Expressing his stance against de-dollarisation vehemently on
Friday, Donald Trump warned BRICS nations and threatened them with 100 per cent tariffs on their exports if they try to replace the US dollar as the main currency in global trade.
President Trump has repeatedly said that BRICS nations must maintain the US dollar's role in global trade or face economic
consequences, said an NDTV report.
Friday’s warning is a repeat of the one that he made on November 30, weeks after winning the 2024 election, the report stated.
In a post President Trump wrote, “The idea that the BRICS
Washington, Jan 31 (IANS)
Washington D.C. Fire Chief has said that there are likely no survivors in the mid-air collision of a passenger plane and helicopter near Reagan National Airport on Wednesday night.
"We are now at a point where we are switching from a rescue operation to a recovery operation. At this point, we don't believe there are any survivors from this accident," John Donnelly, chief of the District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department, told a press conference at the airport on Thursday morning.
The American Airlines plane had
Washington, Jan 27 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday spoke to U.S. President Donald Trump, saying both leaders are committed to a 'mutually beneficial and trusted partnership'.
New Delhi, Jan 29 (IANS) At least 30 people were killed and about
No survivors expected in aircraft collision in Washington, says fire chief Mahakumbh: 30
60 injured in the stampede that broke out at the mela ground in Prayagraj, in the early hours of Wednesday, a top police officer said.
Vaibhav Krishna, the DIG rank officer at Mahakumbh told the press that 25 bodies have been identified so far and the process of identification for the rest is
Maha Kumbh stampede: Extremely sad, my deepest condolences to devotees who lost loved ones, says PM Modi
New Delhi, Jan 29 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed grief over the stampede incident in Prayagraj Maha Kumbh and offered condolences to the devotees who have lost their loved ones.
In a social media post on X, PM
“Delighted to speak with my dear friend President @ realDonaldTrump @POTUS,” PM Modi wrote on X.
The Prime Minister said that he also congratulated President Trump on his historic second term.
Modi said the local administration was engaged in helping the victims in every possible way and he was constantly in touch with the state government.
"The accident that happened in Prayagraj Maha Kumbh is extremely sad. My deepest condolences to the devotees who have lost their loved ones in this. Along with this, I wish for the speedy recovery of all the injured.
The local administration is engaged in helping the victims in
every possible way. In this regard, I have spoken to Chief Minister Yogi ji and I am constantly in touch with the state government," said PM Modi in the post (in Hindi).
Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said some devotees had been critically injured in the stampede and are being treated in hospitals. He said the situation in Maha Kumbh was now under control.
glorious
New Delhi, Jan 26 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday, extended greetings to the nation on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day.
In a post on X, he prayed that this occasion would strengthen our efforts towards preserving the ideals of our Constitution.
"Happy Republic Day. Today,
we celebrate 75 glorious years of being a Republic. We bow to all the great women and men who made our Constitution and ensured that our journey is rooted in democracy, dignity and unity. May this occasion strengthen our efforts towards preserving the ideals of our Constitution and working towards a stronger and prosperous India," said the PM. President Droupadi Murmu will lead the Nation in celebrating the 76th Republic Day from Kartavya Path in the national capital. With a special focus on 75
EDITORIAL TEAM
Dr Ram Mohan, Chairman
Dr Ashutosh Misra, Editor-in-Chief
EDITORIAL BOARD
Amrita Deshpande, Community News Editor
Paras Sharma, Assistant Editor
Dr Uttam Kumar Sinha, Senior Fellow, Nehru Memorial Museum & Library, India
Mr Shaun Star, Director, Centre for Australia India Studies, Jindal Global University, India
INDIA NEWS TV
Mr Karthik Pratap Singh, News Director
Mr. Agastya Yeturi, Cinematographer
Mr Nishit Chandan, Special Correspondent
INDIA BUREAU CHIEF
Harpreet Bhagrath
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Ms Kriti Bharadwaj
WRITERS
Dr Devashish Chakraborty
Rabindra Mukherji
PHOTOGRAPHER
Vinoraa Photography
facebook.com/vinoraaphotography
WEBSITE DESIGN & MANAGEMENT
Cosmos Media (www.cosmosmedia.info)
DESIGNER
Cosmos Media (www.cosmosmedia.info)
PUBLISHING & DISTRIBUTION
Star Promotions
ADDRESS
India News
Unit 49, 391, WICKHAM TERRACE, Ground Floor, Spring Hill, Brisbane, QLD – 4000
a Republic, bow to all great women and men: PM Modi
Continued from Page 1
years of enactment of the Constitution and Jan Bhagidari, the celebrations this year will be a unique blend of India’s rich cultural diversity, unity, equality, development and military prowess, according to a government press release.
The President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto will be the Chief Guest.
Around 10,000 special guests have been invited to witness the parade, in line with the government’s objective to increase ‘Jan Bhagidari’ in events of national importance.
These guests from different walks of life are the architects of ‘Swarnim Bharat’. They include the best performers in various fields and those who have made the best use of the schemes of the government.
The parade, 'The Republic Day Parade' will start at 10.30 a.m.
and run for a duration of approx. 90 minutes. The ceremony will commence with the visit of PM Modi to the National War Memorial, where he will lead the nation in paying solemn tributes to the fallen heroes by laying a wreath. Thereafter, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries will head to the saluting dais at Kartavya Path to witness the parade.
The arrival of the President of India and her Indonesian counterpart will be escorted by the President’s Bodyguard, the seniormost Regiment of the Indian Army.
The two Presidents will arrive in the ‘Traditional Buggy’, the practice which made a comeback in 2024 after a gap of 40 years.
As per tradition, the National Flag will be unfurled followed by the National Anthem with a thunderous 21-gun salute using 105-mm Light Field Guns, an indigenous weapon system.
The parade will be heralded by 300 cultural artists playing ‘Sare Jahan Se Achha’ with musical instruments from different parts of the country.
This indigenous mix of instruments would resonate with the melody, beat and hopes of a billion Indians' hearts.
The ensemble of instruments includes Shehnai, Sundari, Nadaswaram, Been, Mashak Been, Ransingha - Rajasthan, Flute, Karadi Majalu, Mohuri, Sankha, Tutari, Dhol, Gong, Nishan, Chang, Tasha, Sambal, Chenda, Idakka, Lezim, Thavil, Gudum Baza, Talam and Monbah.
Showering of flower petals will be carried out by Mi-17 1V helicopters from 129 Helicopter Unit in the Dhwaj Formation.
Trooping the National Flag, this formation of helicopters will be led by Group Captain Alok Ahlawat.
PM Modi & President Trump discuss ‘mutually beneficial’ ties
Continued from Page 1
“We are committed to a mutually beneficial and trusted partnership. We will work together for the welfare of our people and towards global peace, prosperity, and security,” PM Modi wrote on X.
There was no word yet from the White House, which, as is the practice, will release a readout of the conversation shortly.
This was the second phone conversation between the two leaders after President Trump’s re-election; the first took place just after Trump won the election in November.
The two leaders have shared a close personal relationship going
Maha Kumbh
back to President Trump’s first term from 2017 to 2021.
The U.S. President jointly addressed a rally hosted for Prime Minister Modi in Houston in 2019 called the “Howdy Modi” rally and then he travelled to India in February 2020 for a “Namaste Trump” in PM Modi’s home state Gujarat.
The two leaders will meet personally sometime this year.
According to a report officials of the two countries are trying to arrange for a meeting in February but neither side has made any announcements to that effect yet.
They will meet most certainly when President Trump travels to India for a summit of the Quad
countries. It’s India’s turn to host the summit and likely this year.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar represented the Prime Minister at Trump’s inauguration last week and attended all related events, even a prayer service where guests included the Trump family, cabinet members and the U.S. President allies in the tech world, such as Elon Musk of Tesla, Mark Zuckerberg of Meta and Jeff Bezos of Amazon, Sundar Pichai of Google.
Jaishankar was also Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s first foreign guest for a bilateral meeting at the State Department, following another meeting of the Quad foreign ministers, along with Australia’s Penny Wong and Japan’s Iwaya Takeshi.
stampede: Extremely sad, my deepest condolences to devotees who lost loved ones, says PM Modi
Continued from Page 1
He also urged the people not to pay attention to the rumours. He said that around 8-10 crore devotees are present in Prayagraj and there is continuous pressure due to the movement of devotees towards the Sangam Nose. He said that around three crore people have taken a holy dip as of 8.30 a.m.
The CM said this while speaking to the media in Lucknow even as the high-level meeting of top officials at his residence was ongoing. He expressed grief over the stampede in the Maha Kumbh Mela and said all assistance was being provided and the administration was alert. Giving details about the stampede, CM Yogi said the situation happened at 2 a.m. as devotees rushed to the Sangam
nose and the barricades broke due to a massive crowd. The
CM said, "A few devotees have suffered serious injuries when they tried to cross barricading on Akhara Marg. The injured have been shifted to hospitals for medical treatment. Since Mauni Amavasya mahurat started last night, a large number of devotees have been coming in."
CM Yogi said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken stock of the situation four times till now.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Governor Anandiben Patel are also continuously taking reports of the situation, he said.
"The situation in Prayagraj is under control but the crowd size remains massive. The saints of different Akhaaras have said that devotees should take the holy dip first and once crowds reduce
De-dollarisation:
President Trump threatens BRICS with 100 pc tariffs
Continued from Page 1
Countries are trying to move away from the Dollar, while we stand by and watch, is OVER."
"We are going to require a commitment from these seemingly hostile Countries that they will neither create a new BRICS Currency, nor back any other Currency to replace the mighty US Dollar or, they will face 100 per cent tariffs, and should expect to say goodbye to selling into the wonderful US Economy," said NDTV, quoting a post by the US President.“They can go find another sucker Nation. There is no chance that BRICS will replace the US Dollar in International Trade, or anywhere else, and any Country that tries should say
hello to Tariffs, and goodbye to America,” Trump wrote in his post on Friday. For years, the BRICS group of nations have been mulling ways to reduce dependence on the American dollar. Even though the grouping does not have a common currency as of now, its member nations that include Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa have been of late promoting trade in their local currencies, the report said.
Significantly, Russia called for de-dollarisation at the 15th BRICS Summit in 2023 and the move gained momentum at the June 2024 BRICS foreign ministers' meeting in Russia, where member states advocated for using local currencies in bilateral and multilateral trade, the report said.
Mahakumbh: 30 dead, 60 injured in stampede, says UP top cop
Continued from Page 1
underway. He said the injured are currently undergoing treatment at the hospital.
This is the first official confirmation about the death toll and the number of injured in the Mahakumbh stampede. Soon after the news broke about deaths in stampede, political parties were prompt in offering their condolences on loss of loved ones, however, the number of deaths was not clear.
Addressing the media, the DIG rank officer overseeing the Mahakumbh festivities said:
"At around 1-2 a.m. before the Brahma Muhurta, a huge crowd gathered at the Akhara Marg. Due to the massive gathering, the barricades on the other side broke and the crowd ran over the devotees, wanting to take a dip at the Sangam."
He said that at least 90 people
were taken to the hospital through ambulances but unfortunately, 30 devotees have passed away.
Sharing information on the unidentified deceased devotees, he said that they are from Assam, Gujarat and Karnataka.
Also, talking about the Uttar Pradesh government’s efforts in salvaging the situation post stampede, he said that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made an appeal to all the saints, seers, Akharas and Mahamandaleshwars to postpone their dip by a few hours.
Notably, 'Mauni Amavasya' is the one of most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar, falling on Magh Krishna Amavasya. It is believed that on this day, the water of holy river turns into ‘Amrit’. The bath on this day is traditionally performed in silence.
No survivors expected in aircraft collision in Washington, says fire chief
Continued from Page 1
Akharas will proceed for the holy dip," the CM said.
CM Yogi once again appealed to the devotees not to pay attention to the rumours and to visit other ghats. "There are large crowds at Sangam Nose, Nag Vasuki Marg and Sangam Marg. I appeal to the devotees to not pay attention to any rumours. Ghats have been made in the entire Kumbh area, devotees don't need to move towards Sangam nose only. Devotees should take holy dip at the ghats nearest to them."
The CM said the administration was ensuring proper medical treatment of the injured persons. The Railways have organised special trains from different stations in the Prayagraj region to take devotees back to their respective destinations, he said.
60 passengers and four crew members, while three US Army soldiers were onboard the Black Hawk helicopter, Xinhua news agency reported.
Donnelly said that at 8:48 p.m. local time Wednesday night, the control tower sounded an alert, notifying responders about a reported aircraft crash on or near the airport, noting that about 300 rescuers responded to the accident.
"These responders found extremely frigid conditions. They found heavy wind. They found ice on the water, and they operated all night in those conditions," he added.
"We have recovered 27 people from the plane and one from the helicopter," said the Fire Chief. "The crash area is a little spread out, so we've got some work to do."
At the press conference, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said that the helicopter was following a "standard" flight pattern on Wednesday night and the passenger plane was also on a "standard" approach as it was coming into Washington D.C., without specifying what went wrong before the deadly collision. Duffy noted that the National Transportation Safety Board will begin analysing the aircraft in partnership with the Federal Aviation Administration.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said American Eagle flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, travelling from Wichita, Kansas, to Reagan National Airport, was involved in the accident just before 9 p.m. local time Wednesday on its final approach into the airport.
New Delhi: The military band conducts rehearsals for the Beating Retreat ceremony, a traditional conclusion to the Republic Day celebrations, at Vijay Chowk in New Delhi on Monday, January 27, 2025.
Ranchi: Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar inspects the 76th Republic Day Parade at Morabadi Ground in Ranchi, Jharkhand, on Sunday, January 26, 2025
Seattle: Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, attends India’s 76th Republic Day celebration in Seattle, Washington State, on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Bhopal: Police personnel march past during the 76th Republic Day Parade at the Lal Parade Ground in Bhopal on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Patna: Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan inspects the Republic Day function at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
New Delhi: Visitors explore the vibrant display of Republic Day parade tableaux at the Red Fort grounds in New Delhi on Monday, January 27, 2025.
Jabalpur: Police personnel march past during the 76th Republic Day Parade at the Police Line in Jabalpur on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Guwahati: Artists perform during the 76th Republic Day celebrations at Khanapara Veterinary Field in Guwahati on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Bengaluru: Indian Army’s Gorkha Rifles personnel perform ‘Khukuri’ dance during the 76th Republic Day celebration at Manekshaw Parade Grounds in Bengaluru on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Srinagar: Artists perform during the 76th Republic Day celebrations at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Nagaon: Police personnel march past during the Republic Day parade in Nagaon District of Assam on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
New Delhi: An illuminated view of India Gate during the 76th Republic Day celebrations along Kartavya Path in New Delhi on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Jaipur: Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari unfurls the Indian national flag during the 76th Republic Day celebrations at Badi Chopad in Jaipur on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Putin greets Prez Murmu, PM Modi on occasion of India’s 76th R-Day
New Delhi, Jan 26 (IANS) Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday congratulated his Indian counterpart Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of the country's 76th Republic Day.
The Russian leader in a message said: " Honourable Mrs President, Honourable Mr Prime Minister, Please accept sincere congratulations on the occasion of the national holiday - the Republic Day."
Putin said: "India’s achievements in the economic, social, scientific, technological and other spheres are widely known. Your country is making a substantial contribution to ensuring international stability
and security and to addressing vital issues on the regional and global agenda."
The message mentioned that "the Constitution that came into force 75 years ago laid the foundation for building effective state institutions and a free democratic development of India".
India and Russia have enjoyed and maintained healthy and strong bilateral relations since the Soviet era.
Speaking of his country's relation with India, Putin said: "We set a high value on the relations of privileged strategic partnership between our states.
I am confident that by working together we can ensure the continued growth of mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation in all areas. This undoubtedly meets the fundamental interests of the friendly peoples of Russia and India."
The Russian President concluded his message by saying: "Sincerely wish the best of health and
every success to you as well as happiness and well-being - to all Indian citizens."
Colourful programmes marked the 76th Republic Day celebrations in the national capital's Kartavya Path.
India's rich cultural heritage and its military might on full display, with the country's top leadership as well as thousands of delegates in attendance.
More than 30 tableaux from 16 state governments and Union Territories, Central ministries, Tri-services and veterans participated in the celebrations, highlighting this year's theme of 'Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas'.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto was the chief guest at this year’s Republic Day celebrations, which also saw about 10,000 special guests in attendance. These guests are called the architects of 'Swarnim Bharat' (golden India).
India showcases extensive display of ‘Nari Shakti’ during Republic Day
New Delhi, Jan 26 (IANS) India celebrated its 76th Republic Day on Sunday with grandeur at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, where the parade and tableaux showcased the nation's progress, cultural richness, and military strength, with a significant emphasis on 'Nari Shakti' (women empowerment).
One of the highlights was the all-women marching contingent of the Central Reserve Police
Force (CRPF), led by Assistant Commandant Aishwarya Joy M.
The 148-member contingent, comprising women soldiers deployed across the country for anti-Naxal, anti-insurgency, and law-and-order operations, exemplified the spirit of women's empowerment.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development's tableau, focusing on maternal care, life cycle continuity, and women's leadership, portrayed a girl's journey from childhood to becoming a self-reliant woman.
The Delhi Police All-Women Band, led by Band Master Ruyangunuo Kense, also captured attention during the celebrations.
Participating for the second time, the band included four women Sub-Inspectors and 64 women
constables from the Delhi Police Brass and Pipe Band.
The Ministry of Rural Development's tableau also showcased the empowering Indian women under the 'Lakhpati Didi Yojana.'
The Republic Day ceremony was presided over by President Droupadi Murmu, who unfurled the national flag at Kartavya Path, accompanied by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, the Chief Guest for this year's event.
In a revival of tradition, both Presidents were escorted to Kartavya Path in the 'Traditional Buggy' by the President's Bodyguard, "Rashtrapati ke Angarakshak," the seniormost regiment of the Indian Army. The practice was reinstated in 2024 after a hiatus of 40 years.
Former Lok Sabha Speaker and former Maharashtra Chief Minister late Manohar Joshi and a renowned Fazal and playback singer late Pankaj Udhas have been posthumously awarded
Padma Bhushan.
Moreover, twelve others have been awarded Padma Shri. The list includes Calligrapher Achyut Palav, former SBI chairperson Arundhati Bhattacharya, veteran actor and Maharashtra Bhushan Ashok Saraf, veteran classical singer Ashwini BhideDeshpande, leading actor Shekhar Kapur, Baripada forest conservator Chaitram Pawar, veteran singer Jaspinder Narula, naturalist, wildlife conservationist and Marathi writer Maruti Chitampalli, veteran flautists Ronu and Ranendra Bhanu Majumdar, agricultural expert Subhash Sharma, painter Vasudev
President Murmu unfurls national flag at Kartavya Path
New Delhi, Jan 26 (IANS)
President Droupadi Murmu presided over the 76th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path, New Delhi, by unfurling the national flag and led the nation in commemorating the historic day. Accompanying her was Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, the Chief Guest for this year's festivities.
As part of the tradition, both Presidents were escorted to Kartavya Path by the President's Bodyguard, 'Rashtrapati ke Angarakshak', the seniormost regiment of the Indian Army. Reviving a tradition discontinued for 40 years, they arrived in the 'Traditional Buggy,' adding a regal charm to the celebrations. Upon their arrival, they were welcomed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister also welcomed Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and his wife Sudesh Dhankhar at Kartavya Path.
The National Flag was unfurled amidst the playing of the National Anthem, followed by a thunderous 21-gun salute performed using indigenous 105-mm Light Field Guns.
This year's Republic Day celebrations focused on 75 years of the Constitution's enactment and emphasised "Jan Bhagidari" (public participation). The festivities showcased India's cultural diversity, unity, equality, development, and military
strength.
The parade will begin with 300 cultural artists playing "Sare Jahan Se Achha" using a mix of traditional musical instruments from across the country, such as Shehnai, Nadaswaram, Mashak Been, Flute, Sankha, Tutari, and Dhol, resonating with the hopes and pride of a billion Indians.
Mi-17 1V helicopters from the 129 Helicopter Unit will perform a breathtaking flower-petal shower in the Dhwaj Formation to conclude the event. This formation, symbolising the national flag, will be led by Group Captain Alok Ahlawat.
The parade, commanded by Lieutenant General Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, will begin with the President taking the salute. Major General Sumit Mehta will serve as the Parade Second-in-Command.
Gallantry award winners will lead the parade, including Param Vir Chakra recipients Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd) and Subedar Major Sanjay Kumar (Retd), and Ashok Chakra recipient Lt Col Jas Ram Singh (Retd). The Param Vir Chakra honours acts of the highest bravery in the face of the enemy, while the Ashok Chakra recognises similar valour not involving direct combat.
Adding a global touch to the ceremony, the Marching Contingent of the Indonesian National Armed Forces, comprising 152 members, and the Military Band of Indonesia's Military Academy, with 190 members, will also participate in the parade.
Tibetans celebrate R-Day, express gratitude to India
Kamat and senior homoeopathy expert Dr Vilas Dangre.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has congratulated and wishes all the best for the future endeavours of all Padma awardees.
“All of them have enhanced the glory of their respective fields with their respective achievements. Due to this the reputation of these sectors has been enhanced. It is inspiring,” he said.
Fadnavis mentioned that the birthplace of Chitampalli and Dr Dangre hail from Nagpur and especially from the Vidarbha region.
Dharamsala, Jan 26 (IANS) The Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) on Sunday celebrated India’s 76th Republic Day here, commemorating the day in 1950 when India’s Constitution came into effect.
The celebration was attended by officiating Sikyong Tharlam Dolma Changra, Minister for Education, Deputy Speaker Dolma Tsering Teykhang, Minister for Information and International Relations Norzin Dolma, besides senior officials, including CTA Secretaries.
Following the flag-hoisting ceremony, Changra extended heartfelt greetings to the Indian government and people on behalf of the Tibetan people.
In her address, Dolma said, “Republic Day celebrated on 26 January each year, marks the day India adopted its Constitution in 1950. It is a day of immense national pride, symbolising India’s democratic foundation and the values of justice, liberty, and equality placed in the Constitution.”
She expressed gratitude on behalf of Tibetans in exile and Tibetans inside Tibet saying, “We the Tibetan people, extend our heartfelt greetings to the Government of India and its people on this auspicious occasion. His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama has always reminded us to express our gratitude to India for its unwavering support and for hosting the Tibetan community in exile.”
Mumbai,
26 (IANS) The Centre on the eve of Republic Day on Saturday conferred Padma awards on 14 eminent personalities
RG Kar case: Bengal govt moves Calcutta HC seeking death penalty for convict
Kolkata, Jan 21 (IANS) The West Bengal government on Tuesday approached the Calcutta High Court, challenging the special court's verdict sentencing Sanjay Roy, convicted in the rape and murder of a junior doctor of state-run R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, to life imprisonment.
State Advocate General Kishor Datta has approached the division bench of Justice Debangshu Basak and Justice Shabbar Rashidi seeking a "death penalty" for the convict.
The division bench has admitted the petition from the state government.
After the court pronounced the
quantum of sentence, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced on Monday evening that the state government would approach the Calcutta High Court challenging the verdict.
She also said the state government will be seeking the "death penalty" for the convict.
"I strongly feel that it is a heinous crime that warrants capital punishment. We will plead for capital punishment of the convict at the High Court now," the Chief Minister said in a statement.
According to her, she was deeply shocked at the judgment of the special court which did not consider the crime as the "rarest of rare".
"I am convinced that it is indeed a rarest of rare cases which demands capital punishment. We want to insist upon the death penalty in this most sinister and
sensitive case," the Chief Minister said in a statement.
"Recently, in the last 3/4 months, we have been able to ensure capital/ maximum punishment for convicts in such crimes. Then, why, in this case, has capital punishment not been awarded?" the Chief Minister’s statement added.
"We demanded the 'death penalty' for the convict. I don't know how….Had the case been in our hands (read state police or Kolkata Police), the death sentence would have been pronounced much earlier," the Chief Minister said.
While pronouncing the quantum of sentence, special court judge Anirban Das said that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)'s contention that Roy's offence in the matter was "the rarest and rare crimes" was not tenable.
Kerala Police begin probe into complaint of pin in capsule given by state-run hospital
Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 21
(IANS) The Kerala Police on Tuesday began a probe into a complaint that medicines, a woman got from a state-run hospital in the capital city suburbs at Vithura, contained a pin in a capsule.
The Kerala State Health Department has already brought this issue to the attention of the state police chief and suspected foul play.
Meanwhile, the Vithura Police, based on a complaint from a public activist, have decided to
intensify the probe.
The Health Department suspects it to be a foul play to tarnish its image by vested interests.
Last week, after collecting her medicine from the pharmacy attached to the Taluk hospital, the woman found a pin in the capsule.
Soon this issue and the video about it turned viral on social media, and the Health Department stepped in and conducted an inquiry.
Preliminary findings revealed that the claim was untrue and soon they brought this to the attention of the state police chief.
Incidentally, state-owned Kerala Medical Services Corporation Limited (KMSCL) supplies medicines to state-run hospitals and clinics.
However, the present allegation of the pin in the capsule is seen as a ploy by vested interests after the Kerala Health Department
launched an aggressive campaign against the indiscriminate use of antibiotics. Around 30 per cent drop in antibiotics' usage was seen since the initiative began in October last year.
The Health Department has also ensured that all hospitals in the state are turned into antibioticsmart hospitals. Besides, there should be no sales of antibiotics through medical shops without a prescription from doctors, it said. This campaign is to confront antimicrobial resistance (AMR), one of the top global public health and development threats as misuse of antimicrobials in humans, animals, and plants are the main drivers in drug-resistant pathogens' development.
Another step that has been initiated is that antibiotics would have to be given in a blue cover and a doctor's prescription will be compulsory for people when they buy it from medical shops.
NHRC seeks report from Kerala on Dalit girl’s rape involving 59 accused
New Delhi, Jan 20 (IANS) The NHRC has taken suo motu cognisance of the reported sexual abuse of a girl belonging to the Scheduled Caste in Kerala and arrest of 44 people, seeking a report from the state government within two weeks, an official said on Monday. So far, 59 accused have been
named in 30 FIRs filed in connection with the matter in Pathanamthitta district.
Two of the accused have fled the country and 13 others are yet to be arrested.
The Commission has observed that the contents of the media report, if true, raise a serious issue of the human rights violation of the victim girl.
It issued notices to Kerala’s Chief Secretary and the Director General of Police, calling for a detailed report in the matter.
The NHRC said the report should include the status of the
Delhi Police seize ‘Punjab sarkar’ car with cash, liquor; Mann govt says ‘fake’
New Delhi, Jan 30 (IANS)
Delhi Police have filed a case after a vehicle labelled "Punjab government" was intercepted with cash, liquor and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) pamphlets, an official said. The Punjab government, however, said the car had a fake registration plate and was different from the registered model.
The car was found on Wednesday and a large amount of cash and liquor was seized, police said.
The car had a "Punjab government" sticker, said the officials, adding that AAP pamphlets were also found in the car.
Delhi Police said the vehicle was found parked outside Punjab Bhawan on Copernicus Marg in the national capital. When searched, the cops said they
found cash amounting to Rs 8 lakh, liquor bottles with Punjab stamps, and AAP pamphlets inside the car.
As per the model code of conduct in force in Delhi ahead of the Assembly elections, people are barred from carrying more than Rs 50,000 in cash.
A case has been registered at the Tilak Marg police station.
The Punjab government soon issued a denial after the news came out. The government said in a statement that as per the official record, the car was registered in the name of Major Anubhav Shivpuri, who was posted at the Army Dental College, Pathankot, three years ago. He is a permanent resident of Khadki in Maharashtra, it said.
"It has come to the knowledge of the Department of Transport (Govt of Punjab), that a vehicle carrying registration number PB35AE1342 has been apprehended in Delhi carrying illegal liquor and some unaccounted cash. It has been alleged in the media reports that the vehicle has a sticker of Punjab Govt on it," the statement read.
Chandrababu Naidu invites Swiss companies to invest in Andhra Pradesh
Amaravati, Jan 20 (IANS) On the first day of his visit to Davos on Monday to take part in the World Economic Forum (WEF) summit, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu made a strong pitch for investment into the state.
FIR, the victim’s health and the medical care, counselling and compensation, if any, provided to her in the reported matter within two weeks. According to the media report, carried on January 15, the girl, who is now 18 years old, reportedly alleged in her complaint that she was sexually abused by several individuals. The matter came to light during counselling conducted by the Child Welfare Committee, after the victim’s teachers at an educational institution informed the panel about noticeable changes in her behaviour.
Naidu, who is leading a state government delegation, held a series of meetings with investors and business leaders, showcasing vast potential of Andhra Pradesh as an investment destination.
He met Indian Ambassador to Switzerland Mrudul Kumar in Zurich and discussed opportunities for Swiss companies to invest in Andhra Pradesh.
Mrudul Kumar told Chandrababu Naidu that over 350 Switzerland companies including Nestle, Novartis and ABB have their units in various parts of India and more industrialists are ready to invest in the country.
Chandrababu Naidu said that Andhra Pradesh has a lot of opportunities in sectors like pharmaceuticals, medical devices, technical, textiles and rail components manufacturing.
The Chief Minister sought the Indian envoy's cooperation for cooperation between universities in Switzerland and Andhra Pradesh including the upcoming skill and AI universities.
Chandrababu Naidu also informed Mrudul Kumar that the most efficient youth in all sectors is available in Andhra Pradesh to extend their services through the work-from-home system.
Minister for Education, IT and Electronics Nara Lokesh sought Indian envoy’s cooperation for setting up units by pharma giants like Novartis, Roche, Lonza and Alcon in Andhra Pradesh.
Lokesh told him that the state government recently announced new industrial policy and several investor-friendly schemes.
The state government is extending attractive incentives to companies in sectors like manufacturing, textile, missionary, hardware and electricals, rail component manufacturing, pharma and manufacturing medical equipment.
Labourers brutally thrashed for returning late to work in Karnataka’s Vijayapura
Vijayapura (Karnataka), Jan 20 (IANS) In a shocking incident, three labourers in Karnataka's Vijayapura district were brutally thrashed by their employer for returning late to work after festival celebrations, said officials on Monday.
A video showing the labourers being assaulted with iron pipes by three men went viral in the state, raising widespread concern.
According to the police, the incident occurred at a brick factory near Star Chowk in the Gandhinagar locality on the
outskirts of Vijayapura city.
The victims have been identified as Sadashiva Madar, S. Babaladi, and Umesh, who are from Chakkaliki village in the state's Bagalkot district. Preliminary investigations revealed that the owner of the brick factory, Khemu Rathod, had the labourers punished inhumanely for a trivial reason.
Vijayapura Superintendent of Police (SP) Laxman B. Nimbargi stated to the media that legal action would be taken against Khemu Rathod and others involved in the incident.
Police sources revealed that the labourers had taken an advance payment from the accused owner, Khemu Rathod, after agreeing to work in his brick factory. They had gone to their native village to celebrate the Sankranti festival but returned four days late.
The delay enraged Khemu Rathod, who verbally abused them first and questioned their being late. Despite the victims’ assurances that they would complete the pending work, the accused became furious. He got all three labourers tied with ropes and then assaulted them inhumanely.
The video shows the three labourers with their hands and legs tied, made to sit with their legs stretched out. While one of the accused's associates holds a victim’s hair and stands on their knees, another is seen beating the victim’s feet with an iron pipe with full force. All three victims are seen being punished in the same manner, screaming and wailing in pain as they endure the assault.
The police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the matter.
PM Modi leads nation in paying tributes to Mahatma Gandhi
New Delhi, Jan 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with several political leaders, paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi on his death anniversary on
Thursday, remembering his contributions to the nation and his unwavering commitment to truth and non-violence.
Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948. This day is now observed as Martyrs' Day, also known as 'Shaheed Diwas' or 'Sarvodaya Day,' to honour him and those who sacrificed their lives for India.
Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, "Tributes to Pujya Bapu on his Punya Tithi. His ideals motivate us to build a developed India. I also pay tributes to all those martyred for our nation and recall their service as well as sacrifices."
Union Minister and BJP President J.P. Nadda also paid his respects, highlighting Gandhi's philosophy of self-reliance and its relevance in modern India.
Another mighty blow: 14 Maoists killed in major operation on Chhattisgarh-Odisha border
Raipur, Jan 21 (IANS) In a major crackdown, security forces neutralised 14 Maoists in a fierce encounter that lasted over 24 hours in the dense forests along the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border, officials said on Tuesday.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauded the operation, calling it a "mighty blow to Naxalism." In a post on X, he stated, “Our security forces have achieved a major success towards building a Naxal-free Bharat. The CRPF, SOG Odisha, and Chhattisgarh Police, in a joint operation, have neutralised 14 Naxalites along the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border.”
He added, “With our resolve for a Naxal-free India and the joint efforts of our security forces, Naxalism is breathing its last today.”
Police reported the recovery of a cache of weapons and Maoist material from the site. Preliminary findings reveal that several of the deceased were
female Maoist operatives. On Monday, security personnel discovered two bodies, including that of a female Maoist. A jawan injured during the encounter was airlifted to Raipur for medical treatment.
This operation is among the largest anti-Naxal campaigns in recent times and is being hailed as a turning point in the fight against Maoism. It is seen as a major blow to the Maoist groups that have been active in the region for years.
Sources indicate that the search operation is at the encounter site is still going on, with the possibility of discovering more bodies or weapons. However, official confirmation is awaited.
The operation was launched based on Intelligence inputs regarding Maoist activity in the Kularighat reserve forest of Chhattisgarh, near Odisha's Nuapada district. The encounter began Monday night and continued into Tuesday morning in the forest under the Mainpur police station area.
The police have suggested that the death toll may rise as the operation progresses.
This intensified crackdown follows a recent Maoist attack in Chhattisgarh, where eight security personnel lost their lives after their vehicle was ambushed.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah reiterated the government's commitment to eradicating Naxalism in Chhattisgarh by 2026.
FairPoint: Farooq Abdullah has answers, question him on Kashmiri Pandit exodus
New Delhi, Jan 19 (IANS) A majority of Kashmiri Hindus view Farooq Abdullah and Mufti Mohammed Sayeed as the main culprits of the terror violence committed against them. When terrorism first began raising its ugly head in Kashmir, Farooq Abdullah, the National Conference president, was the Chief Minister of the then Jammu and Kashmir state Mufti was the Union Minister.
The two most powerful political leaders of the valley in postShiekh Mohd Abdullah were at the helm when the Hindus in Kashmir became the top terror targets.
The two knew everything that was happening in the valley. Mufti died in January 2016 when he was the J&K Chief Minister. Farooq Abdullah continues to be the top leader in Jammu and Kashmir politics and his son is the CM of the UT.
The Kashmiri Pandits believe
that he was responsible for all the events that preceded the mass exodus of the minority community and the advent of terrorism. Farooq Abdullah was the Chief Minister from November 7, 1986 to January 18, 1990. It was this period which saw Kashmir gradually falling down the precipice, and despite warnings by intelligence agencies, the indifference was insurmountable.
In February 1986, massive communal attacks occurred in South Kashmir. Muslim mobs looted and plundered or destroyed the properties and temples of Kashmiri Pandits.
Ghulam Mohammad Shah, the brother-in-law of Farooq Abdullah, was the Chief Minister then. He failed to curb the violence and called in the army to curb the mayhem.
His government was dismissed in March 1986 by the then-Governor Jagmohan. It was reported that Mufti Sayeed, then a Congress leader, had instigated the violence as he was keen to be the Chief Minister and replace Shah.
Rajiv Gandhi, the then Prime Minister, later gave Sayeed a seat
in the Rajya Sabha and made him a Union Minister. In November 1986, after months of hectic parleys, Rajiv Gandhi and Farooq Abdullah signed an accord and the latter was reinstated as the Chief Minister.
It was this period that saw the build-up to the pogrom.
This 1986-1989 period is significant in the history of Kashmir, which is often ignored. The exodus did not happen overnight. There was full preparation for this. Muslim men, especially youths were sneaking into Pakistan-occupied Kashmir where they were given armed training for unleashing terrorism.
The fact that the intelligence agencies had repeatedly been alerting about the hordes of Kashmiris, especially youth, crossing over to PoK for arms training, went largely unheard of.
A lot of kidnappings were taking place, especially of the government employees, a maximum number of them were Kashmiri Pandits, but no action was taken.
Threats were openly given in local newspapers, posters were
pasted and hit-lists made, but the administration seemed lifeless. The police were compromised and some were helping the terrorists.
During Farooq Abdullah's tenure as CM, many terrorists were released from jails. Former Jammu and Kashmir DGP, S.P. Vaid, had said some time ago that many people in the country do not know that the first batch of ISI-trained terrorists were arrested "but ill-thought political decisions had them released and the same terrorists later on led the many terrorist organisations in J&K".
Vaid was the DGP of J&K from December 31, 2016 till September 6, 2018. He had tweeted: "Some of the notorious names: Mohammed Afzal Sheikh of Trehgam Rafiq Ahmed Ahangar Mohammad Ayub Najar Farooq Ahmed Ganai Ghulam Mohammed Gujri Farooq Ahmed Malik Nazir Ahmed Sheikh Ghulam Mohi-Ud-Din Teli. Could this have been possible w/o the knowledge of the Union Govt of 1989?"
There are several questions which only Farooq Abdullah
could answer. Unfortunately, he was never questioned. In fact, the exodus of a whole minority community was never investigated. Hundreds of Kashmiri Pandits were killed, many women raped and brutally murdered, properties of the minorities were usurped. Many temples and other religious places were desecrated and lands grabbed. But all this never warranted a probe. No government, in state or Centre, took the initiative to form an SIT or a judicial commission to investigate the violence against the Kashmiri Pandits.
Kashmiri Pandits feel that if Farooq Abdullah or Mufti Sayeed had taken strong steps, then Kashmir would not have fallen to terrorism and the minorities would not have been tormented and forced out.
The community is seeking answers and wants a judicial commission with Farooq Abdullah to be questioned first.
(Deepika Bhan can be contacted at deepika.b@ians.in)
PM commits additional funding for nation’s green bank
Canberra, Jan 23 (IANS)
Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced extra funding for the nation's green bank to boost investment in clean energy projects.
Albanese and Chris Bowen, minister for climate change and energy, said on Thursday that the federal government has directed an extra 2 billion Australian dollars ($1.25 billion) to the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC), Xinhua news agency reported.
They said in a joint statement
that the additional investment would unlock an estimated 6 billion AUD ($3.76 billion) worth of private sector investment in decarbonisation projects, supporting jobs, economic growth and energy security.
"We are building Australia's future, not taking Australia backward," Albanese said.
The CEFC was established in 2012 with an initial 10 billion AUD ($6.27 billion) in funding to invest in economy-wide decarbonisation opportunities on behalf of the government.
According to the government, it is the world's largest dedicated green bank.
Bowen said on Thursday that there are "big opportunities and big benefits" for Australia in the
global green energy transition so long as the country acts immediately.
"We're getting on with the changes needed to make the most of Australia's natural comparative advantage, having some of the best sun, wind, and critical mineral resources in the world," he said.
The CEFC's investments have delivered estimated greenhouse gas emissions savings of over 160 million tons.
The new funding announcement was made as part of an ongoing pre-election campaign blitz from Albanese.
Australia's general election, in which climate change and energy policies are expected to be key issues, must be held by May.
Emergency warning issued over category three cyclone
Canberra, Jan 20 (IANS) A tropical cyclone affecting the northwest coast of Western Australia (WA) has been upgraded to a category three storm, Australia's national provider of weather services said on Monday. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) on Monday morning upgraded Tropical Cyclone Sean from a category two system, warning of wind speeds of up to 185 km
per hour, reports Xinhua news agency.
Authorities have ordered residents of towns along WA's northwest Pilbara Coast, over 1,000 km north of Perth, to shelter indoors, with the cyclone posing an immediate threat to lives and homes.
"You are in danger and need to act immediately," an emergency warning issued by the WA Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) said. Residents have been advised to stay in the strongest and safest part of buildings and to stay away from windows and doors.
The cyclone formed off the
Pilbara Coast on Sunday as a category one storm, bringing heavy rainfall and widespread thunderstorm activity to the region.
The BoM said on Monday that intense local rainfall could cause flash flooding.
"People living in areas likely to be affected by this flooding should take measures to protect their property as much as possible and be prepared to help their neighbours," the bureau said. It said that the cyclone was expected to turn southwest and move away from the coast into the Indian Ocean later on Monday.
Scientists advocate for tagging, monitoring program to reduce shark attack risk
Canberra, Jan 20 (IANS)
Scientists have called for acoustic technology to track white sharks off the coast of South Australia (SA) to prevent attacks on humans.
Four people have died in shark attacks at South Australian beaches since May 2023, including 28-year-old surfer Lance Appleby
who was killed by a suspected great white shark earlier this month, reports Xinhua news agency.
The spate of attacks has prompted scientists to advocate for deploying acoustic technology at popular beaches across the SA coast to monitor tagged white sharks.
Over 200 white sharks have already been tagged in waters off the SA coast as part of a monitoring program for the diving industry.
The tags emit a unique sound pulse that is detected by underwater receivers, which in turn transmit the location data via satellite.
A small number of receivers have already been deployed along the coastline of Adelaide, SA's capital, for research purposes, but shark expert Charlie Huveneers from Flinders University said that they
Australia’s road death toll reaches 12-year high
Canberra, Jan 28 (IANS)
Australia's road death toll has hit a 12-year-high, government data has revealed on Tuesday.
According to a new report from the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE) on Tuesday, there were 1,300 deaths on Australian roads in 2024.
It marks an increase from 1,258 deaths in 2023 and the highest figure since 2012 when there were also 1,300 deaths, reports Xinhua news agency, citing the government data.
The 12-year high comes after Australia's federal, state and territory governments in 2021 launched a 10-year national strategy to reduce the number of road deaths by half and the number of serious injuries by 30 per cent.
The National Road Safety Strategy
set a target of gradually reducing road deaths from the 2018-20 annual average of 1,142 to fewer than 571 by 2030.
The BITRE report said the 2024 death toll was 127.7 per cent higher than the 2030 target. Responding to the report, peak motoring body the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) said the national strategy is "wildly off-track."
"It is clear current road safety approaches are inadequate and that more action is required to save lives," AAA Managing Director Michael Bradley said in a statement.
Out of Australia's eight states and territories, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania reported fewer road deaths in 2024 than in 2023.
In New South Wales - the country's most populous state - the death toll was unchanged at 340 in both years, while Queensland, Western Australia and the Northern Territory reported 79 more deaths combined in 2024 than in 2023. November was the most dangerous month on Australian roads in 2024, with 131 deaths.
Three teenagers arrested over fatal crash in Sydney
According to a new report from the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE) on Tuesday, there were 1,300 deaths on Australian roads in 2024.
It marks an increase from 1,258 deaths in 2023 and the highest figure since 2012 when there were also 1,300 deaths.
could be used more widely to reduce the risk of shark attacks.
He said the real-time receivers could be used to notify the public and authorities when a shark is nearby.
"This information can be used by the public to be better informed about the risk of shark bites and to leave the water when a potentially dangerous shark is nearby," he told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).
Russ Bradford from national science agency the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) said the east coast state of New South Wales (NSW) spent approximately 20 million Australian dollars ($12.4 million) over the last 10 years tagging sharks and installing acoustic receivers.
Police in the state of New South Wales (NSW) said that officers initiated a pursuit of the vehicle, which had been reported stolen, at about 7:15 a.m. local time on Tuesday near the small town of Gunnedah, more than 300 km north of Sydney.
During the pursuit, the vehicle collided with a motorcycle, critically injuring the rider, reports Xinhua news agency.
The male motorcyclist was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics but could not be revived and was declared dead at the scene.
Three 14-year-old occupants of the stolen vehicle were arrested and taken to a nearby police station.
NSW Police said a critical incident investigation has commenced, and it will also be subject to an independent review.
Meanwhile, concerns remain as, according to government data, Australia's road death toll has hit a 12-year-high.
The 12-year high comes after Australia's federal, state and territory governments in 2021 launched a 10-year national strategy to reduce the number of road deaths by half and the number of serious injuries by 30 per cent.
The National Road Safety Strategy set a target of gradually reducing road deaths from the 2018-20 annual average of 1,142 to fewer than 571 by 2030.
The BITRE report said the 2024 death toll was 127.7 per cent higher than the 2030 target. Responding to the report, peak motoring body the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) said the national strategy is "wildly off-track."
"It is clear current road safety approaches are inadequate and that more action is required to save lives," AAA Managing Director Michael Bradley said in a statement. Out of Australia's eight states and territories, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania reported fewer road deaths in 2024 than in 2023.
Sydney, Jan 28 (IANS) Three teenagers have been arrested after a motorcyclist was killed in a crash involving a stolen vehicle that was being chased by police north of Sydney.
World leaders congratulate US President Trump on return to White House
Washington, Jan 21 (IANS)
Leaders from the NATO to majority of European countries on Monday congratulated US President Donald Trump on his return to the White House, as he officially took office at his inauguration ceremony.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that with Trump back in the office "we will turbocharge" defence spending and production, likely referring to Trump's push for European countries to shoulder a greater burden of defending themselves.
"My warm congratulations to @realDonaldTrump on his inauguration as 47th President of the USA, and to @JDVance as Vice President. Together we can achieve peace through strength -through @NATO," he wrote on X.
Trump has been a frequent critic of the NATO alliance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated Republican
Party member Donald Trump on his return to the White House for a historic second term. Trump took the oath as the 47th President of the US during a programme held at the Capitol Rotunda.
Taking to X, PM Modi wrote: “Congratulations my dear friend President @realDonaldTrump on your historic inauguration as the 47th President of the United States! I look forward to working closely together once again, to benefit both our countries and to shape a better future for the world. Best wishes for a successful term ahead."
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni offered her best wishes to Trump for the beginning of his new mandate.
On X, Meloni said she is certain that the friendship between the two nations and the values that unite them will continue to strengthen the collaboration between Italy and the US, facing global challenges together.
"Italy will always be committed to consolidating the dialogue between the US and Europe, as an essential pillar for the stability
and growth of our communities," added Meloni, whose political positions are said to be closer to Trump's than most other European leaders.
"Congratulations Donald Trump on being sworn in as 47th President of the United States. All the best from Poland and the EU Presidency," Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said on X. In his congratulatory message, Slovenia's Prime Minister Robert Golob pointed to the long-lasting friendship and rich bilateral relations between Slovenia and the US.
"Only together can the European Union and US make a great impact in addressing global challenges of today's international community," he added.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also congratulated Trump in a post On X, saying: "President Trump is always decisive, and the peace through strength policy he announced provides an opportunity to strengthen American leadership and achieve a long-term and just peace, which is the top priority."
Usha becomes first Indian-American Second Lady as JD Vance takes oath as US Vice President
Washington, Jan 21 (IANS) Usha Vance became the first IndianAmerican and Hindu Second Lady after her husband J.D. Vance was sworn in as the 50th Vice President of the US on Monday. She held the Bible in one hand, and their daughter Mirabel Rose in the other, as Vance placed his left hand on the religious text, and raising his right hand took the
oath of office.
President Donald Trump said later that Usha Vance is smarter than her husband and that he might have picked her as the Vice President.
Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh, a mentor to Usha Vance, administered the oath to her husband.
J.D. Vance was sworn in before President Donald Trump took the oath of office.
Before the Vances came to the podium, military personnel in ceremonial uniforms brought their children, Ewan Blaine, 7, Vivek, 4, and Mirabel Rose, 3, to the podium.
The boys wore formal suits, and Usha Vance was dressed in pink. She beamed and looked admiringly at J.D. Vance as he repeated the oath after Kavanaugh.
J.D. Vance's mother, Beverly Aikins who has given up drugs, stood with the family during the ceremony.
Usha Vance is the daughter of Telugu immigrants from India, Radhakrishna "Krish" Chilukuri, an aerospace engineer, and Lakshmi Chilukuri, the provost at the University of California, San Diego. J.D. Vance and Usha met while they were studying law at Yale University.
American podcaster Lex Fridman to interview PM Modi on his podcast in February
New Delhi,
host
He said that he is excited to visit India for the first time, experience
its culture, and meet its people.
"I will be doing a podcast with Narendra Modi (@narendramodi), Prime Minister of India, at the end of February. I've never been to India, so I'm excited to finally visit and experience many facets of its vibrant, historic culture and its amazing people as fully as I can," Fridman wrote in a post on X.
Fridman, known for his indepth conversations with global thought leaders, scientists, and innovators, is expected to explore a range of topics with PM Modi. The discussion is likely to cover India's burgeoning role in
Suicides among Japan’s schoolage children hit record high
Tokyo, Jan 29 (IANS) Suicides among school-age children in Japan reached an all-time high of 527 in 2024, surpassing the previous record of 514 in 2022, according to preliminary figures released by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. High school students accounted for nearly 70 per cent of cases, with 349 deaths, followed by 163 middle school students and 15 elementary school students. A notable increase was observed among female middle and high school students, with 99 middle school girls taking their lives, 19 more than the previous year, and
183 high school girls, an increase of 17.
The leading causes cited for suicides among individuals under 19 included academic struggles and concerns about future paths (349 cases), mental health issues such as depression (284 cases), and family-related problems such as conflicts with parents (148 cases).
The ministry acknowledged the record-high student suicide figures as a grave concern and pledged to analyse the causes while working with relevant organisations to implement countermeasures, Xinhua news agency reported. In 2024, the number of suicides in Japan totaled 20,268, marking a decrease of 1,569 from the previous year and reaching the second-lowest level since records began in 1978.
Trump slams Biden for pardoning family members before leaving office
Washington, Jan 21 (IANS) US
President Donald Trump has criticised former President Joe Biden's pardons for family members, which he issued as his last act before leaving office on Monday.
President Trump hit out at Biden for an 11th-hour clemency announcement offering preemptive pardons to members of his family during remarks from the Capital One Arena on Monday.
"Did you know that Biden, while I was making my speech, pardoned his whole family?" Trump said.
"The brother, the whole deal, was pardoned. Can you imagine that, while I was making my speech? Did everybody hear my speech? Did you like my speech? Thank you."
technology, artificial intelligence, digital governance, and its growing influence on the global stage. PM Modi's initiatives, such as Digital India, Make in India, and the country's advancements in AI, could serve as focal points for the conversation. Fridman’s visit to India is not just about the podcast; it's a cultural and intellectual exploration. His tweet highlights his eagerness to immerse himself in India's historic and vibrant culture. With his background in AI and robotics, the visit could also open opportunities for collaborations with India's rapidly growing tech and academic sectors.
Trump said that aides stopped him from making his inaugural address more "tough", urging him to avoid including remarks about Biden's decision to pardon family members or about planned pardons for January 6 defendants.
But moments later, he seemed to contradict himself, telling supporters he didn't find out about the pardons until after he finished his remarks.
"Can you believe it? He's pardoned — you know why he did it while I was speaking? Because that way I couldn't speak about it," Trump said.
"I was speaking, I didn't know he (Biden) did it. I finished my speech, and they said, 'Sir, he pardoned his whole family.' I said, 'Oh can I go back out there and talk about it?'"
"Somehow, that wouldn't be very elegant," he added.
"Our first lady would say, 'Please don't do that.' We have plenty of time to talk about it, and we will."
During an appearance to sign executive orders, President Trump said Biden's pardons were "unfortunate," but said he wouldn't discuss them further yet.
"We won't discuss it now. There's plenty of time to discuss it," the President said.
In the last hours of his presidency, Biden issued pardons for Anthony Fauci, retired General Mark Milley and members of the House January 6 investigative committee, as well as for James B. Biden (Biden's brother), Sara Jones Biden (Biden's sister-in-law), Valerie Biden Owens (Biden's sister), John T. Owens (Biden's brother-in-law), and Francis W. Biden (Biden's youngest brother).
"I believe in the rule of law, and I am optimistic that the strength of our legal institutions will ultimately prevail over politics," Biden wrote, but said that the pardons were needed because of the risk of "baseless and politically motivated investigations" that could "wreak havoc on the lives, safety, and financial security of targeted individuals and their families".
Former President Biden also pardoned his son Hunter Biden in December of 2024, writing at the time that Hunter had been targeted because he was the President's son.
That decision drew criticism from lawmakers and from thenPresident-elect Trump, who called that pardon an "abuse and miscarriage of Justice" and questioned why President Biden hasn't pardoned any of the "hostages" who were imprisoned following the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection.
Jan 19 (IANS)
American podcaster Lex Fridman said on Sunday that he will
a podcast with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the end of February which will promise a deep dive into the Prime Minister's vision for India's technological and cultural evolution.
Working
expeditiously to safely bring back Sunita Williams, Butch
New Delhi, Jan 30 (IANS) NASA on Thursday said it is “working expeditiously” along with SpaceX to safely bring back Indian origin astronaut Sunita
Willmore: NASA
Williams and astronaut Butch Willmore, currently stuck in the International Space Station (ISS) for 238 days.
NASA said this after billionaire and SpaceX founder Elon Musk stated that US President Donald Trump had asked him to facilitate the return of both Williams and Wilmore as soon as possible.
The SpaceX CEO said that it was "terrible" that the pair were left
"stranded" at the ISS for so long.
“NASA and SpaceX are expeditiously working to safely return the agency’s SpaceX Crew-9 astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore as soon as practical,” the US space agency said in a post on social media platform X. NASA said it is “also preparing for the launch of Crew-10 to complete a handover between expeditions”.
PM Modi congratulates ‘dear friend’ Trump on his inauguration as 47th US President
for a
second term. Trump took the oath as the 47th President of the US during a programme held at the Capitol Rotunda.
Taking to X, PM Modi wrote:
“Congratulations my dear friend President @realDonaldTrump on your historic inauguration as the 47th President of the United States! I look forward to working closely together once again, to benefit both our countries and to shape a better future for the world. Best wishes for a successful term ahead."
Trump was administered the oath of office by Chief Justice John Roberts.
Outgoing President Joe Biden and Trump rode together to the US
Capitol for the latter's oath-taking programme after a traditional tea ceremony at the White House along with their wives, Kamala Harris and her successor J.D. Vance and their spouses.
Jill Biden and Melania Trump rode together to the Capitol in a separate car as did Kamala Harris and her successor J.D. Vance.
This is only the second instance of the swearing-in taking place indoors -- the last time was in 1985 when President Ronald Reagan took the oath for his second term.
Earlier, Biden welcomed Trump to the White House for a traditional tea ceremony with two words: “Welcome home”, according to media reports.
Guests for the swearing-in had begun arriving at the Capitol Rotunda where the ceremony took place; indoors instead of the traditional venue outside.
This was only the second instance of the swearing-in took place indoors; the last time was in 1985 when President Ronald Reagan took the oath for his second term.
Trump’s return to the White House is also only the second
time for an American President to serve two non-consecutive terms. The first was Grover Cleveland at the end of the 19th century.
The swearing-in was attended by Trump’s nominees to the cabinet such as Marco Rubio, for secretary of state, who is expected to be the first to be confirmed, as early as Monday.
Trump started Monday’s inauguration proceedings by attending a private service at St John’s Church with the incoming first lady Melania Trump, J.D. Vance and wife Usha Vance and some members of the cabinet.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, Apple’s Tim Cook, Tesla and Space X’s Elon Musk, and Google’s Sundar Pichai also attended the swearing-in ceremony.
Former President Bill Clinton and his wife Hillary Clinton, former President George W Bush and his wife Laura Bush, and former President Barack Obama minus his wife Michelle Obama attended the oath-taking ceremony as is the tradition, which was broken by President Trump who skipped Biden’s inauguration in 2021.
Putin ‘destroying Russia’ by refusing to negotiate war with Ukraine, says Trump
Washington, Jan 21 (IANS) US President Donald Trump said that Russian President Vladimir Putin is "destroying Russia" by refusing to negotiate an end to the ongoing war with Ukraine, which began in February 2022.
Speaking to reporters upon his return to the Oval Office on Monday, Trump urged Putin to seek a peace deal, emphasising the toll the prolonged conflict is taking on Russia.
"He should make a deal. I think he's destroying Russia by not making a deal," Trump stated. "I think Russia's going to be in big
trouble."
Trump revealed that plans for a meeting with Putin are already underway, expressing optimism about the possibility of reaching a resolution.
Reflecting on his earlier interactions with the Russian leader, Trump said, "I got along with him great, I would hope he wants to make a deal."
Commenting on the unexpected duration of the war, Trump remarked, "Most people thought that war would have been over in about one week, and now you're into three years, right?"
He also noted the strain on Russia's economy, including the impact of inflation.
Trump claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also interested in negotiating peace.
Brussels, Jan 30 (IANS) The European Commission presented the Competitiveness Compass, a strategic blueprint aimed at restoring the European Union (EU)'s economic edge and driving technological leadership as it seeks to close the gap with the US and China.
Acknowledging a two-decade lag in productivity growth compared to other major economies, the Compass focuses on boosting innovation, advancing decarbonisation, and strengthening security, according to the Commission's statement.
"Europe has everything it needs to succeed in the race to the top. But, at the same time, we must fix our weaknesses to regain competitiveness," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in the statement.
The Compass builds on a strategic report released last year by Mario Draghi, the former Italian prime minister and former president of the European Central
Bank (ECB), which calls for an additional annual investment of between 750 billion euros ($779 billion) and 800 billion euros to counteract Europe's decline in competitiveness, Xinhua news agency reported.
The Commission will launch "AI Gigafactories" and "Apply AI" initiatives to accelerate AI development and adoption across key industries, the Compass says. It also promises actions for advanced materials, quantum, biotech, robotics, and space technologies.
A separate report released by the Commission on Wednesday highlighted the EU's ongoing struggles in scaling up its businesses. This report provides the analytical context for the Competitiveness Compass.
In this regard, the Compass outlines a strategy to remove barriers to facilitate startup growth, and legislative changes to simplify rules. It also noted the upcoming Clean Industrial Deal to drive decarbonisation, a plan for affordable energy to reduce costs, and targeted strategies for high-risk sectors like steel, metals, and chemicals. To reduce dependencies, the bloc plans to prioritise European companies in critical sectors and technologies under reviewed public procurement rules.
10 pc richest in UK extracted wealth from India worth $33.8 trillion between 1765-1900: Oxfam
New Delhi, Jan 20 (IANS)
"Zelensky wants to make a deal," he said, despite his previous criticisms of the Ukrainian leader.
During his campaign, Trump promised to swiftly end the conflict, even suggesting he could achieve peace within 24 hours of taking office.
Addressing reporters, he reiterated his determination, stating, "We're going to try and get it done as quickly as possible. You know, the war with Ukraine and Russia should have never started."
Trump's nominee for Secretary of State, Senator Marco Rubio, echoed the sentiment for peace but emphasised the challenges of negotiations.
"Each side would have to concede something," Rubio said while acknowledging Russia as "the aggressor" in the conflict.
Between 1765 and 1900, the richest 10 per cent in the UK extracted wealth from India alone worth US$33.8 trillion in today’s money -- enough to carpet the surface area of London in the 50-pound notes almost four times over, an Oxfam global report said on Monday.
According to authors Utsa Patnaik and Prabha Patnaik, of the US$64.82 trillion extracted from India by the UK over a century of colonialism, US$33.8 trillion went to the richest 10 per cent.
In the UK, a significant number of the richest people today can trace their family wealth back to slavery and colonialism, specifically the compensation paid to rich enslavers when slavery was abolished, the report stressed.
“The modern multinational corporation is a creation of colonialism. It was pioneered by such corporations as the East India Company, which became a law unto itself and was responsible for many colonial
crimes,” said the Oxfam report. In 1750, the Indian subcontinent accounted for approximately 25 per cent of global industrial output. However, by 1900, this figure had precipitously declined to a mere 2 per cent.
“This dramatic reduction can be attributed to Britain’s implementation of stringent protectionist policies against Asian textiles, which systematically undermined India’s industrial growth potential. US$64.82 trillion was drained from India by Britain over 200 years,” the report’s findings showed.
In 2024, globally total billionaire wealth increased by $2 trillion, with 204 new billionaires created. This is an average of almost four new billionaires per week.
“Total billionaire wealth grew three times faster in 2024 than in 2023. Each billionaire saw their fortunes grow by $ 2 million a day on average. For the richest 10 billionaires their fortunes grew by US$100 million a day on average,” the report showed.
Last year, Oxfam forecasted a trillionaire within a decade. If current trends continue, there will now be five trillionaires within a decade, it added.
New Delhi, Jan 20 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated Republican Party member Donald Trump on his return to the White House
historic
From the editor’s desk Australia’s economic crossroads: Challenges &
Australia is standing at the crossroads of a technological revolution. From artificial intelligence to cybersecurity enhancements, digital integration is reshaping industries, redefining workforce expectations, and influencing economic policies. While the optimism surrounding these advancements is palpable, it is equally important to scrutinize the challenges they pose. The promise of AI-driven efficiency, sustainable innovation, and economic growth is significant, but so are the concerns over job displacement, ethical dilemmas, and economic divides.
Artificial intelligence has rapidly moved from being a futuristic concept to a foundational component of business operations. With projections suggesting AI could contribute AU$115 billion to the economy and create 200,000 jobs by 2030, it is no longer a question of if AI will dominate industries but rather how its influence will be managed. Companies are leveraging AI for automation, data analysis, and customer engagement, improving efficiency while cutting operational costs. However, while businesses celebrate these advancements, employees in traditional roles face growing uncertainty. Automation threatens to replace thousands of routine jobs, making it crucial for policymakers and businesses to invest in retraining programs that equip the workforce with AI-compatible skills. The technology sector cannot afford to ignore the social implications of this transition, lest it exacerbate economic inequalities.
The iGaming industry is another domain undergoing rapid transformation. The sector, expected to generate AU$4.5 billion by 2029, is becoming a significant contributor to Australia's digital economy. Mobile gaming and instant transaction features have brought about a surge in user engagement, but this growth comes with regulatory concerns. While technological advancements are creating diverse career opportunities in game development, software engineering, and cybersecurity, the ethical implications of an expanding digital gambling sector must be addressed.
The ease of access to online gaming raises questions about responsible gambling measures and consumer protection. Policymakers must strike a balance between supporting innovation and safeguarding vulnerable populations from potential exploitation. Cybersecurity, once a niche
concern, has now become a priority across industries.
As digital transformation accelerates, so do cyber threats, forcing companies to invest in sophisticated security measures. AI-driven cybersecurity solutions are being deployed to counteract evolving threats, but even these systems are not foolproof.
The rise of cybercrime has created an environment where businesses must constantly adapt, with data protection and privacy regulations struggling to keep pace with innovation. For Australia to maintain trust in its digital economy, transparency and accountability in cybersecurity policies must be emphasized. Organizations need to move beyond compliance-driven strategies and adopt proactive security frameworks that evolve alongside technological advancements.
Sustainability has also emerged as a critical focus, with companies exploring circular technologies to reduce waste and improve resource efficiency. The challenge, however, lies in the financial viability of these initiatives. While large corporations may have the resources to integrate sustainable practices, smaller businesses often struggle to justify the cost. This disparity creates a scenario where sustainability becomes a privilege rather than a standard practice. Without government incentives and collaborative industry efforts, the transition to greener technologies will remain slow, limiting the broader environmental impact. Beyond industry-specific developments, the economic impact of technological progress cannot be ignored. While AI, automation, and digital transformation hold the potential to revitalize Australia’s productivity, economic uncertainty looms large. Nearly 39% of industry leaders have identified instability as a significant threat, reinforcing the need for strategic investments in technology and workforce development. If managed well, this technological shift could propel Australia toward long-term economic resilience. However, if left unchecked, it could deepen socioeconomic disparities, concentrating wealth and opportunity in the hands of a few while leaving many behind.
Public sentiment towards technological advancements remains divided. On one hand, there is excitement about innovation and the promise of
Continued on Page 30
opportunities in a shifting landscape
Australia, long celebrated for its economic resilience and enviable standard of living, finds itself at a critical juncture. Amidst global geopolitical tensions, domestic uncertainties, and a rapidly transforming economic framework, the country grapples with challenges that threaten its once-sterling reputation. At the heart of these issues lie persistent inflation, lagging growth, housing affordability, and the broader impact of global economic forces. Yet, as the clouds gather, there are signs of optimism, shaped by government initiatives and emerging opportunities in innovation and renewable energy. The ongoing battle with inflation has shaped much of the country’s recent economic discourse. Inflation has remained a stubborn opponent, driving up the cost of living and testing the resilience of Australian households. However, a glimmer of hope has emerged with recent data suggesting inflation is inching closer to the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) target. This has stirred optimism for potential interest rate cuts in the near future. The financial markets have responded positively, with the S&P/ASX 200 index posting a three-week rally. But this optimism cannot mask the underlying strain.
The high cost of essential goods and stagnant wages have placed significant pressure on middle and lower-income households, leaving many Australians feeling left behind.
Australia’s GDP figures have added to this unease. With a mere 0.3% growth in the September quarter of 2024, the nation’s economic performance has fallen behind that of comparable economies. Even this modest figure owes much to immigration-driven population growth, as per capita GDP has been in decline for seven consecutive quarters. Beneath these numbers lies a troubling reality: for many Australians, the quality of life is deteriorating as they navigate rising costs, stagnant wages, and the growing challenge of homeownership. These conditions have prompted questions about whether the country’s economic policies adequately address the lived experiences of its citizens.
Despite these struggles, the government has laid the groundwork for a more robust and sustainable economic future.
The ‘Future Made in Australia’ initiative is emblematic of this vision, emphasizing renewable energy, industrial innovation, and economic security. By allocating $22.7 billion toward skills training and renewable energy projects, the plan aims to position Australia as a leader in the global transition to a net-zero economy. This investment is a critical step, not only in mitigating the impact of climate change but also in creating high-quality jobs in
industries of the future. The potential for long-term economic transformation is clear, yet the success of this initiative will depend on its execution and the government’s ability to maintain public trust amid economic uncertainty.
The housing market, a perennial challenge for Australia, continues to be a contentious issue. For many Australians, the dream of homeownership has become increasingly out of reach due to skyrocketing property prices. Even renting, traditionally the fallback option, has become prohibitively expensive in several regions. These challenges have placed immense strain on young families and low-income workers, who find themselves priced out of major cities and forced to make difficult compromises. While there have been calls for government intervention to address the imbalance between housing demand and supply, progress has been slow. Any effective solution must balance the need for increased housing stock with measures to ensure affordability, particularly for firsttime buyers.
The labour market presents another complex dynamic. On the surface, Australia has shown resilience in recovering from the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. Unemployment rates remain relatively low, and certain sectors have experienced strong demand. However, the picture is far from rosy. Wage growth continues to lag behind inflation, eroding workers’ purchasing power and exacerbating income inequality. Many Australians feel that despite working harder than ever, they are losing ground in the face of rising expenses. Addressing this issue will require a multi-pronged approach, including policies to incentivize wage growth and improve working conditions, particularly for those in precarious or lowpaying jobs.
Global economic forces also loom large over Australia’s future prospects. Geopolitical tensions, particularly involving key trade partners such as China and the United States, have introduced significant uncertainty. The second Trump administration’s proposed economic policies, including potential tariffs on Chinese exports, could further disrupt global supply chains and heighten financial market volatility. For an economy as trade-dependent as Australia’s, these developments carry considerable risk.
Diversifying trade relationships and strengthening domestic industries will be essential to mitigating these vulnerabilities.
The government’s renewed focus on renewable energy and industrial innovation offers a path forward, but it must be accompanied by meaningful action to address pressing
domestic challenges. Investing in education and skills training, for example, will be crucial to preparing the workforce for the demands of a green economy. Similarly, targeted support for small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs) could help stimulate innovation and drive economic growth. These measures must be implemented with urgency, as delays risk compounding the country’s economic woes and eroding public confidence.
Australia’s path forward will also require a candid examination of its social and economic priorities. For years, the nation has prided itself on its egalitarian ethos, yet recent economic developments have exposed widening gaps between rich and poor, urban and rural, young and old. Policymakers must ensure that economic growth is inclusive and that the benefits of progress are shared broadly across society. This will necessitate not only economic reforms but also a commitment to addressing structural inequalities that have been exacerbated by recent challenges.
The resilience of the Australian people cannot be understated. From natural disasters to global financial shocks, Australians have consistently demonstrated an ability to adapt and persevere. Yet resilience alone is not enough. The country stands at a pivotal moment, with the opportunity to shape a more equitable, innovative, and sustainable future. This will require bold leadership, thoughtful policymaking, and a willingness to confront difficult truths about the state of the economy and society.
The Australian government has shown that it is willing to act, as evidenced by its ambitious renewable energy and industrial initiatives. But the success of these programs will hinge on their ability to deliver tangible benefits to everyday Australians. Economic growth, after all, is not an abstract concept; it is measured in the ability of families to afford a home, workers to earn a fair wage, and communities to thrive. These are the metrics that truly matter and the benchmarks by which the nation’s progress will ultimately be judged.
As Australia navigates this complex and challenging period, there is reason for cautious optimism. The country has the resources, talent, and determination to overcome its current difficulties and emerge stronger on the other side. But this will require a collective effort, one that brings together government, business, and society to tackle the challenges ahead with honesty, creativity, and a shared sense of purpose. The stakes are high, but so too is the potential for a brighter and more prosperous future.
President Trump starts his second tenure on expected lines
New Delhi, Jan 26 (IANS) The series of directives issued by President Donald Trump within hours of his swearing-in was -- as expected -- unambiguous, assertive and geopolitically important. They seemingly confirmed that the new US President was determined to take complete control of the governance, bring the 'America First' call into play and give priority to building the economic strength of the US to fulfil that mandate.
The first of the ten executive orders signed by him even before moving to the Oval Office suspended 78 notifications issued by the Biden Presidency. His directives included a freeze on the hiring of Federal employees except for the military, immigration control, national security and public safety, stoppage of issue of any further notifications by Federal officials and restoration of complete freedom of speech, ending the 'weaponisation' of the instruments of governance in the previous regime.
There was also the declaration of withdrawal from the Paris Climate Treaty to save American aid of $3 billion given annually to the climate fund. This and the pull-out from the WHO that would deprive the UN agency of the annual US contribution of $130 million will have international repercussions.
Trump's long-held antipathy towards WHO is rooted in his perception that the UN agency was influenced by China, which was responsible for Covid 19 virus, and that WHO had mishandled the pandemic.
Trump's announced mission of 'Making America Great Again' seems to be the prompt behind many of these early declarations in the spheres of foreign policy, domestic handling of inflation and unemployment, as well as of economy and trade. President Trump, in his second innings, is driven by a desire to transform the US and leave behind a legacy of decision-making that no other President could measure up to.
The first directives signed by Trump covered matters ranging
from the security of borders to the thrust on bringing the governance totally under the President's control. He terminated all arrangements of remote functioning for federal employees and ordered their return to In-Person work. He asked for a plan for downsizing the Federal government's workforce through improvement of efficiency and attrition.
At the same time, he directed executive departments and agencies to implement 'emergency price relief measures' to lower the cost of housing, health care, food and fuel and also create employment opportunities.
In an extraordinary executive order, President Trump renamed the US Digital Service as the Department of Government Efficiency(DOGE) and proposed to place it under Elon Musk for maximising the government's 'efficiency and productivity'.
Trump has directed his Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, to implement the 'America First' foreign policy, in which the US and US citizens will be the sole priority.
He ordered the rechristening of the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America and the return of the name of Denali, the highest peak in North America, to the former Mount McKinley-named after the 25th President of the US in the 19th century. At home, the new President has called for tightening immigration laws, interestingly, the concerned directive captioned 'Protecting the American people against Invasion' introduces a slew of policies aimed at curbing immigration.
Trump, in fact, declared a 'national emergency' for checking immigration and directed military personnel to help secure the southern border through the use of additional physical barriers as well as drones. The Homeland Security Secretary has been asked by Trump to establish Homeland Security Task Forces in all states to assist in the faithful execution of immigration laws.
In another directive, Trump has ended birthright citizenship for children born in the US to immigrant parents who were in the country illegally as well as those born to parents who were there on a temporary basis. He has threatened mass deportations of illegal migrants including those whose birthright citizenship was revoked.
President Trump has designated
some of the Drug cartels as 'foreign terrorist organisations' on the grounds that they had engaged in a campaign of violence and terror throughout the hemisphere and flooded the US with crime thus posing a security risk to the country. Designation of cartels as 'foreign terrorist organisations' could facilitate military action against targets in Mexico and other countries. Trump's focus on the challenge of countering terrorism will be appreciated by India.
In an executive order, the new President has put curbs on visa seekers from certain countries to protect the US from potential foreign terrorists. Vetting and screening will be intensified in regard to visa applicants from 'regions and nations with identified security risks'.
Trump has restored the death penalty in the interest of 'public safety' and asked the Attorney General to pursue cases of the death penalty for all capital crimes. Moreover, Trump has termed the Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity(DEI) programmes of the Biden Administration as 'radical' and 'wasteful' and emphasised that there should be prioritisation of 'merit' and 'skill' in hiring. He rescinded a Biden executive order that enabled the Presidency to hire and fire federal civil servants with an eye on 'loyalty' and ordained that the employees should faithfully implement the administration's policies to the best of their ability, consistent with their Constitutional oath.
Trump is not taken in by the rhetoric of liberal values and he has firmly rejected 'gender identity politics' and the 'diversity' regulations earlier mentioned and has shown no flair for promoting human rights globally. The policy of the Trump Administration is to recognise two sexes-- male and female --and consequently, the Federal government will henceforth use the word 'sex' not 'gender'.
In line with the 'America First' doctrine, Trump has declared a 'National energy emergency' that calls for a review of all obstacles to the creation of domestic energy infrastructure resulting from legal impediments such as the Endangered Species Act. He has paused all federal Wind Energy projects, rejected the concept of renewable energy and endorsed the revival of the oil and natural gas industry. Significantly,
Trump has talked of the 'America First Trade Policy' calling for immediate examination of the 'unfair and unbalanced trade with all countries including China'.
Some of the orders issued by President Trump are clearly beneficial for him at the personal level. In what was clearly anticipated, Trump granted pardons and commutation of sentences for offences relating to the events at or near the US Capitol on January 6, 2021. He also ordered the dismissal of all pending indictments related to January 6. The sweeping clemency directive covered more than 1500 defendants-Trump alleging that there was political vendetta behind these cases.
Trump ordered flags to be flown at full mast on Presidential inauguration days annulling the Biden Administration's directive for a month-long mourning for Jimmy Carter former US President that would have covered President Trump's swearing-in event.
The Trump directive to keep the popular China-owned TikTok operational temporarily was meant to delay the execution of a law that had shut down the social media platform on national security grounds -- unless it was sold to an American -- and fixed Sunday, January 19 as the deadline for this. Trump has declared that he was open to Elon Musk, Tesla CEO, buying TikTok -- this will be a good business venture for Musk and a great source of political support for the new President.
Targeting the DeepState, Trump signed an order ending the 'weaponisation of government' against political opponents and directed the Attorney General to investigate the Biden regime's misuse of the Department of Justice, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as well as the Federal Trade Commission ( FTC). US Supreme Court is said to have a preponderance of conservative justices presently and it had recently ruled that Presidents are broadly immune from prosecution for any official actions taken during their term. This should be a comforting situation for Trump.
The policy framework of President Donald Trump is still unfolding but their invoking of 'America First' by him had already found an expression in foreign policy, trade tariff and national security perspectives defined by him. He is being very vocal about
his intention of transforming the country's systems to 'Make America Great Again'.
India would find itself on the same side of the fence as President Trump on the issue of global terror and its faithbased origins, which had led the new President to call for special watch on the visa applicants from certain 'nations and regions'.
Trump is circumspect about projecting American political strength or its military might as a Superpower, and his thrust on growth through economic advancement was clearly in evidence. However, the President did make mention of China more than once -- on an adversarial note. Apart from the fact that he made a specific reference only to China in the context of a 'review of trade imbalances with all countries', the new President forthrightly blamed China for dominating WHO and causing the COVID-19 pandemic and, in his inaugural speech, justified the decision of US to 'take back' Panama Canal because China was deriving an unfair strategic advantage through its use.
Apart from Trump's stand against global terror, his policy towards China would facilitate Indo-US friendship. Trump seems to discount Human Rights campaigns on social media while favouring a peaceful world order. His past record of friendship with President Putin of Russia and a lack of enthusiasm for the European Union as such, and his full support to Israel against the violence of Hamas might have a moderating effect on the UkraineRussia 'war' on one hand and help the process of release of hostages by both Hamas and Israel, on the other.
India should have a cautious approach to the 'America First' call and Trump's handling of tariffs, immigration and security of borders particularly after his declaration that "we will forge a society that is colour blind and merit-based." India is a major power in a multipolar world order and is a votary of global peace, fairness in international trade and bilateral relations based on mutual security and economic interests. It can deal with Trump's Presidency on merit, too.
(The writer is a former Director Intelligence Bureau)
FEEFREE TAFE
Harleen’s career journey
• In 2022, Harleen moved to Australia after working as a nurse in India.
• Despite her nursing background, Harleen had trouble finding work. She considered going to university but was concerned about the fees.
• Harleen learned about Fee-Free TAFE through the Canberra Institute of Technology and enrolled in a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance.
• Harleen finished her course in 2024 and was offered a job as an Assistant in Nursing at a local hospital.
Speaking with Harleen
What inspired you to study with Fee-Free TAFE?
I always wanted to work as a nurse in Australia because there are so many opportunities here.
From India to Australia: Harleen’s passport to a new career
Harleen’s story
When Harleen moved to Australia, she was determined to continue her nursing career but struggled to find the right role. After discovering FeeFree TAFE, she saw a chance to gain the skills she needed. Now, Harleen has landed a job at the same hospital where she did her TAFE placement.
You’re not limited to bedside nursing—you can also work in teaching, administration, or even business roles in healthcare.
When I first arrived, I thought my nursing experience in India would help me get a job. But I quickly learned that employers here expect more, including Australian qualifications. While looking at my options, I talked to the student services team at the Canberra Institute of Technology. They told me I was eligible for Fee-Free TAFE, and it felt like the perfect fit!
What was the most valuable part of your experience?
The practical training I received at TAFE bridged the gap between my previous nursing experience overseas and the expectations here in Australia.
I loved my work placement at a local hospital where I was in the neuro and rehab unit—the patients were so interactive and positive.
Centre introduces ‘Entity Locker’ for smooth business document management
New Delhi, Jan 20 (IANS) After the success of DigiLocker for citizens, the government on Monday launched ‘Entity Locker’, a cutting-edge digital platform designed to transform the management and verification of business and organisation documents.
National eGovernance Division (NeGD), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), has developed the secure, cloudbased solution that simplifies the storage, sharing, and verification of documents for a wide range of entities, including large organisations, corporations, micro, small, and medium
India
Enterprises (MSMEs), trusts, startups and societies.
Entity Locker is built on a robust technological framework that integrates with multiple government and regulatory systems, offering real-time access and verification of documents through integration with government databases; consentbased mechanisms for secure sharing of sensitive information; Aadhaar-authenticated rolebased access management to ensure accountability; 10 GB of encrypted cloud storage for secure document management; legally valid digital signatures for authenticating documents.
The platform is a critical component of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), aligning with the vision of the Union Budget 2024-25 for enhanced digital governance and ease of doing business.
By consolidating these features, the platform aims to minimize administrative overhead, reduce processing times, and enhance operational efficiency for
businesses, said the ministry. Entity Locker’s seamless integration with systems such as the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, the Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN), the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and other regulatory institutions provides businesses instant access to critical documents. It streamlines document sharing and access with partners and stakeholders, ensures accountability by tracking all document-related activities, consolidates storage and security to reduce administrative overhead and minimises document processing times and operational bottlenecks.
The platform supports various use cases, including vendor verification on the procurement portal; expedited loan applications for MSMEs; FSSAI compliance documentation; vendor verification during registration in GSTN, MCA and tendering process; and streamlined corporate annual filings.
one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, global hub for startups: WEF report
New Delhi, Jan 20 (IANS) India stands at the forefront as one of the world's fastest-growing economies and a global hub for startups and digital innovation, a World Economic Forum (WEF) report said on Monday. According to the report, launched by the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) India, the liaison office of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in India, the country’s "advocacy
for and pursuit of developmental templates where technology serves as a bridge rather than a barrier are highly relevant and the Forum is proud to act as its partner in shaping a more human-centric, planet-friendly and resilient future”.
The C4IR India was launched in October 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with the aim of driving the adoption and responsible deployment of emerging technologies in India.
A collaboration between the World Economic Forum, coordinated by the NITI Ayog, the launch of the centre is part of the World Economic Forum's global network of centres for the Fourth Industrial Revolution
"Over the past six years, C4IR India has emerged as a key hub for multistakeholder collaboration and has improved the lives of 1.25 million citizens through enhanced livelihoods and better access to healthcare,” said Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director, World Economic Forum.
The centre has driven fourth industrial revolution technologies across agriculture, health and aviation, setting a benchmark for transformative progress.
“As C4IR India continues to expand, it is now focusing on cutting-edge areas such as AI, climate tech, and space tech, with exciting potential for creating lasting value for society," Jurgens added.
South Korean investors bet big on US stocks, ‘Trumponomics 2.0’
of money
funds
invest in U.S. stocks on hopes that President Donald Trump's "America First" policy would help further boost the U.S. stock market, data showed on Tuesday.
According to the data from market tracker FnGuide, 167 funds that invest in U.S. stocks had 23.34
trillion won ($16.24 billion) under management as of January 21, up 1.29 trillion won from the end of last year.
Massive money inflows into such funds come as the U.S. economy is anticipated to continue its bullish run, with the Trump administration widely expected to implement policies aimed at making the world's largest economy stronger. Last year, local investors reaped decent gains from investments in U.S. stocks.
The U.S. stocks-focused funds delivered an average 34.1 per cent return last year.
In 2024, the Standard &
New Delhi: Different aspects of business, including sales promotion, building mutual trust with prospective buyers on the strength of the customer feedback, effective communications, honouring the organisational ethics, and use of emotional intelligence for handling people, prove the basic point that all business is about human beings -- conducted 'by and for the people'.
Even funding, business diversification, and mergers involve individuals as investors, planners of growth, and negotiators from the two sides.
Successful businesses ultimately owe their gains to a set of persons who took right decisions at the right time and who are knowledgeable about the market and the competitors.
This required them to be information savvy -- a quality that only human beings could have.
In the era of Artificial Intelligence and 'Machine Learning', it is data analytics that held the key to productivity but it worked within the fundamental principle that results would be dependant on the information 'fed' into the system.
The gift of 'imagination' that only a human mind possessed, could make all the difference between success and failure and could never be overestimated.
Imagination has the base of knowledge but only those who could see 'the wood behind the trees' would visualise the opportunities and risks that lay ahead and put the business on the path of progress by embracing the former and avoiding the latter.
The success of any business is traditionally judged by the extent to which it can sell its product or service but for it to hit a benchmark three basic parameters have to be unfailingly met.
First, promotion must be free of 'lies' though it could accommodate some 'exaggeration' within an 'ethical' limit.
the corporate body across the vertical hierarchy and the system the organisation has established for garnering information of relevance that is available within and outside of the business entity. Communications have acquired a new-found significance in the age of online functioning. A good communication in all situations must conform to three requirements -- it should be 'unambiguous' which means it should not permit more than one interpretation, it must be 'concise' within the precept that 'brevity cannot be there at the cost of clarity' and it should follow the 'need to know' principle where mandated.
The reputation and image of a 'brand' depend largely on the consistency of its promise, use of the feedback for improving the product or the service, and the ability of the company to stand up to the competition in terms of pricing. For all of this to happen the leadership must make knowledge-based decisions using information that is made available to the corporate body by those who studied and analysed the competitive environment. It should, in particular, make adequate use of whatever was there as 'exclusive' information in the possession of the organisation. The operation of the human factors in business is manifest in the new trend of corporates using the data on customers and their purchasing history and preferences, to reach out to them through personalised communications and keep up their loyalty by offering what they are seeking in particular. Online follow-up with customers to ascertain their requirements is a useful way of enhancing outreach and ensuring customer retention. However, there is a sudden spurt in promotional activities on social media platforms and there is an impression in public that some of it is meant to push untested products into the market -- thus reflecting poorly on the ethical side of the business. It is also true that monetary inducement is being used by business houses to get the better of the competition.
Poor's 500 index soared 23.3 per cent, and the tech-savvy Nasdaq index jumped 28.6 per cent. In contrast, domestic stockfocused investment funds saw some 100 billion won in outflow. The country's benchmark index, the Korea Composite Stock Price Index, fell 3.9 per cent on-year in 2024, and the funds that invest in local stocks suffered a 0.47 per cent dip. Meanwhile, South Korea's three major department store chains said on Tuesday their luxury goods sales continued to rise last year on steady demand for premium products despite an economic slowdown.
Secondly, there should be an awareness of the need for the business to earn the reputation of a 'brand' so that expansion or diversification could be supported by investors.
And finally, arrangements must exist for an ongoing study and analysis of the competition developing around that business. All these ingredients of success are heavily dependant on the quality of communications that the leaders and representatives of the organisation had with their clients, customers, and the general public, interpersonal relations that prevailed within
On the strategic front social media has attracted adverse notice for becoming an instrument of 'proxy war' and 'misinformation campaign' that is meant to hurt the security interests of the target country and even bring down a regime. Its potential in creating a 'business warfare' is certainly to be watched out for in the times to come, because economic security is an essential ingredient of national security, and covert attack on the opponent's economy is now a part of the said 'proxy war'. Digital marketing has come to stay and businesses are already in the thick of using Artificial Intelligence to enhance their output and expand their operations.
Seoul, Jan 28 (IANS) Investors are pouring a large amount
into
that
Vibrant Sankranthi Celebrations Bring the Community Together
The Andhra Association of Queensland hosted a magnificent Sankranthi Celebrations on Sunday 12th January 2025 at Logan West Community Centre - Hillcrest, bringing families and individuals together for a day filled with joy, traditions and cultural pride. The turnout of over 550 attendees highlighted the importance of such events in fostering togetherness and unity. At the heart of this grand celebration were the visionary founders, Ram Junnuri & Uma Chilukoti whose passion, dedication and leadership made this event a reality. They have always been the driving force behind preserving and promoting our cultural heritage. Their unwavering commitment to bringing the community together in celebration of traditions has created a strong platform for families and individuals to connect, rejoice and reflect on the values that Sankranthi represents. Their tireless efforts, along with the meticulous planning by Sudha Shanker and the dedicated organizing team, ensured the event was a grand success.
The celebration began with a colourful Muggulu (Rangoli) competition, where participants displayed their creativity and skill through intricate and vibrant designs. The creativity and devotion on display highlighted
the cultural richness of this traditional art form and brought a vibrant start to the event.
The skies were a spectacle of colour during the Kite-flying activity, with people of all ages enthusiastically taking part in this much-loved Sankranthi tradition. The AAQ event included a kite stall dedicated to all ages presented at the event to have the opportunity and encouragement to fly a kite and connect with their Telugu roots.
The Gobbemmalu Ceremony, a significant part of Sankranthi, brought young girls and women together to decorate gobbemmalu (cow dung balls) with flowers and offer prayers, symbolizing prosperity and unity within the community.
The Bommala Pelli (doll wedding) was a delightful addition to the festivities. This traditional ceremony, which recreated a marriage with beautifully adorned dolls, was organized with great attention to detail. Attendees, especially children, were thrilled to witness and participate in this unique cultural tradition, which symbolizes joy, unity and prosperity.
The celebrations also included Bhogi Pallu, which is a traditional Telugu ritual that is a special time to shower children with flowers, fruits and sweets to wish them eternal health and
happiness. Elders, who are often custodians of cultural knowledge, can participate by sharing their experiences and narrating their own stories to the children. This intergenerational exchange fosters a shared sense of community and ensures that traditions are kept. Sankranthi is a festival of togetherness and the AAQ event successfully involved everyone - regardless of age. The traditional dress ramp walk brought the crowd together in celebration of cultural attire. Participants of all ages confidently displayed their stunning traditional outfits, showcasing the beauty of heritage through fashion. A special recognition went to Hari Panchumarthi as the Haridasu Best Dressed, celebrating the participant who best embodied the spirit of the event with their vibrant and authentic Haridasu attire. This added a unique cultural touch, connecting attendees to the timeless traditions of Sankranthi.
The event’s success was enhanced by the charismatic and engaging Master of Ceremonies (MC), Hari Panchumarthi, Archana Pattela, Vidya Mallela, who ensured that the event was lively, entertaining, and perfectly timed. Their ability to connect with the audience, announce activities with enthusiasm and create a
joyful atmosphere added a special charm to the celebration. The MC’s role in bringing everyone together and keeping the energy high throughout the day was truly commendable.
The Sankranthi feast was a highlight of the event, offering a rich spread of traditional delicacies, including Ariselu, Boorelu, Avakaya, Pappu, Dappalam which delighted every attendee. The organizing team ensured that the food service was seamless, allowing the large gathering of over 550 people to enjoy a memorable culinary experience.
The organizers left no stone unturned in ensuring the day was special for everyone. Thoughtful, traditional return gifts for women and children were distributed as a token of appreciation, leaving attendees with cherished mementos of the celebration.
Acknowledging the Team Behind the Success
This grand celebration was made possible through the collective efforts of many. Special recognition goes to the founders - Ram Junnuri & Uma Chilukoti whose vision, leadership and dedication laid the foundation for this extraordinary gathering. Their passion for celebrating and preserving cultural traditions continues to inspire the community.
Heartfelt appreciation goes to Sudha Shanker & the Team, whose meticulous planning and execution ensured that every aspect of the event ran smoothly. Their ability to coordinate a large-scale event with such precision was instrumental in its success.
A special thanks to the AAQ EC team Janakiram Mannva, Suneetha Jakkampudi, Priyanka Vadalmudi, Hema Gaddireddi, Kuldeep Ganisetty, Satya Pattela, Dr. Mrinal Madireddi, Swamy Juluru, Bhanu Yapuri, Raju Grandhi whose tireless efforts made every activity and arrangement possible. From setting up the Muggulu Competition, Bommala Pelli to organizing competitions and serving food, their dedication and teamwork were the backbone of the event.
The holistic experience encompassed a special guest at the event. Sri Kiran Kumar Reddy, an Indian Member of Parliament, was an incredible asset to the event as he spoke about the importance of maintaining culture. AAQ also had the sincere privilege of having its website launched during the event by Sri Kiran Kumar Reddy. Our special guests Preethi suraj (President - FICQ), Satya Seelam (PresidentFTAA), Rohit on wheels and many others were present.
AIBC Chair Deepak-Raj Gupta highlights growing Australia-India trade ties
Canberra, January 20 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) and its National
Chair, Deepak-Raj Gupta OAM, were recently featured in Canberra CityNews, emphasizing the Council’s pivotal role in strengthening trade ties between Australia and India.
Under Deepak’s leadership, AIBC has been fostering partnerships across vital sectors such as defence, technology, education, health, industry, and manufacturing. These efforts aim to drive innovation and expand the Australia-India bilateral trade corridor.
Deepak, who previously served as the ACT AIBC President and as the first Indian-born MLA in the
ACT Legislative Assembly, has a long history with the Council. He founded the ACT chapter of AIBC in 2006 and has spent nearly two decades working to strengthen Australia-India relations.
As the National Chair, Deepak sees his role as a significant responsibility to facilitate trade and deepen ties. “India will soon be a major market for Australian companies,” he said, highlighting the exponential growth of bilateral trade.
In Canberra, Indian international students, tourism, and cultural elements such as food and music already play a significant role
in the local economy. However, Deepak is keen to broaden this engagement to include innovation, investment, and tourism. He advocates for moving beyond the stereotype of the Indian community as primarily focused on entertainment, aiming instead for deeper collaborations in business and technology. Deepak also calls for stronger “government-to-government” and “business-to-business” communications, complementing the existing strong “peopleto-people” connections. He believes Australia stands to gain significantly from Indian
companies’ advancements in scientific innovation and technology.
Describing the evolving trade relationship, Deepak said, “We’ve had our ‘romance,’ but it’s time to put the ring on the finger.” This metaphor captures his vision of transitioning the AustraliaIndia trade partnership into a more formal and impactful collaboration.
With AIBC’s ongoing efforts under Deepak’s leadership, the future of Australia-India trade relations appears poised for substantial growth and meaningful contributions to both nations’ economies.
AIBC highlights key partnerships to strengthen Australia-India trade relations
Canberra, January 15 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia India Business Council (AIBC) has expressed its gratitude to key stakeholders, including Dr. Janakiraman Sarvesvaran, Consul General of India in Sydney, and Tim Thomas, CEO of the Centre for AustraliaIndia Relations (CAIR), for their efforts in advancing bilateral collaboration.
In a recent Facebook post, AIBC acknowledged the vital role these leaders have played in fostering meaningful engagements that drive the Australia-India partnership forward. The AIBC executive team recently held productive discussions with Dr. Sarvesvaran, exploring trade and investment opportunities critical
to strengthening ties between the two nations. Building robust trade links remains a top priority for AIBC, which continues to facilitate collaboration between government and industry leaders.
Additionally, AIBC met with Tim Thomas and key executives from CAIR to align strategic priorities and deepen bilateral cooperation. These discussions aimed to
enhance trade, drive innovation, and unlock new opportunities for businesses and communities in both countries.
The AIBC emphasized its commitment to serving as a bridge between governments, industries, and stakeholders in the Australia-India corridor.
“Together, we are paving the way for a brighter, more connected
future,” the Council said in its Facebook post, underscoring its dedication to fostering collaboration and creating opportunities in the bilateral trade landscape. These engagements reflect a shared vision of strengthening the Australia-India partnership, ensuring sustained growth, and advancing innovation across multiple sectors.
Consulate General of India celebrates India’s 76th Republic Day
Sydney, January 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India in Sydney marked the 76th Republic Day of India with
great enthusiasm on January 26, 2025. Consul General Dr. S. Janakiraman led the celebration by unfurling the Tricolour and reading the address to the nation
of India’s President, a significant moment for both the Indian community and friends of India in Australia.
The event was well-attended
by members of the Indian community and various dignitaries, all gathered to honour the spirit of India’s Republic Day and celebrate the nation’s
democratic values and progress. The celebration underscored the ongoing strong cultural and diplomatic ties between India and Australia.
World Hindi Day celebrated at Melbourne Consulate with cultural festivities & awards
Melbourne, January 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consulate General of India in Melbourne, in collaboration with Sahitya Sandhya, Hindi Niketan Melbourne, and Hindi Shiksha Sangh, marked World Hindi Day
with a vibrant celebration. The event featured a special message from India’s Prime Minister, read by Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar, who praised the Indian community for their efforts in preserving and promoting the
Hindi language.
The celebration included awards for participants in Hindi poetry and essay competitions, recognizing their contributions to the language. Children also showcased their talents by
reciting poems and engaging in cultural activities. Anita Barar and Shally Khanna were felicitated for their outstanding efforts in promoting Hindi in Australia.
A special exhibition on the works of Poetess Mahadevi
Verma, curated by Anita Barar, was also displayed at the Consulate, highlighting the rich legacy of Hindi literature. The event highlighted the growing influence and importance of Hindi in Australia’s multicultural landscape.
India to host 16th Toy Biz International B2B Exhibition in July 2025
Brisbane, January 20 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Australia India Business
Council has announced a significant opportunity for the toy manufacturing industry as the Toy Association of India (TAI) prepares to host the 16th Toy Biz International B2B Exhibition. The event will take place from July 4-7, 2025, at Bharat Mandapam (Pragati Maidan) in New Delhi. Toy Biz International is India’s largest trade show for the toy industry, providing a platform for manufacturers and dealers to connect with domestic and
international buyers. This year’s exhibition is expected to feature over 400 Indian brands, offering a glimpse into the latest trends and innovations in the sector.
The previous edition of Toy Biz, held in 2024, drew more than 15,000 business visitors from approximately 40 countries.
Recognized as South Asia’s largest toy expo, it showcased groundbreaking industry trends and emerging technologies, garnering immense interest from
the global toy fraternity.
The theme for Toy Biz 2025, “Mission 50: Connecting the World to Toy Biz 2025,” aims to attract visitors from 50 countries, fostering international collaborations and expanding market opportunities for Indian toy manufacturers.
To encourage international participation, the organizers have announced exclusive benefits for foreign buyers and visitors. These include complimentary
accommodation with breakfast at a Five Star Hotel in New Delhi, partial travel reimbursement for up to two individuals per company (subject to approval), and free transportation between the hotel and the exhibition venue.
With its focus on global partnerships, innovation, and market expansion, Toy Biz 2025 presents a unique opportunity for stakeholders to connect and thrive in the evolving toy industry.
Melbourne commemorates Swami Vivekananda’s birth anniversary with cultural unity
Melbourne, January 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda was commemorated in Melbourne, recently, with a vibrant event organized by the Vivekananda Society of Australia
and supported by various Indian organizations. The gathering saw the participation of Consul General Dr. Sushil Kumar, Victorian Members of Parliament Iwan Walters, Evan Mulholland, Kathleen Matthews, community leaders, and members of the
Indian diaspora.
The event highlighted the enduring values of hard work, resilience, and inclusiveness championed by Swami Vivekananda. These values, embraced by the Indian
community in Australia, are being passed on to younger generations as part of a shared cultural legacy.
Cultural performances added vibrancy to the celebrations, showcasing the rich heritage of the Indian diaspora and
contributing to Victoria’s multicultural landscape. The event stood as a testament to the unity in diversity that defines both Swami Vivekananda’s teachings and Australia’s multicultural spirit.
FICQ joins Consulate in celebrating India’s 76th Republic Day
Brisbane, January 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) participated in the grand celebration of India’s 76th Republic Day at a National Day Reception hosted by the Consulate General of India.
The event, held at Emporium Hotels in Brisbane, brought together dignitaries, government representatives, and Indian
community leaders to mark the occasion.
The reception highlighted the deepening ties between India and Australia, with attendees reflecting on the values of democracy, unity, and progress.
FICQ’s presence reinforced its commitment to strengthening community bonds and fostering cultural connections between the two nations.
Australia & India strengthen educational ties through hgh-level discussions
New Delhi, January 19 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
A Networking Dinner held on January 17 at the Australian High Commission in New Delhi brought together influential stakeholders from India and Australia to explore opportunities for collaboration in education and innovation. The dinner was
hosted by Dr. Monica Kennedy, Minister-Commercial and Head of Austrade, South Asia, and attended by Australian High Commissioner Philip Green OAM. Among the attendees was Dr. Marjorie O’Neill MP from New South Wales, reflecting the highlevel commitment to fostering partnerships.
The following day, the Chairman of Assocham’s National Education Council addressed the Australian delegation, emphasizing potential collaborations in research, skill development, student mobility, vocational education, and sustainability. These discussions, facilitated by Austrade and Assocham, aimed to deepen the
strategic educational ties between the two nations.
The engagements underscored the shared commitment of Australia and India to advancing global education standards and fostering impactful, long-term partnerships.
Vibrant celebration of India’s 76th Republic Day at Indian Consulate
Melbourne, January 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The 76th Republic Day of India was celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Consulate
General of India in Melbourne on January 26. A vibrant gathering of the Indian community, along with friends of India, marked the occasion with lively
performances, including the rhythmic beats of Dhol, patriotic songs, and traditional dances. The performances beautifully showcased India's rich cultural
heritage, reflecting the spirit of unity in diversity that defines the nation. The event was a testament to the deep ties and pride the Indian diaspora holds for their
homeland, while also fostering a sense of community and shared celebration.
Indian Community in Perth celebrates 76th Republic Day
Perth, January 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The 76th Republic Day of India was celebrated with great enthusiasm by the Indian
community in Perth at the premises of the Indian Consulate.
The event embodied the spirit of unity, patriotism, and harmony.
Consul General Amarjeet Singh
Takhi unfurled the Indian tricolour, marking the beginning of the celebrations. Addressing the gathering, the Consul General highlighted the significance of the
day and the contributions of the Indian diaspora in strengthening ties between India and Australia.
The event reflected the community's pride in their
heritage and commitment to the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution, fostering a sense of togetherness and cultural pride.
Brisbane, January 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Trade and Investment
Queensland (TIQ) recently hosted the 2024 IABCA (India Australia Business & Community Alliance)
Queensland Welcome Reception at the Queensland Parliament, showcasing the flourishing trade, investment, and community ties between Queensland and India.
The event highlighted the power
of collaboration and the vital role that businesses and community leaders play in strengthening Australia-India relations. The evening brought together key stakeholders, reinforcing the
growing opportunities in bilateral partnerships.
As the celebration continues, entries are now open for the 2025 IABCA Awards, providing an opportunity to recognize
outstanding contributions in enhancing the Australia-India relationship. Those interested can submit their nominations by visiting iabca.com.au.
FICQ celebrates India-Australia Day with cultural performances & major announcements
Brisbane, January 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) hosted a grand IndiaAustralia Day celebration on January 26, 2025, marking the
enduring friendship between the two nations.
The event featured inspiring messages from the Governor of Queensland and other distinguished guests, highlighting the shared values and growing
ties between India and Australia. Attendees were treated to vibrant cultural performances that showcased the rich heritage of the Indian community in Queensland. In addition to the celebrations, FICQ made two exciting
announcements: the launch of its own Toastmasters Club to foster leadership and public speaking skills within the community, and the upcoming Unity Cup multicultural soccer tournament, aimed at promoting inclusivity and sportsmanship. The event reinforced FICQ’s commitment to strengthening cultural connections and fostering unity among diverse communities in Queensland.
Australia celebrates India’s 75th Republic Day, leaders highlight strong bilateral ties
Canberra, January 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter
Dutton extended their heartfelt wishes to India and the Indian diaspora on the occasion of India’s 75th Republic Day, emphasizing the deepening ties
between the two nations.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described Republic Day as a celebration of India’s achievements and rich cultural heritage, acknowledging its progress since gaining independence in 1947. He noted the significance of January 26, which coincides with Australia Day, further strengthening the bond between the two democracies.
“Australia and India have never been closer, and our friendship continues to grow,” he said, praising Indian Australians as
the “lifeblood” of the bilateral relationship. He highlighted their contributions in business, science, culture, sport, and the arts, expressing optimism for greater collaboration between the two nations.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton also acknowledged the historical importance of January 26 for both countries. He reflected on Australia Day’s origins in 1838 and India’s transition to a republic in 1950, recognizing the dual significance of the date for Australians of Indian heritage.
Dutton highlighted the long-
standing ties between Australia and India, dating back to the Gallipoli campaign in 1915, and praised the valuable contributions of Indian Australians in shaping modern Australia. He emphasized the shared democratic values, friendship, and enterprise that continue to strengthen bilateral relations.
Both leaders expressed their best wishes to Indian Australians and the global Indian community, reaffirming the strong and enduring partnership between Australia and India.
Brisbane community clubs to benefit from $2.3 million in grants
Victoria-India Clean Energy Roundtable
Brisbane, January 29 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Community clubs and organisations across Brisbane are set to receive a major boost, with more than $2.3 million in funding allocated under the latest round of the Lord Mayor’s Better Suburbs Grants. The grants will fund upgraded playgrounds, new sports field lighting, and improved clubhouse amenities, ensuring Brisbane’s suburban spaces remain vibrant and accessible for residents.
A total of 24 successful clubs have each secured up to $200,000 under the Community Facility grant category to expand their operations and enhance community spaces. Among the key projects funded in this round are a new playground for
Holland Park Kindergarten, new baseball netting for Baseball Queensland in Hendra, and improved wheelchair access at the Chermside Bowls Club.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner emphasized the importance of investing in local clubs, stating, “Our fantastic community clubs are part of the reason why we are Australia’s lifestyle capital, and we want to see them thrive now and into the future.”
He highlighted that the Better Suburbs Grants program ensures these organisations receive the support they need to continue fostering community engagement.
“So many of these organisations rely on volunteers to keep them going, and we want to support the work they do to make living in Brisbane even better,” he added.
A vision for future trade, research & innovation
Melbourne, January 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Victoria-India Clean Energy Roundtable took place in Melbourne on 29 January 2025, with the Australia India Institute, the Victorian Government, and the Smart Energy Council coming together to facilitate an important dialogue on strengthening ties between Victoria and India in the clean energy sector.
The roundtable focused on exploring new opportunities for trade, investment, collaborative research, innovation, and manufacturing within the clean energy space. Key discussions
revolved around how both regions could work together on skill development initiatives, promoting sustainable practices and pushing forward the transition to cleaner energy solutions.
Industry experts, policymakers, and business leaders shared their insights, highlighting the potential for both nations to drive change through joint ventures, technology exchange, and policy cooperation. The event underscored the growing importance of global partnerships in tackling energy challenges and fostering green technologies.
Over the past 12 months, more than 74 community organisations have benefited from the Community Facility and Community Support categories, contributing to a total of 372 groups receiving almost $10 million in funding since the program’s inception.
In addition to the grants, local businesses, community groups, and not-for-profits can explore further funding opportunities through the Funding Finder tool, which provides access to over 2000 grants worth $59 billion via GrantGuru’s national database. Applications for the next round of the Lord Mayor’s Better Suburbs Grants will open in March 2025. For more information, visit brisbane.qld.gov.au and search for ‘Better Suburbs Grants’.
The roundtable served as a crucial step in cementing a strategic partnership between Australia and India, paving the way for future projects and investments that will contribute to both countries’ clean energy goals.
Top performers of ‘Bharat Ko Janiye’ quiz felicitated
Melbourne/Perth, January 29
(Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Consul General of India in Melbourne honoured the top scorers of the ‘Bharat Ko Janiye’ quiz during the Republic Day celebrations. The event recognized outstanding
participants who demonstrated deep knowledge about India’s heritage, history, and achievements.
The top scorers from Melbourne included Paavani Vasa, Kuldip Singh, Aakrati Sathish Shetty, Mehran Mohiuddin, Pinal
Australia, and Daljeetam Singh Multani from Darwin, Northern Territory, for being among 50 top scoring participants from Australia for the Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz. Mansi Magoo was felicitated during the 76th Republic Day celebrations at the Consulate in Perth.
The felicitation ceremony highlighted the significance of cultural awareness and engagement among the Indian diaspora in Australia, strengthening their connection to India's rich legacy.
A journey to Tamil Nadu: Celebrating culture, community & connections
By Dr Ram Mohan, Editor
I recently journeyed from Brisbane to Tamil Nadu to fully engage in the vibrant harvest festival celebrations and connect with the Tamil diaspora community at some incredible events.
Experiencing Pongal in Tamil Nadu was a truly enriching adventure. The air was filled with the delightful aroma of sweet pongal, and homes were beautifully decorated with kolams (rangoli patterns), showcasing the spirit of gratitude and unity. The atmosphere was alive with traditional music, dance, and
temple rituals, creating an electrifying experience.
A standout moment during my visit was the Tamil Diaspora Day Conference and Exhibition 2025, which took place at the Chennai Trade Centre on January 11th and 12th. This significant event, organized by the Government of Tamil Nadu, united the global Tamil community, highlighting their contributions in various fields, including industry, arts, and social initiatives. As I walked through the exhibition, I encountered inspiring stories from entrepreneurs, academics, and leaders worldwide who are
Brisbane, January 30 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
On 29 January 2025, the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), in collaboration with the Consulate General of India in Brisbane, hosted the
dedicated to preserving Tamil culture while making a global impact. The overwhelming sense of pride and belonging was truly remarkable.
On January 11th, I was honoured to attend the Global CXO Conclave at Hotel Taj Coromandel in Chennai. This event served as a meeting point for business leaders, innovators, and corporate visionaries, where the focus was on new opportunities, economic growth, and global partnerships. Engaging with professionals from a variety of backgrounds, I was truly impressed by the vibrancy of the
Tamil business community, which continues to influence industries across the globe.
A notable event was the RISE 14th Global Summit, hosted at the ITC Grand Chola in Chennai. The summit offered enlightening sessions on technology, sustainability, and leadership, serving as a venue for exchanging ideas that could impact the future. By hearing from experts and thought leaders, I gained a richer perspective on the significance of Tamil entrepreneurs and professionals in the global economy.
soft launch for the upcoming GOPIO International Convention/ Conference 2025. The event, scheduled to take place from 2830 March at the Brisbane Marriot, was an exciting precursor to what promises to be an impactful
gathering.
The conference will feature a diverse range of networking opportunities and workshops, offering participants valuable insights and the chance to connect with prominent speakers
Throughout my journey, I experienced a deep connection— not only to my Tamil heritage but also to the sense of unity that links Tamils around the globe. This trip highlighted the way culture, tradition, and progress intertwine, showcasing how the Tamil diaspora flourishes while remaining firmly anchored in their roots.
When I returned to Brisbane, I brought back not just memories but also a revitalized sense of belonging and pride in being part of this worldwide Tamil community.
from around the world.
Discussions at the event are expected to focus on shaping the future of both GOPIO and the Indian diaspora, contributing to the growth and success of these communities globally.
Organizers encourage everyone to show their support for the local Indian community by securing tickets online. This conference is expected to be a pivotal moment for strengthening ties within the community and beyond.
IABCA Awards 2024 celebrates Australia-India partnerships with distinguished guests
Sydney, January 27 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The 2024 India Australia Business & Community Alliance (IABCA) Awards ceremony recently celebrated the remarkable achievements and collaborations
strengthening ties between Australia and India. The prestigious event highlighted individuals and organizations driving progress in trade, business, and community engagement.
The evening featured an esteemed lineup of guests, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr, India’s High Commissioner to Australia Gopal Baglay, and former Indian diplomat Ambassador Anil Wadhwa, a
strong advocate for bilateral relations. Global fashion icon and entrepreneur Camilla Franks also attended the event, adding to the event’s significance.
Bringing together leaders from business, community, and government, the ceremony
showcased the growing momentum of Australia-India relations. The IABCA Awards continue to serve as a platform to recognize excellence and innovation, reinforcing the power of collaboration between the two nations.
NSW government hosts IABCA patrons to strengthen Australia-India ties
Sydney, January 20 (Australia
India News Newsdesk)
The New South Wales (NSW) Parliament recently hosted patrons of the India Australia Business & Community Alliance (IABCA) during the IABCA Immersion Week, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties.
NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey MLC and Premier Chris Minns MP welcomed the delegation as they launched the Summer of
Cricket and the IABCA Program.
The event underscored the NSW Government’s ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration between India and Australia across business, trade, and cultural sectors.
In a Facebook post, IABCA wrote:
“We are profoundly grateful to Minister Piyush Goyal, India's Minister of Commerce and Industry, for joining the recent IABCA Alumni & Emerging Leaders Business Dialogue in
Sydney, thanks to the support of the Indian High Commission in Australia. The Minister's visionary insights and unwavering commitment to strengthening India-Australia trade ties were a highlight of the event, inspiring a brighter future for bilateral collaboration.”
Through initiatives like IABCA, Australia and India continue to deepen their partnership, paving the way for greater economic and community engagement.
Brisbane welcomes 500 new citizens in Australia Day ceremony
Brisbane, January 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Brisbane hosted its largest citizenship ceremony on Australia Day, welcoming 500 new citizens from 70 countries at City Hall.
The event highlights Brisbane’s diversity and multicultural spirit, with India (88), New Zealand (63), China (33), South Africa (15), and Taiwan (15) being the top countries of origin for the new Australians.
The ceremony, the first of 11 scheduled for Brisbane City Hall in 2025, reflects the city’s ongoing growth as a global hub. Last
year, more than 7,000 Brisbane residents became Australian citizens, underscoring its reputation as a welcoming and inclusive city. Each new citizen will receive a certificate, a gift bag, and a native plant seedling as part of the celebration.
Attendees will also hear the inspiring stories of recipients of the 2025 Lord Mayor’s Australia Day Awards. Lynn Atkinson, named Citizen of the Year, was recognized for 40 years of service in youth development, founding three charities to support vulnerable young people. Michael
Flanagan, Senior Citizen of the Year, was honoured for his 37 years as a Justice of the Peace, volunteering in hospitals, nursing homes, and assisting police investigations.
Jessica Hernandez, Young Citizen of the Year, was celebrated for her leadership in Scouts Queensland and volunteering for causes like the Red Cross Emergency Services. Other award winners include Brook Monahan (Corporate Citizen of the Year), Ingrid James (Cultural/Arts Award), and Glen Brown (Sports Award).
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner expressed his pride in welcoming Brisbane’s newest citizens, stating, “For many, this ceremony marks the culmination of a long road to becoming Australians. It’s an absolute honour to see them choose Brisbane as their home for its lifestyle, hospitality, and embrace of diversity.”
The Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony took place on January 26, 2025, at City Hall in Brisbane CBD, celebrating unity and the contributions of the city’s vibrant multicultural community.
Brisbane’s Telugu community unites for grand Sankranthi celebrations
Brisbane, January 28 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
The Andhra Association of Queensland (AAQ) hosted a spectacular Sankranthi celebration on January 12, 2025, at Logan West Community Centre, Hillcrest. The event brought together over 550 attendees for a day filled with cultural
pride, traditions, and festive joy, reinforcing the strong sense of community among Brisbane’s Telugu diaspora.
At the heart of this grand celebration were AAQ’s visionary founders, Ram Junnuri and Uma Chilukoti, whose dedication and leadership have played a pivotal role in preserving Telugu cultural heritage. Their tireless efforts, alongside meticulous planning by Sudha Shanker and the organizing team, ensured the event’s success.
A celebration of culture and tradition
The festivities began with a Muggulu (Rangoli) competition, where participants showcased their creativity with intricate and vibrant designs. The event then took to the skies with a kite-flying activity, giving attendees a chance
to relive childhood memories and stay connected to their Telugu roots.
The Gobbemmalu Ceremony, a sacred tradition symbolizing prosperity and unity, saw young girls and women decorating cow dung balls with flowers and offering prayers. Another highlight was the Bommala Pelli (Doll Wedding)—a unique cultural tradition that delighted attendees, particularly children, as it recreated a traditional marriage ceremony using beautifully adorned dolls.
The Bhogi Pallu ritual, where elders showered young children with flowers, fruits, and sweets, fostered intergenerational bonding, while a traditional dress ramp walk showcased the beauty of Telugu heritage through vibrant attire. Special recognition went to Hari Panchumarthi,
who was awarded "Best Dressed Haridasu" for embodying the spirit of the festival.
Entertainment and community engagement
The event was kept lively by the charismatic Masters of Ceremonies, Hari Panchumarthi, Archana Pattela, and Vidya Mallela, who entertained the crowd and ensured the seamless flow of events. The Sankranthi feast was a major highlight, offering a lavish spread of traditional Telugu delicacies such as Ariselu, Boorelu, Avakaya, Pappu, and Dappalam, leaving attendees delighted.
AAQ also took the opportunity to express gratitude to participants by distributing traditional return gifts for women and children, ensuring that everyone left with cherished mementos of the day.
‘Sound of Harmony’ musical show to delight Perth audiences
in Perth and Hindi Samaj HSWA, presents the highly anticipated musical show, "Sound of Harmony".
This spectacular event, set to showcase a talented line-up of musicians, singers, and dancers, promises to bring a unique blend of traditional and contemporary performances. The show will highlight the rich diversity of India’s musical and dance heritage, offering audiences a memorable experience filled with rhythm, melodies, and vibrant cultural expressions.
The collaboration between these esteemed organizations aims to provide a platform for local and international artists while strengthening cultural ties within the community. Stay tuned for an unforgettable night of harmony and celebration that will leave a lasting impression on all who attend.
Special guests and website launch
A distinguished guest at the event, Sri Kiran Kumar Reddy, Indian Member of Parliament, emphasized the importance of preserving cultural heritage. A significant moment of the celebration was the official launch of the AAQ website by Sri Kiran Kumar Reddy. Other esteemed guests included Preethi Suraj (President - FICQ), Satya Seelam (President - FTAA), and Rohit on Wheels, among others, whose presence added to the grandeur of the event.
The 2025 Sankranthi celebrations by AAQ were a resounding success, reflecting the multicultural spirit of Brisbane and reinforcing the Telugu community’s deep-rooted connection to its traditions.
Continued from Page 14
a more efficient future. On the other, there is concern over job security, ethical AI deployment, and the potential for increased digital surveillance. Political discourse around these issues has been equally polarized. Some policymakers advocate for aggressive investment in technology to maintain global competitiveness, while others stress the importance of regulations to prevent corporate overreach and protect public interests. Striking the right balance will be the defining challenge of this era.
Perth, January 31 (Australia India News Newsdesk)
Get ready for an enchanting
evening of music, dance, and culture as Natraj Productions Australia, in collaboration with the Consulate General of India
Bumrah
honoured with Sir Garfield Sobers Award for ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year
Dubai, Jan 28 (IANS) In a year dominated by Jasprit Bumrah's sheer brilliance across formats, the Indian pace maestro was crowned the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year for 2024, earning the prestigious Sir Garfield Sobers Award overtaking fellow nominees Travis Head, Joe Root and Harry Brook.
Bumrah joined an elite list of Indian cricketers who have claimed this honour. His predecessors include Rahul Dravid (2004), Sachin Tendulkar (2010), Ravichandran Ashwin (2016), and Virat Kohli (2017, 2018). In a year when batters often stole the spotlight, Bumrah rose above
the challenge, reminding the cricketing world of the value of elite bowling.
Bumrah's performances in redball cricket were nothing short of extraordinary. He became the fastest Indian pacer to achieve 200 Test wickets, finishing the year with a staggering 71 dismissals in just 13 matches at an average of under 20. His 2024 haul is the highest by any bowler for the year and second only to Kapil Dev’s record for the most wickets in a calendar year by an Indian pacer.
Bumrah’s dominance was evident in his ICC Test Bowling Rankings, where he crossed the 900-point threshold, ending with a recordbreaking 907 points—the highest ever for an Indian bowler.
Bumrah's zenith came during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he picked up an astounding 32 wickets across five Tests. His performances, including fivewicket hauls in Perth, Brisbane, and Melbourne, dismantled the formidable Australian batting lineup, which earned him the Player of the Series award. His relentless accuracy and ability to
extract pace and movement on both flat and challenging tracks left the Australian batters in disarray. In the ongoing 20232025 WTC cycle, Bumrah has already scalped 77 wickets—the most by any pacer in a single cycle. This includes pivotal contributions in India’s matches against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and England besides Australia. While his Test achievements were monumental, Bumrah’s white-ball performances were equally mesmerizing. Leading India’s charge in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Bumrah was instrumental in securing the country’s long-awaited World title after 17 years.
He emerged as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, with 15 scalps at a jaw-dropping average of 8.26 and an economy of just 4.17. His spellbinding performance against Pakistan (3-14) and a game-defining 2-18 in the final against South Africa cemented his reputation as the ultimate matchwinner.
Bumrah also became the fastest Indian pacer to reach 200 Test wickets milestone.
Speed skater Shruti Kotwal aiming for 2026 Winter Olympics qualification
New Delhi, Jan. 20 (IANS) India’s first professional woman speed skater Shruti Kotwal, who will be leading India’s charge in the Asian Winter Games (AWG) in Harbin, China from February 7-14, has her eyes set on qualifying for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
The AWG will be a big opportunity for Shruti to test herself against the best skaters in the world and qualify for the 2026 Winter Olympics. "I’m focusing on the 500m and 1000m events for Olympic qualification. The timing requirements are incredibly challenging — sub-40 seconds for the 500m and under 1:20 for the 1000m. My Indian national record is 41.97 seconds and I need to skate under 40 seconds to qualify,” said Shruti in an interview with SAI Media.
The sports ministry has cleared a squad of 41 athletes for AWG. These include speed skaters and their support staff. For Shruti, this will be her second appearance in the AWG after 2017, when the Asian meet was last held in Japan.
“This will be my second Asian Winter Games and I’m thrilled to compete again. Countries like South Korea, Japan, and China consistently produce strong skaters who are technically and physically exceptional. I’ve faced some of these competitors in previous events and understand their strengths. It’s a tough field, but I see every race as an opportunity to push my limits and improve my performance,” she said.
Shruti is currently training at the Utah Olympic Oval in the US. Training at this indoor speed skating centre, which was built for the 2002 Winter Olympics, has played a major role in her career.
“Training in the US, especially at facilities like the Utah Olympic Oval, has been a game-changer. The exposure to world-class coaches, advanced training methodologies, and access to one of the fastest ice tracks in the world has significantly improved my technique, endurance, and speed.
“Competing with and observing some of the best skaters here has pushed me to refine my skills and understand the finer details of the sport. The environment
38th National Games: PM Narendra Modi inaugurates Uttarakhand 2025 in Dehradun
Dehradun, Jan 28 (IANS) "The old glory of hockey is making a comeback. Just a few days ago, our Kho Kho team won the World Cup. We also won the World Senior Championship recently," Prime Minister Narendra Modi listed India's recent successes in sports to inspire the sportspersons who have reached Uttarakhand for the 38th National Games. The Prime Minister said this in his address after inaugurating the 38th National Games in Dehradun, Uttarakhand here on Tuesday.
Khelo India Para Games helped the Para athletes in improving their performance and creating new achievements. The Prime Minister recalled that recently the 5th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games was underway in Ladakh and mentioned that last year, the Beach Games were organized.
has been incredibly motivating and challenging, which has accelerated my progress,” said Shruti.
This will be the first time in China that India will be represented by such a large contingent of skaters. In 2017, there were just three athletes, all skaters. Several Indian speed skaters are training in Korea for Harbin 2025. At least 24 nations will take part in AWG.
Shruti will have her eyes on the upcoming Khelo India Winter Games 2025 in Ladakh even as she trains in the United States for the Asian Winter Games.
India’s first professional woman speed skater took part in KIWG last year and produced some standout performances in her maiden appearance at these Games.
Shruti said the Khelo India Winter Games have been the ideal platform for skaters aspiring to make a mark in international tournaments. “Khelo India Winter Games brings everybody together. It really helps to promote the sport. We didn’t have that when we started and I think the skaters now are very lucky,” said Shruti.
The first leg of the Khelo India Winter Games 2025 will begin in Ladakh on January 23. Skating events will take place at the NDS Stadium and the Gupuks Pond in Leh. At least 150 ice speed skaters will be seen in action.
Addressing the gathering, he remarked that Uttarakhand is resplendent today with the energy of the youth. He added that the 38th National Games were commencing on Tuesday with the blessings of Baba Kedarnath, Badrinath, and Maa Ganga.
Highlighting that it was the 25th year of the formation of Uttarakhand, PM Modi remarked that the youth from across the nation would be displaying their potential in this young state. He added that the event displayed a beautiful picture of ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat’. He further remarked that many local games were included in this edition of the National Games and the theme was ‘Green Games’, as there was the usage of environment-friendly items.
Elaborating further on the theme, the Prime Minister highlighted that even the trophies and medals were made of e-waste and a tree would be planted in the name of every medal winner, which was a great initiative. He extended his best wishes to all the athletes for a great performance. He also congratulated the Government and people of Uttarakhand for organizing such a grand event. The Prime Minister remarked that just as gold becomes pure through fire, athletes are given more opportunities to refine their abilities. He added that now many tournaments were organized over the year and several new tournaments were included in the Khelo India Series.
PM Modi emphasised that the Khelo India Youth Games has provided opportunities for many young players to advance while the University Games offer many opportunities to University students. He remarked that the
PM Modi remarked that the efforts to promote sports are not solely driven by the Government, but many Members of Parliament were organizing sports competitions in their constituencies to bring forward new talent. The Prime Minister, who is also the MP of Kashi, mentioned that in his parliamentary constituency alone, around 2.5 lakh youth get the opportunity to participate in sports competitions every year. He emphasized that a beautiful bouquet of sports has been created in the country, with flowers blooming in every season and tournaments being held continuously. “Sports is considered a key medium for India's holistic development”, said the Prime Minister and emphasized that when a country excels in sports, its reputation and profile also rise. Therefore, he added that sports were being linked to India's development and the confidence of its youth.
The Prime Minister highlighted that India was progressing towards becoming the world's third-largest economic power, and the sports economy is a significant part of this effort. He noted that behind every athlete, there is an entire ecosystem, including coaches, trainers, nutrition and fitness experts, doctors, and equipment. PM Modi mentioned that India was becoming a quality manufacturer of sports equipment used by athletes worldwide. He pointed out that Meerut had over 35,000 small and large factories producing sports equipment, employing more than 3 lakh people. He emphasized that such ecosystems were being developed across the country.
Remarking that he recently had the opportunity to meet the Olympic team of India at his residence in Delhi, the Prime Minister said that during the conversation, one of the athletes redefined "PM" as "Param Mitra" (best friend) instead of "Prime Minister." He expressed that this trust gives him energy.
He emphasized his complete confidence in the talent and potential of the athletes. The Prime Minister highlighted the continuous focus on supporting their talent over the past 10 years and the sports budget had more than tripled in the last decade.
Hotel in 18th century fortress Quilla Mubarak in Patiala opened
Punjab
Chief Minister Bhagwant
Mann on Wednesday dedicated the first-of-its-kind boutique and heritage hotel Ran Baas-Palace constructed in the 18th-century fortress, Quilla Mubarak, the seat of the royal family that had been lying in disrepair for long in Patiala, to the people.
The Chief Minister said this aesthetically designed hotel has been built on PPP mode and would set a new benchmark in comfort, hospitality and elegance. He envisioned that the magnificent hotel would be
a favourite place for destination weddings and others.
Mann said the hotel would give impetus to tourism in the royal city by providing a comprehensive and holistic wedding destination, in addition to its current status as a hub for religious tourism. He said besides grandeur, this hotel is a reflection of the glorious cultural heritage of the state.
The Chief Minister expressed the government's commitment to making Punjab a leading tourist destination in the country through such projects. He said
geographically Punjab is a blessed land and the government intends to take the tourism sector to a new zenith.
Areas around Chohal Dam, Ranjit Sagar Dam, Shahpur Kandi Dam and Kandi areas of the state are being developed as ideal tourist destinations for attracting tourists from across the globe.
The Chief Minister said the state has land even in other states like Goa, Jaipur in Rajasthan and McLeodganj in Himachal Pradesh and that would also be developed.
Citing an example, Mann said the state has created history by purchasing the Goindwal power plant owned by a private company GVK Power, adding for the first time this reverse trend has started that the government has purchased any private power plant whereas in the past the state governments used to sell their assets to the favourite individuals at ‘throw-away’ prices.
Mann said this is the first heritage hotel of the state and more such projects would be developed in the state by optimally utilising the historic buildings of the state.
Union Tourism Minister opens ‘Bhagwat’ exhibition at Prayagraj museum
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat inaugurated the 'Bhagwat' miniature paintings exhibition on the spiritual significance of the Maha Kumbh and stories related to Lord Ram at the Allahabad Museum, an official said on Thursday.
The exhibition is another effort to collectively make the sacred and divine Maha Kumbh grander and more unique, he said.
The 'Bhagwat' exhibition, curated by this historic museum of Prayagraj, is a meaningful attempt to embellish this special occasion, said an official statement.
After paying tribute to the statue of Shaheed Chandra Shekhar Azad located in the museum premises, the Union Minister also reviewed the 'Bhagwat' exhibition.
The Minister congratulated the museum team and said that these miniature paintings represent the
world, the afterlife, society, art, and culture together.
The exhibition blends the rich collection of the museum with the Kumbh tradition and the characters of Lord Ram and Krishna. He further said the exhibition is a meaningful effort to adorn this exceptional occasion and a chance to understand the depth of art present in our country.
The Union Minister stated that the Kumbh provides a glimpse of India's grand form. It brings together people from all religious beliefs, worship, faith, and cultural ideologies in one place.
Maha Kumbh 2025 drives visa application growth for spiritual travel
in India
Global tourism almost return to pre-pandemic level in 2024
International tourist arrivals rose by 11 per cent in 2024, with 1.4 billion people travelling internationally, according to the World Tourism Barometer published by UN Tourism. The data published just before the FITUR international tourism exhibition in Madrid on Wednesday indicates that tourism numbers have recovered to 99 per cent of the levels seen in 2019, just prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to reports from the Xinhua news agency.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili welcomed the results. "In 2024, global tourism completed its recovery from the pandemic and, in many places, tourist arrivals and especially earnings are already higher than in 2019," he said.
Growth is expected to continue throughout 2025, he said, "driven by strong demand contributing to
the socio-economic development of both mature and emerging destinations."
Madrid-based UN Tourism reports that Asia and the Pacific region saw 316 million international travellers in 2024, 33 per cent (78 million people) higher than in 2023 and 87 per cent of pre-pandemic levels.
While Europe saw 747 million international arrivals in 2024, one per cent up on 2019 and 5 per cent higher than in 2023, the Middle East witnessed the biggest growth compared to 2019, with a 32 per cent rise in arrivals to 95 million. Africa also performed strongly, with a 12 per cent increase in international tourists compared to 2023.
One reason for the growth is that international air capacity and air traffic returned to pre-pandemic levels over the previous 12 months, UN Tourism said.
66 killed in Turkey ski resort fire, people seen jumping from building in panic
witnessed a 21.4 per cent increase in inbound travel to the country for spiritual purposes.
The surge in applications is largely driven by travellers from the UK and the US, underscoring the global interest in India's spiritual offerings.
The data revealed that nearly 48 per cent of all spiritual travel visa applications are linked to major events and pilgrimages like the Maha Kumbh.
As per data, group inbound travel applications have surged 35 per cent, reflecting a growing preference for communal spiritual experiences.
Atleast 66 people have died and over 51 others injured in a fire that erupted at a hotel in Turkey's northwestern Bolu province on Tuesday.
According to the local authorities, the fire broke out at a hotel in the Bolu Kartalkaya Ski Resort post midnight on the restaurant floor.
Bolu Governor Abdulaziz Aydin stated that fatalities also resulted from individuals jumping from the
building in panic. He mentioned that the cause of the fire, that broke out around 3:30 am local time (0030 GMT), remains unclear and the flames rapidly engulfed the hotel situated at the summit of the Koroglu Mountains. Upon receiving the alert, fire crews, search-and-rescue units and medical teams were dispatched from the city centre, surrounding districts, and nearby areas.
There has been a stupendous rise in inbound travel for spiritual purposes in India, primarily driven by Maha
Kumbh 2025, a report showed on Wednesday. Visa processing platform Atlys has
ISRO, IN-SPACe showcase advanced space tech at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025
New Delhi, Jan 20 (IANS)
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Center (INSPACe) on Monday showcased 43 cutting-edge technologies curated for potential applications in the mobility industry at the ongoing Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 at Yashobhoomi in Dwarka.
A stall set up by ISRO at the venue displayed advanced space technologies, including camera and imaging sensors, temperature and pressure sensors, gyroscopes, accelerometers, noise suppression systems, specialised coatings, and insulation technologies.
By adapting these innovations, the initiative aims to reduce the automotive sector’s reliance on imported technologies, fostering self-reliance and innovation under the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
"IN-SPACe will work closely with the automotive industry to facilitate the transfer of technologies developed by ISRO to be adopted by automotive manufacturers,” said Dr Rajeev Jyoti, Director- Technical Directorate, IN-SPACe, while speaking at the expo.
“By engaging with the automotive sector, the aim is to demonstrate the potential of ISRO’s technologies, which can be further modified and developed locally to meet the specific requirements of the automotive industry. One of the key objectives is to enhance selfreliance in India by developing and manufacturing advanced components like sensors domestically,” Jyoti added. The agency emphasised the importance of translating India’s space achievements into broader industrial applications, encouraging the automotive industry to adopt space-grade technologies to enhance safety, performance, and sustainability. The emphasis was also to sustain this momentum through collaborative pilot projects that bridge the gap between research and industry adoption.
S.Korea’s KASA to foster space economy, develop future technologies
Seoul, Jan 21 (IANS) South Korea's national space agency
Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) on Tuesday said it will work to foster a private-led space economy and develop future aerospace technologies, such as reusable rockets and advanced satellites, this year.
The KASA outlined its plan to advance Seoul's competitiveness in the global space market in a joint policy report, adding it will work to make the country one of five global leaders in the sector, Yonhap news agency reported.
Under the plan, KASA said it will push for the development of space transportation technologies, such as reusable space rockets, and help a private firm to spearhead the fourth launch of the country's homegrown space launch vehicle Nuri in the fourth quarter.
KASA aims to develop a reusable rocket that would only cost US$1,000 to transport 1 kilogram of cargo to space by mid-2030. It will also launch research programmes to develop an orbital transfer vehicle, manned spacecraft, and space reentry technology.
KASA plans to launch a nextgeneration midsized satellite for space science research this year, along with a multipurpose
satellite for observation of the Korean Peninsula, it said. It will also work to develop more advanced satellite technologies, such as a low Earth orbit satellite communications system and the Korea Positioning System, which is a local satellite navigation system.
In addition, South Korea will launch SPHEREx, a space observatory jointly developed with the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), next month.
SPHEREx will become the world's first space observatory to provide an all-sky spectral survey and collect data on more than 450 million galaxies in the Milky Way, according to NASA.
Indian-origin Sunita Williams undertakes spacewalk after 12 years
New Delhi, Jan 16 (IANS) Indianorigin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams on Thursday stepped out of the International Space Station (ISS) for a spacewalk along with colleague Nick Hague, the US space agency said.
This is Williams' first spacewalk in 12 years, and the eighth in her career, while it's Hague's fourth. The mission designated US Spacewalk 91, is expected to last around six and a half hours. Hague serves as spacewalk crew member 1 and is wearing a suit with red stripes. Williams is serving as spacewalk crew member 2 and is wearing an
unmarked suit.
The astronaut-duo is currently working to perform maintenance tasks and replace hardware, NASA said.
“NASA astronauts Nick Hague and Suni Williams, step outside of the Space_Station to support station upgrades, including repairs to our NICER (Neutron star Interior Composition Explorer) X-ray telescope.
In a blog post, NASA informed that Williams and Hague will work to replace a rate gyro assembly that helps provide orientation control for the station and install patches to cover damaged areas of light filters for NICER. They will also replace a reflector device used for navigational data on one of the international docking adapters.
Elon Musk, Sam Altman fight over Stargate on social media
San Francisco, Jan 23 (IANS) The xAI owner Elon Musk and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman are fighting on X about Stargate, the enormous infrastructure project to build data centres for OpenAI across the US.
OpenAI said on Tuesday that it would team up with SoftBank and Oracle to build multiple data centres for artificial intelligence (AI) in the United States, Xinhua news agency reported.
The companies expect to commit $100 billion to Stargate initially and invest $500 billion into the venture over the next four years.
"SoftBank and OpenAI are the lead partners for Stargate, with SoftBank having financial responsibility and OpenAI having operational responsibility," the joint statement noted.
"They don't actually have the money," Musk wrote in a series of posts on X on Tuesday.
"SoftBank has well under $10B secured. I have that on good authority."
Altman fired back at Musk in an X post on Wednesday.
"Wrong, as you surely know," Altman said, responding to Musk's allegation that SoftBank was short of capital.
Altman added that Stargate is great for the country.
"I realise what is great for the country isn't always what's optimal for your companies, but in your new role, I hope you'll mostly put America first."
xAI, like OpenAI, is hungry for infrastructure to develop its AI systems.
Musk's company is estimated to have spent $12 billion on its single data centre in Memphis and could spend billions more upgrading the facility, according to a report by TechCrunch.
Musk, who is an early OpenAI investor and board member, sued Altman's company last year, alleging it had betrayed its founding aims as a nonprofit research lab benefiting the public good rather than pursuing profits.
$500 billion Stargate AI project in US presents golden opportunity for India: Industry
New Delhi, Jan 22 (IANS) The $500 billion Stargate Project, a brainchild of OpenAI, Softbank, Oracle and others – presents a golden opportunity for India, to accelerate its AI ambitions by deepening partnerships with the US, industry experts said on Wednesday.
such as Nvidia, Arm, Microsoft, Softbank, Oracle and OpenAI — already have a significant presence in India and actively utilise Indian talent. “This creates avenues for Indian professionals to gain exposure and contribute to such a monumental project, further enhancing their expertise in advanced AI technologies,” said Chandak. There is cautious optimism that the Trump administration might consider industry feedback during the 120day review period, and adopt a more relaxed stance on AI export controls, especially toward India and other strategic partners.
In addition, the pair will check access areas and connector tools that will be used for future maintenance work on the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer.
NASA also informed a second spacewalk, scheduled to begin at 8:15 a.m. on January 23. During the second mission, Wilmore and Williams will remove a radio frequency group antenna assembly from the station’s truss, and collect samples of surface material for analysis from the Destiny laboratory and the Quest airlock to see whether microorganisms may exist on the exterior of the orbital complex. They will also prepare a spare elbow joint for the Canadarm2 robotic arm in the event it is needed for a replacement.
This can be achieved by leveraging India’s role in the Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) agreement between the two nations and Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) -- co-developing cutting-edge technologies and scaling its domestic capabilities.
“Proactive diplomacy, leveraging India’s role in iCET and IPEF, strategic investments, and collaborative approaches will be key to ensuring that India not only benefits from the global advancements in AI but also establishes itself as a formidable player in the international AI landscape,” said Ashok Chandak, President of India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA). While the primary objective Stargate Project is to solidify the US’ leadership in the AI ecosystem, it also presents opportunities for India to leverage. Major companies supporting this initiative —
According to Dr Ajai Chowdhry, founder of HCL and chairman of the National Quantum Mission, this initiative shows serious intent to take a strong control of AI, in addition to having all the large language models (LLMs) owned by the US. “For strategic autonomy, we must create our own AI doctrine and start controlling our own data strongly. Also, we must create our own domestic hardware for data centres as it is going to be very difficult to control our data,” said Chowdhry. The government and the industry must work together to create a fresh strategy for AI, he added. The country launched the IndiaAI mission last year to enhance AI-related developments in the country. The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved an allocation of over Rs 10,300 crore for the IndiaAI Mission, marking a significant step towards bolstering the AI ecosystem in the country.
Australian research makes breakthrough in boosting breast cancer cure rate
Sydney, Jan 23 (IANS) Australian researchers have made a breakthrough in improving the cure rate for the most common form of breast cancer.
An international clinical trial led by Melbourne's Peter MacCallum Cancer Center (Peter Mac) has shown that adding the immunotherapy drug nivolumab to the chemotherapy that breast cancer patients receive before surgery can dramatically improve outcomes, according to the latest news release on Peter Mac's website.
The trial involved 510 people with ER+/HER2 -- a subtype of breast
cancer, which accounts for about 70 per cent of all cases globally, who received chemotherapy to shrink their tumour before it was surgically removed, Xinhua news agency reported.
Researchers assessed how adding an infusion of nivolumab, or a placebo, during the pre-surgery phase affected their response to treatment.
They found that 25 per cent of trial participants treated with nivolumab achieved a pathologic complete response (pCR), which means there was no sign of cancer after surgery, compared to 14 per cent in the placebo group.
"These patients are considered to be likely cured because their tumor was removed and samples of breast and lymph node tissue collected at the same time also show no detectable cancer cells," said Sherene Loi, a medical oncologist from Peter Mac and
leader of the trial.
Recently, Russia announced a groundbreaking development in cancer treatment with the creation of an mRNA-based vaccine designed to treat cancer patients.
This revolutionary vaccine, set to be launched in early 2025, will reportedly be distributed free of cost to Russian citizens.
The personalised vaccine, which uses genetic material derived from a patient’s tumour, will cost the state approximately 300,000 rubles ($2,869) per dose, state-run media reports revealed.
The announcement was made by Andrey Kaprin, head of the Radiology Medical Research Centre of the Ministry of Health.
"This vaccine aims to treat cancer patients rather than prevent tumour formation,” Kaprin stated.
Ayush OPDs, clinics provide free consultation, medicines to over 1.21 lakh at Mahakumbh
More than 1.21 lakh devotees have availed free consultation and medicines from OPDs, clinics set up by the Ministry of Ayush at the ongoing Mahakumbh mela Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj.
The Ayush OPDs, clinics, stalls, and sessions have emerged as key attractions for devotees, pilgrims, and visitors at the Mahakumbh. The Ayush facilities, in collaboration with the National Ayush Mission, are providing free healthcare services to domestic and international devotees.
“With over 1.21 lakh devotees benefiting from these facilities,
the response has been beyond encouraging for the Ayush team at Mahakumbh,” the Ministry said.
The Ayush team at Maha Kumbh comprises 80 doctors across 20 OPDs to provide 24x7 medical services. These OPDs are equipped to address a wide range of common and chronic conditions. In addition, daily therapeutic yoga sessions are also being conducted from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM at designated camps in the Sangam area and Sector-8 by trainers from the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY).
Besides Indians, foreign devotees are also utilising Ayush services, including OPD consultations, the Ministry said. These initiatives also focus on empowering devotees with knowledge of advancements in Ayush systems of medicine, medicinal plants, etc.
Further, the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) put up a
creative display of medicinal plants and also deployed experts to share information about these plants, including common benefits, etc. Devotees were also informed about the potential financial benefits of growing these plants, and free saplings are also being distributed. In a bid to enhance the health of the elderly, the Ayush team also arranged free distribution of medicines including immunity boosters and calcium tablets.
“As many as 45 per cent of the beneficiaries so far are members of the elderly population,” the Ministry said.
While sharing his experience, Raghunandan Prasad, a devotee from Sultanpur suffering from a skin ailment, stated, “After taking medicines from the Ayush camp, my condition has gradually improved. I am thankful to the government and Ayush for their efforts.”
Oyster blood protein helps fight against superbugs: Study
Sydney, Jan 21 (IANS) A protein found in the blood of Australian oysters could help in the fight against antibiotic-resistant superbugs, according to a study published on Tuesday. The study led by a team from Australia's Southern Cross University (SCU) discovered that a protein in the
blood of the Sydney rock oyster is capable of killing bacteria as well as increasing the effectiveness of some antibiotics against a range of bacteria, Xinhua news agency reported. In laboratory tests, they found that the protein was effective at killing Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria that cause pneumonia and strep throat, respectively. When used with antibiotics, the protein made them between two and 32 times more effective at killing the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Stress during early pregnancy may affect kids’ health later
New Delhi, Jan 22 (IANS) High maternal stress hormone levels during early pregnancy can have a lasting effect on the health of the children, according to a longterm study on wild monkeys, published on Tuesday.
The study on wild Assamese macaques in Thailand provides important insights into the influence of early life stages on the development of the stress system under natural environmental conditions.
Researchers at the University of Gottingen and the German Primate Center – Leibniz Institute for Primate Research in Germany that the effects of stress were evident till 10 years of age.
The research is relevant as stress in early pregnancy can also have a long-term effect on health in humans and increase the risk of stress disorders and immune problems.
The study found that exposure to stress enhances the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The axis plays a central role in coping with stress and can significantly be influenced by exposure to maternal glucocorticoids during development.
The early phase of organ differentiation in the first half of pregnancy proved to be a particularly critical period. “Our research results indicate that
the timing of maternal stress hormone exposure during and after pregnancy crucially affects the consequences for the development and health of the offspring.
It is also important to note that these effects do not require catastrophic events, but that even moderate changes in environmental conditions are sufficient,” said Oliver Schulke, a scientist at the University of Gottingen and the German Primate Center.
However, the study published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B showed that elevated stress hormones later during pregnancy or after birth did not have the same effects.
“Our findings may help to identify the timing and mechanisms that preventive measures should address in order to reduce longterm health risks,” Schulke said. In contrast to studies in the laboratory, the monkeys were observed in their natural habitat. Over nine years, the researchers repeatedly collected faecal samples from pregnant female monkeys and measured the concentration of glucocorticoid metabolites in them to understand the animals' exposure to environmental factors such as food scarcity, temperature fluctuations, and social interactions.
These values were compared with the stress hormone levels of the offspring at different ages. The effects on the stress axis of the offspring were evident from infancy through the juvenile period and into adulthood at nine to 10 years of age.
Cardiovascular risk underestimated for people in HIV, finds global study
New York, Jan 19 (IANS) A team of US researchers has found that for people with HIV, current risk models underestimated cardiovascular events in both women and black men in highincome countries.
The researchers said that the study supported the potential use of natural products from oysters to treat bacterial infections. They found that the protein is not toxic to human cells, indicating that it should be possible to optimise a safe antibiotic from oyster blood. Antimicrobialresistant (AMR) superbugs, bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that no longer respond to antibiotics designed to kill them, have been identified as a major threat to global public health.
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, posing a particularly significant threat to people with HIV (PWH), according to new study published in the journal Lancet HIV.
Previous studies have called into question whether these commonly used prediction models perform well among people with HIV, and there remains a gap in understanding of what these scores mean for PWH in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
Researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital, a founding member of the Mass General Brigham healthcare system, in collaboration with an international team of investigators, conducted a study to evaluate how well existing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk estimates could be used to predict cardiovascular outcomes in global populations with HIV.
Their prospective cohort study used data from Randomized Trial to Prevent Vascular Events in HIV (REPRIEVE) to analyse individuals with HIV who were from low-, middle-, and highincome countries across several continents.
The researchers found that for those in REPRIEVE, current risk models underestimated cardiovascular events in both women and black men in high income countries (HICs), while overestimating cardiovascular events for all PWH in LMICs.
Sara Tendulkar, social media sensation and youth icon and the new face of Laneige, one of the most popular Korean beauty brands in the world. Known for her authenticity, charm and influential presence on social media, Sara has embarked on this new venture with the brand to support the its mission in the country.
She gracefully represents the brand's values of natural and sustainable beauty, while bringing to life the brand belief that everyone should shine with a unique inner and outer glow that is as distinct as their individuality. Along with the announcement of a new Brand Ambassador, the brand unveiled its Bouncy and Firm Sleeping Mask.
An elated Sara Tendulkar, Brand Ambassador, Laneige India, commented, “I am thrilled to be part of Laneige's family. As
someone with a biomedical background that makes way for a keen understanding of quality as well as a personal passion for skincare, I admire the brand's commitment to innovation and have been using their products for quite a while. It brings me immense excitement and humility to partner with Laneige, as their core belief in the radiance of each person's unique individuality resonates deeply with me."
At the launch, Paul Lee, Managing Director & Country Head of Amorepacific India, added, "Laneige proudly announces Sara Tendulkar as its Brand Ambassador, embracing her vibrant energy. Sara symbolizes the modern, self-assured youth advocating that beauty transcends mere appearances. With Sara onboard, Laneige aims to connect with a broader audience."
Mini Sood Banerjee, Assistant
Hydration is Key
Combat the drying effects of summer heat by regularly applying moisturising lotion or oil to your nails and cuticles. This simple step will help maintain their strength and flexibility, reducing the risk of breakage.
Summeris all about fun in the sun, beach outings, and showing off those fabulous nails! With the sunny season upon us, it's essential to step up our nail care game to keep our nails looking fresh and vibrant.
Experts in nail care from Tip and Toe Salon share with IANSlife
Protect from the Sun
Protect your nails from the sun's harmful UV rays, just as you would protect your skin. Consider using a nail polish with UV protection or applying a clear topcoat containing SPF. When engaging in outdoor activities, wearing gloves can also provide an additional layer of protection against sun damage.
Director & Head of Marketing and Training Amorepacific India said, "As Laneige's journey evolves, we are thrilled to welcome Sara Tendulkar into our family as the embodiment of timeless grace and modern elegance. Her vibrant spirit and innate charm perfectly resonate with Laneige's commitment to empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty. Together, we embark on a new chapter, celebrating authenticity and the transformative power of skincare."
Social media sensation Sara Tendulkar for Korean Beauty Brand Laniege Summer nail care secrets
"We are delighted to announce Sara Tendulkar as the new Brand Ambassador for Laneige," said Sally Lee, Brand General Manager of Laneige India. Sara's luminous charm and timeless elegance resonate deeply with our brand's values. Sara's deeper integration into the Laneige experience marks a remarkable milestone, fostering deeper connections with a burgeoning generation of consumers."
Laneige is a brand that specializes in moisture research. They have developed advanced water complexes that are dedicated to creating intelligent skincare solutions for all skin types. With a range of products developed to address different skin concerns due to stress and a hazardous environment, Laneige offers solutions that awaken your skin’s ultimate moisture potential.
the importance of maintaining healthy and beautiful nails, especially during the summer months. Don't let the sun and heat take a toll on your nail health; follow these expertrecommended tips to keep your nails looking fabulous.
Use the Right Tools
Using the right tools is crucial for maintaining nail health. Avoid metal cuticle pushers, as they can cause damage and increase infection risks. Instead, opt for wooden or rubber cuticle pushers. Additionally, always use sharp, clean nail clippers and files to prevent nail splitting and peeling.
Chase the sun,
not
the damage: Smart skin care choices for summer
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, many of us eagerly embrace the warmth of summer. However, the need for diligent skin care comes with the joys of outdoor activities and beach vacations.
Before diving into skin care tips, it's essential to understand the damaging effects of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can lead to many skin concerns, including sunburn and premature ageing.
"One of the most effective ways to shield your skin from sun damage is sunscreen. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating to ensure comprehensive protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of skin, including your face, neck, and ears, and remember to reapply every two hours, especially if you're swimming or sweating," says Mansi Sharma, founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess.
Hydration is key. Summer heat can take a toll on your skin, leading to dehydration and a loss of moisture. Mansi recommends
to combat the heat by staying hydrated from the inside out. She says, "Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and plump. Additionally, incorporate hydrating skincare products into your routine, such as lightweight moisturizers and serums formulated with hyaluronic acid or glycerin."
While sunscreen provides crucial protection, it's not the only line of defence against the sun's rays. "Consider covering up with lightweight, breathable clothing, hats, and sunglasses to provide additional protection for your skin and eyes. Opt for tightly woven fabrics and dark colours for optimal sun protection," adds Mansi. "When possible, seek shade during the sun's peak hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. This is when UV radiation is at its strongest, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage. Take breaks from direct sunlight by relaxing under a beach umbrella or finding shelter in a shaded area."
The founder of The Honest Tree by Boddess also suggests that while selecting skincare products for summer, opt for formulations that cater to the specific needs of sun-exposed skin. Mansi says, "Look for products enriched with antioxidants like vitamins C and E, which help neutralize free radicals generated by UV exposure. Incorporating a gentle exfoliant into your routine can also help slough off dead skin cells, revealing a fresh, radiant complexion."
Beauty addicts can now get Kylie Cosmetics in India
Iamso excited to launch Kylie Cosmetics in India – I created Kylie Cosmetics to give my fans access to the makeup products that I use and love, and I can’t wait to share my collection with all my fans in India.", said Kylie Jenner, Founder of Kylie Cosmetics.
In 2015, Kylie Jenner embarked on her beauty business with the launch of Kylie Lip Kits - a collection of three liquid lipsticks with corresponding lip liners. Since then, Kylie supported by Global beauty powerhouse Coty, have continued to expand her beauty empire around the world in over 50 countries, and across eye, complexion, and countless innovations in lip. The beauty line is carefully crafted with clean formulations and vegan ingredients that deliver on trend, high-quality, high-pigment, and
high-performance formulations that fans around the world have come to love.
In a significant milestone in the brand’s global expansion Kylie Cosmetics, launches in India. Partnering with House of Beauty, the leading beauty specialty company which brings coveted international beauty brands to India, Kylie Cosmetics’ arrival has been long awaited by Indian beauty consumers. This partnership marks the first time the brand has partnered with an Indian omnichannel specialist like House of Beauty.
The launch collection includes the best-selling Matte and Velvet Lip Kits, as well as recent must-have launches such as Precision Pout Lip Liner, Power Plush Longwear Foundation, Kylash Volume Mascara, Power Plush Longwear Concealer and Tinted Butter Balm.
Starting 25th April 2024, Kylie Cosmetics will be available exclusively in 25 Sephora India stores nationwide and online on www.sephora.in
ISRO’s Geosynchronous Satellite
carrying the
off from the second launch pad
New Delhi: Pralay Weapon System on display during the 76th Republic Day parade at the Kartavya Path in New Delhi on Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025.
Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order to declare a national emergency at the southern border at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Tuesday, January 21, 2025
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends the NCC Rally at Cariappa Ground, New Delhi on Monday, January 27, 2025.
Baramulla: The Vande Bharat train successfully reaches Baramulla Railway Station for the first time on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day, marking a historic moment for the region on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Prayagraj: Stranded devotees rush after a stampede at the Sangam on ‘Mauni Amavasya’ during the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj on Wednesday, January 29, 2025.
Prayagraj: Union Home Minister Amit Shah meets Guru Sharananand Ji Maharaj and Revered Swami Govinddev Giri Ji Maharaj in Prayagraj on Monday, January 27, 2025.
Bhopal: An artisan works on a tableau as part of the Republic Day preparations in Bhopal on Saturday, January 25, 2025.
New Delhi: Visitors explore the Mercedes exhibit during the Bharat Mobility Global Expo at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi on Sunday, January 19, 2025.
Prayagraj: Devotees take a holy dip at Triveni Sangam during the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj on Monday, January 27, 2025.
New Delhi: Former Indian cricketer and AAP Rajya Sabha MP Harbhajan Singh leads a roadshow in support of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate from Shahdara assembly constituency Jitender Singh Shunty for the upcoming assembly elections in New Delhi on Monday, January 27, 2025.
Sriharikota:
Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F15)
NVS-02 navigation satellite successfully lifts
at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, in Sriharikota, on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. This mission marks ISRO’s 100th launch from Sriharikota.
New Delhi: An illuminated view of India Gate during the 76th Republic Day celebrations along Kartavya Path in New Delhi on Sunday, January 26, 2025.
Washington: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar meets President of Argentina Javier Milei at the 60th Presidential Inauguration Ceremony at White House in Washington on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.
SYNOPSIS: A historical drama based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
SkyForce
RELEASE DATE: 24 January 2025
LANGUAGE: Hindi (With English Subtitles)
PRODUCER: Jio Studios, Maddock Films
DIRECTOR:
CAST:
Kaur,
Abhishek Kapur, Sandeep Kewlani
Akshay Kumar, Nimrat
Sara Ali Khan
Tahira Kashyap:
Every year, my
birthday feels unique and special
Filmmaker-writer Tahira Kashyap, who turned 42 on Tuesday, said that every year, her birthday feels special as she gets to spend some memorable time with friends and family.
Tahira said: "Every year, my birthday feels unique and special!
Three years ago, it was a safari trip with friends to Gir. Two years back, it was an all-girls trip to Dubai. Last year, it was a serene celebration in Goa with a classical performance and just family.”
“I feel incredibly blessed to have such thoughtful friends and family who plan something different and memorable every time. As adults, we often
feel it’s odd to get excited about birthdays, but my loved ones never fail to make mine extraordinary,” she added.
The wife of actor Ayushmann Khurrana is looking forward to this year’s celebration as well.
“But more than anything, I’m grateful that each year, I get to spend my special day with my close ones in the most heartwarming way. Truly, I couldn’t ask for more!" she added.
Last week, Tahira shared a heartwarming recollection of celebrating her first Lohri as a newlywed ahead of the festival.
Talking about the experience, Tahira said, "In Punjabi culture,
the first Lohri after marriage is celebrated with a lot of fervor. My in-laws hosted a party to celebrate us, the newlywed couple. There was dance and music, and the married couples would go in circles around the bonfire. We enjoyed gajak (chikki), peanuts, and popcorn, which were also thrown into the bonfire”.
She further mentioned, “Needless to say, the chants of 'Sundar Mundriye' filled the air. The last two lines of the song made me laugh. It literally translates to, ‘Give us Lohri, long live your pair, whether you cry or bang your head later.’ That’s quite a disclaimer young Punjabi couples get from their elders”.
Meanwhile, her husband, Ayushmann is shooting for his upcoming film ‘Thama’, which is touted to be a ‘bloody love story’, and belongs to Maddock’s blockbuster horror comedy universe.
The film promises to be a gripping love story, set against a bloody backdrop and brings together an impressive cast with Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna in the lead, along with Paresh Rawal, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui.
The film is helmed by Aditya Sarpotdar of ‘Munjya’ fame, and is written by Niren Bhatt, Suresh Mathew and Arun Fulara, and produced by Dinesh Vijan and Amar Kaushik.
Kangana Ranaut and Diljit Dosanjh’s fates are intertwined through their films
Bollywood
actress Kangana Ranaut and Punjabi sensation Diljit Dosanjh’s fates are intertwined through their films “Emergency” and ‘Panjab 95” due to the chatter around both the movies.
On Tuesday morning, Diljit took to Instagram, where he posted a note apologising that his film “Panjab 95”, has once again faced a hiccup in its release in India.
“We are very sorry and it pains us to inform you that the movie Panjab 95 will not release on 7th Feb due to circumstances beyond our control,” he wrote.
The movie, which is based on the life of prominent Sikh human rights activist Jaswant Singh Khalra, was proposed to be named as Ghalughara initially, which means massacre, but after the objection of the Censor Board the movie title was renamed to Punjab 95 with 120 scene cuts. Sikh religious body, Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), intervened, and the Censor Board relented with the cuts but asked the title to still be changed. According to reports, the film's trailer was launched on YouTube the same year but was removed a day later.
Randeep Hooda jets off to Budapest reportedly for next Hollywood venture
Actor Randeep Hooda is reportedly gearing up for his new Hollywood project and has jetted off to Budapest for the shoot.
The actor on Tuesday has reportedly taken off to Budapest to begin shooting for his next international film. As per the sources, this marks his next outing in Hollywood after “Extraction" starring Chris Hemsworth, which was released worldwide in 2020 on Netflix.
In Kangana's case with “Emergency”, the film has been halted in Patiala, Amritsar and Bathinda amid fear of protests. Protests took place across Punjab as different leaders of Sikh organizations including The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) asked for ban on “Emergency” as they claim the film “tarnishes the image of Sikhs and distorts history”.
A tweet by SGPC also stated that it demands a ban on the film in Punjab, which is scheduled to release on January 17, 2025.
A source confirmed: "Randeep is excited about starting filming for the project. While not much is known at this stage, it’s a brand new avatar for him. The shoot is set to commence soon in Budapest later this week”.
On the work front, Randeep has been busy shooting for his next, Jaat starring him alongside Sunny Deol directed by Gopichand Malineni which is slated to release this year.
On another front, Randeep garnered acclaim for his portrayal in the biopic "Swatantrya Veer Savarkar". The project, derived from the life of the revolutionary freedom fighter Veer Savarkar, has been officially included in the
list of contenders for the Oscars 2025.
The drama will be locking horns with other Indian masterpieces such as "Kanguva", "The Goat Life", "Santosh", "All We Imagine as Light", "Girls Will Be Girls", and "Putul".
"Swatantrya Veer Savarkar" premiered at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, and has been winning hearts ever since.
Earlier this month, Randeep treated his fans with a set of smoldering pictures on Instagram.
In the monochrome images, Randeep could be seen posing wearing nothing but his denim while he shaves his face.
He captioned it: "Getting ready for the weekend".
Randeep made his Hindi film debut with Monsoon Wedding in 2001. He was then seen in the gangster films Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, Saheb, Biwi Aur Gangster, Jannat 2, Jism 2, Cocktail, Heroine, Sarbjit, Kick and Sultan to name a few.
Kangana delivers a Tour de Force in ‘Emergency’: A masterful blend of power, politics and emotion
stars.
Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency is a sweeping, ambitious biographical drama that tackles one of the most pivotal, controversial periods in Indian political history—the Emergency period of 1975 to 1977. Not only does it aim to shed light on the authoritarian rule of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, but it also delves into the intricacies of Indian democracy, political power struggles, and the personal lives of those at the helm during this time. With a
strong ensemble cast and sharp direction from Kangana herself, Emergency is both a compelling political drama and a visually rich portrayal of an era that reshaped modern India.
At its heart, Emergency is a character-driven exploration of Indira Gandhi’s controversial tenure and the imposition of the Emergency. During this period, civil liberties were curtailed, democracy was suspended, and the government wielded unrestrained power. Kangana Ranaut stars as the indomitable Indira Gandhi, offering an intense and nuanced performance that captures the complexity of this historical figure.
The film’s narrative spans key events from Gandhi’s leadership, including the Bangladesh Liberation War, Operation Blue Star, the rise of Khalistani separatism, and the dramatic assassination of Indira Gandhi in 1984. However, the 21-month Emergency period remains the emotional and political core of the story. Kangana masterfully balances the intense political drama with personal stories— particularly the tensions between Indira and her son Sanjay Gandhi (Vishak Nair), whose controversial policies, including forced sterilization campaigns, are prominently featured. What’s remarkable is how the film does not veer into propaganda. Despite its portrayal of a polarizing leader, Emergency never simplifies or romanticizes the complex figures of Indian politics during that time. Instead, it presents a multifaceted look at power, idealism, and the stark consequences of unchecked authority. Through its rich screenplay, Emergency offers an unflinching yet balanced view of history—neither completely condemning nor completely exonerating Indira Gandhi. Kangana Ranaut’s portrayal of Indira Gandhi is one of the film's greatest strengths. She perfectly captures the formidable, often unyielding persona of one of India’s most iconic prime ministers, while also presenting the personal cost of her decisions. The performance is layered, and Kangana does an excellent job of showing both the iron-clad determination and the emotional fragility that defined Gandhi’s leadership during a tumultuous era.
Here’s what James Cameron has to say about ‘Avatar 3’
Award-winning filmmaker
James Cameron has built more suspense around “Avatar 3: Fires and Ash” as he revealed that it may be the boldest “Avatar” film yet.
In an interview with the U.K.’s Empire Magazine, the director opened up about what to expect from the latest installment of the global franchise. He noted that his goal isn’t to replicate what was done in the previous two films but instead to make “brave choices” that might not necessarily be expected.
“It’s a tricky thing,” Cameron, 70, said. “We could be getting high on our own supply here, and everybody who looks at it [the new film] goes, ‘F—, that’s not what I signed up for.’ “
He added: “But if you’re not making brave choices, you’re wasting everybody’s time and money. That alone is not sufficient to create success, but it’s necessary. You’ve got to break the mold every time.”
The filmmaker also shared that audiences can look forward to
Shah
Rukh Khan to Chris Martin: You are one in a billion
After Chris Martin said “Shah Rukh Khan forever" during his performance in Mumbai, the Bollywood superstar has now come up with a reply for the Coldplay frontman and said that he is “one in a billion”.
The "Jawan" actor took to his Instagram stories, where he shared a video of Martin giving a shoutout to the Badshah of Bollywood and saying “Shah Rukh Khan forever”.
“CHRIS MARTIN FOREVER & EVER…” SRK wrote in reply.
The superstar also shared that Chris Martin makes him special like his songs.
SRK added: “Look at the stars. look how they shine for you..and everything you do! My brother Chris Martin you make me feel special..like your songs!! Love you and a big hug to your team. You are one in a billion my friend. India loves u, @coldplay !!!”
Apart from giving a cheer to SRK, Martin also spoke in Hindi for his fans and said: “Aap sabka bohot swagat hai. Mumbai mein aakar humein bohot Khushi ho rahi hai.” For the unversed, Coldplay will perform in Mumbai on 18, 19, and 21 January this year. Meanwhile, the second leg of the Indian tour will take place in Ahmedabad on 25 and 26 January.
Hugh Grant says ex-girlfriend Elizabeth Hurley was
‘high-maintenance’
high-intensity situations, noting that while they may get taken to “places they won’t expect,” those places “will feel earned,” people. com. “We’ve got some really clever action set-pieces. You can get your blood up in this movie. But what excites me as an artist who recently turned 70 and has kind of done all that stuff is not only the opportunity to get to do it again, but to get to a level of character and intrigue you haven’t seen before in an Avatar movie.”
Cameron said that the movie is in “strong shape” especially when compared to his previous “Avatar film, Avatar: The Way of Water”. “We’ve doubled the number of shots finished at this stage of the game than we had on movie two (and) the films are about equal length. So that puts us well ahead of the curve, which is something I’ve never, frankly, experienced before.”
Hollywood star Hugh Grant has taken a humorous dig at his former girlfriend-model Elizabeth Hurley, whom he dated from 1987 to 2000, and called her "high-maintenance".
The couple made headlines in 1994 when Hurley attended the premiere of "Four Weddings and a Funeral" in a daring safety pin dress designed by Gianni Versace. The gown instantly propelled Hurley to stardom and became a defining moment in her career, reports aceshowbiz.com.
Speaking with his "Bridget Jones" co-star Renee Zellwegger, Grant revealed that he and Hurley would often have lunch with Versace before his shows in Milan.
"But I did have very highmaintenance girlfriends who liked all this," he added. He had spoken about Hurley during an interview with Vogue. Hurley herself has recounted her experience wearing the iconic dress in a Vogue documentary. She recalled not having heard of Versace before and finding the dress rather "precarious." However, she felt secure in it and acknowledged how daring the choice was. Grant and Hurley have remained close friends since their split in 2000. Hurley has credited their shared experience with fame and the public spotlight for their enduring bond.
