Indian student ‘self-deports’ from US after visa revoked over Palestine protests
York, March 15 (IANS) An
participated
in pro-Palestine protests in the US has “self-deported” herself after her student visa was revoked, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has announced.
The Department said on Friday that Ranjani Srinivasan “was involved in activities supporting Hammas, a terrorist organization” and left the US on March 11 after
NASA-SpaceX launches mission to bring home Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore
launched a crewed mission to the International Space Station (ISS) to bring home NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore who have been stranded in space since last June.
The Dragon spacecraft took off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space
her student visa was revoked by the State Department.
A citizen of India, she was a doctoral student in urban planning at Columbia University, the Ground Zero of student protests in support of Palestine and against Israel over Gaza that swept the US last year.
President Droupadi Murmu, PM Modi extend Holi greetings to citizens
extended their warm wishes to the citizens on the occasion of Holi.
President Murmu, on the eve of Holi, conveyed her heartfelt greetings, emphasising the festival's spirit of unity and brotherhood.
In her message, she said: "This festival nurtures the spirit of unity and brotherhood in our
Prez Murmu, PM Modi, others congratulate Rohit & Co as Men in Blue trounce NZ to lift ICC Champions Trophy
New Delhi, March 10 (IANS)
President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and others on Sunday hailed the victory of Team India in the final
Pakistan train hijack: 155 hostages rescued, 27 BLA militants killed
Pakistani security forces have rescued over 150 hostages
after militants from the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked a train carrying more than 400 passengers in Balochistan's Kacchi district, sources said.
So far, 27 militants involved in the hijacking of the Jaffar Express have been killed in the security
operation, the sources added.
The security forces managed to rescue 155 hostages, including dozens of women and children, after a gunfight with the militants. The rescued passengers have been taken to Mach, a nearby
of the ICC Champions Trophy as the Men in Blue led by Rohit Sharma defeated New Zealand by 4 wickets in the finale at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Set a target of 252 on a slow and turning Dubai pitch, the Men in Blue made an impressive start with captain Rohit Sharma targeting the bowlers while his opening partner Shubhman Gill played the role of an anchor.
Even as the New Zealand bowlers managed to apply brakes on the Indian run flow by grabbing quick wickets of Gill and run-machine
Virat Kohli, the middle order led by Shreyas Iyer steadied the innings.
Eventually, the run chase went down to the wire and India managed to win another ICC title in a span of 1 year after the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup heartbreak. In a post on X, President Murmu wrote: "Heartiest congratulations to Team India for winning the ICC Champions Trophy, 2025. India becomes the only team to win the Trophy thrice. The players,
Gold smuggling case: K’taka govt orders probe against Ranya’s father DGP Ramachandra Rao
Bengaluru, March 11 (IANS)
The Karnataka government on Tuesday ordered a probe against jailed actress Ranya Rao's father DGP K. Ramachandra Rao in connection with the gold smuggling case.
The government has sought a
report within one week.
Actress Rao was arrested on charges of gold smuggling and misusing her father Ramachandra Rao's name to escape security checks by availing the protocol reserved for officials of the highest rank.
The government has assigned senior IAS officer Gaurav Gupta, the Additional Chief Secretary, to take up the investigation immediately.
Gupta has been tasked with
Islamabad, March 12 (IANS)
New
Indian student who
New York, March 15 (IANS) NASA and SpaceX on Saturday
New Delhi, March 13 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi
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
Indian student ‘self-deports’ from US after visa revoked over Palestine protests
The university saw the violent takeover of a campus building, and scores of students were arrested when the university called in the police to quell the protests. Noem said that it was “a privilege” to study in the US, but “when you advocate for violence and terrorism that privilege should be revoked, and you should not be in this country”.
Homeland Security Department said that it obtained a video of Srinivasan using an app of the Customs and Border Protection (CPB) agency to “self-deport”.
“I am glad to see one of the Columbia University terrorist sympathisers use the CBP Home app to self-deport", Noem said.
She posted a video of Srinivasan at an airport. It was not clear if Srinivasan had been arrested in the protests or if she had expressed sympathy for Hamas because many of the protesters were only against Israel's attack on Gaza in retribution for the Hamas terrorist attack on it.
Self-deporting – or leaving voluntarily before authorities take action – avoids the risk of her being put on a US military aircraft and sent home like the three planeloads of deportees who arrived in India.
Srinivasan was doing research at Columbia’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation.
According to the school, she has a bachelor’s degree from CEPT
University in Ahmedabad and got her master’s degree from Harvard with Fulbright Nehru and Inlaks Scholarships. On the school website, she is shown with the gender-neutral “they” pronoun rather than she.
The site said that she had received support from the Lakshmi Mittal South Asia Institute at Harvard for her research, “Gold & Cyanide: Family, Caste, and the Post-extractive Landscape at Kolar Gold Fields”. She had also worked for an environmental advocacy nonprofit in Washington on “frontier communities at risk from climate change” and as a researcher for the West Philadelphia Landscape Project (WPLP) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Prez Murmu, PM Modi, others congratulate Rohit & Co as Men in Blue trounce NZ to lift ICC Champions Trophy
the management and the support staff deserve highest accolades for creating cricketing history. I wish Indian cricket a very bright future."
Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, “An exceptional game and an exceptional result! Proud of our cricket team for bringing home the ICC Champions Trophy. They’ve played wonderfully through the tournament. Congratulations to our team for the splendid all around display." Expressing his happiness over the victory of Men in Blue, HM Shah wrote on X: "A victory that scripts history. Congratulations to Team India on clinching a stunning victory in the ICC #ChampionsTrophy2025. Your fiery energy and unassailable dominance on the pitch made the nation proud, setting a new benchmark for cricketing excellence. May you always come off with flying colors."
BJP national president and Union Minister J.P. Nadda wrote:
"Champion of Champions. My heartfelt congratulations to the Indian Men's Cricket Team for winning the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 by defeating New Zealand in finals. This victory speaks volumes about the team's determination and never give up attitude. Each player gave their best, and this is a win that will be remembered for years to come. The whole nation is celebrating today, and I’m sending my best wishes to the team for continued success."
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also congratulated Team India on their superb victory. Taking to X, he wrote: "A phenomenal team effort culminated in a glorious victory for the Indian cricket team as they lift the #ChampionsTrophy ! Brilliant performance by the skipper @ImRo45 and everyone in the team! Your achievement fills 140 crore hearts with utmost pride."
Lok Sabha MP and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi wrote
Pakistan train
hijack:
on X: "Smashing victory, boys! Each one of you has made a billion hearts swell with pride. #TeamIndia’s phenomenal run in the tournament, marked by brilliant individual performances and sheer dominance on the field, has been truly inspiring. Congratulations, Champions!"
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin wrote: "A flawless campaign, a perfect ending! Congratulations to #TeamIndia on winning the #ChampionsTrophy2025 and to New Zealand for a strong tournament. Rohit and his men rise to the occasion, delivering a campaign of excellence, a final of composure, and a victory to cherish. Champions once again!"
On Sunday, Captain Rohit Sharma top-scored with 76 while Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya chipped in with important contributions to give India their third Champions Trophy triumph with a four-wicket win over New Zealand in the final.
155 hostages rescued, 27 BLA militants killed
town, where a makeshift hospital has been set up to provide medical assistance.
It remains unclear how many hostages are still on board the Jaffar Express. While the BLA has denied any casualties on their side, they have claimed to have killed 30 soldiers, a claim that has not been confirmed by the Pakistani authorities.
The sources further claimed that "BLA militants are in touch with their facilitators in Afghanistan."
The rescue operation is ongoing, with reports suggesting that suicide bombers are holding some
hostages close to them.
The military operation led the militants to split into small groups, leading to an exchange of gunfire between security forces and the attackers.
The Jaffar Express was intercepted by armed militants inside a tunnel while travelling from Quetta to Peshawar. The attackers blew up the tracks, forcing the train to a halt, and killed the locomotive driver.
At least 400 passengers were onboard the nine-bogie train, which was running after a monthlong suspension.
President Droupadi Murmu, PM Modi extend Holi greetings to citizens
lives. The diverse colours of Holi reflect the values of unity in diversity. This festival also symbolises the triumph of good over evil. It teaches us to spread love and positivity around us."
She also extended her warm greetings and best wishes to all Indians, both in India and abroad, adding, "May this festival of colours fill your lives with joy and prosperity."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to social media platform
X to send his greetings. He wrote, "Many wishes to all of you on Holi. May this festival infuse new enthusiasm and energy in everyone's life and also deepen the colour of unity among the countrymen."
Holi, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm both in India and abroad, will be observed on Friday. The festival is preceded by the ritual of lighting bonfires, known as Holika Dahan, symbolising the burning of the demoness Holika.
NASA-SpaceX launches mission to bring home Sunita Williams, Butch Wilmore
Centre in Florida at 7:03 p.m. ET on Friday (4.33 am on Saturday IST).
"Have a great time in space, y'all! #Crew10 lifted off from NASA Kennedy at 7:03pm ET (2303 UTC) on Friday, March 14," the US space agency shared in a post on social media platform X.
"Falcon 9 launches Crew-10, Dragon’s 14th human spaceflight mission to the Space Station," added SpaceX.
The Crew-10 mission carries NASA astronauts Anne McClain and Nichole Ayers, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Takuya Onishi, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Kirill Peskov to ISS.
The spacecraft, en route to ISS, will take about 28.5 hours to autonomously dock to the space station.
Following the arrival of Crew10 to the orbital laboratory, NASA's SpaceX Crew-9 mission, consisting of NASA astronauts Nick Hague, Suni Williams, Butch Wilmore, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, will return to Earth.
The launch was originally planned for March 13 but was scrubbed less than an hour before liftoff due to a hydraulic system issue with a ground support clamp arm on the rocket.
Williams and Wilmore have been stuck in space since last June due to technical problems of Boeing's Starliner which took them to ISS.
Earlier, the astronaut duo were scheduled to return to Earth by March-end but was preponed after US President Donald Trump urged SpaceX CEO Elon Musk to bring them back early.
Gold smuggling case: K’taka govt orders probe against Ranya’s father DGP Ramachandra Rao
examining the circumstances that led to Ranya availing the protocol facility and the role of his father in it.
The order states: "Over the past week, reports have emerged regarding the violation and misuse of protocol by Ranya Rao to facilitate gold smuggling.
The BLA, the most powerful separatist group in Balochistan, soon claimed responsibility for the hijacking and demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners and missing persons, whom they claimed had been forcibly disappeared by the Pakistani military.
The militant group set a 48hour deadline, threatening to "completely destroy" the train if the demands are not met. They also threatened to execute 10 hostages in retaliation for the military operation.
It has also been reported that she misused the name of her father, senior IPS officer and DGP & MD of Karnataka Housing Corporation Limited and Infrastructure Development Corporation, Ramachandra Rao, to access the protocol privileges granted to high-ranking officers."
The order further alleges that Ranya Rao used her father's name to bypass security checks and commit the crime.
In this context, the government has deemed it necessary to investigate Ramachandra Rao's role in enabling Ranya Rao to avail of the protocol facility at the airport, the order states.
The investigating officer has also been directed to obtain all necessary documents and assistance from the State Police Chief and the Secretary of the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR).
The Special Court has remanded Ranya Rao to judicial custody till March 24.
The issue was raised in the Legislative Session by the BJP and the party has alleged the involvement of two ministers.
Home Minister G. Parameshwara maintained that there is no connection between the state police department and the Ranya Rao gold smuggling case.
If there is any involvement of the state police in the case, the CBI which has taken up the case for investigation will find, the state Home Minister said.
The DRI officials arrested Ranya after seizing 14.8 kg of gold from her at the Bengaluru International Airport.
India that embraces all its daughters is an India poised to lead the world: Gautam Adani
Ahmedabad, March 8 (IANS) It is time to accelerate action -rightfully chosen as the theme for the 2025 International Women’s Day -- not because it's the right corporate strategy or a popular social cause, but because wives, daughters and granddaughters deserve a future limited only by the expanse of their dreams, Gautam Adani, the Chairperson of the Adani Group, said on Saturday.
Emphasising that an India that truly embraces all its daughters is an India poised to lead the world, the billionaire industrialist remembered all the women -from Banaskantha to Boardrooms – who has shaped his world.
“My understanding of gender equity wasn't forged in boardrooms or policy debates; it was nurtured at home, surrounded by remarkable women whose strength and wisdom have profoundly influenced my perspective,” Gautam Adani wrote in a heartfelt LinkedIn post on the occasion of International Women’s Day.
“Now, blessed with three beautiful granddaughters, this promise burns brighter and more urgent than ever. International Women's Day is not merely a date on the calendar; it's a poignant reminder of the strides we've made and the journey that still lies ahead,” said
the Adani Group Chairperson.
Growing up in the desert terrains of Banaskantha, “I observed my mother transform scarcity into sustenance and hardship into harmony. She was the silent force that held our large joint family together, embodying relentless effort, unshakable love, courage, and resilience. In her, I witnessed, and came to appreciate the essence of quiet leadership, selflessness, and graceful perseverance,” Gautam Adani stressed.
Later in life, “my wife Priti became the driving force behind our foundation's initiatives, touching millions of lives across India.”
“Seeing her engage with village women across the remote villages of our country, discussing transformative issues for their families' futures, learning from the sanghinis of the Adani Foundation who teach pregnant mothers how to take care of themselves and the child they are to deliver, have all helped me grasp the true essence of empowerment,” he mentioned in the post.
According to him, it is inspiring to meet young girls in Mundra who, through the Group’s education initiatives, now dream of becoming engineers, or to witness the determination of women entrepreneurs in Godda (in Jharkhand) who have transitioned from daily wage labourers to successful business owners.
Several years ago, during a visit to one of the port projects, Gautam Adani noticed the absence of
women in operational and leadership roles.
It was not due to a lack of capability but rather the absence of pathways for them into these traditionally male-dominated fields.
“This realisation sparked a personal commitment to change. I began posing different questions in our meetings: ‘Are our policies genuinely family-friendly?’
‘Who are we mentoring for future leadership?’ These were not just metrics; each number represented a life, a dream, a future leader whose perspective would enrich our endeavours,” said the Group head.
Today, as “I walk through our offices and see senior women leading our technology teams, as I visit our renewable energy sites and witness women engineers solving complex challenges, and as I attend foundation events where rural women are building thriving businesses, I am filled with immense pride”, Gautam Adani noted.
To date, the Adani Foundation has positively impacted several million girls and women, reaffirming its dedication to fostering lasting social change.
“Moreover, our 'Lakhpati Didis' initiative celebrates over 1,000 women who have achieved financial independence through enhanced entrepreneurial skills. By supporting women in becoming self-reliant, we contribute to creating a genderinclusive society where women's contributions are valued and recognised,” said Gautam Adani.
Pushing boundaries to help build a stronger, self-reliant India: Gautam Adani
Kanpur, March 5 (IANS) Gautam
Adani, the Chairman of the Adani Group, on Wednesday, said that the company’s aim is to keep pushing boundaries to help build a stronger, self-reliant India.
The billionaire industrialist, who visited the Adani Defence & Aerospace facility in Kanpur, hailed the "best of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in action".
"Just visited Adani Defence & Aerospace in Kanpur! Inspired to witness the incredible innovation and the rock solid commitment to India’s self-reliance in defence by the Adani team," Gautam Adani posted on X social media platform along with a video of his visit to the factory.
"Best of #AtmanirbharBharat in action! Our aim is to keep pushing boundaries to help build a stronger, self-reliant India!" The Adani Group Chairman added.
Adani Defence and Aerospace is one of the leading players in India's defence and aerospace manufacturing sector, driven by the vision to transform India into a destination for worldclass defence and aerospace manufacturing.
Last month, the Adani Defence and Aerospace stalls at the Aero India 2025 found itself in the spotlight as Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi and Navy chief Admiral D.K. Tripathi paid a visit and got first-hand information on the futuristic state-of-the art weaponry on display.
The highlight was the ‘VehicleMounted Counter-Drone System', developed in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
The state-of-the-art system marks a significant step in enhancing India’s defence preparedness against evolving aerial threats.
With the increasing use of drones
Chairperson of Adani Foundation Priti Adani extends wishes on International Women’s Day
New Delhi, March 8 (IANS) Dr Priti Adani, Chairperson of the Adani Foundation, extended her wishes on the occasion of International Women's Day on Saturday.
Taking to social media platform X, she posted, "Happy International Women's Day..!!"
Dr Priti G Adani is the Chairperson of the Adani Foundation, one of India’s largest and most well-known organisations in the nonprofit social sector. The Adani Foundation is the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of the Adani Group of companies.
A doctor by qualification and an educationist by passion, Dr Adani has been spearheading nationwide social development initiatives through the Adani Foundation since 1996.
Choosing social work over a medical career, Dr Adani has led the Foundation from its beginnings as a rural initiative in Mundra, Gujarat, into one of the world’s most wide-reaching non-governmental non-profit organisations in community welfare.
in modern warfare for both reconnaissance and offensive operations, the need for a robust anti-drone mechanism has become imperative, according to the company.
She also retweeted a post by her husband and Adani Group Chairman, Gautam Adani, who shared details about a special event celebrating the
achievements of women.
In his post, Gautam Adani revealed that the Adani family had the honour of hosting nine inspiring women Ambassadors and High Commissioners to India.
Describing the experience as memorable, Gautam Adani said their praise and advice for the local women engaged in the company's projects were "truly uplifting."
"Our family was honoured to host nine inspiring women Ambassadors and High Commissioners to India. I am grateful for their visit to Khavda's Adani Renewable Energy Park and Mundra's SEZ," he stated.
"Their praise and advice for the local women driving these projects were truly uplifting. On International Women's Day, here's to breaking barriers and shaping a better future!" the Adani Group Chairperson added.
The delegation included prominent diplomats such as Ina Krisnamurthi, Ambassador of Indonesia to India; Diana Mickeviciene, Ambassador of Lithuania to India; Ana Taban, Ambassador of Moldova to India; Sena Latif, Ambassador of Romania to India, Nepal, and Bangladesh; Lalatiana Accouche, High Commissioner of the Republic of Seychelles to India; Lebohang Valentine Mochaba, High Commissioner of Lesotho to India; Marje Luup, Ambassador of Estonia to India; Mateja Vodeb Ghosh, Ambassador of Slovenia to India; and Peggy Frantzen, Ambassador of Luxembourg to India.
In a special engagement ahead of International Women's Day, the Adani Group welcomed the delegation to its projects in Khavda and Mundra, both in Gujarat.
The visit showcased India's advancements in clean energy, infrastructure, and industrial development.
Women’s Day 2025: Adani Group hosts women ambassadors from 9 nations
Ahmedabad, March 7 (IANS)
In a special engagement ahead of International Women's Day, the Adani Group welcomed a delegation of women ambassadors from nine nations to the conglomerate's projects in Khavda and Mundra, both in Gujarat, where they witnessed
India's strides in clean energy, infrastructure and industrial development.
The delegation first visited Khavda, a remote site in western India's arid Kutch district, where Adani Green Energy, the largest renewables company in India, is developing the world’s largest clean energy plant.
Spanning an area five times the size of Paris, the 30 GW solar and wind energy project will play a critical anchor role in meeting India's rising energy demands with clean, affordable and reliable power. The ambassadors saw firsthand how the renewables
project is integrating cuttingedge technology with sustainable development, including the Energy Network Operations Centre (ENOC) overseen by women engineers.
At Mundra Port, India's largest commercial port handling nearly 11 per cent of the country's maritime cargo and 33 per cent of its container traffic, the women ambassadors explored the Electronics Manufacturing Cluster (EMC) in the Mundra Special Economic Zone (SEZ), where global players are investing in advanced manufacturing.
66 pc of Indian women now feel equipped to use AI in their roles
Bengaluru, March 7 (IANS) About 66 per cent of women in India now feel equipped to use artificial intelligence (AI) in their roles, compared to less than 40 per cent last year, a new report said, ahead of the International Women’s Day 2025, on Friday.
International Women’s Day 2025 is observed every year on March 8. The report, by ANSR, an Accel portfolio company, reveals a significant shift in workplace diversity initiatives and the growing confidence of women in AI adoption.
It showed that the number of women perceiving their company's diversity efforts as merely symbolic or slowmoving has dropped from 70 per cent in 2024 to 40 per cent in 2025, marking a substantial improvement.
Nearly 75 per cent of women also reported that their workplace provides a safe and inclusive environment. However, persistent challenges such as the glass ceiling, pay disparity, and lack of mentorship continue to hinder career advancement.
The number of women citing unfair pay has increased by 10 per cent, while 7 in 10 women say career advancement opportunities remain out of reach. About 58 per cent of women also report a lack of strong mentorship, a significant rise from 35 per cent last year, highlighting a critical gap in leadership development.
"Diversity should not be a metric but a horizontal priority embedded across an organisation’s DNA. True progress happens when inclusivity extends beyond hiring -- into policies, leadership development, boardroom discussions, and governance. Our survey shows promise year on year, but to drive lasting change, diversity must be
an integral part of how businesses operate, not just an initiative,” said Smitha Hemmigae, Head of Marketing at ANSR.
The report draws insights from over 3,000 women professionals in IT/ITES, Global Capability Centers (GCCs), startups, and product companies across India. It also highlights a growing need for structured mentorship and leadership development programmes, with 58 per cent of women reporting a lack of strong mentorship.
This gap in leadership support is particularly evident in Global Capability Centers (GCCs), where organisations are increasingly focused on developing leaders who can manage diverse, global teams.
As the demand for leadership talent grows, companies must invest in training programmes that empower women with the skills to navigate cross-cultural challenges, drive innovation, and make strategic decisions, said the report.
Odisha govt signs pact with Meta to launch WhatsApp chatbot for public services
Bhubaneswar, March 8 (IANS)
The Odisha government in collaboration with Meta, the US-based technology giant, will soon launch a unified WhatsApp Chatbot to ensure seamless access of various government services by the citizens across the state.
The Centre for Modernising Government Initiative (CMGI) of the state General Administration department signed the memorandum of understanding
Hyderabad, March 7 (IANS)
The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) is set to introduce a new system called 'EPFO 3.0', which will allow subscribers to withdraw their provident fund (PF) directly from ATMs. Union Labour Minister Mansukh
(MoU) on behalf of the Odisha government with the Meta India at Lok Seva Bhavan here on Friday.
"Through this Chatbot, citizens will be able to access vital government services like obtaining birth and income certificates, applying for driving and fertiliser licenses, and accessing incentives such as the National Family Benefits Scheme, all through a single WhatsApp number," said the government in a press statement.
The state government also claimed that the Unified WhatsApp Chatbot will integrate 429 government services into a single WhatsApp number, enabling citizens to access
critical services like Essential Certificates viz. birth, death, legal heir, residence, and income certificates, licenses viz. driving license, fertiliser license etc. and incentive schemes viz. intercaste marriage benefits, National Family Benefit Scheme, etc.
"The Odisha government is committed to delivering seamless public services, ensuring that every citizen experiences convenience and efficiency at the last mile. This commitment is underscored by our investment in technology and training, aiming to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles and enhance overall accessibility," said Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja.
Ruckus at Ajmer court over lawyer’s murder, advocates clash with cops
Jaipur, March 8 (IANS) A major uproar erupted in the Ajmer court on Friday following the killing of senior lawyer Purushottam Jakhotiya, who was attacked in a DJ-related dispute.
Enraged lawyers forcibly removed policemen and the public from the court premises and shut down the shops inside. In response to the protest, police from 10 stations were deployed to control the situation.
However, when Congress workers, including former RTDC chairman Dharmendra Rathod, arrived at the protest site, the lawyers strongly opposed their presence, stating, "We don’t want politics in this. Please leave."
The incident took place on March 2 at around 1:45 a.m. near Sanskar Garden on Budha Pushkar Road.
A group of 8-10 youths was playing loud DJ music near a liquor shop and dancing on the road. Senior advocate Purushottam Jakhotiya, who lived nearby, objected to the disturbance and asked them to stop. This led to a violent attack by the intoxicated group, who beat him with sticks, causing severe head injuries.
He was immediately rushed to JLN Hospital in Ajmer but succumbed to his injuries during treatment on Friday, March 7.
Following a complaint by his nephew Ankush, police registered a case against the DJ vehicle driver and unknown attackers riding a pickup truck. Lawyers staged a massive protest and boycotted work.
The Ajmer Bar Association has called for a complete boycott of court proceedings. They demanded a government job for a member of Jakhotiya’s family and immediate arrest of all accused. Advocates insisted on the implementation of a law ensuring better security for legal professionals. Lawyers are demanding the closure of a liquor shop near Jakhotiya’s house and a ban on unauthorised DJs, particularly in Pushkar, a spiritual city.
Advocate Yogendra Ojha raised serious concerns about police negligence, questioning why officers did not arrive when Jakhotiya called for help at 1:15 a.m. He pointed out that police only responded after 3 a.m., by which time Jakhotiya had already collapsed. "Had the police acted in time, his life could have been saved," Ojha remarked.
As a mark of protest, lawyers were seen forcing people and policemen out of the court premises. Shops inside the court were shut down. A large number of police officers were deployed in response to the chaos. Lawyers clashed with the police and pushed them back.
In ‘war of supremacy’, SGPC removes Akal Takht Jathedar
Mandaviya announced this update at an event in Hyderabad, saying that the new system will offer banking-like convenience along with several digital features to make transactions easier.
"In the coming days, the EPFO 3.0 version will come. This means the EPFO will become equivalent to a bank. Like transactions are carried out in a bank, you (EPFO subscribers) have your Universal Account Number (UAN), and you will be able to do all your work," Mandaviya said.
EPFO 3.0 is an improved version of the current system, designed to make the withdrawal process
faster and more user-friendly. With this upgrade, EPFO members will no longer have to visit government offices or get approvals from their employers to access their PF money. Instead, they will be able to withdraw their funds through ATMs, just like withdrawing cash from a bank account.
The subscribers will be able to manage their accounts using their Universal Account Number (UAN). It is not clear yet what limit will be set for PF withdrawals from ATMs.
Amritsar, March 7 (IANS) In the ongoing "war of supremacy", the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on Friday appointed Sikh preacher Kuldeep Singh Gargaj as the acting Jathedar (high priest) of the Akal Takht, replacing incumbent Giani Raghbir Singh.
The development comes after the SGPC removed Giani Harpreet Singh from his post as Jathedar of Takht Sri Damdama Sahib in February.
The decision was taken unanimously at the executive meeting of the SGPC, the gurdwara body, also known as the Sikh mini parliament, here.
Besides Gargaj, the SGPC also removed Giani Sultan Singh as
the Jathedar of the Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib. The Akal Takht in Amritsar and the Takht Kesgarh Sahib at Anandpur Sahib are two of the five seats of the temporal authority of Sikhism. However, Giani Raghbir Singh and Giani Sultan Singh will continue as the Head Granthi and the Granthi of the Golden Temple, respectively.
"Kuldeep Singh Gargaj is appointed Jathedar of Takht Kesgarh Sahib with officiating charge as Akal Takht Jathedar. SGPC member Tek Singh Dhanaula will serve as Takht Damdama Sahib's Jathedar," an SGPC spokesperson told the media.
Giani Gargaj, 40, has been a ‘katha vachak’ since 2001.
Meanwhile, the decision on SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami’s resignation was kept pending. The SGPC budget session will be held on March 28.
1.5 lakh women in Gujarat achieve financial independence under ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative
Gandhinagar, March 7 (IANS)
Over 1.5 lakh women in Gujarat have increased their incomes beyond Rs 1 lakh per year under the Central government's ‘Lakhpati Didi’ initiative, marking a major milestone in women's economic empowerment.
Launched in 2023 with the goal of making 3 crore women financially self-reliant by 2027, the initiative has gained significant traction across India.
Gujarat has seen 7.98 lakh women register, with a large percentage engaged in agriculture, handicrafts, and small businesses.
One such inspiring story is that of Ramilaben Mukeshbhai Joshi from Alwada, Banaskantha. She started making ‘Diwani Duvets’ in 2024, and within just a year, her
earnings surpassed Rs 1 lakh.
“The self-help groups (SHGs) provided us with oxygen to live,” says Ramilaben, highlighting the transformative impact of the initiative.
The scheme assists rural women affiliated with SHGs in starting their own businesses, enabling them to earn an annual income of over Rs 1 lakh.
Women are encouraged to venture into sectors such as agriculture, animal husbandry, handicrafts, and other local enterprises.
The government provides training, financial aid, and market linkages to boost their incomes and create sustainable livelihoods.
As of now, 7,98,333 women have registered under the scheme in Gujarat. Of these, 7,66,743 women are engaged in agriculture-based employment, while others have found financial stability in sectors like handicrafts, production, services, and small businesses.
The initiative has gained immense traction in Gujarat, particularly in tribal regions.
In districts like Navsari, Valsad, and Dang, 1,06,823 women have been identified under the scheme, with over 30,527 of them now earning more than Rs 1 lakh annually.
One of the success stories emerging from the scheme is the Vanshree Restaurant in Karanjvel village, Vyara Taluka, Tapi district. Operated by Ramilaben Parshottambhai Gamit and ten other SHG members, the restaurant serves traditional tribal cuisine and has witnessed an impressive turnover growth. "We have been running this restaurant for four years. Initially, we received a Rs 50,000 loan for groceries and essentials. We have since repaid the loan, and now our monthly earnings range from Rs 3.5 lakh to Rs 4 lakh. In 2023, our turnover was Rs 40 lakh, which increased to Rs 41.88 lakh in 2024,” said Ramilaben.
Tier 2 and 3 Indian cities accounted for 44 pc of land acquisitions in 2024: Report
Mumbai, March 7 (IANS) Tier 2 and 3 cities are shaping India’s real estate future, as 44 per cent of the 3,294 acres of land acquired by developers last year were concentrated in these emerging hubs, a report showed on Friday.
This marks a strong shift in investment focus, reflecting the potential of these cities in driving long-term sectoral growth.
Housing sales in 2024 reached 6,81,138 units across 60 cities, recording an impressive 23 per cent year-on-year increase, according to the report by CREDAI- with real estate research firm Liases Foras.
The primary builder’s market registered a sales value of Rs 7.5 lakh crore, reflecting a staggering
43 per cent YoY growth, propelled by sustained demand across segments.
Luxury and ultra-luxury housing emerged as key drivers, contributing 71 per cent of the total sales value, driven by larger ticket sizes and a balanced supply-demand dynamic in premium markets.
Properties priced between Rs 1-2
crore saw a 52 per cent jump in sales, with 1,32,532 apartments sold, while the ultra-luxury segment (Rs 2 crore and above) experienced an even steeper rise of 73 per cent, highlighting developers’ confidence in catering to high-net-worth buyers.
With the real estate sector now valued at Rs 22.5 lakh crore and contributing 7.2 per cent to India’s GDP, it is evident that tier 2 and 3 cities are becoming growth engines, offering both affordability and high-value transactions that redefine India’s urban narrative, said the report.
“These cities now account for
nearly half of all land acquisitions by developers, signalling a seismic shift in investment patterns. For instance, Nashik’s transformation from a pilgrimage town to a thriving urban hub exemplifies the potential of these cities in reshaping India’s housing landscape,” said Manoj Gaur, Chairman, CREDAI.
While metro cities continue to dominate luxury and premium housing sales, the rise of tier 2 and 3 cities has introduced a more balanced market dynamic, where mid-range and affordable properties play a crucial role in driving demand.
Cities like Lucknow, Jaipur, and Bhubaneswar are witnessing steady price appreciation, reinforcing their market strength, said the report.
Boman Irani, President, CREDAI, said that as these cities become economic and industrial hubs, there is an increasing demand for affordable and mid-segment housing.
Over 34,000 women in Navsari turn ‘lakhpati’, started own ventures with government support
Navsari, March 7 (IANS) With Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to address the Lakhpati Didi programme in Gujarat's Navsari on International Women’s Day on Saturday, many success stories of women entrepreneurs and achievers from the region are coming to the fore. More than 34,000 women of Navsari have taken to self-employment with help from various government schemes and today, they have
‘True empowerment of poor has taken place’: Gujarat CM hails PM Modi at Surat roadshow
Surat, March 7 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his two-day visit to Gujarat, emphasised his government’s commitment to poverty alleviation and infrastructural development, stating that “25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty” under his leadership. A grand roadshow welcomed him, with thousands of supporters lining the streets.
After completing official engagements in Silvassa, he returned to Surat, where he was received by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Union Minister CR Patil at a helipad near Capital Square.
Following the procession, PM Modi addressed a massive public gathering, outlining the government’s efforts in economic and social development. Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel lauded PM Modi’s leadership, saying that “true empowerment of the poor has taken place".
He highlighted that under PM Modi’s tenure, welfare initiatives have reached the grassroots, directly benefiting the
marginalised.
CM Patel cited key initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana, which provided free food grains to millions, and the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, aimed at uplifting skilled artisans. He also noted that PM Modi had personally acted as a guarantor to help small street vendors secure loans of up to Rs 50,000, ensuring financial self-reliance among the working class.
“The government has worked relentlessly to ensure that no one is left behind,” Patel stated, emphasising that the benefits of economic growth were being distributed across all sections of society.
Union Minister and Gujarat BJP President C.R. Patil underscored the government’s efforts toward the welfare of disabled individuals, pointing out that “2.49 crore differently-abled citizens have received assistive devices, ensuring their economic and social inclusion".
He highlighted a substantial increase in budget allocations for disability welfare, which rose from Rs 565 crore in 2014 to Rs 1,275 crore in 2024.
Additionally, PM Modi-led government has improved accessibility at over 700 railway stations, 80 airports, and more than 1,000 bus terminals, making transportation more inclusive.
LIC ranked world’s third strongest insurance brand
The Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has been ranked third among the world's strongest insurance brands, achieving a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 88 out of 100, according to the Brand Finance Insurance 100 2025 report.
become financially independent and self-reliant. They started their home-run ventures by taking bank loans, and today, they have become role models in their village by becoming 'lakhpati' and 'millionaire' didis.
Sangeeta Solanki of Shahu village took a loan with the help of Sakhi Mandal and started her own enterprise. She wanted to help her family and earn a living by doing some work.
Poland-based PZU secured the top spot with a BSI score of 94.4, followed by China Life Insurance, which ranked second with a BSI score of 93.5.
In terms of overall brand value, the LIC holds the 12th position among the most valuable insurance brands globally, while SBI Life ranks 76th, making them the only two Indian insurers in the top 100.
According to the Brand Finance report, the top 100 insurance brands have grown 9 per cent in brand value in 2025, driven
by improved underwriting results, higher investment income, rising interest rates, and increased profitability. Market capitalisation for top insurance brands rose as demand for insurance products increased across sectors. Economic recovery and positive market sentiment have strengthened investor confidence, while strategic mergers, acquisitions, and technological advancements have accelerated industry growth. On the financial front, the LIC reported a 17 per cent year-on-year rise in standalone net profit for the December quarter, reaching Rs 11,056.47 crore, compared to Rs 9,444.42 crore in the previous year. This growth was supported by a decline in management expenses, particularly employee-related costs. On a consolidated basis, the LIC's net profit increased by 16 per cent to Rs 11,009 crore, up from Rs 9,469 crore a year earlier. Employee compensation and welfare expenses saw a 30 per cent decline, dropping to Rs 14,416 crore from Rs 18,194 crore, leading to a 231 bps reduction in the expense ratio to 12.97 per cent from 15.28 per cent.
New Delhi, March 7 (IANS)
Australia participates in Paris talks on Ukraine security assurances
President Emmanuel Macron in Paris later on Tuesday to discuss support for Ukraine.
Macron is hosting military chiefs from 30 European and NATO countries to discuss security assurances for Ukraine following a hope for a ceasefire deal. Meanwhile, the Russian Embassy in Canberra on Monday warned of "grave consequences" if Australia joined a "coalition of the
willing" proposed by the United Kingdom and France to guarantee Ukraine's security in the event of a peace deal, something Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he would consider.
In a statement to The Sydney Morning Herald, the Russian embassy in Canberra said, "For Australia, joining the so-called coalition of the willing would entail grave consequences".
BAPS promotes Sanskrit in Australia, 1,400 children memorise Satsang Diksha, Siddhant Karika
Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS) performed Satsang Diksha and Siddhanta Karika recitation in Sanskrit language in the Australian city recently.
The large gathering of children and teenagers memorised and recited 315 verses from the Satsang Diksha scripture and 565 verses from the Siddhant Karika, drawing the attention of everyone for their sincere endeavour towards the language.
Notably, the BAPS Sanstha has always promoted the study of
Sanskrit and its importance. With the blessings of Mahant Swami Maharaj and the guidance of BAPS, Sanskrit is touching new heights globally.
Mahant Swami Maharaj has always highlighted the greatness of Sanskrit. Under his guidance, the study of Sanskrit has become essential for BAPS saints and youth.
BAPS is not only known for its temples and saints but also as a global spiritual institution committed to preserving and promoting Sanskrit, culture, and scriptures. It believes and seeks to propagate the idea that Sanskrit is not just a language, it is a means for spiritual elevation and mental growth.
Memorising Sanskrit verses also has had a remarkable impact on children's intellect and personality as a couple of parents shared the impact of studying Sanskrit on people's minds.
"The children have become more intelligent and focused in their studies. Their memory power and concentration have significantly improved," they said.
Notably, BAPS has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Sanatan values and Hindu traditions in Australia, fostering a spirit of unity, spirituality, and selfless service.
With 13 BAPS temples across many Australian cities namely Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Canberra, Griffith, Hobart, Melbourne, Melbourne South, Newcastle, Perth, Sunshine Coast, and Sydney, the religious organisation is serving as a beacon of faith and cultural preservation.
BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha is a spiritual, volunteer-driven fellowship dedicated to improving society through individual growth by fostering the Hindu values of faith, service and global harmony.
Cyclone Alfred aftermath: Floods continue in Queensland, New South Wales
Sydney, March 10 (IANS)
Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred continued to impact Australia's states of Queensland and New South Wales (NSW) on Monday with floods and heavy rainfalls, but meteorological authorities forecast the situation will gradually ease from today.
Electricity in some of the affected areas was gradually restored on Monday. The latest figures from local electricity distributors show that nearly 160,000 homes and businesses remained without power in southeast Queensland and northern NSW as of Monday afternoon, less than the peak number of over 300,000 recorded on Sunday.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) said on Monday afternoon that heavy rainfall has eased in NSW,
and severe weather warnings for some areas have been cancelled.
However, there is a localized risk of severe thunderstorms producing heavy rainfall over northern NSW during the afternoon and evening. Warnings will be issued if necessary.
The NSW State Emergency Service (SES) said on Monday afternoon that 3,400 dwellings, impacting about 7,900 people, are still under emergency warnings in northern NSW. More than 3,200 SES members remain on the ground.
Overnight rain and thunderstorms on Sunday brought widespread falls of 200-400 mm across Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Scenic Rim, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) reported. Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, witnessed a rainfall of 275.2 mm in 24 hours to 9 am. local time on Monday, making it the city's wettest day since 1974.
The BoM said that heavy rainfall, which may lead to flash flooding,
PM to join world leaders in ‘coalition of the willing’ phone call
Canberra, March 14 (IANS)
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will join a 'Coalition of the Willing' phone call with other world leaders on Saturday to discuss the potential deployment of peacekeepers to Ukraine. The call is being arranged by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. It is also set to include the leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Canada and New Zealand, as well as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Albanese is open to considering a request to send Australian troops as part of a peacekeeping force, state-run media agency Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported on Friday, quoting sources.
Addressing reporters on Friday, Opposition leader and Prime Ministerial candidate for the upcoming elections in Australia Peter Dutton said that Australia should not be involved, accusing PM Albanese of "shooting from the hip".
"It just doesn't make any sense. Our job is to take care of our country and make sure we are safe in our region. We have supported Ukraine from day one. But not with troops on the ground. This was a thought bubble by the Prime Minister," Dutton added, ABC reported.
Earlier Australia sent its top defence official Air Vice Marshal Di Turton at a meeting called by French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Tuesday to discuss support for Ukraine. Macron hosted military chiefs from 30 European and NATO countries to discuss security assurances for Ukraine following a hope for a ceasefire deal. Macron has teamed up with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to lead efforts to form a 'coalition of the willing' to enforce an eventual ceasefire in Ukraine.
Meanwhile, the Russian Embassy in Canberra on Monday warned of 'grave consequences' if Australia joined a 'coalition of the willing' proposed by the United Kingdom and France to guarantee Ukraine's security in the event of a peace deal, something PM Anthony Albanese said he would consider.
"For Australia, joining the socalled coalition of the willing would entail grave consequences," reported Sydney Morning Herald while quoting a statement from the Russian Embassy in Canberra. "Once again, Western boots on the ground are unacceptable for Russia, and we will not remain passive observers. To those inclined to construe the above as a threat: it is not; it is a warning. Russia has no intention to harm Australians, and Canberra can easily avoid trouble by simply refraining from irresponsible adventurism in the zone of the special military operation," the statement added.
Dozens injured after army vehicles crash
continued across parts of southeast Queensland on Monday, including Brisbane, Ipswich and the Sunshine Coast, Xinhua news agency reported. Six-hourly rainfall totals between 60 and 100 mm are likely throughout Monday with a 24-hourly total up to 150 mm expected. However, it forecasts the heavy rainfall will ease during the late afternoon and evening.
More than 800 schools in the ex-cyclone-affected areas of NSW and Queensland remained closed on Monday. NSW education authorities expected most schools will be able to reopen on Tuesday. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced at a press meeting on Monday that eligible workers and sole traders in 31 local government areas in southeast Queensland and NSW who have lost income as a direct result of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred will be eligible for support payments. They will be able to access up to 13 weeks of income support via online application opened from Tuesday, he said.
Canberra, March 8 (IANS) An incident involving two Australian Defence Force (ADF) vehicles on Saturday caused a number of ADF personnel to be injured, Australia's defence department said in a statement.
According to the statement, the two vehicles were providing community support to Lismore, a city located in the Northern Rivers region of the state of New South Wales, following exTropical Cyclone Alfred.
"On Saturday 8 March 2025, there was an incident involving two Australian Defence Force (ADF) vehicles that were providing community support to Lismore following ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. A number of ADF personnel have been injured. The welfare of ADF members and their families is a priority and Defence’s focus is on
supporting those involved. Due to the developing nature of the incident, no further information will be available at this time, however Defence will provide further updates when possible," read the statement issued by the Australian Defence Ministry. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) quoted NSW Ambulance as saying that it received the emergency call just after 5 pm local time on Saturday. ABC reported that 36 people had been injured and were in various conditions. Three of them had been seriously injured.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said in a joint statement that a number of ADF personnel had been injured, some seriously.
"Tragic news out of New South Wales this evening with confirmation a man has died in floodwaters near Dorrigo. Our thoughts are with his loved ones and the community at this heartbreaking time," Albanese posted on X.
Melbourne, March 7 (IANS) More than 1,400 children and teenagers from the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam
Canberra, March 11 (IANS)
Air Vice Marshal Di Turton will be representing Australia at a meeting called by French
Trump writes to Iran’s Khamenei inviting him to ‘negotiate a deal’
Washington, March 7 (IANS) US
President Donald Trump has said he wrote a letter to Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei inviting him to negotiate a deal. He did not divulge more.
Trump divulged the communication to Iran in an interview. A short clip from the interview was released on Friday. He said the time for a deal with Iran “is coming up” in response to a question about his reaction to a Russian offer to help negotiate with Iran.
“Something is going to happen one way or the other,” he said further.
“I hope that Iran, and I've written him a letter saying, I hope you're going to negotiate, because if we have to go in militarily, it's going to be a terrible thing for them.”
“The other alternative is we have to do something because you can't let them have a nuclear weapon,” he added, indicating a military solution.
He had earlier in the response to the Iran question said there were only two ways Iran can be handled — militarily or a deal.
President Trump restored his 2020 policy of “maximum pressure” on Iran on February 4 “denying (it) all paths to a nuclear weapon, and countering Iran’s
malign influence abroad”.
But he has also said he was open to talks. The letter to Khamenei marks the first concrete step in that direction.
There has been no response to Iran yet. But Khamenei said recently he is not in favor of direct talks with the Trump administration because it cannot be trusted. president Masoud Pezeshkian has said he is not averse to direct talks.
“They have intensified all the sanctions and now they are saying that let's talk to each other,” he has said.
“First prove that you are open to dialogue and then we can talk to each other.” But, in the end, Iran will go with the supreme leader’s decision.
India and Ireland agree to establish Joint Economic Commission during EAM Jaishankar’s Dublin visit
Dublin, Mar 7 (IANS) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar on Friday held discussions with Irish Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Harris in Dublin, focusing on a "new Action Plan" to reinvigorate ties between the two countries.
The two ministers discussed cooperation in several areas, including trade, investment and technology linkages, setting up of a Joint Economic Commission besides sharing views on the regional and global developments, including the Ukraine conflict,
West Asia, Afghanistan, IndoPacific, India-EU cooperation and multilateralism.
"A warm and open meeting with Tanaiste and Foreign Minister Simon Harris of Ireland this morning in Dublin. We discussed our bilateral cooperation, including a new Action Plan to reinvigorate ties. Agreed to set up a Joint Economic Commission to increase our trade, investment and technology linkages," EAM Jaishankar posted on X.
Harris said that Friday's decision to establish a Joint Economic Commission will deepen ties between the two countries even further.
"Great to welcome India's Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar to Ireland today — the first senior visit from India in a decade. With two-way trade already at
€16 billion, we're committed to strengthening every opportunity for growth, investment, and collaboration, Ahead of minister Jaishankar's visit, the Irish Deputy PM had expressed hopes of engaging in talks on a range of bilateral and global issues, including discussing the Irish government's priorities for strengthening its relationship with India, as outlined in Ireland's Asia Pacific Strategy.
"Minister Jaishankar's visit also provides an opportunity to recognise the many historic and cultural links between our countries, as well as the growing and vibrant Indian community in Ireland who make such an important contribution to Irish society," said Harris.
The two-way trade between Ireland and India continues to grow substantially, each year.
Amid rising security concerns, China signals sending more warships near Australia
Canberra, Feb 28 (IANS) Claiming that it is "normal" for major powers to send their naval assets worldwide, China on Friday said that Australia should expect more Chinese warships near its region.
Xiao Qian, the Chinese Ambassador to Australia, signalled that Beijing will conduct further naval deployments near Australia and there was no reason for China to apologise for last week's live drill exercises in the Tasman Sea, which led to the diversion of several commercial flights between Australia and New
Zealand, Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) reported.
"I don't see there is any reason why the Chinese side should feel sorry about that, or even to think about to apologise for that," the Chinese Ambassador told the leading Australian media outlet in an interview.
The ambassador refused to comment on whether the deployment of Chinese warships in Australia was intended to send signals to the country to cease conducting freedom of navigation exercises in the disputed South China Sea.
Australia's Ministry of Defence reported on Friday that a Chinese Task Group, comprising of the Jiangkai-class frigate Hengyang, the Renhai-class Cruiser Zunyi, and the Fuchi-class replenishment vessel Weishanhu,
Mark Carney sworn in as new Canadian Prime Minister
Ottawa, March 15 (IANS) Mark Carney was sworn in as the new Prime Minister here on Friday, formally replacing Justin Trudeau, the media reported.
Carney, who is also an economist, took the oath of the office in the presence of General Mary Simon, the personal representative of Canada's head of state, King Charles.
According to geopolitical analysts, the change of leadership assumes significance in the backdrop of a slide in relations with the US under the new Donald Trump-led administration.
The 59-year-old Carney is a former governor of the Bank of Canada and Bank of England.
According to reports, he took the oath in both English and French.
Carney has left behind others who were in the race to become leader of the ruling Liberal Party, despite not having enough political experience.
Carney's background, however, boasts of dealing with complex
economic crises.
Analysts believe that his first major challenge will be addressing the strained USCanada relations, which is believed to have hit an all-time low.
Carney reportedly plans to reshape his Cabinet, with Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc shifting to the international trade portfolio and Innovation Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne taking over as Foreign Minister. The move would aim to bolster Canada's alliances in Europe, particularly in London and Paris, where Carney is scheduled to visit next week.
Notably, Carney has replaced Justin Trudeau, who served as Canadian Prime Minister for more than nine years.
In a statement, Carney emphasised his commitment to defending Canadian sovereignty, saying he would only meet with Trump "when there is respect for Canadian sovereignty," according to reports.
Reports citing Canadian Foreign Minister, Melanie Joly suggested that efforts are currently underway to arrange a call between Trump and Carney.
Did nothing ‘bad’, says Zelensky of Oval Office exchange
Washington, March 1 (IANS)
is operating approximately 320 nautical miles (593 kilometres) south-southwest of Adelaide.
The ministry said that it continues to monitor the Chinese Task Group while it remains in the vicinity of Australia's maritime approaches.
"We will closely watch the Chinese Task Group for as long as they are in the vicinity of Australia. And the purpose of that is so that when this is all said and done, we can analyse where they have gone, analyse their movements, and know exactly what the purpose of this mission has been," said Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles.
The Australian Defence Minister stated that Australia is working with New Zealand and other partners in the region to surveil the Chinese warships.
Hours after the stormy exchange in the White House, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky struck a defiant note, saying he had done nothing wrong that he needed to apologise for and that further steps in the peace negotiations will depend on the US position on his demand on a "just and lasting peace" that will prevent Russia from launching another attack against his country.
Appearing on a widely anticipated prime-time interview with Brett Baier of Fox News, the Ukrainian President did concede the fiery exchange "was not good" but expressed no regrets for his role in it. In fact, he seemed to have defended it, saying it was an "open" and "honest" conversation between friends.
The Oval Office pool spray -- a White House tradition for the President and the visiting dignitary to pose for pictures and take questions from a representative pool of reporters -- devolved into a shouting match between the President Donald Trump and Vice-President J.D. Vance on one side and President Zelensky.
The American leaders accused
Zelensky of disrespecting the White House and the US for his remarks and the Ukrainian President accused them of not feeling the frustration of being at the receiving end of an invasion. The two sides did not sign an agreement that was the purpose of the visit to give the US rights to Ukraine's reserves of rare earth minerals and other natural resources in return partly for the contributions made towards Kyiv's war efforts.
"I think that we have to be very open and very honest and I'm not sure that we did something bad," Zelensky replied to a question if he owned President Trump an apology, which stemmed from the Fox News host's presumption of guilt on part of the Ukrainian President, as alleged by President Trump and Vice-President Vance, both of whom have accused the visiting leader of being disrespectful.
Some Republican lawmakers, including Lindsey Graham, a steadfast support of Ukraine's fightback against Russia, slammed Zelensky, accusing him of showing disrespect instead of gratitude for the US support.
Pressed by the interviewer on whether the public spat in the Oval Office served his cause well, Zelensky said, "This is, is not good for both sides."
But, he added, "I can't, you know, change our Ukrainian attitude to Russia."
Bangladesh: Panic grips Dhaka as terror outfit Hizb ut-Tahrir takes out massive rally
Dhaka, Mar 7 (IANS) Panic and fear gripped Dhaka and several other parts of Bangladesh on Friday as banned terror outfit Hizb ut-Tahrir took out a massive rally in the capital signalling the fast collapsing law and order situation in the country under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.
More than a thousand operatives of the outfit brought out the procession as part of the 'March for Khilafat' (March for Caliphate) programme after the end of Friday prayers at the national mosque.
The event, held under the nose of law enforcement agencies in Bangladesh, reflected the free hand provided to the radical outfits under Yunus-led interim government.
In August 2024, just a few days after the ouster of Awami League Government led by former Prime
Minister Sheikh Hasina, posters of banned organisation Hizb ut-Tahrir were found plastered around the broken 'Deepto Shopoth' sculpture which was erected in memory of the police officers killed during the terror attack at Dhaka's Holey Artisan Bakery in 2016.
"Dear Secretary Marco Rubio, in Bangladesh, Muhammad Yunus, head of the illegal regime, openly supports Al Qaeda, ISIS, Hizb Ut Tahrir, and Hamas. There are hundreds of students in the country who are being lured into the anti-Semite jihadist agenda," Dhaka-based counter-terrorism expert Salah Uddin Shoaib Choudhury posted on X tagging the US Secretary of State.
Since the fall of Hasina’s government amid a violent mass uprising, there have been attempts to destroy various sculptures across the country.
Besides engaging in violence, Hizb ut-Tahrir members have also targetted sculptures of Bangladesh founder Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman along with many other memorials related to the Bangladesh Liberation War.
Hizb ut-Tahrir first became active in Bangladesh when the Bangladesh Nationalist Party-
Jamaat coalition was in power, advocating establishment of an Islamic Caliphate.
The Awami League government had banned Hizb ut-Tahrir on October 22, 2009 stating that the activities of the organisation posed a serious threat to public safety. The organisation is also banned in several other Muslim-majority countries due to allegations of spreading extremism globally, reports Dhaka Tribune.
However, as the Yunus led interim government assumed power, terror groups like Hizb ut-Tahrir have started marching openly in Bangladesh. On August 10 last year, members of the banned outfit held a procession from Baitul Mukarram to the National Press Club in Dhaka, where they also held a brief rally.
"Mr Yunus is getting mad. He lifted the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing Shibir, but banned Chhatra League, the student wing of the Awami League, the oldest political party in Bangladesh. He lifted the ban on Islamic terrorist organisations like Hizb ut-Tahrir, Ansarullah Bangla Team, etc," noted Bangladeshi author Taslima Nareen posted on her social media, last October.
Philippines terms Chinese claims over Palawan as part of ‘cognitive warfare’
Manila, March 7 (IANS) Strongly refuting the recent Chinese claims over Palawan Island, the Philippines on Friday called it as part of Beijing's "cognitive warfare" and asserted that Palawan is, and always will be, a part of the archipelagic Southeast Asian country.
Slamming the social media post circulating in Weibo and other Chinese social media platforms, the Philippines' National Maritime Council (NMC) stated that claims of Palawan belonging to China are "another form of disinformation" and should be disapproved and rejected to prevent both Chinese and the Filipinos from being fooled into believing it.
In an interview to state run broadcaster People's Television Network, NMC spokesperson Alexander Lopez said, "This is part of their so-called 'cognitive warfare' wherein they (Chinese) are trying to shape the minds of internal and external audiences so that the opinion would shift in their favour".
The Chinese social media post claimed that Palawan, a frontline province in the maritime dispute between the Philippines and China, was supposedly originally called 'Zheng He Island' after a 14th-century Chinese explorer.
Lopez, however, said that there has been no historical account that Zheng had ever set foot on Palawan.
"It has to be very clear that while it is true that a certain Admiral Zheng visited Southeast Asia in the 15th and 14th centuries, there is no historical record that he visited Palawan," he said.
He mentioned that even if the explorer had visited Palawan, it does not make the province part of China's territory. "It has to be very clear: Palawan has been, is and will always be part of the Philippine territory; there's no debate here," local media in the Philippines quoted Lopez as saying.
Earlier this week, Philippines' National Security Advisor (NSA)
India denounces Pak’s ‘fanatical mindset’, says ranting on Kashmir won’t justify cross-border terror
United Nations, March 15 (IANS)
Denouncing Pakistan’s “fanatical mindset”, India’s Permanent Representative P Harish has told Islamabad that ranting about Kashmir in international forums will not justify cross-border terrorism or change the reality of the region being an integral part of India.
He was reacting on Friday to Pakistan’s former Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua bringing up Kashmir during an informal meeting of the General Assembly to commemorate the
International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
“As is their habit, former Foreign Secretary of Pakistan today has made an unjustified reference to the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir”, Harish said. “Frequent references will neither validate their claim nor justify their practice of cross-border terrorism”.
“The fanatical mindset of this nation is well known, as also its record of bigotry”, he said of Pakistan.
“Such efforts will not change the reality that Jammu and Kashmir was, is and will always be an integral part of India”, he declared.
Pakistan has been a voice in the wilderness at the UN when it comes to Kashmir.
While it raises Kashmir at almost any chance its representatives get a chance to speak, no other country has taken up the cause. Janjua, who was Pakistan’s foreign secretary from 2017 to 2019, spoke as one of the invitees to the meeting and not as a representative of Islamabad.
Accidental fighter jet bombing leaves 29 injured, including 15 civilians in South Korea
Eduardo Ano termed the Chinese claims on Palawan as "baseless and revisionist".
The NSA also said the assertions are outright fabrications intended to distort history, deceive the public, and challenge the Philippines' sovereignty over its lawful and internationally recognised territory.
"Palawan has always been and will always remain an integral part of the Philippines. No historical record, legal precedent nor any credible evidence support the claim that Palawan was ever under Chinese sovereignty," said Ano. China's growing assertiveness in the South China Sea has been a growing cause of concern for many Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines. China makes sweeping claims of sovereignty over the South China Sea, which has untapped natural resources, including oil and natural gas In July 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague, while adjudicating the Philippines' case against China in the South China Sea, determined that major elements of China's claim, including its nine-dash line, land reclamation activities, and other activities in Philippine waters, were unlawful. China reacted negatively to the ruling, maintaining that it was "null and void".
South
said on Friday that a total of 29 people, including 15 civilians, have been injured from an accidental fighter jet bombing of a northern village earlier this week.
On Thursday, two KF-16 fighter jets "abnormally" dropped eight MK-82 bombs outside a training range in Pocheon, some 40 kilometres north of Seoul, during live-fire drills, leading to multiple injuries and damage to buildings.
As of Friday, 15 civilians and 14 service members were injured from the bombing, including six foreigners, the ministry said, up from 15 tallied the previous day. Of them, two South Korean civilians were seriously injured.
The six injured foreigners include four Thais, one Nepalese and one Myanmar national, it said, noting they all suffered minor injuries.
Currently, seven civilians, including one Thai and one Myanmar national, as well as two soldiers are receiving treatment at hospitals, according to the ministry.
Some of the service members were injured after three of the
bombs fell inside a nearby Army base.
Acting Defence Minister Kim Seon-ho apologised for the accident, vowing utmost efforts to restore the damaged property and provide compensation, Yonhap news agency reported.
"Through a thorough investigation, (we) will clearly determine the cause of the accident and will thoroughly come up with necessary measures to prevent such accidents," he said in a statement.
The ministry has formed an ad hoc committee to support recovery efforts at the bombed village of Nogok-ri.
Meanwhile, the military also faces criticism over its relatively slow response to the bombing.
Fire authorities immediately responded to the bombing after receiving a report one minute after it happened. But the Joint Chiefs of Staff didn't receive its first report on the incident for around 20 minutes.
Pilot error is suspected to have caused the accidental bombing as one of the jet pilots incorrectly entered the coordinates for the target prior to takeoff, according to an Air Force official, citing an initial probe.
The ministry has suspended all live-fire drills until the exact cause of the accident is determined.
Seoul, March 7 (IANS) The
Korean defence ministry
From the editor’s desk
Indian Australian women: Strength, struggles & success on International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is a moment to celebrate the achievements of women worldwide, but for Indian Australian women, it holds a deeper meaning. It is more than just a symbolic day; it is recognition of their resilience, their ability to break barriers, and their determination to carve out a space in a society that is still evolving in its understanding of gender equality. These women are doctors, engineers, business leaders, artists, and community changemakers. They are mothers, daughters, wives, and professionals who juggle multiple roles with strength and grace. Their journey is one of persistence, balancing tradition with progress, and making meaningful contributions to both their community and the broader Australian society. Indian Australian women play a crucial role in shaping Australia’s economic and cultural landscape. Many are first-generation migrants who arrived in the country with dreams of building a better future for themselves and their families. They have worked tirelessly to establish themselves, and overcome numerous challenges along the way. Their resilience is evident in the way they embrace opportunities, even as they hold on to their cultural roots. The younger generation, born and raised in Australia, is excelling in diverse fields—whether it’s in STEM, academia, politics, media, or sports. The presence of accomplished women of Indian heritage in Australia, from leading business figures to celebrated journalists, is a testament to their growing influence and impact.
Beyond professional success, Indian Australian women lead social initiatives, organize cultural events, and advocate for issues that affect their community, ensuring that their voices are heard. Whether it’s through running businesses, participating in politics, or volunteering for social causes, these women strengthen the fabric of Australia’s multicultural society. They are also instrumental in bridging the gap between Indian traditions and Australian values, raising children who are confident in both their heritage and their identity as Australians. However, beneath these achievements lie significant challenges that cannot be
Cyclone Alfred- a wakeup call
Preparing Queensland for future natural disasters
ignored. One of the most pressing issues facing many Indian Australian women is domestic violence. While this is a problem that cuts across all communities, cultural taboos around marriage, family honor, and societal expectations often make it harder for Indian women to seek help. In many cases, women feel pressured to stay silent about abuse to avoid bringing shame to their families. Immigration status can also be a factor in abusive relationships, with some women being threatened with deportation if they leave their partners. Financial dependence, lack of awareness about legal rights, and fear of being ostracized by their community make it even more difficult for them to escape these situations. Despite efforts by the Australian government to provide support for domestic violence survivors, many Indian Australian women still face barriers in accessing these services. Language difficulties, cultural stigmas, and a lack of awareness about available resources mean that many suffer in silence. While organizations and community groups have stepped up to offer culturally sensitive support, there is still a long way to go. There is an urgent need for more outreach programs, legal aid, and tailored support services that take into account the unique challenges faced by migrant women. Indian community organizations also have a crucial role to play in changing mindsets, encouraging open discussions, and ensuring that no woman feels isolated in her struggle. Yet, even in the face of these challenges, the resilience of Indian Australian women is undeniable. They continue to redefine traditional roles, proving that cultural heritage and progressive values can coexist. They are business owners, academics, doctors, artists, and social activists, helping to shape the identity of modern Australia.
International Women’s Day serves as a powerful reminder that empowerment is not just about individual success—it is about lifting others along the way. It is a day to celebrate the progress Indian Australian women have made but also to acknowledge the work that still needs to be done.
Cyclone Alfred’s recent rampage through Queensland has left an indelible mark on the state, serving as a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictable fury. The cyclone unleashed devastating floods, submerged vehicles, and inflicted severe damage to infrastructure, leading to the largest power outage in Queensland’s history, with a peak of 450,000 homes and businesses left in the dark. In the aftermath, rescue teams braved treacherous conditions to evacuate residents, highlighting both the heroism of our emergency services and the vulnerabilities in our disaster preparedness.
This disaster has sparked a crucial conversation about Queensland’s ability to withstand such extreme weather events in the future. Given Australia’s increasing exposure to severe storms, floods, and bushfires, it is imperative to reassess and strengthen our approach to disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. The lessons learned from Cyclone Alfred extend beyond Queensland and serve as a warning for all of Australia. We must take decisive action to enhance infrastructure, improve emergency response systems, and ensure communities are well-equipped to face future calamities.
One of the most glaring issues exposed by Cyclone Alfred was the fragility of Queensland’s power infrastructure. The massive outage disrupted lives and hampered emergency response efforts. Kevin Lavender, Energy Queensland’s general manager, emphasized the complexity and duration of restoring power after such an extensive event, noting that priority was given to critical infrastructure like hospitals and water treatment plants.
This situation underscores the urgency of investing in more resilient infrastructure. Strengthening power grids, enhancing communication networks, and ensuring that critical facilities have robust backup systems are essential steps. Investing in underground power lines, smart grids, and decentralized energy systems such as microgrids could also help minimize disruptions in future disasters. The reliance on above-ground power lines, particularly in cyclone-prone areas, increases the risk of prolonged outages following extreme weather events. By modernizing and fortifying our energy infrastructure, we can reduce the time it takes to restore power and limit the broader impact of natural disasters. The swift and effective response of emergency services during Cyclone Alfred was commendable. However, the event also highlighted the crucial
role of community awareness and preparedness. Residents must be well-informed about evacuation routes, emergency shelters, and safety protocols. A well-prepared population can significantly reduce the chaos and confusion that often accompanies disasters. Regular community drills and educational programs can empower individuals to act decisively when disaster strikes. Schools, local councils, and community organizations should collaborate to provide training sessions on emergency preparedness. Simple actions, such as keeping an emergency kit ready, knowing where to find reliable information, and understanding flood risks, can save lives. Queensland should also explore the possibility of introducing mandatory disaster preparedness education in schools, ensuring that the next generation is better equipped to handle emergencies.
In the wake of Cyclone Alfred, the Insurance Council of Australia issued warnings about ‘disaster chasers’—unscrupulous individuals offering repair and clean-up services that can invalidate insurance claims. These operators often demand upfront cash payments and perform substandard work or leave it incomplete. Homeowners are urged to avoid contracts with these individuals, as it could result in inflated bills that insurance policies won’t cover.
To protect vulnerable residents, it is imperative to raise awareness about these scams and provide clear guidelines on how to choose reputable service providers. Authorities should also consider establishing official channels or registries of approved contractors to assist homeowners in making informed decisions during the stressful aftermath of a disaster. Additionally, stronger penalties should be imposed on those who exploit disaster victims, ensuring that Queenslanders are not taken advantage of during their most vulnerable moments.
The financial toll of natural disasters extends beyond immediate damages. As major weather events become more frequent, insurance premiums could increase significantly if proactive disaster mitigation efforts are not implemented.
Scott Guse from KPMG noted that the federal government’s $10 billion cyclone reinsurance pool should prevent significant premium increases from this event. However, with unusual and unforecast cyclones like Alfred, the need to revise insurance pricing models may lead to higher premiums if such events become more common.
This scenario calls for a proactive approach to disaster mitigation. Investing in infrastructure improvements, enforcing
stringent building codes, and implementing effective land-use planning can reduce the severity of damages, thereby stabilizing insurance costs. Additionally, public awareness campaigns about the importance of adequate insurance coverage can ensure that individuals and businesses are financially prepared for potential disasters. Governments must also work closely with the insurance industry to create affordable and accessible insurance options for residents in high-risk areas.
Cyclone Alfred’s impact also brings to light the environmental factors that can exacerbate natural disasters. Deforestation, wetland degradation, and poor urban planning can increase vulnerability to flooding and storm surges. Implementing sustainable environmental practices, such as restoring mangroves and preserving natural floodplains, can serve as natural barriers against such calamities.
Urban planning must take disaster risks into account, ensuring that new developments are built with resilience in mind. More green spaces, improved drainage systems, and stricter regulations on construction in flood-prone areas can significantly reduce damage in future storms. Investing in nature-based solutions is not just about disaster prevention— it also promotes biodiversity, enhances air and water quality, and creates a more sustainable living environment for all Queenslanders.
Advancements in technology offer valuable tools for disaster preparedness. Enhanced early warning systems, utilizing satellite data and predictive analytics, can provide more accurate and timely alerts. Mobile applications and social media platforms can disseminate information rapidly, ensuring that residents receive real-time updates and instructions.
Investing in these technologies can significantly improve response times and save lives. Governments should also explore the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to predict and model potential disaster scenarios. By analyzing historical data and climate patterns, AI can help authorities develop more effective disaster management strategies. Additionally, improved communication infrastructure— such as emergency SMS alerts in multiple languages—can ensure that vital information reaches all segments of society, including non-English-speaking residents.
Bridging the Gulf with AI: How India and GCC countries can leverage AI for mutual growth and innovation
New Delhi, March 10 (IANS)
Recently, a few months back, the External Affairs Minister of India Dr S. Jaishankar paid his visit to Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to attend the first-ever IndiaGCC Joint Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue. During the meeting, EAM highlighted with great emphasis that the Gulf Cooperation Council as an entity has a vital significance for India and constitutes the “extended” neighbourhood for India. The key milestone of the meeting was the adoption of a Joint Action Plan 2024-2028 for cooperating in various sectors such as healthcare, security, transportation, agriculture, energy, and food security. It was also decided that other areas of cooperation will also be included in the Joint Action Plan at later stages with mutually agreed-upon consensus.
In this regard, technology can be something very decisive in making this cooperation stronger and more equitable. Technologies, especially emerging technologies like AI, have the potential to contribute immensely to different sectors and drive inclusive growth and development. Interestingly, it is important to recognise that AI is the new frontier in the global technology landscape, where every country and group is vying to establish a stronghold. AI is no longer a buzzword in international politics, as it is transforming every aspect of modern society with far-reaching implications for the future. As India and the Gulf countries seek to enhance their strategic partnership, AI can play a pivotal role in fostering greater cooperation and driving mutual prosperity. The Gulf Cooperation Council, comprising Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman, has emerged as a key economic and strategic partner for India. Beyond the robust trade and investment flows, it is evident that there is a growing convergence of interests between India and the
GCC on issues of regional security and counter-terrorism due to several geopolitical obligations. In this regard, building on the growing strategic convergence, AI can further deepen the IndiaGCC partnership.
One area where AI can significantly enhance India-GCC cooperation is in the field of supply chain management and logistics. Emerging AI-powered technologies like predictive analytics, autonomous vehicles, and robotics can optimise and streamline supply chain operations, leading to greater cost efficiencies and improved responsiveness. In the GCC region, countries like Oman are already exploring the adoption of AI in their logistics sector to drive future growth. Similarly, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have made significant strides in embracing AI across various sectors. All GCC countries have come up with their own AI strategies and action plans to transform their economies and societies.
Saudi Arabia established the Saudi Data and AI Authority in 2019 to develop and implement the nation's AI strategy, and the UAE set up the Ministry of AI in 2017 and launched the National Strategy for AI 2031 to integrate AI into various sectors. Qatar also launched the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in 2017 to integrate AI across sectors such as healthcare, education, and transportation. Similarly, Bahrain introduced guidelines in 2019 to promote responsible and ethical adoption of AI solutions across government agencies. Other countries in the GCC, such as Kuwait, partnered with Microsoft in 2019 to upskill government officials in leveraging AI and digital technologies, while Oman collaborated on AI projects for a Smart City Platform in 2020 to enhance traffic management, water efficiency, and waste management.
It is also important to note that India, on the other hand, has made significant strides in establishing itself as a global AI powerhouse. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, India has outlined an ambitious National AI Strategy, which aims to leverage India's robust IT infrastructure and
talented pool of engineers to position the country as a global leader in AI innovation. This signifies that India has tremendous potential to cooperate with GCC countries and help them accelerate their AI adoption and application. Therefore, both India and the GCC countries can work together to harness the power of AI to address shared socioeconomic challenges and unlock new areas of growth. India can share its expertise in developing costeffective AI solutions tailored to local needs, while the GCC can leverage its financial resources and infrastructure to scale up AI projects. Gulf countries have the financial resources and the willingness to invest heavily in advanced technologies to diversify their economies away from hydrocarbon dependence. By leveraging complementary strengths, India and the GCC can create a powerful AI alliance that drives innovation, solves regional challenges, and positions both as global leaders in the AI revolution. The recently adopted India-GCC Joint Action Plan 2024-2028 provides a framework to deepen cooperation in AI and other emerging technologies. India’s foreign minister, S. Jaishankar, in his speech during the ministerial meeting, said that “the demands of AI, of electric mobility, and of green growth highlight the importance of sharing human resources.” In this regard, collaborative projects can lead to innovative AI solutions tailored to the specific needs of both regions, particularly in sectors like healthcare, smart cities, and agriculture. For instance, India’s expertise in software development and data analytics can complement the GCC's focus on infrastructure and urban planning. GCC countries can invest in Indian startups and research initiatives, fostering a vibrant ecosystem for AI innovation. This investment can create jobs in both regions, particularly in the technology and research sectors.
At the same time, as AI becomes more pervasive, it is crucial that India and the GCC countries address the associated risks and challenges. According to a survey conducted by a think tank named Oliver Wyman
Forum, while the GCC region demonstrates leadership in the adoption of generative AI, with 74 per cent of workers in the UAE and 68 per cent in Saudi Arabia utilising it weekly, there are several challenges that require attention. Notably, 61 per cent of UAE workers and 57 per cent in Saudi Arabia reported that their companies provide inadequate training on the safe and responsible use of AI tools. Furthermore, 92 per cent of UAE workers have inadvertently exposed company data through the use of generative AI applications. Additionally, 82 per cent of UAE workers harbour concerns that the proliferation of AI may ultimately lead to the obsolescence of their current roles.
India, on the other hand, faces its own unique set of challenges in AI development and deployment. These include inadequate infrastructure, lack of public funding, information asymmetries, and the absence of clear regulatory frameworks. Therefore, by pooling resources and knowledge, both regions can speed up the development of new AI applications, enhancing competitiveness in the global market as generative AI technologies can be utilised to innovate faster in product development cycles. Furthermore, AI can enhance cross-border cooperation in critical areas such as cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and disaster management. Robust AI-powered systems can analyse real-time data, detect threats, and coordinate response mechanisms across borders, strengthening regional security and resilience. Thus, knowledge sharing on AI regulation, data privacy, and cybersecurity best practices can help both regions develop robust AI ecosystems.
However, according to different experts on AI technology, the unregulated deployment of AI technologies also raises ethical questions, particularly concerning bias, accountability, and transparency. Thus, both regions must work together to establish ethical guidelines that govern the use of AI. The potential societal implications of AI, such as job displacement and inequality, need to be addressed collaboratively
to ensure that the benefits of AI are distributed equitably across both regions. By collaborating on establishing ethical guidelines for AI development and deployment and ensuring that both regions prioritise transparency, accountability, and fairness in their AI initiatives, India and the GCC can position themselves as responsible global leaders in the AI landscape. In order to address the challenges associated with AI adoption, companies in GCC countries and India should follow these methods: provide clear guidelines and highquality training to safeguard sensitive data; address worker concerns about AI's impact on employment through transparent communication and retraining initiatives; and implement a robust change management programme to make AI adoption a shared goal among the workforce.
Thus, in conclusion, it would be important to acknowledge that the strategic partnership between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries presents a unique opportunity to accelerate the adoption and application of artificial intelligence for mutual benefit. By combining India's technological expertise with the GCC's financial resources and infrastructure, the two regions can drive innovation, address shared challenges, and strengthen regional security and resilience. However, it is crucial that both regions work together to mitigate the risks and ethical concerns associated with AI, ensuring that the development and deployment of these technologies are guided by principles of transparency, accountability, and social responsibility. Thus, through a collaborative approach, India and the GCC can harness the transformative power of AI to enhance cooperation and secure a prosperous and sustainable future for both regions.
(Sudhanshu Kumar is a tech analyst and a doctoral candidate at the Centre for Russian and Central Asian Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University.)
(Rashi Randev is a geopolitical analyst and a doctoral candidate at the Centre of Canadian, US and Latin American Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University.)
FairPoint: Where’s Kejriwal as Atishi struggles on Delhi roads
New Delhi, March 2 (IANS)
Sometimes, it is useful to stay home and reflect on situations to find solutions to issues. Perhaps this is what AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal appears to be doing. It's been days since he was last seen or heard. He has largely remained absent from public view after his party's crushing defeat in the Delhi Assembly elections.
Kejriwal, who lost to BJP's Parvesh Verma in the New Delhi Assembly seat, was last seen on February 23 at AAP's legislative party meeting, where Atishi was named the Leader of Opposition in the House. He has also not posted much politically significant on his social media handles, including the X. Interestingly, he has neither
reacted nor posted on the happenings of the Delhi Assembly, where his lieutenant Atishi, the former Delhi CM, seems to be waging a lone leader's fight. He has not said a word over the suspension of 21 AAP MLAs from the Delhi Assembly.
The only significant post made by Kejriwal was on the photo controversy, which Atishi tried to
rake and make into a big issue.
Reposting Atishi's post on X on February 24, Kejriwal wrote in Hindi (loosely translated): "The new BJP government of Delhi removed Baba Saheb's photo and put up the photo of Prime Minister Modi. This is not right. This has hurt millions of followers of Babasaheb...I have a request for the BJP. You can put the photo of the Prime Minister but do not
remove the photo of Baba Saheb. Let his photo remain there."
AAP's efforts to make it a big issue have come to a cropper as the photo matter has not created any support for AAP. Atishi has been trying badly to hit the road on the issue, but, except for her 20 co-MLAS, not a single extra AAP worker or leader can be seen joining her protest in the streets.
WAVES to connect Indian creators, technologists with global talent: Centre
New Delhi, March 9 (IANS) The upcoming World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) will serve as a major platform to connect Indian creators and technologists with global industry leaders, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B) said on Sunday.
The first edition of WAVES is set to take place from May 1 to May 4 in Mumbai.
According to the government, WAVES will bring together professionals from the media and entertainment (M&E) industry to showcase India’s talent and potential.
The event will focus on four key areas -- broadcasting & infotainment, AVGC-XR (animation, visual effects, gaming, comics, and extended reality), digital media & innovation, and films.
It aims to create new opportunities for collaboration between Indian and international industry players.
One of the major highlights of WAVES is the animation filmmakers competition, launched in partnership with Dancing Atoms, a leading animation company.
This initiative is designed to discover and promote India’s best storytelling talent in the field of animation.
The competition is open to students, amateurs, and professionals. Participants were required to submit a logline, a two-page summary of their film concept, and a poster.
Selected participants will undergo mentorship sessions and masterclasses conducted by industry experts.
The final winners will be announced in April 2025, with prizes and global exposure awaiting the best entries.
While films can be in any language, the submission forms have to be completed in English to accommodate an international panel of jurors.
Annpurna Devi to showcase India’s women empowerment initiatives at UN event
New Delhi, March 9 (IANS) A government delegation, led by Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annpurna Devi, is set to participate in the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW), which is starting from March 10 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, it was announced on Sunday.
The minister is slated to deliver the national statement at the Commission, and participate
in the Ministerial Roundtable, wherein the transformative initiatives of the government under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for the holistic development and empowerment of all women and girls, will be highlighted.
These will include initiatives for health and wellbeing, education and entrepreneurship, digital and financial inclusion, promoting women’s leadership and decisionmaking and reducing drudgery through a slew of initiatives.
During the visit, the Union Minister will also have an interactive session with the Indian diaspora in the context of International Women’s Day.
The minister will also participate in the discussions on various issues on empowerment of women and girls, including commitment to resourcing and accelerating the implementation
of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, said the ministry.
CSW is the principal global intergovernmental body exclusively dedicated to the promotion of gender equality, the rights and the empowerment of women.
A functional commission of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the forthcoming session of the Commission will be held from March 10-21.
This year’s session is momentous, as the year 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the landmark global guiding instrument on empowerment of women and girls, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, adopted at the Fourth World Conference on Women in 1995.
Time to bring a billion Indians into AIdriven digital economy: Nandan Nilekani
New Delhi, March 13 (IANS)
There is an urgent need to build artificial intelligence (AI) solutions suited for India’s language diversity, to bring a billion Indians into the AI-driven digital economy, Infosys cofounder and Aadhaar architect, Nandan Nilekani, has said.
Open-source AI models, such as AI4Bharat, are working to create Indian language datasets that
can power AI-driven services in agriculture, education, and healthcare, he said during an event by Arkam Ventures.
The government is planning an initiative called the ‘Open Agri Network’, which will use AI to deliver real-time agricultural insights to farmers.
According to him, another major shift will come from affordable smartphone access.
"This is a big unlock where we use technology, DPI, and AI to reach a billion Indians," Nilekani told the gathering.
Nilekani also spoke about the return of Indian startups to domestic markets. "It’s the perfect setup for more IPOs and rapid
IndiGo ranked world’s 2nd fastest growing airline in seat capacity
New Delhi, March 7 (IANS)
IndiGo Airlines has emerged as the world's second fastestgrowing airline in terms of seat capacity, which increased by 10.1 per cent year-on-year to over 134.9 million seats in 2024.
India's largest airline has been ranked next only to Qatar Airways, which clocked a 10.4 per cent growth in seat capacity over the previous year, according to the latest data from the Official Airline Guide (OAG).
IndiGo has also been ranked as the fastest-growing airline in the world in terms of flight frequency growth at 9.7 per cent year-onyear in 2024. The airline recorded a flight frequency of 749,156 for the year, the figures show.
OAG has also recorded that IndiGo holds one of the world's largest aircraft orders, with over 900 aircraft on order and has the largest recipient of 58 new Airbus aircraft during 2024. However, it also states that the airline does have a large proportion (approximately 80 aircraft) inactive with MRO-related supply chain issues.
While 88 per cent of IndiGo's
capacity is allocated to domestic markets, international growth is a key part of the airline's strategy with expansion during 2024 focused on regional Middle East markets and Thailand.
Longer-term ambition for IndiGo includes the development of long-haul low-cost services - the airline is considering bringing forward launch plans with wet lease aircraft identified for 2025.
IndiGo reported a net profit of Rs 2,449 crore in the Oct-Dec quarter of the current financial year ending on March 31, 2025. This represented an 18 per cent decline over the corresponding figure for the previous financial year. However, the airline's revenue from operations increased 14 per cent to Rs 22,111 crore during the quarter.
IndiGo's total income for the quarter was Rs 22,992.8 crore, which was a 14.6 per cent increase from the same period in the previous year.
The airline's total expenses for the quarter were Rs 20,465.7 crore, a 19.9 per cent increase from the previous year.
The airline's Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation (EBITDA) rose 0.7 per cent year-on-year to Rs 5,178.6 crore.
IndiGo's load factor for the quarter stood at 86.9 per cent, which was higher than 85.8 per cent in the same period in the previous year.
Tata Motors forays into Sri Lanka with all-new vehicle portfolio
New Delhi, March 13 (IANS)
expansion," he noted.
On the growing Indian startup ecosystem, he said that successful founders are reinvesting in the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Nilekani said that while the Indian economy grows at 8 per cent, the number of startups would grow by a 20 per cent compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) and reach the 1-million mark in the next decade.
Additionally, he highlighted the need to enable 10 million MSMEs with better access to technology, markets, and credit.
India’s rapid technological leap over the past decade was enabled by digital public infrastructure (DPI) such as Aadhaar and UPI.
Expanding its global footprint, Tata Motors on Thursday announced the launch of its all-new passenger and electric vehicle (EV) portfolio in Sri Lanka.
India’s leading automobile manufacturer, along with its partner DIMO launched the new range of passenger vehicles and EVs in the neighbouring country.
The launch event saw introduction of Tata Motors’ widely successful range of SUVs –the Tata Punch, Tata Nexon, and the Tata Curvv.
In addition to this, Tata Motors has also launched its popular electric hatchback, the Tiago.ev.
"We are excited to be here in Sri Lanka, marking a new chapter in our international business strategy. Tata Motors
has undergone significant transformation over the years, and there is no better way to mark our return than with a new, game-changing product portfolio,” said Yash Khandelwal, Head International Business, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility.
“Our offerings are designed to not only captivate the Sri Lankan market but to set new standards — combining bold design, cutting-edge features, top-tier safety, and unmatched after-sales support,” he added.
Tiago.ev has already made waves in India, Nepal, and Bhutan by making electric mobility both accessible and aspirational.
According to Rajeev Pandithage, Executive Director of DIMO, they are thrilled to continue their partnership with Tata Motors as they become the first passenger vehicle brand to enter Sri Lanka post market reopening.
“The brand-new ICE and Electric Vehicle range sets new standards in the automobile sector, embodying innovation, safety, and sustainability at a very affordable price point,” he mentioned.
Bridging Continents: 1,400 Australians and New Zealanders celebrate the wisdom of the world’s oldest language
In a powerful display of dedication, 1,400 people from across Australia and New Zealand have memorised 315 Sanskrit verses in a bid to preserve and promote the ancient language and its profound wisdom.
Manav Patel said, Sanskrit is not only one of the oldest languages in the world but has strongly influenced many modern languages, including English. “Its impact can still be seen in words we use every day, like ‘karma’, ‘yoga’ and ‘guru,” Mr Patel said. “These words and many others, have become a part of the English language and demonstrate how Sanskrit continues to impact modern speech.”
Sanskrit is also the language of the world’s oldest known texts, the Vedas. These ancient scriptures, which date back thousands of years, are foundational to many aspects of philosophy, spirituality, and culture, not only in India but also
around the world.
By memorising and reciting 315 verses from Satsang Diksha—a Sanskrit scripture authored by His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, a revered Hindu spiritual leader—these 1,500 individuals continue the rich tradition and language of Sanskrit while embracing teachings on moral living, discipline, devotion, and community service.
These values reflect the core principles of Australian society.
The participants’ efforts not only ensure the Sanskrit language thrives far from its origins in India but also help shape them into better citizens committed to their community's well-being.
"Watching people of all ages come together to preserve such an important part of our cultural heritage has been truly inspiring," said Mr Patel. "It’s more than just learning a language—it's about staying connected to something
bigger than ourselves."
On 1 March 2025, thousands of people from across Australia and New Zealand gathered in Melbourne for the “Day of Divine Wisdom” event to celebrate this remarkable achievement. The event was part of Mahant Swami Maharaj’s ongoing visit of Australia, which began on 12 February 2025.
His six-week visit, themed “Celebrate Peace”, aims to unite Hindus and people from other cultural communities through spiritual, cultural, and social activities—all with the goal of spreading joy and fostering peace. "Sanskrit is not just a language – it carries wisdom and values,” Mr Patel said. “By preserving it, we ensure its wisdom is passed on for generations.”
The “Day of Divine Wisdom” event highlighted the importance of passing on knowledge across generations, with families coming
together to study and share in this achievement. It was a powerful reminder of how preserving ancient languages and traditions can strengthen cultures and unite communities, reflecting Australia’s rich multicultural fabric.
Mahant Swami Maharaj is the sixth spiritual leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and the embodiment of Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s teachings. As the Guru to millions of devotees around the world, he is deeply respected for his wisdom, humility, and compassion.
At 92, his visit to Australia is eagerly anticipated by the community. His visit will include historic festival celebrations and consecration ceremonies for new religious spaces that will support and guide Australia’s growing Hindu diaspora.
BAPS Australia BAPS, which stands for Bochasanwasi
Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (also known as BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha), is a global Hindu organisation rooted in the Vedas, the ancient scriptures of Hinduism. It is a spiritual, volunteer-driven organisation dedicated to promoting personal growth and improving society through the Hindu values of faith, unity, and selfless service.
Established in 1984, BAPS Australia now has mandirs in all major cities and more than 50 assembly centres across both metropolitan and regional Australia. BAPS Australia works closely with BAPS Charities, a registered charity with the Australian Charities and NotforProfits Commission (ACNC), to support individuals, families, and communities in need. The charity offers benevolent relief through various programs, including food donation drives and fundraising for healthcare initiatives.
First National Indian Film Festival Of Australia 2025 wraps up Announces winners, encore screenings and regional expansion
Sydney, 6 March – The National Indian Film Festival of Australia (NIFFA) has wrapped up its inaugural staging, creating history as the first and only annual national celebration of Indian cinema in Australia. From February 13 to March 2, 2025, the festival was an unprecedented seven-city tour across Sydney, Canberra, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and Melbourne.
NIFFA concluded with a seventh red-carpet gala in Melbourne and the closing night screening of the Indian psychological drama Roam Rome Mein at Perth’s Murdoch University. However, as it winds down, the festival has extended its celebrations with encore screenings of select films at Dendy Cinemas over the coming weeks and the launch of NIFFA Regional, bringing Indian cinema to regional Australia annually for the first time.
“As the curtain falls on the inaugural National Indian Film Festival, we celebrate the incredible storytelling, creativity, and passion of Indian films that have graced our screens for the past couple of weeks.
Congratulations to all our winners and nominees—your work has inspired and captivated us. For those who want to relive the magic, don’t miss our upcoming encore screenings. Thank you to our Festival Directors, filmmakers, audiences, and partners for making this festival unforgettable. We look forward to seeing you again next year for another extraordinary celebration of Indian cinema,” said Sharon Strickland, CEO of Dendy Cinemas.
NIFFA’s all-woman Nomination Council, along with Festival Directors Anupam Sharma and Peter Castaldi announced the winner of NIFFA, with the Best Feature Film awarded to Superboys of Malegaon. The film’s director, Reema Kagti, expressed gratitude, stating “I would like to thank the National Indian Film Festival of Australia for choosing Superboys of Malegaon as the Best Film and for showcasing it in cities across Australia, helping the film reach a wider audience. We are glad that festival audiences resonated with this story of dream and determination.”
Throughout the festival, NIFFA was embraced by film institutions and audiences beyond the Indian diaspora, with partnerships and screenings at Perth’s Murdoch University, Mercury Cinemas in Adelaide, The Backlot Studios in Melbourne and Perth, along with national partners Dendy Cinemas and Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) supporting the national event. In addition, the festival received support from NFDC India along with the Indian Consulates of Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and the Indian High Commission in Canberra, with dignitaries inaugurating NIFFA in their respective cities. The Adelaide launch was also officially inaugurated by Minister for Trade & Investment, Joe Szakacs, who was representing the Minister for Arts Andrea Michaels.
Reflecting on the festival’s impact, Sarah Lancaster, General Manager of Mercury Cinemas Adelaide and screening sponsor of NIFFA in Adelaide, said: “The Mercury was pleased to be the exclusive Adelaide host for the first-ever National Indian Film Festival of Australia, with an
exciting red-carpet gala and a dynamic selection of films. This celebration of the extraordinary world of Indian cinema has a bright future as an annual event."
David Scholefield, Engagement Partner, Murdoch University, echoed the statement by adding. "The richness of storytelling, the beauty of the locations, and the narratives within this year's films were simply exceptional. Through the School of Media and Communication, in partnership with the Indo-Pacific Research Centre, we reiterate our commitment to bringing the immense power of Indian film to audiences in Western Australia. Supporting our university community and the wider communities of WA, including the vital and growing network of Indian diaspora, to access the breadth and depth of films in this year's NIFFA collection is a great privilege. We look forward to productive, ongoing conversations to support NIFFA 2026.”
NIFFA’s Founder and Festival Director, Anupam Sharma, reflected on the festival’s success
and the road ahead: "We are so happy that a festival which aims to promote Australian India film links through celebration of Australian stories has got two Australian winners who made their films between Australia and India. As we structure some more pioneering initiatives for next year, we cannot wait to take the amazing Indian films to regional Australia, again something that has never been done before."
NIFFA Co-Director, Peter Castaldi, added: “There was a huge demand across Australia for a new and inclusive celebration of global Indian cinema. We are overwhelmed by the extraordinary support for the very first edition of NIFFA. As with our selection panel and all of the team, everyone was delighted with the range and quality of our inaugural program; the reception in every city is testament to that. Now we have a bright and exciting future to look forward to and we hope that our audiences will grow and become ever more delighted by the sheer creative force of this international cinema powerhouse.”
Violin & tabla mesmerize Melbourne at Hindustani Music Festival
Melbourne, March 10 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Melbourne International Festival of Hindustani Classical Music featured a spellbinding performance by violinist Ragini Shankar, accompanied by Pt Ramdas Palsule on tabla. The festival was organized by the Melbourne Hindustani Classical Music Society, recently with support from the Consulate General of India in Melbourne and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, Sydney.
Dr. Sushil Kumar, Consul General
of India in Melbourne, attended the concert along with other esteemed guests. The festival, held on March 8-9, brought together multiple performances that showcased India’s rich classical music tradition, captivating Melbourne’s diverse audience.
The synergy between the violin and tabla was truly enchanting.
Ragini Shankar’s melodic violin notes, full of depth and expression, blended seamlessly with Pt Ramdas Palsule’s rhythmic tabla beats, creating
an immersive and soul-stirring experience. The performance highlighted the timeless beauty of Hindustani classical music and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries.
High Commission celebrates Holi with Cowra youth ambassadors
Canberra, March 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Indian High Commission recently hosted a vibrant event in Canberra, welcoming 17 youth ambassadors from Cowra for a lively celebration of Holi, the festival of colours. The event was attended by key figures from the Cowra Council, including the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, GM, and a Councillor, who joined in the
festivities and engaged with the young ambassadors.
During the celebration, the youngsters immersed themselves in the rich traditions of Holi, enjoying the playful atmosphere filled with colourful powders, music, and dance. The occasion provided an excellent platform for cultural exchange, reinforcing the deep connections between the Indian community and local
leaders in Cowra.
The Indian High Commission's initiative not only highlighted the joy and unity that Holi brings but also emphasized the importance of engaging youth in celebrating and preserving cultural heritage. The participation of Cowra Council officials further underscored the commitment to fostering community bonds and promoting multicultural understanding across Australia.
Melbourne marks International Women’s Day with meditation session
Melbourne, March 11 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
A special session on Meditation, Mental Health, and Wellness was organized in Melbourne, recently to celebrate International Women’s Day. The event was organized by Consulate General of India, Melbourne, in association with Sanjha Club and Club 60 Tarneit, a community group for senior migrants, and focused on promoting mindfulness and emotional wellbeing.
The session featured Sister BK
Rupa from Brahma Kumaris Australia, who spoke about the significance of mental wellbeing and mindfulness in daily life. She emphasized how inner peace can be achieved through self-awareness and guided the participants in a meditation session, helping them experience calmness and clarity.
Celebrating International Women’s Day with meditation highlights the importance of mental and emotional self-care for women. In today’s fast-paced world, women often juggle
roles, leading to stress and exhaustion. Meditation serves as a powerful tool to reduce
stress, improve focus, and foster emotional balance. Events like these provide a much-needed
and strengthen their inner resilience.
multiple
space for women to reflect, recharge,
Consulate honours trailblazing women on International Women’s Day
Melbourne, March 8 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India, Melbourne, hosted an inspiring evening to celebrate International Women’s Day, recognizing the achievements of women who have broken barriers in their respective fields. Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar welcomed distinguished guests, including mountaineer Poorna Malavath, Indian Australian cricketer Hasrat Gill, and filmmaker Mitu Bhowmik Lange, all of whom have made remarkable contributions to their professions.
Poorna Malavath, the youngest
girl to scale Mount Everest at just 13, has become a symbol of resilience and determination, proving that age and background are no barriers to achieving great heights. Her journey continues to inspire young adventurers, especially girls from underprivileged communities.
Hasrat Gill, a rising talent in Australian cricket, represents the growing influence of Indianorigin athletes in international sports. Her dedication to the game is paving the way for greater representation of women in cricket, encouraging young players to follow their dreams.
Mitu Bhowmik Lange, the founder of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), has played a crucial role in promoting Indian cinema in Australia. Through her work as a filmmaker and curator, she has created a platform for diverse storytelling, fostering cultural connections between India and Australia.
The evening was a celebration of these trailblazing women, whose achievements continue to inspire future generations, reinforcing the importance of perseverance, representation, and breaking societal barriers.
Indian envoys offer prayers at Sri Durga Temple on Maha Shivratri
Melbourne, February 26
(Australia India News Newsdesk)
High Commissioner Gopal Baglay and Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar recently visited Sri Durga Temple in Melbourne to offer prayers on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri. They also took the opportunity to interact with devotees and members of the temple management committee, marking the significance of the festival
within the Indian community in Australia.
Maha Shivratri, one of the most revered Hindu festivals, is celebrated in honour of Lord Shiva, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness. Observed with fasting, prayers, and nightlong vigils, the festival signifies spiritual awakening, selfdiscipline, and devotion. Many believe it to be the divine wedding night of Lord Shiva and Goddess
Parvati, while others see it as the night when Shiva performed the cosmic dance of creation and destruction.
The visit by Indian envoys to the temple reflected the deeprooted cultural traditions of the Indian diaspora in Australia and highlighted the importance of community gatherings in preserving heritage and faith abroad.
Firstsource opens ANZ headquarters in Melbourne
Melbourne, March 5 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Firstsource Solutions Limited, a leading provider of Business Process Management (BPM) solutions, has officially opened its Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) headquarters in Melbourne. The
inauguration event was attended by Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan MP, Consul General of India
Dr. Sushil Kumar, Firstsource MD & CEO Ritesh Idnani, along with Vivek Sharma, Gagan Vohra (Country Head ANZ), business leaders, officials, and
distinguished guests.
The new Firstsource ANZ Headquarters and AI Innovation Lab marks a significant step in strengthening India-Victoria economic relations. With Melbourne emerging as a hub for Indian IT and services companies,
this expansion is set to create new job opportunities and drive research in AI, engineering, robotics, and digital innovation through industry and institutional collaborations.
The establishment of Firstsource’s regional headquarters further highlights Melbourne’s growing role in global technology and business services, reinforcing its position as a preferred destination for Indian companies expanding into Australia.
CG hosts networking reception to strengthen Australia-India ties
Melbourne, February 28
(Australia India News Newsdesk)
Consul General (CG) Dr. Sushil Kumar recently hosted a networking dinner reception in honour of Tim Watts, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs. The event brought together key members of the Indian diaspora, including Pradeep Tiwari, Mayor of Maribyrnong, and Roshena Campbell, Deputy Lord Mayor of
Melbourne, alongside government officials and distinguished guests from various fields.
The evening served as a platform for meaningful discussions on strengthening the ever-growing Australia-India relationship.
With representatives from business, politics, and the community, the event highlighted the contributions of the Indian diaspora and explored avenues
for enhanced collaboration in trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. Dr. Kumar emphasized the deepening ties between India and Australia, noting the importance of regular engagement between leaders and community representatives. The networking reception reaffirmed the commitment to fostering strong bilateral relations and expanding partnerships across multiple sectors.
Australia-India Friendship Lunch in Ballarat strengthens bilateral ties
Melbourne, February 28
(Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia-India Friendship Lunch was recently held in Ballarat, bringing together dignitaries and community leaders to celebrate and strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations. Consul General
Dr. Sushil Kumar attended the event alongside Councillors Samantha McIntosh and Ted Lapkin, as well as prominent members of the Indian and Australian communities from various fields.
The gathering provided a platform for networking and
discussions focused on deepening Australia-India collaboration in business, culture, education, and tourism. During his visit, Dr. Sushil Kumar toured the historic Ballarat Town Hall and visited Federation University, where he interacted with faculty members, researchers, and students. He explored the EV Lab
and Australia’s first wind turbine training tower, highlighting the university’s growing partnerships with Indian institutions.
The Consul General also met with Indian diaspora business owners in Ballarat, acknowledging their contributions to the local economy. Concluding his visit,
he participated in a special screening of the Indian film ‘CHHAAVA’, organized by the Consulate in association with the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM), celebrating multicultural engagement in the region.
Federation University expands Melbourne presence
Melbourne, February 21
(Australia India News Newsdesk)
Education continues to be a key pillar in the growing VictoriaIndia relationship, with increasing collaborations in higher learning and skill development. Marking
another milestone in this partnership, Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar recently attended the opening ceremony of Federation University’s Melbourne City Campus at the invitation of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Duncan Bentley.
During the event, Dr. Kumar emphasized the deepening educational and research collaborations between Australia and India, highlighting how institutions like Federation University are playing a vital role in fostering global knowledge exchange and workforce development.
The new campus is expected to enhance opportunities for Indian and Australian students, offering programs that align with the evolving demands of technology, business, and innovation sectors. The initiative reinforces Victoria’s position as a leading hub for international education while further strengthening ties between Australian and Indian academic institutions.
Maha Kumbh 2025 event showcases India’s spiritual legacy
Sydney, February 25 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India, Sydney, in collaboration with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in Australia and Hindu Council Australia, hosted a special event titled ‘Sacred Waters: Spirit & Scale of Maha Kumbh 2025’ on February 24, 2025.
Dignitaries at the event shared their insights on the cultural and spiritual significance of Maha Kumbh, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. They emphasized how the Kumbh Mela represents India’s
deep-rooted spiritual heritage, attracting millions of pilgrims seeking divine blessings and selfpurification at the sacred rivers.
The event also highlighted Uttar Pradesh as a key cultural and tourism destination, showcasing its rich heritage sites, the revered ghats of Varanasi, and the spiritual confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj. The discussion reinforced the state’s role as a hub for spiritual tourism and cultural exploration, inviting global travelers to experience its timeless traditions.
AIBC celebrates women’s leadership and innovation on International Women’s Day
Brisbane, March 10 (Australia
India News Newsdesk)
The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) recently marked International Women’s Day by recognizing the significant contributions of women in business, leadership, and community development across Australia and India.
Women play a crucial role in shaping industries, driving innovation, and fostering economic growth. AIBC, a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization, reaffirmed
its commitment to creating opportunities for women to excel, with strong support from members, sponsors, and male allies advocating for gender equality in leadership.
“Progress is not achieved in isolation; it is a collective effort.
When women are empowered, businesses flourish, and communities grow stronger,”
said Amritha Zachariah, AIBC’s National Vice Chair. She emphasized the importance of recognizing both women’s achievements and the role of men
as allies in breaking barriers to gender equity.
Through partnerships, mentorship programs, and diversity-driven initiatives, AIBC continues to champion inclusivity in industries across Australia and India. The organization acknowledged the efforts of individuals who challenge the status quo and work toward a more equitable future, reinforcing its commitment to supporting women in leadership and beyond.
Brisbane’s Indian community steps up to aid cyclone Alfred victims
Brisbane, March 10 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In response to the devastation caused by Cyclone Alfred, Brisbane’s Indian community has come together to support those affected, providing essential aid and assistance to displaced residents.
Indian associations and cultural groups quickly mobilized, organizing relief efforts that included the distribution of food, clothing, and temporary shelter. Volunteers dedicated their time to preparing meals and ensuring that those in need had access to basic necessities. The community also partnered with organizations such as GIVIT, a national nonprofit facilitating disaster relief efforts. This collaboration
enabled donations of funds and critical supplies, with a focus on providing food, clothing, and fuel to families struggling in the aftermath of the storm (GIVIT).
Alongside relief distribution, Indian community members actively participated in cleanup operations across Brisbane, helping to clear debris and assist in property restoration.
Volunteers joined broader recovery initiatives, contributing to efforts that have been essential in restoring public spaces and supporting affected households.
Business owners within the Indian community extended their support by offering employment opportunities, sharing resources, and providing financial assistance to those facing economic
Brisbane, March 4 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) took part in the recent celebrations of International Mother Language Day and Harmony Day at Robelle Domain, Springfield Lakes.
Representing FICQ at the event was its treasurer, Parul Mehta, who attended on behalf of the organization.
The event was hosted by
hardships due to the cyclone’s impact. Their contributions have played a role in helping businesses rebuild and recover. The collective response from Brisbane’s Indian community highlights the resilience and unity that emerge in times of crisis. Their proactive involvement has not only provided material aid but has also offered emotional and moral support to those facing the challenges of rebuilding their lives. As Queensland moves forward with recovery efforts, the contributions of community groups and volunteers continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many.
Meanwhile, the Consulate General of India in Brisbane expressed deep appreciation for
the generosity and humanitarian spirit displayed by the community.
Special recognition was given to Pankaj Agarwal, Abhishek Sharma (Bhartiya Samaj), Sunita Avadhani, Krishna Avadhani, Mannu Kala, Surendra Prasad, Seema Chauhan, Prerna Pahwa, the Gujarati Association of Queensland Inc., Baburaj Puthan Veettil, Rajesh Gupta, Moreshwar Rabade, Subash Chetry, Ankit Taneja, and many others who contributed to the relief efforts.
Their collective efforts have made a meaningful impact on the lives of those struggling to recover from the floods, reinforcing the strong bonds of community and compassion shared by Indians in Australia.
the Bangladesh Association in Brisbane Inc. (BAB) in collaboration with the Brisbane Bangla School. It was a vibrant gathering that highlighted the rich linguistic and cultural diversity of the region. Dignitaries such as Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding and Senator Paul Scarr were also in attendance.
The celebration featured a colorful parade, a wreathlaying ceremony, traditional performances of songs and
dances, and an array of delicious food, fostering an atmosphere of unity and mutual respect. The event emphasized the significance of preserving linguistic heritage and embracing multiculturalism, reinforcing the message that every language holds a unique value in shaping society.
The participation of FICQ in this gathering reflects the Indian community’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and cultural harmony in Queensland.
FICQ represents Indian community at International Mother Language & Harmony Day
Perth bids farewell to Consul General with grand reception
Perth, February 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Indian Consul General in Perth and Smt. Takhi were given a warm farewell at a reception hosted in their honour, where they expressed their gratitude for the unwavering support of the Western Australia (WA) community during their tenure. The event saw participation from Indian diaspora members, government representatives, business leaders, medical professionals, academicians, and students. Distinguished guests, including Dr. Jags MLA, Yaz Mubarakai MLA, Sally Dawkins, Director, WA State Office, DFAT,
Mayor Patrick Hall, City of Canning, and Deputy Lord Mayor Cr. Bruce Reynolds, City of Perth, praised the Consul General’s contributions to strengthening India-WA relations.
The reception also saw the presence of Mayor Tanya Richardson, City of Swan, former Australian cricketer Michael Villetta, actress Isha Sherwani, filmmaker Ghirija Jayarraj, former AIMA president Dr. Purushattam Gera, ISWA president Deepak Sharma, and FIAWA president Eipe Chundamannil. Several Indian-origin Councillors, including Cr. Raj Doshi, Cr. Hardeep Singh, Cr. Keyur
Kamdar, and Cr. Balli Singh, also joined the gathering.
Representatives from the Sikh Association of WA, Murdoch University’s Prof. Rajeev Varshney, CEO of Shire of Dowerin Manisha Barthakur Sarma, and leaders of cultural and community associations honoured the Consul General and Smt. Takhi with felicitations and mementos, recognizing their dedicated service. The event reflected the deep bond between India and Western Australia and the legacy of goodwill fostered by the departing Consul General.
Scientific temper: A shield against misinformation during cyclone Alfred
Brisbane, March 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
As cyclone Alfred wreaks havoc across Queensland, a secondary crisis has emerged: the rapid spread of conspiracy theories on social media. From claims that the cyclone was artificially created to suggestions that government agencies are manipulating weather patterns, misinformation has clouded public understanding of natural disasters. However, experts stress that a strong scientific temper—rooted in education, public awareness, and factual communication—can help communities navigate such crises effectively.
The rise of misinformation
In the digital age, misinformation spreads faster than ever, and natural disasters provide fertile ground for baseless theories.
Following Cyclone Alfred, some social media users falsely claimed that the storm was engineered through cloud seeding or HAARP technology. These assertions, amplified by influencers seeking engagement, mislead the public and divert attention from genuine disaster preparedness measures.
Reports from SBS News and AAP FactCheck have debunked these theories, emphasizing that cyclones are well-documented meteorological phenomena driven by natural atmospheric conditions. Experts at the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) reiterated that no scientific evidence supports claims of artificial weather manipulation.
The role of scientific temper in crisis response
A society that values science and critical thinking is less susceptible
to misinformation. Education plays a crucial role in fostering scientific temper by equipping individuals with the ability to distinguish between fact and fiction. When people understand meteorology and the mechanics of extreme weather events, they are less likely to believe unfounded claims.
Public awareness campaigns also serve as a defense against misinformation. Authorities and experts must proactively engage with communities, explaining the science behind cyclones and emergency response strategies. Clear, transparent communication from meteorological agencies and government bodies can build trust and ensure that people rely on verified information rather than conspiracy theories.
According to The Australian,
misinformation during disasters can delay evacuations and emergency responses, making it imperative to counter false narratives swiftly. Governments and scientific institutions must work together to improve science literacy and encourage public engagement with accurate sources.
Energex and the importance of rational thinking
The spread of misinformation has also led to misplaced frustration, with some criticizing Energex for power restoration delays. However, the reality is that Cyclone Alfred severely damaged infrastructure, bringing down hundreds of power lines.
Restoration efforts require time and must be conducted safely to prevent further hazards.
As ABC News reported, Energex
crews have been working around the clock under dangerous conditions to restore services, with priority given to critical infrastructure and high-risk areas. Uninformed criticism not only undermines these efforts but also distracts from the real challenges of rebuilding after a disaster.
Cyclone Alfred has underscored the importance of scientific temper in times of crisis. A well-informed public, supported by education and proactive communication, is better equipped to handle natural disasters without falling prey to conspiracy theories. By fostering a culture of rational thinking and scientific awareness, society can respond to crises more effectively and ensure that disaster preparedness remains rooted in facts rather than fear.
Australia-India Business Council strengthens ties at NSW industry policy event
Brisbane, March 12 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) leadership recently participated in a highprofile government and industry reception in New South Wales, engaging key stakeholders to enhance collaboration between Australia and India in critical sectors.
The event, hosted by NSW Deputy
Premier Prue Car MP on behalf of the NSW Premier, along with Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong MP, focused on strategic discussions around net zero and energy transition, housing, and local manufacturing—sectors aligned with both nations’ economic priorities.
AIBC National Chair DeepakRaj Gupta OAM and AIBC NSW
President Irfan Malik (MAICD) led the council’s delegation, emphasizing the immense potential for investment, capability-building, and trade partnerships. Key participants included Investment NSW Deputy Secretary Rebecca McPhee, Trade Executive Director Karla Lampe, DFAT NSW State Office Director Crispin Conroy AM, and India’s Consul General in Sydney, Dr.
Janakiraman Sarvesvaran. The discussions centered on strengthening regional business partnerships, utilizing international trade offices in India, and unlocking new market opportunities. Warren Kirby MP, Member for Riverstone and Co-Chair for NSW Parliamentary Friends of India, hosted AIBC leaders at NSW Parliament House, sharing insights from his recent
visit to India and identifying key growth sectors for bilateral engagement.
AIBC reaffirmed its commitment to fostering deeper business relations between Australia and India, working alongside government and industry leaders to drive investment, innovation, and trade in these priority sectors.
AIBC strengthens Australia-India business ties at Sydney Consulate meet
Brisbane, March 8 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) kicked off its leadership engagement for 2025 with a special gathering hosted by the Consul General of India in Sydney on March 6. The event served as the first AIBC NSW Member Get-Together of the year, bringing together industry leaders and business professionals committed to enhancing trade and investment ties between Australia and India.
AIBC National Chair DeepakRaj Gupta OAM outlined an ambitious vision for the year ahead, emphasizing the need for deeper collaborations across key sectors. His address focused on expanding partnerships and strengthening the role of AIBC in facilitating cross-border business opportunities.
The Consul General of India in Sydney, Dr. Janakiraman Sarvesvaran, highlighted key avenues for bilateral trade expansion, stressing the
importance of close cooperation between AIBC, the Consulate, and the broader business community.
The discussions underscored the shared commitment to fostering stronger commercial ties between the two nations.
The event reinforced AIBC’s ongoing mission to build a robust Australia-India economic partnership, providing members with valuable insights and networking opportunities for future growth.
Brisbane deploys 750 temporary waste bins to assist Cyclone Alfred cleanup
Brisbane, March 12 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Brisbane City Council has deployed more than 750 temporary waste bins across nearly 200 locations to assist residents with post-cyclone cleanup efforts following Tropical Cyclone Alfred. The initiative aims to support those who missed their regular bin collection or need to dispose of spoiled food due to prolonged power outages.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner praised the resilience of residents and emphasized the council’s commitment to restoring normalcy as quickly as possible.
“Our residents have been so resilient to the power outages and flooding, and we’re now deploying more than 750 waste bins to help them clean up quicker,” he said.
The temporary bins, similar to those used after the 2011 and 2022 floods, will be emptied regularly and remain in place as long as necessary. Additional bins may be
rolled out if needed.
Cyclone Alfred left almost 57,000 homes without power, with thousands still waiting for electricity restoration. The lack of refrigeration has resulted in significant amounts of spoiled food, creating an urgent need for waste disposal solutions.
Council has already conducted a special red-top bin collection and resumed regular waste collection services on Monday. However, some households missed collection due to blocked roads and flooding.
A special kerbside collection for flood-impacted suburbs is set to begin next Monday.
“We are approaching this disaster clean-up very methodically to ensure it can be done quickly and correctly, with a clear plan for household waste, green waste, and flood waste,” Schrinner added.
In addition to household waste disposal, Brisbane City Council is focusing on clearing green waste from roads, parks, and other public spaces. Residents are encouraged to assist neighbors with clearing fallen trees, branches, and debris from their properties.
The council’s Ute Army is also available to help residents clear green waste. Those needing assistance can contact the council call center, while volunteers willing to help can reach out to their local councillor.
To further support green waste disposal, free tipping is available at Brisbane’s Resource Recovery Centres, operating from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM at locations in Nudgee Beach, Willawong, Ferny Grove, and Chandler.
Two temporary green waste satellite sites have also been set up at Mount Coot-tha and Camp Hill, with more sites expected to open before the weekend.
“Our suburbs are where people live, work, and relax, and we are doing everything we can to get them tidied up and back to normal as soon as possible,” Schrinner said. “If we all work together in this cleanup, we will get Brisbane back up and running sooner.”
Residents can find a list of temporary waste bin locations on the Council’s website.
India invites nominations for PM Yoga Awards 2025
Sydney, March 6 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Ministry of AYUSH, India, has opened nominations for the Prime Minister’s Awards for Outstanding Contribution towards the Development and Promotion of Yoga (PM Yoga
Awards) 2025. These awards recognize individuals and organizations worldwide that have played a significant role in promoting and developing yoga. The awards are divided into two categories: International Individual – Visionary Yoga
Leaders and International Organization – Pioneering Institutions Advancing Yoga Globally. These categories aim to honor those who have made a lasting impact on the global yoga community.
Winners will receive a cash prize of ₹25 lakh, along with a trophy and a certificate, in recognition of their outstanding efforts in promoting yoga.
Nominations are open until March 31, 2025, and applications must be submitted online through the MyGov portal.
Queensland begins recovery as Cyclone Alfred leaves trail of destruction
Brisbane, March 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Queensland is gradually emerging from the devastation caused by Cyclone Alfred, which battered the state with torrential rain, strong winds, and dangerous storm surges. Recovery efforts are underway, with some beaches reopening, infrastructure repairs beginning, and authorities assessing environmental damage. Beaches reopen as clean-up efforts continue After days of closures, Greenmount, Coolangatta, and Burleigh beaches on the Gold Coast have been deemed safe and reopened to the public. Mayor Tom Tate told The CourierMail that the goal is to have 80% of beaches accessible before the Easter holidays, provided conditions remain stable. Sand replenishment operations
have already begun, with 190 truckloads of sand transported to Surfers Paradise, and more expected for Main Beach. Despite these efforts, authorities have urged residents to stay cautious. Sections of dunes remain unstable, and visitors are advised against tunneling into embankments or accessing eroded areas.
Bribie Island faces erosion and environmental concerns
On Bribie Island, the cyclone has caused severe coastal erosion, with waves carving into previously forested areas. Local business owners, such as David Granville of Caloundra Fishing World, expressed concern to The Courier-Mail that the island's diminishing landmass could leave Golden Beach more vulnerable to extreme weather in the future.
Granville also noted that offshore
fishing has become challenging due to debris and rough conditions, though the influx of clean ocean water could improve inshore fishing in the coming weeks. Residents are calling for intervention to prevent further damage, with suggestions ranging from sand replenishment to structural reinforcements along the shoreline.
Emergency response and public safety measures
Emergency services have been working around the clock to support communities affected by the cyclone. According to Queensland Police, more than 724,000 sandbags have been deployed across South East Queensland to help manage flood risks.
The storm also led to significant disruptions in public events.
As Wikipedia reported, major
sporting events such as the Australian WPGA Championship and Mooloolaba Triathlon were canceled. Additionally, AFL and NRL matches had to be rescheduled or relocated, and a Green Day concert at Cbus Super Stadium on March 5 was canceled due to safety concerns.
Looking ahead: Infrastructure and preparedness
In the wake of Cyclone Alfred, the federal government has announced a $1 billion investment in a new rail project in Western Sydney, aiming to bolster infrastructure and disaster resilience. As The Guardian noted, discussions are ongoing about improving disaster response strategies, with experts emphasizing the importance of education and preparedness.
As Queensland works to rebuild, authorities stress the need for
patience and caution. While progress is being made, the full recovery process will take time. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and follow safety guidelines as they navigate the aftermath of one of the most intense storms in recent years.
The career path that healthcare professionals are overlooking
Despite medicine being a desired career for many, Australia is facing a healthcare workforce shortage. This is particularly true when it comes to the primary health care sector. Primary health care workers are the healthcare professionals at the forefront of the community in non-hospital settings - those that people turn to first for health advice and counsel, such as GPs, nurses and allied health professionals, which includes roles such as pharmacists, physiotherapists, psychologist, occupational
therapists, podiatrists and many more.
Australia is facing a health workforce shortage. Local doctors are ageing, with many on the verge of retirement. In 2021, 15.6% of GPs were aged 65 or over. Also, the Nurse Supply and Demand Study 2024 estimates a shortfall of more than 21,000 nurses by 2035. Recognising the shortage and widespread misconceptions about careers in primary health care, practitioners in the industry are coming together to end these misunderstandings and
encourage more workers in the sector.
The common misconception that those working in primary health care require less skills or knowledge is addressed by Chinese GP Dr Dong Hua. Dr Hua says that primary health care professionals are equally skilled, inspiring, and trusted, delivering exceptional medical care and guidance: “People tend to think that GP’s just do scripts and referrals, but it's much broader than that. We are managing complex conditions utilising skills from all kinds of specialties… I want to address the patient's whole health and not [just] a piece of it.”
Although primary health care roles offer several pathways for career growth, many students believe roles are limited, and so, neglect to pursue them. In reality, there are diverse and dynamic options – from specialisations to management roles. Nepali aged care nurse, Shrijana Gautam, dedicated ten years in the sector and moved from being a registered nurse to a clinical care manager. She is now a general manager with over 180 staff. “Working in the primary health sector… has given me so many opportunities to grow my career.” she says.
Primary health care professionals also have the flexibility to work
from major cities or rural and remote areas, while building long lasting relationships with their communities. Dr Huachose to set up a clinic in the neighbourhood where he grew up. “I'm really proud of what we have achieved here. I have treated their parents, their kids, and their kid’s kids,” he says.
Some may mistakenly view primary health care as less rewarding than other healthcare professions, as it often focuses on non-urgent conditions. In truth, primary health care professionals play a vital role in the local community, building long-term relationships with patients and making a profound impact on their overall well-being. Indiaborn GP, Dr Lester Mascarenhas, has been serving the refugee community for many years which he finds exceptionally rewarding:
“For me personally, it's building trust with the patients and seeing them improve and get better with time,” he says.
A career in primary health care often offers people a clear sense of purpose. Vietnamese-born Physiotherapist, Dr Ken Nguyen, shifted from law to actuarial science, and finally found the right fit in primary health care:
“You deal with work accidents, elderly patients, children with abnormal development, and witness their progress all the way
back to full function. It's quite rewarding to see that kind of progress." he says.
For many, being part of a growing cohort of multicultural primary health care professionals gives a sense of belonging and allows them to push for better health outcomes within their communities. When Turkiyeborn clinical psychologist/ neuropsychologist Firdevs Tat first “started practising (psychology), there were two registered Turkish-spea speaking psychologists.” According to the most recent Census data, there are approximately 100 Turkishspeaking psychologists across Australia, who work to support the wider community and destigmatise mental health care. Iraq-born optometrist, Mohammed Alebrahimi, shares the same sentiment: “It's an amazing job. I recommend it to anyone who wants to help people [by] working alongside clinicians from different disciplines to provide service to the community,” he says. Alebrahimi offers services nationally and has been advocating for the primary health care sector as a hidden gem to make an impact “one person and one case at a time.”
Credit: Department of Health and Aged Care
Brisbane, March 14 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Brisbane’s River City Cultural Club hosted a spectacular Holi celebration on March 2, 2025, bringing together the Indian community and friends for a day filled with colour, music, and joy. The event, aptly named
Rang Barse, lived up to its name as attendees enthusiastically embraced the festival’s spirit of unity and happiness.
Among the distinguished guests was Pankaj Agarwal, Assistant Treasurer of the Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ), who represented the organization at the event. The celebration featured vibrant performances, traditional Holi festivities, and a lively atmosphere that left attendees in high spirits.
Event MC Jyoti Goraya kept the energy high, engaging the crowd, and ensuring the smooth flow of
Brisbane comes alive with colour at River City Cultural Club’s Holi celebration Brisbane
activities.
With people smearing each other with bright gulal (coloured powder), dancing to Bollywood beats, and sharing delicious Indian sweets, the event truly captured the essence of Holi— the festival of colours and love.
Community members expressed their appreciation for the wellorganized event, highlighting the importance of such celebrations in fostering multicultural harmony in Queensland.
The success of Rang Barse 2025 reaffirmed Brisbane’s growing enthusiasm for Indian cultural festivals, making it a day to remember for all who attended.
community clubs to receive $7,500 cleanup payments
Brisbane, March 11 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Community clubs across Brisbane impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred can now apply for $7,500 Community Clean-Up Payments to assist with recovery efforts.
The Schrinner Council has made these funds available to help clubs on Council-leased sites manage the costs of removing fallen trees, clearing debris, and repairing wind or water damage.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner emphasized the importance of supporting community clubs in their recovery.
“Our community clubs can count on us to help with the clean-up costs so they can reopen for residents as soon as possible,” he said.
Brisbane is home to more than 600 council-supported community facilities, including sporting clubs, historical
societies, men’s sheds, and craft groups. A similar cleanup assistance scheme was introduced after the 2011 and 2022 floods, providing payments to hundreds of clubs.
Not-for-profit clubs seeking financial support will need to complete a simple survey and provide photographic evidence of the damage to qualify for the payment. To further aid in the clean-up, the Council’s Ute Army is available to help clubs remove green waste. Clubs needing assistance can contact the Council call centre for support.
Schrinner highlighted the collective effort needed to restore community hubs. “With assistance from our Community Clean-Up Payments plus support from the Ute Army, it will be a team effort to repair our clubs,” he said. Brisbane City Council encourages affected clubs to
apply as soon as possible so they can resume operations quickly.
“Our clubs create more to see and do in our suburbs, and this funding will help them repair, rebuild, and reopen as soon as possible,” Schrinner added.
Cyclone Alfred
Cyclone Alfred
Brisbane, March 13 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
As Queensland recovers from the devastation caused by Cyclone Alfred, rescue and health workers have been widely praised for their tireless efforts in protecting lives and supporting affected communities. Their rapid response and coordination helped mitigate the disaster’s impact, ensuring timely relief for those in need.
Emergency crews at the forefront
The Queensland State Emergency Service (SES) played a critical role in responding to thousands
Queensland’s first responders & health workers hailed for lifesaving efforts
of calls for help, assisting with rescues, clearing debris, and ensuring public safety. Residents were encouraged to reach out to the SES for non-life-threatening emergencies, allowing swift assistance to those stranded by floodwaters or damaged infrastructure, according to Queensland government sources. Nationwide support for recovery
To bolster recovery efforts, emergency personnel from the Northern Territory Fire and Emergency Services (NTFES) were deployed to assist Queensland’s response teams. Their involvement in cleanup
operations demonstrated the strong inter-state collaboration that Australia relies on during natural disasters, reports The Courier Mail.
Health sector steps up amid crisis Public health officials took preemptive measures to ensure that Queenslanders had access to essential medical supplies and healthcare services during the cyclone. Residents were advised to stock up on necessary medications ahead of the storm to prevent shortages during periods of restricted mobility, according to Australian Government Department of Health sources.
Community and businesses join hands
Beyond emergency services, local businesses and community organizations played a key role in relief efforts. In a gesture of solidarity, XXXX Brewery provided free beer to residents in storm-hit areas, offering a small moment of relief amid the hardships, reports The Courier Mail.
Recovery and support measures
To assist those affected, the Queensland Government set up Community Recovery Hubs where residents could seek financial aid and access essential resources.
These hubs provide grant application support and connect individuals with relevant agencies for further assistance, according to Queensland Government sources.
With the coordinated efforts of emergency responders, healthcare workers, and community initiatives, Queensland is steadily recovering from the havoc caused by Cyclone Alfred. The dedication and resilience of those involved have been crucial in helping the state rebuild and move forward.
Gill, Smith, Sutherland among nominees for ICC Player of the Month awards for February
Dubai, March 7 (IANS) Shubman
Gill, Steve Smith and Annabel Sutherland are among the nominees for the ICC Men’s and Women’s Player of the Month awards for February.
Carrying outstanding form into the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, three stars of the tournament form the nominees for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month.
Gill grabbed the headlines with a stellar showing in India’s decisive series victory over England pretournament and regained top spot in the ODI batter rankings ahead of their opening victory over Bangladesh. Three contests against England saw him make sizable contributions of 87 and 60 before a sublime 112 in Ahmedabad sealed a commanding series sweep.
The Blackcaps all-rounder Glenn Phillips geared up for the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 in style, providing valuable runs in the middle order to seal the TriNation Series in Pakistan earlier in February. Unbeaten scores of 28 and 20 followed a brilliant
106 from 74 balls which featured seven maximums in the TriNation Series in Lahore.
Then, as the tournament commenced, Phillips enjoyed a bright start, hitting an equally brisk 61 in 39 balls and taking a remarkable catch to remove Pakistan skipper Mohammad Rizwan, ensuring the Blackcaps protected their target in a 60-run victory in Karachi.
While Steve Smith’s form was more subdued in the Champions Trophy, he once again took centre stage as stand-in skipper in Australia’s dominant 2-0 World Test Championship series sweep over Sri Lanka in Galle.
The opening Test heralded a formidable 141 alongside Usman Khawaja, before he followed up with more of the same in the second Test, striking 131 in the first innings of a nine-wicket victory that sealed him the Player of the Series accolade and a spot back among the top five Test batters in the ICC Player Rankings.
ICC Women’s Player of the Month nominees for February:
Australia’s premier leg-spinner Alana King enjoyed a fine Women’s Ashes series, and played a starring role as they sealed the standalone Test in Melbourne to confirm a landmark series sweep.
Key wickets of Sciver-Brunt, Dunkley and Wyatt-Hodge in the
middle order came as King took four for 45 in the first innings, before she etched her name on the honours board with a careerbest return in the longest format with five for 53 in the second innings.
A previous winner back in May 2023, the Thailand left-armer Thipatcha Putthawong was again the driving force behind their surge to success in February, topping the wicket-taking charts as her side sealed the Nepal Women’s Tri-Nation Series. In the space of six days at the start of the month, Putthawong took 14 wickets, which included four successive hauls of three wickets or more. Not only impressing with the ball, Putthawong hit a vital unbeaten 25 before taking four for 10 in Thailand’s thrilling five-run win over the hosts on 4 February. Despite not winning the individual accolades she was nominated for the recently announced ICC Awards 2024 (ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year and ICC Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year), Annabel Sutherland picked up where she left off at the back end of the year with a sparkling 163 in the Ashes Test victory over England, becoming the first woman to score a Test century at the ground in her emphatic Player of the Match performance.
J&K: Athletic perseverance raises in Gulmarg amid snow & drizzle
Gulmarg, March 10 (IANS)
From the wee hours on Monday snowfall at Gulmarg proclaimed that remnants of winter chill are still in command to thrill visitors at the famous high-altitude tourist destination.
But, the Khelo India Winter Games witnessed a change in climate after a sunny inaugural day.
The perseverance and passion of athletes raised the visual warmth over white snow turf as all the scheduled games were officiated according to the fixture to foster real winter sports spirit.
Hundreds of players coming from across the country battled over the title in different domains of snow sports including Vertical Ski Mountaineering, Snowboard Gaint Slalom and Sprint.
Some undisputed champions of previous Khelo India Winter Games again proved their mettle to lay a solid and strong claim for medals and had been
exceptionally successful in their endeavour.
Manoeuvring in the Winter Games at Kangdoori, Siddhartha Gadekar from Pune Maharashtra was crowned with Gold Medal in Vertical Ski Mountaineering event for men today adding to his medal kitty from Sunday.
While celebrating yellow metal, he divulged that consistent endurance training got him the result he wanted. He expressed gratitude to KIWG authorities for the platform and unique opportunity to help athletes display latent potential.
Gadekar eyes international sports events and hopes to carry current performance forward to do better in upcoming events.
Shardul Thapliyal and Himanshu Singh both from Himachal Pradesh clinched Silver and Bronze in the same event respectively.
Tenzin Dolma from Himachal Pradesh secured Gold in today's Vertical Ski Mountaineering of the women’s category, the first medal for her in KIWGs.
As an Ultra Trail Runner, Dolma didn't find the competition challenging since the endurance she had developed over the period showered her with desired
Champions Trophy: Rohit, Iyer and Rahul carry unbeaten India to third title victory
Dubai, March 9 (IANS) Captain Rohit Sharma top-scored with 76 while Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul and Hardik Pandya chipped in with important contributions to give India their third Champions Trophy triumph with a fourwicket win over New Zealand in the final at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. A chase of 252 looked like an easy task for India on a pitch which didn’t give much turn, but a fighting New Zealand making regular strikes meant that it wasn’t a cakewalk. After Rohit fell for an explosive 83-ball 76, there was a sudden nervous energy in India’s chase. But the enviable batting depth, despite New Zealand’s spinners fighting hard, meant they got over the line with an over to spare.
While Iyer made 48 off 62 balls, Rahul kept his calm to stay till the end and be 34 not out off 33 balls to ensure India got its third
Champions Trophy title after 2002 and 2013, becoming the most successful team in the eight-team tournament’s history in front of a stadium majorly filled by Indian fans.
The win would also come as a soothing balm for the Indian team and its ardent fans after missing out on the 2023 ODI World Cup triumph on home soil. On a sunny afternoon, contrasting halfcenturies from all-rounders Daryl Mitchell (63 off 101 balls) and Michael Bracewell (53 not out off 40 balls) took New Zealand to 251/7 in their 50 overs.
India's spinners called the shots majorly to pick five wickets collectively on a sluggish pitch. Wrist spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy picked two wickets each, while Ravindra Jadeja had a scalp to his name to set the base for a super consistent team.
Brief scores: New Zealand 251/7 in 50 overs (Daryl Mitchell 63, Michael Bracewell 53 not out; Kuldeep Yadav 2-40, Varun Chakaravarthy 2-45) lost to India 254/6 in 49 overs (Rohit Sharma 76, Shreyas Iyer 48; Michael Bracewell 2-28, Mitchell Santner 2-46) by four wickets.
We have a squad that’s ready to take on world in coming years: Virat Kohli after Champions Trophy win
rewards.
In the same event, Natasha Mahar from Himachal Pradesh improved from yesterday's performance to win silver while Manek Gunjiyal of Uttarakhand, who had won Gold in Women’s Snowboarding Slalom on Sunday had tough luck today and had to settle for bronze.
Gunjiyal was one of the gold medallists from KIWG-2024. She knows the slopes of Gulmarg like her home, that is what is the magic of success.
While speaking regarding her perseverance, she said that dry practice & training during snow period help her to build stamina which is essential at a high-altitude field of action.
In the Nordic Ski Sprint, ITBP sent all other participants to cleaners while wresting all three medals in the event. The ITBP players Kulsum Rana, Selma Soreng & Anjana Devi obtained Gold, Silver & Bronze respectively.
The Nordic Ski Sprint for men saw medals raining for the Army as the athletes including Manjeet, Shubam Parihar and Sunny Singh took away Gold, Silver and Bronze medals respectively leaving others high & dry amid the snow.
Dubai, March 9 (IANS) Indian team stalwart Virat Kohli was one of the happiest players after the ICC Champions Trophy final win against New Zealand not because they won the silverware but also due to the depth they possess in their squad. Kohli said that India have the squad that can take on the world for the next eight years.
Captain Rohit Sharma's 76-run knock set the tone of India's 252 chase while Shreyas Iyer's 48 and KL Rahul's unbeaten 34 guided the side over the line with one over to spare. Axar Patel (29) and Hardik Pandya (18) also contributed cameo innings to take the side closer to victory in a pulsating encounter.
"It's been amazing, we wanted to bounce back after a tough Australian tour, and wanted to win a big tournament, so to win the Champions Trophy is amazing. So much talent in the dressing room, they're trying to take their game further and we're just happy to be of help (role of the seniors), sharing our experience and that's what makes
this Indian team so strong," Kohli said after the match.
"These are the things you want to play (for titles), playing under pressure and putting your hand up. The whole team, everyone has put their hands up sometimes or other (during the course of the tournament), everyone has put up impactful performances, we've been part of an amazing team, the amount of work we've done in the practice sessions, it feels great (to win).
"When you leave, you want to leave the team in a better place, I feel we've a squad that's ready to take on the world for the next 8 years. Shubman has been outstanding, Shreyas has played some top knocks, KL has finished games and Hardik has been superb with the bat," he added.
The 36-year-old lauded the grit and determination of New Zealand and praised their attacking and competitive nature.
"Amazing (on the New Zealand team), we've always been in awe with what they can do, the limited number of players in the talent pool, but they just execute plans so well, they keep playing the kind of cricket that keeps them very much in the game. They're always been attacking and supportive of the bowlers.
Gujarat: Artist Dharmilaben Ahir turns role model, gives employment to 90 women
Dharmilaben Ahir, a resident of Kotai village in Gujarat’s Kutch district, has given a new direction to the traditional Bharat Kaam (embroidery work) art, showcasing women empowerment ahead of International Women's Day. By transforming the art into a form of painting, she has not only become self-reliant but has also provided employment to 90 other women.
While talking to IANS, Artist Dharmilaben Ahir said, "Ahir embroidery is traditional. I started learning it when I was 5 years old. In our community, girls learn this work from childhood, initially on their clothes and then on designs for their homes, like making torans. I learned this
craft when I was 5 years old from my grandmother and maternal grandmother..."
Kutch, which is very famous for its art, has also spread the Kutchi art abroad today. Dharmilaben is also known abroad for her artwork.
She said that she took up the artwork as a challenge when a painter refused to teach her the Bharat Kaam.
“A painter came to our village and I asked him to teach me this work, but he refused. This thing hurt me a lot and I decided that I would make my work like a painting and I did the same,” Dharmilaben told IANS.
Explaining the process of Ahir embroidery, she said, “First of all, we make different designs on the cloth. Then we make it with threads.”
Talking about the cost, Dharmilaben told IANS, “Well if we talk about the price, everyone's price is different. In the beginning, it is Rs 10,00015,000 and later it becomes 50,000-60,000.”
She further said that her artworks have been sold in Kutch a lot and also have reached abroad, like London.
The art of embroidery has been prevalent in the Ahir community for years and women have been using the income from this work to support their families.
Dharmilaben studied only till the seventh grade, but she has given a new direction to Ahir Bharat Kaam with her hard work, confidence and dedication. She also made a painting of the Great Indian Bustard bird, which is on the verge of extinction in Kutch, with Ahir Bharat Kam. It took her 4 to 6 months to make it. She has also received a prize of Rs 2.5 lakh for this work.
Dharmilaben has not only moved ahead by keeping her morale high but has also provided employment to women from her village and nearby areas, in which she has employed about 90 women and the women are earning Rs 10,000 to 15,000 per month.
She was also selected for the national award.
‘JFK, mass cooking, and fashion fiascos’: The colourful but exacting lives of Indian diplomatic spouses
Even amid themselves, they note how they seem to only make gulab jamuns and samosas by the hundreds for official occasions, but India's 'informal diplomats' frequently show their metier. Like this absent diplomat's pregnant wife, under house arrest in Dhaka with her young son amid the 1965 war, ensuring she burnt the cypher books and then browbeat her Pakistani captors into treating her properly.
Despite the term 'diplomatic baggage', used self-deprecatingly by a Western diplomat for spouses, the wives - and occasionally, husbands - of Indian diplomats have long been the front edge of diplomatic and soft power projection in the nations they find themselves in. For it is these spouses who deal with the common people - while shopping or cooking or cleaning - of the country they find themselves in, rather than the rarified heights of chanceries, ministries, and think tanks where the conventional diplomats usually operate.
And these spouses do have some compelling stories to tell - of finding another facet of President
John F. Kennedy in his keen interest in Indian cinema (spoiler alert! not Hindustani variant), the preliminary meeting between old university alumni that paved the way for the creation of Bangladesh five years later, arranging a mass-scale defection of diplomats, and maintaining composure on witnessing a fashion farce in Switzerland, as collected by Jayshree Misra Tripathi in "The Other Side of Diplomacy" (Westland NonFiction, 184 pp, Rs 599).
A diplomat's wife who has spent stints on four continents, she notes that "for far too long, the 'voices' of diplomatic spouses have remained unsung" despite all the dislocations in the personal and professional lives and the vicissitudes they underwent in a spate of unfamiliar and uncomfortable places but gamely went on to uphold the nation's prestige in "this unsung, unofficial role".
However, this is not her only aim in curating this book, which was "long years in the making".
Drawing on some valuable first-hand recollections and experiences of 15 diplomatic
CM Lalduhoma urges Mizos to unite and preserve customs
Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Friday emphasised the need to preserve the rich traditions of Mizo ancestors, particularly the practice of Hawihhawmna, showing respect through both words and actions.
The Chief Minister graced the state's most significant cultural festival, 'Chapchar Kut' and he was present on the opening day of the two-day carnival at the Assam Rifles ground in Aizawl as 'Kut Pa' (Father of the Festival).
Addressing the festival, Lalduhoma stressed that values such as respect for elders, selfless service, mutual understanding, and helping one another in times of need are fundamental to maintaining social harmony and unity.
He also spoke about the wisdom of Mizo ancestors, which continues to provide valuable guidance for both community
spouses, including two husbands, or daughters (in some cases)all accomplished in their own right, it also ensures that these memories, of America and the Soviet Union in the 1960s, of a developing China, of encounters with the likes of Nelson Mandela, King Juan Carlos of Spain, and Robert Mugabe, do not "fade into oblivion".
As diplomat-turned-politician and author Shashi Tharoor observes in his foreword, the reader, on perusing the cover or the synopsis, may think that the book "confines itself merely to describing the lived experiences of diplomatic families" but those going on ahead with this "compendium of fascinating perspectives" will find that it "transcends such a simple summary".
Spanning the laidback life of Brazil to the tense streets of Baghdad, from the cultured milieu of Vienna to the suburbs of Washington, scenic vignettes not only from Switzerland, but from North Korea, Ethiopia, and Zimbabwe too, and an unforgettable visit to a civil war-struck Tajikistan across the second half of the 20th century and into our era, the volume goes on to show how diplomacy - both for its practitioners and their kin - is a far cry from the superficial glamour that seems attached to it. Hard work, dedication, and an encompassing empathy are the key traits needed to shineas well as readiness to adapt to sudden developments.
well-being and economic progress.
Mizoram's Art and Culture Minister C. Lalsawivunga served as the 'Kut Thlengtu' (Host of the Festival).
This year's theme of the 'Chapchar Kut', "Zo Nun Ze MawiHawihhawmna" (The Beautiful Zo Behaviour--Respect for Others), highlighted the importance of respect as a core value of Mizo society.
The celebration featured vibrant cultural performances from various soloist and groups, including the Mizo Cultural Organisation, MZP Choir, Young Mizo Association, Art and Culture Department, PC Girls' School, Assam Cultural Troupe (NEZCC), Nagaland Cultural Troupe (NEZCC), Fiji Cultural Troupe (ICCR), Bawm Cultural Troupe, and the Hmar Cultural Troupe. The evening concluded with energetic performances by music bands, making the festival a grand showcase of Mizo culture and heritage 'Chapchar Kut' literally means -- a festival held during the period when the bamboos and trees that have been cut down are being awaited to dry to be burnt for jhumming (slash and burn method of farming).
Rajasthan CM celebates Holi with people showcasing Braj culture
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Friday celebrated Holi with great enthusiasm at his residence, joining the common people in the festivities. He played Holi with flowers and natural colors, fostering a spirit of unity and joy.
The Holi Sneh Milan ceremony featured mesmerising performances by folk artists, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of Braj.
Extending his wishes to the people of Rajasthan, the Chief Minister emphasised that Holi is a festival that promotes harmony by encouraging people to set aside differences and embrace each other with love.
"This festival of colors is very unique, it teaches us to forget mutual bitterness and embrace each other."
On the occasion of the festival of colours, CM Sharma also reiterated the state government's commitment to achieving a $350 billion economy, aligning with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
CM Sharma also prayed for the
prosperity of youth, farmers, women, and laborers across the state. His wife, Geeta Sharma, also graced the event.
The celebrations continued from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., during which the Chief Minister joyfully played with colors alongside the public. People also applied gulal to the Chief Minister enthusiastically, and he reciprocated, spreading festive cheer and extending heartfelt Holi wishes to all.
Sharma performed the traditional Holi Puja at his residence in Civil Lines on Thursday, praying for the happiness and prosperity of the people of Rajasthan.
He conducted the Holi Puja with due rituals at Shri Raj Rajeshwari Mandir premises accompanied by his family. Following the puja, the Holika Dahan ceremony was performed amid Vedic chants, signifying the triumph of good over evil.
Adding to the festive spirit, soldiers of the 4 RAC Battalion of Rajasthan Police presented vibrant Holi songs and dances to the rhythmic beats of the Chang.
The Chief Minister interacted with the soldiers, appreciating their performances and encouraging them.
The Holika Dahan ceremony was attended by officers and employees of the Chief Minister’s Office, marking a grand and traditional start to the Holi celebrations.
Srinagar’s tulip garden likely to open by month end
Srinagar's renowned tulip garden, situated on the banks of the Dal Lake and on the foothills of Zabarwan mountain, is scheduled to be thrown open to visitors by the end of this month.
The garden, known for its breathtaking display of tulips and other spring flowers, has been designed by the local floriculture department to ensure a bloom period of nearly a month. Tulips, typically short-lived, are arranged in a meticulous pattern to extend their vibrant display.
Each year, new elements are
introduced to enhance the garden’s appeal. “This season, we have introduced a fresh colour scheme and added two new tulip varieties, bringing the total to 74,” said Asif Ahmad, Assistant Floriculture Officer.
In addition to tulips, other spring flowers such as hyacinths, daffodils, muscari, and cyclamens will also be on display, adding diversity to the floral spectacle.
Spread over 55 hectares, the garden boasts approximately 1.7 million tulip bulbs this year.
“The extension of the garden has
almost reached its full capacity, and we are eager to welcome visitors to witness the bloom,” Ahmad added.
The Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden was established in 2007 by then Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad to extend the tourist season in Jammu and Kashmir beyond summer and winter. What began with 50,000 tulip bulbs imported from the Netherlands has since evolved into Asia’s largest tulip garden, attracting tourists from across the world.
Last year, the garden welcomed over 4.65 lakh visitors, surpassing the 3.65 lakh recorded in 2023. Officials hope for an even higher footfall this year.
“Last season, despite the short blooming period of 25 to 30 days, we saw a record number of visitors. We invite people from across India and abroad to experience this floral extravaganza,” Ahmad said.
Originally known as Siraj Bagh, the garden was significantly smaller before its transformation into the present-day tulip paradise.
IRCTC launches Bharat Gaurav Train under ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ scheme
Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Limited (IRCTC) announced the launch of the Bharat Gaurav Train to promote rail tourism on Monday. The initiative will offer a special 33 per cent discount for the passengers on travel costs.
The journey will start on March 27, 2025, and the train will depart from Bettiah station under the Samastipur Railway Division.
The major boarding stations on this train will be Sugauli, Raxaul, Bairginia, Sitamarhi, Darbhanga, Samastipur, Muzaffarpur, Hajipur, Pataliputra, Ara, Buxar and Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction. This budget-friendly train will take pilgrims to major religious destinations at a low cost. The idea is to provide a quality experience for pilgrims and boost rail tourism under the ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ initiative. The railway officials have finalised wellplanned routes and services for
devotees.
“It is a perfect chance for travellers to explore India's rich spiritual heritage. It is a divine journey at an affordable price,” said Rajesh Kumar, Joint General Manager, of IRCTC.
The Bharat Gaurav Train, launched under IRCTC’s ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ scheme, will take passengers on a spiritual pilgrimage across major religious destinations in South India.
As per the route, the pilgrims will visit Tirupati for Shri Balaji Darshan, Rameswaram for Shri Ramanathaswamy Temple, Madurai for Meenakshi Amman Temple, Kanyakumari to see Kanyakumari Temple and Vivekananda Rock, and Srisailam to see Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga.
The journey will start on March 27, 2025, and will end on April 7, 2025, at Samastipur railway station. The Indian railway has
MP: CM Yadav, Union Minister Scindia release tigress in Madhav National Park
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia released a tigress into the wilderness of Madhav Tiger Reserve in Shivpuri on Monday, located 325 km north of Bhopal. This tiger was “translocated” from the Panna Tiger Reserve. Recently, the park was granted 'Tiger Reserve' status, making it the ninth tiger reserve in the state. Madhya Pradesh is already renowned as the 'Tiger State' of India. With the release of this tigress, the number of tigers in the reserve has increased to six. Yadav and Scindia also unveiled the logo of the ninth tiger reserve in the country, Madhav Tiger Reserve, and dedicated the 13 km long boundary wall built to separate humans and tigers.
fixed economy class (Sleeper) – Rs 22,520/person and Comfort Class (3 AC) – Rs 38,310/person. The passengers will stay in air-conditioned and non-airconditioned hotels as per their categories with vegetarian meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner and morning and evening tea) and bottled water will be served to them. They will also get AC and non-AC buses for the sightseeing.
Earlier in the day, the two-yearold tigress, known as P-234, was transferred from Panna Tiger Reserve to Madhav Tiger Reserve in Shivpuri. Upon her arrival at Madhav National Park, Jitendra Jatav, a wildlife veterinarian, along with Range Officer Roop Kumar Dixit and forest guards, were present to ensure and oversee the transfer of the tigress. The “male tiger” could not be
released on Monday into the park as per plan and will be released at a later date.
Speaking to IANS, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest L Krishnamoorthy said on account of scientific reasons, the tiger has not been released in the wilderness on Monday. It will be released at a later date.
Expressing his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for granting tigers to Madhav National Park and according to it with the tag of becoming the country's 58th Tiger Reserve and Madhya Pradesh's 9th, CM Yadav emphasised the significance of this achievement.
He highlighted that the establishment of the Tiger Reserve will elevate wildlife conservation efforts and boost tourism to unprecedented heights. He also remarked on the rich historical and natural heritage of Madhav National Park. The Madhav Tiger Reserve spans an expansive area, encompassing 32,429 hectares of reserved forest, 2,422 hectares of protected forest, and 2,671 hectares of revenue area, totalling 37,523 hectares or 375 square kilometres.
Our focus is to promote concert tourism: Rajasthan
Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari on Monday expressed her gratitude to the people of the state for the successful organisation of the 25th IIFA Awards ceremony in Jaipur, saying that the government's focus is to promote
Dy CM
concert tourism in Rajasthan. She wrote on her X handle: "Hearty congratulations and best wishes to the people of Jaipur and all of Rajasthan for the grand and successful organisation of the 25th IIFA Awards ceremony in Jaipur. In the future, we will continue our efforts to host more such prestigious events in Rajasthan. Our focus will be on promoting concert tourism, which will further strengthen the state's tourism industry and economy."
Deputy Chief Minister and Tourism Minister Kumari attended the 25th International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Center on Sunday.
Speaking on the occasion, she expressed her delight at the enthusiasm among the people and emphasised the government's commitment to hosting more such events in Rajasthan to boost tourism and the local economy.
Addressing media queries about her attire, Diya Kumari explained her choice of clothing, saying: "During the budget session, I wore a traditional Rajasthani saree. At the start of IIFA, I opted for a Falguni saree, and today, I am wearing a Kota Doria saree. Through these outfits, we are not only showcasing Rajasthan’s cultural heritage but also promoting local craftsmanship."
India bets big on developing indigenous AI, empowering local innovation
As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes all-pervasive in our lives, the government has launched several key initiatives under the IndiaAI Mission, marking a major milestone in India’s journey towards developing responsible and ethical technology.
The initiatives include AIKosha: IndiaAI Datasets Platform, the AI Compute Portal, the AI Competency Framework for Public Sector Officials, iGOT-AI Mission Karmayogi, the IndiaAI Startups Global Acceleration Program with Station F, the IndiaAI Application Development Initiative and IndiaAI FutureSkills all aimed at strengthening AIdriven research, innovation and skill development.
The AI Compute Portal will initially provide access to 10,000 GPUs, with 8,693 more to be added, offering AI compute services at a highly subsidised rate to support startups, researchers, and enterprises.
India’s DPI framework for AI, which ensures ethically sourced, consent-based datasets, reducing reliance on synthetic and foreign data. AIKosha hosts over 300 datasets and over 80 models,
fostering the development of diverse and unbiased AI solutions.
AIKosha is a secured platform that provides a repository of datasets, models and use cases to enable AI innovation. It also features AI sandbox capabilities through an integrated development environment along with tools and tutorials.
The platform is equipped with the features like content discoverability, AI readiness scoring of datasets, permission based access & security mechanisms like data encryption at rest and in motion, secure API, and firewalls for real-time filtering of malicious traffic.
The IndiaAI Compute Portal that will offer AI compute, network, storage, platform and cloud services at discounted rates to startups, MSMEs, academia, researchers, PhD scholars, students, startups and government agencies.
The portal will facilitate easy access to high end and mid range GPUs such as NVIDIA H100, H200, A100, L40S, and L4, AMD MI300x and 325X, Intel Gaudi 2, AWS Tranium and Inferentia along with network and storage services, ensuring cost-effective AI development capabilities and innovation.
Eligible AI users will receive up to 40 per cent subsidy on AI compute services on cloud.
Recognizing the critical role of AI in governance, the AI Competency Framework has been released,
which aims to equip public sector officials with skills related to AI competency mapping, and upskilling initiatives. This framework aligns with global best practices to ensure informed AI policy-making and implementation.
iGOT-AI is an AI-powered personalised learning for government officials, developed to enhance the learning experience for them on the iGOT Karmayogi platform.
In collaboration with STATION F and HEC Paris, the IndiaAI Mission will launch an acceleration program for Indian AI startups. This four-month immersive program (1 month online, 3 months onsite at STATION F in Paris) at the world’s largest startup campus will provide 10 selected AI startups with access to mentorship, networking, and global market expansion opportunities in Europe.
IndiaAI has also launched the IndiaAI innovation challenge which seeks to promote impactful AI solutions in critical sectors.
Over 900 AI solutions have been submitted to address pressing challenges in healthcare, climate change and disaster management, governance, agriculture and learning disabilities.
Additionally, IndiaAI Data Labs are being established in tier 2 and 3 cities across India to impart foundational level courses.
India to become world’s largest Web3 developer hub by 2028: Report
Bengaluru, March 11 (IANS) India is rapidly emerging as a global leader in the Web3 space and is expected to become the world’s largest Web3 developer hub by 2028, according to a report on Tuesday.
The latest ‘India Web3 Landscape’ report by Hashed Emergent showed that the country recorded the highest year-on-year (YoY) growth in developer participation in 2024, adding more than 4.7 million developers to GitHub. This accounts for 17 per cent of all new Web3 developers globally, making India the second-largest crypto developer base in the world.
The report states that 45.3 per cent of Indian Web3 developers contribute to coding, 29.7 per cent
focus on fixing bugs, and 22.4 per cent work on documentation.
Popular areas of development include gaming, non-fungible token (NFTs), decentralised finance (DeFi), and real-world assets (RWAs).
A significant portion of India’s Web3 developers are newcomers, with over 50 per cent having entered the space in the last two years. Most of them are under the age of 27.
Hackathons -- an event where computer programmers work together closely to create something new -- continue to be the primary gateway for developers.
However, Web3 firms are also actively collaborating with universities in Odisha, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, and Kerala to introduce students to blockchain technology early on.
"The country’s unique blend of technological agility, entrepreneurial spirit, and digital adoption are driving progress,” said Tak Lee, CEO & Managing Partner at Hashed Emergent.
In a first, private Indian firm rolls out fuselage for LCA
The first rear fuselage, produced by Indian private sector company Alpha Tocol Engineering Services Private Ltd, for the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft Mk1A, was handed over to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) here in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday.
The Defence Minister described the handing over as a milestone in the historic journey of India’s defence manufacturing. "The ceremony is a testimony to India’s progress towards Aatmanirbharta in defence and the government’s commitment towards enhanced public-private partnership," he remarked.
Rajnath Singh commended the HAL and the private sector for constantly strengthening the armed forces with the latest platforms and technologies. He said that the HAL, through its integrated model and strategies, is not only bolstering the strength of soldiers, but is also opening new dimensions of manufacturing and R&D by collaborating with the private sector.
A fuselage is the main body section of the aircraft which holds the pilot, passengers and cargo, while the rear fuselage supports the tail section and its associated
components.
The HAL has already manufactured 12 LCA MK1A rear fuselages, which are on the aircraft in the manufacturing line. With this supply, a major structure module produced by an Indian private partner will be integrated into the LCA Mk1A aircraft, enabling the HAL to meet additional delivery commitments for IAF from 2025-26 onwards.
The Defence Minister described the HAL as the "fuselage" of the country’s defence and aerospace sector, with private companies such as L&T, Alpha Tocol, Tata Advanced Systems and VEM Technologies playing the role of rear fuselage, supporting HAL.
"Together with these Indian components, the aircraft which is being manufactured in our defence and aerospace sector will reach greater heights in the times to come," he said.
Rajnath Singh credited the bravery and dedication of the air warriors as well as the equipment being manufactured by Indian public and private sector companies for the growing strength of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
“While our courageous air warriors have made an invaluable contribution, the equipment being manufactured indigenously is providing them the added strength, with which they protect our borders,” the minister said. He exuded confidence that the HAL and the private sector will continue to overcome every challenge and strengthen the armed forces in every way.
Hyundai Motor planning to build 1st local hydrogen fuel cell plant
He added that "we now see renewed retail participation, shifting investor trends, and deeper integration of Web3 solutions by enterprises and the government.
“Last year, we noted India's global leadership in Web3 adoption and today, that promise is turning into tangible advancements led by Indian innovators.”
India also ranks third globally in terms of Web3 startup founders, with over 1,200 startups operating in the sector.
Investor confidence in the country’s Web3 ecosystem has surged, leading to a 109 per cent increase in funding compared to 2023.
In 2024, Indian startups raised $564 million, taking the total investment in the sector to over $3 billion, the report said.
The primary focus has been on DeFi applications, including staking solutions, tokenisation platforms, and decentralised exchanges.
Seoul, March 11 (IANS) Hyundai Motor plans to build its first hydrogen fuel cell systems plant in South Korea for the start of operations in 2028, the company's labour union claimed on Tuesday.
Hyundai Motor currently operates a hydrogen fuel cell systems plant in China. If built, the domestic facility will be the carmaker's second such plant globally.
The company will begin the plant's construction within the year at its mainstay car manufacturing plant in Ulsan, about 305 kilometers southeast of Seoul, according to the union website, reports Yonhap news agency.
"To push ahead with the plan, there should be consultations between the company and the union," a company spokesperson said, without elaborating. If confirmed, Hydrogen fuel cell
systems produced at the new plant may be used in the Nexo hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (EV), hydrogen-powered Elec City bus and hydrogen trucks.
The first plant in Guangzhou began operations in 2023. It is capable of manufacturing hydrogen fuel cell systems that can power 6,500 hydrogen commercial vehicles.
Meanwhile, the government will spend 129.3 billion won ($88.6 million) this year to support projects aimed at developing technologies that will help achieve carbon neutrality and ensure a stable supply of energy.
The projects include developing technologies related to renewable energy, such as next-generation solar power and hydrogen power, and the efficient operation of nuclear power plants as part of efforts to help South Korea achieve net zero carbon emissions.
South Korea has pledged to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 40 per cent from the 2018 levels by 2030 and reach carbon neutrality by 2050.
Lack of proper sleep may raise hypertension risk in teenagers
Teenagers who do not get the right amount of sleep may be at an increased risk for high blood pressure or hypertension -- a common risk factor for cardiovascular diseases --, warned research on Friday.
Researchers from Pennsylvania State University in the US defined insomnia as reporting difficulty falling and/or staying asleep and defined objective short sleep duration as less than 7.7 hours, based on the median total time asleep in a lab-based sleep study.
The study on more than 400 teenagers in the US showed that teenagers who reported insomnia and slept less than 7.7 hours were five times more likely to have
clinical hypertension than "good sleepers" (those who did not report insomnia and obtained sufficient sleep defined as 7.7 hours or more).
Teenagers who slept less than 7.7 hours but did not report insomnia had nearly three times the risk of elevated blood pressure compared to good sleepers. Those who self-reported insomnia but obtained sufficient sleep did not appear to be at higher risk for elevated blood pressure or stage 2 hypertension.
Teenagers need 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, yet the average high school student is estimated to sleep only 6.5 hours per weeknight.
The findings suggest the combination of insomnia and inadequate hours of sleep likely contributes to more severe conditions than lack of sleep alone, the researchers noted.
Julio Fernandez-Mendoza, Professor of Psychiatry at the varsity noted that while poor sleep was a risk factor for high blood pressure in adults, its associations in adolescents were unknown.
"While we need to explore this association in larger studies on teenagers, it is safe to say that sleep health matters for heart health, and we should not wait until adulthood to address it," Fernandez-Mendoza said.
"Not all teenagers who complain of insomnia symptoms are at risk for cardiovascular issues. However, monitoring their sleep duration objectively can help us identify those who have a more severe form of insomnia and are at risk for heart problems."
The study was presented at the American Heart Association's Epidemiology, Prevention, Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health Scientific Sessions 2025, being held in New Orleans.
Human body’s protein recycling system fights bacteria like antibiotics: Study
Jerusalem, March 6 (IANS) Israeli researchers have discovered a surprising immune defense role of the proteasome, a cellular structure known for degrading and recycling proteins.
The study, published in Nature, could inspire new strategies against antibiotic-resistant infections, Xinhua news agency reported.
The study, led by the team from Weizmann Institute of Science (WIS), found that when breaking down old proteins, the proteasome constantly and regularly releases antimicrobial peptides, Xinhua news agency reported. These antimicrobial peptides are
considered vital components of the body's first line of defense as they attack and kill bacteria.
Experiments showed that human cells with active proteasomes effectively controlled bacterial growth, while blocking proteasome activity allowed infections to spread, WIS said.
In infected mice, proteasomeproduced peptides reduced bacteria numbers, decreased tissue damage, and even improved survival rates, performing as effectively as strong antibiotics in clinical use.
The team identified over 270,000 potential antibacterial peptides hidden within 92 per cent of human proteins.
“This peptide database opens a new frontier for developing personalized treatments against infections and other medical conditions,” said Prof. Yifat Merbl’s lab at WIS.
The findings may open a new frontier for developing tailored therapies to strengthen immune defenses in high-risk patients, such as those with cancer or weakened immune systems.
Beyond the clinical implications, the team said the greatest thrill was discovering a fundamental cellular mechanism that is regulated by the proteasome and is different from anything previously known.
“This study highlights how technological innovation and basic research intertwine in unforeseen ways. Without the technology that allowed us to analyse the cellular trash, we would not have made this discovery, but when we developed this technology, we never imagined that we would uncover a new immune mechanism,” Merbl said.
Half of Australian children, adolescents might be overweight by 2050: research
Sydney, March 4 (IANS) Half of Australian children and adolescents aged five to 24 are forecast to be obese or overweight by 2050, with a third expected to fall into the obesity category, according to new research published on Tuesday, the World Obesity Day.
The global study led by Australia's Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI) projects a sharp rise in obesity rates. With substantial growth expected over the next five years, experts called for immediate actions to help reverse this looming public health crisis. About 2.2 million Australian children and adolescents will be obese, and 1.6 million Australians under the age of 24 will be overweight within the next 25 years, according to the research published in The Lancet. Worldwide, obesity among
Sleep debt, night shifts can raise risk of infections: Study
New Delhi, March 10 (IANS) Sleep debt and night shifts increase the risk of several common infections, according to a study on Monday.
According to researchers from Norway, sleep debt, defined as the gap between sleep need and actual sleep duration, increased infection risk in a dosedependent manner.
The study, published in the journal Chronobiology International, examined the effects of sleep patterns and shift work on the immune system among 1,335 nurses from Norway. The findings showed that shift work -- particularly night shifts -- was associated with a higher risk of several infections, including the common cold. The risk of pneumonia/bronchitis was 129 per cent higher for nurses with moderate sleep debt and 288 per cent for severe sleep debt.
Both sinusitis and gastrointestinal infections also showed higher risks with increasing levels of sleep debt.
"These findings highlight the need for tailored interventions
to reduce infection risks among healthcare workers," said Siri Waage, from the Norwegian Competence Center for Sleep Disorders, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen.
"Sleep debt and irregular shift patterns, including night work, not only compromise nurses' immune health but could also impact their ability to provide high-quality patient care," Waage added.
In the study, the participants -- mostly female nurses (90.4 per cent), with an average age of 41.9 years -- reported their sleep duration, sleep needs, shift work patterns, and how often they had experienced specific infections over the past three months.
Nurses with moderate sleep debt (one to 120 minutes less sleep than needed) had a 33 per cent higher risk of the common cold, while those with severe sleep debt (more than two hours) had more than double compared to those with no sleep debt.
The analysis also revealed that night work was linked with an increased risk of the common cold, but was not associated with any of the other infections examined. The study emphasises the importance of adequate sleep and shift management in reducing susceptibility to infection.
A plastic spoon’s worth of plastic is inside your brain, warns study
Ontario, March 4 (IANS) A plastic spoon’s worth of plastic is inside your brain, researchers warned on Tuesday, showing alarming new evidence about microplastic accumulation in human brain tissue.
individuals aged 5 to 24 surged threefold between 1990 and 2021, increasing by 244 percent to reach 174 million. By 2021, a total of 493 million children and adolescents were classified as overweight or obese, it said. The researchers called on governments to allocate resources to urgent, multi-sectoral fiveyear strategies addressing the factors contributing to obesity, including nutrition, activity, lifestyle and urban planning, which should be overhauled to encourage active lifestyles.
Published in the journal Brain Medicine, the research revealed that human brains contain approximately a spoon's worth of microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs), with levels 3-5 times higher in individuals with documented dementia diagnoses.
More concerning still, brain tissues showed 7-30 times higher concentrations of MNPs compared to other organs like the liver or kidney.
"The dramatic increase in brain microplastic concentrations over just eight years, from 2016 to
2024, is particularly alarming," said Dr Nicholas Fabiano from the University of Ottawa's Department of Psychiatry and lead author of the commentary.
"This rise mirrors the exponential increase we're seeing in environmental microplastic levels,” he mentioned.
Of particular concern are particles smaller than 200 nanometers, predominantly composed of polyethylene, which show notable deposition in cerebrovascular walls and immune cells.
This size allows them to potentially cross the bloodbrain barrier, raising questions about their role in neurological conditions.
The commentary said that switching from bottled to filtered tap water alone could reduce microplastic intake from 90,000 to 4,000 particles per year.
"Bottled water alone can expose people to nearly as many microplastic particles annually as all ingested and inhaled sources combined," said Dr Brandon Luu, an Internal Medicine Resident at the University of Toronto.
Switching to tap water could reduce this exposure by almost 90 per cent, making it one of the simplest ways to cut down on microplastic intake.
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
Manish
Malhotra hails Guneet Monga’s bold fashion choice in modern saree at Oscars 2025
Designer Manish Malhotra has praised producer Guneet Monga for her stunning fashion choice at the 2025 Oscars. The producer celebrated India in a modern saree. Guneet wore a stunning brown ensemble designed by Manish, seamlessly blending traditional and modern styles. The hand-woven tissue outfit featured a corset paired with a saree, complemented by a corset, a saree drape, and an overcoat. She styled the mocha brown outfit with a clutch and stud earrings from Manish Malhotra’s fine jewelry label. Malhotra took to Instagram handle to commend Monga’s
bold and elegant representation of Indian heritage on the global stage.
Sharing her photos, he wrote, “The fabulous @guneetmonga looking elegant and regal, making a strong style statement in Indian contemporary fashion, celebrating the saree with a constructed corset and trench in the special color of the year, Mocha Mousse. An ensemble in handwoven handloom tissue- an Indian-rooted fabric- and the Indian contemporary saree, worn with our jewellery: imperial heirlooms, uncut diamonds, and 18K gold… on the global stage @theoscarsworld ....
At the Oscars, Guneet’s short film “Anuja” was nominated for Best Short Film (Live Action). The film competed in the Best Live Action Short Film category at the 2025 Academy Awards but lost to the Dutch film I'm Not a Robot. “Anuja” features Sajda Pathan, Ananya Shanbhag, and Nagesh Bhonsle, and it follows the story of a nine-year-old girl named Anuja, who faces a difficult decision between continuing her education or working to support her family.
Executive producers Mindy Kaling, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Guneet Monga have backed the project. This nomination comes on the heels of Monga’s historic wins for “The Elephant Whisperers” and “Period. End of Sentence.”
At the 2023 Academy Awards, Guneet Monga made a statement by wearing a traditional pink Benarasi saree adorned with elephant motifs. This year, she embraced a modern twist on the saree, bringing contemporary flair to the global stage.
Manish Malhotra praises Rekha for her sustainable fashion sense
Celebrity fashion designer
Manish Malhotra praised veteran actress Rekha for her sustainable fashion sense. He took to social media and shared some of Rekha's regal looks in Kanjeevaram sarees reworn by her on several occasions. Appreciating her fashion sensibilities, Manish Malhotra penned a long note on his IG that read, "Iconic and TheoneandOnly #REKHA Regal and Stunning in Traditional Pure Classic Black N Gold Kanjeevaram Saree .. worn years ago and worn again with Bordeaux vintage velvet blouse, inspired by the traditional Sadri, adorned with intricate gold Zardozi embroidery which was hand embroidered by us at our atelier which has been Re Worn along with a vintage velvet Zardosi hand embroidered border for the classic black n gold Kanjeevaram saree."
The designer added, "Style Icons like Rekhaji Restoring and Repeatedly wearing and Restyling these beautifully crafted pieces of heritage art and textile gives a new meaning to Style and to Sustainability."
Last month, Manish Malhotra visited the Rashtrapati Bhavan. He took to his Instagram handle and shared a series of pictures from his visit.
The celebrity designer can be seen posing in a black bandhgala. Manish Malhotra received an invitation on behalf of the President of India, Droupadi Murmu in the Honour of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani - Amir of the State of Qatar
Sharing an anecdote about him and his mother’s love language, Manish Malhotra penned a long note in the caption. He wrote, “Whenever I tell my mother with whom I live , that I am travelling ,
97th Oscars: Penelope Cruz slays red carpet in white silk chiffon gown
Hollywood star Penelope Cruz set her best fashion foot forward and was a sight to behold as she looked elegant as always at the 2025 Oscars red carpet.
The 'Pirates of the Caribbean' actress, 50, returned to the star-studded awards show in a romantic white silk chiffon Chanel gown inspired by a Spring-Summer 1992 design, reports 'People' magazine.
The actress, who's been an ambassador for the French fashion house since 2018, left jaws on the floor in the look, which featured a ruched bodice decked out in sparkly jewel buttons and a sheer floor-hitting cape attached to the dress' straps. According to the brand, the flowy design took 254 hours to create.
she always asks me that when do I get back but this morning she did not and smiled at me me when I told her I am going to Delhi and I have been invited for the State Banquet to the Rashtrapati Bhawan New Delhi in Honour of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani - Amir of the State of Qatar”.
He added, “Overwhelmed by the magnitude and beauty of our Rashtrapati Bhavan and a privilege to meet in person Hon’ble @presidentofindia and Hon’ble PrimeMinister @narendramodi Ji and His Highness Amir State of Qatar @ tamim. A special memorable evening .. #gratitude”.
As per 'People', she teamed with the gown a selection of dazzling Chanel high jewelry, including diamond "Soleil" earrings paired with a coordinating ring featuring a round-cut diamond worth over 5 carats. She also wore a "Comete Aubazine" diamond ring and “Soleil 19 Aout” brooch boasting a 22.10-carat yellow diamond.
Cruz attended Hollywood's biggest night as one of the many presenters alongside Halle Berry, Bowen Yang and Scarlett Johansson.
The actress has been making waves at the Academy Awards since 2000, which marked the year she attended her first in a stunning cobalt blue Chanel couture design from Spring
1995. And while she's stayed loyal to the iconic house, she's also experimented in gowns by other houses, including Balmain, Oscar de la Renta and Ralph Lauren, as per WWD. For her most recent attendance in 2022, she wore a fall 2020 Chanel halter number that took 680 to make, as per the outlet.
The actress is a powerhouse for both her red carpet resume and her Oscars reputation. She is a four-time nominee and took home the award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role for Vicky Cristina Barcelona in 2009.
She has also been a masterclass in fashion during her latest public appearances.
In October, Cruz stepped out with her 'Bandidas' co-star Salma Hayek for Wall street Journal Magazine’s 14th Annual Innovator Awards at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.
The actresses held hands while posing together on the carpet, with Cruz commanding attention in her form-fitting silver gown and Hayek in a red-hot dress with accentuated hips.
She also attended the Met Gala in 2024, wearing a floral-inspired Chanel ensemble for the year’s theme 'Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion'.
The gown required around 500 hours of work, featuring eight variations of French floral lace in both black and silver.
J&K: Controversial Gulmarg fashion show designers apologise, sponsors withdraw videos from Instagram
The designers of the controversial
during the fashion show. Shivan and Narresh, the fashion designers, who organised the outdoor shoot of the fashion show for Elle India said in a statement:
“We deeply regret any hurt caused by our recent presentation in Gulmarg during the holy month of Ramadan. Our sole intention was to celebrate creativity and the ski and aprs-ski lifestyle, without any desire to offend anyone or any religious sentiments.”
The designers said they acknowledged the concerns raised by political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir and said that respect for all cultures and traditions is at their heart.
Gulmarg fashion show that caused public anger in J&K, apologised for organising the event while the sponsors said they have withdrawn the videos shot
Dhaka: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus inaugurates the new building of the charitable organization Anjuman Mufidul Islam in Dhaka on Monday, March 03, 2025.
Dubai: Indian players celebrate with the winners trophy on the podium after defeating New Zealand in the final cricket match of the ICC Champions Trophy at Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai on Sunday, March 9, 2025.
Port Louis: Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Prime Minister of Mauritius Navinchandra Ramgoolam upon his arrival in Mauritius on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
Chandigarh: President Droupadi Murmu is welcomed by Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatraya, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini in Chandigarh, on Monday, March 10, 2025.
New Delhi: BJP MP Jagdambika Pal along with SP MPs Anand Badoria, Priya Saroj and others celebrate Holi at the Parliament in New Delhi on Wednesday, March 12, 2025.
New Delhi: CDS Gen Anil Chauhan attends seminar on UAS Warfare & Counter-UAS in New Delhi on Monday, March 10, 2025.
Jaipur: Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma attends the Thanksgiving ceremony organised by the Rajasthan Gauseva Committee at the CM’s residence in Jaipur on Monday, March 10, 2025.
Port Louis: Prime Minister Narendra Modi deposits Gangajal brought from Prayagraj Mahakumbh on the banks of Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin), in Port Louis on Wednesday, March 12, 2025.
Amritsar: Members of Akal Purkh Ki Fauj offer prayers at Sri Akal Takht Sahib before planning a protest against the SGPC’s removal of various Jathedars without stated reasons, in Amritsar on Monday, March 10, 2025.
Dubai: Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma poses with the T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy, a day after India secured consecutive victories in ICC men’s events, in Dubai on Monday, March 10, 2025.
Port Louis: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam jointly e-inaugurate 20 high-impact community development projects and an India-assisted Area Health Centre (AHC) at Port Louis, Mauritius, on Wednesday, March 12, 2025.
Tokmok: Opening ceremony of Joint Military Exercise ‘Khanjar-XII’ between the Special Forces of India and Kyrgyzstan held in Tokmok, Kyrgyzstan, Monday, March 10, 2025.
New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar meets Armenia Foreign Affairs Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, in New Delhi on Monday, March 10, 2025.
KARMA
RELEASE DATE: 11 April 2025
LANGUAGE: Nepali (With English Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Basanta Lamsal DIRECTOR: Saurav
SIKANDAR
RELEASE DATE: Eid 2025
LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Sajid Nadiadwala
DIRECTOR: A.R. Murugadoss
CAST: Salman Khan, Rashmika Mandanna, Kajal Aggarwal
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:
Shiv Rawail CAST: Alia Bhatt, Sharvari
Rashmika Mandanna urges to be ‘a little more kinder’: Everyone is having a hard day
Rashmika Mandanna keeps her InstaFam entertained with her lovely social media posts. The diva took to her Instagram account and urged everyone to be positive and 'a little more kinder'.
The 'Animal' actress wrote, "Guysss...Try and keep positive as much as possible, Smile - we only got this one life so live it to the fullest..be a little more kinder.. everyone is having a hard day in their own ways..give love to others, give love to yourselves. and and Hydrate as much as possible and give love to your bodies. From Me and Ru."
Rashmika shared a picture of herself with closed eyes as she held a sunflower and a huge mug of beverage.
Prior to this, Rashmika shared her struggle to get ready at the last minute through a social media post.
She penned on her IG, "Sometimes.. just sometimes things happen too last minute and have to do hair make up styling all by yourself and have to ask my best friend to take my pictures.. it ends up like this. I love it!! It’s taking me back to college days fully."
Rashmika looked radiant in a golden saree, paired with a contrasting blue blouse. She tied her look with brown-toned makeup, along with some blue bangles and golden jhumkas. The 'Pushpa' actress was also seen flaunting a cute little bindi, with her hair tied in a neat bun.
Talking about her professional commitments, Rashmika is gearing up for the release of her next, "Sikandar", opposite Salman Khan. The highly-awaited drama has been helmed by A.R. Murugadoss, known for "Ghajini".
With Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna as the lead pair, "Sikandar" also features Kajal Aggarwal, Sathyaraj, Sharman Joshi, and Prateik Babbar as secondary cast.
Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, "Sikandar" is scheduled to reach the theatres on March 31, on Eid al-Fitr.
In addition to this, Rashmika Mandanna also has Sekhar Kammula's "Kubera" co-starring Dhanush, and Aditya Sarpotdar's "Thama", along with Ayushmann Khurrana in her kitty.
Katrina Kaif turns into the perfect bridesmaid for her best friend’s wedding
Katrina
Kaif turned a perfect bridesmaid during her best friend Karishma Kohli's wedding. The 'Tiger Zinda Hai' actress took to her Instagram account and shared photos from the wedding festivities.
Katrina also penned a heartfelt long, dedicated to her best friend on social media.
"My Best Friends Weddings @ karishmakohli there is no one quite like you , from the first day we first met 16 yrs ago ur joy and madness in equal measures grabbed my attention and there’s been no looking back since then. You’ve been forever by my side through the good and the bad, no matter what, you are always there for me, shiny and bright no matter what is happening in your
own life. You truly are a gem of a person and you have the kindest, most generous, and courageous soul.", she penned.
Katrina added, "My ride or die for life...I couldn’t be happier for you and Mikhail, in him you have the most amazing life partner ever. I’m so excited for both of you, your together forever starts now."
The 'Namastey London' actress looked absolutely jaw-dropping in a corset floral lehenga, paired with statement jhumkas, light makeup, and open hair.
Katrina recently treated her fans with an adorable real-life dance performance. A video from her best friend's wedding went viral on social media. The clip featured Katrina tapping a foot to the "Delhi-6" song, "Sasural Genda
Director of Nani-starrer ‘The Paradise’, calls the film ‘unapologetically honest’
Srikanth Odela, the director of the upcoming Nani-starrer movie ‘The Paradise’, has called it an unapologetically honest Indian film. The makers recently released the first glimpse promising a gritty and gripping clip that took the internet by storm.
‘The Paradise’ is an intense examination of societal prejudice set against the backdrop of 1980s Secunderabad.
form. ‘The Paradise’ will stand as one of the most authentic, original and unapologetically honest Indian films, carrying immense potential and relevance to resonate with a global audience”.
The director, whose 2023 debut ‘Dasara’ also starred Nani, earned him honours from SIIMA, and IIFA.
Phool". She looked stunning in a turquoise blue corset blouse, along with a skirt and a dupatta. Before this, Katrina Kaif shared several glimpses from her tranquil gateway to Mayr Life Altausse, a medical health resort in Austria.
The film follows a marginalised tribe stripped of their rights who find hope in an unlikely leader, a character described simply as “a bastard”, who guides their fight for citizenship and recognition in a system designed to keep them oppressed. “You don’t need an identity to be a leader” serves as the film’s central thesis, with Odela promising to tackle bureaucracy, oppression and exploitation.
Talking about the project, he said, “This time, we are not blurring or masking societal taboos. As a filmmaker, I am committed to presenting the film in its rawest
“If 1,000 of my efforts can make one person from the other side of the world watch my film, I am willing to put in those efforts because my ‘The Paradise’ deserves a global audience”, he added.
Talking about the film, Nani said, “This is India’s ‘Mad Max,’ and I believe this with utmost sincerity. The tone and nature of ‘The Paradise’ will be wild, and that wildness will be accompanied by poetic justice”.
‘The Paradise’ is set to release in eight languages, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, English, Spanish, Bengali, Kannada & Malayalam on March 26, 2026 in cinemas.
Actress Manisha Yadav uses creative skills to come up with new refreshing concept in shared office space!
Onthe eve of International Women’s Day, well known Tamil film actress Manisha Yadav, who is best known for her work in critically acclaimed superhits such as Vazhakku En 18/9 and Aadhalal Kaadhal Seiveer, has disclosed how she has used her creative skills to come up with a new refreshing concept in shared office space!
Taking to Instagram to make the announcement, Manisha Yadav said, “I’m super happy to introduce you’ll to what I’ve have been busy in the last one-and-ahalf years or so -- a project that I have put in my sweat and blood (of course my creativity) to bring to you a whole new refreshing concept of a shared office space.”
Stating that as her husband was a builder for commercial spaces and was involved in renting out spaces to IT and non IT companies, she was exposed to a seeing a corporate culture.
“When I met my tenants I felt the places they worked at are so non-motivational, so lifeless and so typical ‘office like’.I always
felt no wonder they are stressed when someone is put into a space with four plain walls and the A/c being blasted at a 16 degrees. It makes it a really COLD place (pun intended) after all,” she explained. This resulted in Manisha coming up with an idea of introducing a themed co working space. The
actress said she spoke about her idea to her husband and that he believed in it as well.
“The first thing that came to my mind to change lifeless office spaces into an environment you feel like being surrounded by was - plants!! .
Raj Kundra expresses love for ‘Lady luck’ Shilpa Shetty
on International Women’s Day
Actor and businessman Raj Kundra, who is also the husband of actress Shilpa Shetty, is celebrating his wife and her efforts on the International Women's Day.
Recently, Raj seized the moment to shower his wife with heartfelt appreciation. He took to his social
media, and shared a touching video featuring special moments with his “lady luck”. A poignant piece of poetry added depth to the post as it beautifully conveyed his love for her and the profound role she plays in his life.
The poetry, penned by one of Punjab’s most celebrated poets,
Sony Singh Thulewal, resonated deeply with Raj’s emotions. Raj consistently sets the bar high when it comes to husband and family goals, whether it’s spending quality time with his kids or making special moments with Shilpa Shetty.
Meanwhile, on the professional front, Raj Kundra recently announced his Punjabi theatrical debut, ‘Mehr’. The actor has already begun shooting for the Rakesh Mehta directorial in Mohali, where he will be seen sharing screen space with Geeta Basra.
‘Mehr’ promises to be a compelling story of love, life, and relationships, with a theatrical release slated for September 5. Additionally, Raj has two more projects in the pipeline, set to be announced soon. With a total of three upcoming films, he is poised to make a significant impact on the evolving landscape of Punjabi cinema.
Earlier, Shilpa joined the ‘Taambdi Chaamdi’ trend by posting a fun reel on the popular Marathi song ‘Taambdi Chaamdi’. In the video, she was dressed in a vibrant outfit and showcasing her signature dance moves. The Reel quickly drew attention not only from fans but also from her husband, businessman Raj Kundra, who couldn’t resist adding a playful comment under the post. He asked, “All okay?” sparking a string of amusing replies from fans.
I have lived my life well after marriage, says Madhuri Dixit
As part of IIFA's Silver Jubilee celebrations, a special event was held on the eve of International Women's Day in Jaipur.
Titled 'The Journey of Women in Cinema', the event featured a thought-provoking conversation with Bollywood icon Madhuri Dixit and Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga.
The discussion was hosted by IIFA Vice-President Noreen Khan.
During the conversation, Madhuri Dixit shared her thoughts on her personal and professional journey.
She said, "I have lived my life well after marriage. My partner is very supportive, and living with family is like a dream. I have also had the opportunity to play some incredible roles in my career."
Speaking about her choices in films, she reflected on 'Mrityudand', an art film that remains a landmark in her career. "When I chose to do 'Mrityudand', people discouraged me, saying it wasn't the right move for my career. But I went ahead with it, and the film turned out to be a significant milestone."
On the growing influence of social media, she added, "Today, actors are not just movie stars but also
Sanjay Dutt: The women in my life are my biggest blessings
Bollywood star Sanjay Dutt has wished a Happy Women’s Day to his loved ones, including his late mother, Nargis, his wife, Maanyata, his daughters, Trishala and Iqra, and his sisters, Priya and Namrata.
Sanjay took to his Instagram, where he shared the pictures of the women in his life. The first was a picture of him with his mother Nargis, then a picture with his wife Maanyata, followed by images of his daughter Trishala and Iqra.
Twitter stars, Instagram stars, and social media influencers. I enjoy creating reels and engaging with my audience in new ways."
Oscar-winning producer Guneet Monga shared her inspiring journey, recalling her early struggles.
We used to live in a rented house, but I always dreamed of moving to Bombay to make films. I aspired to become a producer, and over time, I gradually learned the entire filmmaking process. That journey brought me to where I am today."
She also spoke about her early work in film distribution, managing acclaimed projects such as 'Gangs of Wasseypur' at the age of 27 and 'Lunchbox' at 29.
Madhuri Dixit, reflecting on her 39-year career, shared insights on how women's roles in films have evolved over time.
She highlighted that female characters are no longer just supporting figures but are now central to compelling narratives.
Guneet Monga, on the other hand, spoke about her struggles in the film industry, her journey to winning an Oscar, and the importance of women's leadership.
He also posted photographs striking a pose with his sisters Priya and Namarata. For the caption, he wrote: “The women in my life are my biggest blessings. Their love, care, and strength mean everything to me. Happy Women’s Day to my loves” International Women's Day is celebrated annually as a focal point in the women's rights movement. International Women's Day gives focus to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women.
On Women’s Day, Vidya Balan explains why it is important for women to be financially independent
In a recent conversation about the importance of financial independence, actress Vidya Balan shared her perspective on why it is essential for women to take charge of their finances.
Balan, who was recently announced as the brand ambassador of a bank, emphasized how understanding that “money is power” was a turning point in her life. Speaking about the importance of financial
independence, the actress shared, “I realized years ago that money is power. It's not just about earning—it’s about being in charge of your finances. You need to decide how to spend, save, invest, and grow your money because financial control gives you the strength to take on life unapologetically and fearlessly. Too often, especially for women, financial dependence keeps them stuck in situations—whether an unhappy marriage or a job that stifles their passion. Many are unable to chase their dreams simply because they haven’t taken charge of their finances. I believe financial independence is empowering and essential for everyone, but even more so for women.”
The ‘Dirty Picture’ actress also reflected on her journey toward financial independence and the pivotal moment that changed everything.
