Pak minister holds emergency press meet at 2 am, says India’s military action within 24 to 36 hours
Islamabad, April 30 (IANS) Amid looming fears of strong action from India in the wake of the
Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar held an emergency press meet at 2 a.m. Wednesday, saying that there were 'intelligence reports of military action against their country within the next 24 to 36 hours'.
Addressing an emergency press conference, Tarar said credible
Eight devotees killed in wall collapse at Simhachalam temple in Andhra Pradesh
Visakhapatnam, April 30 (IANS) At least eight devotees were killed and four others injured in a wall
collapse during an annual festival at Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple at Simhachalam in Andhra Pradesh's Visakhapatnam on Wednesday.
The incident occurred due to heavy rain in Simhachalam past midnight. A wall collapsed on devotees who were queued up to
intelligence-based information has warned of an Indian military action.
“We have credible intelligencebased information that India is planning a military offensive against Pakistan within the next 24 to 36 hours. Any action by India will be responded to with full force,” he said.
Kolkata hotel fire deaths: PM Modi expresses grief, announces ex gratia for families of victims
Kolkata, April 30 (IANS) At least 14 persons, including two children and one woman, were killed in a devastating fire at a
Patna, April 24 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday issued a powerful warning to the "enemies" of the
‘Power projection’: India inks Rs 63,000 crore deal with France to buy 26 Rafale fighter jets for Navy
New Delhi, April 28 (IANS) India on Monday signed a landmark Rs 63,000 crore government-to-
government deal with France to buy 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets which will give added punch to the Indian Navy, amid growing security concerns over China flexing its maritime muscle in the Indo-Pacific region.
The procurement will proceed under an Inter-Governmental
Agreement , ensuring direct deliveries without any intermediaries. The deal has been signed for 22 single-seater jets and four twin-seater trainers, with deliveries expected to be completed by 2031. The signing of the agreement
nation, stating that India will "identify, trace, and punish" every terrorist and their supporters, pursuing them to the "ends of the Earth."
Before starting his speech, the Prime Minister observed a twominute silence for the victims and paid tributes to them.
PM Modi said that the nation is united in expressing grief for the victims who lost lives in the cowardly act of terror.
six-storey hotel building at Madan Mohan Burman Street in central Kolkata. Expressing anguish at the loss of lives, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex gratia payment for the families of victims and those injured.
A post on X from the Prime
He called on the public to observe a moment of silence for the lives lost in the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, on Tuesday. "Before I begin my speech, I would like to request all of you to observe a moment of silence to pay tribute to the families we lost in terror attacks on April 22," PM Modi said. Addressing a massive gathering in
co-hosts historic ANZAC Day commemoration dinner honouring Indian soldiers
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Pak minister holds emergency press meet at 2 am, says India’s military action within 24 to 36 hours
Continued from Page 1
“Pakistan will defend its territory at all costs and will respond with its full might. The nation will defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity by all means necessary. If India tries to impose a war on Pakistan, it will be solely responsible for the disastrous and devastating costs,” he added. Tarar also called on the international community to take note of India’s "planned aggression" against Pakistan, stating that even though Islamabad offered cooperation in a neutral and credible investigation, New Delhi has not provided any proof of Islamabad’s involvement in the Pahalgam attack.
“It has been days since the Pahalgam incident, but India has not provided Pakistan with any evidence. However, we have credible evidence of India’s involvement in cross-border terrorism in our country. The International community needs to take notice of New Delhi’s planned and self-orchestrated reasoning to attack Pakistan”, he said.
“India’s habit of being the judge, jury and executioner is categorically and strongly rejected by Pakistan”, he added.
The late-night emergency press conference by Pakistan’s Information Minister has come amid heavy military deployments by both sides on their borders,
while the political temperature is rising every passing hour.
Both sides have unleashed a range of measures against each other, with Pakistan closing its airspace for Indian airlines and India putting the crucial and critical Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in abeyance, among other measures.
Tarar’s statement comes soon after the recent statement by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who had stated a "military incursion from India was imminent".
Asif had also warned that Pakistan would only use its nuclear weapons if there were a direct threat to the country’s existence from India.
U’khand: Char Dham Yatra begins today as Gangotri, Yamunotri Dham portals open
Uttarkashi, April 30 (IANS)
The sacred Char Dham Yatra commenced on Wednesday with the ceremonial opening of the portals of Gangotri and Yamunotri Dham in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand.
The pilgrimage marks the beginning of a spiritually significant journey through the revered Himalayan shrines.
After spending six months in her winter abode in Mukba village, the palanquin of Goddess Ganga was ceremoniously sent off to Gangotri Dham on Tuesday.
‘Power
The journey paused overnight at Bhairav Temple in Bhairavghati.
Tirtha Purohit Rajesh Semwal confirmed that the palanquin would proceed to the Gangotri temple today, where the doors were set to open at 10:30 am with traditional rituals and Vedic chants.
Simultaneously, the palanquin of Maa Yamuna departed from her winter residence in Kharsali for Yamunotri Dham early this morning. The temple gates were scheduled to open at 11:55 am to welcome devotees.
On the occasion, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami extended greetings to devotees.
Taking to X, he posted, "Today, on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya, the doors of Shri Yamunotri Dham and Shri Gangotri Dham will be formally opened for the devotees to visit. Char Dham Yatra - 2025 is going to start from today, this holy journey is a symbol of a unique confluence of faith, devotion and invaluable sentiments of Sanatan culture."
projection’: India inks Rs 63,000 crore deal with France to buy 26 Rafale fighter jets for Navy
Continued from Page 1
comes close on the heels of the final approval for the deal by the Cabinet Committee on Security’s (CCS), chaired by PM Narendra Modi, on April 9.
The 26 Rafale-M jets for the Navy, manufactured by Dassault Aviation of France , are expected to be delivered within 37 to 65 months. The delivery of all the planes is scheduled to be completed by 2030-31, a senior official said.
The Rafale procurement will include weapons, simulators, spares, associated ancillary equipment, crew training and logistics support for the Indian Navy from the French government. Besides, it includes indigenous manufacturing of components under offset obligations as part of the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, The fighter jets will be deployed on aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya,
strengthening the Indian Navy’s capability to counter any threat emerging in the Indian Ocean.
The Rafale-M is a multirole fighter jet armed with longrange cruise missiles, AM39 Exocet anti-ship missiles, and the Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile. It has proved its capabilities in French Navy operations and is deployed from the country’s prestigious aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle.
Devotees flock to Varanasi, Ayodhya for Akshaya Tritiya rituals
New Delhi, April 30 (IANS)
The holy festival of Akshaya Tritiya was marked with vibrant spiritual fervour across Varanasi and Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday, as thousands of devotees thronged temples, ghats, and riverbanks to participate in age-old rituals, seeking blessings, prosperity, and ancestral peace. In Ayodhya, Hanumangarhi's head priest, Prem Das Ji Maharaj, performed sacred rituals, including a milk abhishek and
chunri offering to the holy Saryu River, in the presence of thousands of Naga Sadhus who took a ceremonial dip. The event set the tone for an expansive day of devotion, drawing pilgrims from across the country.
Adding a historic dimension to the celebrations, the 'Gaddi Nasheen' of Hanuman Garhi led a royal procession of 1,000 Naga Sadhus to the Ram Janmabhoomi for the first time in 300 years. Seventy-year-old Mahant Prem
Kolkata hotel fire deaths:
PM Modi expresses grief, announces ex gratia for families of victims
Continued from Page 1
Minister's Office said PM Modi has announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF to the next of kin of each deceased, and the injured would be given Rs 50,000. "Anguished by the loss of lives due to a fire mishap in Kolkata. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000: PM," the post read.
The fire has been brought under control, and till now, 14 bodies have been recovered from within the hotel, confirmed Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma.
"Several people have been safely evacuated from the hotel rooms,”
confirmed Verma.
The state government has formed a special investigation team (SIT) to investigate the matter. “The members of the SIT have already started the investigation. The member of the forensic team will be a part of the investigation,” Verma said.
According to eyewitnesses, the fire broke out on Tuesday night, and the matter came to the notice first when one staff Manoj Paswan, jumped out of the floors of the hotel building and died in the process. Ten fire tenders were rushed to the spot and started the firefighting process, and rescued the people trapped in the hotel building.
The fire came under control early Wednesday morning, and thereafter, a total of 13 bodies were recovered from the building.
Eight devotees killed in wall collapse at Simhachalam temple in Andhra Pradesh
Continued from Page 1
buy tickets for darshan during Chandanotsavam, the annual festival scheduled to begin on Wednesday.
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel rushed to the spot and launched the rescue operation with the help of police and other departments.
Officials said seven bodies were pulled out of the debris and shifted to King George Hospital.
The deceased include five men and three women. The injured
were admitted to the hospital. Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha, Visakhapatnam district Collector M.N. Harendhira Prasad and Police Commissioner Shanka Brata Bagchi were supervising the rescue operations.
The incident occurred hours before the beginning of the temple’s annual festival, Chandanotsavam. According to officials, devotees who were lined up to buy Rs 300 tickets were killed or injured in the wall collapse.
India will identify, trace, punish every terrorist and their backers: PM Modi on Pahalgam attack
Continued from Page 1
Bihar's Madhubani on Panchayati Raj Day, PM Modi condemned the dastardly terror attacks in J&K's Pahalgam.
Das stepped outside the Hanuman Garhi's 52-bigha premises for the first time, barring a hospital trip, for a darshan of Lord Ram. The procession included a special Saryu Puja, offering of 56 traditional dishes, and recitation of Hanuman Chalisa.
Peda Maharaj, speaking about the significance, said, “It will be a historic day as, for the first time, Hanuman Ji’s representative will perform a ceremonial bath (Sarnam) with a royal procession and then have the darshan of Ram Lalla.”
"The brutal killing of innocent citizens by terrorists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22 has deeply saddened the entire nation. Millions of Indians are grieving. The whole country stands with the bereaved families in their time of sorrow," he said.
"In this terrorist attack, some lost their son, some lost brothers, some lost their life partners. Some of the victims spoke Bangla, some spoke Kannada, some Marathi, Odia, Gujarati and Bihari. From Kargil to Kanyakumari, we are all grieving for them," the Prime Minister said.
Stressing that a stringent punishment will be given to the terrorists and those backing them, PM Modi said, "This attack was not only on the unarmed
tourists, but the enemies of the nation have dared to attack the soul of India. I would like to make it clear that those who have carried out this terrorist attack and those who have planned it will get a bigger punishment than they can imagine. We will punish them."
"Today, from the soil of Bihar, I tell the entire world -- India will identify, trace and punish every terrorist and their backers. We will pursue them to the ends of the Earth. India's spirit will never be broken by terrorism. Terrorism will not go unpunished. Every effort will be made to ensure justice is done. The entire nation is firm in this resolve. Everyone who believes in humanity is with us.'
"I thank the various countries and the nations who have stood with us in these times," the Prime Minister added.
‘India Got Latent’ row: Probe likely to get completed by April end, Assam tells SC
New Delhi, April 21 (IANS) The investigation in respect of the FIR registered in Assam against popular YouTubers Samay Raina, Ranveer Allahbadia, Ashish Chanchlani, Apoorva Mukhija, and others over allegedly obscene and offensive remarks about parents in the comedy show "India's Got Latent" is likely to get completed by the end of April, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the Supreme Court on Monday.
"In Assam, a co-accused is coming tomorrow (Tuesday) for getting her statement recorded. By the end of this month, the investigation would be over," SG Mehta submitted before a bench of Justices Surya Kant and N.K. Singh.
Advocate Abhinav Chandrachud, appearing for Allahbadia, submitted that on the last occasion, the application for release of the passport was not pressed in view of the statement made by the law officer that the investigation would get over in two more weeks.
"It is a matter of livelihood for him. He (Allahbadia) has to travel abroad from time to time," the counsel said, adding that as per
the media reports, the probe is over in relation to the FIR registered in Maharashtra, and soon, a charge sheet is going to be filed against the accused persons.
"As far as the petitioner is concerned, Maharashtra Police had called him on three occasions, and Assam had called him on one occasion. He had appeared on every occasion," the counsel added.
After hearing the submissions, the Justice Surya Kant-led Bench said that it would take up the matter for hearing after a week.
"Meanwhile, in Assam, you complete the investigation. As far as the petitioner is concerned, qua him, you complete whatever you want so that the issue of the release of his passport is completed. You also let us know the other co-accused who are not appearing,” the apex court told SG Mehta, who appeared on behalf of the states of Maharashtra and Assam.
Posting the matter for hearing on April 28, the bench asked the law officer to obtain instructions as to whether the presence of Allahabadia is required for further investigation.
Allahbadia and several other YouTubers, including Chanchlani and Mukhija, have been embroiled in the controversy for vulgar and crass comments made during an episode of Raina's "India's Got Latent" show.
In an earlier hearing, the Supreme Court had permitted Allahbadia to resume airing his podcast on the condition that he would maintain the “standards of decency and morality”. It had favoured relaxing an earlier condition which had prohibited Allahbadia or his associates from airing any show on YouTube or any other audio/ visual mode of communication till further orders. The apex court clarified that Allahbadia’s shows should not comment upon the proceedings which are subjudice.
Earlier, on February 18, the top court had stayed Allahbadia’s arrest subject to the condition that he would join the investigation, as and when summoned by the Investigating Officers.
"The interim protection against arrest is granted further subject to the condition that the petitioner will extend full cooperation to the ongoing investigation," it had ordered. The Supreme Court had added that no further FIR would be registered against Allahbadia on the basis of the episode aired of "India's Got Latent", for which two to three FIRs have already been registered. Several complaints seeking legal action have been filed against Allahabadia and others over allegedly obscene and offensive remarks about parents in the comedy show.
US Vice President JD Vance, family visit Rajasthan’s Amer Fort, explore Jaipur’s heritage
Jaipur, April 22 (IANS) US Vice President James David Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha Vance and their three children, is currently on a visit to Jaipur.
After arriving in New Delhi on Monday, where he held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and visited the Akshardham Temple, JD Vance and his family travelled to Jaipur, reaching the city late at night. He is staying at the historic Rambagh Palace with his family, and on Tuesday morning, he reached the historic Amer Fort.
Vance toured the Amer Fort with his family. For security reasons, the Fort has been evacuated in advance, and tourists' entry has been closed. The US Vice President travelled to the Fort in an open jeep from Hathi Stand, viewing the outer architecture, Mavtha Sarovar, and Kesar Kyari Bagh along the way.
The tour continued to Jaleb Chowk, where two elephants, 'Pushpa' and 'Chanda', ceremonially welcomed the Vance
family. The two elephants have been adorned with traditional Rajasthani jewellery and attire as part of the grand welcome for the US Vice President JD Vance and family. Pushpa offered her blessings to Vance, while Chanda honoured him by placing a garland of flowers around his neck.
According to Mahout Ballu Khan, both elephants have been dressed in ornaments that are over 350 years old, including traditional pieces such as 'kantha (necklace)' and 'payal (anklets)'.
Rajasthani folk artists performed in honour of the Vice President's arrival. Following the welcome ceremony, a guide escorted Vance and his family on a tour of the Fort.
Afterwards, the Vice President is scheduled to visit the Panna Meena Kund and the Anokhi Museum. After concluding the Amer tour, the Vance family will return to Rambagh Palace for a brief rest, following which JD Vance will head to the Rajasthan International Center (RIC) at 2.45 p.m., where he will address the US Business Summit.
The summit will focus on trade and bilateral cooperation between India and the United States.
PM Modi, Rahul Gandhi, Mamata pay homage to Pope Francis
New Delhi, April 21 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, Union Ministers and Chief Ministers on Monday mourned the demise of Pope Francis.
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican's Casa Santa Marta.
Fondly recalling his meetings with the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, PM Modi said that Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world.
"Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world," PM Modi said in his condolence message.
Later in the day, Vance will meet Governor Haribhau Bagde, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, and Industry Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore at Rambagh Palace. Key topics of discussion include ongoing Indo-US collaborative programmes and economic partnerships.
Before lunch, Vance will be briefed on Jaipur’s iconic landmarks, including Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, and the city's signature pink architecture. A traditional Rajasthani lunch will be served to the Vice President and his family.
Security has been significantly increased, especially around Amer Fort, with US security agencies, local police, and intelligence teams on high alert to ensure the safety of the US Vice President and his family.
As per officials, on April 23, he will leave for Agra from Jaipur Airport at 9 a.m. and will stay in the Taj Mahal complex for three hours, and return to Jaipur after 2 p.m. Here, he is scheduled to visit the City Palace where he will be accorded a warm welcome by Deputy CM Diya Kumari.
The US President will fly back to the US in the morning of April 24, said the officials.
India and the Holy See have friendly relations dating back to the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1948. India is also home to the second-largest Catholic population in Asia. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi hailed Pope Francis for standing by the downtrodden and said in a post on social media platform X, “Deeply saddened by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, a global voice of compassion, justice, and peace.”
“He stood by the downtrodden and the marginalised, spoke fearlessly against inequality, and inspired millions across faiths with his message of love and humanity. My thoughts are with the Catholic community in India and around the world,” he said.
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra described the passing away of Pope Francis as a loss to the entire world.
“He was truly an embodiment of love and compassion. He stood for the truth, he spoke out fearlessly against injustice and cared for the poor and marginalised in true faith. He was an inspiration to millions across the world who hope and strive for a more peaceful and kinder world,” she said in a message on social media.
Delhi govt to launch 250 mini-electric ‘Mohalla Buses’ named DEVI tomorrow
New Delhi, April 21 (IANS)
Scripting a new chapter in Delhi’s public transport sector, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta will launch over 250 air-conditioned minielectric buses – nine metres in length and named DEVI – on Tuesday to offer commuters a solution in last-mile connectivity.
The green-coloured buses, which were earlier proposed to be named ‘Mohalla Buses’ by the previous AAP government, will hit the road after a delay of about six months and a year-long trial run on half a dozen routes.
Delhi Transport Minister Pankaj Singh said the launch of the new buses will coincide with World Earth Day, adding that the free travel facility for women shall continue in the new buses that will follow the existing fare rates.
The mini-electric bus service, christened Delhi Electric Vehicle Interchanges (DEVI), is being launched to offer citizens living in
congested areas a fleet of buses which can move easily on narrow roads.
Each DEVI bus will have 23 seats and space for 13 standing passengers.
With routes not longer than 12 km in one direction, the DEVI buses, modelled on Delhi Metro’s feeder buses, are likely to bring commuters from interior streets to wider arterial roads that are serviced by Delhi Transport Corporation’s longer 12-metre buses.
The launch event on Tuesday will be presided over by Union Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav.
The new air-conditioned DEVI buses will be flagged off from Kushak Nala Depot, Sewa Nagar, near Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, said an official.
Talking about the introduction of new buses, the Delhi Transport Minister earlier said that about 2,000 new buses – both 12 metres and 9 metres long – will gradually join the DTC fleet starting from this month.
IAS officers express gratitude to PM Modi after receiving awards for excellence in governance
New Delhi, April 21 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed the 17th Civil Services Day at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, where he lauded India’s civil servants for their pivotal role in shaping a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) and presented the Prime Minister’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration.
In his speech, PM Modi paid homage to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who famously called civil servants the "steel frame" of India. He emphasised that achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047 requires synergy between all administrative arms and a forward-thinking, technologydriven approach.
“Governance cannot continue with outdated practices. As the world and youth evolve with rapid technological advancements, our bureaucracy must adapt at the same pace,” PM Modi said.
Several IAS officers who received awards expressed their gratitude and shared how their work aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision.
Athar Aamir Khan, District
Magistrate of Kulgam, Jammu & Kashmir, said, “It’s a great honour to receive this award from PM Modi. His encouragement has inspired us. Under his vision of ‘Viksit Bharat @2047’, schemes like PM Mudra Yojana are empowering youth across the country.”
Ayushi Sudan, IAS from Kupwara, J&K, emphasised the importance of capacity building and technology.
“First of all, I am grateful to the Prime Minister for bestowing us with this award. Definitely, capacity building is important at every stage, at the beginning, middle and the end of birth of career. We’ve developed over 300 smart classrooms, robotics and innovation labs to improve education. Using trackers and monitoring tools, we aim to ensure better governance at the grassroots.”
Swapneel Paul, Tinsukia, Assam, discussed innovations in water supply through Jal Shala and Jaldoot schemes.
“For the first time in many floodprone villages, uninterrupted water supply is available during monsoons, significantly reducing waterborne diseases. I am grateful after being awarded by PM Modi,” Paul said.
Prabhav Joshi, Rajkot DM, shared
achievements in solar energy and housing: “We installed over 33 solar rooftops, reducing power bills to zero. Under PM Awas Yojana, 9,200 houses were constructed, improving living conditions in slums.”
Neha Meena, IAS, Jhabua, MP, discussed the 'Moti Aai' campaign to combat anemia through local community support.
“Our campaign used regional language folk songs and peer counseling to address malnutrition among tribal children,” Meena said.
Rajarshi Shah, Adilabad District Collector, highlighted the transformation in Narnoor Block: “In the last two years, significant improvements in health, education, and infrastructure helped us achieve saturation targets. We also launched a 'Mahua Laddu' initiative for anaemic girls, recognised by the PM in 'Mann Ki Baat.'”
Shashank Shubhankar, IAS, Nalanda, Bihar, shared, “This award reflects our district’s success in delivering schemes effectively. The Prime Minister rightly pointed out that real quality in governance is not just about launching schemes, but ensuring they truly reach and impact people on the ground.”
Blackmailed by ex-lover: Teacher who represented K’taka at national level, kills self
(Karnataka), April 21
(IANS) An incident involving a physical education teacher and national-level Kabaddi player who died by suicide after being unable to bear harassment and blackmail by her ex-lover, came to light from Gadag district in Karnataka on Monday.
The deceased has been identified as 29-year-old Saira Banu Nadaf, a resident of Asundi village near Gadag city.
Her family had arranged her marriage, and the wedding was scheduled to take place on May 8.
Saira Banu has left a death note and stated that she was harassed and blackmailed by her former lover.
The death note stated, “The mistake I made that led to my death is that I loved a boy named Mailari. We broke up five years ago. But about a month ago, we met again — he messaged me on Instagram.
“After that, he celebrated my birthday. He had given me his word, saying, ‘I will always take care of you and never let any trouble come to you.’ But now, he is harassing me using my photos and videos. That is why I have decided to end my life. My only request is that my father and mother should not be troubled in any way. Please forgive me.”
Women’s rights organisations, upon learning about the incident, have taken the matter seriously and demanded strict legal action against those involved in blackmail.
They demanded that in the name of love, women are repeatedly being victimised and this is an issue that requires urgent intervention.
According to the police, Saira Banu was in a relationship with a man named Mailari. After their break-up, she agreed to get married to another man chosen by her family.
Her parents had fixed her wedding date, and the celebrations had already begun. When all the family members had gone out for wedding shopping, the victim died by suicide by hanging herself at her residence on Sunday.
Saira Banu was the pillar of support for her family. She worked as a physical education
Karnataka ex-DGP murder: Wife arrested following son’s suspicion of her role, case transferred to CCB
Bengaluru, April 21 (IANS) A day after Karnataka's former DGP Om Prakash was found brutally murdered at his residence, his wife, who is reportedly suffering from a mental disorder, was arrested on Monday on charges of involvement in the shocking crime, police said.
"The investigating officer has arrested 64-year-old Mrs Pallavi Om Prakash. She will be produced before the magistrate," DCP, South East, Sarah Fathima said.
In another major development, the case has been transferred to the Central Crime Branch (CCB), the DCP said. "The case has been transferred to the CCB from the HSR Layout police station," she said.
was found brutally murdered at his residence in HSR Layout, Bengaluru on last Sunday.
The FIR was filed based on a complaint lodged by his son, Karthikesh Om Prakash, police sources said on Monday.
In his complaint, Karthikesh stated that his father had been receiving life threats from his mother for the past week. He also alleged that his sister forcibly brought their father back home.
Om Prakash's wife Pallavi was named the first suspect, and his daughter, the second suspect in the FIR.
Karthikesh alleged that due to threats from his mother, Om Prakash had gone to stay at his sister Sarita Kumari’s residence. "However, two days ago, my sister Kriti went there, harassed my father, and brought him back home," he added.
“I suspect that my father, former DGP Om Prakash, was killed by my mother, Pallavi, and sister Kriti. They are both suffering from depression and would quarrel with my father every day,” he said in the complaint.
teacher and was a talented sportswoman. She had represented Karnataka at the national level in Kabaddi and had won several medals.
The DCP further said that the former DGP's daughter, Kiti, named as the second suspect in the FIR, has not yet been arrested. Asked whether she is currently in police custody, DCP Fathima clarified that she was not. However, when asked if Kriti had been released, she did not respond.
Police had registered an FIR against the wife and daughter of the former state DGP, who
“On April 20, around 5 p.m., while I was at the Karnataka Golf Association in the Domlur area, my neighbour Sridharan called and informed me that my father’s body was lying on the floor. I rushed home and arrived by 5.45 p.m. By then, the police and members of the public had gathered. My father was lying in a pool of blood with head injuries. I saw knives and a bottle beside the body,” Karthikesh stated. The body was later shifted to St. John’s Hospital.
Two arrested, six detained for Murshidabad violence
Bhubaneswar, April 21 (IANS)
The joint team of West Bengal Police and Jharsuguda District Police on Monday arrested two persons involved in the murder of a father-son duo - Harogobindo Das (70) and his son Chandan Das - by a mob during the recent communal violence in Jafrabad under Samsergunj police station area in Murshidabad district of West Bengal on April 12.
The accused, identified as Bani Israel and Sefaul Haque, hail from Sulitala in the Samserganj area of Murshidabad district in neighbouring West Bengal. The accused duo was apprehended from the Banharpali area of the district.
“Following the raids, six more residents of Murshidabad were
identified and detained by the joint team of Jharsuguda Police and West Bengal STF from the Bandhabahal area. These individuals are allegedly involved in the Murshidabad violence,” police said.
An official said that the detained accused involved in the riots were identified as Babul SK. (24), Abdul Khalek (24), Saba Karim (25), Roni Sk (23),Manarul Sk (54), and Azfarul Sk (21).
He said that all of them belong to the Murshidabad district.
Speaking to media persons, Inspector General of Police (Northern Range ), Himansu Kumar Lal said that the accused persons fled to Odisha after the communal violence in Murshidabad and were hiding in Bandhabahal area under Banharpali police limits in Jharsuguda since then.
IGP Lal further added that the Jharsuguda police carried out multiple raids in the Bandhabahal
area during the intervening night of April 20 and 21, after getting the requisition from West Bengal Police, they arrested Sefaul Haque and Bani Israel. “One pistol was found in the possession of the accused persons (Bani Israel and Sefaul Haque), and they attempted to flee from police custody. The police team fired four rounds as warning shots in the air to deter them. Due to the quick response of the police team, both accused were successfully apprehended,” informed IGP Lal. He said that a case has been registered against the duo at the Banharpali Police for trying to flee by issuing threats to the police officials and for the possession of firearms. IGP Lal said that the West Bengal Police will get the custody of the accused following court orders. Notably, protests erupted across various parts of the country after the enactment of the Waqf (Amendment) Act, with demonstrations taking place in West Bengal, Jammu and Kashmir, Manipur, Chennai, and Bengaluru.
Gadag
‘Rise against your govt, army for encouraging terrorism,’ Sunni cleric’s appeal to Pakistanis
Lucknow, April 24 (IANS)
In a strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack, senior Sunni cleric and Imam of Aishbagh Eidgah, Maulana Khalid Rashid Firangi Mahali, on Thursday called on the people of Pakistan to rise against their government and military for facilitating acts of terror on Indian soil.
The remarks come after 26 people, most of them tourists, were gunned down in a brutal targeted terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam on Tuesday.
The Resistance Front, a Pakistanbased terror outfit and offshoot of the proscribed Lashkar-e-Taiba,
is suspected to be behind the massacre.
Speaking to IANS, Firangi Mahali said, "The people of Pakistan should understand that no one will support such activities. They should raise their voices against their own government and army, which are encouraging these acts of terrorism."
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, announced a series of stringent measures in response to the attack.
These include the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, closure of the Attari-Wagah border, cancellation of the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistani nationals, expulsion of Pakistan's military attaches from New Delhi and a reduction in diplomatic staff at both High Commissions.
Calling these actions "necessary and timely," Firangi Mahali stated, "The horrific incident of terrorism in Pahalgam has been condemned in the harshest terms.
This tragic event has shaken the entire country. The steps taken by the Government of India -whether on the water agreement, diplomatic expulsions, or visa cancellations -- are absolutely appropriate."
Appealing for national unity, he urged political parties to come together on a single platform in support of the government's decisions.
"This is not the time for political division. All parties must stand united so that a positive image of national solidarity is conveyed internationally," he said.
The cleric also warned against communalising the tragedy. "My appeal to fellow Indians is not to view this terror incident through a religious lens. No religion condones violence or terrorism," he said.
"Some of the posts circulating on social media are sending out a very negative message. In this hour of crisis, every Indian -regardless of religion or political affiliation -- must stand together," he added.
Sectarian precision, strategic timing: What Pahalgam massacre reveals about Pakistan’s proxy playbook
New Delhi, April 24 (IANS) Just when Kashmir had begun to breathe in the air of normalcy -its scenic valleys echoing with the chatter of tourists, its streets calm and welcoming, and international delegates arriving for the G-20 summit -- terror once again clawed its way back into the Valley. In the picturesque town of Pahalgam, that fragile peace was shattered on April 22. In what is now being described as one of the most brutal terrorist attacks on civilians in recent years, 26 people were killed in a cold-blooded assault on a group of Indian tourists. The survivors shared details of chilling barbarity. They told media that the attackers, calm and deliberate, demanded identification, segregating victims by religion. Hindus were singled out, lined up, and executed at point-blank range, they told the media.
One woman recalled watching her husband shot in the head for nothing more than his identity. Instead of fleeing after the initial shots, the attackers stayed back, firing into the crowd with cruelty, ensuring maximum terror and damage. This was not just a terror attack -- it was a message, a strategic and ideological assault. The intent was crystal clear -- to spread fear, fracture harmony, and draw global attention to Kashmir once more under a bloodstained lens. And as always,
the shadow behind the gunmen was unmistakable -- Pakistan's military establishment, which has long weaponised terrorism as a tool of statecraft.
Officials and intelligence agencies have drawn chilling parallels between the Pahalgam massacre and earlier terror attacks orchestrated to coincide with major diplomatic events in India.
The timing of this attack was no coincidence -- it occurred during the visit of U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance to India.
The pattern echoes the March 2000 massacre in Chittisinghpura, when 36 Sikhs were murdered on the eve of then US President Bill Clinton’s state visit, and the February 1999 killings during former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Lahore outreach.
This deliberate sabotage of peace talks, and diplomatic progress has become a cruel hallmark of Pakistan's playbook in the region.
The attack in Pahalgam was claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), an armed proxy group believed to be a shadow outfit of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The formation of terrorists included six operatives -- two of them local Kashmiris who had crossed into Pakistan in 2017 for training and returned with deadly skillsets.
The remaining four were foreign militants, backed and armed by LeT and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). According to Indian intelligence, these attackers were part of the last major infiltration batch and had been hiding in the Pir Panjal Range, a rugged and
Kill terrorists and show us their bodies, say families of Pahalgam attack victims
Mumbai, April 24 (IANS) The mortal remains of Santosh Jagdale and Kaustubh Ganbote, who were killed by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, were brought to Pune early Thursday morning.
Chants of 'Pakistan jala do (burn down Pakistan)' were raised during Jagdale's funeral procession. NCP(SP) president Sharad Pawar met the families of Santosh Jagdale and Kaustubh Ganbote and expressed grief.
She added that the terrorists did not even spare the horse puller as he resisted and told them that they should not shower bullets on the tourists. "Don't put people's lives in danger, people's lives are being ruined, tell me where I am going to look. My husband is not with me, what should these children do?" she asked in despair.
strategically critical zone dividing Jammu and Kashmir. The area remains a hub for highly trained terrorist units with cross-border links. Currently, around 60 active foreign terrorists operate in the Kashmir Valley -- 35 affiliated with LeT and TRF, and 25 with JeM and other groups.
The brutal nature of the Pahalgam massacre shows a shifting strategy.
With 90 per cent of Pakistansponsored terrorists already eliminated in counter-terror operations, the remaining fringe is striking with heightened desperation and precision.
As Indian forces push them to the margins, Pakistan, through its deep-state operatives, appears to be intensifying its efforts to stoke large-scale violence and instability.
The attack also came just days after Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir delivered a provocative speech at the Overseas Pakistani Convention, where he referred to Kashmir as Pakistan’s “jugular vein” and evoked the two-nation theory -- a direct challenge to India's sovereignty. Intelligence agencies believe this speech wasn’t rhetorical. It was a signal. With Pakistan’s economy in freefall, its civil-military balance deeply fractured, and public trust in the army at historic lows, Munir needed to rally internal support and restore the military’s image. The result -- a gruesome, calculated act of terrorism meant to project power abroad and consolidate authority at home.
The Jagdale family, shattered by the brutal killing of Santosh Jagdale, burst into tears. “Today my life has been completely ruined, I cannot see my husband anymore,” said Jagdale’s wife, Pragati Jagdale, while venting out her emotions. She also demanded in front of Sharad Pawar that those terrorists should be shot the same way they killed her husband and others. Pragati Jagdale further narrated the entire incident. “They (terrorists) had come wearing masks. There was no one there, there should have been an officer or security guard. Further, there was a delay in treatment. They didn't tell us anything,” she said.
“I have not been able to see my husband's face since yesterday. While in Kashmir, we could not see his face; here, too, his face is not being revealed. Terrorists shot my husband in the head. Do something for us. Find and kill those terrorists. Terrorists shot our people in the head and took out the flesh, took out the blood, do the same with them and show us the bodies of the terrorists. Terrorists shot their father in front of the children. The children were crying then. While coming down from there, we fell into the mud. Because of this, I cannot even stand on my feet,” said Pragati Jagdale.
“The local people there also cried for us, they felt bad because everything the terrorists did was against tourists, and they attacked tourists. The officers there also cried for us, they felt bad about what had happened. The lives of family members of 26 people killed in the terror attack have been completely destroyed,” she claimed.
Pahalgam terror attack: Indus Waters Treaty kept at abeyance, India informs Pak
New Delhi, April 24 (IANS) In a significant development, India has decided to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, an agreement that has governed water-sharing arrangements with Pakistan for decades.
This move comes as a response to Pakistan's continued crossborder terrorism and failure to act on previous concerns raised by India.
This is one of the major responses from India after flagging ‘Pakistan links’ to Wednesday’s Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir on Indian innocent citizens. At least 26 people were killed by a group of terrorists in Baisaran meadows in the upper reaches of Pahalgam on Tuesday afternoon.
The decision, which marks a turning point in South Asia's water diplomacy, was communicated through an official letter from India's Water
Resources Secretary, Debashree Mukherjee, to her Pakistani counterpart.
On Thursday, Debashree Mukherjee formally notified Syed Ali Murtaza, Pakistan's Secretary of Water Resources, about India’s decision to temporarily halt the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty. Explaining the rationale behind this action, Mukherjee wrote: “This is with reference to Government of India's notices sent to the Government of Pakistan seeking modification of the Indus Waters Treaty 1960 (the Treaty) under Article XII (3) of the Treaty. These communications cited fundamental changes in the circumstances that have taken place since the Treaty was executed that require a reassessment of obligations under the various Articles of the Treaty read with its Annexures.”
The letter underscored several transformative changes, such as shifts in population dynamics and India’s advancing clean energy initiatives, which have altered the premises upon which the treaty was established.
One World for Health - Chip in With Taiwan, Health for All
By William Fan,
DirectorGeneral, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Brisbane
As the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) convenes in Geneva from May 19 to 27 under the theme “All for Health, Health for All,” the importance of global collaboration in health governance has never been clearer. In a world still grappling with the aftermath of a pandemic and facing the ongoing threats of climate-related diseases, aging populations, and mental health crises, the need to include all capable stakeholders in the global health system is urgent.
One such stakeholder, Taiwan—a vibrant democracy, a highincome economy, and a nation of 23 million people—is once again being excluded from participation in the World Health Organization (WHO) due to political obstruction. As Taiwan’s representative in Queensland and Northern Territory, I add my voice to the growing international chorus calling for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the WHA. The 2025 campaign theme, “Chip in with Taiwan, Health for All,” encapsulates both Taiwan’s willingness and capacity to contribute to global health security.
A proven contributor to global health
Taiwan is not just asking for a seat at the table; it brings value to that table. Its National Health Insurance system, which provides near-universal coverage, has been widely praised for its accessibility, efficiency, and integration of cutting-edge digital tools. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Taiwan's response was internationally recognised as one of the most effective in the world. The government implemented early
border controls, robust contact tracing, and widespread mask distribution. More importantly, Taiwan was one of the first countries to alert the WHO to the emergence of a novel coronavirus in December 2019—days before the virus was officially identified. Despite being locked out of WHO briefings and data-sharing platforms, Taiwan did not retreat into isolation. Instead, it extended a helping hand, donating over 54 million masks, 1 million COVID-19 test kits, and 600,000 isolation gowns to more than 80 countries, including Australia.
Taiwanese medical teams provided pandemic training to frontline health workers in the Pacific, Latin America, and Africa. These actions were not motivated by political gain but by a deep-rooted humanitarian commitment.
Health diplomacy in action— from Queensland to the World Taiwan’s health diplomacy is not just a global headline— it’s a tangible force here in Queensland. For nearly two decades, the Tzu Chi Foundation Brisbane has provided free medical services to regional and disadvantaged communities across the state. Most recently, this Easter weekend, more than 140 volunteers—including doctors, dentists, nurses, and support staff—traveled to Tara in Queensland’s Western Downs. Over two days, they provided more than 700 treatments, including dental care, traditional Chinese medicine, physiotherapy, and general health check-ups. This is community-driven health care in action, and it exemplifies the compassion and professionalism that Taiwan consistently brings to international health work.
On an institutional level, Taiwan is also deepening its medical partnerships with Queensland. In 2021, Taiwan Adventist Hospital and Brisbane’s Mater Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance collaboration in clinical training, medical research, and hospital administration. This was the first such agreement between a Taiwanese hospital and an Australian state health provider, and it laid the groundwork for greater innovation and shared learning in medicine and healthcare management.
Moreover, Taiwanese Australians play an active role in supporting Queensland’s health system through philanthropy and volunteering. From donations to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital to grassroots medical missions, the local Taiwanese community exemplifies how soft power and civic engagement can strengthen our shared healthcare landscape.
A growing consensus for inclusion
Calls for Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly (WHA) are no longer confined to Taiwan’s diplomatic allies or traditionally Taiwan-friendly governments—they now reflect a powerful and growing international consensus rooted in fairness, public health necessity, and respect for international principles.
Leading democracies including the United States, the European Union, Japan, Canada, and more than a dozen other countries have consistently and publicly supported Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the WHA. These countries recognize an undeniable truth: excluding Taiwan does not strengthen
global health cooperation— it undermines it. Taiwan’s expertise, transparency, and swift pandemic responses have made clear that our contribution to global health is indispensable.
Australia, too, has demonstrated principled leadership. In August 2024, the Australian Senate passed a bipartisan motion firmly supporting Taiwan’s participation in the international organizations, including WHA and condemning the deliberate misinterpretation of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 to justify Taiwan’s exclusion. We express our deep gratitude to Senators Deborah O’Neill and David Fawcett, who co-sponsored this motion and boldly championed the values of truth, transparency, and justice.
In February 2025, the United States once again reaffirmed its unwavering support for Taiwan’s international participation.
During a roundtable titled "The Impact of Unilateralism and Bullying Practices on International Relations,” Deputy Political Counselor of the U.S. Mission to the United Nations, Ting Wu, clearly stated that the misuse of Resolution 2758 by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) is a political maneuver intended to isolate Taiwan, distort the policies of other sovereign nations, and limit their sovereign choices. Wu stressed that the resolution does not preclude Taiwan’s meaningful participation in the UN system or other multilateral fora.
Taiwan is a responsible and willing partner in global health. We have the experience, the capabilities, and the will to contribute. Excluding Taiwan not only betrays the founding values of the United Nations but also endangers the global community by leaving a critical gap in the
international health network. It is time for the international community to stand united against political coercion and reaffirm that the right to health knows no borders. Taiwan’s participation in the WHA and other international bodies is not a political issue—it is a matter of global health, justice, and common sense.
The world cannot afford to leave Taiwan behind.
A call to conscience
As the world gathers in Geneva this May, we must confront a fundamental question: can we truly achieve “Health for All” while deliberately excluding the 23 million people of Taiwan, who have demonstrated leadership, transparency, and solidarity in global public health? Can the international community afford to turn its back on a responsible and willing partner at a time when resilience and cooperation are needed more than ever?
The answer is clear. Taiwan is not just a beneficiary of global health efforts—it is already a proven contributor. Taiwan deserves not only recognition, but meaningful participation.
The time has come for the World Health Organization to act—not based on political pressure, but guided by medical necessity, moral responsibility, and the founding principles of the United Nations. All for Health, Health for All—Taiwan is ready to help!
We call on all our friends in Australia: stand with Taiwan. Support Taiwan’s participation in the World Health Assembly as an Observer, and back Taiwan’s inclusion in the Pandemic Agreement negotiations.
Let’s “chip in with Taiwan” —for the health, safety, and future of all.
The 2025 campaign theme: Chip in With Taiwan - Health for All
The United States’ steadfast support for Taiwan’s meaningful participation in international organizations, including the World Health Assembly.
Taiwan Showcases Smart Healthcare Innovation at the 78th World Health Assembly
The Taiwanese community in Queensland called on the local community to support Taiwan’s inclusion in the WHA/WHO
The Tzu Chi Foundation Brisbane has provided free medical services to regional and disadvantaged communities across Queensland
The Australian Senate passed an "urgency motion" Wednesday in support of Taiwan's sovereignty and participation in international organizationson 22 August 2024.
India-US strategic partnership will be a defining one of 21st century: PM Modi
New Delhi, April 21 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, after his meeting with visiting US Vice President J.D. Vance on Monday, said that the India-US strategic partnership will be a defining one of the 21st century.
Taking to the social media platform X, the Prime Minister wrote, “Pleased to welcome US VP JD Vance and his family in New Delhi. We reviewed the fast-paced progress following my visit to the US and meeting with President Trump. We are committed to mutually beneficial cooperation, including in trade, technology, defence, energy and people-topeople exchanges.”
“India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership will be a defining partnership of the 21st Century for a better future of our people and the world,” he said in the post.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi and US Vice President J.D. Vance
welcomed progress in the IndiaUS Bilateral Trade Agreement and efforts towards enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including energy, defence, and strategic technologies.
The Prime Minister hosted the US Vice President, Second Lady Usha Vance and the couple's three children -- Ewan, Vivek, and daughter Mirabel -- at his Lok Kalyan Marg residence.
During their interaction, Prime Minister Modi recalled his successful visit to Washington D.C. in January and his discussions with US President Donald Trump.
In February, during their previous meeting held on the sidelines of the AI Summit in Paris, Prime Minister Modi and Vance had discussed a range of issues, strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations.
On Monday, both leaders followed up on their last meeting and reviewed progress in the bilateral relations, besides exchanging views on various regional and global issues of mutual interest.
PM Modi also conveyed his greetings to President Trump, saying that he is looking forward
to his visit to India later this year. This is Vance's first visit to India, and besides holding discussions with PM Modi, the US Vice President and his delegation will also have other engagements in Jaipur and Agra before departing for Washington on April 24.
PM Modi extended best wishes to the Vice President and family for a pleasant stay.
After the talks, Prime Minister Modi will host the Second family for dinner.
Embracing Indian culture, Vance's children once again donned traditional Indian outfits for the visit to the PM's residence.
Earlier, the US Vice President and his family visited Swaminarayan Akshardham in Delhi -- their first stop in India.
During the visit, the family experienced the temple's majestic art, architecture and timeless values of faith, family and harmony.
This is the first visit to India by an American Vice President in 13 years. The last was Joe Biden, who travelled to India in 2013 as Vice President to President Barack Obama.
Trade talks with India ‘coming along great’, says Trump
Washington, April 30 (IANS)
US President Donald Trump said that trade talks with India were “coming along great” and expressed confidence in signing
a deal.
Unlike his aides, however, the president did not put an immediacy to the talks.
“India's coming along great,” he told reporters at an airport, heading to a rally in Michigan state to mark his achievements in the first 100 days of his second term. “I think we'll have a deal with India... they want to make a deal.”
Scott Bessent, the treasury secretary who has been leading the negotiations with trading partner countries in Asia, has flagged the likelihood of a deal with India being the first to be signed in the aftermath of the global trade turmoil triggered by President Trump’s multiple rounds of escalation of tariff, including a reciprocal tariff on nearly all of America’s trading partner countries.
Chandigarh, April 22 (IANS) The captured Punjab-origin Harpreet Singh was part of an alleged foreign terrorist gang in America, who “we believe was involved in planning multiple attacks on police stations both in India and the US”, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel has said.
“@FBISacramento conducted the investigation coordinating with our partners locally as well as in India,” he wrote on X on Tuesday (IST).
“Excellent work from all, and justice will be done. The FBI will continue finding those who perpetrate violence -- no matter where they are,” Patel added.
Punjab Police have said that their efforts led to the arrest of Harpreet Singh, alias Happy Passia, a key operative of the Pakistan’s ISI-backed Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and close associate of Pakistan-based terrorist Harvinder Rinda, at Sacramento in the US.
Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav had termed it a major success.
Soon after the arrest was made public on April 18, he had said:
“Today marks a major milestone in the sustained crackdown on ISI-backed terror networks, with the announcement of detention of Happy Passia by the US authorities. This is the outcome of excellent international
India
is changing, and so are its women:
FM Sitharaman in US
New Delhi, April 22 (IANS)
As the Indian government launches several measures to enhance women's safety, health and financial independence, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, during her address at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University in the US, said that India is changing, and so are Indian women.
For working women, maternity leaves have been increased to six months on the insistence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, FM Sitharaman told the gathering.
"Two years ago, we came up with a scheme where we increased interest rates on deposits made by women to 7.5 per cent to encourage women to keep their savings in banks rather than keeping that as cash at homes," she mentioned during her keynote address, titled 'Laying the foundations for a developed India #ViksitBharat by 2047'.
FM Sitharaman further stated that property registration in the name of women has tax concessions, and under the Poshan Scheme,
the nutritional needs of pregnant women and lactating mothers are being met.
"Under PM Awas Yojana, registration of pucca houses is done either in the name of a woman or jointly with that of a male member," the Union Minister highlighted.
Earlier, the minister met Thomas Kurian, Chief Executive Officer of Google Cloud and his team in San Francisco. They discussed the transformative evolution of India's digital infrastructure under the Digital India initiative in recent years, positioning the country as a global leader in digital adoption.
Kurian acknowledged and appreciated India's AI Mission, and the trajectory India is taking under the leadership of PM Modi and called for connecting India to the world via land and sea cables. He said that Google Cloud aims to operate entirely on carbonfree energy at its data centres and offices worldwide by 2030 and spoke about the upcoming investment strategy that the group is working on for India. The Finance Minister encouraged them to explore local linkages in India for territorial collaboration and build tech for India and the world as part of the 'Make In India' initiative.
cooperation and exchange of information between the United States and India.”
In a statement, Yadav said the Punjab Police have consistently shared intelligence inputs with the Central agencies.
DGP Yadav said Happy Passia, a native of Passia village in Amritsar, began his criminal career with gangster Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, and his USbased associates Darman Kahlon and Amrit Bal. Later, Happy Passia became a key associate of Pakistan-based terrorist Harvinder Rinda, operating under the direct guidance of the ISI. He said Passia was the primary handler of ISI-backed terror modules in Punjab and played a central role in orchestrating targeted killings, grenade attacks on police establishments, and extortion across the state between 2023 and 2025.
Islamabad, April 29 (IANS)
Former Pakistan Prime Minister
Imran Khan on Tuesday termed the Pahalgam terror attack as disturbing & tragic and also condoled the victims and their families.
“Loss of human life in the Pahalgam incident is deeply disturbing and tragic. I extend my deepest condolences to the victims and their families,” said the incarcerated former Prime Minister during a discussion with the lawyers in Adiala Jail, Rawalpindi.
He alleged that when the “False Flag Palwama Operation” incident happened, Pakistan offered to extend all-out cooperation to India, but India failed to produce any concrete evidence.
“As I predicted in 2019, the same is happening again after the Pahalgam incident. Instead of
introspection and investigation, Modi Sarkar is again placing the blame on Pakistan,” he said.
He further added that being a country of 1.5 billion people, India needs to act responsibly instead of messing with a region already known as “nuclear flashpoint.”
“Peace is our priority, but it should not be mistaken for cowardice. Pakistan has got all the capabilities to give a befitting response to any Indian misadventure, as My Government, backed by the whole nation, did in 2019. I have always emphasised the importance of the Kashmiris’ right to self-determination, as guaranteed by United Nations resolutions,” he said.
The former Prime Minister further alleged that India, led by RSS ideology, is a “grave threat”, not only to the region but beyond it.
“Indian oppression in Kashmir, intensified after the illegal abrogation of Article 370, has further fueled the Kashmiri people’s desire for freedom,” he alleged.
China’s game plan to sinicize Buddhism in Tibet exposed
New Delhi: The establishment of the Higher Buddhist Institute through the guidance of Communist Party of China (CPC) marks a fundamental change in the way of cultivating senior Tibetan Buddhist talents, and has opened a new chapter in the history of Modern Tibetan Buddhist education, to allow only that degree of freedom of religious belief which would be compatible with "complete acceptance of communism in China".
The Higher Buddhist Institute of the Tibetan Department in Beijing was initiated by the late 10th Panchen Lama and President of the Buddhist Association of China (BAC), Zhao Puchu, with the approval of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, on September 1, 1987 in Xihuang Monastery in Beijing. The 10th Panchen Lama personally served as the first President, and Zhao Puchu, then President of the BAC, was the Senior Advisor.
This Institute is the only full-time institution across China of higher learning with the qualification of 'Tuorangpa' senior academic title (doctorate) training and awarding with the goal of cultivating highquality monks. The current abbot is the 6th Lobsang Jigme Thubten Chokyi Nyima Living Buddha. Since the establishment and implementation of the three-level academic title system of Tibetan Buddhism in 2004, the college has awarded a total of 363 senior titles and 150 intermediate titles
of 'Zhiranpa'.
The college plans to enroll 39 students in the 2025 senior title class, including 13 Gelugpa, 13 Sakya and 13 Bon Pothroughout China. The enrollment targets of this institute are the winners of the intermediate title of 'Zhiranpa' of the Tibetan Department of Buddhism and the monks of the temple with high comprehensive quality.
Courses to be taught are mainly 'Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era', as well as courses such as 'Introduction to the Theoretical System of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics', 'Modern Chinese History' and 'Constitution and Legal Foundation'. Further, students have to carry out on-site teaching in Beijing and surrounding patriotic education bases, cultural relics and historic sites, museums, modern enterprises and other places to participate in academic exchange meetings such as doctrinal interpretation seminars and Huangsi forums, and carry out exchanges with domestic and foreign religious schools and academic institutions.
Chinese State through the BAC, which is a key instrument in the CPC's strategy to assimilate and transform Tibetan Buddhism, particularly in relation to the search for and recognition of reincarnate lamas intends to destroy Tibetan Buddhism's unique qualities and to retain it as a 'tool of convenience' in the hands of Chinese State. This is called Sinification. Sinification is thus linked to the future of Tibetan Buddhism. In this connection, China is attempting to create a false narrative in terms of its history, as with China's political claim over Tibet,
which it says goes back in history. According to a report by the Tibetan Centre for Human Rights and Democracy (TCHRD), China's State Administration for Religious Affairs (SARA) issued a revised version of the 'Measures for the Administration of Tibetan Buddhist Temples'.
This was adopted in September 2024 and came into force in January, significantly expanding state control over Tibetan religious practice by embedding political mandates into Tibetan religious administration. These measures are part of the broader state efforts to assimilate Tibetan Buddhism, religious and cultural identity into the dominant Han identity, thereby undermining Article 36 of China's 1982 Constitution.
The Chinese State has also been accused of escalating its suppression of religious freedom in Tibet in the last 15 years.
Chinese President Xi Jinping's administration through coercive 'patriotic education' campaigns designed to instill loyalty, strict control over monastic institutions of learning and widespread arbitrary arrests and detentions has tightened its grip. Significantly, BAC is playing a prominent role in Sinicizing Tibetan Buddhism. BAC is a tool for implementing sinicization campaigns and advancing CPC's political agenda through United Front Work Department (UFWD) along with State Administration for Religious Affairs (SARA).
(The writer is an expert on South Asia and Eurasia. He was formerly with Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses. Views expressed are personal)
Israel insists on Hamas disarmament before accepting Gaza truce: Sources
April 30
Israel insists on disarming Hamas as a precondition to its acceptance of Egypt's six-month Gaza truce proposal, well-informed Egyptian sources said.
The Israeli response was relayed by an Israeli security delegation, led by Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, during a meeting with the Egyptian
officials on Monday in Cairo, the sources told Xinhua.
The Egyptian initiative includes a six-month cessation of hostilities, the release of half of the Israeli hostages currently held in Gaza, the opening of the Rafah border crossing, and the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza, the sources said.
They also revealed that the Egyptian side would hold a meeting with Hamas next week to discuss Israel's response, Xinhua news agency reported.
On Tuesday, Israeli newspaper Israel Hayom, citing an Israeli diplomatic source, said foreign media reports claiming "a significant breakthrough" in the Gaza ceasefire talks are "inaccurate."
Guterres calls EAM Jaishankar, Pak PM Sharif; stresses pursuing justice in Pahalgam terror attack
United Nations, April 29 (IANS)
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the importance of pursuing justice in the Pahalgam terrorist attack while speaking with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shebaz Sharif, his Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday.
“The Secretary-General also expressed his deep concern at rising tensions between India and Pakistan and underscored the need to avoid a confrontation that could result in tragic consequences,” he said.
Dujarric said the world cannot afford a confrontation between India and Pakistan, which would be catastrophic for those two countries and for the world as a
whole.
“Guterres has been very clear that he wants to see both sides move towards a de-escalation,” he said, He said that the SecretaryGeneral noted the importance of pursuing justice and accountability for these attacks through lawful means while reiterating his strong condemnation of the terrorist attack.
Twenty-six people, mostly tourists, were killed in Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22.
Dujarric added that Guterres offered his good offices to support de-escalation efforts.
However, India has rejected offers of third-party involvement in disputes between the two neighbours as their leaders had declared in the 1972 Simla Agreement to treat them as bilateral matters.
Dujarric added, “Secretary General's good officers are always available should both sides agree to it.”
FM Sitharaman invites global CEOs, investors to join India’s growth story
"Israel is continuously and tirelessly working with the Americans and the mediators to advance a deal for the release of our hostages, but no agreement has been reached so far," the diplomatic source said.
Ahead of his visit to Egypt, Dermer reiterated Israel's commitment to disarming Hamas, ending its rule in Gaza, and ensuring no future threats to Israel from the enclave.
On Saturday, a Hamas delegation led by senior leader Khalil alHayya agreed in Cairo to release all Israeli hostages in exchange for a five-year truce, an Egyptian security source told Xinhua.
According to Israel's state-owned broadcaster Kan, Israel rejected the proposal.
San Francisco, April 22 (IANS) Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman met global CEOs, pension fund managers and other institutional investors here, and discussed the opportunity for collaboration in the domain of energy and sustainability, the Rs 1 lakh crore ($12 billion) corpus private sector–driven research, development, and innovation scheme, and GIFT-IFSC, among others. In the presence of Finance Secretary Ajay Seth and Vinay Mohan Kwatra, Ambassador of India to the US, the Finance Minister listened to their views on the reforms pursued by the Indian government, and gave feedback and observation on the existing policy framework. They spoke about their keen interest and commitment for a deeper and broad-based investment collaboration between the US and India and shared feedback on how to further facilitate and enhance the investment experience.
The Union Minister thanked the participants for their valuable feedback and suggestions.
In her one-on-one meetings with top CEOs, FM Sitharaman discussed opportunities in the
fields of AI, Cloud and digital infrastructure.
Jonathan Siddharth, CEO of Turing, expressed his desire to see India at the forefront of AI revolution and spoke about working in the domain of AI with India and through Indian contributors to create a sovereign model that can serve as a template for the world.
The Finance Minister highlighted policy framework that has been put in place by India for AI, and encouraged Siddharth to explore opportunities for collaboration and fruitful engagement.
Debanjan Saha, Chief Executive Officer at DataRobot, referred to India’s potential to become an AI superpower and expressed interest in participating in the AI Centre of Excellence, for which the Union Budget 2025-26 recently allocated Rs 500 crore. The minister underlined the steps that the government has taken over years to boost digital infrastructure, including budgeting Rs. 10,300 crore for IndiaAI Mission, creating AI language technologies through BharatGen and Sarvam-1, and the establishment of the Srijan Centre for Generative AI at IIT Jodhpur.
Cairo,
(IANS)
Early voting opens in general election
Canberra, April 22 (IANS) Early voting began in Australia's general election on Tuesday, with about half of the country's 18 million registered voters expected to cast their ballots before election day on May 3.
Hundreds of early voting centres across Australia opened their doors from 8:30 a.m. local time as the election campaign entered its final stretch.
The proportion of Australians choosing to vote early, either in person or by post, has steadily increased at recent federal elections from under 20 per cent in 2004 to almost 50 per cent in 2022.
Voting in elections is mandatory for over 18 million citizens aged 18 and over who are enrolled to do so with the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC). According to the AEC, eligible voter enrollment for the May 3 election is a recordhigh 98.2 per cent, Xinhua news agency reported.
Although millions of votes will be cast early, AEC staff cannot start counting any ballots until polls
close at 6 p.m. local time on May 3. Jill Sheppard, a senior lecturer in politics and international relations at the Australian National University, said that the rise in early voting could be attributed to the convenience of pre-polling as well as growing disengagement among voters with political parties and campaigns.
Earlier on April 21, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said that the country's upcoming general election was still "up for grabs" despite polls showing his Labour Party was on track to win a second term in government.
The campaign restart came one day before early voting opened across the country on Tuesday — offering millions of Australians the opportunity to avoid long queues to cast their mandatory votes — and after several new opinion polls showed that Labour had increased its lead over the Coalition among voters.
The latest edition of Newspoll, published by News Corp Australia on Sunday, reported a 52–48 lead for Labour over the Coalition on a two-party preferred basis.
A separate poll published by the Australian branch of UK firm YouGov on Friday put Labour ahead 53–47, marking the government's strongest twoparty result in the firm's poll in
18 months, Xinhua news agency reported.
Labour had won the 2022 general election 52.13–47.87 over the Coalition on a two-party basis. When asked on Monday if Labour was in pole position to win the election, Albanese pointed to lessons the party had learned from 2019, when polls had widely forecast a Labour victory only for the Coalition to win a third term in power in a result hailed by then-PM Scott Morrison on election night as a "miracle."
"There’s no complacency from my camp," Albanese told reporters in the state of New South Wales. "This election is certainly up for grabs."
Dutton, who on Monday announced that a Coalition government would spend 750 million Australian dollars ($482 million) on a crime crackdown, including a national register of sex offenders, also pointed to the 2019 election when asked about the polls.
"Not too many people were predicting a Coalition victory in 2019. A lot of people were busy with work, busy in their lives. Many Australians didn’t know there was an election coming up," he said in Melbourne.
"We can well and truly win the election from here."
Thank you for your support
Virginia Giuffre, accuser in Epstein case, dies by suicide at 41
Canberra, April 26 (IANS)
Virginia Giuffre, a central figure in the efforts to expose Jeffrey Epstein’s network of abuse and trafficking, has died by suicide at the age of 41.
Her passing was confirmed by her family on Friday, who said she died in Neergabby, Australia. Giuffre was widely recognised for her bravery in coming forward with allegations that not only implicated Epstein but also powerful individuals within his orbit. Over the years, she became a leading advocate for survivors of sexual abuse and trafficking, using her voice to push for accountability and justice.
Born and raised in Florida,
Giuffre faced trauma from a young age, including sexual abuse by a family acquaintance. These early experiences led to instability in her teenage years, eventually resulting in her becoming homeless. It was during this vulnerable period that she encountered Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s longtime associate, who allegedly groomed her for exploitation.
Between 1999 and 2002, Giuffre was allegedly trafficked by Epstein to several high-profile individuals. Among those she named were Britain's Prince Andrew and French modelling agent Jean-Luc Brunel, both of whom have denied any wrongdoing.
Giuffre's detailed testimony and persistent advocacy played a pivotal role in the legal proceedings that culminated in the 2021 conviction of Ghislaine Maxwell for sex trafficking and other related crimes. Maxwell is currently serving a prison sentence for recruiting and grooming underage girls for Epstein.
Epstein, who faced numerous charges of sex trafficking, died in jail in 2019 in what was officially ruled a suicide.
Since becoming a Senator in 2019, I have worked closely with our wonderful Queensland Indian diaspora. From supporting cultural events and festivals to advocating on behalf of members of the community, I do whatever I can to support you.
Each year I attend the Australia Day and India Republic Day celebration held on 26 January. To me, it symbolises our common democratic values. As we look to deepen the relationship, the Indian diaspora is the human bridge which connects Australia and India.
I now ask for your support in this election and for your support of our excellent LNP candidates across the whole of Queensland. In these difficult times, strong economic management is more important than ever. Together, we can get Australia back on track!
Thank you for your support.
I look forward to continuing our work together.
Senator Paul Scarr
Shadow Assistant Minister for Multicultural Engagement Liberal National Party - Queensland
Authorised by Senator P. Scarr, LNP, Level 6, Springfield Tower, 145 Sinnathamby Boulevard, Springfield Central QLD 4300.
PM Albanese
says election ‘up for grabs’ as polls show growing support for govt
Canberra, April 21 (IANS)
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said that the country's upcoming general election is still "up for grabs" despite polls showing his Labor Party is on track to win a second term in government.
Following a three-day break over the Easter holiday period, both PM candidates -- the incumbent Albanese and opposition Coalition leader Peter Dutton -- returned to the campaign trail on Monday ahead of the May 3 election.
The campaign restart came one day before early voting opens across the country on Tuesday -- offering millions of Australians the opportunity to avoid long queues to cast their mandatory votes -- and after several new opinion polls showed that Labor has increased its lead over the Coalition among voters.
The latest edition of Newspoll published by News Corp Australia on Sunday reported a 52-48 lead for Labor over the Coalition on a two-party preferred basis.
A separate poll published by the Australian branch of UK firm YouGov on Friday put Labor ahead 53-47, marking the government's strongest two-party result in the
firm's poll in 18 months, Xinhua news agency reported.
Labor won the 2022 general election 52.13-47.87 over the Coalition on a two-party basis.
Asked on Monday if Labor is in pole position to win the election, Albanese pointed to lessons the party learned from 2019 when polls widely forecast a Labor victory only for the Coalition to win a third term in power in a result hailed by then-PM Scott Morrison on election night as a "miracle."
"There's no complacency from my camp," Albanese told reporters in the state of New South Wales.
"This election is certainly up for grabs."
Dutton, who on Monday announced that a Coalition government would spend 750 million Australian dollars ($482 million) on a crime crackdown, including a national register of sex offenders, also pointed to the 2019 election when asked about the polls.
"Not too many people were predicting a Coalition victory in 2019. A lot of people are busy with work, busy in their lives. Many Australians don't know there's an election coming up," he said in Melbourne.
"We can well and truly win the election from here."
When Australians visit polling places across the country to vote, they will do so on a preferential
basis -- assigning their first preference to the candidate in their local electorate who they would most want to represent them in the lower house of the federal parliament.
If no candidate in an electorate receives a majority of first preference votes, candidates with the fewest votes are eliminated and their votes distributed based on the preferences marked by individual voters.
Australia is divided geographically into 150 electorates, with each having approximately the same number of voters. Labor enters the election holding 77 seats in the lower house compared to 53 for the Coalition. Some electorates have as many as 13 candidates running in the election.
The Newspoll published on Sunday found that 34 per cent of respondents intend to vote for their Labor candidate as their first preference -- the highest since January 2024 -- and 35 per cent for the Coalition while the YouGov poll had both major parties tied at 33 per cent.
Labor traditionally receives fewer first preference votes than the Coalition but performs better on preferences. Labor received 32.5 per cent of first preference votes in 2022, compared to 35.7 per cent for the Coalition, but benefited from over 85 per cent of votes for the Greens, Australia's thirdlargest party, flowing its way.
Researchers find same arm for both shots boosts vaccine response
Sydney, April 30 (IANS) Receiving a vaccine booster in the same arm as the first dose triggers a faster and stronger immune response and helps the body build protection faster, according to new research.
The findings could help improve vaccine strategies and may eventually lead to vaccines that need fewer boosters, Xinhua news agency reported.
The study, which was led by the Garvan Institute of Medical Research and the Kirby Institute at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney in Australia finds that the immune system responds more quickly when both doses are given in the same arm.
That's because immune cells in nearby lymph nodes, which are the body's infection-fighting hubs, become "primed" after the first shot. When the booster arrives in the same spot, these cells spring into action and help produce stronger antibodies,
the team explained in the paper, published in the journal Cell.
Researchers discovered this effect first in mice, then confirmed it in a clinical study involving 30 people who received the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine. Those who had both doses in the same arm developed faster and more effective protection, especially against Covid-19 variants like Delta and Omicron.
"This is a fundamental discovery in how the immune system organizes itself to respond better to external threats," said Tri Phan, director of the Precision Immunology Programme at the Garvan Institute.
While both groups ended up with similar antibody levels after four weeks, the same-arm group gained protection more quickly, a potential game-changer during pandemic outbreaks.
"If you've had your Covid jabs in different arms, don't worry, our research shows that over time the difference in protection diminishes," said the study's cosenior author Mee Ling Munier from the Kirby Institute. But during a pandemic, even a few days can make a big difference, said Munier
Man charged after pedestrian killed in Sydney crash Trump presidency driving falling support for opposition ahead of election: Polls
Canberra, April 15 (IANS)
Australians' view of US President Donald Trump is driving a drop in support for opposition leader Peter Dutton ahead of the nation's general election, according to new polling.
Several major opinion polls published in recent days have shown that voter support for incumbent Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his governing Labor Party is continuing to grow as the campaign for the May 3 election reaches the halfway point.
One poll undertaken by research firm Resolve Strategic and published by Nine Entertainment newspapers on Monday night estimated that Labor leads Dutton's Coalition 53.5-46.5 per cent in two-party terms. The same poll in late March had the two major parties deadlocked at 50-50.
Asked about how their view of Trump would influence their vote
at the upcoming election, 33 per cent of respondents said that it has made them less likely to vote for Dutton and the Coalition, with 14 per cent more likely to do so and 53 per cent either undecided or saying it would have no effect.
By comparison, 22 per cent of respondents said their view of Trump has made them more likely to vote for Albanese and Labor, with 21 per cent less likely, Xinhua news agency reported.
Among undecided voters, 35 per cent said they were less likely to vote for Dutton and the Coalition because of their view of Trump compared to 24 per cent who said the same for Albanese and Labor.
The survey found that 68 per cent of voters now believe that Trump's victory in the 2024 US election has been a bad outcome for Australia, up from 60 per cent in March and 40 per cent in November. "Trump equals uncertainty, and that's really affecting Dutton's campaign to convince people to take a risk on changing government," Resolve Director Jim Reed said.
Labor has repeatedly drawn comparisons between Dutton and Trump. Dutton earlier in
April abandoned the Coalition's election promise to cut 41,000 public service jobs and end flexible work arrangements for federal public servants -- a policy that senior Labor figures had described as "Trumpian".
Coalition Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, who Dutton in January appointed as his shadow minister for government efficiency, on Saturday said at a press conference alongside Dutton in Western Australia that a Coalition government would "make Australia great again".
Formally launching Labor's election campaign in WA on Sunday, Albanese said that Australia is a "great country" that doesn't need to "borrow slogans" or ideas. A second poll published on Monday by market research company Roy Morgan found that Labor leads the Coalition 54.5-45.5 per cent on a two-party basis. Labor won the 2022 election 52.13-47.87 on a two-party basis. The Roy Morgan poll found that Labor is on track to increase its majority in the 150-seat lower house of parliament -- the House of Representatives -- where the government is formed.
Sydney, April 30 (IANS) A man has been charged after a pedestrian was killed in a crash in Sydney's southern suburbs, police in Australia's state of New South Wales (NSW) said on Wednesday.
Emergency services were called to reports of the crash in Blakehurst, about 16 km south of central Sydney, shortly before 7 p.m. local time on Tuesday and found a 60-year-old woman had been hit by a car, Xinhua news agency reported.
She was treated by ambulance paramedics but died at the scene.
The driver of the vehicle, a 28-year-old man, was uninjured but was taken to hospital for mandatory testing.
Following release from hospital, the 28-year-old was arrested and taken to a police station where he was charged with dangerous driving occasioning death and negligent driving occasioning death.
If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years' imprisonment for the first charge and 18 months' imprisonment for the second.
NSW Police said the crash unit has commenced an investigation into the circumstances of the crash and that a report on the woman's death will be prepared for the state coroner.
In a separate incident Police in the Australian state of Queensland are searching for the driver of a stolen car who killed a cyclist in a hit and run incident on Tuesday.
The Queensland Police Service said in a statement on Wednesday that a 34-year-old man was riding a bicycle in the city of Bundaberg, about 290 km north of Brisbane, when he was struck by a black vehicle at about 7:50 p.m. local time on Tuesday.
Emergency services performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation on the cyclist, but he was declared deceased at the scene.
The police said that the vehicle, which had been stolen, fled the scene and was found abandoned a short time later. A search for the driver is ongoing.
From the editor’s desk Pahalgam attack: A tragedy that calls for national resolve and action
2025 Federal election: Australia’s moment of reckoning
Australia’s 2025 federal election arrives at a moment of rare national urgency. This is not merely another political contest — it is a pivotal test of the country’s ability to confront deep-rooted challenges and reimagine its future. The cost of living continues to stretch household budgets, with housing prices, rents, utility bills, and essential goods putting growing strain on middle- and low-income families. For many people in Australia, wage growth has failed to keep pace with inflation, leaving them anxious about the future. While temporary relief measures have been introduced, the sense that deeper structural reforms are needed has only intensified. This election takes place in an era where affordability, healthcare access, and job security are increasingly out of reach for younger Australians. Regional communities, too, feel left behind by centralised policymaking and demand more targeted development and support. Whoever leads the next government will face the enormous task of restoring public confidence in the capacity of politics to deliver real, lasting change.
Economic transformation also looms large. Australia’s prosperity has long been built on resource exports and strong trade links. But the global economy is undergoing fundamental shifts, driven by the digital revolution, artificial intelligence, and a race toward low-emission industries.
Australia cannot afford to lag behind. The next government must lay the groundwork for a more resilient, diverse, and future-facing economy — one that creates highquality jobs while aligning with the country’s climate responsibilities. That brings climate policy to the fore. As climate-related disasters grow in frequency and severity, public support for urgent action has never been higher. The transition to renewable energy is no longer an ideological debate — it is an economic and environmental imperative. The challenge lies not only in accelerating this transition but in doing so equitably, ensuring that communities dependent on fossil fuel industries are supported through the change.
Globally, Australia faces a complex and unstable environment. Tensions in the Indo-Pacific have sharpened, and relations with major
powers require careful, consistent diplomacy. Defence planning, cybersecurity, and foreign engagement are now central to national policy. With growing uncertainty over regional security and supply chain vulnerabilities, the country’s foreign affairs will need a steady, strategic hand. Adding to the complexity is the evolving nature of Australia's democracy itself. In recent years, trust in political institutions has declined, fuelled by dissatisfaction with party politics and a growing appetite for independent voices. The rise of communitybacked independents and minor parties suggests a shifting political culture — one in which voters seek greater accountability, transparency, and responsiveness.
This election also follows a national reckoning on issues of identity and inclusion. The 2023 referendum on an Indigenous Voice to Parliament revealed not only political fault lines but deeper questions about how the country acknowledges its past and commits to reconciliation. These issues are not going away, and the next government must find ways to move forward with integrity and unity.
The political choices before the electorate are wide-ranging.
The Australian Labor Party has campaigned on stability, social investment, and environmental targets. The Liberal-National Coalition promises stricter economic discipline, stronger border controls, and a renewed focus on traditional values and energy reliability. The Greens are calling for sweeping reforms, especially around climate and social equity. Independents and other emerging voices continue to press for cleaner politics and local priorities.
Yet beyond policy specifics, this election asks something more fundamental: What kind of nation does Australia want to be in the face of accelerating change? Will it double down on the familiar, or will it adapt to the shifting tides of technology, climate, and global politics?
The 2025 federal election may well be remembered as a watershed moment. It challenges voters not only to select representatives but to express a national vision — one that is clear-eyed about the world’s uncertainties, ambitious in its hopes, and courageous in its choices. Australia must now decide how boldly it is willing to step forward.
On April 22, 2025, the idyllic landscapes of Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, were transformed from a peaceful tourist destination into a horrifying scene of violence. What was meant to be a day of leisure for hundreds of visitors, including families and holidaymakers, quickly turned into a nightmare. Terrorists armed with heavy weaponry opened fire on unsuspecting civilians, resulting in the tragic deaths of 26 innocent people and leaving many others injured in what has been described as one of the most brutal terror attacks in recent memory. This attack was not just on tourists or a specific community; it was an assault on the very principles of democracy, secularism, and peace that India stands for.
Innocent victims
Among the victims were domestic tourists from various parts of India, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh. These families had traveled to Kashmir in search of respite amidst the picturesque surroundings, little knowing that their holiday would end in such a violent tragedy. Eyewitnesses have shared harrowing accounts of masked gunmen halting tourist vehicles, segregating passengers, and shooting at point-blank range. Some victims were even forced to reveal their religious identities, and those who could not were tragically murdered on the spot.
A local hero: Courage amidst terror
One of the most moving stories to emerge from that tragic day was that of a local Muslim pony handler who tried to shield a group of tourists from the gunmen. In doing so, he lost his own life, but his bravery has been widely recognized and celebrated. His funeral brought together people from across communities, demonstrating the unity and compassion that transcends religious divides in the face of terror.
The response
The response from the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and paramilitary forces was swift and coordinated. Within minutes of the attack, security personnel moved into action, securing the area and beginning rescue operations. Helicopters were deployed to evacuate the wounded to nearby hospitals in Srinagar and Anantnag. The survivors, many of whom have sustained severe gunshot injuries, are now being treated for both physical wounds and the psychological trauma that such violence brings. The region has been placed on high alert, and security measures at all major entry points into Kashmir have been heightened. Cross-border links
Preliminary intelligence reports suggest that the attack was carried out by terror groups with connections to Pakistanbased outfits. Intercepted communications indicate that the attackers were in contact with handlers operating from Muzaffarabad, underscoring once again the role of external forces in perpetuating instability in India. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has now taken over the investigation and is tracing the financial and logistical networks that enabled the assault.
Economic impact
This attack is not an isolated incident in Kashmir's long history of terrorism, but what makes it particularly alarming is the targeting of civilians—especially tourists. Tourism had seen a significant resurgence in the region in recent years, offering a lifeline to local businesses and families. In 2024 alone, more than 2.5 million tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir, providing muchneeded economic support to the people. The brutal nature of this attack appears to be an attempt not only to cause loss of life but also to destabilize the local economy by undermining the tourism sector.
Indian government’s response India’s central government has reacted promptly to this attack.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had been on an overseas visit, immediately cut his trip short and chaired an emergency meeting with senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Defence, and Intelligence. In the aftermath, the government made several significant decisions. It announced a temporary halt to dialogue with Pakistan regarding the Indus Waters Treaty, froze all bilateral cooperation activities under SAARC, and suspended the visa process for Pakistani nationals. Additionally, a diplomatic protest was lodged with the Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi, emphasizing India’s commitment to countering cross-border terrorism.
Crackdown on terror networks
On the ground, authorities have detained over 1,000 individuals suspected of having ties to terror groups. A wave of crackdowns has also targeted properties linked to known radicalizers, and several illegal structures have been demolished in accordance with anti-terror laws. In South Kashmir, especially in districts like Anantnag and Pulwama, large-scale combing operations have been initiated by security forces to track down remaining operatives.
National outrage
The attack has sparked public outrage across the country. Protests and vigils have been held in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai,
Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Chennai, with citizens from all walks of life expressing solidarity with the victims and condemning the violence. Social media has been inundated with messages of grief, anger, and unity, as citizens come together to demand justice for the innocent lives lost.
Gaps in preparedness
However, the Pahalgam attack also raises serious concerns about India’s preparedness in the fight against terrorism. While intelligence reports had flagged potential threats, there were significant gaps in coordination and timely response, which allowed the attackers to carry out their plans. There are growing calls for a complete overhaul of India’s counterterrorism infrastructure. This includes strengthening surveillance, improving border control measures, enhancing community policing, and implementing more robust de-radicalization programs in areas vulnerable to extremism.
A call for peace in Kashmir
In Kashmir itself, local residents have condemned the attack, understanding that such acts of violence only exacerbate the region’s problems. Civil society groups in the Valley have urged the government to maintain its focus on the socio-economic development of the region, emphasizing that terrorism will only delay the peace and prosperity that the people of Kashmir deserve. Community leaders are calling for a united front against extremism, stressing the importance of peace and stability for the future of Kashmir.
International support
The international community has strongly condemned the attack. Nations including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Japan, and Australia have expressed their support for India and called for decisive action against those responsible for supporting terrorism. These expressions of solidarity offer India an opportunity to increase diplomatic pressure on Pakistan, particularly in international forums such as the United Nations, to push for sanctions against terror groups operating within its borders.
Looking ahead, it is imperative that India responds to this attack with a clear, long-term strategy. While military action and swift retaliation are often necessary, they are not enough on their own. India must focus on strengthening its internal security mechanisms, build better intelligence networks within communities, and expedite the legal processes for prosecuting terror cases. Diplomatic pressure on Pakistan to dismantle terror infrastructure will also play a critical role in preventing further violence.
India-USA-Italy trilateral in the making
New Delhi, April 21 (IANS) It would seem all roads lead to Rome, with US Vice President J.D. Vance, along with his family, visiting Rome the day after Italian PM Georgia Meloni visited Washington to spend Good Friday in the eternal city.
Vance's visit to Rome and onwards to New Delhi indicates the new importance Rome and New Delhi have in the geopolitical calculus of the White House.
Vance, a catholic, spent Good Friday at the Vatican as well as met with important members of Meloni's administration, including the Deputy Prime Ministers, Antonio Tajani and Matteo Salvini.
The US and Italy will work together to develop the IndiaMiddle East-Europe Economic Corridor, one of the greatest economic integration and
connectivity projects of this century, connecting partners by ports, railways, and undersea cables and stimulating economic development and integration from India to the Gulf to Israel, to Italy, and onward to the United States, according to the US and Italy joint leaders declaration after the first bilateral meeting between US President Donald Trump and Italian PM Meloni. This Easter weekend was very important as well due to the second round of the US-Iran talks in Rome. The Trump administration has engaged directly with various belligerent state and non-state players with the objective of achieving an acceptable peace deal. While the first round of talks was held in Muscat, given the Sultanate of Oman's role as the honest broker, the second was held in Rome, also a nod to Meloni's efforts to
bring Italy back to the centre of international affairs.
The head of Italy's secret service, AISE, Giovanni Caravelli, had also assisted the Prime Minister in solving a particularly complicated case of the arrest of Italian blogger Cecilia Sala during the last days of the Biden administration.
Meloni had made a special, unusual trip to the US to meet with President-elect Trump and the actual Biden administration to solve Sala's incarceration, which was seen as retribution for Italy's arrest of two nationals of Iranian origin on a US arrest warrant. Caravelli and Italy have maintained a strong line of trust and communication with the regime in Tehran.
Israel's Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and Mossad head David Barnea met with US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff on Friday in Paris, before the second round of US-Iran conversations, Dermer is said to have spent Shabbat in Rome presumably to consult with the US Special envoy after the second round of consultations, which have reported to be successful. Any agreement between the US and Iran will have direct consequences on Israel's security, as well as its war with Hamas,
which is widely supported by Iran.
Meloni's efforts at pivoting Italy to the center of global geopolitics started immediately after her victory two and a half years ago. Italy had spent decades losing its centrality not only as a G7 economy but also as a centre of power in Europe. Her government withdrew from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Memorandum of Understanding, but managed to maintain a balanced relationship with China.
Early to recognise India's growing importance in the world, New Delhi was Meloni's first bilateral visit to Asia. She was also one of the founding signatories of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) MoU at the G20 in New Delhi in 2023, on her second visit to Delhi in one year.
Since she has met often with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the "Melodi" relationship between the leaders has translated into a strategic partnership between both countries.
Her early foreign policy choices have now started paying rich dividends. UAE's President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited Italy in early 2025, a testament to the reset of the UAE-Italy relationship, which was
strained when Meloni was sworn in. During his visit, both countries signed over 40 agreements, and the UAE announced $40 billion of investment in Italy.
Recently, during his visit to India, Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani was accompanied by a large business delegation and an India-Italy science and innovation summit with over 400 companies was held in Delhi.
Declaring Italy's full commitment to the Indo-Mediterranean India-Italy partnership, Tajani announced an IMEC summit in Trieste in 2025 after having recently named an Italian Special Envoy for IMEC, veteran diplomat Francesco Maria Talo.
While critics would point out that Meloni's visit to the US did not have tangible results, the most tangible result was President Trump's acceptance of Meloni's invitation to Rome to discuss and conclude an agreement on tariffs with the European Union.
Rome has slowly become the centre of transatlantic, Mediterranean and IndoPacific dialogues with its Prime Minister's ambitions of probably restoring its glory as Caput Mundi.
(Vas Shenoy is the Chief Representative for Italy of the Indian Chamber of Commerce and an Italian entrepreneur. Views are personal.)
Unmasking silent enablers key to breaking Pak’s network in Kashmir
New Delhi, April 27 (IANS)
The crucial link in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack is the local support that helped the terrorists, some of them Pakistanis, execute the heinous plan right under the nose of the security forces.
An unknown person cannot reach a specific spot with heavily loaded weapons, kill people indiscriminately, and then vanish into thick woods. The Pahalgam plot deeply involves the locals, as pointed out by the family members of the victims and other tourists.
The local connection could be the ponywallas, the shopkeepers, those working in the hotels, those who decided to open the stretch without notifying the authorities, or even the policemen who failed
to detect the anomaly. It could also be an intelligence failure, or if the intel was there, then either deliberate negligence or careless handling of information.
In Kashmir, anything can happen, and many times, what is evident is not the real story. There is always a plot and a subplot. The valley has witnessed lots of plotting since Sheikh Abdullah became the first Prime Minister of J&K after the then-king merged with India in 1947.
However, these plots became far more ruthless with the advent of Pakistan-backed terrorism in the valley. The terrorism was more about Islamisation and not about the so-called freedom or 'azadi' movement.
Had it been a genuine struggle for freedom or independence, the ethnic cleansing of Hindus, who were just two per cent of the population, would not have occurred. The plot was to drive them away and usurp their lands, houses, temples, and institutions, and this was successfully achieved.
This began in the late 1980s and continues to this day. Over 35 years later, Hindus remain displaced from their native land, and the few who are still there live in government camps surrounded by heavy security. Had it been just a few terrorists without local support, would this have been possible? The answer is no.
Pakistan has used the religious
card successfully in keeping the Kashmiris disturbed and has lured many to dance to its tunes.
Almost every Kashmiri Hindu family who was forced out of their home has horror tales to narrate, with the central characters being the locals -- the neighbour, the colleague, the friend, the shopkeeper -- who colluded with the terrorists in killing, kidnapping, looting, and more. It is the local radicalised individual who forms the critical link in all the terror-related incidents that have taken place in J&K, including the April 22 Pahalgam attack.
A woman tourist has identified a ponywalla as a suspect in the Pahalgam attack. She had even clicked a picture of this man, who had specifically asked her about her religion.
The woman said the man had taken out a phone hidden in his boots, claiming he was sending 35 people into the valley. According to her, the man mentioned that "plan A has failed" and spoke about guns, which frightened her further.
She said the incident happened on April 20 and that the man did not appear to be part of the ponywalla group when they were ascending toward Baisaran. If true, this raises several questions and points fingers at the other ponywallas, too.
The local link needs to be
highlighted for two main reasons: without their help, the perpetrators cannot succeed, and once a terror act occurs, these links often go untraced. They scarcely come on any security radar and often escape detection.
Kashmir has seen extensive violence since the late 1980s, with the maximum suffering borne by Kashmiri Hindus, who ultimately faced ethnic cleansing and became refugees in their own country. When Kashmiri Pandits were targeted in the late 1980s and 1990s, it was often their own acquaintances who betrayed them -- neighbours, subordinates, colleagues, or even friends.
Notable figures, such as BJP leader Tika Lal Taploo, Justice Neel Kanth Ganjoo, writer Sarvanand Kaul Premi (and his son), Radio Kashmir Director Lassa Kaul, telecom engineer B.K. Ganjoo and hundreds of others were killed after terrorists were tipped off about their movements.
Girja Tickoo, who was kidnapped, brutally gang-raped for days, and then cut into two pieces with a carpenter's saw while still alive in June 1990, made one mistake that cost her life: she responded to a call from her colleague asking her to come collect her salary from the school where she worked. She was kidnapped by five men from her colleague's home, and no one helped her.
B.K. Ganjoo, whose security detail suddenly disappeared one day
in March 1990, was killed while hiding inside a drum in his home. His wife had hidden him there, but a Muslim neighbour saw this through an open window and informed the terrorists. There are thousands of similar examples from Kashmir, where locals have helped terrorists unleash terror. Whether it was the Wandhama massacre, the Nadimarg massacre, or countless other attacks, each had a local link identifying and pointing out the victims.
In the April 22 Pahalgam massacre, unsuspecting tourists were led to the spot, and the waiting terrorists attacked before vanishing. Protests have erupted in the valley against this, but they seem to be more concerned with the business fallout than with the loss of innocent lives.
If the locals truly want peace, they must point out the hiding terrorists, whether involved in the Pahalgam attack or elsewhere. The local link is the real and hidden villain of all the terror stories in Jammu and Kashmir. Till the time they are weaned away, the radicalised local link remains the trophy for Pakistan in its evil ambitions.
(Deepika Bhan can be contacted at deepika.b@ians.in)
Gen Z and Millennials poised to influence 2025 Federal election outcomes
Canberra, April 29 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The 2025 Australian federal election marks a significant demographic milestone, with Gen Z and Millennials now outnumbering Baby Boomers at the ballot box. This generational
shift is expected to have profound implications for the election's outcome, as younger voters bring different priorities and perspectives to the political landscape.
Pollsters have noted that younger voters, particularly those without university degrees in outer-urban and regional areas, exhibit a high degree of political volatility. This group, often feeling disenfranchised, is more likely to support candidates and policies that challenge the status quo. Additionally, there is a trend of younger men gravitating towards more conservative political views, adding complexity to the electoral dynamics.
Former Labor leader Bill Shorten has highlighted the disproportionate tax burden
carried by young Australians, who also face challenges such as higher education costs and difficulties in entering the housing market. He emphasized the need for bipartisan reform in areas like tax policy, climate change, and housing to address these generational disparities. Political parties are being urged to adapt their campaign strategies to engage younger voters effectively. Traditional media channels are becoming less effective, with younger demographics favoring digital platforms like social media, podcasts, and streaming services. As such, parties that can resonate with these voters through relevant policies and modern communication methods may gain a competitive edge in the election.
Rise of minor players redraws Australia’s political map ahead of 2025 Federal election
Australia’s political landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, as the dominance of the traditional two-party system continues to erode ahead of the 2025 federal election. Once commanding more than 90% of the primary vote in the 1980s, the combined support for the Australian Labor Party and the Liberal-National Coalition fell to 68% in 2022—and now appears poised to drop below 65% for the first time in modern Australian history.
This historic decline reflects a growing frustration among voters with the perceived failures of conventional party politics. Disenchanted with the lack of progress on key issues like climate change, housing affordability, and political integrity, Australians are increasingly turning to independents and smaller parties who promise a more valuesdriven approach. The emergence of the “teal independents” in 2022, led largely by professional women campaigning on platforms
of environmental reform, governmental accountability, and gender equity, has only accelerated this shift.
As more independents vie for seats in the House of Representatives, the structure of electoral contests is rapidly evolving. Traditional political forecasting tools—such as the Mackerras pendulum or two-party-preferred swing models—are losing relevance in many constituencies where the major parties are no longer the only contenders. Veteran election analyst Antony Green has emphasized the need for fresh analytical models to reflect this changing reality, noting that an increasing number of electorates are moving beyond the binary Labor-versus-Coalition dynamic. Experts argue that Australian politics is no longer effectively captured by the left-right ideological spectrum. According to political scientist Simon Jackman, voters are instead aligning along diverse value axes—including action on climate change, trust in governance,
Labor
unveils
$7 Billion in election savings
This emphasizes fiscal responsibility and public service enhancement
Canberra, April 29 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
As the 2025 Australian federal election approaches, the Labor government has announced a comprehensive plan to save over $7 billion, aiming to bolster public services and maintain fiscal discipline. Treasurer Jim Chalmers detailed the strategy, which includes a significant reduction in the use of external consultants and labor hire firms, projecting savings of $6.4 billion. This move is intended to empower public servants to undertake more core functions, enhancing efficiency and service delivery.
In addition to cutting consultancy costs, the plan proposes increasing student visa application fees from $1,600 to $2,000, generating an estimated $760 million. These savings are earmarked for critical investments, such as a $204.5 million 24/7 health advice and telehealth service and an initial $16.5 million allocation for a $1 billion mental health package. However, global rating agency S&P has cautioned that the campaign's spending levels could threaten Australia's AAA credit rating, emphasizing the need for prudent fiscal management amid global economic uncertainty.
Chalmers defended Labor’s fiscal record, highlighting the government's efforts to engineer the greatest budget turnaround in a parliamentary term and criticizing opposition leader Peter Dutton’s policies as risky. The Labor Party's approach reflects a commitment to balancing economic responsibility with the enhancement of public services, positioning itself as a prudent steward of the nation's finances in the lead-up to the election.
Divergent energy policies define party platforms ahead of 2025 Federal election
Indigenous rights, and economic fairness. This diversification of voter priorities signals a broader redefinition of how political identity is expressed in Australia. The growing appeal of minor parties and independents also raises the prospect of a hung parliament in 2025, which would require either of the major parties to strike deals with crossbenchers to form government. While this scenario could foster more policy-driven negotiation and accountability, it also introduces new complexities in governance and coalition management. This trend is not unique to Australia. Democracies around the world are witnessing similar shifts, where voters are abandoning traditional allegiances in search of leaders and movements that more accurately reflect their lived experiences and concerns. As Australians prepare to vote, the 2025 election is shaping up to be not just a political contest but a referendum on the future shape of democratic representation itself.
April 29 (Australia India News
Energy policy has emerged as a central issue in the 2025 Australian federal election, with major parties presenting contrasting visions for the nation's energy future. The Labor Party advocates for a transition to renewable energy, aiming for 82% renewables by 2030. Their plan includes a $2.3 billion extension of the small-scale renewable energy scheme, $2 billion additional funding to the Clean Energy Finance Corporation, and investments in environmentally friendly fuels and electric vehicle infrastructure. Conversely, the Coalition proposes a substantial investment in nuclear energy, allocating $331 billion to build seven nuclear power plants and two small modular reactors over 25 years. Their strategy also includes a National Gas Plan, which
encompasses $1 billion for new gas infrastructure and policies to expedite offshore gas drilling approvals. The Greens present a more aggressive approach to climate action, proposing to end fossil fuel subsidies, implement a "Powering Past Coal and Gas Plan," and invest in public transport and renewable energy infrastructure. They advocate for a publicly owned energy company and transmission network, aiming to phase out coal and gas while ensuring a just transition for affected workers.
These divergent energy policies underscore the parties' differing priorities and approaches to addressing climate change, energy security, and economic growth. Voters are faced with distinct choices that will shape Australia's energy landscape and environmental commitments in the years to come.
Canberra,
Newsdesk)
Canberra, April 29 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
India’s largest cruise terminal inaugurated, Rs 5,700 cr infra MoUs at Vadhavan Port signed
Mumbai, April 21 (IANS) Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, on Monday, flagged off cruise operations from the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal (MICT), India’s largest cruise terminal.
The MICT, developed as per Cruise Bharat Mission, was developed as per latest global standards and is expected to take a pioneering role in developing cruise tourism in India, according to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
"It is only logical that we work towards realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Bharat becoming a global cruise hub through its state-of-the-art infrastructure. Today, Mumbai, with its longstanding repute as a major maritime hub in the world, commenced Cruise Operations from the Mumbai International Cruise Terminal, providing
passengers modern amenities for a better and safer experience," Union Minister Sonowal said on the occasion.
Spread over a built-up area of more than 4,15,000 square feet, the MICT is developed at Ballard Pier. It is equipped with 72 checkin and immigration counters spreading over an area of 2,07,000 square feet on the first two floors (G+1) while the other two floors (2+3) are developed as commercial floors.
The newly inaugurated MICT is designed to handle 1 million passengers every year with an approximate 10,000 passengers per day. It can also handle 5 ships simultaneously, with 11 meters draft and up to 300 meters length. At the parking space, more than 300 vehicles can be parked simultaneously.
The Union Minister also inaugurated the renovated Fire Memorial at Victoria Docks as well as renovated two heritage buildings — Fort House at Ballard Estate and Evelyn House at Colaba.
Sonowal also inaugurated Sagar Upvan garden, along with ‘Shore to Ship Electric Supply’ under the
Green Port Initiative.
The minister also attended the MoU signing ceremony for the development of infrastructure projects with an investment worth more than Rs 5,700 crore at Vadhavan Port.
The agreements were signed for development of a terminal for handling container, bulk, and liquid cargo with investment of Rs 4,200 crore, development of a dedicated terminal for handling bulk and liquid cargo with an investment of Rs 1,000 crore and development of a liquid cargo jetty and a tank farm with a capacity of 3,00,000 CBM for handling liquefied chemicals and related products with an investment of Rs 500 crore.
The Cruise Bharat Mission has set ambitious yet achievable goals like development of 10 international sea cruise terminals, creation of 100 river cruise terminals, launch of 5 marinas along our coast, seamless integration of more than 5000 km of waterways, 1 million sea cruise passengers and 1.5 million river cruise passengers by 2029, while creating over 400,000 direct and indirect jobs across the cruise value chain.
Khadi and Village Industries sales cross all-time high of Rs 1.7 lakh crore in FY25
New Delhi, April 21 (IANS)
The sales of Khadi and Village Industries have registered a fivefold jump from Rs 31,154.19 crore in 2013-14 to an all-time high of Rs 1,70,551.37 crore in the financial year 2024-25, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) Chairman, Manoj Kumar, said on Monday.
He further stated that while the production of Khadi and Village Industry goods was Rs 26,109.07 crore in the financial year 2013-14, it increased nearly four times to Rs 116,599.75 crore in the financial year 2024-25.
Speaking at a press conference, he said that the unprecedented growth has also been observed in the production of Khadi clothes in the last 11 years. While the production of Khadi clothes was Rs 811.08 crore in the financial year 2013-14, it increased increased four and a half times (366 per cent) to Rs 3,783.36 crore in the financial year 2024-25, which is the best performance till date.
There has also been a tremendous jump in the sales of Khadi clothes. While the sale was Rs 1,081.04 crore in the financial year 2013-
14, it increased by about six and a half times to Rs 7,145.61 crore in the financial year 2024-25, he pointed out.
“The promotion of Khadi by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from a larger platform has had a huge impact on the sale of Khadi clothes,” he said.
Speaking on the objective of KVIC, he said the major objective is to provide maximum employment opportunities in rural areas.
In this area too, KVIC has set a record in the last 11 years. While the cumulative employment was 1.3 crore in the financial year 2013-14, it rose to 1.94 crore in 2024-25 with an increase of 49.23 per cent.
Besides, there has been an unprecedented increase in the business of Khadi and Village Industries Bhawan, New Delhi. While the business of Bhavan was Rs 51.02 crore in the financial year 2013-14, it increased by almost two times and reached Rs 110.01 crore in the financial year 2024-25 with a jump of 115 per cent, Kumar mentioned.
He further highlighted that since the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) scheme, a total of 10,181,85 units have been established, for which the government has distributed margin money subsidy of Rs 27,166.07 crore against a loan of Rs 73,348.39 crore. So far, 90,04,541 people are employed through
Alternate investment funds invest Rs 5 lakh crore in India in April-Dec, real estate leads
Mumbai, April 21 (IANS) The real estate sector in India dominated alternate investment funds’ (AIFs) net investments, with Rs 73,903 crore in the nine months of FY25, a report showed on Monday.
AIFs are privately pooled funds that invest in non-traditional assets like private equity, hedge funds, and real estate, offering niche, high-risk, highreward opportunities suited for experienced investors.
According to Anarock Research, the real estate sector accounted for the largest share (15 per cent) of cumulative net AIF investments, with Rs 73,903 crore invested in real estate out of an all-sectors total of Rs 5,06,196 crore in the April-December period of FY25.
Other sectors benefiting from AIF investments include IT/ITeS, Financial Services, NBFCs, Banks, Pharma, FMCG, Retail, Renewable Energy, and others.
PMEGP.
With the aim of providing employment to a maximum number of people in rural areas under the Gramodyog Vikas Yojana Scheme, KVIC has more than doubled the budget of Rs 25.65 crore in the financial year 2021-22 to Rs 60 crore in the financial year 2025-26.
So far, 39,244 electric pottery wheels, 2,270,49 bee boxes and honey colonies, 2,344 automatic and pedal-operated incense stick manufacturing machines, 7,735 footwear manufacturing and repairing toolkits, 964 paper plate and dona manufacturing machines, 3,494 AC, mobile, sewing, electrician, plumber toolkits, 4,555 turnwood, wastewood craft, wooden toy making machines as well as 2,367 palm jaggery, oil ghani and tamarind processing machines have been distributed under the Gramodyog Vikas Yojana Scheme.
“If we talk about the last three financial years, a total of 22,284 machines and equipment were distributed in the year 2022-23, 29,854 in the financial year 202324 and the highest 37,218 machines and equipment in the financial year 2024-25,” Kumar said.
Under the Gramodyog Vikas Yojana, KVIC has made a significant contribution in the creation of a self-reliant India by distributing a total of 2,877,52 machines, toolkits and equipment so far.
“By the end of 9M FY25, AIF investments in real estate rose from Rs 68,540 crore by FY 2024-end to Rs 73,903 crore — an appreciable 8 per cent growth in first three quarters of fiscal year 2025. This pace is expected to sustain and pick up,” said the report.
The number of AIF active in the market has grown 36-fold over the past decade - from 42 by March 31, 2013 to 1,524 AIFs as of March 5, 2025, with commitment raised increasing five-fold since 2019.
Between FY13 and FY25, the commitment raised in AIFs has seen an impressive 83.4 per cent compounded annual growth rate (CAGR).
“Amid increasing constraints on traditional funding sources, AIFs are an agile and innovative financing mechanism to address capital gaps at various stages of real estate development. Since they pool capital from domestic and foreign investors, AIFs are a sustainable and scalable funding ecosystem,” said Prashant Thakur, Regional Director and Head–Research, Anarock Group. Going forward, the adoption of blended finance models, AI-driven risk assessments, and streamlined regulatory frameworks maximise the impact of AIFs further, he added. This surge in commitments is mainly fuelled by Category II AIF, which is contributing almost 80 per cent over the last five fiscal years.
Domestic investors continue to hold the majority share in AIF fundraising activities; however, Category II AIFs exhibit a notable balance with foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) having an almost equal participation, the report mentioned.
Tariff tangles: Global courier giant suspends high-value shipments to US
Washington, April 20 (IANS)
US President Donald Trump's new tariff regime has also impacted another sector - courier shipments to citizens in the country beyond a certain value.
DHL Express announced it is suspending deliveries worth more than $800 from all countries to the US because of a "significant increase" in red tape at customs.
The delivery giant said it will temporarily stop shipments from companies in all countries to American consumers on Monday "until further notice", the BCC reported.
However, business-to-business shipments will still go ahead, "though they may also face delays", the global courier major said.
Previously, packages worth up to $2,500 could enter the US with minimal paperwork, but now, due to tighter customs checks in place with the new tariff regime, which was launched earlier in April before being placed in abeyance temporarily, the value threshold has been lowered.
DHL said that the change "has caused a surge in formal customs clearances, which we are handling around the clock" and while it is working to "scale up and manage this increase, shipments worth over $800, regardless of origin, may experience multi-day delays", the BBC report said.
The company said it will still deliver packages worth less than $800, which can be sent to the US with minimal checks.
However, this segment also faces a challenge - with the US set to tighten curbs on these deliveries too - specifically those sent from China and Hong Kong - on May 2 when it closes a loophole allowing low-value packages to enter the US without incurring any duties.
FICQ co-hosts historic ANZAC Day commemoration dinner honouring Indian soldiers
Brisbane, April 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ), under the leadership of president Dr Preethi Suraj, recently co-hosted a special ANZAC Day Commemoration Dinner in collaboration with the Consulate General of India,
Brisbane, with support from the Indian Soldier War Memorial Organisation.
For over 27 years, FICQ has been a driving force in uniting the Indian diaspora in Queensland. This dinner marked a historic moment, being the first time an event of its kind was hosted by the Indian community in Queensland. It
served not only to commemorate ANZAC Day but also to highlight the significant contributions of Indian soldiers during World Wars I and II, especially their role at Gallipoli and their connection to the ANZAC legacy.
Consul General Neetu Bogatiya and other distinguished speakers
paid tribute to the bravery, sacrifice, and brotherhood displayed by Indian soldiers, sharing powerful stories that deserve greater recognition within Australian history.
FICQ reaffirmed its commitment to continuing partnerships with community organisations and veterans’ groups to ensure that the contributions of Indian soldiers are acknowledged, preserved, and taught to future generations. The spirit of ANZAC, they emphasized, lives on not just in ceremonies but through shared remembrance and ongoing dialogue.
Indian doctors hold prayer meet for victims of Pahalgam terror attack
Brisbane, April 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Members of the Indian Medical Association Queensland (IMA QLD) gathered at the Indian Consulate in Brisbane on Sunday to offer their heartfelt condolences and prayers for the victims of the heinous terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. As many as 27 people were killed and several injured in a terror attack on the tourists in
Pahalgam of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, 2025.
The solemn event saw doctors and community members come together in solidarity with the victims' families and to condemn the act of violence. Floral tributes were offered, and a moment of silence was observed to honour those who lost their lives in the senseless attack.
Leaders of IMA QLD expressed deep sorrow and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace and unity. Officials at the Indian Consulate thanked the community for standing together during this difficult time.
The gathering reflected the strong emotional ties the Indian community in Queensland maintains with their homeland and their collective stand against terrorism in all forms.
Indian Consulate to hold consular camp at University of Newcastle on May 17
Sydney, April 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India in Sydney will organize a special one-day Consular Camp on Saturday, May 17, 2025, for the
benefit of the Indian community in the Newcastle region. The camp will run from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM and will be held at US 330, Treehouse Room, located near the Shortland Brenner Room at the University of Newcastle, New South Wales.
Applicants are encouraged to attend in person and are advised to carry all necessary documents related to their consular service requests. The initiative aims to make consular services more accessible to Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin (PIOs) residing outside Sydney.
The consular camp typically assists with services such as passport renewal, OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) applications, attestation of documents, and other India-related administrative matters.
Brisbane to host yoga event ahead of International Day of Yoga
Brisbane, April 24 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India, Brisbane, in collaboration with Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan, Brisbane, is organizing a special yoga session on May 3, 2025, as a prelude to the International Day of Yoga celebrations. The event will be held at 198 Learoyd Road, Willawong, QLD 4110, from 9:30 am to 10:30 am. It will offer
participants an opportunity to embark on a rejuvenating yoga journey, setting the tone for the main International Day of Yoga event, celebrated worldwide on June 21 each year.
The Consulate encourages members of the community to take part and experience the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of yoga in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
Indian steel ministry delegation visits Perth, reviews NMDC’s Mount Celia Gold Project
Perth, April 16 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
A high-level delegation from the Government of India’s Ministry of Steel, led by Secretary Sandeep Poundrik, recently visited Perth to strengthen bilateral ties with the Australian government and
industrial leaders in the mining and resources sector.
The delegation included Abhijit Narendra, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Steel; Amitava Mukherjee, Chairman and Managing Director of NMDC Ltd; Ajit Kumar Saxena, CMD of
MOIL Ltd; and Manish Raj Gupta, Director (Technical) at SAIL Ltd.
During the visit, the delegation reviewed the Mount Celia Gold Project, an initiative by NMDC Ltd in collaboration with Legacy Iron Ore Ltd.
The team was joined by Naresh Kumar, Chairman of Australian company ACG, and Rakesh Gupta, CEO of Legacy Iron Ore Ltd, a subsidiary of NMDC.
The visit underscores the deepening cooperation between India and Australia in the minerals and mining sector and highlights India's growing interest in overseas resource development to support its steel and infrastructure expansion goals.
Acting Consul General joins Ugadi celebrations with WA Telugu community
Perth, April 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Western Australian Telugu Association recently hosted vibrant Ugadi Vedukala celebrations in Perth, bringing together the local Telugu community to mark the traditional New Year with joy and
cultural pride. Naresh Kumar, Acting Consul General of India in Perth, attended the event as a special guest, joining in the festivities and extending his greetings to the community. The celebration showcased the rich traditions, music, dance, and festive spirit associated with Ugadi, an important cultural
occasion for Telugu-speaking people.
The event highlighted the unity and cultural strength of the Indian diaspora in Western Australia, fostering a sense of togetherness and continuity of heritage among community members.
ISWA celebrates International Women’s Day
Perth, April 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Indian Society of Western Australia (ISWA) recently hosted a special event titled NAARI to celebrate International Women’s Day, honouring the achievements and contributions of women in the community. The event brought together eminent and inspiring women achievers from across Western Australia, highlighting their journeys, success stories, and impact in
various fields. NAARI served as a platform to recognize and empower women while fostering a sense of unity and pride among attendees.
Through thought-provoking discussions and motivational stories, the celebration reflected ISWA’s ongoing commitment to supporting gender equality and celebrating the strength and resilience of women in the Indian Australian community.
Australian Nair Services Society hosts Vishu and Multicultural celebration
Perth, April 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australian Nair Services Society Inc. recently celebrated Vishu, the traditional New Year festival of Kerala, with a vibrant multicultural program in Perth. The event brought together members of the Malayali community along with participants from diverse cultural
backgrounds, showcasing a rich blend of traditions through music, dance, and festive rituals. The celebration highlighted the spirit of unity in diversity, promoting cultural harmony and community bonding.
The Vishu gathering served as a joyful reminder of Kerala’s heritage while also celebrating the inclusive multicultural fabric of Australia.
Labor pledges $5.5 million for ‘House of India’ cultural centre in Queensland
Brisbane, April 18 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In a major show of support for Queensland’s Indian community, the Australian Labor Party has committed $5.5 million towards the creation of the House of India, a cultural centre and shared
community space in Greater Springfield.
The announcement was made as part of Labor’s federal election commitments, with Shayne Neumann MP leading the pledge.
The proposed centre aims to
serve as a vibrant multicultural hub where Indian heritage, community unity, and cultural celebration will thrive for generations.
Described as a historic moment for the Indian-Australian
community, the House of India is envisioned as a landmark space that reflects the growing contributions and presence of Indians in Queensland.
Key political and community leaders, including Milton Dick
MP,
have all played significant roles in advocating for this initiative and recognising the value of the Indian diaspora in Australia’s multicultural fabric.
High Commissioner meets Nobel laureate to boost India-Australia research ties
Canberra, April 24 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
India’s High Commissioner to Australia, Gopal Baglay, recently welcomed Nobel Prize-winning astrophysicist
Professor Brian Schmidt at the Indian High Commission in Canberra. During their brief but meaningful interaction, the two dignitaries discussed ways to
strengthen research collaboration between India and Australia.
The conversation touched upon shared scientific interests and opportunities to deepen academic and institutional partnerships in cutting-edge fields such as astrophysics and space science.
Professor Schmidt, currently Vice-Chancellor of the Australian National University, won the
Nobel Prize in Physics in 2011 for his pioneering work on the accelerating expansion of the universe. His visit to the High Commission highlights the growing engagement between Indian and Australian academic communities.
High Commissioner Baglay emphasized India’s commitment to advancing knowledge exchange
and innovation through global partnerships, particularly with trusted partners like Australia. The meeting is seen as a step forward in fostering deeper scientific cooperation between the two countries, especially in an era where international collaboration is key to addressing complex global challenges
Gold Coast’s Pushpinder Oberoi honoured with Hind Rattan Award
Brisbane, April 22 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Hospitality consultant and Indian community leader Pushpinder Oberoi has been awarded the prestigious Hind Rattan Award for 2023 by the NRI Welfare Society of India, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to community service. The award was presented by
Indian High Commissioner to Australia, Manpreet Vohra, at a recently organized function. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Amar Singh, Angie Bell MP, and other notable guests from the Gold Coast and Brisbane.
A former Managing Director at the Oberoi Group, Gold Coast, Oberoi has been actively
involved in a range of community welfare initiatives, earning him widespread respect and admiration within the IndianAustralian community.
Charis Mullen MP, Nicole Jonic from Ipswich City Council, and Councillor Paul Tully,
FICQ joins ANZAC Day parade to honour Indian soldiers’ legacy
Brisbane, April 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) participated in the ANZAC Day Parade, joining members of
the India Australia War Memorial Association in paying tribute to those who served and sacrificed for freedom.
Representing the wider Indian diaspora, FICQ’s participation
aimed not only to honour the brave men and women of the armed forces but also to raise greater awareness of the significant role played by Indian soldiers during World Wars
I and II — particularly their contribution to the ANZAC legacy.
Walking alongside fellow Queenslanders in solemn remembrance, FICQ members paid their respects and stood
in solidarity, reflecting on the values of courage, mateship, and resilience that continue to unite all Australians.
Consulate in Brisbane hosts Open House to address community queries
Brisbane, April 29 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India in Brisbane held an Open House on April 25, 2025, offering a
platform for direct engagement with members of the Indian community. The event was aimed at addressing queries and concerns related to consular
services, including passport, visa, OCI, and other documentation issues. Attendees had the opportunity to interact with consular officials, who responded
to their concerns and resolved most issues on the spot to the satisfaction of those present.
The initiative was well-received by the community and reflects the
Consulate’s ongoing commitment to transparency, accessibility, and responsive service.
FICQ engages in dialogue with Minister Fiona Simpson
Brisbane, April 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) recently hosted a significant meeting with Fiona Simpson MP, Queensland’s
Minister for Women and Women’s Economic Security, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, and Minister for Multiculturalism.
The dialogue focused on a broad range of issues affecting women,
Indigenous populations, and multicultural communities across the state. FICQ committee members and Minister Simpson shared insights and explored potential collaborative initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s
economic opportunities and fostering greater inclusivity in Queensland’s diverse society.
The meeting served as a platform for productive exchanges, reinforcing the commitment of both the government and
community leaders to work together toward common goals of equity, empowerment, and social cohesion.
FICQ representatives praised the minister’s openness and expressed optimism about building ongoing partnerships to support community-driven progress.
Indian diaspora hold memorials for victims of Pahalgam terror attack
Melbourne, April 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In a heartfelt show of solidarity, members of the Indian diaspora in Melbourne and Brisbane
came together to honour the victims of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. The Consulate General of India in Melbourne organised a solemn remembrance event attended
by various Indian community associations. Participants observed a moment of silence and reaffirmed their collective resolve to stand united against terrorism.
The events reflected the deep emotional connection the Indian diaspora shares with their homeland and their commitment to peace and justice in the face of terrorism.
As many as 26 people were killed and many injured when terrorists attacked a tourist spot in Pahalgam of Jammu and Kashmir.
Indian soldiers honoured at ANZAC Day in WA ceremonies
Perth, April 29 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
In a historic moment of remembrance, Indian soldiers who fought in Gallipoli during the First World War were officially honoured for the first time at ANZAC Day ceremonies in Western Australia.
The Acting Consul General of India paid tribute at the dawn service held at Kings Park, Perth, and later at the Commemorative
Service in Mandurah, marking a significant step in acknowledging the contributions of Indian troops in the ANZAC legacy.
Adding to the solemnity of the occasion, the Indian Veterans Contingent and the Sikh ExServicemen Contingent proudly participated in the ANZAC Day Parade in Perth. Their presence paid homage to the Indian soldiers who served bravely alongside Australian and New
Zealand forces during the Gallipoli campaign of 1915.
The WA Sikh Band also took part in the parade, lending a musical tribute that resonated with the spirit of unity, sacrifice, and shared history.
The recognition of Indian soldiers at ANZAC Day has been widely welcomed by the Indian diaspora and veterans' communities, with many hoping this becomes a regular feature in future commemorations.
Chennai hosts renewable energy leaders at RenewX 2025 Spotlight on India-US ties, green
Chennai, April 26 ( Australia India News Newsdesk)
The 2025 edition of RenewX, South India's premier renewable energy sourcing fair, concluded on a high note after three days of dynamic discussions, technological showcases, and global collaborations at the Chennai Trade Centre from April 23–25, 2025. Organized by Informa Markets, the event brought together over 150 energy leaders, innovators, policymakers, and international experts to envision a sustainable future for the region.
Day 1 – April 23: India-USA Solar Ties, Self-Reliance & South India’s Industrial Might
The opening day kicked off under the theme “Driving Renewable Energy Potential, Celebrating South India's Legacy of Excellence,” which highlighted the region’s leadership in clean energy transitions.
In the first session, “IndiaUSA Solar Collaboration,” experts examined how bilateral cooperation between the two countries could reshape the global renewable energy landscape. Discussions focused on the evolving geopolitical dynamics influencing energy security, the challenges and opportunities presented by supply chain disruptions, and the importance of knowledge sharing and technology transfer. This session was moderated by Nisha Menezes from PwC India and featured panelists from Premier Energies, First Solar, Vikram Solar, Frost & Sullivan, and BloombergNEF.
manufacturing and solar innovations
The second session, “Advancing Green Manufacturing in Solar – The Path to Self-Reliance,” explored India’s ambitious goal to reduce its dependence on imported solar components— currently at 80 percent—by promoting local manufacturing through policy reforms and industrial investment. Ajay Kumar Saxena of TERI led the panel, which included voices from SWELECT Energy, Luminous Power, Invest India, the Global Solar Council, and others.
A third session focused on Tamil Nadu’s potential to emerge as a major solar manufacturing hub, titled “Unlocking South India’s Potential.” The discussion, moderated by Dr. Anuvrat Joshi of H Nu Energy, emphasized infrastructure readiness and policy incentives available in the region.
The day concluded with a vibrant “Tech Talk” session, where Saswat Das from Sunmeister showcased smart hybrid systems; Sampath Kumar of Feston presented advancements in inverter technology; and Manish Asija of enPossibilities discussed modular solar solutions.
Day 2 – April 24: Asset Management, Consumer Benefits & Solar Farm Development
The second day began with a session on “Best Practices for Asset Management,” focusing on ways to improve solar plant performance through advanced monitoring systems, predictive maintenance, and operational benchmarking. Dr. Raguram Arjunan from SEPA led the
session, which drew participation from operations experts and data analysts across the solar industry. Following this, the session “Maximizing Savings: Financial Benefits of Solar” offered insights into how households and industries can benefit economically from solar power. Led by Prateek Aggarwal from CEEW, the panel included experts from Wattsun, INA Solar, Solex Energy, Rayzon, and Kosol Energie, who shared guidance on net metering policies, return on investment, and governmentbacked incentives.
In the Tech Talk series, Mohammed Rinas from LAGNUVO outlined emerging market trends; Manu Gaurang from Mondragon Assembly explained the intricacies of PV module assembly lines; Pavan Kumar Challa of Sunrack detailed the evolution of mounting structures; and Pavan Mathur from First Solar spoke about advancements in thin-film technology.
Later, the session “IPP, Policymakers, and the Path Forward” explored the challenges and solutions around grid integration, land acquisition, and solar farm development. Moderated by Sehul Bhatt of Crisil, the panel brought together leaders from Radiance Renewables, Ayana Power, Vibrant Energy, and Enfinity Global.
The day concluded with a panel on “Powering the Future: Rise of Energy Storage Solutions,” which emphasized the growing importance of advanced
battery systems and hybrid storage methods for balancing intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind.
Day 3 – April 25: Future Technologies, Women in Energy, and International Collaboration
The final day spotlighted innovation and inclusivity.
The session “Innovating for the Next Decade” featured leading startups and research institutions showcasing next-gen solutions such as green hydrogen, perovskite solar cells, and artificial intelligence-based grid management. Speakers from IIT Madras, ReNew Power Labs, and CEEW outlined the strategic path to support homegrown innovation in renewable energy.
In “Women in Clean Energy: Leadership for a Sustainable Tomorrow,” a panel of industry leaders discussed the importance of gender diversity in the clean energy sector. Moderated by Dr. Anitha Iyer, the session featured participants from Tata Power Solar, Shell India, and UNDP, who emphasized mentorship, leadership opportunities, and policy measures to improve inclusion.
The day also featured an “International Dialogue on Renewable Trade and Technology Exchange,” with speakers representing GIZ (Germany), the Australia-India Energy Partnership, and the US-India Strategic Energy Forum. Key issues discussed included enhancing global solar value chains, responding to carbon border adjustment taxes, and
incentivizing cross-border energy cooperation.
The closing ceremony saw Informa Markets reiterate RenewX’s role as a transformative platform connecting regional and international stakeholders for a cleaner energy future.
RenewX 2025 showcased how India, and particularly South India, is leading the clean energy charge through global collaboration, technology leadership, and inclusive growth.
The discussions over three days emphasized strengthening IndiaUSA partnerships, advancing self-reliance in manufacturing, promoting solar adoption, and supporting women and young innovators in the field.
Commenting on the significance of the event, Dr. Ram Mohan, Editor, Australia India News, who is also the Director of Australia Energy Solution PTY LTD said, “I had the privilege of moderating an insightful session on “Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS): in the Renewable Energy India Expo - RenewX 2025 at Chennai Trade Centre. The discussions highlighted India’s ambitious BESS tenders and their role in grid stability, the challenges –from high costs to recycling – and innovative solutions, and the road ahead related to policy push, hybrid projects, and cutting-edge technology.”
The event’s growing global relevance was underlined by participation from ASEAN, Europe, and Africa, with expectations already building for a more expansive edition in 2026—cementing Chennai's position as a rising epicenter of the renewable energy revolution.
Gautam Gambhir files police complaint after receiving death threats
New Delhi, April 24 (IANS) India men's cricket head coach and former BJP MP Gautam Gambhir has filed a complaint with the Delhi Police after he received the death threats.
The threat came just one day after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed at least 26 lives and left several injured.
"As we spoke, please find below the "Threat Mails" received on the mail ID of Mr Gautam Gambhir
(Ex- MP) Head Coach Indian Cricket Team. Kindly register the F.l.R accordingly and ensure the safety and security of the family,"
PS to Gambhir wrote in a mail to Rajender Nagar SHO and DCP central.
Following the horrific incident, Gambhir paid condolences for the deceased and said, "India will strike back".
"Praying for the families of the deceased. Those responsible for this will pay. India will strike," Gambhir wrote on X.
Pakistan-based terror outfit, The Resistance Front, an offshoot of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility for the assault, marking one of the worst attacks in the region in recent years.
This is not the first instance when Gambhir received a death threat. Back in 2021, the former cricketer received similar death threats.
He then approached Delhi
Police and security was beefed up outside his Rajendra Nagar residence.
Gambhir was elected as the Lok Sabha MP from East Delhi on a BJP ticket in 2019. But he quit politics ahead of the 2024 general election.
While announcing his decision, Gambhir requested BJP President JP Nadda to relieve him of the political duties so that he can focus on his upcoming cricket commitments.
"I have requested Hon'ble Party President JP Nadda ji to relieve me of my political duties so that I can focus on my upcoming cricket commitments. I sincerely thank Hon'ble PM Narendra Modi for giving me the opportunity to serve the people. Jai Hind," Gambhir had posted on X. Gambhir played for India at the international level for 15 years, before announcing his retirement from all forms of cricket in 2018.
India wins big at 2nd Asian Yogasana Sport Championship with record 83 gold medals
New Delhi, April 27 (IANS) India delivered a historic performance at the 2nd Asian Yogasana Sport Championship, sweeping the medal tally with a record 83 gold medals at the prestigious event held at the KD Jadhav Arena, Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, New Delhi.
The championship saw participation from over 21 countries, including Japan, Mongolia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Uzbekistan and others.
While India dominated with an unprecedented 83 golds along with three silver and a solitary bronze, Japan followed with three gold, three silver and four bronze medals, while Mongolia, Oman and Nepal rounded off the top five standings.
Indian
The championship concluded with a grand closing ceremony attended by Harsh Malhotra, Minister of State for Corporate Affairs, Government of India, and Ajay Chaudhary, Additional Commissioner of Police, Delhi, along with senior officials from the Asian and World Yogasana federations.
Umang Dawn, Secretary General of Asian Yogasana, opened the ceremony with a warm welcome, followed by an overview of the championship presented by Dr Sanjay Malpani, president of Asian Yogasana. Dr Jaideep Arya, Secretary General of World Yogasana, shared insights on Yogasana's growing global stature.
Dr Sanjay Malpani, president of Asian Yogasana emphasised, “Yogasana not only strengthens the body but also nurtures mental resilience and focus qualities essential for holistic well-being and societal progress. Events like these spread this important message far and wide."
women’s hockey Team
Udit Sheth, president of Yogasana Bharat, delivered the closing remarks, congratulating all participants and celebrating the growing momentum of yogasana as a recognised sport.
Final Medal Tally Highlights:
- India — 83 Gold, 3 Silver, 1 Bronze (Rank 1)
- Japan — 3 Gold, 3 Silver, 4 Bronze (Rank 2)
- Mongolia — 1 Gold, 11 Silver, 6 Bronze (Rank 3)
- Oman — 1 Gold, 3 Silver, 7 Bronze (Rank 4)
- Nepal — 0 Gold, 27 Silver, 12 Bronze (Rank 5)
Countries such as Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Kazakhstan and Bhutan also showcased strong performances, highlighting the growing footprint of yogasana as a competitive sport across Asia.
The event concluded with a medal ceremony honouring the athletes and a formal farewell to the dignitaries, marking the end of a highly successful championship.
set to test new combinations against Australia in friendlies
April 30 (IANS) After two
Australia
in their next three friendlies at the Perth Hockey Stadium on 1 May. India will be looking to improve upon their performance after suffering two defeats in their first two games against Australia A.
In the first match, India fought valiantly but fell short and were dealt a 3-5 defeat by the Australia A team.
The winning side took an early lead, scoring four goals in
IPL 2025: There is no fear, says Vaibhav Suryavanshi after smashing second fastest century
Jaipur, April 28 (IANS) Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a player who has been breaking records since his name was pulled out of the bag during the 2024 IPL Mega Auction. Despite acquiring his services for a whopping Rs 1.1 crore, no one expected the Rajasthan Royals to play him, let alone for him to score the fastest century by an Indian in IPL history.
His 35-ball ton propelled the Rajasthan Royals to a massive eight wicket victory as the home team at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium became the fastest team to chase down a score of 200+ as they ran down the 210 run target in 15.5 overs with 25 balls. Although Suryavanshi showed he
has a deep arsenal of cricketing shots, he was not a man of many words, and understandably so after having put the entire country on notice at this age. He talked about how he is not afraid of taking on big names
“It is a very good feeling. It's my first hundred in the IPL and it's my third innings. The result is shown here after the practice before the tournament. I just see the ball and play. Batting with Jaiswal is good, he tells me what to do and he infuses positive things. It has been a dream to get a 100 in the IPL and today it materialised. There is no fear. I don't think much, I just focus on playing,” said Suryavanshi after the match.
Suryavanshi’s 101-run innings, which saw him smash 11 massive sixes and seven boundaries, saw him surpassed Manish Pandey (19y 253d), Rishabh Pant ( 20y 218 d) and Devdutt Padikkal ( 20y 289d) to shatter the record of the youngest centurion in tournament history as he did it at the age of 14 years 32 days. It is also the second fastest century in the tournament, behind only Chris Gayle who did it in 30 deliveries, and the fastest century by an Indian, surpassing Yusuf Pathan's record of 37 deliveries
‘Apne desh ki taraqqi mai dimag lagao’: Dhawan hits back at Afridi’s remark after Pahalgam terror attack
New Delhi, April 28 (IANS)
the first half. India did well to reduce the deficit but couldn’t make a comeback over the next two quarters. Mahima Tete (27’), Navneet Kaur (45’), and Lalremsiami (50’) scored goals for India, while Neasa Flynn (3’), Olivia Downes (9’), Ruby Harris (11’), Tatum Stewart (21’), and Kendra Fitzpatrick (44’) recorded goals for Australia A.
Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has given a sharp and patriotic response to former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi, who made controversial comments about the Indian Army following the deadly terror attack in south Kashmir's Pahalgam. After the attack, in which 28 civilians tragically lost their lives, Afridi appeared on Pakistani television and blamed India's security forces, questioning their efficiency. Speaking to Samaa TV, Afridi said, "Tum logon ki 8 lakh hi fauj hai Kashmir mein aur yeh ho gaya. Iska matlab nalayak ho, nikamme ho na tum log security de nahi sake logon ko (You have an 800,000-strong army in Kashmir and this still happened. It means you are inefficient and useless if you can't provide security to the people)."
Afridi further mocked the Indian media's coverage of the incident, comparing it to a Bollywood production and suggesting that Indian cricketers were wrong to blame Pakistan for the attack. Reacting strongly, Shikhar Dhawan took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) and posted a blistering reply. He wrote, "Kargil mein bhi haraya tha, already itna gire hue ho aur kitna giroge, bewajah comments pass karne se acha hai apne desh ki taraqqi mai dimag lagao @ SAfridiOfficial. Humein hamari Indian Army par bohot garv hai. Bharat Mata Ki Jai! Jai Hind!"
("We defeated you in Kargil too. You have already fallen so low, how much lower will you go? Instead of making baseless comments, it would be better if you focused on your country's development. We are very proud of our Indian Army. Bharat Mata Ki Jai! Jai Hind!")
The terrorist attack in Pahalgam has been one of the deadliest in Kashmir since the 2019 Pulwama incident. The attack triggered global condemnation, and India has pointed towards Pakistanbacked terror outfits being responsible.
Perth,
matches against the
A side, the Indian women’s hockey team is set to face the senior team
Rashami Desai steps into the world of Gujarati theater
Calling theatre the best place to work on your craft, she told IANS,"I am very excited about this to be honest. As an actor, I feel that the best place to literally work on your craft is theater. This has been a part of my wishlist for a long time, ever since my TV days to be honest. The will was
always there but somehow the timings didn’t align. Finally, it is happening and I am really happy."
Rashami feels that theatre gives you massive exposure, training you as an actor to face anything that comes your way. "I feel that theater gives you exposure like never before and trains you for literally anything coming your way. When you are prepared as a 360 degree complete artiste, work feels all the way more interesting. My audience has been very kind and have given me a lot of love for my Gujarati film. I hope I receive the same love and adulation in my new journey with Gujarati theater. I am confident of emerging as a better artist after this experience. The live reaction of the audience is absolutely thrilling and motivating as a performer and it always gives more energy to an artiste. So, I am enjoying every bit of it and I will continue to enjoy every bit of it. Thanks and regards."
Circling back to "Mom Tane Nai Samjay", the family entertainer has been helmed by Dharmessh Mehta, and written by Radheshyam.
Backed by Diya Nahar, Chee Tang Joo, along with Harit Desai, the project also stars Amar Upadhyay in a significant role.
They look ‘super cute’ in Indian attire, say netizens as JD Vance’s kids embrace Indian culture
The video of US Vice President J D Vance's children donning traditional Indian outfits upon their arrival in New Delhi continues to break the internet and win hearts on social media. Vance arrived in the Indian capital along with his wife Usha and three children - Ewan, Vivek, and daughter Mirabel - on his first trip to India.
After New Delhi, the US Vice President and his delegation will have other engagements in Jaipur and Agra before departing for
Washington on April 24.
Embracing Indian culture, Vance's children walked out of Air Force Two in Indian outfits.
While the couple's sons Ewan and Vivek wore blue and yellow kurtas, three-year-old Mirabel was dressed in an Anarkali-style suit and an embroidered jacket. Later, the US Vice President, Second Lady Usha Vance and their children also visited Swaminarayan Akshardham in Delhi — their first stop in India.
Gita and Natyashastra included in UNESCO’s Memory of World Register, PM Modi calls it ‘proud moment’
In a remarkable development, the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, a noted Hindu scripture and Natyashastra, an Indian treatise on performing arts have been included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the development as a proud moment for every Indian. The news was shared by Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. He took to X and informed, "The Shrimad Bhagavad Gita & Bharat Muni’s Natyashastra are now inscribed in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register."
He also described it as a historic moment for Bharat’s civilisational heritage and added, "This global honour celebrates India’s eternal wisdom & artistic genius."
He emphasized that these works are more than literary masterpieces — they are philosophical and aesthetic foundations that have profoundly influenced India’s worldview and modes of thought, emotion, expression, and living.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the development as 'a proud moment for every Indian across the world'.
"The inclusion of the Gita and Natyashastra in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register is a global recognition of our timeless wisdom and rich culture. The Gita and Natyashastra have nurtured civilisation and consciousness for centuries. Their insights continue to inspire the world," he wrote in a post on X.
India’s changemakers speak: Padma awardees reflect on recognition and responsibility
"They look super cute in Indian attire," a user posted on X. During the visit, the family experienced the temple's majestic art, architecture and timeless values of faith, family and harmony.
This is the first visit to India by an American Vice-President in 13 years. The last was Joe Biden, who travelled to India in 2013 as VicePresident to President Barack Obama.
Usha Vance's parents hail from Andhra Pradesh, who migrated to the United States decades ago. Born and brought up in the US, Usha holds an impressive educational background, having graduated from top-notch American institutes. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in History from Yale University and then pursued Master's in Philosophy from Cambridge University. She also has a track record of a distinguished career, with professional engagements across multiple segments. She clerked for Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts.
Usha and JD Vance met at the Yale Law School and it was there that they developed a close affinity for each other. They got married in Kentucky in 2014 and together they have three children.
President Droupadi Murmu on Monday conferred the prestigious Padma Awards to 71 distinguished individuals at the Civil Investiture Ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhawan's Durbar Hall. The honours included four Padma Vibhushan, 10 Padma Bhushan, and 57 Padma Shri awards, recognising outstanding contributions across diverse fields.
The event marked the first phase of Padma Award presentations for the year 2025.
In conversation with IANS, these Padma Awardees shared their experiences, expressing their commitment towards the country.
PR Sreejesh, known for his unique goalkeeping in hockey, was awarded the Padma Bhushan in the field of sports. Former Indian hockey goalkeeper and current junior Indian hockey team coach, Sreejesh, created history by winning two Olympic bronze medals and three times the Goalkeeper of the Year title.
Speaking to IANS, he said, "I am very honoured for this award.
I am very proud. I would like to thank all the teammates for helping me achieve this feat."
In the field of medicine, Prof. (Dr) Ashok Kumar Mahapatra was awarded the Padma Shri. He is an eminent neurosurgeon who has published research papers, written books, and led several research projects during his tenure at AIIMS.
Speaking to IANS, he said, "I would first thank the government. This is a huge achievement. It is a great thing to get a Padma award in India. I worked for 22 years at the AIIMS, where I was a professor and dean. After retirement, I went to Odisha, where I was the vice-chancellor at a research institute."
Vinod Kumar Dham was awarded the Padma Bhushan in the field of science and engineering.
Vinod Dham, popularly known as the ‘Father of Pentium’, made computing accessible across the world with his vision in the development of the Pentium microprocessor.
Speaking to IANS, he said, "This award is a recognition of India's progress. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India is progressing rapidly in technology. The concept of Digital India is so broad that it can include everything." He emphasised India's progress in semiconductors, AI, and quantum technology, and also said that the right use of technology can be a boon for humanity.
Basking in the success of "Mom Tane Nai Samjay," actress Rashami Desai has commenced her new journey with Gujarati theater.
Rashami spilled her excitement regarding her new venture during an exclusive conversation with IANS.
Assam Rifles’ swift action saves life of 2-year-old in remote Manipur village
Imphal, April 21 (IANS) The life of a two-year-old girl in a remote village of Manipur’s mountainous Kamjong district was saved as the Assam Rifles swung into action to evacuate her for critical medical aid after the kid accidentally fell into a water tank early on Monday.
A defence spokesman said that the incident occurred in Grihang, one of the most inaccessible villages, as it is poorly connected by road and completely cut off from other modes of transport. The villagers had little hope for timely medical support, but assistance came with promptness and determination.
On receiving the distress call, Assam Rifles troopers and medical personnel rushed to the isolated village, stabilised the child, Chuishut, with first aid, and within moments, coordinated the arrival of a military helicopter for
her evacuation to the paramilitary force's hospital in Imphal, the spokesman said.
He said that despite the logistical challenges, the seamless coordination ensured the child was in expert care within hours of the accident.
At Assam Rifles Military Hospital, Mantripukhri, in Imphal West District, expert paediatric care ensured the child was brought out of grave danger.
Timely intervention was critical, and any delay could have cost her life, the spokesman stressed.
The child’s parents, overwhelmed and in tears of gratitude, said: "We thought we were going to lose her. Assam Rifles gave her back to us."
The defence PRO said that this daring and selfless act by Assam Rifles once again underlines the force's role not just as protectors, but as guardians of humanity in the farthest corners of the northeast. Their readiness, even in the most challenging terrain, continues to inspire deep trust among local communities. Meanwhile, in a demonstration of commitment to the physical and emotional well-being of its
troops and families, Assam Rifles conducted a series of ‘Pranayam’ and ‘Yogasana’ sessions from April 10 to 21 across multiple garrisons in Manipur.
According to the defence spokesman, the sessions were led by the inspiring Padmini Jog, an 80-year-old certified yoga instructor from Maharashtra's Nagpur, whose energy and wisdom left a lasting impact on all participants. Over 1,845 troops, families and students across Manipur participated in this 12-day-long series of rejuvenating yoga sessions. Starting from Pallel, Modi, and Moreh Garrisons, the initiative moved to Kakching, Keithalmanbi, and finally to Ukhrul and Sangshak, culminating at Mantripukhri garrison on Monday. The series concluded on Monday at Mantripukhri, where 375 troops and family members took part in a revitalising yoga session focused on physical well-being and inner balance. The event reinforced the value of yoga as a daily discipline for armed forces personnel, whose demanding routines often leave little space for mental decompression, the spokesman said.
Summer plan: ‘Jal Doots’ to provide drinking water to commuters at Delhi bus stops
New Delhi, April 25 (IANS)
Volunteers or ‘Jal Doot’ will soon start offering water to commuters waiting for public transport buses at stops, an official said on Friday. “Jal Doots, to be posted at Bus Queue Shelters (BQS), will be trained personnel providing clean drinking water to passengers waiting for buses, helping to alleviate the effects of extreme
heat,” said Delhi Health and Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh after reviewing the ‘Delhi Heat Action Plan 2025’.
Also, defunct DTC buses are set to be repurposed into food kiosks.
These kiosks will initially be launched at three major terminals — Anand Vihar ISBT, Sarai Kale Khan ISBT, and Kashmere Gate ISBT. Each outlet will include basic amenities like drinking water, cleanliness and hygiene standards, he said.
In the meeting, senior officials from the Transport Department, Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), and the Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System Ltd (DIMTS) were present.
Singh said that to address the challenges posed by extreme weather, DTC will install RO Digital Water Coolers at DTC Depots and Terminals. In the first phase, 10 major depots have been identified for these installations. “Ensuring access to clean drinking water is a fundamental necessity, especially during peak summer months. By installing RO systems at our depots, we are taking a concrete step to prioritise the well-being of our hardworking staff and daily commuters. This initiative underscores our commitment to building a humane and responsive public transport system,” he said.
President Murmu confers Padma Awards to 71 distinguished personalities
New Delhi, April 28 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu on Monday conferred the prestigious Padma Awards to 71 distinguished individuals at the Civil Investiture Ceremony held at the Rashtrapati Bhawan's Durbar Hall. The honours included four Padma Vibhushan, 10 Padma Bhushan, and 57 Padma Shri awards, recognising outstanding contributions across diverse fields.
The event marked the first phase of Padma Award presentations for the year 2025. <a href="https:// presidentofindia.gov.in/sites/ default/files/2023-06/padma_ awards_2025_ceremony_i_1_ compressed.pdf" target="_ blank" style="color: blue; text-decoration: none;">Click here to see the full list of 71 Padma winners</a>. Renowned violinist L. Subramaniam was awarded the Padma Vibhushan for his exceptional contribution to the field of art. The late Osamu Suzuki, former CEO of Suzuki Motor Corporation, was posthumously honoured
Rajkot entrepreneur gives his salon a makeover with PM Mudra Yojana
Rajkot, April 16 (IANS) The Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY), launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to promote startups and selfemployment, continues to receive a positive response across the country. One such inspiring success story comes from Rajkot, where a local entrepreneur has transformed his small salon into a thriving business with the help of the scheme.
Hiten Joshi, who runs a salon on Nirmala Convent Road in Rajkot, shared his experience with IANS about how Mudra loans helped him at a crucial time in his entrepreneurial journey.
“In 2023, I needed funds to grow
my business. I approached the bank, and the State Bank of India provided me a good loan at a low interest rate. With that support, my business developed well. I also started selling cosmetic products at my salon. In fact, investment is high for cosmetics business as payment must be made for the products in advance. So, I needed a lot of money. In this case, Mudra scheme helped me a lot. Later, when I needed another loan, the bank approved it again, and now I’m running my business successfully. I believe the Mudra loan is a very useful and good option for those starting new businesses,” said Hiten Joshi. His story reflects how the Mudra Yojana has become a reliable source of financial support for small business owners who may not have access to traditional forms of credit due to a lack of collateral or formal financial history.
The scheme offers loans under several categories: 'Shishu'covering loans up to Rs 50,000; 'Kishor' - covering loans above 50,000 and up to 5 lakh; 'Tarun'covering loans above 5 lakh and up to 10 lakh and 'Tarun Plus'covering loans above 10 lakh and up to 20 lakh.
UDAN’s eight years: Scheme gives wings to common citizens, their dreams turning into reality
New Delhi, April 27 (IANS)
narrating the story of his dream turning into reality, courtesy Modi government’s UDAN scheme.
Mukesh purchased the air tickets at a base fare of Rs 99/- and flew his parents from Aligarh to Lucknow and then to the sacred Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
with the Padma Vibhushan for his contributions to trade and industry. His son and current CEO Toshihiro Suzuki accepted the award on his behalf. In the field of art, filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, actor and Andhra Pradesh legislator Nandamuri Balakrishna, actor S. Ajith Kumar, and the late singer Pankaj Udhas were awarded the Padma Bhushan. The award for Pankaj Udhas was received by his wife Farida Udhas. Former Indian hockey goalkeeper P.R. Sreejesh was conferred the Padma Bhushan for his achievements in sports.
As ‘Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik’ (UDAN) program completes eight groundbreaking years on Sunday, it comes as a testament of inclusive growth because the affordable air travel is not limited to metros but has expanded to Tier – II and Tier – III cities. Today, it doesn’t remain a preserve of the select few but many people, who earlier couldn’t afford flying, are now taking to air travel under the UDAN program.
Mukesh Kumar, a farmer from Aligarh, fulfilled his biggest dream recently – of taking his parents on a flight for the first time, under the UDAN scheme. He took them to Ayodhya for Ram Lalla’s darshan via flight and earned accolades from the villagers for arranging a special religious pilgrimage for his parents.
The heartwarming story of Mukesh Kumar has been shared by ‘Modi Story’, a popular social media handle on X, where he is
Notably, it was on April 27 that the UDAN took its first flight in 2017 and saw it flying between Shimla to Delhi.
Mukesh, an Aligarh resident, while sharing his story, said that he always dreamt of taking his parents on an aircraft journey while working in the fields. He also made enquiries at the Airport for the same, but lost hope after getting to know about the exorbitant prices.
“It was after I got to know that UDAN scheme facilitates memorable air journey for common citizens like us, that I availed the benefits of this scheme and took my parents on a flight journey. I am very thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” he added.
The moving story of Mukesh and his parents, as shared by the ‘Modi Story’ handle, shows how the dreams of commoners are turning into reality.
Training and skilling key to futuristic Kerala tourism: Minister Riyas
Training and skill development are critical components of futuristic development of tourism sector, which is diversifying into various verticals promising great opportunities for young entrepreneurs and innovators, Kerala Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas said on Thursday. Tourism in Kerala is now regarded as the money-spinning industry in the state, which saw a 13.76 per cent rise in foreign tourist arrivals in 2024 compared to the previous year.
The official figures reveal around 7.38 lakh foreign tourists visited Kerala in 2024, while a record 2.22 crore domestic tourists arrived in
Kerala during the same year.
The Minister said this while inaugurating a national seminar and panel discussion on ‘Innovations in Tourism Industry: Redefining Opportunities in a Dynamic Global Landscape,’ organised by the Kerala Institute of Tourism and Travel Studies (KITTS) here, in association with the Indian Society for Training and Development's (ISTD) Thiruvananthapuram chapter. "As the tourism sector is diversifying into different verticals like responsible tourism, heritage tourism and adventure tourism, young entrepreneurs and professionals need to be
innovative and come up with new products," said Riyas, who is the son-in-law of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
"State Tourism Department is committed to supporting startups and MSMEs in the tourism sector by providing incubation facilities, mentoring and financial aid," he added.
"We should focus on areas like skill development, hospitality, language up-skilling, digital literacy, and administrative skills. The academic excellence of KITTS, integrated with ISTD’s industry knowledge, will enhance the capabilities of our professionals, who can compete in global platforms," Riyas said.
The Kerala Tourism Department has programmes to support entrepreneurial aspirations of local communities and youngsters, which will add a thrust to socio-economic growth and integrated development.
Incidentally, the total tourism revenue generated in Kerala is now nearing a record Rs 40,000 crore, and the plan of Riyas is to ensure that tourism’s contribution to the state GDP, which stands at 12 per cent, rises to 20 per cent by 2030.
Gujarat’s 18 heritage sites attract over 3.6 mn visitors in 2024
More than 3.695 million domestic and international tourists visited Gujarat's 18 heritage sites in 2024, as per government data shared on Thursday.
The four UNESCO-recognised world heritage sites in Gujarat saw a notable influx of visitors. Ahmedabad, a heritage city recorded the highest footfall with more than 7.15 lakh tourists, followed by Rani ki Vav in Patan with 3.64 lakh, Dholavira in Kutch with 1.6 lakh, and ChampanerPavagadh with more than 47,000 visitors.
These four globally recognised sites are vital cultural landmarks. Champaner-Pavagadh, listed in 2004, is known for its fusion of
Hindu and Islamic architecture and sacred Kalika Mata Temple.
Rani ki Vav, inscribed in 2014, is a spectacular 11th-century stepwell adorned with detailed sculptures and also featured on India's Rs 100 currency note.
Ahmedabad, declared India's first UNESCO World Heritage City in 2017, showcases a rich architectural legacy with ancient havelis, mosques, temples, and pols reflecting more than 600 years of history.
Dholavira, a former city of the Indus Valley civilisation and UNESCO site since 2021, offers a glimpse into advanced ancient urban planning and water conservation techniques, as per government data.
Kashmir erupts in protests against Pahalgam killings, tourism likely to be hit
In a strong display of unity and collective grief, Kashmir Valley on Wednesday erupted in protests against the Pahalgam killings.
The protests and shutdown marked the first Valley-wide complete shutdown against terrorism in over 35 years, with people from all walks of life taking to the streets to denounce the bloodshed.
Civil society members, traders’ federation, transport association, staff members from government offices, and citizens gathered and participated in a protest march condemning the tragic killing of tourists.
has also been widely condemned across all the schools of Kashmir, and in this connection, condolence meetings and special prayers were offered in favour of all the deceased tourists during the morning assemblies.
A divisional-level condolence meet was held in the conference hall of the Directorate of School Education, Kashmir.
The attack is also likely to affect the tourism-based local economy, which has been gaining momentum in the last few years.
Beyond these, several lesserknown but culturally significant sites across Gujarat are also attracting increasing tourist attention, supported by sustainable tourism initiatives and improved accessibility.
The state's Heritage Tourism Policy has been instrumental in reviving old forts, palaces, and heritage buildings, especially in rural and semi-urban regions.
The policy promotes adaptive reuse of heritage properties and encourages public-private partnerships to conserve and showcase the region's architectural legacy.
A march was taken out, which witnessed massive public participation with people from all walks of life gathered in solidarity, holding placards and banners expressing their anguish and support for the victims and their families.
The protestors urged the authorities to swiftly identify and bring to justice those responsible for the heinous act, and demanded stringent action under the full ambit of the law, ensuring such acts of violence are met with zero tolerance.
The march stood as a powerful testament of Kashmiris standing against violence and their unwavering commitment to peace, justice, and communal harmony.
Meanwhile, the attack on tourists
Earlier, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said on Wednesday that J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has conveyed to him that Kashmir’s economy has collapsed following the Pahalgam terror attack.
“The summer season has just begun, and this is the time when tourists start visiting the region. Tourism is also the biggest source of income for J&K, especially Kashmir. They depend entirely on tourism income. Omar Abdullah told me that this year’s economy has collapsed. He also said that tourism is their main source of livelihood and that they are devastated by this attack,” said the Congress President, addressing a press conference at the Congress Headquarters in Bengaluru.
At least 26 tourists were killed on Tuesday after gunmen opened fire on innocent civilians in Baisaran in Jammu and Kashmir.
India’s travel and tourism sector headed to touch 10 pc of GDP soon
India’stravel and tourism sector, which currently contributes 7 per cent of the country's GDP, will soon reach the global average of 10 per cent, World Travel and Tourism Council CEO, Julia Simpson, has said.
In a video message at the 'India Travel & Tourism
Sustainability Conclave 202'5 here, she said the country’s travel and tourism sector offers an extraordinary opportunity and is expected to clock a growth rate of 7 per cent.
Simpson praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for increasing investments in travel and tourism and seeing the potential of the sector to transform the living conditions of communities and the lives of people.
Emphasising the need for sustainable practices in the
sector, she said about 4.8 per cent of India's greenhouse gas emissions come from the travel and tourism sector.
She also pointed out that India is reducing the "carbon intensity faster than the global average as it is going down by 13 per cent".
The first edition of the India Travel & Tourism Sustainability Conclave, organised by MakeMyTrip Foundation and World Travel & Tourism Council India Initiative (WTTCII), was held in New Delhi.
‘WAVES 2025’ pivotal in bridging the gap between tradition and innovation: IAMAI
New Delhi, April 21 (IANS) As India continues to establish itself as a powerhouse in the global digital landscape, initiatives like ‘WAVES 2025’ are pivotal in bridging the gap between tradition and innovation, the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) said on Monday. India's media and entertainment landscape is undergoing a significant shift. With 870 million active internet users in 2024, the country’s digital ecosystem is expanding rapidly, with rural users now comprising over 50
per cent of the total internet audience.
This expansion is redefining the way content is consumed, with short-form videos leading the charge.
As this transformation unfolds, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), along with IAMAI, is hosting WAVES 2025 in Mumbai from May 1-4 that aims to position India as a leader in global digital storytelling.
‘WAVES 2025’ is designed to provide a platform for the country’s diverse creator ecosystem, from tech innovators to regional artists, to showcase their talents.
Some of the key competitions include WAVES Comic Chronicles, which reimagines comic storytelling in India; WAVES AI Art, inviting creators to design audio-visual installations exploring the potential of artificial intelligence; WAVES Explorer, aimed at capturing authentic and
diverse perspectives of India; and the WAVES Reel Making Challenge, empowering creators to showcase their storytelling using Meta’s suite of tools. These challenges together offer a vibrant platform for emerging talent to push creative boundaries and drive digital expression across the globe, said IAMAI. India’s creative economy has received an overwhelming boost, with more than 1 lakh registrations for WAVES 2025. By championing the creative voices of India's diverse and emerging talent, WAVES 2025 offers a unique opportunity to not only showcase India's rich cultural heritage but also to inspire the next generation of storytellers, artists, and innovators, said the IAMAI. WAVES 2025 is emerging as a global connector between creators, buyers, and markets for scalable creative solutions.
ISRO’s SpaDEX mission successfully achieves 2nd docking of satellites: Minister
New Delhi, April 21 (IANS) Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Monday said that the ISRO’s SpaDEX mission has successfully achieved second docking of satellites.
In a post on X social media platform, the minister said he is "glad to inform that the second docking of satellites has been accomplished successfully".
“As informed earlier, the PSLV-C60 / SPADEX mission
Honour
was successfully launched on 30 December 2024. Thereafter the satellites were successfully docked for the first time on 16 January 2025 at 06:20 AM and successfully undocked on 13 March 2025 at 09:20 AM,” he mentioned.
The minister further said that further experiments are planned in the next two weeks.
In January, with the successful docking of the satellites of the SpaDEX mission, India became the fourth nation to ace the space docking technology.
ISRO informed the merging of two small spacecraft -- SDX01, the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target -- weighing about 220 kg each. The satellites were part of the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) mission, which lifted off aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket, from Sriharikota on December 30.
India is now the fourth country, after the US, Russia, and China, to master the docking technology. The docking technology was indigenously developed and has been named the ‘Bharatiya Docking System’.
It includes a docking mechanism, a suite of four rendezvous and docking sensors, power transfer technology, indigenous novel autonomous rendezvous and docking strategy, and an intersatellite communication link (ISL) for autonomous communication between spacecraft, incorporated with inbuilt intelligence to know the states of the other spacecraft, among others.
ISRO believes the SpaDeX mission will help establish India's capability in orbital docking -- a key technology for future human spaceflight and satellite servicing missions.
to speak with PM Modi, look forward to visit India this year: Elon Musk
New Delhi, April 19 (IANS) Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk on Saturday said that it was an honour to speak with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and he is looking forward to visiting India later this year.
The billionaire industrialist and
PM Modi earlier discussed various issues, including an immense potential for collaboration in the areas of technology and innovation.
“It was an honour to speak with PM Modi. I am looking forward to visiting India later this year,” posted Musk on his X social media platform.
PM Modi on Friday held a discussion with Tesla CEO on a range of topics.
“Spoke to Elon Musk and talked about various issues, including the topics we covered during
2nd batch of BrahMos missiles sent to Philippines in boost to defence exports
New Delhi, April 21 (IANS) In a significant boost to India’s defence exports, the second batch of batteries of BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system has been dispatched to the Philippines.
The first battery was sent in April 2024 in an IAF aircraft, with support coming from civil aircraft agencies.
The long-haul flight carrying the heavy load was a nonstop six-hour journey before the equipment reached the western parts of the Philippines, according to multiple reports, citing sources.
The deal with the Philippines was announced in January 2022 for the supply of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile.
The Philippines will get three batteries for the missile system, which has a range of 290 kilometres and a speed of 2.8 Mach (around 3,400 kms, thrice the speed of sound). The BrahMos missile can be launched from submarines, ships, aircraft or land.
India aims to produce defence equipment worth Rs 3 lakh crore by the year 2029, according to Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
The defence production in India has risen from Rs 40,000 crore in 2014 to over Rs 1.27 lakh crore.
“This year, defence production should cross Rs 1.60 lakh crore, while our target is to produce defence equipment worth Rs 3 lakh crore by the year 2029,” according to the minister.
The country will reduce its dependence on imports and create a defence industrial complex that will not only meet India’s needs but will also strengthen the potential of defence exports.
The ‘Make in India’ programme is not only strengthening the country's defence production but also helping it make the global defence supply chain resilient and flexible.
While India's defence manufacturing capabilities are aimed at national security and strategic autonomy, they are also insulating manufacturing from global supply shocks.
India today stands shoulder to shoulder with developed nations in critical areas such as missile technology (Agni, BrahMos), submarines (INS Arihant) and aircraft carriers (INS Vikrant).
New study on brain’s visual regions can help build effective AI systems
New Delhi, April 20 (IANS) A Columbia University’s School of Engineering study in the US has shown that the brain’s visual regions play an active role in making sense of information, which could help build more adaptive AI systems.
our meeting in Washington DC earlier this year. We discussed the immense potential for collaboration in the areas of technology and innovation. India remains committed to advancing our partnerships with the US in these domains,” PM Modi said on X. The Prime Minister had met Musk in Washington during his visit to the US in February this year. “Had a very good meeting with Elon Musk in Washington DC. We discussed various issues, including those he is passionate about such as space, mobility, technology and innovation.
Crucially, the way it interprets the information depends on what the rest of the brain is working on.
Published in the journal Nature Communications, the study led by biomedical engineer and neuroscientist Nuttida Rungratsameetaweemana, provides some of the clearest evidence yet that early sensory systems play a role in decisionmaking — and that they adapt in real-time.
It also points to new approaches for designing AI systems that can adapt to new or unexpected situations. The findings challenge the traditional view that early
sensory areas in the brain are simply “looking” or “recording” visual input. In fact, the human brain’s visual system actively reshapes how it represents the exact same object depending on what you’re trying to do. Even in visual areas that are very close to raw information that enters the eyes, the brain has the flexibility to tune its interpretation and responses based on the current task.
“It gives us a new way to think about flexibility in the brain and opens up ideas for how to potentially build more adaptive AI systems modelled after these neural strategies,” said Nuttida. Most previous work looked at how people learn categories over time, but this study zooms in on the flexibility piece: How does the brain rapidly switch between different ways of organising the same visual information?
The team used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to observe people’s brain activity while they put shapes in different categories. The twist was that the “rules” for categorising the shapes kept changing.
Being omnivorous or vegan makes no difference to
muscle building after weight training
New York, April 21 (IANS) Does the source of protein — plant or animal-based — make any difference to muscle gain? The answer is no, said researchers on Monday, adding that being omnivorous and vegan makes no difference to muscle building after weight training.
Also, the team from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in the US refuted two more claims about if total daily protein intake is evenly distributed throughout the day and does a moderate but sufficient daily protein intake influence any of these variables. Their findings are reported in the journal Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise.
“The longstanding belief or the current dogma was that animal-based protein sources were better, particularly for
the muscle-building response,” said Nicholas Burd, a professor of health and kinesiology at the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign.
Previous studies that took muscle biopsies after a single feeding found that an animal-based meal provided more of a stimulus for muscle protein synthesis than a vegan meal.
“But measurements taken after a single meal might not reflect the effects of consuming a balanced vegan diet over time,” Burd argued.
For the new study, the team recruited 40 healthy, physically active 20-40-year-old adults.
The participants underwent a seven-day “habituation diet” to standardize their nutritional status prior to the clinical trial. Then they were randomly assigned to either a vegan or omnivorous diet.
Roughly 70 per cent of the protein for the omnivorous meals was obtained from animal sources: beef, pork, chicken, dairy,
eggs. The vegan diet balanced the amino acid content of the meals, ensuring that participants consumed complete proteins. All participants engaged in a series of muscle-strengthening activities in the lab every three days.
Burd was initially surprised to see that there were no differences in rates of muscle protein synthesis between those eating vegan or omnivorous diets.
He also was surprised to see that protein distribution across the day had no effect on the rate of muscle building given results from past studies of acute responses to dietary interventions and weight training.
“It was thought that it was better to get a steady-state delivery of nutrients throughout the day,” he said. “I also thought that if you’re getting a lower quality protein — in terms of its digestibility and amino acid content — that perhaps distribution would make a difference. And surprisingly, we showed it doesn’t matter.”
AI algorithm can help identify high-risk heart patients: Study
New York, April 22 (IANS A team of US researchers, studying a type of heart disease known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), on Tuesday said they have calibrated an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm to quickly and more specifically identify patients with the condition and flag them as high risk for greater attention during doctor’s appointments. The algorithm, known as Viz
HCM, had previously been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the detection of HCM on an electrocardiogram (ECG).
The Mount Sinai study, published in the journal NEJM AI, assigns numeric probabilities to the algorithm’s findings.
For example, while the algorithm might previously have said "flagged as suspected HCM" or "high risk of HCM," the Mount Sinai study allows for interpretations such as, "You have about a 60 percent chance of having HCM," said Joshua Lampert, Director of Machine Learning at Mount Sinai Fuster
Heart Hospital. As a result, patients who had not previously been diagnosed with HCM may be able to get a better understanding of their individual disease risk, leading to a faster and more individualized evaluation, along with treatment to potentially prevent complications such as sudden cardiac death, especially in young patients.
“This is an important step forward in translating novel deep-learning algorithms into clinical practice by providing clinicians and patients with more meaningful information.
Covid-19 vaccines have no lasting impact on metabolic health: Study
Sydney, April 28 (IANS) Covid-19 vaccines do not cause significant metabolic changes, easing concerns about potential longterm side effects, according to a study on Monday.
The research led by researchers from Murdoch University in Australia followed 33 participants over 480 days, tracking 167 metabolic markers across 28 time points, Xinhua news agency
reported. The results showed no meaningful impact on key health indicators, including inflammatory markers, cardiovascular risk factors, and molecules involved in energy metabolism. "This real-world study shows that Covid-19 vaccines are safe and don't cause significant metabolic changes," said lead author Ruey Leng Loo, Associate Professor at the varsity. "Our findings help counter misinformation and support confidence in vaccination," Loo said. Published in the Journal of Molecular Medicine, the research compared vaccinated participants with a control group who had never contracted Covid, as well as
Wearable tech may help people manage everyday stress
New York, April 20 (IANS) The virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technology could simulate stressful situations and help people practice stressrelief strategies, a new study has revealed.
Everyday situations can sometimes feel like big stressors, whether it's delivering an important work presentation, attending a party full of strangers or confronting a partner. Talking to a friend or a therapist can help. But so can practice.
A new project from Carnegie Mellon University researchers in the US aimed to make that practice easier by using VR/AR technology.
The research team, led by Anna Fang in the School of Computer Science's Human-Computer Interaction Institute, tested their stress simulation technology on a group of 19 participants, the majority of whom overwhelmingly supported it.
"For the past 10 to 20 years, virtual reality and augmented reality have taken a really big hold on the health and mental health space," said Fang, noting the many meditation apps available for download.
The team built eight prototypes with different design elements for each of the three scenarios, for a total of 24 prototypes. Those prototypes took various forms — virtual reality, mixed or augmented reality, or a textbased environment without visual cues — and offered different degrees of interaction.
Overall, Fang and her team found that people liked using the technology to gain more awareness about themselves. "They wanted technology that would help them learn selfsufficiency skills that they didn't feel they had," she said.
Participants also noted that they preferred being able to decide when the large language model suggested guidance instead of receiving that guidance automatically.
They also wanted to take the headsets to other locations to help them become immersed in and more comfortable with the stressful setting.
In this next version, the team plans to upgrade the avatars to look more realistic and to include more text-to-speech features so the avatars can speak to users more naturally.
Scientists link fatty, sugary diets with impaired brain function
Sydney, April 22 (IANS) In a significant study, researchers have linked fatty and sugary diets to impaired cognitive function.
individuals who had experienced mild infections. The metabolic profiles of vaccinated individuals closely matched those of the control group, further indicating that vaccines do not trigger major biological shifts, the study said. Metabolic markers, including 34 cytokines, 112 lipoproteins, and 21 low-molecular-weight metabolites, remained largely stable post-vaccination. While a slight, temporary increase in the inflammation-related marker Chemokine IP10 was observed after the third dose, levels remained within the normal range and returned to baseline before subsequent vaccinations, Loo said.
The team from University of Sydney looked at the relationship between high-fat, high-sugar (HFHS) diets, particularly those high in refined sugar and saturated fat, and first-person spatial navigation.
Spatial navigation is the ability to learn and remember a path from one location to another, a process that can approximate the health of the brain’s hippocampus, said the study published in the International Journal of Obesity.
Dr Dominic Tran from the Faculty of Science’s School of Psychology led the research, which found HFHS diets have a detrimental effect on some aspects of cognitive function.
It is likely those effects centre on the hippocampus, the brain structure important for
spatial navigation and memory formation, rather than acting across the entire brain.
“The good news is we think this is an easily reversible situation,” Dr Tran said. “Dietary changes can improve the health of the hippocampus, and therefore our ability to navigate our environment, such as when we’re exploring a new city or learning a new route home.”
The research team recruited 55 university students aged between 18 and 38.
Each participant completed questionnaires capturing their intake of sugary and fatty foods. They also had their working memory tested in a number recall exercise, and their body mass index (BMI) recorded.
The experiment itself required participants to navigate a virtual reality maze and locate a treasure chest six times. The maze was surrounded by landmarks that participants could use to remember their route. Their starting point and the location of the treasure chest remained constant in each trial.
If participants found the treasure in less than four minutes, they continued to the next trial.
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.
Director & Head of Marketing and Training Amorepacific India said, "As Laneige's journey evolves, we are thrilled to welcome Sara Tendulkar into our family as the embodiment of timeless grace and modern elegance. Her vibrant spirit and innate charm perfectly resonate with Laneige's commitment to empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty. Together, we embark on a new chapter, celebrating authenticity and the transformative power of skincare."
Social media sensation Sara Tendulkar for Korean Beauty Brand Laniege Summer nail care secrets
Summer is all about fun in the sun, beach outings, and showing off those fabulous nails! With the sunny season upon us, it's essential to step up our nail care game to keep our nails looking 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.
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."
"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.
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
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
Rekha exudes timeless elegance in a handwoven Banarasi Kora silk saree
Fashion designer Manish Malhotra has shared yet another spellbinding moment featuring the evergreen Rekha, who looked ethereal in a handwoven Banarasi silk saree from his label.
Radiating timeless elegance, Rekha stunned in the richly crafted saree adorned with intricate gold and silver zari, beautifully offset by a delicate hint of pink. On Thursday, Malhotra posted a series of pictures featuring Rekha and captioned it, “There is always
a REKHA about our Iconic and Stunning Rekhaji dressed in a handwoven Chartreuse Banarasi Kora silk sari with gold and silver zari accentuated with a delicate hint of pink #mymmsaree @ manishmalhotraworld.”
Known for her deep admiration for Indian weaves, Rekha paid homage to tradition through her style. Notably, Manish Malhotra often shares Rekha’s photos, celebrating her timeless beauty and their shared love for traditional Indian craftsmanship. Last month, the designer had
shared a breathtaking photo of Rekha draped in a classic pure white saree, captioning it, “The Stunning Beauty of Iconic #REKHA … is a vision of Sublime Grace … #mymmsaree #saree #love.”
On March 1, Manish shared stunning pictures of the veteran actress wearing a traditional black and gold Kanjeevaram saree from the house of Manish Malhotra. Sharing the moment on Instagram, the designer hailed her as “The one and only #REKHA” — regal, stunning, and effortlessly stylish.
Interestingly, what made this look extra special was its deep-rooted message of sustainability. The classic saree, worn years ago by Rekha, was beautifully restyled with a Bordeaux vintage velvet blouse inspired by the traditional Sadri, featuring intricate gold zardozi embroidery, all handcrafted at Manish Malhotra’s atelier.
“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 …” wrote Manish in the caption.
Elizabeth Perkins opens up on wardrobe malfunction which got her on fashion disaster list
Elizabeth
Globes, reports ‘People’ magazine.
She said, "I was wearing a dress and it kind of opened and I was wearing a fishnet hose and leopard-print underwear”.
She told ‘People’, "I didn't think
Deepika Singh talks about how her fashion sense has evolved over the years
Well-known
television actress, Deepika Singh talked about how her fashion sense has evolved over the years during an exclusive conversation with IANS. She told IANS that she has always prioritized comfort over anything.
The 'Mangal Lakshmi' actress said, "Right from my childhood to today, I’m the same. Comfort is key for me. Of course, looks matter, but with the right hair and makeup, any outfit can shine. It’s more about how you carry yourself. If you’re not comfortable, it shows."
Deepika revealed that her off-camera style is extremely comfortable.
my dress would open, but I didn't deliberately wear these leopardprint underwear. They were just thin enough to not be (seen) through the dress”.
It wasn't until after the ceremony when the ‘Afterparty’ star realized a photo had been snapped at that exact moment and landed her on a worst dressed list.
She further mentioned, "It was like, 'Oh look, she's wearing leopard-print underpants.' I'm like, 'Why? Why would you print that? They kind of acted like I did it on purpose, but why would I? I did not make that decision”.
As per ‘People’, the actress, who's starring in the new sequel, ‘Another Simple Favor’, also spoke about ‘One Last Thing’ series of events and occurrences.
Talking about the last thing she took from a set, she said, “I always take something. The biggest thing was from The Flintstones; it was a Flintstone version of Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers. It’s still hanging in my house”.
She then spoke about the last time she sang out loud. She said, “My daughter (Hannah Jo Phillips) and I went to the closing night of Taylor Swift’s Eras tour, and we sang our hearts out. We were both hoarse the next morning”.
She also shared when was the last time she was starstruck, as she said, “I was sitting next to Eddie Vedder at the concert. He’s on my Top 10 of people I’ve always wanted to meet. I was too afraid to introduce myself until the end, where I was just like, ‘Hi’”.
"I love wearing salwar kameez, especially since I’m also an Odissi dancer. I can dance anytime in it — it gives me flexibility and comfort," she shared. When asked about any particular outfit or accessory that made her feel like a star on set, Deepika said, "maxi dresses or midi gowns".
Deepika disclosed that she does not follow fashion trends that much, however, she really
admires good actors. She shared, "I watch their performances, their scenes, and I feel inspired by their craft".
Revealing if she has ever worn something completely impractical for a scene, Deepika refused saying that she has mostly played very simple and grounded characters, so she never had to wear something over-the-top or uncomfortable.
Talking about her go-to red carpet outfit, and her favorite designer, the 'Diya Aur Baati Hum' actress stated, "I have amazing stylists — Victor and Sohail. I really like their taste, and I trust them with my looks. Since I have a curvy body, I usually go for gowns or well-fitted dresses."
Deepika also opened up about her most memorable red carpet moment saying that it was the 2011 Star Parivaar Awards. Divulging the details, she added, "I wore a Rajasthani-style lehenga choli. My hair was open. It was my first appearance, and I was incredibly nervous — though I masked it by acting bubbly and smiling a lot!"
Sonam Kapoor looks boardroomready in a monotone outfit & Sakura-toned makeup
Sonam Kapoor's name is synonymous with fashion with the diva making heads turn with every attire she chooses to wear.
Sonam delivered another sleek look in a monotone attire which made her look absolutely boardroom-ready.
Her classy look has been styled by her sister, Rhea Kapoor, along with Abhilasha Devnani.
Sonam looked extremely elegant in a tailored black doublebreasted jacket along with side buttons, and flap pockets on either side. The diva added a belt over the blazer, to enhance the appeal.
She paired the blazer with a white shirt with cuffs visible from the blazer’s sleeves. These cuffs were further styled with cufflinks. The three-piece attire was tied up with a sleek, structured midi skirt with a minimal sharp cut.
In contrast to the monochrome outfit, Sonam chose a black and white handbag to go with her outfit. She also posed in black pointed-toe stilettos.
Keeping in tune with the Sakura aesthetics, Sonam's makeup included a sculpted base, along with defined eyebrows, neat eyeliner, pink-toned eyeshadow, pink blush, and lipstick.
Actress
Perkins has spoken up about ending up on a Fashion Disaster List without any fault of her own.
The actress, 64, recalled being on the red carpet at the 2000 Golden
Srinagar: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi reviews counter-terror operations and ceasefire violations in a briefing with the 15 Corps Commander in Srinagar on Friday, April 25, 2025.
on Thursday, April 24, 2025.
Jeddah: Prime Minister Narendra Modi being welcomed by Deputy Governor of Makkah, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Commerce Majid bin Abdullah Al Qasabi, Mayor of Jeddah, Saleh Ali Al-Turki upon his arrival in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on Tuesday , April 22, 2025.
Joint
Chairman Adm. Kim
the
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, National Conference President Farooq Abdullah, and Democratic Progressive Azad Party Chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad during the All-Party Meeting following the Pahalgam terror attack, in
and Gen.
on Thursday, April 24,
Royal Challengers Bengaluru players celebrate their team’s
in the
on
South Korean
Chiefs of Staff (JCS)
Myung-soo (R)
Metin Gurak, chief of Turkey’s General Staff, hold talks at
JCS’ headquarters in Seoul on April 28, 2025, in this photo provided by the JCS.
New Delhi: Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi meets Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli during his visit to Apostolic Nunciature in New Delhi, Friday, April 25, 2025.
Srinagar: A breathtaking view of the old city downtown of Srinagar, captured from the Shankaracharya Temple, with the majestic Zabarwan Range in the backdrop, on Monday, April 28, 2025.
New Delhi: Ambassadors and High Commissioners from various countries exit the Ministry of External Affairs after a briefing on the Pahalgam terror attack, in New Delhi
Srinagar:
Srinagar
Paris: Members of the Indian community stage a protest rally against Pakistan and the Pahalgam terrorist attack in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris on Sunday, April 27, 2025.
New Delhi: Students, staff, and doctors of ABVIMS & Dr. RML Hospital take part in a peaceful candlelight march to mourn the loss of innocent civilians in the Pahalgam terror attack and demand justice for their families at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on Thursday, April 24, 2025.
Visakhapatnam: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu pays tribute to JS Chandramouli Garu and Madhusudhan Garu, victims of the Pahalgam terrorist attack, in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday, April 23, 2025.
Jaipur: Rajasthan Royals’ Vaibhav Suryavanshi celebrates his century during the Indian Premier League (IPL) match between Rajasthan Royals and Gujarat Titans at Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, Monday, April 28, 2025.
(File Picture) Pope Francis passes away at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta, on Monday, April 21, 2025.
Bengaluru:
victory over Rajasthan Royals
Indian Premier League match at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru
Thursday, April 24, 2025.
GURU NANAK JAHAZ
RELEASE DATE: 1 May 2025
LANGUAGE: Punjabi and English (With English Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Manpreet Johal
DIRECTOR: Sharan Art CAST: Tarsem Jassar, Gurpreet Ghuggi, Balwinder Bullet and others
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
RELEASE DATE: 9 May 2025
LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English
Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Dinesh Vijan
DIRECTOR: Karan Sharma
CAST: Rajkummar Rao, Wamiqa Gabbi
ALPHA
RELEASE DATE: 25 December 2025
LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Aditya Chopra
DIRECTOR: Shiv Rawail CAST: Alia Bhatt, Sharvari
Janhvi Kapoor takes Sidharth Malhotra aka Param for a fun ride
Janhvi Kapoor and Sidharth Malhotra have been romantically paired for the first time in the forthcoming entertainer, "Param Sundari". Sundari (Janhvi) took her Param (Sidharth) for a fun scooter ride during the shoot of this muchawaited drama.
In the photos dropped by the stunner on her Instagram, she was seen dressed as Sundari in a red saree, along with a printed blouse, gajra, and sunglasses. Sidharth made for a handsome Param in an orange shirt and grey denim.
Treating the netizens with the BTS fun, Janhvi wrote in the comment section, "Param loves it when I take him for a ride #ParamSundari."
The Tushar Jalota's directorial has been set against the picturesque backwaters of Kerala. Billed as a romantic comedy, "Param Sundari" promises to be a rollercoaster of laughter, chaos, and unexpected twists. It is a cross-cultural love story that centers around a love tale where two contrasting worlds collide, a "North ka munda" meets a "South ki Sundari."
Scheduled to reach the cinema halls on July 25, the sneak peeks from the shoot of the movie have already piqued the interest of movie buffs.
Apart from this, Janhvi's lineup also includes "Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari" in which she will be seen sharing the screen with Varun Dhawan for the first time. Produced by Karan Johar, Hiroo Yash Johar, and Apoorva Mehta, the core cast of the drama includes Sanya Malhotra, Abhinav Sharma, Maniesh Paul, and Manini Chadha.
Over and above this, Janhvi has also been paired opposite Ram Charan in his next "Peddi".
The film will enjoy the screen presence of Shiva Rajkumar, Jagapathi Babu, and Divyendu Sharma.
Written and directed by Buchi Babu Sana, "Peddi" has been presented by Mythri Movie Makers in collaboration with Sukumar Writings. Produced by Venkata Satish Kilaru under the Vriddhi Cinemas banner, the film features music by the legendary AR Rahman and cinematography by R. Rathnavelu.
Actress Gehana Vasisth files complaint against Anurag Kashyap over his controversial remark on Brahmins
Actress Gehna Vasisth has taken legal action against filmmaker Anurag Kashyap following his controversial comments on the Brahmin community.
The actress lodged a formal complaint at the Oshiwara Police Station in Mumbai, demanding that an FIR be registered against Kashyap for his remarks, which have sparked widespread outrage. In her complaint, Vasisth strongly condemned Kashyap’s statements, calling them derogatory and inappropriate.
She questioned his choice of words and criticized the filmmaker for what she described as a disrespectful attitude towards the Brahmin community.
In the complaint, she also suggested that such comments would not have been tolerated if directed at other communities and demanded that Kashyap be
held accountable for his actions.
A complaint has been filed against Anurag at the Anand Vihar police station, as well as at another location.
Anurag Kashyap has found himself embroiled in a fresh controversy following objections from the Brahmin community, who accused his film “Phule” of portraying them in a negative manner. In reaction to the criticism, Anurag shared his views on Instagram Stories, which quickly sparked backlash. When one comment read, "Brahmins are your father," Anurag responded with a controversial remark, stating, "Brahmin pe main m*******a..koi problem (I'll pee on the Brahmins...any problem)?"
An FIR was lodged against Anurag at the Bajaj Nagar police station in Jaipur over his controversial comment about Brahmins. The case was registered after Anil
ED notice to Mahesh Babu in money laundering case linked to realty firms
The Enforcement Directorate has summoned top Tollywood actor Mahesh Babu in a money laundering case linked to realty firms Surana Group and Sai Surya Developers.
The central agency has asked the actor to appear for an inquiry on April 27.
Mahesh Babu is the brand ambassador for the two firms and reportedly received over Rs 11 crore for appearing in their advertisements.
Chaturvedi, a Barkat Nagar resident, filed a complaint on April 19.
The filmmaker later apologized for his comment, explaining that although he stood by his statements, he regretted one particular remark that had been taken out of context. He also shared that his family, particularly the women, had been receiving threats of rape and death due to the controversy and called on the trolls to stop harassing them.
Esha
While Surana Group reportedly paid Rs 5.5 crore to the actor, he received Rs 5.9 crore from Sai Surya Developers for promotional activities.
The ED is likely to investigate the remuneration paid to Mahesh Babu by the two firms.
The ED notice to Mahesh Babu came less than a week after it conducted searches at the premises of the realty firms in Hyderabad.
The agency said that unaccounted cash transactions worth Rs 100 crore were unearthed and Rs 74.5 lakh cash seized during searches
in connection with an ongoing investigation against Sai Surya Developers and others.
The central agency conducted searches at four premises in Hyderabad and Secunderabad on April 17 under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
The ED stated that it initiated investigation based on several FIRs registered by Telengana Police against Narendra Surana, Director of Bhagyanagar Properties Ltd., K. Sathish Chandra Gupta, Proprietor of Sai Surya Developers and others under various sections of IPC for defrauding and cheating gullible investors of their hard earned money in the name of advance for sale of plots involving huge amounts.
The ED investigation revealed that the accused orchestrated fraudulent schemes involving unauthorised land layouts, selling the same plots to different customers, accepting payments without proper agreements, and false assurances of plot registrations.
gives glimpse of an 80s morning with her mother Hema Malini, sister Ahana
Actress
Esha Deol shared a throwback picture from a "beautiful 80s morning," featuring her mother Hema Malini in her younger days and her toddler sister Ahana.
Esha took to Instagram, where she shared two pictures from her childhood days on Thursday morning. The first heartwarming photo radiates sibling love and retro charm. The image shows Esha and Ahana wearing matching blue printed dresses from the 1980s. Esha is cheerfully holding the younger one in her arms. She has a joyful smile on her face and a cassette player in her hand.
The second captures a beautiful mother-daughter moment from the past. The image shows Hema seated behind her two young girls. All three are outdoors,
perhaps on a terrace or patio, with some trees and potted plants in the background. Esha captioned the image: “A
beautiful morning back in the 80’s #throwbackthursday @ dreamgirlhemamalini and Ahana Deol Vohra.”
Ishaan Khatter reveals his experience of shooting in Pahalgam prior to the terror attack
and
Muslims' after the Pahalgam terror attack as he believes this will be the final victory for the terrorists.
Taking to his Instagram stories, the 'Dhadak' actor penned a heartfelt note reflecting on the long and painful history of Kashmir.
"This was a targeted attack on Hindus. Denying that is dishonest.
Ishaan penned.
Ishaan also said that he was in Pahalgam around two months back and during his visit, he met many kind and helpful locals.
Narrating his own experience, the 'Beyond the Clouds' actor said, "On a personal note, I'd like to say I was in Pahalgam barely 2 months ago. I have always felt a deep connection and love for Kashmir and have always found the people to be kind and helpful. I've met some beautiful souls there. My heart aches to imagine the loss that the victims of these awful attacks are facing. Let's not forget Kashmir has long been damaged. A place that is often called heaven on earth is deeply wounded by acts like these and the lives of its people are indelibly affected.
Ishaan was in Kashmir recently to shoot for his song "Pyaar Aata Hai", alongside Tara Sutaria. Ishaan urged all to not be blinded by hatred and work towards justice. He continued, "We stand to be tested not for our politics, not for our religion but for our HUMANITY. Let's never forget and let's direct our collective anger towards accounting for JUSTICE and not blind hatred. Let's be what these pathetic assailants want us to forget we are - Human beings, with sensitivity, reasoning, and thoughtfulness."
Ishaan also penned a note remembering the Kashmiri local, Syed Adil Hussain Shah, who lost his life in the attack attempting to save the lives of these tourists.
Priyanka Chopra to make history with inaugural global vanguard award from Gold House
Global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas is set to be honored with the inaugural Global Vanguard Award at Gold House’s fourth annual Gold Gala, a premier celebration recognizing the 2025 A100 List and First Lights.
Priyanka will receive the inaugural Global Vanguard Honor for her unprecedented
25-year career bridging Asian Pacific and Western cultures through acclaimed work across Hindi cinema and Hollywood, her continual elevation of underrepresented voices, and her unparalleled global platform— recognized by Time 100 and Forbes’ “Most Powerful Women.”
The prestigious event, which shines a spotlight on the most
Malaika Arora’s New York vacay is all about food, fashion & good music
Bollywood stunner Malaika Arora flew to New York for some downtime. Her latest trip to the Big Apple was all about food, fashion, and good music.
Giving her InstaFam a glimpse of her New York diaries, Malaika dropped a sizzling picture of herself in a red gown with a deep neckline.
The 'Chaiyya Chaiyya' actress also shared a sneak peek into the beautiful New York skyline from her window, along with pics of some yummy treats that Malaika enjoyed in NYC.
influential Asian Pacific leaders and changemakers, will mark a historic moment as Chopra becomes the first recipient of the newly established accolade, recognizing her trailblazing global impact across entertainment, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. Gold House is set to host its much-anticipated fourth annual Gold Gala on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the renowned Music Center in the heart of downtown Los Angeles.
Touted as the premier and most-watched celebration of Asian Pacific and multicultural excellence, the Gold Gala will return with over 600 influential attendees to honor the 2025 A100 List — a handpicked lineup of the year’s 100 most impactful Asian Pacific figures in culture, to be unveiled on May 1, 2025.
The star-studded evening will feature special stage presentations for honorees including Priyanka Chopra, Jon M. Chu, Laufey, Min Jin Lee, Prabal Gurung, Pokémon CEO Tsunekazu Ishihara (accompanied by Pikachu), Ang Lee, Anderson .Paak, Megan Thee Stallion, and the cast and creators of Moana
2. Celebrated Olympians and Paralympians — Suni Lee, Chuck Aoki, and Lee Kiefer — will also be recognized.
From where she stayed, to the Broadway shows she witnessed, Malaika's latest IG post says it all.
She further posted a photo of the church she visited while in New
York, along with some images of the streets.
At the end of the post captioned "Nyc", Malaika attached a video of a live musical performance she enjoyed in a restaurant.
Earlier this month, Malaika decided to give an insight into her lovely week gone by.
The photographs shared by her on social media included some of her cozy moments at home, along with her stylish outings and wellness rituals. From a serene walk, a fun catch-up with friends, or a quiet moment with her pet, each photo captured a slice of joy from her everyday life.
Taking to her Instagram account, Malaika posted a series of photos and captioned them, “Been a lovely week.”
Kalki Koechlin: I get bored easily
National-Award winning actress Kalki Koechlin said she gets “bored easily” and emphasised the importance of staying creatively fulfilled by balancing routine work with inspiring activities.
Asked in an industry that often rewards conformity, how has she stayed true to her artistic voice, Kalki told IANS: “I think I get bored easily, so I constantly do things to entertain myself and keep myself satisfied. I've always found it important to balance routine, mind-numbing work
with something that inspires and excites me.”
“It's similar to how kids get bored in school if they're just told to repeat something over and over… In the same way, I think adults also need fuel,” said the actress, who made her Hindi film debut as Chanda in the black comedy-drama Dev.D in 2009.
The actress, who has worked in acclaimed movies such as That Girl in Yellow Boots, Margarita With A Straw, Ribbons, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, believes that refueling through experiences like travel and stimulating content helps her stay true to her artistic voice, especially while navigating both commercial and indie cinema.
“They need things that excite them, like reading, watching stimulating content, and traveling. I think that fills your cup, allowing you to give something new in return,” said Kalki.
Actor Ishaan Khatter has requested 'not to pit Indian Hindus against Indian
There is a long
painful history here: from the forced exodus of Kashmiri Pandits to attacks on Amarnath yatris. But using this pain to pit Indian Hindus against Indian Muslims is unforgivable. That is the terrorists' final victory. And we must not let them win."
