Belgium confirms Choksi detained after India’s extradition request
Brussels, April 14 (IANS) The Belgian Federal Public Service (FPS) of Justice on Monday confirmed the arrest of fugitive
diamantaire Mehul Choksi, who is wanted in connection with the Punjab National Bank (PNB) loan fraud case in India, revealing that the Indian authorities have introduced an extradition request for him already.
"The Belgian federal public service of Justice can confirm that Mr. Mehul Choksi was arrested on the Saturday 12th of April 2025. He
Waqf Amendment Act comes into force, Centre issues gazette notification
New Delhi, April 8 (IANS) The Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, officially came into effect on Tuesday following a Gazette notification issued by the Central Government.
The Act received the assent of President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday, two days after its passage in Parliament.
“In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (2) of section 1 of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025 (14 of
is being detained in anticipation of further judicial proceedings. Access to his legal counsel has been assured," the FPS said.
"Please note that the prosecution services retain the right to refrain from comment in ongoing cases. Finally, the Belgian federal public service of Justice can confirm that the Indian authorities have
Punjab-born surgeon, 3 family members killed in US plane crash
New York, April 14 (IANS) A Punjab-born surgeon, her two children and their partners were
killed along with her husband, who piloted a small plane that crashed in New York state.
Joy Saini's family confirmed their deaths in a statement to the media on Sunday.
National Transportation Safety Board investigator Albert Nixon said on Sunday that the crash
Eight killed in explosion at firecrackers unit in Andhra
Visakhapatnam, April 13 (IANS)
Eight persons were killed and six others injured in an explosion
‘May this festival bring new hope, happiness’, Prez Murmu, PM Modi extend greetings on Baisakhi
and Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the nation on the occasion of Baisakhi, saying that the festival would motivate people to work with commitment and dedication for the nation's development.
Baisakhi, one of the biggest festivals marks the foundation day
of the Khalsa Panth (Sikh order) by Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru, and also the start of the harvest season.
President Murmu, in a post on X, extended her heartfelt greetings to all Indians living in India and abroad.
in a firecrackers unit in Andhra Pradesh’s Anakapalli district on Sunday.
The incident occurred at Kailasapatnam in Kotlavuratla Mandal, police said.
The firecrackers unit was completely gutted in the fire, triggered by an explosion.
Fourteen workers were working
in the unit at the time of the explosion.
Eight persons died on the spot, and their bodies were found shattered at the blast site. Some of the bodies were charred beyond recognition.
Tahawwur Rana, an accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks case, is being brought to India aboard a special plane after exhausting his legal options in the United States. Devika Rotawan, a survivor of the 26/11 attack at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and a key witness who identified Pakistani terrorist Ajmal Kasab, expressed her gratitude and relief
at this development, calling it a significant victory for India.
In an exclusive interview with IANS, Devika Rotawan shared her feelings about the extradition of Rana.
“I am very happy that Tahawwur Rana is finally being brought to India. I first want to thank both the Indian and US governments. This is a big victory for us. I am so happy about this,” she said.
Rotawan, who has been a vocal advocate for justice for the victims of the attacks, further emphasised her hopes for a swift conclusion to the case.
New Delhi, April 13 (IANS)
President Droupadi Murmu
EDITORIAL TEAM
Dr Ram Mohan, Chairman
Dr Ashutosh Misra, Editor-in-Chief
EDITORIAL BOARD
Amrita Deshpande, Community News Editor
Paras Sharma, Assistant Editor
Dr Uttam Kumar Sinha, Senior Fellow, Nehru Memorial Museum & Library, India
Mr Shaun Star, Director, Centre for Australia India Studies, Jindal Global University, India
Punjab-born surgeon, 3 family members killed in US plane crash
happened on Saturday while their Mitsubishi MU2B aircraft was trying to land at the Columbia County Airport, about 200 km from New York City.
Speaking at a news conference in Albany, he said that the pilot missed the approach for landing and asked to make another try,
but the air traffic controller noticed it was flying at a low altitude and unsuccessfully tried to alert the pilot.
The plane, which had taken off from Westchester Airport in a New York City suburb, went down about ten miles from the airport near the border with Massachusetts State.
Saini immigrated to the US with her parents and received her medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh where she met her husband, Michael Groff, who was a neurosurgeon. According to the website of her medical practice in Boston, Saini was a urogynecologist and female pelvic reconstructive surgeon.
‘May this festival bring new hope, happiness’, Prez Murmu, PM Modi extend greetings on Baisakhi
The day is also celebrated in different parts of the country as Vishu, Bohag Bihu, Poila Boishakh, Meshadi, Vaishakhadi and Puthandu Pirapu, she said.
"These festivals celebrated at the time of harvest in various parts of India symbolise our social traditions and unity in diversity. Through these festivals we honour the hard work of our 'Annadata' farmers and express our gratitude to them. These
festivals also give the message of preserving nature and protecting our cultural legacy," President Murmu said in her post.
She hoped that these vibrant festivals would motivate people to work with commitment and dedication for the development of our nation.
Prime Minister Modi wished everyone a joyous Baisakhi and prayed that the festival brings happiness to everyone's life.
He wrote on his X handle," May
this festival bring new hope, happiness and abundance into your life. May we always celebrate the spirit of togetherness, gratitude and renewal."
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also wished that the festival brings joy to everyone's life.
"Heartiest greetings to all of you on the holy festival of Baisakhi. I wish that this festival of joy and enthusiasm brings happiness, prosperity and good health to everyone's life," he said.
Eight killed in explosion at firecrackers unit in Andhra
hearing the blast and shifted the injured to a local hospital. They were later taken to King George Hospital at Visakhapatnam. The condition of two of them is stated to be critical.
Local police, along with emergency services, fire tenders, rushed to the spot and doused the fire.
Home Minister V. Anitha, who visited the accident site, said eight persons, including two women, died in the accident.
The deceased have been identified as Appikonda Tatababu (50), S. Govind (40), Devara Nirmala (38),
P. Papa (40), G. Venubabu (34), D. Ramalaxmi (35), Hemanth (20), S. Baburao (55). Five of the deceased were local residents while the remaining had migrated from other villages in the district.
The Home Minister announced Rs 15 lakh compensation each for the deceased. She spoke to locals and the senior officials.
Anitha asked officials to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured. She ordered a probe into the incident. She said action would be taken against those found guilty.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister
Pawan Kalyan, and Education and IT Minister Nara Lokesh expressed shock over the incident.
The Chief Minister spoke to the Home Minister, District Collector and Superintendent of Police and enquired about the incident.
District Collector Vijayakrishnan said the investigation was on to ascertain the cause of the blast. He called on the families of the victims and consoled them.
The bodies of the deceased were shifted to hospitals at Anakapalli and Narsipatnam.
“Now, after bringing Tahawwur Rana, I want information to be gathered quickly, and I want him to be punished accordingly. He should be hanged," she added firmly.
She further asserted that such criminals will always be punished no matter what.
“Many individuals who have harmed India have fled the country, but wherever they go, they will eventually have to face justice in India. No matter where they are, they will be punished one day,” Rotawan asserted.
The survivor also praised the Indian government for its action in securing Rana's extradition after a protracted battle.
“I see that the government is trying to secure punishment for the accused as quickly as possible.
Sixteen years have passed since 26/11, and now Rana is being brought to India. It’s a little late, but at least he is finally being brought here. I am very happy about this," she stated.
Reflecting on the tragic night of the attacks, Devika recalled her personal experience of the events.
“The night of 26/11 is something no one can ever forget. I can never forget that night, nor would I ever want to forget it. To forget it would be like forgiving terrorism, and that’s something I never want to do," she said.
She continued, “That night, I was with my father and brother at
Belgium confirms Choksi detained after India’s extradition request
introduced an extradition request for Mr. Choksi. As is standard in individual cases, no further details can be released at this stage," it added.
The FPS acts like the Ministry of Justice and assists in preparation and implementation of legislation while supporting the Minister of Justice in the areas for which he is responsible. It also provides the guidance and operational support of the judiciary, with a focus on coordination and organisational development. It is responsible for the supervision of the adequate implementation of legal and administrative decisions, while guaranteeing legal certainty and equal treatment of all parties involved.
Choksi was apprehended by the police in Belgium at India's request for his extradition, sources said.
The 65-year-old was reportedly living in Antwerp with his wife, Preeti Choksi, after obtaining a 'residency card' there.
The businessman is likely to seek bail, citing ill health and other reasons.
Choksi and his nephew, Nirav Modi, are wanted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for allegedly defrauding the PNB of Rs 13,850 crore.
They allegedly used Letters of Undertaking (LoUs) and Foreign Letters of Credit (FLCs) by bribing officials of the bank's Brady House branch in Mumbai.
The CBI has filed cases charging Choksi, his nephew Nirav Modi, their companies, bank staff, and others with conspiracy, cheating, and corruption.
Choksi and Nirav Modi fled India in January 2018, weeks before the scam in the PNB surfaced.
According to reports, Choksi has been living in Antwerp with his wife, Preeti Choksi, a citizen of Belgium. A citizen of Antigua and Barbuda, he reportedly left the Caribbean nation for medical treatment. In 2021, he went missing from Antigua but was later found on another island nation, Dominica.
Choksi is the founder of Gitanjali Gems.
Nirav Modi remains in a UK prison as he continues to contest extradition proceedings initiated by Indian authorities. He was declared a Fugitive Economic Offender (FEO) in 2019, while the ED's plea against Mehul Choksi has been pending since 2018.
Sources said that Choksi's arrest was triggered after Indian agencies reactivated extradition requests when the Interpol Red Notice against him was removed. The ED and CBI, despite the deletion, pursued a fresh request, which ultimately led to his arrest in Belgium.
Sources said that efforts are underway to bring him back to India as soon as possible. However, legal hurdles in Belgian courts can delay the process.
Waqf Amendment Act comes into force, Centre issues gazette notification
2025), the Central Government hereby appoints the 8th day of April, 2025 as the date on which the provisions of the said Act shall come into force,” read the official notification published in the Gazette of India.
the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus when we crossed Kasab’s path. I saw him firing, and my father also saw him along with Ismail. On June 10, 2009, my father and I went to court and identified Kasab.”
Rotawan, who was hit by a bullet in her leg, expressed her ongoing commitment to supporting the legal process and her willingness to appear in court again if needed.
"I am always ready to be there in court. I was ready then, and I am ready now. Even if I’m told tomorrow that I need to come, I will," she said.
In addition to her calls for swift justice, Rotawan urged the government to intensify efforts against terrorism.
The legislation, which amends key provisions of the original Waqf Act, has introduced a series of significant reforms. These include separation of trusts from Waqf entities; introduction of digital and technological tools for property management; creation of a centralised online portal for better transparency; restriction of Waqf property dedication to practicing Muslims only; protection of 'Waqf by User' properties, historically used by the community; recognition of women's rights in family Waqf, etc.
The Bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha in the early hours of Friday, April 4, following a marathon 17-hour debate. The Lok Sabha had cleared the Bill earlier in the week.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the passage of the legislation as a "watershed moment" in India's efforts to reform and modernise the management of Waqf properties. According to the government, the amended Act aims to bring transparency and accountability in the administration of Waqf properties and ensure equitable representation of all Muslim communities in the functioning of Waqf Boards.
However, the law has sparked strong opposition from several political parties. Opposition leaders have accused the government of using the legislation to further a polarising agenda.
In response to the Act’s implementation, multiple Public Interest Litigations (PILs) have been filed in the Supreme Court challenging its constitutional validity.
Karnataka truck driver’s daughter tops Arts as girls outshine boys in Class 12 board exams
Bengaluru, April 8 (IANS) The Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) announced the results for Second Pre-University Course (2nd PUC) or Class 12 Board Exams- 1 on Tuesday. Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa declared that the overall pass percentage stands at 73.45 per cent, with 4.68 lakh students passing the board exams out of 6.37 lakh who appeared.
L.R. Sanjana Bai, the daughter of a lorry driver, secured the top position in the Arts stream by scoring 597 out of 600 marks. She studied at Indu College in Kottur town, Vijayanagara district. In the Commerce stream, Deepashree S., a student of Canara PU College in Mangaluru district, secured first rank with 599 out of 600 marks.
Amoolya Kamath, a student of Expert PU College, also scored 599 out of 600 marks to top the Science stream. Speaking to the media, Amoolya said, “Our classes used to go on till 7 p.m., and I made sure to revise thoroughly whatever was taught. I had many tests at the college, and repeated revisions helped me achieve this result. My parents supported me whenever I felt low. Whatever I am today, it is because of them.”
She further added, “I used to study as much as I could on a particular day, focusing mainly on what was taught in college. I studied the PCMC combination
and aspire to become an engineer. To students preparing for board exams, I would say: do your best, revise well, and don’t take pressure. Just give your best with whatever capacity you have.”
Deeksha R, a student of Vagdevi PU College in Tirthahalli in Shivamogga district, is the joint topper in the PU exams by securing 599 out of 600 in the science stream. Deeksha’s parents are teachers.
Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru, Minister Madhu Bangarappa said, “Girls have outperformed boys across all three streams. Of the 2.92 lakh boys who appeared, 1.99 lakh passed. Among 3.45 lakh girl students, 2.69 lakh passed, recording a 77.88 per cent pass rate among girls.”
He emphasised, “This is the result of the first examination. Two more rounds of exams will be held for students who haven’t passed. Our department has made the decision to hold three exams for students. The second exam will be held on April 24, and the third on June 9. We are not declaring any student as failed.”
“We are only announcing the results of the passed candidates. Since the exam process is still ongoing, students have the opportunity to appear for the second and third attempts. Once the entire process is complete, the final result percentages will
be updated accordingly,” he noted.
Government colleges achieved a 57 per cent pass rate, aided colleges 62 per cent, and unaided colleges registered 82 per cent. Colleges run by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) secured 68 per cent, he stated.
Among districts, Udupi (93.90 per cent) and Mangaluru (93.57 per cent), while the coastal Karnataka region secured the top two positions. Yadgir district in the Kalyana Karnataka region recorded the lowest pass rate at 48.45 per cent.
Bengaluru South recorded 85.36 per cent pass rate, while Bengaluru North achieved 83.31 per cent.
“We have issued marksheets only to students who passed the examination. As the process is ongoing, I want to assure students that they have second and third opportunities. Until this process is complete, no one will be declared as failed,” said Madhu Bangarappa.
“Only after the third attempt will failed candidates be officially declared. The dates for the second and third exams have already been announced to facilitate special classes for those in need. This year, the examination fee has been waived for students of all categories,” he announced.
“I appeal to students to make use of the second and third exams and ensure they pass. What we have announced is only the result of the first exam,” he added.
Commenting on the results, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated, “Congratulations to all the students who have passed the Second PUC examination.
Fan murder case: Court warns Kannada actor Darshan over absence from proceedings
Bengaluru, April 8 (IANS) A Bengaluru court, which is hearing the sensational fan murder case, on Tuesday took serious objection to the absence of key accused, Kannada actor Darshan. The Civil and Sessions Judge stated that Darshan must appear before the court in all future hearings and that no excuses will be entertained for his absence.
Darshan’s counsel submitted an exemption petition, stating that the actor is suffering from back pain and is unable to attend the proceedings. He requested that Darshan be granted relief from appearing in court.
Of the 17 accused in the case, 16, including the prime accused Pavithra Gowda, Darshan’s partner, appeared before the court.
The matter has been adjourned to May 20.
Darshan has resumed shooting for his upcoming film "Devil".
Since his release from prison on October 30, 2024, after spending 131 days in custody, he has been participating in shoots in Mysuru and Rajasthan for the movie, and is also scheduled to travel to Hyderabad for filming, sources said. They added that due to his hectic shooting schedule, his back pain has worsened.
NIA searches terrorist Goldy Brar’s locations in Haryana, UP
New Delhi, April 8 (IANS) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Tuesday searched multiple locations, linked with Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorist Satinderjit Singh aka Goldy Brar, across Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.
NIA teams conducted extensive searches on the premises belonging to suspects and accused associated with Goldy Brar and US-based gangster Randeep Malik in the case relating to the December 2024 grenade attacks at Warehouse Club and Human Club in Sector 29 in Gurugram.
Several electronic and other incriminating materials were recovered during the searches conducted at eight locations in various districts of the two states, the NIA said in a statement. The materials are being examined
by the NIA for clues to the entire conspiracy behind the bombing incident, in which arms, ammunition and explosive materials were seized from the accused involved in the attack. Soon after the grenade attack, gangster Rohit Godara had taken responsibility through a social media post.
Subsequently, investigations by the NIA had exposed Malik and designated individual terrorist Goldy Brar, who had earlier threatened and attempted to extort money from the club owners, to have masterminded the grenade attacks. The probe into the case, registered on January 2, is continuing.
Goldy Brar is an accused in the killing of singer Sidhu Moosewala. Brar, a native of Muktsar Sahib in Punjab, went to Canada on a student visa in 2017. He is an active member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Goldy Brar has been listed among Canada's 25 mostwanted fugitives in the country. Wanted by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for murder, Goldy Brar's name figured in the 'Bolo (Be On the Lookout) Program'. His life-sized cutout among all 25 fugitives was displayed at Toronto's Yonge-Dundas Square in 2023.
Twenty-two Maoists surrender in Chhattisgarh
Raipur, April 8 (IANS) At least twenty-two Maoists surrendered on Tuesday in the Bijapur area of Chhattisgarh.
An official said that all these Maoists were carrying a combined reward of rupees 26 lakh, adding that two Maoists were carrying a reward of eight lakh each.
Earlier, in a big relief to the actor, an accused in the Ranukaswamy murder case, the Karnataka High Court on February 28 allowed him to travel across the country.
Earlier, Darshan was not allowed to travel out of Bengaluru and the limits of the session's court.
Darshan, Pavithra, and 15 others were arrested on June 11, 2024, on charges of kidnapping and brutally murdering Renukaswamy, a fan from Chitradurga. Renukaswamy had allegedly sent derogatory and obscene messages to Pavithra, angry over the fact that Darshan maintained a relationship with her despite being married.
Sources close to Darshan revealed that Pavithra competed with Darshan's wife, Vijayalaxmi, over jewellery and luxury cars.
“Two other Maoists were carrying a reward of five lakhs each, also surrendered,” he said.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, during his recent visit to Chhattisgarh, had appealed to the Maoists to lay down their arms and come back home to join the mainstream of society.
He promised them that they would have a better life as the Central and state governments have both lucrative rehabilitation schemes for them, besides full opportunities to join the ongoing development process.
In Dantewada district, Chhattisgarh, 26 Maoists, including three who carried rewards on their heads, had surrendered as a result of the 'Loan Varratu' (Come Back Home) campaign and the state government's rehabilitation policy recently.
This significant development occurred on April 7 at the District Reserve Guard office in Dantewada, where the surrender was facilitated by the police and CRPF.
Among the surrendered individuals, two had rewards of Rs 8 lakh each, and two others carried Rs 5 lakh rewards. These individuals were active members of various Maoist organisations and had grown disillusioned with the violence, exploitation, and hardship associated with the Maoist movement, prompting them to embrace the mainstream.
The district police force and CRPF have been diligently working on reintegrating Maoists into society through consistent outreach, dialogue, and awareness campaigns about the government's rehabilitation policy.
Under this initiative, 953 Maoists, including 224 with rewards, have surrendered to date.
The surrendered individuals represent a range of roles within Maoist structures, including leaders and members of the Jan militia and various other groups and committees.
As a part of the rehabilitation program, these individuals will get RRs R receive an incentive of Rs 50,000 to support their transition into society.
India poised to become the world’s third-largest economy: PM Modi
New Delhi, April 8 (IANS)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday declared that India is poised to soon become the world’s third-largest economy.
"In just a few years, we've risen from the world's 11th largest economy to the 5th largest," said the Prime Minister, underlining the rapid economic progress.
As of 2025, India remains the fifth largest economy globally, trailing behind the US, China, Germany, and Japan in terms of total GDP. Addressing a media house event, PM Modi highlighted the government’s achievements during the first 100 days of 2025, stressing the importance of youth aspirations in shaping the nation’s future.
"Youth aspiration has been the focus of the first 100-day decisions of the government. We have exempted tax on Rs 12 lakh income, which will benefit young professionals. We became the fourth largest nation to allow satellite docking and undocking, we are opening the nuclear energy sector like we did with the space sector, and we also announced the decision to set up the 8th Pay Commission. The gig economy will also receive social security coverage," he said, asserting that inclusivity is not just a promise but a policy.
He underlined “the mantra of performance" as the energy behind Rising Bharat.
Emphasising that delaying projects hampers the nation’s progress, while performance and swift action drive development, the PM said, “Delay is the enemy of development, and our government is committed to defeating this enemy”. He cited the example of Assam’s Bogibeel Bridge, whose foundation was
laid by former Prime Minister Deve Gowda in 1997 and initiated by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. However, the project stalled under subsequent governments, causing hardships for millions in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, he added. He highlighted that his government restarted the project in 2014 and completed it within four years, in 2018.
He also mentioned Kerala’s Kollam Bypass Road project, which had been pending since 1972. He noted that the previous governments worked on it for 50 years, while the project was completed within five years, under his government.
Discussing the upcoming WAVE Summit, an initiative by the government, PM Modi remarked, “We have a vibrant movie, podcast, and gaming industry, and we have decided to take it to the next level by the ‘Create in India’ move through the WAVE platform.”
Govt launches new Aadhaar app: No need to carry photocopies anymore
New Delhi, April 8 (IANS) In a major step towards digital convenience and privacy, the Centre on Tuesday launched a new Aadhaar app that allows users to verify and share their Aadhaar details digitally -- eliminating the need to carry physical cards or submit photocopies.
The app was officially launched by Union Minister for Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, in the national capital.
Highlighting the importance of digital innovation, the minister described the app as a move to make Aadhaar verification easier, faster, and more secure.
“New Aadhaar App, Face ID authentication via mobile app. No physical card, no photocopies,” Vaishnaw said in a video message posted on social media platform X.
He added that the app empowers users to share only the necessary data through secure digital means, and always with their consent.
“Now with just a tap, users can share only the necessary data, giving them complete control over their personal information,” he said.
One of the standout features of the app is Face ID authentication, which enhances security and makes verification seamless.
Aadhaar verification can now be done by simply scanning a QR code, much like making a UPI payment.
“Aadhaar verification becomes as simple as making UPI payment. Users can now digitally verify and share their Aadhaar details while ensuring their privacy,” the minister wrote on X.
With this new system, people will no longer need to hand over printed copies of their Aadhaar cards at hotels, shops, airports or any other verification points.
“No need to hand over Aadhaar photocopy at hotel receptions, shops or during travel,” he stressed.
The app, which is currently in its beta testing phase, has been designed with strong privacy safeguards.
It ensures that Aadhaar details cannot be forged, edited or misused. Information is shared securely and only with the user’s permission.
Calling Aadhaar the “aadhaar” (foundation) of many government initiatives, Vaishnaw also emphasised the role of AI and digital public infrastructure (DPI) in shaping India’s digital future. He invited stakeholders to suggest ways to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) with DPI to drive further growth -- while keeping privacy at the core.
Dera Sacha Sauda chief gets 21-day furlough; 13th time since 2017
Chandigarh, April 9 (IANS)
Controversial Dera Sacha Sauda sect chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh, who is serving a 20-year jail sentence for raping two of his disciples, was granted furlough on Wednesday for 21 days by the Haryana government. He will stay in his Sirsa dera, the second time since his 2017 conviction in rape cases. In his previous paroles or furloughs, he was not allowed to stay in Sirsa but was permitted to reside at the Shah Satnam Ashram in Barnava in Uttar Pradesh’s Baghpat district.
Bhubaneswar, April 8 (IANS) The Odisha government on Tuesday signed multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) attracting huge investments to the state during the second day of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s two-day visit to New Delhi.
CM Majhi, who is in New Delhi, has held several rounds of oneon-one discussions with top industry captains since Monday, and also joined an Investors’ Meet at Taj Palace.
“Overall, 13 MoUs were signed, amounting to Rs 98,880 crore, significantly enhancing the state's capabilities across sectors. The projects are expected to generate around 67,000 employment opportunities, fostering regional economic growth and boosting industrial activity. Besides, 15 investment intents were received.
The total investment offers amount to Rs 1,03,090, creating employment opportunities for 95,915 persons,” informed the state government.
In a significant development, the state government has signed an MoU with Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) for the establishment of a Dual-Feed Naphtha Cracker Project.
This landmark agreement is expected to bring in investments of over Rs 58,042 crore, generating employment for 24,000 people.
In addition to the MoU with IOCL, agreements were also signed with the Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Ltd (ISPRL) and Petronet LNG. These partnerships reinforce Odisha’s strategic role in India’s petrochemical landscape and reflect a commitment to sustainable industrial development, import substitution, and a resilient supply chain.
CM Majhi’s visit to New Delhi has been marked by strategic engagements and partnerships that are expected to accelerate economic growth and position Odisha as a formidable hub for industry, particularly in the petrochemical and technology sectors. These interactions demonstrated a significant investor interest in establishing manufacturing units that would contribute to local economic development and job creation.
Brutal ‘honour killing’: Karnataka court hands down death penalty to 3, life term to 9 for massacring family
Raichur (Karnataka), April 8 (IANS) A court in Karnataka's Raichur district on Tuesday pronounced its verdict on the sensational honour killing case of the murder of five members of a family over an inter-caste love marriage in 2020, sentencing three of the convicts to death and nine others to life imprisonment. The honour killing had shaken the state and made national headlines.
The Third Additional District and Sessions Court in Sindhanur sentenced the girl's father, Sannafakeerappa, and relatives Ammanna and Somashekar to death and fined them Rs 47,000 each. The nine others convicted of the crime were sentenced to life imprisonment and a fine of Rs 97,500 slapped on each of them.
This is the 13th furlough given to the Dera Sacha Sauda chief, who was patronised by political leaders and parties in Punjab and Haryana for nearly two decades due to his ability to influence the votes of his followers.
The convicts had brutally murdered Erappa, 65, his wife Sumitramma, 55, and their children Nagaraj, 38, Sridevi, 36, and Hanumesh, 35. Erappa’s daughter-in-law, Revathi, and his mother, Tayamma, sustained serious injuries in the attack.
The incident was triggered by the inter-caste marriage of Sannafakeerappa’s daughter, Manjula, who had married Mounesh from the victim’s family against her parents' wishes.
Enraged by the marriage, the dozen forcibly entered the victims’ house on July 11, 2020, dragged them outside, and murdered them in the middle of the road using deadly weapons. Manjula and Mounesh, residents of Sukalpet in Sindhanur, were in a relationship and got married, choosing to live separately from their families due to opposition from Manjula’s family. The tragic incident occurred just a few months after their marriage.
The couple remained safe and were placed under police protection following the attack.
After their marriage, the couple had visited Manjula’s father at his residence. However, her family, strongly opposed to the intercaste union, refused to accept them, and allegedly threatened to kill Mounesh’s entire family. Following this threat, the couple lodged a complaint at the Sindhanur police station, seeking protection for themselves and Mounesh’s family members. Angered by this development, Manjula’s family allegedly stormed Mounesh’s house and began a quarrel with his parents, siblings, and sister.
Voter support for government, PM Albanese growing ahead of election: Polls
Canberra, April 12 (IANS) Voter support for Australia's governing Labor Party and Prime Minister (PM) Anthony Albanese is increasing with three weeks to go until the general election, new polls have shown.
According to the two new polls published on Friday and Saturday, Labor has extended its lead over the opposition Coalition and is set to win a second term in government in the May 3 election.
The first poll -- published on Friday by the Australian branch of UK market research firm YouGov -- found that Labor leads the Coalition 52.5-47.5 on a two-party preferred basis.
It represents Labor's largest lead over the Coalition in a YouGov poll in 18 months and marks a major turnaround from a 51-49 advantage for the opposition recorded late in February.
Forty-eight per cent of respondents to the poll chose Albanese as their preferred PM compared to 37 per cent for
Thank
Coalition leader Peter Dutton. In February, Albanese led Dutton 42-40 as voters' preferred PM, according to YouGov.
The second poll, which was undertaken by market research firms RedBridge and Accent and published by News Corp Australia newspapers on Saturday, surveyed voters in 20 critical marginal seats on the East Coast and also recorded a 52.5-47.5 lead for Labor.
The same poll in early February recorded a 52-48 lead for the Coalition.
Labor won power in the 2022 election after nine years in opposition with a 52.13-47.87 edge over the Coalition on a two-party basis.
Victory for Labor on May 3 would make Albanese the first leader of either major party to win consecutive elections since 2004.
When Australians cast their votes in the election, they do so on a preferential basis. Every one of the 150 seats that will make up the lower house in the next parliament will be contested by at least four candidates in the election, with some having as many as 13 candidates.
The wide choice for voters means it is rare for any candidate to receive a clear majority of first
preference votes. If no candidate receives at least 50 per cent of first preference votes, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and their votes are transferred based on preferences marked by voters.
The process continues until one candidate has a simple majority of votes. Friday's YouGov poll found that 32 per cent of voters intend to vote for Labor as their first preference and 33.5 per cent for the Coalition, Xinhua news agency reported.
The Coalition traditionally performs better than Labor on first preference votes but Labor fares better on preferences -particularly from the Greens, Australia's third-largest party. Thirteen per cent of respondents to the YouGov poll said they intend to vote for the Greens.
At the 2022 election, Labor received 32.5 per cent of primary votes and the Coalition 35.7 percent, with the Greens at 12.2 per cent.
The Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) on Friday said that a record 98.2 per cent of eligible Australians are enrolled to vote in the election. It said that the number of enrolled voters has increased by 870,000 since 2022 to over 18 million.
you for your support
PM candidates formally launch election campaigns
Canberra, April 13 (IANS) Australia's Prime ministerial candidates have formally launched their election campaigns with multi-billiondollar housing and tax policy announcements.
Incumbent PM Anthony Albanese officially launched his governing Labor Party's campaign for reelection in Western Australia on Sunday, pledging that he would use a second term to "keep building a future that is true to our values and worthy of our people".
Albanese announced that a reelected Labor government would spend 10 billion Australian dollars ($6.2 billion) to build 100,000 new homes exclusively for first home buyers and unveiled a plan to allow Australians to purchase their first home with only a five per cent deposit, Xinhua news agency reported.
He also on Sunday promised that from 2026-27 millions of Australians will be able to claim an instant 1,000 AUD ($628.5)
Since becoming a Senator in 2019, I have worked closely with our wonderful Queensland Indian diaspora. From supporting cultural events and festivals to advocating on behalf of members of the community, I do whatever I can to support you.
Each year I attend the Australia Day and India Republic Day celebration held on 26 January. To me, it symbolises our common democratic values. As we look to deepen the relationship, the Indian diaspora is the human bridge which connects Australia and India.
I now ask for your support in this election and for your support of our excellent LNP candidates across the whole of Queensland. In these difficult times, strong economic management is more important than ever. Together, we can get Australia back on track!
Thank you for your support.
I look forward to continuing our work together.
Senator Paul Scarr
Shadow Assistant Minister for Multicultural Engagement Liberal National Party - Queensland
Authorised by Senator P. Scarr, LNP, Level 6, Springfield Tower, 145 Sinnathamby Boulevard, Springfield Central QLD 4300.
tax deduction for work expenses without having to provide receipts.
Peter Dutton, Australia's alternative PM, launched his opposition Coalition's campaign in western Sydney earlier on Sunday where he also made housing and taxation policy announcements.
He said that a Coalition government would deliver a one-off tax cut worth 1,200 AUD ($754.3) to millions of middle income earners in 2026 at a cost of 10 billion AUD.
Additionally, he announced that for five years the Coalition would allow first home buyers to deduct the interest paid on the first 650,000 AUD ($408,588.9) of their mortgage from their taxable income -- a measure the party said would save the average family 11,000 AUD ($6,914.5) per year. The location of each party's campaign launch on Sunday is a significant indicator of what they consider their best path to forming government by winning a majority of the 150 seats that will make up the lower house in the 48th Parliament.
Labor's victory in the 2022 election, which ended nine years in opposition for the party, was largely built on its success in Western Australia.
Independents unite to call for AUKUS inquiry ahead of general election
Canberra, April 10 (IANS)
Independent candidates who could hold the balance of power following Australia's general election have united to call for a parliamentary inquiry into the AUKUS security pact.
Incumbent independent Members of Parliament (MPs) Zoe Daniel and Monique Ryan, as well as candidate Nicolette Boele, said on Thursday that if they win their respective seats at the May 3 election, they will push for a far-reaching inquiry into whether Australia should explore submarine options other than AUKUS.
If neither the governing Labor Party nor the opposition Coalition wins at least 76 out of the 150 electorates that comprise the lower house of parliament, an eventuality known as a hung parliament, they will enter negotiations with minor parties and independent MPs for their support to form a minority government, meaning the independents could hold the balance of power.
The Greens, Australia's thirdlargest political party with four current lower house MPs,
previously announced that it will push for an exit from AUKUS if it is part of a minority government.
"The fact that the major parties aren't talking about such a critical issue during an election campaign is deeply concerning," Boele, who is running as an independent in a Coalition-held seat in northern Sydney, said on Thursday.
"Since we signed AUKUS in 2021 the rules of global cooperation have changed."
Daniel, who worked as a journalist for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation prior to winning a Coalition-held seat in Melbourne's southeast at the 2022 election, said that a review of AUKUS should be a priority for the next parliament, referencing a British inquiry established earlier in April.
"If it's prudent for the UK to reassess, it is essential for Australia to do the same," she said.
Like Daniel, Ryan also won her southeast Melbourne electorate from the Coalition in 2022 when she defeated the then-Treasurer Josh Frydenberg.
Ryan said on Thursday that Australia should consider "all contingencies and alternatives" in planning its mid and long-term defence capacity.
The independents announced their position on day 13 of the five-week campaign for the general election, Xinhua news agency reported. Australia's relationship with the US has become a major issue in the election following US President Donald Trump's move to impose sweeping tariffs.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
on Thursday told reporters in the northeastern state of Queensland that it is "quite clear from the response of the markets" that the tariffs are doing harm to the US economy.
"It is doing harm to its prospects of employment, inflation, all the key figures as well," he said.
Coalition leader Peter Dutton said in Melbourne that Trump's decision to wind back tariffs on imports from many countries to 10 percent for 90 days reflected his "volatility."
Dutton said that if he becomes PM, he would talk to Trump about the opportunities to "expand the trading relationship" in critical minerals and other elements that Australia can provide.
Labor's Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, on Thursday debated his Coalition counterpart, Ted O'Brien, at the National Press Club in Canberra.
Asked about the Coalition's plan to abandon Australia's current 2030 target of reducing emissions by 43 per cent from 2005 levels, O'Brien left open the possibility of leaving the Paris Climate Accord if the party determined that meeting climate targets would do too much damage to the economy.
Under its plan to build seven nuclear reactors on the sites of retiring coal plants, the Coalition would scrap the 2030 emissions target but remain committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2050.
Labor has instead committed to achieving emissions reduction targets and decarbonization through a renewables-only approach.
Extra support announced for droughtaffected farmers in South Australia
Canberra, April 8 (IANS) The government of South Australia (SA) has announced new support measures for communities and farmers affected by widespread drought.
Peter Malinauskas, the Premier of South Australia, on Tuesday committed 55 million Australian dollars (33.1 million US dollars) in funding from the state government for support measures including infrastructure upgrades, financial counselling and mental health support.
Malinauskas said in a statement that most of the state is experiencing drought conditions,
with some regions having received their lowest rainfall on record.
The new package built on 18 million Australian dollars (10.8 million dollars) in support measures announced in November.
"When we announced our first drought relief package in November, I made clear that we would closely monitor the rollout of support and would not hesitate to act if needed. In the time since, the drought has not abated. In fact, things have got worse,"
Malinauskas said on Tuesday.
"We can not make it rain. But we can take practical action to support our farmers and help prepare them for the next drought," he said.
Affected farmers in March called for more government assistance.
Malinauskas said that the new support package was designed
Canberra, April 8 (IANS)
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been voted the winner of the first Leaders' debate of the general election campaign.
At the end of the debate on Tuesday night, 44 per cent of the undecided voters in attendance chose Albanese as the winner compared to 35 per cent for opposition leader Peter Dutton, with 21 per cent undecided.
The debate in western Sydney was the first between Albanese and Dutton, the respective leaders of the governing Labor Party and opposition Coalition, ahead of the general election on May 3.
In their opening remarks, Albanese declared that "now is the time" to look forward and build Australia's future while Dutton promised that a Coalition government would get the country "back on track".
Following their opening remarks, the candidates for Prime Minister faced questions from the crowd of undecided voters for about 90 minutes. The first question of the night asked how each leader would deal with the US administration of President Donald Trump.
Albanese reiterated previous comments that the United States had committed an "act of economic self-harm" through sweeping new tariffs.
Dutton, who has been critical of the government's failure to negotiate an exemption from the tariffs, said that the Prime Minister should "stand up" against bullies and countries that would seek to do Australia harm.
The Coalition on Monday
in direct consultation with the state's primary producers, Xinhua news agency reported.
Livestock SA, the peak body representing the state's livestock farmers, welcomed the assistance.
An annual report published by the South Australian Department for Environment and Water earlier in April warned that water levels in reservoirs in the state capital of Adelaide were at their lowest in over 20 years as a result of dry conditions.
The water security report said that total reservoir levels across the city were at 38 percent, down from 50 per cent in 2024.
The state government in January increased production from the Adelaide Desalination Plant to 300 million litres per day to help meet demands for water and prevent the introduction of water restrictions.
Melbourne, April 11 (IANS)
The incident of defacing at the premises of the Consulate General of India in Melbourne by miscreants has been raised with Australian authorities, the High Commission of India in Canberra stated on Friday.
"The incident of defacing at the premises of the Consulate General of India in Melbourne by miscreants has been raised
abandoned its plan to end flexible working arrangements, including work-from-home policies, for federal public servants and to reduce government spending by cutting 41,000 federal public service jobs.
Albanese used the major policy shift in his closing remarks on Tuesday to ask how voters can "believe" what the Coalition would do after the election.
"I know that in this uncertain time with what's going on in the world, now's not the time to make cuts," he said.
In his own closing remarks, Dutton said that a Coalition government would "fix the economy" and more effectively deal with the cost-of-living crisis, Xinhua news agency reported.
"A Coalition government will always be a better economic manager," he said.
Tuesday marked two weeks until early voting in the election opens on April 22.
Early voting centres around the country will allow millions of Australians to cast their ballots before election day, although early votes will not be counted until polls close on May 3.
Voting in the election is mandatory for all citizens aged 18 and over who have enrolled with the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC), a process that occurs automatically for most of the population.
According to the AEC, the enrolment rate of eligible Australians for the upcoming election will be a record-high of over 98 per cent.
More than 17.2 million people voted in the last election in 2022, with voter turnout at 89.8 per cent. Enrolled voters who fail to cast a ballot face small fines.
Albanese and Dutton are set to face off in a second leaders' debate on April 16.
with Australian authorities. All necessary steps are being taken to ensure safety and security of Indian diplomatic and consular premises and personnel in the country," the High Commission posted on X Friday evening.
Earlier in the day, local media reported that the Consulate General of India in Melbourne has once again been targeted in an act of vandalism, with graffiti discovered at the front entrance of the diplomatic premises located at 344 St Kilda Road. The incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of April 10, around 1 am.
Guterres warns of recession risk from trade war, expresses hope it won’t happen
United Nations, April 9 (IANS)
Amid warnings of the risks of a recession from the trade war,
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres says he “sincerely hopes” there won’t be one because of the effects it would have on the poorest.
“I sincerely hope that we will have no recession, because a recession will have dramatic consequences, especially for the poorest people in the world,” he said on Tuesday hours before President Donald Trump’s “reciprocal tariffs” were to come into effect.
“Trade wars are extremely negative. Nobody wins with a trade war. Everybody tends to lose”, he said while speaking to reporters.
He added, “I'm particularly worried with the most vulnerable
developing countries, in which the impact will be more devastating”.
Trump has announced tariffs totalling 104 per cent against China that would go into effect at midnight Wednesday, and Beijing has vowed retaliatory tariffs of 34 per cent.
UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) conceded that the “need for trade for reform is clear”.
UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebecca Grynspan said, “Global trade rules must evolve to reflect today’s challenges, but they must do so with predictability and development at their core, protecting the most vulnerable”.
“This is a time for cooperation, not escalation,” she said.
The World Trade Organisation (WTO) Deputy Director-General Angela Ellard said that the organisation’s preliminary analysis suggests that recent tariff measures by the US and others could lead to a contraction of
global merchandise trade volumes of around one per cent this year. That would be a significant downward revision of nearly four per cent from the earlier projection of three per cent growth.
Despite the attempts to undercut the WTO system, Ellard said that “74 per cent of global trade still flows under WTO MostFavoured-Nation (MFN) terms”. This shows that the WTO remains relevant, and the multilateral system continues to function effectively, she added.
According to the WTO, China and Canada have already initiated the process for taking up their disputes with the US. They have requested consultations under the WTO framework which would give the parties 60 days to negotiate and avoid litigation.
If that failed, they could request adjudication by a panel.
Myanmar earthquake: Death toll rises to 3645 as India ramps up humanitarian assistance
Yangon, April 8 (IANS) The death toll from the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has risen to 3,645, with 5,017 people injured and 148 still missing, the State Administration Council's information team revealed late Tuesday evening.
According to the country’s Department of Meteorology and Hydrology, a total of 98 aftershocks have also hit Myanmar since the devastating earthquake struck the country on March 28, ranging in the magnitude of 2.8 to 7.5.
More than 80 per cent of the buildings have been damaged –especially in the major townships of Sagaing, Mandalay, and Magway following the massive earthquake that struck central Myanmar, last month.
"The health system is completely overwhelmed, hospitals are unable to cope with the number of patients they're dealing with,” said Titon Mitra, UN Development Programme (UNDP)
Regional Representative in the country, while speaking from the devastated city of Mandalay. He further added that medicines and healthcare items are in "incredibly short supply".
The UN humanitarian affairs coordination office (OCHA) reported that more than 500,000 people across the country have been left without access to lifesaving health care.
Food is also in huge demand as markets are "severely disrupted" in Sagaing and Magway, people don't have incomes, and there are "signs of hyperinflation in place", Mitra said.
"With an active civil war, we have to make sure that the aid, if it's coordinated by military authorities, is going to areas which may be in resistance control," he insisted.
Meanwhile, the United Nations, India, the European Union, United States and several international organisations continue to sent aid and rescue teams for earthquake
Federal funding frozen for Harvard after clash with Trump administration
Washington, April 15 (IANS)
Harvard University is facing a major financial setback after the Donald Trump administration imposed a freeze on $2.2 billion in federal funding, following the university’s refusal to comply with a list of sweeping demands related to governance, campus policies, and civil rights enforcement.
The demands, originally issued in early April, called for the dismantling of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices, cooperation with immigration authorities in screening international students, and sweeping reforms to hiring, admissions, and internal governance.
rights,” Garber wrote. “No government should control what a private university teaches or whom it hires and admits.”
The Trump administration’s Joint Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism responded by announcing the suspension of multi-year federal grants totaling $2.2 billion and a halt on $60 million in existing government contracts.
The task force criticised Harvard’s position, stating, “Harvard’s response today reflects a mindset of entitlement that must be addressed. Taxpayer funding carries with it the duty to uphold civil rights protections.”
The move comes in the wake of rising tensions on US campuses, many of which have been rocked by protests over Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza.
victims in Myanmar.
India launched ‘Operation Brahma’, positioning itself as a first responder in line with its ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘Act East’ policies.
Under the operation, India has dispatched tonnes of medical supplies and relief materials to Myanmar.
PM Narendra Modi had expressed deep sorrow over the disaster and conveyed India’s condolences directly to Myanmar’s State Administration Council Chairman and Prime Minister, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, reaffirming India’s commitment to assisting Myanmar during this crisis.
On April 4, PM Modi met Hlaing on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok and discussed the situation in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake in the country, including India’s ongoing efforts under ‘Operation Brahma’ to provide humanitarian aid, disaster relief and medical assistance to Myanmar.
The Senior General also expressed his gratitude for India’s assistance efforts. The Prime Minister conveyed that, as the First Responder, India stands with Myanmar in this time of crisis and is ready to deploy more material assistance and resources, if required.
Continuing with its humanitarian assistance to earthquake-ravaged Myanmar, India on Saturday delivered an additional 442-tonne of food aid under ongoing 'Operation Brahma'.
On Friday, the administration escalated the situation by sending a more detailed list of requirements, including an audit of student and faculty political views. Harvard responded by publishing the letter and rejecting the proposed terms.
In a public letter addressed to students and faculty, Harvard President Alan Garber affirmed the university’s refusal to yield to government pressure. “We will not negotiate over our independence or constitutional
Several demonstrations escalated into confrontations with law enforcement and counterprotesters. Critics, including President Donald Trump and several Republican lawmakers, have accused student protesters of supporting Hamas, which the US government designates as a terrorist organisation.
In March, the Department of Education launched investigations into 60 institutions over alleged anti-Semitic incidents, including Harvard. The funding freeze follows a prior review of $9 billion in federal support linked to the university and its affiliates.
Brazilian president says US trade policy
‘won’t
work,’ accuses Trump of trying to dictate global rules
Sao Paulo, April 9 (IANS)
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva criticised the new tariff regime of the United States, saying Washington's attempt to reshape global trade under US President Donald Trump "won't work" and violates the principles of multilateralism.
Speaking at an event in Sao Paulo, Lula on Tuesday condemned what he called Washington's unilateral approach to international trade, Xinhua news agency reported.
"All of a sudden, one man thinks he can dictate the rules for everything that happens in the world," Lula said. "No one grabs hold of a fully loaded transatlantic ship and tries to steer it like this. It won't work."
Lula added that Trump's decision to impose "reciprocal tariffs" on other countries and regions ignores the reality of a multipolar world.
"There are nearly 200 countries," he said. "All of them want sovereignty and a harmonious process. Today, the most important thing is multilateralism."
The Brazilian leader also recalled the free trade rhetoric of the 1980s, when then US President Ronald Reagan and UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher publicly opposed protectionism. Lula contrasted those earlier stances with what he viewed as the current protectionist turn of the United States.
The United States has been Brazil's second-largest trading partner since 2009, behind China. In recent weeks, the Trump administration raised import tariffs on Brazilian goods, including a 10 per cent tariff on a broad range of products, following earlier hikes on steel and aluminum.
Crown Prince of Dubai presents PM Modi replica of his grandfather’s traditional cloak
New Delhi, April 8 (IANS) Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi a replica of his grandfather Sheikh Rashid's 'bisht' - a traditional embroidered cloak worn over the Qandura by Arab men - symbolising the historic and generational political friendship between the two countries, during their meeting in New Delhi on Tuesday.
Prime Minister Modi hosted a working lunch for the Crown Prince at his residence in Lok Kalyan Marg and conveyed his warm regards to the President of UAE, Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. PM Modi also conveyed his good wishes to the new-born daughter of the Crown Prince Hind bint Hamdan, mentioned a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Both leaders discussed avenues to strengthen the Comprehensive
Strategic Partnership between India and the UAE, and strong cultural and people-to-people ties between India and Dubai.
This is Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum's first official visit to India as the Crown Prince of Dubai and he is accompanied by several ministers, senior government officials and a high-level business delegation.
"Glad to meet HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai. Dubai has played a key role in advancing the IndiaUAE Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This special visit reaffirms our deep-rooted friendship and paves the way for even stronger collaboration in the future," Prime Minister Modi posted on X after the meeting.
The Crown Prince also held a meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, discussing ways to further strengthen the strategic defence and security partnership between the two countries in line with the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
"For India, the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the UAE is of immense priority. In the coming years, we are eager to work closely in areas such as defence cooperation, coproduction and co-development projects, innovation and technology. Both India and the UAE are committed to work
towards peace and prosperity in the region," Singh posted on X. External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, during his meeting with the visiting dignitary, highlighted the tremendous deepening and widening of the relationship across sectors between the two countries in recent years.
The Crown Prince presented an original newspaper coverage of the successful effort of his father, the Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum in saving passengers on board Indian Airlines Flight 421 in August 1984.
Later in the day, he also met Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal during a high-level business meeting in Mumbai.
"They discussed the contribution of Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in the rapid growth of bilateral trade. Goyal welcomed the signing of milestone MoUs and announcements made at the business event and expressed hope that these will further strengthen bilateral economic engagement and take it to unprecedented heights. In particular, the progress on the Virtual Trade Corridor (VTC), and its contribution in facilitating bilateral trade as well as, as a building block of IMEEC, was acknowledged," the MEA stated.
President Murmu visits Portuguese Parliament, discusses ways to fortify bilateral relations
Lisbon, April 8 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday met the President of Assembleia Da Republica, or the Portuguese Parliament, Jose Pedro AguiarBranco in Lisbon during her ongoing State Visit to the country.
The two leaders discussed various bilateral and international issues. They were in accord that regular exchanges between the Parliaments of India and Portugal would boost the people-to-people ties between the two countries.
President Murmu was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour and warmly received by Jose Pedro Aguiar-Branco as she arrived at the 'Assembleia Da Republica'.
"President Droupadi Murmu held productive talks with President of 'Assembleia Da Republica' Jose Pedro Aguiar-Branco. Both sides discussed ways to fortify IndiaPortugal relations. President Murmu also interacted with Members of the Parliament besides meeting with members of
the India-Portugal Parliamentary Friendship Group," the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated.
On Monday evening, President Murmu received the 'City Key of Honour' of Lisbon City from the Mayor of Lisbon at a function held at the City Hall of Lisbon, Portugal.
Speaking on the occasion, the President thanked the Mayor and the people of Lisbon for the gesture. She said that Lisbon is known for its open-mindedness, the warmth of its people and its culture, along with tolerance and respect for diversity.
She was happy to note that Lisbon is a global city that is at the forefront of technological change, innovation, digital public infrastructure and digital transition. She said that in these areas India and Portugal could further cooperate.
President Murmu also attended a banquet on Monday evening hosted in her honour by the President of Portugal Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, at Palacio da Ajuda.
In her banquet remarks, President Murmu said that the cultural ties between our peoples span centuries, and these ties
Indian-origin municipal councillor charged in mafia-run gambling operation in US
New York, April 12 (IANS)
An Indian-origin municipal councillor has been charged with participating in a mafia-run gambling operation, according to New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin.
Anand Shah, 42, was one of 39 people charged with “racketeering, gambling offences, money laundering, and other crimes”, Platkin said on Friday. He said the charges were filed following raids at 12 locations in the state, including 4 poker clubs.
Another person of Indian descent, Samir S Nadkarni, 48, from Longwood, Florida, was also among those charged and was described as a “sportsbook subagent/poker host”.
Shah was a rising politician in New Jersey serving his second term as a municipal councillor in Prospect Park, a New York suburb, and was in charge of finance,
economic development, and insurance.
Platkin said, “The arrest of a sitting council member only adds fuel to that fire” of public distrust of elected officials.
Shah “was identified as allegedly managing illegal poker games and an online sportsbook in association with the Lucchese Crime Family”, according to Platkin’s office.
“Lucchese Crime Family” is one of the dreaded Italian-American mafia groups in the US, which also works with people of other ethnicities.
Sportsbook gambling involves betting on sports tournaments. According to officials, the gambling operation was a $3 million operation.
Platkin said that while mob activity has been “romanticised” in movies and television, "the reality isn’t romantic or cinematic. It’s about breaking the laws the rest of us follow and, ultimately, it’s about money, control, and the threat of violence”.
Officials said that the gambling operations were run from social clubs or behind legitimate businesses like restaurants, and also included gambling machines.
Over 76,000 people died alone in Japan in 2024
have left an indelible mark on our collective imagination. These include our shared past which is reflected in architecture, historical sites and languages, as well as our cuisines.
"This year holds special significance as we celebrate 50 years of India-Portugal bilateral relations. With our natural synergy and potential for cooperation in diverse fields, our historic ties are firmly on their way to becoming a dynamic and visionary partnership," she added President Murmu expressed happiness noting the steady and progressive growth in IndiaPortugal cooperation in various fields, including science and technology, defence, IT, start-ups, research, educational and cultural cooperation.
"As a knowledge-based economy, India is harnessing its strengths in areas such as science and technology, information and communication technology, digital public infrastructure, start-ups and innovation to create an inclusive and sustainable development model that benefits all. India considers Portugal as its partner in these efforts," she said.
Tokyo, April 11 (IANS) A total of 76,020 people died alone in their homes in Japan in 2024, with 76.4 per cent aged 65 or older, according to data released by the National Police Agency on Friday.
By age group, the highest number of solitary home deaths occurred among those aged 85 and older (14,658), followed by those aged 75-79 (12,567), and those aged 70-74 (11,600).
Among elderly individuals found dead at home, 39.2 per cent were discovered within a day of death. However, 4,538 cases (7.8 per cent) involved bodies that went undiscovered for over a month. Police officials noted that many such cases were identified after reports of uncollected mail or when neighbours or relatives, lacking regular contact, raised concerns.
By region, Tokyo recorded the highest number of solitary home deaths (7,699), followed by Osaka (5,329), Kanagawa (3,659), and Aichi (3,411).
This marks the first time such
data has been compiled in Japan. The government plans to use it as a basis for policy development to address loneliness and social isolation.
Japan has been grappling with the issue of 'kodokushi' or "lonely death" for decades. The term refers to people, often elderly, who die alone and go unnoticed for extended periods.
The phenomenon first gained public attention in the 1980s and has since become a growing concern amid Japan's rapidly aging population, shrinking household sizes, and weakening social ties.
According to a data released by Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the number of welfare applications in Japan reached 22,320 in November 2024, marking a 1.6 per cent increase from the same month the previous year and the highest for November in the past decade.
The ministry attributed the rise in applications to factors such as an increase in singleperson households and an aging population. As of November 2024, the total number of welfarerecipient households stood at 1,651,995, a slight decrease of 0.1 per cent compared to the same month in 2023.
From the editor’s desk
Whoever
wins in
2025, democracy will prevail — Australia leads by example
As the nation readies itself for the 2025 federal election, Australians are once again reminded of the remarkable strength of their democratic system. While much focus will inevitably rest on which political party forms government, the real triumph lies in the continued functioning of a democracy that is inclusive, stable, and resilient. Whether the Australian Labor Party retains power or the Coalition returns to lead, the process itself is a demonstration of the health and integrity of Australia’s democratic traditions.
At a time when democratic values are faltering in several parts of the world, Australia remains a nation where the will of the people genuinely shapes the direction of government. It is not just the act of voting that matters but the collective participation, transparency of institutions, and peaceful acceptance of electoral outcomes that uphold the democratic spirit. In this sense, every election is not just a decision about leadership— it is a reaffirmation of the people’s belief in democracy itself.
Australia’s system of compulsory voting is often seen as unusual on the world stage, yet it has become one of the country's greatest democratic strengths. By requiring eligible citizens to participate in elections, the country ensures that the results reflect a true crosssection of society. Rather than being left to a vocal minority, decision-making power is distributed broadly across all demographics. This enhances legitimacy and encourages a shared responsibility for the nation’s future.
Another cornerstone of Australia’s democratic strength is the independence and professionalism of the Australian Electoral Commission. From the drawing of electoral boundaries to the secure counting of votes, the commission operates with impartiality and efficiency. Its efforts help to ensure that elections are free, fair, and trusted by the public. In contrast to global examples of manipulated polls or suppressed voter participation, Australia offers a clear contrast—one of order, trust, and transparency.
Respect for the result, regardless of political outcome,
is one of the defining features of the nation’s political culture. Parties that lose elections do so with dignity and begin work as opposition without contesting the legitimacy of the vote. Leaders step down peacefully, power is transferred without conflict, and the new government is held accountable through strong parliamentary processes. These patterns may seem routine in Australia, but they are far from guaranteed in many parts of the world.
What also strengthens Australian democracy is the country’s vibrant civil society and active public debate. The role of the media, community organisations, and everyday citizens in holding elected officials accountable is crucial. Australians are not silent observers in their democracy— they write, march, campaign, question, and vote. Political activism is not confined to election seasons; it is a yearround feature of a healthy society that values its democratic rights and freedoms.
Furthermore, Australia’s diverse population contributes to the strength of its democratic character. People of different ethnicities, religions, and languages participate fully in public life, bringing with them a wide range of perspectives. This multiculturalism enriches the national conversation and promotes policies that are more inclusive and representative. It also sends a powerful message that democracy works best when everyone is invited to the table.
The 2025 election will undoubtedly be fiercely contested. There are pressing national issues at stake: climate change, the economy, cost of living, housing, national security, Indigenous rights, and healthcare reform, to name just a few. Political parties will offer competing visions for how to address these challenges. But the outcome, regardless of who wins, will emerge from a fair and robust process in which citizens have played the central role.
Australia’s ability to hold elections that are respected at home and admired abroad is a sign of the nation’s maturity. It also provides an example for younger democracies and struggling systems around the world. In a time when global headlines are often filled with accounts of political unrest, manipulated elections, and democratic backsliding, Australia’s story is one of stability, participation, and progress.
Federal Election 2025: Cost of living, climate & trust to shape Australia’s future
As Australia approaches the 2025 federal election, the political mood across the country is marked by anxiety, fatigue, and an increasing demand for effective leadership. Voters are feeling the weight of rising living expenses, are concerned about how the country is responding to climate change, and are questioning how well political institutions are serving them. Against this backdrop, the major parties are preparing to campaign in a volatile and highly competitive environment, where the electorate is more informed— and more frustrated—than ever before.
Cost of living: The defining concern
More than any other issue, the rising cost of living is dominating political conversations.
Australians are feeling the pinch in every aspect of daily life—whether it's paying for groceries, covering electricity bills, or meeting rent or mortgage payments. Inflation may have eased from its post-COVID peak, but price pressures remain stubborn in key sectors, especially housing and utilities.
The current Labor government has introduced targeted relief measures such as electricity rebates and tax cuts aimed at low- and middle-income earners. However, for many voters, these steps have not been enough. Some see them as band-aid solutions rather than long-term strategies to curb inflation and lift wages.
The Coalition, led by Peter Dutton, is banking on this discontent. Promising to restore economic discipline, the opposition has criticized the government’s spending and debt levels. Yet, the Coalition itself still faces questions about credibility, especially among voters in urban and suburban areas where the 2022 "teal wave" took a toll on its traditional support base.
Whoever can present a clear, compassionate, and believable plan to ease economic pressures is likely to gain traction, particularly in the crucial outersuburban and regional swing seats.
Energy & climate policy: The balancing act
Australia’s shift toward renewable energy has been steady, but not without controversy. The federal government has set a national target of reducing emissions by 43% by 2030, alongside a suite of investments in solar, wind, and battery storage. These steps have been welcomed by many, especially younger voters and those in urban centres, but there is growing concern that progress is too slow—and that fossil fuel industries are still receiving government backing.
The Greens and independent MPs are using this opening to push for
more aggressive emissions cuts and a ban on new coal and gas projects. In inner-city electorates, especially in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, climate-focused candidates could again challenge Labor and Liberal candidates alike.
Meanwhile, the Coalition is pitching nuclear energy as part of its long-term solution, arguing that renewables alone can’t deliver reliable baseload power.
Critics say this is a distraction from immediate energy needs and question the economic and environmental viability of nuclear in Australia.
Climate change remains a deeply emotional issue for many voters, particularly those living in areas affected by bushfires, floods, and heatwaves. For both major parties, managing this issue will require more than policies—it will require leadership, conviction, and public trust.
National security & strategic positioning Foreign policy is emerging as a more significant theme in 2025 than in past elections. The AUKUS agreement, which includes plans to acquire nuclear-powered submarines, reflects growing concern over regional security in the Indo-Pacific. Bipartisan support exists for greater defence spending, but questions are being raised about whether the public fully understands the scale and purpose of these commitments. China’s presence in the Pacific, ongoing trade tensions, and Australia’s relationships with its allies will all feed into the election narrative.
The government has attempted to strike a careful diplomatic balance—rebuilding relations with Beijing while strengthening ties with Washington and regional neighbours. Dutton, known for his more hardline stance in previous portfolios, may adopt a more aggressive tone on defence and border protection, but this could be a double-edged sword in multicultural electorates.
Housing pressure & the struggle for stability
Access to affordable housing remains one of the most urgent and deeply felt concerns for Australians, especially young people. Rental shortages, rising property prices, and homelessness are now issues across the country—not just in the major cities.
Labor’s Housing Australia Future Fund was one of its flagship policies in 2022, but many argue it has not delivered results at the pace required. The Greens have consistently pushed for greater federal investment in social housing and rent controls, which resonates with young urban voters and lower-income renters. With home ownership feeling out of reach for many younger Australians, this issue could drive
support toward minor parties and independents—unless the major parties can deliver strong and specific commitments on housing.
Indigenous recognition & reconciliation
The failed 2023 Voice to Parliament referendum left deep divisions in the national conversation around Indigenous recognition. The Labor government, which supported the referendum, now faces the challenge of showing meaningful progress in Indigenous health, education, and community empowerment, despite the setback.
For many First Nations Australians and their allies, there’s a sense that symbolic gestures must now give way to tangible action. For the Coalition, which opposed the Voice, the focus has shifted to localised and “practical” outcomes—but it will need to outline what that means in real terms.
This issue may not dominate the headlines during the campaign, but it will influence how Indigenous communities engage with the political process and whether younger voters continue to demand more inclusive national policies.
Trust, independents & the new political order
The 2022 election marked a turning point in Australian politics with the election of several independent MPs in traditionally safe Liberal seats. Many of these “teal” independents ran on platforms of climate action, government integrity, and gender equality. Their strong performance reflected a growing appetite for candidates who speak directly to local concerns, outside of the party machine.
Heading into 2025, these independents will be under pressure to prove that they can deliver. At the same time, more communities are showing interest in running grassroots campaigns, challenging the idea that power only flows through the two-party system.
Whether it’s over transparency, integrity, or accountability, the electorate is demanding more honesty and less spin. The 2025 federal election will not simply decide who forms the next government. It will offer Australians a choice between competing visions for the economy, the environment, and the role of government itself. Labor will ask for more time to complete its reforms, promising steady leadership and social investment. The Coalition will offer a return to economic conservatism and stronger national defence. The Greens and independents will advocate for deeper structural change, especially on climate and integrity.
Trump’s quick fix for administrative reforms
New Delhi: US President Donald Trump has in his second term, made reforms in federal governance a key component of his MAGA drive. He has established a new departmentthe Department of Government Efficiency(DOGE)- under his closest confidant Elon Musk and given him a free hand in downsising the various wings of the federal government.
The President is validating decisions of Musk by issuing Executive Orders on a running basis. DOGE has evidently discovered systemic corruption on a large scale and found legitimate grounds for enforcing cost-effectiveness.
Efficiency, by definition, is a measure of output per unit of resource- money and manpower in this case- and it is enhanced if the number of employees doing a job is reduced to the optimal minimum and likewise, if procedures are pruned to ensure that a task was completed in the minimal number of operational steps.
India has had a history of Administrative Reforms Commissions (ARCs) producing voluminous reports that only added to the size of bureaucracy and left behind no lasting impressions. It is interesting to note that Prime Minister Modi’s call for ‘minimum government maximum governance’ for India is what seemingly was being implemented by DOGE in America.
However, it is the large-scale lay-offs ordered at one go and the quick-fix style of working of the new department under Elon Musk, that has created a stir leading to many orders being challenged in the District Courts.
The Trump Administration was not deterred by any of this- it seemed to be confident about pushing the judicial process through the Court of Appeals and even the Supreme Court.
Education and Health are the two basic concerns of the national government in a democratic dispensation for they laid the foundation for producing the right kind of electorate - apart from meeting the obligation
15 through internal mergers, indicating that mass layoffs were in the offing to reduce the fulltime HHS workforce of 82,000 by about 25 per cent -saving 1.8 billion a year -and contended that the department ‘will do more with less’. Kennedy went on record to say that in one instance ‘defiant bureaucrats’ impeded his office’s effort to access the closely guarded database that might reveal the ‘dangers of certain drugs’.
broadcast.
The judge took the view that USAGM cannot usurp Congress’s power of the purse and its legislative supremacy. Notices of termination were meanwhile sent by the Trump Administration also to Radio Free Europe and Radio Liberty whose President Stephen Capus said that this decision is ‘a massive gift to America’s enemies’.
international policies have been implemented simultaneously, but it is important to consider whether, if given time to develop, they would restore stability for legitimate immigrants.
In great enthusiasm for implementing coordinated decisions quickly, the team of top Trump advisors apparently slipped up on the security front while using the encrypted Signal platform for a group chat relating to the plans of missile and drone launches against Houthis of Yemen.
of ‘welfarism’ that had to be discharged by a democratic state.
These two wings of the government are interestingly, the first among the segments targeted by DOGE for downsising through lay-offs.
Trump signed an executive order dismantling the Department of Education on March 20 but even before that on March 12 nearly 50 per cent of the department’s workforce had been laid off.
Trump said he wanted to ‘return education back to the states’, derided the department as ‘wasteful and polluted by liberal ideology’ and in a strong comment declared that ‘the experiment of controlling American education through federal programmes and dollars has failed our children, our teachers and our families’. Federal actions have already been initiated against Ivy League schools, Columbia and Harvard, over alleged harassment of Jewish students. The Trump Administration has suspended several dozen federally funded research grants to Princeton University as part of its investigation into campus antiSemitic activity.
Unsurprisingly, Civil Rights groups saw all of this as a policy going against principles of equality and equability and warned of the return of civil rights violations in schools. Established in 1979 the Department of Education oversees funding for public schools, monitors student loans and runs programmes that help low-income group students.
Trump has accused the department of ‘indoctrinating young people with racial and political material’. He thought it was not the business of Education to handle loans and assigned this function to the Treasury. Trump has also curtailed USAID funding because of his basic aversion to civil society groups promoting left-liberalism in the name of human rights.
Robert F Kennedy Jr, Secretary Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced major changes at HHS bringing down the divisions from 28 to
It is clear that one reform the Trump Administration is pressing for is to break the stranglehold of bureaucracy that tended to become an ‘autonomous power centre’ itself in a democratic dispensation by invoking rules and procedures. This can be regarded as a valid reform if the efficient delivery of public services was being aimed at a striking example of this was the discovery by DOGE that 3.2 million individuals aged 120 years were still on social security record.
One new division called the ‘Administration of a Healthy America’ has been created to replace five former divisions including the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Administration for Community Living that dealt with older people and people with disabilitiesthese were redistributed to other divisions.
Sweeping changes in the federal research policy and funding have reportedly led to many USbased scientists contemplating shifting to Europe or Canada.
It seems for the first time Secretaries of various departments have been tasked directly by DOGE to carry out an in-depth examination of the ways and means of making federal governance cost-effective and consequently more efficient.
National media is another area of the scan by the Trump Administration- a major decision taken by it is to dismantle the Voice of America (VOA)- the government-funded international news service whose 1200 employees were put on paid leave. Trump has been against VOA for its alleged bias against conservative Americans and has not taken kindly to VOA praising China’s effort to control the COVID-19 virus. A district judge, meanwhile, in response to a suit filed on March 21, restrained the US Agency for Global Media(USAGM) which oversees VOA from shutting down its
President Trump’s executive order for significant pruning of government agencies covered the Woodrow Wilson International Centre for Scholars, the Institute of Museum and Library Services and the US Interagency Council on Homelessness.
Significantly these measures are projected as steps for ‘reducing bureaucracy’ and government expenditure and the heads of the named agencies have been asked to report to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget what part of the expenditure was statutorily required to be granted.
All this suggests that a comprehensively thought-out plan of reducing the size of the federal government was in play in which ideological intolerance of the advocacy of ‘liberalism’ considered not in alignment with America First, was discernible.
The consequences of some of the precipitating moves of President Trump like declaring a ‘national emergency’ for turning out all illegal immigrants from the US that allowed the use of the Army to block the southern border and induction of Homeland Security for hounding out such individuals, the large scale lay-offs ordered by DOGE to make the governance cost-effective and aggressive adoption of ‘America First’ in foreign policy, trade and tariff as also in the matter of preference to Americans in jobs, are showing up.
H1B visas that attracted bright students to America have become uncertain, denial of citizenship by birth has impeded the prospect of long-term settlement in the US of individuals who were willing to give their best there and the perceived discrimination in the policy towards outsiders, have all produced a certain degree of uncertainty and unpredictability in that country.
Sweeping changes in the federal research policy and funding have reportedly led to many US-based scientists contemplating shifting to Europe or Canada.
Post-doctoral and PhD students are also likely to decline in number for the same reason. It can be said, however, that unbridled freedom to run down a democratic regime through ‘narrative building’ or to take to the path of narcotics trade or human trafficking as a freedom of avocation, had to be put under a centralised check.
Trump's domestic and
Houthis had been attacking the ships carrying Western aid for Israel through the Red Sea.
The Editor of The Atlantic, Jeffrey Goldberg, who is virulently opposed to Trump got access to the chat in advance of the discussion on the plans to attack Houthis.
National Security Advisor Mike Waltz owned responsibility for the leak -said to have been caused by a technical glitch -and President Trump responded by saying that a lesson had been learnt and that the Administration would move away from the messaging platform.
‘War plans with timelines’ can not be discussed online- nothing is more important than this to warrant top advisors finding time to meet across the table in a confidential environment and comply with the ‘need to know’ principle. Speedy decisionmaking may require sacrifice of convenience but it can never be at the cost of security.
No policy maker is above briefing for security orientation and the norms of this would ideally be set by the Director of National Intelligence in the US context. India has done well to approach the Trump Administration with an understanding of the latter’s security and economic concerns and work for maintaining strategic friendship between the two democracies.
Trump has a certain potential for handling the world’s trouble spots in a manner that checks escalation and gives a push towards resolution. In opposing ‘Islamic terrorism’ and countering an aggressive China, India and the US remain on the same side of the fence regarding and trade & tariffs as well as immigration, India’s response of reason might help to sort out the issues and keep Indo-US relations smooth.
In the final analysis India as a major power having a say in the global issues of peace and economic development has the locus standi to sustain bilateral relationship with the Trump Presidency in a spirit of upholding the national interests of both the countries.
(The writer is a former Director Intelligence Bureau)
India, Israel to strengthen cooperation in agriculture sector
New Delhi, April 8 (IANS) Union
Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Israel’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Avi Dichter, on Tuesday signed an agriculture cooperation agreement and work plan aimed at strengthening ties between the two nations in key areas of agricultural development.
By signing the agreement, India and Israel have taken a major step towards enhancing collaboration in the agriculture sector.
The agreement is expected to bolster cooperation in soil and water management, horticulture, post-harvest technology, farm mechanisation, animal husbandry, and research and development.
Chouhan emphasised that India, under Prime Minister Narendra
Modi’s leadership, is emerging as one of the fastest-growing major economies and is committed to global welfare.
He praised the role of MASHAV, Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation, in the success of India-Israel Agricultural Work Plans, particularly through the network of 43 Centres of Excellence (CoEs).
“Of these, 35 are already fully functional across India and playing a key role in modernising Indian agriculture,” he added.
Chouhan also praised Israel's innovative ‘villages of excellence’ concept, which connects 30 villages to each centre of excellence to boost rural development.
Dichter underlined the strong bond between the two countries and expressed Israel’s willingness to collaborate on developing high-yield seed varieties and advancing agricultural technologies, especially in the face of climate change.
He also showed interest in India’s digital agriculture mission and
how it is empowering farmers with technology-driven solutions. Highlighting the challenges of a growing population and shrinking landholdings, Chouhan called for more collaborative research between Indian and Israeli scientists to ensure that better quality seeds and technologies reach farmers quickly.
The meeting also involved discussions on market access and reviewed ongoing partnerships in the horticulture sector.
A joint working group is being set up to maintain ongoing dialogue and define a clear roadmap with set goals and timelines.
The two sides agreed to collaborate in several important areas, including food security, technology transfer, pest management, capacity building, and post-harvest technology. They also discussed the possibility of launching a fiveyear seed improvement plan to improve productivity and ensure sustainability in farming practices.
US tariffs: India’s tech hardware sector likely to gain over China, Vietnam
New Delhi, April 8 (IANS) With China facing a 34 per cent US tariff and Vietnam 46 per cent, India's relatively lower tariff of 27 per cent may shift supply chain dynamics, helping the domestic tech hardware sector grow further, according to a new report.
India’s electronics manufacturing, especially smartphones, are set to gain a competitive edge as the US imposes tariffs on electronics imports from key countries, says a CLSA report.
The shift in the global supply chain could favour India, particularly in the smartphone manufacturing segment, it added.
Smartphones account for $51 billion worth of imports for the US, with China, Vietnam and India being key sources, according to the global broakrage.
Apple and Samsung already have robust manufacturing operations in India.
India's lower tariff, combined with its large domestic market and increasing backward integration supported by the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme, enhances its cost competitiveness.
Dixon Technologies is likely to be a key beneficiary of this shift in the global supply chain dynamics. While Apple and Samsung's assembly operations are either in-house or with companies not listed in India, Dixon's role in the supply chain is expected to grow, said CLSA.
According to other reports, the expected direct impact of US reciprocal tariffs would vary in nature for the sectors in India. The impact is expected to be largely neutral for electronics, textiles, agricultural products, chemicals, and automobiles and parts.
In electronics, higher reciprocal tariffs on China would mean a neutral impact for India’s electronics exports, said the report by CareEdge Ratings.
Meanwhile, the recentlyannounced Rs 22,919 crore Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS), which has the potential to generate nearly 1 lakh direct jobs and several indirect jobs, focuses on the local production of subassemblies and bare components like inductors, resistors, PCBs and capacitors, etc.
Young Indian entrepreneurs solving real problems rooted in communities: Jayant Chaudhary
for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant
Chaudhary said on Saturday. In his address at the grand finale of the Futurepreneurs Challenge at Startup Mahakumbh 2025, being held in the national capital, Chaudhary stressed the need to nurture the skills of young entrepreneurs, to help "build not just a startup nation, but a nation of responsible creators and leaders".
45 startups display growing tribal entrepreneurship in India
New Delhi, April 6 (IANS)
At least 45 startups have showcased the growing role of tribal entrepreneurs in India’s startup ecosystem — marking a significant milestone in empowering tribal talent, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs said on Sunday.
At the just-concluded ‘Startup Mahakumbh’ here, two triballed startups, incubated at IIM Kolkata and IIT Guwahati, received prestigious national recognition from Piyush Goyal, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry.
Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Jual Oram congratulated the winning startups for their exemplary innovation and dedication to community-led development.
They commended the efforts of all participating entrepreneurs for representing the aspirations and potential of tribal India on a national platform.
Based in Gangtok, OurGuest Travels was conferred the D2C (Direct-to-Consumer) Award. As the first Online Travel Aggregator (OTA) from northeast, it offers a curated collection of homestays, farmstays, resorts, and guided experiences across Sikkim, North Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and Jammu
and Kashmir.
With over 600 homestays and 50+ guides, the platform has served more than 6,000 travellers and supports rural livelihoods and eco-tourism. This recognition is a key milestone under the Ministry’s 100-day agenda to build a strong tribal startup ecosystem.
Incubated at IIT Guwahati, Ngurie Organic received the AgriTech Award for its transformative work in sustainable agriculture. The startup harnesses data-driven research, precision agriculture, and blockchain-enabled transparency to empower farmers with solutions that:
The event featured a high-impact panel titled "Investing in Bharat: Unlocking Startup Potential Beyond the Metro", with thought leaders from India’s startup and investment ecosystem. In addition, faculty from IIT Delhi conducted a design thinking workshop, guiding tribal startups to refine and scale their business ideas.
The three-day programme concluded with the distribution of participation certificates to 45 tribal startup founders,100 EMRS (Eklavya Model Residential School) students and 150 tribal students availing higher education scholarships.
Participants also took part in a bootcamp at IIT Delhi and attended exposure visits across the startup ecosystem during the 'Startup Mahakumbh' event.
Bringing air taxis to India key goal towards Viksit Bharat: Sarla Aviation CEO
New Delhi, April 5 (IANS) Aerospace startup Sarla Aviation. which recently unveiled the country’s first flying taxi prototype called ‘Shunya’ earlier this year, is aiming to soon start commercial operations.
"What stood out to me today wasn’t just the ideas -- it was the intent. Each young entrepreneur here isn’t chasing success for the sake of it; they’re solving real problems rooted in their communities," he said. He added that "skills and startups go hand in hand. Our job now is to nurture this instinct, strengthen the ecosystem, and make sure every student, every dreamer, feels confident that their idea has a place in India’s future".
Speaking to IANS, Adrian, co-founder and CEO of Sarla Aviation, said that bringing air taxis to India is one of their important goals under the 'Viksit Bharat' initiative.
“India needs a better transport system. This is where the idea of air taxis come into the picture. It can be expected to become an important part of public transport in the future,” said Adrian.
Adrian further stated that it is necessary to bring air taxis to India so that problems like traffic jams can be eliminated.
Air taxis can be used to commute to places like schools, malls,
hospitals and airports. He described air taxis as smarter, more economical and convenient mode pf transport than traditional vehicles.
Sarla Aviation has so far raised $12 million in funding from various venture capital firms and angel investors. The company plans to raise additional investments in the future to expand footprint. Indian investors have played a vital role in the success of Sarla Aviation and Adrian is extremely happy about this.
He said, "Most of our investors are Indians, and we are proud to be backed by some of the brightest minds who have built some of the best companies in this country."
Sarla Aviation is developing India's most sophisticated electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
The development highlights India’s growing aspiration in sustainable urban air mobility and underscores the importance of synergies in driving innovation.
New Delhi, April 5 (IANS) Young entrepreneurs in India are not merely chasing success but solving real problems rooted in communities, Minister of State (Independent Charge)
CG Neetu Bhagotia
Brisbane, April 1 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General (CG) Neetu Bhagotia recently attended an event in Brisbane to extend support to Sahil Jha, who is on an inspiring journey to raise awareness about the global crisis of soil degradation.
Jha’s initiative highlights the urgent need for soil conservation, emphasizing its impact on food security, climate change, and
environmental sustainability. His campaign has been gaining attention for advocating sustainable soil management practices to combat this pressing global issue.
The event in Brisbane served as a platform for dialogue and community engagement, reinforcing the importance of collective action to protect and restore soil health for future generations.
AIBC & Canberra Business Chamber sign MoU
The MoU will boost Australia-India trade ties
Canberra, April 10 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In a major step towards strengthening economic collaboration between Australia and India, the Australia India Business Council (AIBC) and the Canberra Business Chamber have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), as announced in a recent Facebook post by AIBC.
The agreement was formalised by Deepak-Raj Gupta OAM, National Chair of AIBC, and Greg Harford, CEO of the
Canberra Business Chamber. The partnership underscores a shared commitment to advancing trade opportunities, fostering business growth, and deepening bilateral ties between the two countries.
With a network of over 35,000 members, the Canberra Business Chamber plays a vital role in supporting businesses across the ACT. Meanwhile, AIBC continues to lead efforts to enhance bilateral trade and investment between Australia and India.
Key highlights of the MoU include reciprocal valued memberships,
cross-promotion of events and initiatives, discounted access to trade events, and opportunities for co-branded activities. These collaborative efforts aim to increase visibility, engagement, and mutual success for members of both organisations.
This MoU is part of AIBC’s broader strategy to build similar partnerships with state-based business chambers across Australia, further bridging the two dynamic economies through shared innovation and cooperation.
‘Yuva Gala 2025’ unites Indian students, community & industry experts
Canberra, April 1 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The High Commission of India in Canberra, in collaboration with FINACT, CIC, IAMSA, UCIA, and INSA, recently hosted ‘Yuva
Gala 2025’, an event aimed at fostering connections between Indian international students, Indian-Australian youth, the Indian community, and university representatives.
The event featured an insightful panel discussion, where education and industry experts addressed key concerns of Indian students in Australia. Panelists provided guidance on academic
challenges, career opportunities, and student well-being, while also answering a wide range of student questions.
‘Yuva Gala 2025’ served as a valuable networking platform,
Indian startups connect with Australian businesses at Sydney networking event
Sydney, April 2 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India, Sydney, in collaboration with the Australia India Business Council (AIBC) NSW, hosted an exclusive business networking session on April 1, 2025. The event facilitated connections between Indian startups and SMEs from the Confederation of Indian Industry
(CII) Young Indians (Yi) chapter and Australian businesses across multiple sectors.
The session, held at the Indian Consulate in Sydney, saw participation from 22 Indian businesses engaging with over 70 Australian enterprises, exploring potential trade, investment, and collaboration opportunities.
The initiative reflects growing
economic ties between India and Australia, fostering innovation and partnerships in key industries.
The event provided a dynamic platform for startups and SMEs to showcase their strengths, exchange ideas, and build crossborder business relationships, reinforcing the commitment to deepening India-Australia economic cooperation.
promoting stronger engagement between students, community leaders, and university authorities, ensuring a supportive environment for Indian students in Australia.
‘What’s On’ app launched to support Indian students in Australia
April
A new online application, “What’s On”, designed to support Indian international students in Australia, was recently launched at the Youth Gala 2025 event. The initiative, supported by the High Commission of India in Canberra, aims to serve as a one-stop guide for students navigating life in Australia.
The app offers a comprehensive platform to help incoming students access essential information, connect with
communities, and reach out to government and support networks. It is designed to ease their transition into Australian life while fostering a sense of belonging and engagement.
With features ranging from student resources and event listings to direct community connections, “What’s On” is expected to be a valuable tool for Indian students looking for guidance, networking, and a home away from home experience.
Brisbane, March 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
A strong sense of empowerment and cross-cultural solidarity filled the African Village in Moorooka as Bhartiya Samaj successfully hosted a dynamic business, employment, and training workshop, recently. The event attracted participants from Brisbane’s diverse multicultural communities,
all eager to access tools for personal and professional growth. With expert insights from representatives of TAFE Queensland, the Department of Trade, Employment & Training, and the Department of Customer Services, Open Data & Small and Family Business, attendees gained valuable guidance on navigating employment systems, accessing government support,
and launching or growing small businesses.
The workshop was a celebration of Brisbane’s multicultural identity, with attendees representing backgrounds from India, Africa, Europe, Turkey, China, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Distinguished guests included Senator Paul Scarr, Shadow Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs Bisma Asif
MP, and Indian Consul General Neetu Bhagotia, along with leaders from major ethnic and grassroots organizations. Looking ahead, Bhartiya Samaj announced the upcoming Empowering Migrants Expo, scheduled for August 3, 2025, at Brisbane City Hall and King George Square. Expected to draw over 7,000 attendees, the expo will include a flagship networking
lunch—Building Bridges: Multicultural Leaders Networking Lunch—aimed at uniting changemakers and community leaders.
Bhartiya Samaj’s ongoing initiatives continue to play a vital role in building an inclusive Queensland, where knowledge, opportunity, and community empowerment go hand in hand.
GOPIO International Convention 2025 in Brisbane highlights diaspora’s technological impact
Brisbane, March 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The GOPIO International Convention 2025, held from March 28 to 30 at the Brisbane Marriott, celebrated the Indian diaspora’s growing role in shaping future technologies and global innovation. The convention, hosted by the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), brought together political leaders, technology experts, entrepreneurs, and community leaders from around the world.
Among the high-profile attendees were Queensland Premier David Crisafulli, Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, Consul General of India in Queensland Neetu Bhagotia, Senator Paul Scarr, and The University of Queensland
Chancellor Peter Varghese. The convention’s theme, "The Diaspora's Role in Shaping Future Technologies," reflected the Indian diaspora’s expanding influence in fields such as artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, biomedical sciences, and photonics.
GOPIO Founder Dr. Thomas Abraham and GOPIO International president Prakash Shah led the proceedings, while Convention Convenor Umesh Chandra OAM, also GOPIO’s International executive vice president, set the tone with his opening address.
One of the standout sessions, “Diaspora Role in Shaping Future Technologies,” featured acclaimed speakers including Professor Rajendra Acharya, who
highlighted AI in healthcare, and Dr. Ajay Pandey, who discussed integrated photonic systems. Their presentations demonstrated the diaspora’s impact on revolutionizing global healthcare and innovation.
In a key panel moderated by Professor Rajasekhar Vangapaty, NRIs and PIOs discussed how their unique experiences could unite to address global issues like discrimination, civil rights, and economic advancement. Panelists included Rohit Vyas, Kewal Kanda, and Professor Mohan Thite.
The convention also recognized the achievements of diaspora women in a session moderated by Nandini Sen Mehra. Speakers shared personal stories of balancing cultural identity, professional success, and
community leadership. Youth were front and centre in a session led by Vasu Pawar, where young leaders and influencers shared their experiences using technology and social media to drive positive social change.
On March 30, GOPIO’s General Body Meeting marked the first in-person session in years and saw Dr. Thomas Abraham reelected as Chairperson of GOPIO International.
The final day featured the GOPIO Chamber of Commerce and Industry session, underscoring the importance of global networking for diaspora-owned businesses and SMEs.
Dr Ram Mohan, Editor of Australia India News, and Director of Star Promotions, presented the Future of Battery
Energy Storage Systems (BESS), emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping sustainable energy solutions for a greener future. He also introduce his new company, BESS Australia (bessaustralia. com.au), to the Indian diaspora community.
The convention also saw an inspiring Awards Banquet on March 29, honouring NRIs and PIOs excelling in fields like science, engineering, technology, medicine, arts, and more. The convention ended on a high note, with attendees energized by new partnerships and a renewed sense of purpose. The 2025 GOPIO International Convention not only celebrated past accomplishments but also set the stage for future collaboration, innovation, and leadership within the global Indian community.
Karnataka culture shines at Ugadi festival hosted by Melbourne Kannada Sangha
Melbourne, April 12 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Melbourne came alive with the sights, sounds, and spirit of Karnataka as the Melbourne Kannada Sangha recently hosted a vibrant Ugadi celebration, supported by the Consulate General of India, Melbourne.
The event was attended by Clare O’Neil MP, Hon. Cassandra Fernando MP, and Cr. Jim Memeti, who joined members of the Indian community to mark the Kannada New Year with joy
and cultural pride. Showcasing the traditions of Karnataka, the celebration also spotlighted trade, tourism, and cultural collaboration between India and Australia. A colourful mix of performances, exhibits, and community engagement activities made the occasion memorable.
The event underscored the growing role of Indian diaspora organisations in fostering cultural understanding and strengthening Victoria’s rich multicultural identity.
‘The Airport Economist – India Episodes 2025’ launched at Indian Consulate
Sydney, April 11 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In a vibrant event hosted on April 9 at the Consulate General of India in Sydney, the official launch of ‘The Airport Economist – India Episodes 2025’ marked another step forward in strengthening Australia–India economic ties.
The special episodes, part of the renowned Airport Economist series, are set in Chennai and Bengaluru—two of India’s most dynamic economic and tech hubs. They aim to offer valuable industry insights and highlight
emerging opportunities for Australian businesses seeking collaboration and expansion in India.
Hosted by Professor Tim Harcourt, Industry Professor and Chief Economist at the Institute for Public Policy and Governance (IPPG) at the University of Technology Sydney, the series explores how Australian entrepreneurs and investors can tap into India’s booming sectors, from digital technology to advanced manufacturing.
Supported by the Department
for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India, the episodes provide not just economic analysis but a practical roadmap for crossborder partnerships.
Speaking at the launch, officials emphasized the growing trade relationship between the two nations and the need for greater awareness of India’s regional strengths. “These episodes act as a bridge, helping Australians understand where and how to connect with Indian markets,” said one participant.
The launch event attracted representatives from the business community, academia, and government sectors, all eager to see how storytelling and economic diplomacy can work together to build stronger bilateral ties.
As India emerges as a leading destination for investment and innovation, The Airport Economist – India Episodes 2025 is expected to serve as an accessible, engaging guide for businesses looking to be part of that journey.
the Schrinner Council launches the first phase of community consultation for the Kedron Brook Revitalisation Vision and Master Plan—an ambitious 20-year, $85 million project to transform one of the city’s most iconic natural corridors.
Stretching 29 kilometres across 14 suburbs from Ferny Grove to Nudgee, Kedron Brook is set to undergo a major revitalisation.
The plan aims to create a network of vibrant natural spaces, flood-resilient landscapes, and improved pathways for walking and cycling.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner described the initiative as a cornerstone of his council’s vision for enhancing Brisbane’s lifestyle.
“Brisbane is Australia’s lifestyle capital, and our Kedron Brook vision will create more to see and do in the suburbs,” he said.
“Just like Archerfield Wetlands and Hanlon Park, the revitalisation of Kedron Brook will make our lifestyle even better while also boosting flood resilience in this catchment.
“We’re now in the early stages of the design process, and we want everyone to have their say and help shape this incredible opportunity to make our suburbs even better.”
The revitalisation plan will focus on improving water flow, enhancing natural habitats, and identifying four key precincts along the brook for detailed
upgrade works. Planting new vegetation along creek banks and increasing accessibility are also central to the project.
Kedron Brook is one of three major lifestyle destinations being revitalised under the Schrinner Council’s vision, alongside similar projects at the Oxley Creek catchment and the Wynnum, Manly, and Lota foreshores. The first round of public consultation is open until Sunday, 29 June 2025. Community feedback will help shape the draft vision and master plan, which will be followed by a second consultation phase once completed.
Brisbane, April 14 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Brisbane residents are being encouraged to have their say on the future of Kedron Brook as
India’s ‘Know India Programme’ returns: Applications open for diaspora youth
Sydney, April 3 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Ministry of External Affairs of India has announced the 82nd edition of the Know India Programme (KIP), scheduled to take place from May 12 to 31, 2025. The initiative aims to connect young members of the Indian
diaspora with India’s art, heritage, culture, economy, innovation, startups, science, and technology.
The programme is open to Indian diaspora members aged 21-35 years, offering them an immersive experience of contemporary India. It serves as a platform for participants to explore their
ancestral roots while engaging with India’s rapid development across various sectors.
Interested applicants residing in Australia can contact the Consulate General of India, Sydney at trade4.sydney@mea. gov.in for further details. The last date to apply is April 18, 2025.
Indian Consulate hosts Eid dinner in Brisbane
Brisbane, April 4 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consul General of India in Brisbane, Neetu Bhagotia, recently hosted a warm and festive Eid dinner, bringing together members of the Indianorigin Muslim community and leaders from various Indian community associations. Held at the Consulate premises, the event was a vibrant
celebration of food, culture, and shared values. Guests enjoyed traditional Eid dishes and heartfelt conversations, reflecting the spirit of harmony, unity, and brotherhood.Consul General Bhagotia welcomed everyone with a message of inclusivity and peace.
Representatives from various Indian community associations, and other regional Indian groups
attended the event, showing solidarity and mutual respect. Many praised the Consulate for organising an event that honoured the festival while bringing the broader Indian community closer.
The evening ended on a high note, with smiles, shared stories, and a renewed sense of belonging among the attendees.
International Day of Yoga
Indian Consulate kicks off 75-day countdown
Perth, April 7 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Indian Consulate in Perth recently organised a vibrant curtain raiser event to mark 75 days leading up to the International Day of Yoga 2025. The event saw enthusiastic participation from seniors of
Multicultural WA, who came together to celebrate the spirit of health and harmony through yoga.
The session, led by yoga instructor Geeta Choudhary, included a series of yoga asanas, breathing techniques, and guided meditation, tailored especially
for senior participants. The atmosphere was filled with positive energy as attendees embraced the benefits of mindfulness and gentle movement.
This early celebration is part of a series of events planned by the Consulate to promote yoga as
a holistic practice for physical and mental well-being, fostering a sense of community among people of all backgrounds.The initiative also aligns with India’s global efforts to spread awareness about the ancient tradition of yoga and its relevance in modern life.
Arya Samaj Foundation marks 150 years with grand celebration
Brisbane, April 8 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The 150th Sthapna Diwas of the Arya Samaj Foundation was celebrated with great reverence and community spirit on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at the QVCC in Willawong, Brisbane.
The milestone event honoured 150 years of Arya Samaj’s enduring contributions to society, culture, and spiritual growth.
The program began with the traditional Hawan Yajna and the ceremonial lighting of the diya, setting a sacred tone for the day's proceedings.
Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Queensland (APSQ)president Nirmala Ray delivered the welcome address, followed by a soulful welcome song by Kaushaliya Prasad. The celebration featured engaging speeches from community leaders and dignitaries, poetry
recitations, yoga demonstrations, laughter therapy, and vibrant performances reflecting the cultural values upheld by Arya Samaj.
The event was graced by Consul General Neetu Bhagotia as Chief Guest, Pandit Pramodh Rai, APSQ Patron Retd Justice Pt. Devendra Pathik, Jess Pugh MP, Margie Nightingale MP (State Member for Inala), and Dr. Preethi Suraj, president of the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ), who expressed her pride in being part of such a significant celebration.
Guests enjoyed an evening of reflection, unity, and cultural pride, concluding with a community dinner and refreshments. The celebration served as a powerful reminder of the Arya Samaj Foundation’s legacy and its ongoing commitment to promoting Vedic values and social reform.
Indian Consulate welcomes students, launches info website
Sydney, April 4 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India in Sydney hosted a special welcome event for Indian university students on April 3, 2025, creating a warm and supportive environment for those pursuing higher education in the city.
Dr. S. Janakiraman, Consul General of India in Sydney, personally welcomed the students and engaged in friendly interactions, encouraging them
to stay connected with the Consulate and the wider Indian community. His message focused on building a sense of belonging, cultural identity, and academic support.
The event also marked the official launch of What’s On, a dedicated website developed by the organisation ‘What’s On’, aimed at providing useful information, events, and resources tailored for international students. The platform is expected to become a
handy guide for students looking for social events, academic tips, legal assistance, and well-being support.
The students appreciated the initiative, expressing gratitude for the warm welcome and the practical support offered through the new digital platform. The evening served as a meaningful step in building stronger connections between the Indian Consulate and the growing number of Indian students in Sydney.
Indian startups engage with Australian businesses at AICC event
Melbourne, April 4 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia India Chamber of Commerce (AICC), in collaboration with the Consulate General of India in Melbourne, recently hosted a dynamic business networking session, bringing together 22 Indian startups and SME delegates with Australian business leaders. The visiting delegation represented the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Young Indians (Yi) chapter, aiming to explore collaborations and
investment opportunities across sectors such as Real Estate, FMCG, Education, TAFE, and Fintech.
The event was attended by Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar, Chief Patron of AICC and former premier of Victoria Ted Baillieu, and AICC CEO Nikita Kaur Chopra. In their addresses, they highlighted the vast potential for Australia-India business partnerships and encouraged both sides to actively pursue innovative collaborations.
Ted Baillieu welcomed the
Indian delegation warmly and stressed the value of bilateral ties in driving mutual economic growth, while Nikita Kaur Chopra underscored the role of the AICC in facilitating meaningful engagements between businesses from both nations.
The event served as a valuable opportunity for Indian and Australian stakeholders to share insights, forge connections, and lay the groundwork for future ventures—further strengthening the multifaceted relationship between the two countries.
Indian art exhibition opens at Victorian parliament
The event showcasesrich cultural heritage of India
Melbourne, April 4 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
A vibrant exhibition celebrating India’s diverse painting traditions was recently inaugurated at Queen’s Hall in the Victorian Parliament, with Consul General of India Dr. Sushil Kumar joining Victorian Minister for Industry and Advanced Manufacturing Collin Brooks MP and Lee Tarlamis OAM MP for the event. The exhibition featured a
stunning array of traditional Indian art forms, including Madhubani, Tanjore, Pattachitra, Kalighat, Cheriyal, Rajasthani, and Pichwai paintings, offering a visual journey through India’s rich cultural history.
Organised by Senthil Vel, President of the International Indian Folk Art Gallery (IIFAG), Australia, the event drew the attention of several Members of Parliament and distinguished
guests from various sectors, all eager to explore the intricate beauty and storytelling embedded in Indian folk and classical art. The exhibition not only highlighted India’s artistic legacy but also served as a platform to promote cross-cultural understanding and support the work of Indian artists on a global stage.
Indian students welcomed with orientation &networking session
Melbourne, April 4 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
A special orientation and networking event was recently held at the CQ University campus in Melbourne to welcome and support newly arrived Indian students as they begin their academic journey in Australia. The event brought together key speakers, including Consul General of India Dr. Sushil Kumar, Professor Santina Bertone, Deputy Dean at CQ University, Caroline Hartnett,
Director of Study Melbourne, and Neeraj Das, CEO of ElecSome.
Representatives from Victoria Police and Life Saving Victoria were also present to guide students on safety, legal rights, and local support services.
Addressing the students, the speakers shared practical advice for adjusting to life in Melbourne, navigating the academic environment, and making the most of available support systems.
Dr. Sushil Kumar encouraged students to stay connected with the Indian community and to
register with the Consulate for timely assistance if needed.
Informative brochures were distributed by Study Melbourne and Indian Care Inc., offering valuable resources on student wellbeing, housing, part-time work, and cultural integration. The event served as both an informative and welcoming platform, helping Indian students feel more at home while building connections with fellow students, local authorities, and support networks in Victoria.
Consulate officials pay tribute to Baba Saheb Ambedkar on his birth anniversary
Melbourne, April 14 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In a heartfelt tribute marking the birth anniversary of
Ramji Ambedkar, consulate officials gathered on April 14 to honour the legacy
of the “Father of the Indian Constitution.”
The commemorative event, held at the Indian Consulate, brought together community leaders, diplomats, and students to pay homage to Dr. Ambedkar’s
enduring contribution to justice, equality, and social reform. The ceremony included floral tributes, readings from the Constitution of India, and reflections on Ambedkar’s legacy as a jurist, economist, and social reformer.
Dr. Ambedkar, born on April 14, 1891, was instrumental in drafting the Constitution of India and remains a symbol of the fight against caste-based discrimination and inequality. His ideals continue to resonate globally, especially among diaspora communities.
Community members expressed their pride and gratitude during the tribute. “His message of dignity, education, and empowerment is as relevant today
Baba Saheb Dr. Bhimrao
as ever,” said one attendee. The event concluded with a pledge to uphold the values of justice, liberty, and fraternity
— principles that Baba Saheb championed throughout his life.
Thozhi celebrates International Women’s Day with focus on inclusivity & culture
Brisbane, April 11 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The women’s wing of Queensland Tamil Mandram, Thozhi, recently hosted a vibrant celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, spotlighting the strength, achievements, and cultural contributions of Tamil women in Queensland.
Held recently in Brisbane, the event carried the theme of inclusivity, culture, and shared achievements. It brought together women from diverse
backgrounds within the Tamil community to honour their roles in shaping society.
The celebration featured cultural performances, storytelling, and a series of tributes to women who have made significant contributions in fields such as education, community service, arts, and entrepreneurship.
“This event is not just about celebrating women—it’s about creating space for Tamil women to be seen, heard, and valued,” said one of the organisers from
Thozhi.
Attendees praised the event for its warm, inclusive atmosphere and emphasis on community. Several speakers shared personal journeys of empowerment, resilience, and leadership, inspiring the next generation of women in the community.
With colourful traditional attire, meaningful conversations, and a spirit of unity, the celebration reflected Thozhi’s commitment to uplifting Tamil women and preserving cultural heritage in Australia.
Brisbane’s Green Heart Fair relaunches as Sustainable BNE festival
Brisbane, April 11 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Brisbane’s long-running sustainability festival, the Green Heart Fair, will return with a new name and fresh identity in 2025 as the Sustainable BNE Festival, reflecting its growing mission to inspire practical, community-led environmental action.
To be held on Sunday, May 25, at Roma Street Parklands, the rebranded event will feature expert-led workshops, live music, market stalls, food trucks, yoga, thrift shops, and hands-on
activities such as Kokedama ballmaking and silent discos.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the event’s transformation marks an exciting chapter in Brisbane’s journey to becoming a global leader in sustainable living. “This is a much-loved community event that teaches residents how to live more affordably and sustainably to protect our incredible lifestyle,” he said. “Brisbane is only the second city in the world to have achieved the UN’s highest level of recognition for sustainability. The Sustainable BNE Festival is a great way to help residents understand
how they can make a difference and help Brisbane remain Australia’s most sustainable city.”
The festival, which began as a suburban fair with just 500 attendees, now draws over 20,000 people each year and is delivered in partnership with the Brisbane Sustainability Agency. Agency CEO Tracy Melenewycz said the festival plays a key role in helping residents embrace everyday sustainability.
“The Sustainable BNE Festival is where our ambition for sustainability truly shines,
bringing together leading experts to inspire change and create an even better Brisbane,” she said. “People sometimes get overwhelmed by the idea of sustainability… but everyone can do their bit by adopting small, practical changes, and the festival does a fantastic job of showing us how to do that.”
Supported by partners including Bupa, Channel 7, Optus, Urban Utilities, Hire Republic, and Brandition, the event will remain free and open to all, reinforcing its inclusive and educational purpose.
Indian Grandmasters Nihal Sarin, Aravindh Chithambaram to compete at Esports World Cup
Mumbai, April 14 (IANS) India’s top-ranked grandmasters
Nihal Sarin and Aravindh Chithambaram will compete at the Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025, as the duo is named in S8UL's chess roster, the franchise said.
Making its debut at this year’s edition of the EWC, Chess will feature a total prize pool of USD 1.5 million (approximately Rs 12.9 crore), with Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen joining as the Global Ambassador.
The format will follow a rapid 10+0 time control, where each player will have 10 minutes per game with no increment. Players will qualify through the Champions Chess Tour’s February and May events, while a Last Chance Qualifier in Riyadh will determine the final four competitors.
Sarin, a 20-year-old chess prodigy from Thrissur, Kerala, is widely regarded as one of the
brightest young talents on the global chess circuit. He began playing at the age of six and rose to prominence after winning the World Youth Chess Championship in the under-10 category in Durban. Since then, he has delivered strong international performances, including a runner-up finish in the Chess dot com Global Championship in 2022.
Most recently, he clinched the President’s Cup 2024 and followed it up with an unbeaten title run at the Tashkent Open, scoring 8 out of 10. Nihal is currently ranked 8th in India and 40th in the world, with a FIDE rating of 2687.
Sharing his excitement, Sarin said, "Being part of the Esports World Cup is a new and exciting experience for me. Chess has traditionally lived in a very classical space, but the way it is now being embraced as part of the esports world opens up a whole new dimension for players and audiences alike. Representing India and S8UL on this global stage is an honour, and I look forward to this opportunity of taking the game I love to a much broader audience and inspire more young minds to pick it up."
The 25-year-old Chithambaram, from Thirunagar in Madurai, started playing chess at the age of seven under the guidance of his grandfather and quickly climbed the ranks, winning the Indian
Under-19 Championship at just 12 years old.
In 2013, he made headlines after winning his first major title at the Chennai Grandmaster International Open, followed by earning his International Master title in 2014 and becoming a Grandmaster in 2015.
Chithambaram later went on to win the National Premier Chess Championship twice, in 2018 and 2019. His 2019 victory was particularly historic, as he became the first Indian to win the Indian Open in all three formats, including classical, rapid and blitz.
Most recently, he won the 2025 Prague Chess Festival Masters and is currently ranked 4th in India and 11th in the world, with a FIDE rating of 2749.
"This moment is special not just for me but for Indian chess as a whole. Being part of S8UL’s lineup for the Esports World Cup reflects how far the game has come and how it continues to evolve. The fact that a mainstream esports organisation is investing in chess players shows the growing recognition of chess as both a competitive and spectator sport in the digital space. It feels great to be part of this new wave, and I hope to make my country proud on the global stage," stated Chithambaram.
Shooting World Cup: Suruchi makes her mark with classy gold in women’s air pistol
New Delhi, April 8 (IANS) India's new shooting star Suruchi made a stunning entry on the world stage with a classy gold medal on competition day six at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun Argentina 2025. The day heralded the arrival of a new star on the international circuit as teenager Suruchi stunned a world-class field in women’s 10m air pistol to bag gold, India’s third of the competition.
The national champion across all three individual categories, shot 244.6 in the eight-woman final, to leave decorated Chinese shooter Qian Wei a whole 2.7 behind. Former Olympic Champion and double Tokyo Olympics medalist and Chinese great Jiang Ranxin was demoted to bronze.
Morning showed the day, however, as with such class acts as Paris Olympics Mixed Team
champion Zorana Arunovic of Serbia, Germany’s Doreen Vennekamp (reigning 25m world champion) and Hungary’s Veronika Major (Paris Olympics bronze medalist), besides Jiang, Qian and her compatriot Manu Bhaker (double Olympic medalist) in the field, Suruchi displayed her new found confidence and form in no uncertain terms, shooting a fast and sure 583, to top qualifications.
Jiang ended a point below her, leading a troika of three Chinese into the finals. Doreen just about managed to trump Veronika on inner 10s and Manu by a point, to take the eighth and final qualifying spot.
The others to make the last eight were Olympians Choo Gaeun of Korea and Sara Fabian of Hungary. Also making her first World Cup final was experienced Hong Kong shooter Ho Ching Shing.
Think of those frightening and desperate times when you prayed to the Almighty and manifested for a second chance in continuing to do something that you truly love in life. Think of the moment when that second chance finally arrives, and it becomes your responsibility to make the most of it.
Something similar happened in case of Karun Nair – one of the members of a rare club of hitting a triple century in Tests. But on December 10, 2022, with his fingers crossed, Nair wrote, “Dear cricket, give me one more chance.” It was a time when Nair was out of Karnataka team across all formats and the sight of breaking into the Indian team again was far away.
The thing with social media nowadays is, when an athlete performs well after grabbing a long-standing chance, the posts made in their desperate times, where light at the end of the tunnel wasn’t visible, immediately come back into the picture. When Nair lit up Arun Jaitley Stadium by striking a 40-ball 89 against Mumbai Indians on Sunday, it was clearly understandable that his old desperate tweet made headlines again.
Playing his first IPL game after nearly three years, Nair announced his return to IPL with a breathtaking half-century coming after 2520 days, especially after being introduced as an impact player and when DC’s chase of 206 was 0/1. In front of him were Deepak Chahar, Trent Boult and Jasprit Bumrah, who all came under hammering from Nair’s breathtaking assault. "Look, obviously, we lost an important player in Faf, and we always knew - the few of us batters who are sitting outside who should be and have to be ready at any given time. So, mentally, I was ready, and obviously looking forward to the chance, whenever it came."
‘This is Pakistan’s lowest level in cricket’, says former captain Rashid Latif
Manu (574) fought hard with a brilliant 100 in her third series raising hopes, however less than expected returns (94 each) in the first two series, turned out to be too much to cover in the end as she finished 11th. Sainyam, the third Indian contender shot 572 to end 13th.
Suruchi hunts down gold
Qian shot a 10.9 in her very first shot of the 24-shot final to sound the bugle early as Suruchi began with a 10.1. A couple of 9s and an 8.9 for her 10th meant that despite some high 10s, the Indian was a touch outside podium places after 10 shots.
She found her range as eliminations began firing 10.7 and 10.8 for her 11th and 12th shots and going into the lead for the first time after the 13th.
It was a sight to behold as a pack of three Chinese tried to hunt her down ,but the Haryana girl showed great determination to not only fend them off but do so in style f,inishing with 10.1, 10.7, 10.8, and a solid 10.0, to claim her first ISSF medal.
New Delhi, April 6 (IANS) After suffering the embarrassment of going winless in their first major home tournament since 1996 in the 2025 Champions Trophy, Pakistan were dealt with 4-1 and 3-0 defeats in the T20I and ODI series respectively against New Zealand.
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif, in an exclusive interview with IANS, believes the additional bounce on offer in New Zealand and selection issues were the reason behind their debacle in the bilateral series.
“Just after the Champions Trophy, you have your bilateral commitments and then they (Pakistan squad) will go for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for 38 days. I don’t understand this and they played very badly. The pitches in New Zealand are quite different. The ball used to seam and swing before but it did not bounce earlier, which troubled our batsman. The selection has not been up to the mark as well which has caused problems,” Latif told IANS.
With the PSL set to commence on April 11, Latif drew attention to the ‘lack of supply’ for the Men in Green. He also emphasised the need for stability and instant changes in the circuit citing recent performances in ICC tournaments as a major red flag. The former wicket-keeper batter also spoke on the importance of keeping the top-level players on their toes with new prospective talents ready to fill in their spots.
“It all depends on the lower levels. We are only focusing on the top level, not the domestic circuit which basically cuts off the supply line. First class, PSL and domestic T20s have been down for the past five years. Five PCB chairmans' have changed in the past four years and the selection committee has caused a lot of instability in the board. We have also lost a lot, the T20 World Cup, Champions Trophy and 2023 ODI World Cup, this is not what Pakistan’s standard was earlier, this is our lowest level cricket-wise.
“We have our big players in Babar, Shaheen, Haris, Rizwan and Fakhar as well. When you only have a few top players and the supply line cuts off then it causes the problem. People compare us to India, they have two players ready to fill every position. From the grassroots to the domestic, all levels need to improve,” he added.
From vocal for local to water conservation: PM Modi calls for ‘Nav Sankalp’ to shape better future
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday at the Navkar Mahamantra Diwas inauguration addressed a global gathering and unveiled a set of nine resolutions, "Nav Sankalps", aimed at building a more sustainable, healthy, and prosperous future for the nation.
Drawing on the deep spiritual and moral teachings of Jainism, PM Modi urged the new generation to adopt these principles in their daily lives, promising that they would bring energy, direction, and peace to society.
PM Modi underscored the importance of collective responsibility in shaping a better tomorrow. He said, "For the new generation, this is not just a mantra but a direction. Today, as we chant the Navkar Mantra, let us take a pledge to act on these nine resolutions for the betterment of our society, our environment, and our nation."
The first of the resolutions focused on the conservation of water, a resource that PM Modi emphasised had become a pressing issue. He reflected on a prophecy made by Buddhi Sagar Maharaj Ji, who predicted over a century ago that water would one day be sold at Kirana (grocery) stores. With this in mind, he urged citizens to understand the importance of every drop and
commit to water conservation.
"Save water, for every drop counts. Today, we must recognise the value of every drop, ensuring that future generations have access to this essential resource," said PM Modi.
The second resolution was "Ek ped Maa ke Naam," dedicated to environmental conservation through afforestation.
"In the past few months alone, we have planted more than 100 crore trees across the country. Let us continue this effort and plant trees in the name of our mothers, for nature sustains us all," he remarked.
The third resolution focused on cleanliness and hygiene as part of the ongoing Swachh Bharat Mission. PM Modi encouraged every citizen to contribute to keeping their surroundings clean and emphasised that true freedom lies in living a life free from violence, with each street being a symbol of cleanliness.
The fourth resolution called for a "Vocal for Local" approach. Encouraging people, particularly the youth, to recognise the extent to which they depend on foreign-manufactured goods, PM Modi urged them to reduce their reliance on foreign products and choose items that reflect India's heritage and craftsmanship.
He said, "In your daily lives, make a list of foreign-manufactured goods you use. You will be surprised by how much we depend on them. Take a pledge to reduce each day. Let us support products that carry the fragrance
of India’s soil."
The fifth Sankalp, "Desh Darshan", emphasised the importance of travelling within India, encouraging people to explore their own country before venturing abroad. "India is full of mesmerising places. Travel India, witness its beauty, its history, and its diverse culture before you see the world," PM Modi urged.
The sixth resolution is "natural farming" focused on sustainable agriculture through natural farming, with PM Modi drawing on Jain teachings that advocate for harm-free living. He urged farmers to move away from chemical fertilizers and embrace natural farming practices to protect the environment.
"As Jain scriptures say, no living being should harm another. Let us free our mother earth from the burden of chemical fertilizers and adopt natural farming practices," PM Modi advised.
In the seventh Sankalp, PM Modi called for healthier lifestyles, particularly by incorporating millet into the diet and reducing oil consumption. "To fight obesity, we need to make millet a part of our daily meals and reduce oil intake by 10 per cent," he said, stressing the importance of healthy eating habits.
In the eighth resolution, PM Modi encouraged citizens to embrace yoga and sports in their daily lives, whether at home, in the office, or in the park. "Make yoga and sports an integral part of your lifestyle. It is not just for fitness but for mental well-being and peace," PM Modi emphasised.
From Gir to Global: Gujarat’s Kesar mangoes redefining India’s mango trade
Ahmedabad, April 4 (IANS)
Gujarat’s mango industry is making waves globally, with exports of the famed Kesar mango reaching 689.5 metric tonnes in 2023-24.
Known for its unique aroma, saffron-coloured pulp, and rich sweetness, the GI-tagged Kesar mango is among India’s most sought-after fruit varieties in both domestic and international markets. Mango cultivation in Gujarat dates back centuries, but it was in 1931 that the Kesar mango was first introduced in Junagadh’s Gir region.
The variety got its name from the saffron-like colour of its pulp, with the then Nawab of Junagadh famously declaring it “Kesar” (saffron) for its deep orange hue.
Today, Gujarat has over 177,514 hectares of mango orchards, spread across districts like Valsad, Navsari, Gir-Somnath, Surat, and Kachchh. The state produced 1.08 million metric tonnes of mangoes in 2024, showing a steady rise from 960,000 metric tonnes in 2023, according to the Horticulture Department of Gujarat. Experts say Gujarat’s climate and soil composition play a crucial role in shaping the quality of its mangoes.
The state’s sandy loam and black cotton soil, coupled with hot, dry summers and moderate rainfall, create the ideal conditions for mango trees. Unlike the Alphonso mango, which thrives in coastal regions, the Kesar mango’s resilience to arid conditions makes it uniquely suited to Gujarat’s environment. "The high temperature and soil nutrients enhance the mango’s natural sugars, making it sweeter and more flavorful," said Dr Ramesh Patel, an agricultural scientist from Junagadh Agricultural University. Mango cultivation is a major contributor to Gujarat’s
‘Poila Boishakh’, PM Modi greets Bengalis on New Year Day
New Delhi, April 15 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended greetings on 'Poila Boishakh', which marks the beginning of the Bengali New Year.
PM Modi took to social media to wish the people and prayed for everyone's success.
"Greetings on Poila Boishakh! Best wishes on Poila Boishakh! I hope all your wishes are fulfilled in this year. I pray for everyone's success, happiness, prosperity and good health. Shubho Nabo Barsho!" he wrote on X.
Poila Baisakh, also known as Pohela Boishakh, marks the beginning of the Bengali New Year. The day is celebrated with joy, cultural pride and enthusiasm by Bengalis worldwide.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, in her greetings on the occasion, posted on her X handle that it is the 'Bangla Day' and prayed for strengthening the bonds of brotherhood.
"I sing in Bengali...' 'Bangla Day' - Greetings to all citizens
and best wishes to our younger brothers and sisters. May the traditional culture of the state be further developed, and may the bonds of brotherhood among the people of the state be further strengthened."
Her message is significant given the fact that the state has witnessed violent protests over the Waqf Amendment Act, which have largely targeted the Hindu community. Hundreds of Hindus have fled their homes in the Murshidbad district, where their properties were looted, burnt, and temples desecrated. Two have died in the violence so far.
West Bengal Leader of Opposition and BJP MLA Suvendu Adhikari also called for unity in his New Year message.
He wrote on X, "Happy New Year! May the scorching summer heat of the month of Baishakh (1st month of the Bengali New year) purify the soul, In the interest of preserving the culture of reform, I call for unity, In the fight against injustice, truth will triumph, My greetings to everyone on the first day of the Bengali new year, Poyala Baishakh. At the beginning of the new year, I pray to Mother Bhavatarini for everyone's wellbeing."
Homage to 1857 martyrs: IAF to hold air show in Patna
agricultural economy.
In 2021, the mango industry in the state generated over Rs 17 billion in revenue, with continued growth in both production and exports. Despite challenges such as climate fluctuations and pest attacks, mango farmers in Gujarat have adapted by using advanced farming techniques like drip irrigation, organic composting, and grafting methods to improve yield and quality.
India is the world’s largest mango producer, and Gujarat plays a key role in this dominance. In the past five years, Gujarat has exported over 2,500 metric tonnes of mangoes, with the UK, US, and Canada being the top destinations. To meet international quality standards, the Gujarat Agro Radiation Processing Facility in Bavla, Ahmedabad, ensures that exported mangoes undergo proper treatment. The facility has irradiated and certified over 210 metric tonnes of Kesar mangoes in the last two years, allowing smooth shipments to countries with strict import regulations.
spectacular tribute to the martyrs of India’s freedom struggle of 1857, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will host an aerobatic air show over the JP Ganga Pathway, popularly known as Marine Drive, in Patna on April 22-23.
The event will be headlined by the renowned Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team, featuring nine Hawk-132 jet aircraft performing synchronised aerial manoeuvres over the Ganga River.
The decision to organise the event was taken by the Bihar government as part of a series of commemorations marking the birth anniversary of Babu Veer Kunwar Singh, the iconic hero of the 1857 revolt and a symbol of courage and resistance in India’s freedom struggle.
On April 22, the IAF will do the full-dress rehearsal of the air show.
Students and college-goers will
be specially invited to witness the rehearsal and get inspired by the IAF.
On April 23, the official air show will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
The timing of the air show on both days is from 10:15 am to 12:15 pm.
The Bihar government has chosen designated spots near the approach road in front of the Divisional Commissioner’s office, close to Gandhi Maidan Patna and it will be open to the public.
Speaking to the media, Additional Chief Secretary of the Cabinet Secretariat, S. Siddharth said, “This event is an homage to the heroes of 1857, particularly Babu Veer Kunwar Singh. He continues to inspire generations, and this air show is a gesture of gratitude to his legacy and a way to instil patriotic spirit among the youth.”
The event is being jointly organised by the Directorate of Civil Aviation, District Administration Patna, and the Cabinet Secretariat.
“This event will not only pay respects to our freedom fighters but will also inspire young minds to serve the nation by joining the Indian Air Force,” Siddharth added.
The air show will be on the lines of Republic Day and Independence Day events, aiming to create enthusiasm and pride among the people of Bihar.
‘Half-plate, full impact’: Radhika Gupta’s recipe to tackle obesity and food waste
Radhika
has suggested a practical solution to deal with the growing problem of obesity in India.
Taking to social media platform X, she urged restaurants to start offering ‘half-plate’ options on their menu. According to her, this step can help people eat in moderation, reduce food wastage,
and even boost restaurant revenues.
"I am glad we are talking about obesity as a problem so widely. It is critical," Gupta wrote. She said it’s good to see that obesity is finally being discussed seriously in the country.
"One basic suggestion I have for restaurants is to include halfportion options for all meals.
Many people prefer eating less but end up finishing everything on the plate because we Indians don’t like wasting food,” she said.
“Sometimes sharing isn’t possible when you’re ordering alone. So why not price the half meals a little more than 50 per cent of the full portion, if that works financially? This would allow customers to eat less without wasting food or overspending," Gupta stated.
Radhika Gupta’s comments came shortly after Let’s Fix Our
Food (LFOF) -- a group led by the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition -- raised concern over the poor food environment in India.
According to them, 24 per cent of adolescents in the country are underweight, while more than 1.7 crore children and teens are obese.
Her suggestion was welcomed by many social media users as obesity is a rising global concern in recent times.
According to recent studies published in ‘The Lancet’, over 3.8 billion people -- more than half of all adults worldwide -- could be overweight or obese by 2050.
In 2021, around 2.11 billion people were classified as overweight or obese, with India ranking second globally with 18 crore such people. China topped the list with over 40 crore obese individuals.
Borrowed charging cable: Assam CM engages police to search for the gentleman
Guwahati, April 9 (IANS) Assam
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa
Sarma boarded his Emirates flight from Delhi to Dubai, preparing for the first leg of his travels.
As he settled in, he realised he needed to charge his phone.
A young gentleman sitting beside him noticed and, without hesitation, offered his international plug and charging cable. It was a small but significant act of kindness, the kind that connects strangers in fleeting yet meaningful ways. With a smile and a nod of appreciation, Sarma accepted the help and plugged in his device.
The journey continued smoothly, and as exhaustion set in, Sarma drifted off to sleep. Hours later, he awoke to find that the plane had landed in Dubai, and the kind gentleman was gone.
In the rush of disembarkation, amidst the movement of passengers, baggage, and airport announcements, one crucial detail had slipped past him: he still had the charger and cable in his possession.
The young man had left without reclaiming them, unaware that his small gesture of kindness would lead to an unexpected twist in the journey.
In Amsterdam, Sarma found himself filled with regret. It wasn’t just about an international plug or a charging cable—it was about honoring a simple act of kindness.
“Today morning I traveled on an Emirates flight from Delhi to Dubai, where a kind young gentleman lent me his international plug and
charging cable. Unfortunately, he disembarked in Dubai while I was asleep, and I couldn’t return them. I’ve just now arrived in Amsterdam and feel deeply apologetic for not returning his belongings. If this message reaches him, please send me a direct message so I can arrange to return your charger and cable promptly. Thank you for your kindness, and I regret any inconvenience caused @ emirates,” he wrote on X. The response was overwhelming. People admired the sincerity behind the post, and many shared the message in hopes that it would reach the unknown traveler.
Sarma also enlisted the help of the Assam Police, who immediately began working to identify the gentleman in question.
His team remained confident that within a few hours, they would have his contact details.
Indian Navy provides critical medical help to Pak national in Central Arabian Sea
The
frigate INS Trikand,
team performed a surgical procedure here to save the injured person.
The Paklistani crew was a part of a fishing vessel operating approximately 350 nautical miles east of the Oman coast.
The crew suffered severe injury involving multiple fractures and blood loss.
The Indian Navy informed on Sunday that INS Trikand, on the morning of April 4, intercepted a distress call from an Iranian dhow, Al Omeedi. Upon further investigation, it was revealed that a crew member of the
When Kannur district judge and collector helped rescue sparrow
Kannur, April 10 (IANS) It was an unprecedented rescue operation, never seen before in Kerala's Kannur district, when authorities toiled hard and people lent support. The conclusion brought happiness all around, and people thanked each other for the success.
The victim in distress was a sparrow caught in a glass showcase of a textile shop. The shop at Ullikal near here was locked under the directions of the Kerala High Court following a legal tangle between a few people and has not been opened for the past six months.
As per reports, the desperate chirping of a bird had caught everyone's attention, and the matter reached Kannur District Collector Arun K. Vijayan. He immediately directed the Ullikal local body secretary to see what could be done to rescue the sparrow.
Vijayan, after getting to know the details, spoke to the officials in the Kerala High Court on Thursday. The High Court then passed on the information to the Kannur district judge.
At 10.30 a.m., the Kannur district judge, Nissar Ahamed, came to the spot along with local government officials and directed the shop to be opened.
In a matter of 15 minutes, the two locks were opened, and then the glass door leading to the showcase was also opened.
The rattled sparrow, sensing some danger, tried to flutter away, as one of the rescuers caught hold of it
As the man came out of the shop, the officials and the crowd roared and cheered. The man then raised his hand and gently released the sparrow to its freedom. The sparrow took to the skies and then sat on the branch of a tree. "I would like to thank the locals and then the media that brought this to the attention of authorities. The authorities also acted quickly, and this became a reality,” said Ahamed.
Reports said that it was first on Wednesday that the locals noticed that a small sparrow had got trapped in between the shutter and the glass showcase.
Bihar: Saharsa’s Julie sets example of self-reliance, her pickle business inspires others
Patna, April 4 (IANS) Julie Praveen, a resident of Bihar’s Saharsa district, has become an example of self-reliance. Her success story of launching and steering the pickle business is inspiring fellow villagers to take up the entrepreneurship route.
Julie, with her pickle business, not only saved her family from financial turmoil but also brought positive change in the lives of other women by providing them employment.
dhow had sustained severe injuries to his fingers while working on the engine. He was in critical condition and had been transferred to another dhow named 'Fishing Vessel Abdul Rehman Hanzia', which was en route to Iran.
Indian Navy’s Trikand immediately altered its course to provide medical assistance to the injured crew member.
The Navy officials said the crew of Fishing Vessel Abdul Rehman Hanzia consisted of 11 Pakistani (nine Baloch and two Sindhi) and five Iranian personnel.
Julie Praveen's husband, Mohd Mehtab, used to run a shoeslipper business, but the Covid pandemic resulted in the closure of his shop. Sales dropped drastically, and it was shut by the end of 2021. The sudden financial crisis put the whole family in trouble.
The family was troubled, but Julie didn’t give up hope. She started a pickle-making business in January 2022 from a small rented house. Initially, she earned only Rs 50,000 a year, but gradually her home-made pickles became popular in the locality and found
many buyers.
During this time, Julie got a loan of Rs 2 lakh from the Chief Minister's Entrepreneur Scheme, with which she expanded her business further. Now Julie is making 10 quintals of pickle every month and selling it in the market.
Julie Praveen, sharing her experience with IANS, said, "I never imagined that the picklemaking business would grow to such a large size. Now my dream is to expand this business and provide employment to more and more women."
Mohammad Mehtab says that Julie’s endeavour and enterprise has changed their lives.
“When our old business closed, we were very upset, but today we have become self-reliant again. Although there was some difficulty in the beginning but we kept moving forward,” he said. The pickles made by Julie have now become famous in the entire area. She prepares 12 types of pickles, the most prominent among them being red chilli bharua, mixed pickle, green chilli, amla, jackfruit, tamarind and kairi and biryani special pickle. The demand for the pickles made by her is also increasing in the nearby villages and cities.
New Delhi, April 6 (IANS)
Edelweiss Mutual Funds CEO
Gupta
New Delhi, April 6 (IANS) The Indian Navy came as a saviour for an injured Pakistani crew member in the Arabian Sea.
Navy's mission deployed stealth
operating in the Central Arabian Sea, provided the urgent critical medical assistance to the Pakistani crew. The naval medical
From Chikhal Kalo festival to Kakolem beach: Abhay Deol shares his must do’s in Goa
F
rom secret coves to vibrant cultural fests, Abhay Deol's Goa itinerary is anything but ordinary. The Bollywood actor has revealed his top picks from the state which includes the mystical Chikhal Kalo festival, serene Kakolem beach and quiet museum corners among many others.
As part of Airbnb and Goa Tourism Department’s Rediscover Goa campaign, Airbnb launched Goa Unseen, a guidebook offering an insider’s perspective on the state’s lesser-known wonders.
Abhay, who is a longtime resident, at the launch of the guidebook, shared that the state is known for the “the parties, the cafes and bars and the beaches and the
lifestyle.”
“But there's one group of tourism that goes through Goa which is invisible, and that is the group of people who come here for wellness, who come here for yoga, who come here for meditation, a lot of healers around the world that come over here, and that's something that's still underground that we don't know of,” he said.
The actor added: “Goa is well known for like I said the beaches and the parties, I think Goa has a full potential to be a place which gives us access to the wellness aspect of things, we have a great history of Ayurvedic medicine and culture of healing that I think one can explore, and that's the conversation I'd love to have with you.”
Talking about Abhay’s must do’s in Goa, first is the Chikhal Kalo Festival: “ Held in Marcel, this festival sees participants immerse themselves in muddy fields, reviving the playful spirit of Lord Krishna’s childhood. Accompanied by folk music and traditional rituals, it’s a one-ofa-kind experience that showcases Goa’s vibrant cultural heritage beyond its beaches.”
Next was the Sao Joao Feast, a monsoon festival where locals jump into wells, dance to lively tunes, and embrace Goa’s vibrant traditions.
Then there is Fado & Mando at Madragoa, Panaji. Fado and Mando, led by Fadista Sonia Shirsat - a musical art form that uncovers the music genres of Portugal and Goa.
He added the old churches of Goa to the list along with that was the Museum of Christian Art, in old Goa. It houses a rare collection of sacred relics, gilded altars, and intricate artifacts that reflect the artistic and religious influences of the past.
Talking about culinary delights, Abhay’s first recommendation is State of Good Vibes, Moira, where the freshly made treats at the sourdough bakery-n-café are his personal favourites.
Then the extraordinary farmto-table dining experience at C’est L’avi — A Table in the Hills by Avinash Martins, set in Goa’s lush countryside by chef Avinash Martins.
For Abhay, the Kakolem beach is a hidden paradise with dramatic cliffs and an untouched shoreline, perfect for a secluded escape.
Pamban Bridge: A testament to PM Modi’s leadership in infrastructure development
Rameswaram
(Tamil Nadu), April 5 (IANS) A historic infrastructure project, the new Pamban Bridge, connecting Rameswaram to the Indian mainland, has not only enhanced the transportation network but has also bolstered the cultural and spiritual significance of the region. The bridge, which will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, coinciding with Ram Navami festival, is poised to transform Rameswaram into a major hub for both pilgrims and tourists. This will also strengthen the economy and provide new job opportunities for residents.
The new Pamban Bridge is a marvel of modern engineering, stretching over 2.078 km with 100 spans and a vertical lift span of
72.5 metres. This makes it taller than the old bridge by three metres, allowing for smoother passage of larger vessels.
With 333 piles used in its substructure and advanced anticorrosion technologies such as polysiloxane paint, stainless steel, and fibre-reinforced plastic, the bridge is designed for endurance for decades, ensuring safe and sustainable railway and marine operations.
The bridge was initiated in 2019 and has been completed within five years, far ahead of the typical timeline for such complex projects.
This swift completion is a result of the Prime Minister’s clear vision to expedite large-scale infrastructure projects and ensure their timely delivery.
India’s northeastern region is a jewel, says German Ambassador Ackermann
German Ambassador to India
Philipp Ackermann has said that India's northeast region is a jewel. The German envoy, who recently visited various tourism and important places of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya, in a video post in the social media, said that travelling to the northeastern region of India was very rewarding for him. Ackermann said that he was impressed by the living root bridges of Meghalaya.
“When the Prime Minister lays the foundation stone for a project, he ensures its completion. This bridge is a perfect example of his leadership and commitment to national development,” said Executive Director of Information & Publicity, Railway Board, Dilip Kumar.
In a conversation with IANS hours ahead of the launching of this bridge, Dilip Kumar spoke about the entire project.
"Rameswaram is a sacred land with a deep connection to the Ramayana period. When Lord Rama came here in search of Mata Sita, it was decided that a bridge would be built between Rameswaram and Lanka, which would allow Lord Rama’s army to cross over and invade Lanka. Before embarking on this journey, Lord Rama performed a prayer to Lord Shiva on the holy land of Rameswaram. After this prayer, the temple that was built there is known as the Ramanathswamy Temple, which holds immense spiritual significance for millions of Indians.
“Every Indian wishes to visit the Rameswaram Dham, one of the four sacred pilgrimage sites in India, during their lifetime. And when railway connectivity is established, it brings immense convenience to the common people. This is why the construction of the new bridge was felt to be essential,” he added.
"When you stand on these living root bridges and you look down and you look up and you would feel you are part of the natural forest. You wouldn't suspect that these bridges are not natural," he said.
The German Ambassador said that it was interesting to talk to the local Khasi community people who have the skill to build these root bridges and how to work with the roots.
The living root bridges are one of Meghalaya’s most beautiful tangible heritage sites. These sites have recently been added to the tentative UNESCO world heritage site list.
These bridges have been built for centuries by the indigenous people of the land (Khasis and the Jaintias). They have also been used by these people to cross the overflowing rivers during the monsoon season.
New discoveries in Egypt reveal history of Ramesseum Temple
Ajoint Egyptian-French archaeological mission uncovered tombs and buildings that reveal more history about the Ramesseum Temple in the southern city of Luxor, the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities said in a statement.
The mission uncovered a group of tombs dating back to the Third Intermediate Period (about 1069525 BCE) and storage areas for olive oil and honey in the vicinity of the temple.
Excavations inside the temple revealed the "House of Life" (a scientific school attached to the major temples), including the architectural layout of the educational institution and a rich archaeological collection that included the remains of school drawings and toys. It is the first evidence of the existence of a school within the Ramesseum
Temple.
The team also found a group of buildings that were likely used as administrative offices on the eastern side of the temple, reports Xinhua news agency.
Mohamed Ismail Khaled, secretary-general of Egypt's Supreme Council of Antiquities, on Friday, said that the discoveries indicate a complete hierarchical system of civil servants within this temple, as it was not only a place of worship, but also a centre for the redistribution of stored or manufactured products, which benefited the inhabitants of the area, including the artisans of the city monastery, who were subject to royal authority within the system of provinces.
Sherif Fathy, Egyptian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, commended the mission's efforts in uncovering new secrets about the history of the Ramesseum temple and its religious and societal role in Ancient Egypt.
Indian students invited to take part in international IT-Olympics
Moscow, April 8 (IANS)
Technology-intense development and transformation of all economic sectors make digital skills to be considered the backbone of global competitive ability and innovations.
Digital technology usage in solving business and life problems makes it possible for everyone to create a personal AI assistant.
The line of cybersecurity is becoming one of the most crucial priorities for technological research and development for society, the state, science and business.
Students from 14 to 18 years old from every country can take part in the international IT-Olympics despite the level of programming skills. The registration deadline is April 18.
The IT-Olympics will be held with the support of the Russian government. The government of the Nizhny Novgorod region is the organiser and Sber is the general
partner.
According to German Gref, President and Chairman of the Management Board of Sberbank, "Information technology makes it possible to look at the world in a completely different way and link very complex processes that, at first glance, are not connected to each other."
"But this can only be done by managing the entire technological stack. Humanity is on the threshold of gigantic discoveries. You guys live in the most interesting time in the most interesting world, because you have had the opportunity to look beyond the horizon of knowledge that mankind could not even formulate as the end point of this journey," said Gref.
"And you will be able to realise this dream. I would like to wish you good luck for this interesting journey! I am sure you will succeed, because only selfconfident people can participate in our International Olympiad, and I congratulate you on that," he added.
At the start, every participant can take an IT competency test and get a certificate based on the results. By April 18, participants will have to individually solve
15 theoretical and practical problems on the key aspects of cybersecurity.
In focus are information security, mathematical logic, fundamentals of algorithmization and programming, data analysis, word processing and AI-based simple modelling.
From April 23 to April 25, the second competition stage will be held – team semi-final. It will be run in Capture the Flag format.
The "flag" has the form of a special codeline which confirms that the task is accomplished. Teams will be suggested a set of problems of different difficulties which take an answer (flag) to find and to send.
Teams of 5 people from those who successfully passed the first stage reach the semifinals.
Task topics are AI and machine learning, cryptanalysis, reverse engineering, web vulnerabilities, computer forensics, algorithmic programming.
The 100 participants who score the most points will take part in the face-to-face final. The winners will be determined from May 30 to June 3 at the School 21 campus in Nizhny Novgorod.
The best participants will be awarded at the "Digitalization of Industrial Russia" Conference.
US tariffs: South Korea to devise support measures for chip industry
Seoul, April 10 (IANS) The government will "swiftly" devise support measures for the local chip industry to cushion the impact of the United States' planned tariffs on semiconductor imports, the industry minister said on Thursday.
Industry Minister Ahn Dukgeun said the government measures will be announced in the very near future while meeting with officials from local chip manufacturers to discuss a response strategy against the planned U.S. tariffs, reports Yonhap news agency.
U.S. President Donald Trump has warned of tariffs on semiconductor imports since taking office in January, and reaffirmed the plan last week, saying they will begin "very soon."
In Thursday's meeting, semiconductor industry officials called on the government to actively negotiate with the U.S. and devise support measures to minimise the tariffs' impact on local businesses, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and
Energy.
The business officials noted the proposed tariffs may have a limited impact on the local chip industry, pointing to the U.S.' limited production capacity and South Korea's high global market share, especially in high-value products, such as high bandwidth memory.
They still expressed serious concerns over growing uncertainties in the global trade market that may adversely affect the local industry, as well as the economy, according to the ministry.
The ministry said the government's potential support measures for the chip industry may include tariff response vouchers and efforts to reduce cost burdens from materials and components that rely heavily on imports.
The government is also reviewing expanding the domestic use of Korean-made chips for the national artificial intelligence (AI) computing centre and assisting Korean companies in exporting their chips to AI data centres in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
To encourage corporate investment in the semiconductor sector, the government is considering stronger incentives, such as additional financial
India’s BioE3 policy, integrated biorefinery highlight of clean energy meet in S.Korea
New Delhi, April 12 (IANS) The BioE3 policy and Integrated Biorefinery initiatives were the key highlights at the annual gathering of Mission Innovation -- a multilateral platform accelerating clean energy innovation --, the Ministry of Science and Technology said on Saturday.
India played an active role in Mission Innovation's annual gathering-2025 held in Seoul, South Korea from April 9-11.
Notably, the term ‘Mission Innovation’ was coined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during COP21, in collaboration with former French President Francois Hollande.
The event brought together global leaders in clean energy technology.
As part of the Indian delegation to Mission Innovation, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) actively participated in discussions on collaborative opportunities among diverse missions and platforms.
The focus has been to advance the biorefinery approach for fuels, chemicals, and materials.
support for the semiconductor cluster in Yongin, just south of Seoul, and regulatory streamlining.
The ministry also said there will be efforts to enhance the overall competitiveness of the semiconductor ecosystem, including the construction of fabrication plants for advanced chips and the launch of largescale research and development (R&D) projects.
Specifically, the government aims to invest 1 trillion won (US$674.3 million) in developing on-device AI chips for use in the automotive, robotics, defense and Internet of Things (IoT) industries.
"The private and public sectors must work together to address the trade and supply chain risks we currently face," Ahn said.
"The government will continue negotiations with the U.S. through various channels and swiftly implement support measures for the semiconductor industry by mobilising the nation's full capabilities as the tariff war is also a battle for attracting corporate investment," he added.
The DBT presented the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Environment, Energy, and Economy) policy and demonstrated its pivotal role in addressing climate challenges
and aligning national priorities under the Integrated Biorefinery Mission.
“India’s efforts under Integrated #BiorefineryMission were widely discussed during roundtables and appreciated by Mission Innovation members, as well as Technical Advisory Group associated with Missions,” DBT said in a post on social media platform X.
The participants highlighted how the BioE3 Policy promotes sustainable and low-carbon manufacturing of fuels, chemicals, and materials.
“The policy is designed to develop enabling technologies that foster an innovation-driven manufacturing ecosystem for a low-carbon future,” the Ministry said.
Further, roundtable discussions also saw deliberations on India’s efforts in integrating Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Bioenergy (CCUB) for the biomanufacturing of fuels, chemicals, and materials.
The experts also contended on opportunities for research, development, and demonstration using biomass-based biomanufacturing approaches.
The DBT participated in focused sessions on biotechnology and biomanufacturing priorities during visits to clean energy facilities, before the annual meet, at Hanyang University and the Korea Institute of Science and Technology.
Meta enhances protections on Instagram teen accounts, to extend feature Facebook and Messenger
New Delhi, April 11 (IANS) Social media giant Meta on Friday announced the next phase of its teenage safety initiatives in India, with enhanced built-in protections on Instagram.
The company also introduced additional protections whereby teenagers under 16 will no longer be able to go live or disable filters that block unwanted images in direct messages without a parent’s approval.
It also announced plans "to extend Teen Accounts to Facebook and Messenger later this year".
"These accounts will feature similar safeguards, including protection from unwanted contact, reduced exposure to sensitive content and tools for managing time spent in-app," the company said.
Further, parents will be able to supervise how their teenagers interact across Meta apps, it added.
Instagram Teen Accounts are designed to offer a safer, and more age-appropriate experience for young users, while giving parents more oversight and peace of mind.
Over 54 million teenagers now use Instagram Teen Accounts worldwide since the initial rollout began in September 2024.
“Young people deserve safe, ageappropriate online experiences, and these updates are part of our long-term commitment to building platforms that prioritise their well-being. When we launched Teen Accounts on Instagram last year, our aim was to create technology that balances self-expression with built-in protections," said Tara Hopkins, Global Director of Public Policy, Instagram.
First baby born from transplanted womb in Britain, mother, baby doing well
London, April 8 (IANS) For the first time in Britain, a woman has given birth following a womb transplant, Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital in London confirmed on Tuesday.
New mother Grace Davidson, who is 36 and lives in the south of England, was born without a functioning womb. This changed in early 2023 when she became the first woman to receive a womb transplant in Britain, after her sister Amy donated her own womb as part of the Womb Transplant UK living donor programme.
As reported in 2023 by BJOG, the International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the original donor operation and subsequent transplant took place at the Oxford Transplant Centre, part of OUH's Churchill Hospital.
Grace then subsequently had In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment at the HCA UK's Lister Fertility Clinic in London. She has since been closely monitored at the Churchill Hospital and Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, which is run by Imperial College Healthcare and is where her baby was born.
Grace and baby girl are both doing very well following a caesarean section birth in February 2025, said the hospital in a statement.
New mother Grace and father Angus have named their baby Amy Isabel after her sister Amy, who donated her womb, and Miss Isabel Quiroga, who co-led the transplant operation.
"The birth of the first UK baby following a womb transplant is a remarkable milestone in reproductive medicine," said Dr Ippokratis Sarris, consultant in Reproductive Medicine, Director of King's Fertility and Executive Committee Member of the British Fertility Society.
"While this complex procedure will only be suitable for a small number of women, it marks an extraordinary advance in science and care."
One in 5,000 women in Britain are born without a viable womb and are unable to conceive and carry their own child. Many other women lose their wombs as a result of cancer or other medical conditions.
There have been over 100 womb transplants worldwide and more than 50 healthy babies born so far, Xinhua news agency reported. The first successful womb transplant operations were carried out in 2013 at Gothenburg in Sweden.
The Womb Transplant UK living donor programme is funded by the registered charity Womb Transplant UK, which raises and manages funds from public donations in order to pay the National Health Service for the cost of the transplant operations along with its other research costs.
Maternal diabetes may raise babies’ risk of autism, ADHD: Lancet
New Delhi, April 8 (IANS) A large study of 56·1 million pregnancies, published in The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology on Tuesday, has reinforced the link between maternal diabetes and the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Researchers from the Central South University in China conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 202 studies, involving 56,082,462 mother-child pairs.
The results showed that maternal diabetes was associated with increased risks of all types of neurodevelopmental disorders as well as lower intelligence and
psychomotor scores.
Children exposed to maternal diabetes had an increased risk of any neurodevelopmental disorder including autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, intellectual disability, specific developmental disorders, communication disorder, motor disorder, and learning disorder, compared with unexposed children.
"Maternal diabetes is associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders and impaired neurodevelopmental performance in children,” said the researchers.
Maternal diabetes which includes both pre-gestational diabetes (also known as preexisting diabetes) and gestational diabetes -- high blood sugar during pregnancy -- has become increasingly prevalent, affecting millions of pregnancies worldwide.
The global prevalences of
pre-gestational diabetes and gestational diabetes have also steadily increased over the past four decades, with pregestational diabetes affecting about 2·4 per cent and gestational diabetes affecting 27·6 per cent of pregnancies worldwide.
Obesity and metabolic syndrome -- a cluster of conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, excess abdominal fat, and abnormal cholesterol levels -- are known to be the major drivers. Besides negative impacts such as caesarean section, macrosomia (excessive birth weight), and neonatal jaundice, affecting both mothers and neonates, previous studies have shown maternal diabetes might alter foetal brain development.
Notably, pre-gestational diabetes was more strongly associated with the risk of most neurodevelopmental disorders in children than gestational diabetes.
Eating only during daytime may prevent heart problems due to night shift: Study
Delhi, April 8 (IANS) While
the daytime may prevent the risks.
Sleep timing has been a major area of focus, but researchers from Mass General Brigham, US, and the University of Southampton, UK, stated that food timing could be a bigger risk factor when it comes to cardiovascular health.
Previous studies have shown that working the night shift is associated with serious health risks, including to the heart, due to circadian misalignment -- the
New Delhi, April 8 (IANS) A team of UK researchers has found evidence on how "immunity debt," caused by extended periods of restrictions during Covid-19 pandemic, is causing changes in global transmission patterns of flu.
"Immunity debt" is a phenomenon where populations become more susceptible to infections after extended periods of reduced exposure. While the hypothesis was widely accepted, until now there has been little evidence to back up the theory.
The Covid pandemic led many countries around the world to implement strict public health measures like lockdowns, social distancing, mask-wearing, and
travel restrictions.
While these steps were crucial and effective in controlling the spread of Covid, they led to a dramatic drop in cases of other illnesses like influenza (flu) and respiratory viruses.
However, post-Covid countries worldwide have seen a dramatic surge in cases of flu.
The researchers warned that this "immunity debt" could lead to major flu outbreaks in the years following a pandemic, as populations regain susceptibility to other viruses.
mistiming of our behavioural cycle relative to our internal body clock.
The researchers found that cardiovascular risk factors including autonomic nervous system markers, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (which increases the risk of blood clots), and blood pressure increased after night work.
New Delhi, April 7 (IANS) A team of scientists from the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has developed new magnetic nanoparticles that will help boost treatments against cancer.
The magnetic system developed using nanoparticles treats cancer by increasing the temperature of tumour cells. The system works through a procedure called magnetic hyperthermia for treating cancer.
Cancer has been considered one of the most threatening diseases for humanity. Of several available treatment methods, the most effective treatments for cancerous cells are radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and stem cell transplant.
All the cancer treatment methods have demonstrated multiple side effects.
In addition to being costly, the treatments are also inaccessible to many.
The team from IASST focused on nanomagnets, which opened a targeted heat generation process (hyperthermia) to treat cancer
"Our findings provide evidence for the 'immunity debt' hypothesis," said senior author Daniel Prieto-Alhambra, Professor of Pharmaco- and Device Epidemiology at NDORMS, University of Oxford.
"By limiting flu exposure over the past few years, we've built up a more vulnerable population that is now seeing a major rebound in infections. Fortunately, strategies are available to minimize the impact of these on vulnerable populations, and (flu) vaccination should be encouraged among them," he added.
Covid-induced immunitydebt behind global rise in flu cases: Study Indian scientists develop new magnetic nanoparticles to boost cancer treatments
cells.
The therapy comes with comparatively fewer side effects and is controlled by the magnetic field from outside.
Due to the direct impact of various physical parameters of nanomagnets on the self-heating efficacy, it is challenging to create and control bio-friendly coated magnetic nanoparticles with an effective heat generation efficiency.
Thus, the team synthesised nanocrystalline cobalt chromite magnetic nanoparticles with varying rare-earth Gd dopant contents using the conventional chemical co-precipitation route. These magnetic nanoparticles' inhomogeneous in fluid form was used further to generate heat under the applied alternating magnetic field."
"The heat generation method of magnetic nanoparticles can be used in treating cancer cells by elevating the cell temperature up to 46 degrees Celsius for a specific duration, causing necrosis in the injured cells when applied to particular cancer locations," the researchers said. "Thus, superparamagnetic nanoparticles act as nano-heaters and can potentially be utilised in magnetic hyperthermia applications for treating cancer and offering alternative cancer therapy," they added.
New
shift work is a known risk factor for cardiovascular events, a new study on Tuesday showed that eating only during
Sara Tendulkar, social media sensation and youth icon and the new face of Laneige, one of the most popular Korean beauty brands in the world. Known for her authenticity, charm and influential presence on social media, Sara has embarked on this new venture with the brand to support the its mission in the country.
She gracefully represents the brand's values of natural and sustainable beauty, while bringing to life the brand belief that everyone should shine with a unique inner and outer glow that is as distinct as their individuality. Along with the announcement of a new Brand Ambassador, the brand unveiled its Bouncy and Firm Sleeping Mask.
An elated Sara Tendulkar, Brand Ambassador, Laneige India, commented, “I am thrilled to be part of Laneige's family. As
someone with a biomedical background that makes way for a keen understanding of quality as well as a personal passion for skincare, I admire the brand's commitment to innovation and have been using their products for quite a while. It brings me immense excitement and humility to partner with Laneige, as their core belief in the radiance of each person's unique individuality resonates deeply with me."
At the launch, Paul Lee, Managing Director & Country Head of Amorepacific India, added, "Laneige proudly announces Sara Tendulkar as its Brand Ambassador, embracing her vibrant energy. Sara symbolizes the modern, self-assured youth advocating that beauty transcends mere appearances. With Sara onboard, Laneige aims to connect with a broader audience."
Mini Sood Banerjee, Assistant
Hydration is Key
Combat the drying effects of summer heat by regularly applying moisturising lotion or oil to your nails and cuticles. This simple step will help maintain their strength and flexibility, reducing the risk of breakage.
Summeris all about fun in the sun, beach outings, and showing off those fabulous nails! With the sunny season upon us, it's essential to step up our nail care game to keep our nails looking fresh and vibrant.
Experts in nail care from Tip and Toe Salon share with IANSlife
Protect from the Sun
Protect your nails from the sun's harmful UV rays, just as you would protect your skin. Consider using a nail polish with UV protection or applying a clear topcoat containing SPF. When engaging in outdoor activities, wearing gloves can also provide an additional layer of protection against sun damage.
Director & Head of Marketing and Training Amorepacific India said, "As Laneige's journey evolves, we are thrilled to welcome Sara Tendulkar into our family as the embodiment of timeless grace and modern elegance. Her vibrant spirit and innate charm perfectly resonate with Laneige's commitment to empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty. Together, we embark on a new chapter, celebrating authenticity and the transformative power of skincare."
Social media sensation Sara Tendulkar for Korean Beauty Brand Laniege Summer nail care secrets
"We are delighted to announce Sara Tendulkar as the new Brand Ambassador for Laneige," said Sally Lee, Brand General Manager of Laneige India. Sara's luminous charm and timeless elegance resonate deeply with our brand's values. Sara's deeper integration into the Laneige experience marks a remarkable milestone, fostering deeper connections with a burgeoning generation of consumers."
Laneige is a brand that specializes in moisture research. They have developed advanced water complexes that are dedicated to creating intelligent skincare solutions for all skin types. With a range of products developed to address different skin concerns due to stress and a hazardous environment, Laneige offers solutions that awaken your skin’s ultimate moisture potential.
the importance of maintaining healthy and beautiful nails, especially during the summer months. Don't let the sun and heat take a toll on your nail health; follow these expertrecommended tips to keep your nails looking fabulous.
Use the Right Tools
Using the right tools is crucial for maintaining nail health. Avoid metal cuticle pushers, as they can cause damage and increase infection risks. Instead, opt for wooden or rubber cuticle pushers. Additionally, always use sharp, clean nail clippers and files to prevent nail splitting and peeling.
Chase the sun, not the damage: Smart skin care choices for summer
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, many of us eagerly embrace the warmth of summer. However, the need for diligent skin care comes with the joys of outdoor activities and beach vacations.
Before diving into skin care tips, it's essential to understand the damaging effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to many skin concerns, including sunburn and premature ageing.
"One of the most effective ways to shield your skin from sun damage is sunscreen. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating to ensure comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of skin, including your face, neck, and ears, and remember to reapply every two hours, especially if you're swimming or sweating," says Mansi Sharma, founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess.
Hydration is key. Summer heat can take a toll on your skin, leading to dehydration and a loss of moisture. Mansi recommends
to combat the heat by staying hydrated from the inside out. She says, "Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and plump. Additionally, incorporate hydrating skincare products into your routine, such as lightweight moisturizers and serums formulated with hyaluronic acid or glycerin."
While sunscreen provides crucial protection, it's not the only line of defence against the sun's rays. "Consider covering up with lightweight, breathable clothing, hats, and sunglasses to provide additional protection for your skin and eyes. Opt for tightly woven fabrics and dark colours for optimal sun protection," adds Mansi. "When possible, seek shade during the sun's peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This is when UV radiation is at its strongest, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Take breaks from direct sunlight by relaxing under a beach umbrella or finding shelter in a shaded area."
The founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess also suggests that while selecting skincare products for summer, opt for formulations that cater to the specific needs of sun-exposed skin. Mansi says, "Look for products enriched with antioxidants like vitamins C and E, which help neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure. Incorporating a gentle exfoliant into your routine can also help slough off dead skin cells, revealing a fresh, radiant complexion."
Beauty addicts can now get Kylie Cosmetics in India
Iam 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 stores nationwide and online on www.sephora.in
Celebrities attend Vivienne Westwood fashion show in Mumbai
Mumbai: Actress Disha Patani attends the Vivienne Westwood Fashion Show in Mumbai on Tuesday, April 1, 2024.
Actress Bhumi Pednekar attends the Vivienne Westwood Fashion Show in Mumbai on Tuesday, April 1, 2024.
Mumbai: Actress Vaani Kapoor attends the Vivienne Westwood Fashion Show in Mumbai on Tuesday, April 1, 2024.
Mumbai: Actor Shahid Kapoor’s wife and YouTuber Mira Rajput attends the Vivienne Westwood Fashion Show in Mumbai on Tuesday, April 1, 2024.
Mumbai: Actress and model Manushi Chhillar attends the Vivienne Westwood Fashion Show in Mumbai on Tuesday, April 1, 2024
Mumbai: Actress Kareena Kapoor Khan attends the Vivienne Westwood Fashion Show in Mumbai on Tuesday, April 1, 2024.
Caption: Mumbai: Actress Janhvi Kapoor attends the Vivienne Westwood Fashion Show in Mumbai on Tuesday, April 1, 2024.
Mumbai: Author and former actress Twinkle Khanna attends the Vivienne Westwood Fashion Show in Mumbai on Tuesday, April 1, 2024.
Mumbai: Actor Aditya Roy Kapur attends the Vivienne Westwood Fashion Show in Mumbai on Tuesday, April 1, 2024
Mumbai: Actress Huma Qureshi attends the Vivienne Westwood Fashion Show in Mumbai on Tuesday, April 1, 2024.
Bratislava: President Droupadi Murmu attends a banquet hosted in her honour by Slovak President Peter Pellegrini at the historic Bratislava Castle during her state visit to Slovakia, on Wednesday, April 09, 2025.
Kolkata: Mohun Bagan Super Giant players celebrate with the trophy after winning the ISL Cup against Bengaluru FC at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata on Saturday, April 12, 2025.
New Delhi: 26/11 Mumbai attacks accused Tahawwur Rana was brought to Patiala House Court under tight security, shortly after his arrival in India following extradition by the United States, in New Delhi, on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
Kolkata: Members of the Muslim community take part in a protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Act in Kolkata on Monday, April 14, 2025.
Amritsar: Actors Akshay Kumar, Ananya Panday, and R. Madhavan visit the Golden Temple in Amritsar on Monday, April 14, 2025.
Bratislava: President Droupadi Murmu attends a banquet hosted in her honour by Slovak President Peter Pellegrini at the historic Bratislava Castle during her state visit to Slovakia, on Wednesday, April 09, 2025.
Nagpur: Followers of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar visit Deekshabhoomi on the occasion of his birth anniversary, in Nagpur on Monday, April 14, 2025.
Mumbai: Actor Akshay Kumar at the press conference for the upcoming film Kesari Chapter 2 in Mumbai on Friday, April 11, 2025.
Bhopal: Congress MLA Arif Masood addresses a Muslim community meeting to protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Act at Central Library Ground in Bhopal on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
This aerial photo shows a town in South Korea’s Gangwon Province covered with snow on April 13, 2025.
Kolkata: BJP leaders and workers, including West Bengal LoP Suvendu Adhikari and party MP Sukanta Majumdar, protest against the West Bengal government over violence in the state and the loss of jobs of SSC teachers, in Kolkata on Sunday, April 13, 2025.
London: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman meets Lord Bamford, Chairman of JCB, in London on Wednesday, April 09, 2025.
Lucknow: Lucknow Super Giants’ captain Rishabh Pant congratulates Chennai Super Kings’ MS Dhoni after Chennai Super Kings beats Lucknow Super Giants at Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Monday, April 14, 2025.
CAST: Bipin Karki, Upasana Singh Thakuri, Mukun Bhusal, Divya Dev
BHOOL CHUK
MAAF
RELEASE DATE: 9 May 2025
LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English
Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Dinesh Vijan
DIRECTOR: Karan Sharma
CAST: Rajkummar Rao, Wamiqa Gabbi
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
ALPHA
RELEASE DATE: 25 December 2025
LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Aditya Chopra
DIRECTOR:
CAST:
Shiv Rawail
Alia Bhatt, Sharvari
Tamannaah opens up about her goal of achieving ‘Vijay’ and success
E
ver since her breakup with Vijay Varma, the fans of Tamannaah Bhatia have been waiting with bated breath for any update on her personal life and now it seems like the 'Baahubali 2' actress has finally blinked.
During the trailer launch event of Tamannaah's next "Odela 2" she was asked "Wo kon hain jis pe ap apni tantra vidhya se vijay (hinting at her ex Vijay Varma) karna chahti hain. (Who would you like to win over with your special powers)"
A blushing Tamannaah replied saying, "It would have to be you, (to the person who asked the question), then the whole
paparazzi would be in my control and then they would be listening to whatever I say."
She was further asked, "if she is given such supernatural powers in real life who would she like to control?"
However, Tamannaah smartly dodged the question saying, "I just wish to reside in everyone's heart".
Some time back, Tamannaah and Vijay left their fans shocked after speculations of their breakup surfaced on social media. However, both of them have been tight-lipped about the reason for their break up.
It was reported that Tamannaah
and Vijay started falling for each other on the set of their Netflix's anthology “Lust Stories 2.” These two made headlines after they were spotted together at a New Year's party in Goa.
However, later on, Vijay cleared the air saying that they did not start dating during the shoot of the film.
Talking to Tanmay Bhat on Netflix India’s YouTube channel, Vijay referred to “Lust Stories 2” as a cupid, disclosing that their reallife love story began much later. Vijay revealed, “Lust Stories was cupid, but it wasn’t during the shoot that we started dating. There was talk of a wrap party happening, but it never took place. So, we wanted to have a wrap party, and only four people showed up. That day, I feel I told her I wanted to hang out more with you. It took 20-25 days for the first date to happen after that.”
In June 2024, Tamannaah confirmed her relationship with Vijay, after which these two were seen making several public appearances together.
Randeep Hooda: I have always loved action as a genre
A
ctor Randeep Hooda is excited about stepping back into the action zone after five years post the release of the Chris Hemsworth-starrer “Extraction” and said that he has always loved the “action as a genre” because “there is something raw, visceral, and thrilling about it.” “Extraction” is directed by Sam
Hargrave and produced by the Russo Brothers, which was released on Netflix in 2020. Now with Jaat, he is set to play an action star as he steps into the role of Ranatunga.
Talking about his return to action, Randeep Hooda shares, "I have always loved action as a genre. There is something raw,
Saiyami Kher: I’m always drawn to old Hindi classics, they never get old
Avisceral, and thrilling about it. After playing intense characters in biopics and embodying law enforcement roles, getting to unleash my dark side as the menacing Ranatunga in Jaat has been exhilarating.
The actor said he had been missing action, and “Jaat” gave her the perfect opportunity to get back into that space.
Randeep said: “The choreography, the high-octane sequences, and the sheer physicality of the role—it has been a challenging yet fulfilling experience. Playing a character who is as ruthless as he is charismatic is something I’m really looking forward to showcasing.
“Extraction was the first of its kind for me, to be an Indian actor taking on a full blown action role in the west, was a thrilling experience”.
“Jaat” is directed by Gopichand Malineni. It also stars Vineet Kumar Singh, Saiyami Kher, and Regina Cassandra. Each actor brings their unique intensity and depth to their roles, ensuring a captivating viewing experience.
The film features the soundtrack composed by Thaman S composing the soundtrack and Rishi Punjabi behind the lens as the Director of Photography. The editing is done by Navin Nooli, while Avinash Kolla's production design will transport audiences into the heart of the film’s gripping world.
ctress and fitness enthusiast Saiyami Kher has talked about her guilty pleasures and revealed that she indulges in “anything chocolate” and is also drawn to Hindi classics by Kishore Kumar and R.D. Burman, as they never get old.
Asked what her guilty pleasure is in food, music, and bingeworthy shows, Saiyami told IANS, “Anything chocolate food-wise. Music-wise, I’m always drawn to old Hindi classics—Kishore Kumar, R.D. Burman—they never get old.”
Saiyami shared she cannot get over “Adolescence,” a show that centers on a 13-year-old schoolboy named Jamie Miller, who is arrested after the murder of a girl in his school.
“As for shows, there are so many… I just can’t get over Adolescence. It’s one of the most brilliant things I have watched. But when I need something easy, ‘Friends’ and ‘Schitt's Creek’ are all-time favorites.”
A perfect day off for Saiyami starts with a “run” early in the morning.
“An early morning run while the world is still quiet, and then going on a film set and living a character. Being on a film set with like-minded people who are professional and nice is the best thing in the world. After packing up, getting back home, eating some home food/catching up with friends at someone’s house, and winding down watching Federer/ Sachin or a nice film.”
When Arnold Schwarzenegger said it was ‘all out war’ in the 80s between him, buddy Sylvester Stallone
Hollywood star Arnold Schwarzenegger has given some of the best action movies in Hollywood during the 1980s. However, the onus of action movies was not solely on him. The actor found another counterpart, as feisty as him in Sylvester Stallone.
The two men are responsible for making memorable action films
for an entire generation. Both the actors are great friends today, and show adulation to each other through social media. However, it was not the same earlier. Arnold Schwarzenegger once told Jimmy Kimmel on the latter's show that in the 80s it was an all out war between him and Sylvester Stallone.
He said, “In the 80s, he was just a rival. It was just a competition. It was all about who is making bigger movies, who has more definition in their muscles, who has more box-office success, who kills more people, who kills people more creatively, who has bigger knives, who has bigger guns?”.
Rashmika to Vijay Devarakonda: Wishes pour in as Allu Arjun turns 43
Southern heartthrob Allu Arjun turned 43 on Tuesday. Marking his special day, several who's who from the entertainment industry took to social media to pen lovely birthday wishes.
His 'Pushpa' co-star, Rashmika Mandanna dropped a photo of the two and wrote on her IG, "@alluarjunonline It's your
happiness, good vibes, and all the things that bring you joy. Here's to more success and memorable moments ahead!"
Moreover, Vijay Deverakonda wished his Bunny Anna with the following words, "Bunny Annaa Happy Happy Birthday to you. Biggest hugs and love and to doing epic stuff!"
The 'Stylish star' rang in his 43rd birthday in the presence of his loved ones.
Allu Arjun's better half, Sneha Reddy treated the fans with a sneak peek into his intimate birthday celebration through Instagram.
She posted an image, where AA was seen cutting his birthday cake with Sneha and their kids — Arha and Ayaan by his side.
Urvashi Rautela reveals what it takes to be the best boyfriend and husband
birthdaaaaaay! It's time to celebrateee!!! I hope you have a blast and you have the best time ever!! Happiest birthday to you sir! Sending you big love!"
Additionally, Rakul Preet Singh penned on the photo-sharing app, "Happy bdayyy to my fav fav person @alluarjunonline... Wishing you a day filled with
Wishing her husband on his special day, Sneha wrote on her IG, "Happy 43rd to the love of my life...Wishing you a year full of joy, peace, and most of all — health & strength. Forever grateful to walk through life with you by my side. Love you endlessly."
Her post also included some rare footage of AA spending some quality time with his family.
Work-wise, Allu Arjun has joined forces with acclaimed director Atlee for his next which will be produced by Sun Pictures. The project is being tentatively referred to as AA22 X A6 for now.
Ben Affleck says he’s as bad at flirting like his ‘Accountant 2’ character
“You know, he’s not comfortable extending himself. He doesn’t really know how to flirt exactly. He’s not comfortable – like so many of us.”
The actor also spoke on the broader challenges of dating, saying: “It’s not easy for anyone figuring out relationships, particularly at the very early part, where you’re trying to gauge, ‘What does this signal mean? Is this person looking at me? Do they like me? Am I going to humiliate myself if I go over there?’”
He praised his character’s effort to be open, including an awkward but heartfelt attempt at linedancing during a date in the film, reports femalefirst.co.uk.
“It was kind of a lovely thing,” he said. The actor added: “I probably am not going to get a lot more demands for my line-dancing work (in movies.) I don’t know.
The phone hasn’t rung yet.”
Affleck’s comments come months after finalising his divorce from singer and actor Jennifer Lopez in January. The pair had rekindled their romance in 2021, nearly two decades after calling off their first engagement, but officially ended their marriage two years later in 2024.
Actress Urvashi Rautela has shared her insights on what it takes to be the perfect partner in a relationship. According to her, the key to being the best boyfriend or husband is simple— just say sorry.
Urvashi, who is busy promoting her next project, “Jaat,” highlighted the importance of keeping a partner happy and maintaining harmony in a relationship through small, meaningful gestures. While speaking about her song, ‘Touch Kiya,’ Rautela told IANS, “Thank you so much! It’s a simple thing— any girl in the world would love to make her boyfriend say sorry. And if you can make any girl happy just by saying sorry, it’s a win. The lyrics of the song are quite relatable. I’ll give you my heart, but first say sorry.” Many girls will
connect with this sentiment.”
The ‘Sanam Re’ actress added, “If you want to be the best boyfriend and the best husband, just say sorry. Always keep your partner happy. I believe this song will really resonate with the youth because, deep down, every girl wants her partner to say sorry, no matter what.”
Urvashi went on to state, “In Daku Maharaj, I had the role of a police officer, and I focused on acting in that. But honestly, in this song, I didn’t dance at all. There are no dance moves involved—I simply followed the character. I portrayed the role of a lioness, embodying that fierce, powerful energy. If you watch closely, just focus on my eyes, and you’ll see the persona of a lioness shining through.
Jon Hamm shares why he feels Hollywood has entered a new era
Hollywood star Jon Hamm feels the concept of a "leading man" belongs to a different era.
The 54-year-old actor has enjoyed huge success during his career, but Hamm doesn't see himself as a leading man, claiming that the movie industry has now entered a new era.
Speaking to Interview magazine, the Hollywood star said: "I think those categories are kind of a vestige of a different industry that we don’t really live in anymore. It’s like you’re a lead actor if you’re the guy that’s carrying most of the story, and at certain points, you’ll have character moments or whatever."
Hamm has worked with a host of big-name stars during his career, and he appreciates the "breadth" of experiences he's been able to enjoy in the film and TV business, reports femalefirst.co.uk.
The actor said: "That’s the most fun part about having a career this long, right? There is a breadth to your experience that is pretty great."
Meanwhile, Hamm previously said to be "happy" with where he's at in his career.
Hollywood star Ben Affleck, who is reprising his role in the sequel to the 2016 thriller ‘Accountant’, has agreed that he is as bad at flirting as his character Christian Wolff in ‘The Accountant 2’.
Affleck, who recently divorced from Jennifer Lopez, said: “Here’s a guy who’s trying to figure out – he wants to have a relationship with a woman, he’s trying to figure out how to do that, like, how to put yourself out there.
