritage and community spirit!

New Delhi, Sep 11 (IANS) An organisation associated with the Indian diaspora on Monday congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a successfully held G20 summit.

In a letter to the prime minister, president of the Indian World Forum Puneet Singh Chandhok said that the multilateral event has delivered an ambitious, action-oriented, decisive and inclusive road map for a better planet.

"At a moment when the global

economy is suffering from the overlapping shocks of the climate crisis, conflict and fragility, the Delhi summit proved that the G20 could still drive solutions to key international issues. The detailed declaration adopted at the summit has showcased India as a global power," the letter said. "The series of events organised during the year and the leaders summit has displayed civilisational heritage and highlighted contemporary achievements of India at large," it added further.

Ayodhya, Sep 14 (IANS) The Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust will display all artifacts and antiques of religious importance, recovered from the Ram Janmabhoomi campus in August 2020, at the proposed Ram Katha Museum in Ayodhya. These articles were recovered when construction work of Ram temple began in Ayodhya in August 2020.

General secretary of the Trust, Champat Rai, has posted pictures of all artifacts through the official account of the Trust on X (formerly known as Twitter). These artifacts are broken statues, pillars, a kalash, fivefeet-tall Shivling with carvings on it and other antiques of religious importance.

The Trust has claimed that the articles recovered are similar to those recovered by the ASI during the 2003 excavation carried out in and around the disputed site in Ayodhya.

The state government will hand over the Ram Katha Sangrahalaya to Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust after signing a memorandum of understanding.

Ram Katha museum to display articles recovered from Ayodhya’s Ram Janmabhoomi site

Shubman Gill rises to career-best second position in ICC Men’s ODI Rankings; Rohit, Kohli make gains

Sharma, Kohli and veteran lefthanded opener Shikhar Dhawan were the three batters in the top 10 in that instance more than four years ago while those three were also in the top six of the batting table back in September 2018.

Bavuma has closed in on a top-10 place after striking three centuries and two halfcenturies in his last eight ODIs. He has advanced 21 places to 11th position while his previous best was 25th.

teams use these overs both for batters and bowlers, will play a major part in the result of the match. An area where most teams are faltering is looking at ways as to how to complete the 50 overs rather than getting a side out.

Colombo, Sep 13 (IANS) India

opener Shubman Gill has attained a career-best second position and is now only behind Pakistan captain Babar Azam in the ICC Men’s ODI Rankings, the latest update of which was released on Wednesday.

Gill, who has slammed two halfcenturies while amassing 154 runs in the ongoing Asia Cup, has 759 rating points and is the highestranked among three India players who are now in the top 10 of the ranking for the batters in ODIs, the first time this happened since January 2019.

Captain Rohit Sharma and talismanic batter Virat Kohli have gained two places each and are sitting in eighth and ninth positions, respectively. Sharma also scored a half-century against Sri Lanka on Tuesday while Kohli advances in the rankings thanks to his unbeaten 122 against Pakistan.

Indian batting pair of KL Rahul (up 10 places to 37th) and Ishan Kishan (up two places to 22nd) have also made significant moves in the rankings, while left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav has gained five places to reach seventh position in the men’s ODI bowler rankings after grabbing nine wickets in two Asia Cup matches.

India’s fast-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is also up eight places to 27th place on his return to ODIs, while all-rounder Hardik Pandya (up 21 places to 56th) in the bowlers rankings and is also up four places to sixth among allrounders list.

Pakistan also has three batters in the top 10 of batters’ rankings, with Azam at the top and enjoys a lead of more than 100 rating points over Gill. Imam-ul-Haq and Fakhar Zaman lost some positions to be at fifth and tenth place, respectively.

In South Africa, captain Temba

Australia players Davis Warner (up one place to fourth), Travis Head (up six places to 20th) and Marnus Labuschagne (up 24 places to 45th) have made significant progress too in the batters’ rankings.

New Zealand’s left-arm pacer Trent Boult is up to joint-second place among bowlers while Australia leg-spinner Adam Zampa is in the top five of the bowling rankings for the first time after taking four wickets in the second match against South Africa.

Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf has soared eight spots and is in 21st position and is followed by his fellow pacer Naseem Shah (up 11 spots to equal 51st), while South Africa spinners Keshav Maharaj (up 10 places to 25th) and Tabraiz Shamsi (up 15 places to 29th) are among the bowlers to move up the rankings led by Australia pacer Josh Hazlewood.

By Yajurvindra Singh

The G20 was a resounding success. The galaxy of world leaders embarking on the ancient soil of Bharat, along with their supporting Sherpas were simply marvelous. India, displayed being perfect hosts and under the leadership of the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, they came through with flying colors culturally, commercially and diplomatically.

With the sun setting on the G20, India will very shortly awaken to cricket at its doorstep. The top G10 world cricket nations all vying to win the prestigious Cricket World Cup'23! This is a trophy that seems to be the crowning glory of the cricket world since its inception in 1975.

The last mile to the tournament has commenced with teams announcing their squad and a few others still unsure of their final combination. It reminds one of a similar situation before a major examination, when one is cramming what one feels will be the ideal answers on that day.

Pakistan was a good example of this when they played India in the 1st match of their Asia Cup’23 encounter. India were tottering having lost their top 4 batsmen and if they had taken an aggressive approach as regards the field placement and bowlers to bowl, the outcome could have been different. One also saw a similar approach in a match by New Zealand when they played England recently.

The success of the Indian cricket side against Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup has brought about a positive mindset and injected confidence into the team. India, were not in the best frame of mind till then. The batting and bowling combinations have been solved with KL Rahul and Kuldeep Yadav establishing themselves through some magnificent performances. India's top order batsmen have runs behind them and with Jasprit Bumrah bowling at his best, India definitely looks to be a side that will shine on their home turf.

for England in ODI cricket. Consistent No.3 Dawid Malan briefly attempted to steal the limelight with an excellent knock of 96 in a partnership of 199 with Stokes, but it was the record-breaking innings from the England Test captain - in a rematch of the 2019 World Cup Final - that stood out on a dominant day for the hosts.

"I didn't really know (about the record) until the bloke on the tannoy (loudspeaker) announced it - then I got out next ball," Stokes noted.

The road for each one of the sides will be an uncertain terrain, as the effects of climate change will definitely have a major impact on the grounds and wicket preparations. Especially, if one gets affected by the weather and the uncertainty of it.

A win in the Asia Cup would be a bonus, however, with most of the Indian players having done well, the individual comfort will be good enough to carry them with confidence into the World Cup.

London, Sep 14 (IANS) Stylish

cricketer Ben Stokes has revealed he was always planning to reverse his decision to retire from ODI cricket and return in time for this year's World Cup as the England star delivered yet another reminder of his all-round brilliance with a record-breaking innings against New Zealand, here.

Stokes retired from ODI cricket last year and even told reporters at the conclusion of this year's Ashes series that he had no plans of performing a backflip on that decision and returning to action for the World Cup that commences in India next month. But he was named in England's preliminary squad for their defence of the World Cup last month and warmed up for that

event by making a brilliant 182 from just 124 deliveries in his side's thumping victory over New Zealand at The Oval on Wednesday, reports ICC.

"Obviously I've been asked a lot about my knee over a long period of time, so I just said that to leave it," Stokes said post-match in relation to his comments at the conclusion of the Ashes.

"I knew that I'd be playing in these games and potentially in the World Cup then when I said that, but it was just the easiest thing to say that and put you (the media) off the radar."

Stokes hit 15 fours and nine sixes while playing as a specialist batter, eclipsing Jason Roy's 180 against Australia in 2018 to claim the record for the highest individual score by a men's player

Stokes said the fact he was in the side as a specialist batter provided him with more clarity in regards his role in the team and allowed him to bat with more freedom while at the crease.

"This is the first time that I've been clear in my mind that that's the one thing I can focus on," Stokes said.

"I think over the last 18 months, every day has been, 'will I bowl, will I not bowl?' Now, I know that I can just focus on that… that's my thing for the team now. Having that clarity in my head contributes to that.

"I'd prefer not to go in that early because I want to see the other lads at the top do well. I don't think I've necessarily changed my approach in one-day cricket from all the years I spent at No. 5 or 6… I still think that batting at No. 4, I'll go out with the exact same approach I had at No. 5."

The wonderful format of the World Cup matches is that every team plays each other once and this does make it into much more of an even contest. The excitement and buzz of the grand tournament has already captured the hearts of the fans and followers from all over the world and the rush for tickets has been tremendous. One only wishes that the problems that a cricket lover is facing at present to obtain a ticket is sorted out and the venues made hospitable for all to enjoy.

The WC'23 will be a very closely contested affair. Teams are familiar as to how to play and plan for a 50-over encounter. There is very little to choose from between the top sides and on a given day the likes of Afghanistan and even Netherlands could be a handful. The ODI has slotted itself nicely between the fast pace T20's and the conventional Test cricket. Tall scores will be in plentiful. One will not be able to be secure, even after notching up a score of 300 runs. The 30 overs between the initial powerplay and the final 10 overs, gives teams the leverage to consolidate, even if they have lost wickets initially. Additionally, it also becomes a good platform for teams to launch from, in the final ten overs. This is where the spinners and the weaker bowlers will come into play and how the

One feels that the only glitch now as regards the Indian squad is the absence of the world's best offspinner, Ravichandran Ashwin. His presence on a turning Indian track would have been invaluable and India may miss him, especially against the left-hand batters.

With most teams evenly matched, fielding and especially catching will play a major part in their performance. An area where most fielding sides fail is placing the right fielder in the correct position and at the most effective distance. Outfields at most venues will be fast and therefore the captain would have to be clever in the way he sets his field.

Rohit Sharma, with a few wins under his belt, seems to be a captain who is more relaxed on the field as well as while batting. His scintillating batting in the last World Cup must be rankling in the minds of most of his opponents, especially, seeing him touch good form at present. With the young Shubman Gill and the colossal Virat Kohli to support him, along with the two versatile all-rounders in Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja, India have a combination that has all the potential to be successful. They are a formidable side at home and will be the favorites to win the WC'23. After all, India won it in 2011, Australia in 2015 and England in 2019 and all of them did so in their own backyard.

All roads are leading to Bharat

‘Clarity in my head’: Records tumble as Stokes comes clean on retirement call ahead of World Cup

Like Silicon Valley, Bengaluru has embraced every new wave: Shivakumar

Deputy Chief Minister said.

Apple’s market cap has fallen $200 bn in last two days on China govt iPhone ban

or use them for work.

Bengaluru, Sept 11 (IANS)

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K.

Shivakumar on Monday said that the Bengaluru, like the Silicon Valley, has been able to embrace every new wave.

“That is why they (Bengaluru and Silicon Valley) are two of the world’s biggest growth centres. The cosmopolitan culture, talent pool, a culture of innovation, high risk appetite, and human enterprise are its strengths,” the

“Our state has a rich tradition of supporting industries across the sectors, from technology and manufacturing to agriculture and tourism. We are committed to fostering an environment that is conducive to business growth, innovation, and sustainable development,” the Deputy Chief Minister said Shivkumar while addressing the Netherlands' Delegation at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru.

He said that dozens of countries around the world are making Bengaluru their home. “Bengaluru grew too big and too fast. The result is in front of everyone,” he said.

He said that the Karnataka holds a very strong relationship with the Netherlands. “We are keen

to strengthen our relationship further,” he said.

He said that Dutch businesses are among the forerunners of foreign investors in Karnataka. “We are home to 25+ Dutch companies.

Karnataka is also home to Global in-house Centres of Shell and Philips too,” the Deputy Chief Minister said.

He said that the government of Karnataka has taken several measures to enhance investor friendliness in the state.

“Karnataka attracted 2nd highest FDI in India in 2022-23 with 25 per cent national share. There are more than 200 Dutch companies operating in the state with investment worth over USD 1 billion,” he said.

iPhone 15 Pro may feature up to 8GB RAM, 1TB storage

companies, including SK Hynix, Western Digital, Kioxia, and Samsung.

There were also rumours of a 2TB storage option, but there is no evidence to back this up.

New Delhi, Sep 8 (IANS) Shares in Apple have fallen for a second day in a row after reports that Chinese government workers have been banned from using iPhones, the media reported.

The firm's stock market valuation has fallen by more than 6 per cent, or almost $200bn (£160bn), in the last two days, the BBC reported.

China is the technology giant's third-largest market, accounting for 18 per cent of its total revenue last year.

It is also where most of Apple's products are manufactured by its biggest supplier Foxconn. The Wall Street Journal reported that Beijing had ordered Central government agency officials to not bring iPhones into the office

The following day, Bloomberg News reported that the ban may also be imposed on workers at state-owned companies and government-backed agencies. The reports came ahead of the launch of the iPhone 15, which is expected to take place on September 12, the BBC reported. There has been no official statement from the Chinese government in response to the reports.

Apple has the world's highest stock market valuation, standing at close to $2.8 trillion, the BBC reported.

Shares in some of Apple's suppliers have also fallen. Qualcomm, the world's biggest supplier of smartphone chips, dropped by more than 7 per cent on Thursday.

Shares in South Korea's SK Hynix were around 4 per cent lower on Friday, the BBC reported. The reports came as tensions between Washington and Beijing remain high.

San Francisco, Sep 12 (IANS)

Apple's upcoming iPhone 15 Pro model is expected to feature up to 8GB RAM and 1TB storage, a media report said.

According to MacRumors, Apple has tested various storage configurations for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max devices such as 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.

For the storage options, Apple is using NAND storage from several

Another leak suggesting that the iPhone 15 Pro will start with 256GB of storage appears to be wrong; it will likely follow the iPhone 14 Pro's storage options, the report mentioned.

As for RAM, the report said that the tech giant is planning to use LPDDR5 DRAM for the iPhone 15 Pro, the same RAM type found in last year's flagship devices.

Two RAM configurations were tested -- 6GB and 8GB, with the RAM supplied by Samsung, Micron, and SK Hynix. However, it's unclear which of these two RAM configurations Apple will choose for the final

mass-production units. Recent reports indicated that the iPhone 15 Pro might come up with 8GB of RAM.

Aside from RAM, the iPhone 15 Pro will feature an upgraded A17 SoC manufactured on TSMC's new 3nm manufacturing process.

The A17 is expected to include an additional GPU core, which will improve graphics performance. Meanwhile, Apple's next big global product launch -- showcasing the fresh lineup of the iPhone 15 series -- will take place on Tuesday.

The tech giant is also expected to announce new Apple Watches at the event.

The company said its “Wonderlust” event will take place live from Apple Park.

SpaceX refused govt request to activate Starlink to sink Russian fleet: Musk

Sevastopol,” said Musk, without mentioning the Ukrainian government.

Ukraine should agree to a truce as hundreds of youth continue to die at both sides.

Meta set to train next AI model as powerful as OpenAI’s GPT-4

San Francisco, Sep 8 (IANS) Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk on Friday revealed that he did not budge to an emergency request from the government authorities to switch on space internet service SpaceX up to Sevastopol in Crimea, which is a major port on the Black Sea, to target Russian ships.

“There was an emergency request from government authorities to activate Starlink all the way to

“The obvious intent being to sink most of the Russian fleet at anchor. If I had agreed to their request, then SpaceX would be explicitly complicit in a major act of war and conflict escalation,” the X owner added.

“The Starlink regions in question were not activated. SpaceX did not deactivate anything,” Musk added. “Both sides should agree to a truce. Every day that passes, more Ukrainian and Russian youth die to gain and lose small pieces of land, with borders barely changing. This is not worth their lives,” the billionaire posted. He also urged that Russia and

“Both sides should agree to a truce. Every day that passes, more Ukrainian and Russian youth die to gain and lose small pieces of land, with borders barely changing. This is not worth their lives,” Musk emphasised.

Last year, Musk had said that his Starlink was the only internet service left in Ukraine, and Russia was actively trying to kill it too."Starlink is the only comms system still working at warfront -- others are all dead. Russia is actively trying to kill Starlink. To safeguard, SpaceX has diverted massive resources towards defence," he had tweeted.

San Francisco, Sep 11 (IANS)

Meta is reportedly planning to train a new artificial intelligence (AI) model that is likely to be as powerful as OpenAI’s latest chatbot GPT-4.

San Francisco, Sep 11 (IANS)

Meta is reportedly planning to train a new artificial intelligence (AI) model that is likely to be as powerful as OpenAI’s latest chatbot GPT-4.

Meta is buying more Nvidia H100 AI-training chips and is ramping up its infrastructure to train the new chatbot, reports The Wall Street Journal. The company reportedly plans to begin training the new large language model early in 2024.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is likely to make it initially free for companies and researchers to create AI tools.

Meta has assembled a group to build the new AI model, with the goal of speeding up the creation of AI tools that can emulate human expressions, the report mentioned.

The company last month launched its own AI tool called Code Llama to generate new code and debug human-written work. The large language model (LLM) can use text prompts to generate and discuss code. “Code Llama is state-of-the-art for publicly available LLMs on coding tasks. It has the potential to make workflows faster and more efficient for developers and lower the barrier to entry for people who are learning to code,” Meta had said in a statement. Code Llama has the potential to be used as a productivity and educational tool to help programmers write more robust, well-documented software.

Code Llama is a code-specialised version of Llama 2 that was created by further training Llama 2 on its code-specific datasets, sampling more data from that same dataset for longer. In February this year, Zuckerberg had announced that the company was creating a new "top-level" product team which will be "focused" on generative artificial intelligence (AI).

Microsoft, Paige to build world’s largest AI model to fight cancer

biomarkers that push the boundaries of oncology and pathology.

The AI model can identify both common cancers and rare cancers that are notoriously difficult to diagnose.

New York, Sep 9 (IANS) Tech giant Microsoft has joined hands with Paige, a digital pathology provider, to build world’s largest image-based artificial intelligence (AI) models that can fight against cancer.

The new AI model is orders-ofmagnitude larger than any other image-based AI model existing today, configured with billions of parameters, the companies said. It will assist in capturing the subtle complexities of cancer and serve as the cornerstone for the next generation of clinical applications and computational

“We are creating new AI models that will enable unprecedented insights into the pathology of cancer. Unleashing the power of AI is a game changer in advancing healthcare to improve lives,” said Desney Tan, Vice President and Managing Director, Microsoft Health Futures, in a statement.

Paige, a global leader in end-toend digital pathology solutions and clinical AI, developed the first large foundation model using over one billion images from half a million pathology slides across multiple cancer types.

In the next phase of development, Paige is incorporating up to four million digitised microscopy slides across multiple types of cancer from its unmatched petabyte-scale archive of clinical data. Paige will utilise Microsoft’s advanced supercomputing infrastructure to train the technology at scale and ultimately deploy it to hospitals and laboratories across the globe using Azure.

“We strongly believe we will significantly advance the stateof-the-art in cancer imaging. Through the development of this model, we will help improve the lives of the millions of people who are affected by cancer every day,” said Razik Yousfi, SVP of Technology at Paige, in the statement.

Academic failure, relationship issues biggest drivers of suicides

London, Sep 8 (IANS) Women who live in areas with high air pollution give birth to smaller babies compared to those who live in greener areas, finds study. Women living in greener areas gave birth to babies with slightly higher birth weight (27g heavier on average) than mothers living in less green areas, according to the research presented at the European Respiratory Society International Congress in Milan, Italy.

The children with low birth weight face a higher risk of asthma and higher rates of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) as they grow older.

Global Public Health and Primary Care at the University of Bergen (UiB) in Norway.

“Our results suggest that pregnant women exposed to air pollution, even at relatively low levels, give birth to smaller babies. They also suggest that living in a greener area could help counteract this effect. It could be that green areas tend to have lower traffic or that plants help to clear the air of pollution, or green areas may mean it’s easier for pregnant women to be physically active.” he added.

The study included 4,286 children and their mothers living in five European countries (Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Iceland and Estonia).

Hyderabad, Sep 10 (IANS)

Academic failure and relationship issues are the biggest drivers of suicides among Indian youth, shows data at a leading suicide prevention helpline.

On World Suicide Prevention Day, 1Life, a suicide prevention helpline, listed reasons which drive Indian population across age groups towards suicides. These details were announced from the experience of handling thousands of calls from individuals who seek help and advice to overcome their mental status.

Between September 2022 and August 2023, 1Life volunteers received 22,674 calls; among which a majority percentage (about 68 per cent) were made by students and young adults who have academic failure (like

examination failure or not able to cope with handle peer pressure) and relationship related issues (like love failure or rejection). Lack of proper employment and financial pressures are another set of reasons that drive young adults towards suicides.

Commenting on the findings, K. Rebecca Maria, Counseling psychologist, 1Life, a suicide prevention helpline said, “Though India is considered a one big family, and joint family concept is quite prevalent, many youngsters are not comfortable sharing their problems or issues that trouble them the most with their immediate family members. It is highly unfortunate that we as a society do not discuss certain uncomfortable issues which impact the lives of youth of India.” In the last one year, 1Life received

calls from 28 Indian states, and our volunteers speak 15 languages - Hindi, English, Telugu, Kanada, Tulu, Tamil, Malayalam, Gujarati, Marathi, Punjabi, Sindhi, Bhojpuri, Bengali, Konkani, and Urdu. The volunteers receive an average of 25 to 30 calls per day. On weekends this number rises to 45 to 60 calls a day. The volunteers try to answer all calls and address the caller’s concerns and a few might get dropped in between due to technical glitches or network issues. Calls increase on the weekends because most people might like to share the issues they have faced through the week days. The statistics show that 65 per cent of individuals aged between 15 and 25 years were feeling suicidal due to academic stress, parents’ expectation, failures and relationship. About 50 per of people aged between 25 and 40 years complained of relationship issues, lack in professional growth, lack of confidence, loneliness and depression. Forty per cent of callers aged 40-50 years had problems like financial instability, family crisis, genetic history and clinical history.

“The time when babies are growing in the womb is critical for lung development. We know that babies with lower birth weight are susceptible to chest infections, and this can lead on to problems like asthma and COPD later on,” said Robin Mzati Sinsamala, a researcher in the Department of

Researchers compared the babies birth weights by taking account of factors that affect birth weight, such as mother’s age, whether the mothers smoked or had any other health conditions. And they also take notes of the density of vegetation and the presence of pollutants in the air.

“There is a need to reduce air pollution and make towns and cities greener to help protect babies and their developing lungs from potential harm,” said researchers.

Lucknow, Sep 7 (IANS) One woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every four minutes in India while the average age of Indian women at diagnosis is almost a decade younger to their western counterparts.

Prof Anand Misra, HoD endocrine surgery department, King George’s Medical University, gave this information, citing the Globocan 2020 study.

“This increase in the incidence of breast cancer in India has dramatically increased the need for qualified breast surgeons equipped to treat these patients,” said Prof Mishra.

“KGMU Breast Update 2023, a two-day conference beginning Friday will focus on early breast cancer diagnosis and oncoplastic surgery techniques under the theme “Let’s do oncoplasty,” said Prof Misra, the organising chairman of the event.

Dr Kul Ranjan Singh, organising secretary of the conference, said, “New technologies have changed how we identify breast cancers early, and treatment has changed from radical surgery to breastconserving surgeries with similar prognosis and outcomes.

Israeli scientists create complete human-like embryo models from stem cells

According to the team from the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot, Israel, the human-like model will unravel the mysteries of the initial month that is “still largely a black box” for scientists.

Jerusalem, Sep 7 (IANS) A team of Israeli scientists has created a complete human embryo model using stem cells that closely mimics the real one, but without sperm or egg.

The team headed by Prof. Jacob Hanna managed to grow the models outside the womb up to day 14, after culturing in the lab.

Cellular aggregates derived from human stem cells in previous studies could not be considered

genuinely accurate human embryo models, because they lacked nearly all the defining hallmarks of a post-implantation embryo. Reported in the journal Nature, the new synthetic embryo models had all the structures and compartments characteristic of this stage, including the placenta, yolk sac, chorionic sac and other external tissues that ensure the models' dynamic and adequate

growth.

Every compartment and supporting structure was not only there, but in the right place, size and shape. Even the cells that make the hormone used in pregnancy testing were there and active: When the scientists applied secretions from these cells to a commercial pregnancy test, it came out positive.

"The drama is in the first month, the remaining eight months of

pregnancy are mainly lots of growth," Hanna said.

"But that first month is still largely a black box. Our stem cell-derived human embryo model offers an ethical and accessible way of peering into this box. It closely mimics the development of a real human embryo, particularly the emergence of its exquisitely fine architecture."

Maternal exposure to air pollution may spur rise in smaller babies: Study

One woman diagnosed with breast cancer every four minutes: Study

For those who share a passion for mushrooms and the art of foraging

The UraMatsutake Mushroom Festival will be held in the Bumthang district of Bhutan

2024 Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale announces curatorial team

The 2024 Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale, which will open on February 20, 2024, and run until May 24, 2024, announced the appointment of its international core curatorial team led by the Artistic Director Ute Meta Bauer. The event will take place in the JAX District in Diriyah, a town adjacent to the capital city of Riyadh

By IANSlife

August 22, 2023 (IANSlife) Bhutan’s much-awaited Annual Mushroom Festival is set to return to the village of Ura after nearly three years of anticipation. It will be heldon August 23 and 24, 2023 in the beautiful Ura Valley, about 9 -hours drive from Thimphu. This vibrant event, which celebrates the local abundance of mushrooms, most notably the revered "Matsutake" mushroom, promises to be a captivating experience for both locals and visitors alike.

The Annual Mushroom Festival is a tribute to the thriving connection between the Ura community and the nourishing forests that envelop the village. The festival highlights the significance of the "SangayShamu" – the local name for Matsutake mushroom – in the lives and livelihoods of the Ura people. These mushrooms, cherished not only for their culinary value but also for their economic importance, have sustained generations of locals, providing a unique and sustainable source of income.

Visitors can expect a diverse array

of experiences that encapsulate the essence of Ura's relationship with mushrooms. Stalls will be brimming with a variety of locally foraged mushrooms, showcasing the region's fungal diversity. From rare specimens to culinary favorites, visitors will have the chance to purchase these delicacies and take a piece of Ura home with them. The aroma of mushroom-infused cuisine will waft through the festival grounds, as local chefs and home cooks conjure up delectable dishes that pay homage to the revered Matsutake and other mushrooms. Visitors can savor these unique flavors while enjoying the stunning scenery that Ura is known for.

The Annual Mushroom Festival will feature interactive exhibits and displays that shed light on the ecological importance of mushrooms and the traditional knowledge passed down through generations. The heart of the festival will resonate with the melodies of traditional music, performed by local communities from every Chiwog.

For those who share a passion for mushrooms and the art of foraging, the festival presents an

exciting opportunity to join local foragers in their mushroomhunting expeditions. Engaging in these guided activities, attendees will gain insight into the intricate process of identifying, collecting, and understanding the mushrooms that contribute to Ura's identity.

The Annual Mushroom Festival serves as an embodiment of gratitude towards the forest and its bountiful gifts. By participating in this celebration, visitors from around the world join the Ura community in its efforts to promote sustainable practices that preserve and enhance the lives of both people and the environment.

“As we eagerly anticipate the festival, we are excited to welcome enthusiasts, explorers, and everyone, to this year’s Matsutake Festival, to dive into the rich tapestry of culture, nature, and community in the Ura Valley. The festival also provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience the diversity of culture and cuisine of various communities within the district,” concluded Dorji Dhradhul, the Director General of the Department of Tourism.

By IANS September 03, 2023 (IANSlife)

The 2024 Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale, which will open on February 20, 2024, and run until May 24, 2024, announced the appointment of its international core curatorial team led by the Artistic Director Ute Meta Bauer. The event will take place in the JAX District in Diriyah, a town adjacent to the capital city of Riyadh.

DBF curator Wejdan Reda (SA) and curators Rahul Gudipudi (IN), Rose Lejeune (UK), and Anca Rujoiu (RO) will bring experiences and insights from diverse geographic backgrounds, extending the Biennale exhibition with artistic formats such as performance, sound, researchbased practices, and digital forms.

The Biennale is being developed as a living entity rather than a static framework, with a strong focus on conversation and process. Collaborations and partnerships will connect the contributing artists and architects with local cultural producers, musicians, nonprofit entities, restaurateurs, traders, and farmers, pointing to how art practices today engage with society on multiple levels. The intention is to create spaces for personal encounters and exchange with and between diverse communities.

Since April 2023, the Biennale Encounters program has been offering a regular series of public gatherings, artist talks, workshops, and other activities within the JAX District.

Additional members of the core team include Laura Miotto

and Savina Nicolini / SNA (scenography), Attitudine Forma (art fabrication), and Kai von Rabenau / mono. studio (graphic design), Ebrahim Hassan (lead Arabic editor), Laura Schleussner (managing editor), and Lucas Goy / les éclaireurs (lighting design). They will support the curatorial vision of a multi-sensory exhibition experience.

In preparation for the event, Bauer and members of the core team undertook research trips to various regions across Saudi Arabia, including Dammam, Khobar, Al-hasaa, Riyadh, Jeddah, Khamis Mushait, Abha, and Rijaal Almaa. These visits focused on creating dialogues with Saudi artists of different generations to learn about the country’s rich and diverse cultural scene.

Ute Meta Bauer said, "I am delighted and honoured to be part of this remarkable project. The team of the Diriyah Biennale Foundation and the team of this edition of the Contemporary Art Biennale bring together a breadth of expertise in terms of geographies and skills, which provides an invaluable context for our process-oriented approach. Saudi Arabia has a long, rich history of art, and it has been a privilege to encounter so many practices over months of research. Our aim is to engage deeply with the location and the conversations taking place here while creating new connections within the region and beyond."

Aya Al Bakree, CEO of the Diriyah Biennale Foundation added, "It is with great pleasure that we announce the core team for the next edition of the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale.

IHC Theatre Festival from Sep 22 to Oct 1

By IANS

September 02, 2023 (IANSlife)

The India Habitat Centre Theatre Festival 2023 is scheduled to run from September 22 to October 1 in the Capital.

directed by actor, playwright and filmmaker Manav Kaul.

The India Habitat Centre Theatre Festival 2023 is scheduled to run from September 22 to October 1 in the Capital

The Festival will kick off with a curtain raiser event on September 16 and 17, featuring 'Tumhare Baare Mein', written and

Plays that will be staged include ‘The Verdict’, directed by Akarsh Khurana, ‘Dekh Behen Part 2’ directed by Prerna Chawla and Shikha Talsania, ‘The Departed Dawn’, directed by Victor Thoudam and Bimal Subedi, ‘The Proposal’, directed by Abinash Sarma, 'Golden Jubilee’

directed by Saurabh Nayyar, ‘Ghanta Ghanta Ghanta Ghanta Ghanta’, directed by Mohit Takalkar, ‘Afterlies’, directed by Faezeh Jalali, ‘Siachen’ directed by Makarand Deshpande, ‘EE Gida, AA Mara’ (‘This plant, That plant’) directed by Sananda Mukhopadhyaya, ‘Chippi, The Chipkali’ directed by Gertrude Trobinger, ‘Maas’, performed and

directed by Jyoti Dogra, ‘Namak’, directed by Srinivas Beesetty and Indian Theatre (35mm/1988/ English/Docu/100 mins) - a classic film directed by Jabbar Patel.

This year's line-up is a mix of diverse genres from Mumbai, Bengaluru, Guwahati, Imphal and Pune, and caters to audiences of all ages.

Five spots to visit near Delhi during the G20 weekend

Discover India’s top 3 countrysides

A tour to Amritsar that combines national, pilgrimage, and farm experiences, Mawlynnong in Meghalaya, Khonoma in Nagaland and Khajjar in Himachal Pradesh

By IANSlife

September 05, 2023 (IANSlife)

If you're looking for places to visit near Delhi for the G20 long weekend, there are several wonderful options to choose from. Thomas Cook and SOTC Travel share with IANSlife a curated list of five popular destinations that offer a mix of culture, history, natural beauty, and relaxation:

Jaipur, Rajasthan:

Jaipur's well-known sites, Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, City Palace, and Jantar Mantar, provide a glimpse into the city's regal history. The UNESCO World Heritage Site Amber Fort combines Mughal and Rajasthani designs. Laal Maas, Ghewar, Lazi, and other traditional Rajasthani foods like Dal Baati Churma are also available to travelers. In addition, people can shop for jewellery, textiles, and souvenirs at Johari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar, and Chandpol Bazaar, among other places.

Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand:

The Uttarakhand-based Jim Corbett National Park provides visitors with a wide range of activities, including wildlife

safaris, bird viewing, the Dhikala Zone, the Jim Corbett Museum, river rafting, nature walks, lodging, and environmental awareness. Over 600 different bird species can be seen in the park's diverse biodiversity, and tourists can get involved in conservation efforts.

Sonipat, Haryana (Wellness getaway with Naad- 100kms from Delhi)

Benefit from a relaxing health vacation with Naad Wellness Resort, it’s a haven tucked away in the middle of nature, to begin a transforming journey. With yoga and meditation classes guided by qualified instructors, sink deeply into relaxation. Enjoy nourishing spa treatments while spoiling yourself with carefully cooked, healthful meals. Naad's serene environment and comprehensive wellness services give the ideal environment for revitalizing your mind, body, and spirit. Take a break from the daily grind and set out on a path to inner peace and well-being.

Agra, Uttar Pradesh: The magnificent Taj Mahal and the northern Indian city of Agra are both well-known for their

4 destinations for a

By IANSlife

August 13, 2023 (IANSlife) We have a long weekend coming up and we know these destinations and boutique experiences will satiate the travel bug in you.

historical significance. The Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site are all open to visitors. A forerunner of the Taj Mahal, the Baba Taj, is well known for its beautiful marble inlay work. Among the vivid and well-known street foods of Agra are Petha, Mughlai Cuisine, Bedai, and Jalebi. The local marketplaces also sell textiles, leather items, jewellery, and handicrafts.

Amritsar, Punjab: With a tour to Amritsar that combines national, pilgrimage, and farm experiences, you can explore the essence of India. Start by going to the renowned Golden Temple, a representation of spirituality and unity. Visit ancient locations like Wagah Border and Jallianwala Bagh. After that, take a calm farm stay and get a taste of country life. Take part in farming activities, enjoy traditional Punjabi food, and relax in the natural environment. This all-encompassing journey combines a peaceful country retreat with spiritual awakening and cultural discovery in a seamless way.

long weekend

By N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

September 01, 2023

(IANSlife)

Even when we don't want to, we all have a habit of repeating patterns. What if we take a chance to disrupt that pattern by diverting the route to India's pristine countryside instead of beaches, and metropolitan gems?

Let us explore India's gorgeous countryside, which has so many

experiences to offer, from a stroll through Asia's cleanest hamlet to Asia's first green village in Nagaland; and not to mention the mini Switzerland of India. Given that India has a rich culture, prepare to blend in with the locals and enjoy it to the fullest. Here are the top three aweinspiring countryside in India, waiting for you to take it as it is:

Himachal Pradesh

Did you know that the only property that can be accessed via a cable car in Himachal Pradesh is located atop a private hill?

Sri Lanka

If time doesn't permit for an e-visa, fill out a quick ETA form, take that passport, and head off to Colombo! Get your visa on arrival and with a one-night stay to see the city, take a scenic drive to Kandy through the hills and tea estates to reach the gorgeous riverside property, Jetwing Kandy Gallery. We highly recommend this property as it is only a few minutes from the city-centre but sits serenely in the outskirtsperfect to truly enjoy

Ladakh

While the Land of High Passes has been the trending destination, we can't get enough of it, especially with only 2 months left in the year to really enjoy the terrain and all its experiences. For some unique experiences, look at Chamba Camp, Thiksey, or Chamba Camp, Diskit. They are run by one of the pioneers of glamping in India, The Ultimate Travelling Camp (TUTC). As the same suggests, they offer the ultimate luxury tents, stylishly nomadic in every detail while amplifying the experiences of stunning landscapes.

Mawlynnong, Meghalaya - Asia's cleanest village

If you're planning a journey to India's countryside, Mawlynnong in Meghalaya is a must-see. It is hailed as one of Asia's cleanest village located some two hours drive away from Shillong in the East Khasi Hills district. Offering stunning beauty, a rich cultural legacy, and fantastic real local food, it is a location

that everyone should visit once in a lifetime to understand how they manage to maintain the community strong and the environment clean, especially given that India is one of the most polluted countries in the world. Mawlynnong, home to the Khasi tribe, is also famous for its distinctive living root bridge, which attracts thousands of tourists each year to witness nature's spectacular masterpiece.

Khonoma, Nagaland

- Asia’s

first green village

A home to an Angami tribe, Khonoma, is a 45-minute drive from Nagaland's capital district.

Apart from being touted as Asia's first green hamlet, the village is also noted for its terraced paddy field agriculture.

You may become lost in the beauty of its hamlet but don't forget to

see some of the traditional places, such as the boy dormitory known as Morung - a key institution for the nagas to teach social life skills to unmarried naga boys but now displays tradional ornaments and collective before civilization came in. Kohonoma has a long history that dates back to 1830 to 1880 for its fierce resistance to British reign.

Stylish Alternatives for Onam Madhuri Patle is Mrs. Universe India 2023

Beyond the traditional Kerala Saree

By IANSlife

August 29, 2023 (IANSlife) The festival of Onam is celebrated throughout the state of Kerala. Kerala during Onam is marked by happiness, excitement and enjoyment among people of all ages. It is an annual Indian harvest festival celebrated predominantly in the state of Kerala. The dress code for ladies in this

festival typically involves wearing the Kasavu Saree, a traditional white sari with a golden border, while men wear the Mundu. The traditional dress adds to the festive atmosphere of Onam. It symbolizes the unity and diversity of Kerala's culture. It all about showcasing Kerala's rich traditions and vibrant culture, with everyone, from children to elders, participating with

The event reaffirms commitment to nurturing and celebrating the Indian women

ikkat

The art of making these sarees is currently practiced in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat. In Ikkat sarees the yarn is “tied” and “dyed” before the fabric is dyed and woven. Since the pattern is created in the yarn itself, Ikkat sarees are patterned on both sides.

enthusiasm.

Onam’s traditional outfit has gone through many changes and has become more ornamental and elegant. We can skip the typical Kasavu saree and wear different stylist alternatives from all over India like Ikkat, Banarasi, Kanjeevaram and much more. Here is what you need to know about different stylist alternatives this festive season of Onam:

By IANSlife September 04, 2023 (IANSlife)

The much-awaited 8th Edition of Mrs. India She is India 2023, copowered by Zulfeyn, concluded in a dazzling display of beauty and talent, leaving an indelible mark on the world of pageantry. From 27th to 30th August 2023, the event unfolded at the prestigious venue, The Umrao, in New Delhi, showcasing the very best of India’s beauty and grace.

On the pinnacle evening of 30th August 2023, amidst a backdrop of glitz and glamour, the Mrs. India – She is India 2023 Pageant reached its crescendo. The air was thick with anticipation

as over 200 people emerged as the radiant and deserving winner, taking centre stage as the new queen. The crown was ceremoniously placed upon her head by Aditi Sharma and sashed by Shruti Cauvery Iyer & Noyonita Lodh, a moment that signified the culmination of not just the pageant, but of a remarkable journey of empowerment and transformation. This prestigious title earns Madhuri Patle from Nagpur, Maharashtra the honour of representing India at the forthcoming Mrs. Universe pageant, scheduled to take place from 1st October to 10th October in Manila city of Philippines.

organza

Organza is a thin, plain weave, sheer fabric traditionally made from silk. Many modern organzas are woven with synthetic filament fibers such as polyester or nylon.

Organza is distinguished by its crisp hand, stiffness relative to weight, and slippery surface texture.

kanjeevram

The distinguishing symbol of Kanjeevaram sarees from others is the vibrant colors and heavy zari work on the hem and pallu. These sarees are worn by brides and by most women on special occasions. These sarees originate from Kanchipuram, a small town in Tamil Nadu. The zari work is done with silver threads dipped in gold and is the imagination of the weaver that is woven onto the fabric.

banarasi

Banarasi Brocade sarees are famous all over the world and originally made in Varanasi. They are among the finest sarees in India. They are made from threads of real gold and silver and also they have heavy zari embroidery work on the sarees. The silk used for making these sarees is extremely soft Katan silk.

Patola

Patola is a double ikat woven sari, usually made from silk, made in Patan, Gujarat, India. The word patola is the plural form; the singular is patolu. These sarees are made using silk threads that are first dyed with natural colors and then woven together to create the intricate patterns and designs. Patola silk sarees are known for their vibrant colors, bold geometric designs, and intricate detailing, which make them highly prized and sought after by saree lovers all over the world.

Speaking of her victory, Madhuri Patle expressed, “This win is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unyielding spirit that resides within each of us. I’m immensely proud to be the recipient of this honour and to carry forward the message that She truly is India – strong, confident, and unstoppable. As I wear this crown, I stand not just as an individual achiever,

but as a representative of every woman who dares to dream and break barriers.”The illustrious Mrs. India She is India 2023 Pageant witnessed the remarkable journey of nine exceptional finalists who truly embody the spirit of empowerment and grace. Aisshwarya Deshmukkh, Tanya Puri, Kanchan Shinde Mujumdar, Tanishq Rupchandani, Madhuri Patle, Shivani Bagadia,

Online sales of beauty products in India grew by more than 13% in 1H 2023

The keywords in online shopping for beauty products are “benefit” and “smart shopping”

Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds For Hair

Benefits and how you can incorporate it

By IANSlife

September 05, 2023 (IANSlife) The global beauty industry continues to gain momentum every year - and more and more sales are made online. The Admitad partner network estimates that global sales of the beauty and self-care industry grew by more than 15 percent in the first half of the year, while the number of online orders in India jumped by 13 percent YoY. GMV of local beauty orders also jumped by more than 20 percent.

To prepare this report, Admitad analyzed the sales of 450 brands worldwide and 155 brands in India, including such well-known companies and marketplaces as Sephora, Alibaba, Apollo 24X7, Forest Essentials, Plum Goodness, Beardo, BABOR, Loccitane, Clarins, Calvin Klein, Kiehl's and many others. Calculations are based on more than 6.5 million orders worldwide and more than 1.3 million orders in India, that were generated by network partners for beauty brands and retail sites.

India is back on beauty track

The growth of online sales of beauty products in the world is strong but moderate. Admitad calculates that the number of global online sales grew by 11 percent in 2022, and in the first half of 2023 the growth has already hit the mark of 15 percent.

According to Neha Kulwal, Managing Director, APAC and India, Mitgo, “In 2022, Indian buying activity in the beauty industry hardly experienced any growth, but in the first half of 2023, it caught up with and even began to slightly outpace the pace of global customer activity. The number of beauty orders grew by 13 percent and the amount Indian shoppers are willing to spend on cosmetics and self care rose by 2 0percent.”

The average order value of online sales of beauty products in India has increased by a few percent and is now around 15 USD. Local customers prefer to make

smaller orders and actively take advantage of discount periods and bundles.

The top 10 countries by the size of the average order value of beauty orders currently look like this: The source of beauty hunters In 2023, the keywords in online shopping for beauty products are "benefit" and "smart shopping". Therefore, Admitad calculates that coupon and cashback purchases rank high worldwide. However, the recommendations of influencers and content creators still faithfully generate orders for beauty brands - their share in the total number of orders is also significant: Interestingly, on average, global orders for beauty products from Google contextual ads grew by more than 30% in 2023. Messengers, in particular Telegram, also became recordbreakers in terms of sales growth in this segment - the number of orders through them more than doubled. Sales from Affiliate stores increased by 45%.

Admitad estimates that coupon platforms in India have had a greater impact on shoppers' decisions than the global average, accounting for more than 22.5% of all orders. The positive attitude towards them in the country continues to grow - in 2023, the number of purchases in which Indian shoppers applied a coupon increased by 14%.

Content sites and cashback services, on the other hand, attracted a few percent fewer shoppers in the beauty industry. The share of purchases through contextual advertising and affiliate stores was at the global level.

A unique trend for India has been the explosion of beauty purchases through the messenger Telegram. Their number more than quadrupled in 2023 and their share in total orders exceeded 10 percent.

Brands should definitely take Messenger seriously, including Telegram channels and buying

ads there in their marketing strategy.

It is also important to note the rapid growth in the number of beauty purchases through contextual advertising on Google - this year it was this advertising network that accounted for more than half of all orders from advertising networks (including Yahoo, Facebook, and other networks).

The mobile frenzy

The share of mobile sales in the global beauty industry in 2023 already stands at a staggering 46% and continues to grow (in 2022, the share of mobile sales was 44%).

Indian users are overtaking global trends again - in 2022, more than 60% of orders in the beauty industry were made from phones. And in 2023, this figure has already exceeded 70%. Every brand that doesn't yet have a mobile-friendly website or mobile app should devote resources to developing one right now so that they don't miss out on the majority of customers.

Forecasts are positive

Both global and Indian figures clearly indicate that the growth of online sales in the beauty industry will continue.

According to Admitad experts, 2023 may end even more positively for Indian beauty brands than the successful 2022. It is highly likely that the increase in the number of their sales for the whole year will reach up to 20%.

Businesses should pay attention to the most effective traffic sources and those customer acquisition channels that show growth or have the highest average order value. This approach will help them not to miss trends and increase not only the number of orders but also improve other important business indicators.

By Dr. Blossom Kochhar

August 28, 2023 (IANSlife)

Beautiful and healthy hair is a desire shared by many. While there are numerous hair care products available, natural remedies can often be equally effective and gentler on your hair. One such natural remedy that has gained popularity is fenugreek seeds. Known for their potent properties, fenugreek seeds offer a range of benefits for hair health. In this article, we will explore the various advantages of fenugreek seeds for hair and learn how to use them effectively for luscious locks.

Fenugreek, scientifically known as Trigonella foenum-graecum, is a versatile herb native to the Mediterranean region and South Asia. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and culinary practices. Fenugreek seeds are rich in essential nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These seeds also contain compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and saponins, which contribute to their beneficial effects on hair.

Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds for Hair

Promotes Hair Growth Fenugreek seeds are known to stimulate hair growth by nourishing the hair follicles and increasing blood circulation to the scalp. The proteins present in fenugreek seeds strengthen the hair shaft, reducing hair fall and promoting the growth of new, healthy strands.

Conditions and Moisturizes Fenugreek seeds possess excellent conditioning properties that help in reducing dryness and frizz. Regular use of fenugreek seeds as a hair mask or rinse can make your hair soft, smooth, and manageable. They also provide hydration to the scalp, preventing flakiness and itching.

Prevents Hair Loss Fenugreek seeds contain hormoneregulating compounds that may help in preventing hair loss caused by hormonal imbalances. Additionally, the seeds have antimicrobial properties that protect the scalp from infections, reducing the risk of hair loss due to scalp conditions.

Controls Dandruff The antifungal

and antibacterial properties of fenugreek seeds make them an effective remedy for dandruff. Regular application of fenugreek seed paste or oil can help reduce scalp inflammation, itching, and flaking associated with dandruff.

How to Use it for Hair

Fenugreek Seed Hair Mask

Soak fenugreek seeds overnight and grind them into a smooth paste.

Add a tablespoon of coconut oil or yogurt to the paste for added nourishment.

Apply the paste to your scalp and hair, focusing on the roots. Leave it on for about 30 minutes to an hour and then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Fenugreek Seed Hair Rinse

Boil two tablespoons of fenugreek seeds in two cups of water for 1015 minutes.

Allow the mixture to cool, strain it, and use the fenugreek-infused water as a final rinse after shampooing.

Gently massage the scalp while pouring the fenugreek rinse over your hair.

Leave it on for a few minutes and then rinse with water.

Fenugreek Seed Oil

Heat a tablespoon of fenugreek seeds in a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil.

Let the seeds infuse the oil for a few minutes until they turn slightly brown.

Allow the oil to cool, strain it, and store it in a clean container.

Massage the fenugreek seed oil onto your scalp and hair, leave it on for an hour or overnight, and then shampoo as usual.

Fenugreek seeds are a natural remedy packed with incredible benefits for hair health.

From promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss to conditioning and controlling dandruff, fenugreek seeds offer a holistic approach to hair care. Incorporating fenugreek seeds into your hair care routine through masks, rinses, or oil treatments can lead to stronger, healthier, and more lustrous locks. Embrace the power of nature and give fenugreek seeds a try to transform your hair naturally.

People participate in the last rites of martyr Major Ashish Dhaunchak in Panipat on Friday, September 15, 2023. Major Ashish laid down his life in the service of the nation during an anti-terror operation in

on September 13

Nagpur : People in large numbers participate in 'Marbat Festival'

Gandhinagar: President Droupadi Murmu launches the National e-Vidhan Application (NeVA)

Raigarh : Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the foundation stone laying ceremony of Railway projects in Raigarh on Thursday, September 14, 2023

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi being welcomed by BJP leaders

New Delhi : People visit Bharat Mandapam after G20 Summit

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un (L) holds talks with Russian President Vladimir

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi being welcomed upon his arrival at BJP headquarters

New Delhi: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau leaves for Canada

New Delhi : The launch of New Nexon and Nexon.ev

Vadodara: Dr. Andreas Hettich, chairman of Hettich Group Advisory Board addressing the media

Dhaka: French President Emmanuel Macron and Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during a bilateral meeting

Panipat:

Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir,

Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and others during party meeting

TIGER 3

RELEASE DATE: Diwali 2023

LANGUAGE: Hindi, Tamil, Telugu (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: Yash Raj Films

DIRECTOR: Maneesh Sharma

CAST: Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif, Emraan Hashmi

DUNKI

RELEASE DATE: 22 December 2023

LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)

DIRECTOR: Rajkumar Hirani

CAST: Shah Rukh Khan, Taapsee Pannu

PIPPA

RELEASE DATE: TBA

LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)

PRODUCER: RSVP, Roy Kapur

Films

DIRECTOR: Raja Krishna Menon

SYNOPSIS: About Brigadier Balram Singh Mehta of the 45th Cavalry tank squadron who fought on the eastern front during the Indo-Pakistan war of 1971 along with his siblings.

JAWAN

7 September 2023 | Hindi, Tamil, Telugu

LANGUAGE: Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada (With English Subtitles)

DIRECTOR: Atlee Kumar

CAST: Shah Rukh Khan, Nayanthara, Sanya Malhotra, Priyamani, Yogi Babu

‘Jawan’: Kangana calls SRK ‘cinema God’; bows down to his hard work, humility

audience in his late forties to mid fifties and ultimately rising as the quintessential Indian mass super hero at the age of 60 (almost) is nothing short of super heroic even in real life.”

“I remember the time when people wrote him off and mocked his choices but his struggle is a master class for all those artistes who enjoying long careers but must reinvent and reestablish.

SRK is the cinema God that India needs not just for hugs or dimples but for some serious world saving as well. Bowing down to your perseverance, hard work and humility King Khan (sic)”, added the ‘Queen’ fame actress.

The actress concluded the note as: “Congratulations to the whole team”.

Britney Spears suffers wardrobe malfunction at a bar in Mexico

Actress Kangana Ranaut lauded superstar Shah Rukh Khan for his recently released action thriller 'Jawan', calling him the 'cinema God', and said that India needs him not just for hugs or dimples, but for some serious world saving as well.

SRK's blockbuster 'Jawan' went house full on the first day of its release in its early morning shows, and even went on to create mass hysteria among fans.

Heaping praise on the ‘Badshah’ of Bollywood, Kangana said his struggle is a master class for all those artistes, who are enjoying long careers, but must reinvent and re-establish.

Taking to her Instagram Stories, Kangana shared a poster of SRK’s ‘Jawan’ and penned a long note. The post read as: “From being the ultimate lover boy of the nineties to a decade long struggle again to reinvent his connection with his

Social media is proof that after the mammoth success of ‘Pathaan’, SRK is back again with a gigantic blockbuster ‘Jawan’, directed by Atlee, on the big screen. The flick stars SRK in a dual role, alongside southern stars Nayanthara, Vijay Sethupathi, Deepika Padukone (billed as a special appearance), Priyamani and Sanya Malhotra. It was theatrically released on September 7.

‘Mission Raniganj: The Great Bharat Rescue’ teaser: Akshay Kumar is man on coalfield rescue mission

Pop icon Britney Spears has admitted to being "embarrassed as hell" after a video emerged of her suffering from a wardrobe malfunction.

In a new TikTok video, the newly single 41-year-old was seen dancing at Baja Diablo in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, when her red minidress kept slipping off one shoulder and nearly exposed her cleavage, reports Mirror.co.uk.

idea I was being recorded from all sides !!!" when she walked into the venue after hearing music from her car when driving by.

The teaser of the upcoming Akshay Kumar-starrer film

'Mission Raniganj: The Great Bharat Rescue' was unveiled on Thursday.

The teaser begins with a regular day at the Raniganj coalfield in West Bengal until a coal mine worker notices a leakage which eventually leads to flooding inside the coalfield with the workers getting trapped.

Akshay’s character rises to the

occasion as he gives pep talk to his team on the ground and prepares to rescue the workers trapped inside the coal mine.

The film is inspired by a real life incident at Raniganj coalfield and from the heroic act of Late Jaswant Singh Gill, who led India’s coal mine rescue mission.

The heroic Jaswant Singh Gill (portrayed by Akshay Kumar) played a significant role in rescuing all the surviving miners

Playback singer Jubin Nautiyal, who is known for tracks like 'Raataan Lambiyan', 'Tum Hi Aana', 'Manike' and several others, has now dished out an emotional romantic track ‘Raabta’.

Alongside that, the song features a heartfelt music video that shows

trapped inside a flooded coal mine in Raniganj in November 1989 which is documented to be the world's largest and successful rescue mission against all odds.

Presented by Vashsu Bhagnani, a Pooja Entertainment Production'Mission Raniganj' is produced by Vashu Bhagnani, Jackky Bhagnani, Deepshikha Deshmukh and Ajay Kapoor, directed by Tinu Suresh Desai. The film is set to debut in cinemas on October 6, 2023.

Accompanied by her bodyguard and a friend, the ‘Womanizer’ hitmaker readjusted her dress to cover herself up before continuing to dance.

She added to the look for the evening with a pair of whiterimmed sunglasses and a black choker while her blonde locks were pulled up into a messy bun. As per Mirror.co.uk, Britney shared a screenshot from the video, admitting that she "had no

Speaking of the video she wrote on Instagram: "I'm embarrassed as hell !!! Like a lost idiot I heard music and horns from my car !!! I walked in like a deer in headlights and had no idea I was being recorded from all sides !!! I'm only human and I have no idea what the hell is going on with my hair but I made a pit stop in Mexico!!! I'm headed to Italy now to grab my favourite spaghetti and meat BALLS !!! I know the owner there so hopefully he can get me in through the back door," she concluded.

Britney has been enjoying some time to herself in Mexico lately following her split from Sam Asghari.

the fervent romantic pairing of Jubin Nautiyal with actress Adah Sharma.

The music video starts off with Jubin sitting in his house playing his guitar, when his mother approaches him and asks him to meet a woman whom she has

selected as his potential wife. After some resistance, Jubin Nautiyal agrees to meet the family and his wife-candidate is Adah Sharma. The two instantly connect in classic Bollywood fashion as their eyes meet, and after that what follows is a

montage of them spending time together.

Though in a good and more realistic twist, instead of outright marrying each other in just four minutes, the video shows a romantic side of the two simply talking to each other, hanging out

‘Raabta’ music video showcases fervent romance between Jubin, Adah Sharma

Film on honour killing of Indo-Canadian Jassi Sidhu in

Punjab debuts at Toronto film fest

Vancouver as the romance between the two blooms, first through their secret rendezvous in the Punjab village and then via letters and phone calls when Jassi flies back to Vancouver.

When Jassi's mother Malkiat Kaur and maternal uncle Surjit Singh Badersha force her to marry an Indo-Canadian boy of their choice, she flies to India and secretly gets married to Mithu before returning to Canada to make arrangements for Mithu to come to Canada.

SRK all praise for PM Modi; G20 Summit has brought ‘pride into hearts of every Indian’

Directed by Hollywood director Tarsem Singh, 'Dear Jassi', the story of honour killing of IndoCanadian woman Jassi Sidhu in Punjab in June 2000 for marrying a village boy against her family's wishes, premiered at the ongoing Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) here today.

Somewhat reminiscent of legendary love stories of Punjabi folklore, the film retells the tragedy of 24-year-old Jassi Sidhu who made the mistake of falling in love with Sukhwinder Sidhu alias Mithu, a kabaddi player of the same Sidhu clan, while visiting her mother's village in

Punjab.

Born at Maple Ridge near Vancouver, Jassi was murdered by her mother's hired killers near Jagraon in Punjab while her husband was left for dead.

Opening with sufi poet Bulleh Shah's 'Kamli', the film brilliantly recreates the tragic events of June 2000, beginning with the Indo-Canadian girl (played by Pavia Sidhu) falling in love with the rugged Punjab boy (played by Yugam Sood) during her first trip to Punjab.

Scenes quickly switch between grimy Punjab towns and Jassi's swanky Maple Ridge near

But when her mother and the maternal uncle get wind of her secret marriage, Jassi is tortured, confined to their home and forced to sign papers to get her marriage in India annulled.

The high points of the movie are the chaotic scenes at Jassi's home in Canada when her secret marriage is no more a secret and she seeks police's help to get out to fly to India to save Mithu and her marriage.

The director has made an extensive use of colloquial Panjabi to capture the essence of earthy Punjabi sense of humour in the film which has been dubbed into English.

Saiyami Kher shares the reason behind her transformative journey on screen

talents in the Hindi film industry. The actress said that she developed a thick skin with patience as the key which helped her navigate her path. For Saiyami, the turning point came when acclaimed director Anurag Kashyap cast her in the lead role for the streaming film ‘Choked’.

Speaking about her journey, the actress said: "The path hasn't been smooth, and there were times when the rejections were disheartening. However, I held onto the belief that my time would come."

Saiyami further mentioned that for her, working with filmmakers like Anurag Kashyap, Ashwiny Iyer tiwari, Neeraj Pandey, and Balki has been a dream come true.

The actress added: “Their belief in me and the author-backed roles I've had the privilege to play have been transformative. I'm grateful for the space I'm in now and excited for the opportunities that lie ahead."

Saiyami's recent collaborations have been a treat for the lovers of cinema and content.

Even as he celebrates 'Jawan' breaking its own record and earning Rs 90 crore (the highest ever for a Hindi film) on Saturday, Shah Rukh Khan congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the successful completion of the G20 Summit.

Responding to a video link on the formation of the Global Biofuels Alliance put up by the Prime Minister with the comment, "Productive discussions at the G20 Summit for a better planet", Shah Rukh said: "Congratulations to Hon. PM @narendramodi ji for the success of India's G20 Presidency and for fostering unity between nations for a better future for the people of the world."

He added: "It has brought in a sense of honour and pride into the hearts of every Indian. Sir, under your leadership, we will prosper not in isolation but in Oneness. One Earth, One Family, One Future."

The post was reminiscent of his congratulatory comments and video on the new Parliament building at a time when the controversy over the Sengol and the Opposition's boycott of the inauguration was at its peak. Earlier, another leading Bollywood actor, Anupam Kher, had hailed the Prime Minister for "democratising" the G20. Sharing his views on Instagram post, he wrote in the caption: "Jaya Jaya Bharatam! That is the feeling one gets when one witnesses the elaborate arrangements that have been made for the G20 Leadership Summit."

He added in the same positive vein: "High Tech, New Age, absolutely world class but steeped in our civilisational values, culture and rich heritage. This is the Bharat that we want the world to see, embrace and engage with. The national capital has seen a massive facelift."

‘MY3’ trailer shows robotic love story of a scientist in love with his own robot

transformative journey and on

Working with director Ashwini Iyer Tiwari in ‘Faadu’ further solidified her position in the industry. And most recently, her collaboration with filmmaker R. Balki in ‘Ghoomer’ has garnered immense attention and anticipation.

New Delhi, Sep 13 (IANS) The trailer for the Tamil sci-firomance series ‘MY3’ has finally come out, and it showcases a very weird romance story between a robotics scientist and his own creation, the robot MY3 with whom he ends up falling in love.

The trailer starts off with actor Shanthnu Bhagyaraj making a robot for a wealthy businessman, played by Mugen Rao, who funny enough is allergic to human touch. Shanthnu creates the robot MY3 to keep Mugen company, whom he models on his real life ex-girlfriend.

However, the lifelike robot suddenly malfunctions and breaks down, leading Shanthnu to send the ‘original’ version of MY3; aka actress Hansika Motwani. Throughout the trailer, people are worried about what will happen if Mugen founds out that the robot is not a robot, but a real person, though people feel that chances are slim given that Mugen is both allergic to the touch of humans, and the lifelike appearance of the robot making him weary of touching it. While the story is revealed in the trailer itself, there is a bit of a weird twist which casts some doubts as to what is going on. Initially it seems that Shanthnu is using his real life ex-girlfriend as a shield, though overtime some kind of romance seems to be rekindling between them, which is standard enough. What really strikes is the end of the trailer, where Shanthnu says “Having MY3 in my life, has made it all the better and completely changed it”, after which he later proceeds to touch what appears to be Hansika but is in fact, the actual MY3 robot.

Actress Saiyami Kher, who has been enjoying the response to her latest theatrical release ‘Ghoomer’, reflected on her

the shift from facing back to back rejection to working alongside some of the best filmmaking

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