Indian tricolour flies high in Brisbane on India’s 79th Independence Day
As the Consulate General of India in Brisbane commemorated the 79th Independence Day of India, a happy Brisbane morning set the stage for a celebration rich in pride, custom, and solidarity. Long before the scheduled start time, members of the community started to arrive at the Consulate's location on Level 12, 301 Coronation Drive, Milton. Friends, dignitaries, and
Fan murder case: Pavithra Gowda arrested from her residence, police tracking whereabouts of Darshan
Bengaluru, Aug 14 (IANS) Fan murder case prime accused Pavithra Gowda, partner of actor Darshan, was arrested from Bengaluru on Thursday following the Supreme Court’s cancellation of her bail.
She was taken into custody from her residence in RR Nagar.
community leaders flocked to the lobby and terrace by 8:30 AM to participate in one of the most significant yearly gatherings for the Indian diaspora in Queensland.
The Indian tricolour, with its saffron, white, and green bands shining in the morning light, was hoisted by Consul General Neetu
Bihar
to
45 killed, 120 injured rescued in J&K cloudburst; ops continue to search for missing people
Jammu, Aug 15 (IANS) As many as 45 people were killed and 120 were injured in the massive cloudburst
SIR row: SC asks
that hit Jammu and Kashmir’s (J&K) Kishtwar district, as the authorities continued the relief and rescue operations on Friday.
The massive cloudburst hit Chashoti area of Kishtwar’s Paddar sub-division on Thursday killing at least 45 people including two CISF personnel and many Machail Mata pilgrims.
Election Commission
upload data of voters omitted in draft list
New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) In a bid to "boost voter confidence", the Supreme Court, in an interim order passed on Thursday, directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to upload district-
‘Will look into’, CJI BR Gavai on relocation of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR
New Delhi, Aug 13 (IANS) In what could be a ray of hope for the voiceless, Chief Justice of India
(B.R. Gavai) on Wednesday said the Supreme Court will “look into” the issue of relocation of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR.
The observation came after a lawyer mentioned a plea on the sterilisation and vaccination of community dogs in Delhi and referred to a 2024 apex court
order passed by Justice J.K. Maheshwari-led Bench that barred the killing of stray animals and emphasised compassion towards all living beings as an enshrined Constitutional value. Responding, CJI Gavai said, “But the other judge Bench has already passed orders. I will look into
wise data of about 65 lakh electors in poll-bound Bihar whose names were omitted in the draft electoral rolls following the initial phase of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR).
A bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi ordered that the details of these electors, whose enumeration forms were not submitted, should be uploaded on the official
websites by Tuesday (August 19), along with the reasons such as death, permanent migration, duplication, or being untraceable.
The information uploaded on the websites of the District Electoral Officers and the Chief Electoral Officer of Bihar should be searchable using EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) numbers, added the Justice Surya Kant-led
New Delhi, Aug 4 (IANS) Born in the quiet village of Nemra in Ramgarh district -- then part of undivided Bihar -- Shibu Soren emerged from the soil of struggle.
A member of the Santhal tribe, his early life was marked by tragedy: his father was murdered by thugs allegedly hired by moneylenders,
a formative event that would shape his lifelong crusade against exploitation.
By the age of 18, Soren had already begun organising resistance, founding the Santhal Navyuvak Sangh. In 1972, alongside A.K. Roy and Binod Bihari Mahato, he co-founded the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), a political movement that would become synonymous with tribal assertion and land rights.
As general secretary, Soren led agitations to reclaim alienated tribal lands, often dispensing what he called “people’s justice”
Brisbane, August 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
PM Modi hoists Tricolour at Red Fort, says this festival of freedom moment of pride in collective achievements
New Delhi, Aug 15 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag and addressed the nation from the ramparts of the iconic Red Fort in the national capital.
He said this great festival of freedom is a festival of 140 crore resolutions.
“This festival of freedom is a moment of pride in collective achievements. Every heart is filled with enthusiasm. The nation is continuously strengthening the
spirit of unity," he said in his much-awaited address.
He said that in 1947, with infinite possibilities and the strength of countless arms, our country became free.
“The aspirations of the nation were taking flight, but the challenges were even greater.
Following the principles of revered Bapu, the members of the Constituent Assembly fulfilled a very important responsibility.
For the past 75 years, the Constitution of India has been a guiding lighthouse for us,” PM Modi said in his address.
The PM said, "On this great festival of independence, I heartily congratulate the people of the country, the lovers of India spread across the world, and our friends." "Today, we are celebrating the 125th anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, the first great man to sacrifice his life for the Constitution of India.
45 killed, 120 injured rescued in J&K cloudburst; ops continue to search for missing people
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Officials said over 120 injured have been rescued while the condition of 35 of the injured has been described as serious by doctors.
Officials confirmed that many people are still missing and apprehensions are that some of the missing could be under the cloudburst debris.
The joint rescue operation was launched immediately after the cloudburst by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police,
Army and local volunteers and the authorities have mobilised more rescuers, including two fresh teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to safeguard lives. Over 300 soldiers have been deployed for the rescue operation by the Army.
Chashoti is the last motorable village on the road to Machail Mata temple. A large number of people had assembled for the Machail Mata Yatra when the disaster struck.
The Yatra started on July 25 and
would end on September 5. The Yatra has been suspended because of the tragedy that struck the area.
Dozens of homes, 6 government buildings, 3 temples, cowsheds and a bridge were washed away by the cloudburst downstream.
A ‘langar’ (community kitchen) set up for the devotees has borne the brunt of the cloudburst, which led to flashfloods and washed away several structures including temporary shops and a security outpost.
Bihar SIR row: SC asks Election Commission to upload data of voters omitted in draft list
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Bench.
It said that the poll body would give wide publicity to the list uploaded on the official websites through newspapers, electronic, social media and other means of communication.
Further, the apex court also directed the ECI to specify in public notices that excluded individuals, when submitting their claims for inclusion in the final list, may also furnish their Aadhaar cards.
The directions were passed by the bench while hearing a batch of pleas challenging the June 26 order issued by the ECI directing
SIR in Bihar.
The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) had moved an application before the top court seeking two directions directions to the poll body: first, to publish a constituency and booth-wise list of omitted electors with reasons such as death, permanent migration, duplication, or being untraceable; and second, to disclose the names of electors whose enumeration forms have been "not recommended" by the Booth Level Officers (BLOs).
In an affidavit filed before the Supreme Court, the ECI opposed the ADR’s application, stating that the statutory scheme under the Representation of the People
‘Will look into’, CJI
Act, 1950, and the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, does not mandate creating or publishing such a list.
The poll body said that it was not required to prepare or share any separate list of names of people not included in the draft electoral rolls, or publish the reasons for non-inclusion of anyone in the draft electoral rolls for any reason.
It added that any eligible voter whose name is missing can file Form 6 along with a declaration to lodge a claim for inclusion in the draft electoral rolls during the claims and objections period, i.e., between August 1 and September 1.
BR Gavai on relocation of stray dogs in Delhi-NCR
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this.”
The CJI was referring to the verdict delivered on Monday by a Bench of Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan, which directed municipal bodies across DelhiNCR to immediately capture all stray dogs and relocate them to shelters.
Citing serious concerns over public safety and the rising risk of rabies, the Justice Pardiwalaled Bench described the situation as “grim” and emphasised that urgent action was necessary to ensure the safety of children, women, and the elderly on the streets.
Directing the NDMC (New Delhi Municipal Council), MCD (Municipal Corporation of Delhi), and civic agencies in Noida, Gurugram, and Ghaziabad to make the streets completely free of stray dogs, the 2-judge Bench of the apex court issued a stern warning that any organisation or group obstructing their removal would face strict legal action.
It ordered these civic agencies to begin picking up all stray dogs in their jurisdictions and move them to designated shelters.
If such shelters do not already exist, the authorities have been asked to construct them without
Fan murder case: Pavithra Gowda arrested from her residence, police tracking whereabouts of Darshan
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Bengaluru police have formed seven teams to arrest all seven accused by the end of the day. The department has instructed officers to produce the accused before the court, either in person or via video conference, by the day’s end.
A team from RR Nagar police, led by the inspector and accompanied by women police officers, carried out the arrest. Police sources said Pavithra Gowda will undergo a medical examination before being produced before the trial court. Meanwhile, police are tracking the whereabouts of actor Darshan, the second accused, even as his advocates have approached the investigating officer, requesting that the actor be allowed to surrender before the trial court.
According to police sources, Darshan crossed the Suvarnavathi toll in Chamarajanagar district at 6.11 a.m. on Thursday, heading towards Tamil Nadu to attend a horse fair. They also revealed that Darshan had gone to Mysuru on Wednesday night and later travelled to Madikeri.
Earlier on Thursday morning, Pavithra Gowda posted a message on Instagram stating: "The truth holds greater power than anything else in this world. No matter how long it takes, justice will always find its way and be served.” Sources said she broke down after hearing the verdict.
They added that the Supreme Court pronounced its verdict while she was performing special prayers at the Rajarajeshwari temple.
The police sources have confirmed that they have arrested the accused Pradosh, while efforts are also underway to trace other accused - Jagadish alias Jagga, Anukumar alias Anu, Nagaraju alias Naga, and Laxman.
Cancelling the bail of Darshan in connection with the fan murder case, the apex court ordered the authorities to take him into custody immediately. The court has similarly cancelled the bail of Pavithra Gowda and five other accused persons, who will also be taken into custody immediately following the verdict.
A bench comprising Justices R. Mahadevan and J.B. Pardiwala pronounced the verdict, stating that the High Court's decision in the case was flawed. The court further directed that the trial of witnesses be carried out swiftly, stressing that no one, regardless of their stature, is above the law. Darshan, Pavithra Gowda, and 15 others were arrested on June 11, 2024, on charges of kidnapping and brutally murdering Renukaswamy, a fan from Chitradurga. Pavithra Gowda had earlier urged the Supreme Court not to cancel her bail, stating that she is a single parent who needs to care for her daughter, a class 10 student, and also look after her aged parents.
Dishom Guruji - the tribal titan who carved Jharkhand from struggle, departs
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through informal courts. His activism, however, was not without controversy. In 1975, he was implicated in a violent campaign against non-tribals in Chirudih, resulting in multiple deaths. Though acquitted in 2008, related charges from earlier incidents remain unresolved.
delay and submit a report on the infrastructure to the apex court within eight weeks.
The latest verdict on the relocation of the stray dogs to shelters in Delhi-NCR has sparked an uproar from several quarters of society.
Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, termed the apex court’s directives “a step back from decades of humane, science-backed policy”.
Several animal lovers from the entertainment industry voiced their displeasure over the Supreme Court’s decision, taking to social media to express concern for the voiceless.
Soren’s political journey began with a defeat in the 1977 Lok Sabha elections, but he rebounded in 1980, winning from Dumka. Over the next four decades, he would serve multiple terms in the Lok Sabha (1980-1984, 1989-1998, 2002-2019) and stints in the Rajya Sabha, including the current one. His tenure was punctuated by both influence and infamy.
As Union Coal Minister under Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during the UPA regime, he was forced to resign in 2004 due to the revival of the Chirudih case. After a brief period underground and a month in judicial custody, he returned to the Cabinet later that year, a move seen as part of a strategic Congress-JMM alliance ahead of Jharkhand’s Assembly
elections.
In 2006, Soren’s political career suffered a severe blow when he was convicted in the 1994 abduction and murder of his personal secretary, Shashi Nath Jha.
The CBI alleged that Jha’s knowledge of illicit political dealings, including a controversial vote-saving arrangement during the Narasimha Rao government, was the motive behind the crime. Though the conviction cast a long shadow, Soren remained a formidable figure in Jharkhand politics. He served thrice as Chief Minister of Jharkhand; briefly in 2005 (March 2-12), then from 2008 to 2009, and again from 2009 to 2010.
For nearly four decades, he helmed the JMM, shaping it into a dominant regional force and becoming its spiritual and political patriarch -- reverently known as Dishom Guruji. Soren’s personal life was rooted in the same soil he fought for. He was married to Roopi Kisku and fathered four children: Durga, Hemant, Basant, and Anjali.
He fears defeat, says Bihar Dy CM Vijay Sinha on Tejashwi Yadav’s boycott remarks
He fears defeat, says Bihar Dy CM Vijay Sinha on Tejashwi Yadav's boycott remarks Patna, Aug 13 (IANS) Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha on Wednesday issued a strong rebuttal to Leader of Opposition Tejashwi Yadav’s remarks on boycotting the upcoming Assembly elections, accusing him of fearing defeat and attempting to flee the political battlefield. Sinha alleged that Yadav had a record of “running away from the playground” and was now preparing to do the same in
politics.
Responding to Yadav’s claims about his age, the Deputy CM challenged him to provide proof.
“Tejashwi Yadav has misrepresented my age, so I am going to send him a notice. He should show his degree and tell what age is recorded in it,” Sinha said.
“Tejashwi Yadav has made false allegations against me. He is not a nationalist and is against democracy. If he had faith in democracy, he would not be talking about boycotting elections. Knowing that defeat is certain, they are trying to escape the electoral field. They have run away from the playground before. If they do the same with the elections, the public will teach them a lesson,” the Deputy CM said.Sinha called for action against those who do not believe
in the Constitution and accused the opposition of indulging in politics based on baseless allegations without respecting the rules and laws. In a fiery remark laden with mythological references, Sinha said, “Now, the time has come to teach a lesson to the son of Duryodhan and Shakuni. There will be no Chirharan in the Raj Darbar of Dhritarashtra. Everyone must stand with the truth. They are breaking political decorum by repeatedly defaming one person. I am bound by decorum, but you will get the answer in the language you want.”
Earlier, Tejashwi Yadav pointed out that the issue of the two EPIC numbers of Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha was raised by the RJD, and only after that, the Election Commission served notice to him.
Cong laid foundation of electoral corruption in country: BJP dismisses Rahul Gandhi’s ‘vote theft’ allegations
New Delhi, Aug 13 (IANS) BJP lawmaker Anurag Thakur on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his repeated assertions and charges against the Election Commission of India (ECI) as well as its Special Intensive Revision (SIR) campaign in Bihar and cited 'multiple examples from the past' to rebut his claims.
Addressing press conference at the party headquarters, the BJP MP dismissed the claims of "vote theft" and irregularities in the electoral process as baseless and politically motivated, accusing Congress of attempting to undermine democratic institutions due to repeated electoral defeats. “If there is a record of losing elections 90 times under any one leader, it is under Rahul Gandhi’s leadership. Even within the Congress Party, questions are raised about his leadership. When he loses, he blames the EVMs, sometimes the Election Commission, and even the voters,” said Thakur, while
dubbing Rahul’s allegations part of a deliberate misinformation campaign.
Thakur argued that the Congress Party itself had laid the foundation for electoral corruption in India. Citing historical examples, he said that Congress and CPI conspired to defeat Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Constitution, in the very first general election in 1952. “They ran a 'vote theft business' back then. Dr. Ambedkar, a saint-like figure, was made to lose by just 14,561 votes, and from that moment, Congress started eroding the sanctity of elections,” he said.
Mass grave case: Dharmasthala tense amid assault on YouTubers by locals
Mangaluru (Karnataka), Aug 6 (IANS) The situation in the temple town of Dharmasthala turned tense following an assault on YouTubers near Nethravathi Pangala Cross on Wednesday evening following a skirmish that broke out in connection with the ongoing mass grave case.
Police stated that local residents assaulted the YouTubers, accusing them of spreading false information about the Hindu pilgrimage center and its temple management.
According to authorities, two to three cars were damaged in the incident, and police had to resort to a lathi charge to disperse the mob. Four people, including three YouTubers, were admitted to a private hospital for
treatment. Soon after, another group arrived at the scene in support of the YouTubers, leading to confrontations with the locals.
Both groups engaged in fistfights and stone-pelting.
After regaining control of the situation, police used loudspeakers to urge people to disperse and refrain from further violence. The incident has raised concerns as it occurred amid the sensitive investigation into the mass grave allegations.
Sources stated that the local group, armed with pipes and other objects, launched a sudden attack. Dharmasthala police have taken up the investigation.
The locals have gathered outside the Dharmasthala police station and staged protests demanding justice.
The protestors are demanding that the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police of Mangaluru district should come to the spot and give them justice.
PhD student refuses to receive degree from TN Governor, accepts from Vice-Chancellor
Chennai, Aug 13 (IANS) A dramatic incident unfolded at the 32nd convocation of Manonmaniam Sundaranar University (MSU) in Tirunelveli on Wednesday, when a PhD graduate refused to receive her degree from Tamil Nadu Governor and University Chancellor R.N. Ravi, and instead accepted it from the Vice-Chancellor.
The convocation ceremony, attended by more than 650 graduates, was proceeding as scheduled, with each recipient going up to the Governor to collect their degree and exchange greetings.
However, when it was the turn of research scholar Jean Joseph, hailing from Nagercoil, she walked past the Governor without acknowledging him and went directly to Vice-Chancellor N. Chandrasekar, from whom she accepted her degree. The unusual move drew murmurs among the attendees, with both officials on stage and students in the audience watching in surprise.
Governor Ravi maintained composure as the student bypassed him.
Speaking to reporters after the ceremony, Jean Joseph explained her decision, saying, "Governor R.N. Ravi has been acting against the interests of Tamil Nadu and Tamils. I did not want to receive my degree from him."
Her statement quickly went viral, adding fuel to ongoing political tensions between the Tamil Nadu government and the Governor over various issues.
According to reports, Jean Joseph is the wife of M. Rajan, Deputy Secretary of the DMK's Nagercoil town unit. Political observers have linked her action to the broader political standoff between the ruling DMK and the Governor, which has seen repeated confrontations over policy matters, university appointments, and the Governor’s public remarks. The incident has sparked sharp debate on social media. Supporters of her action praised it as a bold expression of dissent against what they see as the Governor's overreach, while critics argued that a university convocation was not the appropriate platform for political protest.
Three CRPF jawans killed, 10 injured in J&K road accident
Meanwhile, another individual has approached the Special Investigation Team (SIT) claiming to have assisted the unknown complainant–cum–whistleblower in disposing of the bodies of women and girls who were allegedly raped and murdered in the temple town. The SIT has reportedly questioned him in detail and taken him to the excavation site.
Sources revealed that six individuals, including the 'new informant', may have helped the original complainant in burying the bodies.
SIT sleuths continued excavation work throughout the day at the recently identified "surprise" site, where multiple bones had been recovered earlier. However, the officers did not begin digging at the 13th marked burial site — the final one — due to concerns over water seepage, as it is located near the Kindi Bridge and River Netravathi.
Jammu, Aug 7 (IANS) Three Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawans were killed and 10 injured on Thursday in a road accident in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district.
Officials said that three CRPF jawans were killed and 10 others injured after the vehicle in which they were travelling plunged into a deep gorge in the Basantgarh area of Udhampur district.
The CRPF vehicle was on its way to a location in the hilly terrain when it went out of the driver's control, skidded off the road and rolled down into a deep gorge, leading to casualties, the officials said.
The rescue operation was immediately started, and all the injured were evacuated from the accident site.
Five among the 10 injured are critical and have been shifted to a hospital for advanced treatment.
"Three CRPF jawans died on the spot in this fatal road accident,"
the officials said.
MoS (PMO), Jitendra Singh said on X, "Disturbing to receive the news of a road accident involving a CRPF vehicle in the Kandva–Basantgarh area. The vehicle was carrying several brave jawans of the CRPF. I have just now spoken to DC Ms. Saloni Rai, who is personally monitoring the situation and keeping me updated. Rescue measures have been initiated immediately."
"Locals have voluntarily come forward to assist. All possible help is being provided," he said.
Jitendra Singh is the MP from the Kathua-Udhampur Lok Sabha constituency.
At the request of the Deputy Commissioner of Udhampur, Army helicopters have been pressed into service to airlift the seriously injured.
Traffic Department officials have blamed hilly terrain, overspeeding, road rage, rash and negligent driving as the main reasons for accidents in the hilly districts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Poonch, Rajouri, Ramban, Udhampur, Doda and Kishtwar.
Special traffic squads have been deployed in these districts to protect against offences that often result in fatal casualties.
Over 1,000 to receive gallantry, service medals on I-Day, J&K bags maximum
New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) The Ministry of Home Affairs has announced the official list of recipients of medals for Police, Fire Services, Home Guard & Civil Defence, and Correctional Services on the occasion of Independence Day on Friday. The honours include Gallantry
Awards, the President's Medal for Distinguished Service, and the Medal for Meritorious Service.
This year, a total of 1,090 medals will be conferred, comprising 233 Gallantry Medals, 99 President's Medals for Distinguished Service, and 758 Medals for Meritorious Service.
In the Police category, 226 officers and personnel have been selected for the Gallantry Medal, 89 will be honoured with the President's Medal for Distinguished Service, and 635 will receive the Medal for Meritorious Service.
The highest number of Gallantry
Medals has gone to personnel from Jammu and Kashmir, followed by members of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Border Security Force (BSF). For the Fire Services, 62 awards have been announced, which include six Gallantry Medals, five President's Medals for Distinguished Service, and 51 Medals for Meritorious Service.
In the Home Guard and Civil Defence category, the honours will include one Gallantry Medal, three President's Medals for Distinguished Service, and 41 Medals for Meritorious Service.
Kerala man dies by suicide after emotional video message to wife
Alappuzha (Kerala), Aug 13 (IANS)
A man in Kayamkulam, about 45 km from here, died by suicide after posting an emotional video to his wife, two months after she had left home to find work because of financial difficulties. A day after his death, police traced her to 400 km in Kannur, where she had been working as a home nurse since leaving home. Vinod (49), of Vishnu Bhavanam
in Kannampalli, coming under the Kayamkulam police station, was found dead at his home on Monday after posting an emotional video on social media pleading for his wife's return and assuring her that their financial problems could be resolved.
His wife, identified as Ranjini, had reportedly left home on June 11, stating she was going to the bank, and did not return home.
The police, however, gave a different account of the episode, saying she told them he was a drunkard who physically abused her. She had not informed him about her job or workplace, telling only a few of her close relatives.
Ranjini, who was the secretary of a Kudumbashree unit, had a loan of Rs 1.25 lakh, contributing to a total debt of approximately Rs 3 lakh. Her inability to repay the loan and his physical abuse forced her to leave home and seek work in a distant place.
The police said she had not told him about the job or workplace, fearing he would not permit her to work. Vinod was under mental stress after she left home, and all his efforts to locate her had failed. Before taking the extreme step, Vinod posted an emotional video on social media, urging his wife to return home so they could find a way to settle the debt.
Thief makes off with 30 bottles of coconut oil from Kerala shop amid soaring prices
A shop in Aluva, about 30 km from Kochi, is the target of a theft where an unidentified accused made off with 30 bottles of coconut oil and other provisions after an initial failed attempt to break in by drilling through the shop’s floor, according to a local media report on Thursday.
The price of one kilogram of coconut ranges from Rs 80 to Rs 100, while coconut oil costs between Rs 500 and Rs 600 per kg across Kerala.
Coconut and coconut oil are integral to daily life in Kerala, but their record prices have already strained household budgets, especially with the Onam festival approaching.
The incident occurred at the vegetable and fruit shop near the Thottumugham bridge in Aluva.
The shop owner, identified as Ayoob, found the break-in on Wednesday morning.
When contacted, the Aluva East police, under whose jurisdiction the area falls, said they were aware of the incident but had not received a formal complaint to begin an investigation.
According to the local media report, the accused first
Need to transform India’s research institutions into globally competitive entities: NITI Aayog
New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) Dr VK Saraswat, Member, NITI Aayog, has underscored the urgency of transforming India’s research institutions into globally competitive entities, it was announced on Thursday. He called for institutional benchmarking, simplification of compliance procedures, and stronger academia-industry linkages to enable a high-impact research culture, emphasising that reducing friction across the research lifecycle is central to advancing national scientific goals and achieving self-reliance in critical technology areas.
NITI Aayog held the fifth consultative meeting on ;Ease of Doing Research & Development (R&D)’ hosted by GUJCOST at Science City in Ahmedabad.
The meeting aimed to build consensus on reducing procedural barriers, increasing access to knowledge resources, enhancing institutional competitiveness, increased emphasis on translational research, and fostering a more enabling environment for R&D in the country.
Professor Vivek Kumar Singh, Senior Adviser, NITI Aayog, highlighted the need for structural reforms, agile regulations, and stronger institutional frameworks to enhance R&D in India.
P. Bharathi, Secretary, DST, Gujarat, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to building a robust research ecosystem aligned with the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat. Dr Nilesh Desai, Director, SAC–ISRO, announced a 12-day space science outreach programme for ‘National Space Day’ and stressed the need for a streamlined R&D environment.
TN Special SI murder case: Accused shot dead in encounter, two others surrender
attempted to drill a hole through the shop's concrete floor to gain access, a method that proved unsuccessful.
The accused then resorted to breaking the main lock to enter the premises. Once inside, his primary target appeared to be the coconut oil stock.
The accused allegedly packed 30 bottles of premium coconut oil, each valued at approximately Rs 600, into a sack. The stolen goods also included a box of apples and ten packets of milk.
Before leaving, the accused allegedly made efforts to destroy evidence, cutting the cables of the CCTV cameras installed inside the shop.
The spiralling prices of coconuts and coconut oil have become a major political issue in the state, prompting the government to announce a subsidised rate through ration shops for the Onam festival.
This incident is the latest in a series of similar thefts across the state, which is believed to be directly linked to the soaring prices of coconuts and coconut oil.
Chennai, Aug 7 (IANS) In a significant development in the brutal murder of Special SubInspector (SSI) Shanmugavel, the third accused, Manikandan, was shot dead in an encounter by Tamil Nadu Police on Thursday.
Manikandan was reportedly killed on the spot after he allegedly attacked the police team that had gone to arrest him.
According to police sources, a special team traced Manikandan to a hideout following a statewide manhunt.
When the police attempted to arrest him, he reportedly charged at Assistant Inspector Saravanan with a weapon.
In response, the officer opened fire in self-defence, resulting in Manikandan's death.
His body was sent for postmortem examination and a magisterial inquiry has been ordered as per standard procedure.
The Tamil Nadu Police had formed six special teams to apprehend the accused involved in the killing of SSI Shanmugavel,
who was hacked to death on the night of August 5 while on patrol duty at a coconut grove in Chikkanoothu village near Madathukulam in Tiruppur district.
The grove is owned by AIADMK MLA Mahendran, and the accused were working as estate labourers. Shanmugavel had responded to a call regarding a family dispute inside the estate.
During the intervention, he was brutally attacked by a father-son duo with a billhook, resulting in his death on the spot.
His colleague, an armed reserve constable, managed to escape and alert other officers. Meanwhile, the remaining two accused, Moorthy and his younger son Thangapandi, surrendered at the office of the Tiruppur District Superintendent of Police on Wednesday.
The accused were being interrogated.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin had earlier expressed deep shock over the killing and announced a solatium of Rs 1 crore to the family of the deceased officer. He described the incident as an irreparable loss to the police force and assured strict action against the perpetrators.
The murder of SSI Shanmugavel has sparked outrage across the state, leading to intensified efforts by law enforcement. With one accused shot dead and two others in custody, the investigation is progressing swiftly under the supervision of senior officers.
Kochi, Aug 7 (IANS) With coconut and coconut oil prices touching record highs in Kerala ahead of Onam, a reported coconut oil theft from a grocery shop near Kochi has drawn public attention.
Madness of religious extremism: Baloch leader condemns Munir’s nuke threat to India
Washington, Aug 13 (IANS)
Tara Chand, President of Baloch American Congress, on Wednesday slammed Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir for making nuclear threats, calling him a "fake Field Marshal" and an "enemy" of humanity.
This comes as Munir, during his US visit over the weekend, warned that Pakistan will never allow India to choke the Indus River and will defend its water rights at all costs, even if the forces will have to destroy any dam that India
seeks to build on it.
Chand, also a former Cabinet Minister in the Government of Balochistan, took to X and posted, "Pakistan's fake Field Marshal, General Asim Munir, who has threatened in America to destroy India and the world with his nuclear bombs, should be ashamed of himself. He is the number one enemy of humanity, driven by the madness of religious extremism under the banner of Islam. He seeks to destroy the world along with India."
Flagging it as a wake-up call, the US-based Baloch leader called on the world leaders to take back all of Pakistan's nuclear weapons and impose economic, political, and international sanctions on the country.
Raising concern, Chand stated that before "religiouslymotivated" Pakistan and its leadership can act on their destructive ambitions, their nuclear weapons have to be removed in order to prevent the rogue state from bringing harm to the world.
Munir, the Pakistani media reported on Monday, visited two US cities over the weekend and flew to Belgium on Sunday after completing his second highprofile trip to the United States in less than two months.
Earlier in May, Chand wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and lauded India's decision to hold the Indus Water Treaty in abeyance. He also urged New Delhi to provide support to the "free Balochistan" movement.
Western media reluctant to acknowledge India’s military sophistication during Op Sindoor: Report
London, Aug 13 (IANS) The western media's reluctance to clearly report India's superior performance during Operation Sindoor showcases a broader tendency in its journalism to avoid acknowledging India's increasing military sophistication,
a leading British publication cited on Wednesday.
In response to the heinous April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack, India had launched its decisive Operation Sindoor on May 7, targetting terror bases in Pakistan in one of the most comprehensive military actions since the 1971 war.
Satellite imagery and independent analysis by several analysts confirmed the extensive damage inflicted on Pakistani terror and defence infrastructure, demonstrating India’s enhanced precision strike capabilities and the conventional disparity in
operational effectiveness between the two nations.
However, despite satellite evidence showcasing India's operational success and Pakistan's limited response capabilities, Western media reporting has shown false equivalency, UK-based newspaper for British Asians, Asian Lite said in a report.
"Major media outlets consistently reported the conflict as a mutual exchange of hostilities and not admitting the wide difference in military effectiveness of two nations.
Bangladesh: 121 people killed, 5189 injured in 471 incidents of political violence since Yunus took over
Dhaka, Aug 4 (IANS) At least 121 people were killed and 5,189 were injured in 471 incidents of political violence in Bangladesh between August 2024 and June 2025 under the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government, a Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) report highlighted on Monday.
The report was released by TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman during a media event held at the TIB office in Dhaka's Dhanmondi. TIB Senior Research Fellows Shahzada Akram and Zulkarnain presented the report.
According to the report, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) was engaged in massive 92 per cent of the violence, while the radical Islamist party Jamaat-eIslami was involved in five per cent of the instances of violence,
and National Citizen Party (NCP) in one per cent.
"We have found the lack of respect for law among many of the political parties," Bangladesh’s leading newspaper 'The Daily Star' quoted Zulkarnain as saying.
Executive Director
Iftekharuzzaman said that the numerous reforms initiated by the interim government lack a clear roadmap for implementation, which has created trust deficit among the people and stakeholders at various times.
"We have found that some members of the very newlyformed political party, the interim government and the political parties were involved in corruption, and instances of conflict of interest," he added.
TIB has expressed concern that the constitutional and legal implementation of reforms outlined in the July Charter remains uncertain despite political consensus on certain reform proposals.
It further added that significant differences persisted among major political parties regarding
India, Singapore cement ties amid global uncertainties
New Delhi, Aug 13 (IANS) The India-Singapore relationship is evolving into a deepening partnership, in which New Delhi is re-crafting its diplomacy to serve a clear economic and strategic purpose in today’s uncertain world.
In the time of fragile supply chains, volatile trade policies, and climate challenges, India is focusing on strengthening its foreign economic policy with trusted, capable, and strategically placed partners—and Singapore is central to this strategy, according to an article in India Narrative.
The Third India–Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) being held here is poised to add fresh momentum. The gathering will bring together Indian ministers Dr S. Jaishankar, Nirmala Sitharaman, Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Piyush Goyal with a high-level Singaporean delegation led by Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong and Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan. This unique forum, launched in
2022, is designed to chart the next phase of cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership—identifying concrete avenues to broaden and deepen bilateral ties.
India and Singapore are actively working together on semiconductors, green infrastructure, digital integration, advanced manufacturing, healthcare innovation, and maritime connectivity. The relationship deepened in 2024 with the launch of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. For India, embedding itself with Singapore’s logistics chains and financial networks means connecting to a global value chain with fewer operational and political risks. By working together, the two countries can create a credible alternative to existing chipmaking hubs, making the supply chain more secure and resilient, to making India a key player in critical technology.
The Semiconductor Ecosystem Partnership perhaps clearly shows this intent.
Singapore’s balanced foreign relations approach makes it particularly valuable for India’s rebalancing strategy. It has closer trade ties with China, yet actively works with other partners on security and technology.
Myth vs reality: India is not a ‘tariff king’ at all as labelled by Trump
fundamental reforms in the Charter.
The report further highlighted that freedom of information and expression still face restrictions in Bangladesh.
It also observed that over the past year, religion-based political influence has grown significantly in the country.
The report highlighted that in many instances, violence and coercion against women and religious minorities in Bangladesh contradicted the values of inclusiveness and nondiscrimination.
Bangladesh has been gripped with numerous unprovoked and violent attacks against journalists, police officers, minorities, and those connected with the Awami League party after the Yunus-led interim government assumed power last year.
There are allegations of killings, arbitrary imprisonment on false criminal charges, particularly of journalists, unchecked mob violence, and incitement of religious violence, such as attacks on Bangladeshi Hindus and the destruction of Hindu temples.
New Delhi, Aug 5 (ANS) While US President Donald Trump has labelled India as a "tariff king", the claim doesn't hold up against actual trade data and global comparisons with other nations.
While India's simple average tariff is approximately 15.98 per cent, the trade-weighted average, which better reflects the duties actually applied on traded goods, is only 4.6 per cent, as per World Bank data, much lower than what is commonly believed.
Trade-weighted average tariffs measure the actual duties paid based on trade volume.
This means that most of India's high tariffs apply to sectors with low import volumes, such as agriculture or automobiles. In contrast, the bulk of US exports to India - pharmaceuticals, energy products, machinery, and chemicals - face much lower duties, typically 5-8 per cent, as per official data.
A significant portion of India's imports enter duty-free, thanks to various schemes like Special Economic Zones (SEZs), ExportOriented Units (EOUs), and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
In FY 2023-24, India imported over $42.2 billion worth of goods from the US. Nearly 75 per cent of this trade came from only 100 key product categories, and most of these faced low or minimal tariffs. For example, for crude oil and LNG, the import duty of Rs. 1.1 per tonne and 2.75 per cent accounts for 18.25 per cent of US imports to India.
In industrial machinery, a tariff of 7.5 per cent makes up 9.75 per cent of imports.
Coal, with a 5 per cent duty, contributes 8.8 per cent of imports, and medical equipment has duties between 5 per cent and 7.5 per cent, with a 4.6 per cent import share.
Aircraft and parts carry a low tariff of 2.5 per cent, constituting 3 per cent of total imports and fertilisers with a tariff ranging from 7.5 per cent to 10 per cent make up 1 per cent of imports, as per official data.
Temper rhetoric, any misadventure will have painful consequences: India warns Pakistan
New Delhi, Aug 14 (IANS) India on Thursday slammed Pakistan over its continuous "reckless, war-mongering and hateful comments" against New Delhi, terming it a "well-known modus operandi" of Pakistani leadership to whip up "anti-India" rhetoric to hide its own failures.
While addressing a weekly media briefing on Thursday, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also warned Pakistan of "painful consequences" in case it engages in any misadventure.
"We have seen several statements. We have seen reports regarding a continuing pattern of reckless, war-mongering and hateful comments from Pakistani leadership against India. It is well-known modus operandi of the Pakistani leadership to whip up anti-India rhetoric time and again to hide their own failures. Pakistan would be welladvised to temper its rhetoric, as any misadventure will have painful consequences, as was demonstrated recently," said Jaiswal in response to a question on the recent controversial statements made by Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir.
The MEA's strong response came after Munir during his recent visit to the United States warned that Pakistan will never allow India
to choke the Indus River and will defend its water rights at all costs even if its forces will have to destroy any dam that India sought to build on it.
"We will wait for India to build a dam, and when they do so, we will destroy it ... The Indus River is not the Indians' family property. We have no shortage of resources to undo the Indian designs to stop the river," Munir was quoted as saying by leading Pakistani daily Dawn at an event organised by members of the PakistaniAmerican community in Tampa, Florida, last week.
India, which has already made it clear that it will not give in to nuclear blackmail, had earlier reacted strongly to the comments made by Munir.
Three dead, over 60 injured during aerial firing on Pak’s I-Day celebrations
Karachi, Aug 14 (IANS) Three people, including a senior citizen and an eight-year-old girl, lost their lives during Independence Day celebrations in Pakistan's Karachi due to "reckless" aerial firing, while more than 60 others sustained gunshot injuries, according to local media reports. The incidents occurred in different parts of the city. In Azizabad Block-8, an eight-year-
old girl was struck by a stray bullet and died before she could be taken to the hospital, reports Dunya News.
In Korangi, a man identified as Stephen was killed by a stray bullet while on his way somewhere.
Another death linked to jubilation firing was reported from a separate area.
According to rescue sources, as the clock struck midnight, the city erupted with gunfire and fireworks, resulting in dozens of injuries. At least 64 people suffered gunshot wounds and were admitted to various private and government hospitals, with several in critical condition, Geo
News reported, citing rescue officials.
The reports suggest that the authorities strongly condemned the practice of celebratory firing, calling it dangerous and irresponsible, and appealed to citizens to observe Independence Day in safer ways.
Police launched operations across the city, arresting 20 suspects and seizing weapons and ammunition. Authorities have allegedly confirmed that incidents of gunfire in the air were noted in various areas of Pakistan, including Liaquatabad, Baldia, Korangi, Keamari, Lyari, Akhtar Colony, Mehmoodabad, Jackson, Orangi Town, and Paposh Nagar.
France battles wildfire larger than Paris; one dead as blaze spreads rapidly
Paris, Aug 7 (IANS) France is grappling with its largest wildfire in years, which erupted in the southern Mediterranean region near Spain, killing one person and injuring several others as it continues to spread rapidly.
Authorities confirmed the blaze began Tuesday in the village of Ribaute, located in the Aude department, and has since consumed over 16,000 hectares of vegetation -- an area larger than the city of Paris, according to local media reports. The inferno, described by officials
as "active and dangerous," has prompted the deployment of over 2,100 firefighters, supported by 500 fire trucks, military personnel, and water-bombing aircraft.
The emergency response teams are racing to contain the fastmoving flames, fueled by intense heat, dry conditions, and strong winds.
French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou, who visited the disaster site on Wednesday, called the wildfire a "disaster of unprecedented scale."
He said during a press briefing that the fire may have been sparked by roadside activities, although no further specifics were provided.
Bayrou also highlighted broader environmental concerns, stating, "Global warming and drought could have also contributed to the scale of the wildfire."
His remarks underscore the rising frequency and intensity of
Trump, Putin sound notes of optimism as they prepare for summit on Ukraine
New York, Aug 15 (IANS)
Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin sounded notes of optimism as they prepared to meet Friday in an effort to end the disastrous Ukraine War, which, if successful, could in turn stave off the punitive 25 per cent US tariff India is facing for importing Russian oil.
“I believe now he (Putin) is convinced that he’s going to make a deal”, President Trump said during a Fox Radio interview on Thursday. “He’s going to make a deal”.
Briefing his advisers at the Kremlin, President Putin said President Trump has been making "fairly vigorous and sincere efforts to halt hostilities, resolve the crisis, and reach agreements that serve the interests of all parties involved in this conflict.”
If a peace deal is reached through the summit, India may be able to avoid the oil tariff threatened to be imposed on August 27.
However, the other principal personality who will have to agree to any deal, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky, will not be at the summit in a US military base in Alaska.
He was in London meeting Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and they said in a joint statement that the Trump-Putin talks “present a viable chance to make progress as long as Putin takes action to prove he is serious about peace”.
While preparations for the Trump-Putin summit were underway, Zelensky called Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday to brief him on the developments, and, according to the President's office, they agreed that “everything concerning Ukraine must be decided with Ukraine’s participation. Other formats will not yield results”. President Trump made clear that it was for Presidents Zelensky and Putin to make the final deal.
President Trump said his talks with President Putin were to “set the table for the next meeting”, which will include President Zelensky, and he indicated it could perhaps be in Alaska itself. He told reporters at the White House, “The more important meeting will be the second meeting that we’re having. We’re going to have a meeting with President Putin, President Zelensky, myself, and maybe we’ll bring some of the European leaders along, maybe not.”
After a videoconference on Wednesday with the Western European leaders, who make up the 'Coalition of the Willing', and were skeptical of his efforts, Trump got a tentative go-ahead from them.
Ghanaian ministers among 8 killed in helicopter crash
wildfires across Europe, which scientists link to climate change.
Tragically, an elderly woman lost her life in her home in the village of Saint-Laurent-de-laCabrerisse, marking the first confirmed fatality of the disaster. Multiple others have sustained injuries, although official figures on the total number of injured were not immediately released.
According to local media outlet BFMTV, directors of the ongoing rescue operation said the wildfire has travelled 28 kilometres from its original ignition point and is spreading at an alarming rate of 5 to 6 kilometres per hour.
As emergency efforts intensify, authorities continue to warn residents to stay alert. Evacuations are underway in high-risk areas.
The situation remains fluid, and officials are bracing for the possibility that worsening weather could hinder firefighting efforts in the coming days.
Madrid, Aug 7 (IANS) The Ghanaian government has confirmed that eight people, including two senior ministers, were killed in a military helicopter crash.
Minister of Defence Edward Kofi Omane Boamah and Minister of Environment, Science, Technology, and Innovation Murtala Muhammed were killed in the crash on Wednesday (local time), Julius Debrah, chief of staff
at the Presidency, announced at a press briefing.
"I have the unpleasant duty to announce a national tragedy involving the crash of a military helicopter this morning around the Adansi area in the Ashanti Region," Debrah said.
Other victims include Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed Limuna, National Vice Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress, Samuel Sarpong, and Samuel Aboagye, a former parliamentary candidate, reports Xinhua news agency.
Three crew members onboard, namely Peter Bafemi Anala, Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Ernest Addo Mensah, were also confirmed deceased.
"The president and government extend our condolences and sympathies to the families of our comrades and servicemen who died in service to the country," Debrah added.
Indian diplomat commends Australian professor for promotion of Hindi language
Melbourne, Aug 7 (IANS) Consul
General of India in Melbourne
Sushil Kumar met Australian National University's former professor Peter Friedlander on Thursday and gave him the reward money for his article in a quarterly magazine, 'Gagananchal Visheshank', which is published by the Indian Council for Cultural Research (ICCR).
During the meeting, Sushil Kumar praised Peter Friedlander for his efforts to promote Hindi language in Australia. Consulate General of India in Melbourne also shared Friedlander's article
in a post on X. "Consul General met Peter Friedlander, former Prof. of Australian National University and handed over him the reward money for his article in “Gagananchal Visheshank” a quarterly magazine published by Indian Council for Cultural Research (ICCR). He commended him for his efforts to promote Hindi language in Australia.
Prof. Friedlander presented a book “The Songs of Daya Bai” translated in English to Consul General," Consulate General of India in Melbourne posted on X. In his article, Friedlander discussed the growing use of Hindi language in Australia. According to him, Hindi education is now available in every state of Australia, such as through 'community schools' in New South Wales like IABBV and VSL in Victoria. He mentioned that Hindi programs are broadcast on SBS, on all three mediums like TV, radio and internet. He also stated that there
are many community internet radio services, like Canberra city's Radio Manpasand.
The India-Australia bilateral relationship is underpinned by shared values of a pluralistic, Westminster-style democracies, Commonwealth traditions, expanding economic engagement and increasing high level interaction. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in recent years, ties between India and Australia have charted a whole new trajectory of transformational growth.
Bilateral cooperation has witnessed exponential growth in existing frameworks of cooperation and further expanded across a wide spectrum of new areas opening up new possibilities, both at bilateral as well as global level. Australia and India upgraded bilateral relationship from ‘Strategic Partnership’ to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) in 2020.
Australian govt to fast-track assessment of toxic algae outbreak on marine species
Canberra, Aug 13 (IANS)
The Australian government announced on Wednesday it will fast-track an assessment to determine if any flora and fauna affected by a toxic algal bloom off the country's south coast should be added to the threatened species list.
Murray Watt, Australia's Minister for the Environment and Water, said during a visit to South Australia (SA) on Wednesday that he will expedite an expert assessment of the impact of the toxic algal on marine life.
Since it was first detected off the coast of SA in March, the outbreak of the toxic algae Karenia
mikimotoi has caused the deaths of thousands of marine creatures, including sharks, octopuses and penguins, across 500 kilometres of coastline.
Watt said in a statement on Wednesday that the outbreak has had a "devastating impact" on more than 400 species.
He said that he has written to the chair of the Threatened Species Scientific Committee (TSSC), which advises the government on updating the threatened species list, to urgently investigate whether any species need to be added to the list as a result of the algal outbreak.
Once a species is officially listed as threatened, it can have a legally-binding recovery plan developed and adopted until it is removed from the list, Xinhua news agency reported.
"We can leave no stone unturned to understand the impact of this on local marine life, so we can
begin investing in the appropriate strategies to bring these important animals back to healthy numbers," Watt said.
Authorities from the SA National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) on Wednesday morning removed a dead dolphin that had washed up on Henley Beach in the western suburbs of the state capital of Adelaide.
The NPWS said that a necropsy would be undertaken to investigate the cause of death but that marine mammals are not believed to be at "immediate risk" from the algal bloom.
According to the SA Department of Environment and Water, possible contributing factors to the bloom include a marine heatwave and extra nutrients being washed into the sea by flooding. The department says that no human intervention can be made to dilute or dissipate the algae.
Australia: Police firearm discharged at Sydney Airport during arrest
(AFP) confirmed that officers arrested a man in the T2 domestic terminal at the airport on Wednesday morning after a police firearm was discharged.
An AFP statement said that an investigation into the incident has commenced and that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
The man was being detained by AFP officers in a struggle when the gun was fired, reports Xinhua news agency, quoting the Australian Broadcasting
Man in critical condition following shooting in Australia
Sydney, Aug 10 (IANS) A man has been airlifted to hospital in a critical condition following a shooting in eastern Australia, police in Australia's state of New South Wales (NSW) said in a statement on Sunday.
The emergency services were called to reports of a shooting at a home in the small town of Nana Glen, about 440 kilometres northeast of Sydney, around 8:30 p.m. local time on Saturday. Officers arrived and were told that a 22-year-old man was shot in the chest by a man known to him following an argument, Xinhua news agency reported.
The victim was treated at the scene by ambulance paramedics before being airlifted to the hospital, where he was in a critical but stable condition on Sunday morning after undergoing
surgery.
About 30 minutes after the shooting, officers stopped an SUV in the nearby city of Coffs Harbour and arrested a 20-yearold man. A rifle was seized during a subsequent search of the vehicle.
The 20-year-old was taken to a local police station and charged with six offenses, including shooting with intent to murder as an act of domestic violence and possessing and using an unauthorised firearm.
NSW Police established a strike force to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
In a similar incident on July 31, a man was fatally shot in a suspected targeted attack in the northern suburbs of Melbourne in Australia's state of Victoria. Police in the state of Victoria said that the 21-year-old male victim was approached and shot by an unknown man in a laneway behind a home in Wollert, about 24 km north of central Melbourne, shortly before 9 am local time.
Glacier melt, rainfall trigger seasonal small quakes in New Zealand’s alpine region
Canberra, Aug 7 (IANS) New research led by Australian scientists shows small earthquakes in New Zealand's central Southern Alps are more frequent in spring and summer due to underground water changes from glacier melt and rainfall.
to the Alpine Fault, the South Island's main seismic hazard, Xinhua news agency reported. It found that shallow earthquakes occurring at depths between 3 to 6 kilometres were most common after heavy rainfall, particularly near the terminals of glaciers such as the Murchison Glacier in New Zealand's South Island.
ANU researchers, working with teams from New Zealand and Switzerland, found that many earthquakes occurred within hours or a day after heavy rainfall, a pattern also seen in regions like the European Alps.
Corporation.
Sydney Airport said in a statement that there were no reported injuries and that it was assisting the AFP. "The airport is operating normally," it said.
The AFP said that further information about the incident will be provided at an appropriate time.
Meanwhile, a man has been charged over a stabbing attack during a dispute with neighbours northeast of Sydney.
These microearthquakes, usually too weak to be felt, increase in frequency as meltwater from glaciers and seasonal snow infiltrates the "highly fragmented" mountain bedrock, raising groundwater levels and fluid pressure in the Earth's upper crust, according to a statement released Thursday by the Australian National University (ANU).
"Our findings highlight the role of extreme rainfall and glacier dynamics in triggering shallow earthquakes and could provide scientists with a better understanding of the potential drivers of seismic activity in other alpine regions around the world," said ANU's Konstantinos Michailos, the study's lead author.
The study focused on New Zealand's central Southern Alps, a tectonically active area adjacent
Climate change has caused the central Southern Alps' glaciers to shrink in recent decades, and this glacial loss, along with seasonal snow changes, can shift crustal stress beyond tectonic forces alone, according to the findings detailed in the journal Geochemistry, Geophysics, Geosystems, published by the American Geophysical Union.
Researchers analysed over 8,000 microearthquakes recorded between 2009 and 2020 using an array of seismometers, focusing on the Murchison, Tasman, Franz Josef, and Fox glaciers
The team will install additional seismometres, rainfall gauges, and temperature sensors in October to complement existing equipment and improve monitoring of earthquakes and other natural hazards like landslides, avalanches, and rockfalls.
Sydney, Aug 13 (IANS) Sydney Airport in Australia was partially locked down on Wednesday morning after a police officer's firearm was discharged in the course of an arrest.
The Australian Federal Police
From the editor’s desk Guardians of collective trust
Rising
with the world, leading for humanity
India is at a pivotal point in its history as it celebrates its 79th Independence Day on August 15, 2025. India's journey, from the hardships of its early years to its current standing as one of the most powerful nations in the world, is a testament to tenacity, inventiveness, and a vision that transcends national boundaries. More than just a celebration of India's independence from colonial rule, this year's event honours the country's rise to prominence as a powerful economic, military, and cultural force, grounded in the inclusive philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, which holds that all people are members of one family.
Over the last ten years, India's economy has grown quickly and steadily. The nation is on track to become the thirdlargest economy in the world in the coming years, as its GDP growth has consistently positioned it among the major economies with the fastest rates of growth. The economy's diversity of strengths tells the story more so than its size. India has established itself as a global centre of ideas and business, from its innovative breakthroughs in information technology and pharmaceuticals to its increasing dominance in green energy, space exploration, and start-up innovation. This economic might translates into influence, but not in a controlling way, but rather in the capacity to provide answers for the world's problems.
India has made consistent efforts to modernise its military in order to preserve regional stability and protect its sovereignty, not to project aggression. Its current capabilities include blue-water naval power, domestic fighter aircraft, sophisticated missile systems, and cyber defence infrastructure. Recognising its role as a security provider in a geopolitical environment that is becoming more unpredictable, India has emerged as a major partner in a number of security frameworks, including the Indian Ocean Rim Association and the Quad. Its defence diplomacy emphasises striking a balance between force and moderation, which is consistent with the idea that real leadership is about deterrence rather than dominance.
India has a profound and
extensive cultural influence. Few countries can match the soft power reflected in the global acceptance of yoga, Ayurveda, Indian literature, cinema, and food. India's diaspora continues to influence politics and business globally, its artists and intellectuals enhance the cultural fabric of innumerable societies, and its universities are rising in international rankings. India's pluralistic, diverse, and adaptable cultural ethos provides a counterpoint that celebrates unity in diversity in a time when divisions all too frequently define global narratives.
Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam's tenet has never been more pertinent. India's vision of international cooperation over competition strikes a powerful chord in a world beset by political rivalries, economic inequality, climate change, and the decline of trust in international institutions. It serves as a reminder that there need not be a conflict between the interests of the nation and the world. From its leadership in disaster relief and climate action to its involvement in peacekeeping missions and vaccine distribution during the pandemic, this philosophy serves as the foundation for India's diplomatic efforts. However, the road ahead calls for more than prior successes. India must keep fortifying the pillars that have supported it thus far if it is to genuinely become the Vishwa Guru, a teacher to the world. India's democratic and cultural values must be preserved at the same time. India's role as the largest democracy in the world is crucial in a century when democracy faces internal and external challenges. India at 79 is a tale of responsibility as well as change. The responsibility to create a nation deserving of its sacrifices accompanied the hard-won freedom in 1947. This obligation now extends to the international arena. A powerful India that is assured of its economic, military, and cultural might can lead by example rather than by force, demonstrating that power is best used to inspire others, that prosperity is shared when it is inclusive, and that cultural pride is increased when it welcomes rather than excludes.
On August 12, 2025, a quiet convergence took place in New Delhi that merited more attention than it might initially seem. The seventh round of India and Australia's dialogue on export control, non-proliferation, and disarmament was held. The event, which was organised by India's Ministry of External Affairs, brought together Ambassador Vanessa Wood from Australia and Joint Secretary Muanpuii Saiawi from India. Their conversations covered a remarkably wide range of topics, including conventional weapons, nonproliferation strategies, outerspace security, nuclear, chemical, and biological disarmament, artificial intelligence in military applications, and the operations of multilateral export-control regimes. This talk serves a very important purpose in the backdrop of a highly volatile international scenario. It was incumbent upon both vibrant democracies of the world to come together and discuss issues of bilateral interest as well as of international importance.
On the surface, the meeting looked like any of the many diplomatic gatherings. However, a deeper examination reveals something more interesting. Today's world is full of rapidly increasing vulnerabilities, not only in conventional conflict zones but also in cyberspace, space, and algorithmic frameworks that make decisions in a split second. Discussions that focus on intentional restraint rather than escalation in such a fluid environment— two democracies prioritise governance over conflict—quietly demonstrate a type of strategic wisdom with genuine enduring power.
This conversation is significant because it exemplifies pluralistic democratic diplomacy. Although Australia and India are not exact replicas of one another, both cultures benefit from diversity, thoughtful discussion, and collaborative decision-making. The world badly needs a display of democratic maturity, and aligning on principles while maintaining the ability to disagree where it is necessary in the interest of respective countries.
The thematic variety of this round was what set it apart. The discussion embraced nuclear issues alongside technological and regulatory challenges rather than separating them. The decision to frame mishandled satellites, AI-enabled weapons, or unchecked dual-use technologies in a single conversation is motivated by the realisation that they pose immediate threats. The idea that the biggest security flaws frequently appear at intersections rather than in discrete compartments is reinforced by this thematic integration. What made this round unique
was its thematic variety. Instead of separating nuclear issues from technological and regulatory challenges, the conversation embraced them. Realising that mishandled satellites, AI-enabled weapons, or unchecked dual-use technologies pose immediate threats is what drives the decision to frame these topics in a single conversation. This thematic integration reinforces the notion that the largest security vulnerabilities often occur at intersections rather than in discrete compartments.
The credibility of strategic alliances in democracies depends on public trust. People look to their governments to show that security is about more than just having power; it's also about being cautious, being clear, and reaching an agreement. Restraint builds a foundation of trust that fortifies bilateral ties when it is ingrained in governance and policy.
Remarkably, the leadership of the Australian Army travelled to India at the same time as the discussion. This parallel exchange enhanced rather than diminished the importance of the conversation. The connection between structured dialogue and defence cooperation suggests a multi-layered strategy that combines shared frameworks with a handshake and a message. This round has real potential despite the delicate nature of diplomacy. It might open the door for collaborative frameworks on responsible AI in defence, guaranteeing that people continue to play a key role in important decision-making processes. Cooperation in space safety, including procedures for collision avoidance, debris alerts, and orbital manoeuvre transparency, could result from it. There may be a simplified digital licensing process for research and scientific cooperation. Additionally, crisis simulation exercises addressing AI misfires or export-control violations and shared mechanisms to monitor sensitive supply chains could be implemented. These tangible actions convert understanding between parties into long-lasting trust structures.
These changes show that proactive governance is replacing reactive policy. Since preparation becomes policy and trust is established through intent rather than urgency, these systems wouldn't need to be activated by an urgent incident.
There is a human story behind the policy landscapes. Procedural friction frequently hinders innovation for academics, entrepreneurs, and diaspora communities, particularly Indian Australians and Australian Indians. More than just making access easier, clear, consistent regulation honours common heritage, encourages ambition, and keeps creative energy
alive. Equally crucial, inclusive policymaking aids in foreseeing unforeseen outcomes, such as how regulations in one area may unintentionally affect connectivity initiatives or lifesaving research. Consistency is also important. True strategic depth frequently emerges from casual conversations and small relationships, whereas diplomacy frequently leans towards large gestures and public declarations. Habit, not spectacle, creates longlasting systems.
It is important that this discussion be branded as a component of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Australia and India. It represents institutional purpose rather than fleeting aesthetics. It suggests that this discussion is viewed as foundational rather than performative in both countries. There are still many issues, such as divergent philosophical perspectives on export control, the sluggish development of international norms, and strategic sensitivities in broader power dynamics, but this is exactly why ongoing, iterative discussion is important. A platform should be commended for its tenacity if it has remained active despite pandemics, changes in leadership, and shifting geopolitical tides. Rekindled ambition and a greater sense of shared ownership are signs of momentum. This round seemed more willing to address overlapping domains, more focused, and more expansive in scope. Infrastructure of understanding, not folders of statements, is what is desperately needed in the Indo-Pacific. If treaties were valued in the 20th century, then interoperable ethics, action-verified standards, and governance structures that take into account technological realities must be valued in the 21st.
This method is neither abstract nor naive. It's essential. When two diverse and innovative democracies pledge to exercise restraint, the impact extends beyond their bilateral relationship and serves as a template for other countries enmeshed in mistrust. Disciplined, valuesbased collaboration provides an exceptional counterpoint to a world racing towards blind technological momentum. The quiet but profound message of this round of discussions between Australia and India is that restraint can become architecture when it is consistently applied in the appropriate contexts. Such architecture provides the most lasting hope during a time when brinkmanship frequently makes headlines.
Pakistan’s real power centre: Asim Munir’s military rule in civilians’ clothing
Islamabad: As Field Marshal Asim Munir wrapped up yet another high-profile visit to China, Pakistan's indispensable "iron brother", it carries an explicit message for both domestic and external audiences that Pakistan's top General is not just the Chief of Army Staff. He is the country's de facto head of state, foreign minister, and economic strategist rolled into one uniformed figure.
From Beijing to Washington, Asim Munir has emerged as Pakistan's most visible face on the international stage. In a telling departure from past norms, where foreign policy and diplomacy were handled by civilian leaders, Munir now routinely engages heads of state and top ministers of the world's major powers.
In June, he was received in Washington with a protocol typically reserved for Presidents, wherein he was hosted for a formal luncheon by US President Donald Trump. His July 25 visit to Beijing was similarly instructive. He met with China’s Vice President Han Zheng, Foreign Minister Wang Yi, and the top brass of the People’s Liberation Army, covering everything from regional security to the future of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), as per the statement issued by Pakistan Army’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
This outreach to Washington
and Beijing, Pakistan's most significant external "allies", seems to have effectively supplanted the civilian government of Shehbaz Sharif in both style and substance. In both capitals, Munir is treated as the true interlocutor, highlighting how far Pakistan’s military has overreached into domains traditionally managed by elected representatives.
Asim Munir's aggressive diplomacy abroad is only one facet of a broader power consolidation at home that has pushed Pakistan into what can only be described as a militaryled "hybrid authoritarianism".
Behind the civilian façade, the military establishment has pulled all institutional levers to dominate the judiciary, the economy, and the legislative process.
A glaring example is the military's grabbing of vast tracts of agricultural land in Punjab and Sindh under the guise of "national development" in 2023. Under Munir’s watch, thousands of acres of government land have been allotted to serving and retired officers for agricultural purposes, all in the name of so-called food security of the country. This wholesale land grab, facilitated by pliant bureaucracies and rubberstamp judicial processes, is in addition to over 12 million acres of land already in the possession of armed forces.
Meanwhile, the economic crisis that grips Pakistan has not spared the foreign exchange reserves, yet the military’s own financial apparatus remains untouched. The military-run business conglomerates, run under Fauji Foundation, Shaheen Foundation, Bahria Foundation and Army Welfare Trust (AWT),
continue to thrive tax-free and without government oversight. At the same time, there has been a steep rise in the government defence budgetary allocations, with a 20 per cent hike in 2025, as announced in June. This has come even as social sectors like health and education face severe cuts in their annual allocations, all in the name of austerity.
All of this is made possible by legal tweaks and constitutional manipulation. Laws such as Pakistan Army Act and the Official Secrets Act have been weaponized through amendments to stifle dissent. This has allowed the government to try hundreds of civilians, including opposition activists and journalists, by military courts in the aftermath of May 9, 2023, violent antigovernment protests.
Moreover, Asim Munir has furthered the strategic parachuting of military officers in civilian institutions like Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) and National Database and Registration Agency (NADRA), among dozens of others. Such encroachment in civilian affairs ensures that the military establishment influences every lever of the country’s governance structure. This increasing opacity and unchecked power have realworld consequences.
Perhaps the most damning indictment of Asim Munir’s tenure is not just the scope of his ambition, it is the cost at which it has come. Munir may go down in history as the army chief who has lost hundreds of soldiers to insurgent attacks in merely two years of his tenure. From Balochistan to the tribal hinterland of Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistani troops have come under relentless assault from a rejuvenated insurgency, especially by groups like Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
In June, over a dozen soldiers were killed in a single attack in North Waziristan, with TTP claiming responsibility. The environment in Pakistan has been made such that no one dares to raise the questions over why the army was caught so off guard as the answer lies in the misplaced priorities of its leadership. As such, intelligence failures and overstretched resources diverted toward political engineering have left national security more and more vulnerable.
Munir’s focus has clearly shifted from commanding the army to controlling the country. His preoccupation with political micromanagement, from managing elections, orchestrating defections, and installing compliant judges, has allowed militant groups to regroup and strike with impunity.
The consequences of this military overreach are not abstract. Pakistan today finds itself mired in economic stagnation, political instability, and social repression. The elected government of Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) serves little purpose beyond legitimizing decisions made in Rawalpindi. Even the civilian cabinet has admitted, as evidenced by Defence Minister Khwaja Asif’s recent statements, that policy decisions are taken in consultation with the military establishment.
This is not new in Pakistan,
where the military has always been a shadow power. But under Asim Munir, the shadow has become the spotlight. Unlike his predecessors like General Qamar Bajwa, who preferred to rule from behind the scenes, Field Marshal Munir appears unashamed of his centrality. He has no qualms about attending investment conferences, briefing envoys, or commenting on fiscal policy, which are all duties that fall well outside the remit of a military officer.
This overt control is compounded by an ecosystem of surveillance, censorship, and intimidation. Herein media channels have been taken off air for airing dissenting views, with scores of journalists arrested or forced into exile in the last two years.
Asim Munir’s Pakistan is one where the constitution is interpreted through camouflage, where democracy is performed but not practiced, and where the price of questioning the army is, quite literally, one’s freedom. The military establishment’s institutional interests have expanded from national defense to national domination, and Munir is their most visible symbol. The erosion of civil institutions, the suppression of dissent, and the neglect of core military duties are not just signs of overreach, but that of a rot. And as Pakistan’s soldiers continue to fall in the country’s hinterlands of Balochistan and KPK while their chief chases diplomatic photo-ops, the question must be asked: Who really rules Pakistan? And, for how long can a country survive when its Generals stop guarding the borders and start governing the state?
FairPoint: Why Rahul Gandhi’s desperation weakens his credibility
New Delhi, Aug 10 (IANS) When Congress leader Rahul Gandhi 'exposed' anomalies in the voter list of Karnataka's Mahadevapura Assembly constituency, it was hailed by his party and allies as a move that exposed the BJP and its victories at the Centre and in states.
Yet, the same Congress and its allies have been opposing the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar -- an exercise by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to clean the electoral rolls. Such contradictory postures raise uncomfortable questions about the intent behind this "expose politics".
The SIR in Bihar was undertaken to rectify errors and update the electoral roll. According to the ECI, 65 lakh voters have been removed from the draft electoral
rolls published on August 1. These include 22 lakh deceased, 36 lakh who have either permanently relocated or could not be traced, and seven lakh voters who were registered at multiple locations.
If the ECI is taking action to cleanse and rectify the electoral rolls, why are the Congress and the rest of the Opposition opposing the SIR?
Since the beginning of the Parliament's Monsoon Session on July 21, the Congress-led Opposition has stalled daily proceedings. Apart from the debate on Operation Sindoor, the session has seen only uproar and no meaningful work. Several important bills remain pending, and no discussions are taking place. The scene in Parliament has been reduced to sloganeering, placard-waving, storming the Well of the House, stomping on tables, and shouting down those who try to speak.
If the SIR is wrong, how can a Constitutional body like the ECI fulfil its duty of cleansing the
electoral roll? And if the ECI is unable to carry out the exercise properly, then why would Rahul Gandhi raise such issues in a press conference in the first place?
Rahul Gandhi's August 7 press conference at the Congress headquarters in Delhi was not entirely misplaced -- anomalies do need to be highlighted and corrected. He showed on screen bizarre entries from Mahadevapura, such as "dfojgaidf" as a father's name, "0" as a house number, and multiple entries for a single address. Similar concerns have been raised by other parties, including the BJP, which has flagged instances of fake or illegal voters in West Bengal, where Bangladeshi nationals have allegedly participated in Indian elections.
However, to disparage an entire election simply because the results favoured the PM Modi-led NDA over the Rahul Gandhi-led INDIA bloc is akin to insulting voters. Gandhi has repeatedly
used terms like "stealing voters." Why not raise the same questions about past elections, before EVMs, when some of his political allies were accused of largescale poll rigging and booth capturing? Why not question the West Bengal elections, where the ruling Trinamool Congress has been accused of using violence to intimidate opponents and voters?
In 2021, the Supreme Court, while cancelling bail in a West Bengal election violence case, called it "a grave attack on the roots of democracy." The case involved four men accused of assaulting a BJP worker, vandalising his house, and forcibly undressing and molesting his wife on the day the election results were announced. Incidents like this highlight the severity of the issue. Why doesn't Rahul Gandhi take up such causes and fight political violence for the good of democracy?
Unfortunately, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha seems to be engaging in a style of activism reminiscent of AAP
founder Arvind Kejriwal, who remained in perpetual protest mode even while in government. Rahul Gandhi's politics over the last few years has become markedly more aggressive, often involving criticism of Constitutional bodies, the Armed Forces, and the Office of the Prime Minister.
The problem isn't ambition -it's desperation. Like the Eagles' classic song 'Desperado' (1973), Gandhi seems "out riding fences for so long now," grasping at every opportunity to undercut the government. Rahul Gandhi, during the August 7 press conference, while accusing the ruling party of "stealing" votes, somehow revealed his desperation to win and become the PM. And in this 'desperado' situation, he often takes extreme views during crucial moments for the country, like Operation Sindoor, when his statements seemed to favour Pakistan. Or now, as US President Donald Trump is playing tariff tricks with India.
Trump tariff actions ‘unfair, unjustified’, national interest top priority: India
New Delhi, Aug 6 (IANS) India on Wednesday reiterated that the latest tariff actions by US President Donald Trump are "unfair, unjustified and unreasonable".
Trump has signed an executive order imposing an additional 25 per cent tariff on imports from India, citing the country’s continued purchase of Russian oil.
"We reiterate that these actions are unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable. India will take all actions necessary to protect
its national interests," an MEA spokesperson said in a statement.
The United States has in recent days targeted India’s oil imports from Russia.
"We have already made clear our position on these issues, including the fact that our imports are based on market factors and done with the overall objective of ensuring the energy security of 1.4 billion people of India," the MEA spokesperson said.
"It is therefore extremely unfortunate that the US should choose to impose additional tariffs on India for actions that several other countries are also taking in their own national interest," said the official statement.
In the executive order, Trump said the decision is aimed at
strengthening measures taken under earlier sanctions against Russia following its actions in Ukraine.
The order states that India is directly or indirectly importing oil from Russia, which the US considers a threat to its national security and foreign policy.
"Accordingly, and as consistent with applicable law, articles of India imported into the customs territory of the United States shall be subject to an additional ad valorem rate of duty of 25 per cent," the order reads.
The new tariffs will be applied to all eligible Indian goods entering the US from 21 days after the order’s signing, except for shipments already in transit before the deadline and cleared before September 17.
US tariffs: India must seize this moment to become greater than ever, says Anand Mahindra
New Delhi, Aug 6 (IANS) Top industrialist Anand Mahindra on Wednesday said that we should be moved to make our own nation greater than ever in the wake of 50 per cent tariffs the US has imposed on the country, and India should seize this moment to shape a virtuous consequence for itself.
The "law of unintended consequences" seems to be operating stealthily in the prevailing tariff war unleashed by the US, according to the Mahindra
& Mahindra (M&M) Chairman.
"The EU may appear to have accepted the evolving global tariff regime, responding with its own strategic adjustments. Yet the friction has nudged Europe to rethink its security dependence, leading to higher defence spending in France and Germany.
In the process, Germany has moderated its fiscal orthodoxy, which may well catalyse a resurgence in Europe’s major economies. The world could gain a new engine for growth," he wrote on social media platform X.
In Canada, long hampered by notorious internal trade barriers between its provinces, steps are now being taken to dismantle them, bringing the country closer to a common market and enhancing economic resilience.
"Both these ‘unintended consequences’ could become long-term positives for global growth. Shouldn’t India too seize this moment to shape a virtuous
consequence for itself? Just as the 1991 forex reserves crisis triggered liberalisation, can today’s global ‘Manthan’ over tariffs yield some ‘Amrit’ for us?" asked Anand Mahindra. He said that India should radically improve the ease of doing business and must go beyond incremental reform and create a genuinely effective singlewindow clearance system for all investment proposals.
"While states control many investment regulations, we can begin with a coalition of willing states aligning with a national single-window platform. If we demonstrate speed, simplicity, and predictability, we can make India an irresistible destination for global capital in a world seeking trusted partners," the industrialist said.
Tourism is one of the most underexploited sources of foreign exchange and employment, he said.
Con Livissianis launches groundbreaking book “Innovate or Disintegrate” at prestigious AIB event
Australia India Business Pty Ltd (AIB) hosted an extraordinary event that brought together thought leaders, government officials, industry pioneers, and education leaders to celebrate the official launch of "Innovate or Disintegrate" — the latest book by Con Livissianis, Co-Founder and Chair of the AIB Board.
Held in Brisbane, the event marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing collaboration between Australia and India, particularly in the fields of education, innovation, agriculture, environment, sport, and healthcare. Con Livissianis, who brings over 50 years of management experience across major organisations, unveiled his timely book urging leaders and industries to embrace innovation in the face of rapid technological disruption. His work highlights critical trends in AI, cybersecurity, and digital transformation, reinforcing the importance of proactive adaptation to global shifts. Event highlights •The event began with a comprehensive presentation by Con Livissianis, where he also launched the Apprenticeship Exchange Program, a tri-nation initiative in collaboration with TAFE Queensland and the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI). The announcement of five Centres of Excellence — in Education, Agriculture, Sports (Olympics 2036), Environment, and Healthcare — was met with widespread acclaim.
• The audience was then treated to expert insights from Kim Russell on Agri-Tech and Soil Improvement, and from Councillor Vicki Howard, who spoke on behalf of Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.
• A lively and insightful panel discussion followed, featuring prominent voices including Paget Hargreaves (Queensland Semiconductor Initiative), Preethi Suraj (Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland), John Buchanan (former Australian Men’s Cricket Head Coach), and Viv Grayson (TAFE Queensland).
• A number of dignitaries delivered addresses throughout the program, including:
o His Excellency Gopal Baglay, High Commissioner of India to Australia
o Hon Shayne Neumann MP
o Senator Paul Scarr
o Ms Ridhi Verma, Resident Director of TPCI
o Hon Andrew Powell MP, on behalf of Premier Hon David Crisafulli MP
The event culminated with the official launch of the book "Innovate or Disintegrate", drawing an enthusiastic response from guests who praised the book's relevance in today’s everchanging global landscape.
In his closing remarks, Jim Varghese AM, Director of AIB, acknowledged the presence of federal and state representatives, business leaders, and community champions. Special mention was given to Ms Ridhi Verma (TPCI) and Professor Michael Drew (Jobs Queensland), among others.
With the presentation of the AIB leadership team and advisory members — including Jim and Sylvana Livissianis, Manu Hingorani, Kim Russell, and Nik Senapati — the event concluded on a high note, celebrating the strong foundation being laid for future Australia–India partnerships.
293 big infra projects worth Rs 13.59 lakh crore cleared under PM GatiShakti plan
New Delhi, Aug 5 (IANS) As many as 293 big infrastructure projects entailing an investment of Rs. 13.59 lakh crore have been evaluated so far for integrated planning, multimodality, whole of government approach and last-mile connectivity under the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan that was launched in 2021, the Parliament was informed on Tuesday. Minister of State for Commerce
and Industry Jitin Prasada said in a written reply in the Lok Sabha that as on date, 57 Central ministries/departments, including 8 infrastructure ministries such as Highways, Railways, Ports, Power and Communications, 22 social, and 27 economic & other ministries/departments have been onboarded on PM GatiShakti National Master Plan. The platform includes 36 states and UTs to increase synergy between the Centre and states.
The minister said that the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan has no specific or separate fund allocation. However, the Ministry of Finance under the "Scheme for
Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment for 2022- 23" made a provision of Rs 5,000 crore for disbursement among the states for PMGS-related infrastructure development. According to a study carried out by the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER), India’s logistics costs have come down to between 7.88.9 per cent of GDP, significantly lower than previously assumed figures of 13-14 per cent following the implementation of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. This positions India favourably for achieving world-class logistics efficiency through coordinated infrastructure development,
according to the report, titled ‘Gati Se Pragati.’ Simultaneously, India’s improvement in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index from 44th to 38th in 2023 indicates positive momentum, though substantial scope exists for further advancement, the report states. The PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan is India’s most ambitious infrastructure coordination initiative, fundamentally reshaping how the nation approaches connectivity and economic development. This report states that the seven engines framework represents a holistic approach encompassing roads, railways, airports, ports, waterways, mass transit, and
logistics infrastructure, each contributing distinct value to India’s connectivity ecosystem. The programme’s targets are ambitious: expanding national highways to 200,000 km, increasing railway freight capacity to 1,600 million tonnes, establishing 200-220 new airports, and achieving comprehensive multi-modal integration. The economic impact assessment demonstrates substantial multiplier effects from infrastructure investments, with each rupee invested generating between 2.5 and 4.0 times economic output, depending on the infrastructure type.
Brisbane marks Krishna Janmashtami with cultural spirit
Brisbane, July 31 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Neetu Bhagotia joined the Indian community in
Brisbane to celebrate Krishna Janmashtami, hosted by Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan (DJJS). The event featured devotional
singing, spiritual discourse, and traditional performances, drawing a large gathering of devotees and families.
Consul General Bhagotia commended the organisers for their commitment to promoting Indian culture and values abroad.
She noted the significance of such events in keeping spiritual traditions alive and strengthening community bonds in multicultural Australia.
FICQ sets up committees to advance House of
Brisbane, August 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) held a successful special general meeting (SGM) on July 12, 2025, at Redcross in Milton.
The meeting saw enthusiastic participation from members, who engaged in a constructive and forward-looking discussion focused on the long-term vision of the organisation. A key outcome of the SGM was
the formation of dedicated committees tasked with driving the progress of the muchanticipated House of India project.
The committees will oversee various aspects of planning,
India project
fundraising, and community engagement to bring the project to fruition. Members expressed optimism that this step will help accelerate the initiative, which aims to create a cultural hub showcasing Indian heritage,
arts, and community activities in Queensland.
FICQ representatives said the strong turnout and collaborative spirit at the SGM underscored the community’s commitment to building a lasting legacy through the House of India.
India & Australia explore new avenues for MSME and trade growth
Consulate to host Rajasthani folk dance workshop in Brisbane
Brisbane, August 14 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India in Brisbane, in collaboration with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), will host a special workshop on Rajasthani folk dance forms—Kalbelia and Sapera—on August 18, 2025.
The event will take place at the Consulate General of India, Level 12, 301 Coronation Drive, Milton, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
The workshop aims to introduce participants to the vibrant and rhythmic traditions of Rajasthan, with expert performers guiding attendees through the unique steps, expressions, and cultural significance of these dance forms. Organisers said the session is part of ongoing efforts to promote India’s rich cultural heritage in Queensland and encourage community engagement through traditional art forms.
Consul General meets WA Governor, discusses strengthening India-WA relations
Nalder, CEO and Founder of the Small Business Association of Australia (SBAA), to explore ways of strengthening India–Australia collaboration in entrepreneurship, innovation, and the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The discussions focused on unlocking new avenues for trade and investment between the two nations, with an emphasis on fostering stronger businessto-business connections, encouraging innovation-driven partnerships, and supporting small enterprises in accessing new markets.
Both sides expressed confidence that enhanced cooperation in the MSME sector would open fresh opportunities for economic growth and deepen bilateral ties, aligning with the shared vision of promoting sustainable and inclusive development.
Perth, August 5 (Australia India
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Consul General Kajari Biswas met with the Governor of Western Australia, Christopher Dawson AC APM, during a courtesy visit in Perth.
Governor Dawson extended a warm welcome to the Consul General, acknowledging her arrival in Western Australia and expressing enthusiasm for the state’s deepening engagement with India.
The meeting focused on expanding collaboration under Western Australia’s strategic shift
towards India, with discussions covering shared economic and developmental goals.
Consul General Biswas shared her vision for enhancing bilateral cooperation, highlighting India’s growing ties with Australia’s largest state, which plays a crucial role in the national economy by contributing 17.1% to Australia’s GDP.
The visit reaffirmed mutual interest in building stronger partnerships across sectors such as trade, education, innovation, and sustainability.
Brisbane, August 12 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General of India in Brisbane, Neetu Bhagotia, held a productive meeting with Anne
News Newsdesk)
Installation ceremony of Goddess Bhuvaneshvari Devi organised
Brisbane, August 14 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Chinmaya Mission Australia –Brisbane marked a significant spiritual milestone with the Installation Ceremony of Goddess Bhuvaneshvari Devi at Chinmaya Bhuvanam Ashram on July 26 in Ellen Grove.
The event drew devotees and community members
who gathered to witness the auspicious installation of the revered deity, an event of great spiritual importance.
The day featured traditional rituals, devotional music, and prayers, creating a vibrant and uplifting atmosphere. Spiritual leaders from the Chinmaya Mission emphasised the importance of such a spiritual event.
Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) president Dr Preethi Suraj was among the distinguished guests present. She praised Chinmaya Mission Brisbane for its vision and dedication in perpetuating spiritual values in the society.
AFL and India strengthen sports diplomacy in Melbourne roundtable
Melbourne, August 1 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Efforts to use sport as a cultural bridge between India and Australia took centrestage at the India-Australia Sports Roundtable, held at AFL House
in Melbourne. The event brought together influential leaders from both nations’ sports, government, and business communities.
Consul General Dr Sushil Kumar represented India at the
gathering, which was jointly organised by the Australian Football League (AFL) and the Centre for Australia-India Relations (CAIR). Key participants included AFL CEO Andrew Dillon, Acting CEO of CAIR Cal McGuirk,
DFAT’s First Assistant Secretary Sarah Storey, and Western Bulldogs CEO Ameet Bains.
The roundtable explored ways to engage the Indian diaspora in Australia through AFL and
discussed potential collaborations to introduce the sport to Indian audiences. The discussions highlighted the growing role of sport in enhancing bilateral ties and fostering deeper community connections.
Bengali Cultural Night showcases the soul of Bengal in Perth
Perth, August 12 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Annual Cultural Night 2025, themed “Patachitra”, hosted by the Bengali Association of Western Australia, brought the
rich artistic and cultural heritage of Bengal to life in a vibrant evening of performances, music, and traditions.
The event was a colourful celebration of Bengal’s timeless
art forms, with the Patachitra theme reflecting the intricate storytelling tradition through song, dance, and visual motifs. Attendees were treated to captivating performances by
community members, blending classical and folk styles that spoke to the deep cultural roots of the region.
The Consul General, present at the celebrations, praised the
Bengali community for their dedication to preserving and promoting their heritage in Western Australia, commending the association’s role in fostering cultural pride and intercommunity connections.
A celebration of tradition and talent
The Lalithakalalaya School of Bharatanatyam recently held its fourth Salangai Pooja – a beautiful milestone for 15 young dancers who stepped onto the stage to formally offer their art in a traditional and spiritual way. For every Bharatanatyam student, a Salangai Pooja is more than just a performance – it marks their readiness to take on deeper training and a lifelong journey in this classical dance form. This celebration was the result of
8 months of dedicated practice by the students, supported by their parents and guided by their Guru, Smt. Padmalakshmi Sriram. The stage lit up with nine graceful performances, each one showcasing the foundation of Bharatanatyam – intricate footwork, rhythm, storytelling, and beautiful group synchronisation. The dancers, dressed in vibrant costumes, moved with confidence and grace, their expression breathing life
into each piece.
The live orchestra added a magical touch to the evening with Smt. Padmalakshmi Sriram and Kum. Shivani Sriram on nattuvangam, Smt. Priyadharshini Swaminathan on vocals, Shri Harish Ravindran on mridangam, Shri Aswin Narayanan on violin, and Kum. Vindhyavasini Sureshchandra on veena.
Together, they created a soulful experience for an audience of 400 people who were deeply
immersed in the music, rhythm, and culture of India.
The success of the evening reflected the tireless dedication of Guru Smt. Padmalakshmi Sriram, who continues to preserve and share this ancient art form beyond the borders of India. Her ability to prepare 15 young dancer for such a demanding performance is truly commendable. Her efforts were acknowledged by the Consul General of India in Brisbane, Mrs.
Neetu Bhagotia, who attended the event and praised the Guru, musicians, and students for their remarkable achievement.
"We congratulate these young dancers for reaching such an important milestone and wish them many more opportunities to grow in their artistic journey. May they continue to dance with the same passion, discipline, and joy that lit up the stage that evening," Lalithakalalaya School of Bharatanatyam said in a statement.
Kites and culture soar at Gold Coast to celebrate India’s Independence Day
Brisbane, August 10 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Indian Community of Gold Coast (ICGC) delivered another vibrant celebration of India’s Independence Day, marking the nation’s 79th year of freedom with a colourful kite festival on the Gold Coast.
The event drew a strong turnout from the community and featured
dignitaries from all three levels of government. Consul General of India in Brisbane, Neetu Bhagotia, attended alongside Federal MP Angie Bell (Member for Moncrieff), State MP Sam O’Connor (Minister for Home Affairs), and Councillor Joe Wilkinson (Division 7), as well as community and business leaders.
The celebration showcased
cultural performances, music, and traditional festivities, with the skies over the Gold Coast coming alive with hundreds of colourful kites symbolising freedom and unity.
A highlight of the day was the presentation of the Community Hero Awards, recognising outstanding service and contributions to the community.
Recipients included Asha Sabasibian, Zaisha Chakraborty, Kapil Sachdev, Seema (ICGC), Dr Hussain Baba, Dr Vijay Kapadia (Cardiologist), Dr Shunil Sharma, Bhakti Centre – Madhavananda, Seema Chauhan, Sadhana (ICGC), Lata Modi, Senthil (ICGC), and Hussain Baba.
One of the honourees expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying the
award was especially meaningful as it reflected “the voices and support of the community I love and serve.”
Organisers said the success of the event reinforced the Gold Coast’s place as a hub for multicultural celebration, with the kite festival adding a joyful and symbolic touch to the Independence Day commemorations.
CGI Brisbane holds consular camp in Toowoomba
Brisbane, August 10 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India (CGI) in Brisbane organised a consular camp in Toowoomba, Queensland, on August 9, 2025, to provide essential services to the Indian diaspora.
A team of consular officers from CGI Brisbane attended to
around 60 community members, offering assistance with a range of vital services, including Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) applications, passport renewals, visa processing, and other consular needs.
The outreach initiative aimed to make services more accessible for the Indian community living in
regional Queensland, saving them the need to travel long distances to the Consulate in Brisbane.
CGI Brisbane said such camps reflect its commitment to supporting the needs of the diaspora and strengthening its engagement with Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin across the state.
Victoria-India sports report launched in New Delhi
Melbourne, August 7 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia India Institute’s new report, ‘Advancing High-Performance Sports: Victoria-India Opportunities’, was launched recently at the Melbourne Global Centre-Delhi by Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos, in New Delhi.
Authored by Parul Nadar, Maisha Samiha and Darryl J. Mohr
MPPM GAICD, the report builds
on the Victorian Government’s ‘Victoria’s India Strategy: Our Shared Future 2025–30’, which aims to strengthen people-topeople links between Victoria and India while enhancing trade and investment opportunities in priority growth sectors to deliver positive outcomes for both regions.
“From grassroots, community, and club sports to elite pathways leading to international Olympic and Paralympic competition, the
CGI Brisbane marks National Handloom Day with Queensland minister
Brisbane, August 7 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General of India in Brisbane, Neetu Bhagotia, presented a handloom stole to Rosslyn Bates MP, Queensland’s Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, as a symbolic gesture to mark India’s National Handloom Day 2025.
The presentation highlighted India’s rich textile heritage and the significance of handloom in promoting sustainable livelihoods for artisans.
During the meeting, the Consul General and Minister Bates also discussed the growing trade and investment opportunities between India and Queensland,
with a focus on strengthening bilateral economic ties and exploring new areas of collaboration.
CGI Melbourne honours scholar for promoting Hindi in Australia
Institute’s research examines the critical roles of both government and the private sector in supporting all levels of sports participation,” said Australia India Institute CEO Lisa Singh.
The report underscores the growing sports collaboration between Victoria and India, highlighting opportunities for knowledge exchange, capacity building, and commercial partnerships across multiple disciplines.
Melbourne, August 7 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General of India in Melbourne, Dr Sushil Kumar, met former Australian National University Professor Peter Friedlander and presented him with reward money for his article published in Gagananchal Visheshank, a quarterly magazine of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).
Dr Kumar commended Prof. Friedlander for his longstanding
contributions to promoting the Hindi language in Australia, highlighting the importance of such efforts in strengthening cultural ties between the two countries.
On the occasion, Prof. Friedlander presented the Consul General with his English translation of The Songs of Daya Bai, further reflecting his dedication to crosscultural literary exchange
Consul General highlights migrant empowerment at Brisbane Expo
Brisbane, August 6 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General of India in Brisbane, Neetu Bhagotia, underscored the importance of migrant empowerment and multicultural unity while addressing the second edition of the Empowering Migrants Expo 2025 on August 3 at Brisbane City Hall and King George Square. Speaking on behalf of Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay, she praised the event’s role in recognising migrant achievements and connecting communities with vital resources.
Organised by Bhartiya Samaj, the expo drew a record crowd of more than 8,000 visitors, making it one of Queensland’s largest multicultural gatherings dedicated to supporting migrants.
Representatives from over 25 nations and more than 15 government agencies took part, alongside nearly 30 community stalls offering information and services for migrant families.
The day-long celebration blended cultural vibrancy with practical engagement. The Main Auditorium hosted more than 20 multicultural dance
performances, while King George Square became a bustling global food village with over 20 stalls serving authentic international cuisines. In the Ithaca Auditorium, 200 community leaders, government officials, and non-profit representatives gathered for a networking lunch focused on collaboration and inclusion.
A highlight of the program was the 2025 Migrants Awards Ceremony, which honoured 40 finalists, including eight winners and four highly commended recipients across categories such as Multicultural Community
Champion, Business Excellence, Youth Leadership, Disability Advocacy, and Creative and Artistic Excellence.
The event attracted dignitaries from all levels of government, including Madonna Jarrett MP representing Prime Minister Anthony Albanese; Senator Paul Scarr; Hon. Fiona Simpson MP representing Queensland Premier David Crisafulli; Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner; MPs Shayne Neumann, Charis Mullen, and Margie Nightingale; and Brisbane City Councillors Vicki Howard, Steven Huang, Emily Kim, and Penny Wolff.
Leaders from major multicultural bodies—Charlie Shandil of the Department of Home Affairs, Lisa Ward of the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland, and Jo Nelson of Multicultural Australia—commended Bhartiya Samaj’s leadership in hosting the expo.
Described by organisers as both a celebration and a catalyst for empowerment, the expo showcased the contributions of migrant communities while strengthening Brisbane’s reputation as one of Australia’s most inclusive and culturally rich cities.
High Commission of India marks Raksha Bandhan with Brahma Kumaris
Canberra, August 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The High Commission of India in Canberra welcomed members of the Brahma Kumaris to celebrate the spirit of Raksha Bandhan, a festival symbolising peace, protection, and universal brotherhood.
In a touching gesture, the sisters of the Brahma Kumaris tied rakhis to all officials at the High Commission, fostering an atmosphere of warmth and goodwill. The simple yet meaningful tradition served as a reminder of the festival’s enduring values—harmony, mutual respect, and spiritual
connection.
High Commission officials expressed their appreciation for the visit, noting that such occasions strengthen bonds within the community while reflecting the shared cultural heritage between India and its diaspora.
High Commissioner stresses India–Australia trust at Indo-Pacific Forum
Canberra, August 9 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
High Commissioner of India, Gopal Baglay, delivered the keynote address at the Australia–India Strategic Symposium 2025 in Melbourne, hosted by Wired Global Media and Advisory.
Speaking during the Strategic Flagship Panel — "Securing the Indo-Pacific in the Indian Ocean Century: Conundrums of the Region, Strategic Frictions, Shared Futures" — the High Commissioner outlined India’s perspective on strengthening regional security, fostering
diplomatic trust, and enhancing collective resilience in the IndoPacific.
He underlined that in this “Indian Ocean Century,” the strength of India–Australia ties rests on strategic trust, shared democratic values, and sustained dialogue. Baglay praised Wired Global Media and Advisory for creating a meaningful platform for public diplomacy, noting that its journey from inception during the global pandemic to hosting such a highlevel strategic event reflects the power of a consistent, valuesdriven vision.
UPAM Haat showcases Uttar Pradesh culture in Perth
Perth, August 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Uttar Pradesh Awadh Manch (UPAM) brought a colourful celebration of Indian culture to Perth with its lively “UPAM Haat”
event, highlighting the vibrant traditions of Uttar Pradesh.
Consul Naresh Kumar attended as a guest of honour, joining community members in experiencing a day filled with
regional crafts, traditional food, music, and dance.
The event offered a unique platform for cultural expression, bringing together families and individuals to celebrate their
shared heritage. From delicious local cuisine like street-style snacks to handmade crafts and folk performances, UPAM Haat created a festive atmosphere that reflected the heart of Uttar Pradesh.
Organisers hailed the event as a success, noting the enthusiastic community response and the importance of such gatherings in preserving and promoting Indian regional culture in Australia.
Perth celebrates Hariyali Teej with cultural fervour
Perth, August 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Haryanvi Association of Western Australia hosted vibrant Hariyali Teej celebrations in Perth, bringing together the community for a day of culture, colour, and tradition.
Consul Naresh Kumar was present at the event, joining in the festivities that honoured the spirit of monsoon and the cultural
heritage of Haryana.
The celebration featured traditional music, folk dances, and festive attire, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. Women dressed in green and adorned with bangles and henna added to the authenticity of the occasion.
Organisers thanked attendees for their support and highlighted the importance of such events in keeping cultural traditions alive among the diaspora in Australia.
Indian-origin doctor honoured with AMA President’s Award
Perth, August 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Dr Rajeshwary (Raji) Krishnan has been awarded the prestigious Australian Medical Association (AMA) President’s Award, recognising her tireless work with First Nations families.
The award honours her unwavering commitment to community healthcare and her
significant contributions towards improving Aboriginal health outcomes.
The Indian community in Western Australia has expressed immense pride in Dr Krishnan’s achievement, celebrating the recognition as a testament to her dedication, compassion, and outstanding service.
Consul General meets WA MP Dr. Parwinder Kaur
High Commissioner stresses India–Australia trust at Indo-Pacific Forum
Perth, August 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Consul General Kajari Biswas met with the Governor of Western Australia, Christopher Dawson AC APM, during a courtesy visit in Perth.
Governor Dawson extended a warm welcome to the Consul General, acknowledging her arrival in Western Australia and expressing enthusiasm for the state’s deepening engagement with India.
The meeting focused on expanding collaboration under Western Australia’s strategic shift towards India, with discussions covering shared economic and developmental goals.
Consul General Biswas shared
her vision for enhancing bilateral cooperation, highlighting India’s growing ties with Australia’s largest state, which plays a crucial role in the national economy by contributing 17.1% to Australia’s
GDP.
The visit reaffirmed mutual interest in building stronger partnerships across sectors such as trade, education, innovation, and sustainability.
High commission marks India’s
79th Independence Day
Canberra, August 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The High Commission of India in Canberra marked India’s 79th Independence Day with a ceremony steeped in pride and tradition. The High Commissioner Gopal Baglay hoisted India’s National Flag and delivered the Independence Day address to the nation by India’s President Droupadi Murmu.
The event featured stirring performances of patriotic songs, celebrating India’s cultural richness and evoking a strong sense of national identity.
Perth, August 8 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Kajari Biswas paid a courtesy call on Dr. Parwinder Kaur, Member of the Legislative Council and Deputy Chair of Committees. The Indian community is immensely proud of Dr. Kaur’s achievements as a scientist and public representative. Her dedication, leadership, and service continue to inspire many, especially women and youth from diverse backgrounds.
Mission officials, dignitaries, and members of the vibrant Indian diaspora gathered in a spirit of reverence and solidarity, reaffirming their shared commitment to India’s heritage and the enduring India–Australia friendship.
Rajasthan’s colours shine in Perth Teej celebrations
Perth, August 12 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Teej Celebrations organised by Rajasthani Kutumb in Perth brought the vibrant spirit of Rajasthan to life with dazzling performances and festive cheer.
A major highlight was the
electrifying showcase by the six-member Harish–Ishu Sapera Group, sponsored by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). Led by Ishu Sapera — a celebrated folk dancer and cultural ambassador from Jodhpur who began her artistic
journey at just 12 — the troupe delivered a captivating mix of traditional Rajasthani folk dances including the Kalbeliya (Snake Dance), Chari, Bhavai (Pot Balancing), Ghoomar, and Terah Taali.
The performance was further
enriched by live traditional music featuring the Dholak, Algoza, Khartal, and Sarangi, immersing the audience in Rajasthan’s cultural rhythms.
Dedicated to preserving and sharing the soul of Rajasthan through folk arts, the Harish–Ishu Sapera Group blends entertainment with messages of peace, cultural pride, and social awareness. As part of their Australian tour, they will perform in several cities, including a special Independence Day show, continuing their mission of promoting Indian culture on the global stage.
Indian tricolour flies high in Brisbane on India’s 79th Independence Day
Continued from Page 1
Bhagotia at precisely 9:00 AM.
The national anthem, which was sung passionately by everyone in the venue, reverberated as the flag rose.
A diverse range of Indian community members attended the ceremony, including
supporters of India from the larger Queensland community as well as representatives from various business, cultural, and student organisations. Following the official events, attendees were asked to enjoy some light refreshments, which provided a chance for casual discussions,
pictures, and thoughts on the day's significance.
Even though the event followed a straightforward and respectable format, it was laden with pride and history. India celebrated its 79th anniversary of independence in 1947 in 2025. India considers the first Independence Day itself
to be the first anniversary, so this year's observance is the 79th, even though a direct count from 1947 to 2025 gives 78 years.
Images and video highlights of the ceremony were later posted by the Indian Consulate General in Brisbane on its official social media accounts, highlighting the
community's involvement and the significance of preserving such customs thousands of kilometres away.
The attendees' sentiment was evident as the tricolour fluttered over Brisbane: despite the significant physical distance from India, the emotional connection is still intact.
Consul General highlights key sectors in Australia–India economic roadmap
Perth, August 11 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
“Australia–India New Economic Roadmap: A Spotlight” was held on August 7, 2025, organised by the Consulate in collaboration with the Australia India Business Council (AIBC) – WA, and supported by The University of
Western Australia (UWA). Deepak Gupta, National Chair of the Australia India Business Council (AIBC), and Paritosh Misra, president of Australia India Business Council - WA, welcomed the gathering. Stephen Dawson MLC, Minister for Regional Development; Ports; Science and
Innovation; Medical Research; Kimberley, was the Chief Guest at the event.
Consul General Kajari Biswas, in her address, highlighted the strategic importance of the IndiaAustralia New Economic Roadmap and emphasised four key priority sectors under the roadmap —
Consul General, Perth meets AIBC Chair
agriculture, tourism, education, and energy — as central to deepening collaboration between India and Western Australia.
Other distinguished speakers included Sally Dawkins, State Director for Western Australia at the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and
Trade (DFAT), and Prof. Jennifer Howell, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Global Engagement) at The University of Western Australia. A Q&A session followed, providing the audience an opportunity to engage directly with the key speakers.
Perth celebrates India’s National Handloom Day
Textiles, Government of India, in celebrating the nation’s master weavers and timeless textile heritage on National Handloom Day.
The occasion honoured India’s rich handloom legacy, with participants donning traditional attire ranging from vibrant ikat prints and intricate Abhala mirror work to classic khadi, elegant silk, exquisite ajrakh, and delicate jamdani.
The celebration served as a tribute to the artistry and skill of India’s weaving communities, encouraging people to embrace and promote these heritage crafts — truly weaving pride into every thread.
Perth, August 8 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Kajari Biswas recently met with Deepak Gupta, National Chair of the Australia
Perth, August 7 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India in Perth joined the Ministry of
India Business Council (AIBC), to discuss the Council’s ongoing activities in Australia and its future plans in the lead-up to its 40th anniversary in 2026.
Brisbane set to celebrate cultural unity with ‘Naatyotsava 2.0’ – A multicultural Indian classical dance spectacle
Brisbane, 6 September: Following the phenomenal success of its inaugural edition, the Queensland Kannadigas Cultural & Sports Society Inc. (QKCSS) is thrilled to announce the return of its flagship event, Naatyotsava 2.0 – a multicultural classical dance concert that brings together Australia’s top Indian classical dancers for an evening of timeless art and cultural harmony.
Scheduled for Saturday, 6 September 2025, at Calamvale Community College (11 Hamish St, Calamvale QLD 4116), the event will commence sharply at 5:30 PM and is expected to attract a diverse audience of dance enthusiasts, community leaders, and multicultural families from across Queensland.
A vision of cultural harmony through dance
Naatyotsava is more than just a stage performance—it’s a platform that celebrates the diverse heritage of India’s classical dance traditions while fostering inclusivity in a proudly multicultural Australia. The evening will feature Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kuchipudi, and Mohiniattam, offering the audience a rare opportunity to experience the full spectrum of India’s classical dance forms in one grand production.
This year’s featured artists are a powerhouse ensemble of nationally recognised exponents:
• Ms. Sanchita Abrol –Kathak virtuoso and cultural entrepreneur from Melbourne
• Mrs. Sreeanusha Viswanathan –Acclaimed Kuchipudi performer and teacher, Melbourne
• Vidushi Bindu Rajendren –Renowned Mohiniattam artist and educator based in Brisbane
• Ms. Hema Venugopalan –Eminent Kuchipudi exponent from Sydney
• Miss Anwesha Das – Odissi performer and teacher from Brisbane
• Miss Shivani Sriram – Emerging Bharatanatyam talent, Brisbane
• Vidushi Ambika Ganeshprasad –Esteemed Bharatanatyam teacher and performer from Brisbane
Each artist brings a unique regional style and personal interpretation to their performance, ensuring a rich and immersive cultural experience
for all.
The legacy of Naatyotsava
The first edition of Naatyotsava in 2024 was met with overwhelming applause, drawing hundreds of spectators and receiving praise for its flawless execution, high-caliber performances, and cultural inclusiveness. It became a landmark event in Brisbane’s Indian cultural calendar, uniting communities through the language of dance. Audiences were particularly moved by the seamless integration of various Indian classical forms into one cohesive narrative celebrating unity in diversity.
Building on that success, Naatyotsava 2.0 has scaled up its production, drawing wider participation and reaching broader audiences. With increased community support, government recognition, and growing interest from sponsors and media, this year’s concert is poised to be even more impactful. Proudly supported by the community
The event is supported by Councillor Emily Kim of the Calamvale Ward and sponsored by respected community partners including:
• Platinum Sponsor: Tracer Law
• Gold Sponsors: Swades Foods, Way2Wealth Advisers, and Fairfax Partners
• Media Partners: Australian Indian Times, Australian Indian Radio, and India News
The organisers have worked diligently to ensure the concert is ticketed and accessible to all, reinforcing QKCSS’s commitment to community engagement and the promotion of multiculturalism.
An invitation to all
“We believe events like Naatyotsava are essential for preserving and sharing India’s rich classical heritage in a way that resonates with modern multicultural Australia,” said Preetham Krishna, President of QKCSS. “The response to the first edition proved there is a deep appreciation for classical arts in our diverse community. This second edition aims to be even more inclusive, enriching, and unifying.”
All are welcome, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure their seats.
Perth embraces tradition at Sharad Milan festival
Perth, August 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Bihar Jharkhand Sabha of Australia and New Zealand (BJSANZ) recently hosted the Sharad Milan celebration in Perth, offering a rich cultural experience. Attendees relished the iconic litti chokha, a traditional dish from Bihar and Jharkhand, while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
The event aimed to foster unity
and preserve the heritage of the Indian community. With music, dance, and authentic cuisine, the celebration strengthened community bonds and highlighted the region’s cultural diversity.
Organizers expressed their pride in promoting tradition and creating a platform for cultural exchange in the Australian subcontinent.
UPAM Haat showcases Uttar Pradesh culture in Perth
Perth, August 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Uttar Pradesh Awadh Manch (UPAM) brought a colourful celebration of Indian culture to Perth with its lively “UPAM Haat”
event, highlighting the vibrant traditions of Uttar Pradesh.
Consul Naresh Kumar attended as a guest of honour, joining community members in experiencing a day filled with
regional crafts, traditional food, music, and dance.
The event offered a unique platform for cultural expression, bringing together families and individuals to celebrate their
shared heritage. From delicious local cuisine like street-style snacks to handmade crafts and folk performances, UPAM Haat created a festive atmosphere that reflected the heart of Uttar
Pradesh.
Organisers hailed the event as a success, noting the enthusiastic community response and the importance of such gatherings in preserving and promoting Indian regional culture in Australia.
Tricolour pride shines in Perth on India’s 79th Independence Day
Perth, August 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India in Perth marked the 79th Independence Day of India with spirited celebrations attended by members of the Indian community and friends of India. The event began with the
ceremonial hoisting of the Indian Tricolour by the Consul General, Kajari Biswas, followed by the reading of the President of India’s address to the nation. Attendees joined in singing the national anthem, reflecting the unity and pride of the occasion.
A colourful cultural programme
showcased the rich diversity of Indian traditions through music and dance, performed by talented members of the community.
Prominent Indian-origin parliamentarians Yaz Mubarakai MLA, Dr Jags MLA, and Kevin Michel MLA also attended, highlighting the contribution of
the Indian diaspora to Western Australia’s public life.
The Consulate General extended heartfelt thanks to all participants for making the day memorable and reaffirming the enduring bonds between India and its community abroad.
Melbourne celebrates India’s 79th Independence Day
Melbourne, August 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India in Melbourne marked the 79th Independence Day of India with a vibrant morning of pride, unity, and cultural celebration.
Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar hoisted the Indian tricolour,
followed by the national anthem, as dignitaries and community members gathered to honour the occasion.
Among the attendees were Brad Battin MP, Cr Pradeep Tiwari, Mayor of Maribyrnong, and prominent members of Melbourne’s Indian diaspora.
The ceremony featured soulful renditions of patriotic songs and reflected the community’s shared commitment to strengthening the India–Australia relationship. The Consulate extended its gratitude to all who joined in celebrating India’s heritage and fostering cross-cultural bonds.
Digital from India: Leapfrogging development through text-enabled citizen-centric governance
By Amb Debnath Shaw
At the 2nd Voice of the Global South Summit, hosted virtually by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 17th November 2023, one key focus area was to “sustain the momentum of exchange and sharing of ideas and best practices between member countries.” At the 3rd Summit, also hosted by the Indian PM on 17th August 2024, the focus was on “challenges of new technologies and the need for South-South cooperation for technology transfers.” Of the four-fold Global Compact put forward by PM Modi, one is on technology sharing. Thus, it is clear that, as a responsible voice of the Global South, India is willing to share its knowledge and expertise acquired in governance and other fields, which accelerate development, and is also keen to learn from other nations.
India’s journey in leapfrogging development through techenabled, citizen-centric governance has been nothing short of transformative. Key milestones in India’s digital governance experience have been:
• Digital India Initiative – the flagship programme of the Government of India, launched in 2015, with a vision to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy;
• Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) – platforms like Aadhaar (over one billion citizens with a unique digital identity), UPI (with over 18 billion transactions in June 2025), DigiLocker (eliminating the need for physical documents) and e-Sign, have revolutionized service delivery;
• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
– India became the first country to use DBT at scale, reducing
corruption and ensuring timely delivery of welfare benefits; and
• AI Integration in Governance – from grievance redressal systems to predictive analytics in healthcare and agriculture, AI is helping tailor services to citizen needs.
Institutional support and strategic vision for India’s Digital Governance are provided by the Digital India Corporation (DIC), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the National Informatics Centre (NIC), the National Institute of Smart Governance (NISG) and a Digital Brand Identity Manual (DBIM).
The DIC is responsible for establishing national e-governance in accountability, efficiency, efficacy and transparency; promoting digital literacy, accessibility, and inclusion; developing and empowering skilled manpower; guiding ministries/departments in enhancing accessibility and efficiency in public service delivery; and supporting the MeitY in all its endeavours.
The NIC integrates emerging technologies like AI, blockchain and data analytics into governance frameworks.
The NISG acts as a strategic partner in implementing digital transformation across central ministries and states, including international collaboration with Global South nations.
The DBIM standardizes government websites and applications for a unified, citizenfriendly experience.
Impact on Governance and Society
• Transparency and Accountability – E-governance
platforms have reduced bureaucratic opacity and increased public trust.
• Efficiency and Accessibility –Public services are now available 24/7, with reduced paperwork and faster processing times.
• Environmental Benefits –Digital processes have led to paperless offices and reduced carbon footprints.
Some of the noteworthy programmes and applications, which have also received industry-based awards, are:
• MyGov.in – a platform to share inputs and ideas on matters of policy and governance, engaging citizens through a “Discuss,” “Do,” and “Disseminate” approach.
• POSHAN Tracker – a mobilebased application used by Anganwadi workers to provide real-time data on the delivery of nutrition and childcare services.
• DIKSHA (Digital Infrastructure for Knowledge Sharing) – a national platform for school education.
• AYUSH Information Hub (AIH) – set up to disseminate authentic and verified information related to Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa-Rigpa, and Homoeopathy.
• UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance) – for accessing over 1,200 central and state government services in multiple languages, including Aadhaar, DigiLocker, Bharat Bill Payment System, PAN, EPFO, PMKVY, AICTE, CBSE, etc.
• National AI Portal [INDIAai] (https://indiaai.gov.in) – a constant and dynamic source of knowledge on AI-related topics.
• Chic-CAD Plus – an opensource software used by artisans in making 2D designs like embroidery, chikankari, painting work, etc.
The Digital India Campaign supports other Government of India schemes such as:
• BharatNet – providing broadband connectivity to unserved regions.
• Make in India – to produce in India for the country and the world.
• Startup India – aimed at fostering innovation, supporting entrepreneurs, and building a robust ecosystem.
• Industrial Corridors – being developed along new railway and road alignments.
• Bharatmala – to enhance road connectivity and improve freight and passenger movement through the development of highways and economic corridors.
• Atmanirbhar Bharat – whose aim is to make the country and its citizens independent and selfreliant in all senses. Its five pillars are Economy, Infrastructure, System, Vibrant Demography, and Demand.
Developed in India – Shared with the World India ranks high in digital competitiveness among G-20 nations, though challenges remain in data security, cybersecurity, and digital literacy. India’s model is now being
replicated globally, with the India Stack serving as a blueprint for digital governance in other developing countries.
The UPI system is operational in Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Singapore, and France. It is at various stages of integration in Qatar, Cyprus, Malaysia, Thailand, the UK, Oman, and the Maldives. On 9th July 2025, during the PM’s visit, Namibia became the first country globally to sign a licensing agreement to adopt UPI technology. On 4th July 2025, during his meeting with his counterpart, PM Modi congratulated Trinidad & Tobago on becoming the first Caribbean country to adopt UPI.
Several African nations, Cambodia, and the Philippines are keen on replicating India’s DPI deployment and India Stack, and are availing themselves of capacity-building programmes offered by the Government of India.
DPI, UPI, AI, Aadhaar, DigiLocker, e-Sign, and other digital governance tools have been the subject of discussion and dialogue at the highest levels with countries across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, including Singapore, France, Cyprus, Ghana, Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Cuba, Argentina, Namibia, BIMSTEC partners, and Central Asian countries.
India is committed to sharing its experience and expertise with its global partners on using technology for governance and growth. India is also keen to learn and assimilate the positive experiences of friendly nations in the development of technology, for the welfare and prosperity of its people.
A decade of the International Day of Yoga (IDY): Yoga for One earth, One Health
Ten years ago, the idea of a global day dedicated to “yoga” might have seemed far-fetched. But here we are—yoga mats unrolled across the globe, from bustling urban parks to silent, icy outposts in Antarctica. The International Day of Yoga (IDY) has become much more: a movement rooted in well-being, connection, and a shared sense of humanity. The journey to make yoga a global movement started in the year 2014, when our Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the UN General Assembly in September that year. His message was simple and powerful:
"Yoga is an invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition. It embodies unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfillment. It is not about exercise, but to discover the sense of oneness with yourself, the world, and nature." On the directions of our Honorable Prime Minister,
India’s permanent representative to the UN moved the resolution in the UN General Assembly on December 11, 2014, to observe June 21st as "International Day of Yoga," which was approved by 177 member states of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
In the resolution, adopted under the agenda of "Global Health and Foreign Policy," the UN General Assembly recognised that yoga "provides a holistic approach to health and well-being". For the wider dissemination of information about the benefits of practicing yoga for the health of the world population, the 21st of June is celebrated every year as International Day of Yoga (IDY) across the globe. The main significance of the UN declaring an "International Day" is to focus the attention of the international community on the topic and to encourage activities among the member states to commemorate the day.
As we celebrate the 11th anniversary of International Day of Yoga, the 2025 theme, "Yoga for One Earth, One Health," brings the message home. It’s a reminder that our health and the planet’s health are deeply intertwined. Yoga embodies the philosophy of holistic well-being – uniting the health of individuals with the health of the society and the planet. The principle of “One World, One Health” emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, echoing the ancient yogic wisdom of unity (Vasudhaiva Kutumbkam – the world is one family). It is a philosophy that tries to foster an understanding that the whole of humanity is one family. It is a social philosophy emanating from a spiritual understanding that the whole of humanity is made of one life energy or Universal Consciousness. Yoga is a code to connect people with life and to reconnect mankind with nature. It expands our limited sense of self to see our
families, societies, and mankind as extensions of our own selves. Yoga is a journey from me to we. Yoga makes an individual a better person in thought, action, knowledge, and devotion. Once an individual develops an interest in yoga and starts diligently practicing it, it will always remain a part of his or her life. Yoga is the entrance point to one’s spiritual journey. By practicing yoga, a spirit of oneness is created—oneness of the mind, body, and intellect. Oneness with our families, with the society we live in, with fellow humans, with all the birds, animals, and trees with whom we share our beautiful planet... this is yoga. Yoga has the potential to herald in a new Yuga (a new era) of peace, compassion, brotherhood, and all-round progress for the human race. Yoga is not only about Asanas. It is much more. It is a blend of Gyan (knowledge), Karma (action), and Bhakti (devotion). Yoga is a symbol of universal aspiration for health and well-being; it is health
insurance on a zero budget. Yoga is not only about "Rog Mukti" (eradication of diseases) but also about "Bhog Mukti" (desisting from worldly greed). June 21, 2015, marked the first IDY celebration. In Delhi, nearly 36,000 people, including the Prime Minister, gathered on Rajpath for a mass yoga session. It wasn’t just a moment of national pride—it was the beginning of a global tradition.
Every year, Millions of people across the globe practice yoga, even during COVID-19. The theme was Yoga at Home, Yoga with family, and several people across borders participated in online yoga sessions. The Honorable Prime Minister also encouraged the countrymen to practice yoga during COVID times for community, immunity, and unity. Teleyoga guidelines were also released by the Ministry of Ayush during this year. The scale of participation led to
several Guinness World Records, the recent one being around 3 Lakh people doing yoga across a 28 km stretch of beach road in Visakhapatnam, AP, along with our honorable Prime Minister. The scale of celebrations and reach has only grown over the years from the poles to the parks, from far off villages to the bustling urban jungles, from Icy heights of the Himalayas to the deserts, from kids to elderly,
from layman to the armed forces yoga is being practiced by all irrespective of race, religion, geographies and age.
This is reflected in the growing participation numbers each year, reaching approximately 25 crore.
IDY is celebrated with different themes each year and innovative campaigns to reach out to the masses. This is celebrated using a whole-of-Government approach
India and the Global South
By Amb Ashok Sajjanhar
India’s relationship with the Global South has deep roots in shared histories, common struggles, and mutual aspirations for development and selfreliance. As one of the largest and most influential countries in the Global South, India’s role has evolved from being a leader in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) to becoming a pivotal player in contemporary South-South cooperation.
India’s partnership with the Global South was propelled to a whole new level by Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he organized the first Voice of the Global South Summit (VOGSS) on 12-13th January, 2023 within a fortnight of India taking over the Presidency of the G20. This Summit was followed by another later during the year and the third one in 2024.
VOGSS is India’s endeavor to provide a common platform to deliberate on the concerns, interests and priorities of developing countries, exchange ideas and solutions, and unite in voice and purpose in forging development solutions.
Background
The concept of the Global South encompasses regions in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania, representing developing nations with shared historical contexts of colonization and economic marginalization.
India’s role within the Global South is pivotal, leveraging its growing economic power, democratic framework, and strategic geopolitical positioning to advocate for equitable global governance.
India’s economic cooperation with the Global South is characterized by trade, investment, and development assistance. Trade relations have seen substantial growth,
particularly with African and Latin American countries. For instance, India’s trade with Africa surged from $5 billion in 2001 to $90 billion in 2020, making India Africa’s third-largest trading partner. Similarly, India’s trade with Latin America reached $50 billion in 2020, driven by oil imports, and exports of pharmaceuticals, automobiles, and engineering goods.
Investment is another critical aspect of India’s economic engagement. Indian companies have made significant investments in sectors such as telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and mining across the Global South.
In Africa, Indian enterprises have invested over $50 billion, creating jobs and contributing to infrastructure development.
In Latin America, Indian investments in sectors like IT and renewable energy are on the rise, promoting sustainable development.
Moreover, India’s development assistance programs underscore its role as a partner in progress.
Through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program, India has provided training, capacity building, and technical assistance to over 160 countries. This program covers a wide range of areas, including healthcare, education, agriculture, and information technology, thereby contributing to human resource development in the Global South.
In recent years, India’s foreign policy has increasingly prioritized the Global South. The “IndiaAfrica Forum Summit,” the “Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation” (FIPIC), and the India-CARICOM Summits are notable examples of India’s structured engagements aimed at deepening ties with Africa, the Pacific Island nations and South America respectively. These
India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat:
By Amb Anil Trigunayat
As India embarked on its fast-paced human centric developmental journey to become a developed country
“Viksit Bharat @2047” by the time it completes the century of the independence, the past decade has been exceptional across the national and strategic spectrum. PM Narendra Modi’s
wherein all Ministries and Indian Foreign Missions take part in this global campaign. The Guardian ring of yoga starts from the coverage of IDY events across cities from the first Sunrise in the eastern Hemisphere to the last sunrise in the western hemisphere. The Sagar Mala or Ocean Ring of Yoga is a calling to observe yoga at all the seaports among nations friendly to India. The Indian Missions also engage
platforms facilitate dialogue, development cooperation, and investment partnerships.
Furthermore, India’s leadership in the International Solar Alliance (ISA) exemplifies its role in promoting sustainable development through SouthSouth cooperation. The ISA, an initiative launched by India and France in 2015, aims to mobilize resources and promote solar energy adoption in tropical countries. With 121 member countries, many of which are from the Global South, the ISA underscores India’s commitment to addressing climate change and promoting renewable energy.
The Voice of the Global South Summit (VOGSS) VOGSS provides a platform for emerging economies and nations from the Global South to express their unique perspectives, challenges, and innovative solutions on the global stage. Initiated with the goal to amplify the voices of low and middleincome countries, the Summit leverages its influence to call upon developed economies to reorient their approach towards the underdeveloped world.
The three VOGSSs India convened the 1st VOGSS, a one-of-a-kind event, in the early weeks of India’s G20 Presidency in January 2023 in virtual format, spread across 10 sessions, to focus international attention on priorities, perspectives and concerns of the developing world. PM Modi presided over the Inaugural and Concluding Leaders’ sessions. India was able to channelize the inputs received in these sessions into the deliberations and discourse of the G20.
Following on the success of the first VOGSS, India hosted the 2nd VOGSS on 17 November 2023, under the theme – ‘Together, For Everyone's Growth, With Everyone's Trust’. The theme was an extension of India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and
the citizens in their countries on yoga by conducting workshops, IDY Common yoga protocol training, seminars, competitions, etc. to spread the message of yoga.
The International Day of Yoga is now a global movement that spreads the ancient Indian wisdom and culture among the comity of Nations with a call for Health, Harmony, and Well-being. Yoga isn’t just about touching
PM Modi’s governance ideology of ‘’Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas. ‘’ The key focus of the Summit was threefold:
• To share the outcomes and progress achieved in the priorities of the Global South during India’s G-20 Presidency.
• To amplify the voice of the Global South and deliberate on the way forward to achieve their common objectives.
• To sustain the momentum of exchange and sharing of ideas and best practices between our countries, generated towards our common aspiration of a more inclusive, representative and progressive world order.
Both these editions of the Summit saw participation of over 100 countries from the Global South.
The 3rd VOGSS, with the overarching theme of "An Empowered Global South for a Sustainable Future”, served as a platform to expand discussions held in the previous Summits on a range of complex challenges that continue to affect the world, such as conflicts, food and energy security crises, climate change, debt burdens - all of which disproportionately affect developing countries in a severe manner. At the Summit, the countries of the Global South deliberated on challenges, priorities, and solutions for the Global South, particularly in the developmental domain.
The Summit witnessed the participation of 173 dignitaries from 123 countries, including 21 HOS/G, 34 Foreign Ministers and 118 Ministers and Vice Ministers.
This was a testimony to India’s sincerity and commitment in advancing the collective developmental journey of the Global South, and priority accorded by PM Modi to engaging with the Global South.
PM Modi put forward a proposal for a comprehensive Global Development Compact comprising four elements:
• Trade for development;
your toes, but is about touching and transforming lives.
By Dr Raghavendra Rao M, BNYS, PhD (Yoga & Life Sciences), DSc (Yoga & Life Sciences) Director, Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy, Ministry of Ayush, Govt of India.
• Capacity building for sustainable growth;
• Technology sharing; and,
• Project specific concessional finance and grants.
With participation of countries representing over 60% of the world’s population, the Summit reinforced the centrality of the Global South in the collective pursuit of a future that is inclusive for all.
A significant achievement of India’s support and promotion of interests of the Global South was the admittance of the African Union as a full Member of the G20 on the first day of India’s Presidency of the G20 on 9th September, 2023.
Conclusion
India’s geopolitical dynamics with the Global South have evolved significantly over the years, reflecting its growing economic power, strategic interests, and aspirations to be a major player on the global stage. India’s proactive engagement with the Global South underscores its commitment to a multipolar world where developing nations have a significant voice in global affairs. Through sustained efforts in diplomacy, economic cooperation, and strategic partnerships, India is poised to play a pivotal role in the evolving dynamics of the Global South.
As the world navigates complex challenges such as climate change, economic inequality, and geopolitical shifts, India’s role as a partner to the Global South is poised to become increasingly significant.
As both a leader and a partner, India continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Global South. Through sustained cooperation, mutual respect, and shared aspirations, India and the Global South can collectively navigate the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
11 years of development, progress and nation building
call to dispense with the slavish mentality and rise and shine with the mantra of reform, perform and transform has already begun to yield remarkable dividends. Over 1550 archaic and cumbersome laws were repealed and jurisprudence updated. At 130 in 2017 in the Doing Business Index of the World Bank India rapidly moved to 63rd place
resulting in significant increase in Foreign Direct Investment. Innovation eco system has produced 1.6 million start ups from mere 500 ten years ago with 118 unicorns. From fragile five to become the 4th largest economy in a decade is a remarkable achievement by any standards. According to Bloomberg based on IMF data , China, India and
USA are projected to be the three global growth engines from 20252030.
India has also emerged as a key proponent of fight against climate change and a spokesman against the ‘Green Apartheid”. India has committed to ‘zero carbon’ by 2070 but by all accounts, it seems target may be achieved much earlier. In 2015 , India along with
France launched the International Solar Alliance (ISA) perhaps the most consequential initiative after the NAM movement of the 1950s. A monumental achievement is that 50% of India’s installed electricity capacity now is attributable to non-fossil sources. This is integral to the quest for India’s energy security which is essential for it to continue to
remain as the fastest growing major economy in the world. India is converting ambition and aspiration into action. Not only India launched another global initiative ‘The Global Biofuels Alliance’ during the Presidency of G20 in September 2023 but also completed the ethanol mixing targets way before. Same applies to its Nationally Determined Conrtributions (NDCs) where India is the first and the fastest to comply with.
The pandemic had hit the world hard in an unprecedented manner. But India’s response was unique since it was driven by its DNA dictum of ‘Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam’-world is one family. When the powerful countries were hoarding vaccines and medicines for geo political ends, India, not only manufactured its own but even for others from UK and Russia, provided billions of vaccines to over a hundred countries as part of its ‘Vaccine Maitri ‘– Vaccine Friendship outreach. More importantly, it had to cater for the one sixth of the world ‘s population which inhabits India. Since health care became a fundamental priority, India launched the government financed insurance scheme,
Ayushman Bharat–Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (ABPMJAY), which is reported to have increased substantially since 2014. This is a government healthcare programme operated on a massive scale. Under AB-PMJAY 345 million Ayushman cards have been issued, and 29,914 hospitals have been empanelled. More than sixty-five million authorised hospital admissions have taken place under the scheme. This has been further extended to include senior citizens above 70.
India is essentially an agricultural country and farmers are the back bone of India and its food security. Hence, even at the Doha rounds of WTO, India has always stood for the cause and interests of large number of developing countries. PM Modi had announced doubling of farmers’ income through various initiatives and reforms at the grass roots level. Some of these include a scheme for soil health cards to all the farmers, National Agriculture Market (e-NAM), Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) which provides very low premium for farmers.”
The PMKSY scheme, launched in 2015, supports the use of microirrigation technologies- which
India’s Neighborhood
by Amb Ashok Sajjanhar
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘’Neighborhood First’’ Policy of his administration on assuming power for the first time in May, 2014. From the very beginning he was determined to improve relations with India’s neighbours and remove the misconstrued distrust about India’s dominance and interference in their internal affairs. He sought to achieve this by convincing them of India’s support and goodwill for their security, stability, well- being and prosperity.
As a first step, he invited leaders of all countries of the South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) and the Prime Minister of Mauritius to the oath taking ceremony of his government on 26th May, 2014. PM Modi met all the visiting leaders to promote trust and strengthen bilateral ties. This initiative was expanded when PM Modi invited leaders of all countries of Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand) and PM of Mauritius and President of Kyrgyzstan, who at that time was the informal coordinator of Central Asian countries on 30th May, 2024. Invitees for PM Modi’s third oath taking ceremony on 9th June, 2024 included leaders of
is a crop insurance scheme. No wonder in past decade the food grain production increased from 252 Mn tonnes to 332 Mn tonnes. Fighting poverty has been one of the biggest tasks that the Indian Government has undertaken. Operating one of the world's largest food security programs, the Targeted Public Distribution System under the National Food Security Act covers 81.35 (Over 800 million) beneficiaries, providing food grains to rural and urban populations. Recent decisions, such as extending free food grain distribution under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana for another five years, exemplify Government's commitment.
Self-Reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) has become the key to ‘Make in India for the world’ and local for global to be part of the global value and supply chains as it emerges as the smart manufacturing hub and services centre of the world. With its zero tolerance to terror policy the indigenous defence systems rained hell on the enemy during the Op-Sindoor action against Pakistan based terror hideouts. India has excelled not only in space exploration from first
ever landing on the southern moon and Chandrayaan to Gaganyaan missions but excelled through its Digital Public Infrastructure (DBI) and Unique Digital Identity Aadhar and exceptionally large number of bank accounts across India for distribution of the benefits and payments directly into accounts. By linking Aadhaar with Jan Dhan bank accounts and mobile numbers (the “JAM” Trinity), the government streamlined streamlined the delivery of social welfare programs, reducing fraud and ensuring that benefits reached the intended recipients directly and efficiently. This proved particularly crucial during the pandemic, enabling swift and targeted disbursement of financial aid to those most in need. numbers (the “JAM” Trinity), the government streamlined the delivery of social welfare programs, reducing fraud and ensuring that benefits reached the intended recipients directly and efficiently. This proved particularly crucial during the pandemic, enabling swift and targeted disbursement of financial aid to those most in need. All these digital tools and Apps and digital public goods have been made available to the
world especially the developing countries. AI for All, One earth one health, one grid one world are not mere slogans but policy directives of a resurgent India steeped in its civilizational ethos. In this fractured world order, India’s sane and value based foreign policy has become robust, resilient and result oriented as it seeks to comprehensively enhance its own power spectrum through strategic autonomy and multi-alignments entrenching reformed multilateralism and multi-polarity. This was evident recently when PM Modi was again invited by PM Mark Carney to G7 Summit in Canada, despite cooler ties with them, since he felt that it was important to have India at the table. It is increasingly becoming a rule shaper from G7 to G20 to BRICS and beyond. Interest of the Global South is served by example and advocacy and by being their credible voice while pursuing inclusivity and human centric approaches.
(Amb Anil Trigunayat is a former Indian Ambassador and a Distinguished Fellow at Vivekananda International Foundation)
neighboring countries as well as Seychelles, a maritime partner covered by the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) Initiative launched by PM Modi in 2015 to improve India's maritime engagement.
Through these initiatives PM Modi sought to take bilateral ties to a higher level of trust and cooperation.
In 2014 PM Modi further advanced this Initiative by making Bhutan the first country of his foreign visit in June, 2014. Addressing the Joint Session of the Bhutanese Parliament, PM Modi stated that ‘‘The entire region, especially the SAARC countries, would benefit if India is prosperous. Only a strong, prosperous India can help alleviate the problems that its neighbours face.’’
PM Modi visited Nepal soon thereafter in August, 2014 and Addressing the Nepalese Constituent Assembly, the first foreign leader to do so, said that India would not interfere in Nepal’s internal affairs but will support it. India will do all it could to assist Nepal in its endeavors. He expressed his strong wish that Nepal becomes a developed nation by supplying power to India.
Addressing the UN General Assembly, the next month on 27th September, 2014 PM Modi said ‘’India expects a peaceful and stable environment for its development. Our future is linked with our neighborhood. That is why my Government from its first day has given the highest priority on advancing friendship and
cooperation with our neighboring countries.’’ He reiterated the same policy for Pakistan asserting that India is ‘’prepared to engage in a serious bilateral dialogue with Pakistan in a peaceful atmosphere, without the shadow of terrorism, to promote our friendship and cooperation. However, Pakistan must also take its responsibility seriously to create an appropriate atmosphere for bilateral dialogue.’’
Over the ensuing 11 years PM Modi has sought to ‘’Walk the Talk’’ of ‘’Neighborhood First’’ through myriad actions, initiatives, ventures and projects.
PM Modi’s visit to Nepal in August, 2014 was the first bilateral visit by an Indian PM to that important neighboring country after a long interregnum of 17 years. He followed it up by visiting Nepal 4 more times viz. in May, 2018, November, 2014, August 2019, and May, 2022. All these visits sought to advance the bilateral partnership to a higher level of trust, physical and energy connectivity, economic partnership and cooperation. India was the first responder to reach out to Nepal after its destructive earthquake in March, 2015 as well as during the 2023 Jajarkot earthquake and the 2024 floods and landslides. As is normal between neighboring countries, some hiccups on bilateral ties relating to contested borders, domestic protests etc. did appear over this period but India has sought to resolve them through dialogue.
Pm Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka in March, 2015 was the first bilateral visit by an Indian PM after a hiatus of more than 30 years. He visited Sri Lanka thrice again in May, 2017, June, 2019 and April,
2025 as the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka after the advent of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) government led by President Anura Kumar Dissanayake (AKD). Moreover, India pro-actively reached out to Sri Lanka by extending a substantial financial support of US$ 4.5 billion to ameliorate its worst economic crisis in several decades in 2022. This had a salutary impact on the perception of the Sri Lankan people and government about India’s honest and honorable intentions in its dealings with Sri Lanka. This resulted in the first foreign visit by the newly elected Sri Lankan President AKD to India although there were apprehensions about his stance on India when he was elected as JVP has always been inimical to India’s presence in the island nation. AKD invited PM Modi to be the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka after his victory in the elections in September, 2024. India has also been successful in mending ties with the recently elected Muizzu government which came to power on the campaign call of ‘’India Out’’ in November, 2023. Displaying strategic patience and maturity even in the face of hostile comments against India and PM Modi by some Maldivian leaders, India invited Muizzu to PM Modi’s oath taking ceremony in June, 2024 and for a State visit in October, 2025. India generously helped Maldives to rescue it from its grave economic crisis. Maldives realized the significance of the selfless support by India in its times of need. This led to the visit by PM Modi as Chief Guest at Maldives’ 60th independence day celebrations in July, 2025. Leaders of both Sri Lanka and Maldives
categorically stated that they will not allow their territory to be used against India’s security. On relations with Pakistan, India has categorically stated that ‘’Terror and Talks will not go together’’. Pakistan will have to irrevocably and demonstrably abjure its support for terror against India for normal relations to emerge. No change in Pakistan’s policy of supporting terrorism against India has been visible so far.
Even after the advent of the Taliban dispensation in Afghanistan in August, 2021, India has supported the Afghan people by sending Covid-19 vaccines, medicines and 40,000 tons of wheat.
Some challenges remain like the situation in Bangladesh where the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was unseated a year ago through domestic protests. India is confident that through strategic patience and abundant goodwill it will be able to normalize relations after an elected government assumes power, hopefully in the near future.
In addition to specific bilateral projects with most neighboring countries relating to economic and commercial cooperation, culture, spiritual tourism, development partnership etc., India has reached out to all neighbours in their time of need or whenever they have been faced with some natural or manmade disasters. In this context India supported its neighboring countries by sharing its Covid-19 vaccines with them immediately after it had commenced the vaccination drive of its own senior citizens.
In total, India shared more than 300 million doses of its Covid-19 vaccines as well as large quantities of medicines and medical devices with more than 100 countries, much of it gratis, including with all its
neighboring countries (except Pakistan). Right at the beginning of his tenure PM Modi floated the idea of launching a satellite to help the people of SAARC countries for their economic and cultural development. This
satellite was put into space soon thereafter and supports many South Asian countries in their economic, social and educational development.
Prime Minister Modi has used a clear-headed approach to
reach out to countries in India's neighborhood to carve out stronger relations with them on the philosophy of ‘’Vasudhaiva Kutmbakam’’ (The Whole World is a Family). PM Modi has been bold, creative, resolute and steadfast
in seeking better relations with the neighbours. It is a measure of success of India’s ‘’Neighborhood First’’ Policy that its relations with most neighboring countries today are significantly better than they were when PM Modi took over power in 2014.
India’s Maritime Vision: from SAGAR to Indo-Pacific to MAHASAGAR
A decade ago, on 12 March 2015,while commissioning in Mauritius the gleaming Offshore Patrol Vessel Barracuda, built in Garden Reach, Kolkata to Mauritian specifications, Prime Minister Modi outlined India’s policy towards the Indian Ocean Region (IOR): SAGAR – Security and Growth for All in the Region. The Indian Ocean, he pointed out, was critical to the future of the world bearing two-thirds of the world’s oil shipments, one third of its bulk cargo and half of its container traffic. The forty states that are on its littoral host nearly 40% of the world’s population.
SAGAR policy emphasized five aspects: safety and security of the Indian mainland and island territories and ensuring a safe, secure and stable IOR; deepen economic and security cooperation with friends in the IOR particularly maritime neighbours and island states through capacity building; collective action and cooperation; seek a more integrated and cooperative future towards sustainable development for all; and increased maritime engagement in the IOR as the primary responsibility for the stability and prosperity of IOR lay with those living in the region. If SAGAR was the external outreach of India, in the national context it was complemented by the Sagarmala port-led development initiative.
For long, India has been criticized for its continental bias, that it was focused on its northern and north west frontiers to the neglect of its vast maritime interests. However,
this has been changing. Since the launch of its Look East policy in 1992 which evolved into the proactive Act East policy in 2015, India has reclaimed its maritime legacy. PM Modi recently released a special coin commemorating 1000 years of Emperor Rajendra Chola’s naval achievements.
The Indian navy has been in the forefront of maritime diplomacy through capacity building initiatives, joint exercises, plurilateral conferences, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)and Search and Rescue (SAR)activities. The 2004 Tsunami established India’s credentials in disaster relief operations. India came to be recognized as the first responder and net security provider in the IOR, particularly to states in its neighbourhood. India’s prompt assistance to Myanmar in the aftermath of the devastating Cyclone Nargis in 2008 and being the first country to deliver drinking water to the Maldives after a freshwater crisis in that country in end 2014consolidated that image. In March, 2025 India mounted a huge relief and rescue Operation Brahma to earthquake hit Myanmar.
India has now graduated to becoming a preferred security partner in the Indo-Pacific region forming defence partnerships that not only include joint exercises and capacity building but also exports of defence equipment either as a grant or under a defence Line of Credit at the request of the partner state.
Trilateral maritime security cooperation with Sri Lanka and
Maldives which began in2011, has extended to other Indian Ocean states including Mauritius and Bangladesh with Seychellesas observer under the Colombo Security Conclave that now has a charter and a secretariat in Colombo. The Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) which began as an initiative of the Indian navy in 2008 is an inclusive platform to discuss maritime issues and to work out effective response mechanisms. IONS has 25 participating countries from South Asia, West Asia, Africa, southeast Asia and European countries with Indian Ocean territories as well as nine observers and a rotating chair (India will take over as chair, at the end of 2025). MILAN is a biennial multinational exercise hosted by Indian navy in harmony with India’s vision of SAGAR and Act East policy.
A crucial facet of maritime security is enhanced maritime domain awareness. Towards this, India has also been pursuing white shipping agreements with several countries (22 have been concluded till now) and established a state-of-the-art Information Fusion Centre (IFC –IOR) in Gurugram that facilitates sharing of maritime information among member states. India has a long history ofdevelopment partnership going back to the period prior to its Independence. Its approach to development partnership has been shaped by its independence struggle, solidarity with other colonized and developing countries and the
inspiring leadership of Mahatma Gandhi who declared that “my patriotism includes the good of mankind in general”. It is thus that India has been sharing its developmental experiences and technical expertise in a spirit of Vasudhaivakutumbakam( the ancient belief that the World is One Family).As PM Modi stated in his address to the Ugandan Parliament in 2018, “Our developmental partnership will be guided by your priorities, it will be on terms that will be comfortable for you, that will liberate your potential and not constrain your future…” The Indian model of developmental cooperation is comprehensive and involves multiple instruments including grant-in-aid, concessional lines of credit, capacity building and technical assistance. Above all, it is unconditional,transparent, sustainable and financially viable.
In June, 2018 at the Shangri La conference, PM Modi outlined India’s Indo-Pacific vision. For India, the Indo-Pacific stands for a free, open, inclusive region that “embraces us all in a common pursuit of progress and prosperity”. He emphasized ASEAN centrality, a rules-based order, freedom of navigation, unimpeded commerce and peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law. There is great synergy between the Indian approach and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. In November 2019 at the East Asia Summit in Bangkok, India launched the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) a coherent initiative comprising seven
pillars of practical cooperation built on the SAGAR vision. India’s active participation in the QUAD (Australia, India, Japan and US) is part of our Indo-Pacific vision. Earlier, in 2014, India established FIPIC (Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation), a strategic initiative for strengthening diplomatic and economic engagement with islands in the Pacific ocean.
It was in 2023, during India’s presidency of G-20, whose leitmotif was inclusivity, that the African Union was invited to join the grouping. India’s presidency, inter alia, revived multilateralism, amplified the voice of the global south and championed development. India has hosted three editions of the Voice of the Global South summit since then. Ten years after SAGAR, during an official visit to Mauritius in 2025, PM Modi announced MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), an updated doctrine. If SAGAR is the sea, then MAHASAGAR denotes ‘ocean’ in Hindi and several other Indian languages. MAHASAGAR marks a strategic evolution from a regional focus on the Indian Ocean to a global maritime vision, with particular emphasis on the global south. PM Modi’s recent engagements with Mauritius, Maldives, Trinidad and Tobago, Ghana and now the Philippines are aligned with the MAHASAGAR vision.
By Suchitra Durai Former Ambassador of India to Thailand
India & Australia strengthen digital ties through cables dialogue
Perth, August 1 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General Kajari Biswas took part in the Australia-India Cables Dialogue in Perth, a key forum aimed at boosting
cooperation on submarine cable systems and safeguarding digital infrastructure across the IndoPacific region.
The high-level event brought together leading experts
from both nations to discuss strategic solutions for enhancing connectivity, building resilient cable networks, and securing supply chains. Chaired by Dr Samuel Bashfield of the Australia India Institute, the dialogue
was hosted in collaboration with the International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore, the Forrest Research Foundation, and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The initiative reflects growing efforts by India and Australia to work closely on critical technologies and digital security, reinforcing regional cooperation in the face of evolving geopolitical and cybersecurity challenges.
If we keep working hard, we can dominate Test cricket: Gambhir’s dressing room pep talk after series draw
London, Aug 5 (IANS) Following the 2-2 Test series draw against England, India head coach Gautam Gambhir expressed confidence in his team's ability to dominate red-ball cricket, provided they maintain their work ethic and commitment.
India concluded the five-match Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy with a thrilling six-run win at The Oval on Monday. The win not only saved India from a third consecutive Test series defeat under Gambhir's tenure but also silenced critics for doubting the Shubman Gill-led young side.
Overcoming the Test retirements of senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the young Indian team played as a unit and displayed grit and resilience to deliver outstanding performance under pressure on challenging English conditions.
"The way this series has panned out 2-2 is an outstanding result, congratulations to all. So remember, we will keep getting better, we will keep working
hard, we will keep improving our areas - because if we keep doing that, we can dominate Test cricket for a very long period. People will come & go, but the culture of the dressing room should always be like that people want to be part of this culture, that is what we want to create. Good luck, enjoy yourself. You can take a couple of days off, and you deserve every bit of it. What you guys have achieved, you deserve every bit of it. Congratulations," Gambhir said in a Dressing Room BTS video shared by the BCCI.
Allrounder Ravindra Jadeja handed the Impact Player of the Series medal to Washington Sundar for his outstanding performance on the tour. He finished the series with 284 runs, including an unbeaten 101 matchsaving knock at Old Trafford in Manchester.
"Obviously, it is a great blessing to be playing four games on the trot in a place like England. Always wanted to do really well here. And as a team, just the way we went about, every single day was amazing. The energy we created especially from a fielding perspective, the energy we created, we were always there for each other. Thank you so much for everything," Sudar said of his successful England tour.
Canadian Open: Mboko stuns Osaka to clinch maiden WTA 1000 title
Montreal, Aug 8 (IANS) An 18-year-old Canadian wild card Victoria Mboko stunned four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 to win her first WTA 1000 title on home soil at the Canadian Open. After dropping the first set in the championship match, Mboko once again showed her resilience and fighting spirit, breaking in the opening game of the second set which seemed to throw Osaka off her game even though she managed to break back twice during the frame.
Mboko carried her momentum into the final set, cruising to victory against a discouraged opponent to achieve a destiny that seemed written in the stars from the moment she stepped foot in Montreal.
The victory moves Mboko to a career-high no. 25 on the WTA rankings, guaranteeing that she will be seeded for the first at a Grand Slam in New York later this month. Since 1970, Mboko is the
Follow India Packs now on sale for AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™
Sydney/Gadigal, August 8: Fans of the Blue Tigresses can now secure their seats to follow India at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™, with dedicated Follow Your Team packs officially on sale. With two Group Stage matches
in Perth and a third in Western Sydney, fans have the flexibility to purchase either a 2-Match Pack (for the Perth games only), or a full 3-Match Pack including the final group clash in Sydney against Chinese Taipei— with
the option to secure seats in dedicated India fan bays or premium seating.
This flexible option allows fans to follow India their way — whether they’re based in Western Australia and want to show support locally, or planning to follow the Blue Tigresses across two states as they chase continental glory.
v Japan – 7pm WST, Saturday, 7 March, Perth Rectangular Stadium
v Chinese Taipei – 8pm AEST, Tuesday, 10 March, Western Sydney Stadium
These packs which are part of our Multi-Match Pack ticket release are available for a limited time only. They give fans the earliest opportunity to secure seats at a fixed price, with all pack purchases also unlocking the option to buy tickets to the Final. Single match tickets will be available soon, offering even more flexibility and choice to join the action and be part of history. Buy tickets: Lock in your tickets at www.ticketmaster.com.au/ womensasiancup2026/indiatickets
‘Real Test cricket’: Rashid Latif hails India’s Oval heist as Siraj seals historic six-run
win
second Canadian semifinalist, finalist, and champion, at the Canadian Open after Bianca Andreescu in 2019.
Coming into the tournament, Mboko was ranked 85th in the world. Her victory makes her the second-lowest ranked player to win a Tier I / WTA 1000 title since the format’s introduction in 1990. She is the second player since 2009 to claim her maiden title at a WTA 1000 event. Mboko is the second wildcard to win the National Bank Open after Monica Seles in 1995. Her fortnight included four victories over Grand Slam champions -- Sofia Kenin, Coco Gauff, Elena Rybakina and Osaka. Gauff and Rybakina were seeded No. 1 and No. 3. It’s the first time that’s happened in a single tournament since Ons Jabeur and Elina Svitolina in Wimbledon 2023 -- but they weren’t teenagers. Mboko is the second-youngest player ever to defeat four Grand Slam champions in a single WTA event in the Open Era. The first was Serena Williams in 1999. The 18-year-old is the first Canadian woman to face four former Women’s Singles Grand Slam champions and the first to beat all four in a single WTA event in the Open Era.
New Delhi, Aug 4 (IANS) Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif called it “real Test cricket” — a drama soaked in pressure, tactics, grit, and late twists. India’s astonishing six-run win over England in the fifth and final Test at The Oval ticked every box, and for Latif, it was a throwback to the finest traditions of the format.
“Test matches in England and Australia have a charm of their own. What we saw in this series, especially the final Test, was real Test cricket — pressure, fightbacks, and tactical gambles,” Latif told IANS. “This final match turned into a fast-bowler’s contest, and the way Siraj and Prasidh Krishna bowled under pressure was incredible.”
On a nail-biting final day, Mohammed Siraj produced one of the finest spells of his career, taking three of the last four England wickets to complete a five-wicket haul and bowl India to a six-run win — their narrowest victory by runs in the history of Test cricket. With it, India squared the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2024 series 2–2, ending an unforgettable tour on a high. England, resuming at 339/6 and needing just 35 runs, were favourites to seal the match and the series. But Siraj had other
plans.
He got things rolling by drawing a tentative poke from Jamie Smith, caught brilliantly low by Dhruv Jurel for 2. Then, after a tense few overs in which England chipped away at the target, Siraj struck again — trapping Jamie Overton LBW with a nip-backer. Umpire's call went India’s way, bringing them two wickets away from a famous win.
Prasidh Krishna, who had already bowled his heart out for four wickets, joined the act with a sensational 141 kmph yorker to clean up Josh Tongue. That brought Chris Woakes to the crease, walking out bravely with his left arm in a sling.
With England still in the contest, Atkinson heaved Siraj for a six
and tried to farm the strike. But Siraj finished it in style — a searing yorker that clattered Atkinson’s off-stump and triggered euphoric celebrations from the Indian players and travelling fans.
Siraj, who had dropped a vital catch of Harry Brook earlier, spectacularly redeemed himself, ending with figures of 5 for 104 in 30.1 overs. Prasidh Krishna’s 4 for 126 ensured the two pacers accounted for nine of the ten wickets in the innings. “Siraj especially held his nerve when England looked set to win,” said Latif. “The ball to get Jamie Smith was crucial. And after that, he just didn’t let them breathe.”
The former Pakistan wicketkeeper also praised the courage of India’s returning star Rishabh Pant, who was reportedly playing through pain in the Manchester Test. “Coming back from a near-fatal accident and still standing up to keep wickets and bat under pressure — that’s inspiring for the team and fans.”
He added that India’s depth is becoming a strength, especially as they navigate a new generation: “With players like Jaiswal scoring big and Pant back, they have options. But there’s still a puzzle around the number three slot.
New Delhi: FDCI India Couture Week
Start-up surge and heritage pride define Kashmir’s post-370 transformation
Srinagar, Aug 4 (IANS) Six years after the abrogation of Article 370, Jammu and Kashmir is undergoing a multidimensional transformation that defies its turbulent past. From start-up acceleration to cultural revival, the region is scripting a new narrative - one rooted in economic inclusion, infrastructural modernisation, and civic empowerment.
At the heart of this shift is the Jammu and Kashmir Start-up Policy 2024-27, launched by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at the Avinya Startup Summit in March 2024. The policy aims to establish 2,000 start-ups by 2027, with 837 ventures already registered, including 302 led by women.
A Rs 250 crore venture capital fund, with an initial infusion of
Rs 25 crore from the UT administration, has been announced to catalyse innovation in agri-tech, handicrafts, and digital services. Kashmir’s handicraft industry, long burdened by counterfeit imports and market isolation, is experiencing a digital renaissance. Platforms like Kashmir Box have enabled artisans to reach global audiences.
Recent crackdowns on fake GItagged goods, including carpets and pashmina shawls, have restored consumer trust, with traders demanding stricter enforcement and public verification mechanisms.
Businesses are thriving, with renewed interest in traditional crafts such as Pashmina, Sozni embroidery, and walnut wood carving, many of which now carry GI certification.
Infrastructure development under the Srinagar Smart City Project, approved in 2017 and overseen by Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), has redefined urban life through smart roads, sanitation upgrades, and digital governance tools.
Tourism has surged, with houseboat owners and heritage guides reporting record bookings, aided by enhanced connectivity and the beautification of riverfronts like the Jhelum Bund, where a Rs 68.02 crore Detailed Project Report (DPR) was approved for embankment restoration and ghat illumination.
Since 2019, the region has received investment proposals worth Rs 1.63 lakh crore, with over 8,300 applications submitted, spanning sectors from hospitality to horticulture. However, actual investments stand at Rs 10,516 crore as of early 2025.
In rural Kashmir, agri-tech start-ups such as Qul Fruitwall, founded by Khuram Mir, are modernising agriculture with IoT-based soil monitoring, droneassisted crop management, and digital supply chains.
Qul recently secured Rs 60 crore in global institutional funding and serves over 5,000 farmers. The new domicile law, introduced in 2020, has granted certificates to over 25,000 individuals, enabling access to land rights, government
While being proud of mother tongue, one should also respect other languages: Maha CM Fadnavis
New Delhi, July 24 (IANS) Amid raging controversy over Marathi vs Hindi and attacks on nonMarathi speaking people in Mumbai and around, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday said that while being proud of one’s mother tongue, one should also respect other languages.
He added that language is an ef-
fective means of communication and a treasure trove of knowledge is available through this medium.
He was speaking on the occasion of inauguration of the Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Strategic and Defence Special Studies Center and Kusumagraj Marathi Language, Literature and Culture Studies Center at the Convention Centre of Jawaharlal Nehru University in Delhi.
CM Fadnavis expressed satisfaction over the start of the study of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's strategic vision and war strategy in a prestigious institution like JNU.
He added,”UNESCO has given the status of a World Heritage
Site to 12 forts of Shivaji Maharaj as 'Maratha Military Landscape'. Shivaji Maharaj identified foreign threats by building impregnable forts in the Sahyadris, Western Ghats and the sea coast and inspired the Marathas to hoist their flag all over India. Shivaji Maharaj's war strategy is still appreciated all over the world. Every battle of Maharaj is an example of strategic power and Swarajya was established due to Shivaji Maharaj."
He remarked that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj instilled a spirit of victory in the Marathi people. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for granting Marathi the status of a classical language.
CM Vijayan leads tributes as literary critic MK Sanoo laid to rest with full state honours
Kochi, Aug 3 (IANS) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan led the tributes as veteran Malayalam literary critic, writer, orator, academic, and former MLA M.K. Sanoo (97) was laid to rest with full state honours at the Ravipuram crematorium here on Sunday evening.
The funeral procession began at around 4 p.m. from the Ernakulam Town Hall, where thousands gathered to pay their final respects.
Sanoo passed away on Saturday while undergoing treatment at Amrita Hospital, Kochi.
He had been in the intensive care unit following complications from a hip fracture sustained in a recent fall.
His death marked the end of an era in Kerala’s literary and cultural landscape.
On Sunday morning, his mortal remains were brought to his residence, ‘Sandhya’, from the hospital mortuary.
The body was kept there for two hours from 8 a.m., allowing close relatives and neighbours to offer their final respects.
Minister for Irrigation Roshy Augustine paid homage at the residence.
From 10 a.m., the body of Sanoo
Mash—as he was fondly known— was laid at the Ernakulam Town Hall. People from all walks of life, including students, writers, political leaders, and admirers, came in large numbers to pay tribute to the revered scholar, who was known for his humility and brilliance as a teacher, writer, and public intellectual.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan paid last respects at the Town Hall to Sanoo, who was elected to the Kerala Legislative Assembly in 1987 as a Left-backed independent candidate from the Ernakulam constituency.
Ministers P Rajeeve, M.B. Rajesh, V.N. Vasavan, and R. Bindu also paid floral tributes, along with Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan.
Senior CPI-M leaders including party general secretary, M.A. Baby, M.V. Govindan, Vaikom Viswan, Gopi Kottamurickal, Suresh Kurup, and C.N.Mohanan were present.
AICC general secretary K.C. Venugopal, former KPCC president V.M. Sudheeran, and former Goa Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai also paid their respects. MLAs T.J. Vinod, Roji M. John, Uma Thomas, and K.J. Maxy were among the mourners.
Archbishop Joseph Kalathiparambil and other religious leaders from various faiths paid homage. From the film industry, actors Devan, Siddique, and Renji Panicker were present to honour the literary icon.
M.K. Sanoo leaves behind a towering legacy of literature, scholarship, and public engagement. His passing is mourned deeply across Kerala and beyond.
Arundhati Roy’s book among 25 declared as ‘forfeited’ by J&K govt for contributing to radicalisation
2023.”
The order said that under Section 98 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, the J&K government has declared publication of 25 books, and their copies or other documents to be forfeited to the government.
New Delhi, Aug 7 (IANS) The Congress party on Thursday paid rich tributes to Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore on his 84th death anniversary, honouring the legendary poet, author and philosopher for his timeless contributions to India’s cultural and intellectual heritage.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge shared a heartfelt tribute
on social media platform ‘X’ and said: “Nothing is worse than one section of the populace enslaving the opinions of another through force and against their will…”
“Deepest respects to one of the greatest thought leaders the world has ever seen — Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore. A Nobel Laureate, social reformer, poet, philosopher, and humanist who penned India’s national anthem. His progressive views and contributions to various arts continue to inspire millions.”
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar also paid homage and said, “Paying tribute to Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore on his death anniversary. As a
on death anniv
One of the greatest thought leaders world has ever seen: Cong pays tributes to Tagore
Nobel Laureate and philosopher, he awakened India’s cultural and intellectual spirit through his poetry and humanism. Let us carry forward his vision of a free, enlightened, and compassionate India.”
Congress MP D.K. Suresh also remembered Tagore as a nation builder. “Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore was a Nobel Laureate, poet, philosopher and nation builder whose words shaped the soul of modern India. His contributions to literature, music and thought continue to resonate across generations. On his death anniversary, we honour the poet whose ideas still shape our thoughts and dreams,” he said.
Srinagar, Aug 7 (IANS) The Jammu and Kashmir government has declared 25 books as ‘forfeited’ under the law for contributing to radicalisation of youth, glorification of terrorists, vilification of security forces and promotion of alienation among the people. Among them is a book by author Arundhati Roy.
The J&K Home Department issued an order to this effect late on Wednesday night.
The order reads, “The identified 25 books have been found to excite secessionism and endangering sovereignty and integrity of India, thereby, attracting the provisions of Sections 152, 196 and 197 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
“These 25 books have been identified for propagating false narrative and secessionism in Jammu and Kashmir and need to be declared as ‘forfeited’ in terms of Section 98 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
“It has come to the notice of the government that certain literature propagates false narrative and secessionism in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Available evidence based on investigations and credible Intelligence unflinchingly indicate that a significant driver behind youth participation in violence and terrorism has been systematic dissemination of false narratives and secessionist literature by its persistent internal circulation, often disguised as historical or political commentary while playing a critical role in misguiding the youth, glorifying terrorism and inciting violence against the Indian State.
Agra-born man to fly on Blue Origin’s next flight to edge of space
New Delhi, Aug 2 (IANS) Indianorigin Arvinder Singh Bahal, a real estate investor, is all set to fly to the edge of space on Jeff Bezos’s space venture Blue Origin’s next space tourist flight. Born in Agra Bahal, who has become a US citizen by naturalisation, loves adventures and has travelled from the North
Pole to the South Pole.
He will now be part of Blue Origin’s 14th human flight to suborbital space. The flight, lasting 11 minutes, will carry a sixmember crew to the Kármán line -- the internationally recognised boundary of space.
The crew includes Arvi Bahal, Gökhan Erdem, Deborah Martorell, Lionel Pitchford, J.D. Russell, and H.E. Justin Sun, the winning bidder for the first New Shepard seat in 2021.
“Arvi is a real estate investor born in Agra, India, and now a naturalised US citizen. A lifelong traveller and adventurer, Arvi has visited every country in the world, the North and South Poles, and skydived Mount Everest and the Pyramids of Giza,” Blue Origin said, in a statement.
“He holds a private pilot’s license
Study shows AI chatbots can blindly repeat incorrect medical details
New Delhi, Aug 7 (IANS) Amid increasing presence of Artificial Intelligence tools in healthcare, a new study warned that AI chatbots are highly vulnerable to repeating and elaborating on false medical information.
Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, US, revealed a critical need for stronger safeguards before such tools can be trusted in health care.
The team also demonstrated that a simple built-in warning prompt can meaningfully reduce that risk, offering a practical path forward as the technology rapidly evolves.
"What we saw across the board is that AI chatbots can be easily misled by false medical details, whether those errors are intentional or accidental," said lead author Mahmud Omar, from the varsity.
"They not only repeated the misinformation but often expanded on it, offering confident explanations for non-existent conditions. The encouraging part is that a simple, one-line warning added to the prompt cut those hallucinations dramatically, showing that small safeguards can make a big difference," Omar added.
For the study, detailed in the
and also flies helicopters,” it added.
While Erdem is a Turkish businessman and a passionate space enthusiast and an avid photographer, Martorell is a Puerto Rican meteorologist and journalist. Pitchford is an Englishman who has spent the last four decades in Spain working as a teacher, translator, and tour guide as a means to travel the world. Russel is a serial entrepreneur and the founder of Alpha Funds, a technologyfocused venture capital company.
The crew will travel aboard the company’s New Shepard rocket, which to date has "70 people above the Kármán line", the company said.
Although the company is yet to announce the date, the mission will be New Shepard’s 34th in its history and the fifth this year.
What is ISRO’s 10-day HOPE analogue mission in Ladakh
New Delhi, Aug 2 (IANS)
Significantly advancing India’s future human space exploration, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has launched the country’s first analogue mission in Ladakh.
The analogue station -- the Human Outer Planet Exploration (HOPE) station -- formally inaugurated by Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman, ISRO, has isolated aerospace engineer Rahul Mogalapalli and astrobiologist Yaman Akot.
“This analogue mission is more than a simulation; rather, it
is a rehearsal for the future,” said Narayanan during the inauguration.
The duo will spend the next 10 days at the analogue site in Ladakh’s Tso Kar. It will test their physical and psychological endurance in interplanetary conditions.
“The mission is scheduled to be conducted from 1st to 10th August 2025 at Tso Kar, Ladakh (elevation: 4,530 metres),” ISRO shared in a post on the social media platform X.
The mission comes as India plans to launch astronauts to space by 2027 and to the Moon by the year 2040 as its space programme soars.“The mission marks a significant milestone in India’s preparations for future human spaceflight to Low Earth Orbit, and Moon/Mars class exploration missions,” the Indian space agency said.
India may well become OpenAI’s largest market: CEO Sam Altman
journal Communications Medicine, the team created fictional patient scenarios, each containing one fabricated medical term such as a made-up disease, symptom, or test, and submitted them to leading large language models.
In the first round, the chatbots reviewed the scenarios with no extra guidance provided. In the second round, the researchers added a one-line caution to the prompt, reminding the AI that the information provided might be inaccurate.
Without that warning, the chatbots routinely elaborated on the fake medical detail, confidently generating explanations about conditions or treatments that do not exist. But, with the added prompt, those errors were reduced significantly.
The team plans to apply the same approach to real, de-identified patient records and test more advanced safety prompts and retrieval tools.
They hope their "fake-term" method can serve as a simple yet powerful tool for hospitals, tech developers, and regulators to stress-test AI systems before clinical use.
New Delhi, Aug 8 (IANS) India is OpenAI’s second-largest market in the world after the US, and it may well become its biggest market in the near future, according to its CEO Sam Altman.
OpenAI sees India as a rapidly growing market, with plans to enhance AI accessibility and affordability, he added.
“It’s incredibly fast-growing, but
what users are doing with AI, what citizens of India are doing with AI, is really quite remarkable,” Altman said while launching GPT-5, the latest version of the artificial intelligence system that powers ChatGPT.
He further stated that the company was working with local partners to make its products more effective and affordable for Indian users, and he plans to visit the country in September.
In June, OpenAI, in partnership with the government’s IndiaAI mission, on Thursday launched the first international expansion of its education platform, that will help expand access to AI skills training across the country.
The initiative, called ‘OpenAI Academy India’, aims to broaden access to AI education and tools, tapping into India’s fast-growing developer community, digital infrastructure, and network of startups and innovators.
It will support the IndiaAI Mission’s 'FutureSkills' pillar by expanding access to AI skills training for a wide range of learners — students, developers, educators, civil servants, nonprofit leaders, and small business owners. “India is one of the most dynamic countries in the world for AI development, with adoption and innovation accelerating at remarkable speed,” said Jason Kwon, Chief Strategy Officer, OpenAI.
4 astronauts from US, Japan and Russia successfully dock at space station: NASA
New Delhi, Aug 2 (IANS)
Four astronauts from the US, Japan, and Russia, part of the NASA rotation mission, have successfully docked at the International Space Station (ISS), after an approximately 15-hour journey, the US space agency said on Saturday.
Called Crew 11, the team involves NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) astronaut Kimiya Yui, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov.
The crew from NASA, JAXA, and Roscosmos “arrived at the International Space Station as the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft docked to the orbiting complex at 2:27 a.m. EDT (11:57 am IST) on
Saturday”, NASA shared in a post on the social media platform X.
The crew lifted off at 11:43 a.m. Eastern Time (9.13 pm IST) aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Friday.
The crew-11 joined NASA astronauts Anne McClain, Nichole Ayers, and Jonny Kim, JAXA astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Roscosmos cosmonauts Kirill Peskov, Sergey Ryzhikov, and Alexey Zubritsky, who were already on board the ISS.
During their stay aboard the orbiting laboratory, the astronauts are expected to carry out a range of scientific research and technology demonstrations. Their tasks include simulating
lunar landings, testing vision protection strategies, and conducting studies to improve human health and performance in space.
The crew will also study plant cell division and microgravity's effects on bacteria-killing viruses, and perform experiments to produce a higher volume of human stem cells and generate on-demand nutrients, according to NASA. The crew-11 will spend at least six months at the orbiting lab, swapping places with colleagues up there since March. SpaceX will bring those four back as early as Wednesday.
"NASA’s SpaceX Crew-10 will depart the space station after the arrival of Crew-11 and a handover period.
Plastic pollution is underrecognised threat to health: The Lancet
New Delhi, Aug 4 (IANS) Ahead of the UN treaty on plastics, a new report in The Lancet journal on Monday has warned that plastic pollution is an underrecognised threat to the health of both humans and the planet, which must be addressed immediately.
The report, led by a group of international experts, reviews the current evidence on how plastics -- including microplastics and plastic chemicals -- impact health.
“Plastics are a grave, growing, and under-recognised danger to human and planetary health. Plastics cause disease and death from infancy to old age and are responsible for health-related economic losses exceeding $1.5 trillion annually,” said corresponding author Prof Philip J Landrigan, from Boston College, US.
The report discusses evidence that plastics endanger human health at every stage of their life
cycle -- in production, use, and disposal. It showed that airborne emissions from plastic production include particulate matter (PM2.5), sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides, as well as hazardous chemicals to which plastic workers can be exposed.
The experts from the US, Switzerland, Germany, and Australia noted the lack of transparency around which chemicals are present in plastics, their production volumes, uses, and known or potential toxicity.
“Many plastic chemicals are associated with multiple health effects at all stages of human life,” the experts said.
Further, the report stated that microplastics have been reported in human tissues and body fluids, and, while further research is needed to understand the relationship with potential health impacts, a precautionary approach is warranted.
An estimated 57 per cent of unmanaged plastic waste is burned in the open -- a major source of air pollution in low-and middleincome countries.
Plastic waste can also provide a habitat for mosquitoes to lay
their eggs and for the growth of microorganisms, potentially contributing to the spread of vectorborne diseases and antimicrobial resistance, said the experts. They called for a greater focus on health impacts when considering plastic pollution.
Notably, the report projected that, without changes, plastic production will almost triple between 2019 and 2060.
Landrigan stated that while “continued worsening of plastics' harms is not inevitable,” it can be mitigated cost-effectively by evidence-based, transparently tracked, effectively implemented, and adequately financed laws and policies.
To address plastics' harms globally, UN member states unanimously resolved in 2022 to develop a comprehensive, legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, namely the Global Plastics Treaty, covering the full lifecycle of plastic. The meeting is scheduled for tomorrow.
Meanwhile, the experts also announced the launch of a new project to track the impact of plastics: the Lancet Countdown on Health and Plastics.
Inflammation linked to frailty, social deprivation and heart disease risk in women: Study
New Delhi, Aug 5 (IANS) Chronic inflammation may be associated with an increased risk of frailty, social disadvantage, and cardiovascular disease (CVD), according to a study.
The study, published in the journal Communications Medicine, looked at 74 inflammation-related proteins in blood samples from more than 2,000 women aged between 37 and 84 years and explored how inflammation was linked to frailty, area-level social deprivation, and CVD risk.
The researchers identified 10 inflammatory proteins that were
associated with both frailty and living in a deprived area.
Of these, four proteins that are involved in cellular signaling, growth, and movement (TNFSF14, HGF, CDCP1, and CCL11) were also linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
"To better understand how frailty and deprivation contribute to heart disease, we took a datadriven approach, screening a large number of inflammatory proteins in the blood. By identifying overlapping biological markers linked to both social and health vulnerability, we were able to uncover a potential shared pathway between these risk factors," said Dr. Yu Lin, Research Associate in the Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology at King's College London.
One of the proteins, CDCP1, was
found to be significantly associated with future heart disease events, such as narrowed or blocked arteries. These findings suggest that certain inflammatory proteins may act as a biological bridge connecting social inequality, ageing, and heart disease. Further, the team validated their findings in an independent group of women to ensure the results were consistent across different populations.
"Frailty, social disadvantage, and heart disease often go hand in hand, but the biological mechanisms linking them are not yet fully understood. Our findings suggest that the stress of socioeconomic hardship may trigger harmful inflammation that damages health over time," said Dr. Cristina Menni, Senior Lecturer in Molecular Epidemiology at King's College London.
Indian scientists explore potential cure for Alzheimer’s Disease using microRNAs
New Delhi, Aug 6 (IANS) MicroRNAs (miRNAs) -- the discovery of which received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine last year -- may play a significant role in the treatment and cure of
Alzheimer's Disease (AD), said researchers from Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR).
Alzheimer's Disease is a devastating condition that steals away mental faculties and debilitates day-to-day life of patients. Characterised by the accumulation of protein clumps in the brain, memory loss, and cognitive deficits, it is estimated to affect more
Even healthy processed food may not be good for your weight loss journey: Study
New Delhi, Aug 5 (IANS) Following a healthy diet to lose weight?
Make sure it's minimally processed, suggests a study, which showed that reducing processing could help to sustain a healthy weight.
In a first, researchers from the University College London (UCL) nutritionally matched minimally processed (MPF) and ultraprocessed (UPF) diets.
The results, published in the journal Nature Medicine, showed that participants lost twice as much weight eating minimally processed foods compared to ultra-processed foods.
“The primary outcome of the trial was to assess percentage changes in weight, and on both diets, we saw a significant reduction, but the effect was nearly double on the minimally processed diet,” said Dr Samuel Dicken, first author of the study from the UCL
Centre for Obesity Research. The trial split 55 adults into two groups. One group started with an eight-week diet of MPF, such as overnight oats or homemade spaghetti Bolognese.
After a four-week ‘washout’ period during which participants went back to their normal diet, they switched to a diet of UPF, such as breakfast oat bars or a lasagne ready meal. The other group completed the diets in the opposite order. In total, 50 participants completed at least one diet.
After eight weeks on each diet, both groups lost weight, likely as a result of the improved nutritional profile of what they were eating compared to their normal diet. However, this effect was higher (2.06 per cent reduction) on the MPF diet compared to the UPF diet (1.05 per cent reduction). The greater weight loss experienced on the MPF diet came from reductions in fat mass and total body water, with no change in muscle or fat-free mass, indicating a healthier body composition overall, explained the researchers.
How diabetes worsens TB, causes treatment failure and death
New Delhi, Aug 5 (IANS) Diabetes continually weakens the immune system, leading to poor health and a high risk of death among patients with tuberculosis (TB), said experts on Tuesday.
The link between TB and diabetes -- two critical challenges to global health -- has long been established. TB and diabetes, both separately and combined, significantly affect individuals, communities, and healthcare systems worldwide.
India's TB burden remains a major public health challenge, with 28 lakh TB cases -- accounting for 26 per cent, the highest globally in 2024. The country also reported an estimated 3.15 lakh TB-related deaths, accounting for 29 per cent of the deaths globally.
than 57.4 million people worldwide, a number that is expected to almost triple to 152.8 million cases by 2050.
Addressing this, researchers from JNCASR, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), explored altered miRNAs in the Alzheimer's brain for early, specific, and accurate clinical diagnosis of the condition.
The burden of diabetes is also consistently increasing in the country, with over 100 million people currently living with the disease.
“Diabetes weakens the immune system, increasing the risk of TB. Diabetes further compromises the already weakened immune system of people who have TB, leading to poor blood sugar control, a higher likelihood of treatment failure, and an increased risk of death during TB treatment
(when compared to those without diabetes),” Hemant D Shewade, senior medical scientist, at ICMRNational Institute of Epidemiology, Chennai, told IANS.
A recent paper, published in the journal PLOS One, led by Shewade and team, noted that people with TB and diabetes are two to three times more likely to remain culture-positive, four times more likely to experience a relapse after completing treatment, and five times more likely to die compared to those without diabetes.
The TB treatment also complicates the management of glucose levels, thus diminishing the effectiveness of the disease management.
Shewade highlighted the need to improve documentation of monitoring glycemic status among people with TB and diabetes, especially those notified by the national TB programme.
Currently, under the programme guidelines, the management of diabetes is the same for those with TB and those without TB.But, “more evidence is needed on whether one should target strict glycemic control (HbA1C below 7 per cent) or glycemic control that is not strict (HbA1C below 8 per cent) is sufficient. More evidence is needed on whether insulin should be added for all people with TB-diabetes irrespective of the glycemic control status,” the senior scientist told IANS.
Sara Tendulkar, social media sensation and youth icon and the new face of Laneige, one of the most popular Korean beauty brands in the world. Known for her authenticity, charm and influential presence on social media, Sara has embarked on this new venture with the brand to support the its mission in the country. She gracefully represents the brand's values of natural and sustainable beauty, while bringing to life the brand belief that everyone should shine with a unique inner and outer glow that is as distinct as their individuality. Along with the announcement of a new Brand Ambassador, the brand unveiled its Bouncy and Firm Sleeping Mask.
An elated Sara Tendulkar, Brand Ambassador, Laneige India, commented, “I am thrilled to be part of Laneige's family. As someone with a biomedical background that makes way for a keen understanding of quality as well as a personal passion for skincare, I admire the brand's commitment to innovation and have been using their products for quite a while. It brings me immense excitement and humility to partner with Laneige, as their core belief in the radiance of each person's unique individuality resonates deeply with me."
At the launch, Paul Lee, Managing Director & Country Head of Amorepacific India, added, "Laneige proudly announces Sara Tendulkar as its Brand Ambassador, embracing her vibrant energy. Sara symbolizes the modern, self-assured youth advocating that beauty transcends
Hydration is Key
Combat the drying effects of summer heat by regularly applying moisturising lotion or oil to your nails and cuticles. This simple step will help maintain their strength and flexibility, reducing the risk of breakage.
mere appearances. With Sara onboard, Laneige aims to connect with a broader audience."
Mini Sood Banerjee, Assistant Director & Head of Marketing and Training Amorepacific India said, "As Laneige's journey evolves, we are thrilled to welcome Sara Tendulkar into our family as the embodiment of timeless grace and modern elegance. Her vibrant spirit and innate charm perfectly resonate with Laneige's commitment to empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty. Together, we embark on a new chapter, celebrating authenticity and the transformative power of skincare."
Social media sensation Sara Tendulkar for Korean Beauty Brand Laniege Summer nail care secrets
Summer is all about fun in the sun, beach outings, and showing off those fabulous nails! With the sunny season upon us, it's essential to step up our nail care game to keep our nails looking
Protect from the Sun
Protect your nails from the sun's harmful UV rays, just as you would protect your skin. Consider using a nail polish with UV protection or applying a clear topcoat containing SPF. When engaging in outdoor activities, wearing gloves can also provide an additional layer of protection against sun damage.
Chase
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, many of us eagerly embrace the warmth of summer.
However, the need for diligent skin care comes with the joys of outdoor activities and beach vacations.
"We are delighted to announce Sara Tendulkar as the new Brand Ambassador for Laneige," said Sally Lee, Brand General Manager of Laneige India. Sara's luminous charm and timeless elegance resonate deeply with our brand's values. Sara's deeper integration into the Laneige experience marks a remarkable milestone, fostering deeper connections with a burgeoning generation of consumers."
Laneige is a brand that specializes in moisture research. They have developed advanced water complexes that are dedicated to creating intelligent skincare solutions for all skin types. With a range of products developed to
Before diving into skin care tips, it's essential to understand the damaging effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to many skin concerns, including sunburn and premature ageing. "One of the most effective ways to shield your skin from sun damage is sunscreen. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating to ensure comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of skin, including your face, neck, and ears, and remember to reapply every two hours, especially if you're swimming or sweating," says Mansi Sharma, founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess.
Hydration is key. Summer heat
fresh and vibrant. Experts in nail care from Tip and Toe Salon share with IANSlife the importance of maintaining healthy and beautiful nails, especially during the summer months. Don't let
Use the Right Tools
Using the right tools is crucial for maintaining nail health. Avoid metal cuticle pushers, as they can cause damage and increase infection risks. Instead, opt for wooden or rubber cuticle pushers. Additionally, always use sharp, clean nail clippers and files to prevent nail splitting and peeling.
can take a toll on your skin, leading to dehydration and a loss of moisture. Mansi recommends to combat the heat by staying hydrated from the inside out. She says, "Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and plump. Additionally, incorporate hydrating skincare products into your routine, such as lightweight moisturizers and serums formulated with hyaluronic acid or glycerin."
While sunscreen provides crucial protection, it's not the only line of defence against the sun's rays. "Consider covering up with lightweight, breathable clothing, hats, and sunglasses to provide additional protection for your skin and eyes. Opt for tightly woven fabrics and dark colours for optimal sun protection," adds Mansi. "When possible, seek shade during the sun's peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This is when UV radiation is at its strongest, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Take breaks from direct sunlight by relaxing under a beach umbrella or finding shelter in a shaded area."
The founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess also suggests that while selecting skincare products for summer, opt for formulations that cater to the specific needs of sun-exposed skin. Mansi says, "Look for products enriched with antioxidants like vitamins C and E, which help neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure. Incorporating a gentle exfoliant into your routine can
Beauty addicts can now get Kylie Cosmetics in India
I am so excited to launch Kylie Cosmetics in India – I created Kylie Cosmetics to give my fans access to the makeup products that I use and love, and I can’t wait to share my collection with all my fans in India.", said Kylie Jenner, Founder of Kylie Cosmetics.
In 2015, Kylie Jenner embarked on her beauty business with the launch of Kylie Lip Kits - a collection of three liquid lipsticks with corresponding lip liners. Since then, Kylie supported by Global beauty powerhouse Coty, have continued to expand her beauty empire around the world in over 50 countries, and across eye, complexion, and countless innovations in lip. The beauty line is carefully crafted with
clean formulations and vegan ingredients that deliver on trend, high-quality, high-pigment, and high-performance formulations that fans around the world have come to love.
In a significant milestone in the brand’s global expansion Kylie Cosmetics, launches in India. Partnering with House of Beauty, the leading beauty specialty company which brings coveted international beauty brands to India, Kylie Cosmetics’ arrival has been long awaited by Indian beauty consumers. This partnership marks the first time the brand has partnered with an Indian omnichannel specialist like House of Beauty.
The launch collection includes the best-selling Matte and Velvet Lip Kits, as well as recent must-have launches such as Precision Pout Lip Liner, Power Plush Longwear Foundation, Kylash Volume Mascara, Power Plush Longwear Concealer and Tinted Butter Balm.
Starting 25th April 2024, Kylie Cosmetics will be available exclusively in 25 Sephora India
Moscow: Russia’s First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov meets National Security Advisor Ajit Kumar Doval, in Moscow, Russia on Friday, August 8, 2025.
Mumbai: ICC Chairman Jay Shah, former India captain Mithali Raj, former cricketer Yuvraj Singh, Indian women’s team captain Harmanpreet Kaur, vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, and batter Jemimah Rodrigues pose during the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup trophy launch event in Mumbai on Monday, August 11, 2025.
Jaipur: A drone-based cloud seeding demonstration using AI technology, marking its first use for rain enhancement, is inaugurated at Ramgarh Bandh near Jaipur on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.
Mumbai: The Mumbai Municipal Corporation Building is lit up with tricolour lights ahead of the 79th Independence Day celebration in Mumbai on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.
Jammu: Students participate in the Tiranga Rally ahead of the Independence Day celebrations in Jammu, Thursday, August 14, 2025.
Patna: Police personnel take part in a full dress parade rehearsal ahead of Independence Day celebrations in Patna on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
New Delhi: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav meets Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah at Parliament House, in New Delhi on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.
Ahmedabad: People participate in a Tiranga Yatra under the “Har Ghar Tiranga” campaign ahead of Independence Day, in Ahmedabad, Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, along with Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, participates in the Tiranga Yatra as part of the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ campaign in Lucknow on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the 18th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA 2025) via video message, in New Delhi on Tuesday, August 12, 2025.
Shimla: School children dressed as Radha and Krishna participate in a procession ahead of Krishna Janmashtami, in Shimla, Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
Moscow: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval holds talks with Secretary of Russia’s Security Council Sergey Shoigu in Moscow on Thursday, August 7, 2025.
New Delhi: Security personnel during the full dress rehearsal for the Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort, New Delhi, Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
LANGUAGE: Hindi, Telugu, Tamil (With English Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Aditya Chopra
DIRECTOR: Ayan Mukherji
CAST: Jr NTR, Hrithik Roshan, Kiara Advani
TEHRAN
RELEASE DATE: TBC
LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Bake My Cake Films, Maddock Films
DIRECTOR: Arun Gopalan
CAST: John Abraham, Manushi Chhillar, Hadi Khanjanpour
Tom Holland says playing James Bond would be ‘pinnacle’ of his career
Hollywood star Tom Holland has shared that playing the role of the suave spy James Bond would be the “pinnacle” of his career.
The Spider-Man star is reportedly set to portray agent 007 in Denis Villeneuve’s upcoming movie in the franchise.
Speaking to Gordon Ramsay on YouTube, he said of the rumours: “Listen, there’s speculation at
the moment. We’ll keep it to a minimum for now. We’ll get there one day.”
Ramsay then pressed Holland on the topic.
He said: “Can you imagine what’s going to happen to your life if you do? First of all, you’d love that opportunity, right?”
Holland replied: “I mean every young British actor, it’s the pinnacle of working in our industry. I already consider myself to be the luckiest kid alive. I could not have dreamed to have the career that I have.”
The Devil All the Time actor’s comments come shortly after Rocketman star Taron Egerton dismissed the idea he could replace Daniel Craig as 007 because he is “too messy”, reports femalefirst.co.uk.
Asked about the possibility of playing Bond, Egerton told Collider: “I don’t think I’m a good choice for it. I think I’m too messy
for that. I think I’m not— I really love James Bond and particularly Daniel Craig’s tenure.
“But I think I wouldn’t be good at it, and I think there’s so many cool, younger actors who would be great for it. I think it would be wasted on me, probably.”
Egerton said that leading the Bond franchise is “quite an undertaking”.
The 35-year-old actor explained: “That’s not to say that I don’t have aspirations and plans and also that I wouldn’t be interested in doing something that’s more commercial, because of course I would. I think I’m a period in my life where, as you say, I’ve been probably following the things that speak to me on a creative level a little bit more, but, you know, I’m sure I won’t feel that way forever.
“But James Bond is quite an undertaking and I think, one, as far as I’m aware, nobody’s asking me to do it.”
Suniel Shetty: I still believe I’m far from my best
Suniel Shetty, who is currently seen in the second season of “Hunter”, said he still believes he is far from his best, and that’s what keeps him going. For the veteran actor, “reinvention is survival.”
“Watching this new generation work — their focus, their scale, the depth they bring — you can’t help but learn. I’ve always been obsessed with fitness, and I keep switching things up there. Acting is no different. You adapt. You
absorb,” Suniel said. He added: I still believe I’m far from my best, and that’s what keeps me going. Reinvention is survival. And honestly, having kids at home constantly reminding you how things are shifting helps keep you on your toes,” he added. For Anusha Dandekar, Hunter 2, wasn’t just her first Hindi series.
“Hunter 2 threw me in the deep end, and definitely pushed me outside my comfort zone, but weirdly, it also felt like home. That may sound contradictory, but I’ve always been super active, into sporty stuff — so the physical side came naturally. But it was still challenging because this was my first Hindi series, and it wasn’t just about doing action,” said Anusha.
Global sensation Akon to perform in India this November: ‘India is like a second home’
In an exciting update for all the music lovers out there, pop sensation Akon will be performing in India this November.
Spearheaded by White Fox, with Percept Live onboard as the coproducer, the ‘Chammak Challo’ singer will set the stage on fire in Delhi on November 9.
His next performance will be in Bengaluru on November 14, followed by a gig in Mumbai on November 16.
The tickets for Akon’s shows are already among the most coveted in the country. While HSBC cardholders will get early access to these tickets from August 8 at 1 PM, others can purchase their tickets from August 10 at 10 PM. The tickets will be available exclusively on Distrito by Zomato.
Sharing his excitement of
performing in India, Akon stated that India has always shown him so much love that it is like a second home to him.
“The energy, the culture, the fans… it’s on another level. I’m beyond excited to be back and perform live for y’all. This tour is gonna be something special — let’s make history together!,” the ‘Smack That’ singer added.
From the first note of “Right Now (Na Na Na)” to the final chorus of “Don’t Matter,” this tour is set to ignite some fond memories.
Aman Kumar, co-founder of White Fox, added, “Bringing Akon back to India is a celebration. This is the night fans have been waiting for. We promise an extravagant experience that will be remembered for years to come.”
Aamir Khan on IFFM: Great initiative of cinema that brings people, cultures together
Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan has commenced the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2025 and said that it is a great initiative of cinema that brings people and cultures together.
Aamir expressed, “It’s great to be here in Melbourne. I’m elated to be part of the Indian film festival of Melbourne.”
“It’s a great initiative of cinema that brings people and cultures together. I’m certain the films and the filmmakers who are showcasing at the festival will have a great experience,” added the superstar.
The IFFM 2025 commenced with its official press conference in the presence of some of the
most celebrated names from the Indian film industry alongside distinguished delegates from the Victorian Government.
The event saw a glittering lineup of guests, including Bollywood icon Aamir Khan, Vir Das, Tillotama Shome, Jim Sarbh, Aditi Rao Hydari, Shoojit Sircar, Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, R.S. Prasanna and casting director Mukesh Chhabra.
Also present were Baksho Bondi’s talented director Tanushree Das, and members of the cast as the film is set for a premiere on the opening night.
Co-directed by Tanushree Das and Saumyananda Sahi in their directorial debut, Baksho Bondi,
which had its world premiere at the Berlin Film Festival 2025, is jointly produced by Tillotama and Jim Sarbh.
The film features Tillotama Shome as Maya, set against the backdrop of a dusty Kolkata suburb, weaving a powerful narrative of love, resilience, and the quiet strength of a working woman navigating her everyday life.
Festival Director Mitu Bhowmik Lange said: We are privileged to host legends and visionaries like Aamir Khan, storytellers like Shoojit Sircar and Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, and actors whose performances move audiences across the globe.”
“This year’s programme, headlined by Baksho Bondi as our Opening Night Film, is an exciting blend of creativity, diversity, and cinematic excellence. The presence of so many eminent guests, coupled with the enthusiastic support of the Victorian Government, makes this year’s festival not just a cultural celebration, but also a bridge that strengthens the ties between India and Australia”.
Aamir will hoist the Indian national flag at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) 2025. The ceremony will take place as part of the festival’s annual Independence Day celebrations.
Sonam Bajwa calls Godday Godday Cha winning National Award a ‘truly humbling experience’
It is a proud moment for Punjabi sensation Sonam Bajwa as her 2023 Punjabi outing "Godday Godday Cha" has been honored with the National Film Award for 'Best Punjabi Film'.
Calling it a "truly humbling experience", Bajwa expressed her gratitude on social media saying, "So grateful for all the
people who worked on this film and made this film happen, and for the audiences for appreciating the film and our efforts in it and now receiving the National Film Award is truly a blessing and one of the biggest rewards, thank you."
Bajwa essayed the role of Rani in Vijay Kumar Arora's directorial. In addition to this, Tania aka
"Nikko" also revealed that she experienced tears of joy after learning about the good news. She penned on her Instagram handle, "Today I got the news that our film “Godday Godday Chaa” won “NATIONAL AWARD” as “The Best Punjabi Film”. Tears again!!!…. but these ones were of JOY…. Immensely grateful . God has been really kind. Congratulations to the whole team." Tania further spilled her excitement about her upcoming drama,"Phaphey Kuttniyan" "My next project, which is too close to my heart and I believe my best till now, “Phaphey Kuttniyan” has my deep attachment with it. I am super excited for this upcoming one and I’m fully trying to come back to work as soon as things come back to their right places," wrote. Pinning her hopes on her next, she added, "Wishing it to receive way more love and way more appreciation for the performance along with another National Award. The film is deeply wired within my heart. Again, Thankful for this Award and working hard for many more. Wishing your love and support always." "Godday Godday Cha" talks about Rani (played by Bajwa), who makes it her mission to take the women of her village to a baraat at a time when it was just a dream for the women of Punjab to attend a wedding.
Neha Dhupia: No woman should be made to feel ashamed for simply feeding her child
feeding her child.
no woman should be made to feel ashamed for simply
Launched in 2019, Freedom to Feed was born from Neha’s personal journey into motherhood and her desire to normalize public breastfeeding without stigma, shame, or
Gauri Khan on SRK, Rani Mukerji & Karan Johar winning National Award: ‘Ready to brag about them’
Gauri Khan is all proud as her three absolute favouritesShah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, and Karan Johar bagged the National Award.
While SRK was honored with the ‘Best Actor’ title for his movie “Jawan”, Rani was honored as the ‘Best Actress’ for her portrayal in “Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway”.
Meanwhile, Karan Johar’s “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani” starring Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh also won the National Awards for the ‘Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment’.
“Three of my absolute favourites just WON big…and so did our hearts... When talent meets goodness, magic happens - So
judgement.
Speaking about reigniting the campaign, Neha said: “When I first launched Freedom to Feed, it came from a deeply personal space — from feeling vulnerable, judged, and isolated during what should have been the most natural and empowering time of my life.”
“Over the years, I’ve realised how many women have felt the same, and how powerful it can be when we come together to share our stories. This year, I want to make the conversation even louder, even more honest. Because no woman should be made to feel ashamed for simply feeding her child.”
She said that this is about choice, dignity, and respect.
“And it’s time we all stood up for that.” It was in 2018, when Neha married actor Angad Bedi, the son of former Indian cricket captain Bishan Singh Bedi in a private ceremony at a Gurudwara. The same year in November, she gave birth to a girl named Mehr Dhupia Bedi. In July 2021, she and Angad announced that they are expecting their second child with an Instagram post.She gave birth to her second child, a boy in October 2021 and named him Guriq Singh Dhupia Bedi.
proud, and so ready to brag about them forever!,” she congratulated them.
Gauri took to her Instagram handle and dropped a love-filled selfie with her husband and Rani. This was followed by a photo of KJo and Rani.
Reacting to the post, actress Ananya Panday and filmmaker Zoya Akhtar dropped red heart emojis in the comment section.
“Congratulations!! G.. celebrations”, former actress Namrata Shirodkar wrote in the comment section.
Elated about his first National Award win, SRK dropped a video on social media, saying, “I’m overwhelmed with gratitude, pride and humility.
Disha Patani tries contemporary chair dance for the first time with a ‘sexy’ teacher
Disha Patani took to social media to share a glimpse of her first-ever attempt at contemporary chair dance.
Under the guidance of her ‘sexy’ instructor, she showcased her effortless dance moves. Taking to her Instagram handle, the actress shared a video of herself dancing with a chair to Lata Mangeshkar’s popular track “Jiya Jale” from Shah Rukh Khan’s film “Dil Se.”
In the clip, Disha, clad in black
athleisure, is seen performing the energetic routine alongside her instructor.
Alongside the clip, the ‘Baaghi 2’ actress wrote, “First time trying it, will keep practising with the sexiest teacher.” Reacting to her post, many praised Disha’s moves, while a few netizens trolled the actress over her acting. Praising Disha, one user said, “Setting the dance floor on fire!.” Another said, “Wowwww.”
One of the trollers commented, “Do acting classes industry is for actors not for bar dancers.” “Producers dekho aur kaam do mujhe,” reads another comment. Recently, Disha Patani turned 33 and gave a glimpse of her birthday festivities through social media. She shared how “blessed and grateful” she felt on her special day. One of the photos captured her beaming in front of a table filled with birthday cakes, while a video showed her joyfully cutting into one. She also posted solo pictures of the delectable desserts and marked the occasion by offering prayers at a temple.
Bollywood actress and advocate for maternal rights, Neha Dhupia, who is set to amplify her initiative Freedom to Feed for World Breastfeeding Week 2025, said that
