MCNA November 2023

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Death toll in Gaza has mounted to 7,950

Gaza, Oct 29 (IANS) he death toll in Gaza has risen to 7,960, the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah said on Sunday, drawing data from sources in the Hamascontrolled enclave, a media

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report said.

The enclave has been pummelled

by Israeli strikes since October 7, which has also resulted in over 20,000 people getting injured, the ministry said, CNN reported.

Nearly three-quarters -- 73 per cent -- of those killed are from vulnerable populations, including children, women and elderly individuals, according to the ministry report.

The ministry added that the total number of dead includes 116 medical professionals.

Additionally, 24 hospitals, which

together have a capacity of 2,000 beds, have been instructed to evacuate in the northern part of Gaza.

The updated figures came as Israel said the next stage of its war with Hamas has begun after it expanded its ground operations in the enclave.

"The war inside Gaza is going to be long," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had warned on Saturday, CNN reported.

Meanwhile, societal order is continued on pg. 2

Australia, EU free trade deal collapses after negotiations fail

Canberra, Oct 30 (IANS)

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he Australian government's free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU) has collapsed after failing to make progress in negotiations.

Australia Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell on Sunday said following talks on the

sidelines of the Group of Seven (G7) trade minister meeting in Osaka, Japan, no deal has been reached on the FTA, Xinhua news agency reported.

Farrell said in a statement that he traveled to Osaka with the intention of finalising a deal with the EU that would benefit Australian businesses,

producers, workers and consumers.

"Unfortunately, we have not been able to make progress.

Negotiations will continue, and I am hopeful that one day we will sign a deal that will benefit Australians and our European friends," local media quoted him as saying.

Prior to departing for Japan, Farrell described the negotiations as the "end game" for the FTA ahead of EU elections in 2024, which he said could put talks on hold for several years.

Australia's decision to walk away from negotiations, which began continued on pg. 2

Death toll in Kazakhstan’s mine accident rises to 36 Astana, Oct 29 (IANS) The death toll in the mine accident in Kazakhstan's Karaganda region has risen to 36, the country's Ministry of Emergency Situations said on Sunday.

"At present, 36 bodies have been recovered and the search for

10 miners is continuing," the ministry said on its website, Xinhua news agency reported.

A methane explosion had struck the mine shaft. A total of 208 miners have been evacuated after the accident, local media reported.

There is no victory without bringing all the hostages and missing home: Hostage families to Israeli President

Tel Aviv, Oct 30 (IANS)

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he hostage and missing families' forum called upon the President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, that there was no victory without bringing all the hostages and missing people home.

The missing persons and hostages forum conveyed this to the Israeli President during a meeting with him at his residence in Jerusalem on Sunday.

The Israel government-appointed envoy on hostages and missing persons, Gal Hirsch, was also present in the meeting.

The families of the hostages and missing clarified to Herzog and Hirsch that victory in the war would only be achieved after their loved ones returned from

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Gaza.

Both Herzog and Hirsch heard the families' representatives express concern about the condition of their loved ones held hostage in Gaza and the uncertainty they are suffering.

The Israeli President said at the start of the meeting, "I want to thank you for the strength and resilience, and for coming to speak and share, we can't even imagine your worries and anxieties. It's important for you to know -- returning the hostages is our top priority, ours and the whole world's. We need to rely on the IDF to bring everyone home safely. Hamas is a cynical body that doesn't care if Gaza residents starve. The humanitarian crisis aligns all countries on our side."

Hirsch added, "There is no lock in negotiations that we don't try to break in order to get to the hostages and receive information. There was a tremendous effort with the first two hostages released and the two hostages released through Egypt. We

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Nov 2023 - Vol 1, Issue 12

are doing everything to reach everyone -- this goal is always at the forefront."

He also told the families, "There is tremendous intelligence and operational effort that history has not seen before, all to obtain any possible information. We really want to succeed in this and bring all the families back home, healthy and whole."

Jackie Levy, uncle of the Calderon family (three of them are hostages in Gaza), said, "Two members of our family were murdered in the terrible massacre and three more were kidnapped to Gaza. We have difficulty in our hearts to divide between grief and worry. We do not feel the issue is a top priority for the state. It took a long time for the state to get involved, and even then many things were done poorly."

He adds, "For three weeks, our family has been living in the situation room, without sleep and without any real help from continued on pg. 2

Hurricane Otis in Mexico: Death toll rises to 43, 36 missing Mexico City, Oct 30 (IANS)

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he death toll from Hurricane Otis in the Mexican state of Guerrero increased to 43 while 36 are still missing.

"It is still a preliminary figure," state governor Evelyn Salgado told President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador over the phone on Sunday.

Otis, a category 5 storm, hit the Pacific coast of Guerrero on Wednesday, causing severe damage, especially in the seaside resort of Acapulco, one of Mexico's main tourist destinations, Xinhua news agency reported.

President Obrador said that the

state-owned Federal Electricity Commission had put 3,211 electric poles back up, out of the 10,000 that were knocked down in the port of Acapulco alone.

He estimated that the electricity supply in Acapulco will be completely restored by Monday night to guarantee the supply of fuels such as gasoline, diesel and domestic gas.

From Sunak to Biden, race to become global AI leader enters crucial lap

London/Washington, Oct 29 (IANS)

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ver 100 world leaders, tech honchos, academics and researchers will gather next week in the UK to deliberate upon the risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI) and how to tackle those under the leadership of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

In the US, President Joe Biden is reportedly going to deploy numerous federal agencies to monitor the risks of AI next

week and develop new uses for the technology via an executive order.

The two-day 'AI Safety Summit in the UK is likely to see US Vice President Kamala Harris; European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen; United Nations' Secretary General Antonio Guterres and many other leaders.

According to the BBC, their purpose is to take part in discussions about "how best to maximise the benefits of this powerful technology while minimising the risks."

In a recent report, the UK government listed some worrisome potential threats of AI, including bio-terrorism, cyber attacks and deepfake images of child sexual continued on pg. 2

IGAD co-facilitates Sudan humanitarian ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia

Addis Ababa, Oct 28 (IANS)

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xecutive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), is in Saudi Arabia to co-facilitate talks aimed at achieving a durable humanitarian ceasefire in Sudan, the East African bloc said.

IGAD said on Friday in a press statement that Gebeyehu "is currently in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to co-facilitate Sudan talks together with the African Union (AU), the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the US, which aim at achieving a durable humanitarian ceasefire".

"IGAD, together with the AU, will continue their ongoing engagements and consultations with the Sudanese stakeholders to convene a Sudanese-ledand-owned comprehensive and all-inclusive political dialogue that shall take place in the IGAD region," the statement said.

It added that IGAD remains committed to supporting the Sudanese people in their quest for a lasting peace and political settlement, Xinhua news agency reported.

Deadly clashes have been going on between the Sudanese Armed Force and the paramilitary Rapid Support Force in Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, and other areas since April 15, killing up to 9,000 people, forcing more than 5.6 million out of their homes and leaving 25 million in continued on pg. 2

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MULTICULTURAL NEWS AUSTRALIA

July 2022 - Vol 1, Issue 1

Publisher Dr. Ram Mohan Editor Dr. Ram Mohan Associate Editor Amrita Deshpande Contributors Rabindra Mukherjee Deepika Banerjee Website Design & Updates Cosmos Media (www.cosmosmedia.info) Designing Cosmos Media (www.cosmosmedia.info) Editorial editorial@mccq.org.au Advertising adverts@mccq.org.au Multicultural Community Connect Queensland Unit 49, 391, WICKHAM TERRACE, Ground Floor, Spring Hill, Brisbane, QLD – 4000

Death toll in Gaza has mounted to 7,950 ... continued from page 1 beginning to collapse in the besieged Gaza Strip after thousands of desperate people raided UN warehouses in search of food, amid continuing bombardment

by Israeli airstrikes and a widening ground offensive as the war enters its fourth week, The Guardian reported.

Thomas White, the head of the UN’s agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), said on

Sunday that wheat, flour and hygiene supplies had been taken overnight from several UN-run centres across the blockaded 41 km by 12 km strip, which is home to more than 2 million trapped people.

There is no victory without bringing all the hostages and missing home: Hostage families to Israeli President ... continued from page 1 the state. The state's leaders are engaged in petty politics, and we expect you, Mr. President, to be the responsible adult."

Niva Vankert, mother of Omer

in 2018, comes after Farrell in July rejected the EU's proposed deal due to a disagreement over the liberalisation of agricultural trade and EU import quotas for Australian beef, sheep meat, dairy products and sugar.

Earlier in October, the peak

is doing all it can. But what will really win the war is a victory of

by the IDF, there are 239 people taken as hostages in the custody of Hamas.

body representing Australia's agriculture industry, the National Farmers' Federation, urged the government not to sign a deal with the EU unless major improvements were negotiated for farmers, saying the EU proposal would put them at a disadvantage for "the next half-century."

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the EU is Australia's third-largest two-way trading partner and second-largest source of foreign investment.European Union (EU) after failing to make progress in negotiations.

Israeli-German woman Shani Louk murdered by Hamas: IDF Tel Aviv, Oct 31 (IANS)

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he Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Tuesday confirmed that the Israeli-German woman Shani Louk, who was abducted from Nova festival celebrations and taken to Gaza by Palestinian militant group Hamas, has been murdered.

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... continued from page 1 need of aid, said United Nations Undersecretary-General for

Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths in a statement on October 15.

From Sunak to Biden, race Vankert, made clear, "I came here the spirit, which will only happen to become global AI leader today to bring my son home. All when all the hostages and the hostages are a microcosm of missing return home." enters crucial lap Israeli society. I'm sure the IDF As per the latest figures shared

Australia, EU free trade deal collapses after negotiations fail ... continued from page 1

IGAD co-facilitates Sudan humanitarian ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia

On October 7, a shocking video of Louk emerged from Gaza in which she can be seen paraded naked by Hamas.

The video showed passers-by thrashing her and a young boy spitted at her.

... continued from page 1 abuse. Apparently, Sunak has a plan, and it's an ambitious one to tackle AI risks.

"He wants to position the UK as the global leader for AI safety," the rpeort mentioned.

Meanwhile, Biden via an executive order is expected to "pave the way for the use of more AI in nearly every facet of life touched by the federal government, from health care to education, trade to housing, and more", reports Politico.

"Biden's order specifically directs the Federal Trade Commission, for instance, to focus on anti-competitive behaviour and consumer harms in the AI industry - a mission that Chair Lina Khan has already publicly embraced," the report mentioned.

The US Congress has "scrambled

to put legislation together to tackle the risks and potential of AI". However, the US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer cautioned last week that "no broad AI bill was likely to be introduced until next year".

The Indian government is also likely to organise the first-ever 'Global India AI Summit' on December 10 that will invite global and domestic leaders in AI to deliberate about deploying AI in the same context of digital technologies to transform the lives of its citizens.

The conference is poised to cover topics like next-generation learning and foundational AI models, AI's applications in healthcare, governance, and next-gen electric vehicles, future AI research trends, AI computing systems, investment opportunities, and nurturing AI talent.

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MULTICULTURAL NEWS AUSTRALIA

Nov 2023 - Vol 1, Issue 12

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MULTICULTURAL COMMUNITY CONNECT QUEENSLAND INC.

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drnoel@noelnetwork.com

Breast Cancer Risk Factors that can be changed Being overweight or obese Excessive consumption of alcohol and smoking Not being physically active and lack of exercise Low level of Vitamin D Taking hormones during menopause

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They will further refer you to cancer specialists to carry out screening tests. They also provide all the necessary assistance with treatment decisions and works in a team with other specialists for your on-going treatment support.

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MULTICULTURAL NEWS AUSTRALIA

Nov 2023 - Vol 1, Issue 12

COMMUNITY NEWS

Country working closely with Australia to boost bilateral ties, says Fijian PM Brisbane, October 20 (MCCQ Newsdesk) rime Minister of Fiji Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka has assured Fijians living in Brisbane that his coalition government will work closely with the Australian government under the Fiji-Australia Vuvale Partnership to address key issues affecting them. Prime Minister Rabuka was in Brisbane recently. Rabuka met with members of the Fijian community recently during his

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Australia visit and informed them that the revised and elevated partnership is expected to further enhance Fiji's relationship with Australia. Australia India News and members of Multicultural Community Connect Queensland also attended the event and listened to Prime Minister Rabuka’s address to the members of the Fijian community.

A traditional ceremony of welcome was accorded to the

Fijian Prime Minister and his delegation, followed by a talanoa session with the Fijian community. The Talanoa, which was earlier known as the facilitative dialogue, seeks to avoid the power struggle generally found in negotiations. Also present at the event was a group of seasonal workers who are presently in Australia under the Fiji-Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme. The workers voiced their concerns directly to the

Fijian Prime Minister, claiming employment breach, to which he assured that Fiji is working closely with Australia to further boost bilateral cooperation in the area of labour mobility.

Specifically, a few issues such as climate change, visa and migration, Girmit day, history, sugarcane farming, and renewable energy were discussed in his address. A Q and A session followed in which concerns of the Fijian diaspora were heard.

Fiji, through the High Commission in Canberra, has appointed liaison officers who will be assisting seasonal workers throughout Australia.

Prime Minister Rabuka also updated those present at the event about his government's national development plans and progress. He acknowledged their contributions back home and also to the government of Australia.

Books donated to teachers of Schield Centre Nairobi, October 17 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The wife of the Australian High Commissioner to Kenya, Helen Williams, handed over donated

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books to Trina Mboyo and Felistar Wangechi, the Principal and a teacher respectively of Schield Centre in Kenya Kajiado County.

The children’s books were collected and donated by Forrest Primary School in Canberra.

Also joining the ceremony were one of the school’s children and Second Secretary Timothy Willis and his wife Peta.

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Palestinian death toll from Israeli strikes on Gaza rises to 7,326: Ministry Gaza, Oct 28 (IANS)

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he death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,326, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said.

So far, 18,967 Palestinians have been injured since the fighting broke out, the Ministry said on Friday in a statement as quoted

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or a second straight night, Israeli troops conducted "targeted raids" inside the Gaza Strip before withdrawing from the Hamas-controlled enclave, the military said in a statement on Friday.

A video published by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) showed tanks and armoured vehicles moving on a road near

agricultural land as well as strikes on buildings and open areas, reports CNN. The raid, which included aircraft and artillery strikes in the Shaja'iyah neighborhood, targeted Hamas infrastructure including "anti-tank missile launch sites, military command and control centers, as well as Hamas terrorists", the IDF said.

“The troops exited the area

Family members of Al Jazeera journalist killed in Gaza

by Xinhua news agency report.

Israel has launched massive airstrikes and limited ground operations against Gaza in retaliation for a surprise attack

by Gaza-ruling Hamas militants on Israeli military targets and towns on October 7, which has killed at least 1,400 people in Israel.

Israeli military again conducts ‘targeted raids’ inside Gaza Strip

Jerusalem Oct 27 (IANS)

MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA

at the end of the activity,” the statement said.

On Thursday, the IDF had said that it carried out a "targeted raid" in the northern Gaza Strip as "part of preparations for the next stages of combat", in which the Jewish nation is planning a ground offensive in Gaza, reports Xinhua news agency.

During the raid, soldiers located and struck "numerous" militants, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts and "operated to prepare the battlefield", it added.

Israel has vowed to wipe out Hamas, the militant group that controls Gaza, in response to its October 7 deadly terror attacks and kidnap rampage in which 1,400 people, mostly civilians, were killed and more than 220 taken hostage.

In a televised address on Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that Israeli is "preparing for a ground incursion," into Gaza following nearly three weeks of airstrikes on the coastal strip.

Gaza, Oct 26 (IANS)

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hree family members of Wael Al-Dahdouh, Al Jazeera Arabic's bureau chief in Gaza, were killed amid the raging conflict in the Hamas-controlled enclave, Palestinian security and medical sources said.

On Wednesday, an Israeli raid on two houses in the Nuseirat refugee camp killed several people, including the wife, son, and daughter of Al-Dahdouh, the medical sources claimed.

"Despite being forced to relocate to the southern part of the Gaza Strip in search of safety, the Al-Dahdouh family was targeted," Xinhua news agency quoted a statement released by the Hamas-run Ministry of Interior in Gaza as saying.

The relocation followed Israel's evacuation call ordering some 1 million people to move to the southern part of the besieged enclave on October 13.

Footage on Al Jazeera English news channel shows Al-Dahdouh entering a hospital to see his slain family members.

In a statement released on social platform X, Al Jazeera confirmed the death of Al-Dahdouh's family members and extended

condolence.

"The Al Jazeera Media Network extends its sincere condolences and sympathy to our colleague Weal Al-Dahdouh on the loss of his family in an Israeli airstrike," the statement said.

"Al Jazeera is deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of our colleagues in Gaza and hold the Israeli authorities responsible for their security," it added.

According to the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate, 24 journalists have been killed, some with their families, and dozens more have been wounded since the beginning of the Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip.

Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, firing thousands of rockets and infiltrating Israeli territory, to which Israel responded with massive airstrikes and punitive measures, including a siege on the enclave with supplies of water, electricity, fuel, and other necessities being cut off.

The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has so far killed more than 6,500 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and more than 1,400 people in Israel.

UNSC fails again to act on Gaza as duelling Russian, US resolutions fail Elite Israeli Naval unit destroys

United Nations, Oct 26 (IANS)

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wo duelling resolutions from Russia and the US on the Gaza situation have failed miring the UN Security Council in inaction on the spiralling humanitarian crisis that also threatens to engulf the region in wider conflicts.

On Wednesday, the resolution proposed by the US was vetoed

by Russia and China, while Russia’s resolution failed to get the required nine votes to pass and did not turn the negative votes of the US and the UK into vetoes.

Four resolutions on Gaza have failed at the Council in the last ten days, with Russia and the US vetoing one each, illustrating the inefficacy of the UN’s highest decision-making body when national interests of the permanent members collide.

Russia and the US will have to appear before the General Assembly to explain their vetoes under a resolution adopted by it last year.

The General Assembly had already scheduled an emergency session on Palestine on Thursday with 104 nations and Palestine and the European Union signed up by Wednesday evening to speak. (India was not on the list of speakers.)

It is likely to pass a resolution calling for a ceasefire, which would only be symbolic as it does not have the enforcement powers that the Council has.

US Permanent Representative Linda Thomas-Greenfield accused Moscow of acting “in bad faith” and cynically proposing the resolution with “a number of problematic sections” at the last moment without consultations.

Russia’s Permanent Representative Vassily Nebenzia countered: “National and narrow self-centred ideological and political interests prevailed over the aim of stopping a humanitarian disaster.”

The votes on the rival resolutions came after France tried unsuccessfully to delay bringing the resolutions to the floor in order to seek consensus, according to diplomatic sources.

(Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @ arulouis)

Hamas naval commando unit

Tel Aviv, Oct 27( IANS) The elite naval unit of Israel, Shayetet 13, has carried out a targeted attack from the sea destroying a Hamas naval commando unit, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement on Friday.

The IDF said that additional troops were involved in the attack by Sheyetet 13.

Shayetet 13 is a specialised unit

of the Israel Navy primarily involved in missions to counter acts of terrorism. It’s also invoked in gathering maritime intelligence and rescuing hostages at sea.

The IDF also informed that its infantry, engineering and armoured forces entered the central Gaza strip on Thursday night and struck several Hamas targets, including anti tank missile launchers.

Hostages’ families urge Netanayahu for exchange of ‘everyone for everyone

Tel Aviv , Oct 28( IANS)

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he Hostages and Missing Families Forum has urged

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Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that an immediate exchange of 'everyone for everyone' is a deal the families would consider.

It may be noted that the Hamas terrorists have been demanding the release of all the Palestinian prisoners in Israeli detention centres for exchanging the people they took as hostages on October 7.

The families told the Prime Minister that this deal has broad support from all of Israel, as they demanded "Bring Everyone Home Now”.

At a press conference held on Saturday evening, Meirav Leshem Gonen, the mother of Romi Gonen, said on behalf of the hostages' families: "We spoke bluntly and made it clear to the Prime Minister in no uncertain terms that a comprehensive

deal based on the everyone for everyone principle is a deal the families would consider, and it has the support of all of Israel."

She said, "We came with an unequivocal demand that military action takes into account the fate of the hostages and missing, and that any move considered will take into account the well-being of our loved ones." Meirav added: "This is very hard for us. It's been three weeks since we've known

what's become of our loved ones.

We all heard about the tanks going in and we're all worried.

We came into the meeting with the Prime Minister tonight with these feelings. We're here to make sure what we're demanding happens."Igal Sarusi, the father of Almog Sarusi, said: "We have a cruel enemy in front of us.

The everyone for everyone deal is acceptable and we hope it materialises soon."

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COMMUNITY NEWS

National Multicultural Mental Health Month launched Canberra, October 16 (MCCQ Newsdesk) he Mental Health Foundation Australia’s National Multicultural Mental Health Month was launched officially, on 16th October at the Mural Room of Parliament House, in

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Canberra. Among the attendees were Emma McBride MP, Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention; Peter Dutton MP, Leader of the Opposition; Andrew Giles MP, Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, and Multicultural

Affairs; Bill Shorten MP, Minister for NDIS and Minister for Government Services. All the dignitaries who attended the event were united in supporting the cause, demonstrating a commitment towards raising awareness and advocating for

better mental health in multicultural communities. Dr Ram Mohan, the Publisher of Australia India News and Director of Star Promotions, also attended the event as a multicultural Attaché.

The Mental Health Foundation Australia (MHFA) is the oldest

community-based non-government mental health organization in Australia, which has been instrumental in serving the community since 1930. MHFA has played a significant role in establishing a network of services and support for mental health of consumers.

Two young women experience the world of diplomacy Canberra, October 25 (MCCQ Newsdesk) n October 25, the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt hosted two young women from the Girls Run the World (GRTW) Network. Mia Brischetto and Mia Zhou. Both studied at the Australian National University

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with interests in international relations and foreign affairs.

They spent the day shadowing First Secretary Rania Makarious and gaining insights into the world of diplomacy.

Girls Run the World is a notfor-profit organisation, which provides opportunities for

young women to spend a day in diplomatic missions in Canberra.

Mia and Mia were able to tour the embassy, engage with Ambassador Mahmoud Zayed, and chat with other embassy staff. Discussions included the role of diplomatic missions, the history of Egypt’s involvement in

the Pacific region and information coverage and reporting. The day provided an opportunity for the young women to learn more about careers in diplomacy.

About her experience Mia B said, “It has been fascinating to see the inner workings and day-to-day operations of a foreign embassy

in Canberra.”

“I’d like to sincerely thank both GRTW and the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt for this opportunity! It has been a great day to see the things that go on inside an embassy.” said Mia Z, about her experience.

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MCCQ hosts Pink Ribbon Day breakfast to create breast cancer awareness Brisbane, MCCQ Newsdesk t’s Breast Cancer Awareness month and on the occasion, the Multicultural Community Connect Queensland Inc. (MCCQ) hosted a Pink Ribbon Day breakfast recently. The MCCQ-hosted breakfast was attended by many guests, including Irene Tavutavu, Hinal Vyas, Pinky Singh, Prakruti Mysoor, Allen Cheng, Jane Wang, Loraine, Dr Jane Brassington.

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Kirrily Dutton, wife of leader of Opposition Peter Dutton, was one of the speakers at the event. She shared her views and experiences in maintaining mental health, which becomes extremely important to fight the battle with cancer.

One of the survivors, Rita Budi Utami, narrated her story of survival. Her story encourages every woman to get her checkup done as soon as one hits 50

years of age. The story also had an underlying message that sometimes the mammograms cannot detect the lumps in the breast, hence regular checkups are necessary.

The MCCQ team members, Dr Ram Mohan, Noel Kannaraj, Vera Pottgr, Adhis Cole, were instrumental in supporting the event and helped in organising the event.

According to www.

canceraustralia.gov.au statistics, breast cancer was the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia in 2018. The number of new cases of breast cancer diagnosed increased from 5,379 (61 males and 5,318 females) in 1982 to 18,742 in 2018.

The www.canceraustralia.gov. au statistics further showed that the age-standardised incidence rate increased from 44 cases per 100,000 persons (1.2 for males

and 81 for females) in 1982 to 67 cases per 100,000 in 2018. The number of deaths from breast cancer increased from 2,004 (17 males and 1,987 females) in 1982 to 3,144 in 2020. Over the same period, the age-standardised mortality rate decreased from 17 deaths per 100,000 persons (0.4 for males and 30 for females) in 1982 to 10 deaths per 100,000 in 2020.

Dress-to-Express Day hosted to show solidarity with DV survivors Brisbane, August 26 (MCCQ Newsdesk) n a bid to raise more awareness about domestic violence (DV) and coercive control, Beyond DV, a Brisbane-based charity, partnered with this year's Brisbane Fashion Festival to host the inaugural Dress-to-Express Day, which concluded the

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five-day festival on August 25.

The Dress-to-Express Day was hosted to show solidarity with DV survivors, who were rediscovering their sense of identity and style. The event saw DV survivors and survivor advocates dressed in their favourite and most self-expressive outfits march through Queens Street Mall.

Lady Mayoress Nina Schrinner and Channel 9 Melissa Downes joined the event as ambassadors.

The panelists survivor advocate Lucy, Sally Steele, Sharon Orapeleng- Mental Health Advocate and consultant at Psyched Solutions discussed coercive control as a pattern of abusive and controlling

behaviour.

Beyond DV is a Brisbane based charity that was established in 2017 by teacher Carolyn Robinson after her daughter, an International Fashion Model and Business Graduate, was impacted by domestic violence.

According to DV statistics as cited in the beyonddv.org.au,

an estimated 2.2 million adult women or 1 in 4 women, who comprise 23 per cent of the adult female population, and 1.4 million adult men or 1 in 6 men (16 per cent), have experienced emotional abuse, also known as coercive control, by a partner at some point since the age of 15.

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MHFA Gala Dinner organized FAO/WHO Codex Brisbane, September 10 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Mental Health Foundation Australia Queensland (MHFAQLD) Gala Dinner 2023 was organized recently. It was an occasion for people from diverse

communities to get together.

At the Gala Dinner, multicultural attachés and ambassadors organised an evening of fun, entertainment, and delicious food, along with fundraising auctions and raffles. Sponsors,

volunteers, speakers, and performers got together to make the event a success. Auction and raffle winners for the fundraiser also added towards making the event purposely and exciting.

Alimentarius event organized

Canberra, October 17 (MCCQ Newsdesk) razil’s MRE (Ministry of Foreign Relations) and FUNAG (Alexandre de Gusmão Foundation) organized a commemorative event in reference to the 60th anniversary of the FAO/WHO Codex Alimentarius,

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on October 17. The event was held in the auditorium of the Rio Branco Institute, in Brazil, which was also broadcast live, in Portuguese and in English, through the Alexandre de Gusmão Foundation (FUNAG) channel on Youtube

Strong Cities Network Coastal West Africa Workshop organized

Accra, October 23 (MCCQ Newsdesk) igh Commissioner of Australia to Ghana Berenice Owen-Jones was pleased to open and attend the Strong Cities Network Coastal West Africa Workshop held recently in Accra.

The workshop which, was funded by the Australian

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Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, brought together representatives from local government, international organisations, civil society, the diplomatic community and think tanks to strengthen the role that cities can play in countering hate, extremism and polarisation.

Youth Pledge Day organized Jakarta, October 28 (MCCQ Newsdesk) ndonesia commemorated the 95th Youth Pledge Day recently. It is a testament that instead of being trapped by the divide created by the colonial tactic, youths from various ethnic groups, races and religions took

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the initiative to pledge unity at the Youth Congress on October 28, 1928 in Batavia.

Since 16 December 1959 based on Presidential Decree No.316 of 1959, the date 28 October is declared as the Youth Pledge Day. .

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Botswana Defence Ministry team visits Australia Canberra, October 13 (MCCQ Newsdesk) he Ministry of Defence and Security delegation,

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government of Botswana, visited Australia on a benchmarking exercise on defence and security matters. Botswana’s Ambassador

to Australia Dorcas Makgato welcomed the team to Botswana High Commission ahead of their official engagements with the

Australian authorities.

On 13th October 2023, the team had a meeting with the experts from the Justice and Community

Safety Directorate led by the Australian Capital Territory Minister for Corrections, Mick Gentleman, and discussed defence and security matters.

Third West Africa Mining Security Conference organized Accra, September 22 (MCCQ Newsdesk) he Australian High Commission, in partnership

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with the Australia-Africa Minerals and Energy Group (AAMEG) and MS Risk Limited, hosted the third West Africa

Mining Security Conference (WAMS) in Accra recently.

WAMS brought together members of the West African mining

industry, security practitioners, and subject matter experts to discuss regional security and political developments and

trends as well as associated operational challenges.

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Football match for health, friendship & unity organized Canberra, October 30 (MCCQ Newsdesk) n the evening of October 26, 2023, the Embassy of Cambodia

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in Australia joined with the Khmer football team in Canberra city to organize a football match for health, friendship and

unity, accompanied by a meal together with fellow citizens, Khmer students at Downer Field, Canberra.

On 29 November 2023, the Royal Embassy of Cambodia and the Cambodian Soccer Team in Canberra jointly organized a football (soccer) match for

health, friendship, and unity followed by a solidarity dinner with Cambodian residents and students at Downer Field, Canberra.

ASEAN Family Day organized Canberra, October 15 (MCCQ Newsdesk) n 15 October 2023, the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Canberra joined the celebration of the ASEAN Family Day organized by the ASEAN Committee

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in Canberra (ACC) under the Chairmanship of the Lao DPR Ambassador to Australia.

The event was designed to promote solidarity among the ACC family and raise ASEAN’s visibility in Australia.

All ASEAN diplomatic missions in Canberra took part in the event with free foods and popular games from Southeast Asia for the public.

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‘Window to the World’ showcases Cambodian culture Canberra, October 15 (MCCQ Newsdesk) n 15 October 2023, the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in

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Canberra joined the launch of “Windows to the World” at the Floriade festival, along with seven other diplomatic missions,

to showcase Cambodia’s culture and traditions at Commonwealth Park, Canberra.

In addition to the display of

traditional clothing and arts, and tourism and investment leaflets, Chai Yum Drum Show and Madison Dance were performed

by members of diplomatic staff at the Royal Embassy and Cambodian students in Canberra.

Indonesian Embassy opens gate to public Canberra, October 24 (MCCQ Newsdesk) n the occasion of Windows to the World, the Indonesian Embassy opened its gate to the public on 21 October 2023. The event was organized annually by the Government of Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

More than 600 visitors from all over Canberra and several other

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states visited the Embassy and had a chance to experience a glimpse of Indonesia, including Angklung, Gamelan Jawa, and Gamelan Bali workshop, getting to know traditional shadow puppet as well as tasting several Indonesian traditional snacks.

Special guest for this year was the Southeast Sulawesi cultural performance.

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Australian High Commissioner visits Burundi Nairobi, October 27 (MCCQ Newsdesk) he Australian High Commissioner to Kenya visited Burundi recently.

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The High Commissioner met Ambassador Albert Shingiro, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation at the Ministère des Affaires Étrangères

de la République du Burundi.

He enjoyed a football match courtesy of Master Peace Burundi, an organisation that fosters peace through sports,

supported by the Australian Government's Direct Aid Program.

He also donated some Australian books to a local school,

BIMS- Bujumbura International Montessori School.

Vanuatu gets mobile consular & assistance Canberra, October 26 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Philippine Embassy in Canberra deployed a mobile consular and assistance to nationals (ATN) mapping mission to the Republic of Vanuatu on 19 to 22 October 2023.

The mission led by Consul General Aian Caringal is the first ever mobile consular mission in

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Vanuatu. There are an estimated 354 Filipinos in the country. The mission extended services on passport renewal, dual citizenship, visa issuance, civil registry and overseas voting registration.

Other members of the team included ATN officer Remedios Alcazar and Consular Assistant Rodrigo Gavino.

The Philippine Migrant Workers

Office (MWO) in Canberra, represented in the mission by Officer-in-charge Oscar Anthony David provided services, including verification of employment contracts, issuance of overseas employment certificates and offered consultations with the Filipino workers.

The Embassy also conducted an engagement with the Filipino

community to update them of the services of the Embassy, the establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers which is represented by the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) at Post, and the strengthened bilateral relations with Vanuatu.

Consul General Caringal commended the community led

by Honorary Consul General

Florentino ‘Bong’ Serrano and wife, Marylin Serrano, for their excellent representation in the country that gained positive feedback from government officials.

Over 200 Filipinos attended the community engagement.

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Philippines contributes US$ 50,000 to cyclone-hit Vanuatu

Canberra, October 26 (MCCQ Newsdesk) he Government of the Republic of the Philippines and Vanuatu held a turn-over ceremony in Port Vila, Vanuatu in the morning of 19 October 2023 for the US$ 50,000 contribution of the Philippines to Vanuatu’s national response and recovery

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efforts in the aftermath of two tropical cyclones, Judy (category 4) and Kevin (category 5) which devastated Vanuatu within a 48-hour period in March 2023.

First Secretary and Consul General Aian Caringal of the Philippine Embassy in Canberra, representing the Philippines during the ceremony, highlighted the long standing relations between the two countries since 1986 and their strong affinity to each other, both being archipelagic and disaster-vulnerable countries located in the Pacific and strong climate advocates.

The Philippines and Vanuatu established diplomatic relations in October 1986.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and External Trade Matai Seremaiah expressed appreciation to the Philippines on behalf of his government. Consul General in Port Vila Florentino Serrano, Philippine’s Migrant Workers Office-Canberra OIC Oscar David and Attache Remedios Alcazar were also present during the ceremonial turn-over.

Earlier in the morning, the Philippine delegation led by Consul General Caringal had a courtesy call on Prime Minister Charlot Salwai Tabimasmas and congratulated him on his very recent election as Prime Minister

once again.

During their stay in Vanuatu, the Philippine delegation was also able to meet Vanuatu President Nikenike Vurobaravu.

In March 2023, the Vanuatu Government declared a National State of Emergency for a 6 month period in response to this major national disaster and sought financial assistance from friends and development partners on behalf of the government and people of Vanuatu in response to this major national disaster which caused damage to infrastructures, homes and businesses as well as major productive sectors,including subsistence farming.

In March 2015, the Philippines also provided US$50,000 in financial assistance to Vanuatu in the aftermath of cyclone Pam. The Philippines is the top 3 export partner of Vanuatu in 2021, with tuna and copra among the main exports.

Vanuatu is a member of the Pacific Island Forum (PIF) where the Philippines is also a Dialogue Partner. The Philippines supports the PIF as an indispensable mechanism for addressing the shared opportunities and challenges faced by Pacific Island nations, including climate change.

Australia assists healthcare providers in PNG Port Moresby, October 30 (MCCQ Newsdesk) In Western Province of Papua New Guinea (PNG), Australia is partnering with local leaders to support a strong healthcare workforce and to

deliver essential services to the communities.

Australian High Commissioner to PNG Jon Philp joined Governor of Western Province the Taboi Awi Yoto, National Department of Health Deputy Secretary

AUD$7.5 million to support deployment of climate finance experts

Port Moresby, October 27 (MCCQ Newsdesk) apua New Guinea (PNG) being highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change,it is also at the forefront of climate and disaster action and response.

Improved access to climate finance is critical to ensuring PNG can undertake important work to address climate change.

Through the Climate Finance Access Network (CFAN), Australia is pleased to provide AUD$7.5 million to support the deployment of climate finance experts in eight Pacific Island countries,

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including Papua New Guinea.

Each embedded CFAN advisor will provide localised support and capacity building to help PNG agencies plan and prepare for climate investment opportunities and develop a pipeline of high-impact projects that meet local needs.

In PNG, this work includes helping to identify and prioritise actions from PNG’s national adaptation plan and develop them into robust adaptation project proposals.

Ken Wai, and partners to break ground for the first stage of redevelopment of the accommodation precinct for Daru General Hospital that will provide better health outcomes for around 300,000 people across the

province.

The new facilities will help the Western Provincial Health Authority attract and retain experienced health professionals to Daru to serve the community.

This high-quality infrastructure investment builds on Australia’s long-standing support to improve the health and wellbeing of people and communities in Western Province.

Australian scientists run field training for testing animal diseases

Port Moresby, October 26 ustralian scientists have been working with Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) National

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Agriculture Quarantine Inspection Authority (NAQIA) to run field training on how to test for animal diseases, including

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), African Swine Fever (ASF) and Avian Influenza.

Two Australian agencies, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) have been supporting NAQIA to diagnose, detect and respond to these animal diseases, to better protect PNG's livestock.

Elaine Kagena from PNG’s National Agriculture Quarantine Inspection Authority (NAQIA) biosecurity team, undertaking training in how to conduct field tests for ASF. CSIRO scientist Dr Annika Suttie training NAQIA staff in conducting field tests for ASF.

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World Indigenous Business Forum organized

Singapore & Australia hold cybersecurity exchanges

Port Moresby, October 26 (MCCQ Newsdesk) ustralia’s Ambassador for First Nations People, Justin Mohamed, met with Indigenous business leaders from around

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the world recently. He also met Deputy Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea (PNG) LAE OPEN Electorate - John Rosso Dps MP to exchange aspirations for First Nations’ businesses and perspectives on how to grow indigenous to indigenous commercial ties and trade between our countries.

Their discussions also brought to light the profound cultural and kinship ties between Australia's First Nations communities in the Torres Strait and PNG.

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Canberra, October 13 (MCCQ Newsdesk)

igh Commissioner of Singapore to Australia Anil Nayar had an introductory meeting with Australia’s National Cyber Security Coordinator, Air Marshal Darren Goldie AM CSC, and Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology, Brendan Dowling, on 11 October 2023. Singapore and Australia cooperate closely on cybersecurity matters, both bilaterally and multilaterally. This cooperation is underpinned by shared

perspectives and interests, and the leaders and officials see value in exchanging their experiences and expertise on how they can meet the challenges and opportunities in this fast evolving area.

Air Marshal Goldie and Ambassador Dowling led the Australian delegation to the Singapore International Cyber Week (SICW) recently.

experience, saying, "My day at the Singapore High Commission was an enriching experience, giving me a snapshot of the dayto-day workings of a diplomatic mission ... I realised how vital the multi-faceted work of the

mission is to advance national interests and the interests of people at home. Working with everyone at the Singapore High Commission has opened my eyes to new possibilities and inspired me to go out and take on the world."

Girls Run the World Programme 2023 organised Canberra, October 26 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Singapore High Commission welcomed Indi and Rita as part of the Girls Run The World - CBR programme organized recently, where they got to experience a

day in the life of a diplomat.

About the experience, Indi said,"The High Commission provided a very immersive and engaging day that truly captured the duties of a diplomat. I loved participating in the workshop

activities as well as meeting and collaborating with the friendly and accommodating members of the High Commission. It is truly an unforgettable experience!"

Rita also talked about her

Australia supporting infrastructure program in Solomon Islands Honiara, October 30 (MCCQ Newsdesk) hrough Australian support to infrastructure, including through the Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program and APTC partnership, Australia is supporting over 100

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infrastructure developments across the country. This includes lifting the capacity of local companies to deliver and maintain high quality infrastructure assets into the future.

Over 100 companies participated in Workforce Skills Series

training this year, which was organised by the Australian funded Solomon Islands Infrastructure Program. The training covered contract administration, tendering, local content plans, gender, disability and social inclusion, and safety

and environmental laws.

As a result more women have been trained and employed in construction, people with disabilities have been hired, and local and international companies have formed partnerships to bring more local

jobs to Australian-supported infrastructure developments in Solomon Islands.

This is significant for local jobs, the local industry, and for delivering higher quality infrastructure and maintenance.

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6 Aussie delegates attend Korea-Australia Tax Symposium

Second Secretary attends Tanzania Mining Forum

Seoul, October 27 (MCCQ Newsdesk)

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n mid-October, Australia’s Tax and Transfer Policy Institute dispatched a team of six delegates to Seoul for the latest Korea-Australia Tax Symposium, supported by the Australia-Korea Foundation. This enduring partnership with the Korea Institute of Public Finance (KIPF)

has cultivated a robust network of tax researchers and fostered

invaluable research partnerships between Korea and Australia.

Canberra, October 26 (MCCQ Newsdesk) econd Secretary of the Australian High Commission Lewis Hirst attended this year’s Tanzania Mining and Investment Forum.

Hirst met the forum’s host, Anthony Mavunde, Minister of Minerals of the Republic of Tanzania Wizara ya Madini as well as representatives from Australia’s international mining and engineering sector.

Australia looks forward to continuing this important Australia and Tanzania partnership.

Ceremony to commemorate King Chulalongkorn Memorial Day Canberra, October 20 (MCCQ Newsdesk) n 20 October 2023, Arjaree Sriratanaban, Ambassador

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of Thailand to Australia presided over a ceremony to commemorate the passing of King

Chulalongkorn, or King Rama V. The Ambassador was joined by heads and officials of Team

Thailand agencies represented in Canberra, and their spouses at Sala Thai Function Hall, Royal

Thai Embassy hosts EEC team Canberra, October 10 (MCCQ Newsdesk) n 10 October 2023, the Royal Thai Embassy welcomed the delegation from the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) Office of Thailand led by Dr. Chula Sukmanop, Secretary-General of the EEC, during their visit to Canberra at the invitation of the

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Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) of Australia under the Mekong-Australia Partnership Program.

On this occasion, Ambassador of Thailand Arjaree Sriratanaban hosted dinner in the honour of the delegation. Both sides exchanged views on the progress of developments in the EEC

as well as opportunities for Australian investment in its targeted industries.

The Secretary-General and his delegation had meetings with various Australian agencies in Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne, including Cyber and Infrastructure Security Centre, Department of Planning and

Thai Embassy, Canberra in the wreath laying ceremony.

Thailand-Australia relations discussed

Environment of NSW, Sydney Water, Department of Energy Environment and Climate Action of Victoria and Melbourne Water.

They were also hosted for lunch

by Jan Adams, Secretary of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), and met with Mr. Tim Yeend, Associate Secretary of DFAT.

Canberra, October 18 (MCCQ Newsdesk) n 18 October, Arjaree Sriratanaban, Ambassador of Thailand, met with Luke Gosling, MP and Chair of the Australian Parliamentary Friends of Thailand Group at Parliament House. Both sides discussed developments in Thailand-Australia relations and ways to advance cooperation, particularly in trade, investment and business engagement.

They shared the view on the importance of encouraging exchanges of high-level visits including between Thai and Australian parliamentarians.

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Australian tax system not fit for New Zealand’s household cost of living up 7.4% aging population: Experts

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Canberra, Oct 27system (IANS) is ustralia's tax inadequate to properly fund government responsibilities, experts warned on Friday.

In a speech to Canberra-based think tank the Australia Institute's Revenue Summit at Parliament House on Friday, former Department of Finance head Michael Keating called for a full-scale public review of the funding needed for the adequate provision of government

services, reports Xinhua news agency.

Keating, who served as secretary of the department between 1986 and 1991, told the summit that by his estimation Australia's structural budget deficit, which occurs when public spending exceeds government revenues, would surpass 3 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) within a decade.

He said spending cuts are unlikely to remedy the problem, instead advocating for new taxes that "improve efficiency" including congestion charges and a tax on greenhouse gas emissions.

The summit coincided with the release of a report from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) calling for Australia's federal government to raise and

broaden its consumption tax -- the general sales tax (GST).

According to the economic survey report, 26.5 per cent of Australia's total taxation revenue comes from GST compared to an average of 32 per cent among OECD member nations.

It said that the government relying on personal income tax was risky considering Australia's aging population and recommended eliminating GST exemptions for education, healthcare, food and water.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers has previously ruled out making any change to GST, which has remained at 10 per cent for most goods and services since it was introduced in 2000, but told the Australian Associated Press that the government's economic plan "aligns" with the OECD's agenda.

Sikhs in Fiji Police force now allowed to wear turban with official crown

Suva, Oct 23 (IANS)

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avjeath Singh Sohata has become the first Sikh cop to don a turban with the official Fiji Police crown after the island nation's police force approved changes to the uniform in a bid to promote diversity.

Recognising that the respect for diversity and inclusivity are

integral to the success of policing efforts, Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew approved the wearing of a turban with the official Fiji Police crown.

Police Constable Sohata, 20, is a member of Batch 66 undergoing the Basic Recruits Course Training in Nasova, after being selected from the open market recruitment drive.

A devout Sikh, Sohata had marched into the academy knowing the training requirements would require personal sacrifices on his part.

"However, the Acting Commissioner of Police, in respecting Sohata’s rights, approved the wearing of the turban with the official Fiji Police crown," the Fiji Police said in a statement.

Commissioner Chew said the move was a testament of the organisation's commitment in upholding the fundamental principles of equality and diversity.

According to a book by Stanley

Brown, 'The History of the Fiji Police Force', the first Sikh constables were recruited in force the early 1910s.

Sharing his experience as a recruit, Sohata, who hails from Dreketi village in Northern Division of Fiji, said it was difficult at first being away from his family.

"I have a number of people in my life who I look up to as inspiration and role models, and it is my goal to make them proud and be just as good as them when it comes to my professional life," Sohata said.

According to records kept by the Lautoka Gurudwara, Sikhs arrived in Fiji towards the end of the indentured labour system and mostly established themselves as farmers, policemen and teachers.

The first school built by Sikhs in Fiji was the Khalsa High School in Ba district and the Suva gurdwara, built in 1922, is the oldest of all.

Don Farrell, the Minister for Trade and Tourism, will later in October travel to the G7 trade ministers' meeting where he will meet with his EU counterpart, Valdis Dombrovskis, in a bid to conclude negotiations on the landmark trade deal after five years of talks.

NFF president Fiona Simson on Monday said that the current deal on the table offers no benefits for Australian farmers, urging Farrell to walk away if the deal does not offer better conditions.

"Everything we've seen so far would actually send parts of our sector backwards. We've never seen a proposed trade deal like it," she said in Monday's statement.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), the EU is Australia's third-largest two-way trading partner and second-largest

source of foreign investment.

DFAT has said an FTA with the EU would give Australian exporters sending their goods and services to the EU a competitive edge.

However, Simson said there has been no indication that the EU is willing to offer a commercially meaningful deal for Australia's agriculture sector.

"The current proposal would lock Aussie farmers in at a disadvantage for the next half century," she said.

Wellington, Oct 26 (IANS)

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he cost of living for the average New Zealand household increased 7.4 per cent in the 12 months to the September 2023 quarter, which followed a 7.2 per cent increase in the 12 months to the June 2023 quarter, statistics department Stats NZ said on Thursday.

The cost-of-living increase for the average household as measured by the household living-costs price indexes was larger in the 12 months to the September quarter than the 12 months to the June quarter, Stats NZ consumer prices manager James Mitchell said.

In contrast, consumers price index (CPI) inflation eased over the same period, as the cost-of-living measure includes additional ongoing costs that are not included in the CPI, such as interest rates that have increased 27 per cent for the average household over the past 12 months, Xinhua news agency quoted Mitchell as saying.

Each quarter, the household living-costs price indexes (HLPIs) measure how inflation affects 13 different household groups, plus the average household. In contrast, the CPI measures how inflation affects New Zealand as a whole.

The two measures of inflation are typically used for different purposes.

A key use of the CPI is monetary policy, while the HLPIs provide insight into the cost of living for different household groups, he said.

"Food and housing continued to be the key drivers of inflation for all household groups," Mitchell said.

Higher prices for interest payments and grocery food were the biggest contributors to the 7.4 per cent increase in the average household cost of living in the 12 months to the September quarter, he said, adding grocery food includes items such as non-perishable food, dairy products, and eggs.

Sikhs in Fiji Police force now allowed to wear turban with official crown

Farmers warn Australian govt against signing EU FTA

Canberra, Oct 23 (IANS)

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he peak body representing Australian farmers on Monday called for the federal government to walk away from a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU).

In a statement issued from its Canberra headquarters, the National Farmers' Federation (NFF) said that farmers feared being sold out by a bad deal with the EU, reports Xinhua news agency.

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Suva, Oct 16 (IANS) he Fijian government is now focusing on improving the work of the immigration department by easing the work permit process, as well as assisting the private sector, to bring back more workers for needy areas.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Biman Prasad said this while participating in the 2023 Human Capital Ministerial Conclave's plenary session during the margins of the 2023 Annual meeting for the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) held in Marrakesh, Morocco, the Fiji Broadcasting Corporation reported on Monday.

Prasad said that migration is a significant issue for Fiji.

In the last 18 months, around 10 per cent of Fiji's formal

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workforce has left for greener pastures in neighbouring developed countries, reports Xinhua news agency.

Prasad said there is significant value in technical, vocational, and enterprise education and training (TVET) programs in schools and tertiary institutions in Fiji.

He said TVET programs are the modern-day solution toward transforming the Fijian economy to greater heights through the expansion of its human capital by creating an opportunity for skilled workers.

Prasad said the government was rebuilding the technical education system as well as addressing the skills gap and working together with existing service providers, including the newly-established Pacific Polytech.

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Thai Embassy welcomes Ivanhoe Primary School students Canberra, October 11(MCCQ Newsdesk) On 11 October, the Royal Thai Embassy in Canberra welcomed a group of Year 6 students, teachers and parents from Ivanhoe Primary School in

Melbourne, Victoria, at the Sala Thai Pavilion, Royal Thai Embassy, Canberra. The group was led by Mark Kent, Principal of the school. The visit to the Embassy was part of the school’s study visit to Canberra.

On this occasion, Ambassador of Thailand Arjaree Sriratanaban delivered her welcome remarks and talked to the students about Thailand, which is a culturally rich and modern country and has strong bilateral relations

with Australia, underpinned by close connection of their peoples. Embassy officials also ran fun-filled activities aimed at providing basic knowledge about Thailand, Thai language and Thai culture.

The group also had the opportunity to taste Thai snacks, and learned about the Loy Kratong Festival, a tradition which Thai people celebrate in the 12th lunar month, and which, for this year, falls on 27 November.

Shop #2, 493, Ipswich Road, Annerley QLD 4103

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HEALTH

shows Covid virus migrates Benefits of early detection of breast Study within neurons, infects brain cancer through mammography

New Delhi, Oct 23 (IANSlife)

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reast cancer is a formidable adversary, affecting millions of women worldwide and causing substantial suffering and loss of life. However, there is a beacon of hope in the fight against this disease -- early detection through mammography. In this article, we will explore the invaluable advantages of mammography in identifying breast cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages.

The importance of early detection Breast cancer, like many other forms of cancer, is most effectively treated when detected at an early stage. Mammography, a specialised X-ray of the breast, plays a crucial role in this process by identifying abnormalities that may not be noticeable through physical examination alone. Here are some of the compelling reasons why early detection through mammography is so important: Improved survival rates: When breast cancer is detected at an early, localised stage, the fiveyear survival rate is significantly higher than when it is diagnosed at a more advanced stage. Early detection provides women with a greater chance of successful treatment and long-term survival.

Less aggressive treatment: Early-stage breast cancer often requires less aggressive treatments such as surgery and radiation therapy, minimising the physical and emotional toll on patients. In contrast, advanced-stage breast cancer may necessitate more extensive treatments, which can be more taxing and have a higher risk of complications.

Better quality of life: Early detection can lead to smaller tumor sizes, making breast-conserving surgery (such as lumpectomy) a viable option for many women.

This results in better cosmetic outcomes and improved quality of life, as it preserves the natural appearance of the breast.

Lower healthcare costs: The cost of treating advanced-stage breast cancer is substantially higher than treating early-stage disease. Early detection through

mammography can reduce healthcare expenditures by preventing the need for more expensive and prolonged treatments.

Increased treatment options: Detecting breast cancer at an early stage provides patients with a wider range of treatment options, including the possibility of participating in clinical trials for innovative therapies.

Emotional well-being: The anxiety and emotional distress associated with a breast cancer diagnosis are often alleviated when the disease is caught early.

Women who undergo routine mammography screenings tend to experience less fear and uncertainty compared to those diagnosed at a later stage.

The role of mammography Mammography is the gold standard for breast cancer screening.

It is a safe and effective imaging technique that can detect breast cancer in its earliest stages, often before symptoms develop.

Here's how mammography works: X-ray imaging: During a mammogram, the breast is compressed between two plates, and X-rays are used to create detailed images of the breast tissue. These images, called mammograms, can reveal small abnormalities, including tumors that are too small to be felt during a physical examination.

Early detection: Mammography can detect breast cancer at an early stage when it is confined to the breast and has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs. This early detection is crucial for effective treatment and improved outcomes.

Regular screening: The recommended age to start regular mammography screening varies by country and medical guidelines, but it generally begins between the age of 40 and 50.

The frequency of screening may also vary, but annual mammograms are common.

Treatment options: When breast cancer is diagnosed, treatment options vary depending on factors such as the stage of the disease, the type of breast cancer, and the patient's overall health. Common treatment modalities include: Surgery: Surgical options range from breast-conserving surgery, such as lumpectomy or partial mastectomy, to mastectomy, which involves removing the

entire breast. Lymph node removal may also be necessary to determine if cancer has spread.

Radiation therapy: This treatment uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. It is often used after breast-conserving surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It can be administered orally or intravenously and is typically recommended for advanced-stage breast cancer or as adjuvant therapy after surgery.

Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy is effective for hormone receptor-positive breast cancers.

It involves medications that block hormones like estrogen or progesterone, which can fuel the growth of certain breast cancers.

Targetted therapy: Targeted therapies are drugs that specifically target proteins or genes involved in cancer growth. They are used in cases of HER2positive breast cancer, which over expresses the HER2 protein.

Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy works by stimulating the body's immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells. While still being researched for breast cancer, it shows promise in certain cases.

Clinical trials: Participation in clinical trials can provide access to innovative treatments and therapies that are still in the experimental phase, potentially offering new hope for patients.

The choice of treatment depends on individualised care plans developed by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals.

It's essential for patients to have open and informed discussions with their healthcare providers to make the best treatment decisions tailored to their unique circumstances. The benefits of early detection of breast cancer through mammography cannot be overstated. It offers women the opportunity for less aggressive treatment, better outcomes, and improved quality of life. As a physician, I strongly encourage all eligible women to prioritise regular mammography screenings as part of their healthcare routine. Early detection saves lives, and it is our most potent weapon in the battle against breast cancer.

(Chandrashekhar Prasad Singh, consultant -- Medical oncologist, HCG Cancer Centre, Ranchi)

8,000 steps daily may help cut your risk of premature death

London, Oct 27 (IANS)

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ant to reduce your risk of dying early? Taking 8,000 steps, equivalent to walking approximately 6.4 km a day, can help, according to the study that provides the first scientific proof for optimal number of steps to be taken daily.

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The new study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, identifies for the first time the optimal number of steps at which most people obtain the greatest benefits, and also shows that the pace at which you walk provides additional benefits.

"Traditionally, many people thought that you had to reach about 10,000 steps a day to obtain health benefits – an idea that came out of Japan in the 1960s but had no basis in science," said lead author Francisco B. Ortega, Professor at the University of Granada’s (UGR) Department of Physical Education and Sports in

Spain.

"We’ve shown for the first time that the more steps you take, the better, and that there is no excessive number of steps that has been proven to be harmful to health," said Ortega, who also points out that reaching 7,0009,000 steps a day is a sensible health goal for most people.

The researchers conducted a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of data from twelve international studies involving more than 110,000 participants.

London, Oct 28 (IANS) n a first, researchers have demonstrated that different variants of SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind Covid-19, have the ability to infect the central nervous system.

The study, conducted in an animal model and published in the journal Nature Communications, confirms that SARS-CoV-2 is capable of infecting human neurons in vitro and migrating into axons -- the nerve cell projections that carry information.

In the study, researchers from the Institut Pasteur and Universite Paris Cite in France demonstrated that the original strain of the virus first detected in Wuhan and the Gamma, Delta and Omicron/BA.1 variants can enter the central nervous system and remain there during the acute phase of the infection.

The researchers observed that all these variants spread to the central nervous system and infect the olfactory bulb, a structure located in the cranial cavity that processes olfactory information before transmitting it to the cortex.

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"In this study, we demonstrated that infection of the olfactory bulb is common to all variants and not linked to any particular one, nor to any particular clinical manifestation such as anosmia (loss of smell)," explained first author Guilherme Dias de Melo, researcher in the Institut Pasteur's Lyssavirus, Epidemiology and Neuropathology Unit.

Moreover, the researchers identified a genetic sequence linked to anosmia in the ancestral (Wuhan) virus.

When this genetic sequence, which encodes the ORF7ab protein, is deleted or truncated -- which is the case in certain variants less likely to produce anosmia -- the incidence of olfactory loss in infected animals is lower even though the degree of neuronal infection via the olfactory bulbs remains unchanged.

"This suggests that anosmia and neuronal infection are two unrelated phenomena," Dias de Melo said.

"If we follow this line of reasoning, it is quite possible that even an asymptomatic -- and therefore clinically benign -- infection is characterised by the spread of the virus in the nervous system."

The researchers then looked at how SARS-CoV-2 reached the olfactory bulb and observed that neurons appeared to be the ideal route.

Eisai-Biogen’s new injectable Alzheimer’s drug shows promise

Washington, Oct 27 (IANS)

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isai and Biogen’s new injectable form of Alzheimer's drug lecanemab, known by the brand name Leqembi, has shown promise in clinical trials to slow down disease progression in adult patients with Alzheimer’s disease.

Leqembi is the first and only treatment approved in Japan and the US shown to reduce the rate of disease progression and to slow cognitive and functional decline.

Leqembi has also been named as one of The Best Inventions of 2023 in the Medical Care category in TIME’s annual list featuring “200 extraordinary innovations changing lives.”

In July, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a version of Leqembi that is administered twice monthly through the veins, which is a method known as intravenous infusion. But the new study shows promise for a subcutaneous version of the drug, which would be an injection under the skin. This method can help patients or caregivers to administer the Leqembi at home, freeing them from the need to travel to a hospital every two weeks.Japan’s Eisai and its US-based partner Biogen in a statement said they plan to apply

for US approval of subcutaneous Leqembi by the end of March.

Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and eventually, the ability to carry out simple tasks. While the specific causes of Alzheimer’s are not fully known, it is characterised by changes in the brain -- including the formation of amyloid beta plaques and neurofibrillary, or tau, tangles -- that result in loss of neurons and their connections.

Presenting the study, at the 16th annual Clinical Trials on Alzheimer’s Disease (CTAD) conference held in Boston, the companies said the new study tested subcutaneous doses of Leqembi amyloid – also known as plaque – that builds up in the brain. The findings revealed that a set of two injections administered once weekly produced similar results after six months to twice-monthly intravenous infusions in terms of safety, the concentration of the drug in the blood and its ability to clear plaques in the brain, Eisai said.

The injectable form of Leqembi removed 14 per cent more plaque than the approved intravenous formulation. Blood concentration levels of the drug were 11 per cent higher with subcutaneous Leqembi than the other version.

However, the newer form still showed side effects known as amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA). The removal of plaques from the brain can be associated with brain swelling and bleeding – also known as ARIA-E and ARIA-H – which can be severe or even deadly in rare cases.

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AFRICA

Nigeria’s supreme court upholds presi- Sudan’s warring rivals resume peace talks in Saudi Arabia dent’s victory at polls

Abuja, Oct 27 (IANS)

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fter several months of legal wrangling, Nigeria's supreme court has upheld the ruling of an election tribunal that earlier affirmed the victory of President Bola Tinubu in the polls held in February.

The apex court's verdict, which was delivered in a unanimous decision by a seven-member panel of justices, came on Thursday, reports Xinhua news agency.

The case was brought before the highest court in Nigeria by the main opposition People's

Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labor Party (LP), which had alleged irregularities in the election process.

The supreme court effectively dismissed petitions by the opposition parties and ruled that Tinubu was legitimately elected president of Nigeria, having met the constitutional requirements as laid out by law.

Abubakar Atiku of the PDP and Peter Obi of LP, who respectively came second and third in the presidential election won by Tinubu, had approached the court to dismiss the election results announced by the country's election body.

Tinubu was declared the winner of the presidential election with over 8.7 million votes while Atiku and Obi polled over 6.9 million and 6.1 million votes, respectively.

On September 6, a panel of

five judges from the country's election tribunal unanimously ruled that the petitions "lacked merit" and dismissed them, saying the PDP and LP, which filed the petitions, had failed to prove their allegations beyond reasonable doubt.

Both Atiku and Obi disagreed with the judgment of the election tribunal, saying they would further seek redress in court.

In his reaction to the verdict on Thursday, Tinubu said he accepted the court's ruling "with an intense sense of responsibility and a burning desire to meet the great challenges" that Nigerians were confronted with.

"The victory (of today) has further energized and strengthened my commitment to continue to serve all Nigerians of all political persuasions, tribes, and faiths, with honor and total respect for the diverse opinions and uniting values of our citizens," he added.

2023 Global Pluralism Award winners announced

New Delhi, Oct 27 (IANS)

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he Global Centre for Pluralism, an independent and charitable organisation, has announced the three winners of the 2023 Global Pluralism Award.

The Award recognises pluralism in action and is presented every other year to individuals, organisations, governments and businesses from around the world that are helping to build more inclusive societies where diversity is valued and protected.

The 2023 Award winners are Cameroon's Esther Omam, a peacebuilder, mediator and human rights defender mobilising women and young people from across Cameroon to advocate for an end to conflict; Red de Interpretes y Promotores Interculturales Asociacion Civil, an indigenous youth collective in Oaxaca, Mexico, that provides otherwise unavailable indigenous language interpretation to those involved in legal proceedings in Mexico and the US; and REFORM: The Palestinian Association for Empowerment and Local Development, a non-governmental organisation building solidarity between groups in Palestine by empowering them to get involved in social life and influence decision-making.

The award recipients will

each receive $50,000 (CAD) to further their work in support of pluralism.

Esther Omam said that the award is a reaffirmation of the value of the concept of 'Leave no one behind'. Adding, humanity, more than ever before, should always come first, he stressed, "Our diversity is our bond and that, with pluralism, everyone can have a voice. This award symbolises all that I fight for as a woman, a peacebuilder, and a leader in Cameroon, a country where the acceptance of our diversity and plurality can be a solution to our plight."

Eduardo Martinez, Director-General and Legal Representative of Red de Interpretes y Promotores Interculturales Asociacion Civil, opined the award offers an opportunity to highlight the struggles of youth in the South, racialised youth who resist the linguistic and cultural oppression of the State and its justice system.

"We reinvent ourselves, and we fight, together, from our territories," he adds.

The General Director of REFORM said, "Since its inception, REFORM has been dedicated to promoting diversity and embracing differences as a valuable resource for social and cultural diversity, which in turn fosters solidarity among the various components of Palestinian society. We actively combat stereotyping and stigmatisation on all fronts.

This award is a testament to our commitment on the right path, and we look forward to it being

an international achievement for Palestine. It incentivises us to continue our courageous efforts against exclusion, power asymmetry and marginalisation.

It will help in amplifying our voices to demand the restoration of democracy in Palestine."

Award Jury Chair and VicePresident for Studies at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, Marwan Muasher, said, "The Award winners' work has enormous value in the world today. Pluralism is not embedded in every society or every country in the world.

Those who work for pluralism, those who truly believe that diversity is a source of strength and not weakness, need to be acknowledged and celebrated."

An independent, international jury of experts selected this year's three winners and seven honourable mention recipients from among 200 submissions across 60 countries following a rigorous review process.

Honourable mentions include 'India Love Project', by journalists Niloufer Venkatraman, Samar Halarnkar and Priya Ramani, which uses the power of social media to promote acceptance and dialogue.

The other six are 'Build Up' (Kenya/United States/Global), 'Deeyah Khan' (Norway/United States), 'The Global Interfaith Network for People of All Sexes, Sexual Orientations, Gender Identities and Expressions' - GIN-SSOGIE (South Africa/ Global), 'Lea Baroudi' (Lebanon), 'Politize! Civic Education Institute' (Brazil), and 'Touche' (Belgium).

IGAD co-facilitates Sudan humanitarian ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia Addis Ababa, Oct 28 (IANS) Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), is in Saudi Arabia to co-facilitate talks aimed at achieving a durable humanitarian ceasefire in Sudan, the East African bloc said.

IGAD said on Friday in a press statement that Gebeyehu "is

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currently in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to co-facilitate Sudan talks together with the African Union (AU), the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and the US, which aim at achieving a durable humanitarian ceasefire".

"IGAD, together with the AU, will continue their ongoing engagements and consultations with the Sudanese stakeholders to convene a Sudanese-led-and-owned

comprehensive and all-inclusive political dialogue that shall take place in the IGAD region," the statement said.

It added that IGAD remains committed to supporting the Sudanese people in their quest for a lasting peace and political settlement, Xinhua news agency reported.

Khartoum, Oct 26 (IANS) mid continued violence in Sudan, warring rivals -- the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) -- announced that their delegations had arrived in Saudi Arabia's port city of Jeddah to resume a fresh round of peace talks.

Since April 15, the SAF and the RSF have engaged in deadly clashes in capital Khartoum and other areas, resulting in at least 3,000 deaths and more than 6,000 injuries, Xinhua news agency.

The Jeddah peace talks were suspended in July over fundamental differences between the warring parties.

But a statement on Wednesday, the Armed Forces said: "Based on the SAF's belief that negotiation is one of the means that may end the war, we accepted the invitation to go to Jeddah to complete what was previously agreed upon, which is the full implementation of the Jeddah Declaration, to facilitate the humanitarian work and the return of our citizens and normal life to the cities where the rebels wreaked havoc looting, burning, random bombing and raping."

It stressed that the resumption of talks does not mean the

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cessation of armed confrontations against the RSF. On its part, the paramilitary force said in a statement on Wednesday that "in response to the invitation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the US to resume negotiations, our negotiating delegation arrived in Jeddah today".

"We hope that the other party will show credibility, realism, and the will to reach a solution that will stop the war and end the suffering of our people," the statement said.

The RSF further expressed willingness to reach a peaceful settlement for the conflict and achieve the aspirations of the people in building the Sudanese state on new foundations and rebuilding one professional national army.

Since May 6, Saudi Arabia and the US have brokered negotiations between the Sudanese warring parties in Jeddah.

Several truces have been reached and breached since then, with the two sides accusing each other of violating them.

According to the UN International Organization for Migration, nearly 5.8 million people have been displaced inside and outside Sudan due to the prolonged conflict.

Niger’s ousted President tried to escape, says military junta reported.

"The ousted president Mohamed Bazoum and his family, his two cooks and two security elements, tried to escape from his place of detention," he said, adding that the bid failed and "the main actors and some of the accomplices" were arrested.

Niamey, Oct 20 (IANS)

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iger's military junta, which seized power following a coup in July, said that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum tried to escape from custody with his family, cooks and security, the media reported on Friday.

In an address on state TV, military spokesman Amadou Abdramane said the attempted escape took place at around 3 a.m. on Thursday, the BBC

According to Abdramane, Bazoum had planned to escape to a hideout on the outskirts of the capital Niamey and later fly out onboard helicopters "belonging to a foreign power" towards Nigeria.

He slammed Bazoum's attempt as "irresponsible attitude",reports the BBC. The ousted President has been under house arrest since members of his presidential guard staged a coup on July 26.

It was not immediately clear where Bazoum currently is following his failed attempt.

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Ex-Chinese premier Li Keqiang passes away

Beijing, Oct 27 (IANS

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hina's former premier Li Keqiang, who was once known as the second most powerful man in the ruling Chinese Communist Party after President Xi Jinping, passed away in Shanghai on Friday. He was 68.

Xinhua news agency reported that Li had been "resting" in

Shanghai when he suddenly had a a heart attack on Thursday.

He passed away at 12.10 a.m. on Friday after "all rescue measures failed", it added.

Li was known as one of the smartest political figures of his generation, being accepted into the prestigious Peking University Law School soon after the universities were reopened following the Cultural Revolution, the BBC reported.

He served as the premier for a decade from 2013 to March this year.

During his time in the role, he navigated the Asian giant through a challenging period of rising technology and trade disputes with the US, mounting government debt and unemployment, as well as the Covid-19 pandemic.

In his final year in power, li had

been a strong voice warning of challenges to China’s economy amid widespread Covid-19 lockdowns.

He backed efforts to boost employment and maintain economic stability.

Li's death is being widely mourned on Chinese social media, with many expressing shock.

"This is too sudden, he was so young," said one user on Chinese social media site Weibo.

Another said his death was like losing "a pillar of our home".

When he stepped down, Li was 67 -- one year short of the unofficial retirement age for senior Chinese Communist Party leaders.

He was succeeded as premier by former Shanghai party chief and Xi loyalist Li Qiang.

EAST ASIA

S.Korean President’s approval rating up for 2 consecutive weeks

Seoul, Nov 6 (IANS) outh Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol's approval rating rose for the second consecutive week to 36.8 per cent, a new poll showed on Monday.

The survey, conducted by the polling agency Realmeter, showed the positive assessment of Yoon's performance increased by 1.1 percentage points from the previous week, while 60.2 per cent of respondents disapproved of his performance, down 1.7 percentage points, reports

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Yonhap News Agency.

The President's approval rating had rebounded to 35.7 per cent last week, following a two-week decline.

The pollster did not provide a reason for the rise, but major issues during the survey period include delivering a budget speech at the National Assembly centered largely on economic and domestic issues.

A separate poll, meanwhile, showed the approval rating of the ruling People Power Party went up by 1.9 percentage points from the previous week to 37.7 per cent.

The approval rating of the main opposition Democratic Party, meanwhile, decreased by 3.2 percentage points to 44.8 per cent, the poll showed.

Japan’s ruling LDP loses 1 of 2 crucial by-elections N.Korea claims to build world’s

Tokyo, Oct 23 (IANS) apan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has lost one of the two crucial parliamentary by-elections, dealing a blow to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's Cabinet whose approval ratings have recently plunged to the lowest levels since he assumed power amid price

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hikes and sluggish wage growth.

An independent candidate backed by opposition parties won in the House of Councillors by-election in the Tokushima-Kochi district, while in the Nagasaki No. 4 House of Representatives constituency, the LDP candidate defeated a politician of the leading opposition party, reports Xinhua news agency. The LDP party had the both contested seats before the elections.The outcomes possibly make it difficult for Kishida to dissolve the House of Representatives, the lower house, for a general election by

the end of this year, according to local media reports.

There had been speculation that Kishida would dissolve the lower house and call a general election by the end of this year if the LDP retained both seats.

But the results of Sunday's polls make that more difficult, Kyodo News reported.

The by-elections, both headto-head battles between the ruling and opposition sides, were the first national contests since Kishida reshuffled his cabinet in mid-September in a bid to refresh the image of his government.

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Japan’s controversial religious sect to entrust $67mn for victims’ relief N

Seoul, Nov 6 (IANS)

Tokyo, Nov 6 (IANS)

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apan's controversial religious sect Unification Church is approaching the government for an arrangement to entrust up to 10 billion yen ($67 million) to aid victims affected by the group's practices, local media reported on Monday.

Citing sources within the sect, Japan's national broadcaster NHK said the fund is intended for potential use in compensating individuals who claim to have fallen victim to donation collection tactics or other activities perpetrated by the group or its affiliates, Xinhua news agency reported.

According to NHK, Japanese lawmakers in the Diet are actively deliberating on the most effective means to safeguard the group's assets, ensuring their availability and accountability for compensating victims.

Concerns have been voiced that the group might attempt to transfer its assets overseas or redirect them to other entities before facing a court-issued order that might revoke its status as a religious corporation.

Last month, Japan's Education and Culture Ministry decided to www.mccq.org.au

seek a court order to disband the Unification Church, following a months-long probe into the controversial group over alleged malicious practices including soliciting financially ruinous donations from members.

The Unification Church has long been criticised for encouraging its followers to make exorbitant donations in the form of "spiritual sales" in return for "karmic benefits".

It also witnessed intensified

scrutiny after former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was fatally shot during an election campaign speech last year over his perceived links to the group.

The assailant, Tetsuya Yamagami, allegedly held a grudge against the group for financially ruining his family by soliciting huge amounts of money in donations from his mother and claimed this factored into his motive for assassinating Abe.

orth Korea has successfully built the world's strongest nuclear force under the guidance of its leader Kim Jong-un, as the secretive regime has been bolstering the development of its nuclear and missile programs, Pyongyang's state media said on Monday.

The claim came amid speculation that the North is in the final stage of its preparations to make a third attempt to launch a military spy satellite following two failed attempts in May and August, respectivel .

"With the power of the revolutionary industry of the ruling Workers' Party of Korea, the country's nuclear force has sharply increased and firmly

reached the world's strongest level," Yonhap News agency quoted Tong Thae-gwan, an editorial writer of the Rodong Sinmun -- the North's main newspaper -- as saying in an editorial piece.

In a bid to tout Kim's achievements for this year, he cited the North's major provocations and events, such as the test-firing of Hwasong-type intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and the summit between the North's leader and Russian President Vladimir Putin in September in Russia's Far East.

On Sunday, North Korea had announced that it designated November 18 as a "missile industry day" to celebrate last year's successful launch of the Hwasong-17 ICBM.

N.Korea diversifying cybercrimes amid drop in value of cryptocurrency: Report Seoul, Nov 6 (IANS) North Korea appears to be diversifying its cybercrimes to offset the declining value of cryptocurrencies it steals to fund its nuclear and missile programmes.

According to the report by Kim Bomi, a research fellow at the Institute for National Security Strategy, North Korea stole some $340 million worth of cryptocurrencies in the first three quarters of the year, which amounts to 29.6 per cent of the total damage reported in the world, but is still less than the unprecedented volume it stole last year.

Bomi attributed the decline to the sharp drop in the value of cryptocurrencies amid US interest rate hikes and the bankruptcy of cryptocurrency exchange operator FTX, reports Yonhap News Agency.

Bomi also cited countries' strengthened monitoring and sanctions in the wake of last year's hacking of Axie Infinity, a token-based online video game,

by North Korean state-sponsored hacking group Lazarus, which led to the theft of $620 million worth of cryptocurrencies.

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SOUTH ASIA

Pakistan to hold general elections ‘Ravan’ appears in Gurugram on time in January 2024: Poll body to give road safety lessons

Islamabad, Oct 27 (IANS)

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he Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) said the crucial general elections in the country will be held on time, highlighting that there was no possibility of a delay in the polls scheduled to be held in the last week of January 2024.

"All the preparations have been completed for the elections," the ECP said in a statement LATE

Thursday, adding that after the publication of the delimitation of constituencies, the election schedule will be announced soon, reports Xinhua news agency.

"The first phase of delimitation has been completed and the second phase of filing objections will be completed by tomorrow (Friday)," it said The poll body added that would start hearing objections regarding the preliminary delimitation from October 30 and 31.

In this regard, a final list would be published on November 30, the ECP noted.

The Commission said the general elections schedule will be announced after the final

publication of constituencies, and there is no ambiguity in the decisions of the ECP. In Pakistan, general elections are scheduled to take place in less than 90 days after the dissolution of the National Assembly.

liters per day in Bandarban, Lama, and Rangamati pourashavas (towns) and transmission lines and distribution networks to connect to households, reports Xinhua news agency.

"Most households in the CHT region rely on shared tube wells in remote areas or on untreated surface water, exposing the population to risks of diseases affecting their health and economic opportunities," ADB Urban Development Specialist Elma Morsheda said, adding that the project will deliver a continuous drinking water supply and promote sanitation and solid waste management in the region.

According to the ADB, a community awareness and behavior change campaign on water, sanitation, hygiene, climate resilience, and solid waste

management will be conducted.

The campaign will target 100,000 people, with at least 60 per cent participation from women and the vulnerable population.

Around 300 staff from the Department of Public Health Engineering, hill district councils, and pourashavas will be trained on climate-resilient, inclusive, and sustainable water supply, sanitation, and solid waste management service delivery.

The project will also enhance the readiness for implementing future investments in water supply and sanitation for 31 towns by preparing feasibility studies, detailed designs, and bidding documents following approaches that promote disaster and climate resilience.

On August 10, it was prematurely dissolved by President Arif Alvi on the advice of then Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

This meant that the election must be held no later than November.

But on August 5, results of the 2023 digital census were approved by the Council of Common Interests, thereby delaying the polls until February 2024 at the latest.

ADB approves $90mn loan to sustain water supply delivery, sanitation services in B’desh

Manila, Oct 27 (IANS) he Manila-based Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Friday said it has approved a $90 millio loan to develop infrastructure and systems that will provide clean drinking water and sanitation services in three places in Bangladesh's Chattogram Hill Tracts (CHT) region.

The lender said the project will develop water treatment plants with a total capacity of 44 million

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Nepal to supply relief materials to quake-hit areas

Kathmandu, Nov 5 (IANS)

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he Nepali government decided on Sunday to distribute food and other relief materials to areas hit by a strong earthquake.

A cabinet meeting also decided to provide free treatment to the injured, Xinhua news agency reported.

The distribution of relief materials, including food and tents, will start from Sunday, and the government will bear all the cost of the treatment, said Minister for Health and Population Mohan Bahadur Basnet.

"The government will leave no stone unturned for the support," he told the media.

A 6.4-magnitude earthquake

hit Jajarkot and Rukum West districts in western Nepal on Friday night, leaving 157 dead and 170 others injured so far, according to Nepal Police.

There was a discussion about providing 300,000 Nepali rupees (about $2,250) to each family losing lives in the quake, but no decision was made at the cabinet meeting, Basnet added.

The Minister noted that different friendly nations have offered support to Nepal.

"The government will prepare some criteria as to what kinds of support to accept before accepting them," he said.

Sri Lanka Cricket Board sacked, Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe appoints interim committee: Reports

New Delhi, Nov 6 (IANS) ri Lanka's Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe has sacked the entire staff of the National Cricket Board following a dismal 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup campaign and has appointed an interim committee led by Arjuna Ranatunga.

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The 1996 World Cup-winning captain Ranatunga will be joined by three retired judges in the seven-member interim committee.

This decision to sack the cricket board followed the resignation of the board's secretary, Mohan de Silva, who stepped down on Saturday as fans protested in front of its headquarters.

The sports minister has appointed an interim committee until the upcoming Sri Lanka Cricket election or until further notice, exercising powers granted under Section 33 of the Sports Act No.

25 of 1973, according to Daily Mirror report.

The interim committee is tasked with conducting a formal investigation into the alleged irregularities of the SLC board and submitting a comprehensive report on legal principles, the report said.

Furthermore, the committee is empowered to propose relevant recommendations and develop procedures to prevent the recurrence of corruption, misconduct and irregularities within the Sri Lanka Cricket Board.

Gurugram, oct 23 (IANS) In an innovative awareness drive carried out by the Gurugram Traffic Police and Road Safety Officers (RSO), a cop dressed as Ravan, appeared at MDI Chowk of Gurugram to raise awareness among people about road safety rules.

Virender Vij, DCP (Traffic) said: “We have always tried that people

should not break traffic rules, especially two-wheelers should wear to protect themselves.

Through this campaign, we just wanted to spread the message among people to follow traffic norms.”

During the campaign, Ravan conveyed the message to the drivers, who violate the traffic rules, saying, “Ravan had 10 heads, but you have only one head, therefore wear a helmet to protect it.”

The campaign was conducted by the RSO in collaboration with the Gurugram Police to educate people about road safety and traffic rules.

11 Sri Lankans stranded in Gaza arrive home safely

Colombo, Nov 5 (IANS)

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leven Sri Lankans from two families, who were stranded in Gaza Strip safely arrived in Sri Lanka on Sunday, a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

The group comprising two adults and nine children had been stranded in Gaza Strip has come through Egypt crossing the Rafah border, Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Colombo announced.

The Foreign Ministry had arranged the logistics and air transportation of the returnees with the assistance of the International Organisation for Migration.

Sri Lankan Ambassador to Israel, Nimal Bandara, told media that 17 Sri Lankans were given permission to leave Gaza through Rafah border crossing.

However, four Sri Lankans who are still stuck in a church in the northern part of the Gaza Strip

are unable to reach the border.

Additionally nine more Sri Lankans are staying in the West Bank, which belongs to Palestine.

Since the conflict started between Israel and Palestine, two Sri Lankan citizens were confirmed dead.

Following a DNA test done matching the children on Friday, Sri Lanka Mission in Israel confirmed the death of a 48-year-old man.

The Sri Lankan worker in Israel was earlier reported to have been taken hostage by the Hamas militants but it was later confirmed that he had been killed during the Hamas attack in Israel on October 7.

On October 17, Israel authorities confirmed the death of the first Sri Lankan national, who worked as a housemaid there, and the post-mortem done in Sri Lanka revealed she was killed due to shooting and bullet wounds found in the body.

Death toll from earthquake in Nepal rises to 128 Kathmandu, Nov 4 (IANS) The death toll from a strong 6.4-magnitude earthquake in Nepal has risen to 128 as the rescue operation is going on, government officials said on Saturday.

The shallow quake hit Jajarkot and Rukum West districts at 1147 p.m. on Friday night, which also injured 140 others, Nepal Police spokesman Kuber Kadayat told Xinhua news agency.

It is difficult for the rescue teams to reach some places as bridges were damaged, and roads were blocked by landslides triggered by the quake, he said.

The depth of the earthquake is between 10 to 15 km, and an additional four aftershocks above magnitude 4.0 have been recorded by Saturday morning, according to Lok Bijay Adhikari from Nepal's National Earthquake Monitoring and Research Centre.

"The aftershocks continue," he added.

The Nepali government is focusing on the rescue and treatment of the injured after the earthquake. "The rescue and treatment of the injured is the first priority," Home Ministry spokesman Narayan Prasad Bhattarai told Xinhua.

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EUROPE COMMUNITY NEWS

EU to provide $52mn in addiRobert Fico becomes tional humanitarian aid for Gaza Slovakia’s new PM

Brussels, Oct 27 (IANS)

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he European Union (EU) will provide 50 million euros ($52 million) in additional humanitarian aid for Gaza as the raging Hamas-Israel conflict has led to multiple humanitarian crises in the besieged enclave, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced.

Addressing a news conference here on Thursday after the first day of the EU leaders' summit, von der Leyen said the first 56 metric tonnes of aid from the EU have already been delivered to Gaza via two flights to Egypt, reports CNN. At the summit, the bloc's leaders expressed concern about the deteriorating situation in Gaza and called for aid to reach those in need via "humanitarian corridors

and pauses for humanitarian needs" — stopping short of calling for a ceasefire.

Von der Leyen and EU Council President Charles Michel both emphasised the bloc's commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis.

The EU is in contact "with the leaders in the region in order to encourage solutions on humanitarian front and release of the hostages", CNN quoted Michel as saying.

Asked whether Hamas representatives will be participating in an upcoming conference aimed at resolving the conflict, Michel said he "doesn’t see any role" for the group, citing its designation as a terrorist organisation.

Since Hamas launched its unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, an estimated 1.4 million of the approximately 2 million people living in Gaza have been internally displaced, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

Of these, 629,000 are sheltering in 150 UN Relief Works Agency

(UNRWA)-designated emergency shelters.

The average number of displaced people per shelter has now reached 2.7 times the designated capacity, Xinhua news agency quoted the OCHA as saying.

The UN body also said that only 62 trucks have passed through the Rafah crossing -- the only border crossing between Gaza and Egypt -- into the Hamascontrolled enclave in the last four days when 500 trucks a day was the pre-conflict average.

The OCHA said the latest payloads of water, food and medical supplies ferried by the trucks from Egypt have already been distributed to medical sites and the displaced in besieged Gaza.

"Fuel, which is desperately needed to run backup generators, remains banned by the Israeli authorities," OCHA said.

"As a result, the (UNRWA has almost exhausted its fuel reserves and began to significantly reduce its operations."

Ukraine begins forced evacuation of kids from frontline areas

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krainian authorities have started forced evacuation of some 1,000 children from frontline areas in the southern Kherson and eastern Donetsk regions as Russia has intensified attacks in recent days.

The authorities have asked parents that they must move their families to safety from 31 settlements in these two regions, adding that anoyone below the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, the BBC reported.

Oleksandr Tolokonnikov, spokesman for the Kherson regional administration, said that some families were still reluctant to leave their homes, despite constant shelling and increased danger from enemy attacks.

"There are different cases.

For example, when families barricade themselves inside. Of course the police don't break doors. They talk to people. They show videos to people of what happens if the shell hits, with killed and injured children. It is

Ankara, Oct 27 (IANS)

country grapples with high inflation and a weakening Turkish lira, reports Xinhua news agency. The central bank's monetary policy committee said in a statement that it decided to continue the monetary tightening process in order to establish the disinflation course as soon as possible, and "geopolitical developments have posed risks to the inflation outlook". "This hike is in line with expectations," Senol Babuscu, a finance professor from Ankara's Baskent University, told Xinhua.

He said the inflation outlook

more psychological work," the BBC quoted the spokesman as saying.

In the Donetsk region, a special police unit known as the White Angels is responsible for getting people to safety.

Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk,said the evacuation teams were risking their lives and appealed to parents to be ready: "If you're warned about evacuation, please don't delay, pack the most necessary things, your documents, and leave."

But she also acknowledged that the authorities in Kherson lack sufficient armoured vehicles to transport children to safety.

Meanwhile, authorities in the north-eastern Kharkiv region are also preparing to evacuate 275 children from 10 settlements, reports the BBC. The development comes as Russian troops have launched major assaults on a few areas along the Eastern front in recent days and intensified shelling in the south.

Turkey delivers new rate hike as inflation outlook deteriorates

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urkey's central bank has delivered a fresh interest rate hike of 500 basis points to 35 perc ent, the fifth in a row since June, as analysts expect the country's inflation outlook to deteriorate in the coming period.

Thursday's move came as the

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for the year-end and 2024 has worsened, considering this rate increase a response to tame the persistent inflation. The analyst also stressed that the central bank's monetary tightening process "is coming to an end" this year with possibly one more interest hike in November.

Mahfi Egilmez, a former undersecretary of the Treasury, hailed the hike as a rational move by the central bank while stressing that monetary tightening "should be accompanied by structural reforms" to strengthen the economy.

Bratislava, Oct 26 (IANS obert Fico has been appointed as Slovakia's Prime Minister for the fourth time, following his Smer party's victory in the September election with 22.94 per cent of the votes.

Slovak President Zuzana Caputova appointed the new government at the Primate's Palace in the nation's capital Bratislava on Wednesday, reports Xinhua news agency.

When addressing the newly appointed cabinet, Caputova highlighted current challenges like high energy prices, healthcare accessibility and economic recovery.

"Never before in the modern history of Slovakia has the government faced such bad social and economic indicators,"

said Fico during his speech.

Meanwhile, he pledged a sovereign, professional government committed to delivering a better life for the Slovak population.

The Smer party won 42 seats in the 150-member House, falling short of 75 seats.

Earlier this month, Smer, the Social Democracy (Hlas) party and the Slovak National Party had agreed to form a coalition government.

In the ruling coalition, the Smer party oversees seven ministries, the Hlas party heads six departments and the deputy Prime Minister's role, and the Slovak National Party manages culture, the environment, and the soon-to-be-established Ministry of Sports and Tourism.

Geneva, Oct 26 (IANS) he number of people displaced by war, persecution, violence and human rights violations globally is likely to have exceeded 114 million at the end of September, the United Nations (UN) Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has said.

By the end of June this year, 110 million people had been forcibly displaced worldwide, up 1.6 million from the end of 2022.

In the three months from June to the end of September, the number of forcibly displaced grew by 4 million, bringing the total to 114 million, Xinhua news agency reported.

The conflict in the Middle East erupted on October 7, beyond the period covered by the UNHCR, therefore the report does not take into account its consequences in terms of human displacement.

According to the agency, the main drivers of forced displacement in the first half of 2023 included violence, droughts, floods and insecurity.

"The world's focus now is rightly - on the humanitarian

catastrophe in Gaza. But globally, far too many conflicts are proliferating or escalating, shattering innocent lives and uprooting people," UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said.

"The international community's inability to solve conflicts or prevent new ones is driving displacement and misery. We must look within, work together to end conflicts and allow refugees and other displaced people to return home or restart their lives," he said.

Low and middle-income countries hosted 75 per cent of the refugees and other people in need of international protection, the UNHCR said, adding that globally, 1.6 million new individual asylum applications were made in the first six months of this year, the largest number ever recorded.

According to the agency, the second Global Refugee Forum, the world's largest gathering on refugees and other forcibly displaced people, is scheduled to be held in Geneva, Switzerland, on December 13-15 this year.

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Record 114 mn people displaced worldwide: UN

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Ukrainian attack on Russian nuclear facility thwarted

Moscow, Oct 27 (IANS) Ukrainian attack involving multiple drones has been thwarted in the Russian city of Kurchatov, home to the Kursk nuclear power plant, according to civilian and military officials.

Unconfirmed reports claimed that one of the aircraft damaged a nuclear waste storage building at the site, RT reported.

The spree of incidents happened on Thursday evening in the Kursk Region, which borders Ukraine. The Russian Defence Ministry reported intercepting a fixed-wing drone over the

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Russian territory on two occasions, about two hours apart, while the power plant’s press service said it was attacked by three enemy drones.

Kurchatov is located some 60 km from the Ukrainian border.

The statement by the civilian authorities reported no damage or casualties on the ground, saying that all four units of the facility were operating normally.

Three of them are currently online, while one is undergoing a shutdown procedure ahead of being decommissioned, it said.

The oldest reactor, which first

went operational in 1976, has not been generating power since late 2021, RT reported.

The news outlet SHOT claimed that the incident was more serious than according to official statements, reporting that the third drone “fell next to a nuclear waste storage and blew up". The report said the blast caused minor damage to the infrastructure, but didn’t hurt anyone.

Moscow has accused Kiev of launching multiple attempts to sabotage its crucial energy infrastructure, including nuclear power plants, amid ongoing Russian-Ukrainian hostilities, RT reported.

Earlier this month, the chief of Ukrainian military intelligence, Kirill Budanov, had confirmed three failed commando raids on Energodar, the city where the Zaporozhye nuclear power plant is located.

Energodar is located in the Zaporozhye region, which joined Russia last year after people living there voted for the move in a referendum. Ukraine has dismissed the vote as a "scam" with Kiev partially controlling the contested territory.

British Sikh ‘barred from Birmingham jury service’ for carrying kirpan

London, Nov 6 (IANS)

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British Sikh, who was summoned to serve as a juror at a crown court, has said that a security guard did not let him in due to his kirpan -- a religious dagger which has to be carried at all times by baptised Sikhs.

Jatinder Singh said he felt "embarrassed and discriminated against" after he was prevented from taking part in jury service at the Birmingham Crown Court recently, the BBC reported.

Singh, who was the president at Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Smethwick and secretary general of the Sikh Council UK, said this was the second time he was called for the jury service.

"The security guard said I could take (my kirpan) off and leave it with him and collect it at the end of the day," Singh told BBC News, adding that during the first time service he faced no issues.

"I felt like a child who had gone to school and taken something they shouldn't and had it confiscated.

To have that happen to me, I felt embarrassed, I felt discriminated against, I didn't expect it to happen to me."

Following the incident, the Sikh Federation UK wrote to Justice Minister Alex Chalk asking him to condemn the way Singh was

treated.

The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) said Singh was released from his duties as there was a surplus of required jurors.

Singh said he adhered to MoJ guidelines for Sikh community members wishing to enter a court building, which allows bringing in a kirpan not more than six inches long (15 cm) and with a blade no more than five inches (12 cm) in length.

Meanwhile, His Majesty's Courts and Tribunals Service apologised to Singh "for any distress caused", and said that they have reminded their contracted security officers of the correct steps to be taken to prevent such incidents from happening again.

Hostage freed 18 hours after gunman broke into Hamburg Airport

Berlin, Nov 6 (IANS)

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he armed man breaking into the premises of the Hamburg Airport on Saturday has been

detained, and his daughter was freed from his vehicle, Germany's Hamburg police said on Sunday afternoon.

On social media platforms, local police said the man was detained without resistance and his 4-year-old daughter seemed to be unharmed after 18 hours of confinement.

On Saturday evening, while the man broke into the premises of

the airport with his daughter, he fired two gunshots into the sky.

With the police carrying out operations at the airport, all flights from and into Hamburg Airport had been cancelled, Xinhua news agency reported.

The airport said on Sunday afternoon that it is making preparations for a resume of flight operations. The case is under investigation by local police.

Western Europe braces for new storm after deadly Ciaran Rome, Nov 5 (IANS)

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hortly after storm Ciaran lashed Western Europe, the region now braces for yet another storm, Domingos.

As of Saturday, seven deaths were registered in Italy, where strong winds and record rains had battered the central Tuscany region in particular, Xinhua news agency reported.

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The Italian government on Friday declared a 12-month state of emergency for the region, which has registered the worst flooding so far, and allocated 5 million euros ($5.3 million) to rescue and aid activities.

The state of emergency included the provinces of Florence, Livorno, Pisa, Pistoia, and Prato.

The death toll in Tuscany included two elderly people,

aged 84 and 85, who died when their homes near the city of Prato were flooded, a couple who were found dead near the town of Vinci, and another person in the area of Livorno, according to state-owned Rai News 24.

Video circulating on social media showed cars being washed away along flooded streets in several parts of Tuscany after the passage of Ciaran.

EUROPE

UN University report warns about risk tipping points

Bonn, Oct 25 (IANS)

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United Nations University report, released on Wednesday, finds that drastic changes are approaching if risks to fundamental socioecological systems are not addressed.

The Interconnected Disaster Risks report 2023 published by the United Nations University -- Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) warns of six risk tipping points.

They are: accelerating extinctions; groundwater depletion; mountain glaciers melting; space debris; unbearable heat; and uninsurable future.

"Systems are all around us and closely connected to us: ecosystems, food systems, water systems and more," says the report.

"When they deteriorate, it is typically not a simple and predictable process. Rather, instability slowly builds until suddenly a tipping point is reached and the system changes fundamentally or even collapses, with potentially catastrophic impacts."

A risk tipping point is defined in the report as the moment at which a given socioecological system is no longer able to buffer risks and provide its expected functions, after which the risk of catastrophic impacts to these systems increases substantially.

These diverse cases illustrate that risk tipping points extend beyond the single domains of climate, ecosystems, society, or technology. Instead, they are inherently interconnected, and they are also closely linked to human activities and livelihoods.

Many new risks emerge when and where physical and natural worlds interconnect with human society.

One example of a risk tipping point that the report explains is groundwater depletion.

Underground water reservoirs called aquifers are an essential freshwater resource around the world, and they supply drinking water to over 2 billion people.

Around 70 per cent of groundwater withdrawals are used for agriculture, oftentimes when there is not sufficient water from above-ground sources available.

Today, aquifers help to mitigate half of the losses in agriculture caused by drought, a phenomenon which is only expected to increase in the future due to climate change.

But the report warns that now

it’s the aquifers themselves that are approaching a tipping point: More than half of the world’s major aquifers are being depleted faster than they can be naturally replenished. If the water table falls below a level that existing wells can access, farmers can suddenly find themselves without the ability to access water, which puts entire food production systems at risk of failure.

Some countries, such as Saudi Arabia, have already surpassed this groundwater risk tipping point; others, like India, are not far from it.

"As we indiscriminately extract our water resources, damage nature and biodiversity, and pollute both earth and space, we are moving dangerously close to the brink of multiple risk tipping points that could destroy the very systems that our life depends on," said Dr. Zita Sebesvari, Lead Author of the Interconnected Disaster Risks report and Deputy Director of UNU-EHS. "Additionally, we also lose some of our tools and options to deal with future disaster risk.”

The analysis reveals that the cases share similar root causes and drivers which are embedded in our actions and behaviours that increasingly put pressure on our systems until they are pushed to the brink of collapse.

Reaching these points means new risks will be introduced, many of which we do not yet know of.

"As we approach these tipping points, we will already begin to experience the impacts. Once crossed, it will be difficult to go back," warned Dr Jack O’Connor, Lead Author and Senior Expert at UNU-EHS. "Our report can help us see risks ahead of us, the causes behind them and the urgent changes required to avoid them."

The report does not just define and identify risk tipping points, but it also proposes a new framework to avoid or mitigate the consequences. Solutions fall into two categories: Avoid solutions, which target root causes and drivers of risk to avoid risk tipping points altogether, and Adapt solutions, which help prepare or better address the negative impacts of risk tipping points if they cannot be avoided.

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SOUTHEAST ASIA

Sultan of Johor named Malaysia’s new king Indonesia raises alert as monKuala Lumpur, Oct 27 (IANS) Sultan Ibrahim ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, the fifth Sultan of Johor state, was on Friday named as the 15th king of Malaysia by the country's Conference of Rulers, state media reported.

Malaysian state-news agency Bernama said that Sultan Ibrahim will be officially installed as king on January 31, 2024, replacing his predecessor Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah.

Ibrahim, born in 1958, has reigned over Johor state, which

borders Singapore, since 2010, reports Xinhua news agency.

He has spoken of the need to keep Malaysia an open trading nation.

The Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, has also been elected as the Deputy Yang di-Pertuan Agong for the same five-year term.

Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy, with nine sultans or rulers, who head their respective state and act as the religious leader, taking turns to serve as king for a five-year term.

North East India Festival paves way for cultural exchange between India, Vietnam

New Delhi, Oct 27 (IANSlife)

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he North East India Festival officially commenced today in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, marking the beginning of a momentous event that aims to strengthen the ties between India and Vietnam in the world of academics, trade, business, and culture.

The festival opened its doors to a distinguished assembly of critical stakeholders, including chief ministers, union ministers, and entrepreneurs, hailing from both the nations.

The inaugural programme witnessed the participation of several notable personalities and associations from various provinces in Vietnam, underscoring the significance of the event.

Key dignitaries present included Mr. Tran Phuoc Anh, Director General of the Department of External Relations in Ho Chi Minh City, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vietnam, and Mr. Nguyen Long Bien, Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee of Ninh Thuan Province, among others.

This grand assembly, from both India and Vietnam, highlighted the collaborative spirit of the festival.

The opening day's programme was a harmonious blend of culture and diplomacy. It commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by a mesmerising Sattriyadance performance by Mridusmita Das Bora. Ambassador H.E. Mr. Sandeep Arya, India’s Ambassador to Vietnam, delivered the opening remarks, setting the tone for the festival.

Special remarks were also shared

by MOS (RRS) Mr. RK Ranjan, Hon’ble Minister of State for External Affairs, Government of India, and Mr. Tran Phuoc Anh, Director of External Relations in Ho Chi Minh City.

The day featured enlightening talks on various destinations, www.mccq.org.au

including Assam, Arunachal, Meghalaya, and Nagaland, presented by government officials and experts, emphasising the unique attractions of these regions. The festival's cultural segment was brought to a magnificent close with a Drum Ensemble performance of the traditional music of tribes of Meghalaya by Troupes from Meghalaya, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes. The inaugural day concluded with a remark by Dr.Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General of India in HCMC. The second day of North East India Festival, scheduled for October 28th, promises to be equally impressive, featuring the Incredible India Exhibition with a dedicated textile zone, and state-specific exhibition zones from various North Eastern states of India. The day will also host discussions on trade and investment opportunities, the handloom and handicraft industry, and investible projects in the North East Region.

Shyamkanu Mahanta, Chief Organiser of the North East India Festival, shared his vision for the event, saying, " The entire programme is deeply rooted in the Act East Policy.

Last year, Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi highlighted in his address how the North East India Festival held in Bangkok played a pivotal role in boosting the connections between India and Bangkok, significantly strengthening ties in South East Asia.

This year, in Vietnam, we are placing a special emphasis on cultural exchange. Our vision extends to encompass educational and trade exchange programmes. What began as a platform for the North East has now blossomed into one of

India's largest forums, promoting not only cultural exchange but also propelling trade, commerce, education, tourism, and more.

This marks the first time Vietnam is witnessing a festival of such magnitude and scale.

We are enthusiastic and optimistic about witnessing tangible outcomes from this initiative.”

Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General of India in HCMC, echoing the sentiment, stated, " The North East India Festival is an exceptional initiative that bridges the cultural and economic opportunities of India's North Eastern states with Vietnam. This grand festival marks a first for Vietnam on this scale, and it undoubtedly offers an invaluable platform for mutual learning and collaborative endeavours.”

The festival's diverse programme includes an Investment and Trade Session, a Tourism B2B Meet, and a People-to-People Exchange Meet, with the aim of nurturing academic exchange, promoting educational programmes, and enhancing cultural understanding between India and Vietnam. The Investment and Trade Session will facilitate interactions between the DoNER Ministry, Invest India, and the Investor’s Community of Vietnam, paving the way for long-term business relationships.

A spectacular fashion show, featuring the top-notch designers of North East India, will take center stage, showcasing the region's rich fabrics and designs.

The festival will also feature musical performances and cultural showcases, promising an immersive experience for all attendees.

As North East India Festival unfolds, it promises to be a testament to the growing partnership between India and Vietnam, reinforcing their commitment to enhancing academic, trade, business, and cultural cooperation. This extraordinary event underscores the Act East Policy and sets the stage for a future filled with opportunities and collaborations.

keypox cases increase to 14 Jakarta, Oct 27 (IANS)

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ndonesia has raised its alert against monkeypox as the number of confirmed cases increased to 14 since the first was detected on October 13, according to the Health Ministry.

The ministry's Director General for Disease Prevention and Control, Maxi Rein Rondonuwu, said all the patients were men, lived in Jakarta, generally aged 25 to 29 years, and had never received smallpox vaccination, reports Xinhua news agency.

"Some patients have comorbidities such as HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and hypertension," said Rondonuwu in a virtual press conference.

All the cases have mild symptoms, Rondonuwu added, but epidemiologists project the number could multiply to 3,600 a year without any intervention.

Currently, the ministry is intensifying education on healthy lifestyles and vaccination against monkeypox for high-risk groups.

The government is targeting 500 people or 1,000 vaccination doses and so far, it has reached at least 157 peo

Thailand sees photographic evidence of hostages held by Hamas are alive: PM

Bangkok, Nov 6 (IANS)

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he Thailand government has seen photographic evidence that Thai hostages held by the Hamas militant group in Gaza are alive, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said on Monday.

Addressing reporters here, the Prime Minister said: "I understand, at the very least, they are alive. Our next point of consideration is the period when there is a temporary ceasefire, let’s say a day or two, that could be a window to evacuate (hostages)."

The Prime Minister however, did not reveal the number of photos and neither did he mention how many of the 24 Thai hostages could be seen in the images,CNN reported.

Last week, the government had said that Iran will mediate to help negotiate the release of the Thai captives who were taken as hostages by the Hamas militant group after it launched its

massive assault against Israel on October 7.

Foreign Minister Parnpree Bhahiddha-Nukkara had informed the media that he had been in touch with the government of Iran for the safe release of the Thai hostages, many of them who were working as migrant workers in Israel.

In a statement, the Thai government had said that Iran, Qatar and Egypt had all "committed their full support ... in assisting with the negotiation for the release of the Thai hostages to the best of their abilities, as well as their readiness to fully assist and care for” them.

Iran agreed to raise Thailand’s request with Tehran-backed Hamas; Egypt said it would “consider facilitating access to the Rafah border crossing once the Thai hostages are released,” and Qatar expressed hope that Thais will be among the first group to be released, the statement said.

Thailand has been one of Israel’s biggest sources of migrant labor for decades.

At least 32 Thais have been killed in the conflict to date, one of the highest death tolls for foreign nationals, according to figures released by the government in Bangkok.

6.3-magnitude quake jolts Indonesia, no potential for tsunami

Jakarta, Nov 2 (IANS)

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6.3-magnitude earthquake jolted Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara province on Thursday, but did not have the potential for a tsunami, disaster management agency said.

The agency had first released the quake with a magnitude of 6.6 before revising it.

The earthquake, which centred on-land, struck at 4.04 a.m., Xinhua news agency reported.

The location of the epicentre was at 15 km southeast of Kupang city of the province and a depth of 25

km, it said.

The intensity of the quake was felt the hardest at IV to V MMI (Modified Mercalli Intensity) in Timor Tengah Selatan area, and some other areas experienced III and II MMI, the agency said.

The tremors of the earthquake did not have the potential to trigger a tsunami, according to the disaster management agency.

Some aftershocks classified as at the weak level followed the main shock, it added.

However, the tremors left minor damages on several houses and office buildings in Kupang city and beyond, according to Gani Losa Manisa, the head of the emergency unit of the provincial disaster management and mitigation agency.

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NORTH AMERICA

Retail crime leads to over $112 billion loss- Hurricane Otis leaves 27 dead Obrador lamented the loss of in Mexico es in US last year: Report crime last year, followed by San lives during his daily press

Washington, Oct 27 (IANS)

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osses for the US retail industry as a result of crime, violence and theft reached $112.1 billion in 2022, according to a recent report released by the National Retail Federation (NRF).

In its National Retail Security Survey, the National Retail Federation (NRF), which has designated October 26 as "Fight Retail Crime Day", said retail is the nation's largest private-sector employer, contributing $3.9 trillion to annual GDP and

supporting one in four US jobs -- 52 million working Americans, reports Xinhua news agency.

The report noted that the average shrink rate, the measurement of losses calculated by a retailer over a specific period of time, in the 2022 fiscal year increased to 1.6 per cent, up from 1.4 per cent in 2021.

While retail shrink encompasses many types of loss, it is primarily driven by theft, including organized retail crime.

Theft, both internal and external, accounts for nearly two-thirds of retailers' shrink. However, for some sectors, theft can represent more than 70 per cent of overall shrink, said the report.

According to the report, Los Angeles topped the list of cities and metropolitan areas most impacted by organized retail

Francisco/Oakland and Houston.

"Retailers are seeing unprecedented levels of theft coupled with rampant crime in their stores, and the situation is only becoming more dire," said David Johnston, vice president of asset protection and retail operations for NRF, in the report.

"Far beyond the financial impact of these crimes, the violence and concerns over safety continue to be the priority for all retailers, regardless of size or category."

NRF said it is the world's largest retail trade association.

According to the organisation, its 2023 National Retail Security Survey results contain insights from 177 retail brands, which accounted for $1.6 trillion of annual retail sales in 2022 and represent more than 97,000 retail locations across the US.

Canadian agency issues alert along US borwith the citizens of Maine and all der after mass shootings those affected," it said in a post

Ottawa, Oct 27 (IANS)

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he Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has issued an "armed and dangerous" alert to its personnel stationed along the country's border with the US after the two mass shootings in the American state of Maine led to the death of at leat 18 people.

In its alert issued late Thursday, the CBSA asked its officers to be on the lookout for the suspect, identied as 40-year-old Robert Card a trained firearms instructor and a member of the US Army Reserves, who also injured 13 people in the shootouts in Lewiston city on Wednesday night, reports Xinhua news agency.

"The CBSA is aware of the tragic events in Maine. Our officers have been alerted to the high risk of this situation, and we are on the lookout with our law enforcement partners. Our thoughts are

on X..

The Agency added that it is working with Canadian and US law enforcement partners to "protect Canada's borders against any threat or attempt at illegal entry".

The city of Lewiston is located some 260 km southwest of Canada's New Brunswick province.

As of Friday, hundreds of police have continued a massive manhunt to nab Card, who is considered "armed and dangerous".

China, US need to have dialogue: Wang Yi tells Blinken

Washington, Oct 27 (IANS)

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isiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that the world's two biggest economies "need to have dialogue" following a period of volatile bilateral relations.

Yi, who is in the US on a four-day official visit, also said that "not only should we resume dialogue, the dialogue should be in-depth and comprehensive so that with dialogue we can increase mutual understanding, reduce misunderstanding and misjudgment, constantly seek to expand common ground and pursue cooperation that will benefit both sides so that we can stabilise China-US relations and return

it to the track of healthy, stable, and sustainable development".

He made the remarks to reporters before a one-on-one meeting with Blinken which is part of a reciprocal visit following the Secretary’s travel to Beijing and recent high-level meetings as part of ongoing efforts to maintain open lines of communication and responsibly manage US-China relations, according to the State Department.

The top Chinese diplomat noted that "we have disagreements; we have differences. At the same time, we also share important common interests and we face challenges that we need to respond together".

He also said that "from time to time there will be some jarring voices" in the bilateral ties.

When that happens, Wang said, "China treats it calmly because we are of the view what is right and what is wrong is not determined by who has the stronger arm or a louder voice".

On his part, Blinken said that he "agreed with what the Foreign Minister said", adding that he "very much look forward to constructive conversations over the next two days".

Following the meeting, the State Department said that Blinken and Wang "discussed a range of bilateral, regional, and global issues, including addressing areas of difference as well as exploring areas of cooperation".

The Secretary of State also "reiterated that the United States will continue to stand up for our interests and values and those of our allies and partners", it added.

Blinken also expressed his condolences on the passing of former Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, who died at the age of 68 due to a heart attack in Shanghai. Wang and Blinken will continue their discussions on Friday. The Chinese Foreign Minister is also scheduled to meet National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and speak with President Joe Biden.

Mexico City, Oct 27 (IANS)

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urricane Otis left at least 27 people dead and four missing as it hit the coast of the southern Mexican state of Guerrero as a Category 5 hurricane, an official said.

The hurricane, now weakened to a storm, left severe damage especially in the Acapulco resort area, one of the main tourist destinations in the country, Xinhua news agency quoted Secretary of State for Security Rosa Icela Rodriguez as saying on Thursday.

Rodriguez however, did not give any details about where or how the victims died.

President Andres Manuel Lopez

conference and his administration launched an airlift to the region with the support of the military.

He had also travelled to Acapulco and at one point had to get out of his car and walk as debris from a mudslide blocked the highway.

Meanwhile, Federal Electricity Commission personnel were at work trying to restore electricity supply and telecommunications in the region.

More than 30 per cent of the homes in Guerrero lost power, plunging entire towns into darkness.

The Defence Ministry said 8,000 soldiers had been deployed to Acapulco and towns along the coast to help with the clear-up and provide residents with food and water.

Hurricane Otis made landfall at 12.25 a.m. on Wednesday. It had intensified from a tropical storm into the most severe category 5 hurricane in only 12 hours.

Canada says it expects to process only half of Indian visa applications by Dec 2023

Toronto, Oct 27 (IANS) anada has said that out of the 38,000 visas for Indians, it will only be able to process 20,000 by the end of December this year due to recent reduction of staff on the ground.

At a meeting of the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration this week, Immigration Minister Marc Miller said there are now only five members to do the on-theground visa work in India, the CIC News reported.

The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) which processes the visa applications, had its staff reduced from 27 to just five members this month after India, seeking diplomatic parity, asked Canada to withdraw its 41 diplomats.

The IRCC now expects there will be approximately 17,500 Indian applications in backlog at the beginning of 2024.

However, signalling hope, senior officials with the country's top Immigration Department said that the government is working to return to normal processing for Indian applications by early 2024.

This can be achieved as the immigration staff pulled from India reestablishes itself and gets back to work in Canada and the Philippines, IRCC said.

According to CIC, IRCC is

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trying to mitigate the impact by adjusting the work load for Visa Application Centres (VACs) that already process the majority of the applications from India. IRCC said in a statement released last week that a large majority of applications from India are already processed outside the country, with 89 per cent of India’s applications processed through the global network.

The five Canada-based IRCC staff who remain in India will focus on work that requires an in-country presence such as urgent processing, visa printing, risk assessment, and overseeing key partners," the IRCC said.

The department aims to process 80 per cent of all applications within service standards, which vary depending on the type of application. An application is in backlog when it has not been processed within service standards.

IRCC has also temporarily suspended all in-person services at consulates in India, although applications from India will still be accepted and processed.

India, meanwhile, partially resumed visa services in Canada from October 26 onwards after they were shut down amid deteriorating diplomatic ties.

The services will resume for entry, business, medical, and conference visas, the Indian High Commission said in a statement.

"Further decisions, as appropriate, would be intimated based on continuing evaluation of the situation," the statement added.

Visa processing in India will be impacted: Canadian Immigration Minister

Toronto, Oct 20 (IANS) Canadian Immigration Minister Marc Miller said that visa www.mccq.org.au

processing in India will be "inevitably impacted" after Ottawa evacuated 41 of its diplomats following a diplomatic spat with New Delhi over the killing of proKhalistani hardliner Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

With India maintaining that it seeks parity in diplomatic presence, Canada said that only 21 Canadian diplomats and

dependents would be stationed in India from now onwards.

Addressing a press conference on Thursday alongside Foreign Minister Melanie Joly in Ottawa, Miller said the move will result in slower visa processing of Indians looking to come to Canada.

"Processing times will inevitably be impacted by this unacceptable and unilateral decision by the

Government of India, but we will strive to minimize the impact on people looking to come to Canada," he said.

Following Miller's remarks, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued a statement saying that its staff in India is being reduced from 27 to just five.

Miller, however, reassured that the lower number of staff will

have short term repercussions, and that Canada will continue to accept and process all temporary and permanent resident applications. According to CIC News, IRCC is trying to mitigate the impact by adjusting the work load for Visa Application Centres (VACs) that already process the majority of the applications from India, but some work will have to be done by email.

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MULTICULTURAL NEWS AUSTRALIA

Nov 2023 - Vol 1, Issue 12

The new code of masculine elegance

A spectacular end to Lakme Fashion Week x FDCI

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Grooming is the secret of real elegance. The best clothes, the most wonderful jewels, the most glamorous beauty don't count without good grooming,” said Christian Dior. Gone are the days when grooming was seen as a feminine indulgence; it has evolved, transcending gender boundaries to become a fundamental aspect of modern masculinity.

The modern gentleman is embracing self-care and personal presentation, reflecting changing narratives around masculinity and becoming a canvas for self-expression, emphasising inner and outer confidence in this era of the grooming renaissance.

According to the India Men’s Grooming Market Outlook, 2027-28 report, the sector is projected to experience a CAGR exceeding 11 per cent over the forecast period, reaching over Rs 31,000 crore.

The Art of Grooming In today's grooming landscape, a basic soap-and-water regimen has evolved. Personalised hair styling, cleansers, moisturisers, and treatments are tailored to address the specific needs of every individual. Let’s highlight some latest trends.

Exfoliating and Cleansing: It serves as the bedrock of skincare, setting the stage for healthier, more luminous skin.

When selecting a cleanser, aligning it with skin type is vital. For those with oily skin, a foaming formula aids in controlling excess oil production, while dry skin benefits from a cream or lotion-based cleanser that infuses hydration. Regular exfoliation is a crucial step to incorporate a couple of times a week. This practice removes dead skin cells and clears out pores, leading to a smoother and healthier complexion.

Moisturising: Irrespective of skin type, moisturising is important in every grooming routine.

Moisturisers lock in the moisture and form a protective shield for your skin. This helps maintain a youthful and plump appearance.

However, picking a moisturiser that suits your skin type is essential. To enhance the effect, consider products featuring ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which attracts and retains moisture, or antioxidants like vitamin C for brightness and protection. www.mccq.org.au

Sun Protection: Sun protection transcends choice; it morphs into an essential. UV radiation can expedite ageing, trigger dark spots, and potentially lead to skin cancer. Incorporating sunscreen into daily routines is akin to donning armour against these potential threats. Opt for broad-spectrum sunscreen boasting at least SPF 30, which safeguards against UVA and UVB rays.

Shampoo and Conditioner: Healthy hair starts with a clean, nourished scalp. Using the right shampoo and conditioner is crucial for hair health, but balance is key. Overwashing can strip natural oils and lead to dryness, while infrequent washing can result in an oily scalp. Using a moisturising shampoo can help restore moisture for dry or damaged hair. A clarifying shampoo can help control excess oil if an individual has oily hair.

Furthermore, a coordinating conditioner helps detangle, soften, and add shine to the hair.

Using Pomade and Wax: Pomade offers a classic appeal with a shiny finish and medium hold, great for achieving a polished look such as a side part or slick-back style. On the other hand, wax gives a matte finish and stronghold, making it ideal for creating texture and defining looks, especially for tousled or voluminous hairstyles.

Comb or Brush: Choosing between a comb and a brush holds significant sway over hairstyling results, with factors like hair type and desired look.

Precision defines the comb, creating clean lines and partings and aiding in uniform product distribution and shaping. For intricate styles, fine-tooth combs excel, while wider-tooth combs amplify volume in thicker hair. In contrast, a brush adds natural, effortless volume, perfect for styles with movement and texture.

Beard Care: Maintaining a well-groomed beard demands consistent care, which involves regular trimming and shaping to achieve a polished appearance.

As individuals embrace their beard growth journey, shaping it to enhance their facial features plays a significant role. A high-quality beard trimmer with adjustable settings is crucial for attaining the desired length.

Additionally, beard oil acts as a powerful elixir, providing care

for both the beard and the skin underneath. Combining natural oils, it moisturises, softens, and conditions the beard, supporting healthy growth and minimising discomfort. Applying a few drops of beard oil and gently massaging it from root to tip while paying special attention to the skin beneath promotes healthy skin.

The Moustache: Caring for a well-groomed moustache goes beyond style; it symbolizes a dedication to detail and selfcare. Precise shaping and trimming create a polished, defined appearance that harmonises with one's overall look. Taking care of stray hairs and using moustache wax demonstrates seriousness about looking confident and self-assured. The result is a distinguished feature that elevates an individual's unique style, leaving a memorable mark.

The Perfect Shave: Achieving the perfect shave is essential for a polished and neat appearance.

It involves a combination of technique, preparation, and the right tools. Quality products such as pre-shave oils, shaving cream, gel, and aftershave balm are necessary for a clean and smooth shave. Fragrance: Fragrance has the power to create lasting memories and impressions. Choosing the right scent can elevate your grooming routine. Applying a well-chosen fragrance ensures a refreshing and odour-free experience throughout the day.

Nail care: Nail grooming is essential for hygiene and self-care.

Clean, trimmed nails minimise germ buildup, contributing to overall well-being. Regular care maintains nail shape and strengthens them, reflecting personal grooming commitment.

From tailored clothing to wellstyled hair, today's men showcase more than fashion – it's about expressing themselves and leaving an impact. Grooming has shifted from a minor task to a powerful tool for self-expression, leaving a lasting impression. How someone grooms reflects their self-care and attention to detail, shaping their overall image.

Whether aiming for a polished look or a more rugged one, a genuine and straightforward grooming routine helps strike the right balance between style and sophistication for any occasion.

(Jaykishan Pawar is a master barber and training head at Truefitt & Hill)

FASHION

ike all good things, the five-day fashion event came to an end on Sunday. Over the past few days, several designers displayed their collections, and the runway was graced by a slew of Bollywood beauties.

The final day concluded with New York-based designer Biibhu Mohapatra’s collection, 'Come Home.' He presented a series of exquisitely crafted ensembles inspired by the enduring spirit of Indian women - evening dresses, voluminous gowns, and blazers detailed with embellished motifs, metallic accents, sheer, and lace.

The Odisha-born designer roped in present and past Lakme muses to walk for him such as Ananya Panday, Lisa Haydon, Bipasha Basu, and Simone Singh among a few others. In an exclusive interview with IANSlife, the master crafter spoke about his love for India, what inspires him, and his take on luxury and sustainable fashion.

Your thoughts on being the grand finale designer? How are you balancing it all?

Bibhu: It’s such an honour to be here. I am home, with my people who truly love and support me.

I am surrounded by some of the most incredible talent, right from the models and the dynamic production team to the efficient people at Reliance brands and at Lakme. When the support system is so great, there is really nothing to worry about.

What do you admire most about India?

Bibhu: It is the people who make this country what it is, and what is most admirable about them is their voracious appetite for life.

Where do you mostly look for inspiration?

Bibhu: People from across the world. One can learn so much from their diverse stories, cultures, and journeys. Also, travelling as it gives the kind of joy very few things can give.

Because I reside in New York, there is always something new to explore.

How do you define luxury?

Bibhu: The human touch, cultivated through time, is what defines luxury. It’s not about creating products that only serve for a short while – it has to be conscious and mindful process.

Your take on sustainable fashion?

Bibhu: It is extremely necessary, and every bit of it counts. Every small step contributes to the broader aim, and this is how everyone working together can make a big difference.

What shift have you noticed in the Indian fashion industry in the last decade?

Bibhu: It is an exciting time for India and its brilliant designers.

The country's future is brighter than ever; its craft, resources, and smart minds will take over the global landscape. India's creative economy is booming. As my friend Sujata Assomull puts it, the global South, especially, India is the market of the future.

A piece of advice for aspiring designers?

Bibhu: Work hard, tell an authentic story, keep going, and be nice. Being kind can go a long way!

Photo courtesy: LFW x FDCI

Summer vibes, statement pieces & showstoppers

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laborate patterns, vibrant colours, and prints were predominant on day 3 along with equal proportion of layering and assymetrical silhouettes.

Starting the day on a festive note, Bollywood actress Disha Patni walked for label Kalki in a heavily embellished gown.

Keeping up with the celebratory vibe was label 'Not So Serious' by Pallavi Mohan who showcased textured gowns and dresses finished with ruffles, feathers and sequins. Miss Universe 2021 Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu opened the show for Mohan.Up next were designer-duo Pankaj and Nidhi who are known for their

exquisite hand-crafted detailing and modern design techniques.

Their collection, ‘XV’ displayed powerful pieces in monochromatic tones in fabrics such as wool, silk and taffeta. Actress Dia Mirza walked for them wearing an asymmetrical jacket with cropped shirt and trousers, looking like a vision in white.

The highlights of Gauri and Nainika's Spring/Summer 2024 collection were bold prints, flouncy dresses, and voluminous skirts. Their love for everything vintage and feminine was evident on the runway, which included an abundance of floral designs and vibrant hues.Resort wear favourites Shivan and Narresh showcased their collection in collaboration with Birkenstock.

Swimwear in vivid prints, sheer separates and knitted tops were spotted at their show. The Delhi-based designers roped in Athiya Shetty and Rana Dagubatti to walk for them.

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OUR TAKE

Israel could pull off invasion, but planning for day after is tougher part

Hamas-Israel conflict: Russia’s opportunity to fulfill its aspirations It is now no longer in doubt that Russia has kept alive its aspiration to regain its superpower status since the days of the disintegration of the USSR. Russia is yet to attain the superpower status enjoyed by its predecessor- the USSR. But ever since, it has continued to pursue all avenues to get back to its former ‘power glory’ days during the height of the Cold War, opposite to the US. There were times, some experts of geopolitics felt that following the fall of the USSR, Russia, its natural successor, would strive to improve its relations with the US and by extension with NATO countries. The recent Ukraine war has shown that Russian President Putin symbolizes the hurt Russians felt with the disintegration of the USSR. Therefore, Russia is both emotionally and strategically inclined to rebuild itself by integrating its lost territories. Ukraine’s charting out an independent course for itself and gravitating towards the NATO alliance would have hit Russia's self interest and its pride to regain its former powerful global position. While the world seemed to have heaved a sigh of relief after the collapse of the Soviet Union anticipating the end of the Cold War, it did not, however, end the hostilities between Russia and its allies on one side, and the US and its allies, specifically NATO, on the other.

The recent Hamas attacks on Israel, followed by relentless bombing by the Israeli forces on their adversaries, saw an interesting playing out of events in the Middle East. Following the Hamas attack on Israel and its aftermath that saw Israel retaliating in the manner it has always been known for, Arab League chief Ahmed Aboul Gheit decided it was time to reach Moscow to discuss the crisis.

At a joint press conference that followed, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov unambiguously declared that a Palestinian state was the “most reliable” solution for peace and security, not fighting. Naturally, Russia gets the much-needed lift of its status internationally.

Then, it was the turn of Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani to visit Russia. Again, at the joint press meeting, Russian President Vladimir Putin while castigating Hamas for its cruelty criticized the US saying the ongoing crisis in the Middle East exposed Washington’s inability to resolve conflicts by seeking to "monopolise" the peace settlement and trying to "impose its own solution".

These statements are somewhat reminiscent of the Cold war days, and interestingly, Russia is gaining importance globally as the natural course of events lead to a situation where the US finds itself difficult to position itself vis-à-vis the Muslim world, especially the Palestine.

The discomfiture of the US is a definite gain for Russia as it gets the ‘legitimacy’ to assert itself on the Palestine-Israel issue after the Muslim world begins www.mccq.org.au

to perceive the US as pro-Israel, rather than playing a neutral role to solve the Middle East crisis.

Furthermore, just three weeks into the Hamas-Israel conflict, Russia hosted a Hamas delegation, which was led by its senior political council member Moussa Abu Marzouk, for "talks on the release of hostages, especially those with Russian citizenship", thereby ignoring Israeli rant to expel them forthwith. Then, what can be perceived as more than coincidence is the timing of the Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani’s visit to Moscow at the time the Hamas delegation was in talks with the Russian officials. While it is known that the Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister met the Hamas leaders, it is not clear whether any tripartite meeting was held.

An in-depth analysis of the Russian position vis-à-vis the recent Middle East crisis has made it clear that Russia wants to leverage its contacts with both Israel and Palestinians, including Hamas and Iran, in a bid to broker a peace process in the region. Unlike the US, which has been openly supporting and assisting Israel in its war against Hamas, Russia is treading the path with caution and using its cards with prudence that suits its global aspirations. Russia has, almost from day one of the conflict, talked about resolving the crisis through the implementation of the two-nation criterion, signaling to the US and its allies in particular, and the world in general, that the Palestine-Israel crisis cannot be resolved militarily.

What has helped Russia further in increasing the intensity of its voice in the Middle East is the imminence of the failure of the US-brokered Abraham Accords, which saw countries like the UAE and Bahrain normalize relations with Israel, with the recent thrust to bring Saudi Arabia and Israel together across the table to normalize their relations. This puts the US on the back foot, much to the benefit of Russia and China, as the US will find it difficult to focus on the Middle East, Ukraine, and the Indo-Pacific.

Rather, the increasing calls by many nations to revive the two-nation solution implies the US will have to use more of its diplomatic resources to get both Israel and Palestine to sit across the negotiating table and accept the two-nation solution as the only viable one for a seemingly peaceful resolution of the crisis, though it may lead both sides to feel aggrieved. Moreover, as the partition of India and Pakistan along the lines of a two-nation approach has shown, implementation of such a solution on the ground is more difficult than on paper. Even if it is implemented for the sake of peace to reign in the region, it may not end the enmity and hostilities between both sides completely.

But there is a lot at stake for both Russia and the US, and at the moment, Russia is gaining more from the current HamasIsrael crisis than anyone would have bargained for. Another

New York, Oct 29 (IANS) or Israel, which has launched the second phase of its war, invading Gaza could become an adventure – or misadventure – like riding a tiger: the difficult part would be dismounting it.

Announcing the second phase - a ground invasion - Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged on Saturday, "It will be long and difficult".

Israel could quickly take over the territory if it wanted to, in a no-holds-barred, international opinion-be-damned operation.

Even if it were to finesse the invasion in face of international criticism, Israel would still face the question of what to do with the nearly ungovernable territory from where it had withdrawn in 2005 only to see it fall into the hands of Hamas which launched a deadly attack on Israel.

Netanyahu has set two goals for the war: "To eliminate Hamas by destroying its military and governing abilities, and to do everything possible to bring our captives home".

But he has not said what would happen after that. And there is no clarity on what would be the metric for reaching the first goal either.

Asked by reporters what would constitute destroying Hamas' capability, an IDF spokesperson, Richard Hecht, left it hanging in the air. “I don’t think I have the capability right now to answer that one,” he said.

The two US invasions this century have daunting lessons on the failure of occupation: in Afghanistan it returned the country to the Taliban it had come to oust, and in Iraq it left behind chaos. (One could even go back to Vietnam.)

A Gallup poll of Palestinians conducted just before the 7/10 Hamas attack illustrates the difficulty that Israel would face in governing Gaza.

The poll found that 72 per cent of them don't support a two-state solution, which would imply that they are against the existence of Israel, and 81 per cent don't believe that permanent peace is possible.

A look at history will be a lesson

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OPINION

in the ungovernability of Gaza.

Israel captured Gaza from Egypt in the 1948 Arab-Israel War, but gave it up as unmanageable.

Egypt did not try to fully integrate it into itself and tried various ways of governing it till the 1967 war when Israel retook it. Egypt has not asked back for it.

Israel's military hero Ariel Sharon when he became prime minister withdrew from Gaza in 2005 -- a second time for Israel -- dismantling the Jewish settlements there, hoping for peace with Palestinians, after Israel had virtually given up on governing it.

Within months, Hamas won the elections in Gaza and by 2007 it had fought a civil war with Fatah, vanquishing the organisation founded by Yasser Arafat the Palestinian leader who sought to make peace with Israel after decades of fighting it.

Fatah leader Mahmoud Abbas is the president of the Palestine Authority which is nominally recognised as the governing body of Palestine, but effectively rules only the West Bank, from which Gaza under Hamas has virtually split, creating another barrier to a two-state solution.

Before 7/10, Gaza was already in shambles with a ruined economy propped up financially by Qatar and with an estimated 70 per cent of the population on some form of dole, including from the UN, which has about 13,000 employees working there for its relief operations known as UN Relief and Works Agency.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have been tentative in their incursions into so far Gaza the threatened war to annihilate Hamas, which is not just a militant organisation but also the elected ruler of the territory, hasn’t materialised with full fury in the second phase.

A likely reason for holding off the full-scale invasion after having mobilised reservists, ordered the people of Gaza to move south and rained down bombs and missiles is the question of what comes next.

Another reason is the 200 or so hostages taken by Hamas can become human shields.

Yet another is the pressure from the US and its allies to minimise civilian casualties during the invasion.

US President Joe Biden addressed the problem on Wednesday, saying that it is “despicable” and “cowardly”

that "Hamas is hiding behind Palestinian civilians” which “puts an added burden on Israel while they go after Hamas."

Having seen the impact of the images of civilians wounded by Israel's aerial attacks have had on public opinion in several countries, including in sections of the US, Biden added: "That does not lessen the need for - to operate and align with the laws of war for Israeli - it has to do everything in its power - Israel has to do everything in its power, as difficult as it is, to protect innocent civilians."

But that problem with civilians would not go away after the conquest of Gaza however well that goes, and Israel faces resistance - and likely guerrilla warfare - in a densely populated terrain.

An Israeli expert on Palestine says that Israel faces four choices, "all of them bad, and it must choose the lesser of the evils."

Writing in the liberal Israeli newspaper Haaretz, Michael Milshtein, who heads the Palestinian Studies Forum at the Moshe Dayan Center for Middle Eastern and African Studies, says a disastrous one advocated

by Israel’s religious parties is the reoccupation of Gaza and bringing back Israeli settlements.

It was found unworkable in the past.

Another "terrible choice" is a quick, large-scale invasion that topples Hamas that is followed by a quick withdrawal, which Milshtein says would see other extremists from within and without taking over.

One of the two "lesser of the evils", he says would be to ask the Palestine Authority under Abbas that rules the West Bank to take over the Gaza administration.

But having been ousted from Gaza and finding it difficult to govern the West Bank that would bring its own set of problems.

The fourth alternative, which Milshtein says is a plan the Biden administration "is apparently discussing with Israel."

That would be modelled on the Iraq provisional government structure set up by the US after it took over the country.

It would be composed of local leaders and NGOs and the Fatah figures and would work with the Palestine Authority and have international backing and cooperation of the US and Egypt and possibly other Arab countries including Saudi Arabia.

the Rafah border between Egypt and Gaza Strip.

He said that several trucks were waiting to be allowed into Gaza Strip and struck on Egyptian side.

He called upon Israel to allow more trucks with humanitarian aid into Gaza and added that the ICC was seriously probing into the October 7 massacre in which 1,400 Israeli citizens were killed, more than 3,000 injured and 239 captured as hostages.

The jurisdiction of the ICC, however, is only in Gaza and West Bank but Khan said that

he was actively probing into the October 7 mayhem.

Khan said that his office was conducting detailed investigations into any crimes committed on the territory of Palestine by Israel or from Palestine into Israel.

He also indicated that the ongoing probe was an extension of the investigation taken up by ICC during the 2014 Hamas - Israel conflict which was launched by his predecessor Fatou Bensouda and approved in 2021.

Israel is not a member of the ICC and has not ratified the Rome Statute and has refused to cooperate with the ICC.

‘Preventing Humanitarian aid is war crime’: ICC to Israel

Tel Aviv , Oct 30 (IANS)

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he International Criminal Court (ICC) has warned Israel that preventing humanitarian aid reaching affected people would be considered as a war crime.

ICC prosecutor Karim Khan made the remark after visiting

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Israel to host Euro 2024 qualifiers in Hungary

Jerusalem, Oct 27 (IANS)

matches, against Switzerland and Romania, in Hungary, the Israel Football Association (IFA) said.

The two Group I matches will be held outside of Israel due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and UEFA's suspension on holding matches in the country due to the security situation.

The two matches are scheduled for November 15 and 18

respectively, in addition to Israel's two away matches against Kosovo on November 12 and Andorra on the 21st, meaning that Israel will play four matches in 10 days, Xinhua reports.

The IFA said in the statement that the city and the stadium in Hungary for Israel's home matches have not yet been determined.

“I am aware of the challenges that Cricket Scotland is facing and there is still much work to do. There has been positive progress since the release of the Changing the Boundaries report, and I am committed to leading Cricket Scotland’s effort to stamp out racism in our sport and ensure that we embody the spirit of community, belonging and equal respect.”

“I’m looking forward to working with my new team and the cricketing community to build a bright and prosperous future for cricket in Scotland, using the new strategy and forthcoming increased ICC funding as a catalyst for delivering change and creating new opportunities to grow the game at every level,” said Trudy in the statement.

Trudy has a strong working background in cricket which includes heading up the Event Management Department at the 2007 Men’s ODI World Cup, headquartered in Kingston, Jamaica, and being part of the team delivering the first Men’s T20 World Cup in South Africa in 2007.

She worked in the Cricket Australia Marketing and Events team for over five years and was seconded to the International Cricket Council in 2002 and 2003 to support the delivery of the 2002 ICC Champions’ Trophy and 2003 Men’s ODI World Cup. Prior to joining the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships, Trudy worked for Victorian Major Events Company and Visit Victoria between 2013 to 2020

across a range of projects.

She was part of the team who secured Melbourne’s bid for the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup matches and Liverpool FC’s first appearance in Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in 2013. She also played a pivotal role in the feasibility, creation, and delivery of the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race.

“We are delighted to have secured a candidate as outstanding as Trudy to lead Cricket Scotland from early next year. By then, we will have a new ambitious strategy in place and increased funding secured for the next four years, and Trudy is the ideal candidate to lead this new, exciting era for Scottish cricket.”

“While we are excited about the future, we are very conscious of the ongoing challenges that Cricket Scotland and our sport is going through. While much progress has been made, there is a long way to go to ensure our sport becomes truly inclusive and anti-racist. I have committed to staying in my interim CEO role to ensure a seamless handover to Trudy to continue this work.”

“Trudy was the standout candidate in a very strong field.

The delivery of this summer’s impressive UCI Cycling World Championships in Glasgow and across Scotland is testament to her abilities, which combined with her previous experience in cricket made her the ideal person to drive Cricket Scotland forward,” said Fitzboydon.

After this win, India sit on top of Pool B in the table.

After their opening game ended in a nail-biting 3-3 draw against Pakistan, India looked to bag the elusive three points with a confident start in the first quarter.

Forward Angad Bir Singh led India’s charge in the forward line, working in tandem with Aditya to set up goal-scoring chances. But an alert Malaysian goalie Rafaizul Mohamad kept India from taking a lead.

While the first 10 minutes went by goalless, it was hosts Malaysia, which broke the deadlock after a splendid goal by Suhaimi Irfan Shahmie in the 13th minute.

The first few minutes of the second quarter saw India create chances in the circle with Angad winning two back-to-back PCs. However, it went in vain as India were not successful in converting them. India won three more

PCs as the quarter progressed but a resolute Malaysian defence kept India at bay.

India’s breakthrough finally came in the 28th minute when Aditya Lalage nudged in a blazing cross from Vishnukant Singh to score the equalizer as the 1st half ended in a tie.

Malaysia began the third quarter aggressively and were rewarded with a PC. However, the Indian defence held firm and prevented Malaysia from scoring again.

The following minute, India were quick to get a PC thanks to Skipper Uttam Singh and Gurjot's front-row combination, but Amandeep Lakra missed the shot.

In the 37th minute, Uttam's fine circle skills earned India another PC, and this time Lakra was on point, powering the flick past Malaysian goalie Rafaizul.

SPORTS

Women’s Asian Champions Trophy: India defeat Malaysia 5-0 in second match

I Trudy Lindblade appointed as Cricket Scotland’s new Chief Executive Officer srael will host its next two home Euro 2024 qualifying

Glasgow, Oct 26 (IANS) ricket Scotland announced on Thursday that it has appointed Trudy Lindblade as its new Chief Executive Officer. It added that Trudy will commence work with Cricket Scotland early in 2024 after concluding her role as Chief Executive of the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships, which took place successfully in Glasgow and across Scotland in August this year.

Pete Fitzboydon, the current Interim Chief Executive of Cricket Scotland, will remain in place until Trudy’s arrival to ensure a smooth handover of the role in the governing body. “It is a privilege to be appointed as Chief Executive Officer of Cricket Scotland. I am excited to be returning to the sport of cricket and very much look forward to getting started in the role early in the new year.”

C

Ranchi, Oct 28 (IANS) The Indian women’s hockey team registered their second consecutive victory - a 5-0 victory in the Jharkhand Women's Asian Champions Trophy in Ranchi on Saturday.

In a high-scoring encounter on Saturday, India defeated Malaysia 5-0 in their second game of the tournament. Vandana Katariya (7’, 21’), Sangita Kumari (28’), Lalremsiami (28’), and Jyoti (38’) were the goalscorers for India.

India began proceedings with intensity, deploying a high press and searching for a breakthrough from the very first minute, while India’s resilient defense made circle penetration a challenging task for Malaysia.

Following back-to-back penalty corners, India found their first goal after Ishita’s injection led to a goal from Vandana Katariya (7’). With a few minutes left in the first quarter, India was awarded yet another penalty corner, but Deep Grace Ekka’s dragflick was denied by a brilliant save from Malaysian goalkeeper Nur Zainal.

The second quarter began with an early opportunity for India but Vandana Katariya’s tomahawk was saved by Nur Zainal.

Men’s ODI WC: It was a tricky wicket to bat on, says Virat Kohli after scoring record 49th hundred

Hockey: India beat Malaysia 3-1 to top Pool A in Sultan of Johor Cup

Johor Bahru (Malaysia), Oct 28 (IANS)

A

ditya Lalage, Amandeep Lakra and Rohit scored a goal each as Indian Colts registered a stunning 3-1 victory against hosts Malaysia in the 11th Sultan of Johor Cup 2023.

Suhaimi Irfan Shahmie (13') gave Malaysia the lead but India fought back and eventually won the match.

Aditya Lalage equalised the score in the 28th minute, Amandeep Lakra made it 2-1 in the 37th minute and Rohit further consolated their position in the 54th minute as India held the advantage throughout the match. www.mccq.org.au

India earned a penalty corner and this time Ishita's injection was received by Jyoti before a deft touch from forward Vandana Katariya (21') registered India's second goal of the night to make it 2-0.

In the 27th minute, a promising move by India led Lalremsiami to find Sangita Kumari deep in the circle. A smart finish from Sangita (28’) ensured that India’s lead was extended to 3-0. Less than a minute later, Salima Tete broke away on the right flank to find Lalremsiami (28’), who expertly deviated the incisive pass into the back of the net for India’s fourth goal.

As the third quarter commenced with India dominating possession, Malaysia tried to penetrate the circle from the right flank, but their efforts were rendered futile by the Indian defenders.

The first chance of the quarter fell to Navneet Kaur who took a powerful strike that was only inches away from goal. India’s fifth goal was a product of brilliant link-up play, after a series of short passes, Vandana Katariya found Jyoti’s (38’) nimble stickwork in the circle, to secure a well-deserved goal. .

Kolkata, Nov 5 (IANS) Virat Kohli has revealed that the wicket on which he achieved his 49th ODI century, scoring 101* off 121 deliveries batting against South Africa at Eden Gardens, was a tricky one to bat on.

Kohli’s handy century came in 119 balls and comprised 10 boundaries. Kohli scored his 49th hundred in only his 289th ODI, needing 173 matches fewer than the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who got there in his 463rd match.

The 34-year-old batter also racked up his 79th hundred for India and is now 21 short of Tendulkar’s world record of 100 centuries.

“It was a wicket that was tricky to bat on. We got a great start. My job was to keep the momentum going when I got in. But after 10 overs, the ball started gripping

and the wicket started slowing down. My role was to bat deep and till the end after the openers fell because that's what I've done, that was the communication as well -- to have guys bat around me,” said Virat Kohli to broadcasters," he said.

"Shreyas starting hitting well as well. Shreyas and I had a lot of practice sessions before the Asia Cup and invariably batted together at 3 and 4. Both of us are comfortable against spinners," he added.

"When you lose two wickets and don't have Hardik (Pandya), you need to bat deep and get to a stage where the opposition feels like we have to restrict them.

Grateful to God that I've been blessed with such moments,” he added.

India have posted a mammoth total of 326/5 on a tricky surface where batting doesn’t look easy.

Virat Kohli talking of India's score, said, “It's a target well above par for me as the ball was gripping and it wasn't easy to get hold of the bowlers. We have a quality attack. Wicket will get slower, pressure will mount, so hopefully we start well with the new ball.”

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MULTICULTURAL NEWS AUSTRALIA

Nov 2023 - Vol 1, Issue 12

Experience the spellbinding charms of Thailand’s lantern festival

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he Lantern Festival of Thailand, colloquially known as the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, is one of the most popular and eye-catching events in Southeast Asia. It is celebrated in November when the full moon of the twelfth month the Thai lunar year appears in full glory. The festival symbolises the release of negative vibrations and misfortunes of the preceding year and bids for a more prosperous time ahead. Additionally, it marks the end of monsoons and the arrival of the winter season.

On the day of festivity, tourists and locals gather in large numbers to witness a parade of luminous paper lanterns or Khom Loi floating skyward in an ethereal procession. The vision of lambent paper lanterns ascending against the backdrop of a calm night sky is truly a surreal experience and can be enjoyed in a few locations across Thailand.

Yi Peng Lantern Festival is celebrated in a grand fashion with dedicated viewing platforms, food stalls, souvenir shops, and

even cultural exhibitions that demonstrate the history of Lanna tribes and the origin of the festival. Visitors are encouraged to dress up in formal attire, preferably white to complement the solemnity of the festival.

Here are some of the best lantern festival celebrations one can attend in Thailand this year: Yee Peng Lanna International 2023 Venue: Lanna Dhutanga, located next to Mae Jo University, Sansai, Chiang Mai Date: November 27, 2023 Ticket Tiers: Standard and Premium Additional Perks: Food Stalls, Souvenir Shops and Cultural Exhibitions Chiang Mai CAD Khom Loy Sky Lantern Festival (Eco-Friendly Sky Lanterns) Venue: CAD Cultural Centre Lanna Ethnicity, A, Ban Sa Ha Khon Moo 1T, On Klang, Mae On, Chiang Mai Date: November 27 & 28, 2023 Ticket Tiers: Standard, Premium, and VIP Additional Perks: Food Stalls,

Souvenir Shops and Numerous Festive Activities Kom Raksa (Eco-Friendly Sky Lanterns) Venue: 1317 Ban Sahakorn, Mae On, Chiang Mai Date: November 27 & 28, 2023 Ticket Tiers: Standard, Premium and VIP Additional Perks: Food Stalls, Cultural Arts and Concerts Gateway of Light Lantern, Yi Peng Lantern Festival Venue: Mae On Hot Spring Hill, Chiang Mai Date: November 27 & 28, 2023 Ticket Tiers: Standard, Premium and VIP Additional Perks: Food Stalls, Souvenir Shops and Cultural Arts Lanna Festival 2023 The Light of Yee Peng Venue: MungMaNa Farm, San Patong, Chiang Mai Date: November 27 & 28, 2023 Ticket Tiers: Standard Additional Perks: Food Stalls, Souvenir Shops, Cultural Arts and Entertainment Yee Peng Lanna Festival 2023 Venue: Gassan Panorama Golf Club, Lamphun Date: November 27 & 28, 2023 Ticket Tiers: Standard, Premium and VIP Additional Perks: Food Stalls, Souvenir Shops and Cultural Arts Chiang Mai Heritage Sky Lantern Festival 2023 Venue: I Love Banthi, Banthi, Lamphun Date: November 27, 2023 Ticket Tiers: Standard Additional Perks: Food Stalls, Souvenir Shops, Concerts and Cultural Arts (This article is website exclusive and cannot be reproduced without the permission of IANSlife) IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in

All you need to know about Ranthambore Treasures

With the place Ranthambore, the very first thing we recall is Tigers and National Park but, alongside this, there’s a lot more to explore and visit here which can actually give an extra edge to your travel and adventures. Ranthambore, a place in Rajasthan holds an absolute serenity and beauty since its forts, temples, lakes, resorts, food, cuisines, museums, safaris and various adventurous activities leave no stone unturned in amazing tourists and visitors.

If you are planning any holiday or short trip but couldn’t decide the location, we would like to suggest you to visit Ranthambore at least once in your lifetime because it's worth visiting. So, let's see what’s the best time to visit here, places to visit and where to get a comfortable yet perfect stay.

Best time to visit Ranthambore: October - November Ranthambore is a huge reserve near Sawai Madhopur

www.mccq.org.au

in Rajasthan which is also a home to leopards, tigers, lions and crocodiles. To witness all these species, the best time to visit Ranthambore is October to February since these months are a little colder and welcome winters due to which, such species can be clearly seen by naked eyes at respective national parks.

Saumitra Singh, Managing Director at The Tigress Resort and Spa, Ranthambore also says, “An ideal time to visit Ranthambore will be from October to February when the climate of this area is most favourable. Outdoor activities are very pleasant in summer as the extreme heat cools down.

Travellers can enjoy exploring the captivating Ranthambore National Park via exhilarating jungle safaris for sighting the elusive royal Bengal tiger among other wildlife in their natural surroundings. During these

periods, the sparse deciduous forests come alive to exhibit an array of wildlife that is only found in this specific season. Any nature lover would not forget such an experience”.

Famous places to visit & adventurous activities: There are many adventurous activities to do and famous places to visit such as Ranthambore Fort, Trinetra Ganesh Temple, Padam Talab and Raj Bagh Ruins, Surwal Lake, Jogi Mahal, Village Safari, Kachida Valley, Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History, Hot Air Balloon Ride, Wildlife Photography and a lot more.

Though every place has its own history, significance and reason to visit; but, few places that you should not miss while visiting Ranthambore are Trinetra Ganesh Temple and Rajiv Gandhi Regional Museum of Natural History.

Trinetra Ganesh Temple is one of the oldest temples in Rajasthan which is situated inside the Ranthambore Fort. In the entire world, this is the only Lord Ganesha's Temple that houses his entire family wherein, his statue consists of three eyes. There is a deep history behind this temple due to which it is well known for fulfilling people's wishes. Back in 1299, a war between King Hameer & Ala-ud-din Khilji happened While visiting this temple,

TRAVEL

Navigating festive season travel woes

T

he festive season in India is a time of joy, celebration, and reunion. Families come together, traditions are honoured, and the air is filled with excitement. It's also a time when many people take to the skies and roads to be with their loved ones. However, like any travel, especially during peak seasons, there can be challenges.

In this article, Harish Khatri, Founder, and MD, of India Assist - revolutionizing assistance for travellers tell IANSlife how to handle some of the most common travel woes during the festive season: lost luggage, flight delays, and medical emergencies.

Read on...

Lost Luggage Woes One of the most disheartening experiences for any traveller is the loss of luggage. Imagine arriving at your destination, ready for the festivities, only to find that your bags have taken an unexpected detour. Here's how to handle this situation: Preventative Measures: Before you travel, make sure your luggage is labelled with your contact information. This will make it easier for the airline to track you down if your bags go astray.

Immediate Reporting: If you discover your luggage is missing, report it to the airline immediately. They will create a report and initiate the search process.

Travel Insurance: Having travel insurance that covers lost luggage is a smart move. It can help you recover some of the expenses related to your lost belongings.

Flight Delays and Cancellations: During the festive season, airports can become congested, and weather-related issues can disrupt flight schedules. Here's how to manage flight delays and cancellations: Stay Informed: Keep an eye on your flight's status. Most airlines provide real-time updates online or through their apps.

Customer Service: If your flight is delayed or canceled, visit the airline's customer service desk at the airport. They can often assist in rebooking or providing information on compensation.

Know Your Rights: Familiarise yourself with your rights as a passenger. In India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has established guidelines for passenger rights.

Handling Medical Emergencies: Nobody wants to fall ill during the festive season, but it can happen. Here's how to manage medical emergencies while traveling: Carry Medications: If you have a pre-existing medical condition, ensure you have an adequate supply of necessary medications.

Carry a copy of your prescription for reference.

Emergency Contacts: Have a list of emergency contacts, including local medical facilities and your doctor, handy. In case of a medical issue, quick access to help is crucial.

Travel Assistance Services: Consider enrolling in a travel assistance service. These services offer 24/7 access to medical professionals who can guide you in case of an emergency. They can also help you find nearby medical facilities.

The Role of Travel Assistance Services and How Travelers Can Avail Them In all three scenarios, travel assistance services play a critical role in ensuring your festive season remains joyful and stress-free. These services provide support and guidance when you need it most. Travelers can avail of travel assistance services through their travel agents, tour operators, or hotel partners. Whether it's help with lost luggage, flight delays, or medical emergencies, these services are designed to make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable."

Lost Luggage: Travel assistance can help you track your lost luggage, providing real-time updates and aiding in its return.

Moreover, they can also help you file an FIR (First Information Report) with the nearest police station.

Flight Delays: Travel assistance providers can assist with rebooking or canceling flights, as well as liaise with airlines to ensure you have the information and support you need.

Medical Emergencies: When faced with a medical emergency, travel assistance services offer immediate access to medical professionals. They can help you locate nearby hospitals or clinics, connect you with doctors, and even assist with medical evacuations if required.

By enrolling in a travel assistance service, you're essentially arming yourself with a dedicated team of professionals ready to assist you during your festive travels.

Travellers can opt for travel assistance services through their travel agents, tour operators, or hotel partners.

The festive season in India is a time of togetherness and celebration. While travel challenges like lost luggage, flight delays, and medical emergencies can be unnerving, preparation and access to travel assistance services can make all the difference. By following the tips mentioned and considering the role of travel assistance services, you can ensure a festive season that's not only filled with joy but also hassle-free and safe.

(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

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ENTERTAINMENT

Jack Black goes shirtless to belt out Taylor Al Pacino, girlfriend Noor Swift’s ‘Anti Hero’ at a SAG-AFTRA fundraiser Alfallah dismiss split rumours as they step out for date

Los Angeles, Oct 27 (IANS)

A

ctor-singer Jack Black stripped up shirtless to sing Taylor Swift‘s song ‘Anti-Hero’ at a SAG-AFTRA fundraiser on October 25. Black, who had been expected to perform a stand-up set, ripped his shirt off and walked through the crowd to people’s surprise and amusement, and queried for any song requests.

In fan-captured footage uploaded to X formerly Twitter, the Tenacious D singer was seen on stage, having just performed a stand-up comedy set at the ‘Give Back-ular Spectacular!’ event held at the Orpheum Theater, which supports members of SAG-AFTRA affected by the current strike. Other performers present included Janelle James, Halle Berry, Lily Tomlin and Dax Shepard.

Black stripped off his shirt at the gig and tossed it on the ground.

Relegated to his boxers, the

‘Kung Fu Panda’ actor paced around on the stage surveying the crowd as they began clapping and cheering.

Holding his microphone to the crowd, Black asked if they had any requests. One audience member threw out a song suggestion Black, to which he replied: “I know that one.

Everyone knows that f***** song!”

Initially singing the song in a more comical tone, Black soon began doing a more guttural version and started spouting gibberish once it was clear that the ‘School of Rock’ actor had forgotten the lyrics. But that didn’t stop him from just dishing it out, to which the audience was laughing and having a great time.

It was a lighthearted moment amid the seriousness of the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strikes, which have had a considerably negative impact on the economy since starting in July.

The ‘Give Back-ular Spectacular!’

has raised emergency relief funds for both union and nonunion crew members in need, seeing that many of the crew members have gone without a paycheck during the hiatus as tension remains between SAG-AFTRA and the studios. The SAG-AFTRA strike has lasted 104 days, and combined with the recently concluded WGA strikes, the whole thing has lasted nearly six months, according to Variety.

Talks between SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) and Hollywood studios were due to re-open this week, having previously broken down earlier in the month.

The action began in July when the union failed to come to an agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) over increased pay, a share of streaming revenue and protection against actors’ images and voices being replicated by AI.

Dwayne Johnson sings to mom on her 75th birthday: ‘Feel like the luckiest son on earth’

Los Angeles, Oct 26 (IANS)

H

ollywood star Dwayne Johnson has wished his mother Ata Johnson a happy birthday. Recently, Johnson, 51, www.mccq.org.au

shared a video on Instagram of himself singing with his mother, who has turned 75.

Ata can be seen playing a ukulele in the video as she and Dwayne

performed a special birthday song together, reports People magazine.

“Don’t start crying," Dwayne jokes in the video, before his mother says: “I want to sing. Do you know how to sing in tune?” “I know how to sing in keys that don’t exist”, Dwayne joked, before launching into the tune.

As per People, during the song, the pair joked that Ata is only turning 59 before Dwayne placed a pink-coloured lei around her neck and planted a kiss on her head.

"Before I even start singing to my mom her special Happy Birthday song, she starts to cry", Dwayne wrote in the caption to his post. "Probably because I always sing in keys that don’t exist."

"Happy birthday Mom," he added in the caption. "75 years of experience, wisdom, hard times, good times, laughter, mana, and yet through it all — you TRULY have the KINDEST HEART I have ever known. I feel like the luckiest son on earth (sic).”

To top the post off, Dwayne wrote: "Ou Te Alofa Ia Te Oe", which roughly translates from Samoan to English as "I love you”.

Los Angeles, Oct 26 (IANS)

S

carface’ star Al Pacino and girlfriend Noor Alfallah dismissed rumours about their split as they headed out for a date night in Los Angeles.

The 83-year-old actor was spotted with the producer, 29, going for dinner at Pace Italian restaurant, just days after she was enjoying a playful date with Prince Alexander von Furstenberg, reports Mirror. co.uk.

Noor, who gave birth to their son Roman in June, reportedly filed for sole custody of their child. The producer had filed a petition in Los Angeles Superior Court and along with reasonable visitation, she had also requested that the award-winning actor have “joint legal custody.”

However, the couple defied the rumours and enjoyed a romantic outing in Los Angeles, with Noor walking ahead of the veteran Hollywood icon as he ambled behind her.

As per Mirror.co.uk, she dressed casually for the occasion, rocking

a pair of black drawstring trousers and a cropped leather jacket, while Al tried to keep a low profile with a dark coat and sunglasses.

A spokesperson for the ‘Scarface’ star shut down reports of their break-up with a statement, as they told DailyMail.com that the couple have “mutually reached an agreement regarding their son”, and were still together.

“Al and Noor have successfully worked together and have mutually reached agreements regarding their child Roman.

They are together. They haven't split,” they added.

Noor’s date night with Al comes just a few days after she was spotted having a playful lunch outing with Prince Alexander von Furstenberg, the son of fashion designer Diane von Fürstenberg and Prince Egon von Furstenberg. The duo indulged in lunch and were captured hugging and being touchy-feely while waiting for their valet in the queue.

‘Queen of Pop’: Madonna becomes highest-selling female recording artiste of all time

L

iving up to her title, Madonna has now truly become the ‘Queen of Pop’, as she is riding atop waves of grand success. Topping music sales, the ‘Material Girl’ singer who is currently on her Celebration Tour has been re-certified by the Guinness World Records as the highest-selling female recording artiste of all time.

Estimated figures indicate that Madonna has sold over 400 million records comprising albums, singles and digital media during her 40-year music career.

“Queen of Pop Madonna seems to be unreachable when it comes to music sales,” the magazine wrote on its X handle formerly called Twitter.

According to the Guinness World Records’ social media, the singer has held the record since 2009 and is followed by Rihanna, Mariah Carey, Taylor Swift

and Beyoncé, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Earlier this month Madonna kicked off her critically lauded Celebration Tour at London's O2 Arena with a two-hour set that had the audience of 20,000 up on their feet for the duration of the concert.

As of July 2022, Guinness World Records said Madonna is also the highest-grossing female touring artist, after grossing more than $1.3 billion from her tours. But that number is likely to increase after her latest stint.

The ‘Queen of Pop’ began her tour in London on October 14, before making her way to the U.S. on December 13.

Madonna’s tour was initially supposed to kick off in July though it was later postponed after she was hospitalised with a bacterial infection.

She wrote on social media amidst her recovery process: “Thank you for your positive energy, Prayers and words for healing and encouragement. I have felt your love. I’m on the road to recovery and incredibly grateful for all the blessings in my life.”

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MULTICULTURAL NEWS AUSTRALIA

Nov 2023 - Vol 1, Issue 12

‘Honest mistake’: French museum darkens skin tone of The Rock’s wax figure

Paris, Oct 25 (IANS)

F

rance's Musee Grevin took Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's comments and social media outcry over the star's botched wax figure to heart, reports 'Variety'.

Within 24 hours, his figure was updated by artists who gave it a slightly darker skin tone

with meticulous strokes of oil painting. Johnson's suburban dad-esque outfit, however, has remained.

"We found his reaction rather friendly when addressing the fact that his figure was indeed whiter than it should have been," said Veronique Berecz, the museum’s head of public relations.

Berecz has been at the iconic museum for over four decades and worked closely with the likes of Michael Jackson, Nicolas Cage and Donald Sutherland on their respective wax figures, notes 'Variety'.

"Unfortunately, we didn't get to meet Dwayne Johnson so we used several photos -- but as it turns out, pictures can be very tricky because the nuances of skin tones can differ depending on the lighting on photos,” she said, according to 'Variety'.

"Every time, the sculptor has to determine the exact face and body shapes, the volumes and it's always a very complicated challenge if we haven't met the person," Berecz added.

Berecz, 'Variety' added, pointed out that Johnson's figure required special treatment from the museum from the get-go.

"We conducted a casting of models based on his body measurements, and that wasn't a small undertaking because we had to find a man who had roughly the same body type as Dwayne Johnson -- a height of 6'5" with those huge muscles -- and we found our model in a bodybuilding club!" Berecz said.

Asked about her thoughts on accusations of the museum "white washing" Johnson’s figure, she said it didn't cross anyone's mind. "This has nothing do with it -- we just made an honest mistake based on the photos we looked at," she said.

Jennifer Lopez dances to Usher, Adele tracks at their Las Vegas concerts

Los Angeles, Oct 24 (IANS)

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ctress Jennifer Lopez is a big fan of both Usher and Adele.

The 'Play' singer, 54, recently shared an Instagram reel which consisted of a lot of dancing and singing.

The clip began with Jennifer’s night at Usher’s ‘My Way’ Las Vegas residency, reports People magazine.

Jennifer appeared to be in great spirits as she sang along with the crowd to Usher's hit ‘Burn’.

She danced while holding up her phone torch light and sipped a drink.

“Until Next Time Vegas…,” the star wrote in the caption of her clip, as she swayed enthusiastically to the beat as rapper Nas joined Usher onstage. www.mccq.org.au

As per People, on Saturday night, the singer passionately sang along to Adele’s ‘Someone Like You’ at her Weekends with Adele residency.

The video then captured Adele walking among the audience and giving Jennifer a salute, before shouting, “Love you J.Lo,” when she was back onstage, to which Jennifer replied by writing, “Love you too Adele!”

'The Mother' actress’ attire consisted of black high-waisted pants and a stylish white cropped top.

One user commented under her post, “I just imagine those people going to see Usher and Adele and you right there in the crowd ahhhhh double treat.”

Meanwhile, the mom-of-two has also been enjoying stylish nights out on the arm of her husband, Ben Affleck.

On October 17, the couple were photographed in Los Angeles enjoying a night out at Peppermint Club, and they wore their chicest fall ‘fits for the occasion’.

The ‘This is Me…Now’ singer kept super cosy in a white teddy bear coat featuring a dramatic collar.

Meanwhile, the ‘Air’ director, 51, opted for an all-black suit consisting of a button-up shirt, jacket and trousers. He rounded out his look with a pair of classic black shoes.

ENTERTAINMENT

Sofia Coppola left ‘Little Mermaid’ after studio executive asked how it’d appeal to 35-year-old men

Los Angeles, Oct 26 (IANS)

F

ilmmaker Sofia Coppola on her press tour for ‘Priscilla’ has touched upon two high-profile projects that fell by the wayside.

The first was the final ‘Twilight’ movie, ‘Breaking Dawn’ which Summit Entertainment split into two films that were released in 2011 and 2012 and grossed a combined $1.5 billion at the worldwide box office, reports Variety.

Coppola told Rolling Stone that her journey with the final ‘Twilight’ movie lasted only a single meeting. “We had one meeting, and it never went anywhere,” the director said, quoted by Variety. “I thought the whole imprinting-werewolf thing was weird. The baby. Too weird!

But part of the earlier ‘Twilight’ could be done in an interesting way. I thought it’d be fun to do a teen-vampire romance, but the last one gets really far out.”

Bill Condon ended up serving as the director of both final ‘Twilight’ films. The baby Coppola is referring to is Renesmee, Bella Swan and Edward Cullen’s vampire/human hybrid child. She has the ability to show people her thoughts by touching them.

“I think it’d be fun to do sci-fi and I think it’d be fun to do, not like gory, but I like gothic horror,” Coppola added. “I don’t have an idea, though.”

As per Variety, another project Coppola discussed with ‘Rolling Stone’ was her live-action ‘The Little Mermaid’, which

she developed with Universal Pictures and Working Title around 2014.

Coppola was planning to sidestep the famous Disney animated film and return the story to its darker roots in the original Hans Christian Anderson fairytale.

She left the project after clashing with the studios over the budget required to bring the underwater world to life, but she told Rolling Stone that she knew hit a breaking point with the film after a studio executive mentioned that the film should appeal to older men.

“Yes, there was (a breaking point). I was in a boardroom and some development guy said, ‘What’s gonna get the 35-yearold man in the audience?’ And I just didn’t know what to say”, Coppola said. “I just was not in my element. I felt like I was naive, and then I felt a lot like the character in the story, trying to do something out of my element, and it was a funny parallel of the story for me.”

Coppola had told IndieWire back in 2017 that her ‘Little Mermaid’ was not the Disney version, adding: “It was actually the original fairy tale, which is much darker. I thought it would be fun to do a fairy tale. I’ve always loved fairy tales, so I was curious about doing that… It became too big of a scale. I wanted to shoot it really underwater, which would have been a nightmare.

But underwater photography is so beautiful. We even did some tests. It was not very realistic, that approach. But it was interesting to think about.”

31

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Your 5 minute neighbourhood:

* Please be advised that the provided outline is intended solely for location reference purposes and is indicative only.

500,000

St Peters Lutheran College offers Prep to Year 12 Christian co-education.

Orion Springfield Central offering major retail shops, restaurants, a movie theatre and food court.

Just 35 minutes away from Brisbane CBD, the interest among buyers has been at a record level, according to Narendran Sinnathamby, the General Manager of Brookwater Residential.

Brookwater’s current land release, The Dress Circle, is situated around the first nine holes of the championship golf course designed by Greg Norman. It is the only integrated golf community near Brisbane. “Discerning buyers are recognising that Brookwater is a premium lifestyle destination,’’Mr Sinnathamby said.

“The Dress Circle, Brookwater is situated within Springfield City, one of Australia’s fastestgrowing regions. Springfield City sets the standard for world-class master-planned urban environments in the 21st century and has become a blueprint for nation-building,” he added.

“The area boasts outstanding schools, and state-of-the-art health facilities, and is now home to the Brisbane Lions AFL Club. Everything you need is within reach.”

Within the Springfield City area, there are 12 schools, 22 childcare facilities, and the University of Southern Queensland providing a remarkable array of options for both private and public amenities, making it an ideal choice for growing families.

Springfield City is positioned as the gateway to the western corridor of Southeast Queensland.

With an expansive area of 2,860 hectares, it is Australia’s largest master-planned city and the first of its kind since Canberra.

Estimated Residential Population

450,000

Health City Springfield Central – home to Mater Private Hospital Springfield, Aveo Springfield and Quest Apartment Hotel.

400,000 350,000 300,000 250,000 200,000 150,000 100,000 50,000 0

2021 Springfield

2026 2031 2036 2041 Greater Springfield Springfield Growth Corridor SOURCE: ECONISIS

- The wider Springfield Growth Corridor including Springfield and Greater Springfield is currently home to 145,300 people.

- This is expected to grow rapidly to almost 200,000 people in 2026 and over 435,000 in 2041.

- Represents an annual growth rate of 5.6% over the 20 years to 2041.

LARGE REGISTERED HOMESITES FROM $615,000

CALL US NOW AND VISIT THE SALES CENTRE:

07 3814 5177

www.mccq.org.au

3 Birchwood Crescent, Brookwater. Open daily 9am – 5pm

B R O O K WAT E R R E S I D E N T I A L .CO M . AU

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